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The Goodness of the Lord

For the word of the Lord is right, And all His work is done in truth. He loves righteousness and justice; The earth is full of the goodness of the Lord. Psalm 33:4-5

Do you find yourself complaining about our world today? Truthfully, I do. With all the noise about climate change, gender identity, low wages, increasing costs, and—dare I mention it—politics?

Amid my murmuring over world situations, personal issues, and concerns for my family, a friend posted this photo of her mother cuddling a little one.

I know sweet Ottilla. I am sure her gaze is not on her uneaten food; her thoughts are consumed by that precious child in her arms. She loves God and trusts Him as she loves and prays for her family and friends.

Ottilla has seen a world in turmoil more than once; yet she believes in every word of the Bible. Amidst the storms of life, she looks for “the goodness of the Lord” in the world. She trusts God now and for the future.

The longer I gaze at this picture of pure love, the more I think of God’s overwhelming love for His children.

Friend, do you fully understand that our Father in Heaven sincerely desires to hold you like that? He knows you. He knows what the future holds for the world and you. Will you pause just now and close your eyes with that picture in mind? Ask God to hold you in His arms. Let Him be the Father He wants to be. Trust Him to bring peace, comfort, and direction in every circumstance you are facing.

God’s love is so much greater than any love we will ever experience here on earth. “The word of the Lord is right,” you can trust Him. Journey with me as we seek to live by the verse above. Let us look for the good in the world; trusting Him with what we do not like or understand.

I am closing this note with a prayer of peace for you. Please, let me hear from you.

Hugs,

Spring Brings A Fresh Perspective

Adams’ Acres Awakens to Spring

Spring is my favorite season, a reminder of God’s everlasting care for His creation (that includes you and me!)

“In the beginning, God created the heaven and earth. ” Genesis 1:1 Click here for more verses about God’s creation.

It’s a happy time. Birds appear from nowhere to build nests; butterflies search for the tiniest flowers. Animals attack new blades of tender grass as we would a plate of chocolates.

And yet, too often our present pain can overshadow the splendor of spring.

I recall a spring day when I unloaded my heavy heart. “Little Robin, I’m almost mad at you for being so happy! Can’t you see my heart is breaking as you strut proudly singing? Some would say you’re here to cheer me up. Well, sorry little birdie, it’s not working!”

Feeling overwhelmed as a woman, mother, caregiver, or friend, is inevitable.

As Mother lay in a hospital, I wondered if each day would be her last. Her window opened to beautiful, flower-laden lawns filled with cheerful little robins. My feelings stormed inside; I wanted to chase the birds away, to cry, to scream, to do something to let the world know my heart was breaking.

Yet it was that very image that gave me hope.

From childhood to now, my fondest memories of Mother included nature. Thoughts of our rejoicing in God’s creation refreshed my weary soul. As I pondered the joys we had on our many spring excursions, I felt a sense of peace. Mother relished every moment outside in the spring. “Smell the air” she would say. “Look at the colors! Susie, never lose sight of what God has given us!”

“Eye has not seen, nor ear heard, neither has entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him.” 1 Corinthians 2:9

Bringing spring to those who cannot get outside.

Recently, it seemed I had walked into a spring garden instead of a care facility. Every room was filled with colorful flower cutouts. Bright ribbons adorned pictures and bows accented the lamps. I was told they celebrate each month with all the vigor they can muster. “Not one of us, after all, is promised a tomorrow! We simply must do all we can do today to celebrate the goodness of God.” Wow! That profound comment was food for thought!

I recall holidays when we were caring for Mother. We hurriedly put out an appropriate card and flower of some sort as holidays came and went and seasons changed. I may have even decorated a cupcake or two. But, to celebrate each day like this? No, not at all.

Who needs a touch of God’s goodness this spring?

We have much to celebrate, not the least of which is A Risen Savior! How better to spread the Good News of New Life than to splash color around in the room occupied by the home-bound? Give them and your family something new to gaze upon. Add life and interest to your home.

Celebrate family! Celebrate life! Make every day a holiday; celebrate the gift of life!

I pray for you, dear friend, that you find rest when you are weary. I pray you find resources to meet your needs and those in your care. I pray you find the courage and hope for the days ahead.

Most of all, I pray that you know the Savior that rose from the grave that day and offered His free gift of Eternal Life and Hope to all who would receive it. Blessings and hugs to each of you.

Thanks for your comments; and your prayers.

Understanding Dementia and Alzheimers Disease

Understanding Dementia and Alzheimers Disease will dispute the saying: “It’s just old age, don’t be concerned about it. We’ll all be there someday.”

When Granny forgot the simplest of things, It was common to believe that her memory loss was due to getting older. I did not want to get that old!

For my 5 critical tips on communicating with dementia and Alzheimers, click here.

Dementia and Alzheimers Disease are not confined to the aged. Both Alzheimers and dementia can strike people as young as 30s; they are not simply diseases of the elderly. It is difficult to care for someone at any age when they begin to lose their ability to think, talk, or connect with others in a rational way.

Alzheimer’s disease is the sixth leading cause of death in the United States. It destroys brain cells thus causing varying states of memory loss. Through clinical trials and advanced research, progress has been made on slowing down this process; however, there is no known cure at this time.

Often overlooked is vitamin deficiencies or medication side effects. Symptoms due to vitamin deficiencies, medication side effects, or other medical conditions need to be considered. It is very important to be observant, keep notes, and inform the medical staff of any changes in memory or behavior.

Most caregivers are family members, especially in the early stages. Nearly 15 percent of those are long-distance caregivers, living an hour or more away from their loved ones. If you find yourself in this situation, know you are not alone. There are helps out there for you and others who have walked the path before you.

One helpful tool is a daily journal. Obviously, you won’t be able to journal everything; you can note major behavioral changes. For instance: did your loved one simply forget an appointment this week, or is this happening more frequently? As you consistently write down changes, you may see a pattern develop which could prove helpful in treatment.

Trustworthy information is vital. Find direct answers to many of your questions at the Alzheimers Association website with up-to-date information and good referral sites. Click here for more.

We are learning more about dementia, Alzheimers and other illnesses. New scientific discoveries in medicines and care are encouraging. I am thankful for those in the trenches, discovering new medicines and techniques to help the many suffering from these diseases.

I’m most thankful for those of you who spend your valuable time caring for those who cannot care for themselves. I pray often for you and for those in your care.

Hugs,

Did you realize that coloring books are not just another craze? Coloring has been a helpful tool in communicating with others. Do you know someone who would benefit from my Patches Coloring and Activity Book?