😍

 Health 

Hope 

And joy 

This new year

Smile

 Smile 

Or leave me one

Day

 Spinach pitas

Waterfalls

Shopping

Books

Long walks

A lovely day

Yesterday

Good morning

 May your day

Find you 

Abounding in hope

Surrounded in love

With an abundant peace

That permeates 

The body

Know

 When you think

You’ve learned it all

Is when your soul

Breaks

The well gushes

And you

Let tears

Of happiness

Flood your heart

With a gratitude

So deep 

It shatters

All you 

Thought 

You knew

Hope

 Good morning. I hope your Christmas was beautiful and full of love. Looking forward with hope and joy. 

God

You hear me

You see me

You know

What I need

So lead me

Sovereign Lord

Merry Christmas

 Merry Christmas my friends. May today be one of joy and immeasurable peace. Love you all my friends. Enjoy the day. 

Merry Christmas friends

 Merry Christmas Eve. It’s cold here, but my heart warm. Lord, lead my heart when it frays. Protect me. Love me when I can’t do the same. Thank you for the love you show me everyday through Your children. You all give me the best Christmas present everyday. Your love and support sustains me and keeps these fingers moving. Thank you. Merry Christmas. 

Peace

 May the joy 

Of the Lord

Guide

You

And give you

A reverent peace

Questions

 What are your holiday plans?

What is on your list?

What is bringing you joy?

Monday

 How was your weekend my friends. Sending my love out to you all. The holidays can be rough, but I’m here. Love you friends. 

Thoughts

It’s me

Speak to me

And may 

It be 

My goal

To quiet 

My mouth

And listen

Smile

 What’s on your heart?

Love you all

My friends

Smile

I’m thankful

To know

You love

Me too

Rainy way

 Foggy

Rainy

Chilly

Perfect day

To revel

In the glow

Of the fireplace

Love

 Sending love to you all

Body and mind

Need rest

Have to make myself

Slow down

I’m not superwoman

Christmas

 Finally getting into the Christmas spirit

It feels wonderful

I’m jingling all 

The way home everyday

Happy Monday

Tell me your joys today?

Manger

Je suis ici. 

Opening up

The mailbox today

And seeing all

The Christmas cards

From people I don’t know

But who know me

Is exhilarating

So special

And blows my mind

To know I’m so loved

Leaves me teary eyed

You give me so much

And while you tell me

I give you something

It doesn’t compute

When you give to me

Expecting nothing back

I’m beyond humbled

I can never thank you enough

Never did I think 

This physically disabled body

And mentally plagued soul

Would find acceptance

From this community

Much less any community

God sees in me

Value and hope

Worth that is priceless

It’s what a babe

In a manger

Is reminding me

Complex

 What I do matters

These are not just

Words

But a window

To my soul

God sheds a 

New layer

With each new day

I just didn’t know

I was so layered

And complicated

Love

 See me 

As I am

Not what I’d

Like to be

Trusting you 

Lord with

All of me

And the ones

I love

Faith

 Pray that

I may 

Have the strength

To accept my weakness

To relinquish my need

To know

Control 

What I can’t 

And fully have faith

To trust and obey

Prophetic

 It’s me Regine

God what’s my instructions

For today

In the hot shower

It came to me

That water

Is enough to be

Grateful for

The simple 

Is so prophetic

Saturday

 Thankful 

For laughter courtesy of Trevor Noah

Comfy clothes 

My pooch

And you all

Your turn?

Surrender

 It’s a new day

Lord

I’m here

I don’t know how

It will work out

I have to trust you

I don’t understand

That’s not

What you ask

Surrender

Here we go again

Questions

 What is on your heart?

What is making you smile?

Move

 Keep moving

Keep it rolling

I can’t get mad

Or just 

Let it go

Smile

And remember

Seasons change

And I can adapt

I’m being challenged

To relish silence

Within the stillness

Today

 Watching From Scratch With Love, and my soul needed it. To bring me back to the place where dreams came true. Where hope and joy were alive. I was alive. Where I walked in that church, and I felt at home. What I’m saying is I’m having to remember the good in my life. The trip to Cape Cod, sitting on an empty beach at ten in the morning massaging the sand in my fingertips. Picking up broken seashells like pieces of priceless treasure. Right now, I’m the broken seashells. I have to remember I am priceless treasure. I’m weary. I’m tired. I’m humbled by a movie and the way it opened my eyes today

Today

Lord, It’s Regine again. I’m grouchy and irritable. My plan has not worked. I crave control. I need an attitude adjustment. I have no desire to decorate for Christmas. I haven’t read one Christmas novel. Struggling to find peace in Your Word. I read it, but I don’t feel it. I stopped shopping for things. The things only bring temporary relief, if you can call it that. I’m writing this because I can’t sugarcoat the truth. I can’t lie to you. I can’t lie to myself. So maybe if If I share, I won’t feel so bad. Love you all. 

Thoughts

 Up early with the chickens

Trying to get the brain going

And see what lands

And I’m wiping sleep

From my eyes

Pray

 Prayer requests 

Good news 

Friday

Relaxing

Shopping 

Praying

And being still

On my agenda

For today

Thanksgiving my friends

 Lord, you provide. You are trying to teach me. You are showing me what surrender is. And for that, I’m in tears. Thank you for loving me my very loving followers. Happy Thanksgiving. 

Tell me please

 Thank you for all your love. It’s taking all I have not to explode.  I don’t want to divulge yet. And I don’t want to act like a grinch, but my soul is taking hits. Please pray for me. Tell me your good news. I need to rejoice in goodness. 

No words

 I’m seething with anger

Tears streaming down

My cheeks

Smoke billowing

And I’m 

Seeing I 

Have issues

I’m not in 

A good mood

Even if I know

I’m blessed 

And should be 

Counting my blessings

Thanksgiving

 Thanksgiving week

Let me be

Thankful

Grateful

Full of hope

And expectant joy

And blissful smiles

Hi

 Getting in the spirit 

With Hallmark

And cocoa

Happy Saturday

Lovely

 Good morning from the frosty South

Fire is crackling

Blanket wrapped around

Music playing

And I’m warm inside

Questions

 Tell me something good?

Favorite Thanksgiving side?

Favorite gift to give?

Do you send out Christmas cards?

What do you want for Christmas?

Contentment

 I’m realizing 

That you can’t rush

It happens

When it does

I can’t force

I can only control

My attitude

I’m being equipped

And as much

As I desire

To return 

To old habits

Comfort

Is not longer

The aim

If I seek

True contentment

Peace

 This morning my nephew gave me a gift. One I didn’t know I needed. It’s an appreciation for home. The one you can’t replace. The one you can’t live without. It’s my everyday canvas. One I don’t take time to nourish. It’s the blades of grass that ground my feet and tickle my toes. It’s the wildlife in my backyard that make it home. It’s the place that is always there. While I dream of big cities and glittering, shiny lights, it’s the grass being cut by the tractor in the pasture, where I know God is. I went to the doctor yesterday getting medicine injected into the pump in my abdomen, I felt peace. Peace, it’s coming because I’ve been coming to acceptance. Acceptance that God will provide what I can’t. In this season, thankfulness has a new meaning. Freedom. It’s not Christmas yet, but I’m celebrating like it is. 

Monday

 Cool mornings

Are here again

Change is around

May I welcome

Its presence 

Will

 It’s Your day Lord. 

May I give

You 

Your

Due praise

For I am

Blessed

By a Presence 

That is holy

And beautiful

May I do 

Your will

And relinquish

Mine

Questions

 What are you reading?

What are you eating?

What are you buying?

Any prayer requests?

Any good news?

Eschuca

 Almost two months. I didn’t think I’d feel peace. Know peace. It’s there. It helps to have my siblings’ kids to call my own. And love them so much it hurts. I also have accepted that physically my body couldn’t sustain life. And I couldn’t harm my body chasing something not knowing if I truly desired it or if I put pressure on myself to want two kids and a white picket fence. With the husband. I’ve so conditioned myself to conform to standards I couldn’t meet much less exceed. Perfection is a you know what. So some wishes are there, some squashed. I will keep those private, unless you can already read my mind. I’m convinced some of you can. I’m getting to know the real me. Someone I’ve never taken the time to know. Or cared too at all. God said that starts now. And I’m listening. For the first time. Actually listening. 

Stream

 Some days I put pressure on myself to deliver. Deliver words that make a difference. Some days I question my value. Is what I do quantifiable?  I know this is flawed thinking. I do it anyway. I do this when I try to have control. I know I don’t have it. I still crave it. I’m in waiting. I’ve had to give up what I wanted because my heart said no. Patience is a virtue. Not one I have. It’s necessary. I don’t ask for it. I’m being allotted it anyone. Being honest sets you free. Vulnerability is coming. I’m tired of holding it all in. You’re not alone. I’m not alone. 

Latin flair

 Latin beats

Match the Cuban roots

And I’m swaying

Hips groove

Knowing 

Our heritage

Never leaves us

My soul smiles

With the rhythm

And rhyme

With the knowledge

That my abuelita

Would laugh

And say

I told you so

Amor

 The fog lifting

Is my greeting 

This warm

November morn

Where possibility

Is just that

Hope is 

In abundance

Peace is offered

And love 

Is on 

The periphery

Just waiting

To make

Its claim

At the center

Of humanity

For where

Love resides

Disdain subsides

Hate ceases

Love encapsulates

Who we can be

When we cease

To be self-absorbed

And defiant

Who I am

Is to be

The outward representation

Of who

He’s always been

Loyal

Dependable

And without

Malicious intent

Love

The command

That doesn’t shift

With prevailing wisdom

Majestic love

 I’m fighting my flesh today. Trying now to cower to my own expectation. Worshipping through the anxiety. Having to trust. I don’t understand much, but this I know:  God wants all of me. And He will get it. He stripping away the filter. I’m raw. Square one is better with God than polished refinement. 

You want it all

I hide

But you 

Find me

Every time

Without

Batting an eyelash

Love yourself

It’s the one thing

That makes me shudder

To this day

Let me view

The mirror’s reflection

As proof of Your majesty

Heart

 God, it’s Monday morning.  It’s your child Regine searching for words that escape me. My thoughts reflect the deep seated fog outside. It’s the month of gratitude. I’m needing grace right now from myself to let go and let You do Your work. I have not cut out to figure it all out. 

My prayer today

Be an instrument

Of mercy and grace

Where peace

Is granted

To every

Anxious heart

Sunday

 Smile

It’s Sunday

Have a 

Great day

Foggy

 Foggy

Cool

Rainy

A good book

Is my companion

Today

Love

 For the love 

Of Christ

Warm my bones

Soothe my soul

And grant forgiveness

To your children

Who struggle 

To give it

To themselves

Any prayer requests?

Feels

 In the silence

Of morning

When all

I hear

Are the roaring

Of the 

Thoughts

Rolling 

In my brain

Hoping

I have words

To convey

What my thoughts

Are making 

Me feel

Beautiful

 A nice jog

Feeling 

The breeze

Knowing November 

Is here

To greet me

Thank you to ten

You affirm me every day. It makes me smile. The fact that you look forward to another ten years makes me cry. I hope that I can continue to inspire and make you smile. Thank you for loving me. Now, the only job I have is to love myself as much or more than others love me.  I love you all. 

Ten years of friendship

 This day is about costumes and candy for many, but for me this day ten years ago seems like a blur of nerves and excitement. I will never forget being told to just do it and get out of my head. You need an outlet.  Those words started what you read all these years later. Now as for what blogging has taught me is or ten years does is that if you enjoy what you do, it will continue much longer than anticipated. I never thought I’d write this long. I didn’t feel confident that what I would share would matter. I didn’t think it would stick. I still wonder, but you keep coming back. I’m grateful for it. Deep within me, I keep at it, because the stability of my mental state depends on it. I would never believe other writers when they said it themselves, but it’s true. My physical health needs stretching and exercise. My mental health needs writing. When I don’t write for a day, mentally I feel displaced. Every day in which I’m afforded breath, it is my desire to be here. I can only pray you will join me. This is what I was meant to do. Write, love people and have them love me back. I can’t pay you back for all you’ve poured into the vessel that is me, but I’m blessed by it every day. You make me feel rich. Richly loved. Richly blessed. Richly wanted. And oh Lord, it still leaves me shocked that it could feel this beautifully and stunningly sweet and amazing. Thank you. So here’s to another ten. 

Rainy

 Coffee

And rain

Makes

Today 

A great day

Popcorn

 Popcorn 

And 

The Phillies

A perfect Saturday night

Thoughts

 First of all, I need to say THANK YOU!!!  First for knowing how long I’ve been blogging. Second for your wonderful comments. This morning, I saw a friend post that she is requesting prayers for her child. A possible CP diagnosis. I’ve prayed. But, honestly I don’t know how to pray. In all my years, this is the one thing I’ve stopped asking. You don’t know how life will go. Independence. That’s a pipe dream. I have in some ways. Other ways not so much. And I don’t know if I will fully have it. That’s acceptance. I accept that I don’t know, and that’s the only answer I can give you. The one I can give myself. So please pray if you’d like. 

Letting the wall down

 I’m coming up on a big day. It’s a blogging anniversary.  Nine or ten years. I don’t know. Lost count years ago. It’s my most consistent relationship. What have I learned. I’ve learned that if I don’t meet you, know my love for you is endless. You show up. You love me. You don’t question. You seem willing to absorb my rants and frustrations. You fill a void. You mind the gap. You don’t erase my pain. You help me face it. Why I keep writing. To get out my head. To release agony. Ten years of pain. I’d thought I would have been rid of it all. No.  That’s the real answer. Let me honest. My life is damned near perfect. The problem is right between my two ears. I’ve been in therapy long enough to admit that. It’s the voice that’s asks me everyday:  Do I dare ask for more?  And I don’t know whether it’s right of me to ask God for more.  I can’t just believe I’ve written this. In ten years, this is progress. I don’t know how many will read this, but this is about as vulnerable as I’ve ever been. My heart is cracking. It is said one grows, when we break our own darn walls. The dam just burst. 

Cup of tea

 Wrapped in cashmere

Warming up

Cup of tea

I’m ready 

For you

Mountain

 Mountain 

Roads 

Where

The journey curves

And the vistas

Glisten

With 

Pure glee

Thank you

 Observations after two surgeries in two months

Stamina is a daily battle

Health is wealth. A true blessing

God provides

Relief is an elixir

I would ask that you grace me with your prayers as my mind and body undergo a revamp. Ten minutes on a treadmill leaves me exhausted. Overhauling the mind, body and soul is a journey. I’m being selfish for the first time in my life to adjust. I’m having to guard my energy. My words have left me. I’m just so glad you continue to show up. Thank you

Questions

 What are your wins for the week?

What are you making?

What is making you smile?

A random fact about you?

Millions

Huddled and warming. It’s as if the cold, brings a clarity, I haven’t had. It feels so good. I’m getting better. Started exercising. Wearing wearing white sweats. Feels goods. I’m ecstatic not to bleed so profusely iron supplements didn’t cut it. I’m having dancing parties in the living room not caring who sees me. Bruno Mars is my musical muse. I’m dreaming. I’m having fun again, even if I’m my only company. I always wondered why a former therapist told me to look in the bathroom mirror and say I love me three times. I did it the other day, and came so close to believing it. Almost one month post op, and my soul is absolutely giddy. Who knew I could feel this good. Thank you for staying with me. You love me. Worth more than millions. 

Questions

 What are you buying?

What are you snacking on?

What is making you smile?

Mine are

Books

Pistachios

Fall colors

Natural

 Getting ready

For the cold

To set in

The coffee 

To bring warmth

And for Nature

To show 

How well

Change

Is natural

And a blessing

Fly

 Apple cider donuts

A side of Prosecco

The mountains

As a backdrop 

Red leaves 

The garland

Of Autumnal Grace

Those hugs

Of a squealing

Seven year old

And a boy 

Who makes

My heart halt

As he climbs 

The tree

And all 

I can picture

Is Tarzan

Wild

Free 

Fearless

And 

An example

To their aunt

To seize the day

With gusto and

Reckless abandon 

😍

 Happy Friday.  How was your week?

Some things about me

 I’m reading a book a night when I can’t sleep

It feels good to be feeling better

The holidays are coming up and I’m excited

Dogs make life better

Sweet 

Saucy

Sassy

It’s what happens

When you finally

Unburden yourself

From unrealistic expectations

Blessing and a value

 Learning 

That the mirror

Is not my enemy

My mind needs

To be molded

By the Father

Not others

Who don’t know

The real me

I’m getting used to new scars. And it’s freeing. Access to medical care is a blessing. I’m up and moving. If you’d told me that right now, I wouldn’t have believed you. I’m grateful for how God is faithful then, now and forevermore. When God made me, I wondered. The fact that He has kept His promise to provide and protect me leaves me breathless. I’m expensive. And He has continued to say, Not a problem. He loves me so much. Maybe I should do the same. 

Be a blessing. The only occupation that has lasting value

Mine

Letting my body relax

My mind unwind

Knowing He 

Is with me

My job

Is simply 

Believe

And watch

Him work

A miracle

In this heart

Of mine

Autumn

Sun streaming

On my tresses

Crushing leaves

Between my tips

Taking in the flow

Of nature

And letting it be

Yay

 My soul awakened today. For the first time, I’m enjoying life. 

Change can be hard, but it can be good. Thank you for telling me that tears can be good. I’ve had to let them out to let go of what I can’t handle. I realized physical exhaustion I can handle but mental exhaustion not at all. To be free, I must fully free myself of regret. I went shoe shopping today, and as the sweet manager told me she was 22, I realized at 39 what a gift time is. 

Today was a good day. I will take it. 

How’s your day?

Glisten

 Leaning into

The love of Christ

Give my spirit

A lift

The eyes

Glisten at 

The goodness

Of your Provision

Weekend

 Update

I still have to take a pain pill to sleep at night

I still cry

But

I’m slowly returning. Normal. I can’t say. I have to realize I’ve had two surgeries in two months. As well as I do physically, mentally I’m in the woods. Trying to get out each day, but I still can’t verbalize to the outside world my feelings. Besides you all only my best friend knows the depth of my pain. When people ask, I leave it that my body couldn’t handle bearing children. 

I’d ask a favor. Please dont ask a person of faith why they wouldn’t sacrifice their bodies to birth a child. I can’t be fruitful and multiply. Physically it takes every ounce I have to take care of myself. I can’t question God on this anymore. I can’t take away CP. I can’t take away genetics. I can’t risk my life. You love me so well, but just a little thought. 

Friday

 Craving brownies 

Devouring new books

Listening to a cute pooch

Your turn?

Joy

 Jackson Browne

And I letting loose

Knowing that today

Is glorious 

Because 

I’m freer now

Because I actively

Seek a smile

To bring joy

Cry

 Mentally turning a corner. I have six nephews and a niece who give me joy. I didn’t birth them, but they are mine. Stuck with me. Seeing them last night on FaceTime gave my soul the smile I temporarily shelved. I cry every day.  I knew my mood would be all over the place after surgery, but really I had no clue. So I’m getting better even if I go through tissues more often than the feminine products I finally trashed. 

Happies today

Tatler magazine 

Music

True

 Each day

Without a tear

Is acceptance

Of what is

Not what I wish

Guess

 True of false 

Latte liberal

Nantucket or bust

Spanish or English

Candy or salt

Wins

 Tell me your wins

Pain

 Sitting up

A blessing

After a hospital stay

I had to have some

Female organs

Taken out

For health reasons

I will not be bearing children

A fate I fought 

For a year

A year that brought

A pain I won’t explain

My health could no longer

Take the pain

And I had to 

Be reassured

My value

Is not tied

To child-bearing

Be kind

Hi

Recovering from surgery. Tell me something good. Love you all. 

Faith

 In my doubt

Faith rise up

And show

That fear

Doesn’t reside

In this location

Love

 Love you all

You are blessed

And beyond 

Questions

What are your wins for the week?

What is bringing you joy?

What is one purchase you made last week?

One random act of kindness?

Favorite quote?

Surrender

 Surrender 

Is starting 

To taste sweeter

Because I’ve let

The tears fall

And acceptance

Become my reality

What have you learned ?

Fear

 I’m finally 

Confronting

What I’ve put off

For decades

To know

Normal

Is not your destiny

But extraordinary 

Is available

When you simply

Face fears

That haunt 

Your dreams

In some way

Every night

Lead the way

 Comfortable

Haven’t known

The feeling

In so long

The growth spurt

Of spiritual maturity

God is tired

Of me 

Stuck in

The same place

Day after day

I can’t pretend

I don’t see it

Because my feet

Are no longer 

Stagnant

But moving

Because laziness

And doubt

Are no longer

Viable excuses

To evade truth

Like the plague 

That ravages minds

With impunity

The exhaustion

On inaction

Is overwhelming

So tackling

The roots

Of malaise

Is underway

Queen

 Some thoughts today

I’m watching the funeral of the Queen, and something is striking. The meaning of life. To love God, country, and family. And yes the family you didn’t know you had. 

To serve dutifully. What a concept. 

As I ponder.  How well do I serve, how well do I love?

I don’t feel l’ve done it well lately. Praying I can be the servant God wants to see. 

Can anyone guess why I love my name today?

Thought

 Stretching 

Always 

What I’ve detested most

Because it takes

Patience

Not to slap

The floor 

In disgust

Waiting for the signal

For the all clear

Until then

I wait

With baited breath

Peace

 Peace

Wash over

Like a waterfall

Cleansing all

Impurities

Could you pray for me?  It’s painful to disclose right now. Maybe in time, I will be at peace discussing it. The right thing is the hard thing. I know that. My heart knows it. My mind knows it. Doesn’t mean it doesn’t hurt. Coming to terms with reality, it’s time. I love you all. You give me strength and purpose to keep sharing. The depth is crushing. Having to trust when I don’t understand. 

Whiskey sour

 A cocktail of courage

Whiskey sour

Garnish the heart

With style and substance

That doesn’t fade 

As it ages

Flesh

 The violin

And piano

Go together

In perfect harmony

Fear and worry

Are much the same

It is my desire

That I find strength

To let anxiety

Find the door

And stay away

But I know

He uses everything

He can

To break loose

The chains

That enslave

Holding me hostage

To sinful flesh

Questions

 What is making you joyful?

Last book you read?

Last thing you bought?

What did you make for dinner?

Last program you watched?

Cool

 Cooler days

And new ways

To find peace

Within the storms of life

Praying

 Day break

A new way

To see 

The world

 

Any prayer requests?

Learned

 This weekend I went away, and I learned a few things

Being still will teach more than being in motion. I love feeling small amongst God’s creation. 

Community can bring you alive

Being with children brings joy

What have you learned?

Believe and receive

 The giver

Will receive more

Than ever thought 

Possible

Give 

Love

Receive

Believe

Hope

 I’m unhinged

And I know

It’s because

I’m fearing

Something I 

Can’t control

I’m having

To remember

The Father

Has me

When I 

Can’t see myself 

What are your wins this week?

I’m grateful for the mustard seed. It’s there because progress is being made

The tears fall, and I let them

Renewal is new every morning

Work

 Fall apart

Broken

Cracked

Let it all

Out

The only way

To freedom

Lies in truth

Get used to 

Uncomfortable

It’s the only

Answer

With any proof

I write

But am rarely ever

Happy with the product

That is produced

That will have

To suffice

Wednesday

 Jamming out

In pj’s 

Listening to music

Hoping the coffee 

Kicks in soon

Have a beautiful day

Love yourself

And each other

Friends like you

 Reality

The backwoods of Carolina

Looking out the frame

Of dew and green

Knowing life is sweet 

Because of another’s sacrifice

And yet my mind

Woke up in Positano

Dreaming of limoncello 

And ocean breezes 

Wherever I am

La Dolce Vita reigns

Because God is within me

And I’m surrounded

By friends like you

Wet

The rain falls

And I grin

Because 

Water is precious

And the Lord

Is providing rest

With every drop

What are you grateful for today?

Love you

 Today is a new day. Lord, I have the words, but nothing feels right. Your children need you, whether I’m willing to admit it. Surrender is all you wanted, and I’m obliging. Readers, lift up each other. Love you all. 

Think

 Didn’t get news I wanted at the doctor, but growth is taking in stride. I’m realizing what want is not always best. You don’t get to choose. You just trust. It’s the first time, I didn’t have high blood pressure due to anxiety. Making the choice for peace. I didn’t realize, I consciously surrendered for the first time in my life. It feels good. I will grieve later, but right now, I accept. The psychiatrist was right. The Serenity Prayer. The answer that is true when all else may not be. 

Dialogue

 God, it’s me, Regine. My mind is all over the place. I know You’re there. I just wonder where I am. Am I stuck in my own malaise, my own fear. I know when I ask questions, I grow. Growing is never an easy process. I’m doing the things right now, I swore I never would. Don’t tell God never. You will end up doing that thing. I ask how your heart is, because I can’t focus on myself anymore. It brings anxiety. Thinking is not a good thing anymore. I must pray and go and do it. I will convince myself to not do the things I must. 

So what is really on your heart?  Anything you’ve read that’s struck a chord?  When you share you story, it reminds me to share mine. The unsavory bits included. 

Love

 Things about me

Love gelato

Ready for sweater season

Favorite meal is breakfast

Love dogs

Love watching tennis

Your turn?

Love

 Good morning 

It’s a great day

Because Your Love

Surprises no one

Season

 Summer seas

Lead to 

The arrival

Of fall leaves

Followed by

White mountain peaks

Heart

 What is on your heart?

Friday

 Friday Five

More snail mail arrived

Looking at fall clothes

Found new stickers

Finished watching a Netflix show

Waiting for the US Open to start

Yours?

Present

 What’s on my heart today?

Anxiety rolls in like a wave.  I’m remembering Martha’s Vineyard. The boat rocked, the waves crested and crescendoed, and I was stronger for it. I’m thinking God is rocking my boat so I can focus. I’m distracted and in the what ifs. I must be present in the present. So simple yet so true. What are you learning today?

Pray

 Any prayer requests?

I have a few

Pray for a friend and her recent cancer diagnosis

Pray for healing for a child still hospitalized after an accident

Pray that I may trust God in everything and anything

Rise

 This is a summer of stillness. I’m having to be quiet. God is well aware of my desires. Trust me. I’m in the season that make you insane or send you running into the arms of the Father. I’m remembering that my way leads to pain, lessons and an inward I told you so. If I’m feeling redundant in my posts, it’s because it’s true. I need to relearn the same things day in and day out. It feels good to just breathe in, and inhale an air of gratitude. I’m having to be grateful in the small things. I overcomplicate simplicity. Overthinking is a day job, mine.   The truth is like a prickly thorn, pinching in those spots we try to hide. 

Thought

 Breathe in

Breathe out

Release yourself

From what

You weren’t meant

To bear

Monday

Focusing on 

What I control

My attitude

Equals gratitude

Because life

In imperfection

Gives a grace

A mercy

This child needs

Sunday

 Any Sunday plans?

Friday

 Happy Friday

Smile wide

I’m alive

Off for some coffee

And a pastry too

Day

 Recovery is sometimes very strange

Takes more time than you want

The test I must take

Every day

Wins

 Tell me your wins?

Shattered

 I’m getting back to myself, but I must be honest. The physical scar at my abdomen, it hurts to look at, which is strange. That scar enhances my quality of life. No life of wheelchairs and painful contractures. I told the doctor I’ve had this pump almost twenty years. I don’t want to imagine life without it. Who knows if I’d have the strength to blog, to travel, to live a life most like me can only fantasize about. It’s not lost on me. I’m also reminded that physical scars are the evidence of their existence. The ones mentally only I know are there. The physical reminder is one that now fuels my desire to address with truth what holds me back. I will get there. I remember anything worthwhile takes time. My mental health is worthwhile something I didn’t believe. I thought as long my body could be dealt with my mental state would magically heal. Pure folly. I now know better.  I’m good at hiding. Gold medal performances that led to torture. I’m listening to this song now about control. I happen upon its arrival every day. God shows up even when I don’t seek Him outwardly. I hear the song, and His appearance is near. He knows I need Him.  I’m so tired of being dependent, but God says you are.  It’s not something to shrink from. It’s not a bad thing. It’s raw and true. The perfect combination that makes a great follower of mine. Accept the gift. The surgeon split you wide open and put you back together again. I’m about to do that to your broken soul. I do my best work with shattered shards. 

Roadblock

Cerebral Palsy tests me every day. The physical I’m used to by now. It’s the mental battle. I don’t fight the body as much. There are answers physically. Mentally is a different animal. I wage war. The blessing is that now I’m aware of what I stare down. And for that I’m grateful. Mind over matter. Finally makes sense. Where I must adjust. I’m never ready. I’m coming for the roadblock that I’ve never addressed. 

Musings

 Waking up

A blessing

Even if 

I got up

On the 

Wrong side

Of the bed

Questions

 Last thing you ate?

Last thing you made?

Last thing you drank?

Last thing you bought?

Last person who made you smile?

Walk

Walking around

Feeling the breezes

Surround me

And lift my face

Upward

Yum

 Summer sun

A warm buttery biscuit

That awakens 

All the senses

Joy

 Smiling so big

I feel free

Humans just want

Commiseration

And a little praise

Up

 Waking up

Joyful

Because I’m alive

And God continues

To exceed my expectations

Blissful

 Curled up

In a blanket 

On the couch 

Is pure perfection

Right now

Heart and soul

 What is on your heart?

Prayer requests?

Soul feels

 I’m having to take it moment by tiny moment. I have to remind myself that physical and emotional healing takes time. I’m making strides, but i have to remember to slow down. I get easily tired. That’s okay. I’m having to accept and live in denial. Truth, the only rubric that matters. Progress is not linear. I accept the disability. The fear it brings. I don’t like it. It’s there. It’s a daily reminder to keep it forward. The only thing looking back does is remind me of what could have been. I don’t live there. Thank you for reading what my soul feels. 

Good

 Feeling good

Lord, you provide

Just not on 

My timeline

I’m learning

I must get out

Of me

To be happy

Thank you

 I’m finally starting to get back to myself. Still taking it easy. Thank you all. I never want to take for granted the blessings that you bestow on me whether I’m knowing of them or not. 

Thank you

Thoughts

 If I’m being honest, I’m ready to be better. I’ve slept more than usual. Showering feels herculean.  I know I need rest, but I’m getting restless. I shouldn’t complain. Tell me your wins. 

Stay

 Learning 

More at rest

Than I 

Could ever

Explain

Grooving

 Wipe the sleep

Coffee wafting

Music cranking

Getting back

Into a groove

Wins

 Grateful for another birthday 

I’ve been on the couch 

Recovery is slow

Tell me your wins

Slow

 I had surgery yesterday to replace the baclofen pump with a new one. It was more intensive than I thought. I have a two week recovery. I may blog, but I may not comment as much. Thank you for your support

Support

 Thank you friends for your wisdom and support. Thank you for your love. I would ask for your prayers today and in the next few days. Thank you. God Bless. Regine

Trust and obey

 Lord, you see my tears, my anxiety. You say lay it down. I will guard you, love you and make it right. Stop trying. Just believe. Trust me. I’m not going anywhere. Release. Breathe and know I’m where you are. 

Pray

 What is on your mind today?  Your heart?  Your soul?

I’m just having to breathe in. Release. Pray. And let it all go. 

Tuesday

 May I appreciate 

The lesson 

That is

The blessing 

Monday

 Pray

Receive

Believe

Sunshine

 Grateful 

For the view

Out my window 

The breath I take 

Memories 

To be made

Today 

Gratitude

 Good morning

Greet the day

With gratitude

Prayer requests?

Praise and Prayer

 I will Praise

And have faith

That all my desires

Will become reality

Bless all the ones

I call my own

And guard their 

Hearts and minds

In Christ Jesus

Truth teller

 Like the mountain

Whistling the treetops

The lightning snapping

The branches

I’m seeing

That time

Is a truth teller

No matter

What humans 

Believe

Mountain

 This weekend I went on more hikes than I have in a very long time. I learned some lessons. God’s world will make you feel small, and I didn’t mind it. I had to push through mental blocks and physical exhaustion. It’s been a long time since I’ve showered in sweat. When I completed these tests, I felt like I conquered the world. In a way I did. My body held and so did my spirit. No small feat. I had to take small steps. I was forced to stop thinking and just move. This weekend proved that I’m more than able. 

Kids

 I’ve been around my niece and nephews for a bit which means this space took a rest, but what didn’t is what these humans teach me. Whether it’s to sing show tunes at the top of my lungs, or get in the floor and retrieve toys so many times, it is a humbling experience. I’m exhausted, but forever changed by little hands and sweet voices. I do lose my mind and yell sometimes. Then I’m reminded of how many times God gives me what I need to give them:  grace. It all starts there. A few days in the mountains gave me something I forgot I had:  preserverance.  

Yes

Rise and shine

Give God the Glory

I’m smiling

Taking in

The scenery

Heart

 What’s on your heart today?

Yes

 Release the expectation

Set yourself free

To breathe

It’s not the perfect 

I treasure 

It’s the

Insanity of life

That brings

A tear

And a joy

I can’t explain

Healing

Lord

Bring healing 

To this weary being

How are you today?

Honesty, honestly

 I’m staring at a screen waiting to be filled with something masterful. As I hit each key, I realize this. Writing is about the absence of perfection. It’s the raw and unfiltered. The one without polish. It’s about returning to roots. The deep ones that hold pain and promise. It’s letting you see a soul as calloused as my toes. It’s about learning from anything or anyone that crosses the path. It’s about showing weakness so that strength may become a necessary antidote. I have become stubborn, and not in a good way. It’s about learning from a six year old, not arguing about nonsense. I’ve loved Philippians 4:13, but I haven’t let it make roots. I can recite it, but do I believe it. Honesty, the policy, I haven’t honored in a long time. 

Hailey

 Yesterday my niece was over, and it never ceases to amazes me the wisdom of children. Playing tic tac toe, she says “you can’t keep doing the same thing if you want to win”. I didn’t even realize it. Her words stuck with me. How often in life do I do the same things just to not lose. At six and a half, my niece gave me advice I will keep forever. I want to remember that you can be taught by anyone at anytime. Who knew a rainy summer Sunday is when I would receive such gifts. Thank you Lord for the children who remind me of life lessons we adults seem to forget. 

What have children taught you?

Soul

 Peace

Make your presence 

Known

In my soul

Get to know me

 I love collecting seashells

I have a sweet tooth

I love to shop

Buying books is my weakness

Traveling soothes my soul

Tell me something about you

Wins

 Wins for today

A new day

A juicy peach

A word search

My soul is breathing easier today. I am grateful. 

Share yours?

Happy

 Rain

Where

I learn to retain

The heart

Soul and mind

To align 

To where harmony sings

And the world

Utters its pure delight 

North Carolina

 The window of the soul

Is the mountain peaks 

The ocean waves

The skunks

The birds

Babies

And every joy

That comes

My way

Like an aperol spritz

Window

 Have the spirit of a child

The imagination

The wonder

That’s on my heart today

I’m having to let go

Of everything

I once held dear

Look out the window

Put down the phone

Grateful for no cell service

In remote parts

Tell me about your gratitude

Faith

 In my deep exhales, as I erase the fears creeping up, I remember the promise. The promise that says every day I am here. I don’t make myself known. I’m in the shadows. I’m watching and waiting to see when and where I fit. I fill your cup as needed. I’m on the unsteady, choppy waters.  I’m in the waiting room. I’m in the food you eat, the water you drink. I’m in the trips you take and the decisions you make. 

In the world

I May be dismayed

But with You

At the helm

I’m restored

For with faith

Earth bows

Down to its Maker

Happy 4th

 Enjoy the day

In such a way

That a smile

Is a mile wide

And joy radiates

Upward and forevermore

Tomatoes

 Cuddles on the couch

With the pooch 

As I sip my 

Delicious brew

And a tomato

Sandwich awaits

Me later

Questions

 Favorite inspirational quotes?

Favorite words of wisdom from friends or family?

Share with me

Roaring

One week has passed since the vacation of dreams and here are my thoughts on reality one week later. God is allowing me to be uncomfortable to fulfill His needs for me. The ferry ride to Martha’s reminds me of life. I needed to refocus. I couldn’t look at the waves soaking up chop.  I couldn’t look at my feelings of discomfort as the boat rocked. I needed to focus on the Rock that sustains. It was as I did this that I could enjoy watching the waves white cap and roar with a ferocious fervor. God gets my attention when and where He wants it. 

Beach

 Soft sand

Drink in hand

Birds chirping

Dogs running

And all I do

Is enjoy

My seat

Watching

All the action

Prayer

 Any prayer requests?

Tell me what your heart feels?

Tell me your wins?

Activate

 In Your Prescient and Providential nature, I start a new journey. I will look for the opportunity to learn and to trust. My soul rests in the knowledge of who You are, not in who I am. As I rest my heart and exhale. I let go. Hold me. Surprise my sensibilities. Change is not to be feared, embrace it. Riding the waves of fear that release the freedom to believe. Activate the faith of the forefathers. My spirit rises to meet the moment. 

2 Timothy 1:7

Waving hi

 Take me back

Nantucket

Roll out

Martha

Greet me

Hyannis 

And let

My soul

Ride

Waves

Home

Island time

 What did vacation teach me?

I’m being taught that waiting is a worthwhile pursuit. I’m learning that people want to connect. They want to help you. They will see your heart. They want to love you. Let them. I’m learning that I’m more than capable. My heart loved Nantucket, my soul was Martha, my mind a Hyannis. What troubled my heart at the time becomes the memory I most treasure. I miss riding the ferry everyday. It gave my mind and body two hours of forced rest just watching the ocean. I’m still pinching myself. God is good even when I am not. Nature is the only salve that always reminds me of where I stand. 

Waves

 The waves 

Lull me 

Into a slumber

Until waves

Lash the

Jetty rocks

Woods Hole

The ferry 

Trying to hold

It’s own

As this human

Begged for 

Ginger ale

Memory

 My vacation was one I will never forget. It amazes me that last week I was on Cape Cod, Nantucket and Martha’s Vineyard. The location was pure fairy tale even when life isn’t. I kept telling myself to be pinched. I couldn’t believe this was my reality. I’ve come back with plenty of seashells and sand in my purse that I don’t want to clean out. I’ve eaten more lobster in every form.  Every bite left me to imagine if my fantasy matched the reality. As I took in God’s creation, my breath got caught, my eyes amazed. The teal and turquoise waters crashing against golden sand will be etched forevermore. With each step, I fell in love with the Creator who exceeds my expectation, and says look. My soul rejoiced when my mind could not. I will say that on vacation, anxiety, still visited me. I needed to feel that ocean air, soft sand, massage those seashells to realign. Different locations teach different lessons, but they all come back with the same message. God is everywhere and in everything. 

Cape

 Back from Cape Cod

Ate more lobster

Than one should

Rode more ferries

Walked beaches

And saw

God’s creation

Putting on a show

Back

 Thank you for all the concern shown. I took a week off for vacation. I’m back. I’m tired, but very happy. I’m full of contentment. How are you all?  I missed you. Fill me in. Regine

Control

 Let it go

Three words

I don’t like 

Because it signifies 

The thing 

I want most

Is the one

Thing

I can’t have

Bible verses

 Would you give me a list of your favorite Bible verses?  Thank you so much. 

Reclaim the Faith

 The power

Is within me

To worry

Or praise

God is faithful

My faith

Needs actions

Not words

Challenging myself

To find the beauty

Where it is

All around me

Faith

 I’m learning 

I must have 

Faith in 

My ability 

To thrive

Not merely survive

Magic

 Write what you know

That’s the saying 

Could’ve fooled me

Or not

What I know

Not much

But this

Is true

Life’s trials

Can be painful

And full of magic

In the same breath

Thank you

 God

Thank you 

For self introspection 

And for the willingness 

To stop

And just marvel

At your goodness

Wins

 Tell me your wins for the day

Picked vegetable

Well water tastes so good

So many pen pals.  

Your turn

Blessings

 Brought to tears

To know

I’ve never 

Met you

But you

Love me

In a way

That moves me

That you desire 

For my dreams

To be realized

And for hope

To spring eternal

You humble me

Leave me wondering

If how you love me

Is how God

Wants us to 

Love each other

Prayer

 I’m having to trust

Trust His Goodness

Trust when the anxiety 

Sets in

Trust His Will 

Is better than mine

Enjoy the day

Not wish it away

Knowing when

To stop fighting

And surrender

Any prayer requests?

Dreams

 It’s early morn

The music plays

As I string

Along a thought

Hoping it resonates

Dreams

Keep me ticking

Keep me going

When I want 

To quit

The desires

Of my heart

Defy gravity 

And a constellation’s

Shine

Happy Monday my friends. 

The Lord’s Day

 On my mind

This morning

I need to practice 

Positive thinking

And being content

In every circumstance

God 

Renew

My mind

Purify my heart

Cleanse me

And let

Your Will prevail

It’s the Lord’s Day

You are to be revered

Glorified and Praise

Friday

 Tell me your wins for the week

What made you smile

Made you think

Hit the ground

Praise God 

And say 

Amen

I am recovering slowly. In addition to hurting myself, I had to increase the amount of medication I was receiving. It’s an adjustment.  I’m glad to have a choice. It’s an honor to get older. I never want to forget that. It is a privilege to learn. It’s a pain to wait, but if that’s the price, I will pay it. God Bless you all. 

Regine

Accepting love

 Acceptance is love

Love is acceptance

And once

It builds roots

It frees the soul

To move

The heart 

To breathe

Love

 Let me love

Deeper than divide

Wider than depths

And find 

The desire

To continue

Doing right

Even if

If doesn’t suit

My motives

Share

 Share with me what’s on your heart?

Resting

 Yesterday

At my pump refill

I got instructions

Slow down

I hurt myself recently

Trying to run

To get the door

And if I heard

Many times

They can wait

You’re straining your body

And not bouncing back

Accept the limitations

I’m not superhuman

I’m Regine

And that will

Have to do

If I don’t visit you all

I’m sorry

Sitting for too long

Is painful right now

I’m not admitting losses

I’m just acknowledging

The truth I’ve always known

But chose to subvert

Thank you

 Thank you 

So much 

For the

Birthday wishes 

For my mom

They made

Her day

Happy birthday

 It’s my 

Mom’s birthday 

Today 

Could you all

Say Happy birthday 

She said 

She wanted nothing 

Being alive

Is more than adequate 

Garden

 It’s Friday

Soaking up

The sunshine

And smells

Of yumminess

From my garden

Love

 Sending lots of love

To a world 

In desperate need

Of it

Tennis

 Bouncing fuzzy 

Yellow ball

About to 

Be smashed overhead

 What is your favorite sport?

Honest

 Honest post here. 

Envy

Those four letters

Give me pause

An anxiety

For I suffer 

From it 

Started at sixteen

Medically unable 

To drive

Now to social media

Seeing the destinations

That capture my imagination

And I’ve not seen yet

I know I’m in

A waiting season

And I’m having

To trust

What I don’t understand

About myself

I’m no longer

Seeking the answer 

I just want to learn

What I was too stubborn

To do 

Long ago

Mountain memories

 Honoring your sacrifice today. Thank you is never enough. 

Some pieces of my heart came to visit this weekend. While I don’t have children of my own, I claim my nephews and niece as my own. They are a true joy. Before they and their parents left we took a little trip to the North Carolina mountains for lunch in Saluda, NC. There is something about an old-timey Main Street that makes my heart smile. 

Mountains

Bring the 

Cool breeze 

And majesty

That makes

You put

The phone down

Embrace

The curves

In the road

And cherish

Ordinary moments

Pray

 God 

You know 

My heart

Lead

Guide 

Protect

Heal

All 

That is

On my heart

Questions

 What is on your heart?

What is making you smile?

What are you reading?

The children. The faces are etched in my soul forever. Search your souls. Jesus loves the children. He states it plainly. Search your motives. 

A good book. Fresh fruit. Snail mail. Unexpected gifts. Each day is an unexpected gift. I make plans, and God just shakes His head. You all make me smile. The way you love me is so extraordinary. Thank you. 

I’m reading Jayci Lee’s books. They are some of my favorites. She’s an AAPI author. I can’t say this enough. Get to know others different than yourself. You’ll be forever changed for the better. 

Blessings and love one another today. 

Regine

Alive

 I have no words today. 

Look upon us Lord

Grant me peace

Where there is

No understanding 

Search your hearts

Your souls

Dig deep

Because today 

It is a privilege

To be alive

Giddy

 The laughter

Ringing through

Echoing 

Sending the shivers

Of giddy delight

Must be 

Summer

Longer nights

To bathe 

In Nature’s 

Glory

Yay

 French toast

Cool breezes

A cute pooch

A beautiful morning

What is making you

Smile today 

Joyous

 Yesterday

I reclaimed 

Something my soul

Has lacked

Complete joy

In simplicity

Questions

 What you up to today?

What is making you joyful?

What are you reading?

🥰

 Swinging from the rooftops 

Singing from the treetops 

May the light

Shine through 

That darkness 

Tries

To cloud

Questions

 What is making you smile?

Any wins this week?

What are you reading?

What are you making?

What are you baking?

My poodle

Finding a bathing suit

Asian authors

A victory journal

Nothing at the moment

Good morning

 Sipping on

My morning joe

Ready to start

The day

Getting in

My daily walk

What about you?

Pray

 I’m struggling with discipline

To eat right

To read my Bible

With conviction

And fervor 

That I give my phone

Please pray

Pray

 What can I pray for today?  How are you my friends?

Questions

 What are you reading?

What are you sending?

What are you ordering?

What are you thinking?

What is bringing you joy?

Don’t retreat

 I must forgive myself

To free myself

From a shame 

I don’t deserve

I’m reclaiming

The promise

Of Jesus

Who came

To replace

The perfectionist

That resides in me

Quiet my mind

Still the soul

Replace fear 

Of mistakes 

And rejection

With pride

For conquering

Not retreating

Nature

 Just sitting in silence

Remembering when

To fight

When to stop

When to meditate

Leave it in prayer

For when

I don’t understand

I get mad

And anger

Is an emotion

That leaves

Me in disarray

I’m coming undone

Knowing what worked

Years ago

Doesn’t cut it now

I still see injustice

But I can’t let others pain

Destroy my peace

I’m to pray

Do what I can

And leave it

In hands

More capable

Than my own

My mental state

On a razor’s edge

On a wave

On the shores

Of Oahu

Riding atop

The white caps

Basking on the highs

Of nature’s beauty

Grateful

What are you grateful for today 

My mom

Jesus

A cozy bed

Blessing

 I want to be grateful 

No matter the fact

That I’m befuddled

Most of the time

They only thing

I know

Is that I’m His

And for today

That’s enough

Love the life

You have

In war torn nations

Quiet is a blessing

Love

 Each of you readers whether you comment or not give me peace, perspective and purpose. Thank you for sharing your lives and hopes with me. I hope this day gives you all that you need of it. Be kind. Be loving. Be you. Sending love your way if you need it. Blessing my friends. 

Regine

Prayer

 Any prayer requests today?  I haven’t done one in awhile. I hope this day finds you healthy and happy. Blessings my friends. 

Today

 It’s a quiet day

Round these woods

As I find

The confidence

To take each day

As a blessing

It is

Questions

 What I’m reading- Books by Jayci Lee. Highly recommend

What I’m eating- Pineapple smoothies

What I’m ordering- Vitamins

What I’m doing- Writing pen pals

What I’m watching- the news

Your turn?

Mend

 The humidifier

As my only sound

I’m basking 

In the physical quiet

Hoping my mind

Receives the memo

Break my soul

So I can mend

And start all over

Back at square one

Monday

 Today 

Reminder

Progress isn’t always linear

It comes as it wishes

Not on my timetable

Sunday

 Sunday smiles

Sunday graces

As I enter 

The day with perspective 

And purpose

Joys

 Grateful for you Lord

Grateful for long walks

Grateful for all of you

Tell me your joys for the week

Questions

 What are you making?

What is your favorite easy healthy meal to make?

What are you reading?

What is on your heart?

Thank you

 Thank you for encouraging this heart of mine. The way you love me is something I can’t repay. Thank you for giving me a smile today. 

Day

 God 

Thank you

For another day

Please rid me

Of the anxiety

That is racking

My mind and body

Real

As I sit here, I was reminded of someone’s words yesterday. My gift is not for my benefit. It’s for others. It’s for His glory. These past few weeks have been anything but stellar. I’m realizing I still need help, whether I want it or not. This has been one of the hardest things to accept. When the world preaches independence, I let myself fall into the trap. I’m not normal. Never will be. This hurts my pride like no other, but in order to grow…. The pride got kicked to the curb in embarrassing fashion, and help is a necessity. Whether my writing still is the gift God intended, I can only hope. If you will humble me with your prayer, I’d be grateful. 

Good morning

 Good morning 

Still recovering 

Going slower

Than I’d like

Tell me

What is making 

You smile 

Questions

 Favorite pasta dish?

Favorites new read?

Last compliment you received?

Friday

 I contemplated not posting. I’m under the weather. Ricola and I are in a relationship this week. My mind has been working overtime and not in a good way. I need prayers that my pride doesn’t impede progress. Trying to do it all myself is having unnecessary consequences. There is no eloquence. Just raw and unfiltered

Three things

 Three good things

Rest

Books

Quiet

Your turn?

Questions

 What is making you smile?

What’s for breakfast?

What is on your mind?

What are you reading?

What have you ordered lately?

Good Friday

 Jesus 

As I remember 

Your sacrifice 

Please rid me

Of anger

And bitterness 

Grant me 

Protection 

And Your

Peace

Tell me

 What is making you smile?

Tell me a win for you?

Tell me something people don’t know about you?

Thank you

 Lean in the blessing

Of unexpected joy

That prayers

Get answered

When relief

Is the aim

Not my vanity

List of goodness

 With all the sadness and uncertainty in the world tell me your list of good things. 

Found a new flavor of ice cream

Got a haircut

Reading a new book

A word

 My life

Should be

A proclamation

Of what this

Holy Week 

Exemplifies

In Your Word

The sinner

Is forgiven

And life

Is lived

With divine purpose

And grace

That is

Given freely

Every day

Let my worship

Be one 

That glorifies

You

Not

My own selfish ambition

Questions

 Saturday’s questions

What is your favorite vacation? Domestic and international

What is your latest order?

What is your latest find?

Favorite charity?

Favorite authors?

My answers

Newport RI and Assisi Italy

Groceries

Weetabix. I’m hooked

World Central Kitchen and Nova Ukraine

Jennifer Loy and Jenny Proctor

Your turn

Win

 Wins for the day

Gardening

Enjoyed Weetabix and bananas for lunch

Won a book

What are yours?

Free

 Wading

In the river

Cool waters

Awaken the senses

Free the mind

Flower

 Rainy days

Are not 

My favorite

But they

Bring

My favorites

The blooming gardenias

And pink azaleas

And help 

Boom the height

Of the mighty sunflower

Never enough

 In my soul

In my heart

In my mind

Even when 

I don’t think

You are

You are

And for that

A thousand thanks

Are never enough

Three things of gratitude

The gift Lord of what you provide

The yellow and blue who show me how to live

The dog whose love doesn’t fail

Declaration of faith

 Declaring life abundant 

For myself and those 

I love

God grant us all life

In Your never ending grace

May I focus

On the goodness

You envelope 

And surround me in

Everything

Name three great things from your weekend?

Questions

 What are you reading?

What are you cooking?

What are you baking?

Something that makes you smile?

Favorite new find?

Soul

 Fortify my soul

Grant me peace

And obedience 

The latter

I’m lacking

At the moment

Tell me something good

That happened yesterday

Reflection

 Reflections. 

I don’t multitask well at all. I’ve tried. I’ve had to write lists to remind myself to brush my teeth. I’m moving slower these days to lessen the anxiety. I’ve spending more time in nature, exercising and reading. Mental health equals physical wealth. Be happy my friends. 

Abandoning perfection

 I’m slowing down

Worshipping freely

Listening to 

The voice 

I’ve silenced

I’m not fulfilling

The calling

Even when

I don’t like

What I write

I must continue

For it’s what

He asks me

It isn’t an

An adoration society 

For people

It’s simple

Obedience

And undivided attention

And respect

For Him

Who doesn’t 

Ask for much

Learn from me

Don’t squander 

The talent

Seeking the unattainable 

In search

Of something 

So fickle

Jesus

May my words

Glorify You

And make 

You smile

Because

Somebody finally chose

To ditch perfection

Learn

 At thirty-eight

The words worry

At thirteen

They flew 

And soared

The question is

Idealism ceased

When reality

Was too much

Not to address

Free me

From worry

So life

Can become 

A joy

It deserves

Thank you ancestors

The blood of 

Yellow and blue

Is my mantra

Be determined

Be so fierce

The world

Takes notice

Questions

 What are you ordering?

What are you eating?

What are you reading?

Prayer requests?

A good thing from the weekend?

Garden aromas

 The winds

Whips me around

To the delicious 

Scent that

A garden delivers

The tomatoes shake

The basil shimmers

In a bright sunshine

As Spring

Reinforces her arrival

🌻

 My heart

Resides in

The red

White and blue

But it’s made 

Up of people

Whose blood 

Was yellow and blue

Stand proud

Like the 

Sunflower 

You are

Questions

 What are you reading?

What are you making?

What are you ordering?

What is on your heart?

Any prayer requests?

Peace

 Breathe in

Breathe out

Release frustration

Inhale peace

Let it all go

And think

Of butterflies

If you must. 

Slog

 Life

The battlefield 

That requires 

Multiple sets 

Of batteries

Amp up courage 

Dial up patience

Success is 

A slog

That demands

Everything you have

Even on

Off days

Monday

Fight

Never surrender

You’ve come too far

To let it all fall

Rise up

On the anchor

On which

Faith rests

Now and forever

He doesn’t forsake

He doesn’t leave

That’s reason enough

To not retreat 

And give 

The enemy 

Your victory

Remember the strength 

Of your ancestors

Slava Ukraini

Favorites

 Who are your favorite authors?

Favorite pieces you always wear?

Favorite snacks?

Favorite ways to relax?

Prayer requests?

🇺🇦

 Be strong 

Be brave

Take the chance

The risk

To be full

Of joy

Without regret 

Spring

 Sliding into Spring

The green grass grows

The flowers bloom

Appreciating nature

In a wonderful new way

Questions

 What are you thinking about?

What are you making?

What are you eating?

What are you ordering?

What is on your heart?

Lead me

 Thank you Lord

For the blessings

I take for granted

And yet You

Don’t reprimand

Yet remind me

That my actions

Either demonstrate

Or denounce

The power

Of Your Presence 

In my life

Let me love 

People

As You 

Would lead

Ordinary

 On this day

I’m grateful

For simple things

That are really

Extraordinary

Human

 Ukraine

You inspire me

You drive me

You show me

Why I’m proud

You remind me

Of why I fight

Why I live

And why I must continue

To be a human

Full of hope

Joy

And compassion

Lord

Use me

To magnify

To pray

And have

A heart

For humanity

🇺🇦

 I’m slowly learning 

How to live again

It’s frightening

Yet exhilarating

I’m getting brave

Again

The realization

Came after

An early morning

Plunge into 

A cool pool

I’m living again

In honor

Of every Ukrainian

Fighting for

That right

Questions

 What are you reading?

What are you ordering?

Last act of kindness?

What are you watching?

What are you listening to?

Sports romance

Food

Giving compliments

Reruns

Music

Questions

 What is making you smile?

What is on your heart?

My niece and nephew

Ukraine

Go

🇺🇦

 Ukraine

I pray everyday

Sending hope

And peace

Your way

❤️

Thank you Lord

For giving me peace

As I write

It is a privilege

Don’t oppress

Or ostracize

When the world

Sees your countenance

Will it greet

You with

A grateful smile

Yellow and blue

 Yellow and blue

The color

Of hope 

Against

All odds 

My heart

Only grows 

Fonder for 

You all

With each day

Questions

 What are you ordering?

What are you reading?

What are you making?

What is making you smile?

What is your favorite color?

Confession

 Let me say

That everything 

In my life

Right now

Is great

And yet 

My soul

Grieves

I’m counting 

Gratitude 

That I can

Articulate this

I haven’t taken 

A breath

In years

Oxygenate

My lungs

Lord

I’m tired 

Of waking up

Exhausted 

Because 

My need for control 

Has superceded

My need

For You

Sunday

Rise and shine

It’s the Lord’s day

Praying for Ukraine

Smile, your alive

💛💙

 My heart

Is in Kyiv💛💙

Smiling and standing

 I still smile

When it’s bleak

Hope must stand

When I cannot 

💛💙

Smile

 What is making you smile?

Who is making you smile?

What are you making?

Last book you read?

Prayer requests?

Monopoly board

 Life right now

Looks like

A monopoly board

You don’t get to skip

And collect 

Two hundred dollars

I’ve not wanted

To share

What I don’t like

But doing 

What I don’t like

Is bringing peace

And a freedom

I’d feared 

I’d lost

Getting to know moi

 In every Amazon order I have at least one book

I have six destinations on my bucket list

As a snack I like SmartSweets candy

I have music on when I write

I have so many clothes in my closet, but wear the same things every day

Share yours?

Door

 Lord

Give me

The will

To be kind

When I’m fraying

The light is flickering

And my cranky ways

Haven’t found the door

Learning

 Lesson learning. I deleted so many posts today because God knew my heart was not in the right place. When I’m hurt or offended, I will do the same to others. I’m human. My posts this morning sought human approval, but when you are convicted right after you hit publish, it’s Him. I argued with Him. I did not win. My conscience would not let me rest. That is a feeling I want none of you to have. After deleting the post, I’m lighter. I’m okay. Just because I didn’t get my way doesn’t mean I take it out on others. God will call you on it. That I know. The question is this. Will you listen?

Monday

 Physical exertion

Brings me

A mental peace

I can’t describe

And I’m grateful

That my body cooperates

Friday fun

 Off of my latest post. I will go back to posting as I’m led. What I’m being led to do now is a little more fun

Getting to know Regine

My favorite NFL player- Peyton Manning. I asked my sister for his jersey for Christmas. It still hangs in my closet. It’s the Colts jersey. 

My go to song is James Taylor Fire and Rain

I love collecting stationery and stickers

Landing in Venice Italy in dense fog in frigid February is a memory I treasure. 

I like ordering the weirdest options on the menu at restaurants. Almost always I regret ordering them. 

I’m sucked into playing Wordle every day. 

Will you play along?

Friday

 I am slowly coming back to this. I need to share the unsavory of my life. I can’t let others’ negativity dictate what I need to share. I’ve strayed from my mission. I don’t have passion for what I’m posting now. I’ve been dimming my light. I can’t do it anymore. If there’s a comment I don’t like, I will read it, and see if has merit. If it doesn’t. Im praying for you. You are hurting. My words haven’t hurt you, something else is. God bless you all. 

See

 I finally realized 

I can’t fight

What is meant

To help me

The pride

And shame

Need to go

So I can be

The version of me

God desires to see

Wednesday

 Last book you read?

Last sweet treat you ate?

Last thing you bought?

What made you smile?

Last prayer request you made?

Hide

 Facing the fear

That has consumed me

And spit me out

For all the world

To see

Is not my proudest moment

The anxiety has returned

I can’t lie

Confronting it

Rather than hiding it

Happy Valentine’s Day

 Hot red nails

Pale pink flowers

And a strawberry

For good measure

Happy Valentine’s Day

Football

 What snacks are you making?

Who are you rooting for?

Favorite sports movie?

Favorite sports book?

Who is your team?

Cool

 Cool

Calm 

Collected

Something

I’m working on

Right now

Even if 

I can’t 

See it 

Right now

Tell me something good from your week?

Lovely

Life is

A savory

Bite of brisket

Dipped in barbecue sauce

A creamy spinach casserole

That melts

In your mouth

And leaves

One satisfied

A nice walk downtown

Looking at all

The storefronts 

And wondering

Which ones

Will call

My attention

And make

Me want to

Stop in

A rare 

February day

That is pleasant

Enough 

To brush up

Against 

My bare skin

Wednesday

 In your presence 

I’m finding

That I must wait

To get the answers

I need and want

But the key is

The wait 

Is where

The answer

Is really at

Tell me something good

Lunch

 A bowl 

Of shrimp

And grits

At lunch

Still has

My mouth 

Salivating

And me 

Licking my lips

Bath

 Rainy and wet

Moisture dripping

From the sky

As the livestock

Crowd around

Awaiting an 

Unexpected bath

Chilly

Chili in the crockpot

Cornbread in the oven

A delicious meal

On a chilly 

Sunday

How is your Sunday?

Questions

 What are you reading?

What are you eating?

What are you listening to?

What are you watching?

Something good that happened this week?

Praise

 Coffee in hand 

Music beside me

Praising

As I contemplate

My next move

On this warm

Spring-like day

I recall days 

Of drinking fruit juice

And eating tuna salad

At the swimming pool

On Miami Beach

Speaking Spanish

With mi abuelita 

Bless

 Arching up my heels

Looking up

Arms reaching

For the heights

And extraordinary depths

With expectant gratitude

That You

Lord 

Continue to 

Bless and bestow

Goodness

And mercy 

On me

A humbled 

Lowly servant

Of King Jesus

Thank you for 

Giving me words

To write

Turning over

A new leaf

Uncertain of 

Where it may lead

Pray

 I’m grateful for the majority of you who speak life into me. The few that don’t even when meant well is not well received. I will continue to share, but it will be done more carefully. I’m taking proactive steps to protect my mental health. Peace is imperative for me. You can be strong yet sensitive. My desire to help others has come as at a cost. One, I’m not sure I can no longer incur. I need to pray for what exactly to share that does both. I’m hoping I can thread the needle. Please pray for me. Tell me something good today. 

Regine

Humbling

 I’m contemplating what to share. I probably will in due course, but right now, I’m sitting with it. Every day I accept even more parts of the story that God is showing me. I have to remember this:  It’s not for my glory, but for His. If I share now, my pride and pain will show. Each day is like shedding a layer of skin. A layer of that soft exterior that leads to a hard interior. I know what I fear, I’m just trying to extract it delicately. An event happened this weekend that only He could use for others, but for me too. There isn’t a manual for how deep rooted emotions can occur from something good happening. God didn’t bless me to be a multi-tasking human. Walking and chewing gum at the same time is as much as I can handle. A euphemism yes. A lie, no. I often wonder how many layers we humans have. It’s honestly exhausting.  There is work to do on my soul, mind and body. More than I can say. More than I want to admit. I’ve been a perpetual work in progress for years with no signs of abating. Learning how to be independent physically is mentally draining. It’s a task that needs to be done. It’s not linear. It has more zigs and zags than a maze. Please treasure your independence. It’s a pain to gain. When people can’t see your disability and you have to spell it out and prove it, it is humbling. All this to say, I’m healing, but there is still more to be done. I pray you all are well. 

Courage

 Equip me

Lord to 

Do uncomfortable 

Things

If it

Brings

Courage 

Sunday

 Sunday morning

Smile sunshine

It’s a blessing 

To be alive

Flowers

 Dreaming of dancing

In a field of flowers

My heart is set

On spring

In the middle

Of winter

Happy Friday

Stay warm

And safe

My friends

Questions

 What are you reading?

What are you baking?

What are you ordering?

What are you dreaming of?

What are you grateful for?

Are you playing Wordle?

Attitude

 Back to basics

What am I grateful for

Break it

All down

And start again

Because when

You wake up sour

You need to

Try again

What are you grateful for?

This blanket that is keeping me cozy and warm

Coffee

Good books

Raisin Bran

And Jesus

Who is always there

Reminding me

That bearing fruit

Starts with my attitude

Me

 The magic

Is within me

When I put

My pride

Away

And let 

The world

Be my oyster

Please pray for someone special to me. Thank you all. 

Pride

 Life is 

A journey 

In finding

Belonging

In community

I will say 

As I shared

The truth

Of Cerebral Palsy

Freedom is coming

The truth 

Does set you free

No matter

How much

It hurts your pride

Football

 Ball game baby

Pretzels and poupon

Drinking in

The warm glow

Of a win

On a cold

Sunday night

Snow angels

 Waiting on snow

Hopefully I can

Make snow angels

Tell me something good that happened to you this week. 

Any prayer requests?

Feet

 Rainy and wet

By cozy inside

With a warm heart

Beside the fire

To heat 

My cold feet

True

 Mirror mirrors

Back at me

Today

I smile

Really and fully

Knowing that 

Living is a privilege

Being grateful 

In truth

Not just

Something to say

Questions

 What are you reading?

What are you cooking/baking?

What are you ordering?

What are you watching?

What are you drinking?

Winter

 Wild 

Winter

Weekend

Slow day

Here to recover

Share something good.

Trust You

 I come to you today with tears. Tears of gratitude. That you delight in my joy, and comfort me in my pain. I’m having to be still and rest. I’m having to sit. Just rejoice in the blessings that come. They will come. I have to trust. Thank you for being constants in this journey. Every time I feel alone, I come here and read the words of encouragement you leave me. And I wonder what I’ve done to deserve such love. God is here. I know that. Thank you. Happy Friday. 

Questions

 What is making you smile?

What are you reading?

What are you ordering?

What’s for breakfast?

Favorite sweet or salty treat?

Doctor

 Achievements:  Going to the doctor. 

Went this morning to the doctor. Very nervous. Did I get the results I desired?  No. Is it something I can live with later on. Yes. I’m learning that growth is hard. It can hurt. Your pride will get demolished. Mine just did. It doesn’t feel good. Honestly, in the past few years, my fear has skyrocketed. My faith. I’m still searching. Mentally tired, but doing hard things. 

Tell me something good. 

Tight

 Hold on tight

Dear girl

Life is 

A wild ride

You ready

To lace 

Them up

And go

Pride

 Dancing to 

The song

In my head

That says

Don’t be afraid

It’ll be alright

You’ll survive

Despite your pride

Request

 Monday

We meet again

I greet you

With a smile

And a wave

Anticipating 

A great day. 

Any prayer requests?

Friday

 Friday

You’re here again

You’re here again

And I’m saying

Good morning

How are you all?

Caminar

 Each day

I’m returning 

To a person 

I recognize 

Covid

The blessing 

That still

Gives perspective 

I actually savored

God’s creation

Today

A walk

With Jesus

The dog

And so much

More

As I anticipate 

Mail

From penpals

Questions

 What are you ordering?

What are you reading?

What are you snacking on?

Shine and refine

 Fire 

Burn in me

Refine me

Into pure gold

That shines

For You

Winter

 Enjoying the sunshine

Before the cold

Snaps me back

To reality

Tonight 

Winter truly arrives 

In all her 

Glory and Splendor

Questions

 Last thing you read?

Favorite Christmas gift?

New Year’s goals?

Good morning

 Leave your favorite Bible verses or favorite words of encouragement. This year, I’m making a choice to think positive. Change my mindset. I hope you have a wonderful Sunday

Day one

 Lord

I come today

To declare 

I am Yours

In every way