“What do you say, May?”

On By K.L. HaleIn newsletter, Uncategorized

May came in with a punch! Really, May? Again? It’s been almost a year since that day.

With the rain falling gently outside I sat at my computer to begin a newsletter. Momentum seemed on my side. I would hit “publish” on May 1st. What a great plan! That day was followed by activities that felt brand new again. A movie, a mall,…it will never feel the same. A different perspective. A shift about shopping (truly, I hate it, anyway, lol). My soul was swirling around the ’70s after binging a show titled “Firefly Lane” on Netflix. “Are You There God? It’s Me, Margaret?” delivered me to a decade that I cherish and remember (and 3/4 of the “Horseshoe Girls” together again-more to follow in new writings). The following days had no separation; the pain took the position. It’s time to boast again about my weakness. “Hi, God! It’s me, Karla! I love you no matter what!”

With each NEW day, I live with an OLD promise. No matter the day, week, month, or year…

God’s love never fails.

Happy May, my friends! Have faith. You are loved. 💚

The definition of hale (adjective)-

-free from defect, disease, or infirmity : SOUND also : retaining exceptional health and vigor a hale and hearty old man

https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/hale

By clicking submit, you agree to share your email address with the site owner and Mailchimp to receive marketing, updates, and other emails from the site owner. Use the unsubscribe link in those emails to opt out at any time.

Processing…
Success! You're on the list.
Advertisement

70 thoughts on ““What do you say, May?””

    1. Dwight, thank you so much! It’s so wonderful to be here! Your support and wisdom is used and appreciated! I’ll do those things! Please take care. Blessings!

      Like

      Reply
  2. Ginger Salvatore

    Happy May to you Karla! Happy Mother’s Day. Happy healing days while you grow stronger. I hope spring has sprung where you have settled in and you are enjoying the unending beauty of color the spring flowers bring. I’ll bet sweet Miss Finley is enjoying being outside sniffing the flowers and chasing bumblebees!

    It warms my heart to read your words because you sound so positive and upbeat. I can’t think of anyone who deserves to feel good more than you. I know this journey isn’t over for you, but you have already surpassed what seemed like insurmountable roadblocks.

    If anyone wanted to know exactly what the term “Rock of Gibraltar” meant, they only need to look at your unwavering faith. Your body may be weak, but your faith stays strong, and it will keep carrying you through.

    Always so happy to receive a post from you my friend. Remember we talked about how it ain’t over until the fat lady sings? Well, she was getting restless to start singing again, so I baked a ginormous batch of brownies for her, to which I added a bit of Ex-Lax….okay, a LOT of Ex-Lax….so she will be otherwise occupied in the bathroom for a loooong, loooong time, and won’t be singing!

    As always, hugs and kisses and belly rubs for Finley, and my continued prayers to you and your family. Be well. Be happy. Behave! Ginger

    Sent from my iPad

    >

    Liked by 2 people

    Reply

    1. Ginger, I was sipping my afternoon coffee when I was teasing your response (note to self~don’t drink and read Ginger’s words simultaneously, lol 😂). You always make me giggle; you always make me glad. I’m so thankful for you! I’d rather you not sing anytime soon and I do wish you lots of “relaxing” time. Oh boy, Ginger!
      You have to know that I was in a very dark place a few days. I have a pilot light of faith that I’ll keep on. From that, I can produce more with time. Do you remember you and Pam and the cries and fries and how you’ll both let me have the breakdowns? Yep.
      When I think of healing, I think of that which was once dead inside me and now has life. I pray for healing. I have it. God’s timetable is different than mine. Paul, an unbelievable messenger who once was a huge hater, lived with a “thorn” that never let up. That’s why HE could boast in his weakness! With this disease I’ll never “let up” and take control. God has me where he wants me. Some of your words brought tears ~ I know so many suffering worse. When I feel good I REALLY feel good! I mean REALLY good because I know the pain. It’s indescribable; yet, I know it could be worse.
      My heart was happy to hit publish. I gulped. My brain is mushy. And my words can be too. But if you FEEL my faith then I fulfilled part of my mission! Yay!
      Finn thanks you for belly rubs…she loves them! And we are group hugging and sending you love and giggles. Thank you again, my friend, for the words and “visuals” of laughter, love, and strength!! Please take care! 💛💛💛

      Like

      Reply

  3. I feel like I could write a book right now with all the thoughts you have inspired me with. I see that May 4 th is a national day of prayer – some people say it’s Star Wars Day (May the Force Be With You) and we know it is both!
    Time shifts, and those who cared for us become our caregivers. Life dictates change. I was just hugging my 84 year Dad, three generational hug since my son joined in.
    What doesn’t change is the strength of spirit which is more amazing. My Mom had that gift of light and caring for people. I wish I had tea with you to tell you about my Mom. You and her are so alike. Bless you today Karla. I am thinking about you. – David

    Liked by 1 person

    Reply

    1. David, I wish we could have tea, too! I was so happy to get your email! I’ll be responding soon as you must know how you and your precious family are such an inspiration to me! Look at what all you’ve been through! I know you understand this: the GUILT that I should be the one taking care of my parents and helping family. Truly, it’s something I’ve handed to the Lord…take it, please. There’s so many layers to disease that are not related to the physical impacts…yet, combine them all…how can one face it without faith? I could never! My Mom is such a sweetheart! My Dad too! I cherish all the hugs I get (and the long distance ones). Oh your sweet Dad and family.
      About the 4th~yes! We need both holidays! Lol. It’s amazing how many holidays there are~and who makes some of them so? I want to create one! If you could create one, what would it be? Here’s to that tea, David~sip sip hooray to Christ and surviving with love and faith! Thank you for being you!

      Liked by 1 person

      Reply

  8. Oh Dear Karla! Happy May and Mother’s Day to you. Your words caught me – as they always do – “His grace has grown me.”
    YES!! You shine His powerful sunlight through and through.
    Thank you for sharing your inspiration and struggle, hope and strength,
    Much love to you!

    Liked by 1 person

    Reply

  9. Hey Karla and Finn ❤️. Happy Mothers Day, and all those days of May you mentioned. A busy month indeed but you are holding your heart open and letting love in. I remember my little visit with God, and after He spoke I just ‘let go’ of everything. I could feel we had our time so there was no reason to hold anything, to trust and have faith. But, it is the getting there that is the making of us. We can’t love until we love ourselves…and on through those many emotions and feelings. He wants us to understand…and trust me, your journey is teaching a love beyond words kind lady. To touch something so profound in our hearts is to see and feel that unconditional love He is teaching us down here. It is a very beautiful thing dear lady, and as hard as these moments are, your beginning to really shine my friend. And yes, when you’ve healed you can skip and jump in that smile within, whether its raining, hail or sunshine. It all has a great big purpose of love. Big hugs to you both from Oz, and a big bunch of loving energy for a snooze later 🤣 Take care 😀❤️🙏

    Liked by 2 people

    Reply

    1. Mark, I see myself skipping, and Finn too (in her 3-legged way) and laughing at what we’ve overcome ~and the strength we can gain. IF skipping isn’t doable for a bit I’ll keep putting one foot in front of the other in the most peaceful pace! You really have a way with the heart words, Mark! It’s pure love! Maybe I should put on my red ruby slippers before I visit Oz! I sure need that energy~and the snoozing is becoming necessary too! Much love our friend! Keep on keeping on! Finn and me 💛💪🏻🪴🎶💪🏻✝️✝️

      Liked by 2 people

      Reply

      1. Haha 🤣 Yes do the ruby red slippers dear lady, I think a tap or two will teach us a little Karla charisma down here. In the meantime a ruby red heartfelt energy coming over to both you guys. Sleep well, dream a gentle dream, and much strength for your journey 😀❤️🙏

        Liked by 1 person

  10. “Prune with promises and fertilize with faith.” Wonderful metaphors for this time of year! Promises can help us prune out doubts, fear, and discouragement; faith can grow our spiritual strength, joy in what IS, and peace in the all-sufficiency of God. Thank you, K. L.!

    Liked by 3 people

    Reply

    1. Happy May, Kelley! Thank you for your support and positive feedback~I always appreciate you. I’ve been lifting you daily. I’m glad you enjoyed the quote, too! What a great Mother’s Day for you on baby watch as you experience a new generation! Yay, May! Much love, 💛

      Liked by 1 person

      Reply

  13. It’s funny – what struck me was your point about parents wanting their kids to be happy. My mom said, “I just want you to be happy” but happiness for ME was defined by what would have been happiness for HER and, in her case, it was a total delusion. BUT, now I get it. If I said to a kid if I had one I would mean something totally different. I’d mean, “Find what makes you happy in your life and do it whenever you can as long no one is hurt.” Really different meaning from my mom…

    God’s love is steadfast and inscrutable (I think). I had a very busy day writing my article. I felt strange and pushed until I was finished. Then I went out with Teddy to my refuge where the clouds had turned the snowy peaks into distant ghosts and the summer birds perched on the old cattails. All was suddenly well again in my world and that of my little dog. I am so so so grateful for that vast horizon and its unfailing message to me. Take it easy, Martha, you have no idea what’s going on, but here’s the beauty of nature and at least right now you get that. Big hugs to you Karla and big enough hugs to Finn from me, Bear and Teddy ❤️ 🏔️🐾🐾

    Liked by 1 person

    Reply

    1. Happy Wednesday, MAK! I thought of you writing your article and thought of you as I was trying to “wrap up” this post. “Find what makes you happy in your life…” you were a mom. Think how many “kids” you had for decades and decades. It’s hard to see those you love feel sad. I can’t imagine being emotionless. By feeling it all, I understand it all better. The old saying that you appreciate things the harder you work for them? I appreciate the ways that emotions can come and go and leave me in better spots. There was a time I didn’t think I’d get to the “other side”! God’s love us steadfast! I felt a sweet peace (with a smile) thinking of you and Teddy in the refuge. I am so so so grateful for that vast horizon and its unfailing message to me. “Take it easy, Martha, you have no idea what’s going on, but here’s the beauty of nature and at least right now you get that”…I love that. And we love you 3 huge! Thank you for taking us “with you” to the refuge. 🏔️🐾💕

      Liked by 1 person

      Reply

  14. Three things amaze me from this post, all amazing in very positive, joyful ways. First, you have a most excellent band of sisters and brothers who have joined into this journey on which you are traveling. You are blessed with genuine friends who continue to reach out to you in love and laughter, caring and concern. Many of them you have known by shared history, the rest by shared writing. This band of spiritual siblings is in itself an encouragement to any who will read the comments through to the end. Hallelujah to the King! And eucharisteo, beholding the good grace of our God!

    Second, your writings of the changes in a year, challenges overcome or awaiting the overcoming, and charity you experience from our God and from others bespeak the faith that guides and guards you. Your words, regardless of the immediate topic, reflect that greater-growing faith. More evidence of the good grace of our God. Eucharisteo indeed!

    Third, peace. Peace seems to go deep into your heart, only to bubble back to the surface in your words. Yes, there is uncertainty, and there are all the human feelings of the uncertain journey. Yet the peace is there, sometimes still, sometimes trickling, and occasionally flowing. Hallelujah to the Prince of Peace Who indwells your being! And again, eucharisteo indeed!

    Jesus stated that for all who would follow (come after in the same journey) Him, out of them would flow rivers of living water.

    He was right. I’ve seen it. Thank you, Karla!

    Liked by 2 people

    Reply

    2. Tim, this is beautiful, thank you dear friend. Eucharisteo! Thanksgiving and gratitude fill my heart! I feel blessed to have so much support. Your words, “Yet the peace is there, sometimes still, sometimes trickling, and occasionally flowing” stuck out…even in loneliness, feelings of sadness, times of doubt,…they’re fleeting and there’s peace STILL trickling and bubbling deep inside me. I think of all the names of Christ and my dead friend, Kim, reminded me through a prayer journal gift, of “Jehovah-Rophe”. It’s the Spirit that gives life to the physical body. I’m healed, Tim! There WAS something dying inside of me. You suspected the growing and it’s true! It’s there! He’s also my Jehovah Jireh, my provider. HE’S so MANY things~HE’S EVERYTHING. I’m so blessed to truly believe this and to walk, or rest, in this promise. I know you’ve seen it and you’ve lived it!
      I will spend time soon to catch up on email, my friend. I thank you for your spiritual wisdom and gifts. Finn and I are thankful for you and Jackson! On another note, I thank you for the coffee. The simple pleasures in life are truly the best ones to savor! Coffee, nature,…all in knowing and feeling the love and healing of Christ! Eucharisteo (my new favorite Greek/Hebrew word)! Stay safe and blessed on your journeys!

      Like

      Reply

  15. Karla, this May is certainly a busy one! The prayer warriors were on it tonight and after our prayers we talked about “pilgrimages”. One of our group is in Poland on a pilgrimage. We are planning an outing closer to home to a healing spring about 2 hours from here…

    Liked by 1 person

    Reply

    1. I thought of you all last night, Val, for your Tuesday gathering of Giant prayers and spirit! Pilgrimage…there’s so much to say about this word. I imagine the one you will be doing close to home. Sending you love and hugs as you and Sparky embark on your adventures too! 💛🙏🏻

      Like

      Reply

  20. Yes, when the chicks fly off to new “nests”, as you say, one must find new purpose. Hasn’t been easy – still isn’t, but real love never is. Shalom and prayers for joy in tiny steps today, Jane

    Liked by 1 person

    Reply

    1. “…but real love never is…” Jane, I think of the last post of yours I read. Your wisdom, life, the loves, losses…you understand. You know real love! The prayers and peace are top priority in my existence. Through it all, joy and pain, there’s still a peace. I’m sending you peace and prayers at this moment. 💕✝️ hugs and love

      Like

      Reply

      1. Karla, sending you hugs and love back at ‘cha, across the miles. Saturday I went with a friend whose sister-in-law has NET – which makes four people I have met in the past two years with this, well, “difficult thing” doesn’t begin to describe it, I know and I am sorry for not having the words. I loved this quote by Junot Diaz for you today: “What I am trying to cultivate is not blind optimism, but radical hope.” May it be so for you and yours — Jane

        Liked by 1 person

      2. Jane, thank you, sweet soul. It’s fascinating to me~I’ve only met two people and continue to search for those like me. And you know 4 others. In my area, I’m the only one that most know. This Friday I will appear on a local morning show to talk about NETs. I’m praying the Spirit will use me to help just ONE. I believe there are more of us out there.
        Jane, never apologize for not having words. I understand. All of us have some sort of “suffering”. There are layers and challenges that come with all of them. My wisdom has grown and I believe I’m healing. It’s true that once it goes to bones, there’s little that can be done. But the largest tumor in pancreas and liver are shrinking, thus easing some burden inside. My bones ache and I was used to that! I was in the ER not long ago, then back for fluids, and Saturday, going to a nearby ArtsFest. I’ll take every good hour! The quote is perfect! “Radical hope!” Yes!
        Much love and hugs, dear friend. Please take care. 💛

        Like

  21. Happy May Karla! I always think of May as an anticipatory month. We are anticipating warmer weather, we are anticipating more sun, we are anticipating… I don’t want May to be over too quickly but I am really anticipating the sun on my face, a gentle breeze at my back and the smell of spring in the air! Stay safe my friend.

    Liked by 1 person

    Reply

    1. Pam, I love that! I’m going to think of it that way because of you (you’re a smart cookie you know!). Anticipation is something to cherish! “…sun on my face, a gentle breeze ad my back, and the smell of spring…” you nailed it, my friend! Happy May, Pam! Love and hugs! 💕🙏🏻

      Liked by 1 person

      Reply

    1. Thank you, Matt! As YOU know the physical challenges really try to get in the way! I heard something in the wee morning hours of Monday…”You’re healed.” God’s healing and what we believe to be healing might be different. There’s something alive in me that once was dying. I might still have tumors, but each day I’m closer to HIM. Have you heard the song, “First Things First” by Consumed by Fire? I was falling in that trap of wanting Spring Things. Nope! I don’t wanna love what the world loves, I don’t wanna chase what the world does,…I only want HIM. First things first. There’s such freedom, Matt! You know what I’m talking about! I’m praying with you through your book, teaching, ministry, …the lives impacted through your victories. Hard fought and easily loved! Blessings to you as we forge ahead in faith!

      Like

      Reply

  23. Happy May and Mother’s Day to you, precious Karla. I am sorry I am late in replying, but I read your post on Tuesday. You are running the race and you are persevering with God’s help. It is always so good and makes me happy when you write, dear one. You remain a ray of sunshine. I read this scripture this morning and I am sharing a portion here. “….For we are powerless against this great horde that is coming against us. We do not know what to do, but our eyes are on you.” 2 Chronicles:20:12b. May we keep our eyes on the Father this day and every day, because we do not know what to do.

    We pray for you and you are loved 💛🙏🏻🌺🌼☕️🎶💛

    Liked by 1 person

    Reply

    1. Thank you, Pam. You never have to apologize! See how late I am responding? This is another reason why I love this community so much. Your support and prayers lift me! How is Butch? I lift you both daily! I “see” spring at the cottage and I smile.
      I began a full Bible study a few weeks ago. It will take a year. I think I can spend each year doing a study and will STILL continue to learn~the history, parallels, narratives, poetry, and prose. The learning, wisdom, and relatability ~a beautiful creation out of chaos and how no one could do anything but ruin it! Then Jesus. I thought of how he even questioned his own situation (“Really, Dad?”). And shifted fast with “Thy WILL be done”. This one human, and our God, continues to give me hope. Just as written in Chronicles, I’ll “keep my eyes on you”. Being powerless is agreeing with me (😘💕✝️). I feel the love and prayers you send. I see your beautiful place, faces, and shared love among your family and my heart smiles. I love you, Pam. Please take care. 💛💛🙏🏻✝️💚💕🎶🪴🪴

      Liked by 1 person

      Reply

      1. Love you, Karla. Thank you for your prayers. Butch is on a long journey with health issues. Our trust is in God and our eyes are on Him. We are safe in His care. 💛🌷🌼🎶✝️💕🌿

        Liked by 1 person

      2. It’s my blessing to pray for and with you all. I’m sorry to hear of Butch’s journey. He is truly a miracle now! I stand with you both in faith and trust in God. Much love 💛🙏🏻

        Liked by 1 person

  24. It is so great to hear from you again, Karla, with your multiple and magnificent May musings. I am glad to hear that your faith is unwavering and your drive to communicate is still there. We – your eager audience – love hearing from you.

    I have had an April for the ages and have thus been pretty silent on WordPress. But May brings a blessed break for me, so hopefully I can get back up on this horse and ride a bit.

    Continued prayers for your healing and humor.

    Russell

    Liked by 1 person

    Reply

    1. Russell, how kind that you are eager to hear from me! I learn so much from YOU! My faith continues to grow each day with each new step. I want to hear about your April if you feel inclined to share! Did you write about it? You can email. And if not, please know I send you both hugs and prayers! I do hope and pray you’re ok. I’m happy to talk to our Father on your behalf! I hope we can all continue to heal and find humor~even in tough times. Many many blessings, Russell.

      Like

      Reply

  27. Oh my, this must have posted when I was not home. May first is my sister’s birthday and it’s always the beginning of many celebrations in May but like you May is a measurement because it is my birthday month too. I’m amazed now at how fast the years are passing. The numbers are stacking up as are yours, and sometimes I just wish one thing in my life would stay the same. My health, my weight, my age, my grandchildren…but nothing ever stays the same. We’re constantly evolving and I have to assume that is what God intended at our creation. The minutes, days, seasons, and years actually spin, no moment is exactly the same as the next. This gives me hope. Today is one thing and tomorrow could be completely different. I don’t know if I should be scolding or thanking God? I love you Karla, you always spark a lot of thought in me, and my heart swells to read your words. Hugs, C

    Liked by 1 person

    Reply

    1. “We’re constantly evolving…no moment is exactly the same…Dear C, since the time I’ve known you evolvement has been your theme. Look at the things I bet you NEVER thought you’d do. Happy birthday month (what day?)! Time amazes me. I think of what I DO with this gift of it. I try to make them count the best I can. I like the work it takes to live. I don’t want to become stunted by disease so I’ll keep evolving with only the good stuff and try to let go of any “icky” that tries to stick! I love you, C, and I feel the arms of my C blanket wrapped around me sipping wonderful love and warmth! You’re a blessing. 💛

      Like

      Reply

  28. Karla, as I catch up with this post, I feel God’s grace blessing me through your thoughtful words. He walks each day with us. When we take a moment to look around, we see His faithful footprints. Blessings my dear friend!

    Liked by 1 person

    Reply

    1. Thank you, Richard! It means so much you stopped by! I’m so happy you are blessed by the words. It’s truly what I hope and pray when I sit to write! It’s a beautiful world if we choose to see it! God is so good and I’m so glad we’re on this journey together, dear friend!

      Like

      Reply

Leave a Reply

Please log in using one of these methods to post your comment:

Gravatar
WordPress.com Logo

You are commenting using your WordPress.com account. ( Log Out /  Change )

Facebook photo

You are commenting using your Facebook account. ( Log Out /  Change )

Cancel

Connecting to %s

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.