Day 8 of Gratitude...

"It's the little things that count."  I believe it.

Reflecting on life, my best memories are made of simple moments with dear loved ones.  We didn't have to live extravagantly to enjoy life fully.  

Sunday afternoon childhood games in the front yard are lovingly etched in my mind. Sitting on my Grandmother's front porch and rocking, watching gliders soar over the valley, is a precious memory.  Frequently visiting my best friend brings sweet memories.  Church picnics were fun and memorable.  Midnight talks with college roommates were special.  Spending Christmas Eve reading, singing, laughing and sipping wassail has become a favorite memory for my present family. Sitting around the fire pit makes great memories in warmer months.  Of course, each day with our puppies, Boomer and Beethoven, pours adorable memories into our hearts. 

Spending time with loved ones is unforgettable.  Memories are made.  Hearts are touched.  Love is shared.  And everyone somehow feels like someone...who matters. Isn't that what grabs our hearts so deeply?  Sharing life with others who help us feel loved, wanted, accepted and valued...not only makes memories...but changes lives. My life has indeed been changed by loved ones who made a big difference...in the little things.  I am deeply grateful for each precious person who touches my heart, influences my journey and weaves priceless memories in the tapestry of my life.♥~thl

"Therefore, encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing."  1 Thessalonians 4: 11 

Day 7 of Gratitude...

It's a day I look forward to each year.  I pull my hair into a ponytail, put on my favorite pink hat, make sure I am wearing my sunglasses and light clothes...then Tim and I visit the local greenhouse.  I love playing in the dirt.  I call it dirt therapy because it improves my perspective, attitude and gratitude.  As I work with our flowers, plants, trees and seeds, my thoughts continually focus on God's beautiful creation. 

When new growth sprouts from seeds I saved and dried, I am reminded of God's power.  When our fruit trees continue growing, I remember God's faithfulness.  As colorful flowers bloom, I am reminded of His creativity.  As rose bushes grow among thorns, I am reminded of hope in Him. 

I have a dream of someday building and owning my own greenhouse.  Until then, "dirt therapy" will remind me that the same God Who brings us beauty from dirt, thorns, dried up seeds and small beginnings, also touches our lives with His power, faithfulness, creativity and hope.  Tonight I am grateful that God surrounds us with His amazing beauty as He embraces us with His awesome love.♥~thl

"And why do you worry about clothes?  See how the lilies of the field grow.  They do not labor or spin.  Yet I tell you that not even Solomon in all his splendor was dressed like one of these."  Matthew 6:  28>29

Day 6 of Gratitude...

The greatest gift on this journey is the assurance of God's constant Presence. Whatever is going on around us or within us, He hears our prayers, knows our hearts and holds us close each moment. I certainly do not always understand this journey, but knowing I never walk it alone...makes it blessed and beautiful.♡~thl

"Humble yourselves, therefore, under God's mighty hand, that He may lift you up in due time. Cast all your anxiety on Him because He cares for you." 1 Peter 5: 6>7

Day 5 of Gratitude...

I can't remember life without it. My earliest memories include moments of Dad leading worship, Mom singing with the choir and Dad teaching me "old-timey" songs.  I also remember Mom whistling as she worked in the kitchen as well as my grandmother playing piano and singing.  My parents even owned a tabletop record player, which absolutely fascinated me as a child. 

Music has always been a part of my life.  Even in a small school system, we were fortunate to have music teachers who taught fundamentals, as well as introduced us to various genres of music, including classical!  It was always exciting to sing, play, listen or learn music whether at home, school, church, college or on a continual, daily basis.

Someone said that music is a gift we enjoy now that will also be present in heaven! I love that.  I certainly believe that God took great care in all His creation.  Yet somehow I envision Him especially enjoying the creation of music.

Tonight, I am grateful for music.  I like to call it one of God's precious love languages.  One of my greatest memories is holding our young children and singing to them before bedtime, during a storm or other precious moments.  I like to think that God loves to hold us in His arms and sing over us, too.  Thank You, God, for the beautiful, loving gift of music.♥~thl

"The Lord your God is with you, He is mighty to save.  He will take great delight in you, He will quiet you with His love, He will rejoice over you with singing."  Zephaniah 3: 17

Day 4 of Gratitude...

It feels great, doesn't it?  Someone looks into your eyes, asks you a question and then...listens!  Many years ago, that was called conversation.  Today it is called...rare. 

We taught our young children the obvious observation.  "God gave us two ears and one mouth."  I recently heard an addition to that statement.  "One has the ability to be closed.  Two remain open." 

We live in a hurried, technological, instant gratifying world.  We don't prefer to wait.  Nor do we take time to listen well.  I have been "greeted" by individuals who literally spoke to me while looking all around the room for someone else...and then walked away.  I have also been in "conversations" with individuals or groups of people and when I finally tried to speak, I was interrupted, overlooked or ignored...completely...repeatedly. 

Genuinely listening to another person shows respect, kindness and value. I often think about the little children who were brought to Jesus and almost turned away.  Yet the Son of God took time for them. 

Today I am so very grateful for the precious people in my life who truly listen.  They not only hear what I say...but they also hear what I don't say.  They care enough to ask, listen, respond and love.  They show the kindness that Jesus showed the little children.  If He can make time for others, I pray we will show His love by doing the same.  What a difference that would make in other lives!♥~thl

"My dear brothers, take note of this:  Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry,"  James 1: 19

Day 3 of Gratitude...

As the need for rain continued this week, I watched our grass become increasingly dry and brown.  Yet tonight's storm brought rain and just before dusk, I noticed the grass seemed to already show a hue of green.  Of course, rain...and water are continually needed for survival.  But one evening's rain brought refreshment...and hope.

Life often becomes parched, dry and thirsty.  It doesn't take long to find ourselves weary, worn, exhausted, spent, overwhelmed and undernourished on many levels of this journey.

Tonight, I am grateful for God Who knows what we need...Who loves us...and Who refreshes, restores and renews our lives.  I longed to go outside and dance in the rain tonight...literally. Though I was unable to do so, the sounds and sights of the downpour reminded me that He indeed brings love, hope, peace, joy, forgiveness and fresh starts on this journey.  Thank You, God, for healing rain.♥~thl

"As the deer pants for streams of water, so my soul pants for You, O God."  Psalm 42: 1

Day 2 of Gratitude...

In the toughest times we find the truest friends.  I thank God for friends, both near and far, who have exhibited incredible authenticity.  As those precious friends are aware, the past several weeks have been quite challenging.  Yet my heart is touched deeply as I am reminded how very blessed and beautiful life is.  The stars shining in the darkest nights...the rainbow appearing after a major storm...the first signs of spring after a long winter...always remind me of His faithfulness.  As this journey continues, I am deeply grateful for precious, faithful, loving friends.  In them, I see Him.  And that makes all the difference.♥~thl

"I thank my God every time I remember you."  Philippians 1: 3    

Day 1 of Gratitude...

Day 1 of Gratitude: Thank You, God, for my family~my husband who works so hard and who cares for us faithfully...our daughter, whose inner and outer beauty touches lives daily for You..and our son, whose sweet, loving spirit brings Your joy to everyone around him. I am deeply grateful for these precious blessings.♥~thl

Music and the Composer...

There's just something about music. It touches our lives like nothing else.  It extends beyond boundaries, languages, brokenness and dissention.  It unites hearts, lives, generations and various backgrounds.  Its influence is unmatched.  It reflects the creativity of its Composer.  It is frequently mentioned in His Word.

There's just something about God.  He touches our lives like no one else.  He reaches beyond boundaries, languages, brokenness and dissention.  He unites hearts, lives, generations and various backgrounds.  His influence is unmatched.  His creativity, power, and Presence are unlimited.  His love is revealed throughout His Word.

There's just something about music that makes me feel so connected to God.  May my life be in tune with Him.  May His love be the passion of my unfolding score. May I rest in Him as He continues to compose His purpose for my song.♥~thl

"My heart is steadfast, O God; I will sing and make music with all my soul."  Psalm 108: 1  

Another day...

Another day to live and grow,
Another day to love and share,
Another day of decisions and example
Another day, dear God, I pray to please and reflect You.♥~thl

Happy Father's Day...to the Father of our children!

Happy Father's Day to the father of our children..Timothy Lorenz! What a wonderful Dad he is as he loves faithfully, works diligently, and sacrifices selflessly for our family. He has dropped everything to travel hours when our children need him. He has helped move them to, from and in college countless times. He makes sure their needs are met, their hearts are cared for and their lives are always filled with love. He loves unconditionally and shines for God vividly. We are so thankful for him. Happy Father's Day, Tim. You are appreciated and very loved!♥~thl

Happy Father's Day to my precious Dad!

Happy Father's Day to the first man I ever loved and whom I will love forever...Charles W. Huffman! Yes, I am a Daddy's girl and he is a very special Dad. He served, (and was wounded for), his country, worked hard all his life, raised five children and takes wonderful care of Mom during her present, very challenging journey. He has also been a carpenter, worship leader, man of faith and grandfather. I love you, Dad, and will always be your one and only "little girl." ♥~thl

Not easy...not alone...

It's not easy, God...
It's not easy watching people suffer.
It's not easy watching people hurt in so many ways.
It's not easy watching people face countless cruelties of life.
It's not easy watching people lose health, jobs, families, possessions and lives.
It's not easy watching people try to hold on when there is no strength left.
It's not easy watching people endure blow after blow while trying to serve You.
It's not easy watching the journeys of many become overtaken by illness, disease and death.

My heart aches.  My mind seeks Your love, peace and hope. 
Then I remember...we face nothing alone. 
The journey may be long and difficult.
But I am so thankful for Your Presence and power now...and forever.♥~thl

"No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him Who loved us.  For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord."  Romans 8: 37>39

None other...

In moments of not understanding, I look to You.
In days of not realizing, I look to You.
In years of not grasping, I look to You.
In a lifetime of not knowing, I look to You.
For no matter what happens to me, within me or around me,
I know You are with me.  There is no one like You.♥~thl

"There is no one holy like the Lord; there is no one besides You; there is no Rock like our God."  1 Samuel 2: 2

Starry nights...

It's one of my favorite times during spring and summer months. I love to walk out on our deck at night, gaze up into the sky and look at the glorious handiwork of God.  The moon, the stars and all of  His beautiful creation are breathtaking.  Somehow my perception changes when I continue looking up toward His glory...instead of merely focusing on my own little world.

Knowing that the One Who created each star...Who knows all about it...Who named it and holds it in His hands...also cares about me...is overwhelming.  If He shares this amazing reminder each night of His power, His Presence and His love...I pray I will continue to focus much more on Him and His purpose.  He is much better at directing my life than I could ever be. 

Thank You, God, for reminding me to continue looking toward You as I continue this journey Home.♥~thl

"He determines the number of the stars and calls them each by name.  Great is our Lord and mighty in power; His understanding has no limits."  Psalm 147: 4>5

Thankful for "Anyways"...

"Do It Anyway" (Mother Teresa)

"People are often unreasonable, illogical and self centered;
Forgive them anyway.

 

If you are kind, people may accuse you of selfish, ulterior motives;
Be kind anyway.

If you are successful, you will win some false friends and some true
enemies;
Succeed anyway.

If you are honest and frank, people may cheat you;
Be honest and frank anyway.

What you spend years building, someone could destroy overnight;

Build anyway.

If you find serenity and happiness, they may be jealous;
Be happy anyway.

The good you do today, people will often forget tomorrow;
Do good anyway.

Give the world the best you have, and it may never be enough;
Give the world the best you’ve got anyway.

You see, in the final analysis, it is between you and your God;
It was never between you and them anyway."

 

At just the right time, I am reminded of these beautiful words and the truth they represent.  May I remember, somehow, that whatever happens in my life, is done for Him...anyway."<3~thl

 

"Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward.  It is the Lord Christ you are serving."  Colossians 3: 23>24

Time for Him...

May I learn each day to truly care...
To listen with my heart.
May I not be so rushed in my life
That I dismiss those in my path.

May I realize in the daily pace
That others need His love.
May I not be so occupied in my own world
That I fail to share what matters most.

For if our God, Who created all,
Always has time for us,
It seems unfair to be too busy
To love and serve Him first.

He listens.  He loves.  He cares. He knows.
He never walks away.
Dear God, please forgive me when
I forget Who gave me breath today.♥~thl

"I call on You, O God, for You will answer me; give ear to me and hear my prayer."  Psalm 17: 6

Gentle hearts...

Tonight I am thankful for gentle hearts. They love. They listen. They care. They see the best when I am at my worst. They hope. They pray. They are kind. They never stop being a friend. They are there when I am silent. They are there when I speak. They know my heart and what's precious to me. They don't walk away. They remain by my side. They laugh with me. They cry with me. They are strong when I am weak. They are faithful and true. They are light in the dark. Thank You, God, for gentle friends who reflect You.♥~thl

"Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near." Philippians 4: 5

Because of Him...

When I am weak, You are strong.
When I struggle for air, You give me breath.
When I fall, You pick me up.
When I am weary, You carry me.
When life is rough, You give me hope.
When others leave, You hold me close.
When all is done and my journey is through,
You will reach out Your hand and lead me Home.
Thank You, God, for Your Presence and Love.♥~thl

"O my Strength, I watch for You; You, O God, are my fortress, my loving God." Psalm 59: 9

No light...but His...

My name will never be in lights,
A crown never placed on my head.
My life is quiet, simple and plain.
My gifts are not outstanding or best.

But I trust You, God, for purpose and hope.
I know there is a reason I breathe.
So I offer my life, common and all...
For Your honor, Your love and Your praise.

No, my life isn't fancy.
A mass of friends I don't see.
But if one life, one heart, one journey is touched on my path,
I pray above all, they see You.♥~thl

"I will say of the Lord, 'He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.'" Psalm 91: 2

Dreaming...

Sure, I have dreams and goals...lots of them!  I may be middle-aged now but that doesn't mean life is over.  A few goals have been realized but I am certainly not done yet. I would rather have many dreams and goals and succeed in a few...than to have none and accomplish nothing.

Yet...I have had dreams to shatter...life changing, heartbreaking, unexplainable, it-doesn't-make-sense-at-all dreams to end right before my eyes.  I have missed many goals, as well.  So what do I do with broken dreams, missed goals and unanswered questions?

I keep dreaming.  I recently heard someone say that if we are in a waiting season for a dream or goal to be reached...then pursue other dreams and goals while we wait!  I love that!  It is realistic to accept that not everything will happen in my timing, or my way, or even my choice. That's why I find it better to allow Him to lead me...use me...and help me in whatever I pursue.  Of course, there have been times when I felt, without a shadow of a doubt, that He led me to an opportunity or passion...only to watch it die.  Yet knowing His ways are not my ways..helps me focus more on the journey with Him than any goals set.

For now, I continue dreaming.  If I must wait, I wait with Him...and I seek His guidance as I pursue other dreams.  For my greatest dream is not about a goal or accomplishment.  It is about becoming more like Him as I journey Home.  And that's a dream I never want to lose.<3~thl

"Delight yourself in the Lord and He will give you the desires of your heart."  Psalm 37: 4   

Storm support...

A storm brought people together tonight.  While our daughter is several hours away from home this week taking a certification course, a severe storm entered her area.  Within minutes, word spread via technology about her situation. Immediately, people all over the country prayed for the safety of everyone involved.  In the middle of a horrible storm, God's Presence, protection and provision surrounded her.

During this terrible storm, countless people prayed for our daughter.  Words of encouragement, understanding, guidance and love were poured over her.  What an incredible blessing to Rachel...and to her family so far away.

Life can be quite stormy, too.  So much can happen in an instant, changing lives forever.  As my heart swelled with gratitude for the love and assistance shared with our daughter tonight, I remember other travelers on this journey who are caught in life's storms.  Whether brokenness, illness, loss or other trials, we know the One Who calms the storms.  May we continually and consistently surround one another with His love, peace, hope and kindness.  Knowing we do not travel alone makes all the difference.♥~thl

"He got up, rebuked the wind and said to the waves, 'Quiet! Be still!'  Then the wind died down and it was completely calm."  Mark 4: 39   

Thankful for the faithful...

For those who care, ask, listen and love,
For those who promote hope and healing,
For those who share laughter and life,
For those who encourage and edify,
For those who give of themselves freely,
For those who remain friends when life is difficult,
For those who are tenderhearted and true,
For those who are faithful and stand by our side,
For those who brings smiles and understanding,
I thank my God for you.♥~thl

"The Lord is compassionate and gracious, slow to anger, abounding in love."  Psalm 103: 8

Mom and me...

'Thinking about my Mom today...and loving her always. She never gives up! And I'll never give up on her!♥~thl  #steelmagnolia #southernstrength #everymomentcounts

 

Listening and heard...

As I listen,
As I seek His face,
As I search for answers,
As I pursue this journey,
As I feel rugged jolts beneath my feet,
As I hope for my heart to heal,
As I seek new breath,
As I realize what is lost...

I stop.
I know.
I hear.
I find.
He has not walked away.
Thank You, God, for loving me.
Thank You for carrying me another day.♥~thl

"Though the mountains be shaken and the hills be removed, yet My unfailing love for you will not be shaken nor My covenant of peace be removed," says the Lord, who has compassion on you."  Isaiah 54: 10

See you soon, dear friend...

Thirty-six years ago today, our dear brother and friend went Home to be with God, Whom Tim loved and served so faithfully. He remains dear to our hearts and yet is missed so very much. From our first days in elementary school to our first year in college, Tim was a light to countless lives, touching us with his faith, his heart, his humor and his hard work. We love you, Timothy Martin Smith! Hug Jesus and our loved ones for us. "TJ" hopes to see you soon!♥~thl 

In Memory of Timothy Martin Smith:  July 30, 1959 ~ June 2, 1978
 

 

 

He is with me...

On mountain tops, in valleys deep, on rocky paths, on stormy seas, when turbulence completely surrounds me...

...in heartbreaks, in life's aches, in moments of pain and scorn, when arrows pierce and bruise my weary soul...

I hold onto You for You never walk away...and Your love carries me through. Thank You, God, for Your faithful Presence. My journey continues as I hold onto You.♥~thl

"So do not fear, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with My righteous right hand." Isaiah 41: 10

In His care...

It is in the quiet that I hear Him clearly. It is in the unexpected that I see His smile. It is in the kindness of others that I feel His arms around me. It is in His assurance that I find rest, hope and love.♥~thl

"Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls." Matthew 11: 28>29

Resting and reminded...

Resting in Him is teaching me much. What I do least is what I need most. Thank You, God, for turning this time into a season of growing in You.♥~thl

"The Lord is my Shepherd, I lack nothing. He makes me lie down in green pastures, He leads me beside quiet waters, He refreshes my soul..." Psalm 23: 1>3

Thankful and blessed...

I must pause and thank God for so many blessings in my life! The past few days have brought increasingly serious concerns and we didn't know what was unfolding re: my health. Precious prayers were lifted. Kind hearts stepped in immediately to assist. Now I am home, on strong Rxs and hoping to recover soon. I thank God for family members and friends who have shared His love in action so genuinely, effectively and beautifully. I am blessed beyond measure and am extremely grateful. I plan to be back on my feet fully celebrating each moment asap. Thank You, God!♥~thl