Thanks Living: VA ER

Thanks Living. 

Thinking back over the past two days and taking note of God's perfect timing. 

1. Last week, I had scheduled two Chiropractic appointments for this week. Normally, I just go 1x a week on Thurs or Fri, and I call the day before or day of for an appointment. But God knew this week would be different. I saw my chiropractor Monday morning at 9am. 

2. On the way home from the Chiro, I stopped and filled up the Chariot's gas tank. 

3. Arrived home and Dad said that we were going to the Tampa VA ER. 

4. After gathering a few things, we left. God gave us beautiful blue sky with amazing clouds as our view, and light traffic, as we traveled.

5. Arrived at the Tampa VA ER, dropped Mom and Dad off at the door and found the BEST parking spot ever. The 1st spot in the first row!

6. Although the time in the ER waiting room was LONG (over 6 hours), God provided so many opportunities to share His love with those waiting. 

7. I was able to go to the cafeteria and buy some sandwiches for us to eat in the ER waiting room. And while there, I met a lady who looked a bit lost. I helped her find what she wanted, and then I asked if I could pray for her. She stopped and started crying. Her husband was in the ER and she was all alone. We talked and she is a Christian, but needed to be reminded of God's peace and comfort. And I thought I was just going to the cafeteria to buy sandwiches. (Later "Bobbie" came through the ER waiting area, and we were able to encourage her again. Dad gave her a few Bible Studies and she was so thankful that one had verse printed on it. She so wanted to have verses to read to bring her peace. All God-designed appointments.) 

8. The ER waiting area is small and got a bit crowded, so I went outside to wait. As I was waiting a gentleman arrived and sat down in the wheelchair that was left outside. He looked very tired. I asked if he needed help. He said, 'yes'. So I wheeled him into the ER, and up the the check-in window. That simple kindness was appreciated by not only the man and his daughter (who arrived after parking the car), but others waiting. They were noticing that 'our family' was a bit different than some others waiting. Every action, word, and attitude reflects our God. God knew that I needed to be outside to help that gentleman.

9. When it was our turn to go back to the ER, I waited outside of Dad's room while they got him situated. A gentleman in the next room called to me. Mike and I talked for a bit. Once again a God designed appointment. 

10. Around 9pm, the Drs decided that Dad should stay for the night. So, I went to the Chariot to gather his things. And I didn't have to go far, because of that awesome parking spot! 

11. After getting Dad settled into the ER room, it would be a while before an available room upstairs, Mom and I left. We decided to spend the night in Tampa, rather than drive back home. God provided a room for us very near the Hospital. We both were able to get some rest. 

12. The next morning, we returned back to the VA, this time parking in the garage. God provided a nice shady spot for the Chariot. 

13. Dad's room had 4 beds (3 occupied), so there wasn't much room. They brought a chair for Mom and I spent time going back and forth from the room to the waiting area. Once again while in the waiting area, I was able to share God's love with others. 

14. Dad meanwhile was giving away his Bible studies that he's created. One Dr even was went to make copies to share with others! How cool is that!?!?! 

15. The doctors decided to discharge Dad and we waited for all the paperwork to be completed.

16. Finally after 3.5 hours, the paper work was completed. I left to go get the Chariot. As I came around one corner, there was a lady and gentleman from the ER the night before. We talked and got an update. Another God designed appointment.

17. I drove the Chariot to the loading area, and it was full, so I drove around again, but got stuck in traffic. But it was actually a God-designed delay. For when I arrived at the Loading area, again, I saw a gentleman who had helped me several times on Dad's floor. I rolled down the window and joking said, "Bring my Dad down next." He replied, "That's exactly what I'm doing! I was wondering where you were!! Stay right where you are!" Perfect timing once again. 

(And thinking back.... "Ken" knew me because I had asked him for help in finding Dad's room, in getting Mom a chair, and finding the waiting room. And Dad had given him a Bible Study. Those little encounters were once again God-designed because it would help Ken know who my Dad was.) 

18. God made sure we were on the road before the rush hour traffic got too heavy. And once again God gave us amazing blue sky filled with white clouds for the ride home. 

19. We arrived home and had Sunday's leftovers in the frig for a quick heat-up dinner. 

I'm sure as I reflect over the time in VA, I'll remember other things that God did to watch over us. I'm so thankful that God in the midst of chaos, provides peace and strength. 

And remember how my Monday, started with that chiropractic appointment? That was so needed in getting my headache and pain level lowered to endure the 2 long days at the VA. God took care of me even before I knew I'd need that extra care. 

Thanks Living. 

Knowing that God has it ALL under control, and that He is working behind the scenes orchestrating His perfect will in all things.

The Chariot

In August 2011, I was able to buy a 2012 Ford Fiesta. You can read about the details of how God led me to HIS best here:

http://createapositiveday.blogspot.com/2011/08/details-its-all-in-details.html

A few weeks ago, my Dad decided it was time for him to stop driving. He turned 88 this month, and he thought it was best to leaving the driving to someone else. And that someone, is me. 

Although I really liked my Fiesta, it was not comfortable for my parents, and it was a tight fit with their walkers and if needed in the future a wheelchair. So, I started praying and asking God what would meet the needs for us. 

I claimed Psalm 21:1-3 as my car searching verses: 

The king shall have joy in Your strength, O Lord; and in Your salvation how greatly shall he rejoice! You have given him his heart’s desire, and have not withheld the request of his lips. Selah For You meet him with the blessings of goodness; You set a crown of pure gold upon his head.

I was excited to

MEET the BLESSINGS of GOODNESS

that God had waiting for me! 

Since my cars had been Fords, I started looking at a local Ford Dealership. I looked at their Used Inventory and thought maybe an Escape would meet our needs. They had one in my price range, however, because of the power seats, I could not get it reclined enough for my back. 

I then looked at a new Focus hatchback. In my price range, and the hatchback would give me more trunk space. However, it was still on the small side and would not provide much room for my parents. 

A friend recommended that I check out his Uncle's Dealership. But his Uncle wouldn't be there until after lunch. And since I was hungry, I decided to stop and eat lunch. I was hesitant to spend the money, since I was looking to buy a different car—but I was HUNGRY. lol I stopped at a restaurant I like, and I learned I had enough reward points for a FREE LUNCH! How cool is that?! A nice "blessing of goodness"!

And it was God's way of saying: 

After lunch, I went to Sorenson & Schade Chevrolet. I met Andrew and we discussed what I was looking for and what would meet my needs. He said he'd talk with the Uncle, and see what they had in their inventory that would meet my needs. 

I received a phone call from Andrew that he had two possibilities for me. I went back to the Dealership and Andrew told me that the first he'd show me was an Escape. I almost said, "Tried that, and the seats don't work for me." But God kept my mouth shut. 

I sat in the Escape and the seat reclined! No power seats in this model. Ok, one key factor taken care of. Next, would be to see if my parent's would find it comfortable and would the walkers/wheelchair fit? 

I was able to test drive the Escape for a couple of days, and I found it met our needs quite well. But would the price be such it would fit my budget? 

I went back to the Dealership and met with Andrew to discuss the specifics of cost. After trading my Fiesta and my Dad's car, we were able to get the payments low enough for me to afford the Escape with the extended warranty. 

Here is a picture of The Chariot. A 2013 Ford Escape. (Yes, I too find it amusing that I was able to buy another Ford, even if from a Chevy Dealer!) 

Andrew with The Chariot

Oh, but God wasn't done with His taking care of EVERY detail! On the way home from buying the car, I stopped at my insurance company to notify them. It was an awesome surprise that my insurance is now $24 less a month (due to being a larger and safer vehicle). That savings will help pay for the gas since it will use more than the Fiesta. Those "Blessing of Goodness" kept on coming! God knows EXACTLY what I can afford and makes sure He takes care of all the details—when I let Him lead and direct! 

Once again, God led me to HIS best. In this case it was working with Andrew at Sorensen and Shade and buying a 2013 Ford Escape. Thankful for God's timing and His blessings of goodness! 

_________________________________

If you are in the Winter Haven, FL area and are looking for a car, I recommend Sorensen and Schade. Ask for "Andrew W." is very easy to work with and is a real gentleman. (And if you tell them that "Rhonda S." sent you, that would be nice.)

Right Thing

The Lord bless you and watch, guard, and keep you; The Lord make His face to shine upon and enlighten you and be gracious (kind, merciful, and giving favor) to you, The Lord lift up His [approving] countenance upon you and give you peace (tranquility of heart and life continually). Numbers 6:24-26 (AMP)

Ruth 2:4-7

How do you feel when you see the Boss coming? How awesome to be greeted with "The Lord be with you!" And the response of the workers, was " The Lord bless you!" That is an encouraging greeting. 

Yesterday, the post was on how God designs and works His plan to accomplish His purpose. In Ruth 2:4-7, we continue to see God's attention to details. 

As Boaz came to inspect his fields, Ruth caught his eye. He noticed her among the others gleaning the leftovers. He learned that she was Ruth, the daughter-in-law of Naomi.

Notice the description given of Ruth. She did not demand that she be able to glean in his fields. She did not demand anything. Rather, she humbly asked if she could glean in his fields collecting the leftovers. And she worked tirelessly from early morning, resting just a bit. Her work ethic spoke volumes about her. She was willing to work hard long hours to provided food for her and Naomi. Ruth was doing the right thing and doing it well! 

Now, remember, Ruth could have stayed back in Moab with her family. Yet, she left and went with Naomi to a strange land. And now, she was working hard to provide food. Her attitude was noticed by those in the field and in turn, by Boaz. 

Often the things we do, go unnoticed by most. Yet, we are to be doing our best not to gain attention or fame, rather we are to be doing the right thing to the best of our ability because we are doing it unto the Lord. No matter the task. No matter how difficult. No matter..... no excuses. Just do the work for the glory of God. 

When my heart is permeated with a deep sense of reverence for God (Acts 9:31 MSG), then I'll be ready and willing to do the right thing no matter how difficult it may be—knowing that I'm doing it for the glory of God!

A little word, turned into BIG blessing!

WOW!!!!

Talk about a GOD who knows how to take care of DETAILS! 

I moved from Florida in March 1994. At that time I owned a 1990 Ford. I moved back to Florida in June 2014 and now own a 2012 Ford. 

I went to finish the Florida registration process for my car today. (I had to wait for FL to get my title from the bank in IL.)

The song playing on the CD, as I pulled into the Driver's place, was "He's Been Faithful" Damaris Carbaugh. 

As the lady was working on my information, the system would not let her give me a handicap plate, even though I qualified. Come to find out, I was STILL in their system from 20 years ago with the 1990 car. The lady and her manager tried to merge my accounts, but that wouldn't work. So the lady helping me called Tallahassee. They got the accounts merged. Come to find out back when I bought the 1990 car, it was entered in the system as a "lease" rather than "buy". So, my record stayed in the system...... for over 20 years! 

Why is that LITTLE detail so important? Because, since I owned a FL car.... I was able to get the Florida DISCOUNT.. and we aren't talking just a few dollars..... My Heavenly Father, the God of Details, used the little world "lease", to save me $229.00! WOW!!!! 

And when I went to leave and turned on the car, I heard.... "He's been faithful, yes, He's been faithful to me. Yes, looking back His love and mercy I see....." 

So thankful that MY GOD is a God of Details, and continues to take care of me. He's so awesome! 

Taking care of details!

I LOVE God's attention to details!

In Sept 2009, I got my internet connection. They had a lot of trouble when they first connected it, since our door buzzers use the phone lines. But after several tries and visits, they got it all working. 
Yesterday, my internet went out. I rebooted everything, but still no connection. I called the company and they said, "Looks like a problem on the line. We'll send a tech out ASAP." 

The Tech came today. He tested everything and asked me a few questions. He then said, "They did tell you that this visit may cost you, right?" I said, "yes, depending on what's wrong..... so, how much will it cost me?" 

"It would be $100.00, but since they gave you the WRONG equipment in 2009, I'm going to give you the correct equipment at NO charge! Come to find out the equipment they gave me is only if you have internet, TV, and phone. I only have internet and phone. 

So, thankful that God knew in 2009..... that when the equipment needed to be replaced in 2014... I wouldn't have an extra $100.00.... so God made sure that He arranged it so I wouldn't be charged.

Talk about taking care of details!
He's so awesome!!

What a Day Brings Forth

I love God's timing. 

As I was cleaning out files yesterday and today, I came across several copies a poem I wrote on August 15, 2001... in several different files. 

I remember that day VERY well. I had an appointment downtown Chicago at a Rehab Institute for an evaluation on my back. I had planned for this appointment for weeks, gather all the necessary x-rays, medical records, etc. I had the train schedule almost memorized. That morning I woke up got ready and went to leave for the train station... only my car would not start. The battery was dead. Ok, that was NOT in my plans! I quickly called a few taxi companies until I found one that could come ASAP. I made it downtown in time for my appointment and a friend picked me up from the train station and brought me back home. 

On the train on the way into the City, I wrote this poem: 

What a Day Brings Forth—

No matter how well I prepare; 

no matter how well I plan;

What a day brings forth is not in my hands. 

Making phone calls, confirming dates; 

Copying records; checking the list;

What a day will bring forth —there is no way to predict. 

The unexpected can be a blessing in disguise.

Consider the adventure, and the surprise—

Instead of focusing on the whats and whys. 

I do know—beyond any doubt

What a day brings forth in not in my hands, 

But this day is EXACTLY what God has planned! 

-R.Sawtelle • August 15, 2001

Since God had me find this poem... several times, I guess He wants to remind me that He does have some surprises and a PERFECT plan as I prepare to move. Isn't God great?!!!

At the Right Time

As I was going through papers and shredding yesterday, I came across a piece of paper with this quote on it: 

“Great people are ready to help me, at the right time, in the right way, people I don’t even know yet. I promise I will never give up because I don’t have the help, but I will trust God to provide. God has resources to help you that you have not even considered. They are multiplied thousands of persons with all sorts of talents, skills, concerns, and contacts that God can bring into your life in order to fulfill His plans. So open your eyes and see the faces of people around you. Open your ears to hear what they are saying. Today, tomorrow, next week, you’ll meet someone, someone who is just the person you need. And that right person will come along to fill just the right place at just the right time. And you will marvel knowing God arranged it beautifully.” Rick Warren

Wow! God knew that this was exactly what I needed to be reminded of... as I work on the move. Looking forward to seeing all that God does and HOW He does it all. Excited!! 

How will it all work out?

As I was talking with God last night and this morning about this "moving adventure", I realized that I'm most excited to see His creativity in taking care of all the details. God continues to amaze me in how He takes care of me in such creative and unique ways. I'm looking forward to the little and big things He does to work out all the details.

Taken Notice of Me!

This year, I'm sharing my "Treasures" of my study of my "Ponder the Morsels" book. I've picked 31 Psalms to study throughout 2013. Today I studied Psalm 33. Here is what I learned.

The Lord looks down from heaven; He observes everyone. Psalm 33:13 (HCSB)

The Lord looks down from heaven and sees the whole human race. Psalm 33:13 (NLT)

"The Lord looketh from heaven." The Lord is represented as dwelling above and looking down below; seeing all things, but peculiarly observing and caring for those who trust in him. It is one of our choicest privileges to be always under our Father's eye, to be never out of sight of our best Friend. The Treasury of David

“Look at me! Look at me!” Remember as kids we wanted the attention of our parents, teachers, etc. We’d do what we could to get their attention, and then we felt so cool, and awesome that they noticed us... or we “made them notice us”. Now as adults, we often think it awesome, when a celebrity, or sport’s star looks our way or gives us an autograph. Guess we really all like to be noticed sometimes. 

Psalm 33:13 tells us that God notices us, and we don’t have to jump up and down or wave our arms or shout... He simply looks and sees us. 

Lord willing tomorrow, I’ll have my broken spinal stimulator removed. I’ll be the ‘center of attention’ tomorrow. The Nurses, Doctors, and staff will be focused on me! The sad part is most of the time, I won’t be aware of their attention as I’ll be asleep. But I’m thankful that they will be “looking down and seeing me”. 

Yet, better than being seen my the Medical staff, I’m being seen by God! He is carefully watching over me and is aware of all the details happening around me. He is “peculiarly observing and caring for me... and I’m never out of sight of my Best Friend!”  Even when I am unaware of what is happening, I can enjoy peace because God is watching!

To create a positive day, I only need to take a moment to remember, God has taken notice of me!

Do I have my “God-glasses” on?

Throughout this year, each day of the month, I'm "Treasure Hunting" in a Psalm. I've created a "Ponder Every Morsel of Truth" Book to record the truths as I learn them. The eighth of each month, I'm studying Psalm 90. Here's what Treasure I found today.

Show your servants ·the wonderful things you do [your miracles]; ·show your greatness [your splendor/beauty] to their children. Psalm 90:16 (EXB) 

Let Your work of love be on display for all Your servants; let Your children see Your majesty. Psalm 90:16 (VOICE)

Let thy work appear unto thy servants, And thy glory upon their children. Psalm 90:16 (ASV)

I can “see” thing differently depending on my perspective. I noticed this today as I drove to my Chiropractic appointment. When I put on my sunglasses, my vision was sharper and clearer...but the clouds also looked darker. Sunglasses “tint” my perspective. When I had on my “normal” glasses, the sky was brighter, but it was harder to see details due to the glare of the sun. Glasses may make things appear brighter, but I miss the blessings of the details. 

As I look at what God is doing, I wonder which glasses I have on—ones that allow me to see greater detail, or ones that blur my vision so that things may appear brighter, but I miss the details.

Often when God works, He does not show us all the details at once, rather He shows us only what we need to see to be able to take the next step of faith. However, I often try to look in the future to see all the details, but I’m learning, if I try to look too far ahead, I miss what God wants to show me in the “here and now”. 

If I want to see the wonderful things God is doing, I need to make sure I’m wearing “God-glasses” and looking at things from His perspective. If I do see dark clouds on the horizon, I need to be patient and know that if God does send a storm, He will be right there with me. 

To create a positive day, I need to make sure I have on my “God-glasses” so I don’t miss the wonderful things God is doing! 

God is so Creative!

One thing which I have enjoyed over the past 11 years, since my injury, is seeing all the creative and fun ways God uses to supply my various needs. This week, once again, God supplied in a very fun and creative way. 

Since February of this year, I've lost 56 pounds through a diet program offered by my Chiropractor. Therefore, all the clothes that WERE in my closet were too big. I needed to buy smaller sizes. YEAH!

A local thrift store chain was having a 50% off sale, so I visited several of their stores in the area. WOW... the deals I found! 

I was able to buy: 5 cardigans, 6 dress shirts, 3 pair of dress pants, 2 pairs of jeans (green/black), 1 pair of shorts, 3 light jackets, 1 windbreaker, 1 fall jean jacket, 1 winter jean jacket (lined) and 1 winter coat (with removable liner). And the best part of it all—was the price! All this for UNDER $75.
When I see what I was able to buy—and that a new winter coat would have cost that much—WOW!!

Very thankful that God provided a SUPER SALE, so that I could buy some nice clothes and coats for the coming months. The sale was one way God used to supply my needs.

But God was NOT done supplying!

God had a VERY special
SURPRISE waiting for me! 

As I was sorting all the "new" clothes for either the laundry or cleaners, I went through all the pants pockets. And that is when I found the surprise God had waiting for me! In one of the pockets there was a $20 bill! 

I had to stop and realize all the DETAILS that God had to work out, so that He could give me that $20! 

• the person who donated the pants, had to leave the $20 in the pocket. 
• each person who inspected the pants at the thrift store, had to "miss" the $20. 
• not sure if anyone else tried on the pants, but if they did, God had to "keep their hands out of the pockets". 
• I had to pick that pair of pants to try on... and buy. 

Just thinking of ALL the details that God took care of to give me a surprise of $20 to help me buy 'new' clothes—once again shows His awesome care and love for me. 

When I think of all the creative and fun ways

that God supplies my needs,

it is VERY easy to CREATE a POSITIVE day!

God's attention to details makes a blessing-filled day!

Sat., July 21, I was given two Grandstand Tickets for the NASCAR Nationwide Race at Chicagoland Speedway by Make Motorsports and driver TJ Bell. God's attention to details made Sun., July 22, an amazing blessing-filled day!

1. Blessing One: A very dear friend

When I was given the tickets, I called a dear friend and she graciously was willing to go to the Race with me—even though she's not a big race fan. God has blessed me with a godly, caring, and fun friend! Very thankful for her friendship.

2. Blessing Two: Truth-filled Sermon

Sunday morning, I listened to a truth-filled sermon on Fulfillment in Life (Ecclesiastes 10:1-20). One truth that stuck in my mind was making wise choices based on God's truth found in His Word. That thought stayed with me throughout the day and I think had a big impact on God supplying the amazing blessings.

3. Blessing Three: Parking

I met up with my friend after Church, and we drove to Chicagoland Speedway. Having a handicap placard provided a parking spot near the Main Gate. And as we got out of the van, a Season Ticket holder couple, parked next to us, provided some helpful information and even a coupon!

4. Blessing Four: Ticket Adventure

The tickets provided were to be at the Will Call window—Main Gate. At the Will Call window, I showed my ID, and waited for the tickets. However, they couldn't find the tickets. I was then told that the tickets were at another location (back by Gate 5). Okay, how do I get from the Main Gate over to Gate 5—walking that distance was not really an option.
One Info Booth told us to take the "tram". So, we headed out to find the tram. Found another Info Booth which got us a Courtesy Golf Cart.
Our Driver, Peggy, drove us to the location and was wiling to wait to drive us back to the Main Gate. We went into one trailer only to learn that they did not have the tickets. They directed us to the next trailer. We went there and... "No, we don't have them. Should be at Will Call or next door." I waited in this trailer while my friend went back to the 1st trailer to check again. While waiting I enjoyed talking with the Staff and learning more about the "behind the scenes" working of the race. It was a very enjoyable time.

I was not bothered that the tickets couldn't be found. It wasn't a problem in my mind. I knew that they were somewhere and in time, they'd be found. I was just enjoying each step of the journey. (Remember that Sermon: Make wise choices? One wise choice is to remain positive and allow God to take care of ALL the details!)

My friend returned and still no tickets. The NASCAR/NNS Staff (Ted & Georgette) continued to search for tickets and contacted Make Motorsports to see where the tickets were located. The Staff then decided to give us PIT PASSES! We completed the necessary paper work, and were granted PIT PASSES! Then just as we were walking out the door, we were told the tickets WERE at the MAIN GATE Will Call—but we could still use the Pit Passes! HOW COOL!

Our now "personal" Courtesy Golf Cart Driver, Peggy,  returned to take us to the Main Gate to get the tickets. The Tickets were there (the problem: a "W" looked like a "V O" so was missed as they looked for my name). After getting the Grandstand tickets, Peggy, drove us to the Garage and Pit areas. 

5. Blessing Five: Surprise Meeting

We arrived at the Garages and found a Make Motorsport's Team member who told us the Pit number. We went to that area and stood behind the Pit fence watched the Race. Due to car problems, the #50 car ended the Race early and the car headed to the Garage.

I walked over to the Garage area and after a short wait, TJ Bell came out of the Trailer. I was able to talk with him. I would have rather TJ finished the Race, but it was very nice to meet him. A very UNEXPECTED and nice Surprise!

6. Blessing Six: Up-Close

After meeting TJ, we headed back to the Pit area, and with our Pit Passes were invited INTO the actual Pits. We enjoyed walking up and down the Pit area, watching Teams work and watching the Race. Watching a Pit Stop UP CLOSE is amazing! WOW! And being so close to the cars as they RACE... again an amazing experience.

7. Blessing Seven: Ride provided

After watching a majority of the Race and enjoying the entire experience, and knowing that my friend had a previous engagement that night, we decided to leave the Race before it was over. We walked back to the Security entrance of the Garages and asked about a Courtesy Golf Cart. "They don't run until 20 minutes AFTER the race is completed. But maybe one of the buses might drop you off near the Main Gate." Okay, that would work. But once again, God did NOT miss a SINGLE detail. He had James drive up in a Courtesy Golf Cart and the Security Guard waved him down and arranged a ride for us! James did not just "drop us off NEAR the Main Gate"... but directly behind the van! Couldn't get ANY CLOSER! Again God's attention to DETAILS is AMAZING! 

8. Blessing Eight: The entire experience

As I think back over all the Specific details of the day, I am overwhelmed at God's goodness and the blessings He showered on me. Nothing escaped His attention.

* The Grandstand seats would have been great... but getting to my seat and sitting would have been difficult. God knew that and provided Pit Passes where I could stand and walk around.

* I didn't think I'd be able to meet TJ Bell, and since God provided the Pit Passes, I was able to be in the Garage area.

* God knew how far I could walk, and provided the necessary rides at the right time (even though we were told several times that there was a "driving ban" in place!).

Creating a positive day

is more than about enjoying an experience—

rather, it's about noticing God's hand

in the details that makes

that experience EXTRA-Ordinary!

God takes GREAT care of me!

My Heavenly Father sure takes GREAT care of me! When I came home on Tuesday, God made sure that the 'open' handicap spot was of His choosing. 

On Thursday, a snow storm came through leaving between 3 and 4 inches of snow. "He orders the snow, 'Blanket the earth!'" Job 37:6

God's handiwork sure looked beautiful this morning!

I left early for my chiropractic appointment, thinking my car would be covered in snow, as so many were. But God cleaned off my car! The location of my car and the wind God sent, cleaned off my car perfectly! 

But God wasn't done yet. He prompted someone to shovel a CLEAR path to my car door. I'm so thankful for His loving care and taking care of the little details that make my day so much easier.

Creating a positive day is noticing how God takes care of the little details. 

Book full of the details!

"Your marvelous doings are headline news;
I could write a book full of the details

of your greatness."
Psalm 145:6 (The Message)

As I read the above verse this morning, Jan 1, 2012,

I couldn't help but think of yesterday's post.

God has done and is doing

marvelous things!

It's all in the details!

Creating a positive 2012, 

begins with creating a positive day!

2012

It’s December 31, 2011, and I’m thinking about my goals (some call them resolutions) for 2012. Oh, there are the “normal” goals which everyone makes, and not many keep: lose weight, exercise more, etc.

But what are my goals?

What do I want to accomplish
throughout 2012?

Okay, that’s not right—they shouldn’t be “MY” goals, rather the question should be:

“What does God want me to accomplish throughout 2012?”

That’s a much better perspective. Since God has a purpose and plan for me (Jeremiah 29:11) each goal I set, needs to fit into His plan. As I move forward in my life, I also have to look back and see all that God accomplished. Over the past eleven years, He has taught me amazing lessons, and has demonstrated His love in the most creative ways. I never would have imagined that a back injury in October 2000, would change my life so dramatically and at the same time present so many different opportunities.


So, as I reflect on the past, and prepare for the year ahead, the main thought which I can’t seem to ignore is “writing”. Oh, I mean more than on my blog. Perhaps it’s time to write a book: “It’s all in the details.” Even if I only write it for myself, I think it would be a wonderful blessing to see how God took care of each and every detail in my life.

As I think of where to begin on the details, it’s hard to know where to start. For so many of the situations, God worked years in advance to make sure everything was ready for me at the right time. But since I need a starting place, why not start in October 2000. For me, that’s when I began to personally notice how detail oriented God is. 

As of today, December 31, 2011, I believe that God’s 2012 goal for me is to WRITE.

If you have favorite stories, either from my blog, or from being part of my life, I’d like to hear what they are. You can email them to me, or comment on this blog post.

It’s all the details.

I'm looking forward to seeing God’s attention to details during 2012. And knowing that God is very detail oriented, He won’t miss a thing!

And that, my friends

will make 2012 a VERY POSITIVE year!

My Gift from God: 2012 Ford Fiesta

Here are some pictures of the wonderful new car God provided for me.

If you haven't yet read the previous post, "Details. It's all in the details." please read it. That post shares some of the specific details which God took care of to provide me with a 2012 Ford Fiesta. 

August 24, 2011 about 7:30 am, dew still on the windows.

Inside front.

Mileage when I arrived home from buying the car.

Front dash board.

Back seats.

Color is Violet-Grey. Depending on the light, it's shades of grey, purple, and even blue.

In this light, you see more of the violet/purple coloring.

In this light, it's more of the violet-grey.

Details. It's all in the Details.

I'm very tired tonight, however, I'm so overwhelmed with joy that I can't sleep. I just keep thinking through all the details God took care of in providing the new car–a 2012 Ford Fiesta.

The Cars God provided over the past 16 years. 2012 Fiesta on the left. 1995 Escort on the right.

Let's look back

at some of the details

God worked out.

If you click on the name of the blog post,

it will take you to the full text of the blog.

1. Back on June 11, 2011, I posted about My Plans vs God's Plan. I was working very hard at getting together a down payment for a newer car, and I was very close. Then it happened, I had to put more money into my old car—new brakes. At the time I didn't understand why God would want to "waste money" in fixing the old car—He knew I was planning on getting a newer car. 

But no detail escapes God. God knew very well, that He had something FAR GREATER planned than just a "newer" car. He wanted to delay my purchase because He had a NEW car which wasn't even built yet—but would be ready at the PERFECT time. 

2. In my search for a newer car, I went online. That seems to be the way to shop these days. I created my "search parameters" on one dealership known for their deals on used cars. Since I bought my Escort from Friendly Ford, I thought I'd contact them too. Over the next few months, I received daily email updates from the Used dealership with cars that matched my parameters. I also received a few phone calls and a few emails from Friendly Ford. 

As I worked back an forth online/phone calls, I realized that I was much more at peace when dealing with Friendly, compared to the other place. God gives peace. "Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid." John 14:27 So, my first stop was Friendly Ford.

3. I had planned to wait a few more months before actually shopping for a newer car. However, I thought my car had developed another problem. I either had to get things fixed, or get a newer car. So, off to Friendly Ford I went. Looked at several used cars, but nothing I really liked. Then my friend who was with me (it's always more fun to shop with a friend!), asked about the price of a new car. Mark said it would be possible. So, we went back inside to see what might work. I sat in the Focus, which was very nice, but the price was too high. What about the Fiesta? Would have to sit in it, to make sure it would be comfortable for my back. However, they didn't have any in stock. (In fact no dealer in the area did!) Yet there was a rental that would be back in a day or so, I could test drive that. I went back for the test drive and it was perfect. The seat reclines enough and plenty of room for me. Yes, I like this car. 

A 2012 Fiesta was due in to the showroom in a few days. They'd hold it for me. It would be Violet Gray. Uggg a PURPLE car??? I'm not a purple person. But if I didn't like it, then I could wait until the next batch of cars came—perhaps near December. 

Received a call on Monday, Aug 22nd the Fiesta had arrived and would be ready to see on Tuesday, Aug. 23rd. Tuesday morning I was talking with God about a "purple car". I really couldn't see myself in a purple car, but God knows what I like and don't like, He created me! Just as I was discussing this with God I received an email. It was advertising a new shirt: "Real Men Wear Purple" (w/a Purple Heart). It's a shirt honoring the brave Soldiers who have been wounded or killed while serving our Country. Now, I in no way have gone through what those brave Soldiers have! But I think it was God's way of saying, "Hey Rhonda, you have been wounded and have served me faithfully, so I'll give you a "purple heart car". Seeing the "purple heart car" each day would be a great reminder that I have a job to do for God—I'm to be serving Him, and giving Him my all. Maybe having a purple car wouldn't be so bad after all!

4. On August 22, 2011, I posted Details. I was trying to figure a way to reach the down payment necessary to get the best financing. Things weren't going as I had planned. A few days ago, I had found some old coins and I got them appraised this morning. Did God want me to sell them. As I prayed about it. I had no peace in selling the coins. So, I thought back over the budget and when bills would be due. After crunching the numbers, I learned that yes, I could meet the down payment. Still not sure how that all worked out! All I can say is that God made sure the money was in the bank. He definitely took care of all the details in this area.
Since I am financing the car, I was a bit concerned about the rate. Oh I have great credit, so I wasn't worried about that. It was my income amount which might be a problem. Being on disability does limit the inflow of money. However, God continues to watch over my expenses to make sure each bill is paid. God provided a GREAT rate, even lower than I had thought I'd receive. God doesn't miss a single detail!

5. On August 18, 2011, I posted God-thing, not a Rhonda-thing. "The desires of good people lead straight to the best" Proverbs 11:23a (The Message). Over the past few months I've researched used cars. Even today, I went to a place and checked out their inventory of used cars. One car I looked at, had a detail which I really liked—an arm rest for the drivers right arm. That made sitting so comfortable for me. As I sat in the car I thought over the price/payments, the age of the car, the mileage—no this would not be a wise use of my money—but sure did like that arm rest.

Tonight when I arrived at Friendly Ford to see the Fiesta (it just arrived from the factory the day before!), I liked the color—Violet Grey and all the aspects of the car. It wasn't until on the way home, that I realized that God had a surprise for me! The Fiesta also has an arm rest for the drivers right arm!! Not sure if I just missed that on the test drive of the other Fiesta, or that particular model didn't have it. Doesn't matter–God made sure it was on the specific car He had for me! I'd say, that God led me to the BEST car!

The Details. It's all the details. I'm sure as I think back over the past few months, I'll begin to see even more details which God dealt with regarding this car. All I can say is that my God takes awesome care of me! And that folks, makes each and every day a very positive day!

Check back to see more pictures of the car God so graciously provided for me.