KINDRED SPIRITS

Anne of Green Gables called it a 'kindred spirit'. How often does one find one? Well in the last few months I have found a couple of 'likeminded' ladies from unexpected sources. Today I want to blog about two.


I have been teaching Afrikaans lessons from home and mailnly have young second language students. I was surpised when a forty year old American lady enquired about taking Afrikaans lessons with me. She started immediately and we have lessons three times per week. She has shown such an interest in Afrikaans and we now exchange Afrikaans magazines, movies etc. Not only has she fallen in love with my mother tongue but she also shares my interest in finding treasures in small antique or secondhand stores. Roxanne shares another love of mine namely arts and crafts. She is always bringing or showing me new items that she created.


Yesterday a friend asked me over for coffee to meet her new tennant. She thought we might have some things in common. I met another kindred spirit around the same age as myself. Surprise, surprise! Like me she still finds delight in beautifully illustrated children's books, enjoys spending hourse browsing in book shops and libraries. I hope to get to know her better and see much more of this precious woman. Hopefully we can inspire each other to write and read a little more or even encourage each other to find our hidden talents.



Kindred spirits according to the dictionary: An individual with the same beliefs, attitudes and feelings as oneself. I wonder how many of those one will meet in a life time.

Fun with the children

THE RIDDLES MY YOUNG STUDENTS ENJOY: Jenny's father has five daughters: 1. Nana. 2. Nene. 3. Nini. 4. Nono. What is the name of the fifth daughter? ANSWER: Jenny. While you would have been temped to say a name that starts with an N and using the u vowel, the riddle explicitly states at the beginning "Jenny's Father...". A man and his son are in a car accident. The man dies on the way to the hospital, but his son needs surgery. In the operating room the surgeon says,"I can't operate on this boy, he is my son." Who was the surgeon? ANSWER: The boy's Mother. What sits in a corner but travel's the world? ANSWER: A stamp.

Teacher's giggle

A teacher of a playgroup held up a pair of gloves and asked, "Whose are these?" A small boy put up his hand, "They look like mine, Miss." "So then they are yours, are they, Jack?" "No, Miss, they can't be mine, because mine are lost!" Children's logic!!

PRAYER OF A TEACHER

I have always wanted to teach! I have recently taken on some lively children who are struggling with the Afrikaans language. In the comfort of my own home, I am teaching them in an informal and fun way. On the whole they are all so well mannered and respectful and I feel priviledged to be their teacher. The time flies by while teaching them and I almost feel dissapointed when I see a parent arrive to fetch their child. This my prayer for this new venture: I want to be an escape to and for the children and bring honour to my Lord. I want my God in my work place (prayer and more prayer). I want to give my talents and allow God to use me in every way possible. I shall be grateful and thank Him regularly. Please help me God to be positive and make a difference in each of their lives. Help me to help them to improve their marks. I shall put each or their names on my prayer list and and draw close to Jesus before every lesson. Thank you for your trust in me with these precious lives.

Who are you Lord?

Yes I have empty nest. My children are living their own lives. One is far over the seas, one married and one away at university. As I thought of them and prayed for them I received the following message from a friend:

While praying one day a man asked:
Who are you, Lord?

He answered
I Am

But who is I Am
he said

He replied
I Am love
I Am Peace
I Am Grace
I Am Joy
I Am The Way
I Am The Truth
I Am The Light
I Am The Comforter
I Am Strength
I Am Shelter
I Am Power
I Am The Creator
I Am The Beginning and End
I Am The Most High
The man looked with tears in his eyes towards heaven and said:
Now I understand, but Lord, who am I?

God whispered
YOU ARE MINE


God is in control and will look after them. He knows every hair on their head, they are His - He will keep them healthy and safely but most of all I want them to continue to know our Father in this intimate way and to acknowledge Jesus in all they do. I find rest in that.

REALITY CHECK

My Silver Micra was written off not so long ago. Not by me! But I might write more about that in another post. After a frustrating few months without a car I was finally coping with my son's car. He kindly loaned the Gholf to me while working overseas for a couple of months. Later, we would decide what to do about purchasing a new vehicle.

At some time a burglar tampered with the door lock on the driver's side of the Gholf. That proved to be a challenge to fix. Until we could find a solution, I was forced to get into the car from the passenger side. I did not mind this little inconvenience as just having means of transport again was wonderful. Suddenly that door would not open either! My husband worked on the lock and after some testing promised me it would be all right and that we would have the driver's side lock sorted soon as well. I mentioned that I had to do some grocery shopping and that it would be a problem if neither locks were functioning. He reassured me that all would be fine, but humorously suggested that if all fails, I may have to access the driver's seat through the boot. I giggled and said that I would avoid wearing a skirt!

Well, off I went to the shopping mall, looking forward to hosting the guests who were due to arrive the next day. I finished my monthly shopping and returned to the buzzing parking lot. I neatly stacked the parcels into the boot and closed it. I tried to open the car door, but sighed as I realised that, indeed, the lock failed me once again. I noticed a friendly looking Nigerian car guard standing nearby, patiently awaiting his tip. I asked him to please help me open the door, but he could not do that either. He kindly helped me move my parcels to the one side of the boot. I climbed over the seat, my older bum in the air, sliding into the driver's seat. He closed the boot and as I buckled up, I noticed one of my more afluent neighbours driving past. She must have seen my situation! Bright red by now, I felt embarrassed, angry and sorry for myself. I tipped the car guard but drove off in a huff.

On my way out of the parking lot a helpless, weary beggar in a wheel chair caught my eye. He had no arms and no legs, but a wide, toothy smile on his face. In that moment, I was brought back to reality. Despite my few minutes of discomfort, I had so many blessings to be grateful for. I hung my head in shame. This was just an insignificant incident to remind me of all my priviledges, a healthy body, a wonderful family and friends plus God's amazing grace that I so often take for granted! I wiped away a tear.

A morning to be repeated!

One of the ladies that did Iris Folding crafts with me last week asked me to join her in visiting a craft shop to find some tools and craft goodies. She would like to continue with this new skill, (in spite of the Arthiritus in her fingers), so that she can teach her granddaughter. It was the first time that I spent a few hours with a seventy three year old and have to admit we had so much fun. After filling our baskets with some useful and colourful items we decided to enjoy a hearty breakfast at the small restaurant adjoining the shop. I have not had the chance to get to know her very well yet and welcomed the opportunity to do so this morning. I truly enjoyed this wise lady's company and I learnt so much from her in the process. She told me about sadly losing her handicapped son some time ago. She later nursed her beloved husband for three years during his struggle with cancer. Wiping a tear she spoke on how difficult it was to finally say goodbye. She praised God while sharing how good He is and how he has provided for her through every situation and during tough times over so many years. Her eyes sparkled and the laughing lines reappeared as she told me that there is a new grandchild on the way.
Not only did she speak kindly of her boss, she shared about her stimulating and enjoyable typing job. All Pink cheeked she kept talking about God's goodness and how she sees Him as her best friend, her father, husband, brother. When I left I felt inspired, grateful and hopeful - trusting that I will be spending more time in the company of this wonderful woman of God in the future.

Iris Folding

I decided on the spur of the moment to have a few lady friends over to come and do some Iris Folding crafts with me. Serving only coffee and tea and a few biscuits so the emphasis would be on learning a new skill and getting to know each other a little better. The age group varied...a younger mom, grannies who have a few granchildren already and of course a few empty nesters. One gran brought her five year old grandaughter who found just as much joy in creating these Iris folded cards. Fun, lots of laughter and chatter. I realised once again how much women need to get together to share ideas, thoughts and life. I was amazed at how much talent we had in in the group. One lady said she could show us some applique work, another could teach us on how to better our finances. Some are able to crochet and others can scetch! We have made a decision to have these get-togethers regulary and learn from one another.


Iris Folding originated in Holland when people thought the blue and white insides of envelopes were too pretty to just throw away after use. Now of course we have plenty of pretty scrapbooking and wrapping paper to choose from - although, some Iris Folders still prefer the old fashioned blue and white paper.
Check out:
Iris Folding @ CircleOfCrafters.com

Life without a pc

My son left not so long ago to go and work in a foreign country. He is a teacher and while he lived and worked here, he always used the laptop from school and left his own pc for me to use and enjoy everyday. Not only do I miss my son so much but also his pc which he took with him! Now you know why I have not been so active with the blogging. I have to pinch moments on my husband's computer which he needs all hours of the day for work. Who knows what might happen later this this year...For now I am dreaming!

Our daughter and son-in-law's fairy tale wedding - December 2010

Beach wedding.
God's presence!
Perfect weather.
Great atmosphere.
Radiant couple.


Feeling truly blessed as I look at the photos yet again!
I have a grateful heart!

A few pretty cushions that I sewed.

It brings me so much joy to create something pretty for my home!

Nature and life

What I thought one of my better posts last year concerned trees. Autumn is around the corner and I know the majestic beautiful old tree in my garden will be losing it's leaves soon. The leaves will be a rich red and brown colour but then what will follow sadly, are the the emtpy branches. Again I am back onto the subject of greenery. I have not inherited my mom's green fingers but I recently spent some money on a few new shrubs. I did not have a lot to spend and had to carefully choose what was suitable and well worth the few rand. Admiring the tiny pretty blue and purple flowers as I carefully potted them I wondered why it made me feel so good. Being outdoors, feeling the wind through my hair and the sun on my skin revived me somewhat. Seeing the results weeks later brings a feeling of much joy and accomplishment.I suppose trees or shrubs for me bring a sense of new life and some hope along with that. Yes I am a summer person. Yes I love things to be attractive around me. But I know too that without winter there can be no spring and I am learning to live one day at a time.

TREES - Joyce Kilmer

I think that I shall never see
A poem as lovely as a tree.
Against whose hungry mouth is prest
Against the sweet earth's flowing breast;
A tree that looks at God all day,
And lifts her leafy arms to pray;
A tree that may in Summer wear
A nest of robins in her hair;
Upon whose bosom snow has lain,
Who intimately lives with rain.
Poems are made by fools like you and me,
But only God can make a tree.

Learning new things...having small adventures!

I have been trying my hand at new things lately. I mentioned making Pesto in a post but think I should also mention my instant baking powder bread! It is proudly baked in my gas oven (so quick...it bakes while you make tea and your guests are waiting). Have it warm straight from the oven and watch the delight on everyones faces as you serve it with jam or cheese.
This morning I became creative with a dated, slightly yellowed, small crocheted cloth - I carefully sewed it onto a small cushion cover. It looks adorable. My mom would have been proud as it once belonged to her!
Today I read a fun post! This blogger suggests one learns or even tries to notice one new thing every day. This reminded me of my dad who always said, read one fact from the encyclopedia and a new word from a dictionary daily. He would bring home some stamps and ink to get crafty with. Sometimes he would surprise me with a comic book (Millie being my favourite) or show me how to trace pictures. Whatever it was, it always inspired me to learn something more about anything and everything. This is probably why I am so inquisitive and often feel frustrated when I can't get creative. I really would like to keep all that up!

QUICK BAKING POWDER BREAD

500ml Flour
10ml baking powder
Pinch of salt
20ml sugar (optional)
250ml water
Oil

Sift dry ingredients and mix with water.
Add to oiled pan.
Brush with a little oil.
Bake in hot oven for about 20 minutes or until light brown

Some wisdom

Someone gave me these words today and I have been pondering on them since:

Those who leave everything in God's hands will see God's hand in everything.

Pesto

Always wanted to make my own Pesto and yesterday finally did. So easy...recipe says wait a week but we did taste some of it already and it was so yummy. Here follows the recipe:

PESTO
4 cups of roughly torn basil (I used wild basil)
1-2 cloves minced garlic
1/2 cup pine nuts
1/2 cup sesame and sunflower seed
1 teaspoon sea salt
1/4 cup parmesan
1 cup olive oil
Salt and black pepper to taste

Process basil, nuts and seed, garlic and salt until you have a smooth paste.
Add cheese and mix well. Slowly pour in the olive oil and mix until the desired consistency is reached.
Season with salt and pepper and store in an airtight container for about a week.

Mmmmmm... rest where I am.

Well, we still have not sold our house or bought another. We are still living and lately quite contently in this leafy suburb of Rondebosch. We have decided, yes, we want to leave in the end...find a quiet place in the country! But for now we will make the best of what we have here in Cape Town. I am looking at adding new plants to the garden, we have a lovely, neat and and very quiet student renting a small space in our home and I am making the most of my beautiful surroundings! I am enjoying friends, catching up ...going for coffee or a walk more frequently. Just finding rest in where I am right now. We have an empty nest...but it is not the end of the world and can be a lot of fun too. I am not in control and am waiting patiently, yet excitedly, to see what God's plan is for us next.

We should laugh more!

The average adult laughs 4 to 8 times per day, but the average child laughs about 150 times per day. No wonder the Bible says we need to approach Jesus as children. We would be so much better off if we would stop being so serious about everything and enjoying our lives more.
Thank you Joyce Meyer for reminding me!

Rejoice in the Lord always, I will say Rejoice! Phillippians 4:4

I am starting today...

During crisis

When crisis after crisis after crisis happens over a short period of time it is inevidible that it will have some affect on one's life! In my case I tried to keep cool. I tried to remain in control but finally the following symptoms reared their ugly little heads. I felt restless, did not sleep or eat well, struggled to find peace, found life difficult and empty and there were neverending tears! It felt as if the sun was never going to shine again. I was broken and felt useless. Friends were amazing during this time and I added a few verses and words of encouragement sent by some of them here. These plus some other recommended changes and wise quotes slowly added to life becoming somewhat meaningful. I have started eating more healthily (even though I had Licorice for breakfast one morning this week!), am drinking more water and finding small highlights in each day. I am pleased to say that finally things are looking up - am feeling hopeful and positive once again. I am smiling again and yes, I am slowly finding rest for my soul for which I am so grateful!



Our doubts are traitors where we often might win the good, we lose by fearing to attempt. William Shakespear. From Duncan

There's never a teardrop that God doesn't see. He knows when a sparrow falls from a tree. There's never a moment when God doesn't care, never a time when he won't hear our prayer...no matter what you have to face God is with you in his grace. From Eileen

God blesses those who realize their need for Him, for the kingdom of heaven is given to them. From Erma

Author of my faith, may every heart beat of my heart, every breath of my life, reach beyond and rise above the song of self to give glory revelation.
And
The breeze of God's grace is always blowing. All you have to do is hoist the sails. From Sannie

Be blessed, get up and live. Look after yourself, make a difference and live without being suspicous!
And
My character is far more important to God than my dreams. When I weigh myself and find that I am too light...The Lord says 'It's not about you, it's about God'
From Doreen

Then I found this quote while watching a movie:
'Our hearts do not need logic. They can love and forgive and accept that which our minds cannot comprehend. Hearts understand in ways minds cannot'
Lois Wilson

'n Happy person is a healthy person. Proverbs 17:2 (On an old and tattered paper cutting between my Mom's things)

A poem found today

Think of the things
that make you happy,
Not the things that make you sad;
Think of the fine and true in mankind,
Not its sordid side and bad;
Think of the blessings that surround you,
Not the ones that are denied;
Think of the virtues of your friendships,
Not the weak and faulty side;
Think of the hopes that lie before you;
Not the waste that lies behind;
Think of the treasures that you have gathered,
Not the ones you failed to find;
Think of the service you may render,
Not the serving of self alone;
Think of the happiness of others,
And in this you'll find your own!


- Robert E. Earley

MEMORIES

I have been quiet, I know. Memories come flooding back as I am unpacking boxes of photo albums, ornaments, children's letters and drawings etc. from my parents home. Some memories are amazing some very sad. I have dreaded doing this and have shed many tears in the process. Some from sorrow and some of joy. Healing seems to be taking place slowly at the same time. The pretty embroidered Damascus tablecloth which my late mom only brought out at special occasions is proudly on my own dining room table next to the Christmas tree which my daughter and friend cheerfully decorated this year. My husband has fixed the old Cuckoo clock which I bought for my parents with my first pay cheque and with every cuckoo sound comes a small message of hope. My mom and dad kept every picture and every letter or postcard the children or I wrote - reading them is like reliving my whole life again...I am reminded once again who I was then and who I am now.

I don't really know where to go with all that I inherited, especially the bigger things like the dining room suite etc. in this small home, but for now I know that it is in my care and that is all that matters. My newly wed daughter and her husband came and scrubbed down the small Welsh dresser that my dad made with much care for my mom and it now has new life in their home. My dad would have been proud!

Finding the papers and now having proof that I really am from French decent has left me much to ponder on and I am inquisitive about this heritage.

Shortly after my dad passed away it was my eldest daughter's wedding. I tried to only concentrate on that to help make it the fairytale celebration and all she ever dreamt of. And it really was all of that! The day after returning home from the wedding venue my younger daughter, the bridesmaid and the young man who drove the car were involved in an accident. The Lord looked after them and they were not injured.

I am glad to say that with all of this God is in control. He knows every hair on my head. He has made me who I am. He knows the plans he has for me and in Him is my real heritage! Even though all of the above is important I know that even when I have nothing I am still something because He loves me just the way I am.