tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13761026203691628502024-03-12T19:50:33.176-04:00Love, Joy and PeasBeautiful photography, inspiring writing and healthy living tips to bless you and bring more love, joy, peace and health to your life.Phyllis Wheelerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09314849446133170369noreply@blogger.comBlogger574125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1376102620369162850.post-49379533971443504442022-02-08T14:40:00.001-05:002022-02-11T17:20:13.769-05:00My Black Bean Tailgate Chili Recipe<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi7FKhMWHgDs1BXgsCHGEofy3-KotqMGVinENBYBCQRW6qRt0oi28KPMVnjfHpLxlUGiRvBGqTlhgGMDo93GKjJDKtHV5sj0M2-pthQ4PUZIHqoYv5k0mkc5_Gqj82nyXWguCyAgYyMbrTz6iCgZQaao5dN_I_uVZrPBRACw4RJXn3ko1i-HR7glmlY=s4653" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2988" data-original-width="4653" height="205" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi7FKhMWHgDs1BXgsCHGEofy3-KotqMGVinENBYBCQRW6qRt0oi28KPMVnjfHpLxlUGiRvBGqTlhgGMDo93GKjJDKtHV5sj0M2-pthQ4PUZIHqoYv5k0mkc5_Gqj82nyXWguCyAgYyMbrTz6iCgZQaao5dN_I_uVZrPBRACw4RJXn3ko1i-HR7glmlY=s320" width="320" /></a> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"> (corn free, dairy free, gluten free, vegan, vegetarian, whole food plant based)</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; color: black; font-family: Karla, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; width: 100%px; word-spacing: 0px;"><tbody><tr><td><table style="float: right; margin-top: 1em;"><tbody><tr><td align="right"><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><div> </div><div class="ingredients-div"><span class="SectionLabel" style="font-weight: bold;">Ingredients:</span></div><div><div class="list-ingredients" id="RecipeView1_listIngredients"><div class="recipeingredient recipeingredient_normal" style="padding: 2px;">1/2 cup water</div><div class="recipeingredient recipeingredient_normal" style="padding: 2px;">1-2 cups chopped onions (depending on how much you love onions)<br /></div><div class="recipeingredient recipeingredient_normal" style="padding: 2px;">1-3 cloves garlic, minced or diced (depending on how much you love garlic)</div><div class="recipeingredient recipeingredient_normal" style="padding: 2px;">1 green bell pepper, chopped <br /></div><div class="recipeingredient recipeingredient_normal" style="padding: 2px;">1 28 oz box of diced tomatoes (this is flexible- you could use half as much), drained for a more traditional chili or with the liquid for more of a soupy version<br /></div><div class="recipeingredient recipeingredient_normal" style="padding: 2px;">2 cans (or equivalent cooked) black beans, rinsed and drained (or whatever beans you like)<br /></div><div class="recipeingredient recipeingredient_normal" style="padding: 2px;">1 cup fresh diced carrot (you can use frozen but I find fresh much nicer)<br /></div><div class="recipeingredient recipeingredient_normal" style="padding: 2px;">1 tablespoon chili powder</div><div class="recipeingredient recipeingredient_normal" style="padding: 2px;">1 teaspoon ground cumin</div><div class="recipeingredient recipeingredient_normal" style="padding: 2px;">1 teaspoon onion powder (if you really love onions, which I do)</div><div class="recipeingredient recipeingredient_normal" style="padding: 2px;">1 teaspoon garlic powder (if you really love garlic, which I do) <br /></div><div class="recipeingredient recipeingredient_normal" style="padding: 2px;">Optional: 1/2 cup pre-cooked quinoa (or grain of choice) </div><div class="recipeingredient recipeingredient_normal" style="padding: 2px;">Optional: 1/8 cup chopped fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish</div></div></div><p><span class="SectionLabel" style="font-weight: bold;"> </span></p><p><span class="SectionLabel" style="font-weight: bold;">Instructions:</span><br /><span class="lbl-instructions" id="RecipeView1_lblInstructions">Thinly cover the bottom of the pot with water, heat it up on medium (max for my dutch oven), and water saute onions and garlic until almost soft, about 5 minutes. Stir in carrots and green peppers and saute an additional 3-5 minutes, adding more water as needed to keep the veggies moist and bottom of the pan covered.<br /><br />Stir in diced tomatoes, beans, carrots, and spices. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, cover and simmer for 20 minutes. Add quinoa and simmer for an additional 5 minutes. Let cool and serve. Garnish with the cilantro or parsley.</span></p><p><span class="lbl-instructions" id="RecipeView1_lblInstructions"> </span></p><p><span class="lbl-instructions" id="RecipeView1_lblInstructions">More options: </span><span class="lbl-instructions" id="RecipeView1_lblInstructions"> </span></p><p><span class="lbl-instructions" id="RecipeView1_lblInstructions">It works fine without the quinoa and I think it'd be nice served over cauliflower rice or whatever grains you like. To stretch it to more servings, serve with a salad. I think I get about six meals from it (original dinner, some lunches, and then some frozen dinners) but my husband would probably consider it two or three servings. </span></p><p><span class="lbl-instructions" id="RecipeView1_lblInstructions"><br /></span></p><p><span class="lbl-instructions" id="RecipeView1_lblInstructions">Notes: </span></p><p><span class="serves" id="RecipeView1_lblServes">This is inspired by <a href="http://www.drfuhrman.com">Dr. Joel Fuhrman</a>'s Tailgate Chili with Black and Red Beans. I don't like
red beans, prefer more onions and garlic, and have a bunch of food
allergies, so I have made many changes to it and I therefore consider it my own
recipe now but I do want to acknowledge the original source and highly recommend his books. </span></p><p><span class="serves" id="RecipeView1_lblServes">We usually make a batch of quinoa earlier in the week so can
just scoop it in from the fridge. </span></p><p><span class="serves" id="RecipeView1_lblServes">I use a 3.5 quart dutch oven. </span><span class="lbl-instructions" id="RecipeView1_lblInstructions"></span></p></td></tr></tbody></table>Phyllis Wheelerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09314849446133170369noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1376102620369162850.post-7917626256801889242020-10-06T13:12:00.001-04:002020-10-06T13:12:30.700-04:0022 Ways I Make My Life Easier and Better By "Deciding Once"<p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"> </span></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzLl9DaRPSVX7r9YW3VCWh-WHkY7Qt7N4Z-B2TRkGjm-RbTXpiwSBDaFdRRULV4JY6TMqRbR709xDFIlBO_5TYJzI2jEq0XBBDw8ksKMez2iQF8BoOQRHRHLCxUAckJdJj8TxndriGkEA/s1524/blog_longevity+soup+20200428_154027.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="969" data-original-width="1524" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzLl9DaRPSVX7r9YW3VCWh-WHkY7Qt7N4Z-B2TRkGjm-RbTXpiwSBDaFdRRULV4JY6TMqRbR709xDFIlBO_5TYJzI2jEq0XBBDw8ksKMez2iQF8BoOQRHRHLCxUAckJdJj8TxndriGkEA/s320/blog_longevity+soup+20200428_154027.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></div><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span> My version of <a href="https://jeffnovick.com/">Jeff Novick</a>'s Longevity soup</span></span></span><br /><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"></span></span><p></p><p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: georgia;">I joined <a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCeLICYOqHfIrfSAQq1TT7PA">The Minimal Mom</a>'s membership group because I love Dawn and her family and her videos make me happy. Today I realized that I could share some things I'm doing there and maybe it would help some of you and increase your happiness too. </span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"> Today we were to "decide once" on three things (a concept Dawn got from the "Lazy Genius Way" book and that I've been using for many years to make my life (with a host of health challenges) easier).</span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; color: #050505; display: inline !important; float: none; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">This list was just what came to mind when I brainstormed after watching Dawn's video this morning. I know there's more. If you want me to keep a running list and do a follow up post with the habits that aren't here, just let me know. They're just in the order that they came to mind, not in the order that they happen.<br /></span></span></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; color: #050505; display: inline !important; float: none; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">1) I have the same breakfast every day (kale berry shake in summer; hot blueberry bowl in winter) </span></span></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; color: #050505; display: inline !important; float: none; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">2) I have leftovers for lunch (so dinner includes making enough for there to be leftovers)</span></span></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; color: #050505; display: inline !important; float: none; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">3) I do my planned Bible reading before I let myself do anything else online </span></span></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; color: #050505; display: inline !important; float: none; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">4) I walk outside every day that I'm able </span></span></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; color: #050505; display: inline !important; float: none; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">5) I do goal reading before pleasure reading </span></span></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; color: #050505; display: inline !important; float: none; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">6) Monday's dinner is usually a simple one-pot meal (soup, stew, chili, curry) </span></span></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; color: #050505; display: inline !important; float: none; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">7) I only buy clothing made of natural fabric (except swimsuits, sports wear, etc. where it's not practical) </span></span></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; color: #050505; display: inline !important; float: none; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">8) I stopped wearing makeup except for fancy pictures </span></span></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; color: #050505; display: inline !important; float: none; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">9) I stopped highlighting my hair </span></span></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; color: #050505; display: inline !important; float: none; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">10) My husband cuts my hair </span></span></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; color: #050505; display: inline !important; float: none; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">11) I have specific morning and evening routines that I follow, resting as needed for my health</span></span></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; color: #050505; display: inline !important; float: none; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">12) I go outside and watch the sunset each night that I'm able </span></span></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; color: #050505; display: inline !important; float: none; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">13) I pray, listen to positive things or sing when doing housework (aka "home blessing", thank you <a href="http://flylady.net/">FlyLady</a>)<br /></span></span></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; color: #050505; display: inline !important; float: none; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">13) As a gift to the Lord, I call someone who is lonely every day that I'm able<br /></span></span></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; color: #050505; display: inline !important; float: none; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">14) I do a load of laundry every day that I'm able<br /></span></span></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; color: #050505; display: inline !important; float: none; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">15) We change the sheets on Saturdays </span></span></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; color: #050505; display: inline !important; float: none; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">16) I write out Christmas cards (a few a day) starting the day after Thanksgiving </span></span></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; color: #050505; display: inline !important; float: none; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">17) I spend the last week of the year closing it out and preparing for a great start to the next year. </span></span></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; color: #050505; display: inline !important; float: none; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">18) I aim to live in a "beautiful state" (thank you, <a href="https://www.tonyrobbins.com/">Tony Robbins</a>!), which is basically an empowered emotional state, zapping myself out of dis-empowering moods as soon as possible after recognizing that I'm in them (I did this before Tony Robbins' beautiful state training but without his 90-second time limit and nice title. The name "beautiful states" resonates with me and helps me get back to a positive place faster).<span> </span></span></span></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; color: #050505; display: inline !important; float: none; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span>19) I tithe every month that I have income</span></span></span></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; color: #050505; display: inline !important; float: none; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span>20) Bible study and prayer time are my first sit-down activities of the day </span></span></span></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; color: #050505; display: inline !important; float: none; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span>21) God is my #1 priority for eternity<br /></span></span></span></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; color: #050505; display: inline !important; float: none; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span>22) My husband is my #1 human priority</span></span><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; color: #050505; display: inline !important; float: none; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><br /></span></span></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; color: #050505; display: inline !important; float: none; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"> </span></span></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; color: #050505; display: inline !important; float: none; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">Thank you for visiting! I hope at least one of these helped or inspired you in some way. </span></span></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; color: #050505; display: inline !important; float: none; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">May God bless you!</span></span></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; color: #050505; display: inline !important; float: none; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"> </span></span></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; color: #050505; display: inline !important; float: none; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">Related posts:</span></span></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; color: #050505; display: inline !important; float: none; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">Organized linen closet: https://lovejoyandpeas.blogspot.com/2015/07/from-disaster-to-delight-organized.html</span></span></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; color: #050505; display: inline !important; float: none; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">Decluttered cabinet: https://lovejoyandpeas.blogspot.com/2015/02/clearing-cabinet-clutter-clutter.html</span></span></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; color: #050505; display: inline !important; float: none; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">Take back your time challenge: https://lovejoyandpeas.blogspot.com/2016/06/take-back-your-time-challenge.html <br /></span></span></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; color: #050505; display: inline !important; float: none; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"> </span></span></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; color: #050505; display: inline !important; float: none; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">Note: </span></span></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; color: #050505; display: inline !important; float: none; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">I am not an affiliate of anyone linked in this post, just a fan. All opinions are my own.</span><br /></span></span></span></span></p>Phyllis Wheelerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09314849446133170369noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1376102620369162850.post-76943117429513894352020-10-04T19:55:00.001-04:002020-10-04T19:55:16.419-04:00Clyde Kilby's 11 Resolutions for Mental Health <p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvh336MgBzUh4bo-nu8XBAnvi4c-W_lwadjej2jJ-kerPGOOHtLKe-C02PPWONHcmPUDBHK6cOMklaPTjaPwHXsc6iesHVmgIx3UmcdHiPcExAkcM-0GDNSrMapjhca1mvFNbKMLcsFB8/s4618/DSC03679.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3464" data-original-width="4618" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvh336MgBzUh4bo-nu8XBAnvi4c-W_lwadjej2jJ-kerPGOOHtLKe-C02PPWONHcmPUDBHK6cOMklaPTjaPwHXsc6iesHVmgIx3UmcdHiPcExAkcM-0GDNSrMapjhca1mvFNbKMLcsFB8/s320/DSC03679.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;"><span style="font-size: small;">I first read Clive Kilby's resolutions in John Piper's excellent book, <i>The Pleasures of God</i>. I thought they were so noteworthy that I not only wanted to remember them, but also desired to share them with you. I hope you find them helpful and uplifting.</span></span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;"><span style="font-size: small;">1. "At least once every day I shall look steadily up at the sky and
remember that I, a consciousness with a conscience, am on a planet
traveling in space with wonderfully mysterious things above and about
me.</span></span></p><span style="font-family: georgia;"><span style="font-size: small;">
</span></span><p><span style="font-family: georgia;"><span style="font-size: small;">2. Instead of the accustomed idea of a mindless and endless
evolutionary change to which we can neither add nor subtract, I shall
suppose the universe guided by an Intelligence which, as Aristotle said
of Greek drama, requires a beginning, a middle, and an end. I think
this will save me from the cynicism expressed by Bertrand Russell before
his death when he said: “There is darkness without, and when I die
there will be darkness within. There is no splendor, no vastness
anywhere, only triviality for a moment, and then nothing.”</span></span></p><span style="font-family: georgia;"><span style="font-size: small;">
</span></span><p><span style="font-family: georgia;"><span style="font-size: small;">3. I shall not fall into the falsehood that this day, or any day, is
merely another ambiguous and plodding twenty-four hours, but rather a
unique event, filled, if I so wish, with worthy potentialities. I shall
not be fool enough to suppose that trouble and pain are wholly evil
parentheses in my existence, but just as likely ladders to be climbed
toward moral and spiritual manhood.</span></span></p><span style="font-family: georgia;"><span style="font-size: small;">
</span></span><p><span style="font-family: georgia;"><span style="font-size: small;">4. I shall not turn my life into a thin, straight line which prefers
abstractions to reality. I shall know what I am doing when I abstract,
which of course I shall often have to do.</span></span></p><span style="font-family: georgia;"><span style="font-size: small;">
</span></span><p><span style="font-family: georgia;"><span style="font-size: small;">5. I shall not demean my own uniqueness by envy of others. I shall
stop boring into myself to discover what psychological or social
categories I might belong to. Mostly I shall simply forget about myself
and do my work.</span></span></p><span style="font-family: georgia;"><span style="font-size: small;">
</span></span><p><span style="font-family: georgia;"><span style="font-size: small;">6. I shall open my eyes and ears. Once every day I shall simply stare
at a tree, a flower, a cloud, or a person. I shall not then be
concerned at all to ask what they are but simply be glad that they are. I
shall joyfully allow them the mystery of what Lewis calls their
“divine, magical, terrifying and ecstatic” existence.</span></span></p><span style="font-family: georgia;"><span style="font-size: small;">
</span></span><p><span style="font-family: georgia;"><span style="font-size: small;">7. I shall sometimes look back at the freshness of vision I had in
childhood and try, at least for a little while, to be, in the words of
Lewis Carroll, the “child of the pure unclouded brow, and dreaming eyes
of wonder.”</span></span></p><span style="font-family: georgia;"><span style="font-size: small;">
</span></span><p><span style="font-family: georgia;"><span style="font-size: small;">8. I shall follow Darwin’s advice and turn frequently to imaginative
things such as good literature and good music, preferably, as Lewis
suggests, an old book and timeless music.</span></span></p><span style="font-family: georgia;"><span style="font-size: small;">
</span></span><p><span style="font-family: georgia;"><span style="font-size: small;">9. I shall not allow the devilish onrush of this century to usurp all
my energies but will instead, as Charles Williams suggested, “fulfill
the moment as the moment.” I shall try to live well just now because the
only time that exists is now.</span></span></p><span style="font-family: georgia;"><span style="font-size: small;">
</span></span><p><span style="font-family: georgia;"><span style="font-size: small;">10. Even if I turn out to be wrong, I shall bet my life on the
assumption that this world is not idiotic, neither run by an absentee
landlord, but that today, this very day, some stroke is being added to
the cosmic canvas that in due course I shall understand with joy as a
stroke made by the architect who calls himself Alpha and Omega.</span></span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;"><span style="font-size: small;">11. I shall <span style="left: 90px; top: 104.997px; transform: scaleX(0.992838);">sometimes look back at the fr</span><span style="left: 304.647px; top: 104.997px; transform: scaleX(1.0009);">eshness of vision I had in childhood and</span><span style="left: 90px; top: 130.004px; transform: scaleX(0.889366);">try, at least for a little while, to be, in the words of Lewis Carroll, the</span><span style="left: 90px; top: 155.01px;">‘</span><span style="left: 93.0983px; top: 155.01px; transform: scaleX(0.980842);">child of the pure unclouded brow, and dreaming eyes of wonder."</span></span></span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="left: 93.0983px; top: 155.01px; transform: scaleX(0.980842);">May God bless you!</span></span></span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="left: 93.0983px; top: 155.01px; transform: scaleX(0.980842);"><br /></span></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><span style="left: 93.0983px; top: 155.01px; transform: scaleX(0.980842);">Related Posts:</span></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><a href="https://lovejoyandpeas.blogspot.com/2014/08/smile-for-love.html"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><span style="left: 93.0983px; top: 155.01px; transform: scaleX(0.980842);">https://lovejoyandpeas.blogspot.com/2014/08/smile-for-love.html</span></span></a></span></p><p><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><a href="https://lovejoyandpeas.blogspot.com/2011/12/top-10-quotes-from-completely.html"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><span style="left: 93.0983px; top: 155.01px; transform: scaleX(0.980842);">https://lovejoyandpeas.blogspot.com/2011/12/top-10-quotes-from-completely.html</span></span></a></span></p><p><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><span style="left: 93.0983px; top: 155.01px; transform: scaleX(0.980842);"><a href="https://lovejoyandpeas.blogspot.com/2012/03/authentic-relationships-book-review-and.html">https://lovejoyandpeas.blogspot.com/2012/03/authentic-relationships-book-review-and.html</a> <br /></span></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><span style="left: 93.0983px; top: 155.01px; transform: scaleX(0.980842);"> </span></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><span style="font-family: georgia;"><span style="left: 93.0983px; top: 155.01px; transform: scaleX(0.980842);">Sources:<br />1. <i>The Pleasures of God</i> by John Piper, pages 95-96</span></span></span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="left: 93.0983px; top: 155.01px; transform: scaleX(0.980842);"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">2. https://www.desiringgod.org/articles/10-resolutions-for-mental-health</span></span></span></span></p><p><span style="font-family: georgia;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="left: 93.0983px; top: 155.01px; transform: scaleX(0.980842);"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">(Note: The article had the first 10 and the book had all eleven, but with the eleventh in the text of the book and the first ten in the notations) </span><br /> </span></span></span><span style="font-family: serif; font-size: 18.3333px; left: 556.308px; top: 155.01px; transform: scaleX(0.784684);"></span> </p>Phyllis Wheelerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09314849446133170369noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1376102620369162850.post-4832378969376348062020-03-14T16:17:00.003-04:002020-03-14T16:17:51.260-04:00Cherry Blossoms and Cheery Chaps<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeCiFS4AJJ8UzWboBF5KzQn1jp0IqFYBqqt59gcZb7Qp4l6kpzfsleKiX-bDHhrlO7E8I25SXIat_xZHywnB_1Dsu3GeOT4q10RreJAP3XGWAgL7QY3p9FEPKPvy9tmkkroYzSXnDIBiM/s1600/DSC05741.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeCiFS4AJJ8UzWboBF5KzQn1jp0IqFYBqqt59gcZb7Qp4l6kpzfsleKiX-bDHhrlO7E8I25SXIat_xZHywnB_1Dsu3GeOT4q10RreJAP3XGWAgL7QY3p9FEPKPvy9tmkkroYzSXnDIBiM/s320/DSC05741.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cheery Chaps at USNA: <i>Copyright © by Phyllis Wheeler</i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Normally when people I don't know ask me to take their picture, I agree, take the picture with their phone or camera, and never see them again. But because I'm following the <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prepare/prevention.html">CDC's guidelines</a> for protecting myself from the coronavirus (COVID-19), I am not currently able to handle other's phones or cameras. These easygoing fellows kindly agreed to let me photograph them with my camera and share their photos on my blog (and they have my permission as the photographer to use the photos, print them, share them etc.). They were very good natured about my hesitation and I thank them for their excellent attitudes.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3H0ekaJhGZfsQRhXCW5ADGNLnLXPOYImX2cRWX4qOitsgqoBB31YB_8noz2J0lmwiW1J6FKEpMCCgXloo5HwFH27Oyo-9ZO_SZ9w0m2mG_O4n_fwGMof4Hk2IzC5ONwOGWlfNMycOB7s/s1600/DSC05742.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3H0ekaJhGZfsQRhXCW5ADGNLnLXPOYImX2cRWX4qOitsgqoBB31YB_8noz2J0lmwiW1J6FKEpMCCgXloo5HwFH27Oyo-9ZO_SZ9w0m2mG_O4n_fwGMof4Hk2IzC5ONwOGWlfNMycOB7s/s320/DSC05742.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cheery Chaps and Cherry Blossoms: <i>Copyright © by Phyllis Wheeler</i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
These pictures were taken in front of the big weeping cherry trees near the Visitor's Center at the <a href="https://www.usna.usda.gov/">U.S. National Arboretum</a> today.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUsSW2S7R_WwH-4cjIQgrKDxsjQrP5vMsh_54IUT-6CnJSiMG0MUdB5f4_W6WwYHck51R-4IygnXD3D4KtblIv4uvBN4t_KOJEWZfb6h6oOFwFWtffuRPZjo5wvWEPLjI6O2uoT6l93t8/s1600/DSC05735.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUsSW2S7R_WwH-4cjIQgrKDxsjQrP5vMsh_54IUT-6CnJSiMG0MUdB5f4_W6WwYHck51R-4IygnXD3D4KtblIv4uvBN4t_KOJEWZfb6h6oOFwFWtffuRPZjo5wvWEPLjI6O2uoT6l93t8/s320/DSC05735.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Weeping Cherry Trees: <i>Copyright © by Phyllis Wheeler</i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The trees were just in the bud stage last week so it was a pleasant surprise to see them blooming this much already today. <br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZaWfsc0LdM49iid4K2R6N4_K4MMZKcpnKGce0Ssg6smAXW0wkBf6xNHOf2bW_wKmc9UXvjyQxGwkOcxOAws-8w7AD8evxI32iozl6G8plgXNmtVQWbX5laENchdhQDydj6RL_0B0TseQ/s1600/DSC05723.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZaWfsc0LdM49iid4K2R6N4_K4MMZKcpnKGce0Ssg6smAXW0wkBf6xNHOf2bW_wKmc9UXvjyQxGwkOcxOAws-8w7AD8evxI32iozl6G8plgXNmtVQWbX5laENchdhQDydj6RL_0B0TseQ/s320/DSC05723.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Weeping Cherry Trees II: <i>Copyright © by Phyllis Wheeler</i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I just love these trees. Seeing them bloom is always one of the highlights of my year. <br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiikUgIUlEYJNzL2Yi68OBOvsddYbB9mB0D9Jp-gif1Nhhrv0oukSoISsJqgaau9LnS9hyphenhyphen9quShdvQSrU9u3ddt2AfZpf7JRRMWV52QJUgI8Xdft4W7nPdtxckYd0LKk5k9VuaDtI4vKyI/s1600/DSC05721.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiikUgIUlEYJNzL2Yi68OBOvsddYbB9mB0D9Jp-gif1Nhhrv0oukSoISsJqgaau9LnS9hyphenhyphen9quShdvQSrU9u3ddt2AfZpf7JRRMWV52QJUgI8Xdft4W7nPdtxckYd0LKk5k9VuaDtI4vKyI/s320/DSC05721.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Weeping Cherry Trees III: <i>Copyright © by Phyllis Wheeler</i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Thank you for visiting! Thank you to the three young men for allowing me to take their photos! May God bless them and may He bless you too!<br />
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Related posts:</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">DC tidal basin cherry blossoms: <a href="https://lovejoyandpeas.blogspot.com/2014/04/cherry-blossoms-washington-dc-monuments.html">https://lovejoyandpeas.blogspot.com/2014/04/cherry-blossoms-washington-dc-monuments.html</a></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">DC monuments & cherry blossoms: <a href="https://lovejoyandpeas.blogspot.com/2013/04/cherry-blossoms-and-national-monuments.html">https://lovejoyandpeas.blogspot.com/2013/04/cherry-blossoms-and-national-monuments.html</a></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">2012 monuments and blossoms: <a href="https://lovejoyandpeas.blogspot.com/2012/03/washington-dc-cherry-blossoms-and.html">https://lovejoyandpeas.blogspot.com/2012/03/washington-dc-cherry-blossoms-and.html</a> </span><br />
<br />Phyllis Wheelerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09314849446133170369noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1376102620369162850.post-78398041255246362552019-12-25T21:21:00.000-05:002019-12-25T21:21:53.881-05:00Merry Christmas Wishes<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQD1pdt71Dstk7Wusgf0pKmD06nlvf4awdPCKCrOREmvoL4h_pEqTmZ2DlGMVaCtEELmhD8ww1dixQ8NT-h641PoYFsVPbFepF7Q7gz8CISYGtxJwQBNyYYJUb1FE0ZLlKI-pKOnLUgpw/s1600/longwood2019instagramrisefilter.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="969" data-original-width="968" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQD1pdt71Dstk7Wusgf0pKmD06nlvf4awdPCKCrOREmvoL4h_pEqTmZ2DlGMVaCtEELmhD8ww1dixQ8NT-h641PoYFsVPbFepF7Q7gz8CISYGtxJwQBNyYYJUb1FE0ZLlKI-pKOnLUgpw/s320/longwood2019instagramrisefilter.jpg" width="319" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Longwood Gardens conservatory Christmas tree and flowers</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
Merriest Christmas and happiest holiday wishes to you and yours! May your heart be filled with Jesus' love, joy and peace! We enjoyed a little trip to Longwood Gardens, PA this month and, as usual, were amazed with their creative displays and beautiful flowers and holiday trees.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYGeqKtAQr2bEFqVECNE0aIdOrxWcbVjVsw4s_dsuyEiwiSlFnohlk5dsVfZS1PadCl9Xtl8ddhRaiNMIR2VddbV4fwn88jpajgVpcepPTDC8jinW4HaJdbuA8zZquC6-rSLcSA_b0xOg/s1600/phyllismerrymerrytreeart20191205_211057.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="968" data-original-width="682" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYGeqKtAQr2bEFqVECNE0aIdOrxWcbVjVsw4s_dsuyEiwiSlFnohlk5dsVfZS1PadCl9Xtl8ddhRaiNMIR2VddbV4fwn88jpajgVpcepPTDC8jinW4HaJdbuA8zZquC6-rSLcSA_b0xOg/s320/phyllismerrymerrytreeart20191205_211057.jpg" width="225" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Watercolor Christmas tree by me</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I've been dabbling in a bit of art and hope you will consider the Merry Merry tree above my holiday card to you! I've been simplifying my life and sending out fewer cards by mail but I like that almost everyone has access to my blog.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGqqjOrtzJVnyxhOqJ5btSdYa3ea86FrA0Y6CFLOPKK4FTu_lOUsuEzilKuRqWrvh3w2Lw-5p-GVgkITB7rb7avrvOlxfO8lXvHFpmUbyxvGM4mM5UEq1TUB2nCQxRVRJST6xILt7J-J0/s1600/wewishyouamerrychristmasart20191215_214831.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="919" data-original-width="761" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGqqjOrtzJVnyxhOqJ5btSdYa3ea86FrA0Y6CFLOPKK4FTu_lOUsuEzilKuRqWrvh3w2Lw-5p-GVgkITB7rb7avrvOlxfO8lXvHFpmUbyxvGM4mM5UEq1TUB2nCQxRVRJST6xILt7J-J0/s320/wewishyouamerrychristmasart20191215_214831.jpg" width="264" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My art inspired by a Pinterest post</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I think I used colored pencil for the image above and the reference photo was in <a href="https://www.pinterest.com/joyfulphyllis/">Pinterest</a>. I probably saved it to my "Christmas" board, which you can find <a href="https://www.pinterest.com/joyfulphyllis/">here</a>.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhE4V5mMdLrZSKAG3B8T_mSQpFpTQtbUSukY1wVXc5PSFkG6q497YUFNpromizsIiPIQuVE2AChUCD9toMjR2L2G9V-h9yc4wv_zjX50rbPMOzzOh8D6V5MQz-uSVSKnYkpLCGShZGRvAs/s1600/phyllispineconesartbazaarfilter20191202_160407.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="919" data-original-width="632" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhE4V5mMdLrZSKAG3B8T_mSQpFpTQtbUSukY1wVXc5PSFkG6q497YUFNpromizsIiPIQuVE2AChUCD9toMjR2L2G9V-h9yc4wv_zjX50rbPMOzzOh8D6V5MQz-uSVSKnYkpLCGShZGRvAs/s320/phyllispineconesartbazaarfilter20191202_160407.jpg" width="220" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Watercolor by me, inspired by a YouTube video</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
This was a fun experiment. I wish I'd saved the reference video. If you're the artist, please post your link in the comments below or email me privately and I'll edit this post to include your link. The same video inspired the next watercolor painting too. <br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7e2MXYhLarJRiT8_-jsUouZ3oORR5o6zXT4-fP5OK8qLQmbqg-KFkIcX_uNPMMUy15VotLa3o8ddjo4x5-D3XEynfef8XH-KvRhMV9OB6ikWypnXqXY6WxJKLW2N52ifB-e5XOpbbBjo/s1600/phyllismerrywreathart20191202_160417.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="968" data-original-width="1336" height="231" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7e2MXYhLarJRiT8_-jsUouZ3oORR5o6zXT4-fP5OK8qLQmbqg-KFkIcX_uNPMMUy15VotLa3o8ddjo4x5-D3XEynfef8XH-KvRhMV9OB6ikWypnXqXY6WxJKLW2N52ifB-e5XOpbbBjo/s320/phyllismerrywreathart20191202_160417.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Another YouTube-inspired watercolor painting</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
"Merry" was clearly my theme for this Christmas. Loving Jesus definitely makes me more merry and joyful. May God bless you and all you do, this Christmas and always!<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">Related posts:</span><br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">Christmas at Longwood: <a href="https://lovejoyandpeas.blogspot.com/2013/12/christmas-at-longwood-gardens.html">https://lovejoyandpeas.blogspot.com/2013/12/christmas-at-longwood-gardens.html</a></span><br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">National Christmas tree: <a href="https://lovejoyandpeas.blogspot.com/2018/12/merry-christmas-national-tree-trip.html">https://lovejoyandpeas.blogspot.com/2018/12/merry-christmas-national-tree-trip.html</a></span><br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">Christmas cat cuteness: <a href="https://lovejoyandpeas.blogspot.com/2013/12/christmas-cat-santa-and-reindeer.html">https://lovejoyandpeas.blogspot.com/2013/12/christmas-cat-santa-and-reindeer.html</a></span>Phyllis Wheelerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09314849446133170369noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1376102620369162850.post-71125993848451746602019-01-21T17:22:00.001-05:002019-01-21T17:22:20.142-05:00My One Word for 2019<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXm1JCyQZQVmGj0apIBz2PN0F-sEC6pujI06Dh93wI5y-obEJfGhZ3Mnbvh3LkD7EL1CCc78ZLptwKUQha9QTt9fJdF_PVlCmEB32PYPYQ1hweotSPmUOhxT7Dfubm_PA97Dnv_wpHPAw/s1600/beaminglight_pellini_morguefile.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXm1JCyQZQVmGj0apIBz2PN0F-sEC6pujI06Dh93wI5y-obEJfGhZ3Mnbvh3LkD7EL1CCc78ZLptwKUQha9QTt9fJdF_PVlCmEB32PYPYQ1hweotSPmUOhxT7Dfubm_PA97Dnv_wpHPAw/s320/beaminglight_pellini_morguefile.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Beaming light: photo by Pellini of MorgueFile</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
My guiding word for the year is "light." I'm aiming for a lightening up in spirit, mind, body and
home and hopefully lighting a bit of our world with acts of kindness. I'm praying that God's light and love will shine through me to all those He puts in my path.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvXCfb2fHokeYfNgCsZL18mF6JmhNTc3ZvBdO1jPU99RSC2pWK_ggIPT96K3cGs0pnKRIZwjLAO4O7VPJDBM-_HozWGaigqPjea6kVxiEtxkasyxHsnAH-MTP-X96t5kTEMwDSHUEBNgI/s1600/blog20181125_161942.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="920" data-original-width="1025" height="287" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvXCfb2fHokeYfNgCsZL18mF6JmhNTc3ZvBdO1jPU99RSC2pWK_ggIPT96K3cGs0pnKRIZwjLAO4O7VPJDBM-_HozWGaigqPjea6kVxiEtxkasyxHsnAH-MTP-X96t5kTEMwDSHUEBNgI/s320/blog20181125_161942.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Traveling sunset with visible beams: photo by me</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<i>Do you have a guiding word for the year? Please share if you do!</i><br />
<br />
May God bless you in this new year and always!<br />
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Related posts:</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">New Year prayer haiku poems: <a href="https://lovejoyandpeas.blogspot.com/2011/12/new-years-prayer-haikus.html">https://lovejoyandpeas.blogspot.com/2011/12/new-years-prayer-haikus.html</a></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">New Year blessing and poems: <a href="https://lovejoyandpeas.blogspot.com/2016/12/happy-new-year-blessing-update-and.html">https://lovejoyandpeas.blogspot.com/2016/12/happy-new-year-blessing-update-and.html</a></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">New Year poems: <a href="https://lovejoyandpeas.blogspot.com/2012/01/two-new-year-haikus-inspired-by-god-and.html">https://lovejoyandpeas.blogspot.com/2012/01/two-new-year-haikus-inspired-by-god-and.html</a> </span><br />
<br />Phyllis Wheelerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09314849446133170369noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1376102620369162850.post-82918018729146781062018-12-25T18:00:00.002-05:002018-12-25T18:00:52.856-05:00Merry Christmas! National Tree Trip Photos<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGgW2k8tn5-HjDRKRijHk9TlF0-JNRsSo1p_ynN9-FLQwEBt61r-2M3CoxohSCoDJGiClX9e98S6roglTyQ4_fm0ODlBsrTtV8eBhwwx0NcZWQz838RSDQi1yOU22NZIW_Go7M936PwIU/s1600/DSC09362.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1510" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGgW2k8tn5-HjDRKRijHk9TlF0-JNRsSo1p_ynN9-FLQwEBt61r-2M3CoxohSCoDJGiClX9e98S6roglTyQ4_fm0ODlBsrTtV8eBhwwx0NcZWQz838RSDQi1yOU22NZIW_Go7M936PwIU/s320/DSC09362.JPG" width="301" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">2018 National Christmas Tree by the Capitol Building in DC</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Merriest Christmas wishes to you! May God bless you and all you do this Christmas and always!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoPMDIh1Bfe9gPUwckTu27kIYrbVA3s-7n5BU7r3u35zHsKx47yNJCxYztxdiVMyu2oM5vSojdb3TWDCXE_zh6laj2qStRWgcUqqwvBmKEkqbzE_Dz3hx-O0UpF6zUrHaxMS60pjq0jcE/s1600/DSC07620.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoPMDIh1Bfe9gPUwckTu27kIYrbVA3s-7n5BU7r3u35zHsKx47yNJCxYztxdiVMyu2oM5vSojdb3TWDCXE_zh6laj2qStRWgcUqqwvBmKEkqbzE_Dz3hx-O0UpF6zUrHaxMS60pjq0jcE/s320/DSC07620.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Oregon ornament looks hand painted</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Today my husband and I went to Washington DC to see what we call the "National Christmas Tree." I think it's really called something else but the sign that's usually there wasn't present when we visited. The sign tells us where the tree is from (usually a different state each year) and what school(s) provided ornaments (mostly handmade) as well as the height of the tree. There was a definite "Oregon" theme to the ornaments so I think that's where the tree came from this year.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiFGO-GEjACs6F7mGR2_VY1qJHNZtPj8F7FnMaesXD6hNvtcXsOfbvXoyUZMjGL3-uYlSXAGvHZV8cfc1oSj1qK87YRkTa_ZtgCUaDtmMZ-xLlQjxEaBJbeqF6np9FUB_rR0zJGZTmIMM/s1600/DSC09388.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1411" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiFGO-GEjACs6F7mGR2_VY1qJHNZtPj8F7FnMaesXD6hNvtcXsOfbvXoyUZMjGL3-uYlSXAGvHZV8cfc1oSj1qK87YRkTa_ZtgCUaDtmMZ-xLlQjxEaBJbeqF6np9FUB_rR0zJGZTmIMM/s320/DSC09388.JPG" width="282" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jesus loves everyone wagon wheel ornament</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
This was my favorite ornament because it gets to the heart of Christmas. "Jesus loves everyone" is so true. He loves you! For more information on Jesus' love for you I recommend the site <a href="http://www.peacewithgod.net/">www.peacewithgod.net</a> and they have volunteers available to chat 24/7.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhIxetx-HO5AqvGzihGSPd1OUZHFCsNB0gx-dg9u9XolCMUlyNkDqf799GYP8hhCZ6lX_lWZ6TAb5aCmKehcRTA2Rac6U2ohedjepN6BJIpeK31IYbYLSceDJZeD50tq83omi31OtQXWI/s1600/DSC09401.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1049" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhIxetx-HO5AqvGzihGSPd1OUZHFCsNB0gx-dg9u9XolCMUlyNkDqf799GYP8hhCZ6lX_lWZ6TAb5aCmKehcRTA2Rac6U2ohedjepN6BJIpeK31IYbYLSceDJZeD50tq83omi31OtQXWI/s320/DSC09401.JPG" width="209" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Three-tiered wooden ornament </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I saw a couple of these neat hand-painted and three-tiered wooden ornaments. Of course, the tree is so tall that I could only see the ones near the bottom so there may be more.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgomRpdDitf_2Henmq28zcaeMdAOLaR8RG69ya-uYznMv_NuEPtxiqdgs2FoBfRtRCDGtAuC5wWoUeqyYWf_l1Apqn_ymukInWJtQL3sCjuMzjlrTSXn4b3VkUBfGjCJcu3IROrBq-xygA/s1600/DSC09400.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1226" data-original-width="1600" height="245" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgomRpdDitf_2Henmq28zcaeMdAOLaR8RG69ya-uYznMv_NuEPtxiqdgs2FoBfRtRCDGtAuC5wWoUeqyYWf_l1Apqn_ymukInWJtQL3sCjuMzjlrTSXn4b3VkUBfGjCJcu3IROrBq-xygA/s320/DSC09400.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cute Christmas doggies</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Based on the languages I overheard, there were people from all over the world visiting our tree and some locals even brought their festively dressed canine friends.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9gTHCYqZNY2npuau1BUtSWSA55qMC6Vi0pyOx0RE_fHgghV2-E-aXztEL0qMPmHM7pUoj84OtQVHdJ9UYS9DWA-8wt9D-v917dZiNQFX4CWHBlP4NiUEuSQt9jyfueZCdSo_iv-LqcLY/s1600/DSC09526.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1181" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9gTHCYqZNY2npuau1BUtSWSA55qMC6Vi0pyOx0RE_fHgghV2-E-aXztEL0qMPmHM7pUoj84OtQVHdJ9UYS9DWA-8wt9D-v917dZiNQFX4CWHBlP4NiUEuSQt9jyfueZCdSo_iv-LqcLY/s320/DSC09526.JPG" width="236" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">National Tree zoom photo</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
After we left the tree area the sun came out and I took this photo through some trees. I know it's not technically a good photo but I like the sunshine on the ornaments and thought you might too.<br />
<br />
Thank you for visiting! May all your Christmas dreams come true!<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Related posts:</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Funny caracal Christmas: <a href="https://lovejoyandpeas.blogspot.com/2011/12/funny-caracal-christmas-photos.html">https://lovejoyandpeas.blogspot.com/2011/12/funny-caracal-christmas-photos.html</a></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Cute Christmas cats: <a href="https://lovejoyandpeas.blogspot.com/2013/12/christmas-cat-santa-and-reindeer.html">https://lovejoyandpeas.blogspot.com/2013/12/christmas-cat-santa-and-reindeer.html</a></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">My favorite Longwood Christmas: <a href="https://lovejoyandpeas.blogspot.com/2013/12/christmas-at-longwood-gardens.html">https://lovejoyandpeas.blogspot.com/2013/12/christmas-at-longwood-gardens.html</a></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">National Christmas tree 2013: <a href="https://lovejoyandpeas.blogspot.com/2013/12/national-christmas-tree-with-childrens.html">https://lovejoyandpeas.blogspot.com/2013/12/national-christmas-tree-with-childrens.html</a></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Christmas blessings: <a href="https://lovejoyandpeas.blogspot.com/2013/12/christmas-blessings.html">https://lovejoyandpeas.blogspot.com/2013/12/christmas-blessings.html</a></span>Phyllis Wheelerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09314849446133170369noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1376102620369162850.post-1049978359551249972018-03-31T15:04:00.002-04:002018-03-31T15:04:30.122-04:00Kindness Challenge Wrap Up ~ Days 23-31 <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglBZ8hxQepjSRBi4cwhhdz6vUtrs4tc-Lf4RUTps48ZFKWEeRZKZxPFxGMde4j5Sr2Cfc0Lc8Z7BeYtmPzt8GaACdQIQMK-vGBxgiNTwvceUtsJ1qFXaf6xYWs0as1ADSWf6aCnKFi5aM/s1600/valentine2018cardsent2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="459" data-original-width="351" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglBZ8hxQepjSRBi4cwhhdz6vUtrs4tc-Lf4RUTps48ZFKWEeRZKZxPFxGMde4j5Sr2Cfc0Lc8Z7BeYtmPzt8GaACdQIQMK-vGBxgiNTwvceUtsJ1qFXaf6xYWs0as1ADSWf6aCnKFi5aM/s320/valentine2018cardsent2.jpg" width="244" /></a></div>
March passed so quickly I can hardly believe it. I completed 31 days of the 30 day kindness challenge and, for the vast majority of the time, enjoyed the process. The saying kind things to my husband and doing kind things for my husband were the easy parts. The challenging part was not saying anything negative to him (or about him, but that was easier than the <i>to him</i> part).<br />
<br />
Yes, every now and then I still want to complain to my husband, but he's so much happier with me not complaining at all that I think I'll keep it going. I can't claim to be complaint free but I've narrowed my complaining audience to the Lord and a few close friends (though this has made me more aware of complaining and I 'm making efforts at complaining less with them too).<br />
<br />
There's a difference between stating facts and complaining. I do have to sometimes state negative facts. But I try to do so compassionately. It takes effort but I think it's worth it. <br />
<br />
I learned some surprising things about kindness (and unkindness) from Shaunti Feldhahn's <a href="https://www.jointhekindnesschallenge.com/book"><i>The Kindness Challenge</i> book</a> and highly recommend both it and her <a href="https://www.jointhekindnesschallenge.com/">challenge</a>.<br />
<br />
Thank you for visiting! May God bless you and all you do!<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Related posts:</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Kindness challenge intro: <a href="https://lovejoyandpeas.blogspot.com/2018/03/march-kindness-challenge-invitation.html">https://lovejoyandpeas.blogspot.com/2018/03/march-kindness-challenge-invitation.html</a></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Kindness challenge week 1: <a href="https://lovejoyandpeas.blogspot.com/2018/03/kindness-challenge-days-1-6.html">https://lovejoyandpeas.blogspot.com/2018/03/kindness-challenge-days-1-6.html</a></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Kindness challenge week 2: <a href="https://lovejoyandpeas.blogspot.com/2018/03/kindness-challenge-days-7-13.html">https://lovejoyandpeas.blogspot.com/2018/03/kindness-challenge-days-7-13.html</a></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Kindness challenge week 3: <a href="https://lovejoyandpeas.blogspot.com/2018/03/kindness-challenge-days-14-22.html">https://lovejoyandpeas.blogspot.com/2018/03/kindness-challenge-days-14-22.html</a></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Note / Disclaimer: This is not a sponsored or affiliate post. I was
not asked or paid to write it or do the challenge. It was my own
personal choice. All opinions are my own. </span> </span>Phyllis Wheelerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09314849446133170369noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1376102620369162850.post-48943982859771171012018-03-22T15:20:00.005-04:002018-03-22T15:20:48.579-04:00Kindness Challenge Days 14 - 22<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://static.wixstatic.com/media/44dae3_93c337e5448d46928de5a2091a279a35~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_791,h_791,al_c,q_90,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01/44dae3_93c337e5448d46928de5a2091a279a35~mv2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="791" data-original-width="791" height="320" src="https://static.wixstatic.com/media/44dae3_93c337e5448d46928de5a2091a279a35~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_791,h_791,al_c,q_90,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01/44dae3_93c337e5448d46928de5a2091a279a35~mv2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
March is just flying by and as each day passes I feel like the kindness challenge activities become more ingrained and habitual. I think I'll continue this as a way of life with my husband after the challenge ends.<br />
<br />
My favorite ongoing result of the challenge so far is that I think my husband is whistling more often. I think that means he's happier, at least a little. He's always been a whistler. It just seems more frequent.When I hear him whistling I know he's content and that makes me happy too.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Related posts:</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Kindness challenge intro: <a href="http://lovejoyandpeas.blogspot.com/2018/03/march-kindness-challenge-invitation.html">http://lovejoyandpeas.blogspot.com/2018/03/march-kindness-challenge-invitation.html</a></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Week 1: <a href="http://lovejoyandpeas.blogspot.com/2018/03/kindness-challenge-days-1-6.html">http://lovejoyandpeas.blogspot.com/2018/03/kindness-challenge-days-1-6.html</a></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Week 2: <a href="http://lovejoyandpeas.blogspot.com/2018/03/kindness-challenge-days-7-13.html">http://lovejoyandpeas.blogspot.com/2018/03/kindness-challenge-days-7-13.html</a></span>Phyllis Wheelerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09314849446133170369noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1376102620369162850.post-30663333743225885302018-03-13T18:14:00.003-04:002018-03-13T18:14:45.604-04:00Kindness Challenge Days 7-13<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><a href="https://static.wixstatic.com/media/44dae3_0e7f633c45aa458a90dd890ed123d381~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_791,h_791,al_c,q_90,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01/44dae3_0e7f633c45aa458a90dd890ed123d381~mv2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="791" data-original-width="791" height="320" src="https://static.wixstatic.com/media/44dae3_0e7f633c45aa458a90dd890ed123d381~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_791,h_791,al_c,q_90,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01/44dae3_0e7f633c45aa458a90dd890ed123d381~mv2.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></div>
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Hello, friends! Thankfully this week wasn't as dramatic as <a href="http://lovejoyandpeas.blogspot.com/2018/03/kindness-challenge-days-1-6.html">last week</a>. My husband loves being the recipient of my kindness challenge activities.... so much that he seems
to see it as free reign to add to my to do list! I guess he figures that because I'm supposed to
perform an act of kindness for him every day anyway, he gets to pick what the act will be. At first I thought... hey, it wasn't supposed to
be on demand! But it is making him happy and he's not being
unreasonable so I'm glad to help. </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">This means that I've doubled my activity commitment because I still feel like doing something to surprise him each day too. But he's worth the effort and I'm 100% glad I'm doing this challenge.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">I hope you have a day filled with kindness!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">May God bless you and all you do!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: x-small;">Related posts:<br />Overview: <a href="http://lovejoyandpeas.blogspot.com/2018/03/march-kindness-challenge-invitation.html">http://lovejoyandpeas.blogspot.com/2018/03/march-kindness-challenge-invitation.html</a></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: x-small;">Week one: <a href="http://lovejoyandpeas.blogspot.com/2018/03/kindness-challenge-days-1-6.html">http://lovejoyandpeas.blogspot.com/2018/03/kindness-challenge-days-1-6.html</a></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Creating a loving environment: <a href="http://lovejoyandpeas.blogspot.com/2012/01/creating-loving-atmosphere.html">http://lovejoyandpeas.blogspot.com/2012/01/creating-loving-atmosphere.html</a></span></span>Phyllis Wheelerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09314849446133170369noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1376102620369162850.post-61935278159696526862018-03-06T14:36:00.000-05:002018-03-06T14:36:39.096-05:00Kindness Challenge Days 1-6<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://static.wixstatic.com/media/44dae3_32d227513a0344269b1d9a749e5f1f4b~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_791,h_791,al_c,q_90,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01/44dae3_32d227513a0344269b1d9a749e5f1f4b~mv2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="791" data-original-width="791" height="320" src="https://static.wixstatic.com/media/44dae3_32d227513a0344269b1d9a749e5f1f4b~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_791,h_791,al_c,q_90,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01/44dae3_32d227513a0344269b1d9a749e5f1f4b~mv2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
In my <a href="http://lovejoyandpeas.blogspot.com/2018/03/march-kindness-challenge-invitation.html">last post</a>, I mentioned that March started with a bang. It sure did! I had planned a nice calm morning to ease into the challenge. Unfortunately, my kindness intention was tested before I even got out of bed.<br />
<br />
First I woke with a migraine headache. Pain is not conducive to kindness, but neither is it an excuse to be unkind. I determined to stick to my commitment to the kindness challenge despite the pain.<br />
<br />
Then, as soon as I got out of bed, a cold breeze blew over me, leading me to quickly identify a major security violation. I wanted to reprimand the perpetrator but instead determined to pray first and discuss the issue in the kindest way possible.<br />
<br />
A few minutes later, <a href="http://lovejoyandpeas.blogspot.com/2016/08/cute-kittens-wrestle-and-surrender.html">Braveheart the cat</a> started getting sick. And she got sick all over the place, in at least three different rooms and nine different places. My poor cat clearly suffered as she made pitiful cries between heaves and I thought I'd have to take her to the emergency vet. Only I couldn't drive because my migraine also caused visual disturbances.<br />
<br />
So I had to call my husband. And be kind. And not say anything unkind to him. The way I interpreted this challenge meant I could present the facts, but not complain. I guess there's a reason it's called a "challenge." My husband reacted compassionately and even offered to come right home, fix the security violation (I couldn't reach the source), determine whether Braveheart really needed an emergency veterinarian appointment and help clean up the cat messes (wow!).<br />
<br />
By the time he got home, my migraine medicine had kicked in and Braveheart was drinking water, keeping it down and enjoying my attention. She got up and walked over to him with her tail up so we decided she was going to be ok. We both agreed to pay extra attention to her and be extra alert to her eating habits. He did everything he'd promised to do on the phone and went back to work. And as I type this, I am filled with gratitude and thankful to God for leading me to this Kindness Challenge.<br />
<br />
If I had reacted differently, my husband probably would have too and the day might have kept spiraling downward. Instead, I felt like he really listened and cared and that reinforced my determination to reward him with kindness. <br />
<br />
Days two through six were easy compared to day one but they weren't challenge free. I've been meditating on Bible verses about kindness and praying even more than usual. I haven't been perfect at this but when I slip I apologize and I think it's going very well. <br />
<br />
I hope you have a day filled with kindness, love, joy and peace! May God bless you and all you do! <br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Related posts:</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Kindness Challenge Invitation: <a href="http://lovejoyandpeas.blogspot.com/2018/03/march-kindness-challenge-invitation.html">http://lovejoyandpeas.blogspot.com/2018/03/march-kindness-challenge-invitation.html</a></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Braveheart and the Sandman wrestling: <a href="http://lovejoyandpeas.blogspot.com/2016/08/cute-kittens-wrestle-and-surrender.html">http://lovejoyandpeas.blogspot.com/2016/08/cute-kittens-wrestle-and-surrender.html</a></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Loving atmosphere: <a href="http://lovejoyandpeas.blogspot.com/2012/01/creating-loving-atmosphere.html">http://lovejoyandpeas.blogspot.com/2012/01/creating-loving-atmosphere.html</a></span>Phyllis Wheelerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09314849446133170369noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1376102620369162850.post-5737929502274116562018-03-01T13:21:00.001-05:002018-03-01T13:21:39.375-05:00March Kindness Challenge Invitation<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://static.wixstatic.com/media/44dae3_33e57c18b1274e6b809367c040895053~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_791,h_791,al_c,q_90,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01/44dae3_33e57c18b1274e6b809367c040895053~mv2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="791" data-original-width="791" height="320" src="https://static.wixstatic.com/media/44dae3_33e57c18b1274e6b809367c040895053~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_791,h_791,al_c,q_90,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01/44dae3_33e57c18b1274e6b809367c040895053~mv2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Happy March! Today I signed up for Shaunti Feldhahn's Kindness Challenge. If you'd like to join me you can sign up here: <a href="https://www.jointhekindnesschallenge.com/">https://www.jointhekindnesschallenge.com/</a> or just follow along with the basic three commitments of the challenge (outlined below). If you do join, I'd love to hear about your experience! Feel free to comment below or email me at lovejoypeas@gmail.com.<br />
<br />
<b>Kindness Challenge Summary</b><br />
Choose a person to focus your kindness on this month and, every day, do each of these three things.<br />
<ol>
<li>Say <u>nothing unkind</u> to or about your selected person</li>
<li><u>Say something kind</u> to your selected person</li>
<li><u>Do something kind</u> for your selected person</li>
</ol>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://static.wixstatic.com/media/44dae3_6b920112a0fd41a38695b3ba995e8520~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_791,h_791,al_c,q_90,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01/44dae3_6b920112a0fd41a38695b3ba995e8520~mv2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="791" data-original-width="791" height="320" src="https://static.wixstatic.com/media/44dae3_6b920112a0fd41a38695b3ba995e8520~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_791,h_791,al_c,q_90,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01/44dae3_6b920112a0fd41a38695b3ba995e8520~mv2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
Her research shows that 89% of participants experienced improvement in their relationships!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://static.wixstatic.com/media/44dae3_df651a7a049a4cf8ba70d2e33dce79a7~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_791,h_791,al_c,q_90,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01/44dae3_df651a7a049a4cf8ba70d2e33dce79a7~mv2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="791" data-original-width="791" height="320" src="https://static.wixstatic.com/media/44dae3_df651a7a049a4cf8ba70d2e33dce79a7~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_791,h_791,al_c,q_90,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01/44dae3_df651a7a049a4cf8ba70d2e33dce79a7~mv2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
I chose to do the challenge for my husband. Not because of any problem but because he's awesome and deserves even more kindness in his life. Depending on how it goes, I might repeat the challenge in future months, focusing on a different person each month. <br />
<br />
I used January and February as informal practice months to get in the spirit of things and it's a good thing I did because March opened with a bang ... I'll tell you more in my next post so be sure to come back soon. I aim to post about my Kindness Challenge experiences at least once a week in March 2018. <br />
<br />
May God bless you and every kind thing you do!<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Related posts:</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Create a loving atmosphere: <a href="http://lovejoyandpeas.blogspot.com/2012/01/creating-loving-atmosphere.html">http://lovejoyandpeas.blogspot.com/2012/01/creating-loving-atmosphere.html</a></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Life Lessons for Women: <a href="http://lovejoyandpeas.blogspot.com/2014/04/life-lessons-for-women-7-essential.html">http://lovejoyandpeas.blogspot.com/2014/04/life-lessons-for-women-7-essential.html</a></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Authentic Relationships: <a href="http://lovejoyandpeas.blogspot.com/2012/03/authentic-relationships-book-review-and.html">http://lovejoyandpeas.blogspot.com/2012/03/authentic-relationships-book-review-and.html</a> </span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Note: This isn't a paid or affiliate post of any kind. I'm just a fan of Shaunti Feldhahn's and personally wanted to do the challenge. All opinions are my own.</span><br />
<br />Phyllis Wheelerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09314849446133170369noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1376102620369162850.post-6078577193399088842018-02-14T16:11:00.002-05:002018-02-14T16:12:00.492-05:00Happy Valentine's Day with Cute Bird Card<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKPAgunjWraV3q9SXqgVj2OWKln4N8dNhsJbWVk1gOchyphenhyphenVKdoO_noAsuR3HWMiyhMhcd5CbDFbSt6S27_7KQMh_BcX-ArJaAiyo8ZHwA5gkz1NEAab9hGtBCvP7551rKgq1NvtnizDHTU/s1600/valentine2018cardsent.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="563" data-original-width="407" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKPAgunjWraV3q9SXqgVj2OWKln4N8dNhsJbWVk1gOchyphenhyphenVKdoO_noAsuR3HWMiyhMhcd5CbDFbSt6S27_7KQMh_BcX-ArJaAiyo8ZHwA5gkz1NEAab9hGtBCvP7551rKgq1NvtnizDHTU/s320/valentine2018cardsent.jpg" width="231" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #666666; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 10px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 14.56px; text-align: center; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><i>Photo of one of the Valentines we sent to core family members</i></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Happy Valentine's Day! You are loved by our Lord! More than words could ever say but the story is in the Bible and there are wonderful volunteers working 24/7 to answer questions and pray with people at <a href="http://www.peacewithgod.net/">www.peacewithgod.net </a><br />
<br />
Today, on this day we celebrate love, I just wanted to take moment and say I love you too! Thank you to my dear, patient readers. I'm still not 100% sure where God is leading me with my writing but unless I feel led otherwise, I'm aiming to share more frequently here.<br />
<br />
My heart goes out to all for whom this is a tough, sad holiday. May God comfort those who mourn and those who feel lonely or need comfort in any form.<br />
<br />
I am supremely thankful for God's love, for my husband's love, for the love of my family, friends and readers. I am blessed. God is good!<br />
<br />
May God bless you and those you love!<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Related posts:</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Our 2012 cute valentine cats: <a href="http://lovejoyandpeas.blogspot.com/2012/02/happy-valentines-day-funny-monkey-cat.html">http://lovejoyandpeas.blogspot.com/2012/02/happy-valentines-day-funny-monkey-cat.html</a></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">2013 valentine cats: <a href="http://lovejoyandpeas.blogspot.com/2013/02/happy-valentines-day-funny-cat-photos.html">http://lovejoyandpeas.blogspot.com/2013/02/happy-valentines-day-funny-cat-photos.html</a></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Valentine crafts from my mom plus cats: <a href="http://lovejoyandpeas.blogspot.com/2012/02/cute-valentine-cats.html">http://lovejoyandpeas.blogspot.com/2012/02/cute-valentine-cats.html</a></span>Phyllis Wheelerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09314849446133170369noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1376102620369162850.post-37839442007203772142017-12-29T16:14:00.000-05:002018-01-03T16:17:34.879-05:00Overtaken by Grace by Debbie Milam - Book Review<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9Fco-3Azah7YGt2OK0WAeAKELLYg51eHmSqyuvwgkMY_EyU1qODuwNOyvuVDrN1z65yKF5B5F8OKGAGDinKBYCgHXGpGRo__3QD5ZCZ1sjWlQh-HWkOjaAg0zSg-RCqhFvw-5a1u5NTk/s1600/bookcrashcover171228.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1015" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9Fco-3Azah7YGt2OK0WAeAKELLYg51eHmSqyuvwgkMY_EyU1qODuwNOyvuVDrN1z65yKF5B5F8OKGAGDinKBYCgHXGpGRo__3QD5ZCZ1sjWlQh-HWkOjaAg0zSg-RCqhFvw-5a1u5NTk/s320/bookcrashcover171228.jpg" width="203" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3gXrQ7FAkqwLu4AccUiTGY1CVwUancSZSBgj_Py93d9fY4SpcQedAM18NXxDXAE3KlKijMDdbAeNAun3AwiQbpcrJ4bf5yRhyZxb0rLqEiKmj_EuHXiWgnmU36hH2PZXcaX8KYURGsbQ/s1600/bookcrashsignaturedebbiemilam171228.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="940" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3gXrQ7FAkqwLu4AccUiTGY1CVwUancSZSBgj_Py93d9fY4SpcQedAM18NXxDXAE3KlKijMDdbAeNAun3AwiQbpcrJ4bf5yRhyZxb0rLqEiKmj_EuHXiWgnmU36hH2PZXcaX8KYURGsbQ/s320/bookcrashsignaturedebbiemilam171228.jpg" width="188" /></a></div>
Of all the books available on <a href="http://www.bookcrash.com/">Bookcrash</a>, this was the one I most wanted to read, and the main reason I signed up for the program. More grace is always a good thing. <br />
<br />
As the saying goes, God works in mysterious ways. Little did I know that by the time the book arrived, a core family member would be in the intensive care unit (ICU) and I would be too sick to be able to travel, even though there was a good chance my beloved family member might not survive. Debbie Milam's <i><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Overtaken-Grace-Intimacy-Healing-Miracles-ebook/dp/B074QQHM8Z/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1515013610&sr=8-1&keywords=overtaken+by+grace">Overtaken by Grace: How Intimacy with God Brings Hope, Healing, and Miracles</a> </i>provided exactly the support I needed during that difficult time. I loved her liberal use of scripture and her heartfelt prayers.<br />
<br />
It's a very slim book, totaling 115 pages, and it didn't have any big original thoughts that I noticed. But what it did deliver is Debbie's beautiful way of speaking about core Biblical truths and life lessons in touching, heartfelt ways. Debbie's love for the Lord and her readers was evident and I felt like she was a friend helping me through this difficult time.<br />
<br />
Some of the sections, such as coping with teenagers, didn't apply to my life but I read the whole book and do feel like I got something out of each part.<br />
<br />
God did grant a miracle and my family member, while not completely healed, is still alive and able to live independently, something some of his doctors did not think would be possible. I'm still not up for travel but the need is less urgent.<br />
<br />
Normally, once I finish a Christian book, I pass it on to my mother, who runs an informal free Christian lending library. But I'm going to keep <i>Overtaken by Grace. </i>I love the personal inscription she so kindly wrote for me and I know I'm going to want to reference it in the future, especially for the prayers.<br />
<br />
My only criticism of the book is that Debbie only vaguely alludes to her challenges and doesn't get deeply personal and specific until more than halfway through the book (if I remember correctly, around page 65). I would have liked to know what kind of things she had dealt with much earlier in the book. But, even before she got specific, I could tell that she was someone I'd certainly like to get to know. I love her heart for God and her unique way of expressing His truths.<br />
<br />
I would definitely recommend this book for any Christian or anyone open to Christianity. <br />
<br />
May God continue to bless Debbie Milam, and may He bless you too!<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Related posts:</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Refocus book review: <a href="http://lovejoyandpeas.blogspot.com/2013/08/refocus-living-life-that-reflects-gods.html">http://lovejoyandpeas.blogspot.com/2013/08/refocus-living-life-that-reflects-gods.html</a></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Life Lessons book review: <a href="http://lovejoyandpeas.blogspot.com/2014/04/life-lessons-for-women-7-essential.html">http://lovejoyandpeas.blogspot.com/2014/04/life-lessons-for-women-7-essential.html</a></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Disciplines of a godly woman: <a href="http://lovejoyandpeas.blogspot.com/2012/07/disciplines-of-godly-woman-book-review.htm">http://lovejoyandpeas.blogspot.com/2012/07/disciplines-of-godly-woman-book-review.htm</a>l</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Authentic relationships: <a href="http://lovejoyandpeas.blogspot.com/2012/07/disciplines-of-godly-woman-book-review.html">http://lovejoyandpeas.blogspot.com/2012/07/disciplines-of-godly-woman-book-review.html</a> </span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Disclosure:</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher through the <a href="http://www.bookcrash.com/" target="_new">BookCrash.com</a>
book review program, which requires an honest, though not necessarily
positive, review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am not currently nor have I been in the past, an Amazon affiliate. I am considering applying to be an affiliate in the future and will post a notice when/if that happens. I am
disclosing this in accordance with the <a href="http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/waisidx_03/16cfr255_03.html" target="_new">Federal Trade Commission’s CFR Title 16, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”</a></span><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Phyllis Wheelerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09314849446133170369noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1376102620369162850.post-27919259903845812692017-12-25T19:57:00.002-05:002017-12-25T19:57:51.504-05:00Merry Christmas! Includes Update and Blessings.<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXVCAE5NIc9P_SGcWd_PdxX6T3RZCuonRQyXvx4dQY2y8F994mCQXHFoY8rnpGqphKRgPR3i8UwVFPvvPfy54prbTOkkC2KEy5pHr_w-DiYnS2jvdloEVEAyZeR6zp058nWQXD3swws1w/s1600/DSC09508.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1341" data-original-width="1600" height="268" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXVCAE5NIc9P_SGcWd_PdxX6T3RZCuonRQyXvx4dQY2y8F994mCQXHFoY8rnpGqphKRgPR3i8UwVFPvvPfy54prbTOkkC2KEy5pHr_w-DiYnS2jvdloEVEAyZeR6zp058nWQXD3swws1w/s320/DSC09508.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 10px; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 14.56px; orphans: auto; text-align: center; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px;">Red and white camellia flower: Copyright © Phyllis Wheeler, 2017</i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
"For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government
shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful,
Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace." Isaiah 9:6 (KJV)</div>
<br />
Merry Christmas to you and yours! I wanted to share my <a href="https://www.instagram.com/lovejoypeas/">Instagram</a> photo but couldn't get the link to work here. It did work on my relatively new <a href="https://www.facebook.com/Phyllis-Wheeler-304048356776684/">Facebook "writer" page</a>. So if you follow me on either of those places you can see our 2018 Christmas card. But I do like the Christmas-y camellia flower featured in this post and hope you do to.<br />
<br />
May this Christmas bring you renewed faith, pure joy, and the sure knowledge that Jesus loves you! If this is a painful time of the year for you, I pray that you will draw near to God and He will comfort you with His <a href="https://billygraham.org/decision-magazine/october-2004/steps-to-peace-with-god/">peace that passes understanding</a>.<br />
<br />
I haven't been blogging much this year but I have been praying a lot. I feel like God is leading me to start my own webpage but until I'm sure of what He wants me to do there I'll keep posting here. In the New Year I plan to share some of the things I'm considering and I will welcome your input.<br />
<br />
May God's peace be upon you, light fill your soul and blessings be with you!<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Related posts:</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Christmas blessings: <a href="http://lovejoyandpeas.blogspot.com/2013/12/christmas-blessings.html">http://lovejoyandpeas.blogspot.com/2013/12/christmas-blessings.html</a></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Longwood Christmas: <a href="http://lovejoyandpeas.blogspot.com/2013/12/christmas-at-longwood-gardens.html">http://lovejoyandpeas.blogspot.com/2013/12/christmas-at-longwood-gardens.html</a></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Cute Christmas cat: <a href="http://lovejoyandpeas.blogspot.com/2013/12/christmas-cat-santa-and-reindeer.html">http://lovejoyandpeas.blogspot.com/2013/12/christmas-cat-santa-and-reindeer.html</a></span>Phyllis Wheelerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09314849446133170369noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1376102620369162850.post-56576083261468464362017-08-04T15:23:00.001-04:002017-08-04T15:23:09.248-04:00First Chicken Soup for the Soul Story Published!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://scontent.fphl2-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-0/s526x395/20526260_1196187700486058_7550494285438883121_n.png?oh=e0c7bd2ae09137069cd74b4b040922e1&oe=5A2C8D7D" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="395" data-original-width="472" height="333" src="https://scontent.fphl2-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-0/s526x395/20526260_1196187700486058_7550494285438883121_n.png?oh=e0c7bd2ae09137069cd74b4b040922e1&oe=5A2C8D7D" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Exciting news! <a href="http://www.chickensoup.com/">Chicken Soup for the Soul</a> bought one of my stories and it is in the book pictured above (<i>The Dog Really Did That</i>?)! The book officially launches on August 8, 2017 but is available for pre-order now on <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Chicken-Soup-Soul-Miracles-Mischief/dp/1611599695/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1501874271&sr=8-1&keywords=the+dog+really+did+that">Amazon</a>.<br />
<br />
I haven't used Twitter in ages but if I can figure out how to get in to the launch party mentioned in the photo above, I hope to see you there!<br />
<br />
May God bless you!<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Related posts:</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Our kittens when tiny: <a href="http://lovejoyandpeas.blogspot.com/2016/05/braveheart-and-sandman-our-new-kittens.html">http://lovejoyandpeas.blogspot.com/2016/05/braveheart-and-sandman-our-new-kittens.html</a></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Cute wrestling kittens: <a href="http://lovejoyandpeas.blogspot.com/2016/08/cute-kittens-wrestle-and-surrender.html">http://lovejoyandpeas.blogspot.com/2016/08/cute-kittens-wrestle-and-surrender.html</a></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Our elderly cat: <a href="http://lovejoyandpeas.blogspot.com/2015/07/black-cat-pink-tongue-cuteness-photos.html">http://lovejoyandpeas.blogspot.com/2015/07/black-cat-pink-tongue-cuteness-photos.html</a></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"> </span><br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">Direct link to book: <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Chicken-Soup-Soul-Miracles-Mischief/dp/1611599695/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1501874271&sr=8-1&keywords=the+dog+really+did+that">https://www.amazon.com/Chicken-Soup-Soul-Miracles-Mischief/dp/1611599695/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1501874271&sr=8-1&keywords=the+dog+really+did+that</a></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">Disclaimer: I am one of the authors in the book and will be paid a flat fee for my story. I don't get any additional monies for books sold. The Amazon link in this article is not an affiliate link. </span>Phyllis Wheelerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09314849446133170369noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1376102620369162850.post-44160315540743381062017-03-28T17:51:00.002-04:002017-03-28T17:51:49.657-04:00Blog Break - Spring 2017<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nVxUx4IUQ0Q/WNrWWv_WspI/AAAAAAAAKJE/GFU1aDPOiPQToVKSIhZ3gzoMqYQWwTyXgCPcB/s1600/DSC00865.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nVxUx4IUQ0Q/WNrWWv_WspI/AAAAAAAAKJE/GFU1aDPOiPQToVKSIhZ3gzoMqYQWwTyXgCPcB/s320/DSC00865.JPG" width="250" /></a></div>
Happy tidy Tuesday! The Great Clutter Purge of 2017 continues, albeit slowly. I had before and after photos for you of a little clutter busting progress but my husband doesn't want me to share household photos anymore. As much as I love sharing here, I love him more so must respect his wishes.<br />
<br />
Unfortunately, my health has been especially challenging lately so I've decided to take the rest of spring off from the blog... and maybe longer. But as I'm able I'll still keep my <a href="https://www.facebook.com/lovejoypeas/">Facebook page</a> updated with archive posts and other blogger's interesting posts.<br />
<br />
May God bless you and those you love!Phyllis Wheelerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09314849446133170369noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1376102620369162850.post-10671634436755496572017-03-21T16:22:00.000-04:002017-03-21T16:22:07.160-04:00Quick and Easy Tea Nook Clutter Busting<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Bi8sIND-Aro/WNGE_IvCTfI/AAAAAAAAKHM/yNWuVK7C340nf_dNrMpwSGpjd0dvwvcyQCPcB/s1600/DSC00876.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Bi8sIND-Aro/WNGE_IvCTfI/AAAAAAAAKHM/yNWuVK7C340nf_dNrMpwSGpjd0dvwvcyQCPcB/s320/DSC00876.JPG" width="249" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #666666; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 10px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 14.56px; text-align: center; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><i>Tidied tea nook</i>:<span class="Apple-converted-space"><span class="Apple-converted-space"><span class="Apple-converted-space"><span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></span></span></span><i style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 10px; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 14.56px; orphans: auto; text-align: center; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px;">Copyright © Phyllis Wheeler, 2017</i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Happy tidy Tuesday and Spring! The <a href="http://lovejoyandpeas.blogspot.com/2017/02/great-clutter-purge-of-2017-january.html">Great Clutter Purge of 2017</a> continues with a quick flat surface area / kitchen counter clutter busting project.<br />
<br />
We have tea almost every day but this little tea nook to the left of our range is a clutter magnet. The above photo is an "after" clutter busting image. It includes one thing that wasn't in the "before" photo below. Can you spot it?<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HZnOC3UOzCQ/WNGE_NjJFKI/AAAAAAAAKHU/JCPChTuE6BAfBFTFid1OoWe2IgVk7DFmQCPcB/s1600/DSC00873.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HZnOC3UOzCQ/WNGE_NjJFKI/AAAAAAAAKHU/JCPChTuE6BAfBFTFid1OoWe2IgVk7DFmQCPcB/s320/DSC00873.JPG" width="212" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #666666; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 10px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 14.56px; text-align: center; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><i>"Before" cluttered tea nook</i>:<span class="Apple-converted-space"><span class="Apple-converted-space"><span class="Apple-converted-space"><span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></span></span></span><i style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 10px; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 14.56px; orphans: auto; text-align: center; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px;">Copyright © Phyllis Wheeler, 2017</i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
This "before" photo shows a much messier tea nook. Most of this stuff isn't clutter in the sense that we don't use it but it is clutter in the sense that it doesn't belong there.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-y-AZcnGxilU/WNGE_AN_YSI/AAAAAAAAKHk/xEsftSdV7sMY2wt9i90mS4n99sWWzBFLwCPcB/s1600/DSC00874.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-y-AZcnGxilU/WNGE_AN_YSI/AAAAAAAAKHk/xEsftSdV7sMY2wt9i90mS4n99sWWzBFLwCPcB/s320/DSC00874.JPG" width="183" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #666666; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 10px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 14.56px; text-align: center; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><i>"After" uncluttered tea nook</i>:<span class="Apple-converted-space"><span class="Apple-converted-space"><span class="Apple-converted-space"><span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></span></span></span><i style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 10px; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 14.56px; orphans: auto; text-align: center; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px;">Copyright © Phyllis Wheeler, 2017</i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
So I removed everything from the area, cleaned the empty space, put the out of place things where they belonged and then returned the things that did belong.<br />
<br />
Then I noticed the cup hook with nothing on it. I searched for and found the missing oven mitt and hung it back up (see the topmost image - that was the extra item not present in the "before" photo). I like the tidied tea nook much better this way.<br />
<br />
Thank you for visiting! May God bless you!<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Related posts:</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Quick Kitchen Counter Organizing: <a href="http://lovejoyandpeas.blogspot.com/2013/03/14-minute-kitchen-counter-clutter.html">http://lovejoyandpeas.blogspot.com/2013/03/14-minute-kitchen-counter-clutter.html</a></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Microwave Area Clutter Busting: <a href="http://lovejoyandpeas.blogspot.com/2013/03/8-minute-microwave-and-cut-flower.html">http://lovejoyandpeas.blogspot.com/2013/03/8-minute-microwave-and-cut-flower.html</a></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Organized Utensil Drawer: <span style="font-size: xx-small;"><a href="http://lovejoyandpeas.blogspot.com/2014/07/my-simplifying-home-8-week-journey-week_21.html">http://lovejoyandpeas.blogspot.com/2014/07/my-simplifying-home-8-week-journey-week_21.html</a></span></span>Phyllis Wheelerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09314849446133170369noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1376102620369162850.post-58260631310572133022017-03-17T16:42:00.003-04:002017-03-17T16:42:55.516-04:00Happy St. Patrick's Day! Green Orchid Photos and Haiku Poems<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6GQOqgLnPjk/WMxClxN8D6I/AAAAAAAAKFw/74IJ6b_HIQM-LwMIP9p2FcFAh4jeODSDgCPcB/s1600/DSC00864.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6GQOqgLnPjk/WMxClxN8D6I/AAAAAAAAKFw/74IJ6b_HIQM-LwMIP9p2FcFAh4jeODSDgCPcB/s320/DSC00864.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #666666; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 10px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 14.56px; text-align: center; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><i>Irish Blessing Plaque</i>:<span class="Apple-converted-space"><span class="Apple-converted-space"><span class="Apple-converted-space"><span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></span></span></span><i style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 10px; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 14.56px; orphans: auto; text-align: center; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px;">Copyright © Phyllis Wheeler, 2017</i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Happy St. Patrick's Day and floral Friday! The plaque in the photo above has this Irish blessing:<br /><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
"May the road rise to meet you<br />May the wind be always at your back</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
May the sun shine warm upon your face</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
The rains fall gently upon your fields</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
And until we meet again</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
May God hold you in the palm of His hand"</div>
<br />
This plaque hangs, year round, in our bedroom. I am a wee bit Irish, after all.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4X0keeaPBrc/WMxCc_F0b7I/AAAAAAAAKFE/kKXdQp9Aox8qAw--94Stkjh87Xslg_r_ACPcB/s1600/DSC03389.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4X0keeaPBrc/WMxCc_F0b7I/AAAAAAAAKFE/kKXdQp9Aox8qAw--94Stkjh87Xslg_r_ACPcB/s320/DSC03389.JPG" width="317" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #666666; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 10px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 14.56px; text-align: center; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><i>Green Orchid "cymbodium goeringii" </i>:<span class="Apple-converted-space"><span class="Apple-converted-space"><span class="Apple-converted-space"><span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></span></span></span><i style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 10px; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 14.56px; orphans: auto; text-align: center; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px;">Copyright © Phyllis Wheeler, 2017</i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I thought green orchids would be perfect for this St. Patrick's day post. The photos were taken at the <a href="http://www.usna.usda.gov/">U.S. National Arboretum</a> in their <a href="http://www.usna.usda.gov/Gardens/collections/bonsai.html">Bonsai Museum</a>. It's a great place to visit, any time of the year.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uuw4qb8yk_8/WMxCc-rXvoI/AAAAAAAAKFc/AGRy0cPfd0wWA7wHhh5tlbg9YXA8kkWpQCPcB/s1600/DSC03391.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="319" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uuw4qb8yk_8/WMxCc-rXvoI/AAAAAAAAKFc/AGRy0cPfd0wWA7wHhh5tlbg9YXA8kkWpQCPcB/s320/DSC03391.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #666666; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 10px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 14.56px; text-align: center; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><i>Green orchids rising</i>:<span class="Apple-converted-space"><span class="Apple-converted-space"><span class="Apple-converted-space"><span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></span></span></span><i style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 10px; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 14.56px; orphans: auto; text-align: center; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px;">Copyright © Phyllis Wheeler, 2017</i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Back to St. Patrick's day. While praying and walking today, God gave me these two haiku poems.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>St. Patrick's Day Haiku Poem I</b>:</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Saint Patrick was real!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
He spread the gospel message</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
and loved our Lord God!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>St. Patrick's Day Haiku Poem II</b>:<br />He used shamrock leaves</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
to explain the Trinity:</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Father, Son, Spirit.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Saint Patrick was a devoted Christian and I'm glad to celebrate his life by wearing green but I think loving God and serving others honor him best. </div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HC19LV_C8Mw/WMxCc_Lb1bI/AAAAAAAAKFM/K8PEb2KJfPI_yBFiHTd-cjsUEIhPPs4EQCPcB/s1600/DSC03390.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="242" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HC19LV_C8Mw/WMxCc_Lb1bI/AAAAAAAAKFM/K8PEb2KJfPI_yBFiHTd-cjsUEIhPPs4EQCPcB/s320/DSC03390.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #666666; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 10px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 14.56px; text-align: center; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><i>Green orchids in pretty pot</i>:<span class="Apple-converted-space"><span class="Apple-converted-space"><span class="Apple-converted-space"><span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></span></span></span><i style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 10px; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 14.56px; orphans: auto; text-align: center; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px;">Copyright © Phyllis Wheeler, 2017</i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The photo above is an overview of the green "cymbodium goeringii" orchids in their pretty pot. When I first saw the pot, I thought it was a pot of grass! But when I looked more closely I could see the orchid flowers.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hcANn8O3TaQ/WMxElE6lhmI/AAAAAAAAKGE/2-aIHpudXjA7FqUAFuW9jfsGRzDy7jmAACPcB/s1600/DSC00866c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hcANn8O3TaQ/WMxElE6lhmI/AAAAAAAAKGE/2-aIHpudXjA7FqUAFuW9jfsGRzDy7jmAACPcB/s320/DSC00866c.jpg" width="318" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #666666; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 10px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 14.56px; text-align: center; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><i>Kittens love an unmade bed</i>:<span class="Apple-converted-space"><span class="Apple-converted-space"><span class="Apple-converted-space"><span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></span></span></span><i style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 10px; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 14.56px; orphans: auto; text-align: center; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px;">Copyright © Phyllis Wheeler, 2017</i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Just in case you wondered what our kittens were doing on St. Patrick's day - they were relaxing. Every time I went to make the bed, a cat was on it. It's late afternoon and I still haven't made the bed, but the day isn't over. But their kittenhood almost is - they will be a year old a week from today! <br />
<br />
May God bless you and all you love!<br /><br /><i>How do you celebrate Saint Patrick's Day? </i><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Related posts:</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">My Favorite Funny Cat St. Patrick's Post: <a href="http://lovejoyandpeas.blogspot.com/2012/03/hilarious-happy-st-patricks-day-cat.html"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">http://lovejoyandpeas.blogspot.com/2012/03/hilarious-happy-st-patricks-day-cat.html</span></a></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">More funny Irish cat photos: <a href="http://lovejoyandpeas.blogspot.com/2013/03/funny-st-patricks-day-photos-of-moose.html">http://lovejoyandpeas.blogspot.com/2013/03/funny-st-patricks-day-photos-of-moose.html</a></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Cute cats wearing the green: <a href="http://lovejoyandpeas.blogspot.com/2012/03/funny-st-patricks-day-cat-photos.html">http://lovejoyandpeas.blogspot.com/2012/03/funny-st-patricks-day-cat-photos.html</a></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Note:</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">This is not a sponsored or paid post. All opinions are my own. </span>Phyllis Wheelerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09314849446133170369noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1376102620369162850.post-68099486373493536482017-03-15T17:33:00.000-04:002017-03-15T17:33:13.100-04:00First Day of Spring Home Blessing Prayer Party (Online)<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://scontent.fphl2-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t31.0-8/17349894_10209010791722736_9005289341497793652_o.jpg?oh=d4645c3f2eeaaa2714651ce6f8ece18c&oe=596F05F1" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="223" src="https://scontent.fphl2-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t31.0-8/17349894_10209010791722736_9005289341497793652_o.jpg?oh=d4645c3f2eeaaa2714651ce6f8ece18c&oe=596F05F1" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo source: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/1830213920577559/">Facebook</a> theme</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
It's almost officially spring! You are cordially invited to celebrate with me via my online <i><a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/1830213920577559/">First Day of Spring Home Blessing Prayer Party!</a> </i>It will be held on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/1830213920577559/">Facebook on Monday, March 20th from 11 am to 7 pm Eastern time</a>.<br />
<br />
I envision us celebrating the first day of spring together with lots of praying for each other and our homes, and actual home blessing activities. This means not just sitting at the computer but getting up and doing some good in our homes (acts of kindness, cleaning, organizing, clutter busting, tidying etc.)! Home blessing prayers, prayer requests, home blessing tips and before / after photos are welcome!<br />
<br />
I pray this will be an event that uplifts, encourages and blesses all who participate.<br />
<br />
May God bless you and all who join!<br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Related posts: </span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">12 Spring Celebration Ideas: <a href="http://lovejoyandpeas.blogspot.com/2014/03/happy-spring-haiku-poems-and-12.html">http://lovejoyandpeas.blogspot.com/2014/03/happy-spring-haiku-poems-and-12.html</a></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Daffodils, Pansies and Cyclamen: <a href="http://lovejoyandpeas.blogspot.com/2014/03/daffodil-pansy-and-cyclamen-flower.html">http://lovejoyandpeas.blogspot.com/2014/03/daffodil-pansy-and-cyclamen-flower.html</a></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Spring Flowers: <a href="http://lovejoyandpeas.blogspot.com/2016/02/first-flowers-of-spring-2016.html">http://lovejoyandpeas.blogspot.com/2016/02/first-flowers-of-spring-2016.html</a></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Notes: </span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Full event link: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/1830213920577559/">https://www.facebook.com/events/1830213920577559/</a></span><br /><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Not a sponsored or affiliate post; all opinions are my own.</span></span>Phyllis Wheelerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09314849446133170369noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1376102620369162850.post-69229909320832222822017-03-14T17:17:00.002-04:002017-03-14T17:17:24.630-04:00Tidy Tuesday Tip: Consolidate and Containerize<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rAfWT1I4tf8/WMhT6wmbDuI/AAAAAAAAKD0/dezMfe6QqZMG80HSpC7rhWHn4vVp16EaQCPcB/s1600/DSC00744.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rAfWT1I4tf8/WMhT6wmbDuI/AAAAAAAAKD0/dezMfe6QqZMG80HSpC7rhWHn4vVp16EaQCPcB/s320/DSC00744.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #666666; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 10px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 14.56px; text-align: center; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><i>Sunset yellow roses with red tips</i>:<span class="Apple-converted-space"><span class="Apple-converted-space"><span class="Apple-converted-space"><span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></span></span></span><i style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 10px; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 14.56px; orphans: auto; text-align: center; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px;">Copyright © Phyllis Wheeler, 2017</i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Happy tidy Tuesday! I think I took the rose photo above on March 9th and in the photos below you can see that they've held up pretty well. But that has nothing to do with Tidy Tuesday. The main point of this post is that if you don't have time to do a real clutter busting session, consolidating and containerizing works really well.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-a2bqHIzNfVA/WMhS8fBlySI/AAAAAAAAKD0/AUHf8NRuC44AjHj200IfVp_unF8Z5ga0gCPcB/s1600/DSC00829.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="236" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-a2bqHIzNfVA/WMhS8fBlySI/AAAAAAAAKD0/AUHf8NRuC44AjHj200IfVp_unF8Z5ga0gCPcB/s320/DSC00829.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #666666; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 10px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 14.56px; text-align: center; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><i>Messy dining room table</i> "before":<span class="Apple-converted-space"><span class="Apple-converted-space"><span class="Apple-converted-space"><span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></span></span></span><i style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 10px; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 14.56px; orphans: auto; text-align: center; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px;">Copyright © Phyllis Wheeler, 2017</i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
On weekends that I'm too busy or health challenged, things pile up on our table. Yesterday, when I was walking by after getting the mail, the gloves were in a stack on top of the scarf which was on top of the pile of hats. It didn't look that bad because it was all stacked together (consolidated). But I thought it was a great opportunity to demonstrate consolidation and containerization. So I spread everything out and added the mail that I hadn't already recycled (I like to recycle what we don't need as soon as I bring it in).<br />
<br />
Yes, I wore all that stuff since last Friday. No, I am not a minimalist.<br />
<br />
You can barely see one of them but there are three jackets hanging off chairs around the table. I prefer to put my jacket away right after coming inside but if the kittens are eager to play they'll jump in the closet and I have a hard time getting them out. So I just wait until they're asleep.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fin2MmowuqE/WMhS8c1lHJI/AAAAAAAAKD0/uch34E3HIP0jWzULaYSGDxaPO8KDcjcGgCPcB/s1600/DSC00830.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="254" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fin2MmowuqE/WMhS8c1lHJI/AAAAAAAAKD0/uch34E3HIP0jWzULaYSGDxaPO8KDcjcGgCPcB/s320/DSC00830.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #666666; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 10px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 14.56px; text-align: center; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><i>Containerized & consolidated table "after"</i>:<span class="Apple-converted-space"><span class="Apple-converted-space"><span class="Apple-converted-space"><span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></span></span></span><i style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 10px; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 14.56px; orphans: auto; text-align: center; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px;">Copyright © Phyllis Wheeler, 2017</i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Everything that was in the first photo ("before") is still represented here in this first "after" photo! Although the bag got cut off so you can just see just the edge of it on the left. All I did to get to this point was to stack all 3 jackets on one chair (consolidate) and put everything that was spread all over the table and didn't belong there in the brown paper bag (containerize). Then I put the brown paper bag on one of the chairs. Instant improvement!<br />
<br />
Fastest tidying tip - just dump everything in a container and get it out of the way. Now, don't get me wrong, that's not true organizing. But if you just want things to look better fast, it works.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OdZuUVepGGk/WMhS8X-giaI/AAAAAAAAKD0/snIuRj6MWmgmd6lPWAEQW90HL-v2QpfJwCPcB/s1600/DSC00832.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="230" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OdZuUVepGGk/WMhS8X-giaI/AAAAAAAAKD0/snIuRj6MWmgmd6lPWAEQW90HL-v2QpfJwCPcB/s320/DSC00832.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #666666; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 10px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 14.56px; text-align: center; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><i>True "after" with everything put away</i>:<span class="Apple-converted-space"><span class="Apple-converted-space"><span class="Apple-converted-space"><span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></span></span></span><i style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 10px; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 14.56px; orphans: auto; text-align: center; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px;">Copyright © Phyllis Wheeler, 2017</i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I then put the jackets and everything that was in the brown paper bag away. This is what I prefer my table to look like. Streamlined with a few accents on the far end. I could do without the accents but there's space and the plants like it there. The table is in a central part of our home so it's a nice place to see flowers regularly.<br />
<br />
Although I didn't recycle anything except the paper bag in this post, the <a href="http://lovejoyandpeas.blogspot.com/2017/02/great-clutter-purge-of-2017-january.html">Great Clutter Purge of 2017</a> continues. I have been releasing clutter. It just hasn't been very photogenic. Hopefully next week will lead to some great photo ops. Only God knows!<br />
<br />
Hope this quick tip was interesting or useful for you! If so, I'd love to hear about it.<br />
<br />
Thank you for visiting! May God bless you!<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Related posts:</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Refrigerator front organizing: <a href="http://lovejoyandpeas.blogspot.com/2017/03/quick-refrigerator-front-clutter.html">http://lovejoyandpeas.blogspot.com/2017/03/quick-refrigerator-front-clutter.html</a></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Great Clutter Purge 2017 Intro: <a href="http://lovejoyandpeas.blogspot.com/2017/02/great-clutter-purge-of-2017-january.html">http://lovejoyandpeas.blogspot.com/2017/02/great-clutter-purge-of-2017-january.html</a></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Linen closet organizing: <a href="http://lovejoyandpeas.blogspot.com/2015/07/from-disaster-to-delight-organized.html">http://lovejoyandpeas.blogspot.com/2015/07/from-disaster-to-delight-organized.html</a> </span>Phyllis Wheelerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09314849446133170369noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1376102620369162850.post-86106216651247177372017-03-07T16:04:00.001-05:002017-03-09T10:37:29.067-05:00Quick Refrigerator Front Clutter Busting for Tidy Tuesday<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cFoVaOtUoGQ/WL8Y3OL0QKI/AAAAAAAAKBo/9d1loQXXk-giAahS5-E6uGZVP8W_X2xVgCPcB/s1600/DSC00684.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cFoVaOtUoGQ/WL8Y3OL0QKI/AAAAAAAAKBo/9d1loQXXk-giAahS5-E6uGZVP8W_X2xVgCPcB/s320/DSC00684.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo by me; Magnet by <a href="https://www.opendoorsusa.org/">https://www.opendoorsusa.org/</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Happy tidy Tuesday! My <a href="http://lovejoyandpeas.blogspot.com/2017/02/great-clutter-purge-of-2017-january.html"><i>Great Clutter Purge of 2017</i></a> continues. Until this week I'd been operating on a spontaneous method but yesterday I started a clockwise organization of the kitchen surfaces. I feel like these surfaces are clutter magnets so my current plan is to go from room to room and deal with all the visible surfaces. Today I tidied the front of my refrigerator. <br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kFMKGGu71Tc/WL8Y3KAe_II/AAAAAAAAKCM/S-1T5TvDnXkd77ocuX_5kK5rICz-hLnCQCPcB/s1600/DSC00680.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kFMKGGu71Tc/WL8Y3KAe_II/AAAAAAAAKCM/S-1T5TvDnXkd77ocuX_5kK5rICz-hLnCQCPcB/s320/DSC00680.JPG" width="260" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"Before" clutter busting photo of refrigerator</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I liked everything on the freezer section but it was just too much. The stuff on the refrigerator section was just to remind me of things to do and could definitely go somewhere else.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HDD7uWvMnS8/WL8Y3Bqr1II/AAAAAAAAKCE/obdwKngZvIsNMwwZ5omRIeTCNYWrjbH8wCPcB/s1600/DSC00681.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HDD7uWvMnS8/WL8Y3Bqr1II/AAAAAAAAKCE/obdwKngZvIsNMwwZ5omRIeTCNYWrjbH8wCPcB/s320/DSC00681.JPG" width="242" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Totally clear refrigerator front</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
So I removed everything and gave the front of the refrigerator a quick cleaning. Truly, I don't need anything on it at all. If I were a minimalist, I'd probably leave it like this. <br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FHKHXnFOYQo/WL8Y3K554nI/AAAAAAAAKB8/Lk9LzP9JxAQWZDz2ANKD-vkrYPPLZEmgwCPcB/s1600/DSC00682.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FHKHXnFOYQo/WL8Y3K554nI/AAAAAAAAKB8/Lk9LzP9JxAQWZDz2ANKD-vkrYPPLZEmgwCPcB/s320/DSC00682.JPG" width="283" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"After" clutter busting photo of refrigerator</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
But I decided it was reasonable and not untidy to keep one row of things that inspire me. <br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vlEnk4gu2Vk/WL8Y3Ib9d6I/AAAAAAAAKB0/owIptVcbP7kfe1hzaSaA8Sy24NsOUySxgCPcB/s1600/DSC00683.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="248" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vlEnk4gu2Vk/WL8Y3Ib9d6I/AAAAAAAAKB0/owIptVcbP7kfe1hzaSaA8Sy24NsOUySxgCPcB/s320/DSC00683.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #666666; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 10px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 14.56px; text-align: center; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><i>Love corner</i>:<span class="Apple-converted-space"><span class="Apple-converted-space"><span class="Apple-converted-space"><span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></span></span></span><i style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 10px; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 14.56px; orphans: auto; text-align: center; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px;">Copyright © Phyllis Wheeler, 2017</i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
This is my favorite photo of my husband and I just before getting married, along with a little poem and a magnet of a cheerful sunflower. I call it my refrigerator's love corner. <br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XaiqxmHAD0g/WL8Y3ErRBUI/AAAAAAAAKBU/8IE-_Kt91PkihqKe_iirSe8rDqBhNC_gACPcB/s1600/DSC00686.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="293" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XaiqxmHAD0g/WL8Y3ErRBUI/AAAAAAAAKBU/8IE-_Kt91PkihqKe_iirSe8rDqBhNC_gACPcB/s320/DSC00686.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #666666; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 10px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 14.56px; text-align: center; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><i>Psalm 118:24 art by Linda Grayson; Photo by me</i></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
This is a Bible verse I like to recite every morning. I don't remember who gave it to me but I've had it for at least 10 years and it makes me smile. Thank you, mystery family member or friend!<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tkDGvWcQXAQ/WL8Y3PSS7iI/AAAAAAAAKBM/c4jZkDJ8mI4rdW-hwwQrxI9rT2svhM-wACPcB/s1600/DSC00690.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="236" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tkDGvWcQXAQ/WL8Y3PSS7iI/AAAAAAAAKBM/c4jZkDJ8mI4rdW-hwwQrxI9rT2svhM-wACPcB/s320/DSC00690.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #666666; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 10px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 14.56px; text-align: center; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><i>The Sandman loves organizing</i>:<span class="Apple-converted-space"><span class="Apple-converted-space"><span class="Apple-converted-space"><span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></span></span></span><i style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 10px; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 14.56px; orphans: auto; text-align: center; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px;">Copyright © Phyllis Wheeler, 2017</i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The whole time I worked on the refrigerator I had to be careful not to step on my most curious cat, <a href="http://lovejoyandpeas.blogspot.com/2016/08/cute-kittens-wrestle-and-surrender.html">the Sandman</a>. Technically he's still a kitten but he weighs almost 14 pounds. He and his sister, <a href="http://lovejoyandpeas.blogspot.com/2016/06/cute-kittens-yawning-and-cuddling.html">Braveheart</a>, will be one year old on March 27th. I'm not sure how we'll celebrate yet but would love to hear your suggestions.<br />
<br />
Thank you for visiting! May God bless you!<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Related posts:</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Linen closet organization: <a href="http://lovejoyandpeas.blogspot.com/2015/07/from-disaster-to-delight-organized.html">http://lovejoyandpeas.blogspot.com/2015/07/from-disaster-to-delight-organized.html</a></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Mystery corner clutter busting: <a href="http://lovejoyandpeas.blogspot.com/2016/01/mystery-corner-in-master-bedroom.html">http://lovejoyandpeas.blogspot.com/2016/01/mystery-corner-in-master-bedroom.html</a></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">8 minute microwave area clutter bust: <a href="http://lovejoyandpeas.blogspot.com/2013/03/8-minute-microwave-and-cut-flower.html">http://lovejoyandpeas.blogspot.com/2013/03/8-minute-microwave-and-cut-flower.html</a></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">Note: Not a sponsored/paid post. All opinions are my own </span>Phyllis Wheelerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09314849446133170369noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1376102620369162850.post-16841132229299825262017-03-03T16:01:00.002-05:002017-03-03T16:01:36.962-05:00First Daffodils, Periwinkle and Forsythia Flowers of the Year<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-EfDWDC5hvOI/WLnR6Q-_I4I/AAAAAAAAJ_o/7gIE0JGn1m0a1xRrAgoILmvLWh9NkF9XgCPcB/s1600/DSC03209.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="302" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-EfDWDC5hvOI/WLnR6Q-_I4I/AAAAAAAAJ_o/7gIE0JGn1m0a1xRrAgoILmvLWh9NkF9XgCPcB/s320/DSC03209.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #666666; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 10px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 14.56px; text-align: center; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><i>Yellow daffodil flower and bud</i>:<span class="Apple-converted-space"><span class="Apple-converted-space"><span class="Apple-converted-space"><span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></span></span></span><i style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 10px; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 14.56px; orphans: auto; text-align: center; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px;">Copyright © Phyllis Wheeler, 2017</i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Happy March, floral Friday and welcome to "this week in my Maryland garden!" The spring flowers started extra early this year. But it's not truly spring yet and God reminded me of this by sprinkling snowflakes on my camera as I took these photos earlier today. <br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-to51WEK9dxQ/WLnR6RGg2bI/AAAAAAAAJ_c/T_UvurG3dIAUSKMKleu7K2RLZiGFGkZHACPcB/s1600/DSC03206.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="259" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-to51WEK9dxQ/WLnR6RGg2bI/AAAAAAAAJ_c/T_UvurG3dIAUSKMKleu7K2RLZiGFGkZHACPcB/s320/DSC03206.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #666666; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 10px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 14.56px; text-align: center; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><i>Yellow forsythia flowers</i>:<span class="Apple-converted-space"><span class="Apple-converted-space"><span class="Apple-converted-space"><span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></span></span></span><i style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 10px; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 14.56px; orphans: auto; text-align: center; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px;">Copyright © Phyllis Wheeler, 2017</i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
We only have one remaining forsythia bush but its sunny yellow flowers brighten up a shady corner of the yard. <br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bR21mTV_vw4/WLnR6YlFUVI/AAAAAAAAJ_Q/492WcDPed9Y3z92oqygKxhbK0rvg0rzYwCPcB/s1600/DSC03204.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="276" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bR21mTV_vw4/WLnR6YlFUVI/AAAAAAAAJ_Q/492WcDPed9Y3z92oqygKxhbK0rvg0rzYwCPcB/s320/DSC03204.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #666666; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 10px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 14.56px; text-align: center; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><i>Pretty periwinkle flower and buds</i>:<span class="Apple-converted-space"><span class="Apple-converted-space"><span class="Apple-converted-space"><span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></span></span></span><i style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 10px; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 14.56px; orphans: auto; text-align: center; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px;">Copyright © Phyllis Wheeler, 2017</i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The purplish blue periwinkle flowers (also called vinca) are popping up all over. I think periwinkle is my favorite ground cover. It spreads nicely and squelches weeds but still lets my larger perennials grow through. Last year I planted some under one of our rose bushes and I'm looking forward to seeing how that works out later this year.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SJjAvMmA9Hs/WLnR6aNDIpI/AAAAAAAAJ_w/Mokt0hRvqzEJsNjcGKLnrbBY7p3NseG4gCPcB/s1600/DSC03211.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="257" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SJjAvMmA9Hs/WLnR6aNDIpI/AAAAAAAAJ_w/Mokt0hRvqzEJsNjcGKLnrbBY7p3NseG4gCPcB/s320/DSC03211.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #666666; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 10px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 14.56px; text-align: center; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><i>Sunny daffodils</i>:<span class="Apple-converted-space"><span class="Apple-converted-space"><span class="Apple-converted-space"><span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></span></span></span><i style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 10px; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 14.56px; orphans: auto; text-align: center; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px;">Copyright © Phyllis Wheeler, 2017</i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
This daffodil has an unusual shape but I thought it was still pretty.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NicTRGMw6Ks/WLnR6e3OsVI/AAAAAAAAJ_4/R86vonGylVgUNUPxxzR1MaP2ZoMB-WudwCPcB/s1600/DSC03215.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NicTRGMw6Ks/WLnR6e3OsVI/AAAAAAAAJ_4/R86vonGylVgUNUPxxzR1MaP2ZoMB-WudwCPcB/s320/DSC03215.JPG" width="309" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #666666; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 10px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 14.56px; text-align: center; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><i>Tulip foliage</i>:<span class="Apple-converted-space"><span class="Apple-converted-space"><span class="Apple-converted-space"><span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></span></span></span><i style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 10px; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 14.56px; orphans: auto; text-align: center; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px;">Copyright © Phyllis Wheeler, 2017</i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
It'll be a while before it flowers but I was happy to see tulip foliage popping up through the mulch this week too.<br />
<br />
Although I didn't get any photos this week, the <a href="http://lovejoyandpeas.blogspot.com/2016/03/hellebores-primroses-periwinkle-and.html">hellebores</a> are blooming too and you can see them <a href="http://lovejoyandpeas.blogspot.com/2016/03/hellebores-primroses-periwinkle-and.html">here</a>.<br />
<br />
Thank you for visiting! May God bless you!<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Related posts:</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Daffodils, pansies and cyclamen: <a href="http://lovejoyandpeas.blogspot.com/2014/03/daffodil-pansy-and-cyclamen-flower.html">http://lovejoyandpeas.blogspot.com/2014/03/daffodil-pansy-and-cyclamen-flower.html</a></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Primroses, daffodils & quince: <a href="http://lovejoyandpeas.blogspot.com/2016/03/primroses-daffodils-and-flowering-quince.html">http://lovejoyandpeas.blogspot.com/2016/03/primroses-daffodils-and-flowering-quince.html</a></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Funky daffodil and more flowers: <a href="http://lovejoyandpeas.blogspot.com/2015/04/pretty-pansies-periwinkle-forsythia-and.html">http://lovejoyandpeas.blogspot.com/2015/04/pretty-pansies-periwinkle-forsythia-and.html</a></span>Phyllis Wheelerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09314849446133170369noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1376102620369162850.post-85206463656983511022017-02-28T16:43:00.000-05:002017-02-28T16:43:01.488-05:00Great Clutter Purge of 2017: January & February Results<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MYWDMMjDIjs/WLXmtnZwXlI/AAAAAAAAJ-A/zNM_LoAxivkionlCC7ILcrbl7XJAqBG4wCPcB/s1600/DSC03073.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="259" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MYWDMMjDIjs/WLXmtnZwXlI/AAAAAAAAJ-A/zNM_LoAxivkionlCC7ILcrbl7XJAqBG4wCPcB/s320/DSC03073.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #666666; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 10px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 14.56px; text-align: center; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><i>Tiny Tidy Flowers</i>:<span class="Apple-converted-space"><span class="Apple-converted-space"><span class="Apple-converted-space"><span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></span></span></span><i style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 10px; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 14.56px; orphans: auto; text-align: center; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px;">Copyright © Phyllis Wheeler, 2017</i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Happy tidy Tuesday! As I mentioned in <a href="http://lovejoyandpeas.blogspot.com/2017/02/cas-clutterbugs-great-purge-of-2017.html">last week's post</a>, I'm working on my <i>Great Clutter Purge of 2017</i>, inspired by ClutterBug Cas's similarly named endeavor. So far, my results sound great, especially since I didn't start until around January 20th but I'll tell you the rest of the story after sharing the numbers. <br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
January - 448 pieces of clutter released</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
February - 1,578 pieces of clutter released</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Total so far for my <i>Great Clutter Purge of 2017</i> - <b>2026</b> pieces of clutter released</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
The actual numbers seem impressive, but when I look around my home... there's hardly a visible dent in the clutter situation. My progress has been slow due to health issues. When I don't feel well I tend to work on paper clutter (of which I have an unseemly amount). Busting paper clutter makes for nice numbers but doesn't actually free up much space. There are still huge piles to go.<br />
<br />
On the plus side, if I hadn't kept track of the numbers I might be feeling like I hadn't made <i>any</i> progress at all. And it wasn't <i>all </i>just paper. I think I made two charitable donation trips (bags and bags of household items, books and clothes) and did clear out a substantial pile to the right of my desk. I really enjoy seeing that empty space now. It is a reminder that, God willing, when I get to feeling better, I can make more visible progress. <br />
<br />
Want to join me in the <i>Great Clutter Purge of 2017</i>? Feel free to share your successes, challenges and/or ideas in the comments. I'd love to hear from you!<br />
<br />
Thank you for visiting! May God bless you!<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Related posts:</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">ClutterBug's Great Purge: <a href="http://lovejoyandpeas.blogspot.com/2017/02/cas-clutterbugs-great-purge-of-2017.html">http://lovejoyandpeas.blogspot.com/2017/02/cas-clutterbugs-great-purge-of-2017.html</a></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Organized Linen Closet: <a href="http://lovejoyandpeas.blogspot.com/2015/07/from-disaster-to-delight-organized.html">http://lovejoyandpeas.blogspot.com/2015/07/from-disaster-to-delight-organized.html</a></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Tidy Dresser Top: <a href="http://lovejoyandpeas.blogspot.com/2016/01/clutter-clean-in-2016-first-project-top.html">http://lovejoyandpeas.blogspot.com/2016/01/clutter-clean-in-2016-first-project-top.html</a></span><br />
<br />Phyllis Wheelerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09314849446133170369noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1376102620369162850.post-47008475331071886212017-02-21T13:23:00.001-05:002017-02-21T13:24:37.482-05:00Cas the ClutterBug's "Great Purge of 2017," book launch and pre-order bonus<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://clutterbug.me/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/Cas_WebBannerJan2317-e1485307653886.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://clutterbug.me/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/Cas_WebBannerJan2317-e1485307653886.jpg" height="163" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image source: <a href="http://clutterbug.me/book">http://clutterbug.me/book</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Happy tidy Tuesday! I've been under the weather so before I start my own 2017 clutter busting series, I thought I'd share about ClutterBug Cas' <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bFzPDEBlCl4&index=10&list=PLzglswYcXP2jmldtkZ4Mwp7y9wMgIjf-d"><i>Great Purge of 2017</i></a> and let you know that there is still a wee bit of time to get her pre-order bonuses for her new book, <i>Real Life Organizing. </i>She's offering a bundle of printables, including her 2017 organizer printables, plus a <b>lifetime</b> code for all the printables on her website and (this is the best part, in my opinion) three people who pre-order will win an hour long phone call or Skype session with her! You do have to enter some information on her website here after pre-ordering to get the bonuses, so if you do pre-order, be sure to fill out the form <a href="http://clutterbug.me/book">here</a> so you don't miss out. I don't remember what day the pre-order special ends but think it's really soon. I bought my copy today and it was $12 and change.<br />
<br />
I "met" Cas via <a href="https://www.youtube.com/user/OrganizedClutterbug">her YouTube channel</a>. I find her both inspiring and hilarious. Her <a href="https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLzglswYcXP2jmldtkZ4Mwp7y9wMgIjf-d"><i>Organizing Tips</i> playlist</a> there should have information on her <i><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bFzPDEBlCl4&index=10&list=PLzglswYcXP2jmldtkZ4Mwp7y9wMgIjf-d">Great Purge of 2017</a>. </i>So far, she has gone through her books, her storage room her craft room and more. She's a messy person at heart and turned her home life from slobby to organized. I believe she's kept her home organized for about six years now and also does consulting as a professional organizer. Even if you're not interested in her book, she shares lots of great tips in her YouTube videos. She also has DIY crafts in some of her videos (I loved her pretty felt flowers from a recent video).<br />
<i> </i><br />
The best thing about ClutterBug is her big heart. When I asked if I could do a copycat series inspired by her Great Purge of 2017, she quickly responded with a cheerful yes. I'm calling mine <i>The Great Clutter Purge of 2017</i>, only one word different from hers. I like that I have all of 2017 because with these health challenges things are going very slowly. But slowly is better than not at all. If you want to join me on my 2017 clutter busting journey, come back each Tuesday for tips and progress reports.<br />
<br />
May God bless Cas, her family, you and your family! <br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Sources: </span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Book launch ("Real Life Organizing") page: <a href="http://clutterbug.me/book">http://clutterbug.me/book</a> </span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Cas' Website: <a href="http://clutterbug.me/">http://clutterbug.me/</a> </span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Cas' YouTube: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/user/OrganizedClutterbug">https://www.youtube.com/user/OrganizedClutterbug</a></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Cas' Organizing Tips Playlist on YouTube: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLzglswYcXP2jmldtkZ4Mwp7y9wMgIjf-d">https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLzglswYcXP2jmldtkZ4Mwp7y9wMgIjf-d</a></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Cas' Great Purge of 2017 video: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bFzPDEBlCl4&index=10&list=PLzglswYcXP2jmldtkZ4Mwp7y9wMgIjf-d">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bFzPDEBlCl4&index=10&list=PLzglswYcXP2jmldtkZ4Mwp7y9wMgIjf-d</a> </span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Cas' Facebook: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/Clutterbug.Me/">https://www.facebook.com/Clutterbug.Me/</a></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Note: This is a totally unsolicited, unpaid, unsponsored post.<i> </i>All opinions are my own. I'm just a fan of ClutterBug and thought this would be a nice way to help her meet her book's pre-order goal.</span>Phyllis Wheelerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09314849446133170369noreply@blogger.com2