2nd Update to "Responsibilty or lack of faith" post

On August 19th I posted a blog about being responsible. On Aug 25, I posted one update to that post. Here's another!

I was seeking ways to save money. I had heard about unplugging things that have clocks, signal buttons, flashing lights, etc, which you don't always use. Items like microwave, radios, TV (including the antennas and digital converter box) etc. So I thought I'd give it a try. The items stay unplugged until I need them. When I'm done with the item, I unplug it again, ASAP. I received my electricity bill this week, and the usage is much lower, making the bill lower too!
I decided to see what other items I can unplug throughout my place. I do have several clocks which I'm wondering how much I use them. If I don't use them, I might as well unplug them. I was amazed at how much money I can save by unplugging items.
Just wanted to share the update!

Sometimes creating a positive day is done by doing something very simply. Often we think we have to do 'big' things to make a difference; that's not true. Most often it's the little things that have the greatest impact.

What I'm I celebrating?

Some people think I’m strange to “celebrate” the anniversary of my back injury each October. But that’s just it—I’m not celebrating the injury...rather all the wonderful blessings that I have experienced because of my injury.

We celebrate birthdays, wedding anniversaries, holidays, and so many other personal holidays, why not set aside one day a year to celebrate the blessings that God gives us?

I picked the anniversary of my back injury, simply because living with chronic pain has taught me just how much God cares for me. Yes, He cared for me before my injury.... I just didn’t take notice of all He did—like I should have. Now, I enjoy watching God’s creativity at work. He continually amazes me with how He meets my needs and even some wants.

Will you join me in celebrating the blessings

in your life? 

Pick a day and celebrate any way you want—it’s actually quite fun!

9 Years of Blessings!

In October 2000, I injured my back. That day changed my life. And even though I now live in chronic pain, I have also been granted many blessings. Each day I do my best to be aware of my blessings. And then each year on the anniversary of my injury, I enjoy a special Blessings Celebration. And believe me there are many blessings to celebrate! When I stop and notice the blessings and take the time to be grateful for what I have, I am overwhelmed at God's goodness. God is so creative in how he cares for me, and He is just as creative in sending blessings. But I do have to be aware of the blessings and take notice. I often wonder, how many of God's blessings have I missed because I was too busy focusing on the pain. Even if I miss some blessings, I am very grateful for the ones I do notice. The more I look for blessings, the more I seem to find! They multiply!!
Each year on the weekend of my anniversary, I try to do something which I don't normally do, just to make the day special. It doesn't really matter what I do, the object is to celebrate all the positive. The more I focus on the positive, the more positive I see....it's a cycle which is one that continues to grow.

I challenge you to pick a date and celebrate the positive in your life. You can do anything you want to make the celebration special for you. How you celebrate doesn't really matter—it's that you celebrate! You can invite others to join you, or make it a private celebration. If you do celebrate, let me know! I always enjoy hearing how others celebrate the positive in their life.

Creating a positive day deserves a special yearly celebration!

Blissful Blue

Here's a new kit available at Crafty Scraps Chat under the Creative Team Challenge section.
Blissful Blue is the first in my new color series. It's available in two parts at Crafty Scraps Chat. You can download part 1 immediately. If you post a layout, then you will receive the links for part 2.
Michelle has MANY items posted on her forum.....all for FREE! Stop by and take a look.

3 minute Investment

This week, it was confirmed that I'll have surgery number 8 on my back. As far as surgeries go, this should be a "minor" one. I sent an email to some people who have been praying for me with the date and time.
It was amazing how encouraging several of the responding emails have been. None have been very long, or profound...just simple statements of support and more prayers. Or even people saying how I've encouraged them with my attitude through all this.
I'm amazed how a note or email can lift one's spirit. Yet, I put off sending a note, because I think I'm too busy, or I don't know what to say. Personally, it's not how long the message is or what is actually said....but rather the person thought enough and took the time to send me a note.
Today I timed how long it took to write an address on an envelope and sign a card...the entire action...including the stamp and sealing the envelope....took less than 3 minutes! Yes. LESS than 3 minutes. Do I know someone who is worth just 3 minutes of my time? I know many who I'm sure would enjoy receiving a card from me. So, I think after I post this blog, I'm going to spend 15 minutes and send out some cards. Maybe, I'll start spending 10 or 15 every day to send a card to write an email to someone.
I'd say that 3 minutes of my time to encourage someone is a wise investment with a return even Wall Street can't beat!

Creating a positive day for yourself, is so easy if you create a positive day for someone else!