tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14213006936393703462024-03-13T14:22:28.908-06:00Mindy's MusingsRandom bits and pieces of my extraordinarily ordinary life...Mindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01272948206344928446noreply@blogger.comBlogger239125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1421300693639370346.post-8696260027997792632014-05-11T22:15:00.001-06:002014-05-11T22:15:11.814-06:00Mom...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Mom, for one last time on Mother's Day, I want to say Thank You....</div>
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For giving me both roots and wings...</div>
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For teaching me correct principles and setting me on the right path...</div>
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For the late nights and early mornings...<br />For the sleepless hours spent worrying and praying...<br />For simply being you...<br />The most precious Mother I could ever ask for...</div>
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<br />Love you, Mom...<br /><br />To infinity and beyond...<br /></div>
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If you had asked me a year ago if this Mother's Day would be different than any other, I would have probably said, "No." After all, one does not anticipate a mother being diagnosed with a fatal disease whose progress seems to be on a highly accelerated track.<br /><br />No, this year's Mother's Day is not at all what I had pictured it would be 365 days ago.<br /><br />In a way, I am fortunate to have the knowledge that - on this side of the veil, anyway - this is likely the final Mother's Day I will have had the chance to spend with my mom. Others have their mothers taken from them in sudden and unplanned ways and don't have the chance to express their love and appreciation for their moms before they are gone. So, while I ache knowing that I will not have the chance 365 days from now to wish my mom a Happy Mother's Day in person, I am so very grateful I was blessed with the opportunity to tell her that today.<br />Mindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01272948206344928446noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1421300693639370346.post-56800288204368073902014-04-27T14:15:00.002-06:002019-07-26T11:45:43.502-06:00Gratitude... <div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
I was asked to speak in Sacrament Meeting today on my favorite talk from this April's General Conference. When I was given the assignment I knew instantly which talk I was going to focus on because I was so profoundly touched by it when it was given. Below I have shared my talk. If you want to see or read President Uchtdorf's conference address in it's entirety I have added links so that you can do so.<br />
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When I was
asked if I would speak today, I was grateful for the chance. That’s a little
ironic coming from me, since speaking in front of people is one of the things
that make me the most nervous. Still I truly am thankful to have this
opportunity. I pray that the Spirit will be with me as I speak so that I will
be able to give the message I have prepared in a way that is of worth to all of
us and pleasing to our Heavenly Father.<o:p></o:p><br />
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I was asked
to choose my favorite talk from this past General Conference. That’s not
necessarily an easy task, given that there was so much of great worth that was
spoken of during Conference. One of the
greatest things I gained from Conference was a renewed testimony that our
Heavenly Father and our Elder Brother Jesus Christ know each one of us
personally and inspire our leaders to give us the messages we need to hear when
we need to hear them. <o:p></o:p></div>
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The talk I
chose to speak on today was <a href="https://www.lds.org/general-conference/2014/04/grateful-in-any-circumstances?lang=eng">President Uchtdorf's</a> which seemed to be a direct
answer to prayers that have been lifted to Heavenly Father recently. I hope you will
bear with me and forgive me if I am a bit emotional as I speak because the
message of this talk touched me so deeply.<br />
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President
Uchtdorf began his address by saying: “<i>Over the years, I have had the sacred
opportunity to meet with many people whose sorrows seem to reach the very
depths of their soul. In these moments, I have listened to my beloved brothers
and sisters and grieved with them over their burdens. I have pondered what to
say to them, and I have struggled to know how to comfort and support them in
their trials.</i></div>
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<i>Often their
grief is caused by what seems to them as an ending. Some are facing the end of
a cherished relationship, such as the death of a loved one or estrangement from
a family member. Others feel they are facing the end of hope—the hope of being
married or bearing children or overcoming an illness. Others may be facing the
end of their faith, as confusing and conflicting voices in the world tempt them
to question, even abandon, what they once knew to be true. Sooner or later, I
believe that all of us experience times when the very fabric of our world tears
at the seams, leaving us feeling alone, frustrated, and adrift. It can happen
to anyone. No one is immune. <o:p></o:p></i></div>
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<i>Everyone’s
situation is different, and the details of each life are unique. Nevertheless,
I have learned that there is something that would take away the bitterness that
may come into our lives. There is one thing we can do to make life sweeter,
more joyful, even glorious. <o:p></o:p></i></div>
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<i>We can be
grateful! <o:p></o:p></i></div>
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<i>It might
sound contrary to the wisdom of the world to suggest that one who is burdened
with sorrow should give thanks to God. But those who set aside the bottle of
bitterness and lift instead the goblet of gratitude can find a purifying drink
of healing, peace, and understanding.</i><o:p></o:p></div>
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<i>As disciples
of Christ, we are commanded to “thank the Lord [our] God in all things,” to
“sing unto the Lord with thanksgiving,” and to “let [our] heart be full of
thanks unto God.”<o:p></o:p></i></div>
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<i>Why does God
command us to be grateful? <o:p></o:p></i></div>
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<i>All of His
commandments are given to make blessings available to us. Commandments are
opportunities to exercise our agency and to receive blessings. Our loving
Heavenly Father knows that choosing to develop a spirit of gratitude will bring
us true joy and great happiness.</i>”<span style="color: red;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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I know that
in our own lives, all of us have times when we are dealt situations that may
cause us to wonder how we can have a grateful heart as President Uchtdorf
suggests. It may be an illness of our
own or that of a loved one. It may be someone we care about or even ourselves
dealing with the emotional or mental anguish brought on by battling depression
or anxiety. Maybe it is the separation from family members and friends who need to move on. Perhaps it is the loss of a family member or a friend in
tragic circumstances and we wonder why they are gone so soon when it seemed
they had so much more they could have done, so much of life left to live and so much left to give. <o:p></o:p></div>
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President
Uchtdorf says, “…<i>some might say, “What do I have to be grateful for when my
world is falling apart?</i>”<o:p></o:p></div>
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He then
continues, “<i>Perhaps focusing on what we are grateful for is the wrong approach. It is difficult to develop a spirit of
gratitude if our thankfulness is only proportional to the number of blessings
we can count…I don’t believe the Lord expects us to be less thankful in times
of trial than in times of abundance and ease. In fact, most of the scriptural
references do not speak of gratitude for
things but rather suggest an overall spirit or attitude of gratitude.<o:p></o:p></i></div>
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<i>It is easy
to be grateful for things when life seems to be going our way. But what then of
those times when what we wish for seems to be far out of reach?</i><o:p></o:p></div>
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<i>Could I
suggest that we see gratitude as a disposition, a way of life that stands
independent of our current situation? In other words, I’m suggesting that
instead of being thankful for things,
we focus on being thankful in our
circumstances—whatever they may be…the choice is ours. We can choose to limit
our gratitude, based on the blessings we feel we lack. Or we can choose to be
like Nephi, whose grateful heart never faltered. When his brothers tied him up
on the ship—which he had built to take them to the promised land—his ankles and
wrists were so sore “they had swollen exceedingly,” and a violent storm
threatened to swallow him up in the depths of the sea. “Nevertheless,” Nephi
said, “I did look unto my God, and I did praise him all the day long; and I did
not murmur against the Lord because of mine afflictions.”<o:p></o:p></i></div>
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<i>We can
choose to be grateful, no matter what</i>.”<br />
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To me, that
means we can be thankful in spite of what we may see as endings. Instead of
remaining sorrowful at the loss of those for whom we care, we can have
gratitude that we were blessed to know them for whatever amount of time we did,
whether lengthy or brief. Instead of
being saddened by the trials we are asked to go through we can be grateful for
the strength the Lord gives us to help us overcome them through our own efforts
or through the blessing of others who are prompted to help us. <o:p></o:p></div>
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President
Uchtdorf reminds us that “<i>We can choose to be like Job, who seemed to have everything
but then lost it all, yet…responded “… the Lord gave, and the Lord hath taken
away; blessed be the name of the Lord.”<o:p></o:p></i></div>
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<i>This type of
gratitude transcends whatever is happening around us. It surpasses
disappointment, discouragement, and despair. It blooms just as beautifully in
the icy landscape of winter as it does in the pleasant warmth of summer.<o:p></o:p></i></div>
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<i>When we are
grateful to God in our circumstances,
we can experience gentle peace in the midst of tribulation. In grief, we can
still lift up our hearts in praise. In pain, we can glory in Christ’s
Atonement. In the cold of bitter sorrow, we can experience the closeness and
warmth of heaven’s embrace.<o:p></o:p></i></div>
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<i>We sometimes
think that being grateful is what we do after
our problems are solved, but how terribly shortsighted that is. How much of
life do we miss by waiting to see the rainbow before thanking God that there is
rain?<o:p></o:p></i></div>
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<i>Being
grateful in times of distress does not mean that we are pleased with our
circumstances. It does mean that through the eyes of faith we look beyond our
present-day challenges.</i><o:p></o:p></div>
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<i>This is not
a gratitude of the lips but of the soul. It is a gratitude that heals the heart
and expands the mind. <o:p></o:p></i></div>
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<i>Being
grateful in our circumstances is an act of faith in God. It requires that we
trust God and hope for things we may not see but which are true. By being
grateful, we follow the example of our beloved Savior, who said, “Not my will,
but thine, be done.”<o:p></o:p></i></div>
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<i>True
gratitude is an expression of hope and testimony. It comes from acknowledging
that we do not always understand the trials of life but trusting that one day
we will.<o:p></o:p></i></div>
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<i>In any
circumstance, our sense of gratitude is nourished by the many and sacred truths
we do know: that our Father has given His children the great plan of happiness;
that through the Atonement of His Son, Jesus Christ, we can live forever with
our loved ones; that in the end, we will have glorious, perfect, and immortal
bodies, unburdened by sickness or disability; and that our tears of sadness and
loss will be replaced with an abundance of happiness and joy, “good measure,
pressed down, and shaken together, and running over.”<o:p></o:p></i></div>
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<i>In light of
what we know about our eternal destiny, is it any wonder that whenever we face
the bitter endings of life, they seem unacceptable to us? There seems to be
something inside of us that resists endings.<o:p></o:p></i></div>
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<i>Why is this?
Because we are made of the stuff of eternity. We are eternal beings, children
of the Almighty God, whose name is Endless and who promises eternal blessings
without number. Endings are not our destiny.”<o:p></o:p></i></div>
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<i>“The more we
learn about the gospel of Jesus Christ, the more we realize that endings here
in mortality are not endings at all. They are merely interruptions—temporary
pauses that one day will seem small compared to the eternal joy awaiting the
faithful. How grateful I am to my Heavenly Father that in His plan there are no
true endings, only everlasting beginnings.</i>”<o:p></o:p></div>
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While I was
inspired by all of President Uchtdorf’s talk it was the part I just read that
addressed so clearly what I needed. I’d
like to share some of the reasons why.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Starting around
October my mother began to have some significant health issues. After meeting
with her doctor several times with little conclusive information on what was happening
to her, and with her health continuing to deteriorate - my mom was finally referred
to a neurologist in Provo at the beginning of March.<o:p></o:p></div>
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After battling and surviving cancer almost a
dozen years ago, and dealing with and successfully managing diabetes for the
last several years, I think we all thought that my mom would be able to beat
whatever it was that was causing her health issues. <o:p></o:p></div>
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After
meeting with the neurologist he said that given the progressive state of her
condition he felt that it could be one of two things. However without further
tests, the neurologist didn’t want to make a final diagnosis. He wanted my mom
to see another neurologist, an expert in the field of ALS research who runs the
University of Utah’s ALS clinic. He put in an urgent request for a consultation
with this doctor and my parents were sent home to wait for the ALS clinic to
call and set up an appointment. They were told that it could be several weeks
before they were able to be seen by the doctor and so they prepared to wait. It was about a week and a half after her
initial meeting with the doctor in Provo that the ALS clinic called to say
there had been a cancellation and that they could see my mom if she was able to
come in the next Tuesday. Arrangements were made and they met with the
neurologist on March 25th. After some more tests were run, they concluded that
my mother had a rapidly advancing form of ALS (Lou Gehrig’s disease) and that,
given how quickly it is progressing; she might have up to six months to a year
left to be with us. It was shocking news to all of us.<o:p></o:p></div>
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And yet, in
spite of the situation, I have found several things that added to an ‘attitude
of gratitude’ for me in this situation. <o:p></o:p></div>
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I am
grateful that there was an actual diagnosis. After months of not knowing, to
have a definitive answer is a blessing, even though it is bittersweet.<o:p></o:p></div>
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I am
grateful for a knowledge of the plan of salvation and that the sealing power of
the Priesthood has been restored so that my family can be together eternally if
we live worthily.<o:p></o:p></div>
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How grateful
I am for personal prayer. It has been a sustaining thing for me. I am equally
grateful for the prayers of friends in my behalf and in my family’s behalf.
There is not much sweeter than hearing a child with all their tender faith
praying for you. <o:p></o:p></div>
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I have gratitude
for the fact that my five brothers and sisters, along with their spouses and
children (except my nephew who is on his mission) were able to meet at my
parent’s house the weekend after the diagnosis to spend some time together and
were able to witness the power of the Priesthood in action as a family prayer
was said and then as a blessing of peace and comfort was given to my mom by my
dad with my three brothers and two brothers-in-law standing in the circle and
then a blessing was given to my father by my brother with my remaining brothers
and brothers-in-law again exercising the precious gift of the Priesthood. There
wasn’t a dry eye as these special prayers were given and it felt like Heaven
was a little closer for those moments. How could I not be grateful to have had
the chance to experience those special moments with my family?<o:p></o:p></div>
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Three of my
siblings live in Huntington near my parents and have taken on the day to day
support of both my mom and dad. I am grateful that they are there and willing
to give the care and support that those of us who live further away cannot
give.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Many people
who know my parents have called or stopped by to visit and tell my mom what a
profound impact she had on their lives and how grateful they are to know her.
Because it has become more difficult for her to communicate, some dear friends
come simply to sit and share quiet moments with her. Several men in the ward
came together and over two days built a ramp for my parent’s house so that my
mom can move around with the wheelchair she now must use. Another friend
provided a chair with a lift to make it easier for my mom to get out of the chair
when she needs to. How thankful I am that my parents have that support. <o:p></o:p></div>
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I have
gratitude for a mother who has been a profound influence and example in my life
of love and care and compassion especially for her family.<o:p></o:p></div>
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I have
gratitude for a father who has a deep and abiding love for my mom and takes
care of her with such love and tenderness every day.<br />
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I am
grateful for and have been blessed by both of their examples throughout my
life.<o:p></o:p></div>
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I am
thankful for friends who share and care and love and support in so many
different ways. All of these things mean so very much.<o:p></o:p></div>
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I have found
that even in the midst of trials there are so many blessings that can be
counted when looked at with an attitude of gratitude.<o:p></o:p></div>
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President
Uchtdorf concludes his talk by saying, “<i>Brothers and sisters, have we not
reason to be filled with gratitude, regardless of the circumstances in which we
find ourselves?<o:p></o:p></i></div>
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<i>Do we need
any greater reason to let our hearts “be full of thanks unto God”?<o:p></o:p></i></div>
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<br /></div>
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<i>“Have we not
great reason to rejoice?”<o:p></o:p></i></div>
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<br /></div>
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<i>How blessed
we are if we recognize God’s handiwork in the marvelous tapestry of life.
Gratitude to our Father in Heaven broadens our perception and clears our
vision. It inspires humility and fosters empathy toward our fellowmen and all
of God’s creation. Gratitude is a catalyst to all Christlike attributes! A
thankful heart is the parent of all virtues.<o:p></o:p></i></div>
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<br /></div>
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<i>The Lord has
given us His promise that those “who [receive] all things with thankfulness
shall be made glorious; and the things of this earth shall be added unto
[them], even an hundred fold, yea, more.”<o:p></o:p></i></div>
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<i><br /></i></div>
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<i>May we “live
in thanksgiving daily”—especially during the seemingly unexplainable endings
that are part of mortality. May we allow our souls to expand in thankfulness
toward our merciful Heavenly Father. May we ever and constantly raise our
voices and show by word and deed our gratitude to our Father in Heaven and to
His Beloved Son, Jesus Christ."</i><br />
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I add my own
testimony to that of President Uchtdorf’s. I know that we have a merciful and
kind Father in Heaven who will sustain us through all we are asked to go. I
know that having a grateful heart in all our circumstances will allow us to
become closer to our Heavenly Father and more like our Savior, Jesus Christ. I
have a testimony of the power of prayer, of the power of the Priesthood, of the
eternal nature of families. I have a testimony of the Atonement. I know that
because our Elder Brother bore all things for us in the Garden of Gethsemane
and then on the cross that we can do all things and return to live with our
Heavenly Father and with loved ones, our families and friends when our time on
this earth is through. I have a sure knowledge of these things and so many
more. I leave you with this testimony in the name of Jesus Christ, Amen.<br />
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<o:p></o:p></div>
Mindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01272948206344928446noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1421300693639370346.post-53708023710829789372014-01-10T20:17:00.000-07:002014-01-10T20:28:40.824-07:00Media of the Week - Blessings... <div style="text-align: center;">
There are days when we all wonder why we are called to walk through trials and hard times. Sometimes we may even wonder if anyone is really there to hear our fears or heal our heartache. What we may forget is that during these moments, during the times when it seems that no one knows or understands, there is One who does. One who will succor us and support us. One who will turn our trials into some of the greatest blessings we may ever know.<br /></div>
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<i>"What if trials of this life</i><br />
<i>The rain, the storms, the hardest nights</i><br />
<i>Are [His] mercies in disguise?"</i></div>
<div>
</div>
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<b><u><i><br />Blessings</i></u></b></div>
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<i>- Laura Story<br /></i></div>
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<i>We pray for blessings, we pray for peace</i><br />
<i>Comfort for family, protection while we sleep</i><br />
<i>We pray for healing, for prosperity</i><br />
<i>We pray for Your mighty hand to ease our suffering</i><br />
<i>And all the while, You hear each spoken need</i><br />
<i>Yet love us way too much to give us lesser things</i><br />
<i><br style="border: 0px none; font-size: 1em; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" /></i>
<i>'Cause what if your blessings come through rain drops</i><br />
<i>What if Your healing comes through tears</i><br />
<i>What if a thousand sleepless nights are what it takes to know You're near</i><br />
<i>What if trials of this life are Your mercies in disguise</i><br />
<i><br style="border: 0px none; font-size: 1em; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" /></i>
<i>We pray for wisdom, Your voice to hear</i><br />
<i>We cry in anger when we cannot feel You near</i><br />
<i>We doubt your goodness, we doubt your love</i><br />
<i>As if every promise from Your word is not enough</i><br />
<i>And all the while, You hear each desperate plea</i><br />
<i>And long that we'd have faith to believe</i><br />
<i><br style="border: 0px none; font-size: 1em; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" /></i>
<i>'Cause what if your blessings come through rain drops</i><br />
<i>What if Your healing comes through tears</i><br />
<i>What if a thousand sleepless nights are what it takes to know You're near</i><br />
<i>What if trials of this life are Your mercies in disguise</i><br />
<i><br style="border: 0px none; font-size: 1em; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" /></i>
<i>When friends betray us</i><br />
<i>When darkness seems to win</i><br />
<i>We know that pain reminds this heart</i><br />
<i>That this is not,</i><br />
<i>This is not our home</i><br />
<i>It's not our home</i><br />
<i><br style="border: 0px none; font-size: 1em; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" /></i>
<i>'Cause what if your blessings come through rain drops</i><br />
<i>What if Your healing comes through tears</i><br />
<i>What if a thousand sleepless nights are what it takes to know You're near</i><br />
<i><br style="border: 0px none; font-size: 1em; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" /></i>
<i>What if my greatest disappointments or the aching of this life</i><br />
<i>Is the revealing of a greater thirst this world can't satisfy</i><br />
<i>What if trials of this life</i><br />
<i>The rain, the storms, the hardest nights</i><br />
<i>Are your mercies in disguise</i></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
Mindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01272948206344928446noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1421300693639370346.post-7319643989230451842014-01-01T10:46:00.001-07:002014-01-01T10:46:27.157-07:00A new year begins...<div style="text-align: center;">
The sun has set on the old year and risen on a new one.</div>
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As we enter a new year, this is my hope for those with whom I share this earthly journey...</div>
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That the year will be filled with blessings for those around me.</div>
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That we will be courageous enough to go after our dreams.</div>
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That those burdened with sorrow or illness will be blessed with comfort and healing.</div>
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That we might be blessings to others.</div>
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That we all will live healthful and healthy lives.</div>
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That we will follow good advice, ignore bad advice, and know the difference between the two.</div>
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That we all will end the year better people than we began it. </div>
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<br /></div>
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May your blessings be more numerous than your trials, and may your trials turn out to be blessings in disguise. </div>
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<br /></div>
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<i>Happy 2014!</i></div>
<br /><br />
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<br />Mindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01272948206344928446noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1421300693639370346.post-91079324908598736472013-12-25T08:14:00.001-07:002013-12-25T23:09:21.645-07:00A view of Christmas...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
It's looking a lot like Christmas at the "Durrant Village" that takes up the better portion of two rooms in my parents' home. Merry Christmas! Enjoy!</div>
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<br />Mindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01272948206344928446noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1421300693639370346.post-29639016271016650302013-10-30T20:31:00.001-06:002013-10-30T20:38:17.364-06:00Autumn fire...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I came home from work today as the autumnal sun bathed this tree in her golden light.<br />I couldn't help myself. </div>
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I grabbed my camera and tried to capture the beauty of the moment...</div>
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<i><b><u>Autumn</u></b></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-size: xx-small;">by: Henry Wadsworth Longfellow (1807-1882)</span></i></div>
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<i>Thou comest, Autumn, heralded by the rain,</i></div>
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<i>With banners, by great gales incessant fanned,</i></div>
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<i>Brighter than the brightest silks of Samarcand,</i></div>
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<i>And stately oxen harnessed by the wain!</i></div>
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<i>Thou standest, like imperial Charlemagne,</i></div>
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<i>Upon thy bridge of gold; thy royal hand</i></div>
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<i>Outstretched with benedictions o'er the land,</i></div>
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<i>Blessing the farms through all thy vast domain.</i></div>
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<i>Thy shield is the red harvest moon, suspended</i></div>
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<i>So long beneath the heaven's o'erhanging eaves,</i></div>
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<i>Thy steps are by the farmer's prayers attended;</i></div>
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<i>Like flames upon an altar shine the sheaves;</i></div>
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<i>And, following thee, in thy ovation splendid,</i></div>
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<i>Thine almoner, the wind, scatters the golden leaves!</i></div>
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And now for just a few more photos...</div>
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<br />Mindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01272948206344928446noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1421300693639370346.post-88125691019124911142013-09-11T22:52:00.001-06:002013-09-11T22:52:46.173-06:00Life Through My Lens - Ray of light...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wwr47lChiKU/UjFHyn-UauI/AAAAAAABMfI/PDIqikMgYs0/s1600/IMG_9460.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wwr47lChiKU/UjFHyn-UauI/AAAAAAABMfI/PDIqikMgYs0/s400/IMG_9460.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<i>Though sometimes it is difficult to do, it's important to remember that even during the darkest days, somewhere there is a ray of light just waiting to break through... Watch for that tiny ray and cling to it... </i></div>
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<i><br /></i></div>
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<i>Better yet - be that ray of light for someone who needs it.</i></div>
Mindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01272948206344928446noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1421300693639370346.post-71183658333541616972013-07-14T22:21:00.000-06:002013-07-14T22:21:03.280-06:00Media of the Week - In Christ Alone I Stand - Adam Young (Owl City)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I came across this song a few months ago quite by accident when I was searching for something else. I remember thinking it that I liked it. It was unexpected, not exactly what I was used to from this artist.<br /><br />I'd almost forgotten the song until I ran across it again tonight. It seemed an appropriate post on this Sunday. A gentle reminder of where we should look for guidance, comfort, and strength.<br /><br /><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/iyv52lFmNQw?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
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<i><u>"In Christ Alone"</u></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">- Owl City (Adam Young)</span></i></div>
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<i>In Christ alone, my hope is found </i></div>
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<i>He is my light, my strength, my song </i></div>
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<i>This cornerstone, this solid ground </i></div>
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<i>Firm through the fiercest drought and storm </i></div>
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<i>What heights of love, what depths of peace </i></div>
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<i>When fears are stilled, when strivings cease </i></div>
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<i>My comforter, my all-in-all </i></div>
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<i>Here in the love of Christ I stand</i></div>
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<i><br /></i></div>
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<i>There in the ground His body lay </i></div>
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<i>Light of the world by darkness slain </i></div>
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<i>Then bursting forth in glorious day </i></div>
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<i>Up from the grave He rose again!</i></div>
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<i>And as He stands in victory </i></div>
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<i>Sin’s curse has lost its grip on me</i></div>
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<i> For I am His and He is mine </i></div>
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<i>Bought with the precious blood of Christ</i></div>
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<i><br /></i></div>
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<i>No guilt in life, no fear in death</i></div>
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<i> This is the power of Christ in me </i></div>
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<i>From life’s first cry to final breath </i></div>
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<i>Jesus commands my destiny </i></div>
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<i>No power of hell, no scheme of man </i></div>
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<i>Can ever pluck me from His hand</i></div>
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<i> Till He returns or calls me home </i></div>
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<i>Here in the power of Christ I’ll stand</i></div>
Mindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01272948206344928446noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1421300693639370346.post-76303707831863540912013-06-26T15:39:00.000-06:002013-06-26T15:47:39.041-06:00BloglovinSo... in order to give my legions (ha ha) of readers an opportunity to follow me in another format since Google Reader is disappearing, I've set up an account with Bloglovin. If you follow more than one of my blogs you'll probably see this post again since in order to "claim" my blog I need to create a post. Bear with me... :) I figure giving people options is good, right? :)<br />
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If you want to follow using Bloglovin click on the link below. :)<br />
<a href="http://www.bloglovin.com/blog/6199459/?claim=26uexeu22ad">Follow my blog with Bloglovin</a><br />
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And thanks for reading...Mindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01272948206344928446noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1421300693639370346.post-71602683669245674502013-06-19T13:39:00.001-06:002013-06-19T13:39:25.632-06:00Media of the Week - Brave - Sara Bareilles<div style="text-align: left;">
When it comes to facing the world with it's choices and challenges it can be daunting to open up and put yourself out there. Often it seems so much easier to stay in the background, take a step back, and blend in with the scenery. <span style="text-align: center;">Still, there comes a time when we all need to see "how big [our] brave is..." </span></div>
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<i>You can be amazing</i></div>
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<i>You can turn a phrase into a weapon or a drug</i></div>
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<i>You can be the outcast</i></div>
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<i>Or be the backlash of somebody’s lack of love</i></div>
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<i>Or you can start speaking up</i></div>
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<i>Nothing’s gonna hurt you the way that words do</i></div>
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<i>When they settle ‘neath your skin</i></div>
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<i>Kept on the inside and no sunlight</i></div>
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<i>Sometimes a shadow wins</i></div>
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<i>But I wonder what would happen if you</i></div>
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<i><br /></i></div>
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<i>Say what you wanna say</i></div>
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<i>And let the words fall out</i></div>
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<i>Honestly, I wanna see you be brave</i></div>
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<i>With what you want to say</i></div>
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<i>And let the words fall out</i></div>
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<i>Honestly, I wanna see you be brave</i></div>
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<i><br /></i></div>
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<i>I just wanna see you</i></div>
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<i>I just wanna see you</i></div>
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<i>I just wanna see you</i></div>
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<i>I wanna see you be brave</i></div>
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<i><br /></i></div>
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<i>Everybody’s been there, everybody’s been stared down</i></div>
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<i>By the enemy</i></div>
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<i>Fallen for the fear and done some disappearing</i></div>
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<i>Bowed down to the mighty</i></div>
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<i>Don’t run, stop holding your tongue</i></div>
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<i>Maybe there’s a way out of the cage where you live</i></div>
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<i>Maybe one of these days you can let the light in</i></div>
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<i>Show me how big your brave is</i></div>
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<i><br /></i></div>
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<i>Say what you wanna say</i></div>
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<i>And let the words fall out</i></div>
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<i>Honestly, I wanna see you be brave</i></div>
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<i>With what you want to say</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>And let the words fall out</i></div>
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<i>Honestly, I wanna see you be brave</i></div>
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<i><br /></i></div>
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<i>And since your history of silence</i></div>
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<i>Won’t do you any good</i></div>
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<i>Did you think it would?</i></div>
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<i>Let your words be anything but empty</i></div>
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<i>Why don’t you tell them the truth?</i></div>
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<i><br /></i></div>
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<i>Say what you wanna say</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>And let the words fall out</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Honestly, I wanna see you be brave</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>With what you want to say</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>And let the words fall out</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Honestly, I wanna see you be brave</i></div>
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<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>I just wanna see you</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>I just wanna see you</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>I just wanna see you</i></div>
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<i>I wanna see you be brave</i></div>
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<br /></div>
Mindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01272948206344928446noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1421300693639370346.post-30103808432007214742013-06-17T06:00:00.000-06:002013-06-18T00:05:01.599-06:00Life Through My Lens - Forgotten road... <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Took a drive yesterday along a forgotten road... </div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lOTxjsfRoFM/Ub6DWnFLjjI/AAAAAAABEts/IvGRZIkvf50/s1600/IMG_2903.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lOTxjsfRoFM/Ub6DWnFLjjI/AAAAAAABEts/IvGRZIkvf50/s640/IMG_2903.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Along the way I found other deserted pathways...</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--SR0YJj_U2M/Ub6Fr_ORe2I/AAAAAAABEuY/kHobpJJCBSw/s1600/IMG_2891.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--SR0YJj_U2M/Ub6Fr_ORe2I/AAAAAAABEuY/kHobpJJCBSw/s640/IMG_2891.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Where they lead, I do not know...</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7xcJG7XrhMQ/Ub6FqDJfaiI/AAAAAAABEuQ/WLbgf31n31o/s1600/IMG_2899.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7xcJG7XrhMQ/Ub6FqDJfaiI/AAAAAAABEuQ/WLbgf31n31o/s640/IMG_2899.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Those discoveries must wait for another day...</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-geB2bQYmOZ0/Ub6FuT4HinI/AAAAAAABEug/do1Brjokfes/s1600/IMG_2910.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-geB2bQYmOZ0/Ub6FuT4HinI/AAAAAAABEug/do1Brjokfes/s640/IMG_2910.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
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As I traveled on I wondered...</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Br3AgpQ-mKU/Ub6DVz6nQcI/AAAAAAABEtg/AqVEhHet3uw/s1600/IMG_2913.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Br3AgpQ-mKU/Ub6DVz6nQcI/AAAAAAABEtg/AqVEhHet3uw/s640/IMG_2913.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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What secrets would I hear if I listened to this forgotten highway...?</div>
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*By the way, for the first time in a VERY long time, I decided to link up to a couple of photo memes. You'll find them here at <a href="http://kentweakley.com/blog/p52-sweet-shot-tuesday-week-25/">Sweet Shot Tuesday</a>, <a href="http://www.aruraljournal.com/2013/06/tuesday-muse_18.html">Tuesday Muse</a>, and <a href="http://www.kimklassencafe.com/thecafe/tag/friday-finds">Friday Finds</a>.</div>
Mindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01272948206344928446noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1421300693639370346.post-13793082161239739032013-06-16T18:44:00.000-06:002013-06-16T18:59:54.673-06:00Fathers...<div style="text-align: center;">
<i style="color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 20px;">The greatest gift I ever had</i></div>
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<i>Came from God; I call him Dad!</i></div>
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<i>~Author Unknown</i></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NPm85mfrheI/T94-Lnp84rI/AAAAAAAABUc/y2ahuE4NCJ0/s1600/DCFC0039.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NPm85mfrheI/T94-Lnp84rI/AAAAAAAABUc/y2ahuE4NCJ0/s320/DCFC0039.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<i>Thanks to all the wonderful men in my life both here and gone who have been the examples of kindness and compassion, who are and were powerful influences for good regardless of whether or not they have children of their own.</i></div>
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<i>I hope right now you'll take a moment right now to think of those who fill the important role of a father in your own lives.</i></div>
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<i>----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------</i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: inherit;">On Father's Day -</span></i></div>
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<i><br /></i></div>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #606060; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 20px; text-align: start;"><i>To dad - Thank you for giving me both roots and wings, for teaching me correct principles and setting me on the right path. Thanks for the late nights and early mornings, the sleepless hours spent worrying and praying. Thanks for all you continue to do.</i></span><br />
<i><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 20px; text-align: start;" /></i>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #606060; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 20px; text-align: start;"><i>To my brothers both by birth and marriage - Thanks for being the men you are and raising your children with love and compassion in a challenging and sometimes scary world.</i></span><br />
<i><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 20px; text-align: start;" /></i>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #606060; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 20px; text-align: start;"><i>To my uncles and grandfathers - Thank you for your examples of care and devotion.</i></span><br />
<i><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 20px; text-align: start;" /></i>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #606060; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 20px; text-align: start;"><i>To friends both old and new - Thank you for your kindness and example, for "sharing" your families with me.</i></span><br />
<i><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 20px; text-align: start;" /></i>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #606060; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 20px; text-align: start;"><i>To all those who may not be fathers in the strict sense of the word - Thank you for sharing your time, talent, energies, and love with all those around you.<br /><br /><b>Happy Father's Day!</b></i></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">If you've gotten this far and you want to read on, I thought I'd share a poem I wrote last year as part of a talk I gave on Father's Day. It's not Shakespeare, but hopefully it'll do... :-)</span><br />
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<i style="text-decoration: underline;">Fathers</i></div>
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<i><br /></i></div>
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<i>We honor you upon this day</i></div>
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<i>For actions small and great</i></div>
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<i><br /></i></div>
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<i>For courage to stand up and fight</i></div>
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<i>And lead on the path that’s straight.</i></div>
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<i><br /></i></div>
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<i>We thank you for your sacrifice</i></div>
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<i>Your gentle, constant love</i></div>
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<i><br /></i></div>
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<i>Your example to your family</i></div>
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<i>With guidance from above</i></div>
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<i><br /></i></div>
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<i>May our Heavenly Father bless you</i></div>
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<i>As you lead with love and care</i></div>
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<i><br /></i></div>
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<i>May you rely upon him always</i></div>
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<i>As you go to Him in prayer</i></div>
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<i> <span style="font-size: xx-small;">- M. Durrant, June 17, 2012</span></i></div>
<br />Mindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01272948206344928446noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1421300693639370346.post-37444739410231874542013-05-12T18:52:00.000-06:002013-06-16T18:58:40.574-06:00Mothers and mothering... <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i>A sweet friend wished me a happy "mothering" day. She explained that's what it's called in Europe and that it's meant to honor all who 'mother' in any way. So to all who are mothers, may be mothers in the future, or who give love, kindness, and compassion to those around you... Happy Mothering Day... May you be blessed with all you hope for.<br /><br />"All that I am, or hope to be, I owe to my angel mother." - Abraham Lincoln</i></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-weFuQcTc-IA/T69QWl-SYnI/AAAAAAAABP4/hjRImZNMw3g/s1600/DCFC0236.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-weFuQcTc-IA/T69QWl-SYnI/AAAAAAAABP4/hjRImZNMw3g/s200/DCFC0236.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
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<i>On Mother's Day -</i></div>
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<i><br /></i></div>
<i>To mom - Thank you for giving me both roots and wings, for teaching me correct principles and setting me on the right path. Thanks for the late nights and early mornings, the sleepless hours spent worrying and praying. Thanks for all you continue to do.</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>To my sisters both by birth and marriage - Thanks for being the women you are and raising your children with love and compassion in a challenging and sometimes scary world.</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>To my aunts and grandmothers - Thank you for your examples of care and devotion.</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>To friends both old and new - Thank you for your kindness and example, for "sharing" your families with me.</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>To all those who may not be mothers in the strict sense of the word - Thank you for sharing your time, talent, energies, and love with all those around you.</i><br />
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<i><b>Happy Mother's Day!</b></i></div>
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Mindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01272948206344928446noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1421300693639370346.post-49312011209937538432013-04-05T20:25:00.001-06:002013-04-05T20:25:51.035-06:00Media of the Week - Shine Your Way - Owl City and Yuna<div style="text-align: center;">
There are times in all of our lives when it may seem easier to hide our light under a bushel. It feels as though there is less likelihood of failure that way. And yet there is also less of a chance for growth, less ability to help or inspire others. I came across this song today and I thought that it was a great reminder for all us<br />to</div>
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<i>SHINE.... </i> </div>
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<br /><iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="360" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/5tyWxLjGgg0?rel=0" width="640"></iframe>
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<b><i><u>Shine Your Way</u></i></b></div>
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<i><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Owl City and Yuna</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><br /></span></i></div>
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<i>Just before the dawn,</i></div>
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<i>When the light's still gone,</i></div>
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<i>Shine, shine your way,</i></div>
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<i>And you may not know, where to go,</i></div>
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<i>Shine, shine your way</i></div>
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<i><br /></i></div>
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<i>Open road but it's still dark,</i></div>
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<i>Build a fire from a spark,</i></div>
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<i>And shine, shine your way,</i></div>
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<i>Feed the feeling in your heart,</i></div>
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<i>Don't conceal it then you'll start,</i></div>
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<i>To find, find your way</i></div>
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<i><br /></i></div>
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<i>No one can stop, what has begun,</i></div>
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<i>You must believe when I say</i></div>
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<i><br /></i></div>
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<i>All of your tears will dry faster in the sun,</i></div>
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<i>Starting today,</i></div>
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<i>Shine, shine, shine,</i></div>
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<i>Shine your way</i></div>
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<i><br /></i></div>
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<i>There's an open sky,</i></div>
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<i>And a reason why,</i></div>
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<i>You shine, shine your way,</i></div>
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<i>There's so much to learn,</i></div>
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<i>And now it's your turn,</i></div>
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<i>To shine, shine your way</i></div>
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<i><br /></i></div>
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<i>There's a feeling deep inside,</i></div>
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<i>You can let it be your guide,</i></div>
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<i>To find, find your way,</i></div>
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<i>And there's no time for us to waste,</i></div>
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<i>Got to take a leap of faith,</i></div>
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<i>And fly, fly away</i></div>
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<i>Don't have to walk,</i></div>
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<i>Now you can run,</i></div>
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<i>[ From: http://www.metrolyrics.com/shine-your-way-lyrics-owl-city.html ]</i></div>
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<i>Nothing can get in your way</i></div>
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<i><br /></i></div>
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<i>All of your tears will dry faster in the sun,</i></div>
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<i>Starting today,</i></div>
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<i>Shine, shine, shine,</i></div>
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<i>Shine your way</i></div>
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<i><br /></i></div>
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<i>Morning is breaking,</i></div>
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<i>Darkness is fading,</i></div>
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<i>We found a way to the light,</i></div>
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<i>It's such a beautiful sight</i></div>
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<i><br /></i></div>
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<i>Any time, anywhere,</i></div>
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<i>Turn around and I'll be there,</i></div>
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<i>To shine, shine your way</i></div>
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<i><br /></i></div>
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<i>Like a star burning bright,</i></div>
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<i>Lighting up the darkest night,</i></div>
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<i>I'll shine, shine your way</i></div>
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<i><br /></i></div>
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<i>Now I can see,</i></div>
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<i>You are the one,</i></div>
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<i>Sent here to show me the way</i></div>
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<i><br /></i></div>
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<i>All of your tears will dry faster in the sun,</i></div>
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<i>Starting today,</i></div>
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<i>Shine, shine, shine,</i></div>
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<i>We're on our way,</i></div>
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<i>Shine, shine, shine,</i></div>
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<i>That's what we say,</i></div>
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<i>Shine, shine, shine,</i></div>
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<i>Shine your way</i></div>
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<i><br /></i></div>
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<i>There's a reason why</i></div>
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<i>You shine, shine your way</i></div>
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<i><br /></i></div>
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<i>All of our tears will dry faster in the sun</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Shine your way</i></div>
Mindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01272948206344928446noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1421300693639370346.post-28834438295483002262013-03-31T13:30:00.000-06:002013-03-31T13:30:04.041-06:00None were with Him... <div style="text-align: center;">
On this Easter Sunday may we all remember He who paid the ultimate price so that we might see our loved ones - our family and friends - again some day. </div>
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What a blessing to know that despite the trials we may face there is more to our lives than this mortal sphere.</div>
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Mindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01272948206344928446noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1421300693639370346.post-19423011476658472872013-03-09T23:54:00.000-07:002013-03-09T23:56:58.636-07:00Shooting Star - Media of the Week<div style="text-align: center;">
There are times when we all feel discouraged and less than we know we can be.<br />
It is at those times that we need to remember that we all have a divine spark within us, urging us to become more than we already are, to take the beauty and majesty that dwells inside each of us and share it... </div>
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No matter who we are... <br />
No matter where we are...</div>
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<i><br /></i></div>
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<u><i>"Shooting Star"</i></u></div>
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;"><i>Owl City</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-style: italic;"><br /></span></div>
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<i>Close your tired eyes, relax and then</i></div>
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<i>Count from 1 to 10 and open them</i></div>
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<i>All these heavy thoughts will try to weigh you down</i></div>
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<i>But not this time</i></div>
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<span style="font-style: italic;"><br /></span></div>
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<i>Way up in the air, you're finally free</i></div>
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<i>And you can stay up there right next to me</i></div>
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<i>All this gravity will try to pull you down</i></div>
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<i>But not this time</i></div>
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<span style="font-style: italic;"><br /></span></div>
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<i>When the sun goes down and the lights burn out</i></div>
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<i>Then it's time for you to shine</i></div>
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<i>Brighter than a shooting star</i></div>
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<i>So shine no matter where you are</i></div>
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<span style="font-style: italic;"><br /></span></div>
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<i>Fill the darkest night with a brilliant light</i></div>
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<i>'Cause it's time for you to shine</i></div>
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<i>Brighter than a shooting star</i></div>
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<i>So shine no matter where you are tonight</i></div>
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<span style="font-style: italic;"><br /></span></div>
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<i>Woah-oh, woah-oh, woah-oh</i></div>
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<i>Brighter than a shooting star</i></div>
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<i>Shine no matter where you are tonight</i></div>
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<span style="font-style: italic;"><br /></span></div>
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<i>Gaze into my eyes when the fire starts</i></div>
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<i>And fan the flames so hot it melts our hearts</i></div>
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<i>Oh, the pouring rain will try to put it out</i></div>
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<i>But not this time</i></div>
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<span style="font-style: italic;"><br /></span></div>
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<i>Let your colors burn and brightly burst</i></div>
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<i>Into a million sparks that all disperse</i></div>
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<i>And illuminate a world that'll try to bring you down</i></div>
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<i>But not this time</i></div>
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<span style="font-style: italic;"><br /></span></div>
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<i>When the sun goes down and the lights burn out</i></div>
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<i>Then it's time for you to shine</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Brighter than a shooting star</i></div>
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<i>So shine no matter where you are</i></div>
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<span style="font-style: italic;"><br /></span></div>
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<i>Fill the darkest night with a brilliant light</i></div>
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<i>'Cause it's time for you to shine</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Brighter than a shooting star</i></div>
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<i>So shine no matter where you are tonight</i></div>
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<span style="font-style: italic;"><br /></span></div>
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<i>Woah-oh, woah-oh, woah-oh</i></div>
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<i>Brighter than a shooting star</i></div>
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<i>Shine no matter where you are tonight</i></div>
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<span style="font-style: italic;"><br /></span></div>
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<i>A thousand heart beats beat in time</i></div>
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<i>It makes this dark planet come alive</i></div>
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<i>So when the lights flicker out tonight</i></div>
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<i>You gotta shine</i></div>
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<span style="font-style: italic;"><br /></span></div>
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<i>When the sun goes down and the lights burn out</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Then it's time for you to shine</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Brighter than a shooting star</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>So shine no matter where you are</i></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-style: italic;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Fill the darkest night with a brilliant light</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>'Cause it's time for you to shine</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Brighter than a shooting star</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>So shine no matter where you are tonight</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-style: italic;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Woah-oh, woah-oh, woah-oh</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Brighter than a shooting star</i></div>
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<i>So shine no matter where you are tonight.</i></div>
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Mindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01272948206344928446noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1421300693639370346.post-79149607718689029182013-02-10T20:50:00.000-07:002013-02-10T20:50:04.874-07:00Life Through My Lens - Walking Through Woods on a Snowy Evening...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GoOoAcIe3RA/URhm8MUDhYI/AAAAAAAAZfE/4WHkh81N3Q0/s1600/IMG_1984.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GoOoAcIe3RA/URhm8MUDhYI/AAAAAAAAZfE/4WHkh81N3Q0/s640/IMG_1984.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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I captured this crystalline covered copse a few weeks ago when our town was covered in frost and snow. It brought to mind a poem by Robert Frost.</div>
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<b><i><u>Stopping by Woods on a Snowy Evening</u></i></b></div>
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<i>By - Robert Frost</i></div>
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<i>Whose woods these are I think I know. </i></div>
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<i>His house is in the village though; </i></div>
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<i>He will not see me stopping here </i></div>
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<i>To watch his woods fill up with snow. </i></div>
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<i><br /></i></div>
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<i>My little horse must think it queer </i></div>
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<i>To stop without a farmhouse near </i></div>
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<i>Between the woods and frozen lake </i></div>
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<i>The darkest evening of the year. </i></div>
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<i><br /></i></div>
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<i>He gives his harness bells a shake </i></div>
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<i>To ask if there is some mistake. </i></div>
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<i>The only other sound’s the sweep </i></div>
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<i>Of easy wind and downy flake. </i></div>
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<i><br /></i></div>
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<i>The woods are lovely, dark and deep. </i></div>
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<i>But I have promises to keep, </i></div>
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<i>And miles to go before I sleep, </i></div>
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<i>And miles to go before I sleep.</i></div>
<br />Mindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01272948206344928446noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1421300693639370346.post-75325816838220598852013-01-30T01:23:00.001-07:002013-01-30T01:23:13.463-07:00Born of Goodly Parents<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>43 years ago - January 30, 1970 - my parents were married. Thanks for all you do for our family. Thanks for continuing to be there for all of us. Love you! </i></div>
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<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Happy 43rd Anniversary!</i></div>
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Mindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01272948206344928446noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1421300693639370346.post-85095688432980054502013-01-01T23:21:00.001-07:002013-01-01T23:25:56.628-07:00A New Year...<br />
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The sun has set on another year and with it have come moments of great happiness as well as the deepest of sorrows.</div>
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As we enter a new year, these are my hopes - even my prayers - for those with whom I share this mortal journey...</div>
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I hope this year is filled with blessings for those around me.</div>
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I hope that we will be courageous enough to go after our dreams.</div>
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I hope those who are burdened with sorrow will be blessed with comfort.</div>
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I hope I might be a blessing to others, instead of a burden.</div>
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I hope that I will live a healthful and healthy life. </div>
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I hope I will follow good advice, ignore bad advice, and know the difference between the two.</div>
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I hope I will end the year a better person than I began it. </div>
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To all... </div>
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May your blessings be more numerous than your trials, and may your trials turn out to be blessings in disguise. </div>
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Happy 2013!</div>
Mindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01272948206344928446noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1421300693639370346.post-91207259002946580482012-12-23T20:49:00.000-07:002012-12-23T20:49:42.729-07:00Life Through My Lens - Castles in the sky....<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DfeRK9FVuuM/UNehs_bw1WI/AAAAAAAACYM/TN7lBnGmcSQ/s1600/IMG_1513.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DfeRK9FVuuM/UNehs_bw1WI/AAAAAAAACYM/TN7lBnGmcSQ/s640/IMG_1513.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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<i>"He dreams of castles in the sky</i></div>
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<i>High above us all..." <span style="font-size: xx-small;">MLD</span></i></div>
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A view I captured while wandering through the rugged landscape surrounding my home. </div>
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<br />Mindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01272948206344928446noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1421300693639370346.post-6525081596116627632012-12-11T20:34:00.001-07:002012-12-11T20:37:05.277-07:00Life Through My Lens - Golden Twilight...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9zE2lo_6CkQ/UMf310hRJlI/AAAAAAAACXQ/pKw3CwMWPek/s1600/IMG_1610.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9zE2lo_6CkQ/UMf310hRJlI/AAAAAAAACXQ/pKw3CwMWPek/s640/IMG_1610.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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<i>As evening falls</i></div>
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<i>Golden twilight</i></div>
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<i>Veils the sky</i></div>
Mindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01272948206344928446noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1421300693639370346.post-53646864457862893582012-12-02T18:05:00.000-07:002012-12-11T20:36:35.319-07:00Life Through My Lens - Pillar of light ...<div>
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As I looked to the west I saw a column of light reaching into the heavens. A gentle reminder of the beauty that surrounds us...<br />
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Perhaps, too, it's a message from those whose care reaches beyond the veil, reminding us where all beauty and love truly come from...</div>
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Mindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01272948206344928446noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1421300693639370346.post-68665876868480848822012-11-16T23:15:00.000-07:002012-12-09T08:26:13.278-07:00Silhouette... Life Through My Lens/Media of the Week<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3kI0KRZzVk4/UJQSTrZjxdI/AAAAAAAACOo/4tzpks4TAHw/s1600/IMG_9221.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3kI0KRZzVk4/UJQSTrZjxdI/AAAAAAAACOo/4tzpks4TAHw/s640/IMG_9221.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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There are moments when an image speaks to you...<br />
or<br />
A song strikes you...<br />
Lyrics capturing moments and emotions you weren't even aware were there..<br />
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Sometimes image and song combine to create a snapshot of time...<br />
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As I was listening to music and looking through photos I had taken while gathering rocks for a friend a song played....one I hadn't heard before.<br />
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I paused what I was doing and just listened.<br />
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Seeming to capture so many of the emotions of the past several months,<br />
the melody and lyrics were hauntingly beautiful... </div>
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<iframe allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" frameborder="0" height="360" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/4bwBOLEdewY?rel=0" width="640"></iframe></div>
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<i><u>Silhouette</u><br /><span style="font-size: x-small;">Owl City (Adam Young)</span></i></div>
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<i>I'm tired of waking up in tears</i></div>
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<i>'Cause I can't put to bed these phobias and fears</i></div>
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<i>I'm new to this grief I can't explain</i></div>
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<i>But I'm no stranger to the heartache and the pain</i></div>
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<i>The fire I began is burning me alive</i></div>
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<i>But I know better than to leave and let it die</i></div>
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<i>I'm a silhouette asking every now and then</i></div>
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<i>"Is it over yet? Will I ever feel again?"</i></div>
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<i>I'm a silhouette chasing rainbows on my own</i></div>
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<i>But the more I try to move on, the more I feel alone</i></div>
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<i>So I watch the summer stars to lead me home</i></div>
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<i>I'm sick of the past I can't erase</i></div>
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<i>A jumble of footprints and hasty steps I can't retrace</i></div>
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<i>The mountain of things I still regret</i></div>
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<i>Is a vile reminder that I would rather just forget (no matter where I go)</i></div>
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<i>The fire I began is burning me alive</i></div>
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<i>But I know better than to leave and let it die</i></div>
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<i>I'm a silhouette asking every now and then (now and then)</i></div>
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<i>"Is it over yet? Will I ever smile again?" </i></div>
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<i>I'm a silhouette chasing rainbows on my own</i></div>
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<i>But the more I try to move on, the more I feel alone</i></div>
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<i>So I watch the summer stars to lead me home</i></div>
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<i>'Cause I walk alone</i></div>
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<i>No matter where I go</i></div>
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<i>'Cause I walk alone</i></div>
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<i>No matter where I go</i></div>
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<i>'Cause I walk alone</i></div>
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<i>No matter where I go</i></div>
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<i>I'm a silhouette asking every now and then (now and then)</i></div>
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<i>"Is it over yet? Will I ever love again?" </i></div>
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<i>I'm a silhouette chasing rainbows on my own</i></div>
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<i>But the more I try to move on, the more I feel alone</i></div>
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<i>So I watch the summer stars to lead me home</i></div>
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<i>I watch the summer stars to lead me home.</i><br />
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Mindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01272948206344928446noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1421300693639370346.post-21333940425307286372012-11-11T18:43:00.000-07:002012-11-11T18:59:39.621-07:00All in the family...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CXRkkfaPMEU/UJx-Iw2jImI/AAAAAAAACS4/C3y_xVNpG5o/s1600/Family+Photo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CXRkkfaPMEU/UJx-Iw2jImI/AAAAAAAACS4/C3y_xVNpG5o/s640/Family+Photo.jpg" width="598" /></a></div>
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This is the time of year when family seems to come to the forefront of our thoughts. Oh... it's not that we don't think about our families any other time of the year or that we don't love and care for them all year round. But it seems as the holiday season arrives we think more about those people with whom we share that special bond. We strive to give thanks to all those we love and care for. <br />
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Sometimes, however it seems that the moments that should bring the most joy and happiness can instead bring unintended feelings of hurt or misunderstanding. We are human after all and therefore fallible. Sometimes we make choices with the best of intentions that may unwittingly cause others to feel left out or less important to us.<br />
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Perhaps one of the most important things to remember is that family is not about a date on a calendar or a fancy meal. It's not about being perfectly in agreement all of the time. Family is about loving and caring even when we may not fully understand the reasons for others actions. It is about feeling gratitude for both "roots" and "wings."<br />
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I know that I am grateful for all of my family... for our strengths and our weaknesses... for our successes and failures. I am grateful that the journey we are on is not one we take alone. I hope that all of us remember to show a little more kindness and understanding to those we love, both those with whom we share an actual family bond and those who may not technically be family but who hold a place in our hearts nonetheless.Mindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01272948206344928446noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1421300693639370346.post-18605863002446884542012-11-05T20:42:00.000-07:002012-11-05T20:48:28.311-07:00Life Through My Lens - Autumn Fire.... <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<i>As the sun slips towards the horizon</i></div>
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<i>Autumn's flames burst forth</i></div>
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<i><span style="font-size: xx-small;">- Mindy Durrant - November 2012</span></i></div>
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Mindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01272948206344928446noreply@blogger.com2