Wisdom
“Fear of the Lord is the foundation of wisdom. Knowledge of the Holy One results in good judgment.”
Proverbs 9:10
Wisdom isn’t doing what’s best for me. No longer do I worry about what “looks, feels, or imitates” what the world desires, but willfully desire only that which pleases the Lord.
My amazing principal, Pat, questioned my graduate degree major. “Why not go into leadership?” she asked. Teaching kids to read was my love, why would I change that? Being the center of attention or the “face” of a place is not what I wanted. Unwanted attention might seem fine when you feel unnoticed. But it can lead to unwise choices. Who has your attention? In what ways does wisdom guide you? Do you gain wisdom from following the law? Wise people will fail, just as the unwise. Then what. How do you create fellowship with your Heavenly Father? Wisdom warrants that you turn away from and close the door on anything that wraps you so tight in worldliness, that you can’t breathe the Spirit and be who God desires you to be. Run to what matters most!
Weird
“We are all a little weird and life’s a little weird, and when we find someone, whose weirdness is compatible with ours, we join up with them and fall in mutual weirdness and call it love.”
Dr. Seuss
What makes you weird? Or are you trying to wedge in the cracks of the world, so you don’t stand out? Why do I watch documentaries and dream of traveling the world? Why do I desire the comfort of watching Little House, The Waltons, and westerns? Why do I crave the smell of honeysuckle, coffee, bacon, cinnamon rolls, and an old church or schoolhouse? Why do I yearn for the great outdoors? Why do I count things? Why is it important that I begin each day by reading the WORD, books of the wise, and talking to my Heavenly Papa? If your weirdness helps you love God and others, stay WEIRD. I love being a weirdo.
“Be weird. Be random. Because you never know who would love the person you hide.”
C.S. Lewis
Stay weird (unless it’s against the law) 😉.
Wacky
Yesterday it was 80 degrees. This morning, it felt like an icy rag slapped my face with a 10-degree windchill! Wacky weather everywhere!
It’s just a thought, I know it’s wacky! But I heard if you eat less and move more, you might lose weight. I’ve learned that if I save more and spend less, I can be more generous! Even wackier is the fact smiling might make someone else smile! Checking on a neighbor or calling a friend might even lift your spirits. Showing kindness might even produce a great return…, it’s wacky and weird how it all works.
Wonderful
“Most folks are about as happy as they make up their minds to be.”
Abraham Lincoln
Springfield, MO was listed 80th on a list of the happiest cities in America (in the Community and Environment category). It ranked 165th in the Emotional and Well-Being category. You might like the article and survey below! Weird.
What makes life wonderful for you? Pets? Money? Kids? Job? Being able to show generosity, pay bills, and have food on my table does help my emotional well-being. In a more, more, more society, would having MORE money make me happier? I doubt it. Weird.
The interpreter worked her magic as the kids TRIED to sit still. Excitedly, they each wanted to share–and of course, pet Finley! The room is quiet to most of them. To half, it’s complete silence. Hands and hearts of love lead and teach them. My heart was full and happy. It was a WONDERFUL visit.
Two adorable self-tattooed boys asked to pet Finley. Their mom laughed and shared about their artistic talents. I giggled. Two young gals commented on my “Faith Can Move Mountains” shirt. Derek, Pat (I’m mentioning 2 Pats in a post!), and Kailyn from Ozark made my day as we visited about old names, similar names, the Finley River, life, and cancer. Brelyn walked by, wearing a beautiful smile, clasping her Bible. “What did you learn today?” I asked. She shared the wisdom in Ephesians, about being from St. Louis, and that she’s a junior at Missouri State University (my alma mater!). I shared Paul’s letter to the Galatians (where I’m at in my whole WORD study). We shared smiles and a hug. A precious man in a wheelchair struggled when asking questions about Finley. To some, these encounters might seem weird. My walk was MORE than wonderful.
My problems are first world. Today I have air in my lungs, a roof over my head (with heat), and food in my refrigerator. My body might ache, and I might wish for different circumstances. Worry? It’s a waste. I need wisdom, weird, wacky, and wonderful for the WIN!
In a world looking down, I want to look up. It’s weird. Are you willing to be weird?
May wisdom, the weird and wacky, and the wonderful create a wonderful Wednesday-and week!💕
Have you heard of NET, yet? 🦓
At times, my mind is boggled with new learning. Due to its uniqueness, NET cancer is multilayered (symptoms, primary tumor site, treatment options, etc…we are all zebras). We have six new members in our Wednesday support group. Without this group, I would not be where I am today. Recently, I participated in a case study with other NET patients regarding the P.R.R.T. radiation treatment for neuroendocrine cancer. Tomorrow I’ll receive a different treatment and a new bone injection. But first, a blood draw and a visit with my oncologist. Bridging the communication gaps between caregivers and doctors is challenging. Daily tasks and responsibilities take more time than usual. To resume writing, I’m creating office hours and a new schedule. Two days writing and editing, a day with my support group and outreach. One day reading and doing home responsibilities, and my favorite, a day in nature and/or connecting with friends. Each day I’m dedicating time to writing in my journal and movement (and “snapping” my “kids” and grandkids!). Future appointments and a trip to Maryland are in the books. All things take time. I’m so grateful to God for TIME.
Thank you to my family for being a constant source of support. Thank you, friends, for your understanding, prayers, and encouragement. 💛
Do you have wins in the books? What’s wise, weird, wacky, and wonderful to you?
If I’m not able to return texts or emails promptly, I apologize. At times, technology can overwhelm me. It’s a joy to visit your places and see how life is treating you as well.
I hope to see you soon!Have faith💚 YOU ARE LOVED.
I love you all to the moon and back!
Pics (with permissions granted)-K.L. Hale
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Dear Karla, I read this quote recently: “Don’t ask yourself what the world needs. Ask yourself what makes you come alive and then go do that. Because what the world needs is people who have come alive.” -Howard Thurman, Theologian Wise.
That’s beautiful, C.D. Thank you for sharing! I appreciate you!
you put a lot into this post Karla. From what you are doing, learning to a great challenge on many levels. I wondered how cold it got down there. We had a nice snowstorm, cold temps and crazy wind. Love the wise weird and wacky slant…it’s the stuffing of life.
I thought you’d appreciate this, Gary. I can imagine the weather in your neck of the woods. I thought I was in your area this morning! My body “told” me the temps were dropping~wind gusts as strong as Montana winds! I couldn’t help but think wacky, weird (that’s me!), and how wonderful life can be~yes, the stuffing! I had about 4 posts in “one”, but I knew, depending on how tomorrow goes and how life throws things daily, I better put it all in one wild post! God bless you and yours, dear friend. Thank you for supporting me. 🙏🏻
Praying on the tomorrow.
Thank you, Gary! I appreciate that so much. I’m praying for all of you–and that precious JOY-filled daughter!
Karla, you have wisdom, wackiness, weirdness, wholesomeness, and wonderfulness all rolled up into one petite ball of dynamite! You never cease to amaze me.
Those kids are so adorable I want to hug them all. Sweet Miss Finley takes the prize though. Of course all the kids want to pet her, and I imagine take her home! That little fur ball would make anybody feel better.
Laughing and smiling? That should be on everyone’s “to do list”. In fact, it should come naturally to all of us. One of my weird traits is that when I smile at someone who remains stone-faced, it makes me even happier that I smiled at them because they really needed a soft touch of kindness. Smiling is free. It never discriminates. It doesn’t have any calories. It never hurts. And it sends a heartwarming message to the recipient.
So listen you weirdo, keep on smiling and finding things to laugh at. Enjoy the gift of regaining your health, tiny bit by tiny bit, and remember the hope you give others is monumental. Spread your weirdness around…it’s magical.
Healing hugs and belly rubs to Sweet Miss Finley. Oh, okay, you can have some too! Sheeeesh, sometimes you’re such a baby! 🤗
Ginger🦋
Sent from my iPad
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Golly, Ginger…I wish you could hear me giggle. Ok, I laughed out loud on the weirdo and being a baby part! 🤭😂 darn it! I want a hug too, you weirdo! 🫣🤭😂
My twin says her only goal in life is to make me laugh so she can hear it~and she’s a hoot!
Smiling IS the best. And when I’m not smiling, some will wonder what’s up? There are times…
I love your description ~”Smiling is free. It never discriminates. It doesn’t have calories. It never hurts. And it sends a heartwarming message…” Amen!
Finley is smiling right now as I give her your belly rubs.
Aren’t kids the best? Did I tell you about my 3 grandkids?!? Tee hee (cue the eye-rolls as we all talk about the cuteness of OUR kids, grandkids, and pets 🙄🤪).
You always deliver such encouragement, enthusiasm, and love!
Thank you dear Ginger. I’m listening, learning, resting (today)…and living!
Oh, and loving! We love you! 💕❤️🙏🏻 🐾
K and F 💚🐾 🥾
Oh, let’s be weird, as much as possible. Being weird is fun, supports creativity, and makes you detatch from the norm that is actually ties you to the ground. I wish you all the best with this new treatment. Sending you loads of love, dear Karla 💖
P.S. Finley is such a cutie 💖
Thank you, Erika! I love our weirdo friendship! It’s so amazing!
“Being weird is fun, supports creativity, and makes you detatch from the norm that actually ties you to the ground.” Power punch! Love it!…and you!
Thank you for being here and supporting me. 💕🙏🏻🦋💛🫶🏻
I am more than thankful for being here and connected to you. A real blessing. Love you too, me dear friend, sending you a huge hug 💖
❤️🥰🙏🏻💛🤗
Finn says thank you! 🐾🤭💕
🐶😍
Beautifull written Sister Karla. I totally on the same page. I hope you are feeling ok.
Thank you, sweet sister! Thank you for your email my friend (I’m slowly catching up!). I thought you’d be on the same page. I’m praying you both are feeling good, too.
The weather tried to sucker punch my bones! You know well with what you endure~I’m praying for you as you do me. I’m so happy we’re prayer partners and family! 💕🙏🏻❤️
You are welcome. I understand about emails catching up; no rush. I do understand the weather as well, it was hard to believe years ago when older people said that but now…. Thank you for the much-needed prayers.
It’s my pleasure to pray! Yes, I’m giggling on the weather comment–it’s funny, but not! Lol. Many hugs and prayers. Thank you for your understanding and support.
You know what’s weird? I count things, too. And what is wonderful? Friends who text me smiling selfies for the purpose of good cheer. As for wins—59 days alcohol free today.
I pray for your different treatments and the new bone injection, for your blood draw and the bridged communication, your daily tasks and resumed writing, the new schedule, time with God and family “snaps.” YOU inspire me, Karla. I love you! 💕 🌕🦋
Crystal, what a beautiful response! Thank you!! You wrapped every word in love and encouragement! I agree with you on the text of good cheer! Sip sip hooray! And let’s ALL wish congratulations to Crystal on 59 days alcohol free! Way to go, my friend! I’m so proud of you!
You’re winning in so many ways. YOU inspire me, too! I love you! 💕☕️💛
🐩🥾🐾 I love that little dog.
MAK—oh how she loves you too! Gosh, we both do. You just have NO idea how much!!! Right, Finn?! (She’s wearing a hoodie that says, “Social Butterfly” —I was that girl that said, “No way am I putting clothes on my dogs!” …..she shivers once—3 sweaters appear! Lol). Thank you, MAK. 🐾 She saved me. 💕🥾💕
I know she saved you. And clothes on a tiny dog who has no reserves and wasn’t designed for the Arctic? That’s just love.
Aww…thank you, MAK! 💛💕❤️😭🐾🤗
a wonderful post: you are on your way, Karla. and that Finely: what a character ! May your treatment go well today: it’s in my diary. You were on the prayer line Tuesday at Fellowship and we all sang your fave hymn— to Karla: Leaning on the Everlasting arms. We sang our little hearts out
I’m crying right now, John. Through laughter, too.💛😭 I’ll go in tomorrow. Oh, my friend. I’m going to call my sis and we will sing for YOU. Leaning on the Everlasting Arms! THANK YOU for your precious fellowship! Did you know my all-time favorite hymn is “It is well with my soul”…but how do I choose when there are SO many to love? I can imagine you sang your little hearts out. Today I told a blogging friend that I’m singing my little heart out like a bird. Let’s keep singing, John. And let’s stay weird together! I appreciate you so much, my friend. And Finley, yes,…she’s a character for sure. Much like her mom–weird and quirky. lol. 💛❤️
weird and quirky is wonderful; worth striving for 🙂 don’t know that hymn; will look it up. thank you so much for si-nging my fave bac;k; do you know I discovered that track when i first watched the modern version of ‘True Grit’
True Grit is one of my favs, John. I love Westerns, you know. I love how that hymn is used in it. That’s awesome! 🎶it’s my blessing to pray and sing!
Yes ! It’s your party, Karla: you can dance and sing if you want to — like one of my favourite songs: ‘THe Safety Dance’ by Men without Hats : it’s weird and wacky like us , Karla; I’m going to play it on YouTube 🙂
Weird and wonderful! Sending love and hugs on this whacky weather day! 💛
Thank you, dear friend! I bet you are experiencing all of the same! Many hugs and much love! Here’s to spring, your empty house, and being a Gigi, sweet lady. 💛💕❤️🙏
Your wonderful wisdom and positive uplifting attitude always inspire. I enjoyed this post very much. This was a great line… Or are you trying to wedge in the cracks of the world, so you don’t stand out? You are right that is what so many try to do when they don’t realize how special they are.
Love your photos especially with the children. Keep up the good work, Karla.
Dwight, it always makes my heart happy to see you and read your words. Thank you! I’m so happy you enjoyed the pictures!
I’m soaking in wisdom from folks like you, my parents, other writers, friends, mentors…and each morning, begging for it from God. I don’t waste it, Dwight.
I’m thrilled the line about wedging in the cracks of the world spoke to you. It’s easy to want to “hide”. I do at times. But then, how do I share the love of God in hiding? I can do it in words eventually, he needs my hands and feet to work in different ways. It’s a balance because this world is so FAST. Perhaps if we slowed down, more hands and feet could keep up the pace.
You’re doing wonderful “work” in this world, too.
Thank you for being here and supporting me with prayers and kindness. 🙏💛
You are very welcome, Karla. I enjoy our connections here very much. Thank you!
It’s my blessing! Me too, Dwight!!
A big hug of gratitude for your giftedness and wisdom, dear one, but first a hug to those darling children for the joy they create by their very being. Today’s message is a winner…I guess being joyful and happy to be has become a bit weird or out of step nowadays, but grateful to be……
Hello, Mary! I’m with you–kids for the WIN! 💕I want to be around them every day, my friend. Especially my own family. But I treasure any second I can soak in their goodness, honesty, and down-to-earth transparency.
Thank you for the hugs and precious words. I’m blessed to be around a lot of happy people. But unhappy people really don’t always like to be around happy folk sometimes. I’ve been on both ends, Mary. Bad circumstances are …well, bad. And sad times cause sadness. I’m not superhuman. I’ll feel it all. But I know what better serves my Savior…and he wants my faith in action. I’ll do my best. I’ll fail. But I’ll keep smiling and trying. My biggest smiles have been produced by my worst pains. Love and blessings!
My mom said, “We’re just right for the shape we’re in!” I agree (…except when folks use self-destructi
Your Mom was a wise and precious soul, Sue…just like you. Thank you! I love her quote! It makes me think of a post from Cheryl today about self-destructive thoughts and how our inner voices can truly self-destruct!
I have two things in common with Finley. We both are fans of you little sister and we both like ice cream 🙂
Aww, thank you, brother!! That’s so kind!! You’d love the custard at that place, Matt. It’s so yummy! And then…coffee for the win! Tee hee
Finding that place inside is a slow patient journey. Building that confidence and standing in that love that we find brings us to a place of much heartfelt feelings. Be it with others or ourselves. Those children, and those many other loves you spoke of, is that courage to stand within that feeling inside. You fly well Karla, for having the courage to do you ❤️🙏
As for weird, it too takes courage. I remember my first post, hesitant, unsure, but determined to speak of what I found which to many was very ‘weird’ 😂 Now…well…they can’t keep me quiet 🤗🤣
You are doing what you love my friend, sharing it especially to those who find it so difficult, and for them is indeed a constant struggle. Wanting to be included but don’t know how. Your bridge is open kind lady, to make a path to that self love that little bit easier for those few. Take a bow, for daring to be you, even along your bumpy path too 🤗🥰❤️🙏
Mark, I’m so happy we’re weird together and that you can’t stay quiet!
You reek of love, you weirdo! And we all love it! Or I do, anyway (and so do Pam and Ginger, I know).
It’s not easy being an “open book”. But it’s freeing when the walls come down and expose the soul and heart. That’s how Jesus sees us. So why do we try so hard to hide it from others?
Thank you for ALWAYS giving love and encouragement—not just to me, but to so many. You never hide your light, Mark.
Thank you for being you and the kind words of support. I’m praying for you and will get back to you on email, too. Finn and I send our love, prayers, and hugs–
I sent little fairies over with tiny donuts like I did to John overseas—expect them to arrive anytime–they left a few days ago and their tiny wings DO get tired). ❤️💕🧚🧚🍩
Haha, I’ll be out on my balcony as soon as I finish this kind lady. A coffee and donuts at 10.45am is spot on. Thank you 🤣
And yes, I think you do have a great bunch on here. They all ooze the love in their own unique and beautiful way my friend. We should all stand in our own weirdo places and let the world see us for who we really are. It is so much more beautiful to be loved just as we are, just as Jesus does for us too 🤗❤️🙏
The light I found is never going out kind lady, in fact I don’t think there is a switch, once found always on. Of which I am grateful 🤗🥰
And I think it is just the fear that holds us back…but that has a beautiful purpose. It is in seeing how the fear affects us that we want to go beyond it, find that love and happiness we ever look for. And in that one act we go beyond that fear and appreciate truly what we find…His love in us ❤️🙏
I’m keeping my eyes and heart open Karla, once we feel its truth the light just can’t go out. Big hugs to you and Finn, I think I see donuts on the balcony now. Thank you 🤗🥰🤣❤️🙏
ah, yes, ….fear! Fear can take up a lot of space! I’m so glad the teeny tiny donuts are there..I’m probably going to need to send a WHOLE ARMY of fairies to make up one SMALL donut so be patient! They get caught in coastal winds, storms, …it’s crazy the stories they tell me when they return! Jeepers!
Thank you for keeping your eyes and heart open, my friend. I’ll do the same thing! Your weird friends, K and F. 🍩💚💛🤗😂❤️💕
🤗🥰❤️🙏
Another beautiful post Karla, I love the quotes you have interspersed and all the lovely pictures which draw me into your world and thoughts.
I have always called myself unique rather than weird, well since I realised how we see and talk about ourselves is so important. The thing is we are all unique, and if we were the same it would be utterly boring. The God that
Created the amazing diversity seen in nature would never have desired that we hide our personal brand of humanity. Yours is awesome, keep shining 🦋💕
Oh, Karla! I just love the energy in this blog post. It’s so full of “wisdom, weird, wacky and wonderful”; in other words, it’s full of you! I love when you say: Worry? It’s a waste. I need wisdom, weird, wacky, and wonderful for the WIN! So true. So you! And you’re so productive and full of life. I just love that! I will be thinking of you tomorrow (more than usual!) and sending you lots of love! 🤍🤍 PS: Precious photos too!
We are a little north of you Karla and dipped to eight degrees this morning with a high wind to boot. Even the dog didn’t want to go out. Weird! God Bless!
That’s weird, Jon! When dogs want to stay in, it’s cold! God bless you, too, my friend. Thank you!
Best wishes for your next treatment, Karla.
Thank you, Tanja! The blessings and prayers worked. I appreciate you!
Love this post! Stay weird dear friend! I am right there wirh you! 🤪😂
And as you know I love all those shows too and yes, there is something about old churches! 😊 Love you, my amazing, unicorn friend!🥰
Aw, you know, you weirdo, you’ve blessed my life in so many ways!
Your weird and wacky place has united us all!🤭😂🥰
I’m so glad we’re on this world walk together to “home”. We can put on the fun masks, take off the fake ones, and laugh along the way~even when it hurts!
I love you, Joy! Singing our song….🎶 💛🙏🏻💕🦋🤗☕️ 🦄
AMEN!! 🥰 Yesterday our song was playing when I turned on the radio in my car and I sang along, thinking of you and saying a prayer, dear Karla! 🙏🩷🩷💜💜💛💛Keep climbing!🧗♀️ (((Hugs))) and love!!
🧗 yay! 🥾 💛💛🙏🏻 a little hiccup but I’m making it! Thank you for singing and rooting me on! Love you!💛❤️🙏🏻🎶
Sorry about the little hiccup dear friend 🧡 🙏 praying and will keep singing! Love you ❤️
that’s a beautiful dog, looks so much fun. Bet there is a shed load of weird waiting to come out each day with that four legged star. We can learn a lot from that. more importantly we can learn so much more from the scriptures, every day, more and more. Thinking of you, hope your smiling ❤️❤️❤️
Gary, I just prayed for you and Hawklad this morning!
Finley says “thank you”!
I can see your weird dog now, trying to eat socks (tee hee).
Aren’t dogs just wonderful? Not as much as God~but they sure have the Spirit!
Sending love, hugs, and prayers. Thank you for being you and sharing your journey with us.❤️💛
I’m smiling!💕
Great post about a great day with great pictures! You can tell it made many connections because you had a boatload of interaction with people via the comments. Good work!
What a gift our God has given to you. Thanks for sharing that gift with us, you weirdo! And even your dog is weird. Hey Finley! It is your weirdo friends from up north!
God bless us, every weirdo one !
You weirdo! Finn, there’s Tim! And Rascal!
Isn’t life just wonderful, wacky, and weird?
And wisdom? YOUR walk and testimony has sharpened me more than you’ll ever know!
You’re so thoughtful in your comments and support, my friend. I’ve been soaking in each hour. And to say my life is a gift I’m giving, …it’s humbling.🙏🏻 and heartwarming!!
I’m so happy we’re weirdos~Finn is definitely weird. And wacky like her mom! Tee hee
I love how God made us all in our own ways! It’s WONDERFUL!
God bless your 6 legs up North (and your socks off! Or…maybe not if it’s still frigid up there!).
🙏🏻💛🐾
Thank you for this post, Karla. I am still amazed at how many years I spent trying to hide and deny my weirdness. My goal in every interaction was to be whatever the other person needed me to be… not who I actually was. It probably wasn’t until Jesus had a “come to me” meeting with me that I was finally OK with being the exact one God created me to be… weirdness, warts, and all.
I pray you are well as you cope with the wonders of Midwest winter.
Russell
Russell, thank you, you weirdo! Theres no denying how Jesus made us to be!
In general, in my experiences only, I find n those who don’t have a personal Relationship with Jesus “expects” Christians to be a certain “way”. We’re put in a “box” or category ~
Like those of us who drive a Subaru vs a luxury car. Those in a Jeep vs a mini-van, those who wear flannel vs fur, organic vs non-organic, Downtown loft vs downtown homeless shelter, brick vs aluminum housing, divorced vs. married, and the list goes on…..the worst? Politics! Oh my!
But what REALLY makes us weird is when we LOVE others ~no matter what. I love how weird and wacky Jesus was for promoting an upside Kingdom that said to love our enemies, bless the poor and widows, to turn the other cheek, to unite Gentiles and Jews~as one.
His Shalom~not the absence of conflict only, but to create a restoration and unite!
I’m so happy we’re united here on our walks together.
Isn’t the love of Christ wonderful?
I appreciate you and admire your weirdness~warts and all!
You perfectly described the Midwest winter~lol. I hope you’re both doing well in one of my favorite places!
God bless you, Russell! Thank you for encouraging and inspiring me! 🙏🏻💛
Karla I read that you go in for another treatment tomorrow – I’ll contact the prayer warriors and we’re on it! 🙏🏻🙏🏻 As for Weird, I’m bona fide weird. I even have a candle that I got as a gift from a friend that says “You’re weird and I like you that way!” Wacky – check! And a little wild too… my theme song is Wild Thing by The Troggs! (of course wild is walking across a ravine on a fallen tree, wearing a stick on moustache I found in a geocache, and eating little fishes and squid from a can…
I love you, you WEIRDO!! I’m giggling! Oh, the weird and wacky things I’ve done. And I’m not even the wackiest and weirdest I’ve ever met.
The song, moustache, geocaching (yes!!), …
And the best? All of you wild praying warriors!
I’m living proof that prayers (and weird?) work!
Yesterday, Faith and Grace (my two nurses) took care of me! That’s NO coincidence!
I’m giving a big weird, wacky, and wonderful hug to you and all the warriors! Thank you so much!❤️💕💛🙏🏻
Where to start my friend ….who just covered the world with news as you have it on NBC, ABC, GOD NEWS as it happens in a perfectly weird download that isn’t weird at all!! … How you do it I don’t know but I do love that you connected these amazing quotes, words of weirdness.. (we’re all a little weird.. I’m a LOT weird), You are magnificently weird, adorable, beautiful, gifted and have all of these amazing students that are such gifts to the world. Love Finn right in there with the pack, the ducks and your walk! You walk a line that blesses all of us with faith and love and love us with our human frailties no matter what! You see us, love us without judging us no matter what you’re going though what you’re going through and how insignificant ours might seem! I love your calling that you do so well and you withh all of my heart!!!!!🙏🏼❤️❤️❤️🙏🏼
What a heartwarming response, Cindy. I’m so grateful for your love, support, kindness, and prayers!
You encourage me!
I’m trying SO hard to live FULL~and when my tank is getting down to a 1/4 tank in energy and body, I “gas” (no pun intended here after treatment, lol) up on love to keep fueling my faith! A full heart does help the silly aches!
Finn was so funny, C~she kept trying to JUMP in the water and swim. She loves water (except a bath lol).
Walking the line~what a beautiful thing to say. I’ve crossed it, straddled it, …I’m firmly sticking to the highway meant for me! I’m seeing many miles of beauty ~and no matter how many remain, my faith will never waiver.
I best keep keeping on or it would be a waste of what God intends!
I do SEE you~and others~and will never judge.
Thank you for your beautiful words and support. You’re an inspiration in the way you ooze joy and love to others. I love you with all my heart!❤️💕💛
Oh I’m so glad to hear that as the love you give out to others is the love that comes back to you 10 fold so gas it up.. lol and I love Finn is such a fun companion and kindred water spirit. You are such an example of courage, light and love and I’m soooo happy I can fuel your spirit in the same way. Awwww I’m touched and love you too❣️
Thank you, precious friend. I kinda ran out of gas with some side effects~but I’m here and winning! Finn and I love you! You are so generous with your compliments! Shucks, Cindy. That’s sweet. 🥰🥹❤️
Weird and wonderful Karla, I loved this post. It was fun and encouraging, just what I needed at 10 pm on Wednesday. Oh those precious children, I wanted to hug each one. I know they loved Finley! Your photos are stunning, you are a great photographer, just one of your many talents 🥰
My heart has been warmed by several of my readers replying to your comments yesterday that they would be praying for you. That is so exciting to me! I am sharing the link to your blog on my post tomorrow. I am praying for the treatment tomorrow my precious friend! God is faithful 🙏🏻🌸🙏🏻🌼🙏🏻🌺🙏🏻🌷🙏🏻
Pam,
You are precious! I’ve had several comments and tears following from the kindness.
You and Butch have been such a support to me. In many ways! Thank you for your sweet words and encouragement. It warms my heart and soul!
This is weird~tee hee~yesterday, my sweet Momma accompanied me to the appts and guess what my nurses’ names were? Faith and Grace 💛
I’m so happy Mom witnessed it~because some might think I’m wacky!
Faith and grace have led me to where I am, Pam. I’m so wholeheartedly in love with our Creator and Father. I’m downright giddy.
I had a little hiccup last night that I hope doesn’t linger~but it’s manageable, Pam. It all is! HE has me and all of YOU. Thank you so much.
I love you!❤️💛💕
Karla, I am praying for the hiccup that it will go away and not linger. Faith and Grace, nurses that I hope offered both. I read a wonderful devotion on grace this morning. Our loving Father provides grace and mercy each morning, fresh and new.
I love you and you are always in my prayers 🙏🏻🩷🙏🏻
That’s beautiful, Pam. Thank you for sharing your faith, love, and encouragement.
It lifts me! I love you and keep you all in my prayers, too, dear friend. ❤️💛🙏🏻
Hello sweet Karla. I came over here after Pam gave us your blog address. I am so happy to have found you! It sounds like we have much in common!! I am honored to be able to pray for you and your medical team. Looking forward to reading your older posts and “catching up”. By introduction…I live in Upstate SC (native of Charleston, SC), married for 50 years, 3 dogs and 4 cats (not sure how that happened!) retired after a career teaching and research at Clemson University in Animal & Veterinary Science and running a cancer lab at Baylor College of Medicine.
Roxanne, it’s such a blessing to meet you! I’ve enjoyed comments at Pam’s place. Aren’t she and Butch the bees’ knees?
I’m so happy to know you. I feel I will learn so much from you.
Because I love learning, I might need to “pick your brain” on the expertise and knowledge you have!
Aren’t pets the best? If I could manage, I’d have more! 3 dogs and 4 cats~that’s quite a crew of fur love! I love it!
Congratulations on 50 years to you and your husband!
Thank you for subscribing and being here. That’s so precious to me! The prayers are appreciated. My sweet Mom and I were discussing that yesterday~for two nurses~named “Faith and Grace”~took care of me yesterday. That’s no coincidence!
Have a beautiful Friday and weekend! South Carolina is a beautiful state!
God bless you. ❤️🙏🏻
Beautiful
Thank you, BT! ❤️
Love to you and Finn, Karla. How weird and wacky is it that we love each other in Christ Jesus though we’ve only “seen” each other through our keyboards and “seen” our Heavenly Lord by faith! Praying for your next treatment. Have a safe trip to Maryland (my neck of the woods!) God bless you, my friend. 💖🙏🏾
Dora, thank you so much! Yes, it’s weird and wacky God brought us together! HIS ways are completely crazy awesome!
I’m giddy responding because of the pure miracle that I’m here~it’s a phenomenon that solidifies my faith!
My treatment was good! I had a little hiccup last night and thought, “uh oh”. But I’ll monitor the next few days.
I’ll be in Maryland March 12-14th~how wonderful to be in your woods!
God bless you, Dora. Thank you for your prayers and support. Love, Karla ❤️🙏🏻
😘🥰
I have always said that if I was rich, I would be considered eccentric. Unfortunately, I’m just weird. But I like me and I like me a little weird. What makes my life wonderful? Friends.
Pam, you are perfectly weird and wonderful! And it feels wonderful to call you friend! ❤️ thank you! 💛
Hurray for people who celebrate the weird and wonderful! Just today “weird and wonderful” came together in one package. Our adult son found an ant smashed in an old book. He texted his wife a picture with the caption: “I know people press flowers in books, but who presses ants?!” She quickly texted back: “Uncles?” Yeah, we may be a weird bunch to some, but we have a wonderful time!
Nancy, I giggled ~no, I laughed a hearty loud snortle (is that a word?)! Your gang sounds like my kind of people!
Thank you for being here as a fellow member of the weird and wonderful world! ❤️💕
Yes, I’m pretty partial to our gang–their sense of humor certainly contributes to our enjoyment!
I am over from Pam’s Blog. Praying for you and God is with you!
Hello, Nancy! How kind of you. I appreciate your prayers so much! ❤️
I’m weird in the same ways you are, Karla. I guess that’s why we both love children, pets, and reading. This week at school I invited a therapy dog (he’s precious) to come to school, stay in the library, and let children read to him and pet him. You know what? Dogs do more for children (and people) than any counselor or therapist. They are the quiet healers.❤️
Jennie, I love your weirdness! I had this feeling we loved the same things.🥰🐾 “They are quiet healers.” Poignantly perfect definition of dogs, Jennie!
What a wonderful idea of the dog in the library! That’s brilliant! I learn so much from you. Thank you for your support and encouragement, always💛🫶🏻🐾
Thanks, Karla! 😀
You’re welcome ☺️!
Nothing wrong with being weird! We all are, in our own unique way. But the more we express our true selves, the more we have to give to others, so that’s a good thing!
Ann, you are wise and kind! What a wonderful combo! I appreciate you! Thank you ❤️
Weird girl checking in with my friend. I was in Branson for a few days and thought of you. Let’s talk soon. xx
Lisa, I miss you so much! I look forward to catching up. I think of you often. Thank you for being here. I love you! 💕
“Wisdom warrants that you turn away from and close the door on anything that wraps you so tight in worldliness that you can’t breathe the Spirit and be who God desires you to be. Run to what matters most!” Amen, Karla! Love the C.S. Lewis quote too. <3
Mitch, thank you, dear friend! I’m running, even if slowly, lol, to that which matters the most! You would enjoy the two books I’m reading–One is “The Utter Relief of Holiness” by John Eldrige and “The Indwelling Life of Christ–All of Him in All of Me” by Major W. Ian Thomas (as gifted to me by my friend, Tim). It hit my heart hard reading, “Eternal life is neither an inward feeling nor an ultimate destination after you are dead. If you are born again, eternal life is that quality of life you possess right NOW, at this very moment, indwelling your physical body, with your own two feet on the ground, and in this world TODAY. It comes only from HIM. WOW, Mitch–it begins NOW. We are reinhabited by our Maker. That gives me so much JOY…NOW! May wisdom keep guiding me and I want to stay out of the way, lol! I appreciate your support, prayers, and encouragement so much! 💛🙏
Yes, yes, and yes, Karla! Reading John 17:3 and coming to understand that very thing (“And this is eternal life, that they may know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom you have sent”) was the key to my conversion.
👏🏻👏🏻🙏🏻 amen!! 🙌🏻🙌🏻🙌🏻 it was the key to my true understanding and identity in Christ, too!!
Your devotion inspires so many, Karla!
Thank you, Mark! That is so kind to say!! I appreciate you!
I’ll stay weird with you, my friend! I love your Lewis and Seuss quotes! Weird is more interesting than being like everyone else. 🧡
I’m in good company! Thank you, Rachel! I’m so thrilled you enjoyed the quotes, too! “Weird is more interesting…” how true! Love it! ❤️
OH, the JOY is leaping out from your photos. I wish I could squish each one of those littles in a hug! (You too!!) Thanks for sharing this joy with us…and BTW my hometown has a well-loved t-shirt design dating back to the 70’s! “Keep Erie Weird.” And we have……
Praying for you! All we can ever do is one step at a time. With God’s help, we are able to take the steps at our own pace and in our own way. Wishing you blessings at Easter!!! Thank you for your wonderful faith-filled and inspiring post!
Linda, thank you so much! Do you know how your writing and words inspire me? I appreciate you, your prayers, and your encouragement. Happy Easter! He is Risen! I can’t imagine living life NOT believing and RECEIVING…and giving back. Thank YOU for giving back to me and so many! 💖🙏
I was so happy to read your comment today! 🙂 God works in mysterious ways!!! One thing is for sure, we can always trust His wisdom and guidance.
Linda, it’s my blessing! ❤️I’m so happy to see you and read your sweet comments. ❤️Thank you so much!
I love God’s mysterious and amazing ways of working! I trust him completely too.
I’m so happy we’re connected, Linda. ❤️🙏🏻💕
🙂 🙂 🙂
Thank you, Linda ❤️
Greetings Karla. I keep trying to find myself caught up with your posts, but life takes me away from blogging too often at times. I guess that is why God invented tomorrow’s. This post brought to mind a word that can also apply to any of us. Our Creator knew His stuff when each of was fashioned in His image. At the same time, each of us will always be “unique.”
Hello, Richard. How kind of you to stop by and share such wonderful wisdom! I understand about life taking you away. Today I was sharing about how I can’t seem to balance responsibilities and doing what I hope to be “full-time” (write). My reserves are lower and things take me away. As you said, “God invented tomorrow’s”. Love that! Now I pray that my words will find me again tomorrow? Your words, “Our Creator knew His stuff when each of us was fashioned in his image.” I appreciate and respect your uniqueness, my friend! Never worry if you don’t get to stop by! I already know what a friend and support you are–whether here or not! I always look forward to times I can read your poetry! Many blessings!
I can almost hear you screaming when you found the ring!
HA!!
win on the book…, Utter Holiness.
Wish I’d had a seat at the table sooner