-A Tidbit

2017-12-31T13:36:00.000-05:00

Happy New Year for 2018 which is fast approaching. I am still around, doing different things, and continuing to learn and taking steps in my relationship with God.

This blog is to introduce a friend and fellow God follower, Gina.

Rather than try to explain what she does so very well, from my perspective, I am going to share links for you to research and make that determination. As this blog's purpose continues to be A Tidbit. Not intended to be lengthy.

First link is: www.intothewaters.com

Second link on Facebook is: into the Waters Prayer Ministry

Third you may find her in Instagram, as I'm not there.

Hopefully one of these links will help you with your travels, intensions, questions, validations and anything else as you perhaps take a few steps to find God or continue along the path you are on.

And, yes. There are many people who state they are Christians, only to do something that greatly puts that into question. There are many who are continuing to sincerely take steps to walk closer and closer with God.

And, if not already, my suggestion for this blog is find a group of Christians studying the bible and join them. It truly does help to stay connected all while asking question, supporting and be accountable to each other.

Blessings

2015-11-16T22:29:00.000-05:00

I was so very sorry to first learn of the loss of so many people. Then to hear of Benjamin, and a husband and father and a son and a daughter. Not personally known. Known through your sharing the love you have for each of them, and I thank you very much. All are unique children of God. So very special.

Loss is difficult any time; however, when it is deliberate and it makes no sense it can be much more difficult and painful.

There is so much hate in the world, yet.........

"Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate; only love can do that." Martin Luther King, Jr.

My prayers are with you all.

A Slow Fade

2014-03-22T13:15:00.000-04:00

Life goes on - the seasons change and many do not notice - when a slow fade begins to happen.......... It can begin with a grumble, a sneeze, pride overcomes - a small little speck begins to grow and permeates as each day, week, month passes.

It seems that fading is easy, to return, more difficult. Just realized my last post was June, 2013. It seems like yesterday in many ways.

Slow fades effect so much. It can create impatience, indifference uncertainty with creations, relationships, jobs, hobbies, possessions, health, etc.

Have you faded or are you beginning to fade in some way? Some fades are healthy and beneficial. Hanging around the internet too long? Driving too slow too fast? Doing something too this or too that? Too much Candy Crush, perhaps. Too many carbohydrates?

Winters are long - spring arrives. What a wonderful time to begin to assess and awake as the grass uncovers with snow melting, flowers and leaves beginning to open. Dusting off - taking attendance and all things can be new again.

Begin, forgive yourself stretch, shower -- and take the next step, then the next, then....

Red Light Cameras

2013-06-15T10:58:00.000-04:00

Recently saw an article that an attorney got a "red light camera" ticket for going through a red light. He is going to use his attorney "muscle" to fight it.

Curious if thoughts are out there for or against these devices.
It has been awhile for a post. All of the prior ones have been through God, as they took minutes to write and post. This one is more thought provoking and more from me personally.

Perhaps the attorney has a personal reason for "fighting" it. Maybe he does not want to get caught again, or believes it could be a revenue stream defending others.

And, the beauty of this is that it is a free country and people can do and say whatever they chose with relative ease.

I am commenting on this topic because I know a few people who have been severely injured or seriously shaken with drivers traveling through red lights.

This does speak to me about what motivates people to take a stand.

What motivates you to speak out and take a stand?

HAPPY EASTER

2013-03-31T05:24:00.000-04:00

Good Morning -- Happy Happy Easter and all that this brings. Spring - an awareness, things new and things new again, good food, family and friends, love, hope, and my wish and prayer for you all is to believe.

Up early this Easter Sunday, as singing in choir today. If you happen to be there, and can, please, say hello.

Happy, Happy Easter!!!!!!

Newbie Vegans and Veterans

2013-03-10T17:01:00.003-04:00

Beginning anything can be daunting. Think of things that you believe you will miss the most. Perhaps sandwiches, pizza, or ....

Here is a brief list of thoughts and products that I have found to be helpful.

"Lunch meat" Tofurky Peppered
Rice Cheese - many flavors also melts well.
Colorado Cracked Wheat Bread
Soy milk, coconut milk or other alternative, add choc. to slowly adjust.
Frozen soy meatballs with sauce add broccoli and/or.

Find a local natural food store -- locally Lori's Natural Foods and there are others here.
Farmer's Markets

Watch local PBS station for cooking shows, Christina Cooks for example.

Most important thing I learned is to simply begin and be kind and patient with self. Not to be concerned initially with calories, pay attention to nutrition. Coconut oil has lots and lots of fat, would suggest be very cautious there.

And, see comments from others with much more experience than I. Also, loving this and likely will not return.

And, so happy to be back. A presentation has not been scheduled, book is a fledgling. Thank you all for following, and to God goes the credit and the glory.

Please feel free to share as this is a blog which flows with need - perhaps share recipes.

A hiatus was taken, due to technical difficulties

2013-03-10T16:16:00.000-04:00

Learning to relax, step away from electronics, and unhinge are all things I have been doing since the computer took another unplanned hiatus.

Spring, my favorite season, is almost here. All things are renewed, refreshed, brighter and alive and new again.
I continue to take steps to walk with God. And, as a human continue to make mistakes, be impatient, etc.

Oh, also doing something completely different. I am eating a vegan diet. The initial two weeks, of adjustment, learning, being hungry, crabby and doing research was admittedly horrible. The future is brighter, as finding things that are actually extremely good. And, so very much appreciate and applaud those who have walked this path before and created products, recipes, and opened stores. People are sharing their experiences and ideas to make it much more fun.

Where is everyone now, and it is wonderful to return. Please send questions, thoughts, share experiences, ideas, needs. In essence what is happening out there?

MERRY CHRISTMAS AND HAPPY HOLIDAYS ETC.

2012-12-25T12:34:00.001-05:00

Roy, SU Gang and to everyone the world around --- Peace, Love, and God's
Grace to you all.

"Squeeze Joy from Each Minute......"

Merry, Merry, Merry Christmas!!!!!!

Christmas, Hanukkah and Kwanzaa

2012-12-09T14:13:00.002-05:00

This morning in church God reminded me, I am me. I was created to be me by Him. The more I continue to step into the person He created the more at peace, contented, and joyful I become. And, I'm discovering the more I am me, the more I enjoy meeting and learning who others are.

This is a season of multiple holidays which are celebrated in this United States. Christmas, Hanukkah (khä`nəkə, –n kä), and Kwanzaa are three which are celebrated during December.

By saying, greeting and wishing others a Merry Christmas I am sharing my belief. It is not in any way intended in disrespect, and it is not bragging. I welcome others to share their belief by saying Happy Hanukkah or Happy Kwanzaa, or simply saying Hello.

And, if you are more comfortable simply saying - Happy Holidays, I am not here to say please, do not.

For many years I did not share myself with others as I felt I was less than others are. Today, I am simply moving into being comfortable with the person God has created me to be. Each of us is a creation, I believe of God, and you have your own beliefs.

The United States continues to be a melting pot of diversity, which I applaud.

By saying Merry Christmas I am simply sharing who I am, and I continue to look forward to learning who you are

Love

2012-12-01T12:06:00.001-05:00

"Don't worry that children never listen to you. Worry that they are always watching you." - Robert
Fulghum

This reminded me of something I recently said: Words are not important. We can speak until we are blue in the face. Oh, that is an old phrase and for some that might not be a familiar phrase. Literal thinkers might wonder how anything other than paint or when cannot breath your face turns blue.

Actions when combined with words are more powerful for those little eyes and ears. When we swear as we connect or come close to another driver, for example. There are other things that we do as examples for children that when reflected upon, can think oh, wish that did not happen.

This is a great time of year to begin to apply other actions to carry into the next year, rather than wait for New Year's Eve promises that fall away oh, so quickly. Think love rather than annoyance, think love rather than impatience, think love rather than being stubborn. Think about that policeman whose photo went viral when he bought boots and socks for a man in need.

LOVE can overcome so much. Happy Saturday this first one this month of Christmas. And, if Christmas is not your holiday, LOVE can still be part of your month.

HAPPY THANKSGIVING

2012-11-22T10:19:00.000-05:00

Happy Thanksgiving -- I give thanks for:

1. For God and the person I've become since surrendering myself to Him.
2. The day and all possibilities.
3. For freedom for all, to shop or not shop, and for all to do as they wish.
4. Thanks so much to all those who have fought and continue to fight and uphold the value of freedom, Thank you for those who have protected our freedom and who continue to safeguard us many times even when we do wrong. The first responders and all those who volunteer to make this country better for those who need a leg up.
5. Thankful for the health and well being of myself and of those I love.
6. Thankful for all who have commented and the opportunity this site has provided to share with all who find this blog helpful among the myriad of blogs.
7. Thankful for my friend and photographer who keeps this site more entertaining.
8. Thankful for my day job and this day off.
9. Time for having time, and will take time to truly identify and acknowledge being thankful and all that it truly means.

And, now eat.........

Under Construction

2012-10-13T15:23:00.002-04:00

Been a bit quiet lately as the hard drive decided to fail. It is being looked at to see if can salvage anything since the last backup. Hope everyone is enjoying the fall season. Please send questions or thoughts, as am using a Nook Tablet. It helps, yet look forward to being back in full swing. "Squeeze joy from each minute, time does not return, yet our memories do."

Learning - something new every day AND

2012-09-03T12:31:00.001-04:00

http://www.khanacademy.org

Became aware of this site a couple of months ago. And, in -A Tidbit style, will simply suggest you check it out for yourselves and your children as the school year is beginning.

Sal Khan created this virtually free website and schools in California have begun to adopt the format. And, what better way to learn about it, than to follow the link above. Or do a Google search for Sal Khan or Khan Academy.

Learning begins and continues with any age. Perhaps you will find this post as you are taking a few minutes this Labor Day to relax, enjoy and prepare as September begins and the pace quickens.

Why should California have all the fun!!!!

New Phone - Old Ring Tone

2012-08-18T17:12:00.001-04:00

Just got a new cell phone. A bit to get used to. Yet the ring tone is the same. Yeah!

Myxer.com

For anyone who needs a change or, like me, have a new phone and would like the ring tone you had.

Many are free or a very nominal charge.

Namaste

"Romantic" and "Real"

2012-08-14T08:58:00.003-04:00

"In real love you want the other person's good. In romantic love, you want the other person." -
Margaret Anderson

Romantic love - ah the vision, the thoughts, and the person. Romantic love often occurs in the head, and not in reality. "Romantic" love does not necessarily withstand reality. Something like a photograph or a vision of what love is.

"Real" love occurs in real life, where the relationship is not imagined, there is connection, there is visibility there is availability there is vulnerability, there is truth. Have many thoughts on this and will share as the days unfold.

And, a combination of both is a treasure. In this community what you think matters, please share.

If love, it shows....

2012-07-15T15:10:00.003-04:00

Summer is moving along at what seems, to me, to be at a frenetic pace. And, a new picture will be available soon. There seems to be a bit of a hold up with the transfer from Kodak Gallery to Shutter Fly, and perhaps a bit of the summertime slow down.

Listening in church today and heard something I wanted to share. Reference was being made to 1 Corinthians 13, and it may be familiar to many as being part of a wedding ceremony. During the sermon I heard each of the following.

"If love, it shows." In your eyes, in your voice, in your actions, etc.

"We can put on a show without love." In their actions and voice.

Suggestion: This is a distinction, and very possible that some do not know how to love. Your thoughts? Happy Summer!

Memorial Day

2012-05-28T12:08:00.000-04:00

Happy Memorial Day is a greeting that many will hear.

I would like to thank all those who have served in the armed forces, for all those who were unable to join the military, and have made a difference volunteering and doing something on behalf of others. You are remembered; your choices have made differences, and your actions are appreciated. Thank you!!!!!

Blessed Memorial Day -- as this day is celebrated, most everyone has a long weekend. Picnics are planned, sleep late, travel and move about with ease and most importantly with Freedom. Unless on the lamb and running away from, over the shoulder we do not need to pay attention to.

We as Americans can walk forward, walk toward something, or have the freedom to say, maybe I will turn around to finish something not previously done.

That might be the largest challenge as Americans that we do have - the ability to choose to make a choice. Our lives are the outcome, typically, of our choices. Sometimes our choices are dependent on circumstances that occur. Someone goes through a red light, their choice affects our circumstances. Someone picks up a gun and robs us, their choice affects our circumstances.

And, then our choices continue -- do we choose fear or freedom. Our life is full of choices.

Caution: When making a choice - your choice may have an effect on others. When making a choice perhaps think Freedom for yourself and for others. You have the freedom to drive fast others have the freedom to drive slower. You have the freedom to run others have the freedom to walk or ride in a wheelchair or hobble on crutches. Allowing for your freedom and allow for others to have their freedom. America is the land of choices -- God Bless America!!!

Happy Easter

2012-04-07T12:58:00.002-04:00

Good Friday has passed and Easter is on its way. Easter is full of celebration, and meaning, traditions and love, and new beginnings all around us as it occurs in the season of Spring.

This is the season in the Christian calendar that Jesus is tortured and dies as a man, through our sins. Our sins separate us from God, as they also did with Jesus.

Easter affords us the opportunity to celebrate Jesus rising from the dead, which also represents the death of our lives with sin.

Our new life continues to offer new opportunities away from sin. I am doing something new this year, for me. I am singing in our church choir for the Easter services. During a practice session this past week, a choir member mentioned forgiveness and the challenges that humans have with it. She asked how many more lashes did Jesus need to take. Did Jesus need to take 3 more lashes or, perhaps 6, before we can take the steps to forgive. Or perhaps 10 more lashes for us to change another habit or release another negative or sinful thought.

Easter is a season of new beginnings. As we turn our lives over to God, He will forgive us and give us strength.

Happy Easter, happy new day.

Accustomed To Equals What Expect and Allow

2012-03-31T08:56:00.003-04:00

Good Morning. It has been some time since I last posted A-Tidbit.

As I have a day job and then all the things that make up a life and living that life have taken precedence. God continues to speak to me and I with Him, and today the words in the title arrived over and over.

What we are accustomed to will be what we allow and what we expect in our lives with ourselves and others.

If we get accustomed to lots of salt on our food, we expect it; then we take steps to ensure we get what we are accustomed to and expect. If not enough salt, we add more.

When we are accustomed to and allow others to treat us badly, that is what typically happens. As when it happens, it is expected and therefore many times we do not turn away from that person or experience.

Occasionally that person is ourselves. When we expect nothing more, we allow less than what is optimal.

This can happen within many of the environments that comprise our lives, and with some large, and very visible and obvious to others minute and miniscule.

Suggestion: Allow what you want rather than what you are accustomed to. Allow yourself to begin, to try, to take a step. Allow yourself to listen to God, or perhaps to listen for God.

Love is......

2012-02-11T16:18:00.002-05:00

Happy Saturday, today. Happy Sunday, tomorrow. Happy Monday and Happy Tuesday, which happens to be February 14, 2012 - St. Valentine's Day.

Each day, not just Tuesday, is perfect for love.

I make this wish for all - Happy Valentine's Day and best wishes for adding much love in all of our days before and each day after Tuesday.

Happy New Year - It lays out before us, 2012,

2012-01-02T19:09:00.004-05:00

as an open palette, a book with empty pages. Many have made New Year's Resolutions, many have gone back to work and many, like myself, head back tomorrow. My thoughts a few minutes ago touched upon the possible vastness, the choices to make, the myriad of possibilities and many opportunities that lay within the days that will unfold in 2012.

Suggestion: I have decided to live each day to it's best, it's fullest. Not living it as it is my last. Not knowing if tomorrow will come; yet, being open to it being there. Making choices today to allow tomorrow to grow and prosper and be better than today.

Happy New Year EVERYONE!

Merry Christmas - Happy New Year - Happy Holidays

2011-12-27T19:43:00.002-05:00

Love, Love, and Love --- This thought came to me again recently. I would so truly love to have this feeling every day about everything; however, I am human as we all are who are reading this.

I was driving from the local train station parking lot recently, feeling frustrated at this city's parking lot traffic jam. And, compared to many cities of its size and larger, it more aptly would be described as a traffic snarl. Within minutes the car was untangled and back on the streets as I was heeding to traffic lights, merging lanes and what I considered more normal challenges, obstacles and scenarios. For what amounted to only a couple minutes, I was very unloving, and feeling very unloved.

And, this was just before Christmas. Missed wishing you all a Merry Christmas - so I do that now within the holiday season still. Sincere best wishes for a very Happy New Year and truly delightful Holiday Season, with hopes that it will continue and last the whole year long.

It likely won't, as we begin again the year 2012 and the day to day minutia that begins to take over that can get me, at least, so involved and so distracted from that love feeling, that love response.

Suggestion: For me and others who may have a similar challenge. Keep that word in front of me at all times. Begin the day with it - have lunch with it - and before get in the car, repeat it multiple times. Then treat it like the verb that it is. Act upon it each and every day. With myself and with others.

Needs -- are they, and maybe so

2011-11-12T09:53:00.003-05:00

Is a new microwave needed? That question will be answered eventually, as it sounded like a jet plane this morning. My first thought was to add that to my days agenda. Time to get a new microwave. Then I thought, what would life be like without it.

This can happen with just about anything. Relationships can fade away - something like this blog. A Tidbit blogs don't appear on schedule, they happen as God provides a thought.

When a friendship or a relationship changes from "normal" or friendships takes on a different time frame. Do you walk away or check in periodically to see what is really happening. Another possibility is to panic and react immediately.

Patience continues to be a learning experience for me. It was sweet to hear the kettle whistle this morning with water ready for foo foo coffee. Also, understand it can reheat food, thaw food and some people cook with them. For me, it may simply mean one less object needing to be cleaned.

Suggestion: Nice time of year to check in with what we need, truly need. Unlike things that have become a habit. It may take re-evaluating the steps for getting up and all steps until ready to leave for work. Those habits that we fall into. Going to begin creating a list of true needs this weekend. As I've blogged before a lot can happen within the two minutes that it takes to heat water in the microwave. A whistle or a buzzer - interesting thought.

Flamingos

2011-10-01T09:01:00.004-04:00

All Pink -Flamingos as I learned today, while watching a Burt Wolf travel show, all have the same appearance; they all are pink and look the same. How are males distinguished from females. Unlike many birds, male ducks are brightly colored, and the females with a hint of color at their wing. Flamingos are monogamists and mate for life, for approximately 30 years. It is more important that they know than anyone else who their mate is.

Perhaps there is something to learn from a bird. People might consider learning who someone is from within rather than the focus be on appearance. Similar to school, club and military uniforms, except that humans are each individual and distinctive prior to stepping into a uniform or a costume, so each person in uniform continues to be distinctive.

Currently with the Presidential race approaching - Chris Christie is all the buzz not for his accomplishments - for his appearance. He currently is a very accomplished person. He has a family, he is the Governor of New Jersey and is an attorney. Laughter on talk shows (David Letterman apologized) is healthy and important - not at the expense of others. Adult bullying offers examples for other adults and children to do the same.

Since beginning this post Mr. Christie has decided not to run for President at this time. It is my hope that he stays in line with who he is, remains true to himself and remains or achieves even better health.

Have many thoughts on relationships and so very grateful that prior thoughts have been helpful. That is what this blog's purpose is.

Roy, thank you for being that light for your friends and others. A marvelous example of being open, available and non judgmental - offering a different point of view. And, no more overtime for me right now and just in time. I am working on a project and will share as it develops.

Overtime, continues......

2011-09-24T11:23:00.000-04:00

And, overtime continues. I am taking my own suggestions to limit overtime as much as possible and continue to be involved with the many other environments that are important to my Christian life.

I have been away from blogging for a bit - am working, revamping and improving, a project that anticipate will be sharing in the months ahead. For now am preparing my car, my wardrobe and home for the approaching fall and cold winter months that we experience in the northeast.

Please continue to comment - as your experiences do assist others and writing about them is beneficial to you.

"Squeeze joy from each minute, time does not return, yet memories do."

Namaste