I truly love and adore the change of seasons, and spring is one of my favorites! The grass
begins to turn a beautiful green, the jonquils, and tulips push their way up through the earth to
give us such beauty to enjoy! The redbirds, bluebirds and sparrows return to sing their merry
tunes, which adds much to a beautiful spring day! The crocus also arrives to show their beauty
in early spring as well.
It is such a joy to see the trees getting the first sprigs of greenery, and knowing soon, they
also will be aglow with sweeping green beauty to please the beholder. I am partial to the pink and
white azaleas, with their hearty blooms, which brightens up our front driveway and heralds
the arrival of spring with full outstanding beauty. Also, those pretty buttercups add a dash
of vivid color to our flower bed at the side entrance. When I behold the beauty of nature,
I just want to thank Our Heavenly Father, who created all things, as He just made them
perfect in His time.
Also, spring-time means we celebrate EASTER, the wondrous resurrection of our Lord and
Saviour, Jesus Christ! He did conquer death, and made a way for us to come to him direct,
to worship Him freely, plus he gave us the gift of The Holy Spirit, which is our comfort and
strength at all times! It is truly a majestic thing to know that The Holy Spirit dwells within
our earthly bodies, our helper during any time of day! We have much to Praise Him for, our
wonderful King, Our Master, Our Holy Guide throughout life. The Holy Bible teaches us that
God knows all about us, he created us in His own image, and he even knows the number of
hairs on our heads---such an awesome God! He is our Protector, Our Defender, Our Mighty
King, Lord of Lords---We should praise Him forever more.
So as Easter season approaches, this would be a good time to give thanks to The Holy One,
as he is Our God, and we know he is in all places at all times. If He knows when a tiny sparrow
falls to the ground, then he surely cares and knows what is happening in our personal lives!
HAPPY EASTER!! HAPPY SPRING!!
Wednesday, March 5, 2008
Saturday, February 16, 2008
February -- The "Lovers" Valentine Month!!
Hey, long time no post, but the reason is: I've been so busy making valentine's for ALL my favorite folks, (chuckle)! If you did not receive your valentine yet, it must be lost in the U.S. mail!! You know how overloaded the postmen are in this beautiful "heart month". Suffice it to
say, you already know you have won my heart, so do not fret about whether or not the valentine
made it to your special p.o. box! You are definitely counted among my favorite people!
This year, my sweet husband and I decided to celebrate Valentine's Day at one of our favorite restaurants close
to our home: The Italian Garden, with such delights, and heavenly treats for the palate, each time we visit! It is really a grand taste of Italian food, with those famous Italian paintings on the walls,
and service is outstanding, as the wait-staff must surely have been trained in Tuscanny, Italy! Tuscanny is definitely where ALL the chefs are trained for The Olive Garden restaurants, and that too is another
favorite restaurant of ours, no matter what "special occasion we happen to be celebrating"! Once we went there to celebrate "really living in these special times"!!
My husband and I decided to be "creative" in our valentine's to each other! We took pen in
hand, and worked very hard to create just the special prose, to let each other know just how
much we love and appreciate our "mate for life"! I think back on many other Valentine celebrations, and how we spent those special times! Sometimes, we celebrated at the grand
strand of Myrtle Beach, S.C.; other times in those beautiful and serene "Great Smoky Mountains" of N.C. bordering Tennessee. No matter where we happen to be on Valentine's Day, you can rest assured, we are thankful for our marriage, the stability of our mate; and the special
love that we share, come rain or shine.
When one of us feels sad, the other cheers us up! When
one if hurt, even bleeding, the other binds the wounds, gives us hugs and kisses to smooth the
way! If I burn the toast(once in a long while), he forgives me, and we just toast again. We've
been through many critical times in our marriage, but somehow we have learned that
each is not perfect, although try as we might--so we have learned to accept the "less than perfect", and be happy and thankful for what we have. We have become "soul mates", and
even sometimes, we know just what the other is planning to say!! Well, "Happy Valentine's to
all my friends out there! Enjoy your year, and remember to "Stop, and smell the roses"!!
say, you already know you have won my heart, so do not fret about whether or not the valentine
made it to your special p.o. box! You are definitely counted among my favorite people!
This year, my sweet husband and I decided to celebrate Valentine's Day at one of our favorite restaurants close
to our home: The Italian Garden, with such delights, and heavenly treats for the palate, each time we visit! It is really a grand taste of Italian food, with those famous Italian paintings on the walls,
and service is outstanding, as the wait-staff must surely have been trained in Tuscanny, Italy! Tuscanny is definitely where ALL the chefs are trained for The Olive Garden restaurants, and that too is another
favorite restaurant of ours, no matter what "special occasion we happen to be celebrating"! Once we went there to celebrate "really living in these special times"!!
My husband and I decided to be "creative" in our valentine's to each other! We took pen in
hand, and worked very hard to create just the special prose, to let each other know just how
much we love and appreciate our "mate for life"! I think back on many other Valentine celebrations, and how we spent those special times! Sometimes, we celebrated at the grand
strand of Myrtle Beach, S.C.; other times in those beautiful and serene "Great Smoky Mountains" of N.C. bordering Tennessee. No matter where we happen to be on Valentine's Day, you can rest assured, we are thankful for our marriage, the stability of our mate; and the special
love that we share, come rain or shine.
When one of us feels sad, the other cheers us up! When
one if hurt, even bleeding, the other binds the wounds, gives us hugs and kisses to smooth the
way! If I burn the toast(once in a long while), he forgives me, and we just toast again. We've
been through many critical times in our marriage, but somehow we have learned that
each is not perfect, although try as we might--so we have learned to accept the "less than perfect", and be happy and thankful for what we have. We have become "soul mates", and
even sometimes, we know just what the other is planning to say!! Well, "Happy Valentine's to
all my friends out there! Enjoy your year, and remember to "Stop, and smell the roses"!!
Saturday, January 19, 2008
Our Friends, the Spice of Life!
Here we are in this brand New Year, and just feeling so thankful for all our grand, and loving
friends, who always share so much in our lives, giving that "extra glow" that comes from caring
and sharing with others! I was thinking about how much love and adventure we have shared
through the years with our old and new friends, as they have given that extra spark and laughter, that just brightened up our days! What would this world be, without good and
faithful friends to share our lives with, and add zest and adventure to our days!
I recall one adventure in childhood with one of my dear friends, as we were playing --"riding our beloved bikes straight toward each other, until one of us yelled out "chicken"! We were both bull-headed and stubborn, each trying to outdo the other in all our games. All of a sudden we
crashed, hitting each other head-on, (as neither of us wanted to yell "chicken")--thus she went flying over her
handlebars, & I was thrown off to the side of the road! I didn't break anything, but my good
friend was laying on the ground, shaking so hard, & said; " I think I've broken my collar bone!! " "Oh no, I yelled, I am so sorry!" About that time, our neighbor came along & called the ambulance. She actually
did suffer a painful broken collar-bone, and I felt so very guilty, taking her flowers, and wishing
it had been me instead of her! She did forgive me, but we never played that "chicken" bike
game again! We are still friends to this day, and we spent many nights at each other's homes, as we were growing up, and playing more civilized board games, watching movies together, eating popcorn, and sharing so much together, as good friends do.
Often, I think about just how much our summer-time fun was enhanced by our enduring and
warm-hearted friendships! Going swimming, eating all that delicious picnic food, going to the
famous "county fair" together, cheering on our favorite ball-teams, going on trips with our
parents and friends---grand and glorious times to cherish with our friends and families!
I recall the words of the author, Henry James; "This was the perfect middle of a splendid summer afternoon, part of the afternoon had waned, but much of it was left, and what was left, was of the finest and rarest quality"! So many times during summer, we would take walks in the beautiful woods behind my dear grandfather's big victorian home, and just sit beside the mossy banks, which surrounding the seven springs, & small pond, and "dream our dreams" of our exciting future life! We named that place "Camelot", and hoped someday our
handsome prince would come riding into our lives, taking us away to live happily everafter!
We dearly loved watching those beautiful, inspiring sunsets, as our summer days waned, and
our families expected us home for supper around that time. AH-h-h-h, the beauty and
wonder of childhood friends, carries over into adulthood, thus the enduring friendships
continue to enhance our days, and enrich our lives.
So take some time to talk with your friends, or make new ones, as the old saying goes:
"Friends are the spice of life", so make many of them as you go along life's pathway, and
you will be happy as the days flow by! Enjoy your special friends, and stay happy!
friends, who always share so much in our lives, giving that "extra glow" that comes from caring
and sharing with others! I was thinking about how much love and adventure we have shared
through the years with our old and new friends, as they have given that extra spark and laughter, that just brightened up our days! What would this world be, without good and
faithful friends to share our lives with, and add zest and adventure to our days!
I recall one adventure in childhood with one of my dear friends, as we were playing --"riding our beloved bikes straight toward each other, until one of us yelled out "chicken"! We were both bull-headed and stubborn, each trying to outdo the other in all our games. All of a sudden we
crashed, hitting each other head-on, (as neither of us wanted to yell "chicken")--thus she went flying over her
handlebars, & I was thrown off to the side of the road! I didn't break anything, but my good
friend was laying on the ground, shaking so hard, & said; " I think I've broken my collar bone!! " "Oh no, I yelled, I am so sorry!" About that time, our neighbor came along & called the ambulance. She actually
did suffer a painful broken collar-bone, and I felt so very guilty, taking her flowers, and wishing
it had been me instead of her! She did forgive me, but we never played that "chicken" bike
game again! We are still friends to this day, and we spent many nights at each other's homes, as we were growing up, and playing more civilized board games, watching movies together, eating popcorn, and sharing so much together, as good friends do.
Often, I think about just how much our summer-time fun was enhanced by our enduring and
warm-hearted friendships! Going swimming, eating all that delicious picnic food, going to the
famous "county fair" together, cheering on our favorite ball-teams, going on trips with our
parents and friends---grand and glorious times to cherish with our friends and families!
I recall the words of the author, Henry James; "This was the perfect middle of a splendid summer afternoon, part of the afternoon had waned, but much of it was left, and what was left, was of the finest and rarest quality"! So many times during summer, we would take walks in the beautiful woods behind my dear grandfather's big victorian home, and just sit beside the mossy banks, which surrounding the seven springs, & small pond, and "dream our dreams" of our exciting future life! We named that place "Camelot", and hoped someday our
handsome prince would come riding into our lives, taking us away to live happily everafter!
We dearly loved watching those beautiful, inspiring sunsets, as our summer days waned, and
our families expected us home for supper around that time. AH-h-h-h, the beauty and
wonder of childhood friends, carries over into adulthood, thus the enduring friendships
continue to enhance our days, and enrich our lives.
So take some time to talk with your friends, or make new ones, as the old saying goes:
"Friends are the spice of life", so make many of them as you go along life's pathway, and
you will be happy as the days flow by! Enjoy your special friends, and stay happy!
Friday, January 4, 2008
Happy New Year -- New Beginnings
A brand new year, how wonderful it feels to have a chance to begin fresh and new in 2008!
Here's wishing each and every one of my faithful readers out there a "Glorious and Happy New Year", ----may you have good health, great wealth, and happiness galore in 2008!!
Christmas was wonderful, and the family members all came home to celebrate the birthday of Jesus around the Christmas Tree, and catch up on all the latest family news. We had a big surprise as our grandson, Jeff, even made it home all the way from Germany!! It was a delightful and happy time to see all the bright and beautiful faces of our loving family, together for Christmas
celebrations! The children with their excitement building up for the surprise gifts under the
tree, and then see their big smiles when they open their delightful gifts--what a wonder to behold! Now the precious moments will linger with us, and the happy times will be recalled
throughout this New Year.
We did have a big surprise in a small white envelope under the Christmas tree, and when I
opened it---there was a "Fun Pass for a Cruise to the Bahamas", beginning Dec. 29th. - Jan. 3rd. of 2008, for me and my husband! (What a big thrill --planned by my husband!) So we were
ready to pack our luggage, and head for Florida to board the Carnival Celebration Ship for
the Caribbean Cruise. It was just fabulous in every way, they made us feel like royalty,
waiting on us, meeting our every need. The food, entertainment and service were really
outstanding! The New Year's Eve party was superb, with grand food, & entertainment as well!
What a way to begin a New Year, cruising on the high seas---(some of the waves were over
16 ft. high,--- but our sea legs held out just fine)! We even visited the famous "Atlantis" at
Paradise Island, Nassau, Bahamas, and were thrilled with the fabulous hotel and lovely
grounds--truly a jewel there! We had fabulous sunsets every night and enjoyed our cruise
immensely---what a way to begin the brand New Year!
I also am very thankful that we do have a big family, to love and care for, as on the cruise we
met some folks that have lost most all their family members due to ill health, etc. I felt
sympathy for them, but they still managed to have a good celebration with their close friends.
We met some beautiful folks from various countries on the cruise, and learned a lot about the staff on board. They
were all so friendly, and did their jobs exceedingly well. Most of the staff were from Italy,
and had worked for many years for Carnival Ships. They were most attentive to our needs.
Well, I must sign off for now, still unpacking to do, and many other chores ahead, including
taking down the Christmas tree, & packing up all the many decorations for the season. That
is the part I dislike, putting away all the decor after the happy times---just pack it away
until next Christmas. So, remember to be good all year, and perhaps Santa will pay you
a visit on Christmas eve of 2008! Happy New Year to all and to all a Good-night!!
Here's wishing each and every one of my faithful readers out there a "Glorious and Happy New Year", ----may you have good health, great wealth, and happiness galore in 2008!!
Christmas was wonderful, and the family members all came home to celebrate the birthday of Jesus around the Christmas Tree, and catch up on all the latest family news. We had a big surprise as our grandson, Jeff, even made it home all the way from Germany!! It was a delightful and happy time to see all the bright and beautiful faces of our loving family, together for Christmas
celebrations! The children with their excitement building up for the surprise gifts under the
tree, and then see their big smiles when they open their delightful gifts--what a wonder to behold! Now the precious moments will linger with us, and the happy times will be recalled
throughout this New Year.
We did have a big surprise in a small white envelope under the Christmas tree, and when I
opened it---there was a "Fun Pass for a Cruise to the Bahamas", beginning Dec. 29th. - Jan. 3rd. of 2008, for me and my husband! (What a big thrill --planned by my husband!) So we were
ready to pack our luggage, and head for Florida to board the Carnival Celebration Ship for
the Caribbean Cruise. It was just fabulous in every way, they made us feel like royalty,
waiting on us, meeting our every need. The food, entertainment and service were really
outstanding! The New Year's Eve party was superb, with grand food, & entertainment as well!
What a way to begin a New Year, cruising on the high seas---(some of the waves were over
16 ft. high,--- but our sea legs held out just fine)! We even visited the famous "Atlantis" at
Paradise Island, Nassau, Bahamas, and were thrilled with the fabulous hotel and lovely
grounds--truly a jewel there! We had fabulous sunsets every night and enjoyed our cruise
immensely---what a way to begin the brand New Year!
I also am very thankful that we do have a big family, to love and care for, as on the cruise we
met some folks that have lost most all their family members due to ill health, etc. I felt
sympathy for them, but they still managed to have a good celebration with their close friends.
We met some beautiful folks from various countries on the cruise, and learned a lot about the staff on board. They
were all so friendly, and did their jobs exceedingly well. Most of the staff were from Italy,
and had worked for many years for Carnival Ships. They were most attentive to our needs.
Well, I must sign off for now, still unpacking to do, and many other chores ahead, including
taking down the Christmas tree, & packing up all the many decorations for the season. That
is the part I dislike, putting away all the decor after the happy times---just pack it away
until next Christmas. So, remember to be good all year, and perhaps Santa will pay you
a visit on Christmas eve of 2008! Happy New Year to all and to all a Good-night!!
Thursday, December 13, 2007
Feelings of Christmas: Joy, Hope and Peace
This is truly the most wonderful time of the year, re-newing our thankfulness for the true reason we do celebrate Christmas, JESUS was born on this day, and gave us eternal hope, joy
and true peace to hold in our hearts forever, and some fine day, we will be able to rejoice in
that glorious place prepared for us called "heaven"!
Our hearts are over-flowing with the "good news," that changed men's hearts forever, making a direct pathway to Our Heavenly Father, who bestows wonderful blessings on his
children, who love and adore Him, and believe He is the "chosen one", the King of Kings, our
Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Our mighty Saviour of the world---JESUS, YOU ARE HIM!!
Often times, I've heard folks say that Christmas is a chore with all the things to be done, all
the gifts to be wrapped, all the cards to be mailed, and all the baking to be accomplished--but
wait just a minute---Let Jesus fill your heart, mind and soul with the "Good Tidings of Great Joy"---he will give us the peace, love and joy and hope that each human soul desires! We must
make time for Jesus, and he will give us the strength and happiness we need, to truly fill our
hearts with the joys and blessings of Christmas time.
I love to have our family around us at Christmas, and one of the true delights is seeing the
children's bright & happy faces light up, when they open their surprise gifts around the tree!
All the noise, and excitement of a big, happy family must truly be a treasure to recall through
the entire year. To be able to enjoy our big family, and all the blessings God has sent our way
through our four children, and all the grand-children, and one great-grandson, is truly a joy
close akin to a heavenly experience. I do thank God for each and every one of our wonderful
blessings of "family"! That just enhances the spirit of Christmas, when you can be with and enjoy the company and grand fellowship of those you hold so close to your heart!
I also love the Christmas carols, the cantatas, the plays depicting the birth of Jesus, and
all the shepherds, wisemen and angels attending His glorious and miraculous birth! On one
year, two of our grand-children were dressed in robes and headgear, and another played the
part of a sheep, with another boy dressed as a sheep beside him---and believe it or not the
sheep (boys) began pushing each other, and one fell off the stage, bringing his wooly white rug
with him!! Of course, the folks laughed heartily at this, but in real life---things like that happen!
They just made the best of it, and climbed back up on the stage and continued the play, which
was one of my favorites of the season.
So--as you prepare to enjoy your Christmas season, take time to pause and be so very thankful for THE GREATEST GIFT EVER GIVEN --- JESUS!! He is the true and valid reason
we celebrate this event called Christmas, and we must never, never forget, and we must continue to teach our children, and our grandchildren----Christmas is the birthday of Jesus!! Hallelujah, what a Saviour!!
WISHING YOU A VERY MERRY CHRISTMAS AND A TRULY HAPPY NEW YEAR!!
a true pathway to the heavenly throne of God
and true peace to hold in our hearts forever, and some fine day, we will be able to rejoice in
that glorious place prepared for us called "heaven"!
Our hearts are over-flowing with the "good news," that changed men's hearts forever, making a direct pathway to Our Heavenly Father, who bestows wonderful blessings on his
children, who love and adore Him, and believe He is the "chosen one", the King of Kings, our
Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Our mighty Saviour of the world---JESUS, YOU ARE HIM!!
Often times, I've heard folks say that Christmas is a chore with all the things to be done, all
the gifts to be wrapped, all the cards to be mailed, and all the baking to be accomplished--but
wait just a minute---Let Jesus fill your heart, mind and soul with the "Good Tidings of Great Joy"---he will give us the peace, love and joy and hope that each human soul desires! We must
make time for Jesus, and he will give us the strength and happiness we need, to truly fill our
hearts with the joys and blessings of Christmas time.
I love to have our family around us at Christmas, and one of the true delights is seeing the
children's bright & happy faces light up, when they open their surprise gifts around the tree!
All the noise, and excitement of a big, happy family must truly be a treasure to recall through
the entire year. To be able to enjoy our big family, and all the blessings God has sent our way
through our four children, and all the grand-children, and one great-grandson, is truly a joy
close akin to a heavenly experience. I do thank God for each and every one of our wonderful
blessings of "family"! That just enhances the spirit of Christmas, when you can be with and enjoy the company and grand fellowship of those you hold so close to your heart!
I also love the Christmas carols, the cantatas, the plays depicting the birth of Jesus, and
all the shepherds, wisemen and angels attending His glorious and miraculous birth! On one
year, two of our grand-children were dressed in robes and headgear, and another played the
part of a sheep, with another boy dressed as a sheep beside him---and believe it or not the
sheep (boys) began pushing each other, and one fell off the stage, bringing his wooly white rug
with him!! Of course, the folks laughed heartily at this, but in real life---things like that happen!
They just made the best of it, and climbed back up on the stage and continued the play, which
was one of my favorites of the season.
So--as you prepare to enjoy your Christmas season, take time to pause and be so very thankful for THE GREATEST GIFT EVER GIVEN --- JESUS!! He is the true and valid reason
we celebrate this event called Christmas, and we must never, never forget, and we must continue to teach our children, and our grandchildren----Christmas is the birthday of Jesus!! Hallelujah, what a Saviour!!
WISHING YOU A VERY MERRY CHRISTMAS AND A TRULY HAPPY NEW YEAR!!
a true pathway to the heavenly throne of God
Tuesday, December 4, 2007
The Polar Express in Bryson City--WOW!!
We were all excited to finally be at the train station in Bryson City, NC, and and ready to experience our big adventure on the train with our son and his family, including 3 children under age eight years old! We had hurriedly parked the family van nearby, and then called for our reserved train tickets at the station window, and were told to get in a certain line to meet our conductor. The children could hardly contain their vivid excitement, as many families were all around us, & lots of the little children were dressed in their colorful pajamas, with their robes tied around them, waiting for the big adventure on "The Polar Express"! There was the rumor that hot cocoa and Christmas treats would be served on the train, and a possible visit from Santa Claus himself!! Finally, at long last--our time came up to board the train, and we excitedly found our assigned seats in the coach car, and we watched all the other families get on board, with their kids in their colorful pajamas & robes, scrambling around to get their special seats as well. Then the call finally came from the conductor,
"All aboard for the Polar Express"! We began chugging out of the station at last, and the excitement was in process!
There we were, seeing all the beautiful sights from our window seat, the
beautiful storefronts all decorated for the holiday season, the thousands of beautiful Christmas trees with their minature lights blinking off and on, and golden glowing candles in every window of each home we passed, as well as
the glorious decorations in the yards, mostly all were religious scenes. One
church was absolutely heavenly with their outstanding decorations, and the church itself was all aglow with candles and greenery. They definitely believed in the hanging of the greens for this special time of the year, when we celebrate the glorious birthday of Jesus--Our King!
We were chugging along, passing the beautiful river, and over the trussels, back into those beautiful Smoky Mountains! It was such a fun time for everyone, and then our two chefs on the train, came down the aisle with their carts, giving out delicious hot cocoa and other mouth-watering goodies to
please the palate! We were having the time of our lives, loving every minute of the beautiful sights and sounds of the train whistle, and the choo-ka-lacka, choo-ka-lacka sounds, that we were getting used to on this long
and exciting ride through the grand Smokies!
All of a sudden, the train stopped at another station, and the conductor announced that we had a special visitor that wanted to board the train, and it was none other than Santa Claus! The children and adults as well, all shouted and were so gleeful, and sure enough, there was Santa, with gifts to hand out to
all the children! He also gave them a small jingle bell to remind them that they were indeed riding on "the Polar Express" and did get to visit Santa Claus.
I did get a big hug from Santa too, and according to him, I will indeed get
what I want for Christmas! (chuckle) Everyone had a blast talking and laughing with Santa, and he finally departed the train with "Merry Christmas
to all and to all a good-night-- Ho-Ho-Ho------Merry Christmas to You-All!"
We then followed the lead of our famous chefs on the train, and sang as loud as we could all those favorite Christmas songs such as: Rudolph, the Red Nose
Reindeer, Jingle Bells, Here Comes Santa Claus, Silver Bells, I'm Dreaming of a White Christmas, and Jingle-Bell Rock, just to mention a few! It was indeed a grand and glorious time on this special "Polar Express"--- so if you are inclined
to take a ride on this special fun train, be sure to order your tickets very early,
as they book up very fast. Here's wishing you happy traveling on the famous
Smoky Mountain Polar Express from Bryson City! When we arrived back at the train station in Bryson City, everyone was invited to visit the train museum just over the tracks, where about 25 special minature trains were riding the rails, and you could choose your favorites and mark their schedules on your special card they give you as you enter the museum. The children loved this playland so very much, as well as the adults, and at the rest area inside, they were playing the movie for free, called none other than "Polar Express"! That place was packed with all the train riders, as well as the casual visitors that just happened on the scene!
After that, we enjoyed a delicious down-home dinner at The Famous Jarrett House in nearby Dillsboro--what a big treat that was, (it's family style eating, and they re-fill your bowls at the table as often as necesary! ) We were stuffed when we finally had our fill of those delicious treats at the Jarrett House!
Wow--what a fabulous weekend, and we also loved the beautiful cabin located at Mountain Top---(yes, literally at the very tip top of a mountain near
Bryson City, )which included a huge deck and heated jacuzzi, which we used
for relaxation every night! Here's wishing you grand adventures in the famous Smoky Mountains!! You will definitely cherish the glorious memories!
"All aboard for the Polar Express"! We began chugging out of the station at last, and the excitement was in process!
There we were, seeing all the beautiful sights from our window seat, the
beautiful storefronts all decorated for the holiday season, the thousands of beautiful Christmas trees with their minature lights blinking off and on, and golden glowing candles in every window of each home we passed, as well as
the glorious decorations in the yards, mostly all were religious scenes. One
church was absolutely heavenly with their outstanding decorations, and the church itself was all aglow with candles and greenery. They definitely believed in the hanging of the greens for this special time of the year, when we celebrate the glorious birthday of Jesus--Our King!
We were chugging along, passing the beautiful river, and over the trussels, back into those beautiful Smoky Mountains! It was such a fun time for everyone, and then our two chefs on the train, came down the aisle with their carts, giving out delicious hot cocoa and other mouth-watering goodies to
please the palate! We were having the time of our lives, loving every minute of the beautiful sights and sounds of the train whistle, and the choo-ka-lacka, choo-ka-lacka sounds, that we were getting used to on this long
and exciting ride through the grand Smokies!
All of a sudden, the train stopped at another station, and the conductor announced that we had a special visitor that wanted to board the train, and it was none other than Santa Claus! The children and adults as well, all shouted and were so gleeful, and sure enough, there was Santa, with gifts to hand out to
all the children! He also gave them a small jingle bell to remind them that they were indeed riding on "the Polar Express" and did get to visit Santa Claus.
I did get a big hug from Santa too, and according to him, I will indeed get
what I want for Christmas! (chuckle) Everyone had a blast talking and laughing with Santa, and he finally departed the train with "Merry Christmas
to all and to all a good-night-- Ho-Ho-Ho------Merry Christmas to You-All!"
We then followed the lead of our famous chefs on the train, and sang as loud as we could all those favorite Christmas songs such as: Rudolph, the Red Nose
Reindeer, Jingle Bells, Here Comes Santa Claus, Silver Bells, I'm Dreaming of a White Christmas, and Jingle-Bell Rock, just to mention a few! It was indeed a grand and glorious time on this special "Polar Express"--- so if you are inclined
to take a ride on this special fun train, be sure to order your tickets very early,
as they book up very fast. Here's wishing you happy traveling on the famous
Smoky Mountain Polar Express from Bryson City! When we arrived back at the train station in Bryson City, everyone was invited to visit the train museum just over the tracks, where about 25 special minature trains were riding the rails, and you could choose your favorites and mark their schedules on your special card they give you as you enter the museum. The children loved this playland so very much, as well as the adults, and at the rest area inside, they were playing the movie for free, called none other than "Polar Express"! That place was packed with all the train riders, as well as the casual visitors that just happened on the scene!
After that, we enjoyed a delicious down-home dinner at The Famous Jarrett House in nearby Dillsboro--what a big treat that was, (it's family style eating, and they re-fill your bowls at the table as often as necesary! ) We were stuffed when we finally had our fill of those delicious treats at the Jarrett House!
Wow--what a fabulous weekend, and we also loved the beautiful cabin located at Mountain Top---(yes, literally at the very tip top of a mountain near
Bryson City, )which included a huge deck and heated jacuzzi, which we used
for relaxation every night! Here's wishing you grand adventures in the famous Smoky Mountains!! You will definitely cherish the glorious memories!
Tuesday, November 27, 2007
Christmas Is Jesus!!
Here we are-- in the truly glorious Christmas season already, and I have hung some beautiful
wreaths with their bright red bows on the outside of our home; but I still have the tree to put up and decorate, all the candles to place in the windows, the gifts to wrap (even though I have already purchased and wrapped some); and the baking to do for the "big family Christmas", and
oh yes, the decoration of the lamp post as well! I must get myself in gear for all these festivities
coming up, and continue practicing the beautiful Cantata called "Christmas Is Jesus"-- a truly
beautiful and splendid arrangement of what Christmas is all about, and how we should really
celebrate the birth of Jesus, our blessed Saviour!!
When our Minister of Music, Ms. Sparti, brought the music to the choir's vivid attention, we
all fell in love with this beautiful cantata, and have been practicing it weekly for some time now,
and will present it on Sunday, December 23, 2007, to share the Christmas story in splendid
song with many others, and impart a blessing to their hearts and souls, about the true meaning of Christmas!
The writer of this special musical, intends to make sure no one misses the true meaning
of Christmas, and how we should never, ever forget what Christmas truly means--Jesus came into this world to show us how to live, how to depend on Our Heavenly Father, and how to have
wonderful, deep, and meaningful fellowship with the Holy One, and many others
in this world. His purpose was to save mankind from our sins, and he died on the cross to
save our very souls, and created a direct way to believe in the Holy Trinity: God --the Father,
God-- the Son, and God-- The Holy Spirit, thus if we believe in Him, confess our sins, ask for forgiveness and turn from our
wicked ways, asking him to live in our hearts forever, we will have direct communication through the Holy Spirit to Our Heavenly Father! He allows the Holy Spirit to enter our
being, giving us comfort and strength as we need it, and intercedes on our behalf -- in our fervent
prayers. He has provided the way, so we would not perish--but have beautiful, eternal life,
and live with Him forever in that glorious, wonderful place called "Heaven" someday, when
this life on earth is over, according to His time-plan for each of us! As we sing this glorious
Christmas Cantata, it reminds me over and over, how much we owe to Our Heavenly Father,
who gives us the very breath we breathe, day by day, and how much he loves us--even when
we stumble and make mistakes, HE is always there to pick us up, brush us off, and set us once
again on the path he has planned for each one of us, what a glorious and marvelous God we
serve and adore! In this special cantata, there is one part that is about God's presence at
Christmas, His peace and comfort in the midst of this world in which we live--such a busy,
and sometimes turbulent and dangerous place--but HIS true peace and comfort is there for
us--we just need to ask for it through the Holy Spirit! In the music, the words convey this
thought vividly, ----"Of all the gifts I may receive, there is only one I really need, and It's
Your Presence, Your Presence for Christmas!" Halleulujah---JESUS is the One, the Way, the
Truth, and The Light---Let's Honor Him through our singing, our giving, our fellowship, and
through our daily living!! Yes, friends, "JESUS IS CHRISTMAS"!
Hope you will have a very special and glorious Christmas, as we truly celebrate the special
birthday of Jesus! Isn't the love of Jesus something wonderful!! Christmas Is JESUS!!
Cantata will be presented on Sunday morning, Dec. 23, 2007; 11:00 A.M., Mt. Pleasant Baptist Church of Cleveland County, located at
1301 Mt. Pleasant Church Road, Mooresboro, N.C. (located near Boiling Springs, N.C. just off
Cliffside Road) It would be a pleasure to see you there for the cantata: " Christmas Is Jesus"!!
wreaths with their bright red bows on the outside of our home; but I still have the tree to put up and decorate, all the candles to place in the windows, the gifts to wrap (even though I have already purchased and wrapped some); and the baking to do for the "big family Christmas", and
oh yes, the decoration of the lamp post as well! I must get myself in gear for all these festivities
coming up, and continue practicing the beautiful Cantata called "Christmas Is Jesus"-- a truly
beautiful and splendid arrangement of what Christmas is all about, and how we should really
celebrate the birth of Jesus, our blessed Saviour!!
When our Minister of Music, Ms. Sparti, brought the music to the choir's vivid attention, we
all fell in love with this beautiful cantata, and have been practicing it weekly for some time now,
and will present it on Sunday, December 23, 2007, to share the Christmas story in splendid
song with many others, and impart a blessing to their hearts and souls, about the true meaning of Christmas!
The writer of this special musical, intends to make sure no one misses the true meaning
of Christmas, and how we should never, ever forget what Christmas truly means--Jesus came into this world to show us how to live, how to depend on Our Heavenly Father, and how to have
wonderful, deep, and meaningful fellowship with the Holy One, and many others
in this world. His purpose was to save mankind from our sins, and he died on the cross to
save our very souls, and created a direct way to believe in the Holy Trinity: God --the Father,
God-- the Son, and God-- The Holy Spirit, thus if we believe in Him, confess our sins, ask for forgiveness and turn from our
wicked ways, asking him to live in our hearts forever, we will have direct communication through the Holy Spirit to Our Heavenly Father! He allows the Holy Spirit to enter our
being, giving us comfort and strength as we need it, and intercedes on our behalf -- in our fervent
prayers. He has provided the way, so we would not perish--but have beautiful, eternal life,
and live with Him forever in that glorious, wonderful place called "Heaven" someday, when
this life on earth is over, according to His time-plan for each of us! As we sing this glorious
Christmas Cantata, it reminds me over and over, how much we owe to Our Heavenly Father,
who gives us the very breath we breathe, day by day, and how much he loves us--even when
we stumble and make mistakes, HE is always there to pick us up, brush us off, and set us once
again on the path he has planned for each one of us, what a glorious and marvelous God we
serve and adore! In this special cantata, there is one part that is about God's presence at
Christmas, His peace and comfort in the midst of this world in which we live--such a busy,
and sometimes turbulent and dangerous place--but HIS true peace and comfort is there for
us--we just need to ask for it through the Holy Spirit! In the music, the words convey this
thought vividly, ----"Of all the gifts I may receive, there is only one I really need, and It's
Your Presence, Your Presence for Christmas!" Halleulujah---JESUS is the One, the Way, the
Truth, and The Light---Let's Honor Him through our singing, our giving, our fellowship, and
through our daily living!! Yes, friends, "JESUS IS CHRISTMAS"!
Hope you will have a very special and glorious Christmas, as we truly celebrate the special
birthday of Jesus! Isn't the love of Jesus something wonderful!! Christmas Is JESUS!!
Cantata will be presented on Sunday morning, Dec. 23, 2007; 11:00 A.M., Mt. Pleasant Baptist Church of Cleveland County, located at
1301 Mt. Pleasant Church Road, Mooresboro, N.C. (located near Boiling Springs, N.C. just off
Cliffside Road) It would be a pleasure to see you there for the cantata: " Christmas Is Jesus"!!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)