Dr. Sherri Shannon: Hell knows I wasn't born that way

 

Click here to get it from Amazon

Image via ASPhillips

This is a short post that by no means intends to take away of the importance of the content. I’ve just produced this review to be intentionally spoiler-free, for good reason. I want it to have the chance it deserves, to have its own spot in everyone’s library. 

The brief back-story

Nearly a year ago, I had the privilege of visiting a church, Cathedral of Glory, in Mt. Sterling, Kentucky. As well as being a church, it’s also the main campus of the Biblical Studies college I’ve been attending for the last few years. I attend remotely from Posey County, Indiana and to say I’m loving the experience doesn’t cover it. It’s been a blessing in every direction.

It was the first time I got to meet some classmates and online acquaintances that had become friends during my first year of school. One of those friends was Dr. Sherri Shannon. 

Before meeting her, I had already heard of her passion for ministry in several areas–jails, low-income neighborhoods and youth outreach. They represent a sizable scope of where her energies are spent and her expertise is freely provided. On top of that, she owns and manages her own business. 

After meeting her in person, I understood why she is so highly regarded. If ever you meet her, you’ll know too. She’s really all that, and before my visit concluded she gifted me a copy of her book. Her reason wasn’t to show it off, it was just in case it might help someone or help me help someone. 

Dr. Sherri Shannon

About her book

First, I’ll let ya know right now, I’m not giving away any spoilers. You’ll have to taste and see for yourself why I rate this book as a great read, even though it’s teeny-tiny.

I had no expectations of the contents. Knew by the size of it, it was gonna be a short read and I was right. Took about half an hour to get from cover to cover. Though it’s one of the shortest books I’ve ever read, its content is diamond.

Great things in small packages

Those of us in ministry aren’t going to have common ground in every area of those we minister to. It’s impossible. 

That doesn’t mean we won’t be asked to minister in areas where we have no personal experience. That happens regularly. 

Thankfully, the Word of God isn’t limited. It provides guidance in every area anyone may inquire about or even be in a struggle with. Beyond that, He personally guides us through unfamiliar areas to be able to help those seeking direction, understanding, healing and sometimes deliverance.

Ministers are merely the vessels He often chooses to work through. I can say with confidence, Dr. Shannon’s book strikes me as divinely inspired and will lend insight, comfort and usable working knowledge.

She wrote it to be a blessing to others and apparently, the Lord is already delivering just that. It definitely blessed me.

And they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb, and by the word of their testimony; and they loved not their lives unto the death. Revelation 12:11 KJV

The wrap! 

Hell Knows I Wasn't Born That Way is a fascinating read, regardless of personal beliefs or opinions. I hope you’ll get a copy for yourself so you can see what I mean. I also hope you'll consider suggesting it or gifting it to anyone you know who may be struggling with a related mindset or feelings.   

Not everyone thrives in the skin their in. Not everyone experiences thoughts, feelings and tendencies they're okay with, which can cause distress, depression, desperation and beyond.

It’s stories like these that can make a difference between life and death. 

Thank you for visiting and your interaction with and support of independent journalism. It’s always appreciated!

‘Til next time,

Shalom, shalom from Southern Indiana

Angelia

Butterfly Kisses: Why to get cozy with the Live Monarch Foundation

 

Image via the Live Monarch Foundation

Who are they?

Having only recently learned of the Live Monarch Foundation and love the services they’re providing, I’m spotlighting them here so you can get acquainted with them and get excited about their work, too!

This group’s working hard to fulfill a perpetual mission and their efforts are blessing millions of us!

Their mission

Offering education, involvement, assistance and acknowledgment of persons directly acting to benefit the Monarch Butterfly and various native creatures who have suffered a decline in their natural habitats.

The foundation can provide free-to-low cost milkweed seeds, indigenous to your area, and about to show you why that’s awesome!

Milkweed growth has been in rapid decline in many areas due to habitat loss, especially where large amounts of pesticides are in use.

As of this writing, a few types are listed on the federal endangered species list.

A monarch butterfly...

Image via MatchyMatchy of Pixabay

Why are the monarchs sooooo important?

Important is an understatement.

They’re ranked as a flagship species due to their crucial role in pollination of both wildflowers (more on the wildflowers later) and food crop. These efforts help to maintain a much healthier ecosystem.

And what’s milkweed got to do with the monarchs?

From pollinator food to organic medicine, milkweed maintains as a crucial aspect of a healthy ecology. Below is your breakdown of this amazing plant and why to grow it...

• It’s the ONLY FOOD SOURCE AND HABITAT for monarch caterpillars. Without milkweed, the monarch butterflies cannot survive.

• Over 450 types of insects feed on milkweed. It’s nectar-rich, attracting major pollinators like bees and butterflies. 

• Is an organic, eco-friendly ingredient used in cleaning up oil spills. In fact, its natural absorbency factors outperform synthetic alternatives, making it an essential for toxic spill cleanup.

• Provides a defense for the monarch babies and adults via its toxin compounds that make them taste awful to predators. The monarchs also consume the milkweed nectar, providing them with fuel, an essential for both their long migration journeys.

For more than monarchs

Milkweed and us...

Milkweed has and continues to be used as an organic medicine

• Topically for warts, ringworm, bee stings and poison ivy

•  Its cardiac glycosides are used in modern medicine to treat heart disorders

• As a tincture it can treat coughs due to asthma, bronchitis and even pleurisy due to lung inflammation

• Can help with gut issues such as diarrhea, dysentery and as a laxative.

• As a diuretic it can reduce edema and as a diaphoretic, it can help produce sweating 

 

As food 

• Its buds, flowers, immature pods and young shoots can be eaten as vegetables in stews or fried, after they’re boiled to neutralize its toxins.

Materials

• Its fluff is used for bedding and organic oil absorbency.

• Its sap is used to make glue

• Stem and root fibres are used in making cordage

• Dried pods are processed into insect repellents

The Live Monarch Foundation is helping us to keep milkweed abundant and thriving by providing education and low-to-no cost milkweed seed varieties that are indigenous to our own areas. 

Help with restoration

Below are some linked images to get you to their site to learn more about their crucial work in helping to maintain quality ecosystems in our areas via their Plant a Seed Program.

(Images below are via the Live Monarch Foundation)

 

Just for fun!

Monarch swarming

I’ve only seen one in my whole life, and as I write this, I’m 61 years old. I was blessed to observe one for several minutes (wasn’t over but couldn’t stay longer) around a tree in front of the Post Office in Poseyville, Indiana. It was one of the most spectacular natural events I’ve ever witnessed. 

Another was a swarm of killer bees in Glendale, California, in a residential area, while I was out for a jog. Thankfully it was down the street, with two police squad cars parked in front of it to warn passersby, until they could get the area cleared and safe.

I dunno how.. Maybe a few bee charmers? 

If I never see a swarm of those types of bees again, I’ll be happy about it. The monarchs tho... BEAUTIFUL!!!

Monarch migration

The monarchs must migrate to survive. It allows them to escape freezing weather, deadly parasite infections and starvation. 

The long migration weeds out those infected with parasitic infections and increases the lifespans of the healthy ones up to nine months longer than the infected ones. 

Enjoy!

Below are two vids I hope you’ll take some time to watch, especially if you’ve never seen a butterfly swarm or their landing zone after fleeing winter weather. So cool!

Moreover, it is required of stewards that they be found faithful. 1 Corinthians 4:2 KJV

The wrap!

Growing up in a large aspect of America’s grain belt, and working within a generational, agricultural farming family, over the years I’ve learned the importance of good stewardship. It’s an absolute necessity. We really can especially conduct quality land management and be protective of the native plant and animal species within our areas, even as we produce food and other vegetation, without destroying the habitats of the native species that depend on them.

We can start with our own properties, be they little or big. 

Thanks for visiting and supporting independent journalism. Please feel free to leave a comment, especially if you have further information or personal experience you’d like to share.

‘Til next time,

Shalom from Southern Indiana!

Angelia 

ShoutOut: Pilot Flying J's Salute to U.S. Military Veterans

 

If you need a landing spot for a holiday meal, here's your sign!

A new tradition

This was my second year to celebrate Thanksgiving with my life-long friend, Kathy M., at Denny’s. We’re both single, enjoy each other’s company and going to Denny’s means good food and good coffee without a mess to clean up after. We even ran into other friends from our church there this time, too, who’ve also adopted Denny’s for the holidays. 

We meet early, usually between 1100 and 1130 and this year, I’d been invited to join some of my cousins in the afternoon for their holiday family gathering. They live in the same county, giving us plenty of time to enjoy our visit. That’s another thing I love about Denny’s, they don’t mind if we linger, especially at the I-64/Hwy 41 location in Southern Indiana. 

It’s a fav go to meeting place for our area. We’re always greeted by friendly staff and enjoy being supportive of a business that adds quality to our community. 

The Jarhead Brat Pack

After a wonderful lunch and visit, Kathy and I parted ways. I was about to head out of the lot when I realized I'd had a lot of coffee and probably needed a pit stop before heading across the county to my cousin’s home. Rather than leaving I made a semi-circle into a parking spot near their fuel station/convenience store to take care of business before leaving.

I also wanted a fresh java for the road. 

I went in, got sorted and stepped to the counter to pay up. The attendant, Ryan, was very friendly and asked if I had a Pilot Flying J. rewards card. I didn’t but I’m not in that area more than a few times a year, so didn’t think I needed one and declined the offer.

Then he asked me if I’d like to include a $3 donation to go towards their U.S. military veteran support programs. That was a no-brainer. I was happy to make the donation. As Ryan totaled my bill, he explained that veterans with the Pilot Flying J rewards program would receive a 10% discount on food and beverages throughout the year when using the app. 

That’s when it got personal. I told him I would love to donate $3 and was thrilled Pilot Flying J was providing the easy opportunity to do it. I shared that my family is largely military and that my sister and I are Jarhead Brats (US Marine’s kids). Turns out, so is Ryan. That made us immediate family. 

                                         This is Ryan!                                          

It's always a privilege to get acquainted with another Jarhead brat, and especially those who live and work in the area. Corps families will always have family wherever they are. 

I must add here, we do have every branch well represented in our family and very grateful to and proud of all of them for their sacrifice and service. 

Ryan was the first one to explain the Pilot Flying J rewards programs specifically honoring veterans and thanking civilians, so it’s him that gets the kudos for making their newest fan and I couldn’t wait to brag on him and them and get the info to you in this week’s edition. 

Below is a breakdown on how to get Pilot Flying J rewards for both military vets and civilians, as well as the benefits they provide.

Ryan assisting a customer

Flying J Rewards Program

☙ Called myRewards and is managed through the RewardsPlus app that you can download from your mobile’s store.

☙ Members can earn points for fuel and in-store purchases, which can be redeemed for free drinks, snacks, showers, and more. 

☙Professional drivers can earn even more points per gallon and free showers by meeting certain fuel purchase thresholds, and can also use features like mobile fueling and parking reservations within the app.

☙Fueling: Earn points for every gallon of fuel purchased. Professional drivers can activate "PushForPoints" each month to earn up to 4 or even 5 points per gallon after a certain number of qualifying fills.

    ☙ In-store purchases: Use your app or card at the register to earn points on other purchases.

    ☙ Axle Fuel Card: Users of the Axle Fuel Card also earn an extra bonus point per gallon.

    ☙ Special offers: The app provides exclusive deals, challenges, and birthday freebies   

Redeeming rewards              

☙ Free drinks: Earn a free drink after purchasing nine coffees.

☙ Showers: Earn free showers with every 50-gallon diesel purchase, and get a free daily shower for the rest of the month and the next if you fuel over 1,000 gallons in a month ("Shower Power").

☙ Food and merchandise: Redeem your points for food, drinks, and merchandise in-store.

The app features include...

☙ Mobile fueling: Start fueling from your phone to save time and stay in your vehicle.

☙  Shower and parking reservations: Book showers and reserve parking spaces directly through the app.

☙ Transaction history: View and email up to 18 months of digital receipts.

Route planning: Plan your route and find locations that meet your needs.

Yup! Driven by an employee of Pilot Flying J! 

Love it!

For the Military Discount

☙ Download the myRewards Plus app. (Get the app from your phone's app store.)

☙ Verify your status: Use http://ID.me to verify your military status within the app.

☙ Enjoy savings! The 10% discount is automatically applied to food and beverage purchases when you use your myRewards account at checkout.

Includes...

☙ Pilot coffee and fountain drinks

☙ Hot and cold food items from the deli and other participating fast food restaurants

☙ Non-alcoholic cooler beverages

☙ Candy and snacks

Additional benefits

☙ Pilot Flying J frequently offers exclusive deals to military members and veterans through the app, which can include free food and drinks, especially around holidays like Veterans Day.

☙ Pilot Flying J also supports the military community through other initiatives, such as its Miles of Good program, which includes donations to organizations like the Call of Duty Endowment that helps veterans find jobs.

A trucker's home away from home for the holiday.

Last, yet definitely not least...

Pilot Flying J also allows free, overnight parking for cars, SUVs, trucks and big rigs. They have food, beverages, over the counter meds, travel supplies and showers available, and some provide propane tank trade-ins for traveling campers. 

On a long trip, when you're hungry and need some rest, try Pilot Flying J!

I’ve travelled cross-country many, many times, and Pilot Flying J has always been a safe landing spot when I needed a few hours of rest before continuing further. And, for the record, of the travel stations that don’t allow for this, nor accommodate our truck drivers in big rigs, I don’t give them business. Truckers are the main folks providing us a stable supply chain for everything from dry goods, to food and medical supplies. 

Cast your bread upon the waters: for thou shalt find it after many days. Ecclesiastes 11:1

A generous person will prosper; whoever refreshes others will be refreshed. Proverbs 11:25

The wrap!

I pray your holiday season is saturated with love and blessings. Even with life’s many challenges and losses, each year I have many things to be thankful for. Above all for my Lord’s great grace, mercy and provision. 

My sincere thanks to Pilot Flying J for being an excellent part of Thanksgiving 2025 and for their excellent support and appreciation of both military and civilian customers. Bravo Zulu and Semper Fi!

Shalom-shalom,

Angelia

Alef with Beth: Free Hebrew.Forever.

 

A happy introduction!

I'm excited about this week's edition and have been looking forward to making my way toward it on the ShoutOuts list. Finally, here it is!

Although I've kept it short, for your convenience, it's packed with great information on one of my most favorite areas of study. Enjoy!

Meet Beth!

Alef with Beth is one of four linguistics courses I’ve studied. After several months of working with it, it’s easily maintained as one of my top-two favs in this studies category. 

Why this one?

A few years ago, I decided to go back to college, majoring in Biblical Studies. I had no idea of the impact it would have on my whole life, in wonderful ways. Never in my life have I ever looked forward to college lectures like I have this time. I loved the fields I studied and worked in prior, but this one has hit different, hit deeper.

Since Biblical Hebrew wasn’t offered as a part of the curriculum, I began searching for an independent course for it. I’d started one a couple years before, but illness got in the way, so I set it aside for when I was more able to work with it. When I decided to resume, I thought I’d see what else might have become available during my recuperation. That’s how I found Alef with Bet (now Beth). 

It offered everything I hoped for. The lessons were well organized. They offered downloadable worksheets that could be printed or used in digital notetaking. Since I prefer to hand-write my school notes, the downloads have been a great help. They also provide downloadable sheets for practice writing, a huge benefit when learning a new alphabet that's very different than my own.

Just an FYI, English is a variation of Latin. Hebrew is an Aramaic-derived square script. It looks nothing like the Latin versions of letters. Learning to read and write it has been interesting and fun!

Tried and true

For the first time, while intentionally studying a foreign language, I was surprised that note-taking wasn’t needed during the lessons. Yup, you read that right. No notes for beginners. 

At first, you listen. 

Second, you repeat what you hear, along with the lesson. 

Easy-peasy! 

Later, you’ll listen and repeat as you move forward. In my case, with the beginner lessons, I started repeating the words as the lesson was spoken, which included some fun and adorable lesson prompts that helped me understand what I was learning. (I’ll include a vid shortly, to show you what I mean.)

By the time you're a few lessons in, the Hebrew alefbet will be introduced. At this point, trust me! You'll be impressed and excited over how many words you’ll be able to sound-out, recognize and spell in Hebrew!

A vid and links

Please check these out, so you can see for yourself.

Alef with Beth (1st lesson)

                                                                                    

                                     Get better acquainted with the founders!                                      

Check out their sister-program here at Free Greek. Forever.

And, its associated YouTube channel, Alpha with Angela

The Wrap!

I hope this has enticed you to check the info I’ve provided and that you, or someone you know, will benefit from them as much as I am. If you’ve got questions or would like to share your own take on the information, please leave us a comment. We’d love to hear from you!

I’m very, VERY pleased with this work-at-your-own-pace program and continue to steadily advance in speaking, reading and writing Biblical Hebrew. 

Another perk, even though I’m learning Biblical Hebrew, I’ve been able to recognize words and phrases I’ve learned in their modern Hebrew versions, both written and spoken.

Thanks so much for your visit today! Hope you’ve found the information helpful and will share the link to this post to anyone you know who might be interested in this totally and always FREE, elite Hebrew and Greek language learning system.

'til next time, shalom!

Angelia

ShoutOut: The Pour Over

 

Image via ekohernowo of Pixabay

Journalism and coffee–a match made in Heaven!

I enjoy news–especially good news! By that, I’m not always referring to the Gospel, but I admit that most of the time, that’s the deal. However, I’m thankful for good journalism, even when bad news must be reported. 

A quality news platform never takes delight in reporting negative happenings. It operates with integrity and isn't driven to air the negative stuff in order to increase views and subscriptions. Sensationalism has no business in any journalism platform.

Good journalism should inspire thoughtful consideration and contemplation for possible improvements and solutions among their readers, what’s reported isn’t good. That could include raising awareness to help those in a difficult situation, collaborating with their communities and local governments to provide physical help where possible and the most powerful help of all, prayer. 

This type of reporting has been a rare thing for decades. Back in 1982, I landed my first newspaper job as a content proofer (and revisionist) for the Princeton Daily Clarion. Yup, it was a young, news-hound’s dream come true! My first shift began the night after I graduated from Gibson Southern. 

Over the next five months, I went from typing 20 words-per-minute to over 100, developed a lifetime love affair with rich coffee and listened to the truth in Don Henley's song, Dirty Laundry. It was a perfect breakdown of what was going on in a big chunk of newspapers, magazines and televised content around the globe.

Things haven't changed other than a consistently spiking increase in regards to a lack of integrity in a large percentage of journalism platforms. There’s more dirty laundry being shoveled to the masses than ever before and it's available in every format there is, maybe other than smoke signals.

Thankfully though, high-quality, real journalism still exists. There's a growing number of news platforms producing validated information and maintaining readership for it's professionalism rather than sensationalism. Integrity has everything to do with good journalism.

That’s why I’m excited to introduce you to one of my newer, fav sources of real, professional journalism, The Pour Over. 

Click here to visit their website and subscribe

Lemme tell you why...

To keep this short for you, I’m gonna compress it into a little list. 

☙ It’s a Christian operated platform

☙ The content is produced from a neutral perspective

☙ Its sources are valid

☙ It doesn’t rely on sensationalism to gain readership

☙ Truthful reporting is their standard

☙ It’s in digital format so it saves trees and can be read via any of your digital devices

☙ Subscribers get it delivered to their email in short versions a few times a week or the full version, once per week

☙ They have ads that are tasteful and their content is NEVER AD SATURATED

☙ It’s COFFEE THEMED (yeah–I’m smiling so big right now!)

☙ It’s FREE! (Still smiling!)

They also offer some very cool merch. 

The wrap!

Thanks for visiting!

I have high hopes that you’ll at least try them on for size and consider subscribing. They sincerely produce excellent journalism for anyone of any religious affiliation or lack thereof. 

Until next time,

Shalom, shalom!

Angelia

Dr. John Hobson: Faith That Gets Results!

 

Click here to view it on Amazon

Faith...

* Understanding it
* Developing it
* Exercising it
* Cultivating it in others

When it comes to faith, this is one of the best books I’ve ever read and if there’s anything the vast population of Christendom should invest in, increasing faith is right up there in the top tier of options. 

Author, Dr. John Hobson & Bandit

The Oxford English Dictionary defines "faith" as strong belief or trust in someone or something, often without needing proof. It can also refer to a particular religious belief or system, or to loyalty and fidelity.

If you’re in need of proving faith exists and works, my best suggestion is to get more familiar with a Bible. It’s packed with proven examples, even via modern science. And, thankfully, Biblical faith principles have been woven into every page of this book, presented in an easy to read fashion. At this point, I’ve read it a few times, and in each reading, my faith grew and the struggle of coaxing it to bloom diminished. 

Hopefully, you already knew about faith and it’s a consistent aspect of your daily adventures and challenges in living. If that’s the case, I hope you’ll read this book anyway. If you think you don’t need it, pretty sure you know someone who does. At worst, it can only elevate what faith you’ve already got goin’ for you. It’s a win-win.

 

Our faith shouldn’t ever stop growing, and we should never stop nurturing it. Each of us is created with a portion of faith. It grows as we use it, and as it does, we’re able to deploy it into more demanding situations.

Dr. Hobson writes of his own experiences of faith in action. Those alone are more than enough to launch your own faith to a whole new level, but he also backs everything with scripture, taking the reader back to where the first seeds of faith began sprouting and thriving in mankind.

Who would it bless?

I love gifting books, and you should, too. Books can walk a captive into freedom, allow an invalid to fly, the aged to be young again. Good books can stir up the good in us. We experience a growth spurt in reading them.

This book would make a great gift to so many people and I encourage you to consider investing in its contents not only for yourself but maybe for anyone you know who is...

* Coping with the loss of a loved one

* Struggling with depression

* Experiencing financial instability

* Enduring health challenges

* In a difficult relationship

* Living in confusion and struggling with decisions

* Doubting that their life matters

* Fatigued under the weight of responsibilities

These may not apply to you or I, but I’m confident everything on the list is applicable to probably multiple folks we’re acquainted with.

It’d also make a great gift to your local library, a local shelter or even a convalescent center. If you chew on the idea a bit, I bet you could come up with several more groups or facilities that would benefit from it.

In short, this book would be a great read for every one of us.

___________________________________________________________________________________

A great gift for readers and writers...
This kit of matching gel pens and highlighters has been my fav for over a year. It's gentle on fragile pages, the colors don't bleed. They're fine point, very inexpensive and arrive quickly!

Click here to get it from Amazon

___________________________________________________________________________________

As much as I loved it...

I admit, after reading it, I had a slight issue with two things...

First, readers couldn’t get it in a digital version. I know I know... I dearly love books with physical covers, real ink and paper pages. But, for millions of bibliophiles, digital copies means we don’t have to make the agonizing decision of which book must go to make room for the new one. This is especially true for folks who live in small quarters.

Second, there wasn’t an audio version available either. So, this book, that did me (and many others) so much good, couldn’t be enjoyed by folks who are unable to read due to whatever reason. 

However, my concerns were addressed on Resurrection Sunday 2025. I was privileged to get to visit Dr. Hobson's church, Cathedral of Glory, where he serves as co-pastor along with his beautiful wife, Dr. Vicky Hobson. It was a wonderful service and if you’re ever in the Mt. Sterling, Kentucky area, I encourage you to visit it, too! 

Go expecting good things and you’ll come away with exactly that. The congregation is friendly and welcoming and they’ll make you feel right at home.

After the service, I got to spend a little time with Dr. Hobson’s get-r-done crew. To my great delight and relief, by the time our visit ended, plans for the production of both digital and audio versions of the book were underway. And recently, both versions became available on Amazon.

I was also blessed with meeting two other authors during the meeting. I’ve since read both of their books and, seriously, impressed doesn’t cover it. They’re both working on producing digital and audio versions of their work as well and as soon as it’s available, I’ll let ya know. 

The Wrap

That’s it for this one! 

Thank you for the visit and your support of independent journalism!

Until next time...

Shalom, shalom!

VillageVibe: Of all places...

Image via AS Phillips

Personal perspective

This edition of By the Way is a personal one and parts of it fall into two categories on the site, ShoutOuts and a new one, VillageVibe.

I’ve got a fresh cuppa java and I’m writing this at my desk, on the first day of 2024.  First event of the morning was well before dawn. I got Touching Fire’s alfalfa cubes soaking, so her breakfast would be ready by 0800. She’s over 40 and has a specialized diet and feeding schedule to keep her lookin’ like a 20-year-old. She’s worth it, too! 

Touching Fire 

Image via AS Phillips

During the meal prep, for her and our newly adopted barn-cat, Rocky (whose nickname is Sher Kahn, cause he growls, bites and scratches like a tiger) I was also in prayer, being reminded by nearly everything around me to be thankful to the Lord for another day with all of our little farm animals, safe and healthy. A little later, I was thankful for the pretty snow that was only looking good, and not piling up anywhere.

That’s not a brag, just sharing how the day started. I pray your day started in similar fashion, beautifully blessed.

In 2023, I’m thankful to have not had a single overnight stay in a hospital and as of the end of November, I’m still officially cancer-free. There are loads more blessings I could write here, but it’d take days to list them all, so, I’m gonna focus on sharing what’s on my heart.

Blessed!

In my younger years, I loved visiting our little village. Its name is Stewartsville.

My family’s farm was about two miles north of here, and Stewartsville was where we often shopped. Granny Moore’s little store was on the north end of the village. Mrs. Patton’s on the southside. 

This village is about one mile in circumference and when I moved home from Texas, there were nearly as many horses as there were people. 

When I was a kid, my sister and our friend Dennis and I, used to ride our horses into this village. We could tie them up at Granny’s, go inside for some soda and chips, then we’d be on our way. Mostly we shopped at Granny’s but sometimes we rode a bit further, through the village (yup, right down the street), to Mrs. Patton’s, but mostly we shopped at Granny’s when we were on our horses. 

Yup! To this day, it hasn’t ever been better than that!

We, like much of my mama’s family, were all Punkin Runners, meaning we lived in Pumpkin Run, a tiny area made up of gardens, fields, a few chickens, cattle and horses. It was, and is still, tiny, but for us, it was the center of the universe.

Punkin Run folks were very interactive. We camped, had cookouts, fished, took long rides on our horses, helped each other during crisis, like getting livestock out of the weather, and vehicles out of ditches. 

The Punkin Run kids, had a sitter in nearly every direction.

Our parents hunted and dressed meat to share with needy families. We shared what we grew in our gardens, too.

Punkin Run wasn’t without its troubles, but it was a sincerely idyllic place to grow up. I still love it and still ride through the area often. 

The heart of Punkin Run, currently

Image via Google Maps

Village people

I’m happy to report, that (at least here in Stewartsville) most of our village folks are just as caring and interactive. We spend time together, even on holidays. We break bread together. We pray for each other. We guard each other, watching over our own properties as well as those of our neighbors.

During my year of cancer treatment, I got checked on daily. Because I was on social restriction to prevent even something as simple as catching a cold, our neighbors checked on me via my sister and brother-in-law, or stopped by for a visit, from a safe distance on our front steps.

Folks dropped off food that I could keep down, and money for fuel to help with the expense of the Monday through Friday commute to Gateway Hospital in Newburgh, Indiana, where I got chemo and radiation. 

It put hundreds of miles on my sister’s car and required hundreds of dollars (in truth, prolly thousands) to fuel her van’s tank.

Like Punkin Run, Stewartsville isn’t without its challenges. There are no perfect people. But, the good aspects dwarf the less-than-best ones.

My friend, Nate, grazing Fire in our front yard

Image via AS Phillips

Gratitude

I’m very thankful to be here and thankful for the wonderful exchanges and adventures I’ve had living here.

The cool thing about living in a village is that the lifestyle we enjoy isn’t limited to hamlets or villages. Cities and towns have villages too, at least in a sense. They’re called neighborhoods. 😉

My close friend and colleague, Vicki Warner of WarnerWords, grew up much like I did, in a rural farming area, but in South Africa. She’s lived and worked around the globe, being originally from England, and has the same appreciation that I have for village life and we share many similar experiences. 

Her site is new, so please pardon the small amount of content there. We’re working on getting it fattened up as quick as we can. Meanwhile, I’m sure she’d appreciate a visit from you!

She’s also been a huge blessing to me, even all the way from Western Canada. She checked on me almost daily, was consistently encouraging, even post-treatment, during this past year of recovery.

We’re from two different countries, but in many ways, we share the same roots.

1 He who dwells in the secret place of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty.

2 I will say of the LORD, “He is my refuge and my fortress; my God, in whom I trust.”

Psalm 91:1 

(World Messianic Bible)

Youth night in our village--learning to give thanks and pray for others

Image via AS Phillips

The wrap

It’s my sincere hope that wherever you live be it in a city, town or a rural village like mine, you’re blessed with being part of a community you love and one that loves you back!

I’ve lived and traveled to a lot of places, but of all the places I could be, I’m thankful God has me here, at least for now. 

Enjoy the beauty of the road less traveled

Image via AS Phillips

Happy New Year to you and yours and ‘til next time,

Shalom, shalom!

Yup! It's about to happen!

 

Image via AS Phillips

The journey of a lifetime

This week, I’ve watched a young Jewish maiden and her hubby, travel about 90 miles from their home to Bethlehem, with no car! 

I watched some shepherds shaking in their sandals, while an angel apprised them of being some of the first to attend a meet-n-greet, hosted by Joseph and Mary in a stable of all places!

There, they found the promise of Isaiah, the Lion of Judah, swaddled and resting in a manger.

The Light of the World was born in a barn and slept in hay!

Joseph (Eli), Mary (Reagan), Angel Messenger (Olivia)

Image via Kaitlyn Parker

I watched some folks (who can’t care for themselves) break into big smiles, hugs and handshakes. They joined with strangers to sing songs about Christmas and receive tiny gifts as if they were royal presentations.

As always, the joy of the Best Gift Ever flowed through all of us, even those enduring the challenges of missing loved ones, physical discomfort, loss of freedom and limited physical abilities...

Things get exciting when even just a few of us get together to celebrate Him.

Image via Gerd Altmann of Pixabay

He changes people in the most wonderful of ways!

I watched shy kids, I met only a few months back, bloom and blossom as they shook hands with strangers and introduced themselves. Doesn’t sound like a big thing but trust me, it’s a YUUGEE thing! 

Right now, even as you’re reading this, around the world, groups are assembling, big and small to celebrate and experience the joy produced by that same baby boy–the one born in a Bethlehem stable, over two thousand years ago. I know... He amazes me too, every day, all year long!

All for what?

He’s the most famous person there ever was. He’s still making heart-bells ring and voices lift in songs to share His message of peace on earth and goodwill to mankind. That’s what He was born for, lived for, died for and was raised from the dead for, ascended to Heaven for and returned in Spirit to dwell in those who would let Him sweep them off their feet and take up residence in their heart. 

He did all that for us. All for YOU! (Yeah, go ahead and get your praise on. If you know, you know!)

Image via Fotorech of Pixabay

He did it for me. 

He’ll do it for you, too, if He hasn’t already.

For unto us a Child is born, unto us a Son is given; and the government shall be upon His shoulder. 

And His name shall be called Wonderful, Counselor, The Mighty God, The Everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.

Isaiah 9:6

(King James Version)

 Launching prayers

This Christmas, Israel and her people (all over the world) are near to my heart, in my thoughts and consistent prayers for the Lord to cover her in His endless grace and mercy. I'm also mindful of those who'll be spending their first Christmas without others dear to their hearts. 

It's also a most important time of the year to remember, that family isn't only defined by blood. Just sayin'...

The wrap!

I pray this Christmas overflows with blessings for you, and if you’re not already acquainted with Him, that He’ll show up and show out so you can get to know Him, too! 

You’ll know when it happens. His presence is unique, and indescribably, wonderful–perfection in every aspect. If you’ll allow it, and trust Him, the King of kings will encompass you with a greater love than you’ve ever dreamed possible!

It’s all about Him, and He really is, All That!

Shalom

The Life Book : A tiny, fun and uniquely crafted book for all ages

Image via AS Phillips

Needing a stocking stuffer?

During Christmas, Maumee Church, in Johnson, Indiana gifted a small variety of books to the congregation. I received two and both are excellent. One I reviewed here, if you’d like to see it. When I finished it, I gifted it to a friend, hoping she would enjoy it and find it as enlightening and encouraging as I did.

The second, I’ve been using as a daily Bible study, because of the fascinating way the content is delivered, and especially love its versatility, making it enjoyable as a solo read or in a group.

There are over 10 million of these in print. After getting into it, I can understand why they needed so many! I’m definitely not the only fan! 

The Life Book is essentially a small compilation of the Bible. One of its unique aspects that makes it such a hit is the interaction of additional characters, who go with you through the book, studying the sections and sharing their thoughts about the content via neat, hand-written notes sprinkled throughout the pages.

The readers along for the ride consist of four students and one elder. Their notes give a good insight into their ages and how they process the information. Their inclusion definitely adds some excellent seasoning to the content!

Image via AS Phillips

Tiny book–big impact

For folks who lead small Bible studies, especially with those new to Christianity, I hope you’ll consider giving this book a read. You’ll find a variety of useful inclusions that can be easily incorporated into your ministry. 

If you do, I hope you’ll revisit this post and share your thoughts on it in the comments!

For more information on The Life Book, visit TheLifeBook.com or  The Life Book on Facebook.

The wrap!

Hope you’ll consider checking out this tiny, literary masterpiece for your own library or as a gift to someone else!

Thank you for visiting and hope you'll be back again soon!

‘Til next time,

Shalom

The Amish Rescue Mission: Safety and support for Amish victims of abuse

 

Image via the Amish Rescue Mission

From Amish to English Christian Minister

A while back, I began following Eli Yoder’s YouTube channel. Much of his content is a testimony of his experiences and reasons for leaving the Amish community. He does a sterling job at keeping his videos lighthearted while maintaining a serious side. 

Yoder refers to the Amish as a cult. Although his vids most often include comical anecdotes from his childhood, growing up Amish, some are very clear about the darker aspects of his former community.

Since leaving the Amish, Eli has dedicated himself to Biblical studies and follows the teachings of Jesus Christ. He uses his knowledge when counseling others who want to leave, or have left, the Amish, who are struggling with the Amish culture and beliefs, in ways they understand to contradict the Gospel.

Although he is no longer an accepted part of the Amish community, he expresses gratitude for still being permitted to visit his Amish mother, in her home, as long as he abides by her rules. He mustn’t park his “worldly” vehicle on her property, and wear Amish-style clothing when he visits.

I’ve learned much about the Amish since viewing his videos, including being introduced to a not-for-profit organization established to provide protection and support for Amish victims of abuse. It’s called the Amish Rescue Mission, and the reason it exists is heartbreaking.

Image via PublicDomainPictures of Pixabay

Help for Amish victims

The Amish Rescue Mission provides help for a sizeable array of crimes committed against victims that include...

• Bestiality
• Grooming
• Human trafficking
• Incest
• Intimidation
• Kidnapping
• Rape
• Victim blaming
• Mental, physical, spiritual and verbal abuse

What help is currently available to Amish victims includes...

• A listening ear (Hotline 888-621-1985)
• Education
• Finding a counselor
• Healing
• Hope
• Resources
• Safe houses
• Sponsorships

Their site info ensures victims they assist may remain Amish or Plain. When their life becomes safe and stable, they will be returned to their home, if desired. 

Below is a short vid featuring Rachel Hershbeger-Hawley, co-founder of The Amish Rescue Mission, why it was founded and their goals.

Vigilance in being aware and pro-active

Despicable acts are a global threat and certainly not a threat limited to individuals within the Amish. However, for those raised within Gospel-associated communities to step forward, alert, acknowledge, renounce and provide help for victims within these communities, I have to applaud them for not being a part of the coverups that so often happen to prevent backlash and the fallout that often comes along when these types of malicious acts become public knowledge. 

I also appreciate their focus being specifically on Amish victims. Having this common ground gives them insight into the inner workings of the community, including how the victims view and process the abuse they’ve suffered.

⁸Open your mouth for the mute, in the cause of all who are left desolate.

⁹Open your mouth, judge righteously, and serve justice to the poor and needy.”

Proverbs 31:8-9 

(World Messianic Bible Translation)

The wrap!

Thank you again for visiting today. I hope I've stirred your heart to lift the Amish Rescue Mission, both the staff and those they serve, in prayer.

Although our economy may be in dire straights, God isn't even a little bit limited on funds and His ability to help meet the needs of this wonderful organization and those they strive to help.

Also, thank you for your interest and support of the independent business community, and especially the bloggers and bloggers! It's much appreciated!

'Til next time,

Shalom

The Isaiah 1:17 Project: A Beautiful Community Service

 Image via the Isaiah 1:17 Project website

The shock of an awful situation

Imagine being taken from your home, without warning, by strangers. Let’s also imagine it’s late night, you’re wearing jammies and it’s cold outside. The strangers put you in an unfamiliar vehicle and haul you away, leaving you at a strange house, with people you don’t know.  

This process would be frightening for an adult, even more so for a child. As of 2022, there are nearly half a million kids in foster care--407, 000. Of those, 34% are placed with “relatives or kin”, per the statistics available via childwelfare.gov.

Understanding the challenges of being taken and then delivered to a strange place and being cared for by strangers, is exactly what birthed the Isaiah 1:17 Project.

The project came about in 2017, a dream come to life, for Cameron and Marcia Lambert, foster parents since 2012, and well-acquainted with the struggles of children entering foster care homes as well as the challenges to provide everything they need, quickly.

As stated on their website, children often arrive with nothing but what they’re wearing and in many cases, those clothes aren’t even useable. Initially, the project team provided Blessing Bags, containing clothing, snacks and comfort items for the children. As time went by, the project gained ground and developed into so much more!

Currently, the project provides the following...

• Bags of Hope
• Dream Cycles
• Fortifying Foster Families
• Family Advocacy Ministries
• Care Communities
• Foster Success
• Beauty for Ashes
• Christmas Hopes & Dreams
• Resources

It's always a great time to be thankful!

Not long ago I was privileged to attend a meeting with several of the project team members at a monthly meeting, where I learned so much about this amazing program and the help it’s providing Southern Indiana families involved in foster care.

Right here, I want to thank the project members for welcoming me and allowing me to get acquainted with the project. Also, a big thanks to Port Side Coffee for hosting us, and to Dr. Tamara K. Miley for introducing me to the group! 

I would also like to thank Kathleen Elliot, the program manager of Fortifying Foster Families, for welcoming me to the meeting and after, providing me with a tour of their facility in downtown Princeton, Indiana.

Everyone I met was kind and enthusiastic in their support of the program and the families it serves. Their office and storage areas were well maintained and organized, even tho it was the Christmas season. The amount of work that must have gone into the holiday prep must have been enormous. While I was there, one team member was hard at work in the effort, all the while, engaging with me in friendly conversation, explaining about the items the children and their foster families would receive.

I was sincerely moved by all aspects of the Isaiah 1:17 Project and plan to continue to be involved in its support, and praying for favor and continued success in their endeavors.

I encourage you to please get familiar with them, even if they’re not serving your area. The mechanics of the project could be built in nearly any community, where there’s a desire to improve and be a blessing to the families in the foster care system.

For more information, please reach out to them. They’d love to hear from you!

Call: (812) 386-0117 or email info@theisaiah117project.org. 

If you belong to a church or social group, inviting one of the project’s team members to speak at one of your meetings would be a wonderful way of getting acquainted with the program, as well as introducing them to your community.

At the very least, please lift the project in prayer. Prayer launched from a burden and love is one of the best helps you can provide. 

Learn to do well.

Seek justice.

Relieve the oppressed.

Defend the fatherless.

Plead for the widow.

Isaiah 1:17 

(World Messianic Bible Translation)

The wrap!

Thank you for your visit and your interaction with the independent blogging community is always appreciated! 

‘Til next time,

Shalom!