#SaturdaySpotlight is on Jamie Saloff & Marvelous Messages from Your Faith!

Good Morning from Bandera, TX!

You know I always have a good time when I'm at my home away from home and where my soul feels at peace the most. I'll fill you all in on the trip later. Meanwhile, please welcome new-to-our-blog author, Jamie Saloff as she shares with us her book Marvelous Messages from Your Faith.

Marvelous Messages from Your Faith, a simple method to manifest your desires and receive answered prayers.

When faced with difficult life situations—especially when we are feeling helpless—prayer is often our go-to tool for guidance and hope. But if your requests frequently go unanswered, if you're not manifesting your needs, or if you sometimes wonder if anyone hears your prayers at all, this little book is for you.

Most of us have never been taught how to pray other than, perhaps, ancient, rote words to recite. We’ve never been shown how to frame a request that unties God's hands and frees the heavenly hosts to assist us.

A champion of prayer since childhood, Jamie Saloff shares her methods for creating simple requests that get answers. You’ll quickly build your faith and increase your success rate.

No matter how you imagine God (the Divine, Angels, Guides, an invisible force), this non-denominational, quick-to-read book will provide valuable insights into the power of prayer.

Excerpt: Nothing is Ever Lost ©2019-2022 All Rights Reserved. 

My favorite, everyday watch had been missing for months. I had looked everywhere but hadn’t found it. The watch had been gone for so long, most people would have given up. But I didn’t. I felt I would still find it. 

I had read somewhere that “nothing is ever lost” to God, that he always knows where everything is. So I began to pray that God would find my watch. 

The watch wasn’t very expensive. I could have easily bought a new one. I just always had liked it and wanted it back. 

One day while out golfing, I started digging in my golf bag for something. For some reason, I opened a pocket I rarely opened. 

Guess what was inside? 

My watch! The battery had died, but otherwise, it was in perfect condition. I didn’t even remember putting my watch in my golf bag. Finding my watch grew my faith, so I tried it on some other things. 

We had a sign hanging in front of our house, as many of the cottages in our lakeside neighborhood had names. One day it disappeared. We informed the police, but they did not offer us much hope of recovering it. 

My husband wanted to make a new one, but I kept telling him no. I knew our sign would somehow find its way home. God knew where to find the sign, so I left it up to him. 

A few months passed. 

We were sitting on our front deck when a car stopped out front. A man called from his car, “Did you used to have a sign hanging here?” He pointed to the lamp post and empty hangers. 

“Yes,” we replied. 

Soon we learned that some college kids had stolen many local signs as part of a fraternity stunt and left them in a rental house this man owned. He found all the signs behind the piano when the students moved out. He decided to return any he could. 

The sign now hangs in front of our home in its rightful place. 

If you have lost something, God knows where it is. 

This Supercharger has worked for me for a great many things. There are still some things I’m missing, but I am being patient.

My mother used to make dolls for the Christmas tree. She sold them all over the country and through stores like Marshall Fields and Frederick Nelson. Of course, the best set was hers because she had all the originals including the ones that never made it to market.

During every holiday season, we honor my mother by hanging the ornaments she created on the tree. Unfortunately, my tree is a little bare. My mother always promised to give me her set since I didn’t have one of my own. Sadly, due to complicated circumstances, they ended up with my stepfather’s third wife, and, unbeknown to us, she sold them in a yard sale. 

Some of my mother’s ornaments have found their way home including a special one made just for me. In the sixth grade, I wrote a report on Finland. My mother made me a traditional Finnish dress to wear and a doll to match. I surely was blessed to find the doll, along with other of her ornaments on eBay. 

Some are still out there, including her trademark piece, The Storyteller (an old man sitting in a rocking chair, slippered feet on a footstool, reading a book – see Iaulandas.com). God knows where to find The Storyteller and the other missing dolls. Someday, He will bring them home too.  

If you’ve lost something you loved, God knows where it is. Ask him to find it for you, to protect it, and to bring it home safely.

Author and Lily Dale trained intuitive, Jamie L. Saloff teaches new ways to listen to your body, tap into your internal guidance, and follow your heart. Using her Marvelous Messages™ process, discover the guidance all around and within you to clear life blocks, old baggage, and self-limiting beliefs. Discover the wondrous and joy-filled life awaiting you as you arise and answer your soul’s sacred calling. Find out more and connect with Jamie by visiting her Website, FaceBook, Twitter @JamieSaloff, Instagram, Amazon Author Page, GoodReads and LinkedIn. Sign up to receive Jamie's newsletter and get a free book!

Get your copy of Marvelous Messages from Your Faith Here.

I absolutely love your excerpt Jamie! One short prayer I learned a long time ago for things that are misplaced is, "Nothing is lost in the mind of God." Works every time! THANKS for sharing. Wishing you the best of luck and God's blessings.

Hope you enjoyed a peek into Jamie's book as much as I did friends and that you'll check back each week for another edition of Saturday Spotlight and Wednesday Words with Friends.

Until next time take care and God Bless.

PamT

PS: NN Light's "Christmas in July Fete" ends tomorrow so if you haven't entered the rafflecopter giveaway do so now!

#WednesdayWordswithFriends Welcomes Shelly Genovese-Calhoun

Good Morning Friends,

Well, I'm starting to get and feel caught up after my Alaska trip. As we all know, it's wonderful to go but always blessed to be home. 

Today's guest is brought to us by Adams PR Group and I believe her story will inspire all of us so please welcome, Shelly Genovese-Calhoun!

Twenty years after her husband was killed in the North Tower of the World Trade Center on 9/11, Shelly Genovese Calhoun admits that the emotions of that day are still raw as each anniversary draws near. In her book, “Twice Blessed: A Journey of Hope through 9/11,” she shares her painful story of becoming a young widow and single mother to a sixteen-month-old daughter. But she also emphasizes the role her faith played to get her through the darkest days. 

“I would not wish upon anyone the pain, heartbreak, and emotional trauma that was thrust upon me when my husband and the father of my little girl died in the twin towers,” says Genovese Calhoun. “Year after year, as the date approaches, my body and mind attempt to go back to that place of fear and terror. I grieve, but not as those who have no hope. My journey of healing since that fateful day has been centered on the freedom from fear that God alone can offer.”  

Genovese Calhoun describes how friends and family surrounded her during that time.  

“It was very difficult for me to watch life go on as normal, when nothing in my life was normal,” says Genovese Calhoun. “I truly didn’t know how to go on living without him. The body of Christ was so unbelievable to me and prayed me through some unbearable times. More than I ever realized, God was always there. He is there to offer comfort in times of trouble and to give us hope when we feel hopeless. I hid myself in the Lord and I refused to lose faith. In return, my faith grew stronger.” 

Genovese Calhoun, who is now remarried, talks candidly in the book about the emotional turmoil of allowing herself to date other men years after her husband’s death.  It is something that is difficult for many widows to contemplate. 

“I believed Steve was the love of my life,” says Genovese Calhoun. “I just knew we would spend the rest of our lives together. I think if you’ve ever truly loved someone, you want that love back in your life. I was so afraid to allow myself to love again that I almost lost my chance at finding true love and happiness. But loving someone again doesn’t mean that you ever have to stop loving the other person. God will give you a big enough heart to love both.”

Shelly Genovese Calhoun is an author, speaker, wife and mother. A former fashion model, she represented East Texas in the Miss Texas USA pageant. During her modeling career, she worked for Anne Klein, Neiman Marcus, JCPenney, Panhandle Slim, Dillard and many other notable companies. She resides in the Dallas-Fort Worth area and is married to her best friend, Heath, and their two children. Daughter, Jacqueline, is a senior at Texas A&M University, and son, Cash, is a freshman in high school. For more information, visit www.TwiceBlessed911.com

Read more about Twice Blessed in Shelly's Q&A featured on Adams PR Group and check out the book trailer.

Thank you for sharing with us Shelly! I can certainly relate to being afraid to love again after losing the love of my life. 

As 9/11 approaches, let's remember to pray for those so intimately affected by that dark day in our History and to pray for our nation and leaders. 

Until next time, take care and God bless.

PamT

#WednesdayWordswithFriends Hope or Hurt?

Good Morning Friends,

It's no secret 2020 was a rough year on everyone. Covid-19 presented challenges we never expected. Add to that, 2 hurricanes six weeks apart from which many people still haven't recovered. Then along comes 2021 with an Ice Storm/Freeze in Feb. and historic flooding in May.

To say Lake Charles is "the most weather-battered city" (as The Weather Channel put it) is an understatement.

These events have left many people struggling to keep their heads up and look at life in a positive light in lieu of negative, pessimistic.

Which brings me to the title of this post.

While talking with someone who was hit hard and is still grieving the losses borne of the hurricanes, as well as the death of loved one's over the last 10 months, God spoke through me and said....

"Grieve the loss but at some point, you've got to let go and nourish the hope instead of the hurt."

Deut. 30:19 says, "This day I call the heavens and the earth as witnesses against you that I have set before you life and death, blessings and curses. Now choose life, so that you and your children may live." AND Prov. 18:21 says, "Death and life are in the power of the tongue, and those who love it will eat its fruit."

Both of these Scriptures support the advice I gave to my friend, therefore I knew it was God who spoke through me that day!

So no matter what you may be going through, look up! Put your eyes on Him and His word in your mouth regarding His promise(s) to you and nourish hope instead of hurt.

Thanks for visiting. Hope to see you again for Saturday Spotlight and Wednesday Words with Friends.

Until next time, take care and God bless.

PamT

#WednesdayWordswithFriends - A Message from Me....

Good Morning Friends and Welcome!

If you listen to all of the voices vying for your attention we are either in the best of times, or the worst of times. But, how much of the 'best' or 'worst' is of our own making? In my years of spiritual seeking and (hopefully) growth, one thing I've learned is that we, as spiritual beings have more power than we know. Or, perhaps we're afraid of the power we do have.

Where is our power and from where does it come? 

The power is in our thoughts and words and comes from our God-given ability to choose!

Choose what? Life or Death.

Proverbs 18:21 says, "Death and life are in the power of the tongue: and they that love it shall eat the fruit thereof."

Deuteronomy 30:19 says, "I call heaven and earth to record this day against you, that I have set before you life and death, blessing and cursing: therefore choose life, that both thou and thy seed may live."

On this day I challenge you to think about what you are thinking and saying! Consider your words, especially when it comes to the future of our nation!

Are you thinking, feeling, speaking fear and death, or hope and life? If the former, pray and ask God to help you have words and thoughts of the latter!

I know this may seem a simple, entirely too simple, way to have peace and make the most of what is happening in our government, but folks, IMHO it is the ONLY way!

Consider 2nd Chronicles 7:14: If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land.

The power is in our hands....in our mouth and in our vote and if you feel your vote didn't count or the election was stolen or whatever you believe, give it to God. Pray and meditate on His Word, His Promises and then live YOUR life in peace and in love and send peace and love to your family, your neighbors, your community, your state and our nation.

THIS is the only way our world will change.

Take care and God Bless America!

PamT

#WednesdayWordswithFriends

Good Morning Friends!

Well, my guest today was unable to participate so you get to hear from me again. Since nothing much has happened in a week, I thought I'd share with you an article I wrote years ago for The Wordsmith Journal (now TWJ Mag) in my Pamela's Ponderings column....

The Quest

I’ve been on a spiritual journey since the day I recommitted my life to Christ in 1989. Back then I attended the Catholic Church. Although I love and respect the heart of the Mass, I always felt there is so much more to God and Christ than what can be found in doctrine and the traditions of organized religion. 

Scriptures that said “the same Spirit that raised Christ is in you” and “let the mind of Christ dwell richly in you” and “that you may know the fullness Christ” backed by Jesus’s claim that the works He did I should do also and more, sparked a burning desire to know Him more fully, more intimately and that the fullness of Christ be evident in my life.

Thus began my quest.

I listen to Christian music, watch and listen to various teachers of the Word on radio and television--absorbing their messages, and I read voraciously books by ministers and spiritual leaders of all denominations as well as some who profess no religious beliefs – only the true nature of God (of Love).

Sometimes I feel as if I’ve grown in the past thirty years, and yet, at other times I feel like a babe in the woods.

Alas, spiritual growth and maturity is a continual thing, an ongoing journey to my highest vision of God and the grandest version of who I am in Him.

Over the next few months (or years as God deems) I’d like to share with you some truths I’ve discovered about who God is to me and how those truths have illumined my mind, opened my heart and changed my life.

Some may be articles I’ve written for other publications, others may seem like random thoughts. Many of the things I share will resonate with you, others will seem whacky or far out or like ‘new age spiritualism’ or worse, heretical. But I assure you, at the heart of all these lessons and every question is to know Him, to be like Him and to reflect His teachings and His truths in my every thought, word and deed.

Hopefully these ponderings will make you think, question and search for your own truth about what God means to you, who He is in your life, and how you can become more like Him….more like Christ and more like the great spiritual leaders of all time whose message is, was and remains….God is love and he who dwells in Love, dwells in God.

Well, friends, I hope you enjoyed this post and that

Although I haven't contributed in quite a while, the column is still up at TWJ Magazine. I hope you'll check it out and that you'll join me later when I share more Pamela's Ponderings. And of course return weekly for Saturday Spotlight!

Until next time take care and God bless.
PamT

#TuesdayTreasures Guest post by Dale Vernor

Good Morning Friends,

When today's guest contacted me I was unsure about how his message would resonate with YOU, my audience. After all, you're used to hearing what authors treasure and learning about their books. 

But I think his message is uplifting and definitely something to treasure so please welcome Dale Vernor....

Treasuring My Sobriety After Alchol Rehab

I look at my daughter now and I know I would do absolutely anything to protect her, to ensure her happiness. But there was a time not too long ago when I couldn’t say that — even in my most drunken moments.

Yes. I’m an alcoholic.

I am one of those fortunate ones who had help, who was forced to get help. And just in the nick of time, alcohol rehab changed my life. Today I treasure my family and in order to be the best for them I have to also treasure my sobriety, if it were not for finding it, I would have no family to love so dearly.

It Wasn’t Bad… In the Beginning

I used to tell myself that alcohol wasn’t all bad because I met my wife in a bar. She was celebrating a cousin’s engagement and she noticed me sitting alone in the bar. She approached me then and there. I should’ve been mortified. But I already had a couple of glasses in me and I readily answered all her questions. I think she really believed I liked her, too. I think it was only later that she realized that I was so flirty with her because I was already drunk.

She always said she didn’t mind that I drank more than she did. She said I was a sweet and quiet when I was drunk. And then she got pregnant and there wasn’t really time for us to think.

After the baby was born, my drinking got worse. It’s scary being in charge of a whole person. You need liquid courage; at least that’s what I told myself. I felt I enjoyed my time with the baby more when I had a few sips. I was more relaxed.

My Wife Knew I Had a Problem

Once, my stash of vodka in the laundry room disappeared. I think, like me, she was trying to deny it.

Until she came home early one day and saw me lying face down, naked a few feet from my robe and the crib. The baby’s face was already red from crying and her bottom was irritated from a very soggy diaper. It could’ve been worse, but it was enough for her. The next day, my daughter spent the day at a childcare center while my wife  brought me to an alcohol rehab facility.

That was more than three years ago.

What I Learned

One of the most important things I learned in rehab was that I had to forgive myself for what I had done in the past, while the alcohol still had its grip on me. It’s not easy. I look at my little girl and wonder what damage I had caused. But I strive to do it, and not as a punishment, but as a way to endure.

My story could have gone in a different direction. My wife and I didn’t really know each other all that well when we got married. I am grateful that she stayed with me throughout and didn’t take the baby and leave. I’m also very thankful that she enrolled me in alcohol rehab.

I cannot describe the wonder of looking at my daughter with eyes not blurred by alcohol. I am amazed at how interesting and funny her three-year-old stories can be. I cannot bear to imagine being drunk and not being able to enjoy them.

And when I go out with my wife, orange juice or ginger ale gives me a buzz when coupled with her boisterous laugh.

Every Day is Wonderful

I can smell the flowers that we planted together. I can taste the different dishes I prepare for them.

And in five months, we will welcome a new member to our family and I’m so excited. Not that I’m void of any apprehension. But I’m in a good place right now—full of gratitude and love for my family and for myself. I have faced obstacles in the past and can confidently say that I can squarely face the challenges ahead.

Thank you so much, Dale for sharing your story! We wish you the BEST of luck and God's blessings as you continue to walk out your journey.

PamT

#TuesdayTreasures - Treasure Boxes

Good Morning Friends!

Surprise....two weeks in a row I share something I treasure. A rarity, I know LOL! I pray you are blessed and in finding out what I treasure, you'll consider all of the treasures in your life.

In the spiritual work I've done over the years, I'm learning that gratitude and appreciation are two of the most important attitudes we can have. I know it may sometimes seem like there is nothing in life, or rather in certain situations, to be grateful for and/or appreciate, but like Love and Forgiveness, Gratitude and Appreciation are choices you make.

What do these have to do with treasures?

Everything!

God loves a grateful heart and the law of attraction states that what you focus on, you receive more of (thoughts and things of like quality). Therefore, reminding ourselves of what we treasure and sharing our treasures with others, is a form of gratitude and appreciation, and practicing these opens your eyes to see, ears to hear and hearts to receive even more things to appreciate and treasure.

We all have items we want to hang on to and treasure boxes that come in all shapes and sizes to put them in.

Here are a few of mine.....

Some are bought and some are homemade (bottom left is one my brother made for me) but all are crafted with love.

Luke 12:34 tells us....For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also and Philippians 4:8 exhorts us....Whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.

This is what gratitude and appreciation do....cause you to focus your mind and heart on the good things in life.

So when you're feeling down and negative thoughts are crowding your mind, take a few moments and pull out your treasure box (physical or literal) and remember how blessed you really are!

Hope you enjoyed today's post and that you'll join me each week for Tuesday Treasures, Thursday Thoughts and Saturday Spotlight.

Until next time, take care, God bless and remember....Gratitude/Appreciation is a superpower

PamT

Thursday Thoughts on Time Management

Good Morning Friends,

In my last personal post I mentioned my dream of being a Life Coach. In pursuing that dream I am faced with the dilemma of scheduling time to study and be certified, which prompted this post.

Time management is a big issue with anyone who wears more than one hat. This is especially true with writers. Most of us have outside work, home, families...the list goes on and on....and we're ruled by the clock.

So how do we manage?

I wrote an article years ago in which I stated, budget your time just like you budget your money--sage advice for those who know how to prepare and follow a budget. But what happens when you do your best to budget or schedule your day down to the minute, but life throws a monkey wrench in the mix?

Here's a thought......

Albert Einstein said, "Time is an illusion."

Therefore, time expands to meet your needs.

This does not mean we can lollygag around and then get in a mad rush-that never works! Doing so will disrupt your energy flow and unless gotten under control by a purposeful shift, rule your day. However, if you're on track but keep getting interrupted by unexpected people and events, you can calm yourself and change your energy by focusing on that one thought....Time expands to meet my needs.

Time is valuable and we always make time for what we value. Our dreams, desires and goals are important and should be given priority in our daily/weekly/monthly schedules.

So next time you glance at the clock and think...I just don't have enough time! Take a deep breath (or several) and remind yourself....Time expands to meet my needs and see how quickly things turn around.

Hope you enjoyed today's post and that you'll drop by often to see what's happening on Tuesday Treasures, Thursday Thoughts and Saturday Spotlight.

Until next time, take care and God bless.
PamT

#ThursdayThoughts Random Ramblings on Living an Authentic Spiritual Life

Good Morning Friends!

Today is a New Moon and that means new beginnings.

Jesus came so that He could make all things new. The Bible says when we accept Him, we are new creatures and we all know that God's mercies are new every morning.

We learn the Lord's prayer at an early age, but how often do we pray it out of obligation or just mumble the words instead of feeling the heart of them?

In fact, how often do we do that with every prayer about any situation?

While in meditation this morning I had this thought: I want to shine so bright that when people look at me they have to put their sun glasses on!

Shouldn't we all desire that?

We get so wrapped up in this physical life that we believe we're earthly beings having an occasional spiritual experience instead of the other way around.

We are spiritual beings having an earthly experience!

So how can we live an authentic spiritual life while here on earth?

The first and most important step is to decide to live, move, and act from that place of pure positive energy within you - live, love, think and breathe from your spirit or the place within you where the Holy Spirit resides.

Once you've decided to do so, ask for help. God, Jesus, Holy Spirit, Angels, Spirit Guides, loved ones who've passed over, are all there to guide us! Ask for their assistance. If you're afraid of meeting up with negative or evil spirits, ask Archangel Michael to protect your prayer time.

Meditate daily (or as often as possible). Don't get wrapped up in the woo woo of this. Meditation is much more simple than we make it out to be. Get comfortable, get quiet and focus on your breathing. Long, slow, deep breaths. If you have to, mentally repeat breathe in, breathe out or something else (Peace and Love, Joy and Happiness, etc.) Do this a few times then try to focus without using words.

When a thought comes into your mind, if it's a worrisome one - mentally say to yourself, "we'll think about that later, let's just sit quiet for now" and then go back to your deep breathing. If the thought is a good one, rejoice, get excited and happy and be grateful for it, but then - let it go and return to focusing on your breath.

The purpose of meditation is to clear and quiet your mind so that God can speak to you. And you'll know when He does. 10 or 15 minutes a day is easy to do and sufficient to produce tremendous results.

Last but certainly not least, become aware of how you're feeling in any given moment/situation. Ask yourself often throughout the day "How am I feeling?" "What am I thinking?"

Your emotions are a sure-fire indicator if you're living from your spiritual being (which is pure love, joy, peace, happiness, wholeness, etc., etc.) or from your natural man (which is worry, anger, frustration, etc.)

By becoming aware of our thoughts and feelings, we can choose better ones by - well, choosing - to focus on the love and light within us and others, and to let go and let God deal with the things we can't control - which is actually everything but ourselves and our own thoughts and emotions!

Does doing these things guarantee you'll never have a bad day or experience?

Of course not. After all, we live in a world where chaos has become the order of the day. What it does mean though, is by living from your spirit, you'll be able to navigate this life so much better and be a shining light for others to help them along their paths as well.

This picture says it all.....

Thank You, Alvar Astulez, creator of this lovely graphic!

Something to think about!

"Inspirational with an Edge!"™

Hope you enjoyed today's random ramblings and that you'll join me each week for Tuesday Treasures, Thursday Thoughts and Saturday Spotlight.

Until next time, take care and God bless.
PamT

#ThursdayThoughts on Higher Love

Good Morning!

Well, August is winding down...only 1 week to go before we get into September. Fall is quickly approaching and there's a tropical storm (Harvey) in the Gulf so everyone is on high alert. But that's not what I want to talk about....

I'm reading A Return to Love by Marianne Williamson and the song Higher Love by Steve Winwood is one of the tunes in the current Centergy workout I stretch, bend, strengthen and sweat to at Dynamic Demensions in Moss Bluff.

As a word person, the lyrics to this song really caught my attention. Steve talks about finding a higher love "down in the heart or in the stars above" and how without this higher love, life is "a wasted time."

As a spiritual seeker, it amazes me how, where some folks hear a tune that gets their feet moving (it does that for me too LOL!) I hear words that reflect the longing in my soul.

In fact, I'm pretty sure it's the longing of everyone's soul.

How often do we run from job to job or relationship to relationship or even move from one location to another in search of something better? Something higher. Something that fulfills the ache in our heart and longing in our soul.

In reality what we're seeking is already within us....in our relationship with God.

And that's where Marianne's book comes into play.

A Return to Love is filled with thoughts and prayers about returning our hearts and minds to God, to reconnect with His love by power of the Holy Spirit within us and in others - which we pray to recognize, see and call forth in those whom we love and come into contact with. This leads to the healing of our soul, the perfection of our inner being, and is reflected in our outer life circumstances.

Now I know there's a lot of controversy around A Course in Miracles and this book is based on the author's understanding and reflections on the Course, but for me, it has opened a whole new outlook on Jesus' commandment to love God with all our heart, soul and mind and to love our neighbor as we love ourselves (Matthew 22:36-40).

Here's the rub though....do we really love ourselves?

And, how can we truly love anyone if we don't first love God and love our self?

How often do we put ourselves down in a way we'd never put down a friend or even a stranger for that matter!

So instead of thinking about all that's wrong in your life or the world at large, take a moment today and meditate on the blessings in your life and the good within yourself. Reflect on the love you've given others, the help you've extended when possible, the knowledge and experience you've shared just because you love what you do, and spend a few moments thanking and praising yourself for your generosity and God for the gifts and talents He's given you.

I promise doing this on a regular basis will lead to a realization of how full and beautiful your life really is!

Something to think about...
"Inspirational with an Edge!" ™

Hope you enjoyed today's post and that you'll drop by each week for more Tuesday Treasures, Thursday Thoughts and Saturday Spotlight.

Until next time, take care and God bless.
PamT

#ThursdayThoughts Random Ramblings on Excellence

Good Morning Friends!

It's been so long since I share my thoughts with you I'm not even sure where to begin, LOL!

My mind has been in a whirlwind the last few weeks. Along with my normal routine of work, I'm editing a book that is very intense in nature and extensive in work.

This brings me to my topic of today: Excellence

Most of us are taught the value in striving for excellence in all areas of our lives. In school, we're encouraged to do our best and get the best grades. In work, we strive to be the best employee, do the best job and move up the ladder. As authors we're up against a lot of competition so it's driven into us to write a great novel, use an experienced and efficient editor.

Excellence, excellence, excellence in everything!

But what about our prayer life and faith walk?

The Bible exhorts us to walk in integrity, which is another way of saying excellence.

Don't you know there are times when I know I'm not doing that? Oh, I don't mean I'm lying or stealing or cheating, but I know in my spirit that my thoughts are not as pure as they can be and/or my heart is not focused on the good things of God, but the not-so-good things of the world. I'm not looking at (or for) the best in people, but dwelling on the worst.

The law of attraction states that what you focus on, you attract into your life. EX: if I'm focusing on something negative in my life or in someone else's personality, I'll attract more of that to me.

The Bible teaches us that as a man thinks therefore he is and that life and death are in the power of the tongue.

You can almost bet your bottom dollar if we're thinking negative thoughts, negative words are spewing out of our mouth!

So what can I/You/We do about this?

Philippians 4:8 tells us, "Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things."

I've found that when I recognize my heart, mind and/or mouth are not in alignment with what God says about my or someone else's life, I have the power to change that simply by thinking and speaking excellent thoughts and words! I ask God, Jesus and the angels to help me shift my perspective so I can focus on the good in that person or situation.

Try it, it works!

Something to think about!
"Inspirational with an Edge!" 

PS: Monday is Memorial Day, please take a moment to THANK a soldier and pray for those who have died defending our nation.

I hope you enjoyed today's post and that you'll join me each week for Tuesday Treasures, Thursday Thoughts and Saturday Spotlight.

Until next time, take care and God Bless!

#TuesdayTreasures People, Places & Things

Good Morning,

When I first started this feature I thought, wow...between me and my guests, we'll never run out of things we treasure to share. But as I sit here this morning, so many thoughts run through my head....

Am I treasuring the right things?

Am I wasting my treasures (gifts and talents)....my life perhaps, doing what I have to do instead of what I love and want to do?

Are these items I treasure really worth anything to anyone else?

You may wonder where these thoughts come from. Or, maybe, you have them yourself from time to time.

We all have things in our lives we treasure....mementos from our children, parents, grandparents and friends. Things like.....

This vase my son made a flower arrangement in when he was just a boy that I now use as a pencil holder....


And this mug my daughter gave me for mothers day that talks about how I'm like a good bra...Supportive, Makes me (her) look good, never leaves me (her) hanging and is always close to my (her) heart LOL!

And then there's this flower arrangement from my mom's funeral and her heart necklace I wear when I need to feel her presence more acutely....

                            

And we all know how I treasure Bandera, TX and the Silver Spur Guest Ranch LOL! 

I have dozens of other things, memories really that I treasure, as I'm sure you have. 

Last week we buried my brother-in-law. This week we'll bury my cousin. Therefore, my thoughts today are whether or not I'm actually showing and telling the people I treasure how much they mean to me.

I hope you'll take a moment today and tell  the people you treasure how much they mean to you. Can't tell them? Send them thoughts of love, peace, joy and happiness. You'll be surprised at the effect you thoughts about them will have on your, and their, day.

Meanwhile, I'd love to hear about some things you treasure so leave a comment!

Something to think about!

"Inspirational with an Edge!" ™

Hope you enjoyed today's post and that you'll join me each week for Tuesday Treasures, Thursday Thoughts and Saturday Spotlight.

Until next time, take care and God Bless.

PamT

PS: This year's Eggcerpt Exchange is starting Feb 28th - April 16 so watch for some great blurbs and excerpts!

#ThursdayThoughts Random Ramblings & an Experiment on Abundance

Good Morning!

Last night I listened to The Abundance Factor movie while coloring...something I haven't done in a LONG while but have heard so much about the meditative benefits thought I'd try.... Anyway, while listening to The Abundance Factor movie, one idea that stuck with me was 3 things you can do on a daily basis to be/feel more abundant.

#1: Write 3 (or more) things you're grateful for.

#2: Send love to 3 people with whom you're not on the best of terms with (someone you need to forgive or someone who gets on your nerves, etc)

#3: Sit in silence for 5 minutes then ask for direction for your day.

Now as a Christian, we're called to invite Jesus and/or Holy Spirit into our morning meditations and to include bible reading, but the principle is basically the same.

I've gone through various stages of doing this or something similar for years and although my life isn't as "abundant" or "rich" as others' or some may think, it's pretty darn good.

One thing that resonates with me about the spiritual / mental aspects of abundance is to focus on something that represents abundance to you and to really get into the feeling of being abundant.

For some that may be money, others find abundance in nature (a waterfall symbolizes wealth and prosperity in Feng Shui), but the whole concept is really cool.

So here's an experiment..... Pick one (or all 3) of these pictures sit in silence for a few minutes and really let your imagination go while you visualize your life filled with abundance as vast and as plentiful as the picture suggests. Create a mantra around it if you have to....


Money flows into my life plentiful and with ease.

Abundance fills my life in a never-ending flow as lush and beautiful as this waterfall.
                 My life overflows with richness and beauty.


Do you feel more abundant or at least calmer?

I'd love to know so leave a comment.

Hope you enjoyed today's post and that we'll see you each week for Tuesday Treasures, Thursday Thoughts and Saturday Spotlight!

Until next time, take care and God bless.

#TuesdayTreasures LOVE and Forgiveness

Happy Valentine's Day!

When this time of year rolls around we all think of LOVE.... the people in our lives whom we love, those we've loved and lost and those we wish we could love. It's another day set aside in each year to remind us that love is a powerful thing and something we should treasure.

More than treasure, love is something we should aspire to live and express on a daily, moment-by-moment basis.

Think about all those people you don't understand or dislike and take a few moments to send them love.

Can't do it?

Then start with peace or joy or happiness or forgiveness. Forgive them and forgive yourself for your lack of love toward them.

The Bible teaches us that Forgiveness and Love are a choice. Therefore, even if you don't actually "feel" the warm, fuzzy emotions. Choose love. Be willing to forgive.

There's a lot of power in praying.... "Lord I can't do this but I'm willing to forgive, I'm willing to say the words, I'm willing to have a change of heart. I'm willing to see this person or this situation through YOUR eyes. Help me."

One of the most powerful prayers I've learned in my studies of spirituality is "I forgive you and I release you to God."

Simple words that have the ability to change lives.

Again, even if you don't actually feel this, saying the words opens your mind and eventually your heart to free yourself and, in turn, your offender.

Try it, you'll be amazed and I'll bet you'll feel better physically, mentally and emotionally.

Something to think about!
"Inspirational with an Edge!" ™

If you're looking for a Valentine's day gift to send to someone consider my devotional Love is a Rose which parallels the love of God to the words of the song "The Rose" available in Ebook, Kindle and Nook. Also in Print an at Deeper Shopping!

Hope you enjoyed today's post and you'll drop by each week for Tuesday Treasures, Thursday Thoughts and Saturday Spotlight!

Until next time take care and God bless.
PamT

#SaturdaySpotlight is on Pastor Brian Hollins

Hello There and Welcome to the LAST Saturday Spotlight of September!

Today's guest is new and brought to us by Prime Star Publicity.

Pastor Hollins was born in Los Angeles Ca, in 1963. He moved to Shreveport La. as a child where he presently resides.   He was called to ministry in November of 1999.  On August 10, 2002, Pastor Hollins was appointed to the position of Pastor of Emmanuel Church of God in Christ.  On May 23, 2007, Pastor Brian and First Lady Henrietta founded Emmanuel Christian Ministries renamed Abounding Grace in 2013. Pastor Hollins founded “Have Faith in God” Radio Broadcast which is heard mornings at 9:00am CST, on KOKA radio 980AM and www.koka.am and on “The Promise” on 90.7FM at 3:30pm to 4:00pm. 

He is the author of two books “Don’t Take The Bait” and “Have You Received Since You Believed”. Pastor Hollins also serves as a Volunteer Chaplain for the Shreveport Fire Department. Pastor Hollins served 28 years in the Fire Service and retired March of 2009, holding the position of Chief Training Officer. He has been married for 30 years to his beautiful wife Henrietta.

Now let's enjoy an excerpt from Pastor Hollins's book, Have you Received since you Believed; Quest for the Holy Spirit....

I wrote this book in 2009, a year after receiving the baptism of the Holy Spirit. I’m sharing it with you now because I believe it will help you find and understand the ministry of the Holy Spirit. As a pastor, I am ashamed to say that for the first five years of my ministry I never really preached on the Holy Spirit. Looking back, I realize how uncomfortable I was with the topic, so I just avoided teaching on it altogether.

One day I found myself at the end of my rope, and I was ready to call it quits. I knew something was missing, and I knew it was the ministry of the Holy Spirit. Don’t ask me how I knew, I just knew. I felt that I was laboring on my own. I studied the word of God and taught each message from the Bible, yet I had a great void that was only getting larger by the week. 

On this day I looked at my wife and said, “Baby, I don’t know if I can do this the rest of my life.”

It is my belief that many Christians today are falling away just due to the lack of receiving the Holy Spirit. Jesus made it clear that he would not leave us comfortless, that he would pray to the Father to send another comforter. I began to read everything I could get my hands on about the Holy Spirit. I read so much that some of the information served to confuse me even more. But I realize now how that was all a part of seeking and finding. When we seek on our own in the natural, God makes it super- natural, and things begin to happen that really can’t be explained.

All I know now is that after receiving the Holy Spirit, my life is not the same. I said earlier that I could not see myself being a pastor for the rest of my life. Now I can’t see myself doing anything else but serving God, teaching and preaching his word all my life. I believe you are reading this book because you, too, are seeking to fill a void that can only be filled by the Holy Spirit. You are on the right track and before you know it, you will be sharing your testimony of receiving the Holy Spirit.

*****

Sounds like a very good read.  Have you Received since you Believed; Quest for the Holy Spirit can be purchased at Amazon.

Hope you enjoyed today's spotlight and that you'll stop by weekly for Tuesday Treasures, Thursday Thoughts and Saturday Spotlight.

Until next time, take care and God Bless.

PamT

#ThursdayThoughts Taking Things for Granted

Good Morning and a Blessed day it is!

In my years of prayer, meditation and study, I've found that thoughts and attitudes have the power to change our lives...for good or not so good.

The Bible teaches us that "as a man thinks in his heart, therefore he is."

How much clearer can that be?

Yet we all have a tendency to think and speak negatively and to take things for granted....the simple things in life we've seldom (if ever) have had to do without.

This morning I discovered a guided meditation by Louise Hay and in listening, I realized there are many things I take for granted. There are thoughts and attitudes within me that could use polishing, changing or downright eradicating.

Needless to say, this really resonated with me.

May it do the same for you.....



Have a Blessed day and I hope to see you for Saturday Spotlight, this week and each week for Tuesday Treasures, Thursday Thoughts and more Saturday Spotlights!

PamT

#TuesdayTreasure: Silence

Good Morning!

This may be a subject that's better for Thursday Thoughts than Tuesday Treasures, but here goes anyway....

There's an old saying that "silence is golden" why do you suppose that's true?

Is it even true?

Have you ever sat in silence and wondered at the noise that infiltrates our lives?

Have you ever sat in silence and listened to the craziness of your own thoughts?

I remember a story from one of Wayne Dyer's books about a boy whose father sent him to a special camp every summer and at that camp they practiced silence. They could not speak to one another and those who did had to leave. The point of the entire camp was to prove that we're all connected and that we can communicate with each other without words.

It was a fascinating story but have you ever tried to practice silence?

Dr. Dyer also talks about a quote by Rumi which says.... The morning breezes have secrets to tell you, don't go back to sleep!

The bible teaches us that God speaks in a "still, small voice."

Granted sometimes He speaks in a very audible one, but we are also instructed to "be still and know"....

How else can you hear the secrets whispered in the morning breezes or the still, small voice of God unless you are silent?

Often when I'm travelling I do so in absolute silence. Maybe not the whole trip but for long stretches of time. It's one way I reconnect with myself...my soul, and God.

Here's another thought....how many times does simple acknowledgement possibly accompanied by a hug say more to us than words ever can?

Here's a novel idea.... next time you're alone, instead of turning on the television or radio or picking up the phone, take some time to sit in silence. Take deep breaths and let all the chatter in your brain just fade away and then notice what you actually hear in the silence.

Who knows, it may be the answer to whatever is ailing you at the moment!

Any time you can grab a moment (or several) of silence in the midst of normal chaos is certainly something to treasure.

Something to think about....
"Inspirational with an Edge!" ™

#ThursdayThoughts: Random Ramblings

Good Morning!

Today is one of those random ramblings days...cause I just have no idea what to talk about. This feature is normally about something to think about so....

How about reading a good book?

I recently read two: Sweet Salt Air by Barbara Delinsky and Being in Balance by Dr. Wayne Dyer.

  

Yeah two different ends of the reading spectrum I know...one fiction the other non...but that's me.

I love to read and variety is the spice of life.

What are your reading preferences?

I'd love to hear from you!

Leave a comment and at least one lucky person will win a copy of their choice of my books!

PamT

#ThursdayThoughts: Random Ramblings

Good Morning from Bandera, Texas,

Today is one of those random rambling days. I don't have a guest post and for once in a long while, I've nothing to talk about.

I've been in Bandera at the Silver Spur Guest Ranch since Monday and enjoying my visit with the friends I've made over the last several years while living and working here off and on since 2010.
There's just something about this area of the Texas Hill Country that speaks to my soul....

Always has.

Even as a young child, I felt a connection with Bandera that is hard to explain.

As we grow and mature, it's important to listen to our soul, the deepest part of who we really are at our core. Though what we hear and feel may not make sense to our natural mind or to friends and family, we need to be aware and to honor that inner nudging.

For it is when we do, we find our deepest peace.

Something to think about!

"Inspirational with an Edge!" ™

#SaturdaySpotlght: Jillian Lambert & Real Pain, Real Peace

Good Morning and Happy Halloween!

If you've followed me for long, you'll recognize the name of our spotlight guest today. Jillian Lambert shared something she treasures in September and thoughts on peace in October. Today we are spotlighting her latest book, Real Pain, Real Peace.

"Although we may not see while experiencing it, pain can be our friend."  (RPRP)

Real Pain, Real Peace is an inspirational true story of a fifty-year-old woman in Texas who experiences a life-changing breakdown on every level. Her journey ranges from creation of a dream to financial devastation; excellent health to physical illness; a life of passion to praying for death; a healthy mind to mental illness; and a beautiful, five-acre home to bottomed-out homelessness. Life goes from complete destruction to total reconstruction, wavering faith to renewed spirit.

The physical, mental, emotional, financial, and spiritual challenges transform in ways that will wrench your soul, yet warm your heart. The author tells her riveting story in an inspirational, spiritual way while sharing valuable life lessons. Learn from her transforming challenges and discover how to bring peace to your own body, mind, and spirit. Overall, Real Pain, Real Peace shows you how courage, determination, and faith can turn real pain into real peace.

What People Are Saying About Real Pain, Real Peace

"This incredible woman has an amazing story to share. Read about her personal journey through total and complete devastation in every level of her life to rising up from the ashes of despair still standing strong and finding peace at the end of her quest of living an authentic life." ~ Ron Bowles, Bloomington, IN

"I can't put it down! I actually had to set the timer on my phone so I wouldn't be late for work!"   ~Nanette Lines-Warn, Clear Lake, IA

Read the official Press Release for Real Pain, Real Peace HERE.

Real Pain, Real Peace can be purchased from Balboa Press & Amazon (Hardcover, Paperback, Kindle) as well as other retail outlets.

And while you're at it, check out Jillian's other book, Real Health, Real Life (Paperback, Kindle) and her Real Serenity stretch dvd!

  

^{Jillian Lambert, M.S. - Author of inspirational book, ”Real Pain Real Peace,” wellness book ”Real Health Real Life,” and stretch/relaxation/meditation video/DVD, “Real Serenity.”  Author, Holistic Nutritionist, Juicing Instructor, Fitness Trainer, Feng Shui & Wellness Consultant.} 

Website:  www.realhealthreallife.com   Email:  realhealthreallife@gmail.com   

^{Books and video available at www.RealHealthRealLife.com}

Well Friends, hope you enjoyed today's spotlight and if you're out an about tonight, be careful of those ghosts and goblins, angels and fairies, and especially the politicians LOL!

Until later...take care, God bless and remember... "On the other side of pain is peace." (RPRP)

Something to think about!

"Inspirational with an Edge!" ™