cathybaker.org

Looking Back, Moving Forward

noreply@blogger.com (Cathy Baker) — Tue, 29 May 2012 19:00:00 +0000

Me, Dee Dee Parker and Beth Fortune

Dee Dee taking full advantage of the cafe
(okay, she's holding my drink too)

Lori Roeleveld, Latan Murphy and Julie Webb Kelly

A whirlwind doesn’t begin to describe my week at BRMCWC:

Classes/workshops included Steven James, Alton Gansky, Ann Tatlock, and Kim Bangs. (Need I continue?)

Quality time with Julie and Lori on Saturday (and meeting Lori’s amazingly talented daughter, Hannah)

Lobby time (second and third pictures above) - laughter (lots of it!), meaningful conversations along the edges, and jazzy java drinks, as you can see above.

Spirit-led worship (Thank You, Jesus)

Celebrating accomplishments awarded during the Wednesday night’s banquet, such as Allison Martin's first place award for her thrifty & trendy blog, Budget Maven. More on the banquet in days to come but I couldn't be prouder of my fellow award winners.

Prayer time with fellow "Brigaders" Sunday morning. Priceless.

Cloud Cafe. One may be drinking too much coffee when the sweet retiree behind the counter remembers your first name within 2 days. Just saying.

New acquaintances, like Sue from Ohio (the one with the delightful British accent).

Looking back, I'm grateful for the victories witnessed not only in myself but in those around me -- physically, emotionally, and spiritually.

Now to build on those victories as we all move forward!

My Friday Fave - A Novel Idea

noreply@blogger.com (Cathy Baker) — Fri, 18 May 2012 12:08:00 +0000

"Each cup of tea represents an imaginary voyage." - Catherine Douzel

The faculty at Blue Ridge Mountain Christian Writer's Conference is like none other. I most appreciate how they choose to make themselves available to attendees by eating meals with us, talking before and after sessions, and simply hanging out with us in the lobby. Much time and energy is required on their part to prepare, travel, and to show up -- not only physically, but emotionally and spiritually as well.

It's for all these reasons and more that I like to come up with a small token of appreciation for those leading the classes and workshops I'll take next week. I'm featuring the gift today because it contains one of my favorite things -- tea! Remember this post?

Initially, I'd planned to drop my mini thank you note inside the bag with the tea pouch, but then realized I had an opportunity to make the note itself the tea tag...and voila!

They're not fancy, but hopefully the old adage holds true—it's the thought that counts.

Spiritually Preparing for BRMCWC

noreply@blogger.com (Cathy Baker) — Tue, 15 May 2012 20:22:00 +0000

✔ Ipod loaded with music from Brandon, Zach (from college days), Aaron Keyes, and David Crowder. What better way to begin and end a day?

✔ Lots ‘o one dollar bills for the Cloud 9 Coffee Cafe. Latan, are you ready?

✔ My “Edie” notebook, stocked with business cards, writing samples, and a flashback-style plastic pouch filled with pens, paper clips, and sticky notes.

✔ Much, much more.

If you know me, you know I’m all about the checklist. The process makes me giddy:

Empty thoughts onto page. In detail.

Grab debit card. Go shopping.

Ask hubster to bring luggage down from the attic. Okay, beg.

Check off each item -- quickly. Score!

Searching for the most comfortable shoes or snazziest notebook is gratifying, but if I’m not careful, I can allow the temporal prep to override the eternal one.

Becoming spiritually prepared for next week’s Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writer’s Conference also involves a process—one of searching the soul, with God leading the way. For me, it looks something like this:

God, would you search my heart? Turns out, I have a tendency to see only what I want to see about myself.

God, would you see if there is any offensive way in me?

Pride - even a speck of it can leave enough space for the enemy's big toe.

Envy - "Envy is dissatisfaction with who God has made me to be. It is also suspicion that God is withholding what I deserve and giving it to someone else." -Mindy Caliguire. God, am I envying someone else? If so, please forgive me and show me how to put on dancing shoes (preferably, without heels) on behalf of another person's success.

Greed - "Greed grows out of the suspicion that God will not take care of our needs as well as we can do it ourselves.” -Mindy Caliguire. I say I trust You to lead and guide the way on this journey, but when I try to make things happen in my own strength, there's a whiff of greed in the air, i.e., the stench of flesh. Father, may You find me dying to self, allowing the Holy Spirit to move fully and freely in my life, bringing forth the sweet scent of Your glory.

God, open my eyes to the new and unique ways You are calling me to live out the Gospel as I choose to see this amazing conference as a blessing from You. Not one person will be in attendance by "coincidence".

Next week is about You, not me.
Next week is about transformation, not information.
Next week is about becoming the men and women You've called us to be, not trying to become someone through the process of "doing".

"Lay your deadly doing down
Down at Jesus' feet
And stand in Him, in Him alone,
Wondrously complete."

-James Proctor, It is Finished

A Different Kind of Mother's Day

noreply@blogger.com (Cathy Baker) — Sun, 13 May 2012 15:38:00 +0000

This morning, our pastor shared a similar prayer, heightening our awareness to the fact that all are not as blessed as I am to have a healthy, godly, loving mother.

To all those celebrating a different kind of Mother's Day today...

For those who are sorrowing, raw and tender this week, we pray:

…for those who’ve suffered the loss of their mothers through death; Lord, please bring them your comfort

…for those estranged from their mothers through family division, mental illness or strife; Lord, please salve their wounds and bring your healing

…for those who are losing their mothers by degrees through disease; Lord, please measure extra grace to parent and child alike as the roles reverse

…for those who never knew their mothers; Lord, please reveal yourself to them at every point of abandonment, longing and need as El Shaddai

…for those who have lost a child; Lord, please have mercy on them as they daily bear this searing pain

…for those who are riding the roller-coaster of infertility; Lord, please revive their hope and bless them with new life

…for those who ache to become mothers, but find themselves without a mate again this year; Lord, please draw near to them, and help them draw near to you as they wait and hope

…for those whose children have chosen a prodigal path; Lord, please grace these parents to wait together with you for their children's return home

…for those whose children are living, working and serving in distant lands; Lord, please keep them safe, and keep our hearts at peace

…for those who have a full and happy family life; Lord, thank you for this witness, and give them an extra chair at their table waiting for the lonely to fill it

…for those who, in their pain, have felt abandoned and undefended by you; Lord, please comfort them…and let them recognize that you are near at all times

In the name of the Father of the fatherless, the Bridegroom of the widow, and the Companion of the lonely, I pray. Amen.

- Michelle Van Loon

Friday Fave - Family Fun

noreply@blogger.com (Cathy Baker) — Fri, 11 May 2012 01:13:00 +0000

What can I say? How could this not be a favorite?

Piper in DC - a traveler in the making!

Silhouettes of Zach, Sarah, and Piper. The cool factor?

The Jefferson Memorial, pictured in the background, is the place where Zach proposed to Sarah in 2008.

Wordless Wednesday - May Flowers

noreply@blogger.com (Cathy Baker) — Wed, 09 May 2012 16:53:00 +0000

Dreamy Writing Spots

noreply@blogger.com (Cathy Baker) — Mon, 07 May 2012 17:51:00 +0000

One could rephrase a familiar bumper sticker—"Pen's don't write poems; poets do"—but the pen or pencil or typewriter may have a large role than just recording the writer's inspirations; it may foster, encourage, or stimulate creativity by its feel or its familiarity.

Try writing in a different place than usual—a kitchen, a porch, an attic or basement, a diner, an airport, a library, a vacant stadium. -John Drury, Creating Poetry

Do you have a particular pen, ritual or perfect perch responsible for kick-starting your creativity?

I admit it -- I do. Fountain pens, owl-shaped coffee mugs, Pandora music, and comfy writing spots often invite my muse to join in the dance.

One of my favorite Pinterest boards is entitled "Dreamy Writing Spots". It's teeming with unique places to write—nooks, crannies, closets, and wide-open spaces. My most recent add is Pier 1 Imports Daisy Outdoor Swingasan™.

It's not in my budget, so when I say dreamy, I mean dreamy...but couldn't you picture yourself curled up in this delightful daisy cave?

Friday Fave - May Days!

noreply@blogger.com (Cathy Baker) — Fri, 04 May 2012 17:27:00 +0000

May Days! May Days!

What are some favorite May days?

Mother’s Day (May 13) - If you knew my Mom, you’d know why this is a celebrated day. She is an overcomer, encourager, ageless (hope that’s in the gene pool!), Lord-loving woman -- and I’m very thankful to call her Mom.

National Day of Prayer (First Thursday in May) - Prayer awareness raised throughout our nation, with Dr. David Jeremiah serving as NDP's Honorary Chairman this year. Click here to read the 2012 National Prayer.

Word Weavers (Second Thursday in May) - A gathering of like-minded word lovers, focused on sharpening one another’s skills while soothing the inevitable ouch of disappointments.

Family beach trip - Where to begin? Swimming with Piper, conversations about the new little one on his way, four generations of family time, slabs of sunscreen, fresh seafood, and trips to the Yum-Yum shop.

Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writer's Conference - I'm arriving a day early to spend some one-on-one time with this sweet friend from IL, and then meeting many members of an online writer's group face-to-face for the first time. I can't wait, Light Brigade! Edie is once again offering attendees a plethora of workshops and classes—how's a girl to choose?

Memorial Day - God bless the men and women serving in our Armed Forces, and their families. May we never forget the sacrifices made on our behalf.

This post from Allison's blog The Budget Maven helped me to realize the blessings waiting to be discovered this month.

So, what's your favorite May day?

A Living Breathing Tower of Faith

noreply@blogger.com (Cathy Baker) — Thu, 03 May 2012 01:35:00 +0000

“No exercising!”

Do you know how long I’ve waited to hear those words?

Seriously, it wasn’t the diagnosis I’d hoped for, but until the back pain subsides, the doctor’s orders stand.

Fighting the weight battle without the option of exercising is a daunting task, but the Lord quickly put my pity party into perspective when Mrs. H, an elderly friend, ambled into the same waiting room for x-rays.

Cancer spots her bones but a smile blankets her face.

Mrs. H and I finished up at the same time, so I sat a spell with her on the park bench while waiting for her daughter to retrieve the car. She shared how she’d taken her best friend, who recently passed away, for her cancer treatments last year—and how she was now the one sitting in the same exact seat her friend once occupied.

Her eyes puddled, but her voice strengthened as she proclaimed with full assurance that God had it all under control.

I was thankful, convicted and humbled by the unexpected but oh-so sovereign encounter I had with Mrs. H, a living breathing tower of faith.

The power of a story. God’s story.

Bang the Keys

noreply@blogger.com (Cathy Baker) — Tue, 01 May 2012 00:59:00 +0000

Piper gives the term "bang the keys" a whole new meaning, don't you think?

When we moved this piano from my grandparents home to ours, I pictured our grandchildren one day enjoying it as much the previous four generations.

As Piper played away, I caught a glimpse of Mama and Papa's picture that's propped atop the piano...and smiled. They would be so proud of this little great-great-granddaughter of theirs.

The video is short, but oh so sweet.

Celebrate!

noreply@blogger.com (Cathy Baker) — Sun, 29 Apr 2012 23:56:00 +0000

Summit Church Mauldin celebrated their five-year anniversary today with an outdoor baptism and picnic, following the second service, with the congregations from Cherrydale and Spartanburg joining in the massive celebration.

The food was delish, the community, teeming with energy -- but it was the baptism that served as the highlight. How could it not? Sixteen people of various ages publicly celebrating a wondrous salvation that's already taken place inwardly.

A few weeks ago, Jason Malone, one of the pastors at Summit, gave THE best sermon I've ever heard on the subject of baptism, which you can listen to here.

Since our church search began back in August '11, we've had the opportunity to visit several outstanding churches, but I wouldn't be surprised if the Lord leads us to call Summit "home" very soon.

Happy Birthday, Summit Church!

My Friday Fave - Peonies

noreply@blogger.com (Cathy Baker) — Fri, 27 Apr 2012 17:50:00 +0000

In honor of one of my favorite flowers and poets...

Peonies

This morning the green fists of the peonies are getting ready
to break my heart
as the sun rises,
as the sun strokes them with his old, buttery fingers

and they open --
pools of lace,
white and pink --
and all day the black ants climb over them,

boring their deep and mysterious holes
into the curls,
craving the sweet sap
taking it away

to their dark, underground cities --
and all day
under the shifty wind,
as in a dance to the great wedding,

the flowers bend their bright bodies,
and tip their fragrance to the air,
and rise,
their red stems holding

all that dampness and recklessness
gladly and lightly,
and there it is again --
beauty the brave, the exemplary
blazing open.
Do you love this world?
Do you cherish your humble and silky life?
Do you adore the green grass, with its terror beneath?

Do you also hurry, half-dressed and barefoot, into the garden
and softly,
and exclaiming of their dearness,
fill your arms with the white and pink flowers,

with their honeyed heaviness, their lush trembling,
their eagerness
to be wild and perfect for a moment, before they are
nothing, forever?

-Mary Oliver

In Christ, There Are No Strangers

noreply@blogger.com (Cathy Baker) — Thu, 26 Apr 2012 17:38:00 +0000

“It’s nothing like this in New York.”

While waiting for her groceries to be bagged, an older woman with a quick wit lectured the cashier and anyone else who would listen as to the various ways people “down here” are more helpful than the grocery attendants in NY. Somehow she managed to segue into an Obama rant in mere seconds, instantly losing the interest of bystanders.

As I gently coaxed her out the door with me, I had the feeling I could’ve taken up a donation at that very moment and received enough money for Piper’s college education...but I digress.

With her car parked next to mine in the vast Publix parking lot, I sensed the need to trust God to keep my shrimp chilled since I was smack dab in the middle of a divine encounter.

The spunky woman described how difficult it was being a Christ-follower while living on the outskirts of NY for 35 years, and the freedom they’ve experienced since moving south. I, in turn, shared my concerns that many here stumble over the churches forged on every corner, confusing their exposure to a building with true salvation.

In those fifteen minutes, we never exchanged names but we did exchange laughter, community, encouragement -- and our personal stories of salvation. Oh, the looks we received from passersby -- but we didn’t care.

After adding one last concern for Christ followers during this election season, she thanked me for listening and said, “If Obama is elected, I’ll see you in heaven!”

I smiled and reassured her I’d see her there regardless of the outcome.

I wish I could say that I always pause to put people first, but too often I’m concerned about the perishables becoming goop in my grocery bags, staying on task, or checking off a “to-do” from my schedule. Sigh.

As we waved and drove away, I marveled at the sovereignty of God, the power of our personal stories, and the thread of familial ties that bind each of His children together...now and forever.

Judging by the Seeds, Not the Harvest

noreply@blogger.com (Cathy Baker) — Tue, 24 Apr 2012 11:32:00 +0000

“Don’t judge each day by the harvest you reap, but by the seeds that you plant.” -Robert Louis Stevenson

You may have read in past posts how some of my friends, who just happen to be writers, have taken a local waitress under their wings. From all indications, she does not have a personal relationship with Christ, but of course, only the Lord knows.

We’ve loved on her with generous tips, small gifts, kind words, and prayers -- but last week’s table prayer was a first.

After asking the Lord to bless the French toast and bacon splattered across our plates (to which I sensed His response as "Really?"), I prayed for the health of our waitress, and then specifically for her to come to know Him. With that, we opened our eyes and discovered the waitress standing at the table waiting to fill our cups. I'm ashamed to say there was an immediate uneasiness within me. First, because it wasn't how I'd imagined sharing the Gospel with her at some point, and secondly, because that "some point" had not come sooner.

I don’t know if her overhearing my prayer will reap a spiritual harvest, but I do know a seed was planted and now I pray for opportunities to continually water it with words of encouragement and however else the Lord leads.

The beautiful part of the story - of all our stories - is that the responsibility of the harvest lies with the Creator of the seeds. We’re called to plant and to water through a variety of ways, but God alone holds the power to bring forth the growth.

I planted, Apollos watered, but God gave the growth. 1 Cor. 3:6

When Pride is a Good Thing

noreply@blogger.com (Cathy Baker) — Sat, 21 Apr 2012 18:45:00 +0000

(prd) n.

Pleasure or satisfaction taken in an achievement, possession, or association

The word "pride" sends shivers down my spine. I've never liked it, thanks to parents and grandparents who raised me to never shine the spotlight on myself -- but on others -- and with a family like this, I have many reasons to direct the spotlight in their direction.

First, Brian the hubster ran his first 5K this morning. He not only finished, but he broke his own record by finishing in a tad over 24 minutes. He's been diligently training for weeks, and losing 20 lbs via Weight Watchers certainly helped in those efforts. So proud!

And then here came Zach rounding the bend (below, in yellow). I thought I'd taken a closer shot of him. :( Okay, I may not be a great photographer, but I am a proud mom.

The beaming continues...Our oldest son, Brandon, and his sweet wife, Megan, have decided to adopt from a little boy from Uganda! We're incredibly excited for them, for our family, and especially for the little one God has already chosen to be a part of our family. We look forward to welcoming our grandson "home"...hopefully before Christmas? If you'd like to follow their journey, they'll be chronicling it here. You'll also find this link on my blog roll.

And last, but certainly not least, while Sarah was using her snappy creative skills to help a friend yesterday, guess who got to keep Piper? Yep, you guessed it. :)

This wife, mom, mom-in-law, grammy, and grammy-to-be is one proud woman.

"Every good and perfect gift is from above." James 1:17

Thank you, Lord!

Top 10 Reasons Why I Look Forward to BRMCWC

noreply@blogger.com (Cathy Baker) — Wed, 18 Apr 2012 19:52:00 +0000

Attending the Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writers Conference is rewarding in countless ways, but here are my top ten:

Group times, key note speakers. Mornings and evenings bring times of refreshment through music and words of encouragement.

Informative classes. Sitting in a room with like-minded people who are eager to learn is contagious. Add a speaker who is passionate about sharing his/her knowledge, and an unforgettable experience awaits.

Reconnecting with friends. Last year, I left BRMCWC with new friendships that will last an eternity. I cannot wait to give them a big hug.
Making new friends. BRMCWC is a welcoming, friendly community. Unless you attend determined not to meet anyone new, you too will more than likely arrive home with lifelong friends.
Eating yummy food. The cafeteria offers both healthy and heavier meals -- both delicious! Their staff is the best.
Beautiful campus, fresh air, rocking chairs. Need I say more?
Critique time. What better way to learn? I look forward to learning from the master, Dr. Donn Taylor, one of the most humble and wisest teachers I've ever had the pleasure of meeting.
Evening gatherings after group time. Oh my! Comfy couches with beautiful surroundings in the Mtn Laurel lobby is the backdrop for late night laughter, tears, readings, etc. Some of my best memories from last year originated here.
Banquet. Celebrating the success of others is a highlight of the week for us all.
Sipping Starbucks at the Cloud 9 Cafe. Little ladies graciously volunteer their time to serve others and they do so with a smile. Of course, the coffee isn't bad either.

A special thanks to Edie Melson and Alton Gansky who work tirelessly to make this conference such a success.

May 20th cannot come soon enough. Hope to see you there!

Tucked Beneath A Thousand Excuses

noreply@blogger.com (Cathy Baker) — Mon, 16 Apr 2012 17:22:00 +0000

A few readers, after seeing pictures of my yard in past posts, have shared how they’d love to stop by for a tour -- but if they did, they would be sorely disappointed. Yes, there are pockets of cottage charm here and there, but lurking around every corner are crowded beds, unruly wisteria, and planters filled with crispy bygones from last fall. For sanity’s sake, let’s just say they’re not...photogenic.

While focusing on a charming pocket of blooms in this morning's pictures, the Lord reminded me how it's often easier to reveal to others only those things we want them to see, while avoiding the less "photogenic" areas of our lives.

For years, I kept my fears and phobias neatly tucked beneath a thousand excuses. No one knew except for family, a few close friends, and a cognitive therapist. I was ashamed to say I trusted Christ in one breath, and struggled with fear in the next. Although I continue to battle with the less photogenic me, truth prevails -- and I am a more authentic Christ-follower because of it, flaws and all.

Consider the implications if writing was limited to only those things which bring the readers pleasure—the easy, expected, and colorful side of life while avoiding the failures, deep pitfalls, and dark days? The consequences would be numerous, with the most devastating being the countless souls deprived of the blessing found in 2 Corinthians 1.

Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves receive from God. For just as we share abundantly in the sufferings of Christ, so also our comfort abounds through Christ. 2 Cor. 1:3-5

Who might be comforted today in knowing they're not alone in their struggles?

Only God knows, but it begins with us refusing to tuck our less-than-photogenic selves beneath a thousand excuses.

Friday Fave - Extended Family

noreply@blogger.com (Cathy Baker) — Fri, 13 Apr 2012 01:01:00 +0000

As Piper and I chatted today about her first beach trip in May, I couldn’t help but recall the memorable moments from my own childhood trips to the sand and the sea.

Growing up, our entire family—grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins—would rent a large beachfront house in Garden City SC. It was perfect for my grandfather, whose favorite pastime was rocking on the back screened porch, taking in the salty spray of the ocean for all it was worth.

In the mornings, dad and I would sneak out early and hunt for shark's teeth that had been stirred up and spit out overnight.

In the afternoons, we all hit the beach, jumped waves, and searched for seashells.

Evenings were always fun. Fresh seafood, putt-putt games, trips to the Yum-Yum ice cream shop (blue bubble gum with real chewy pieces churned inside out), numerous rounds of set-back (card game), and unending laughter. As an only child, this was the only time of year I felt more like Cindy on the Brady Bunch.

Although I didn’t fully appreciate it at the time, having an extended family made me feel loved and a part of something much bigger.

Our family isn’t as large now, but I look forward to introducing Piper to the yearly “Scott” beach trips I’ve enjoyed all my life and carrying on the tradition of lots of fun in the sun (with 50 SPF zinc-oxide protection, of course).

Let us savor these moments with our families, for they will emerge as memories not soon forgotten by our children and grandchildren.

[Is that "The Way We Were" I hear playing in the background?]

Spiritual Pre-Mastication

noreply@blogger.com (Cathy Baker) — Tue, 10 Apr 2012 16:10:00 +0000

It's no surprise that Alicia Silverstone's video of pre-chewing her 10 month old's son's food, known as pre-mastication, went viral last week. For most of us, the thought of transferring food from our mouth to our child's, like a mother bird, makes us cringe a bit.

Many of us would never consider trying it. Yet, when it comes to our spiritual walk, we may find it quite tempting.

One indication that we may be practicing pre-mastication is when we find ourselves depending on a pastor’s sermon as our mainstay of spiritual food. After all, he’s done the chewing -- praying, studying, preparing -- throughout the week. Surely showing up once a week, opening our ~~mouths~~ Bibles and ~~swallowing~~ listening is sufficient.

What if we depended on one meal a week to sustain our physical bodies? We'd survive, but lack strength and endurance to accomplish all God has planned for us.

So how can we avoid spiritual pre-mastication?

Study the Word for ourselves. Local Christian bookstores offer a plethora of studies. When we spend time going deeper in the Word's meaning, truth is transferred from the head to the heart, it's digested, and lives change.

Consider taking notes on Sunday mornings. Engaging two senses instead of one increases the likelihood of our being able to recall the truths heard -- not only that day, but throughout the week and beyond.

Meditate and memorize the Word. Meditating doesn't require a sandy beach, loose fitting clothes, or music playing softly in the background. We choose one verse a day. Write it down. Keep it with us throughout the day and re-visit it often, asking the Lord what He would have to teach us through it. When we meditate, we memorize, and when we practice these disciplines, we're digesting the living and active Word of God into our very being.

But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, he will teach you all things and bring to your remembrance all that I have said to you. John 14:26 ESV

Were It Not For Grace

noreply@blogger.com (Cathy Baker) — Sun, 08 Apr 2012 15:23:00 +0000

Not once have I listened to this song that my heart did not explode with gratitude or the tears forget to flow. Not once.

The title says it all. Were It Not For Grace, by Larnelle Harris. It's old-school but few songs move me as much as this one does. Perhaps it's because I know how barren my life was at the age of 27 before that night in the tiny duplex when I fell to my knees and "gave up" the mess I'd made up to that point. Oh, the freedom that flooded my soul in those moments...and in the years to follow.

I can't imagine where I would be today, or my boys, if not for the glorious intervention of grace.

I pray my eyes will never remain dry when I think of all Christ accomplished for me, my family, and the world, that glorious Easter morn. Thank You, Jesus!

Were It Not For Grace

Time measured out my days
Life carried me along
In my soul I yearned to follow God
But knew Id never be so strong
I looked hard at this world
To learn how heaven could be gained
Just to end where I began
Where human effort is all in vain

[Chorus]

Were it not for grace I can tell you where Id be
Wandering down some pointless road to nowhere
With my salvation up to me I know how that would go
The battles I would face
Forever running but losing this race
Were it not for grace
So here is all my praise
Expressed with all my heart
Offered to the Friend who took my place
And ran a course I could not start
And when He saw in full
Just how much His would cost
He still went the final mile between me and heaven
So I would not be lost

Forever running but losing this race
Were it not for grace

That's My King

noreply@blogger.com (Cathy Baker) — Sun, 08 Apr 2012 03:13:00 +0000

Now to live like it...

Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In his great mercy he has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead... 1 Peter 1:3

Gravitating Towards Neon Green

noreply@blogger.com (Cathy Baker) — Sat, 07 Apr 2012 12:01:00 +0000

Still undecided about attending the Blue Ridge Mountain Christian Writer's Conference next month?

Fellow Word Weaver and dear friend, Mary Denman, posted a terrific article on BRMCWC's site April 3 (scroll down) that may help you gravitate towards the neon green post-it. (I hope so!)

New friendships, fresh encouragement, and first-rate insights await. Umm...and so does Cloud 9 Coffee Shop. Need I say more?

My Friday Fave - Sunday's Coming!

noreply@blogger.com (Cathy Baker) — Fri, 06 Apr 2012 11:44:00 +0000

In celebration of Good Friday, here's one of my absolute favorite videos. It could possibly be the most powerful few minutes you'll spend today.

Writing prompt: Spend three minutes writing down specific reasons you are thankful for this day...and remember...

Sunday's Coming!

Legacy's Writing Prompt

noreply@blogger.com (Cathy Baker) — Thu, 05 Apr 2012 17:18:00 +0000

Each of us will leave a legacy—but what kind?

I was incredibly blessed to be able to spend much of my life with all my grandparents, but today's post celebrates my grandmother Knighton, who would've turned 97 today.

Grandmother wasn't perfect, but she did certain things that left an indelible mark on my life:

She not only spoke of God often, she walked with Him. And she, like my other grandmother whom I recently blogged about, also prayed for me daily.

She loved unconditionally. No jumping through the hoops required.

She encouraged me not to grow up too soon. Early on, I faced adult situations but she insisted that I enjoy my childhood and she gave me ample space to do so, sparking creativity in this only child’s ~~playground~~ mind.

She taught me how to pause. Not every moment had to be filled with a “to-do”.

She encouraged creativity. As a child, I loved to pretend being a teacher, a dry cleaning clerk, a grocery clerk, and a hairstylist. She provided paper, groceries, clothes, my grandfather’s old calculator/cash register, and even her own hair for practice.

My list could go on for days, but here's the point: We are impacting others through our words, actions, and decisions every single moment—whether we realize it or not.

How do you and I want to be remembered?

Is there someone in our lives that needs to know our love is a “no-hoop” zone?

Are we teaching those around us how to be, and not only do, based on our own schedules?

Writing prompt: Imagine your granddaughter/grandson/niece/nephew posts a blog about you 10 years from now, based on your current words, actions, and decisions. What would they share? Be as specific as possible. Is there anything you would like to change about their future post? Go!

Wordless Wednesday - What's Blooming Now?

noreply@blogger.com (Cathy Baker) — Wed, 04 Apr 2012 01:45:00 +0000