Some of my friends need Time alone to regain strength I need time with them
In the Bloganuary #27 prompt yesterday the question was asked:
In my response, I used a Haiku poetry format in part of the answer to explain why solitude is not a “must have” on my agenda. In fact, I am never really alone. God is with me… and so are YOU!
Click the title below and tell me, how would you answer that question?
Is this the #bloganuary site where I am posting my answer to prompt #25? Or am I repeating it on my JanBeek WordPress site? One way or the other, I want you to be sure and see this response to today’s prompt before the day is over. So, if you haven’t read it already, please check it out:
My “WORD” for 2022 is STRENGTH, so I was delighted to see the Bloganuary#25 prompt is: “Write about what makes you feel strong.“
Flexibility is one condition related to strength.
More important than anything else for me Is realizing the Source of my strength And tuning in to the One who delivers it. He has strength closer than arm’s length.
In my Morning with Jesus 2022 daily reading, I find scripture references to draw on. When I need extra strength, I go where Help is delivered faster than Amazon!
Ps. 31:24
“Be strong and take heart All you who hope in the Lord.”
God does not promise we will be without troubles. He simply says He will walk us through. So when you feel you’re in the middle of an earthquake, Rely on God because He is there with you!
Joshua 1:9
“Be strong and of good courage; Be not afraid, Neither be thou dismayed: For the Lord, thy God, Is with thee.”
He lifts me up when I can no longer walk on my own!
2 Cor. 12:9
He said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you; for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore, I will boast all the more gladly about my weakness, so that Christ’s power may rest on me.”
And I can rest on Him… as He raises me up so I can stand on mountains!
Believe it! You have the Power of God in you!
Be strong and of good courage! That’s what we needed this week As we are at Mayo Clinic looking For answers. He cares as we seek!
In awe of Him, we are still, and in His presence we bow And pray for His strength. He delivers today… right now!
Thanks for your prayers for Bob.
See ya tomorrow (God willing) Love to you… Have a blessed Tuesday! JanBeek
Missed the prompt yesterday … so here it is a day late… or is it two days? Life’s been busy as we were packing and preparing for this trip to Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota . Departure is at 5:55 tomorrow morning! But anyway, here’s my favorite quote. It’s what my mom always told me. But I’m sure it’s not original. Wonder who first said it?
“It is better to remain silent and be thought a fool than to speak and remove all doubt “
Check out my response to the #Bloganuary prompt #20. Click on the link above.
By the way, I love that photo of Bob back in his beekeeper days when he permed his hair. Don’t you? It was taken in our house in Modesto, CA with our Boston, Jacques. He had funny buck teeth (the dog, not Bob).
Do you know why Bob curled his hair? He hates to wear hats. As a beekeeper with naturally oily hair, bees loved to buzz in there and sting his scalp. The curls lifted the hair off the scalp and dried out the oiliness. The bees left his head alone. Interesting, huh?
I hope you enjoy the collection of photos I put on the Bloganuary site today.
Tell me, can you choose a favorite photo that you have taken?
Thanks for visiting JanBeek. See ya tomorrow (God willing)
Nothing is more mysterious to me than the Creation of the Cosmos and the Creator.
Surely there is life on some other planet out there somewhere.
The God who created this Universe and the dodo bird and the butterfly and the sting ray and humans surely created life elsewhere as well. But, the thought of it is a mystery to me. Well beyond my capacity to understand.
“What Book Will You Read Next?” was the Bloganuary prompt yesterday. I was away from my computer all day, so I didn’t get a chance to answer it then. But here is my answer – a day late:
The book next on my reading list is Amanda Gorman’s “Call Us What We Carry.” Amanda is the young lady who wrote the poem that she read at the 2021 USA Presidential inauguration, “The Hill We Climb.” Her book of poems “captures a shipwrecked moment in time and transforms it into a lyric of hope and healing.” According to the inside flap of the book, “This book is a message in a bottle. This book is a letter. This book does not let up.” I loved Gorman’s poem for the inauguration message last year. I know I am going to enjoy delving deeper into her poetic prowess!
Bloganuary #17 “What’s a Super Power You’d Like to Have?”
I answered the question earlier today, interpreting it as a “Secret Power” – and those answers still stand.
But, I have had time to do my devotionals this morning – and I’ve listened to a few podcasts – and I’ve given this question greater thought.
It’s a Super Power… not just a secret power! Here’s my answer to THAT question for today:
I’d like to have the Super Power to listen with my heart – truly listen to others – and see into their heart, their intent behind their words. In Bayside Church’s devotional on-line today, Kevin Thompson spoke to this issue of listening. Here’s what he said:
“Consider the power of listening. When we hear another person, we see them, value them, place their voice above our own. We restrain ourselves to give them space to speak. Sincere listening is born of humility. It is a genuine act of love. When we fail to listen, we are elevating ourselves above others. We arrogantly assume we already know what they might say or believe they can add no value to our lives. Planning our response when someone else is talking instead of truly hearing what they have to say is a sign of pride. Refusing to see and hear other people is one of the most dehumanizing acts we can take.
“When Jesus commands that we love our neighbors, one way we should do so is to listen to them. That’s not the whole command, but it’s part of it.
“So, which neighbors are you failing to hear? Too often, our lives become echo chambers in which the only people who have our ears are those with whom we agree. People with the same experience, perspective, and understanding provide the voices that influence us. Yet love calls us to a different way. Christians should have the most diverse voices influencing us because we believe everyone is created in the image of God, every person has value and purpose, and we understand the limits to our knowledge and experience.
“Imagine the difference love/listening could make in our world. Where authentic listening takes place marriages flourish. In a world of political divisions, what if the church modeled listening and loving people with whom we disagree politically. In a society divided among socioeconomic and racial divides, what could the church offer if we went out of our way to know, hear, understand, and love those with different backgrounds, upbringings, and experiences than we have?
WHAT WOULD HAPPEN IF WE LOVED OUR NEIGHBORS—EVERY NEIGHBOR?
“The fantastic news of faith is that the God of Heaven has given us access to His ear at any moment. He invites us to speak to Him on an ongoing basis. This changes how we use our tongues. But it also changes how we use our ears. Receiving God’s invitation to hear from us, we begin to extend our ears to those to whom we otherwise might not listen. We seek to value them, learn from them, and be in a relationship with a diverse community.
Who is a neighbor you are not currently listening to? Start listening with your heart today.”
It actually doesn’t take a Super Power to listen with your heart … but to see inside the speaker’s heart to their intent … well, that might take a special gift from God – ya think?
Sending love ❤️ and prayers for your health and happiness. It’s so good to be home!
I just returned from my annual physical. In spite of a residual cough from this RSV, my dear doctor tells me I am no longer contagious – and I’ve been given a clean bill of health. Hooray! Bob’s feeling good, too. Thanks for your loving prayers!
Thank you for visiting JanBeek today.
See ya tomorrow(God willing)
Oh, and tell me – what’s a Super Power you’d like to have?
Bloganuary#17 – “What is a Secret Power You’d Like to Have?”
I want the secret power to have wisdom in all circumstances. I want the secret power to turn all tears to laughter and joy. I want the secret power to end all wars and create everlasting peace on earth. I want the secret power to make Believers of all doubters so we all can meet in eternity someday.
Bloganuary#16 asked us to write about something we are passionate about. I can’t pick just one! Can you? Do your passions include some of the six things I am passionate about?
Here are a half a dozen of mine:
1. Let’s start with my love of home and family and the delight at being safely back here again. That’s passionately on my heart right now after being gone 3 weeks, getting a miserable respiratory virus, and being cared for so lovingly by our son, Ty & his wife Monika:
Home Sweet Home
2. If you have read any of my blogs before this one, it will not surprise you that I am passionate about Jesus and His sacrifice that saved my soul. I love the Lord with all my heart and pray daily for His Holy Spirit to guide my thoughts and actions, and to guard my tongue, and to inspire my writing. I read His Word daily and am passionate about inspiring others to Trust also in His promises.
3. I am passionate about music. Often I include a YouTube music clip at the end of my daily message here. I love to sing. I used to play the clarinet (was quite good once upon a time before arthritis bent my fingers so badly – my skill was thanks to years of private lessons my parents provided for me and hours of happy practice during those ages from 10 to 18 – – – I also play the accordion (you can find posts about that by putting “accordion” in the search bar in the upper right of my blog). I still am passionate about sharing the joy of the accordion with others – – – it’s like carrying a party on your back!
Here’s a wonderful video clip of a great song sent to me by a dear friend this morning:
4. I am passionate about cooking – and providing homemade meals for Bob and me that are pretty as well as nutritious and tasty. Besides music and writing, cooking is one of my favorite hobbies. It’s one of the reasons I love following Caralyn’s posts on BeautyBeyondBones. If you haven’t followed her blog, do yourself a favor and check her out.
5. That’s another thing I am passionate about: finding things, places, people, books and blogs I love and sharing them with others. Here’s a link I hope will take you to the source of the picture below = (Thank you, Caralyn) https://wordpress.com/read/feeds/36990166/posts/3768091539
Isn’t that mango salsa over a nice piece of flakey, cooked-to-perfection halibut enough to make your mouth water?
What are you passionate about? I’d love to hear.
There I am in those days when I was able to serve as a volunteer at the Food Bank. (I can’t right now… until I am sure this RSV is all gone … and until Bob & I return from our trip next week to Mayo Clinic). BUT, that’s #6 on my list of passions: using the time and talents God has given me to serve others with love and compassion.
I bet you do that, too (or are you waiting until you retire?)… Don’t! Begin now… it’s so rewarding! In this COVID world, find a way! Your talents are in passionate need out there!!
God Bless You! Thanks for visiting JanBeek. See ya tomorrow (God willing)
I was off-line as we traveled safely home yesterday. Thank you for your prayers! God heard. God answered. The weather conditions (except for one little patch of dense fog just before Twin Falls – out of Jackpot) and the roads were clear and perfect. We are happy to be home!
Coming through Island Park, guided by the moonlight
The Alpine glow of the sky led us homeward in joyful anticipation
The Bloganuary prompt yesterday asked us to consider a “Life Lesson” worth remembering. I cannot do more justice to this question than to share with you this blog from “Written Word.” It’s perfect!
My response to her was to be sure that heart is filled with the voice of the Holy Spirit. Following such advice will always lead to satisfaction. God bless you!
Keeping up with the daily prompts from Bolganuary can be difficult when traveling. I hope you don’t mind that I borrowed from a fellow blogger today. Have a wonderful Sunday! ❤
Thank you for your prayers for our safe travel from CA to our home in Montana. The weather couldn’t have been better. The roads were clear. The traffic was not too bad. We’re halfway home. We feel your prayers! Keep ‘em flowing. We should be home by tomorrow late afternoon.
Thank God for improved health and answered prayers. See ya tomorrow (God willing) … Good night!
Nothing makes the cough disappear and the body feel better than a relaxed evening – half way home – a yummy beef and prawn fajita, an attentive waiter, and a delicious margarita!
Psalm 34:10b “Those who seek the Lord lack no good thing.”
Isaiah 26: 3-4 “Those of steadfast mind You keep in peace— because they trust in You. Trust in the Lord forever, for in the Lord God you have an everlasting rock.”
My Ideal Day is filled with:
Enough
Peace
Trust
Faith
Love
Friendship
Affirmation
Health
Music
Writing time
Reading time
Blessings …. to fill my cup to overflowing so I can share.
Share hugs and love
An Ideal Day ends with:
Gratitude for today
Peace of mind
Hope for tomorrow
Joy abounding
Romans 15:13
“Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that you will abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.”
And then I have a good, long, restful sleep- zzzzzzz
My ideal day ends with this peaceful music and these beautiful scenes (click on video/music below) as I fall asleep praying for you, my friend.
Bee well! Thanks for visiting JanBeek See ya tomorrow (God willing)…
Me with my daughter-n-law, Monika
P.S. We’re packing today and heading back toward Montana tomorrow after two weeks of recuperation time from RSV with our gracious, kind, generous son and his wife. God is good!
I thought this isn’t a very thought provoking subject. But I guess if you answered with a
🧻 or a 💊 or a 🥨 or an 🫒, then we’d have something to talk about, right?
🤪 I often send this one when I’m being silly … or I send this one 😴 each evening when I text “Good night” to my grandson. Those are pretty mundane.
I accidentally sent this Emoji to a friend 👙 recently. We both had a good laugh. It was not what we were talking about at all. Have you ever sent the wrong one by mistake?
One of my most frequent ones is this: 🐝 … I use it to remind my friends to 🐝 well! I’m still suffering with the nasty cough 😷 from this RSV. 😤😩😮💨
I wonder 🤔 when I will breathe normally again?
Keep praying 🙏🏽 for my return to good health, ok? God is listening … and I’m sure He wants us to be able to return home to Montana by this weekend! What are YOUR plans?
Bloganuary #11 asked us this question: “WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO LIVE BOLDLY?” I called it #10 accidentally when I posted it tonight. It’s really for tomorrow’s prompt… But hey, part of living boldly is getting ahead of yourself, right?
Yesterday’s Bloganuary#9 prompt was one I skipped. I missed a day because I didn’t want to write about the topic: Assumptions I Think People Make About Me. Ya, people probably assume… but my mom always told me when you assume, you make an Ass- u- me!
So I have negative feelings about assuming anything. I’d rather dig out an old blog from the drafts file… something I started a year or so ago and never finished. I’d rather read other people’s answers about assumptions. I’d rather skip a day of blogging and just apply the 4R’s. I needed to do that!
Rest Relax Rejuvenate Read
So I did!
And here’s that old blog that I never finished last August right around the time my daughter, DeAna, was having a birthday. It was titled, “Two Bodies”:
Two bodies Two sides of the earth
Two people One birth Two hearts One mind She’s my daughter Love binds.
Yup, I decided to skip #9 altogether. I don’t like assumptions, even if they are positive ones. I’d rather talk about today’s prompt.
Bloganuary#10 asked me to post 5 things I’m grateful for. I can do that… but don’t expect me to limit it to 5!!
I tried posting on the Bloganuary WordPress site rather than writing the message here. I am trying to see if that results in more WordPress readers who also are taking this 31 day challenge to answer a given prompt each day. We’ll see.
I am still in Placerville at my son, Ty’s house. My coughing and sneezing was so bad this morning that I was banned to my bedroom! No fun!! But this RSV (respiratory virus) is highly contagious – and I do not want to give it to Ty & Monika. (I hope I have not done so already!)
Bob is feeling better, but getting very tired of being house-bound. His miserable cough is almost gone. Praise God for answered prayers!
Now it’s my turn to turn the corner… Keep those prayers coming! I need ’em!| Love, JanBeek
P.S. At least I have a warm house to stay in – with loving family to take care of me – and there’s sunshine outside! I am not complaining! Could be a lot worse!!
The Bible has several examples of laughter. Here are three: 1. Sarah laughed in unbelief. 2. Abraham laughed in wonder. 3. Then they both laughed in joy!
I find it interesting that I find no scripture of Jesus laughing. Do you know of any?
I agree with these illustrations. Surely He laughed when He was with the children!
Besides laughing at yourself, what else makes you laugh?
A good meme?
A funny grandkid?
We can’t help laughing. It’s better than complaining or crying! Laughter is a blessing.
Honey, it’s you! And it’s OK!!
What makes YOU laugh?
See ya tomorrow (God willing) Love, JanBeek
These examples of laughter make me laugh in wonder because they sound more like my respiratory virus cough than they do real laughter! Come on, you can do better than this. Give me a laugh!!
“So we do not lose heart. Though our outer self is wasting away, our inner self is being renewed day by day. For this light momentary affliction is preparing for us an eternal weight of glory beyond all comparison, as we look not to the things that are seen but to the things that are unseen. For the things that are seen are transient, but the things that are unseen are eternal.”
With the inspiration provided by scripture, prayer, daily devotionals, and a constant walk with my Lord, I am inspired every day be seek His Will for my life. I am inspired to seek His Truth. I am inspired to share His Love. I am inspired to share the Good News!
16 For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.
John 3:16
I pray that Jesus inspires you, too.
Now, if I have to choose someone who is on earth today… a living human who inspires me, I would not be able to narrow is down to one person! Here are a few:
Derrick Knight – he inspires me to blog every day as he does, and to respond to all who leave a comment on my post (just as he does).
Ty and Monika – our son and daughter-in-law – they inspire me with their big hearts and open hospitality, their love for one another, their family and neighbors, and their faithfulness. They inspire me to be more open and communicative about my faith in Christ.
Marcie Fernandes – my long-time friend – she inspires me to be more forgiving, more open to seeing the good in others, less quick to be judgemental.
DeAna & Andre’ – our daughter and son-in-law – in Switzerland – they inspire me to be more “in the moment.” Carpe’ Diem!
It would be fun to have those six folks together here at Ty & Monika’s in California right now, but they are spread from here to England to Tennessee to Switzerland! They all live in my heart and my prayers each day, though.
Who inspires you and why? It’s a thoughtful question, don’t you agree?
Jesus inspires me to rely on Him
Thanks for visiting JanBeek See ya tomorrow (God willing)
Bob & I have “2Beeks” on our car’s license plate. With the last name of Beekman, the nickname “Beek” is a natural. Sometimes we catch people driving past us, looking strangely at us. I imagine they are looking to see if we have particularly long noses!
I have a few new followers who joined JanBeek this month. I think WordPress’s “Bloganuary” has brought them here. Thank you!
If you are one of them, you may not have seen the post where I showed our family a few evenings ago sitting around the dinner table discussing our ancestry.
We gave Bob a bad time about his “honker” (beak by another name) and we showed him how he inherited it from his great-grandfather! Tonight we are giving Bob a bad time for another reason: His honker is doing a lot of honking! He has RSV.
This respiratory virus put him in the hospital in Napa on January 1st. What a way to start the new year, huh? RSV is nasty! After spending the night there, he was dismissed Jan. 2nd and we were able to travel back to our son’s to recuperate.
This is not the way we hoped to begin the new year. But the good news is we had the option of coming back to Placerville – it was a sunny CA day today. The recuperation time is greatly appreciated!
Bob’s cough is getting better… and soon we will be able to hit the road and return home to Montana. It’s not what we intended, of course, for this “vacation.” We wanted to visit friends in Pebble Beach – and spend time with Bob’s brothers in the CA valley.
But, we are grateful that when this curve ball was thrown at us, we had a beautiful alternative. Thank God for loving family and friends, right? God has a plan for why this has happened!
“And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose.”
Romans 8:28
God knew we needed more rest and relaxation! Our house isn’t ready to return there now anyway!
Our soft and marred fir floor’s being replaced with amazing old wood from a 1921 silo!
We hope your year has started off happily. We pray you’re healthy and dong what you want to do. We trust the Lord has us right where He wants us. And we hope, dear friends, the same is true for you.
Happy New Year!
What’s an update on what’s happening in your life? I’d love to know how your New Year began. Thanks for visiting JanBeek. See ya tomorrow (God willing)
Today’s topic on #Bloganuary is: “What was your favorite toy as a child?”
Here I am as a young mom with my daughter, DeAna. I don’t have available with me here on vacation Any photos of myself as a child at her age. I’m think my toys were part of my education.
DeDe was born during Barbie era. She had boyfriend Ken and their playhouse. She could play for hours with them And be as quiet as a mouse.
Here is our son, Ty, as a child. I know what he liked most at a young age: “BamBam” – his bouncing horsey! Quiet wasn’t a word on any Tyroneee page!
I didn’t have those kinds of toys! It was World War Two and we were poor. We tore our napkins in half to save paper. We knew the soldiers needed it more!
I was content to play outside. Rocks and dogs and imagination Kept me entertained for hours. No need for a Play Station!
I didn’t know at that time That we weren’t rich as can be! I had all the love in the world – And that was enough “play” for me.
My parents never failed to provide For all of the things we needed. If a parent’s goal is to raise happy kids, Mom and Dad certainly succeeded!
I may have had a doll or two – I really don’t remember. What I envision when I think of play Is our “wedding” in September.
My friend, Frankie, and brother, Aldo, Lived on our same property. We dressed up in some cloth we found. He wrapped it all around us three.
Cousin Bobby was a little younger. We convinced him to be preacher. He walked ahead of us down the “aisle”. My dog, Jumbo, was best man. What a creature!
Our pretend house was a large hole We dug in the old cow field. We fixed it up with pretend furniture, And covered the entrance – truly concealed.
We often climbed down to that “house”. It worked just fine as a place to play…. Until a cow fell in and broke its leg. I remember the lickin’ I got that day!
So, what was my favorite toy? It was probably the neighbor boy! Eventually we both got accordions – Music was the “toy” that brought us joy!!
The accordion still is one of my favorite toys! What’s your favorite childhood toy??
Thank you, Mom, for helping me know that imagination and creativity are the best “toys” ever!
Thanks for visiting JanBeek. See ya tomorrow (God willing). Are you enjoying the daily WordPress prompts?
Life is full of challenges. Often we’re asked to step out, Leaving our comfort zone Is sometimes what it’s about.
When our help is needed, We can’t always ask for sun; Sometimes we step into shadows To do what needs to be done.
It’s reassuring to know If we faithfully ask for the Son, We’ll have the strength and courage To step out with help from The One.
He’ll give us the tools we need To respond to the “Step Out” command. So ask for God’s help and you’ll find A prescription for a new Comfort Brand!
You’ll find a broader, available comfort zone, And you’ll have the courage and words you need To step out in ways you never dreamed of … New, expanded comfort zones – guaranteed!
Have a Marvelous Monday! Strength for today, and bright hope for tomorrow…
WordPress started a new program called Bloganuary each day they’ll give us a writing prompt. I’ll see if I can find inspiration in this new program – and share comments with some fellow bloggers I haven’t met before.
My 2021 blogs all began with my word for the year, “Embrace.” We had spent 2020 with the absence of hugs … and that was really hard for me. It was not difficult to think of a subject to embrace each day.
Our daughter, De, at age 19.
Now, let’s see what my life experience can do with these new daily prompts!
What Advice Would I Give to My Teenage Self?
I wrote a poem for my daughter, DeAna, when she was 19, married her sweetheart, André, and left us in CA to go live with him in his home country of Switzerland. My advice to her was wrapped up in this poem. It’s the same advice I would have given to my own teenage self:
I hope you are able to read that, dear blogging friends. And I hope you have been given (and can give in return) “Gifts Your Kids Can’t Break”
God bless you this New Year’s Day. May 2022 be a memorable year of many hugs and many blessings from Our Lord to you and your loved ones.
Please pray for my husband, Bob, who is in ER right now with congestive heart failure.
I wrote this back on Dec. 26 I couldn’t post it because I had no internet connection That’s just the way it was!
But now, four days later A lot has come and gone And we have electricity again It’s nearly New Years dawn!
Here’s the Dec. 26 post:
“I woke up early this morning To a winter wonderland Turned on the electric heater No heat! Didn’t understand…
Flipped on the light switch But – lo –the house remained dark Snow-laden trees had toppled and Knocked down power poles at the park
My car was buried in the driveway I saw it when light began to dawn So much for going anywhere Today’s plans were buried – gone!”
“My cell phone has a flashlight I clicked it on to see Walked downstairs and noticed The coffee was made for me
Hooray, the timer had worked Before the outage occurred So with coffee and my flashlight I settled down to read His Word
The message for this darkest day Was obviously God-inspired Rick Hamlin said in Guideposts God-Light is always wired
We can’t rely on electricity For the light to guide our way With Christ there are no outages.” Hear what Isaiah has to say:
“But they who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles; they shall run and not be weary; they shall walk and not faint.”
Isaiah 40:31
Relying on the strength in Christ I troubleshoot this scene How to make pancake breakfast Plug into God-power; be keen!
Ah yes, we have propane But to light it, I need flame Here came our son with his lighter The BBQ one (what’s its name?)
And then his wife appeared With a gas lantern in her hand A light to guide my pancake grill – Creativity is so grand!
Rick Hamlin told the story Of the Magi at the manger They came with precious gifts And then they sensed the danger
“Opening their treasure chests, they offered him gifts of frankincense and myrrh. And having been warned in a dream not to return to Herod, they left for their own country by another road.”
Matthew 2:11-12
The time the Magi came Is called the Epiphany And when we discover newness It’s an epiphany for you and me.
It was new to learn to cook Without the usual routine But, as the Magi realized, Creativity meets the scene
“After any epiphany,” Hamlin wrote, “You can’t go back to doing things The same old way.” So be ready For the newness epiphany brings.
Scripture speaks newness to us When we are stuck and need it most. It helps us with our current troubles. Turn to it and hear the Holy Ghost.
Speak through the Holy Spirit to Our Lord – and ask for assistance. Be ready to understand the message When you ask for it with persistence.
“Create in me a clean heart, O God, and put a new and right spirit within me.”
Psalm 51:10
The electricity returned to us In time to celebrate Bob’s special day He turned 83 on the 29th The “right spirit” came in a special way
Birthday breakfast time
Breakfast in the morning With our son and daughter-in-law Joined by friends most lovely God blessed us – I was in awe!
In awe of the beauty outside us In awe of the beauty within In awe of our many blessings The day was just to begin…
Wine tasting with Ty & Monika
Bob & Jan on his 83rd – So blessed!
We were joined by Ty & Monika For a day in the Shenandoah Valley Wine tasting and then a lovely dinner And a tasty dessert as the grand finale!
Bob on phone to his brother
Many family and friends Called to wish Bob a happy day It was a wonderful birthday – Just perfect in every way!
So embrace the power of God, friends Let His power guide your way And you’ll never worry about an outage His might and power are here to stay!
Have a wonderful New Year’s Eve. We are in the Napa, California area now. Wouldn’t it be wonderful If you could join us here somehow?
Time with family is memorable, indeed We’re grateful for the ones who embrace the holiday mood We’re blessed to have them open their home And share their love and delicious food.
Our daughter, De, in Switzerland shared photos of their beautiful meal Imagine how plates like these enchant your guests (think how they feel)!
The family in far-off Europe included our grandsons with our De I’m grateful for the internet and the pictures she shared with me.
Nick, De, Mike & Chris
Here in California Eleven of us gathered round – add two big, rambunctious dogs and laugh as kids and animals clowned.
Christmas Day was a time for fun with love and gifts exchanged Friends shared photos of their day Our family did, too … we got arranged!
Thank you, Ty & Monika for your gracious hospitality – we’re blessed to have our son & spouse share their life & love with Bob & me.
I pray your day was blessed and you celebrated Christ’s birth with those you love gathered round – good food, warm hugs, and lots of mirth!
A note for this day-after-Christmas-morning: Faith (our granddaughter) and Kyle were headed home to S.Lake Tahoe last night and about 3 hours later had to turn around and come back to Placerville. The road ahead was closed due to heavy snow and lots of accidents ahead. The good news is that they were not involved in one of them… and we’re all safe and sound… feeling blessed!
Merry Christmas! Bee 🐝 well! Bee blessed!
Keep the Hope, Peace, Joy, and Love in your heart year-round! May Jesus remain alive in you!
Merry Christmas, dear Blogging Friends. May your day be filled with love, hugs, and opportunities to reflect on the real Reason for the Season.
I first posted this poem in 2018. I decided it was worth posting again this year because many of you are new followers, and some of you who saw it three years ago may have forgotten it … I did!
One of my favorite Christmas songs is “Mary Did You Know?” The lyric I like most in it is, “Mary, did you know, when you kiss your little baby, you kiss the face of God?”
And one of my favorite versions of the song is sung by the Pentatonix…
Have a listen… the words are powerful and this quintet is magnificent!!
Did you know, the sleeping child you’re holding is the Great I Am?
Have a very meaningful Christmas! Remember the meaning of the One. Embrace the Christ Child – and Thank God for His Only Son!
John 3:16
“16 For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life.”
God bless you and your loved ones this Christmas. I am praying for your health and happiness… and for your faith in Christ which gives you eternal life – Guaranteed!
Thank you, God!
See ya tomorrow (God willing) Have a beautiful Christmas eve! Love, JanBeek
Mi Familia is such a blessing We’re so glad we are here The trip was long and arduous But we traveled without fear
We knew God was with us Your prayers were felt for sure Thank you, God, for safety With You our trip was secure
God bless “Mi Familia!” It is so good to be with them! Monika, our daughter-in-law, is taking the picture. That’s Ruthie & Darrell, her parents, on the left. Our son, Ty, is at the head of the table there… and of course, Bob & me. We’ll be joined on Christmas day by our grandson, Jordan, and his family – – – and our granddaughter, Faith, and her husband. They are expecting their first child (a baby girl) in April. We are so excited for them!
Monika and Ruthie fixed a wonderful dinner last night: salmon and veggies and potatoes. Yum!
We spent time talking about our heritage and remarking about how much Ty looks like my dad, his Grandpa Sal. Can you see the resemblance?
Then we had fun giving Bob a bad time about his “honker!” See how he inherited his nose from his paternal great-grandfather Davis? That’s his dad’s mother’s father.
Prior to dinner we took time to toast “Cheers!” to all the family and friends who prayed us safely here – and gave thanks to God for answered prayers.
Outside the weather was chilly, rainy, and then foggy … but the spirit of Christmas was alive and well, warm and inviting.
Across the continent – and over the Atlantic to Switzerland, our crazy, fun-loving grandson, Nick (and his sweetheart Celine) celebrated the birthday of the King in their own way with a milkshake from the Burger King!
Don’t you love the way the internet shrinks the world and brings “Familia” into our lives from around the world?
Merry Christmas to you, my dear blogging friends. I pray that you have a meaningful, love-filled holiday with your family gathered round.
Remember the Reason for the Season… and bring that Christ Child into your family circle.
God bless you. Let me know what your Christmas plans are, okay? I look forward to hearing from you… and I thank you so much for following my blog. I post with you in my heart and prayers.
Bee Happy! Bee Well!
I send my love and hugs. Have a wonderful time with your family! See ya tomorrow (God willing) Love, JanBeek
Thank you so much for your prayers for our safe travel and clear roads and beautiful weather. Your prayers were answered.
That was the area we were most worried about: Island Park, Idaho. It was so perfect today. God is good! We could not have asked for more perfect weather and more beautiful road conditions! You were with us, dear friends. Thank you!
Perfect sunset!!
Enjoying a relaxing dinner in Elko, Nevada.
Bob & I traded off driving. It made the 500 +/- miles go much more smoothly.
Have a good night – and continue your prayers, please. They worked!!
Meantime, in Switzerland, DeAna & André are enjoying a busy December at Relais des Mélèzes – their beautiful Swiss chalet/hotel/restaurant in Vissoie, Switzerland. They are in need of health and healing prayers. Can you add them to your very effective prayers, please?
Thanks so much! See ya tomorrow (God willing) … another 500 miles to go through, up & over Donner Pass – Lord, hold off the storm!
Today a team of five willing helpers moved every bit of our furniture and appliances from our kitchen, dining room and living room. It was a monumental task!
Beekmans’ bare house
New wood flooring will be installed over this old, soft fir, scarred floor while we are gone to CA for Christmas and New Years. This is what the new/old wood will look like when it is finished:
That’s our friends, Julie & Mike’s new floor.
The wood is from a hundred year old silo in Malta, Montana. Bob saw it and fell in love with it. He decided it is what our house needs. When all is said and done, I hope it is as lovely as he anticipates – and it is worth the time, money, effort, and stress involved in such a major renovation! Our existing floor doesn’t look bad in the video, but it really is in bad shape – and the wood is soft – scars really easily. The replacement wood (going right over the top of this) will give us a brighter, lighter look. Happy New Year!
God bless our willing helpers who are making all this possible!
1921 silo in Malta, Montana
The crew who did all that work to move things today are saints! As I said, it was a major task! And the man who is harvesting the wood from this old silo is a wizard! His name is Paul. Do keep in in prayer. I just pray he maintains his health and is able to finish the project. It was originally planned for when we were on our trip to England and Switzerland last September, but Paul, FELL while doing the wood harvesting and broke some ribs and had other health issues that required surgery. So, of course, our project was postponed while he recuperated.
1921 silo
It’s fun to know the history of the wood – and to look forward to a new look in our home. But, it involves a whole lot more than what meets the eye… because one thing always leads to another, you know? I am reminded of Derrick & Jackie Knight’s recent renovation of their kitchen and entry and upstairs rooms. Derrick shared the step-by-step, day-by-day progress with us on his blog. Quite an undertaking!
We’ll be gone and Paul will be living here in our absence – – – doing his magic. I’ll show you the finished product (God willing) when we return next year, mid to late January. Meantime, do keep our safe travels in your prayers, will you? I’ll keep in touch along the way.
Have a Blessed Sunday. Bob & I will attend church this morning … and then do a little clean-up in our kitchen area to have it cleared and ready for Paul’s arrival tomorrow. What are your Sunday plans?
Us – looking forward to fun with family in sunny California
God bless you and keep you safe. See you tomorrow (God willing) Tomorrow is our day to pack! Love, JanBeek
Every morning I begin my day with a cup of coffee and a climb up the stairs to my sanctuary where I spend time with my Bible, devotionals, prayers, and Jesus.
One of my devotionals is “These Days,” a daily devotion for living by faith, published by the Presbyterian Publishing Corporation. Its format is scripture, devotional, prayer.
Today’s scripture was:
Isaiah 40:11
He will feed his flock like a shepherd; he will gather the lambs in his arms, and carry them in his bosom, and gently lead the mother sheep.”
In the devotional, the author, Hope Douglas Harle-Mould, wrote about the comfort Jesus provides. She included a poem she wrote to Our God of all Faithfulness:
“We pray for a cure; God sends us healing. We pray for continued life; God gives us new life. We pray death will not come; God overcomes death. We pray in anguish; God weeps with us. We pray in fear; God teaches us to laugh. We pray for ourselves; God gives us each other. We pray for miracles; God fills us with love. We pray for the future; God showers us with blessedness. God, help me trust the voices heralding your hope.”
I am assured as I read and pray and study God’s word, that just as he carries the lamb in his arms, he will be faithful to carry me.
As I descend the twelve stairs at the end of my devotional time, I recite my personal TWELVE STEP PROGRAM Thank You, Jesus, for the:
Love,
Joy, and
Peace (that are mine). Help me with
Patience,
Kindness
Goodness, and
Faithfulness (which brings blessings),
Gentleness, and
Self-control.
Help me live humbly with an attitude of gratitude, and
A response of generosity, forgiveness,
Obedience, and integrity. In Jesus name, Amen!
When I get to the 7th step, I see the metal sculpture that says, “Blessings” above my door. It was a gift from our dear friends, Jim & Terry, so I pause to thank God for their faithful friendship. When I get to the bottom of the stairs, I see this cross on the wall:
It was made by Native Americans. I pause to pray for them and their peace and prosperity. I send occasional gifts to schools for Native American children – – places like St. Labre’ and St. Joseph’s – and they faithfully write back acknowledging my small donation.
A student at St. Labre’ School for Native American children
Faithfulness is a two-way street. We pray to God faithfully; God answers. We give to people who touch our hearts; they give back with gratitude & smiles. We read God’s Word faithfully each day; He gives us wisdom and discernment, understanding and blessings.
At the doctor’s office this week, the physician asked us how long we’d been married. As a couple in our 80’s, that’s a question we hear Often in these days of hurry and scurry from the harried.
When we say it’ll be 60 years next February, they say, “Congratulations, Wow!” and then they ask, “What’s the secret to such a long relationship?” They can see our smiles through our masks.
“Mutual respect,” I say. “And Faith,” Bob adds. “We pray together daily because we believe those who pray together stay together.” The doc asks, “Do you have other tips up your sleeve?”
“Of course,” Bob responds with a twinkle, “Never stop showing how much you care!” And I reinforced the idea, “Mutual respect is a must. Add the element of trust – and be willing to openly share.”
“At the same time,” I must add, “Remember this: We are individuals who need to be allowed space. We’re not connected at the hip, and we can go our separate ways while sharing this place.”
Respecting one another means we value the uniqueness each of us brings to our marriage relationship – and its OK for one of us to fiddle while the other one sings.
It’s OK for me to be in the bell choir and blog while Bob watches Monday Night football. It’s OK for him to prefer history or sports while I read a novel or make a phone call.
It’s OK for Bob to sit for a while and read while I clean off the table after dinner. But when it comes time to do the dishes, Get up and help if you wanna win her!
It’s Ok to divide some of the chores. I don’t wanna learn to mow the lawn! And Bob can’t turn on the washing machine; but share some tasks – don’t be withdrawn!
Does that mean we always agree? That we never argue with each other? No, not at all… we’re human after all! But we don’t fight with one another!
You can disagree with mutual respect. The key to that statement is to listen. Honor your partner’s right to an opinion – and enjoy equality – not one forcing dominion.
What’s the secret to a long, happy relationship? Mutual respect, shared faith, and trust – equal rights, space, avoiding fights, and time apart every now & then – if you must!
Bob enjoys fishing… I don’t!
I enjoy volunteering at the Food Bank or Nursing Home – that’s not in Bob’s sweet spot!
We both enjoy a nice glass of wine with a tasty meal – and occasionally eating out. It’s important to find some common ground otherwise you’ll smile less and increase your pout!
So, my friends, what’s the bottom line? God helped us find each other from the start – And through the years we’ve leaned on Him for help. We thank the Lord for His loving heart!
Gratitude can’t be left our of the equation. Don’t forget to thank Jesus and remember to say “Thank you” to one another every day. Thank Heaven, our love is here to stay!
Hah! Do you think I should learn to fish?
What are your secrets to a long and happy marriage? I wish you a life-time of mutual love and respect.
Tonight I enjoyed sharing the Bible with friends at our local nursing center. It’s a privilege to get to know these folks whose hearts are soft and tender.
The Bible lesson tonight from Psalms was about how to handle despair. We all face such emotions at times – especially during holidays everywhere.
When our families are far away and we have no way of traveling, it feels to some they are “trapped” and their lives are unraveling.
But while Psalm 42 begins in sorrow, expressing ways life is unfair, the tone quickly changes to joy when touting the wonders of prayer.
Although the flow May feel like a free fall, Embrace the flow. There’s Someone at your call.
He’s right there to catch you When you’re about to land. He won’t let you crash – He’ll hold out His hand!
Yesterday Bob & I dashed off to Bozeman for three reasons – and there ended up being four… oh actually five:
Drop off his pickup at “Dark Horse Snug Tops” to replace the hinge on his hatch cover
Go to an appointment with the nephrologist (what’s that? -the doctor who deals with the branch of medicine related to physiology and diseases of the kidneys-)
Keep an appointment with the cardiologist (you all know that’s a heart doctor), and an unexpected
X-ray of his abdomen… oh, and I was there for a 5th reason:
To shop for the veggies to make vegetable soup for tomorrow’s fellowship at church
We were hoping that the nephrologist would say his kidneys show no signs of protein or amyloid deposits – and so a biopsy would not be necessary. God answered that prayer!
We were hoping the cardiologist would say all the preliminary tests are done and show no signs of AL Amyloidosis (the cancerous kind) – and so no more labs and scans before our trip to Mayo Clinic in January. God answered that prayer.
The unexpected x-ray showed yes, the abdomen area is full of air (that’s why it sounds like a kettle drum when you tap on it) – but it’s not fluid – and he’s not showing signs like pain or vomiting – so we won’t deal with that issue right now. God is good! We trust His timing on this – (and all our other decisions).
I got my veggie shopping done (Thanks, CostCo, for your lovely fruits and veggies) – and …
The pickup latch cover hinge was fixed and BONUS: they replaced the key mechanism that was troubling (God answers prayers you didn’t know to mention … He’s way ahead of you!)
So, go with the flow…
John 7:38
“Out of the believer’s heart will flow rivers of living water.”
Today’s word in Unity‘s Daily Word is FLOW. The introductory thought is, “I flow with the nourishing life of God.” John 7:38 is the featured scripture. The devotional (quoting Lao Tzu) says, “The supreme good is like water, which nourishes all things, without trying to.”
As believers, we know that “supreme good” is God. We know God is “The Flow.”
Unity‘s Daily Word goes on to say, “Whether I experience this flow as a current of a river, the swelling of ocean waves, or my body’s life-sustaining circulation, I am in sync with this flow, which by its nature knows which way to go and what to do.”
How refreshing is that thought to you? It nourishes my soul. By the Holy Spirit, I know God’s life is in me – moving, changing, dancing and singing. I am one with the flow. I need not dash and rush and worry about things happening on time! I need not worry about Bob’s heart and kidneys, his abdomen or his pickup. I need not worry about his lack of stamina on the drive home. Just go with the flow – and trust. Follow along in the car – and honk if his pickup drifts and he seems to be falling asleep!!
Sometimes the flow is slow and steady … and I am out there in a fiery mood, trying to rush it along.
Don’t be in a rush To try to get too much done. Let the smooth flow of God Stop you mid-run!
Delight in the sneakiness Of a red sunset’s glow, And take time to relish The soft taste of snow.
Embrace the joy Of vegetables’ texture and smell, The magic of herbs as they cook, And bid stressing farewell!
Embrace the flow Of God in your life. Let Him slow you down As you eliminate strife.
Don’t worry about health. Don’t stress over unfinished tasks. Just go with the flow – And take time for some laughs!
Overflow this Advent season with the love of Christ Jesus, the guidance of the Holy Spirit, and the easy flow of God answering prayers in your life.
Oh, the joy of being great-grandparents is a joy many never live long enough to experience. We do not take this for granted. An afternoon with our granddaughter, Hope, and her two children, Xander and Sienna, reinforced for us why God gives children to the young!!
In Genesis 17, when God
himself appears to Abraham and tells him that Sarah will bear a son, Abraham falls on his face laughing and exclaims, “Can a child be born to a man who is a hundred years old? Can Sarah, who is ninety years old, bear a child?” (Genesis 17:17).
(Genesis 18:13-14) After Sarah laughs, God turns to Abraham, asking, “Why did Sarah laugh, and say, ‘Shall I indeed bear a child, now that I am old? ‘ Is anything too wonderful for the Lord?” Sarah has been caught in the act of her private laughter and mocking commentary, a response which catches God off-guard.
We understand why when God granted Sarah the child she longed for all her life (she was in her 90s – so it was quite a miracle), she laughed (not believing God could really do that) and then she gave Isaac to the church. The priests there raised him!
Oh sure…. she gave her child to God in gratitude for God’s generosity. Suuure!!
I’ll bet she didn’t have the stamina to care for that lively little guy!
Hah! We loved visiting with our great grandkids, but we’re sure grateful it’s Hope who took them home – not us! Embrace those great-grandchildren… and then kiss ’em good-bye. You bet!!
I’m headed to bed. I’m exhausted! See ya tomorrow (God willing) Love, JanBeek
I couldn’t lift her!! Her mama had to help me get her in my lap!
The wind is like a lion The wind is a howling hyena The wind is like a frisky lamb The wind is a cotton ball
The part of Montana where we live (Madison Valley in Madison County) is a wind tunnel. Right now as I sit here at my computer, I can see it. I can hear it. I can read my barometer telling me that it ranges between 15 and 25 mph this morning. Occasionally gusts of 35 mph rock the flaps on the exhaust pipe above the stove in the kitchen. People who visit us here in Ennis often comment, “How can you stand it?”
We really don’t mind it when we stop and think about what it does. The wind blows the rain clouds in. It blows the storm off to the east and over the mountain range. We can see the clouds moving and we marvel at the way those wind gusts keep us from becoming an overgrown city! Our response to those visitors’ comments is, “Oh it’s terrible! You wouldn’t want to live here!”
The wind blows the storms in and it blows the clouds out again.
The wind is like a scooper The wind is a funnel The wind is like a filter The wind is a sieve
The wind sifts out the weak of heart & spirit!
No, we don’t get tornadoes here! Our winds are not that bad! But they can be inhospitable. We’d move if that’s all we had!
Welcome to the Madison River – Flyfishing capitol of the world!
The wind is like a welcomed monitor The wind is a necessary friend The wind is like a vacuum cleaner The wind is a friendly lion
Simile/ˈsiməlē : a figure of speech involving the comparison of one thing with another thing of a different kind, used to make a description more emphatic or vivid (e.g., as brave as a lion, crazy like a fox ). Metaphor: compares two things directly without using “like” or “as”; the subject IS the object. Metaphors are more direct than similes, which can make them seem stronger or more surprising. Example: The sunrise this morning was an ocean of honey dusted with powdered sugar.
Nope, you wouldn’t like living in Madison County! Hah!
Thanks for visiting JanBeek. I am sending love, joy, peace, faith and a sense of unity your way this day. Don’t let them get blown away!
Blogging is like a private jet. It can take you anywhere!
My high school buddy from the Stone Age, Doris, sent me a story today. It was written by a guy (no name available) who recalled an experience that stuck with him and changed him forever.
Did the title of this blog draw you in? Stay with me.
The story writer told about the way a young Downs Syndrome man impacted the hearts of all he touched. I was moved by the story – and decided it was too good to keep to myself. I hope it touches your heart, too.
In 1979, I was managing a Wendy’s in Port Richey, Florida. Unlike today, staffing was never a real problem, but I was searching for a someone to work 3 hours a day only at lunch. I went thru all my applications and most were all looking for full time or at least 20 hours per week. I found one however, buried at the bottom of a four inch stack, that was only looking for lunch part time.
His name was Nicky. Hadn’t met him but thought I would give him a call and see if he could stop by for an interview. When I called, he wasn’t in but his mom said she would make sure he would be there. At the appointed time, Nicky walked in. One of those moments when my heart went in my throat. Nicky suffered from Downs Syndrome. His physical appearance was a giveaway and his speech only reinforced the obvious. I was young and very sheltered. Had never interacted on a professional level with a developmentally disabled person. I had no clue what to do, so I went ahead and interviewed him. He was a wonderful young man. Great outlook. Task focused. Excited to be alive. For only reasons God knew at that time, I hired him for 3 hours a day, 3 days a week to run a grill.
I let the staff know what to expect. Predictably the crew made sure I got the message, “No one wants to work with a retard.” To this day I find that word offensive. We had a crew meeting, cleared the air, and prepared for his arrival.
Nicky showed up for work right on time. He was so excited to be working. He stood at the time clock literally shaking with anticipation. He clocked in and started his training. Couldn’t multi-task, but was a machine on the grill.
Now for the fascinating part… Back in that day, there were no computer screens to work from. Every order was called out by the cashier. It required a great deal of concentration on the part of all production staff to get the order right. While Nicky was training during his first shift, the sandwich maker next to him asked the grillman/trainer what was on the next sandwich. Nicky replied, “single, no pickle no onion.” A few minutes later it happened again. It was then that we discovered Nicky had a hidden and valuable skill. He memorized everything he heard! Photographic hearing! WHAT A SKILL SET.
It took 3 days and every sandwich maker requested to work with Nicky. He immediately was accepted by the entire crew. After his shift he would join the rest of his crew family, drinking Coke like it was water! It was then that they discovered another Rainman-esque trait. Nicky was a walking/talking perpetual calendar! With a perpetual calendar as a reference, they would sit for hours asking him what day of the week was December 22, 1847. He never missed. This uncanny trait mesmerized the crew.
His mom would come in at 2 to pick him up. More times than not, the crew would be back there with him hamming it up. As I went to get him from the back, his mom said something I will never forget. “Let him stay there as long as he wants. He has never been accepted anywhere like he has been here.”
I excused myself and dried my eyes, humbled and broken-hearted at the lesson I just learned. Nicky had a profound impact on that store. His presence changed a lot of people. Today I believe with every fiber of my body that Nicky’s hiring was no accident. God’s timing and will are perfect.
This Christmas, I hope we all understand what we are celebrating. We are all like Nicky. We each have our shortcomings. We each have our strong points. But we are all of value. God made us that way and God doesn’t make mistakes. Nicky certainly wasn’t a mistake. He was a valuable gift that I am forever grateful for.
We are celebrating the birth of the ONE that leveled the playing field for all of us. God doesn’t care if you are rich or poor, republican or democrat, or black or white. He doesn’t care if your chromosome structure is perfect. He doesn’t care what level of education you have attained. He cares about your heart. He wants us all to love and appreciate the gift HE gave us on Christmas, His son, the Savior, our salvation. His Son that was born to die for our sins. To pay our debt. To provide us a path for eternity.
So this Christmas, let’s check our hearts. There is a little bit of Nicky in all of us and I suspect there is a Nicky somewhere in your life who is looking for the chance to be embraced. Thank God for that. Thank God for His perfect gift, Christ Jesus.
Merry Christmas!
Alice Paschal Nativity
Peering Down
Another of my high school friends, Kristy, sent me that sketch up there done by a 93-year-old friend of hers, Alice Paschal. What a wonderful rendition of that glorious Christmas Day! Like those two doves, my husband, Bob, and I are sitting in the rafters, peering down on that magical scene – marveling at the love Christ brought down to earth. Grateful for those who share His love in stories, words and actions.
Ready to Learn
May we all be like the workers in that restaurant long ago – ready to learn to love, learn to accept, learn to wrap our arms around the most vulnerable. May we learn to see one another through Jesus glasses, from the inside out.
I first posted this in December of 2020 … and here it is a year later … December of 2021 … and in many ways, we are more engulfed in the effects of COVID-19 now than we were then!
My New Years glasses
My resolution for 2020 was to “Walk the Talk.” Little did I know when I created those 20/20 Perfect Vision glasses January 1, 2020 what a challenge that would be!
I posted the picture of that little girl in early January, determined to talk less and to do more.
Lenten Breakfast 2020
No Way of Knowing
I had no way of knowing when we celebrated the first of five planned Lenten breakfasts leading up to Easter that it would be our last. COVID-19 hit, our gatherings were shut down, and social distancing eliminated these opportunities.
Time
Time to read more, time to think more, time to reflect on stories like the one at the top of this blog.
I asked you, my WP readers, “How will you spend the rest of this 2020 year? What will you do to Walk the Talk and Show the Love of Christ with those you meet?”
I asked you, “Think about it.”
And here it is another year gone by, still dealing with the effects of COVID-19, and still asking the same questions. still making the same requests:
And I still want you to know, “I love you.“ I hope you have avoided the ravages of the virus. I hope you are well, and looking forward to a wonderful Christmas with loved ones.
Thanks for taking time to read JanBeek. I hope it inspires you. Bee well! Bee LOVE.
Who am I to tell you How to live your life? Who am I to suggest Ways to eliminate strife?
Simplicity’s elusive In this world of more and more. Simplicity’s evasive For both the rich and poor.
When we live in a world of plenty We have more than we need, lots more. We have so much it pushes its way Onto the chairs and into the floor.
We go out shopping for others And find a book we can’t live without. No more room on our bookshelves – “Stop! Embrace Simplicity!” our houses all shout.
Embrace Simplicity!
We go out shopping for others And some absolutely essential gift Jumps off the shelf and tells us, “You need this for your own spirit lift!”
But living with less stuff and clutter Is the best spirit lifter you will find. Let’s embrace simplicity, my friends. It’s an important clearing of the mind!
Like weeds in an otherwise garden of beauty, Your mind and your home need clear space! Get rid of the clutter and give your brain room To live in simplicity and to exude love and grace.
Maybe this Christmas my shopping Should be in my own cluttered house. Instead of searching, stressing, and buying, I wonder who’d like that lovely red blouse?
I’m off to see if I can follow my own advice. Wouldn’t that be nice? But, I really like that blouse… Maybe I’ll have to think twice!
Have a Simply Happy Week, my friends. All I want for Christmas is YOU visiting me here!! See ya tomorrow (God willing) Love, JanBeek
Light Dispels Darkness Open His Word Let it enlighten you Brightness
Brightness Is yours If you ask Take it to others Share
Today at Madison Valley Presbyterian Church, here in Ennis, Montana, Pastor Mary Grace Reynold’s sermon was inspired by the New Testament scripture Matthew 2: 4-18
7 Then Herod called the Magi secretly and found out from them the exact time the star had appeared. 8 He sent them to Bethlehem and said, “Go and search carefully for the child. As soon as you find him, report to me, so that I too may go and worship him.”
9 After they had heard the king, they went on their way, and the star they had seen when it rose went ahead of them until it stopped over the place where the child was. 10 When they saw the star, they were overjoyed. 11 On coming to the house, they saw the child with his mother Mary, and they bowed down and worshiped him. Then they opened their treasures and presented him with gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh. 12 And having been warned in a dream not to go back to Herod, they returned to their country by another route.
13 When they had gone, an angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph in a dream. “Get up,” he said, “take the child and his mother and escape to Egypt. Stay there until I tell you, for Herod is going to search for the child to kill him.”
14 So he got up, took the child and his mother during the night and left for Egypt, 15 where he stayed until the death of Herod. And so was fulfilled what the Lord had said through the prophet: “Out of Egypt I called my son.”[a]
16 When Herod realized that he had been outwitted by the Magi, he was furious, and he gave orders to kill all the boys in Bethlehem and its vicinity who were two years old and under, in accordance with the time he had learned from the Magi. 17 Then what was said through the prophet Jeremiah was fulfilled:
18 “A voice is heard in Ramah, weeping and great mourning, Rachel weeping for her children and refusing to be comforted, because they are no more.”[b]
What a terrible scripture to focus on during this season of Advent! But… the “Take-away” from the message was this:
Sermon Notes:
If something unnerves you, pay attention! The realm of unpleasantness is not what we expect in Advent as we wait for the Messiah. Killing all the boy babies? Worse than unnerving!
The season of Hope, Faith, Joy and Love is not supposed to be unsettling. Let’s weep with Rachel over the loss of children. Let’s weep over the bleakest of backgrounds.
Life is frequently bleak, but take heart! Into this bleakness a star appeared in the sky. Into this bleakness the vulnerable baby was born. Into this bleakness, a cruel king felt threatened.
Herod, the king sat in the stain of his own shallow angst and envy. He looked foolishly to the stars, believing in his own deity.
Threatened by an innocent baby, reported to be coming as a king, Herod ordered the death of all boys under the age of two in Bethlehem.
God heard the cries of “the least of these.” Jesus remembered those cries when He reminded us to care for “the least of these.” And friends, we each are part of “the least of these.”
Jesus/God knows the hearts of the bleak. He injects hope in the hearts of the hopeless. He injects love, joy and peace into our bleak world today.
Rejoice in the brightness of God’s love. Rejoice that God claims us. Do not be surprised by God’s compassion. Bask in the warmth of His bright love.
May peace, love, hope and joy be yours this Advent season – and into the new year. May the brightness of Jesus/God be within you. Share His bright light with others.
Amen?
Wreath Advent Memories Light each candle Remember what each symbolizes Jesus
Rev. Mary Grace Reynolds & me
Embrace Brightness!! Thanks for visiting JanBeek. See ya tomorrow (God willing)
From Wikipedia: Living water … is a biblical term which appears in both the Old and New Testaments. In Jeremiah 2:13 and 17:13, the prophet describes God as “the spring of living water”, who has been forsaken by his chosen people Israel. Later, the prophet Zechariah described Jerusalem as a source of “living water”, “half [flowing] east to the Dead Sea and half of it west to the Mediterranean Sea, in summer and in winter” (Zechariah 14:8). The Pulpit Commentary notes that the city of Jerusalem “was, as we know, abundantly supplied with water by many conduits and subterranean channels; but standing, as it does, surrounded by hills higher than itself, it is physically impossible that the waters could literally flow as stated. The description is symbolical…”[1] …”
“If you knew the gift of God and who it is that asks you for a drink, you would have asked him and he would have given you living water” (John 4:10).
In this Christian season of Advent, the season described in Britannica as “Advent, (from Latin adventus, “coming”), in the Christian church calendar, the period of preparation for the celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ at Christmas and also of preparation for the Second Coming of Christ” it is appropriate that we consider who Christ is, why He came, and what His presence as the Holy Spirit means in our lives.
Living Water (an Elfchen = 1,2,3,4,1)
Living For Jesus A Loving Life Accepting His Cleansing Grace Water
I have a Bible that I gave to a friend years ago. When she died, her family returned it to me with a thank you. The Bible is titled, “Living Water.” Every scripture in it that contains the word “water” is printed in blue ink. All the photographs in the Bible are of water. It is beautiful!
The family wrote a note to me thanking me for this gift to my friend. In this Bible my friend found her salvation. Her family knows she accepted the “Living Water” into her heart – and accepted the gift of eternal life. We will meet again in eternity!
Sometimes reading the Bible can feel like looking at “muddy water,” especially the Old Testament when it gets into the wars, the sexual escapades, the genealogical lists… but stand still in the scripture; study it with a devotional written by a Biblical scholar, and the muddy water can become clear!
Inside the “Living Water” – for those who thirst – I copied a quote from D.L Moody: “This book will keep you from sin, or sin will keep you from this book.”
May you find peace this busy season – peace as you intake Living Water for your soul. My prayers are with you this day… and always. Thanks so much for following JanBeek. I pray you find here love, peace, joy, faith, and the invitation for UNITY in this world. Let’s just LOVE ONE ANOTHER!
I am headed to our local nursing home to help with Bingo today. I have a few Christmas decorations displayed in my home. A dear neighbor/friend came and helped me. God bless her! What will you do to spread your love to others today?
Peace be with you! Hugs, JanBeek
We’re surrounded by “Living Waters. Sometimes we feel like we’re swimming in them. They’re not murky! They are clear and calm. The Lord is swimming with us… He is our “Life Preserver!” Praise God!
Christmas is coming You see it everywhere you look these days. But… It’s not a “Merry Christmas” I am wishing for you! It’s a “Mary Christmas!” That’s in contrast to a “Martha Christmas!”
Luke 10:38-42
New International Version
At the Home of Martha and Mary
38 As Jesus and his disciples were on their way, he came to a village where a woman named Martha opened her home to him. 39 She had a sister called Mary, who sat at the Lord’s feet listening to what he said. 40 But Martha was distracted by all the preparations that had to be made. She came to him and asked, “Lord, don’t you care that my sister has left me to do the work by myself? Tell her to help me!”
41 “Martha, Martha,” the Lord answered, “you are worried and upset about many things, 42 but few things are needed—or indeed only one.[a] Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her.”
Are You Mary or Martha?
If I am not totally aware, it is easy for me to fall into the Martha role. Company is coming! I love entertaining.
But, if I am busy being Martha, I find at the end of the evening I didn’t engage in a meaningful conversation with anyone!
“Oh, Jan, Jan!” Jesus would say to me, “prepare for your guests in advance, so when they come, you can sit down and enjoy their company!”
But what if guests pop in unexpected? Should I be the Mary who lets Martha do all the work? Surely there is a happy medium here somewhere!
Work or Shirk?
If company pops in unexpected, drop everything and enjoy the surprise! They didn’t come to see your house. They probably didn’t come to eat your food. They are there to see you! So it’s not a question of work or shirk!
Put on a smirk – take off the apron – set aside the work!
If you convince them to stay and enjoy a snack or a meal with you, invite them in to your kitchen and continue to enjoy one another as you fix up some goodies together!
‘Tis the season to enjoy the love of company – ‘Tis the season to spread the joy and remember the reason for the season. It ain’t stressin’ yourself out with decorating, shopping, gift-wrapping, and entertaining like Martha!
It’s Mary – the Christ Child – the simplicity of the stable – the spontaneity of good friends – and the Good News!
Mary Christmas!
Have yourself a Mary Christmas!
Love to you… Pop in – and sit awhile! Let’s listen to some relaxing Christmas music and have a cup o’ tea or hot cocoa! Hugs, JanBeek
The Light of Love surrounds me The Light of Love enfolds me The Light of Love strengthens me Wherever I am, the Light of Love is.
LoveLight is powered by the Source. The Source is God, my Creator. The love of God enfolds me. The power of God protects me. The presence of God watches over me. Wherever I am, God is!
If I walk in awareness of LoveLight, It is easier to shine in the darkness. It is easier to let God’s Light shine through me. It is easier to find the path He intends for me. It is easier to respond to others with compassion. It is easier to find JOY at every turn.
Embrace the LoveLight in you! Recognize its Source. Praise God for each blessing. Recognize their Source. Pray for God’s patience and kindness to be manifested in you this day. Shine!
God bless you!
Each morning as I sit in my 100+ year old rocker that was made by Bob’s great grandfather, and I count my blessings, thank God for them, and plan my day ahead, I thank God for you! You, my WP readers, are a source of Light for my writing. You light up my life! Your responses are a source of encouragement. My goal is to spread the LOVE, JOY, PEACE, FAITH and sense of UNITY that are mine. I hope you feel those blessings in your life, too. Let that LOVELIGHT shine through you today.
1 John 2:9-10 “Anyone who claims to be in the light but hates a brother or sister is still in the darkness. Anyone who loves their brother and sister lives in the light, and there is nothing in them to make them stumble.”
“Let the morning bring me word of Your unfailing love [God], for I have put my trust in You.”
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.”
Grandson, Nick, and his girlfriend, Céline, joined us for Thanksgiving. I am so grateful for family who come all the way from Switzerland to share time with us!
(See the bottom of the post for numbers 2-9 explaining the rest of the photos. Try to guess what you think I may say about each before you peek down there!)
2. Neighbor/friend, “Whooter” (Greg Winden, came at 8:30 am to help Bob prepare the smoker and to help me put the finishing touches on the turkey. I am so grateful for such caring, generous folks. We are blessed to live in this “hood!”
3. Thanksgiving is a day to be shared. I am thankful for those who joined us to make the day festive.
4 – 5. There’s Whooter helping Bob get the bird in the smoker. And there’s the turkey ready to be carved. I am grateful for Whooter’s tip: stuff the turkey with chunks of apple and orange! It kept the meat so moist! Have you ever done that with your turkey or baked chicken??
6. That’s our friend, Kathy, with Nick & Céline, and our pastor/friend, Mary Grace enjoying a few before dinner refreshments on Thanksgiving Day. Those hors d’oeuvres are part of Thanksgiving “trimmings”!
7. Meantime, in Switzerland our daughter, DeAna was having her own reasons to give thanks. Duchess (Pipo’s queen cow) gave birth to a healthy calf (a future queen for sure) and we gave thanks for his gift of naming her after our De! The calf ids (Diana – pronounced Deanna in French)! It’s quite an honor!!
8. That’s SureShot Lake … frozen over and dehydrated. We gave thanks for the fun of driving up there yesterday, but we’re disappointed to see how low it is. Those dirt mounds out there generally are under water!
9. Most mornings I start my day with a very special “Good morning” and a picture of the sunrise with prayers from my friend, Lisa, in S. Carolina.
Do you have a special friend who prays for you daily and greets you with his/her sunrise? If so, you are blessed indeed! I know for sure that I am!
What else contributed to your day of turkey and trimmings? I’m still celebrating… just finished a bowl of turkey soup made from the leftovers. Yum!
Enjoy your Saturday night, my friends. See ya Sunday. When I count my blessings, you’re right up there with the turkey!! Yup, part of the trimmings!
Bob & me on our 59th anniversary- It’ll be 60 in February!!
Hope you had a wonderful Thanksgiving week, too. Can’t let this weekend pass without telling you how much I appreciate your visits here. Posting on WordPress is one of my favorite hobbies – and it wouldn’t be worth a darn if it weren’t for you. God bless you! Thanks for commenting and telling me a little about those things that count on your list of blessings.
Bee well! See ya tomorrow (God willing)… Love, JanBeek
MMMmmm, it was good! We loved sharing – comparing Naming – Enjoying!
Illuminate Home Get ready to share your meal Thank God for your friends
I thank God for you I pray for health and safety For each one of you.
Tell me about your Thanksgiving. I hope your day is filled with good food, Good friends, and lots of great conversation.
I am sorry that some were unable to come Because not all are vaccinated and some Feel vulnerable with this darn COVID-19 Still threatening to infect even those with Boosters.
I pray for an end to this pandemic And for all who can do so to go and get the vaccine. Embrace illumination – shine your light on healthy choices! But, it is not for me to judge… if you choose not to, You have your reasons – and I love you anyway.
Just BEEEEE SAFE! And Have a Happy Thanksgiving!
Missing my sis…
Keeping you in my prayers. Thanks for visiting today. See ya tomorrow (God willing)… Love, JanBeek
Good morning, Good Fairy. Thank you for flying on Delta with us this morning. You guided us onto this flight just in time. Do you guide the elderly often?
Ah yes! It’s my job to keep people safe and to grant their every wish
Well, you did a good job so far for us. We got the car into long-term parking and made it onto the plane on time. But what about those two guys who were sitting in our seats?
Heavens! They just wouldn’t listen. Maybe they don’t know how to tune in to their inner fairy. My buddy tried telling them those seats were taken. They wouldn’t listen.
So sometimes Good Fairies need help from earthlings?
Yes, in order to grant my earthling their wishes, often my friends have to run interference for me.
Well, I’m grateful for your assistance. Now, can you keep us safe and comfortable all the way to Rochester?
janbeek 
Written
on November 27, 2021