Insites & Sounds of Saturday-Success, I Guess

I once worked with a beautiful, hand & hair manicured, nicely dressed woman who drove a white Cadillac with a license plate saying,
‘SUCCESS’.
Yeah, I was jealous as I compared my family van, broken nails and unruly hair to hers. But when I discovered she worked 24/7, was the bread winner, her third husband was unemployed, her kids were out of control and she never smiled, I soon got over it. I felt sorry for her as she tried to sell her worn out, ‘no time to do anything with it’ home. She was nice and honest, but never had time for fun. Spending time with kids/grandkids is always remembered.

On the surface the grass often looks greener, until you dig down an inch or two. Remember, you see the other guy at his best, usually, not knowing his hang-ups. We look at ourselves completely, aware of all the baggage contained within.

When I dug deeper comparing my life with Ms. Success, I came out on top. I had a hard working hubby, good kids I spent time with, a nice home, was free to enjoy life and most of all, I smiled all the time. (85%) My 'SUCCESS' sign was written on my face in big letters: H E R E’ S J O Y!

Thursdays Thoughts-Tight Wad to You, Too.

My brother-in-law once called me a cheapskate, because I was always looking for the best deal or cutting corners. To this day it bothers him that I tear tissues, paper towels and dryer sheets in half. Hey, I tell him, it lasts twice as long. He’s right of course, when making a recipe I usually go lean on the sugar and butter. Perhaps this is why I’ll never get the best cook award. Best extender or best use of a product in tough times is my alias.

I’ll point out that we’re all tightwads depending on what it is. How many misers do you know that will pay any price for whatever they are in to, but not a dime for things that don't interest them.

If you want apples and they’re not on sale today, but grapes are. Buy grapes. Get apples next time or when they’re affordable. Same goes for entertainment, clothes, and such. If possible, always buy low. What’s wrong with waiting? Be adaptable, unless it’s not possible. Sure sometimes full price is the only option and to avoid another trip that will cost you time and money, get it now. Weigh the options, make the decision and avoid impulse buying.

Be the mom & pop store shopper instead of the mega W store that has a monopoly over most businesses and is the cause of their demise. Although cheap, I stay clear of the ‘Big W’. Spread the almighty dollar around so everyone can enjoy success. Pinchingyourpennies.com is a good source for finding deals.

Wednesday- Who, Why, What's for Dinner?

Some days I just can't think of what to fix for dinnner. Running out of time usually forces the brain to come up with an idea falling back on the basics like spagetti, baked potatoes, shepherd's pie and such. Remembering a soon to expire coupon, I'll subtly mention & sometimes even spring for the easy out.

Some women do a monthly calendar then shop to match the list. Other gals even go so far as to fix a month's worth of meals, date, label and freeze them ready to pull one out each day. Wow! I could never think that far in advance or remember to look in the ice box. When I did, it would be unrecognizable or eatable.

Running a day or two or even a minute ahead of schedule suits me just fine. Visualizing what's in the refrigerator as I pull up my mental list of choices for the goods on hand. Sometimes I'll lug out the recipe books to peruse the ingredients, if time permits. The key is to have versatile supplies, such as peppers, onions, lettuce, mushrooms, apples, salsa, rice, potatoes and so on. With these you can make almost anything, such as stir fry, omelets, salad and have it be healthy as well. It's sure to taste as good as my palate imagines it to be.

If it's just my tummy that needs filling, leftovers are the item of choice.

Tuesdays-Tried & True: Trenches

When I think of trenches, I'm reminded of motherhood how buried you feel when everyones depending on you to get it all done, on time of course. Dinner, dishes, laundry, loving, shopping, chauffeuring, shepherding, teaching and training are just a few things. You have to know where everything is, be prepared for the unexpected and perform at all times. Basically, you're the grunt gal.

Your children must know they are loved, terrific, can do it, should try it and so on. They have a built in cheerleader (you) at all times. At the bottom of the list, you'll find your name for a good reason. This gets old fast and dreaming of an out, often crowds the stage of your life. So take a minute for yourself to regenerate, then jump back in head first. Because within minutes reality hits reminding you that, no one else will love, care for & want the best for your kids as much as you. You're in for the long haul.

After what seems like half of your life, which it is, they (the kids) start leaving the nest. One by one and sometimes quicker than that, the load becomes lighter. Subtle at first, then gradually one less dinner plate, batch of laundry, clutter of things until miraculously everything stays in its appointed place. Unbelievable, but true!

No more list of who's on first. You are, at least once in a while and it feels weird. Is it okay to spend time on yourself? Yes!! You earned it. Spoil yourself by having a pedicure. It's finally your turn. 'Job well done', you say to yourself, because no one else will.

Before you know it, your a grandmother and it starts all over again, if you let it. But, you can send them home this time or they move out of state. Thanks, gals. Did I tell you what terrific mothers I think you are? It's true.

Memories Monday Morning-Mades and Misses

Attitude makes a big difference in how we view life. Someone once said, "You determine your own attitude, when you don't allow outside forces to influence your actions or reactions." I didn't agree at first, but now know it really is true.

This week I missed seeing my mileage gauge turn over to 90,000. Years ago with another vehicle about to turn from 49,999.9, I parked 500 feet from home & walked just to make a big deal of it.
I Missed beating the road closure today at 1300 W & the train tracks. Leaving later than usual, they’d closed the road already requiring everyone to detour. I arrived late to work. Oops!
I Missed using the $25 Iggy’s gift card with it’s year time limit. That's one more fix it yourself & eat at home I could have avoided. Check yours.
Missed getting set up on ‘Bill pay with the bank’ had to use more checks, stamps & got a late fee, too. Dang!!
I made it with binoculars in hand, to see the many birds along the River Parkway, enjoyed the crystal clear sky 4 days last week & the sun shining through my office window when arriving at work. Spring is on its way.
I made it on time to the interesting lecture of Bonnie Cundiffe, Tabernacle organist, at our RS conference. I even invited some neighbors.
I made it through six green lights (out of eight total) one morning headed to work (YEAH!) & six red the next day (it figures).
I made it to Roberts using my 50% off coupon, got a great deal on cheese at the store, fixed a yummy dinner on the fly for my son, Jory & his sweet girlfriend and slept until 7am today. All in all, I’ve made it!

Sites & Sounds of Saturday -Set Aside Sorrow

Today marks the twentieth year since my dad's death, Gale Crane. My siblings, spouses and I are celebrating with a dinner at my home. We'll reminisce about old times, his life, death and what we're all doing now. Paula is flying in from Omaha, but the rest of us live close by.

Over time we've set aside our sorrow of the day we were notified to go to the hospital. Somehow I knew his life was over as I sped there, walked through the ER room doors and was ushered into a private suite. A heart attack at sixty three years young stole him from us. The days that followed were hard, as I went down that road of loss. Anger, sadness, depression, hope, love and peace visited me at their appointed times. In due time, I returned to the living & tried to help others.

Who was Gale Crane? That was my biggest challenge, to get to know my dad. He'd worked swing shift most of my life. Working when I was home & home when I was at school. Waking me early each morning, he'd leave to do chores on the farm. His teasing, loud laughter, always busy doing something nature, but a strict desire to teach us the value of work was his way. Daily he left work for us, trusting we'd do it right. We heard about it when we failed. A good father, husband and friend, Dad provided the best he could. I never appreciated him enough, until he was gone.

Retiring just six months earlier, I'd been too busy with my own family to spend much time with my parents. He'd helped us out bringing top soil for our new home when getting a good deal on the dirt. He loved helping others in ways we never knew and had many friends from spending time at the coffee shop. Thanks, Dad for your example.

Fiesta Friday: Finding Froggett

His name was Mike Froggett (pronounced fro zhay) with his French name, sky blue eyes, freckled face, kind & quiet manner. I was head over hills in love with him, from eighth grade to the day, no the minute we graduated. Oh, I had boyfriends along the way, but none like Mike. He never even noticed me, in that illusive dream romance we all imagine but never get to first base with. I often wonder what he looks like now, him having never attended a class reunion and living far away in Seattle. I bought his photos one year, drooling over them forever.

I was going to look up some old heart throbs, track them down and follow them for a few weeks popping up unexpectedly to say, ‘Hi, aren’t you so and so? What are the chances of meeting you here?” Problem is I’d have to take my entourage of beauty experts, not to mention paying a detective to find the guy and expenses to hang out. Nowadays, I believe that’s called stalking. Oh, bummer.

Once an old divorced flame did call setting up an appointment with us for lunch. Turns out he just wanted to sell a pyramid something or other & make us all rich in a few years. After telling him no, the lunch was cancelled and I walked out of that restaurant glad I’d chosen the ‘right’ man. Mike, I’m here look me up! I mean us, Al & me.

Thoughts on Thurs-Things, Their Just Things

It used to drive me crazy when a neighbor got a new car or couch every few years, because theirs was ‘worn out’. I’d look at my sixteen year old couch, carpet and such with a bit of envy, wishing we could get new, too. Many of my clothes are purchased at ultra clearance or the second hand store. No, their not my first choice but who can afford to pay premium these days. I’m elated when getting those store coupons in the mail for $10 with any purchase and no minimum. With appreciation I wear that cute Christmas blouse costing me only $2.30. Thank you, retailer for the gift.

A decade or so ago we were blessed to receive a large inheritance from family. Like kids in a candy store we bought a new car, jet skis, four wheelers and more. Living the high life was fun for awhile. It’s all gone now, not working, pushed aside or replaced. If you can afford it go for it, if you can’t pass it up.

Better yet, looking elsewhere to fulfill your appetite may be the best choice. 2 Nephi 9: 51 says: Wherefore, do not spend money for that which is of no worth, nor your labor for that which cannot satisfy. Hearken diligently unto me, and remember the words which I have spoken; and come unto the Holy One of Israel, and feast upon that which perisheth not, neither can be corrupted, and let your soul delight in fatness.

We can spend a lifetime amassing things, accumulating wealth and slaving away to pay for it or be satisfied with what the Lord provides for us. “Consider the lilies of the field…” and be grateful we know Him, while ‘laying up for ourselves treasures in heaven.’

Wednesday- Who, Why, When & Where

Somewhere in Time & The Way We Were are movies I recently ordered on our video program since none were coming. Checking to see why, all my top choices were new releases with long waits. Remembering some faves from years ago, I put them first.

How in love I was back then, with both Christopher Reeve and Robert Redford. Why couldn't my husband look and act like them? In fact I was the typical fan, falling for every love interest with the top billing. Harrison Ford, Richard Gere and such would keep me giddy for days. Even the oldies like Paul Newman, Tony Curtis and Cary Grant stole my heart.

I guess you're getting old when Leonardo Di Caprio, Christian Bell and the other young bucks just don't seem to have it. Maybe it's me with all the aches, pains, dyed hair and wrinkles that keeps the dream from taking off.

Allan, who is still here, somewhere taking all my crap, but returning again & again believing we still are the 'way we were', failing to remind me that we're not. Thanks, honey. 'In time, somewhere', we will be again.

Tuesdays-Tried & True: Treasures

Our greatest treasures are our loved ones. The gifts we receive from them that we keep over the years also become treasured, because of the memories they invoke when we see them.

For Valentine's one year my mother gave my sister, Sandra, and I necklaces. Mine was a purple orchid in a black background (pictured)& hers was a red rose, which we cherished and have to this day. Gifts given from the knick knacks of a grand or great parent's stash after their death, hold a special place in my heart. Recipes recreated from these dear ancestors, conjure up the feelings we had while eating at their knee.

Monogramed yellow silky pillowcases rest in the same gift box, as when I received them from my Grandmother Park. I've worn out the red floral quilt and the Texas star quilt lovingly hand stitched by each grandmother from my graduation. The delicate silver watch with my name and date etched on the back from my parents reminds me of their love and support.

We keep these tokens of love not for their value, but the true feelings they represent.

Memories on a Monday-Mr. President Abraham Lincoln

"Four score and seven years ago..." Last year I read an amazing book about the life & presidency of Abraham Lincoln, 'Team of Rivals' by Doris Kearns Goodwin. A great understanding was gained regarding what made him great, although at the time many people doubted him including many of his cabinet. He wasn't afraid to choose the best of the best, whether they were from his party or not. Some were back stabbers from the get go. He knew they would be. The goal was to select those that could perform the greatest work, in their respective fields irregardless of their popularity.

Although many believed the Secretary of State, William Seward, was the point man making all of the decisions, Lincoln didn't let that happen. He chose this opponent for his knowledge and ability to get things done. At all times, Honest Abe called the shots. These two men became inseparably fast friends and collegues, making joint decisions for the good of the country as a whole and not for themselves. Dedicating their lives to besting freedom while risking lives to make America what it is today.

Lincoln was guided by our Heavenly Father every step of the way as the Civil War began and ended during his administration bringing freedom to the blacks. The love and care he showed to the soldiers without regard to himself, proves how vital he felt the cause was. Victory came in the end, but also tragedy. The 750 page book is well worth reading.

I love & honor President Abraham Lincoln for giving his life to the cause.

Sites & Sounds of Saturday-Say, I Love You

Sometimes we get so used to having our noses to the grindstone, keeping up with the kids and fulfilling the American Dream that we forget to stop and smell the roses. Coming and going, eating, sleeping and your basic needs get attention, but do we say, 'I love you' to our spouse, children or parents. Stopping to give a hug or kiss for extra measure, seals the moment.

If the intervals between these acknowledgements is too long, then it becomes harder and harder to do it. I remember as a teen becoming complacent about saying it to my mother. When noticing it had been long neglected , I had to make a concerted effort setting a time and place to perform. A similar thing happened not too long ago as I was mentally reminded by the Spirt to say, 'Hey Mom, I love you' adding a hug for extra measure. She lives alone and this special time goes a long way.

We usually give kudos departing each morning or at bedtime to our spouse and kids. Why be stingy. Share your love all day long, on the phone and especially when you've snapped at them for an infraction. I still have Jory, my son's, words of love on the answering machine, when he called from Chile on Mother's Day three years ago playing it whenever I'm feeling lonely or miss him.

Roses are red.
If your gone I'm blue.
A kiss and a hug,
Mean that I love you.

Get in the habit of sharing your love, hug or kiss every time you see them.
'Do it' every day, night and chance you get. Dont' forget.

Friday Fiesta-Fast Friends Forever

Some grade school chums, Paula, Trell and I got together this week, had dinner and talked about old times. Both are beautiful ladies having aged well. Paula is a dynamite gal with a smile from sea to shining sea and an attitude to match. Enduring more that her share of loved ones lost, you wouldn’t know it viewing her sunny disposition. At the age of seven, her mother died with cancer. A son was killed in a car accident at age four. Her husband died in her arms from a heart attack at 55. A sister’s illness took her at 40 and a brother was murdered at 62. Both parents recently died from old age. Her faith and love of the Lord have carried and comforted her. She is a true example of resilience.

Trell has seen more than her share of disappointment and heartache, but rises above it, turning every challenge into a blessing. When we were eight, she had many friends and garnered much attention which I wasn’t a part of, but noticed with jealousy. Saying bad and untrue things about her was my way of getting back, for not including me. Basically, I wasn’t nice by spreading rumors and such about her. In return, she could have: 1. Strike back in the same manner. 2. Ignore me. 3. Become a friend.

With wisdom beyond years, she came to me saying, “I know someone that likes you a lot and would like to be your friend. Will you be her friend?” She wouldn’t tell me the person’s name, as we discussed this ‘third’ party. In the process I got to know her. After confessing she was the person interested and wanted to be my friend, I was sucked in. We’ve been close ever since. I have a Valentine from those rocky years. Friendships go a long way in bringing happiness and love into our lives.

Thirsty Thursday-Task Overload

I'm always looking for the perfect gift to give the kids, but never find it or won't pay the price. Tired of the usual $1 store junk and wanting to get the grandkids something special for Valentine's, I decided to make 'Love Books' for each one. In them are pictures of their parents dating & wedding, mine also, baby photos of them & siblings. I looked for pictures with red or holiday colored clothes. In addition to that, are little games, word searches, and fun pages to make them more interesting. What I really created was multi task overload ala backache.

Fortunately there is a color copier at work, so the cost is minimal. Optimistic as usual, one day was my idea of completing the task, which has stretched to three no less. Finding the desired photos, shapes, positioning, more ideas, bigger project and so on has worn me out.

Brain overload has depleted my blogging abilities to nil. The beautiful books are completed and five are in the mail headed to my little love interests possibly missing the February 14th goal. They will make great quiet books for a month or two until my grandiose ideas sprout & grow into a bedtime storybook for each one. What one insane granny does for the sake of love. Please someone help me find the illusive ideal gift or shoot me.

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Memories Mon. Morning: Married My Man

We were juniors in high school when we officially got to know each other. I'd asked him to the Girl's Choice Dance in April. It was a wild date because I finished my dress about 6pm that night & was the taxi as well. By the time I'd picked up my girlfriend, her date and got to Allan's it was about 8 pm. We made it to the high school by 8:30 or 9pm. thus began our journey to happily ever after.

We were pictured in the Valentine red school newspaper our senior year as a serious couple. I still have that issue. Three plus years later we said, "I do." It has been a sweetheart of a ride ever since. I can honestly say he puts the toilet seat down, picks up his socks and seldom complains. Two things that I wish I could change: Stop his snoring and get him to tuck his shirt in. That's about it. I luv ya Al.

Sites & Sounds of Saturday -Sweet Spicy Hearts

I look forward to the sweetheart month when the sugar coated cinnamon heart gummy candies start showing up everywhere. I’m the first to purchase them & scoop up the last drop (discounted no less) after the 14th has come and gone. I ration them out, to last as long as possible.

They remind me of when I had that sweet temper that turned hot on a dime. It raged out of control on occasion when my hormones were riding high or got ticked off over nothing. I felt like such a creep afterward, sometimes apologizing or not. Often I blew up over dumb things like when the kids tracked up the floor just after I‘d mopped it or the time I turned the corner too fast & someone’s mug of pop dumped all over the car. I could go from sweet to hot in ten seconds. I got it from my Dad, throwing in a swear word or two for effect. Oh, how I wanted to bag it like candy, with a seal only a lock smith could open.

I got so I could ration anger out for those especially trying events. Once in a while I’d throw a plate or any item I was holding, to show I meant it, always regretting afterward. I don’t do it anymore. What happened? Well the kids grew up, for one thing. I really think it is because I started reading the scriptures daily. That regular dose of sweet subtle guidance from the Lord tempers my tantrums until they are gone, like candy from a craving.

Thoughts on a Thirsty Thursday-Trust This Thief

Seven cents short at the check stand on a small transaction & not wanting to use my debit card, the clerk waved it off. I was ready to return something until he gave me the go ahead. “I’ll bring it back next time”, I said. “You can trust me.” (Don’t forget, I owe U $.07 $1 store.)

Hours later I pulled the door shut behind me headed out for my walk/run of the day realizing I'd locked myself out of the house. Oh, I can get back in through the keyless entry on the garage. It wouldn’t work, too cold. How about the deck door to the garage, it’s always opened. Locked, who did that? All exteriors locked, I tried them. No one has a key and hubby is seven miles away on a job, Yeah! I can’t disturb him. What to do?

Last time this happened was when we flew one of our college girls home from the family trip to San Diego. She had to break the kitchen window to get in. Studying that same spot, I remembered paying $45 to repair it. No, can’t afford it. Checking all the outside doors (there’six), one more time, I realized I had to think like a thief. What would a thug do?

Standing on the front porch I spied the bay side window which didn’t have a screen on it. Reaching down I pulled, surprised that it opened without any effort at all. Checking my con-artist rear and listening to see if anyone was inside (just in case), I stepped in shutting the window behind me. Yes! I attempted to lock it several times without success.

Retrieving the needed things and leaving the valuable loot, I snuck out the side door. The owners were lucky, this time. I didn't want much. Note to self: Secure the front window, don’t forget.

Wednesday- Who, Why, When & Where

Why: I know I'm crazy with all this alliteration stuff, but I just can't help it. It makes me happy and that's a good thing. It keeps my mind sharp to fend off Alzheimers and other unhealthy things that happen when you just sit and watch TV or nap the day away. Okay I'm not there yet & hope to never be. That is why I do it.

A young friend at work calls me Ms. Active America. Sometimes cursings become blessings. If you look for the rainbow in the cloud, you'll find them. It may take awhile as you entertain discouragement and frustration. Satan will be there also, trying to get his two cents in. Don't let him. Pray to recognize his evil doings. That's why you can't give up.

Think instead about that day last summer when there was a light breeze as you sat on the lounge chair sipping a cool drink, watching the kids actually get along for once or some other pleasant thought. Into your mind, peace will come and that's why.

A new friend cried on my shoulder yesterday because everyone in her family is out of work, the neighbor is unfeeling and she was discouraged. I felt impressed to tell her to ask God to take the burden, at least for awhile. Everytime those thoughts returned, she needed to remember that Jesus was carrying that load. Give it back to Him. That's why. We don't have to do it ourselves, ever.

Jesus wants our burden. He says: 'Come unto me all ye that labor and are heavy laden and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, for my yoke is easy and my burden is light." That's why I can do it. So can you, everytime.

Tuesdays-Tried & True: Talents

Often we are told something and have a hard time believing it until we try it ourselves. I'll share those things that I try & have found to be true on Tuesdays.

Talents: In the ‘Parable of the Talents’ the people that used their talents wisely, actually received double reward for making a better life by using them. I was skeptical of this story because I didn’t think I had been given any talents.

I didn't have the opportunity to play the piano, couldn’t carry a tune so singing was out, wasn’t interested in dance classes and quit band on the second day. You can imagine my concern as a seventeen year old, when my friends all wanted to try out for the Miss Bluffdale contest. Peer pressure got the best of me and I signed up. I was fearful of speaking in public let alone standing in front of a crowd, to convince them and five judges that I was the best of the bunch. My biggest problem was that I had no performing talent. I could bale hay, sew a dress, feed chickens and read books. Yeah, like that would go over on stage.

An idea came to me that perhaps I could give a reading. A schoolmate for the talent assembly recently performed, “Bette at the Baseball Game”. It was super funny, one only had to act dumb and memorize. I could do this. Getting the script from her, I diligently worked to present this skit.

The next hurdle was to overcome my fear of speaking in public, because I would be doing lots of it. Often because of doubt a huge lump would form in my throat, making it near impossible to talk. The night of the contest before they called my name to share my talent, I prayed for courage and all those other things I needed that very moment. I had been praying for days actually, to be able to pull it off. I knew without the Lord, I would fail.

My name was announced. Taking a deep breath, with heart pounding, dressed in a robe and phone in hand I stepped onto the stage. Concentrating on my lines and that I was Bette (not Colleen) the words came loud, clear and with enthusiasm. It was a success! Sure I made a few mistakes, but discovered that with the Lord, I could do anything. Thus began my small town acting career and a newly discovered talent.

The queen was a beautiful dark haired piano playing, singing and dancing friend of mine; but, I was the first runner up. I did it & you can too, with faith in yourself and a lot of help from the Lord. Try it, you'll like it.

Memories on a Monday Morning-Mount Rushmore

Today is Ground Hog Day and we're halfway to spring. Forty plus days to the rebirth of another 'greening of the earth' year. But, that doesn't mean we can't enjoy today, even if the little 'pot gut' as my husband calls them, did see his shadow. Yeah! Halfway is a good thing, because the next day is more than half, even almost there.

So what does that have to do with Mount Rushmore? It's an amazing place, you should visit. When our family walked from the visitor's center looking up, the presidential reliefs came into our view, taking our breaths away. This awesome monument to leaders, let's us know we can do anything against all odds. The artists & the driving force behind creating such a great carving, had an uphill battle from the get go. At least that's what I remember from the tours.

On this same trip, we went to the Badlands of South Dakota. Somewhere amongst those hills was a ground hog heaven set aside for these little guys. We enjoyed taking pictures of heads popping up and down having so much fun with them. Visit both.
Most of all remember, you are halfway there. You can do it!

Savor Sundays-Our Savior's Love

Although it is Monday, I want to give a brief mention of my feelings from Sunday. As I sat pondering what words of encouragement to share, the opening hymn for church was, "Our Savior's Love" by Edward L. Hart. I remember when it was first introduced to me in the 1970's how warm, accepted and guided it made me feel.

The opening line says, 'Our Savior's love shines like the sun with perfect light. As from above it breaks thru clouds of strife. Lighting our way, it leads us back into his sight. Where we may stay to share eternal life.' The photo shows the light just coming down the cliff and chasing away the darkness.

The past several days have been very clear, smog free and beautiful outside. What an exhilerating feeling, that winter (sorrow, burdens) will soon pass and spring (Hope) is on the way. I could just visualize it singing this verse, knowing that the Savior wants to help break thru our clouds of problems to light our way. If we let him, he will show us how to find peace.

"The Spirit voice of goodness, whispers to our hearts a better choice than evil's anguished cries. Loud may the sound of hope ring till all doubt departs, and we are bound to him by loving ties."

As we recognize His voice and turn to His call, our hearts will be comforted by choosing the right. We then feel a kinship to Christ and want to tie ourselves to Him. May you find peace & joy each day, too.