Hitting Rock Bottom.

Did you ever have a day when everything just came crashing down on you at once? That's how my novel begins. The heroine loses everything in one fell swoop. 

How would you counsel Bailey Brown if she came to you with her sad story?

Wobbly Plates

Baby Boomers will remember the popular "plate spinning" acts on variety shows of our day. If plates could represent areas of our lives, then THIS USED TO BE ME:

However, now, THIS IS ME:

I'm glad I found this funny one that made me laugh. It helped put things in perspective. I've got a lot of wobbly plates these days, but I'm so grateful that the Father has said that I can cast all my cares on Him, for He cares for me (1 Peter 5:7). I'm grateful for my husband who still thinks I'm Wonder Woman even though he has to fend for himself a lot these days. I'm grateful for all my friends and family who've said "I want to help." I'm grateful that I have plates to spin!

Do you have wobbly plates right now? I'd love to pray for you. Jody

Oldie But Goodie (Not me, lol).

Still working on my workout playlist. I never paid much attention to the verses of this song, but I love the chorus. The dancing and fashion is a hoot. Yes, I'm dating myself. Enjoy!

"Nothin's gonna break my stride
Nobody's gonna hold me down, oh no,
I've got to keep on MOVIN'!" 

Still could use your inspiring music suggestions.

We're Givin' God All That!

Hellooooo, Monday! So inspired after our church gathering yesterday. God always gives me what I need. He's amazing that way, right? Full time job is gearing up for Spring events, Summer Reading Club, and Piano Recital. Gotta get a book finished by the end of April, and do a wedding in May, AND my debut novel releases June 28!! Plus, I'm tackling health issues with a vengeance and rockin' the Advocare 24 Day Challenge. 

Nothing is impossible with God.(Luke 1:37 NIV). We heard God's Word yesterday about being positioned to bless and be blessed. I was struck by Psalm 84:6 (NIV) As they pass through the Valley of Baca, they make it a place of springs; the autumn rains also cover it with pools.

Ah, Baca means weeping so definitely a low place. But we make it a spring! Through Christ, we can turn anything into living water. Something about that reminded me of that Newsboys song Wherever We Go. That's my motivation this week. Hope it blesses you:)

HELP! Can you suggest some upbeat music to coast me along on my journey? Thank you!!! Jody

I usually listen to sermons, music, or audio Bible while I workout at the gym. Sometimes I listen to inspiring commencement speeches. I ran across one Dolly Parton did that was fun, and I love the song she sang at the end. Enjoy this sweet inspiration.

I've been listening to inspirational speaker Andy Andrews lately. He spoke at a church in Dallas and made this statement. "The power of our thoughts is so strong that we cannot act against it." I took that sentence to prayer. I realize that that is one of the reasons that I will still make a wrong choice, or a choice that takes me aside the path I'm traveling to my goals. What is it that I believe, or don't believe, that sabotages me, even after all my planning and prayer? I'm convinced that I need more washing of the Word in my mind and spirit. How wonderful that there is an answer!

Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path. Psalm 119:105 (NIV)

What derails you on your path to your goals?

My Piano Teacher

She wasn't my music teacher because we didn't move to Kirbyville until I was in high school. My younger siblings did have the honor of having her for an elementary music teacher. Mrs. Burres Bean was known to everyone in our small community for her love of teaching, her kindness, class and grace. She passed away last week at the age of 102.

One of those silly graduation rites of passage is the "Most Likely To..." print out at the end of the year. I believe mine was "Most likely to take Mrs. Bean's place at the elementary school." That prediction came true, although there were several before I taught music at Kirbyville Elementary. I took piano lessons from her when I was working on some personal music goals. Our lesson was the highlight of the week. 

Mrs. Bean had the ability to make you think you were the most important person in the world when she listened intently and gave you full attention with her beautiful eyes. Her comments were always kind. She had a delightful, amusing personality, and had a caring heart for everyone in her life. You could not leave her presence without feeling valued and encouraged. I smile as I think of how she is the only person I've ever known who could rock wearing white pants:) Beautiful inside and out, Mrs. Bean left a mark on all who knew her, and she will be missed. 

So long for now, Dear One, until we see you in Forever. Thank you for everything. Jody