The Good Idea

The Good Idea/Do you have fear?

2009-11-19T05:26:00.000-08:00

Good morning everyone….

It is getting close to that time again….I see dozens of frozen birds just waiting to become the biggest meal of the year. Are you getting ready? I’m still between that place of “is it at your house or ours?” Seeing how close we are; this decision should be made real soon.

Today I am going to jump right in there and talk about fear. How it stops us, overwhelms us, paralyzes us and makes us “Babies!!!”

I will admit right here and now that I use to be one of the “Babies.” I use to hide under my kitchen table whenever that (fradie-cat) feeling hit. I use to plug my ears and say, “na, na, na, na.” HA HA too funny – but true!

Oh my gosh, fear does paralyze doesn’t it? What an emotion to be trapped by. My goodness if you suffer from this then let me encourage you to believe that you do not have to live this way.

I’ve read up on some “fear” issues and this is what I found that helped me….from Nelson Mandela, “The brave man (or woman) is not he who does not feel afraid, but he who conquers that fear.” YES!!!

Then we have 2 Timothy 1:7 (New King James Version)
For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind. YES!!! Again

These two quotes can fill the reader up with strength. We can and will get through anything when we are thinking the right thoughts and that will come from knowing the truth.

I’m convinced that I am to live a strong life and be not afraid. When we are afraid we are “good for nothin’” as my Mama would have said.

So be strong today, be bold today and be one who conquers your fears. Herein lays real strength! This could make all the difference. Nancy (www.justaskbooks.com)

The Good Idea/Together is better

2009-11-16T07:42:00.000-08:00

Good morning my friends….

Well there was much celebration and joy at my home last night….the Colts won by 1 point.

My Son Matthew was on the edge of his seat. However at times he was saying…"Oh it is not going to happen…the Colt’s are not going to pull this off!" Of course I said… (You can imagine) “Matthew, do not dog on your team…do not speak this over them…they will win!” 35 to 34….YIPPEE!!! He still had a smile on his face when he woke up this morning. Hallelujah!!!

Now on to other things…while doing some reading this weekend I ran across a quote from Martin Luther King, “We must learn to live together as brothers or perish together as fools.” WOW!!! This is a powerful message to all who will listen.

You know when we raise one another up; many go up, when we pull one down; many get pulled down.

I heard a story not so long ago where a little girl was made fun of at school. She hurt and cried over this. She asked “why?” She continued on her way and looked forward to returning home each and every day.

Then – Then – (the hush of a word) things changed. She found out why some of the girls made fun of her. This little girl is different. She exudes joy and happiness. She loves and she shows it. She speaks truth and the world, even children, are not ready to hear this.

It started with one girl who started talking…who started poking fun….then another one joined in…then another one…before you know it this little girl was out numbered. But – the happy ending….she hung in there and now the tide is turning.

You see what one girl did? She was faced with something she did not understand so she made fun of this other girl. She brought others with her and they did not even know why.

Were these girls living like sisters? No, they were going down a road together where there was no exit. More and more were falling down because they did not know how to embrace and accept each other.

You may say, “Well these are just kids” – can we condone this? No. We all have to begin somewhere. We all must see that together we can make it – divided we will fall. We are brothers and sisters under one Father and He calls us to be for each other not against each other.

I’ve seen this little girl and she now wears a smile because one other girl spoke up and said, “I’m not going to listen to that other stuff….I like you…we can trust you.”

If you wait around long enough, if you do not run but remain the person who God says you are – then the light will begin to shine. Oh, I can see the difference! Nancy (www.justaskbooks.com)

The Good Idea/Confirmation

2009-11-13T05:39:00.000-08:00

Good morning to all….

This is wonderful. Don’t you love it when a confirmation happens? When the realities of your thoughts are confirmed?

I so enjoy and marvel at how this happens. This has to do with yesterday’s Good Idea. “We don’t take from…” we share with each other….remember? How no one is an island and we support each other…we have abundance when we share…and so on….well here’s the confirmation….

As I am preparing to assist in storytelling for Church this Sunday I am reading my script and guess what the virtue is: “COOPERATION” Working together…yes, this is great.

Memory Verse: “Two people are better than one. They can help each other in everything they do.” Ecclesiastes 4:9 (NlrV)

Here is the big line which made me yell “Hallelujah” – “Cooperation is not just a “Good Idea” (seriously it says that!) It’s a “God Idea.” Hallelujah again! I’m tellin’ ya’ good stuff!

Believe it or not this type of confirmation keeps me going. I not only get to share with you but I get to present to the children. We are never too young or too old to get it right!

Enjoy your beautiful weekend – sharing with someone. Oh how easy it is to make a difference. Nancy (www.justaskbooks.com)

The Good Idea/We don't take from....

2009-11-12T07:47:00.001-08:00

Good morning my friends….. (Happy Birthday Sis!!!)

I’ve been looking forward to sharing with you today…..so here goes….

While I was talking with a friend of mine yesterday; a thought came to me about how we give to others.

How what we say may be exactly what someone else needs to hear. What a confirmation when you find out that you have just helped another person by relating “your story.”

This is what came to me…"We do not take from each other; we give to each other."

Now think about this - let’s say we approach situations like this… it’s in the giving to each other not the taking from another that changes the whole atmosphere. All of a sudden you feel like you are wearing different shoes. Your thoughts have just gone from being robbed to openly giving.

I’m sure that you have all been in the situation where getting some information from someone has taken an act of Congress. You say to yourself..."what’s the big deal?" "Why is this person holding onto this like they own it?" A power play perhaps???

Sharing needed information does nothing more than move us all along. It is necessary to further our development. I come from a mindset of abundance – there is enough to go around. Just open your arms and share. (Ahhh – maybe this is where the abundance comes from – sharing.)

Let us remember that we were not created to live on an island – we need to interact and share what God has so graciously given to us. Nothing belongs to us…we are just using it to help others.

Probably once we accept this we will be more inclined to give rather than grab. So I’m giving out warm embraces and encouragement today. Go out and do what we were created to do…..it’s to make the difference. Nancy (www.justaskbooks.com)

The Good Idea/A small gesture

2009-11-11T06:49:00.000-08:00

Good morning to all…..

What a day already. We have started early and I feel that there is so much more to this day. Yes I’m in a day of expectancy and I can’t wait.

Today I want to share with you a little thing….a small gesture that had a huge reward. This is a random act of kindness.

I’m sharing this with you not to build myself up but to say that there is not an act so small that it won’t get noticed…or it won’t make you feel really good.

I was given the privilege yesterday to give away a Danish ring coffee cake. See, no big deal, right? But it proved to be an awesome moment for me.

While at the store, picking up a few things for dinner, I saw one of my son’s favorite things…a cinnamon Danish ring coffee cake. I said to myself – he will be so happy and surprised. So I grabbed it and off I went.

While running down another isle – I crossed paths with an older gentleman who smiled brightly and I just wanted to hug him. He had on a hat, sports coat and dress pants. He was either going somewhere, just came from somewhere or maybe just maybe this is his daily dress.

We both said hello and he saw the Danish ring and said, “Oh those are wonderful, I might have to come home with you.” I laughed and said, “My son will probably fight you for it.” Then we parted ways.

So…..as I was paying…that still small voice said to me…”Find the man and give him the coffee cake.” At first we say to ourselves…Huh??? Then I hear again, “Find the man and give him the coffee cake.” I say OK and proceed to find the man….no surprise he was close by so I was on my way.

I handed the gift to him and at first he said, “No-no” and I said “yes, yes” I will get another one. Then he said, “I am going to have to come home with you.”

The message in all of this …..that small incident made me cry. I was so blessed by this by seeing his happiness by feeling his joy that I was overcome with joy myself.

It doesn’t take much to make someone’s day – it really doesn’t take much to make our day! It’s in the small things….just reach out and when you are asked to do something be obedient because the reward of joy is powerful!

Enjoy all that you do for someone today – you may really make a difference in their lives and yours too. Nancy (www.justaskbooks.com)

The Good Idea/Are you prepared?

2009-11-09T08:36:00.001-08:00

Good morning my friends….

Today I’m jumping right in with a question? Are you prepared? You may ask, prepared for what? I answer, for your day?

I spoke with my oldest daughter this morning and she is taking an exam today which she had to prepare for. She spoke of the importance of this exam and how she had been preparing for it all last week. Still she questioned herself…"did I study enough?"

I believe that there are times when we just question ourselves because we want so much to do it right. We put undo pressure upon ourselves taxing our minds with worry about how much time we have given to preparation.

If Sarah focused on her material, if she gives it all that she has, if she believes that God wants only the best for her and that He will equip her, if she believes in herself and her gifted abilities then she “did study enough.”
To be prepared means: (on-dictionary)
equipped or prepared with necessary intellectual resources; "graduates well equipped to handle such problems"; "equipped to be a scholar"

Whether we are taking a school type test or just maneuvering through our day; we must be prepared. You know the old saying – “Life happens.” Well, yes it does and are you ready for it?

What are we doing to insure that each day counts? That each day we are more ready than the last to face what may come before us?

“Stuff” happens to all of us. Some of it we are prepared for and some of it we are not. Expect the unexpected and you can live a more restful and peaceful life. How do I know this?

1 Peter 3:15 (NIV) But in your hearts set apart Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect,

You get there by “JustAsking.” You will make such a difference when you are prepared. Nancy (www.justaskbooks.com)

The Good Idea/Paradox

2009-11-06T06:30:00.000-08:00

Good morning everyone….

OK here we go again…a word that keeps coming up and a word that I cannot ignore. The word is paradox.

Let’s define paradox: a statement that contradicts itself; "’I always lie' is a paradox because if it is true it must be false.” (On line dictionary)

Here is a quote from Mother Teresa:
‘I have found the paradox that if I love until it hurts, then there is no hurt, but only more love.’

Want more? How about a Bible quote:
James 1:2 (New International Version) Trials and Temptations 2Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds,

This way of thinking may seem quite alien to many of us. “Being joyful in times of trials and temptations.” “Loving until it hurts.” How can this be?

I believe that this has something to do with rising above our circumstances. Being joyful for what we have and what we are being tested for. There is a bigger picture here….are you seeing it?

We do not have to be joyful about the trial but we must carry joy knowing that there is purpose in all that happens.

Some ask me “what is the purpose?” I do not have that answer but I do know that the answer is specific to the person. When we “JustAsk” for help, direction, wisdom, peace, faith, insight, understanding the answers do come.

When you believe - when you take you out of the mix then the answers come quickly. Not all things happen TO you; some things happen FOR you.

When you hear “love until it hurts” or “be joyful in the face of trials” consider that it might be a learning experience. It could be something that has been pre-arranged for you. Someone loves you so much that they will test you so that you can discover where your heart lies.

There is purpose to your life – give until you can give no more! Make a difference today. Nancy (www.justaskbooks.com)

The Good Idea/Stir up your inner joy

2009-11-05T16:25:00.000-08:00

Good morning my friends…..

How many people do you know who always seem “on?” These individuals are motivated, excited and ready to move.

We look at them in awe and wonder where their energy and stamina come from. We even ask – “aren’t they ever down?”

The answer to that is yes they get down from time to time but these individuals know how to build themselves back up.

Do you know how they do it? They do it through joy. They have joy that is true and everlasting. No phoniness only depth of real joy. To get motivated doesn’t take much.

All of us need motivation. All of us need to activate our inner joy to produce outward happiness. A reflection of this is the sparkle in our eyes.

A wonderful mentor of mine says “we must stir up what is inside of us.”

Most of us do not live in a rainbow 24/7…so we must exercise our ability to shine with joy each and every day. Once that true joy is there – the effort to express joy... is effortless. You are just “joyful” and it shows.

Some people dislike being around “joyful” people. I’m not sure why. At times I think people perceive me as being “cold” but nothing could be further from the truth. I see things differently than most people.

I see hope and promises. I do not run to the negative and that boggles another person’s mind. Some people just want you to be miserable with them. I won’t do that.

This starts with your state of mind and how you perceive things to be. What do you believe? What and who do you trust in? Who are you hanging around with?

If you want to be up and motivated then you have to have joy down deep in your heart. You will then be able to pick yourself up no matter what and move forward.

When others see your joy – you might get them to move forward with you. What a difference that will make. REALLY enjoy all that you do today. Nancy (www.justaskbooks.com)

The Good Idea/Respect/love

2009-11-04T07:44:00.001-08:00

Good morning to all….

Have any of you been chasing leaves recently? I have been chasing a few down the street and around the bend. When will this stop?

In the beginning we looked at the changing leaves and said, “oh how lovely.” Now we look at the changing leaves and say, “a few more strong winds and you will be down.” “Where did I leave that rake?” (Who invented that street/leaf sweeper thing? It is great!)

Today I want to share with you an interview which I saw on Deborah Norville. Deborah is the host of the television show “The Inside Edition.”

Deborah has written a book called The Power of Respect. She was recently interviewed on The 700 Club. She said that she wanted to share with readers what she has found to be a huge problem in our society. That problem is called “Lack of Respect.”

She sites incidences from the school children to adulthood and beyond…. “Lack of Respect” I have to agree with her.
Let’s look to…Galatians 5:14 (New King James Version)
14 For all the law is fulfilled in one word, even in this: “You shall love your neighbor as yourself”

Love and respect I do believe go hand in hand. So if we do not love/respect our neighbor then we do not love/respect ourselves. I think this is what this verse says. Powerful, isn’t it?

Respect starts at home. Respect is taught at home. From little all the way up. How many children do you know who do not even acknowledge an adult. I know plenty and when this dis-respect happens the sting is felt.

When did we stop telling our children to say hello to adults? When did we stop telling our children to address adults as Mr., Mrs., or Ms?

Children go out the door without the proper teaching so why would we expect them to treat each other differently? We must be taught to respect each other not only for who we are but for who we represent.

You may ask who do we represent…”JustAsk.” Let’s start by respecting ourselves then we can move on to respecting others. We are worthy of respect as long as we give respect.

Be the example and not the excuse. We give respect to get respect. We give love to get love. We do these things because they will make the difference. Nancy (www.justaskbooks.com)

The Good Idea/It's not fair

2009-11-03T05:49:00.000-08:00

Good morning my friends….

Just the other day our youngest was on the computer typing up a report when all of a sudden the electricity went out. She yelled, “This isn’t fair!”

I checked in on her to ask what the problem was and she told me how she lost her report. I asked her if she saved her document as she was going along and the answer was no. Just as she was hitting the save button – out goes the lights! OOPS!!!

I consoled her and related stories on how her Dad and I have lost documents. We had to learn to save as we go along.

Now the statement of “this isn’t fair” needed to be dealt with. What is fair and why wasn’t this fair…to her?

Idioms: no fair
Something contrary to the rules: That was no fair.

Was it “fair” that the computer shut down – it probably doesn’t even pertain? Bottom line – how many times do we blame something or someone on not being fair when it doesn’t even pertain to the situation?

Now we need to take “fairness” out of our vocabulary sometimes and ask if we are being responsible people. If we loose something it could very well be that we were not being responsible.

We really have no one to blame but ourselves. But….who wants to do that? It is so easy to look for that scapegoat.

May I suggest that before we point that finger, stomp our foot and say…"that’s not fair"…let’s look at what we did to help ourselves – either into it or out of it.

It comes with maturity and we all learn…and continue to learn. But there is just something about not “passing the buck” that should make us feel good.

When the truth stares us in the face – we have to say, you are right…let’s start again. It may not feel good at first but if you push through the “pity party” you will experience real joy!
Enjoy your day and do what you can to back yourself up….save, save, save…when the lights go out – you just might have made a difference. Nancy (www.justaskbooks.com)

The Good Idea/Love

2009-10-30T06:29:00.000-07:00

Good morning and happy Friday…

As I sit here preparing myself for our time together; I gaze out the window and see beautiful splashes of color across the yard. Trees have lost their leaves and now these leaves are arranging themselves into a work of art. God’s coloring is absolutely amazing.

Let’s talk about “Love” today…. more specifically what we do for love. We can do crazy things for love can’t we? We have heard all kinds of stories regarding how people show love for one another.

Some of these stories are funny and some are heart warming. Men bring flowers and candy to the women they love. (Women accept them…because of love. HA HA) Women will cook and clean for their men because they love them.

We care for our children and all of their needs because we love them. Children love us so they shower us with hugs and kisses and sometimes challenges!

I shared with a friend of mine just how much I “loved” George in the growing stages of our relationship. Now you all know how much I dislike worms…well I did the ultimate for George.

He graciously took me fishing on his boat one day and I cut up the blood worms for bait. Oh my goodness – what got into me that day???? LOVE

The small things also count…like being the first one in the morning to make the coffee. (Thank you George.) How about starting the car on cold mornings just so I don’t freeze. (Thank you George) Spreading rose pedals down the stairs on our Anniversary…oh that was BIG! (Thank you George.)

Love, it comes in many ways. The important thing is that it comes. Love is to be given away. Love is a hug that never stops holding on.

I remembered the song, “What I did for love” from the musical “A Chorus Line”…Kiss today goodbye. And point me t'ward tomorrow. We did what we had to do. Won't forget, can't regret what I did for love. Are you all singing???

I know the story of someone who so LOVED the world that He gave His only Son…For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. John 3:16 (NIV)

Now this is love eternal. The greatest love that there is.
Go out there and love on somebody today. Let someone love on you. It could make a difference. Nancy (www.justaskbooks.com)

The Good Idea/Life

2009-10-29T06:55:00.001-07:00

Good morning my friends….

Today I want to jump right in and talk about “life.”

How precious life is, how short life is, how special life is and what do we do with this life?

Are we bothered when a life is taken away? What about the life of an animal? Does that touch you in any way? Or do we say, “Just an animal?”

What about the life of a person whom you do not know. Do we have compassion for their families? Do we mourn their deaths?

Many people did mourn on September 11, 2001. We cried out for our brothers and sisters whom most of us did not even personally know. But they were of us weren’t they?

I think of animals that die – either by natural causes or being hit by a car, left abandoned, abused or diseased.

There is life in that animal and it was just taken out. I do not want to see animals dead on a road….and that includes deer. I think these are beautiful creatures and to see them destroyed bothers me.

What about pets that gets loose and end up on the road? Lives are taken out every day. How do we feel about that?

The breath in us is so special. This breath was given to us as a gift and many of us do not even acknowledge that. It is not a mistake that you are here….you are a gift! And – you have a lot to give.

Precious life – enjoy it, cherish it, embrace it and share it! When we all breathe together it makes such a big difference. Nancy (www.justaskbooks.com)

The Good Idea/Smartest Person

2009-10-28T06:21:00.000-07:00

Good rainy morning….

These are typical fall days….leaves on the ground, air wet with moisture, worms slithering about… (Now why do we have them????) and the sound of geese encouraging each other on.

I still gaze up at them when they are flying by. What magnificent creatures. They truly have the “encouraging” thing down!

Today I want to talk about people who know IT ALL. Do you know anyone like that? I do. Even our children will say, “ya, ya, I know.” I say, “You do…pretty smart kid!” “At your age I don’t think that I knew as much as you do.”

I know that we are pushing our children farther and faster these days but there is something to be said about experience and years of learning…isn’t there?

To be able to say, “I don’t know” takes courage and confidence in oneself. I respect the person who says, “I will find out for you and let you know.”

I do not think less of them for not knowing the answer right away, do you? What is wrong with admitting that we do not know something? Are we expected to know “everything” right away? Did this start with the TV show-“Are you smarter than a 5th grader?”

I was reading an article on John Wooden, the legendary basketball coach and he said, “It’s what you learn after you know it all that counts.” Isn’t that great?

This is humbling I think. I believe that this comes with maturity. To step back and say “I did not know that” is honorable. It’s being humble enough to believe that you can learn something from everyone. Everyone has something to share and we can learn from each other’s experiences. As George would say, “why re-invent the wheel?”

We have all been created equal so let’s give others the chance to shine. It’s amazing what you can learn when you sit back, watch and listen to what others are saying.

Is today your day to teach or learn? Either way you can make a difference. Nancy (www.justaskbooks.com)

The Good Idea/Giving

2009-10-27T07:05:00.001-07:00

Good morning to all….

I ran across this quote today and loved it so I wanted to share this with you….

A pessimist sees the difficulty in every opportunity; an optimist sees the opportunity of every difficulty.
Winston Churchill

Isn’t this what we talk about…turning stumbling blocks into stepping stones. Come on….this is great stuff!

Recently George and I have been talking about giving to charities and other organizations. I’m sure you have had similar thoughts and discussions as to what you should do.

Many people are looking for financial help these days. Many of us are asking ourselves…just who do we give too? What will they do with the money?

We cannot give to everyone…to every organization. So we must seek out where our hearts lead us. Where is God directing you to help out? We find this out by “JustAsking.”

In time of need we must give. By giving to others we are actually helping ourselves. Someday, somewhere the “favor” will be returned.

Where are you being led? We are streamlining and “JustAsking” what we should do. We need to make it all count. We need to make a difference not only with our money but with our actions as well.

May I suggest that before you write out that check, “JustAsk” if this is what the Lord would have you sow into?

Such a difference will be made if you are where you are “supposed” to be. Nancy (www.justaskbooks.com)

The Good Idea/Television

2009-10-26T08:38:00.001-07:00

Good morning my friends,

Some of you may think that I’m still out “shopping” with Sarah. HA HA…I could not image what George would say if that were true! She went back to school this morning. Now we count down the days as to when she comes back. Thanks for coming home Sarah!

Speaking of Sarah and spending time with her. Last night we just “relaxed” and watched a little TV together. I haven’t watched television for some time now let alone with Sarah. Oh sometimes I will catch “Sponge Bob” but that’s about it for the most part!

We were chatting, laughing and glancing at the television. Do you know what is on television these days? A prime time show was on that years ago I would have been “hooked” on. Now I looked at it and couldn’t believe my eyes.

So much is accepted today. So much is accepted as the norm on television. What is the norm these days? What are we watching? What are our children watching? My eyes were really opened to what’s out there “entertaining” us.

How many times have we used television as a babysitting tool for our younger children? I’ve done the same thing. Television, a great keeper of company.

How many of us watch television just to “enhance” our lives? Just to give us some spice in an otherwise dull life? What are we exposing ourselves too?

I see mindless acts being performed in front of us all for the sake of “entertainment.” Minds are being shaped by what is on television.

Please do not misunderstand me; there are many shows on television that are fine to watch. I look forward to some of the programming on various channels but we do have to use a filter.

Some programs marked PG…really have to be scrutinized. It has happened at my home….you know the “quick grab the remote, change the channel” statement. It happens and we must protect the eyes and ears of our vulnerable ones. Too much “stuff” is going in and it is not all “wholesome.”

I remember the time when I could sit with my parents and watch television shows which did not make anyone blush or run to change the channel. There was purity then. Sometimes I do miss it. (Ahh yes, the bubbles of Lawrence Welk and the streets of Mayberry.) Television is a great thing. We just have to been cognizant of what comes out of it.

I do believe that the best entertainment is what you make yourself. It’s spending time with family. It’s getting to know them better, laughing with them, talking with them, dreaming with them and sharing your love. That will really make a difference. Nancy
(www.justaskbooks.com)

The Good Idea/Coming back Home

2009-10-23T06:45:00.001-07:00

Good morning to all…..

What a surprise I had last night….

I received a call from my oldest daughter about 9:30ish PM….she asked, “Mom what would make you soooo happy?” I said, “A white Mercedes in my driveway just for me.”

She said, “It’s on its way.” Oh happy day….then I thought no, can’t be….she must be coming home! YIPPEE.

Now I knew she was coming home this weekend but I did not expect her so soon. What a surprise; I get to have her with me for a bit longer. Time for some “girl” stuff!

No sign of the Mercedes yet…I’m still waiting for that phone call. HA HA (No, really!)

Let’s talk about our loved ones today. These are the ones who go away either to school or move away from home for good.

I remember moving out of my home when I was 19. I was kind of young yet but ready to move on. Not because I disliked being at home, I loved being at home. It was just time to move out on my own. I do believe that my relationship with my Mom grew much closer after I moved out.

It seemed like we were always together sharing thoughts, ideas and I was always asking advice. I know that she loved that as much as I did.

Isn’t it funny that sometimes distance makes us closer? We now want to be with each other not because we have to be together but because we want to be together.

Do you have children who are away at school or who have moved out? I pray that you enjoy their company so much when they come back home. Or if you are the one who has moved out; I pray that you enjoy going back home.

Dorothy said, “There is no place like home.” I do believe it. Embrace the ones who have left and ask them back…at least for a visit! The generations will continue to come and when the stories are shared about “home” make your stories warm and memorable.

I’m out the door now – time to enjoy some “girl time” with my oldest. (I’m thinking shopping, breakfast, more shopping!) George, I’m just “kidding!”

Enjoy all that you do today and remember to make a difference in someone’s life. Nancy (www.justaskbooks.com)

The Good Idea/To the Rescue

2009-10-22T07:43:00.000-07:00

Good morning my friends….

Have you ever had the phone call that says…"Help me?" I would venture a guess and say yes; you have had that phone call.

Let’s talk about “to the rescue” today. We can come to the rescue so many different ways. The bottom line is that “we come to the rescue” when asked.

We can run over to someone, we can call someone, we can provide prayer, food, comfort, shelter, love, money, advice, hugs, smiles and chocolate chip cookies.

There are many ways in which we can “rescue” someone. Isn’t it “funny” how we rely on each other from time to time to help us out?

Sometimes we just need someone with skin on to comfort us. We know that our Lord is always with us, helping us, comforting us and providing for us. To have someone in our lives to embrace us is the sign that our God is with us.

This is called “Love!” Out of love we run to one another. Out of love we give thanks for each other. Out of love for Him we love on each other.

Sometimes you just gotta’ put your differences down and look at the big picture. If you don’t do it; than who will? You may be the only one. You may be the one to make the difference.

I believe that sometimes we view life so casually that we do not put any importance into the fact that we may be the one to help out another. Too many times we say, “oh so and so will get that.” Well, what if “so and so” doesn’t “get that?” “Oops – should’ve done that myself”…we say.

May I suggest that when you hear the voice of someone calling out saying “help me,” run to the rescue….you will be given the resources if you just step out and rely on His help to guide you. I say….”JustAsk”.

We are going to make a difference today because today we run “to the rescue.” Enjoy your fabulous journey. Nancy (www.justaskbooks.com)

The Good Idea/Ways of the World

2009-10-21T07:13:00.000-07:00

Good morning….

My hope is that you are all off to a great start this morning. My household is off and running with smiles on….and I’m OK with that!

A question was posed to me that I want to ask you…..are your ways the ways of the world?

Have you heard the expression…."They dance to the beat of a different drummer?" Is that you? I do believe that that expression suits me just fine.

I do not want to be like the world. I want to be different and I embrace that difference with excitement and joy.

Look around for a moment – is that what you want? I see hunger, anger, hurt, disappointment, anxiousness, fear, illness, cheating…well you get the picture.

Just because this is around us doesn’t mean that we have to participate. It has been a struggle at times – not fitting in – but the rewards of knowing that you are doing it right makes such a big difference.

I no longer care if I fit in or not. Actually I do not want to fit in. I want to help out. I want to be of assistance. I want to be there when you call. I want to serve, not be served.

Remember the movie “The Stepford Wives?” That is not how I see myself. I believe in standing up for what is right, calling forth truth and living it. This is not a casual way to live but an active way to live.

We live right by doing right. As I see it the “world” does not “always” live right. We have gotten off track here…..we are out of balance. It is time to set the scales right.

Whew – don’t you just love pointed questions????

I want you to know that the difference you make today will make all of the difference tomorrow. May you have a wonderful day! Nancy (www.justaskbooks.com)

The Good Idea/Death

2009-10-20T08:32:00.000-07:00

Good morning everyone….

Today I want to share with you a thought on “things we don’t like to talk about.”

One topic in particular is death. The death of a friend, a friend’s loved one, a family member, an acquaintance, and a neighbor, the person at the store or a distance relative. How do we tackle this one?

I have actually seen people run away from this. They have run away from talking with a person who has lost a loved one. And you can forget about them going to the funeral home to pay their last respects.

I know that this is a personal decision so please do not misunderstand me…I’m not suggesting that you go to the funeral home if you are not comfortable with that….what I am saying is that a phone call would be most comforting and acceptable.

I have even experienced it in my own life. I have lost several family members and some of my “closest” friends have yet to say something to me.

I hear, “oh what could I say,” “I don’t know what to say,”….you get the picture. I say maybe you don’t have to say anything at all – how about a hug which says I’m sorry and what can I do for you?

I remember while at a family funeral I was thinking how nice it would be just to see someone that you care for. I use to say, if “so and so” would just call and say “hi”…that is all that I need. No need for eloquent speeches, long winded messages…just “hi, I’m thinking of you.”

Someone that I have known for a few years has recently passed away and I spoke with her husband this morning. Was the call difficult to make…yes, but it is more difficult for the one that I was calling.

This gentleman said to me this morning, “ Nancy , you know no one prepares us for this part of our lives.” “What in life prepares us for death?”

I’m so glad that I made that call. I reached out in love and care and concern. How about you, do you reach out? Do you hold that emotion in and go forth just to comfort someone else? It is so worthwhile to love from where you are.

I find such comfort and peace in prayer not only during these times but in all times. If you can’t do it, if you can’t reach out “JustAsk” – He will give you the grace to do so. Someone may need to hear from you.
With loving thoughts and a smile in my heart for you…I wish you well. Enjoy the difference that you will make. Nancy (www.justaskbooks.com)

The Good Idea/Encourager

2009-10-19T08:06:00.001-07:00

Good morning….

As I put my thoughts together for today I hear the message…"be an encourager." OK so I ask encourager for what? “Everything.”

Now that is a pretty big order – “encourager for everything.” I will however do my best.

My first question is, what are you going through today? What mountains are you climbing? What rocks are you turning over? What are you dodging?

Who has said that “you can’t do that?” Who is asking “why?” Who has closed the door before you have had a chance to walk through it?

Someone somewhere is closing off dreams and desires for a better life, a better way. Someone somewhere is shutting down the hope for today and tomorrow.

This has to stop. I say that “yes you can go through that door.” You can step out in your dreams and desires to make a life – a better life for you and your family.

So many times people are “beaten” down by the talk and thoughts of others. Who are we to judge someone else? We can encourage and advise (if we are qualified) others who want to move forward. We can, more importantly, set the example of what is to be and what is to come.

You are special just the way you are. You are special in your thoughts and actions. No one does it quite like you. You were designed for a “special ness” all your own.

A side step - I'm hearing "Nobody Does it Better" by Carly Simon (James Bond, The Spy Who Loves Me)..."Nobody does it better - nobody does it quite the way you do...Baby, you're the best....) Ahhh - take me back!

You have something to give and share. You have a dream to fulfill. You must believe in yourself and what has been placed inside of you. “JustAsk” for guidance and a clear path. It is waiting for you.

When you find this “clear path”…the path to truth….then nothing or no-one can stop you. You will be on your way to fulfilling your mission. I encourage you today to examine your thoughts and motives. Why are you doing what you are doing? What is it that you want?

The world is waiting for the one invention that makes all of the difference….could they be waiting for you for fulfill your dream? It’s possible - oh yes, it is possible!

Dare to dream….better yet…dare to fulfill that dream! I encourage you today to make a difference. Nancy (www.justaskbooks.com)

The Good Idea/From the Heart

2009-10-16T05:41:00.000-07:00

Good morning everyone….

I have a thought for today – Let’s do something for others – not because it would put money in our pocket but because it will impact the life of the person who comes in contact with us.

I do look for these opportunities. To know that someone walks away feeling good about themselves, their load has been lifted and they find hope in a hopeless situation….this is truly a blessing.

Let’s go for the comfort of the heart not the thoughts of the head. Let’s give without expecting something in return.

It’s an easy day today….give unto others out of the goodness of your heart. That is where you treasures lie….

Luke 12:34 (New International Version)
34For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.

Have a wonderful weekend making a difference Nancy (www.justaskbooks.com)

The Good Idea/Victory

2009-10-15T07:18:00.000-07:00

Hello and Good morning….

The simple sweetness of a morning smile can make you joyful all day long. Are you feeling that today? If not, I give you a good morning greeting that you shall run with all day long.

I spoke with my “Mom” this morning and she told me that a Blue Jay landed on their deck. Wow - for this time of year. This bird must like the chilly rainy weather or it is a bit lost. Either way it made a lovely vision for this morning.

My son Matthew has set the stage for today. He received a magazine which I have been glancing at. It of course is a sports magazine. If it’s not about sports or eating, he doesn’t look at it. HA HA

Nike has an advertisement which caught my attention. It reads, “VICTORY is paid for in SWEAT, COURAGE and PREPARATION.”

This of course is in reference to sports but I applied it to everyday life. We are all looking for victory, aren’t we? We all want to win. But are all of us willing to put in the necessary elements to make it come to life?

So let’s break this down…."Victory" = winning, "Sweat" = hard work, "Courage" = stepping out, believing, standing tall, and "preparation" = getting ready for the task.

Looks like a full days work to me. I want to win, I want the victory and I will do what it takes to get there. I will do all that is expected of me as long as it does not hurt someone else.

We read stories of special people who "give all they have." They want to win; they want to do more than just survive. What about you? I read these stories, I watch their performances and I say, "If they can do it, so can I."

Sometimes we sit for so long on “easy street” that the thought of getting up and putting forth energy is almost too much to bear. We say "I’ll do it next time."

The time is now. The way must be paved. We need the "VICTORY" now. There may be a price to be paid…just like Nike has said…"sweat, courage and preparation." I say "JustAsk."

No matter what we do, no matter where we go, we should always be prepared. We perform best when we are prepared. Sometimes we know when it is coming and sometimes we don’t. If we are prepared we will be ready no matter what.
Put your time in – it will pay off. Let’s invest in our futures, our dreams, our victories. The winning is in the doing. Oh, what a difference. Nancy (www.justaskbooks.com)

The Good Idea/Don't lose sight

2009-10-14T06:34:00.001-07:00

Good morning to all….

A nip in the air today has me asking- “where are my socks?” I so admire people who have their change of season clothes all ready to go. You know who you are. Your cold wear is ready to come out of the closet clean, fresh smelling and ready to do its job.

As I stumble around looking for socks I keep thinking, “I have to do something about this.”

I’ll just move on with today’s thought and hope that heat will fall on my feet.

There are many people who lose sight of where they are going, what they want and what they believe in. How do I know? I know because I speak with many people who are looking for the answers.

Some seem to let go of their dreams and desires because these desires and dreams have not come into fruition. Hope seems to have diminished.

I believe that we as humans want a quick fix. We want it now. We are use to that. We live in a disposable society.

It even affects our children. They want the answers now without doing the research. (I’ve been guilty of that myself…how about you?)

Since we want it now and many times it doesn’t happen now – we become anxious and lose sight of what we hope for and dream of. But I’m here to say “don’t lose that sight.”

Stay fixed on your dreams and desires. Many times we lose those dreams and desires because we let them go. We no longer believe that they are going to come to pass. We hang our heads, we kick the dirt, we say, “that will never happen, it has taken too long.”

Do we control our time? Do we control what happens to us? Sometimes yes. Just by our giving up, by our not believing in truth, by not having FAITH; we encourage just the opposite of what we hope for.

I say do not take your eyes off of what you desire. Be strong in your faith that what you have asked for God has heard. Be patient and know that your voice will not go unanswered.

The panic button is not one to push when you are waiting. We need to push the FAITH button and leave it up to the Lord. Why worry about these things….He is in control.

So I am hoping a worry-free day for you. Take heed and give it up. Do not run and panic, be still, keep your visions and good things will happen for you. You will see the difference. Nancy (www.justaskbooks.com)

The Good Idea/Doing it for others

2009-10-13T08:55:00.000-07:00

Good morning my friends…..

Oh what a day, running here, running there, sending this out, receiving this in and before you know it you say, “Whew, what is happening?” What am I accomplishing?

Today I want to share with you time given out to others. I mean real meaningful time. Not just a quick “hi, how are ya’… hoping you do not answer because I do not have the time.”

We’ve all been there. We’ve all had it done to us and we have done it to others. I’ve even said, “Well if you don’t want to know then why bother asking?”

Do we inquire of others because it is the socially acceptable thing to do? Do we inquire about others because we really do care? Do we have time to really care?

I’ll answer that with – we better have the time to care.

I’m finding out more and more that I need to put others before myself. When I put others before myself; all kinds of wonderful things happen. When you care for someone, someone cares for you.

Just recently while caring for a friend of mine; I received a gift back which blessed me tremendously. I did not do this for a favor in return; I did this because my heart told me to. I gave not expecting to receive anything back.

I put someone first before my needs. I cared for another person who I saw needed help. When you have needed help, was someone there? Have you been a help when someone needed you? Yes even when they asked for help in moving???? (How many friends do we have then?)

There is need; great need all over the place. Can we reach everyone, no. We can however, reach the person next door, down the street, around the corner and even in our own homes.

I saw a quote by Albert Schweitzer that said, “Life become harder for us when we live for others, but it also becomes richer and happier.”

This is so true. I’m sitting on piles of “stuff” to do…..guess what I am doing. I’m answering the phone, I’m listening, I’m offering and I’m blessing. My “stuff” is waiting and that is OK….my “stuff” will always be there and the person calling may not be.

So may I suggest that we give of our time in joyful abundance? This opportunity may only come by once and you might be that person’s life line.

I’m taking the time to say, “I’m here….what can I do for you.” Enjoy this lovely day and I pray that you are there for someone when they call and someone is there for you when you call. I already feel a difference in the air. Nancy (www.justaskbooks.com)

The Good Idea/Painful memories

2009-10-09T06:49:00.001-07:00

Good morning my friends….

Here we are ready to face another day of giving and making a difference. We started our day very early this morning. I’m not sure why we all woke up so early but I have great expectations for this day. Let’s get started –

It’s been put on my heart to speak about “painful memories.” Oops, it even hurts to say those words. Who wants to go there? Not me. However I sense that someone somewhere is struggling and needs some encouragement.

What do we do with “painful memories?” Some people run and hide. Some people deny they even exist. Some people suffer through their memories. Some shed “painful memories” off like they never happened. Some “JustAsk” for help and they get it.

I’ve seen the fear on people’s faces when faced with a memory of time gone by. These are deep, deep wounds that need to be dealt with. So how do we do this?

We start by seeking out advice from someone who is trained in such an area. We start out by talking with people who have gone through the same experiences which you have gone through.

We start out by letting go of the blame (which includes you) and seeking the truth which can be found in the “JustAsking.”

I see so many people suffering with “painful memories.” They feel trapped in by them. They feel unable to control their thoughts. They don’t let go….maybe they don’t want to. Maybe letting go is too scary. Why? Because this person does not know how else to feel.

My belief is that we are to be whole and wholesome! We are to seek counsel and rise above any “painful memories” which may be holding us down or even breaking us up. These memories are squelching our desires to move forward.

So to those who are hurting and under “painful memories” may I suggest a way of coming out? We start by “JustAsking” for help and direction. There is a different way, there is a right way and there is a perfect way. This way leads to success.
Happiness is just around the corner if you are willing to ask for it. We need not be held down by what has happened. We need to joyfully seek the way out. “JustAsk”…the difference can be yours for the asking. Nancy (www.justaskbooks.com)

The Good Idea/Pick a weed or two

2009-10-08T08:41:00.000-07:00

Good morning everyone….

Time to stop for a moment and share a few thoughts….

I want to talk about an observation which I had. Sometimes I see people just walking through their lives without stopping to pick a weed or two.

What do I mean by this – some people think that their existence is just to be - not to do. They are not pro-active in their day to day business and they feel that life should just be handed to them.

Life is not handed to anyone. Life must be worked to the betterment of all mankind.

Sometimes we want the answers handed to us; sometimes we want events to be made easy so that we can glide through them. Don’t you think that we all have a roll in making our lives truly livable?

Children learn that they have to behave in a certain way to attain certain privileges. As adults we should know by now that we have to act a certain way which is acceptable to all others.

Every now and then we have to pick up something that fell on the floor; even if we did not do it. Think how clean our earth would be if someone just picked up one thing and threw it away or hung it up.

What I’m saying is that everyone has a job to do. We must all carry our own weight. We cannot leave it to the next guy because soon the weight that he has to bear is too much.

I look at our children and I know that they are learning and we must give them grace. I get so bothered when I see an adult being impatient with the little ones; we were once there.

It’s in the doing that counts. It’s in the teaching that makes the difference. Let’s take a moment and pick a weed or two…let’s take off the blinders and see what is around us. It just might need to be tidied up a bit. It doesn’t take long to make a difference. Nancy (www.justaskbooks.com)

The Good Idea/Hungry for Life

2009-10-06T08:10:00.001-07:00

Good morning everyone….

Don’t you love it when you look at the clock and you realize that time has traveled so fast that you cannot believe your eyes. Your day is moving quickly; you say yes, then you say, oh no, I can’t get everything done…where has the time gone?

At the store, I asked a cashier "How is your day going?" they said, “Great, I only have an hour or so left.” That is how their day is measured. I walked away thinking - is that all that there is? One hour or so left?

I have to ask, how can we enjoy where we are at if we are looking forward to the next hour? Don’t we lose something in looking ahead and not be present in the present? And then again I can see looking ahead when you are at….let’s say the dentist!

Today I want to share with you a story that includes my youngest daughter. Last evening she attended an event at a retirement home. The children gathered and helped the residents play games, distribute gifts and share stories.

This was an excellent way to spread joy and love; to share stories, and become family if just for a bit.

They all laughed together, held hands, smiled, hugged, got their cheeks pinched and the children were called “life.”

How true…some people just bring life to us. It is either by their mere age, their energy, their enthusiasm, their quest for more, their innocence and their ability to make us laugh.

I am blessed to have children around me always. Sometimes it does get tiring but that just reminds me that I must perk up, wake up and enjoy more than I do at times. It shows us how we shouldn’t take ourselves to seriously at times.

Life is love and laughter. Life is sharing and caring. Life is blessing each other with blessings. Life is opening us up to not only receiving but also giving.

These children last night gave of their time and themselves. They truly enjoyed themselves. The residents enjoyed the children. My daughter’s hand was held and kissed, her cheeks were pinched…..she delivered life to someone who may have thought it was all lost.

Are you delivering life to others or taking it away. Are you giving and receiving? Are you allowing the blessings to flow?

If I may suggest… may we not only speak life into each situation but let us deliver life into each situation. Someone is waiting for our smile. Go ahead – brighten someone’s day….you could make the difference. Nancy (www.justaskbooks.com)

The Good Idea/The Walking Wounded

2009-10-05T06:55:00.001-07:00

Good morning to all…..

Oh happy day! Do you feel “it?” “It” is in the air. The breeze blowing, the Son shining, the comfortable temperature and work has begun. We are so blessed aren’t we? Let’s make it a day worth remembering.

And let’s get started….today I want to talk about the “walking wounded.”

These are the people who have wounds so deep that not many people notice them. The “walking wounded” they have smiles on their faces, laughter in their voice and deep eyes that may show hurt if you are willing to look.

The “walking wounded” they are not just on the battle field. They are all around us. They may be the server at the restaurant, the teller at the bank, the cashier at the grocery, the singer in the band, your co-worker, your dentist, doctor, next door neighbor…maybe you.

While at a restaurant once I witnessed a table of patrons who were visibly not having a good evening. The server got the brunt of their anger. What about the server, what was he going through? Did this table of patrons even consider this? I have to say no. Was this fair, I have to say no.

This weekend while I was out shopping an irate customer was complaining that there was not enough help at the store. The ladies behind the counter were doing their best to help everyone. Unfortunately not everyone noticed that.

So in the midst of being “yelled” at for not moving fast enough, did anyone consider what these ladies might be up against. I must compliment them; they did not show any anger toward this customer. They kept their composure and I admire that. (And I told them so.)

I just want to ask that next time we feel the need to unload on someone, consider the person and take into account what they may be going through. What are they struggling with? Maybe when we show them love and compassion and say, “that it is alright” we might just be giving them love and hope. Just what we are called to do.

It is not about us – it is about Him and what we can do for others. We are so blessed, let’s pass that on. If the world did this – oh my, what a difference we would see. It could start with us. Nancy (www.justaskbooks.com)

The Good Idea/Obedience/Control

2009-10-02T07:23:00.001-07:00

Good morning my friends….

What a great day it is to be able to come together and share our thoughts. Let’s dig right in today with something that I have been thinking about.

I’ve been thinking about the difference between obedience and control. I believe that there is a fine line between obedience and control.

The on-line dictionary states that obedience is… Dutifully complying with the commands, orders, or instructions of one in authority.

The on-line dictionary states that control is…To exercise authoritative or dominating influence over; direct.

Let’s take for instance the military…I understand that there is required obedience in boot camp. You learn how to do everything the military way. One must be obedient to the officer in charge. This may very well be a life or death teaching and one must grab hold of the instructions.

Some say that the officers in charge are controlling. I’ve never been through it but I can only imagine that you must be obedient to their orders whether it comes off as controlling or not.

Let’s look at our everyday world. Are our children obedient to us? Are we obedient to our employers? Are we obedient to our teachers and mentors?

Do you ever feel controlled by someone who has a higher ranking than you? Do you think I must be obedient because it is for my own good?

When we feel controlled we dig in our heels and say, I’m too old for this stuff. Sometimes we feel as if we know better or maybe we are just stubborn.

If we are not use to someone “telling us what to do” we bristle a bit, don’t we? If we are under someone’s teaching and guidance then we must be obedient to them. We must respect authority.

I’m sure that many people are into controlling others but I also know that out of love many people guide and direct others in a way that must be obeyed. Some people are put in our path to “bring us up.”

We should recognize who these people are and be respectful and obedient to their teachings. As long as you know in your heart that this teaching is good; then you should allow the process to proceed.

If it feels like control and you cannot get out easily; then maybe you should re-think where you are at and who you are with.

Maybe we should stop fighting so much and listen to what is being said. Be obedient and learn from the ones who have gone before us. They paved the way. They made the difference. Nancy (www.justaskbooks.com)

The Good Idea/Authentic

2009-10-01T05:52:00.000-07:00

Good morning my friends….

What is better than fitting into your jeans from last year? I can’t think of much more than that! YIPPEE….oh wait a minute – these are stretch! Never mind.

Today I want to talk about being authentic. We even see advertisements about being authentic.

The on-line definition of authentic is - 1. Conforming to fact and therefore worthy of trust, reliance, or belief.
2. Having a claimed and verifiable origin or authorship; not counterfeit or copied.

We are talking about the “real deal” here. No substitutes, no phony replicas…the “real deal.”

Not putting on a pretense. It is being who we are; who we were created to be.

How many times have we changed ourselves just to suit others? I know that I have done this before. How about you? Of course we have….we want to be accepted, acknowledged and approved of. At times we are or were afraid of non-acceptance if we were different.

Then you reach a point in time when you are confident enough in yourself to be who you really are. I’m not sure that everyone gets here though.

When we are authentic in our beings then I believe that we exude trust. We are someone who is real, someone who stands tall and can be depended on. Why? Because there isn’t a lot of guess work with someone who is authentic.

I so enjoy being around people who are real, don’t you? You can then be yourself with them; let your hair down and show them truth.

We have all been created beautifully so why not be that authentic beauty and shine with what God has given us?

Don’t be afraid to be real. It is really quite refreshing and natural. Authentic – the difference between butter and margarine and we all know which one is healthier. Go for the authentic stuff – it is really better for you. You will see the difference. Nancy (www.justaskbooks.com)

The Good Idea/I'm repeating

2009-09-30T07:24:00.001-07:00

Good morning to all….

I never want it said that “she repeats herself.” I really try not to do that. But….sometimes a message comes to me that just won’t let go. That is where I am at today.

We’ve heard it before, I’ve spoken on it before and here it comes again…."Watch your words."

You say, “ Nancy that is so old.” Yes, I do know that but it keeps coming back and I am prompted to speak of it once again.

We hear it in small groups, we hear this message being spoken from the pulpit, and we read it in various publications…the Bible even states it…

Proverbs 18:21… Death and life are in the power of the tongue, and those who love it will eat its fruits. (NIV)

I have met with people who say out of the blue…."I’ve heard it is what and how we say something that matters." "WOW" – I say to myself.

I’ve been contemplating whether or not I should share this one again. This is what I decided. Someone somewhere needs to hear this. If not for the first time, if not for the second or if not only for confirmation – this is really important.

What do you speak over yourself? What do you speak over others? What do you speak over your job, your home, your friends, your health, your love and your faith?

Before you dismiss me as “yeah, yeah, yeah”…take one more look at your speech. Are you speaking life into your situations or are you speaking death?

It is so easy to fall into a rut and speak only of demise but turn that around and speak only of hope and promises.

Not only will your life turn around because you believe it to be so but you will feel so much better.

Let’s start today – proclaim promises over yourself, speak good news over yourself and believe that you shall receive according to your words. When your words are right; you will be right. “JustAsk”

Make a difference today by starting out with “YES!” You are great and you will make it! Nancy (www.justaskbooks.com)

The Good Idea/Patterns

2009-09-29T07:56:00.001-07:00

Good morning my friends….

What a glorious day. I’ve heard from my eldest and she says that where she is at it is cloudy and cold. Then I look outside my window and see blue skies, sunshine and a cool breeze blowing. This scene is pretty consistent outside my doors. You know - it is how you perceive it to be.

Today I want to share with you my thoughts on “patterns.” More specifically the question, who are you patterned after?

Who are you most like? Who do you most look like? Who do you most act like? We all talk about these things in our generational lines.

Unfortunately, we sometimes pattern our health after someone who has gone before us. Because of our genetics we pattern our well being after the other members in our family.

I’ve had to deal with these same issues. There has been a certain disease which has shown up a time or two in my family line. I just refuse to accept the “fact” that I am pre-destined to receive this sickness.

I have looked at the facts, I have read up on preventative measures and most importantly I believe in health and healing.

I do not want to live a life of gloom and doom just because I may be patterned after someone who has gone before me.

We have a choice to make. Maybe we do not have a choice in life as to who we look like but we do have a choice on how we take care of ourselves and what we believe to be true about ourselves.

I’ve heard people say, “Oh that runs in our family so I’m just going to accept my fate.” What is that about? Accepting fate? Is there such a thing????

Isn’t life about being pro-active? Isn’t life about living to the best of your God given abilities? Not settling for second best. Don’t we always need to put our best foot forward? Once again I’m taken back to desire, belief and achieve. We are doing something about it.

Let’s not accept what “fate” has to offer. As a matter of fact, let’s throw “fate” out. It is “faith” not “fate.” It is in the believing that there is more….it is about “JustAsk”.

So who are you patterned after? What does that pattern say to you? Do you like it? Do you want to change it? Who is patterned after you??? This might be the better question.

Mirror, mirror on the wall – enjoy your day one and all. Be different. Nancy (www.justaskbooks.com)

The Good Idea/Temptations

2009-09-28T05:57:00.000-07:00

Good morning to all…..

OK – OK – OK –I misspelled a little word on Friday. Oh my gosh, I caught it after I shared with you. Make that “lose” control not “loose” control. Sorry!

A few days ago George and I were talking about “temptation.” What is temptation exactly?

The on-line dictionary defines temptation as, something that seduces or has the quality to seduce…. the desire to have or do something that you know you should avoid; "He felt the temptation and his will power weakened." (I see chocolate cake here.)

There you go - explained very nicely. We know what temptation is but how do we over come it? Some say that their temptations are so hard to over come. Some say that their temptations are too big. Some say “yeah, but you don’t know how hard it is.”

We are tempted every moment in every day. We must be strong to avoid temptation. So am I saying that we need to walk around with blinders on? Am I saying that we should live in a box? No, not at all.

What I am saying is that we must shed the weakness and no longer give excuses for out actions.

I find that some people are very strong in their weaknesses. Now isn’t that odd – strong in weakness? They hold onto their weaknesses. Some describe themselves by their weaknesses.

I’ve heard some say that they cannot control the temptations. They could not help themselves. I understand this; temptation is a strong hold and a hold that some have difficulty breaking.

This reminds me of talking with a child and they may express a concern to me. I will attempt to explain a solution but they come back with “yeah, but.” The “yeah, but” is an excuse. Do they really want the solution to the concern or do they just want to roll around in it more?

When a person wants to break away from a temptation they might want to change their actions or even the people they spend time with.

How badly do they want change in their lives? We hear people talk about addictions, how they want to break free…but are they really trying to change? Are they really trying to escape that temptation?

George made a great statement about this – if you want to be an electrician, you would not study under a plumber.

This means, if you want to break free you need to position yourself with people who are not battling what you are battling.

Let’s say alcohol is your temptation – do not be with people who drink. The same holds true for all temptations. Position yourself outside the draw. Help yourself to succeed.

The more excuses we give about how we cannot overcome temptations - the further we will fall.

It is not easy – not easy at all….the first step is to get rid of the excuses of “yeah but” and move forward to staying clear of that temptation. JustAsk for help.

Such a difference can be made by a little change that begins with you. Nancy (www.justaskbooks.com)

The Good Idea/Control

2009-09-25T07:22:00.001-07:00

Hello and Good morning….

Have you ever had one of those weeks when you run into your office, slide across the desk and fall into your chair???? Well that is where I am. Sometimes I see a sitcom built around me! Glory to the Lord I am back….so let’s get started.

My question is – When you loose control, who is in control?

Let’s picture the times when we have lost control over a situation, a person or persons or even ourselves. Who or what is in control? Not a pretty picture most of the time.

When a person is on the outside looking in they see total chaos. Who’s on first? (Too funny, remember that comic routine?) Anyway it is not always funny when we do not know who’s on first.

My girlfriends and I have discussed how we like knowing who is in charge. It takes the guess work out of it. No one is squabbling over who does what and who does not. Someone is in charge, someone is in control and things run a whole lot smoother.

In times of panic, where do you stand on control? Do you run with the rest of the people who are in a quandary or do you stand strong and know that you just know?

I would like to believe that I stand on the side of control….that I know that I just know. But…..I get tested continually and I know many of you do also.

The testing is a good thing. The testing keeps us on our toes. We have to be able to listen and discern good from bad. We have to take the lead from time to time. Why, because many eyes are upon us looking for direction.

So once again I ask, when you loose control, who is in control? It is best not to loose control. Stay strong, hold true to your convictions and do not be moved easily. Be a pillar of faith and be in the know.

There can even be control in chaos if you would just take charge. A difference is made when someone stands up. Enjoy your weekend. Nancy (www.justaskbooks.com)

The Good Idea/Excitement

2009-09-18T06:34:00.001-07:00

Welcome to the beginning of your day….

Recently I have been entertained by watching people. I so enjoy watching the expression on their faces when something awesome, exciting, fun and even surprising happens to them.

The latest is a video with a little girl who threw away her Daddy’s first foul baseball catch at a Phillies game. This is priceless. Her little innocence is more precious than gold. I was so proud of her Dad for embracing her into his arms. His faced showed that he loved her so much. Their bond is unmistakable love. (I think that I also saw a look of “you got to be kidding me!”) These are priceless moments and it showed.

Every now and then we talk about negative issues that create some depression in people. We talk about how to be an over comer in these situations. The best way to over come the negative is to embrace the positive. This is not a new thing….we all know about it.

So to overcome the negative in others I will look for their excitement. What makes them happy? What makes them jump for joy? What makes them get out of bed early and run? This is passion, this is joy and this excitement is life changing.

I have found that we people are not the only ones who get excited about an event, a happening, a change or even the fact of seeing other people.

As I have mentioned before, each day as I write to you our pet Cockatiel Sammy is on my lap. She gets so excited when she sees me heading for the office. She whistles, chirps, runs back and forth on her perch and I just have to get her.

As we walk down the hall she can barely hold onto my finger. She is ready to go. She is excited. How such a little thing can make a big difference in her morning.

We see this happen all across the board will all kinds of pets….they are excited when they see us. They are open with their expressions and it doesn’t bother them if another pet sees them running sideways just to say hello.

What about us? Are you living in excitement? Some people say that we make our own excitement. Maybe so….I know that my excitement lives inside of me. It can’t help but come out. We bubble over with excitement sometimes.

The next time "you people watch" notice the facial expressions on the happy/excited ones and the facial expression on the sad/depressed ones. What a huge difference. Excitement can be found on the outside – that is called happiness….Excitement can be found on the inside – that is called joy. It is real, it lasts and it shows constantly.

Are you happy or are you joyful? Where is your excitement coming from? One of these will make a lasting difference. Nancy (www.justaskbooks.com)

The Good Idea/Skin Deep

2009-09-17T07:40:00.001-07:00

Good morning to all…..

“Skin deep” that is what I want to talk about today. “Skin deep” what does that mean? We’ve all used this expression in many ways and probably have meant a few things.

When I hear “skin deep” I think of splinters…(ouch)….I think of the expression, “beauty is only skin deep” or I think of transparency.

I also think of Shrek. Shrek said he was like an onion, several layers to him. Well, skin has several layers. Shrek was making an analogy of himself using an onion. He was saying that he is deep because the skin of an onion runs deep.

“Skin deep” it keeps our organs in place. It is a protective covering over our fragile system. Skin is deep because when one layer disappears; another one takes its place.

OK now what about our feelings? Some would say our feelings are only “skin deep.” Now what does that mean? Are we saying our skin is deep or shallow?

Are we saying that the hurt only goes so far or that the hurt goes all the way to the bone? I guess that is for the person who is hurting to determine.

I believe that “skin deep” is so much more than flesh. I believe that this expression refers to deep down hurt. The kind of hurt that hurts your stomach.

It is a piercing wound. Sometimes the smaller wounds like a paper cut or a needle prick on the end of your finger hurts worse that a larger cut. It does not take much to prick our flesh and hurt us. Unless of course you have “thick” skin….Oh boy – a whole new situation.

Are we fragile beings? In many respects – yes. We have been so expertly designed that we can withstand a lot of outside pressure but sometimes our skin get a little bruised and we struggle with that.

How far does the hurt go? How far will YOU let it go? We can look to the flesh and feel the pain or we can look to Jesus and watch the pain melt away.

We can understand a lot about a person when you find out if they are “thick” or “thin” skinned. What bothers them, what can they brush off, what makes them cry or what makes them laugh?

Are you transparent or opaque? Does your heart lie right under the surface or is your heart buried? How do you allow yourself to be seen?

“Skin deep” what lies beneath? How much are you willing to share? We are all made the same. It is time to stop hiding. It is time to start creating the difference that you were made to make. Enjoy your day and if you get “pricked” just kiss it, make it better and keep on going. Nancy (www.justaskbooks.com)

The Good Idea/Convictions

2009-09-16T07:43:00.001-07:00

Good morning to all….

What a wonderful way to start my day – I get to connect on a personal level with you before I start running around. Is this a great job or what?????

Today the word conviction has been placed upon my heart so I said, “OK…let’s go with that.”

First off I have a question for you…..What do you say to someone when they come against something that convicts you? Do you back down, do you defend your convictions or do you question yourself and your right standing?

When we believe in what we are doing…in what has convicted us – we normally stand firm.

People will come against us and say “don’t even try, I’ve tried for years and nothing changes.”

When this is spoken out it reminds me of people saying – "You can’t do that"..."That will never work"..."You are wasting your time." And my favorite response is "why." I answer with "why not."

I’m an eternal optimist. True. Sometimes I think that ignorance is bliss. We just run around focused knowing that “it” will be OK.

This reminds me of when I had my first child….if I’ve mentioned this before-just give me a moment. My first right….I can do this….this is no big deal….HA HA…ignorance is bliss.

I said, “No I do not want any medication.” “I can do this.” Yes it is true, I did it. But looking back on it…maybe I should have taken just a little medication. I don’t think that “bliss” is exactly what I was feeling at the time.

Recently I have had people come up to me and try to squelch my enthusiasm for something that is near and dear to me. I just won’t let them. Maybe it didn’t work out for them but that doesn’t mean that it won’t work out for me.

Keep believing and persevering. Nothing ever came from someone who quit. When someone says to you – “you can’t…say “I can.”

Here’s to dreams coming true…new heights being reached and being true to your convictions. I’m going to make a difference. You can too. Enjoy this great day. Nancy (www.justaskbooks.com)

The Good Idea/Forgive and Forget

2009-09-15T08:46:00.001-07:00

Good morning my friends….

I greet you with openness and love this morning with a message that is on my heart.

Today I want to talk about the phrase, “forgive and forget.” How many of us do that? Oh we can forgive….but how many can forget? Can we have forgiveness if we do not forget? Do we truly forgive? These are questions which we must ask ourselves then examine ourselves for the true answers.

I’m sure most of us have experienced forgiving others in small things….but how about the big things? Where do you stand in your ability to forgive in the big things?

I’ll share a bit of myself with you at this time…In my past there is a failed marriage and I just could not forgive nor forget. I hung onto the anger through un-forgiveness….it felt good….it felt like the right thing to do.

I believed, at the time, that if I hung onto that un-forgiveness that un-forgetting…I would punish my ex more. Was I wrong? You bet I was wrong. I was only punishing myself more. I was putting that un-forgiveness and un-forgetfulness on myself…not on him. I’m not sure he even knew about it or cared. So who was I hurting?

When I discovered the truth about forgiving someone the walls came down and I became putty in His hands. OK so now I forgave….but could I forget? Yes, I did hold onto that for some time after the forgiving.

Matthew 6:14 “For if you forgive men their trespasses, you’re heavenly Father will also forgive you.

God knows our frail ways. He allowed me some time to work through this and that is exactly what I did. I discovered that I could truly forget. Now I’m positive that without forgetting – you truly CANNOT forgive.

So many people walk around caring grudges and past hurts. They have stumbling blocks hanging out of their pockets…they proudly display their anger and hurt. These people cannot wait for an avenue in which to express their anger.

How many times have you been with someone who gets so angry and you just know that there is a deep seed of some kind. OK – so now if that deep seed was not there – could the anger grow? No.

We get rid of deep seeds by forgiving and forgetting. Is it easy? No. I’ve also discovered that easy is not always the best way. Sometimes “easy” just presents shortcuts.

We are not to pretend that a situation did not happen; we are to examine it - then JustAsk for help in forgiving and forgetting. The chain that has you so bound to anger will disappear and you will experience such joy and peace.

Forgiveness and Forgetting is a big deal but it can be done because I have made it through as I’m sure many of you have. I’m also sure that many of you who haven’t gone through it yet – can.

So make the difference in your life by forgiving and forgetting. You will enjoy the chains being broken. Nancy (www.justaskbook.com)

The Good Idea/Nurturing

2009-09-14T08:12:00.001-07:00

Good morning everyone….

I hope that your day has started out on a great note. There is so much to be thankful for isn’t there? If you break it down to the simplest of things….your pillows, your blanket, your shower, tooth brush, breakfast and a little coffee. WOW – we have so much! Thank you Lord.

Today I want to share with you a thought or two on “nurturing.” Webster defines nurturing as, “to train, to bring up, to foster, something that nourishes...like food.”

I’m going to focus in on the “to bring up” part of the definition today. What do you think of when you hear the word, “nurture?” I think of cuddling, loving, caressing, talking softly and giving direction…I think of love. “Nurturing” is softness to me.

While talking with some friends this weekend we mentioned how friends and even some family members are lost because they are not nurtured in their walk.

It takes work….but I consider this a labor of love. Work is sometimes dreaded, work is sometimes hard and work can wear you out. But to “nurture” that is rewarding. You are feeding into someone’s being. You are adding to their development. You are encouraging their walk.

When we develop a friendship we do not (I pray) just leave that person untouched for some time and expect for that relationship to grow, do we? I think that some people just expect for others to develop without their intervening….without some guidance…without some "nurturing."

The song…"It takes two baby - just me and you, etc." just came into my mind… OK moving on….I have found that some people take on the attitude that others do not need to be "nurtured." They think that others can make it on their own. Quite possibly so. Some of us do just fine on our own and others do not? Do you know who you are and do you know for sure who others are?

How long does it take to ask another if they need any questions answered? What about asking if they need someone to hold their hand on their journey? We need to support and back up a person until they get on level ground. Just because we could stand up immediately doesn’t mean that everyone else can.

You know some babies are walking by 6-8 months or sooner….mine walked after 1 year. We are all different. (A side note – my husband will tell you the reason that our children did not walk early is because I NEVER put them down to walk!)

That is probably another topic for another day…anyway let’s “nurture” each other. We all need to go in truth and light. We all need someone else to show us the way from time to time. When we get lost it is a wonderful thought knowing that someone will be there to "nurture" us through the rough times.

May I suggest that you be that “nurturing” person? Give until it makes you feel good! When you do this you will feel so different. Enjoy this beautiful day. Nancy (www.justaskbooks.com)

The Good Idea/Great gatherings

2009-09-11T06:28:00.000-07:00

Good morning to all….

As I sit and share with you this morning I hear the rain coming down ever so softly. If you know me at all you know that this soft falling rain has a tendency to put me to sleep. I see visions of my bed, plumped pillows and down comforter….umm…too bad it is not 10PM.

OK…time to stop dreaming….Have you ever heard of a “great gathering?” Have you ever hosted a “great gathering?” “Great gathering”…Reminds me of Charlie Brown.

I’m speaking of a lot of people getting together for something. A “great gathering” could be a church, a sporting event, a concert, a rally or dinner at someone’s house.

Have you ever hosted a “great gathering?” Some people love to entertain. They love to have others over and make them feel comfortable. They just love to serve.

I believe that it is so important to make others feel comfortable. I would like to believe that my home is one such place. I want my home to be a place of comfort, a place where others feel at home, a place where we can serve each other out of love…not obligation.

I’m sure that many people entertain “great gatherings” and do so with a chip on their shoulder. Let’s face it, preparing for a “great gathering” is a big job. But think of the rewards.

When we serve others we show them love and respect. We show them that we care and we are glad that they are with us. We tend to them and we take care of their very needs.

A few “Good Ideas” ago I mentioned how I was the neighborhood Mom and how I loved that. Whether we are serving small children or adults the rewards are the same. We are showing God’s love for others. What a wonderful opportunity to take care of others.

Recently it has been impressed upon me to always serve our best to others. You know my Mama always said, “You can’t take it with you.” So use it. What are we saving the good stuff for? Dust??? George and I mentioned that we enjoy serving on our “good” porcelain…it gives us an excuse to wash them. HA HA

Many of us have hutches, cabinets, curio cabinets at home…what is in yours? Do you use the items in those cabinets/hutches? Probably not…just like me….well it is time to get them out and enjoy them.

Serving others our best….get ready for those “great gatherings”….people will so enjoy the extra effort you put forth and you will enjoy the difference that it makes. Nancy (www.justaskbooks.com)

The Good Idea/Winds of Change

2009-09-10T06:31:00.000-07:00

Good morning my friends….

As I was walking home this morning from taking my daughter over to school; I looked up into the sky and saw the beauty that was put out ahead of me. The clouds were parting at just the right place to let the sun peek through. The gentle winds started to blow and life was starting to come “alive.” What a beautiful site to see – I saw peace. Thank you Lord.

Speaking of “winds”….that is what I want to share with you today. “Winds of change”… I’ve heard that expression since I was little. How about you? I’ve wondered what those words meant and recently I’ve thought about them again.

We are in a season where the winds are picking up and fall is being ushered in. These winds are bringing in cooler temperatures and some rain.

We have the winds of winter and they bring in cold and snow. We have the winds of spring and they bring in warmth and rain. Then we have the winds of summer and they bring in heat and rain. (A lot of rain here.)

We can watch the weatherman/weather woman and they tell us of winds which cause change. There are winds which bring in storms…winds which bring in soft breezes and lazy days. They seem to have this down to a science.

What about the winds which bring about a sudden change; an unexplained change? A change which no one saw coming? This is a wind which seems to blow out from nowhere. These winds catch our attention. They may even make you shudder a little.

Have you ever experienced this type of “wind?” I have. These types of winds will make you take notice…it gets your attention.

Changes are happening all around us. Changes are being ushered in all of the time. “Winds of change”….they are bringing something new in around us.

May I suggest that you take notice of how the winds blow? Are they around you, over you or through you? I believe that there are messages in the wind if we have eyes to see and ears to hear.

Enjoy your “windy” day and listen carefully for a message…it could be blowing around you just to make a difference in your day. Nancy (www.justaskbooks.com)

The Good Idea/Observation - Negative

2009-09-09T11:17:00.000-07:00

Good afternoon to all….

My, my, where has this morning gone to? Let me think….the Orthodontist, the bank, the post office, the store, the store again and then the store. That’s where this morning has gone to. There has been too much moving around once again. I believe that I’m now settled.

Today I want to share with you an observation which my husband George and I have been “observing.”

Why is it that some people find it so easy to accept the negative instead of the positive? Take for instance sickness; some of us may jump immediately to bad news instead of believing in the healing.

We may think and stew about the job we just lost instead of the great opportunity that awaits us. When it rains some of us see gloomy skies instead of the cleansing of the earth, watering the grass and the filling up of our oceans.

Why do we as a people have to embrace the negative? I’ve heard people say, “Oh no I can’t think of hope and promises…that just doesn’t happen to me.”

Henry Ford said, “If you think you can do a thing or think you can’t do a thing you are right.”

When people jump to the negative it leaves them just there – in the negative.

It is “funny” how some people thrive on the negative information and situations. I believe that it is only when the negative is present that they feel as if they are alive. WOW – what they are missing! Where does this come from? What lies have been told to make a person dig this deep into the negative.

I’m sure you all know people who look for the negative just so they can say, “told you so.” “I told you that was going to happen.” Some people just sit and wait for “the other shoe to drop.”

Now if we take a different approach and expect the good to happen; expect the positive to manifest then it will. It is ALL how you look at it.

Whatever you look for – you will find. Do we want to be miserable? Do we want joy? Do we want love? Do we want to live in happiness and security? If we answer yes to these questions than we have to believe that the positive happens to us.

May I suggest that the next time you start to feel down, sick, tired, confused, overwhelmed and even a little negative…perk up, have faith, believe and look to the positive? If you are under the weather – well at least you get to spend some time in bed reading a good book.

Remember that saying…."When life gives you lemons; make lemonade?" It’s not so bad – it’s how you look at it that determines the outcome. It is the faith that you have.

Be positive this day – take the negative out of your life and your vocabulary. You will be amazed at the difference in your life. Nancy (www.justaskbooks.com)

The Good Idea/Re-alignment

2009-09-08T06:57:00.001-07:00

Good morning to all…..

Does anyone else feel like Labor Day weekend is the end to a time and a beginning of another time? It feels like that to me. We close the door on summer activities and open the door for fall activities. There are times when the weather may not say “fall” but the calendar makes us feel like displaying the pumpkins and cooking soup.

I want to share with you some surprises which I had this weekend. Saturday morning I found myself sleeping in a little later than everyone else. When I finally decided to join the family I opened my eyes and found my two youngest children at the foot of my bed with breakfast in hand.

I had yogurt with granola, a piece of toast and a banana. I was informed that coffee was close to arriving. How I loved that. I cannot remember that ever happening before. The kids were so happy and pleased with themselves. I just loved on them and ate my breakfast in happiness and joy. What a great way to start the day…feeling the love!

My next surprise came on Monday when George and I actually, without rushing, got to sit on the deck and have breakfast/coffee together. We talked about the important things, watched the birds come and go and smiled for no reason at all. That was so special. We were sharing in each other’s company without another care in the world. There we were once again feeling the love.

So the refreshment is over and now it is time to get back to business – I want to talk about a “re-alignment.”

This is something that I am experiencing for the first time…I’m being treated by a Chiropractor. What an experience this is! Have any of you been to a Chiropractor? If so, then you know what I mean. A little scary at first…my thoughts have been – is he going to break anything? With all of this cracking and popping, I wonder if I’m going to be able to hold my head up.

Well yes I can hold my head up and I’m better because of my visit. Sometimes we just need a little re-alignment don’t we? Sometimes we need to be tweaked a little here and a little there. We need to get straight from time to time don’t we?

Over the years we develop a stiffness somewhere which causes stress on different parts of our bodies. Well how about the stiffness that exists in our emotional state, mental state, heart state and spiritual state? Do we stress out in these areas and become stiff?

We may be unable to take on more, unable to absorb more, unable to believe in more even unable to give more. Why? Because we are stiff. We need a re-alignment.

Where do we get these re-alignments….we “JustAsk”. Once we are massaged into flexibility, restored to original value then we just “work” so much better. We are straight, we are upright, and we bend so easily, we are pliable.

It feels oh so good! So don’t be afraid of the alignment. Many people are trained in helping us achieve that re-alignment that we so desperately need. “JustAsk”

Even trains get off course, off track, get knocked out of alignment….they are put back on and run smoothly. You can get straight too…look for a re-alignment….the difference will be yours. Nancy (www.justaskbooks.com)

The Good Idea/Blooming

2009-09-04T06:17:00.000-07:00

Good morning my friends…..

George (my husband) and I have been talking recently about moving some plants around. He said that this time of year is good for moving plants because they go dormant. I guess it is a kind of sleep for plants, trees, shrubs and bears.

Some of our foliage has done so well where it has been planted that it is “out of control.” It is time to move out and replant for a new start.

I began to think about this in regards to our own lives. We have all heard the expression, “Bloom where you have been planted.” Do we think about this much?

Let me use as an example the house we live in. We could have picked from several homes when we were looking to move. Somehow you just “know when you know” that you have found the right one.

The answers may not be clear in the beginning but you have the “right” feeling in your heart that you are where you are meant to be. You will begin to bloom where you are at. You will be used for a great cause if you end up where you are meant to be. There is direct guidance going on here.

When we moved into our new home we did it because there were so many children in the neighborhood. We knew that this would be good for our kids….and it was. Our house became the center of activity. My family instantly grew from 3 children to about 6 – 8 and still counting.

I always said that I enjoyed having all of the kids at my house because I knew what everyone was doing and I knew where my kids were. I guess I became the neighborhood Mom. So we began to bloom where we were planted.

Over the years we have continued to bloom into a huge bouquet. Our purpose continues to become clearer. Our original thought has grown into something which we never would have expected.

We never stop growing. We grow in our homes, our careers and our relationships. We are put in a certain place… even in a certain relationship for a specific reason.

I believe when things do not work out it is because we have run ahead without waiting on the answer. We think that we know. We think that we have the answers. You will truly know that you are in the “right” place when all things come together without much strife.

When you begin to bloom like never before…when you are stretched beyond your wildest dreams then you know that something is starting to happen. You are on your way to becoming a beautiful bouquet.

I’m sure that you have also heard the expression, “Dance like no one is watching.” Well may I suggest that you, “Bloom like you’ve never been planted.”

It’s time to rise and shine - meet the rays of the Son and reach higher than you’ve ever gone before. You just might be used in ways you’ve never dreamed of. So don’t jump ships just yet – see what’s in store for you – who knows you might just be in the right spot!

Enjoy your blooming experience. You will feel so different. Nancy (www.justaskbooks.com)

The Good Idea/Borrowing trouble

2009-09-01T08:24:00.000-07:00

Good morning everyone…

What a spectacular day lies ahead of us. What do you plan on doing with yours? Sometimes it is so funny that the things we plan out are exactly the opposite of what happens. Be prepared for anything I say.

Today I want to share with you something that my Mama use to say to me and something that I now say to my children… (It does stick with us!)

My Mama use to say…" Nancy don’t go borrowing trouble." I use to worry about most everything. Things I probably didn’t even know about. Worry – I held the market on that.

I’ve also come across other quotes regarding “worry”…George Washington said, “Worry is the interest paid by those who borrow trouble.” Yep!

The Bible says…"Do not worry." Matthew 6:25-34 (NIV)

Worry puts lines on our faces, aches in our heads and stomachs, weight on our shoulders and fear on our hearts.

Worry has no place in the life of a person who believes. Worry has no place in the life of a person who is encouraged and encourages others. Worry now has no place in my life. How about you?

I gain absolutely nothing by worry. Worry does not catapult me to the next level. Worry does not promote me to sleep. Worry does not put a smile on my face. Worry will pull one down. Worry does not lift one up. Hope will lift us up. Belief will lift us up. These are opposite to worry.

Worry is bondage. Worry comes in chains. Worry comes to conquer and take your joy. I say do not give in to it. We waste so much time in worry. So much time is wasted that we miss the good things that are offered to us.

We ask, “Well what if?” What is “if?” When we worry – we totally miss the present gift. We miss what is being handed to us at the perfect time.

There is enough to occupy our daily thoughts and given time. We know what we have and where we are. It is time to embrace these areas, recognize them for what they are and “JustAsk” for help if you need to change them.

Worry will not change the things in your life but faith will get you through each moment. Enjoy your day and if you worry – put it aside, work on the positive outcome and know that all things will be provided to you if you just believe. Nancy (www.justaskbooks.com)

The Good Idea/Opinions

2009-08-31T08:34:00.001-07:00

Good morning my friends….

This is the day of new beginnings. (Again.) School is in full swing and the routines have started. I’m looking forward to this because it gives us structure and I believe that structure works so well for many of us.

George and I had an interesting conversation a couple of days ago and I wanted to share it with you. We discussed people’s opinions and when they voiced those opinions.

It is so true that all people have opinions of one kind or another. Some have more opinions than others. Some have no problem in giving you their opinion. How many of us have asked….if only to ourselves…"If I wanted your opinion; I would have asked for it."

Some of us speak out of turn. Some of us speak and give our opinions before all of the facts are known. Some people give life changing opinions before they have the whole story.

Some opinions are formed out of a person’s own experiences. Not so much what another person is doing or wanting but out of their own good or bad experiences. We can put our successes or failures on another just by what has happened to us.

I remember what I heard long ago when I found myself looking for a new job because of my company’s current lay-offs…. I asked the opinion of my friend about a possible job…she told me not to try; her son didn’t get in so why should I? That was her opinion.

She based that off of her experience instead of what I may have had to offer. We are so quick sometimes to give our opinions to others before we take into account everything at hand. So what to do?

Is not giving our opinions the best route to take? Maybe so. Are we being asked for our opinion or are we just giving without thinking? We better make sure that the recipients of these thoughts are welcoming us.

Too many times we speak before we have all of the facts. Before we are given permission. Just because it happened to us doesn’t mean that it will happen to someone else. Be careful what we say and how we encourage or discourage someone. It may not be our right to do so.

By the way, I got the job that my friend’s son did not. I did not listen to her opinion and I followed my own heart. I believed and listened and found out that other’s opinions are not always the best for me. The same goes for you….you have to “JustAsk”. Your own answers will come.

And if you are going to give your opinion, please have all of the facts first - without the facts you may be giving out wrong information.

For a lot of us; listening is very difficult. We are eager and ready to help out. I suggest that we slow down, listen, maybe not even talk…just listen. If more of us did that what a difference that would make. Sometimes we are not the smartest people in the room. Nancy (www.justaskbooks.com)

The Good Idea/Do you hear?

2009-08-28T07:24:00.000-07:00

Good morning to all…..

As I awoken to the soft sounds of rain this morning I decided that my bed was the best place to be. Don’t you just love the sound of rain? How soothing to the ear and the heart. God has given us so many pleasant sounds to enjoy.

So up and at it we go…..today I want to talk about how we do not always hear what is being said. It is so true. Something will be said to someone and you either get that -I understand look or you hear….what? (Sometimes that “what” is also a look.)

Just this morning while giving some information to my youngest, she looked at me and said, “I’m confused.” So I repeat it – still I get that “what” look. I think to myself, “How plain can I get?”

Now what is happening at this time? Either we are not fully paying attention to the one speaking…daydreaming, thinking of what we want to say or maybe we truly don’t get it.

It is so important to listen when others speak. Even if you feel that the words do not suite you – you should still listen and attempt to comprehend.

Sometimes the meanings in words go much deeper than just the spoken word itself. A few days ago we were in a meeting and a gentleman spoke out some words several times. He then asked, “Do you understand what I am saying?”

After about the third time – I got it. It wasn’t that I did not hear him, I did. But what I did not do was give him full attention and absorb what he was saying. I’m so thankful that he took the time to repeat himself….I would have missed such a critical message.

Many times we think that we know what the person is going to say or mean through their words. Sometimes we are right and sometimes we are wrong. Decisions are based off of our understanding of other’s words. This could actually be scary if we do not truly comprehend the meaning of the spoken word.

There are direct words spoken and there are parables that have been spoken and we must think on these words and figure out how they pertain to our lives.

A few days ago I spoke out and the message given to others was not “heard” by all. I wondered if they did not hear me, understand me or did they think that the message did not pertain to them? What kind of walls are we up against?

As a speaker of words I must say that we cannot assume that others get our words the first time. Sometimes we need to repeat ourselves. Sometimes we need to repeat ourselves. HA HA (Oops there I go again.)

Enjoy this wonderful day….enjoy this wonderful day….there is a difference waiting to be made. There is a difference waiting to be made. (Even listening to the rain) Nancy

The Good Idea/Who depends on you?

2009-08-26T08:43:00.000-07:00

Good morning my friends….

This morning as I sit to have some time with you; Sammy our cockatiel decides to jump on my foot and get comfortable.

I looked down upon her and wondered….who depends on us?

What would happen to Sammy if we were not around? I use to think these kinds of thoughts before I got married. I lived alone with a dog and a cat. I loved these pets like family. They were the ones I saw first thing in the morning and the last thing at night. They provided such comfort for me. They provided a true sense of responsibility.

Now I look around at all of the people who depend on me. These are the ones who depend on me to be in my place to provide for them as I am called to do. It could be family, friends, co-workers even strangers.

OK – so now let’s take a look at ourselves and check out the situation. Are you in any shape for someone to depend on? How is your physical health? Are you abusing anything that may hinder your ability to care for those who depend on you? Are you abusing yourself so hence you compromise your ability to care for yourself?

Look at the faces around you….do you see comfort in those faces? Do you see security in those faces? Do you see trust in those faces?

I have come to realize how important it is to take care of myself. Not only for myself but for those around me who depend on me. I remember when the kids were really young and at times I was down with one thing or another. I use to think, oh my gosh….now what am I going to do. I wasn’t strong enough in my physical health to care for them in their fast paced little life.

We are responsible to and for someone…whether it is yourself or someone else. We should keep ourselves in ship shape so that we are ready when the need arises. (Remember how I am ready most mornings before….who knows what?)

I use to feel guilty if I needed to close my eyes or put up my feet. I thought that I ALWAYS had to be doing something, going somewhere, no time to take it easy…greasy. How wrong I was. I am better now if I get to put my feet up and close my eyes.

I want to be there when the bell rings. I want to be there when someone says…..hey, can you help me? I want to be there when the kids ask…."Mom can you just sit with me?"

It is time to take a close look at how and where we push ourselves. Maybe you too need a little overhaul in what you do or don’t do. “JustAsk”

Have a wonderful day and take care so that you can be there. Maybe those 10 minutes on the couch will make a world of difference. Nancy (www.justaskbooks.com)

The Good Idea/Do you know where you're going too?

2009-08-25T07:07:00.000-07:00

Good morning…..

I’ve had a song playing in my head all morning – A song by Diana Ross, “Do you know where you are going too?”

The first part goes like this…"Do you know where you’re going too? Do you like the things that life is showing you? Where are you going too? Do you know?"

What a question! Do we know where we are going too? Do you like what you are seeing and experiencing? Where are you headed? Are you even aware of where you are going too?

Are we going through life on auto-pilot saying whatever happens, happens. I saw a lot of “whatever” this weekend while driving through some back roads.

I saw people just sitting…."JUST SITTING." What were they doing? Anything? They were just sitting. I asked myself for how long have they been sitting? Are they happy just to sit? Isn’t there more?

I saw people close to the road…just sitting watching the cars pass by. I saw people on their porches; just sitting…I asked myself, “What are they waiting on?” I don’t want to mention the answer I got.

“Do you know where you’re going to?” “Do you like what life is showing you?” Then the question comes up…what are you asking to see?

What more do you want? We all have desires in our heart and you know that those desires did not just magically appear there. They were placed there by God. These are good desires that we long to make happen.

They are our dreams, our plans, our hopes, and our wishes….our desires. I have to wonder as I look upon the ones who “just sit” is this where they wanted to go? Do they like what life has shown them so far? Do they even know?

All of a sudden I’m starting to feel like the “make it happen” girl. Seriously it is true. It is time to get up, shake it off and know where you are going too.

I believe that we are NOT called to just sit and watch everyone else go by. We are called to participate in this most wonderful event called life. We are to live with a purpose which will fulfill our destiny.

Now here is where many of us get “stumped.” Purpose, destiny…what might that be? I say “JustAsk” and the answer will become perfectly clear. That is what I did…I just asked and that question landed me right here with you. I love it!

Ask the question, listen for the answer, press on and discover that there is so much more for us. We need to know where we are going too. Yes we do. It is a wonderful journey when you take the right path!

The right path leads to home. You will experience such a difference when you know. Nancy (www.justaskbooks.com)

The Good Idea/One for all and all for one

2009-08-24T11:02:00.001-07:00

Good morning everyone….

The hustle and bustle of the weekend is now behind us. Our oldest daughter went back to college for her last year. WHEW – what a whirlwind. It doesn’t matter how old they get – Mom still sheds a few tears in the separation! (As George and Matthew look at me and say, “what’s the big deal?” )

OK – I’m back. We’ve all heard the expression, “One for all and all for one.” What does that mean exactly?

This expression has come up a few times and it has made me ponder its meaning. I’ve heard it being spoken at sporting events… players talk about their oneness on the team or how about when employees stand together for their employer? This express can be used in so many different ways.

Families have the expression, “One for all and all for one.” The oneness of the family. Unity. We are all together for a joint cause.

I’ve taken this expression a bit deeper. I’m following the One of creation. There I find oneness and wholeness.

This is the place where all things come together to form a perfect union. This is a place where no one is left out in the rain. This is a place where everyone is family. This is a place where everything is for the greater good.

Wasn’t it the Three Musketeers who said, “One for all and all for one?” I can see their figures standing on guard with swords drawn. They were ready for anything.

When we stand like this we too are ready for anything. We are united into the family where all things come together under wings of protection.

Are you standing for something where your motto is “One for all and all for one?” What or who is your “oneness?”

Are you coming together under unity, love, justice, peace, harmony, forgiveness and understanding? If not may I suggest a place where you can find just that….a place where “oneness” dwells. This is a place that you find through “JustAsking”.

May you find your “oneness” today and make it “One for all and all for one.” You will find quite a difference there. Nancy

The Good Idea/Quest for more....

2009-08-20T06:59:00.000-07:00

Good morning to all….

Here we are enjoying the last few days of summer vacation. Soon the school bell will ring and we will begin a new chapter of our lives. Do we have anyone who is looking forward to this? Probably a few people I would think.

Today I want to share with you an observation which I had while attempting to prioritize a few situations.

When we look back on our decisions, when we take account of where we have been, where we are and where we “think” we are going life has a way of unfolding. Maybe not like we planned but it will unfold nonetheless.

I have watched others make a plan for themselves. I have watched others grab for all that they could and “should” do. Then I see them sitting and wondering what just happened.

From time to time in my own life; I discovered that in the quest for more – I lost much.

What about you? We do not plan for this to happen. We do not expect to run into trouble. Our thoughts are good ones. Our intentions are good ones. Our plans are well laid out but something just happens. Sometimes something just breaks down. Maybe it is us. Maybe we fall apart for a bit.

I have probably mentioned before how George and I talk about the “cost of” doing something. I do not mean the financial cost; I mean the emotional cost. It’s the cost of, the pull on, the burden felt and the responsibility at hand.

When a decision is made to move forward we normally effect more than just ourselves. If you have a family; everyone is touched in one way or another.

Work increases for everyone; sacrifice is felt by all and quite possibly there may be less family time. Is this what we wanted? Is this what we thought would happen?

So OK now what? We just can’t quit. Remember, failure is not an option. I believe that we must see our endeavors though if at all possible then be slow to make future decisions until you examine the cost.

In this quest of ours…yours and mine….are we going to lose much? Is the cost too high? How will your decisions affect the other people around you? There is so much to take into consideration.

When I feel overwhelmed with decisions made; when I feel the cost is too high; then I “JustAsk” for directions and guidance. This feeling happens to all of us and there is comfort just around the corner. (Well actually closer than that.)

In our race to “make-it”…. in our race to “get it all done”….I ask that you just be sure that the cost is not too much to bear.

I believe that there is abundance and we need not scrap, scramble or compete for it. We need to approach it differently – we need to “JustAsk”. Creativity will flow when we know what to do. Nancy

The Good Idea/Switching gears

2009-08-17T09:17:00.000-07:00

Good morning my friends….

It is such a privilege to be able to talk with all of you today. At times it is so easy to take our visits for granted. I don’t want to do that – so let’s enjoy some time together.

Today I want to share with you my thoughts on “switching gears.” Not the grinding truck kind…but the kind we have to do on a daily basis.

We are pulled in so many directions aren’t we? It seems as if we are putting our hats on and taking them off. It is easy for some of us because we can multi-task, some of us cannot.

To radically go from one event into another can cause some stress on people. Sometimes we need to “debrief” ourselves then enter into our next assignment, task, area or groups of people.

I find this to be true of me. If I’m on a trip of some sort whether it is vacation or a conference; I need to gradually slide back into where I came from. Just to jump from one event into another one will take a toll on me.

How about you? I do admire the person who can easily slide from one event into another one without missing a beat. I just need a few moments to regroup my being and my thoughts, have a cup of coffee, smile and just nod my head a few times.

I have found out that people have so much to say to me that I am given grace and allowed to just absorb it all. Thank you Lord.

I was on a trip recently and absorbed so much that when I got back I almost felt detached. I had to re-enter the home zone again and get back to life.

I have found that we need to function at many levels. We are so much too so many people. It really is a good thing. It makes us feel loved and secure. I love the embraces and the happy faces saying….YEAH – you are home!!! (Quickly grab the coffee!)

Our road in life is paved with many twists and turns. I need to continuously ask the Lord if I am on the right path. We have right turns and left turns. We have hills and valleys. We have straight shoots and winding roads. Which ever one you take should be the right one for you.

The demands on us are numerous. I do not want to waste time and energy doing something that is not beneficial to me or my family. This could take away precious moments and energy.

My discovery is that it is more than OK to take a few moments to “debrief” yourself. If you want to be all you can be for others than you must do what it takes to ready yourself for them.

We are wonderful beings…so full of possibilities, strengths and wonder-works. If you continue to “JustAsk” for your guided direction then you will find that the re-entry back into your “normal” life will be smooth.

I’m still drinking coffee this morning, listening with one ear and typing with both hands…yep – I can multi-task.

Enjoy this beautiful day and thank you for spending some time with me. It makes a big difference. Nancy (www.justaskbooks.com)

The Good Idea/Stages of Life

2009-08-14T06:47:00.001-07:00

Good morning to all –

The other day while perusing my surroundings – I started to think about the “stages of life.” More specifically I was thinking about our adult stages of life.

Some of us begin our own lives moving away from home into our own apartments or houses. Some of us begin our own lives by getting married early and beginning our lives together.

These are the stages that I saw – the single person – this person has time for themselves and their house/yard work. They answer to no one else except themselves and they pretty much come and go as they please. Their home doesn’t change much because it is only them.

Next we have the newly married couple – they do a lot together. They spend time together outdoors “fixing up the place” or they are gone because nothing is holding them down.

Now we have the couple with young children. This is the most visible family on the block. The children are outdoors because they can make all the noise they want to outdoors. Dad is usually working on something outside and Mom is observing the children, running to catch a fall, chasing a ball and running inside for water for Dad. (If memory serves me right!) This household is always busy and always making changes.

OK…now comes the couple whose children are grown up. These children are less visible outside playing…they are more visible outside doing the chores that Mom and Dad use to do. You ask, where is Mom and Dad???? - They are inside doing paperwork, reading, paying bills, listening to the quiet or maybe NAPPING!!!

You are seeing the adults less and less now…

Then we have the people who are living alone “again.” The children are gone and perhaps a spouse has even died. We are living like we are single again. Except this time, we are not planting trees, mowing the grass, laying mulch (YUCK!!) moving bikes or picking up sidewalk chalk. We now hire someone to do it for us.

Aren’t the stages interesting? Where we come from and where we go too are really somewhat the same.

The question becomes, “what have you done in the middle to make a difference in your life and the lives around you?”

Don’t just enter alone and exit alone. We are meant for something so much bigger. Do you need to know what you are called to do in the “stage” that you are in? Do you feel that there is more than just watering the lawn, picking up chalk, chasing the bikes down the street, leaving at 8AM and arriving back at 5PM? There is so much more and all you need to do is “JustAsk”.

Did we see more when we were younger? Or now do we see more when some of the obligations are lifted. I’m not real sure. I know that I want to see it all and experience what God has for me.

Even though our kids are not outdoors as much as before – I still want to be alive, be active and be visible. But – I would like to hire someone to do that mulch! I think that it would make a difference. Enjoy - Nancy (www.justaskbooks.com)

The Good Idea/Life Begins....

2009-08-12T09:28:00.001-07:00

Greetings to all….

I want to talk about “life” today. Some people say that life begins when you take your first breath. Some people say that life begins at the time of conception.

Hugh Downs has said, “Life begins when you do.”

I stand on record as saying - I believe life begins at the time of conception. I also agree with Mr. Downs when he says, “life beings when you do.” That is when we truly start living. That is when all of the fun starts. We begin to feel life inside of us.

We truly live when we see a flower bloom, when we see the brightness of the sun, when we see a sky full of stars and when we see a hummingbird in flight. We truly live when we see the vast expanse of the ocean and feel the sand on our feet.

We truly feel life and how small we are in it when we experience the Grand Canyon . We feel life when we touch the hand of a baby. We feel life when we touch the hand of our grandparent. Life – so much of it to live and to share. What are you doing with yours?

Life becomes oh so real and purposeful when we get up and begin on the path that has been designed for us. Life becomes oh so real when we reach out and share our life with others.

When we share with others what we have been given; when we share what we know with someone else we are truly experiencing the gift of life.

I don’t believe living life is sitting in the biggest house on the hill. Having your desk on the top floor of the highest building or being untouchable.

Life is sitting under a tree and enjoying it. Life smells the salty air, the freshness of the morning dew and sees the beauty of a butterfly.

We still have the houses on the hill and we have the ones who sit in the chairs on the top floor of the highest buildings; just know that that it not real life.

Life is your heart and soul. Life is what God breathed into you. Take a deep breath of His goodness and experience life as He has given it. I promise you – a difference will be made. Live your life in His promise. Nancy

The Good Idea/Feed the Hungry

2009-08-11T06:21:00.001-07:00

Good morning my friends,

I’ve started early today and the sounds of silence are wonderful. Remember our parents asking us, “shhh, do you hear that?” We as children said no. They said, “Exactly!” This is where I am at today.

As I was preparing for today I kept hearing “feed the hungry.” “Feed the hungry.” OK – now where do I go with that? Several places I’ve come to find out.

Let’s start with the obvious. Hunger – it is alive but not well. Hunger – many people experience it. Now I’m not talking about the diet starved individual. I’m talking about the person who has absolutely nothing to eat or very little to feed their family with.

We see that need and I pray that you open your hearts and wallets to provide nourishment for these individuals. “Every little bit helps” as my Mama would say. If you are blessed, then you should bless others.

Let’s talk about the person who is hungry for true love. There are many and they are crying out to us. Children, adults, seniors…many are in need of compassion, truth, love, kindness, smiles, warmth….etc.

There is a hunger for peace, for “nice” talk, for understanding, for sympathy, for empathy, for hugs and smiles.

Hunger is more than our bellies being full. Now our bellies are a great place to start – this will put a smile on our face and make us more willing. But I tell you it goes so much deeper than that. Giving first to someone who is hungry is such a blessing. Seeing to another’s needs before our own is exactly what we are called to do. To be a servant!

“Feed the hungry.” Look for a person in need. You may not have to go very far to find that person. We see it all the time; we hear it all the time.

While walking yesterday I passed by a house where I heard unspeakable language coming out from the garage. I stopped and took a deep breath then prayed for peace. This person is in serious need….there is a hunger for peace, patience, love and release.

You see this hunger could be as close as next door, down the street, the next neighborhood over or even in your own home. Where do you find hunger?

If you are hungry – “JustAsk”….if you are full then pour out and help someone who is seeking to be filled up.

I am asking for more than the money in your pocket. I’m asking about giving out of love and all the different forms that it takes. Feeding the hungry is a personal movement

This is a personal movement that is so rewarding because we give from our hearts. We give to those who are in need of nourishment - nourishment of all kinds.

There is a call to “feed the hungry.” If you hear that call, lend yourself, give of yourself and open yourself up to nourish others, instruct others in His truth, and love others as you have been loved.

Some of the “hungriest” people may be the ones we least expect. If you really look; you will find. Make the difference in someone’s life today…"feed the hungry." Nancy (www.justaskbooks.com)

The Good Idea/Talking to yourself

2009-08-10T07:28:00.001-07:00

Good morning everyone…..

If I may start off with a question this morning….how many of you talk to yourselves? Several I’m sure. I must admit I talk to myself.

My Dad… (Not my Mom now)…my Day use to say, “If I want to talk to a smart man, I’ll talk to myself.” Then hysterical laughter and a grin would follow this comment.

There is nothing wrong with talking out loud to yourself….as long as no one else hears you. The reason – they will think that you are a little strange. (This is not an altogether bad thing.)

I’ll tell a funny on myself – the other night we were gathered as a family watching funny videos on television. Now let me tell you this rarely happens. Number one we very rarely watch television let alone together. Someone always has something else to do.

I had gotten up and served some snacks to my family then settled myself back down. I must have been deep in thought because all of a sudden I answered a question out loud which I asked myself.

This is one of those moments where you look around to see if anyone noticed what you just did. So I looked and my son Matthew stared at me and asked, “What did you say?” Then I hear hysterical laughter.

I believed that I confessed and began to laugh. OK….he now thinks that I should just go to bed. “Maybe Mom just needs rest.”

These things happen. We get deep in thought – we get focused and maybe do something a little out of the ordinary. It makes life interesting don’t you think?

There are times when we speak out loud and answer our own questions. Sometimes we just need to audibly hear the question. Maybe this makes it real so the answer comes faster. It becomes clear to us.

I have talked with some people who say…”oh nothing is wrong,” “I have nothing to say,” clearly there is something to say….speak it out then we can fix it.

Speaking things out loud or writing them down is a way for us to understand issues that we might be dealing with.

So to all of those who “occasionally” speak out (I mean good things here.) – It is more than OK….I know that you are just sorting some things out. It could be that God just wanted you to share.

Don’t be hard on yourself – no need to look around – people do it all the time…you just might be more creative than others.

Rejoice in your creativity, sort through the best way you know how and forget about what others think. It really does not matter.

I’m closing with my thoughts now – maybe I’ll just speak answers and forget about the questions. HA HA - Sure it’s about a difference. Enjoy your day. Nancy

The Good Idea/Gracious is he

2009-08-07T08:15:00.000-07:00

Good day to all….

How fortunate we are to be able to take another breath today. As I opened my eyes this morning I was so grateful to be able to enjoy another day. Thank you Lord.

Today I want to talk about gracious people. Yes, you are out there. Yes, you do exist. Yes, you do deserve being mentioned.

I say enough with the bad stuff. Enough with the depression stuff. Enough with the he did/she did stuff. It is time to say thank you to the gracious ones who make our lives so bearable and livable.

Do I have someone in mind? You bet I do. I have several in mind but today I am just going to focus in on one.

This person gives all that he has. He gives when he feels like there is nothing left. He smiles when the rest of us are frowning. He laughs when he is seeing the truth…when the light bulb goes on.

He stays up late and gets up early just to make a difference. He will take time just to explain something in the simplest of terms. He will not rush or make you feel rushed.

He is slow to ask of others but so fast to give to others. He would rather walk a mile with a smile than ask another to give up their time for him.

His heart is so big that others see it from afar. He is good humored and trusted. He is compassionate and loyal. He is loving and tender. He is big and strong.

Who is this person you may ask….is it Superman? Sure sounds like Superman. No, he is better than Superman….he is my husband George.

OK – he is probably going to get me for this but I just gotta’ say it. George you are one in a million. I’ve never seen anyone who cares like you care. I’ve never seen anyone who makes others feel so welcomed and comfortable. You have been so richly blessed and you show it by blessing others with your gifts and talents.

I watch what you do. I listen to what you say. I admire the way you handle yourself and I’m so thankful that God gave you to me. I don’t know how that happened….but I will not question it – I will only thank Him for His beautiful and gracious gift called you.

Who do you have in your life that makes you feel like you are so loved and cared for? Someone that makes you feel like you light up their lives? Please tell them how they make you feel. Write to them, talk with them, hug them, kiss them…LOVE them back.

God has given that person to you so that you can know what true love is. He has given that person to you because He loves you so much!

I thank you Heavenly Father for your unending love for me. You show me love continuously just by allowing George into my life.

OK George you are probably saying to yourself right now…what do you want Nancy ? Seriously nothing – this time – HA HA….I just want you to know that I think you are wonderful…gracious are those – who are humble in heart! You have made such a huge difference in my life.

Who is making a difference in your life? Are you making a difference in someone’s life? Just love on them…and be loved. I hear that it is one of our greatest gifts. Nancy (www.justaskbooks.com)

The Good Idea/You are where you need to be

2009-08-06T06:30:00.000-07:00

Good morning everyone –

It is time to start the day. It is time to begin where you left off yesterday. Maybe it is time to start anew. Wherever you are this day – let it lead to positive changes.

A thought occurred to me that we are placed exactly where we need to be. By this I mean; some time ago my family and I were transplanted to a new location from where we all grew up.

At the time of our move I wondered why here? Why in this house? Why in this neighborhood and why did I have to move so far away from my family?

I struggled with this for some time. I’m from a different part of the country and I really felt that difference. Where I came from the people are laid back, not so rushed and a little more neighborly.

So the move was definitely one for me to adjust to. As I was adjusting I began to grow and little by little stopped asking why we were here.

Our home turned into a home for many. Many people came over to hang out, talk, cry, laugh and relax. Some came over to find comfort from life’s hard blows. I was beginning to feel like I belonged.

My surroundings have become warm to me. I find comfort in rolling hills and wild animals which I was not use to seeing in my back yard. Still to this day I ask, “What is that?”

My work life, my social life, my life with God has all changed dramatically. I did ask why here, why now, what for and what is planned for my family?

I’m sure that you have gone through these types of changes yourself. I’m sure that you have asked yourself…"why am I here at this job, this home, this neighborhood, this store, this church."

As I have worked through these questions – I have discovered that I am exactly where God wants me. I was to leave my home, I was to move into this house, in this neighborhood, write this column, connect with you and move forward in His name.

Life changes are for a reason and that reason is to move onward toward the big plan. This is the master plan for our lives which has already been laid out.

It is so important to make the best out of where we are. We are to shine in the light wherever God puts us.

So look around – where are you? There is a reason for your being and your being there. Who do you need to reach? What do you need to do?

When we make the best out of where we are then we are on the road to making a difference. Maybe it is not time to jump off of the train yet. Maybe when you “JustAsk” you will find that you are exactly where you need to be.

Grow in it – make adjustments to it – live and love in it. There is a plan for you – are you living yours yet? I embraced my difference and I love it. You can too. Nancy (www.justaskbooks.com)

The Good Idea/Beauty

2009-08-04T08:37:00.001-07:00

Morning greetings to all…..

What a day of possibilities! Sometimes we just feel it in “the air.” You know the feeling; something is on the horizon and it is coming for you. When you live a life of expectancy you will always be ready.

Today while preparing for The Good Idea; I ran across a headline that said…"Better habits for beauty."

Hey, let me open that right up. I’ve got that new exercise thing going on - now I need some “beauty” tips.

Then I pulled back and read the headline again….."Better habits for beauty." What kind of beauty are they talking about?

Let’s look at beauty from the outside in….there are changes in our diet which may help our appearance and the internal workings of our bodies. Then there is more rest/sleep which most of us need. This will squelch the comments…"you look tired!" We must not neglect our grooming habits either.

A little lipstick and rouge (as my Mom would say) will do wonders for a girl. You guys, I say I’ll check with George. (He’s got it figured out.)

Beauty – I say it starts on the inside and that is where we need to develop habits of grooming. Yes that is it…let’s work on the inside so that on the outside we will shine with the light of His grace.

Something like patience, or how about kindness…oh, how about joy - now that is a big one. I’m talking about real joy down deep in your heart. (Can you hear the song??? “I’ve got the joy, joy, joy, joy down in my heart…etc)

When we are beautiful on the inside; we can’t help but be beautiful on the outside. We do not need makeup tricks or concealer.

When I was pregnant with my three most beautiful children; (ahhhh) I remember George use to say to me that I had a “glow” about me. I think that most pregnant women do. We have life inside of us and it is radiating outward.

Life inside of us….we can have that all of the time. We can shine in His love which will transform us into a work of beauty.

“You don’t need no stinkin’ make-up”….to quote someone not versed in the English language….I say – “wanna bet?” “A little color never hurt anyone.”

I embrace the life inside of me and I really do feel the beauty which comes forth that can only be from Him.

Beauty – find yours…..if you are lost – “JustAsk”. That beauty is waiting for you. You will look in the mirror and see such a difference. No longer will you say…"mirror, mirror on the wall…" for you will know who is the fairest of all.

Enjoy this beautiful day and expect good changes to happen for you. Nancy (www.justaskbooks.com)

The Good Idea/Bag worms

2009-08-03T08:34:00.000-07:00

Hello and good morning….

I need to share with you this morning while I can still muster up the strength.

I’m confessing here that I have been lax in exercising. I haven’t given it my all because I’ve been too busy in the mornings running here and there. (Reason or excuse???)

So here is what happened…..

My mind was made up last night that I was going to get back out there and walk off all of those unwanted bulges. It is a pretty enough day, not to humid, a little wind blowing and I’m feeling good.

These morning walks are the best time for inner reflection and talking with God…or I should say God talking with me.

I’m feeling comfortable for the first part of my walk; then I begin to feel the burn. Suddenly my legs are heavier then when I started out, my breathing is just a little more labored, my head is starting to itch and I feel better holding my waist then walking with my hands down. Why??? Because my hands are so swollen I can hardly see my rings. I keep reminding myself that it is all good.

Just a few more steps, just a few more hills to climb then times of refreshment will be my reward.

As I approach a few more bends in the road I see the long span of curb and I am so called to sit down and rest. I now see the hard cement curb as a down filled comforter. I just know that sitting down on the down filled comforter curb will do me good. What keeps me from it? Perseverance and the knowing that bag worms keep going on no matter what. I will not be upstaged by a bag worm. How about you?

Have you seen the determination in a bag worm? Do you know what a bag worm is? As if worms are not bad enough…they now come in bags. Like I want to take a sack of them home!

These little critters hang off of trees in a cocoon like covering. You can see them wiggle and grow. How wonderful.

We have quite a few on our trees. George picks them off in a manly fashion while I watch and say in a girly fashion…Yuck…nasty!

Since these precious little ones wiggle and squirm so much, you cannot just put them anywhere. They have climbed out of every container that we have placed them in. So where did George put them now….in the drainage sewer. There that’ll take care of them. HA HA – they attached their little selves to the cement wall and crawled out. They get knocked back down again and crawl back up.

That is the determination that I recalled today while I was out dragging myself around. This is the determination that we all need. When the going gets tough…the bag worm just keeps climbing. What seems impossible is just a challenge.

So as I rounded my last curb….as I drug my feet from behind me…..as I tried to make a fist….a neighbor came out and said… “How did you do….that is great…now don’t you feel better?” How was I going to answer that one?

I said, “Yes, I feel so much better.” Then I thought, “Better than what?” It was at this time that I asked for further grace and stamina. Don’t let me stop now…don’t look at the curb…head home…you can do it.

I passed the drainage sewer….the bag worms are still climbing and I let them be….I know how hard the climb can be and I applaud their efforts….I stood and asked…”How do you do it, that is great, and now don’t you feel better?” I believe that I have made some new friends.

I’m starting over once again…how about you? Have you given up on something just to start again? That is OK….there is no shame is starting again. I’m out to make a bigger difference. Enjoy your day. Nancy (www.justaskbooks.com)

The Good Idea/Repeated messages

2009-07-31T08:20:00.000-07:00

Good morning to all….

From time to time I hear messages being repeated over and over again. Does that happen to you? If you hear it once or see it once; you will hear it or see it again.

When this happens I definitely take notice and realize that God is sending a message to me for one reason or another. The same is true for you. The question becomes - are we listening? Are we seeing?

Recently I’ve come in contact with situations where people feel that they are not growing under their current conditions.

What to do? These are situations where friends or family are concerned. People do not want to hurt others by moving forward so sometimes they just sit for the sake of peace.

Sometimes for the sake of peace we find ourselves in a place of complacency. Not growing, not moving forward…we are actually going backwards while the world around us is moving forward.

OK….so now you are sitting by quietly keeping the peace. You are feeling a bit anxious and want more but you are settled because it is comfortable and non-threatening.

So what is my message here – what is the Lord showing me….that we all need to grow. We need to break out of complacency and into a place of learning. Into a place of stepping out. Into a place of reaching higher and trusting in His guidance.

For some it may be best to keep the pace current but for others the pace must be picked up and run just a little harder or different.

A few years ago I was encouraged to move on with my life and my beliefs. I took heed and discovered truth for myself that I never realized before. I broke free of my then current situation and stepped forth. Freedom was found.

I’ve listened and talked with others who want to move on but wonder if they should. I say yes, move on. The desire has been placed in your heart and you must honor that. You are being called out – step forth into the goodness that God has for you.

Have you heard the expression, “lead, follow or get out of the way?” How true…make a stand…lead the group into a new area or let the ones go that need a change.

We are called to change. We are called to grow. We are called to reach higher and farther than we ever dreamed possible. Don’t sit in a ho-hum group rehashing the same old thing. God has bigger plans for you.

“JustAsk” what those plans may be. You may find that they are different from what you are currently doing. Enjoy your wonderful day. Nancy (www.justaskbooks.com)

The Good Idea/Be still

2009-07-30T06:43:00.001-07:00

Oh what a beautiful morning….yes it is…..Good morning,

There is beauty in each day and I am so grateful for it. How wonderful to open your eyes on each new morning knowing that each day is full of blessings and new mercies. Thank you Lord!

Today I want to share with you my thoughts on just being still.

Remember back to when you were a child and it was so hard to sit still? It may be just that hard for you as an adult but sitting still has many advantages.

Sitting still provides rest and comfort. It provides a peace of mind. It provides an opportunity for us to rejuvenate ourselves. It is a place to get quiet and listen for the answers.

There are so many times throughout the day I hear myself saying…"shhhh, be quiet for just a bit." The silence that I long for sometimes aches in my heart.

I want a place where I can go and find comfort in silence. I get the picture of NYC in my head….traffic, noise, too many people, talking, loud sirens, horns honking and tires screeching. Who can live in that?

What about the noise around you? Does it bother you? Does it keep you from being productive?

I remember when I was little and I use to ride in the car with my Mom. I would turn the radio up and try to talk with her. I now know why she always turned the radio down or off. Too much noise. At the time, it did not bother me…I loved all of the activity.

My kids do the same thing…radio up loud, conversation begins. I think to myself, “why do they talk to me now, I thought they wanted to hear the music.” So I do what any parent would do….I turn off the radio and say, “I thought you wanted to talk to me.” Up goes the radio. Maybe they didn’t want to talk to me after all.

When we are under pressure; we do too much don’t we? We run, we work, we wring our hands, we talk, talk, talk….how about being still?

In the NIV Bible, Psalm 46:10…"Be still and know that I am God." These are truly relaxing words.

Right here it says…be still…."Be still and know that I am God." This tells us that He is in control. We are not to fret over anything….be still….be quiet. Take rest and refuge in His word…He has this handled.

What a peaceful place to be. We do not need all of this noise, these pressures, these deadlines.

We get done what we can in the time we have and then that is it. Be still….it is out of your control.

Be still and listen for that still small voice which is guiding and directing you into good things

I have learned that there is no need for all of this excitement. When I took me out of it; I could sit back and be still. This is a wonderful place to be in.
It brings peace to me and I know that His peace is waiting for you if you “JustAsk”. The difference is in the asking. Nancy

The Good Idea/Something to do

2009-07-29T07:21:00.000-07:00

Good morning everyone….

I’m not sure if my week is going fast or slow…I thought it was Thursday today. Then Sarah, my oldest daughter, reminded me that it is Wednesday. So do I slow down or speed up? I’m feeling a whirlwind here.

Speaking of whirlwinds…..George and I were discussing our schedules and we both felt a bit overwhelmed. It is at these times where we must “stop, drop and roll.”

Like so many other people we have a lot on our plates. Then we ask ourselves - without doing these things…where would we be? Have you asked yourself that?

Look around you….there is always something to do. George says that he cannot take a vacation at home because he would end up working all of the time. There is always something to do around the house. (Tell me about it!)

We mentioned that a few years ago we were just doing “our” thing. Our lives were not complicated by activities and commitments. The kids were still relatively young, under our constant care…not running here or there…..not many social engagements…not a lot of community involvement…not a lot of anything outside of our little world.

We thought that we were cruising just fine. Then our eyes opened up, our ears began to hear and life took on a whole new meaning.

All of a sudden life was so much more. Life is living. Life is loving. Life is sharing. Life is giving. Life is awesome!

Life is to share with others. Life is to explore the unknown. Life is to be lived in complete gratitude. Life is a gift from God - to be lived according to His design.

Sure without stepping out you can live a pretty content life. You will not have a lot of ups and downs….just a lot of the same ole’ same ole’.

You can set your clock by television shows, dinner and lunch times and bath times. You can be content sitting in your chair and watching the other guy do it.

We say to our kids all of the time…."Don’t just sit there watching the others do it, get out there and do it yourself."

Break free I say and take on what you never thought possible.

Would we go back to the way it use to be? No. Did we get more rest? Yes. Were we more content? I would probably use the word complacent.

We were pulled up and out of a self-centered life style. We have been shown a new way of living our lives. A new way of believing…we have been shown the truth.

On those evenings when we both crawl up the stairs; we are grateful for the opportunity to serve others. Another good day!

How about you? Are you making changes? Are you leading an exciting life full of opportunities to serve others? Or….do you live from one television show to the next?

There is a big plan for you if you “JustAsk” and wait for the answer. It is not up to us and our designs. Our designs are small but His are big.

There is such a difference when you step out and ask for more. Nancy

The Good Idea/Play it up

2009-07-28T06:52:00.000-07:00

And a good morning to you….

I mentioned to George yesterday that I so enjoy going outdoors without a coat. How about you? Just get up and go don’t worry about the jacket. Then this past weekend I froze at night down by the shore. Ummmm, maybe I should carry a jacket no matter what.

My “Mom” tells me to take bread in the winter and a jacket in the summer! Great words of advice!

Today let’s talk about “playing it up.” You know, playing in an arena where the players are better than you are. Scary to some…being with the “big boys.”

I’ve felt a bit scared myself when I am faced with people who are more qualified than I am. I’m with them but not able to speak because I feel as if I’m under qualified.

What about playing sports – we tell our kids it is a good thing to “play up.” We gain experience, we learn to push ourselves a bit more…we stretch and that is good.

I have found out that it does no good to sit in a meeting, a locker room, the sidelines, or even a prayer group when you are not being stretched to do better, reach farther and want more.

Something must drive us. Something must reach deep down inside us and tell us that we want more. When we surround ourselves with “easy,” “comfortable,” we are not stretched. We are content. Who grows out of contentment?

So many times I’ve heard people complain that they are going “no where.” I ask them about the people they associate with. Who do you mingle with? Who do you have meetings with?

You will only go as far as the people whom you surround yourself with. Keep reaching for the distance. If your level of activity is sitting on the porch discussing the lives of others than that is where you will be.

What if you get off that porch and take a walk. Reach out – venture out – expect more – give more – want more – play with the “big boys.”

Someone once told me “I am where I am due to the people I swim in the river with.” I thought – that is great. So I ask you, who is in your river? Are they stretching you? Are you stretching them? Let their ceiling be your floor.

It is great to climb together. But take heed, before you climb with that person; be sure you know where they are climbing too. Maybe you are not to follow; but to lead. “JustAsk”.

I remember when my son Matthew started playing soccer….so cute….anyway, he played with a team that consisted of all little guys…then some left our team to play up. They are good players because they pushed themselves…they wanted more challenges…they became better and went on to challenge others.

Let that be a challenge for us…we need to challenge others to do better as we challenge ourselves to do and be better. “Play it up”…go for the gold…stretch yourself and demand more.

Let us not be complacent – let’s get back in the game, show em’ what we are made of and have tenacity to move forward. We must continue to wrestle and push forward until the blessings come. Now is not the time to sit back, now is the time to want more. Have a wonderful day and make the difference by “playing it up!” Nancy

The Good Idea/In a "huff"

2009-07-27T08:30:00.000-07:00

Good morning…

How easy it is to shut off the alarm clock and return to sleep. Does this happen to you very often? How that throws us off when it happens. Even 10 minutes late will put on the pressure. But – it feels oh so good!

Today I want to share with you what I have been witnessing recently. I call it going off in a “huff.”

It happens in my home, on the street, in stores, in the workplace and over the phone. What is going off in a “huff” mean?

I see it as an abrupt end to something. I see it as stomping off, closing the door, hanging up, stomping up stairs, a lot of mumbling to ones-self and taking a stand of defense.

Just this morning I witnessed this during some sibling rivalry. A stand-off of sorts. One says…"mine"…the other says "mine." I’m taken back to Finding Nemo where the pelicans are fighting over eating Nemo-they say….mine, mine, mine. Too funny.

This past weekend while traveling I witnessed going off in a “huff” by drivers. These drivers did not want to let other cars in the line of traffic. Another stand-off. You could actually see the determination on the faces of these people as they tried to keep others from entering into traffic. Some actually went off in a “huff.” I just shake my head.

I’ve had people hang the phone up on me when they try to solicit money. I explain to them that I am involved in another area and that doesn’t go over very well. You can hear the “huff” in their voices as they slam the phone down. I then ask…who called who?

What about in the workplace? What type of a stand do we take? Do we pout, go off in a “huff” and do we take a deep breath and work it out? Why get angry I ask?

I understand why children go off in a “huff” because they are children. What about adults – what deep seed lingers there?

Here is where I scratch my head. Why do some choose to live in an area of strife when the peace that they are searching for is but a question away? “JustAsk” Do some people feel so stepped on that they will not give an inch to someone else?

By giving an inch to someone else – what do we think that we are giving up? Do we think that we will not arrive, we will not get what we are seeking or we are just angry people to begin with?

I am fully aware that there exists competition among people but if one chooses to live in harmony and love then the competition turns into creativity and that helps everyone out.

There is a place for everyone and each person has a right to be in it. Let’s not get in a “huff” just because that place or those words are not what we imaged them to be. Oops I better go now…I hear someone stomping up the stairs in a “huff.”

Can you imagine the difference that will be seen when we take the “huff” off of our faces and out of our stance? Enjoy your beautiful day. Nancy

The Good Idea/Presents

2009-07-24T08:28:00.001-07:00

Good morning to all……

Has anyone noticed the look and feel of fall outside? Here it is July and I see leaves turning colors. How can this be? While driving east this past weekend I saw trees and bushes with yellow, red and orange leaves. I asked George…."How can this be?"

Then lo and behold, outside in my back yard a couple of my trees are turning their leaves. I’m thinking its harvest time. Yes!

I better get a move on it…..let’s start….

Recently we had a birthday celebration at my house. The thought came to me how time changes how we look at birthday presents. Now don’t get me wrong…I love a good pair of diamond earrings as much as the next girl…....but something changes the older we get.

I’m starting to think about water coolers, refrigerators with the ice and water dispenser on the outside, a weekend get-away. Ahhhh….dreams.

Then I look around the table and see bright eyes looking back at me. I say, “This is it.” It is not about the presents one receives it is about who is with you while you open those presents.

You examine what has been hand made and you see the deep love. You examine the cards and read each word as if to memorize them. You see and feel the love.

There was a time in my past when life changed in an instant. I took on a new understanding of celebrating life and celebrating the people in my life.

George jokes about the time he got a rocking chair for me for Christmas. Why did I get a rocking chair? I was pregnant and he thought the gift was most appropriate.

At the time I was a little hurt….you know I was expecting something a bit more personal. I finally softened up and spent much time in that rocker with my babies and now just by myself.

I look back on that gift and I say to myself….how insightful George was. He gave that from his heart knowing that I would get much enjoyment from it. He says he was being practical…I love him for that.

Now at this stage of my game….I’m looking for people whom I love to be with. People who mean the world to me that I want to share my time with. People whom I love dearly.

So whether one comes with a home made gift, a store wrapped gift with a beautiful bow or a long sincere hug….I’ll take it.

Remember we cannot take things with us….but we always have our memories of the ones who spent their time with us.

When I was a child; I thought like a child….I wanted new dolls, wagons, games…now as an adult; I think like an adult….now I want the love of the people around me…I want precious moments that can never be taken away…can never rust…can never be lost.

I thank you my beautiful family for loving me and supporting me. My greatest gifts have always been you! I’ll meet you around the rocking chair tonight. I love you.

The Good Idea/Signs

2009-07-23T06:08:00.000-07:00

Good morning everyone…..

I couldn’t believe my eyes this morning; I saw a white squirrel running across the road. I cannot remember ever seeing a white squirrel before. I looked up white squirrel on the Internet and discovered that yes they do exist; though not a common sight.

The article stated that what I saw was probably a variation of the Eastern Gray Squirrel. I was really taken by surprise. If you keep your eyes opened it is amazing what you just might see.

Speaking of seeing things….I want to talk about “signs” today. Your sign to be specific. My sign to be specific. I do not mean astrological signs…I mean the signs that you wear that define who you are. Do you wear signs?

Just the other day I was at a traffic light and I noticed the car in front of me covered in many bumper stickers. I almost missed the light because I was busy reading the back of their car.

I thought to myself, oh my gosh this is overload. I’m getting dizzy here just trying to keep up. I’m sure that you have seen cars like this or maybe that car is yours.

What about the clothes we wear? Who are you promoting on the front or back of yours? What do your clothes say about you? About what you believe in? About where you are going or where you have been?

The other day I saw a motorcyclist with a very descriptive t-shirt on. His message is not one that I care to repeat here or anywhere else. My son was with us and he said, “Hey do you see that guy’s t-shirt?” Ummm, yes we do.

What does that shirt say about him? If asked he may say, “It is funny.” Well maybe so to him but it tells something about his sense of humor and his lack of respect for others.

OK, let’s look at clothing lines…how many of us where clothes with logos on the front or the back. We advertise the fact that we agree with a certain designer of clothing. We may not know much about their personal beliefs but we like what they produce.

Nothing is wrong with that I say but is advertising their name really what you want to do? Promote their business…and what kind of a business do they have?

I know of some people who will only carry certain designer brands of purses; only wear certain designer brands of clothes, shoes, make-up…the list goes on and on.

I’ve never been one to chase after a brand name. I’m more than content to shop at a store with affordable prices and good quality merchandise. I do not feel the need to advertise someone else on my body.

I believe in being myself, showing who I am. It is rare that I will wear something that advertises another. I just think that before we advertise another’s works; we better know a lot about them or we may get grouped with their beliefs.

If you are all about brand names – then wear them proudly; if not, be yourself and show your true colors. Who has God made you to be? What does your “sign” say about you? There is only one you.

You can find that answer in your heart. You will display that in your daily walk. You will not need a sign around your neck. People will see you coming just from the glow that surrounds you.

So if you like the designer label stuff and you need labels how about creating one for yourself. You can only be sure of yourself and what your beliefs are. I better go now; I have a line of “ Nancy ” clothes to design. I’m going to start with shoes!!! Now that’s different. Nancy

The Good Idea/Shoe to drop

2009-07-22T07:06:00.001-07:00

Good morning to all…..

Things are quiet at my house today….my youngest is on her own vacation. It is something how the absence of just one person makes the biggest difference in our lives.

Have you ever heard the expression, “I’m waiting for the other shoe to drop?” I’ve heard this expression a lot and recently I started thinking about it. Why? I haven’t a clue but I thought that I should write about it.

When good things happen to some people they start looking for the crack in the wall instead of embracing the good.

They are waiting to see what happens next so they miss out on the blessing. Why do some of us do that?

Do we not believe in the good…have we seen so much bad that we cannot fathom something good happening? Why be so negative?

Some would say “bad luck.” I do not believe in luck…be it good or bad. Some say Murphy’s Law….who is this Murphy guy and why go by his law? I live by a greater law which provides comfort and joy.

We make our own way by what we desire, believe in and strive for. Good things are handed down from up above by God so ask for them, believe in them and receive them.

To look for the negative “shoe to drop” is not the right thing to do. Why? Because when you look for it…you find it.

You will find anything that you look for. So why look to the negative? When good things happen, be grateful for them, expect for more to happen and rejoice in the receiving.

We have so many expressions, don’t we? Think about them….are they productive ones or non-productive ones. Do they encourage you forward or do they sit you back down?

We say so many things without even thinking about the ramifications. We say words just because we are use to them.

As some of you may know I grew up with a wonderful Mom who had some great expressions….I get such a big kick out of remembering them and applying them to my life. I also know that I need to take some of them with a grain of salt and just remember the memories and not live by all of that “wisdom.”

It may be time to check our choice of words and revamp our way of thinking and talking.

So do I look for the other “shoe to drop?” No – I look for the opportunities to make a difference and I thank God for His blessings.

Gifts and blessings need to be received with no strings attached…only gratefulness in receiving them. Don’t look at something good and turn it into something bad. We must remember it is what you make of it.

If we keep looking for the other “shoe to drop” we may end up barefoot! I like shoes - that is not the difference that I want to make. Enjoy your day! Nancy

The Good Idea/Fine print

2009-07-21T13:09:00.001-07:00

Good afternoon and here we are…..

Time is traveling faster and faster these days…how can this be??? I was thinking this morning that I “use” to get it all done by 12 Noon – what has happened here? I believe that a few hours have been taken away from me. Is that possible??

It really doesn’t matter – what matters is that here we are and time to start sharing….

This weekend while we were traveling down the friendly streets to Jersey , I saw a billboard which spoke out against “puppy mills.”

I’ve seen these billboards before but never have I seen them the way I did this weekend. This time I read the fine print. If referenced how puppies cannot cry out because their voices have been taken away.

I said, “What?” It took a while for me to understand and absorb this. I ask who would do this? Why would someone do this?

I’m now dealing with two issues…number one – that there are puppy mills and number two – their voices are removed. Seriously I ask again…."what" and "what for?"

Then I started thinking about the voices that we do not hear. The people that try to talk and we silence them because we don’t want to hear what they are saying. We think that what we have to say is more important. We want to dominate.

How many times do we do this? I’ve seen children and even adults start to talk and someone on purpose talks right over them. Now sometimes this happens accidentally and those times can be overlooked but not when someone is dominating the conversation.

When a person is hushed enough they will shut down and not speak again. Then it is funny when someone makes the comment, “they are so quiet.” I wonder why????

The talking over part has happened to me from time to time so I tried an experiment…I kept talking even when someone was talking over me. I thought I’m going to see how long I can keep this up before the other person stops. Guess who stopped first…me.

I couldn’t even hear myself think. When that happens it is best to back off, re-group and wait upon the Lord to open the conversation door again.

When some of us speak it may mean a crying out for help, understanding, love, compassion, praise or encouragement. If we continue to talk over others how will we ever know what they need or feel?

It is time to get quiet and remember that each of us should have an equal chance to speak and relate to each other.

Dominating conversations should not even be considered a conversation. Doesn’t it take more than one to converse? I think so.

So this puppy thing – now what about that? Oh my there are some things that I just refuse to wrap myself around and that is one of them. I pray for God’s protection over these little ones.

Isn’t it funny that it is only when we read the fine print do we realize what is being said. So I will state this loud and clear – AND BIG….I pray a wonderful day over you, a day full of enlightenment and favor…enjoy all that you do and read the fine print – it may make the difference. Nancy

The Good Idea/Depth of Intensity

2009-07-20T06:01:00.000-07:00

Good Monday morning….

As I sit here preparing to share with you this morning; I am reminded of how thankful we need to be. I realize that I mention “thankfulness” quite often but some need to be reminded on a daily basis that life in itself alone is a gift which must be celebrated.

This comes to mind as I hear people yelling at each other….I hear people yelling at pets…..I ask, do you really want to start your day this way? Some of us just need to be reminded of what we have, who we have and whose we are.

George and I were talking a few days ago and we got on the subject of “depth of intensity.” This is how it came up…..

I was mentioning coffee and how some coffees have more intensity of flavor, more boldness and richness over some others. The same is true with wine. I’m not quite as familiar in this area but I’ve heard others speak of bouquets, intensity and depths of wine.

There are some establishments where I will not get coffee because it leaves me drinking something flat, without texture, without “depth of intensity.” I’m just drinking some dark water with cream. Yuck!

Right after we talked about my coffee thoughts….I went to “depth of intensity” on a personal level.

What about our personal “depth of intensity?” What lies deep down inside each of us? How far does our compassion, belief, love, integrity, honesty, truth and flavor go?

Do we just look good on the outside – full of whipped cream, steaming goodness and a warning that says…."Careful, may be hot to handle?"

If we are passionate about our beliefs and convictions then we better not only say “Careful, may be hot to handle”…we better feel it all the way down to our inner most being.

I am passionate about a few things. Really???? HA HA…Do I keep talking about them? Ummm, probably so. I often wonder if people go the other way when I approach. It’s like being a vacuum salesman…"I already have one!"

When you love something, when you are full of joy and excitement; it just runs through your veins and becomes who you are. You have a “depth of intensity” about you that everyone notices.

You walk through a room shining in the light of knowing whose you are, what you are made of and knowing that you are true down to your toes. No pretense, no trying to impress anyone because you are secure in yourself and you are walking out your beliefs. How great is that????

I just love passion. I just love being filled with the passion of truth. “Depth of intensity” there are many layers to go through and oh so filling.

I pray this day finds you full of deep down intensity. Be intense over your passions, your dreams, your beliefs and your love. You will shine because you are sure that you are going to make a difference. Nancy

The Good Idea/"Shhh, not yet"

2009-07-17T07:19:00.000-07:00

Good morning to all….

I’m feeling all excited this morning…all “raring” to go. You know the feeling, something inside is filling you up with such joy that you just want to sing it out from the highest rooftop. I’ve been told that one day I will get my chance.

So until then…let’s talk about having something to say and not being able to speak of it until the appropriate time. How hard is that? I hate keeping something to myself that I am so excited about. I’m not good at keeping secrets so don’t tell me one. I just want to share, share and share. Maybe that is why I’m not a party planner!

Let’s take for instance a surprise party – the invitation says…."shhhh, it’s a secret"....are you kidding me? Don’t get me near the person – I just want to shout in joy that there is something fun coming your way.

When we try so hard not to say something, what happens…we say something! I’m just better off not knowing in some cases.

The more we continue to hold back the more difficult it becomes. This excitement that we feel is so real and genuine that it has to have an outlet.

We feel so passionate about something that we feel a need to talk about it to others. I have found out however that my timing is not always the best time.

Plans have been made, timing has been set so it is imperative that we follow the rules and not run ahead of the scheduled events.

What happens when we do run ahead…when we speak out of turn…when we blow the top off? We quiet possibly ruin the surprise, the event and the outcome.

We must wait for direction. We must not babble out of excitement. I’m learning, I’m learning!!!

I hear others speak and they will say, “we must not tell so and so or it will ruin the surprise.” “Let’s not tell so and so and it will be a surprise.”

The realization is that everything has its own timing. If we are made privy to it before it happens…we should probably ask if we can speak of it before the great reveal.

In our lives we are given direction and when we “JustAsk” for further instruction then we will know how to operate. We will know when to speak and run and jump for joy.

Until then – until I’m given clearance to speak…I will wait patiently and bite the inside of my mouth! To quote my Sister Charlene….."Put a sock in it." Wonderfully put Sis.

So here’s to keeping quiet in the times you are told to. Here’s to speaking out joyfully when you are released to do so. Oh happy day!

I pray that each and every one of you enjoy a most beautiful weekend. How does the saying go…."Speak now or forever hold your peace"....there will come a time and when it does – the difference will be made. Nancy

The Good Idea/In-Laws

2009-07-15T10:12:00.001-07:00

Good afternoon everyone….

I made every effort to “get down to business” this morning as usual….HA HA HA!!! I just love when a curve ball gets thrown my way. I have learned to just duck and keep going.

It reminds me of when I was walking out of the garage and hit my head on the bottom of the garage door as it was going up. Now how does that happen??? Am I taller now than I remembered? Is the garage door slowing down? Am I getter faster? (No, I don’t think so.) I tried to get out in a timely fashion just like this morning but something else was waiting for me. (Do you know how many times I have washed my hair just because I have thought about what the garage door smashes on the ground when it closes. YUCK!!!)

I’m back and ready to go….

I want to share with you my thoughts on proper titles for people in our lives. I mean the titles of our “In-Laws” our “Sister-In-Laws” our “Brother-In-Laws,” Aunts, Uncles, Cousins….etc…

Sometimes those titles leave me cold, how about you? To say “In-Law” just seems cold to me. To say Aunt, Uncle, or Cousin…that seems cold to me.

So what do we use when we are speaking of someone close to us but maybe not a blood relative?

I’m sure many of us have people close to us that we do not want to refer to by “In-Law” or “Cousin.” These people are more like biological parents, biological sisters and brothers. I do struggle with this sometimes.

I feel a closeness to my In-Laws and using their proper title just doesn’t feel right to me. Does anyone else feel this way???

So I can say my Mom and Dad – yet will others know the difference from my biological Mom and Dad verses my In-Laws?

It is like using the words, “I’m sorry” or “I love you.” We use these words so often these days that I think we loose the depth of their meaning. Same as using In-Laws.

I’ve even heard people call In-Laws , Out-Laws….not good. I thank God for blessing me with a Mom and Dad from my husband that I truly love and respect and thank.

Look here – a double blessing by having 2 sets of parents. Both equally loved and admired and respected. Yes….blessings galore!

Have you been blessed by have non-blood relatives? That is a term which my son came up with yesterday to describe very good friends of ours. “Non-blood relatives” you know who you are and you know that you are special.

We are really all related from the beginning of time. Some of us are from here and some of us are from there. Shall we embrace each other and call each other family…blood or not…and rejoice for we have been blessed.

So I say to you sister, brother, mom and dad…you are special to me, I pray for His blessings over each and every one of you and most importantly….Stay Out Of My Room! Ha – that is something different for me. Nancy

The Good Idea/Riches

2009-07-14T12:39:00.001-07:00

Hello my friends….

Don’t you love it when your mind kicks into gear and reminds you that you have something to do? That happened to me this morning. While enjoying my morning walk, deep into thanksgiving, enjoying the “Son” on my face….that still small voice spoke to me and said….."Appointment at 9AM…it is 8:31AM." Oops! Thank you Lord!

So here I am….let’s start….

I want to talk about riches. Riches of all kinds. In friends, in love, in faith, in money, in health, in joy, in peace, in laughter, in generosity and in family. Riches of all kinds.

Some folks believe that they are rich once they hit it big. That could be in the stock market, the lottery, stamp collecting, their ol’ Uncle Charlie passing away or their favorite horse crossing the finish line first.

What makes people rich? I say it is whatever someone’s perception of rich is. When I say rich, what do you think of? Diamonds and gold, health and happiness? It could be so many things.

What about the type of person you are? Does that make you rich?

Now let’s think about the word “rich.” It could mean prosperity. It could also mean depth of texture. Richness in its feel. “It feels rich.” Meaning luxurious, deep, warm, subtle, ohhhhh – I’m seeing a mink (not real) rug!

You get the picture. Rich as in depth of brilliance. So rich that one exudes brilliance. As brilliant as a diamond shines.

So you may ask, huh? I’m talking about the richness which lies inside ones being. I’m talking about the richness of family which makes us happy. The richness of friends which makes us happy. The richness of faith which saves us.

An 1800’s controversial preacher and lecturer said, “He is rich or poor according to what he is, not according to what he has.” Henry Ward Beecher

I guess that kinda’ takes the lottery thing out of the picture doesn’t it? Rich, it is about us as a person…not what we have, what we use, or how we spend it. Rich, it is about what we have inside us and what we do with that.

True value comes from the depths of our hearts. Not what is parked in our garage or what we put into our stomachs? Sure all of these things are fine and wonderful but to measure a true person’s richness – one must look on the inside and find out what you are made of.

You may not have the best or the most expensive car on the block but if that car runs you to places where you minister to others….where you show others that you care – then you and your car are rich indeed.

So our things make us pretty and comfortable and full but if our things do not make us real, loving and caring – then no matter what we have; we are NOT rich.

Enjoy the “richness” of your day. I pray you discover your wealth; the richness inside of you so that no matter where you are you are feeling the “richness” of His presence. Nancy

The Good Idea/Time to care!

2009-07-13T06:59:00.001-07:00

Good morning to all…..

I pray that you have welcomed in your day with thanksgiving. It is a wonderful way to start out. Being grateful from the start – now there’s a set-up!

Today I want to ask a question or two….Does it really matter how we treat each other? Does a little kindness go a long way? Does going the extra mile really make a difference?

George and I have pondered these questions; so I wanted to pose them to you. How do you feel when someone gives a little extra? Do you remember them, does it make a difference in how you perceive them, and does it make an impression on you?

I would like to think that we give “it” our all. We go the extra mile. We give without expecting to get. Why do we do this???? Because it is the right thing to do.

How do you feel knowing that someone has gone the distance and them some for you? I think that it makes us feel wonderful and special, doesn’t it?

We feel blessed when someone actually cares enough to put that extra rose on the cake for us. We are blessed when a neighbor picks up our trash cans because they were blowing down the street.

We are blessed when a cashier pulls a penny out of the “give one/take one” area and says, “Here let’s use this”…as you are scrambling to find that one extra penny in the bottom of your purse or pocket.

George and I have declared that “now is the time to care!”

Our time of being nonchalant should come to an end. Our time of not caring should cease to exist.

When we are delivering something – deliver it with love. When returning a plate, put something “yummy” on it. That says, “thank you and here is a treat for you!”

Let’s get to the point where courtesies are occurring everywhere. We all do it – we all give it – we all expect it. We are all grateful for it and will not take it for granted.

“Now is the time to care.” Now is the time to show that you care.

A very good friend of mine gave a beautiful Bible to me this weekend. He cares so much that he had the Book engraved in gold for me. He could have written in the Book but he took the time and spent the extra money to have it engraved in gold. Why, because he cares and wanted to go the extra mile. He made it more special than it was.

This is what I am talking about – making someone feel special because you gave just a little more of yourself. It really doesn’t cost us anything…maybe a deposit of love out of your heart – but what is the cost – more love for you in return! How wonderful.

If I could physically reach each of you today – I would put a love note in your pocket that reads…."Today I’m thinking of you and praying that this makes a difference…in His love, Nancy " (Let this serve as your pocket.)

The Good Idea/Vendors

2009-07-10T05:14:00.001-07:00

Good morning to you….

Here we are sitting at the end of another week. Wasn’t it just Monday not too long ago? It is funny, we measure our weeks by our activities. For instance; 2 basketball practices, 2 basketball games, numerous appointments, dinners to cook, number of trips to the grocery and oh yea don’t forget conversations with loved ones. Well, that takes care of one week. Now the next….I think that it is time to make some memories here!

Oh well, let’s get work started shall we?

George and I have been blessed to experience life from both sides of the desk. By that I mean we are business owners plus we have a vending type business. So we are on both sides of the desk. The perspective is wonderful when you take the time to look at it.

As a business owner you have so much time to allot to vendors. You work your day around making appointments to see people. We spend time with other associates but what about the person who has something to offer your Company in the way of vending.

Do we spend any time with that person? Do we care? Do we hurry them in and out of our offices with a yeah, yeah, yeah. I think sometimes we do. Sometimes we are too busy to even hear what the vendor has to say.

We admit that we need this vendor but we do not want to spend any time with them hearing how they got to be where they are…let alone hear about the business. We just want SERVICE!!!

HA HA…sound like anyone you know? Since George and I have seen both sides we sincerely attempt not to be the type of people who rush others out without hearing what they have to say. You know, everyone has a story.

We, as the vendor, had an appointment once at a large facility that was looking forward to hearing more about what we have. Or so we thought.

Everyone was cordial but you could tell rushed. We laid out our information and proceeded to tell something about our business. The more George got into it the more you could see the person we were talking with squirming. What do “they” say about body language???

I felt like saying to George….hurry up….gotta’ go…..but I did not. My thought was we have a set appointment and we are going to see this through. We have worked hard on this business, we are proud of its product and we are going to take the time allotted to us to talk about why you need it. There you go.

After this experience we looked at ourselves and made a check to see if this is what we do….I believe that we do not. I believe since we know how it feels; we give each person due time to talk and not show our rush in our body language.

I think we need to keep in mind that what each person does is important to them. It doesn’t matter if you sit on the highest board in the office or you clean the bathrooms. Each job is important and necessary. Each person should take their job seriously and be respectful of the other.

The same holds true when a vendor comes in with an appointment. They quite possibly have something you want….or you wouldn’t have made the appointment.

Be professional, be courteous, be kind and remember we need each other to make this world go round. What a difference…WHEW – no more struggling! Nancy (By the way, we got the account.)

The Good Idea/Inside Out

2009-07-09T07:04:00.001-07:00

Good morning my friends…..

Today I want to jump right in and talk about “living from the inside out.” Not from the “outside in.”

There is a big difference you know. When we live from the “inside out” we live from our hearts, from love, from truth….when we live from the “outside in” we live in a warped sense of reality.

The “outside” would have you believe that there is no hope. That there is only despair. That there is constant struggle and strife. That you are not going to make it.

When you live from the “inside out” you live with hope, truth and acceptance. There is no fear, you are accepted, and you have a way. Despair does not hold you captive.

You see life as it is supposed to be lived. You see life as it was originally designed to be. To see others the way God sees them; from the “inside out ” You will see others who are loving, kind, and full of promise and hope.

We all struggle every day of our lives with “what shall I do” about this or that. We see what the world has to offer and attempt to solve our issues with what the outside forces demand of us.

It has been my experience that when we do this; we end up creating more issues than we started with. In the past, I like so many others had lived my life from the “outside in.” I did not know any better at the time. I believed that I was doing the right thing….heck everyone else was doing it so why not me?

I looked to outside sources for answers. I looked to outside sources for the cure. I looked to outside sources for approval.

I now tell you that I do not do that so much anymore. It is a process like so many other things. I had to open my eyes and discover that I had it in me all along. I had the ability to reach inside myself and “JustAsk” for guidance and grace and love.

Living from the “inside out” delivers peace….delivers His peace and understanding. We may not always get the approval from the outside….but I ask you, does that really matter?

When we live from the “inside out” we can truly love others. We can tell them that we love them because we truly feel it. We are not looking for approval; we are looking to extend love to others.

George and I discuss this often. We say that it is not head knowledge that makes the way but it is heart knowledge.

May I encourage each of us today to look to the inside and live from the heart…the heart where love grows. We do not need to impress, we do not need to conquer, and we do not need to seek approval. We need to see each other as we are. The same way God sees us which is in love.

There are so many flowers blooming inside each of us….have you watered yours today? Buckets of blessings on all who read this and may the difference start on the inside. Nancy

The Good Idea/Reputation

2009-07-08T06:13:00.001-07:00

Good morning to all…..

As I stepped outside this morning to perform my morning ritual of kissing and hugging and waving goodbye to my daughter and husband….I breathed in the goodness of the morning and felt the sun on my face. I thanked God that I was alive. What a wonderful morning!

Today I want to talk about the things that we do. The things that we do not give much thought to but might have a big impact on how we are perceived. What our character says about us. Are we loose, are we aware of our actions, are we reserved, are we loud and boisterous or are we quiet and caring?

Do we care about what we do today that might influence tomorrow? Do we care that we post pictures on the Internet which might be questionable?

We may say, “Oh no big deal…we were just having fun.” Well that fun which you just posted could possibly have consequences.

What about the days or evenings spent in questionable places? Will you be seen coming or going? Is this what you want to be known for?

In everyone’s life we have had moments of “stupidity.” Really, it is true. I remember back to the times when I thought…."what was I thinking?" That was the problem…I wasn’t thinking.

Was it due to immaturity – lack of experience…probably so. At these times we tend to make bad decisions – decisions based on feelings not thoughts.

As we mature; the natural tendency would be to grow up and become responsible for our actions. Some of us make it; some of us don’t.

Every where we go people observe us and our actions. We are “sized” up so to speak and judged from there. What are you giving off? Do you care? Some do not care. Some say, “that is just who I am.” …. Something about an old tree and bending…???

We leave behind a reputation – what does yours say about you? When it is all said and done…will you say “If only I knew that momentary pleasures could ruin a reputation for a lifetime, I would have found the strength to say no to temptation.” (If Only I Knew by Lance Wubbels)

When we have the chance it is good to look back then look ahead and find out if your actions of the past will give a good account of who you are.

We’ve lost several “high profile” people over the last couple of weeks…what did their reputation say about them? What are they remembered for?

I know that I want to be remembered as someone who cared; someone who wanted to make a difference; someone who loved others.

“If we only knew”….we might do things differently, wouldn’t we? You know, it is not all about what people think of us when we are gone…really… is it about what you are known for today? Do you draw people to you or turn them away?

The difference will not be made when you are gone…the difference will be made today. Nancy

The Good Idea/Privilege to work

2009-07-07T10:48:00.000-07:00

Oh happy day! Good morning….

“Just another day in paradise.” I believe that some people mean that in a derogatory way; I do not. I am so thankful for the beauty that I see and the peace that I feel.

While walking this morning I realized (once again) how blessed I am just to be able to walk outdoors, breathe in clean air and feel the warmth of the Son on my face. These are blessings which a lot of us may take for granted or overlook because it is common place.

And…..that leads me into what is on my heart – The privilege of working. Yes, the privilege of working.

I have a friend who is fighting for freedom in Iraq . He is there to protect and serve. He has been called out for duty in a place that is outside of our comforts. I am almost SURE that he would rather be at home living a comfortable lifestyle with his family and getting in his car everyday to drive to his “work.” I’m sure he thinks about it and longs for it.

Then we have others who grumble all the way out the door thinking about their “stinkin’” jobs and how they hate to go to work. True….I am sure everyone knows someone who does this on a daily basis.

What about the person, who is bedridden, disabled or handicapped in one way or another – how many of them would like to get up and go to their jobs?

If you can get up and get out – how blessed you are. It is a privilege to work, earn money for your family and be productive in society.

I hear some people talk harshly about the type of work they do, how much they “don’t” get paid, how they cannot sleep in, go to the gym, watch television…I say, “do not grumble.” At least you have a job and if you are unhappy in that job…look for another one.”

How many of us know people who are happy in a miserable place? I’m sure a lot of us do. It is obvious these people like to grumble. These may be the people who take blessings for granted because they are “common place.”

I’ve never known where life has “owed” me anything. I owe my life something. I was given this life to produce love and life. I am thankful for the opportunity to work and make a difference.

What about you….did you grumble as you got up this morning, as you took a nice shower, as you ate breakfast, as you left for work, as you pulled up in the parking lot? Let’s be grateful – it could be worse – you could be in full military dress; the temperature is 110 degrees and your car is a rolling tank.

God has placed you where you are and it is up to you to do the best that you can. Embrace it, work it and we must be so thankful for it.

Be sure to smile while driving and I promise you – people will look at you and wonder why you are so happy. You will just laugh because you know that a difference has just been made. Nancy

The Good Idea/Balanced Life

2009-07-01T07:21:00.000-07:00

Good morning to all….

This morning I started the day by ushering out a few family members….one by one they left to fulfill their daily obligations. I realize more and more that it is not the “job” we have or where we go; it is what we do with that job and what we do where we go.

I kiss each one goodbye, even walk them out, wave about a million times (not kidding!) and bless each one with daily blessings.

It is so easy to touch upon each other with words of blessing. We say “I love you.” “Have a wonderful day.” “I can’t wait to see you later on.” And my favorite…."Did you leave any money for me on the desk?" (HA HA …a blessing to myself!)

Today I want to share with you my thoughts on living a balanced life. Let’s look at our lives and examine whether or not we are in balance.

Oops….not me. How about you? Living a balanced life is something which we should strive for. (Not strive as in anxiousness but in praying in forward.)

Let’s look at what we have to work with…..family, immediate and extended, career, social life, church life, domestic/yard work, raising our children, taking care of our pets, etc……(I need a nap.)

When we allow our lives to get out of balance as we sometimes do; our unbalanced life comes back to do us harm. We end up sick, tired, anxious, upset, a little cranky, and disoriented and quiet.

Are you taking care of others and not yourself? We can get caught up in this thinking that we are the only ones who can care for someone else. That is not so. Even if you get someone to help out for a few hours – then you can take care of you. Recharge, restart….become refreshed and renewed.

Getting balance back into our lives is not easy. We have experienced this ourselves. All of a sudden you are in a position of “doing too much” and you wonder how you are going to get out from under the pressure.

I truly believe that God does not intend for us nor want us to run around like our hair is on fire. He wants balance in our lives….He wants to balance your life.

A friend once told me to be careful with what I say “yes” to. I’m the type of person who says “yes” to almost everything. “Sure I can do that…” “Not a problem, when do you want me?” Then I wonder what has happened!

So what have I done? I have scrambled my life up more and the juggling act begins. Someone or something will fall and normally it is me.

Of course when I fall, as a Mom, everything else falls. I take it with me. Not a good thing to do.

Living a balanced life is a quality of life that I look for. We do not need to be running crazy doing one thing in excess while trying to hold up the other ends.

So let’s not do too much of one thing and neglect others. What is important? What absolutely needs to be done? That’s it….start your day out putting it all in order then the picture becomes crystal clear. “JustAsk” for help and direction and your life will be made right.

I better run now; I have a plate to catch before it falls….I need to make a difference. Nancy

The Good Idea/Anxious?

2009-06-30T08:23:00.001-07:00

Good morning my friends….

Do you ever find yourself running around like a “chicken with their head cut off?” Yes of course - we all do. Do you ever wonder why you do that? Of course you do.

We are chasing something, aren’t we? We are trying to make “it” happen in our own strength. We are “robbing Peter to pay Paul.” (As my Mama would have said.)

I see the stress and anxiety on people’s faces. I’ve even seen it on my own face and that is not a look that I strive for.

The people near and dear to me show strife and struggle on their faces and I want to take a clean cloth and wipe it clean. I want to step forth but sometimes people do not want to be wiped clean.

Why? I think it is because they are familiar with the struggle and pushing and doing and going that they do not know how to stop.

I always laugh when someone says that they are the “smartest man in the room.” (Or they think they are.) Just picture it….it is funny. I end up saying…..REALLY!

Why go it alone? Why believe that the whole burden of life falls on your shoulders? You could very well be “your own worst enemy.” (My Mama also said that.)

You put yourself in undue stress…you believe that you CAN control all situations…you can handle it all.

I have found out that I cannot control it all. I had to give it up and only look to what was going on in my life and give that control up also. "Do not be anxious about anything...etc." Philippians 4:6 NIV

I’m not saying sit back and let whatever happens – happen. I’m saying relax, take a deep breath and know that “everything” is not about you handling it.

I’ve had to release some anxiety in my own life and in the care and upkeep of my home. I “use to” panic over the fact that all of the work had not been done. I use to push myself to clean, clean, clean, before all else. Boy was that wrong. I know that I missed so much life because I took it all on myself and pushed all other things out.

My wonderful “Mother-In-Law” (just like my Mom) use to say “ Nancy , don’t worry about it, the work will be there tomorrow.” I use to say, “No I can’t put it off, I cannot relax until it is done.” I look back on that now and say….”silly girl, it doesn’t matter.” Enjoy what is around you…who is around you and get them to help!! Yes, there is the key.

George stepped forward and saw my anxiety and said, “ Nancy you have people who can and should help….get the kids to help you.” What a smart guy….he could see the forest for the trees.

Sometimes we need that…probably a lot. Someone else to look at our situations and say, hey here’s a better way of doing it.

We do not need to take it all on. We do not need to be the “smartest man or woman in the room.” Besides who wants to be that; think of all the pressure to perform!

So take that anxiety off of your face and out of your mind. I will repeat that we are not in control nor should we be. Most of the time; we haven’t a clue – we just think we do.

I pray a blessed day over you – a day of peace and contentment and the acceptance of whose you are. Isn’t it great to know that you do not have to do this thing called life – alone? You will feel such peace in the knowing that a difference will be made when you reach out and give up control to the One who knows. Nancy

The Good Idea/Clear direction

2009-06-29T08:40:00.001-07:00

Good morning everyone…..

Brie, our visiting pet for the weekend has left and it was such a joy to have her. The kids loved on her, played with her and walked her. Me too….I’m thinking I could get use to this. Pets – they are such an enjoyment to have around.

Have you heard the opening to the Indianapolis 500 race? – “Gentlemen start your engines?” That is the phrase when the race is ready to begin. (Unless a woman is racing then she is added to the instructions.)

Can you just imagine the thrill of starting up your engine, putting your car into gear and leaving your line to pull forward? WOW – how exciting that must be.

The drivers are being told when to start. Could you imagine what would happen if the drivers took off on their own? I’m seeing accidents all over the place.

What about when we take off on our own? I mean, what about when we take off in action or word without really thinking it through, praying for direction and listening for the answer?

We just go off unprotected and out of sync with where we are to be. If one starts off without being given clearance than an accident just might occur.

Some of us say, “I don’t know what to do.” "I’m not sure I should leave now." "I'm not sure I should take that job." "I’m not sure if they are the right one for me.”

There are people who just step out and let whatever happens – happen. They move without clear direction because they think they know best. Then they are surprised when it doesn’t work out. They may even say….."Nothing works out for me." Well, I wonder why?

It is so good to take a deep breath, prepare yourself for your actions and ask for advice.

Recently I was preparing an e-mail to go out and wouldn’t you know it….the e-mail disappeared from my desk top. I said…"where did it go"..."oh my gosh, I have to re-type it."

I began again ….but this time I stopped and asked for guidance, “Am I supposed to write this e-mail?” I thought it was OK so I preceded again…then an error sign came up. Guess what? I stopped composing the e-mail.

It was more than clear to me that the Lord did not want me to send the correspondence and He answered my question.

Who knows why – I do not ask – I just know that it is so. I need to wait for the whistle to go off and hear the words…." Nancy start your engine."

So what about you? Do you always lead or do you let someone else put their arm around you and lead you onto the dance floor?

It’s not such a bad thing…being led by the One who knows where you are going. It is actually wonderful. It really makes all of the difference in your life. Nancy

The Good Idea/Short fuse

2009-06-26T07:31:00.000-07:00

And a good morning to all……

We are getting a house guest today – a cute little dog named Brie. We love her so and are excited about having her visit. My husband thinks that by watching Brie our need and want for a dog is met and our children will be satisfied. I’m not so sure that is working. Actually if the truth be known….I’m feeling like we “need” one also!

Today I want to share with you thoughts on having a “short fuse.”

Now where does having a “short fuse” leave you? Where does it leave the person it is directed to? Most of us just have that look on our face…....asking “what did they say?”

That happened last night while riding with our kids to a basketball game. We were turning left and a truck was approaching us from the opposite direction. I “think” that the driver thought we did not give him enough room or something so he expressed his “frustration” to us.

HA HA….I asked George the typical question…"what did he say?" I think George heard him say…"have a nice night!" Then the kids ask…"what did he say?"

I started to laugh because the things that people get upset with at times just amaze me. We did not do anything intentional to him….we did not even know that we were in the wrong.

We chalk that up to someone getting up on the wrong side of the bed. It was however 8:45PM and he should have been up long ago! Funny how these behaviors are sometimes tolerated.

Why do we permit foul language? Why do we permit harsh actions? Granted sometimes we cannot do anything about it. I’ve heard people say, “Well that’s just the way they are.” I say…not a good excuse. That is not acceptable.

So I ask you, do you have a “short fuse?” Then I suggest that maybe you should lengthen it…life will be so much better. You will not be yelling out of your car window, you will not be slamming doors, stomping’ up steps, throwing things…etc.

And you will take on a CALM appearance. Enjoy all that you do this day and remain calm….a difference will be made. Nancy

The Good Idea/Feeling small

2009-06-25T06:40:00.000-07:00

Oh my gosh…what a beauty! Good morning…

I stepped outside this morning and wanted to sing, “I’m walking on sunshine…etc.” Yes, this is a glorious day full of promises, hope and love….a new beginning – let’s make it count for good!

Today I want to share with you my experience of “feeling small.” We’ve all felt small in this big world haven’t we?

The other day while walking I was being approached by a very large (pre-historic) land mover. Or in other words…a dump truck. Does anyone really know how big these things are? I felt like an ant.

As the truck got closer I felt like I got smaller. I was shrinking before my very eyes. I caught myself walking taller, standing my ground and persevering.

As I crossed beside it I was “wowed” I was in “awe”…how big this truck was. How little I am.

There is so much in this life that can cause us to feel small. We may feel less then adequate in some situations. Is this a lack of confidence? Is this old conditioning? Or in my dump truck experience…..I realized my own limitations?

So many times you have heard that we can accomplish anything that we put our minds to. We do not have to be burdened down with a sense of smallness. We should not live in the mindset that someone is always better and bigger than we are. Maybe they just did more with what they were given.

We have all been created equally. What are you doing with what you have been given? Do you believe that it lies inside of you? It does.

No matter our circumstance you are still worthy in His eyes and that is something “some” of us have a hard time with.

We may be small next to a pre-historic earth mover but to Him - we are His and that is great! This thinking may make a big difference in your life! Nancy

The Good Idea/Good intentions

2009-06-24T09:18:00.001-07:00

Good morning to all…..

As I begin with you today I realize that it is close to Noon and I ask; what has happened to the morning? I’m sure that everyone wonders that from time to time.

We had one appointment this morning which I figured would take maybe 30 minutes or so – more than an hour later we return. Hum, then I realized that not everyone is on “my” timetable. Funny how that works!

Today as I run in late I want to discuss “good intentions.” We all have them, don’t we? We mean to do the “right” things. We mean to say the “right” things. We are not bad people…our hearts are in the right place.

Well at times our “good intentions” back fire. Oops….we say, I didn’t mean for that to happen.

OK, here is a for instance…..you want to bless a friend or family member with giving them something from your heart. You want to do a kind deed for them.

Or you see someone being wronged and you just want to intercede to “help” out. Your “good intentions” are there but maybe not well received.

Has it ever happened to you where someone gives you something and it creates more havoc than is started out to be? Sure…we all have.

This is what I do. I take a deep breath, smile and realize that this action was done with “good intentions.” When you do that, your emotions calm down and you have the presence of peace and love for the person.

You do not look upon them or their actions as one of a malicious effort. I remember offering to others baked goods which I made for them…I had “good intentions” – I had love to offer – I was so pleased with gifting them.

Then what happened – they said – no – no – I’m on a diet I don’t want it. I was crushed. I made this offering with “good intentions.”

So what to do? I still persevere and move forward with “good intentions.” God knows my heart and I pray that others do also.

If I ever step on someone’s toes – please forgive me and know that I have come with “good intentions” to share and maybe bless someone who needs it. I’ve come to make a difference. Nancy

The Good Idea/Unaware

2009-06-23T06:42:00.001-07:00

Hello & Good morning….

How did you start your day today? I was blessed with being able to sit for a moment or two out on the deck with George. I felt the “Son” shine for sure!

This morning while we were talking about the bird incident from yesterday; I was taken back to the times when I knew that people were taken “unaware.”

I do believe that we have talked about this before but I am being led to bring it up again. Someone needs to hear this and maybe make adjustments in their life.

Being taken “unaware.” It is powerful; it is quick and sometimes deadly. This is how it goes….you go to the Doctor’s for a routine appointment and you leave hearing that you need surgery. You leave your house for a vacation and end up in a car crash or plane crash. Were you expecting these things….no….were you prepared? Probably not. Most of us aren’t prepared for what life throws at us.

When I think of being unaware a certain story always comes to mind for me. Back home, several years ago, I heard of a story involving an elderly Pastor and his wife.

This couple, happy as they could be, arrive home after a Christmas church service. They enter their home only to find 2 young men, whom they hired to help around the church and their home, waiting to do harm to them. Both end up tragically being killed. For what, I ask….?

So here is this couple, coming home talking about the evening perhaps, planning their Christmas with family only to find themselves “unaware” of what is about to happen.

What about the latest Metro crash…killing several and injuring many others? Were the people ready? Probably not. They were on their way home maybe and some did not make it to their physical homes.

Our fallen sisters and brothers from September 11, 2001, were they ready….maybe not, they were just fellow travelers going from one destination to another.

The birds from yesterday – when they woke up in the morning singing praises and anxious to receive more flight instructions from their Mom…did they know that a cat was laying and waiting for his breakfast…NO. They were taken “unaware.”

What about us? What are you prepared for? Do you have yourself ready for the day? Have you done your work? I know that we cannot and should not live in a state of “oh my gosh….what will happen today” mode.

We must live in a state of peace knowing that we are being saved. How do you do that? You “JustAsk” for His grace and mercy then you will be able to handle all things. Life comes in unsuspecting but you can cradle yourself in His protection.

When I realized this my whole life changed. Is it easier now and “less scary?” Yes, I would say so. I am not in control but I am no longer “scared” about the outcome. The difference has been made in Him. Nancy

The Good Idea/Do you wave?

2009-06-22T08:01:00.001-07:00

Good beautiful morning….

I witnessed a side of nature today that I really do not want to see again. I witnessed baby birds literally being knocked out of their nest by a cat perched up in one of our trees.

What could I do? The mother bird and her friends were flying around and making all kinds of noises. I was chasing the cat away and expressing my feelings of inadequacy at not being able to help these babies out.

I probably should not go into the rest of the details but “nature” did have its way and one of the birdies got caught. I expressed my sorrow to my son of 13 years and he informed me…."Mom, that’s nature." Thank you Matthew – I feel so much better now!

I often wonder why I have to witness such things – I care so much for life….even for the smallest of creatures! (Except worms!)

OK, moving forward – have you ever thought you were the only person who waves to other people? Do people wave back to you? Do people look the other way when you approach? Do people pretend that they do not see you?

Believe it or not…. it happens to me. Really! It probably happens to some of you also. I notice this a lot when I am out walking.

Now I don’t know if others are just so focused that they do not see me….maybe….or people do not want to be bothered….maybe….or people are too shy to lift a hand in greeting….maybe…..maybe I don’t know.

Do you get the feeling that this bothers me just “a little?” What is wrong with extending your hand in a greeting? Especially when someone does it to you first? Be friendly I say. Be open I say. Someone just might need your warmth and compassion for that day.

Your wave may be the only one that person gets for the day. We must not “try” to ignore another person. What if that was the last time you get to see that person? Will you have regrets?

Even if you are not real fond of that person – greet them anyway – bless them because guess what; you will get blessed.

I’m just feeling here that life is way too short to be closed off and “too focused” to wave to another person. What will it hurt you? Greet each other like it will be your last.

I even see such a big difference when I walk through a parking lot and someone is approaching me and I say “hello.” Why, they don’t know what to do. I can see them struggling with should I say hello, should I stop, why is this person talking to me….too funny!

Enjoy your life, the people who come and go through it, greet each other with love and warmth and your day will surely be different. Nancy

The Good Idea/House Divided

2009-06-19T06:04:00.001-07:00

Good morning my friends….

I’m sitting here in the quiet of the morning enjoying each sip of warm…aromatic out of the pot…..freshly ground coffee. No one is stirring except for Sammy (my Cockatiel) and a few birds outside.

To be with each of you like this is wonderful. This is early morning fellowship; would you like cream with your coffee?

I saw a sign recently in front of a house that read…."House Divided." I realize that that meant people inside the home were fans of two difference sports teams. That is great...friendly competition.

I remembered that one of my Sister’s and her husband make “friendly” bets on different teams playing in a game together. Charlene said that “it made watching the game fun.”

This we do in fun. This we do to make it more exciting. I get it…I really do. Then you know me….I take it to “house divided”…...why that never should be.

We have “real” and then we have “play.” I get both. I like to “play” with the best of them but I also know when to put the play aside. I look into the situation to make sure that it is not getting the best of me.

Friendly rivalry….don’t let it get out of hand. Our homes must not be divided. If that is the case, then why did we get married? We must be of one accord. We must live in unity. We must not fight each other.

To continually have differing opinions will destroy a relationship. I can’t help but think that if in that relationship we are building a family then maybe we should be on the same page.

It has been impressed upon me that God wants order and unity in His house. What about your house? Are you a house divided or not?

Sure we can play games…. I love to play games….I so enjoy having “fun.” But how much sweeter it is when we are grounded in one home with people we love having fun in a united way. There is no threat. There is love and each person knows where they stand.

When your house in NOT divided….when you are all together in your thoughts, beliefs, love, understanding and faith…then you are strong. The Lord will bless you richly when He sees one accord in His name. What a difference. Nancy

The Good Idea/Well Manicured

2009-06-18T08:54:00.000-07:00

Good morning to all…..

These summer mornings are great. We take things a little slower than normal and the pace, I do believe, suits me just fine. How about you?

As I was out on a walk the other day I noticed how beautiful many of the homes around me are. How tall they stand, how clean they look, how pristine they are and how well manicured they are.

Actually some of them do not even look lived in. There is not a bush out of place, the mulch has not been stepped in, the flowers are hanging in baskets and everything looks in place.

So right away I go to….this home is beautiful but are they happy? Remember the days when we did it all on our own? (What am I talking about….we still do!) And life seemed real.

Dad was out grooming the lawn and bushes, Mom was going in and out…helping Dad and fixing lunch and the kids were running about having fun and getting in Dad’s way. Yes, those were the days.

Looking back on that scene verses today’s scene….I see more control over our lives back then. More personal interest in our surroundings. We took care of what we had…we planted those bushes, we planted those trees and we planted those flowers in the ground.

I remember when we moved to where we live now I “attempted” to plant flowers in my front flower bed. I dug and dug but to no avail. Why…..because the front was beautifully landscaped with more shrubs then I have ever seen and under that was a barrier to choke out any weeds. I could not tear it up to plant flowers.

I asked George, “How am I supposed to do this?” “Where do the flowers go?” “I want color in my landscaping.” Guess what….I hang the flowers!

Sometimes we get so cookie-cutter like and our appearance can be so pristine that I have to question – is there life in there? Hello???

I want to see the lawn being watered by the sprinkler that goes back and forth…the one we use to run through when we were kids. (And trip over!)

The outside is so beautiful to look at….even in ourselves…..but what lies on the inside? Is it just as beautiful or is it untouchable? I pray for the beauty to shine from the inside out. We are a reflection of His love….someone else should not always be grooming you according to their design. What about the design He has placed in you?

Physical appearance – important – yes but it is so important to take control and weed for yourself. Only by doing this will you see where the trouble spots lie. Enjoy the difference that you will be making. Nancy

The Good Idea/What have you done?

2009-06-17T07:39:00.000-07:00

And a wonderful morning to you…..

I have to tell you that I am so full of joy today that I am “beside myself.” I feel great happiness, unspeakable joy and peace running through my body.

I feel like a child who is running around outside with their hands up and they are yelling and laughing because “something” has just tickled their fancy…there has been great revelation delivered unto them that they just have to share. Yes, that is where I am at. What a glorious place to be. Please come join me!

Lately I’ve been observing myself and the things around me. I’ve also observed others and the things around them. Now I ask myself, “what have you done with what has been given to you?”

Let’s start with ourselves…our physical bodies. Have we taken care of them? Have we kept them groomed? Have we fed them well? Have we filled our minds with the importance of truth? – Or - Have we destroyed our bodies with trash? Have we given no regard to supplying the organs with the good things that make them operate? Do we disrespect our physical bodies? - Or – the physical bodies of others?

Now what about our material possessions? Our home, our car, our clothes, our furnishings…how are they being kept?

Sometimes I have seen what looks like a car posing as a home. Haven’t you? There is so much “stuff” on the seats of a car that I do believe people live in it. There is trash, half eaten food, empty bottles rolling around and some clothes and shoes.

If this is someone’s living conditions than I pray for mercy and deliverance but if this is how some choose to live then I pray for order.

We have been given so much….why not cherish it all by being grateful and taking care of what we have?

This brings to mind the stories which I have heard regarding an apartment building which my husband and his partners own. The apartments have been cleaned and fixed up under strict and desirable living conditions.

When the people move in everything is great…when they move out…what destruction has been made. Now I ask why? Why are some things trashed? Do some people really like to live this way? I just can’t imagine.

Everything we have, own and possess is a gift given to us by God. What are you doing with the gifts that you have been given? These gifts come in many shapes, forms and sizes and each one is worthy of maintenance.

My husband George would say that this is all about “value.” I have to agree with him. Let’s take care of ourselves and what we have…it’s in high honor to our Lord. You will see and experience a huge difference in your life. Nancy

The Good Idea/In Sync

2009-06-11T08:30:00.001-07:00

Hello & Good Morning!

A new routine starts for us today. This is a new routine of the kids being home from school for the summer. I’m bracing myself for “I’m bored!” It will come soon I’m sure. History has a way of repeating itself!

George and I have such high expectations of what will get accomplished over these summer months. George suggests that we cut the television off, turn off the PlayStation 2 games and everyone read, clean up and “help their mom.” HA HA HA….I’m still laughing, can you hear me????

I’m a very positive person as you all know and I’m open to all the possibilities…but I’m wondering about this one.

Oh well, let’s get started before someone wants to “help me!”

I’ve been thinking about being “in sync.” I’m “in sync” with George. Our thoughts run so very parallel that it can be scary at times. Do you have someone like that with you? What a great experience to be so close to another that you are “in sync” with them.

Before George and I got married; we took some “tests” to find out how compatible we were. (We already knew!) What we believed in, what we wanted and how well suited we thought we were for each other. Well guess what, we scored the same on the tests that we took. We still laugh about that. “In sync”….I do believe so.

To be with someone whose thoughts are your thoughts is truly amazing. According to the on-line dictionary; to be “in sync” is to be in harmony with or in agreement with another.

Like you, I have been around others whom I did not “sync up” with. How difficult is that? You look for things to say, you feel self-conscious and maybe feel as if you should just move on. And you probably should.

I do believe that is why we are meant to be with others that hold the same values and beliefs that we do. It makes life so much easier and harmonious!

“In sync”….not going against the grain and not swimming upstream….I feel like Dory here…”just keep swimming, just keep swimming”. (Finding Nemo)

So if you haven’t found that person who you are “in sync” with yet - keep searching. They are probably searching for you. JustAsk for guidance. Finding the right one will make all the difference in your life. Nancy

The Good Idea/Just in the nick of time

2009-06-10T07:35:00.001-07:00

Good morning everyone….

I’m walking on sunshine today. What a beautiful day. School is out for many, some get out today and today is my Sister Charlene’s wedding anniversary. Happy Anniversary Sis & Uncle Bob. May our Lord bless you with many, many more happy years!

A thought came to me this weekend when we were racing around trying to get it all done. I thought, “Just in the nick of time.” How many of us operate that way? “Just in the nick of time.”

We run from one place to another or one activity to another by the “skin of our teeth.” (Tammy, is that even possible?)

I see a picture of someone making it onto a subway train “just in the nick of time.” That means that they just made it before the door closed. Whew….with no seconds to spare.

We are left out of breath, sweaty, hair strewn out of place and that look of I need a seat, some water, and more time. You can recognize the ones who made it “just in the nick of time.”

How about when you are late for a meeting? Others are in their seats, papers are out, pens are drawn, the white board is up with markers uncapped and ready and the speaker has just cleared his throat. Then you run in….”Just in the nick of time.” You say to yourself….thank you Jesus!

Another one….you have been invited to a dinner. You just need to make one more stop, tell the babysitter one more thing, fix your hair for the last time or maybe take that 5 minute nap, I believe that is called the “power nap.”

You race in, not ready to eat because you are panting, you sit down give apologizes to the host and see a glaring stare. You think to yourself…”Just in the nick of time.” No one has started to eat yet.

If we run around this way, what else have we missed? We do not always make it in the “nick of time.” What else are we going to miss? I ask again.

“Just in the nick of time” is not always going to get us through. More than just sometimes, we have to prepare for what is planned, even if we know about it or not.

Living our lives on a race track will hurt us physically, emotionally, and mentally. Who can catch their breaths? Who wants to be scattered all of the time? Not me.

“Just in the nick of time” is OK once in a while but not always. It is about being prepared and having your time planned out. I realize that emergencies pop up and that is when adjustments have to be made. The big picture takes planning….something like an outline.

We do not know exactly what is to come or when it will come; we just know that He will. “Just in the nick of time” doesn’t count here. Slow and steady, pace yourself and you will feel and look so different…people will ask, “What is wrong with you?” You can answer, “Nothing” I’m just ready. Nancy

The Good Idea/Opportunities

2009-06-09T07:55:00.001-07:00

Good morning to all…..

In the early hours of last minute sleeping this morning we had a thunderstorm. I can sleep so well in a thunderstorm. I’m not real sure where that has come from but it gives me such peace that I am not even going to tax my brain with wondering why!

I know that we have talked before about opportunities. The subject came up again this weekend and George and I began discussing opportunities. Opportunities are all around us. Some of us pick them up, some of us look at them, some of us are scared off by them. What do you do?

I know that George and I look at every opportunity that comes before us. We say there is no sense in saying no right away because a person does not really know what they are saying “no” too.

At the same time we do not say yes right away because that would be a decision made in haste and we have LEARNED the hard way that making a decision in haste gets one into BIG trouble.

Now you may assume here that we have had experience in this area….well yes we have and that discussion would be for another time. Let’s just say we have learned our lesson. Now we stop, drop and pray.

Since some of our experiences have not been profitable…that has not stopped us from looking at what has been placed in front of us. But guess what, now we are smarter (I pray) and we look at each opportunity with a discerning eye.

So many times we have spoken with people who tell us that “opportunities just don’t come my way.” I say not true.

This is what I think…a person misses opportunities because they choose not to take them…it is not because the opportunities are not there.

Maybe it is out of fear. Maybe it is their old conditioning. Maybe they just don’t feel they have the time.

Opportunities may be placed in front of us as a test, a resource or a breakthrough. The decision is yours to take it or not. The decision is yours to explore the possibilities or not. The decision is yours to seek guidance on all that is available.

Opportunities are there. How much do you want them? Be discerning, be on purpose, be motivated and be open….therein lies the difference. Nancy

The Good Idea/Shining Light

2009-06-05T07:32:00.000-07:00

Good morning everyone….

With all of this rain my flowers look beautiful. I purchased some flowers that did not cost a lot but to look at them now…..one would never know that I found them in the bargain basement! We have even had great results with trees that we discovered in the “lost and found!” This must be about the “ugly duck” that turns into the “swan.”

While cleaning the chandelier over the kitchen table the other day I said…WOW too bright I can see too much now. Too much dirt is what I saw. What to do? I can either keep the light off or clean house. I think that I shall clean house.

This too holds true for us. When that bright white light shines on us, what does it find? What is being exposed to the outside world that maybe we do not want exposed?

Do we need to clean up, dust off, straighten up and fly right?

When God’s light hits us we normally discover a realization in ourselves that needs to be changed. Are we teachable? Are we reachable? Are we willing and able to have His light shine on us to expose our frailties? Scary don’t you think? That is unless you are more than OK with yourself.

I believe that everyone needs a little polish around the edges. Everyone needs to be guided back onto the pathway again. Everyone needs to be reminded of where the rough spots are.

Just by looking up into the Light we can see where changes need to be made. Maybe a little dusting here, there or everywhere. Some of us even need to get out the Windex.

I prefer to be in His light…how about you? Not necessarily to always be exposed but to find out where the problem areas are and then focus on fixing them.

I know of some people who live just to shine the light on others. These people live to expose the weakness and dust of others. You know who they are – they come into your home and walk in looking up toward the ceiling lights!

My gracious Mother-In-Law says, “I won’t look at yours if you won’t look at mine.” She is wonderful. Have you ever heard of a Mother-In-Law that doesn’t look for the dust in her Daughter-In-Law’s home? She is more than great! She is a wonderful friend of mine.

I still plan on getting out the Windex but I probably won’t wear my glasses while doing it. Now that is too much information at once. Oh and I better go a little deeper with the cleaning clothes because you never know what kind of difference it might make. Nancy

The Good Idea/Who you are

2009-06-04T06:15:00.000-07:00

Good morning to all…..

I was reminded yesterday that we are half way through the year. Can you believe it? It feels like I just put my Christmas decorations away last week. I’m tellin’ ya’ it’s that movin’ fast time thing!

A few years ago I confronted myself and realized that I am not the person some think that I am. Really? Really!

I have changed so much over these last few years. I am coming into a place of peace and understanding of who I am and whose I am. What a great revelation.

I believe that this happens to all of us. We go through our life being exactly the way others want us to be. We go to certain places because our parents or siblings take us there. We are just like our other family members because we all do things together.

Times do change….we begin to grow into the person that God wants us to be. We step out in our beliefs and dreams. We draw a line in the sand telling others who we are and what we believe in.

Some people accept this and others think you are crazy. It is change and some cannot accept that we have changed. Some think that change is wrong. The old way of thinking is the right way. I say that the old way may not be everyone’s way.

We have to be true to who we are. We cannot be who someone else thinks we should be. Now don’t get me wrong….I’m not talking about being stubborn and cold in our change, I’m saying that we must be ourselves and lovingly share that truth with others.

We all have experienced a time when we step outside of the way we used to be and others look at us and say, “What are you doing?” I tell them that I am growing, stretching, learning, experiencing, living and loving the life that God so graciously has given to me.

It is a wake up call to the life that we have. Live it to the fullest, step out and make new discoveries….maybe just maybe the truth lies in digging a little deeper.

If you are not the same person that you used to be and you have changed for the better I say wonderful! Don’t compromise, push forward and embrace our Lord’s grace and mercy and follow the call. The difference in you will be so clear! Nancy

The Good Idea/Worth the price of Admission

2009-06-03T08:07:00.001-07:00

Good morning everyone….

Have you ever heard or used the expression, “worth the price of admission”? I’m sure we all have. Well I used that expression this past weekend at my son’s basketball game.

Of course just watching Matthew and his team play is worth being there but last Saturday there was more. There was a little guy there that stole the show or at least my attention in a big way.

He is the coach’s son and maybe 7 or so years old. He comes in wearing the team colors from head to toe, (literally) stands like a man on the side lines, sits when everyone else sits, high fives each player and yells out the chants. Cute? You bet. I couldn’t take my eyes off of him.

He loves each of the players and considers himself one of them. They also accept him and high five him back. You can see this little guy looking up to these bigger boys and then you see the importance of being a good role model.

Good role model. Now there you go. Have you ever wondered if you are a good role model? Has the thought ever crossed your mind?

I don’t think we spend much time on it. Do we consciously say, “Today I’m going to be a good role model?” Probably not.

Being a good role model is a life style which I’m sure many of us embrace. And I’m sure many of us don’t. We just go through life doing whatever we want maybe never being aware of who is watching.

If this little basketball guy would see the bigger boys behaving in a questionable manner then he might pick that up, but he sees these boys playing in a fair manner, being in integrity and supporting each other. It was great to see.

Oh, the hopeful eyes of one person watching another. How do people look at you? How do your children look at you?

Is it with admiration saying “I want to be just like you” or is it in fear or question saying “is that right?”

Being a good role model is full of responsibility but the rewards are priceless. To look upon a face that is looking up to you….WOW…such a feeling of love
and fulfillment.

Maybe you need to make a difference in someone’s life today….be a positive role model. Sometimes that is all that it takes. Nancy

The Good Idea/Digging up Dirt

2009-06-02T08:12:00.000-07:00

Good morning everyone –

Some days are slow to start and you have the opportunity to “get your motor runnin’” on your own. Then there are some days where you are in high gear before your feet hit the floor. Today is that day for me. What has happened I ask??? Good thing I sleep with my Nike’s on!

Just this weekend I heard a song on the radio which I haven’t heard for some time now. It was “Candle in the Wind” by Elton John. Remember this song was in memory of Princess Diana written in 1997?

I started to think about her beauty both inside and out. I started to think about her generosity, her love and her compassion for her follow human beings.

It was so apparent that she loved her children and wanted only the best for them. She had such a heart for others that were hurting. She was such a beautiful person who was not afraid to get dirty in the messes of life.

Then in my thoughts of her goodness and kindness; I then remembered how the press along with some “regular” people were all too happy to dig up dirt on her and the people who were with her.

I said, “Come on!” Have we not better things to do. Why do we have to dig up dirt? Is it to bring a person down or to try to raise us up?

Why can we not mourn for a person and their family without trashing their character? I do honestly believe that if we knew for certain than someone would dig up dirt on us after we pass….then we would not be so happy to spread rumors about another.

The same thing happened to John Kennedy, Jr., his new wife and sister in law. Whether one agrees with what they did or not; the fact is that 3 lives were lost and that is more important to recognize than whether they had a happy marriage or not. Once again I say, “So what!”

We must remember the good things; we must remember with love and compassion…remember the verse about “throwing the first stone???” (John 8:7 NIV)

I just think that there is enough trash going around that we do not need to add to it by dredging up the past whether it is true or not. This falls under “none of our business.”

Think of the publications or TV shows that would be out of business if we said….”SO WHAT!”

A difference would be made if we celebrated each other and stopped looking for dirt. I better go now, time to sweep my front porch. Nancy

The Good Idea/Bricks

2009-06-01T07:55:00.000-07:00

Oh happy day! Good morning,

Today, what a beauty! I hear the sound of children’s laughter, the call of birds communicating, and I smell freshness! I am so thankful for the beauty which surrounds me. Thank you Lord for your goodness!

This past weekend I had thoughts of my Mom and what she use to say. And if you know anything about my Mom; you know that she had a lot to say. My thoughts went on for a long time.

I remember her saying to me, “Nancy you are growing like a weed. I have to put a brick on your head.”

Now did she really do this….No….but that was her way of telling me that I was growing up too fast and her baby was disappearing.

Then the thought took me to how we might stifle other people’s growth by what we say or do to them. This can either be growth in the emotional state or in the physical state.

We do this by telling others that we do not believe in them; we do not think that they can make it; survive it; we create doubts and fears of failure and this judging goes on and on.

We stifle their growth by expressing some of our negative opinions.

Do we do this on purpose? Probably not…we just do what was done to us. Some say, “Well that was what I was told.” If this is so, maybe it is time to break that pattern and become an encourager and a supporter.

If that “brick” was literally put on your head…ouch…I’m sorry for that…but that is not a reason to carry the “tradition” on.

Now if we are saying it lovingly…saying “I hate to see you grow up so fast.” That is different. I knew what my Mom meant…sometimes change is hard to handle. Especially when it is a Mom with little ones that aren’t little any more.

So don’t go putting bricks anywhere…encourage, build up and mentor. If bricks were put on you, be different and put those bricks where they are most needed…like around your house.

Have a wonderful and beautiful day in the Lord and enjoy all that you do. Nancy

The Good Idea/LOL

2009-05-29T06:46:00.001-07:00

Good morning everyone….

I woke up this morning wondering why this week has felt so long. Then I realized that it is Friday and not Thursday so I felt a little better.

When we come off of a holiday weekend sometimes we get all messed up just by having that Monday off. You would think that by going through this year after year I would adjust. (I’m sure that my Mama would have had a saying for this one!)

And….this brings me to the topic of life going WAY TOO FAST!!! For instance, what is with the text messaging language? Seriously I do not get it and I’m not sure that I will.

Oh, I try to have fun just like the next person but I’m getting lost in all of the letters. Here’s an example…..George and I thought we would be “with it” by using some of these letters in our e-mails to each other.

We use LOL. One day our kids saw it and asked us if we knew what LOL means? We said, “Sure, it means lots of love!” We were so proud of ourselves; we just beamed for being in “the know.”

Well my kids are still laughing. They informed us that LOL means laugh out loud. Not only do we “not know” but our kids are still laughing at us. That is OK because we still use LOL because we still “lots of love” each other.

I’m telling ya’ we are all going too fast. How about real talk with each other not these letters which obviously some of us misinterpret. It is called conversation and we all need real talk. We all need to be understood and that takes real talk.

How about slowing down? We race from one store to the next, from one sports related activity to the next, from one job to the next, from one meal to the next and the race goes on and on.

Then at the end of the day when we should have real family time; we find ourselves asleep at the table or on the couch because we have already given the best of ourselves to things that REALLY DO NOT MATTER!!!

I met with a friend of mine a few days ago and she just fell into my arms saying how very tired she was. My heart broke for her. Where is her enjoyment in life? She is as tired as many of us are. We are failing to enjoy this journey called life.

Are we meant to run on a hamster wheel? Did God create us just to be robots that race from one thing to the other? I believe not. So what if we miss an activity or two….so what?

Truly a difference in our lives will be made when we slow down, enjoy and be thankful for our beautiful world that God gave to us and live a real life with our family and friends. I don’t want to miss a single blessing that God has for me….how about you? LOL Nancy

The Good Idea/Bad Words

2009-05-28T07:40:00.001-07:00

Good morning to all…..

We started our day today ushering cars around for inspection. It is always fun to juggle schedules, cars and routines just to make sure that a car is available at home to drive.

Then later on I get to pick up one car at one garage and drop another one off at a different garage. This will be interesting….! You know, bicycles are not a bad way to go!

I want to share with you something she said, he said, they said…what? You know when you ask someone a question and you get well…”she said,” or “he said,” or “they said,” what about what YOU said?

How often we pass the “buck” because of what others supposedly said. We ask each other and even our children…well what was said? We hear a lot of what others have said but I ask again…."What did YOU say?" Hummmm – a question to ponder.

I just love deciphering these types of conversations. You get a feeling like you are at a tennis match trying to watch the ball being hit from one side to the next.

It is not so much what the other person or persons have said; it is about what you have said. You are accountable to you and to the others around you.

“Bad words” have been brought to my attention recently. Oh my, how people use “bad words.” Now what is the point here?

Attending basketball games I hear some “bad words” from the coaches. These words are spoken on the side lines and sometimes thrown out onto the court. Come on coaches, we have children present.

I’ve also heard teachers speak some “bad words” in front of their students. Come on teachers, there are children present. Parents….we have children present. Grown-ups there are other people present.

Take responsibility for what comes out of our mouths. Maybe it is not what “she said,” “he said” or “they said”….maybe it is what we have said.

Some ears are still tender and I pray that they stay that way. We do not need to pollute our hearing chambers with trash.

So the next time someone feels like shouting out a “bad word,” say instead…"Well I’ll be a monkey’s Uncle."

When my Matthew heard this he asked, “Why would anyone want to be a monkey’s Uncle?” Not only do you sound silly but you have just asked a silly question.

I’m taking responsibility here and saying….have a wonderful day, put your cares aside, believe in yourself and know that there are brighter days to come. (And it really doesn’t matter what “they say!”) I’m on my way to making a difference. Nancy

The Good Idea/Perceiving

2009-05-26T06:20:00.001-07:00

Good morning everyone…

I pray that you all had a wonderful Memorial Day weekend. It all goes so fast, doesn’t it? I remember looking into the weekend and wondering how am I going to get all of this done? Then I looked at the weekend from Sunday night and said, “It is finished.”

Something has been brought to my attention recently and that is how we perceive others to be. How we perceive their situations. How we react to how we perceive others to be.

Appearances…how different they are. Some people come in well dressed and groomed for the day. Others enter a little less polished but still acceptable in certain circles. Then some enter and well needless to say, they need a little work in the “presentable” area.

How do we react to such differences? Do we openly accept the well groomed person and shun the less “presentable” person? My Mama used to say, “It doesn’t matter how I am dressed, they still take my money.”

I know that we are all guilty of this. I myself have made a wider turn just to give others more space. We do not like to look at dirt, messy appearances or less then perfumed up individuals.

But have we asked ourselves…how did someone get to be like they are? Maybe we judge too quickly. Maybe just maybe there is a lesson to be learned in this person. Maybe just maybe God has sent this person to touch your heart.

Compassion – where does our compassion for others rank on the scale? How high does your compassion meter flow? We all need compassion – we all should give compassion.

“A generous man will prosper; he who refreshes others will himself be refreshed.” Proverbs 11:25

We mustn’t be calloused by what we see on television or hear over the radio. My goodness, people are suffering, people are hurting and people are lost. If that is you I pray that you find your peace through JustAsking.

If you are full of compassion then give compassion to one who looks troubled, down and out or maybe less groomed than you. Appearances are deceiving, aren’t they?

We are in a time where people need people. People are searching and I pray that the light they find is within you where God and compassion dwell.

The time to reach out is now before too many people drift away. It is true, there are questions but wouldn’t it be great to be one of the people who have been blessed with the answers. JustAsk…what a difference it will make. Nancy