Plans and Changes

Can you believe it's almost the end of 2015? It's been an interesting year for me and I've learned a lot about myself and I'm also so thankful for a year without ton's of doctor appointments and surgeries! lol I think I've gotten stronger each day, and although I still have lingering health issues, I'm better and I'm so thankful for this!

I'm working on my plans for 2016. One thing I'm going to be doing is being more consistent here on the blog with personal posts. I missed sharing more often on my blog when I was doing school and I'm so thankful that I'll have more time to devote to my blog.

I'm also working on these worksheets.

These are the PowerSheets by Lara Casey and they are amazing for getting right to the heart of your goals! (You can click on the picture and it will take you to her website where you can learn more about these. I'm not getting anything from this - just sharing something I think is really cool!)  They really have opened my eyes to who I am and what I want.

I'm also working on my planners and planning out my days as much as possible. I'll share picture of my planners soon. There is a whole society of us planner girls...who knew? Girls like me who love paper, pens and all that wonderful stuff.

My writing is high on my list of what I want to do in 2016. I am so excited to finally be working on getting my story on paper. I have one thing I'm working on that's almost finished and it's so exciting to work on things I enjoy again. Along with my cross stitch and quilting, I have a full list of things I want to do!

My health is high on his list, too. I have put off taking care of my health for so long and now it's time to take care of myself. My sister has given me encouragement and motivation for this and I'm so thankful. It helps so much to have a person who understands and wants to encourage me!

What are your plans for 2016? Do you plan ahead or make resolutions or goals? Do you have a word for 2016? I don't have one yet...I have done that for the past 2 years and I'm having a hard time figuring out what my word should be this year. I'm praying about it and I know God will guide me in this! It's exciting planning for the future, isn't it?

Blessings - Julie

It's Been a Whirl-Wind!

My goodness. It's been a whirl-wind few months! I'm sure you've noticed the personal posts have been far and few between. There has been a reason for that but I didn't want to really share until I knew how it was all going to go.

I've been in university! I have never been to college and it was a desire of mine to go someday. I decided last Spring that if my health would allow it, I would submit my application and go in the Fall. I submitted my application and was accepted into Liberty University! My major is Biblical/Theological studies and wow - what a ride! I learned so much about myself doing this and, although it was probably too soon after my difficult year to do this, I did really well and I'm very happy about my experience. I took 4 classes (or 12 credits) and I have a 4.0 grade average (which still amazes me - lol) and I was able to keep up with everything.

Here's what I learned about myself.

• I'm not as dumb as I always think I am. 
• I know more about the Bible than I realized. 
• God is truly calling me to write as I was given so much positive feedback in this area from all my professors. 
• I have more confidence in myself and my goals. 
• I'm stronger than I thought. 

I'm now taking a break. I'm taking this semester off to rest and to pursue my writing and art. I am so excited about working on these things! When I was in school, there was no time for anything but school work. I read hundreds of pages a week and wrote many essays. Lots of research has to be done and it all takes a lot of time. Add to this the books I read and review and I was constantly reading or writing reports of some type. Of course, I love reading and reviewing books so that was a real treat during all this school work! In future to have this time to pursue these other things is such a blessing and I'm really looking forward to it!

Here's my first little project. I like to make an ornament for my hubby and sons and here's the one I made for my youngest son.

I'm going to stitch his name above the deer. It actually had a little bird sitting on it's head, but I wasn't crazy about it. I like the idea of his name better. This pattern is from a British cross stitch magazine called "Enjoy Cross Stitch". This magazine always comes with a little kit of items to cross stitch and this is one of those projects. I love this magazine and have quite a few of them. The other two ornaments will be from this issue, too. Everything to complete the ornament is there so it makes it so easy peasy! I love the little face on this deer and the other ornaments are just as cute as this one. I'll share pics when I get them stitched.

Our Christmas season has been pretty low key. My oldest son brought home a horrible virus from work and he went through two bouts of it and so did I. He was much sicker than I was but, even so, it was horrible. We do have our tree up but that's about it. All my many decorations won't make it out this year, but that's okay. It's about Jesus and family, for me anyway, so I'm blessed in that area! I pray you are, too!

Blessings - Julie

My New Writing Table

This is my new table! My hubby decided that I really needed a bigger place to work after seeing my son's new desk set-up (mine doesn't even compare to his, believe me!) and how nice it was for him to have all the room to work on.

I had been working on a desk I've had since I was 10 and, of course, it was not built to be used for a laptop plus writing. I was constantly having to move things around and it was annoying and unproductive. I also tried another desk I have that is a pull down desk, but that was even worse.

Hubby knew we had this lovely table we weren't using and so he decided it would be perfect for me.

I've decided I have a bit too much on the table to really make it practical so all this stuff isn't going to stay on there. I had to try it out first to know that. I think the only thing I'll have on here is the red tray you see with the cup of pencils and the paperclip bowl...and of course, if you look carefully, you can see "Fluttershy" from "My Little Pony" on the tray, too. lol

Here's another shot of the table. Yep, the green desk organizer has got to go as well as some of the books you see on the table.

These books will be staying right where they are, though. How do you like my pencil pouch? I love cute pencil pouches and have about 4 that I use regularly. I have each one organized for different things so I can grab one at a moments notice.

I love my new writing area. I love that I can write and have my papers around me for perusal. Here's a shot of my manuscript so far. I'm still working on it, but I'm close to having it completed. I truly believe the editing part is really the longest and hardest part of writing!

I also love having the big area for doing my Bible study. I use the MacArthur Bible Commentary and it's huge, so having a nice big table for studying is wonderful. My hubby is so thoughtful to think of this! Now he's talking about having a piece of glass cut for the top which would make it absolutely perfect!

God bless you - Julie

Praise!

I have a praise to report...it may seem like a small thing, but to me, it's huge.  I've been able to lie down on the couch for short period of time.  Now, I'm sure all of you can do this, but since my injury, I haven't been able to lie down at all.  I am still sleeping in my recliner and thankful to be doing so.  I mean, at least in my recliner, I can recline to a comfortable position to sleep.  Anyway, I decided to lie down on the couch yesterday and see what happened.  I could do it without having excruiating pain and I was actually able to take a short 15 minute nap before having to get back up.  This gives me hope! I really had come to the conclusion that I would never be able to lie down again, but perhaps I will afterall someday. Praise the Lord!

I was sick with a stomach bug for a couple of days this week plus having a pity party because I wasn't able to go to my church for what they called a "Night of Encouragement" that was focused on helping those who are dealing with chronic pain and illness.  I so wanted to go with my youngest son, who is also experiencing chronic pain. However, it was not meant to be. Both of us had a really bad day that day and just couldn't make it.  It made it even worse because that day was also my hubby's birthday and we did very little for him.  I did finally make him a birthday meal two days later, but that's all I was able to do.  I felt very bad that I couldn't do more for the man who does so much for me...but you know what?  He was gracious as always and said we would do something more when I was able to.  I'm a very blessed woman to have such an understanding husband. 

Today is a new day and I am feeling a bit better.  I have been working on my book again...editing, editing..does it every end?  Thankful to be doing the editing, though, so NO complaints.  I also had a phone call today that ended some of the drama from someone in my life that is determined to create drama.  That really lifted a burden off my shoulders, too.  I actually painted my nails - both fingers and toes! - and am sitting at my desk to write this! Now my hubby has reminded me repeatedly today not to overdo and I'll try not to, but getting to do these little things like painting my nails and sitting at my desk is such a blessing to me! I have been in prayer all day that I will be able to go to church tomorrow night.  Oh, how I long to be with my church familiy again!

God is so good - so amazing.  He works in my life, and your life, constantly.  He thinks of us constantly and longs for us to be closer to Him.  Through all this, my eyes have had to look up because when I look down, I am beyond despaired by my circumstances.  With Jesus in my circumstances, though, my future is bright and I have a peace that no one else can give me.  Thank you, Jesus, for being with me every step of this journey and holding tight to my hand and my heart.  I pray that you are hanging on to our Savior's hand, too.

God bless you - Julie

Prickly People

I've been dealing with a prickly person for about 2 months now. This person is one of those people that feels that only they can handle things right and want to take over everything.  I had a problem with them trying to tell me how to do something I have been doing for years and in the end they suggested that they could do it better. We got past this and I thought the issue was dropped only for it to rear it's ugly head again yesterday. Just for the record, this person is not someone in my family. 

In the past, this would have upset me for days and I would have allowed this to derail me from doing what I need to do or want to do. However, now I understand that satan will create situations (and use people) in the hopes that you won't do what the Lord is calling you to do. In this particular situation, I decided to just stop and think about it and then held my ground without being cruel.  I also didn't let it stop me from working on my writing or the other things I've been working on.  Yes, it upset me for about 30 minutes, during which time I discussed it with my family and sought their advice, and then I let it go. I have accepted the fact that as long as I'm having to deal with this person, it's going to be this way, but I will handle it and I won't allow myself to be distracted or derailed by it.  We really can decide how we are going to react to those around us and not allow them to have that control over us.  It takes some practice and, we need to trust in the Lord for peace and wisdom, but it can be done.

I've been editing my book and doing some rewrites.  I am amazed that I'm at this point and almost ready to actually call it complete! 

Thank you for your input on my website! I really appreciate your thoughts and I do think it's time for a change and an update. 

It's gotten down-right cold here and, yes, I'm very happy! It finally feels like Fall here! I'm hoping I can get my home decorated with my Fall things.  My oldest son helped me get all my things out of the cupboards and on to the kitchen table where they have stayed for about a week. LOL I understand that I have to do things slowly and a little at a time and I accept that. I think the Lord is teaching me patience.

God bless you - Julie   

Cast Your Anxiety

I'm having to learn to cast my cares and anxiety on the Lord.  There seems to always be something to worry about.  This week, my husband got a call from his urologist who has been monitoring his PSA after the surgery in 2006 to remove his prostate because he had cancer.  His PSA has gone up again, which can mean a couple things - one of which is that the cancer has returned.  My poor husband had just gotten home 2 days earlier from the hospital after having stents put in his heart and then he's hit with this.  We are going in to see the urologist today to see what the next plan of action is.  

Anxiety?  Yes. However, I know this - we can lean on the Lord and pray for a divine healing.  We know that He has a plan, a future and a hope for us. (Jeremiah 29:11).  The Lord cares for my husband more than I do, which is an awful lot. It's been an anxiety filled week, actually, but I have submitted and surrendered this all to the Lord and I know that all things will work to our good and His glory.

I've been doing a lot of writing the past few days.  I actually am in the process of putting an ebook together and will, hopefully, have it available for download within the next few weeks. I'm considering changing my website to a wordpress site (not this blog, but my website).  I like wordpress for certain things, but I'm wondering if it's a good way to go.  It seems like a lot of people are going with the wordpress yet they all have the tendency to look the same (in my humble opinion) and I don't want to just have my website look like everyone elses.  My website is HERE and I would love your thoughts on this.  Do you like it the way it is or do you think I should change to a wordpress site?  I would like to make my site as inviting as possible before I start offering my ebook on there. 

It's been hard this week to be motivated.  I am in that mode of wanting to sleep - probably as a way of avoiding thinking about this health issue with my husband.  I've forced myself to keep writing, editing, and all that, though, because it's important to keep on moving towards my goals.  I've been dealing with a lot of pain, too, probably because I'm having to drive my husband to where he needs to go.  I'm still in that "need my recliner" mode.  I'll be so glad when my back is better and I can go places and do things.  Right now, I only do what I have to do.  

I've been working on a project for my sister for Christmas.  I'm hoping she's going to like it.  I'm so glad for once I'm getting my presents done early so that I'm not panicking on December 20th because my gift isn't done! LOL Do you do that, too?  I always think I can get all this stuff done in a week but then find myself in panic mode because it was unrealistic.  I'm even thinking about getting my Christmas cards started, too, so that I can take my time getting them ready and then mailed out early.  Now if the weather will just get more Fall like and cool.  It's been close to 90 degrees here, which does not make me happy. I'm ready for cool weather!

I need to sign off and start getting ready to go to my husband's appointment.  If you think of it, would you please pray for him? 

God bless you - Julie

Life Goes On

It's been a couple hard days pain wise, but I'm hanging in there and trying to focus on other things.  I've been reading a lot, listening to music and sleeping (due to the pain pills).  I don't seem to sleep very well at night so am exhausted during the day! lol  Just the way it is, I guess.

My oldest son worked a 24 hour shift the other night and I'm starting to get used to the idea that someday soon, he will be out on his own. I try to enjoy every moment I can with both my sons because they won't be here forever.  If I could share one thing with young mothers it would be to enjoy every moment with your children because they grow up so quickly.  I know this is cliche, but it's so true.  I was reminded of this last night when I watched this with my children

We used to watch this movie all the time when they were little and it seems like just yesterday when in actuality it was more than 15 years ago when we first saw it.  We had such a good time seeing it again but it also made me a little sad because I looked over and my boys weren't my little boys any more. By the way, I highly recommend this movie.  It's so cute and has a good story line.  The music in the movie is really good, too. (Remember, I really enjoy a good soundtrack!)  I feel so blessed, though, that my children will still watch this movie with me and that they are still at home for me to enjoy.  I don't take any of our time together for granted.

I did get my article written for the newsletter, too.  Sometimes when I'm in pain, I think I just won't be able to get it done, but I always do and I give all the glory to God! He always seems to tell me what He wants me to write about and it's amazing to me that I usually hear from at least one person who says that my article felt like it was written just for them.  I love writing and am so blessed that the Lord allows me to use this gift from Him - for Him - as a blessing to others.

Have a wonderful Lord's day tomorrow.

God bless you - Julie

Organizing Thoughts & Areas

Tomorrow I am getting knee shots and Thursday I'm getting a back shot.  Yep. Not only that, the needle is about as big as the one in the picture, too!! :)  My knees have been swelling up again, even during the night, so when I get up, it's just horrible.  I know it's time for the cortisone shots.  The back shot is much needed, too, and I'm more than ready for both of these procedures and so happy that there are these things available to give some relief!!

Today was a very productive day.  I was able to sit at my desk off and on today and finally get it cleared off! It's been so long since I've done that and through the months, things have just been stacked on the desk.  It was such a wonderful thing to get done.  I also have this wood wine box that I had put junk in, but now it's cleared out and has my notebooks and other things that I use all the time in it now.  It's so nice to have this organized!! When I sit in my recliner sometimes I just look around me and see the messes and it grieves me.  To have these two things done, just gives me such a lift.

I'm in the process of writing out what my goals are, what I want to do, and my plan for getting there.  It's a lot harder than it sounds, but I know that once I have it all done, it's going to give me a clear mind and a road map for accomplishing my goals.  I didn't do any writing today, but that's okay because having the desk cleared and the box organized is just so good for me to free my mind.  I know tomorrow I'll do a lot of writing because I'll have to sit with ice packs on my knees for the day.

Are any of you as addicted to "Deadliest Catch" as I am? My goodness, I didn't even know this show existed three weeks ago and now I know that Tuesday is my TV night.  I also am enjoying "Addicted to Food", which is also on Tuesday night.  I can so relate to what these people are thinking and feeling and it's eye opening.  I would love to be able to go to Shades of Hope, but I doubt that could happen for me now that I have these crazy physical problems. I'm so glad they have the show, though, because it really is helpful for people like me that have this problem.  I first saw Tennie, the therapist and head of Shades of Hope, when she was on "Ruby", another favorite show of mine. I saw so many things when she talked about things on there, but now it's more in-depth and really helps me to see some of my issues.  I really believe that because Tennie had this problem herself, she is more attuned at getting to the heart of the matter of this addiction, but more than this, she has compassion because she has been there and knows what it's like.

I have been crocheting more again and am in the process of making this

This isn't the greatest picture, but I'm sure you can get the idea.  It's a doily and it will have more roses and leaves around the outside.  I love lacy things like this and it's been pure fun working on it.  It's done with size 10 crochet thread and a number 7 crochet hook.  It's just a blessing to be able to do this and I think of my sweet Grandma every time I pick up a hook.

I had better get to sleep...I have to get up early for my doctor's appointment.

Writing!!

I spent the day writing....Oh, yes, I did!! Can I just say here for the record, that despite what people may think, writing is exhausting work.  I am NOT complaining, though.  I LOVED every minute of it and am so thrilled to finally be working toward my dream and my calling from God.  I didn't get as much writing done as I thought I would - it does take longer than I thought - but I'm just going to keep working on it until I have it finished.

I'm actually working on something that I plan to be an ebook for the homeschooling parent.  It's something I've been thinking about for awhile and I think it will be helpful.  I've had my notes on this for two years and I'm so glad I kept everything as you never know which notes will be helpful and which will not.

I did not have any tooth pain today! I am so thankful as that would have made it difficult to write.  My back pain level was much better today, too, only really aggravating me when I sat in one chair for too long while writing.  I did have to take a pain pill at that point, but it did help and I was able to continue writing after awhile. I'm praising God for this as just a couple days ago I was in so much pain I was on the phone to the doctor's office trying to get some help.  I know I'll probably have more horrible days, but I'm so thankful for the days that are better!

Sweet, little Holly is always by my side, sometimes grabbing at my hand with her paw when she thinks I've been at the computer too long.  She is so adorable and fills my days with such love and comfort! She is such a blessing!

 My son talked with his best friend today and his friend is getting married! How is it possible that he is old enough to be married?  I remember him in 2nd grade with my son and it seems like just yesterday.  He has asked my son to be his best man so it's all very exciting. 

When I look at the above picture, which was taken about a year and a half ago, it doesn't even look like my son (who's on the left).  He has lost so much weight even since that picture was taken!

 and another of him with our poodle nibbling on his arm....she's such a hoot!

If you're interested in finding out how he did this (and has kept it off!), you can check out his blog HERE.  He hasn't had time to update it recently as he is in college and is taking his EMT classes this semester, but be watching as he will update it with more information.

I think I'm going to do a bit more writing before heading off to bed (or recliner, in my case, LOL) tonight, so will sign off.

Update and Part Three of Taking Stock

I took the weekend off from the internet and focused on writing, reading, and just relaxing.  I've been having more pain again and really needed to just sit quietly.  We actually had snow over the weekend (goodbye little fruit buds that were on my trees) and so it really made it conducive to sitting with my heating pad and working on things.  I did some writing, some reading, and watched some TV.  In fact, all day yesterday, I watched a show that evidently has been on for a long time, but somehow I missed it.  It's "Deadliest Catch" and while you wouldn't think it was something a girly-girl would like, I do! It's amazing what these men do for a living - the risks involved - and just the whole drama of it all.  Now the new season is returning on Tuesday and I intend to watch it!

Today I intend to get back to doing some things that need to get done on the internet and doing some letter writing and working on my article.  I'm also calling my pain management doctor as I'm really hoping I can get in this week and get a back shot because the pain has become so bad again, it brings me to tears at times.  I need some relief and I'm praying that the shot will help me. 

Now on to Part Three of Taking Stock:   I knew the Lord was calling me to write, in fact, He was telling (commanding) me to write. The amazing thing about this is that I have wanted to be a writer since I was in elementary school. However, for some reason, when I felt the calling from the Lord, I basically froze. It actually scared me to pursue my dream and instead of trusting the Lord to guide me and give me what He wanted me to write, I just did the minimum. I started a couple projects, but set them aside. In other words, I didn't do much.
Instead of relying on Him, I was relying on myself and that's never a good thing to do.  I believe now that this pain issue is something God is allowing in my life to bring me into obedience to Him.  I haven't been able to do anything I would normally do through this whole episode. I have been forced to have this quiet time, I have been spending a lot of time with the Lord, studying my Bible, praying and journaling. I've been forced, basically, to be introspective and have also chosen to spend my time growing closer with the Lord. Through all this, the Lord has been really (for lack of a better word) thumping on my heart and Spirit about this writing thing. I've also had encouragement from my family about it and my sister said it best when she said, "You are being disobedient to the Lord by not doing what He's told you to do. Think Jonah."

Now that really got my attention! I never thought of myself as Jonah, who refused to do what the Lord had called him to do!  I hadn't thought that by just disregarding what the Lord was telling me, because of fear, was really blatant disobedience. It is. My sister was right and I knew He was giving her these words to speak a little deeper to my heart and really get my attention! 

So... I'm writing!! I have so many ideas (isn't that just like God?) and I'm just enjoying so much sharing all these things on paper.  I'm working on a project right now for homeschooling parents that I intend to put into an e-book. It's something I've wanted to put together for quite a while and it's so wonderful to be working on it and really getting it done!  I'm also working on my website and hoping that it can be a place of encouragement and also where my things will be available.  I feel like such a burden has been lifted now that I'm being obedient and doing what the Lord wants me to do and not what I think he wants me to do.  Sometimes the work we are doing for the Lord isn't at all what He wants us to do.  In fact, we may be taking something away from someone that the Lord has that job in mind for! Makes you stop and think! We need to be in prayer and mindful of what the Lord calls us to do...and then do it! :)

God bless you - Julie

Goals & Plans

I keep forgetting to do things...it's been rather a constant for the past year.  I really do not like being this way at all.  I was always a planner and tried to keep myself as organized as possible.  I made lists, kept a strict calendar and, at one point, even scheduled myself and my children down to the quarter hour increments! I loved it, actually, and always seemed to not only get everything done that needed to get done, but I had extra time to do the things I enjoyed!  That has all gone by the wayside and now I find that I waste tremendous amounts of times just doing nothing.  Not only that, I forget to do the things that need to get done.

I think this all started because this last year has been so difficult for me.  First my MIL moved into our home and she has never stopped being difficult.  My son hurt his back, I hurt my back, and now my knees are shot. Add in all the sickness that has run rampant through our house, the loss of my beloved poodle, Tammy Lou, and the fact that I'm practically housebound, and you've got a horrible mix that threatens my total well-being.

When I could still do things, it was a bit better.  I was involved at my church, not only working in the office, but was leading a Bible study, which was just a total blessing to me.  After I hurt my back, I was in so much pain, nothing mattered but getting rid of the pain.  As that has subsided, it's been better, but my back and knees are still in so much pain, I find I have days where I can only sit and read or play my computer game, or just watch TV.  I don't even read like I normally would.  I'm not writing, except for this blog, and I think that's because I can pour my heart out here and feel some love back from my readers and friends.

This has to change.  It really hit home to me when I received an email from the editor of the newsletter I write an article for reminding my I hadn't sent my article in yet for March's newsletter. *sigh* I had completely forgotten.  Worse, normally, I have so much to say, it's never hard for me to whip out an article in no time at all.  When I realized I had forgotten, though, I just felt bad I forgotten and I couldn't even imagine what I would write about.  If I had been keeping a planner, as I used to do, I would have been thinking about what to write about and already had it done and turned in.  I have this amazing opportunity to write a monthly article and then I forget! This has to stop and I have to get organized again because if I don't, I'm going to continue spiraling down into this pit that I'm in. Right now, I can still dig myself out, but if I let things go, it will just get harder.

So, starting tomorrow, I sit down, write down what I need to do, what I want to do, and make some long term goals. I'm going to have to go easy on myself (since I'm still recovering) but I need to start working towards things. I mean, for years I've longed to have the time to write the book I have in my mind.  I actually have two books in my mind and one is started - it's just a matter of working on them!

I also want to work on the vision board I decorated.  I got the idea for this from Cindy Rushton.  She uses it to put her goals and plans on so she can visually see them.  I have a bulletin board that I decorated and is all ready for me to put my things on.  It just sits there.... Silly, huh? I want to get it up so I can visualize the goals I have for myself.

I know that once I start working on things, even if it's from my recliner, I am going to feel better mentally.  Keeping my calender up to date (and actually looking at it!) will be a great start to getting organized again. Writing a things to do list for each day and working on my goals will make me feel like I'm not a burden to my family.  Lastly, working on my writing, which is a huge dream for me, will be making me feel not only happier but obedient to the Lord, who told me to write in the first place!  If I can do it physically, I would also like to do things in my house again.  This may be slow going, but if I can even do one thing every day, I will feel so much better.  I love doing things for my family and in my home and, there again, it will be a boost to me mentally.

As soon as I have some goals written down, I'm going to share them here...it will help me to stay accountable and will also be a good way for me to keep account of what I'm doing.  How about joining me and writing down your own goals and plans?  If you do already, share how you keep track of things and how you keep yourself motivated.  I would love to know!

God bless you - Julie

Writing

Ever since I can remember, I've longed to be a writer. It is in my blood, afterall, since I am a decendant of Robert Burns. I've always been so enamoured of the written word. I read every day, books and magazines of all types. I put my dreams on hold, though, for a various reasons. However, now I've decided that it's the time for me to pursue my dream of writing. I've been doing a bit of writing by having an article in the local homeschooling newsletter. It's great experience and a wonderful way to get feedback from the readers. So far, I've gotten great responses, so for that I'm thankful. I want to touch people with my writing. I always try to be totally open about what I say and write from the heart. Now it's time to expand that, though. I'm researching online what opportunities are available and I've also started writing a story that's been in my head for years. I really believe the Lord is calling me to write and, even though I'm a bit frightened, I'm going to be obedient to His calling.

I'm going to set up a place where I can write. I do have a corner of my bedroom where I can write at a desk, but it's cluttered and I need to get it organized. Right now it's littered with all types of mail, paperwork and other such things that need to be put elsewhere. I also have all my yarn for crocheting near the desk and it's out of control. I have baskets for my yarn, but I've acquired so much from the thrift stores lately that the baskets are over flowing. I haven't been crocheting much as I've been sick for over a week and I don't feel like doing much of anything except watching tv and doing a bit of blogging.

I am going to sit down and write out my goals regarding my writing. This is a great way to start this new adventure.

God bless you - Julie