Horse Prairie Chatter

Sunrise, Sunset 11-10-11

2011-11-11T14:56:00.000-07:00

Hunter's Moon Setting, Sun rising

2011-11-05T19:52:00.001-06:00

Sunsets!

2011-11-05T19:52:00.000-06:00

Birthday Morn

2011-11-05T19:51:00.000-06:00

Clark Canyon & Ryan's Canyon

2011-11-05T19:50:00.000-06:00

Shenon Creek

2011-10-19T09:38:00.000-06:00

Some autumn views in my neighborhood. God's fall palette.

Polaris Lake

2011-10-02T16:05:00.000-06:00

Joey Polka Dots 2-4-99 to 9-27-11

2011-09-27T19:07:00.004-06:00

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Today I lost one of the best pals I ever had. We put my dog Joey down. He was suffering from some type of cancer and was in incredible pain. He remained alert and loving until the end. I've had so many good times with that dog. He was born February 4, 1999. We owned both Mom, Sadie, and Dad, Side Meat. I caressed Joey everyday since his birth. He slept with me each night and faithfully walked everyday with me on my daily "constitutional"-whether it was 2 miles or 6.
The memories which are spinning in my head-From getting shocked and rolling 4 times trying to break him from chasing antelope, to his Aunt Tipper and his escapades, and , the notoriety as the "baby killer". He took on and killed skunks and, badgers and porcupines, but had rare sucess with gophers. He he was gentle with people, protective of me, and cuddled each night on the sofa. He liked to fish. He would watch where I cast my fly, and when he saw a fish swimming towards it, he'd jump into the creek or the lake and catch the fish himself. Soon, he'd stand on the banks, and jump in to any fish he'd see. He loved the water, loved to swim. Loved to hike, to camp, to ride in a vehicle. He sat up straight in the seat. not missing anything that passed by.
12 1/2 years is along time for a friendship, and one grows deep. I love that dog.!

Jahnke Lake & Mine

2011-09-06T12:51:00.000-06:00

Twin & Lena Lakes

2011-09-06T12:50:00.000-06:00

Blodgett Canyon

2011-09-06T12:49:00.000-06:00

Morrison Lake

2011-08-13T21:12:00.000-06:00

Ajax & Lena Lakes

2011-08-13T21:11:00.000-06:00

What Does it Mean to Take Up Our Cross? - Pastors and Christian Leadership Resources (Page 3)

2011-07-14T07:21:00.000-06:00

What Does it Mean to Take Up Our Cross? - Pastors and Christian Leadership Resources (Page 3)

Bitterroots

2011-07-09T15:51:00.001-06:00

Operation Integrity Daily: Being The Real Deal

2011-06-20T07:35:00.000-06:00

Operation Integrity Daily: Being The Real Deal: "Admitted to God, to ourselves and to another human being the exact nature of our wrongs. Finally, I confessed all my sins to you and stop..."

Yardbirds

2011-05-27T13:57:00.001-06:00

GoD And DoG by Wendy J Francisco

2011-03-09T08:22:00.001-07:00

Icicles

2011-03-07T09:14:00.003-07:00

Peace and Civility Pledge

2011-01-11T16:42:00.002-07:00

Peace and Civility Pledge

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

The church can offer a message of hope and reconciliation to a nation that is hurting and deeply divided. We urge those who claim the name of Christ to "put away from you all bitterness and wrath and anger and wrangling and slander, together with all malice, and be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ has forgiven you" (Ephesians 4:31-32).

We pledge to God and to each other that we will lead by example in a country where civil discourse and peacemaking are rare. We will work to model a better way in how we treat each other in our many communities, across religious and political lines. We will strive to create safe and sacred spaces for common prayer and community discussion as we come together to seek God's will for our nation and our world.

1.) We believe Jesus' teaching that "Blessed are those who make peace" (Matthew 5:9). We acknowledge that most of us have been guilty of violence in our hearts and with our tongues. We hold ourselves to the higher standard to which Christ called us: to refrain from not only physical violence but violence of the heart and tongue. "Do not commit murder. Anyone who murders will be judged for it," and "Do not be angry with your brother or sister" (Mathew 5:22-23).

2.) We commit that our dialogue with each other will reflect the spirit of the Scriptures, which tell us, in relating to each other, to be "quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to become angry" (James 1:19).

3.) We believe that each of us, and our fellow human beings, are created in the image of God. This belief should be reflected in the honor and respect we show to each other, particularly in how we speak. "With the tongue we bless the Lord and Father, and with it we curse those who are made in the likeness of God....this ought not to be so" (James 3:9,10).

4.) We pledge that when we disagree, we will do so respectfully, without falsely impugning the other's motives, attacking the other's character, or questioning the other's faith. We will be mindful of our language, being neither arrogant nor boastful in our beliefs as we strive to "be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love" (Ephesians 4:2).

5.) We recognize that we cannot function together as citizens of the same community, whether local or national, unless we are mindful of how we treat each other. Each of us must therefore "put off falsehood and speak truthfully to his neighbor, for we are all members of one body" (Ephesians 4:25).

6.) We commit to pray for our political leaders - those with whom we agree or disagree. "I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made -- for kings and all who are in high positions" (1 Timothy 2:1-2).

7.) We believe that it is more difficult to hate others, even adversaries and enemies, when we are praying for them. We commit to pray for each other, those with whom we agree and those with whom we may disagree, so that we may be faithful witnesses to our Lord, who prayed "that they may be one" (John 17:22).

Prayer for a New Year

2011-01-04T18:28:00.002-07:00

Lord,
There are many uncertainties in our world but what matters most will never change. Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever. Hebrews 13:8

We believe You are with us, for us, and surrounding us with Your love. So do not fear, for I am with you... I will strengthen you and help you. Isaiah 41:10
No matter what happens, You will guide us and fulfill Your purposes for us. He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus. Philippians 1:6

Even in hard times we can be confident that we will have victory through you. In all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us. Romans 8:37

We trust you will take care of us and bless us in more ways than we can imagine.
God will meet all your needs according to the riches of His glory in Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:19

We give each moment and every day to You. Most of all, we give ourselves too.
Your Kingdom come, Your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Matthew 5:10
Amen.
--by Holley Gerth

Grant, Montana Scenery

2011-01-04T17:54:00.002-07:00

Some of the views I saw when I walk to get my mail.

Pearl Harbor Day

2010-12-08T20:55:00.001-07:00

I was remembering Pearl Harbor, and the sneak attack of the Japanese, when I looked out side and saw the "sneak attack" of the sun on what was to be a cloudy and snowy day. The sunlight filtering through the clouds created a beautiful portrait.

Blue Moon

2010-11-21T16:15:00.002-07:00

Blue Moon
You saw me standing alone
Without a dream in my heart
Without a love of my own

Blue Moon
You know just what I was there for
You heard me saying a prayer for
Someone I really could care for

And then there suddenly appeared before me
The only one my arms will ever hold
I heard somebody whisper please adore me
And then I looked to the Moon it turned to gold

Blue Moon
Now I'm no longer alone
Without a dream in my heart
Without a love of my own

A Snowy Day

2010-11-09T14:06:00.001-07:00

November 8th brought a harbinger of winter to these parts. Our first real snow storm for the season. Though here in Grant, the snow accumulation wasn't much, it did hit the higher peaks. The day was gray and dreary, but by night time, the horizon peeked out and displayed a beautiful sunset.

Reformation Sunday

2010-10-31T20:44:00.001-06:00

I found this essay from the Billings Gazette, October 30, 2010 worth sharing.

Oct. 31 brings a conflict of interest for Lutheran Christians.

At the same time we’re enjoying Halloween, we also mark the anniversary of the Reformation on the same day.

I’ve always wondered what people would think if I dressed up my kids as little Martin Luthers to go door-to-door nailing up pamphlets challenging Christians to get over their superstitious hang-ups and be true to the Gospel of Love.

There are different ways of telling the story of the Reformation, not all of them accurate.

A popular misconception in our time is that the reformers proclaimed “Sola Scriptura” as a way of replacing unquestioning obedience to the church hierarchy with unquestioning obedience to the Bible. In this version of the story, Martin Luther becomes the pioneer of American fundamentalism.

A more accurate version of the story would be that two competing readings of the Bible came into conflict with each other.

The church’s official reading of the Bible assumed that this was a book about sin and guilt and the authority of the church to save people from damnation if they submitted to this authority.

The reformers, when they looked at the Bible, saw a different story. It was a story of God’s love for humanity becoming more important than judgment of sin, or control, or domination.

It was a story of a free gift being offered in Jesus, a gift that cannot be held for ransom by churches or manipulative preachers. They found in Scripture that God’s purpose for humanity was abundant life and love and peace, in spite of the many ways we fail to live up to these ideals.

It was another conviction of the reformers that the church must always be reforming.

The insight they gained was that a human organization that dares to try to represent God in this world will inevitably fall prey to the very worst forms of corruption. The necessary corrective is a constant process of self-critical reflection, always looking at the sins of religious people before proposing to heal the rest of the world.

A look at our religious landscape today might give the impression that the Reformation never happened.

The bad reputation of churches and religious people in our culture is well-deserved, with the most audible religious voices being voices of extremism, judgment, fear and division.

The reputation of the Christian Gospel in our time and place is not of a free gift of life, love and peace, but a gift held captive to prescribed patterns of religiosity, contempt for the poor and vulnerable and nostalgic notions of family, sexuality and marriage.

The insight of the Reformation is that the Christian Church does not have an automatic right to exist.

If it fails to proclaim and exhibit Christ’s love, the church is on its own. Jesus will be at work, even outside the church, if necessary, gathering people who really want grace, love and peace.

The Rev. Eric Thorson is the pastor of Bethlehem Lutheran Church.

Happy Halloween

2010-10-31T20:36:00.003-06:00

I found this template on the History Channel website. I was looking for something a little bit different for the pumpkin other than the usual eyes and toothy grin. Though it was a challenge, and next year, I will get one of those pumpkin carving kits-my paring knife was a bit of an overkill, I am pleased with the results. I live in the country, and so this Halloween, I have not seen any trick-or-treaters, though this is par for the area. Hope your day was a fun-filled one, however you chose to celebrate it. Remember, each day is a celebration.

Sawtooth Lake

2010-10-26T19:25:00.000-06:00

More up Barrett Creek

2010-10-26T14:24:00.000-06:00

Sunrises, Sunsets

2010-10-26T14:09:00.000-06:00

Summer HIkes

2010-10-26T14:02:00.000-06:00

2010-10-26T13:50:00.000-06:00

Svow Squall

2010-10-26T13:48:00.002-06:00

A study of Tomatoes

2010-10-26T13:47:00.001-06:00

Meet Me In The Meadow

2010-10-22T14:10:00.000-06:00

Meet Me In The Meadow

Sunrise, Sunset

2010-10-19T09:44:00.002-06:00

Sunrise, sunset
Sunrise, sunset
Swiftly flow the days
Seedlings turn overnight to sunflowers
Blossoming even as we gaze
Sunrise, sunset
Sunrise, sunset
Swiftly fly the years
One season following another
Laden with happiness and tears
What words of wisdom can I give them?
How can I help to ease their way?
Now they must learn from one another
Day by day
Sunrise, sunset
Sunrise, sunset
Swiftly fly the years
One season following another
Laden with happiness and tears

More Lessons from the Lake

2010-10-10T14:04:00.008-06:00

Friday, the Food Pantry Hiking Society finished its last hike for the season. The days are getting shorter, and thus, harder to complete an 8 mile hike and home in the day light. Our latest hike was to Boot Lake. Twice before we were foiled to go the distance. First by high water in the creek, the second rain. But the third time was a charm. Boot Lake is a man-made lake, primarily used for irrigation storage. It's depth is determine by man, and so, the levels are inconsistent. Like so many of our man-made plans-disappointing, inconsistent,empty, destructive in many ways. Unless God builds a house..., I know the plans I have for you....-God's plans. Again, outside of God's plans for us, when we are trying to fill our man-made pursuits, our lives become empty, always poured out, never being filled by God spirit-a dry reservoir. Kinda like Boot Lake

Friends

2010-10-03T15:42:00.004-06:00

. What A Friend We Have In Jesus
What a friend we have in Jesus,
all our sins and griefs to bear!
What a privilege to carry
everything to God in prayer!
O what peace we often forfeit,
O what needless pain we bear,
all because we do not carry
everything to God in prayer.

2. Have we trials and temptations?
Is there trouble anywhere?
We should never be discouraged;
take it to the Lord in prayer.
Can we find a friend so faithful
who will all our sorrows share?
Jesus knows our every weakness;
take it to the Lord in prayer.

3. Are we weak and heavy laden,
cumbered with a load of care?
Precious Savior, still our refuge;
take it to the Lord in prayer.
Do thy friends despise, forsake thee?
Take it to the Lord in prayer!
In his arms he'll take and shield thee;
thou wilt find a solace there.

I'm not sure what these photos have to with friends, other than they were taken during outings with friends. Good friends, a reminder of what kind of friend Jesus is to me.. Just like the song. gifts all

Georgia Shaffer

2010-09-27T14:59:00.000-06:00

Georgia Shaffer

How Great Thou Art

2010-09-26T15:41:00.004-06:00

These are pictures from our latest hiking adventure, up to Upper Miner Lake. As we walk, we marvel at how awesome God's creation is. We see the beauty of His trees, mountains, hear the songs of the birds and the rushing water, rustling wind through the towering pines, and the crystal clear lake. We walk with a sense of worship and praise. His gift to us, because He loves us. Wow!
How Great Thou Art –
O Lord my God, When I in awesome wonder,
Consider all the worlds Thy Hands have made;
I see the stars, I hear the rolling thunder,
Thy power throughout the universe displayed.

Then sings my soul, My Saviour God, to Thee,
How great Thou art, How great Thou art.
Then sings my soul, My Saviour God, to Thee,
How great Thou art, How great Thou art!

When through the woods, and forest glades I wander,
And hear the birds sing sweetly in the trees.
When I look down, from lofty mountain grandeur
And see the brook, and feel the gentle breeze.

Then sings my soul, My Saviour God, to Thee,
How great Thou art, How great Thou art.
Then sings my soul, My Saviour God, to Thee,
How great Thou art, How great Thou art!

And when I think, that God, His Son not sparing;
Sent Him to die, I scarce can take it in;
That on the Cross, my burden gladly bearing,
He bled and died to take away my sin.

Then sings my soul, My Saviour God, to Thee,
How great Thou art, How great Thou art.
Then sings my soul, My Saviour God, to Thee,
How great Thou art, How great Thou art!

When Christ shall come, with shout of acclamation,
And take me home, what joy shall fill my heart.
Then I shall bow, in humble adoration,
And then proclaim: "My God, how great Thou art!"

Then sings my soul, My Saviour God, to Thee,
How great Thou art, How great Thou art.
Then sings my soul, My Saviour God, to Thee,
How great Thou art, How great Thou art!

Norman Hutchins God is Faithful Music Video w/ Lyrics

2010-09-23T12:50:00.000-06:00

God is faithful!

2010-09-23T12:48:00.000-06:00

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GruQjcWzzzU

A lesson from a Lake

2010-09-18T20:06:00.003-06:00

Today I learn a truth from Ecclesiastes 4. Yesterday I hiked up to Lake Canyon Lake, with the intention to experience God's creation and to, perhaps, do some fishing. I brought my flyrod and my trout net, both beautiful gifts from my husband. The hike was well worth it. Lake Canyon is a narrow canyon about 20 miles from my home. The walls are steep limstone ridges, Fall colors were beginning to appear, but there were still strong hints of this year's wildflowers. I got to the lake, and there was not a breath of wind, so the lake was a beautiful reflective pool. Awesome, God! But, the lake didn't look fishable-that is the bottom was densely moss covered. So, I walked around the lake, took in more of the wonderful sights, and rested by the "babbling" creek. Birds were singing, and there was a peace and calm. The only thing missing was someone to share it with-ah, that part of life is better with two. I stopped by the creek for a cookie and water and realized that my trout net was gone. I backed tracked some, and returned to the outtake of the lake along the trail I took in. No sign of the net. I ate lunch, went up the other side of the lake, took some more pictures, and convinced myself I dropped it along the trail. I headed back to the car, and couldn't see the net anywhere. "It probably is right next to the car"- well, no it wasn't. I was sad, mad, and perplexed. I prayed and pleaded. I went home. I headed back to the same spot today. I wandered around for almost 2 hours, still no net. I realized I lost my net and couldn't find it because no one was watching my back, no one to remember where we went, another mind to think and remember--Another to share and worship God.

It's better to have a partner that go it alone
Share the work, share the wealth
And if one falls down, the other helps
But if there's no one to help-tough!
Two in a bed warm each other
Alone you shiver all night.
By yourself your're unprotected
With a friend you can face the worst
.

Don't Fence Me In

2010-09-16T09:53:00.004-06:00

I was sitting down on the deck for a hot cup of tea, , and-WOW-200 yards from the fence was a herd of antelope. First, I grabbed the binoculars and watched for a few minutes. Then, as I grew more rational-I grabbed the camera to take a few shots. It's nice to live in an area with few neighbors. I wandered into the field in my own kaleidoscope robe-a coat of many colors-my husband's grandma's crazy quilt bath robe. In an adjacent pasture is our horse Libby and two pals. I thought I'd get a few photos of them-I have to work on this lighting thing. I looked at the fence between the two herds, and thought of the fences and barriers I have built in myself, some to keep people out, some to keep myself in--cages, barriers, fences, walls. Some boundaries-fences are necessary, but as a daughter of God, I am calling on Him to teach and help me tear down those barriers that impede me from being who I really am in Christ.

He's Got the Whole World in His Hands

2010-09-14T08:15:00.003-06:00

He's got the whole world in His hands,
He's got the whole world in His hands,
He's got the whole world in His hands,
He's got the whole world in His hands.

He's got my brothers and my sisters in His hands,
He's got my brothers and my sisters in His hands,
He's got my brothers and my sisters in His hands,
He's got the whole world in His hands.

He's got the sun and the rain in His hands,
He's got the moon and the stars in His hands,
He's got the wind and the clouds in His hands,
He's got the whole world in His hands.

He's got the rivers and the mountains in His hands,
He's got the oceans and the seas in His hands,
He's got you and he's got me in His hands,
He's got the whole world in His hands.

He's got everybody here in His hands,
He's got everybody there in His hands,
He's got everybody everywhere in His hands,
He's got the whole world in His hands.

This song came to mind as I was taking time to pray for all my brothers and sisters. In that vein, I ask for prayer for:
1. Tyler and Donna Hildrith. Tyler was born at 27 weeks last April, and now Donna is faced with some tough decision. Specifically that the lung disease will be healed and the Dr.s won't need to consider a trach.
2. My SIL, Glynis who is having a broken leg set today . She fell of a ladder and broke both her tibia and fibula
3. My husband that he would realize yelling and screaming at me won't change his self caused problems.
4. y sister and BIL as they travel on their vacation

Up Barrett Creek

2010-09-13T18:07:00.000-06:00

Instead of our usual hike to different mountain lakes in the area, I hiked with 4 of our dogs 6 miles up from our home. I'll share some of the sights.

2010_09_10

2010-09-13T18:03:00.002-06:00

Thoough this is a power pole and a hawk's nest, I can not help but view this as a representation of the cross and the crown of thorns my Savior bore when he took all my sins away. It also reminds of the hymn, "When I Survey That Wondrous Cross:

When I survey the wondrous cross
On which the Prince of glory died,
My richest gain I count but loss,
And pour contempt on all my pride.

Forbid it, Lord, that I should boast,
Save in the death of Christ my God!
All the vain things that charm me most,
I sacrifice them to His blood.

See from His head, His hands, His feet,
Sorrow and love flow mingled down!
Did e’er such love and sorrow meet,
Or thorns compose so rich a crown?

His dying crimson, like a robe,
Spreads o’er His body on the tree;
Then I am dead to all the globe,
And all the globe is dead to me.

Were the whole realm of nature mine,
That were a present far too small;
Love so amazing, so divine,
Demands my soul, my life, my all.

[Added by the compilers of Hymns Ancient and Modern]

To Christ, who won for sinners grace
By bitter grief and anguish sore,
Be praise from all the ransomed race
Forever and forevermore.

Keep Faith Fresh — Take The Faith Barista Challenge

2010-09-13T15:19:00.000-06:00

Keep Faith Fresh — Take The Faith Barista Challenge

Meet Me In The Meadow

2010-09-13T13:36:00.000-06:00

Meet Me In The Meadow

Palm of My Hand

2010-09-13T09:26:00.005-06:00

Today I read a devotional by Sharon Jaymes, and was once again reminded that God loves me so much that He has written my name on the palm of His hand. Why do we write on the palms of our hands? Mostly, we write as a reminder of something or someone we don't want to forget. What a special God we have. He collects our tears in a bottle, write our names on His palms, sings to us. Oh how we are loved. a link to that devotion:Girlfriends in God - Sept. 13, 2010
As I read this devotion, tears start to well up and I again felt the shame and humiliation from the actions and comments of a 4th grade teacher. I stood before my class of 30 9 years old and was told to demonstrate how I blew my nose or didn't blow my nose. I must have suffered from some type of allergy, as my nose was always running. Oh how I wish I could have seen Jesus, wiping my tears, holding and hugging me that day. Instead I felt the tears-tears God was collecting, and the anger and the hurt-the anger and hurt He bore on the cross and knew He loved me above all else. Praise Him I know that now.

Tendoy Lake

2010-09-06T17:48:00.003-06:00

The latest adventure of the Food Pantry Hiking Society headed us to Tendoy Lake. 3.5 miles into a beautiful cirque lake. Three hearty souls with God's song in their heart, visited this part of God's creation. and oh did we so enjoy it. It was the last hike of the all for one of the members. School beckoned, and so did the need for a paycheck. We may pick her up on some of our fall & winter adventures.

rainbows

2010-09-02T10:54:00.004-06:00

Every time I see a rainbow, I think of God's covenant with Noah, a covenant not to destroy the world. I personalize it and remember God has no plans to destroy me, but to prosper me, to calm me, and to rejoice in me. I love rainbows

Gorge Lake

2010-08-21T14:30:00.004-06:00

We did it. We grunted our way up the four miles to Gorge Lake. We not only saw one, but both. And it was breath-takingly beautiful, again. A nice sunny day, an elevation which kept it on the cool side-Dillon was suppose to be in the 90's-UGH!. Hope you enjoy the pictures of God's great creation, and the experience of friends.

Deerhead Lake Hike

2010-08-14T09:28:00.003-06:00

Once again we were foiled by the curse of Boot Lake. We headed to the trail head just as the rains came down. But the Food Pantry Hiking Society was to be undaunted. Since we were all prepared for a day in the woods, we changed our plans and headed to Deerhead Lake. And what an awesome wonder it was. The wind was still, and sky clouded, but bright, and the reflection on the lake miraculous. Thanks, God for that special treat.

Sawtooth Lake HIke

2010-08-08T09:52:00.003-06:00

July 30, we hiked up to Sawtooth Lake, in the beautiful Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest. Another great day for a hike, though a bit warm and a bit crowded. Met 24 hikers either on their way up or on their way down. Sawtooth Lake has a history of a plane crash some 50 years ago. to the remoteness of the area, most of the fuselage remained there,though I do understand the engine and parts were hauled out and sold. I'm sharing some more of God's blessings in nature. Hope you enjoy the pictures. Update on the plane wreck. It happened in the summer of 1957. The pilot and his wife were killed when they were flying too low in the Sawtooth lake area. The crew were being used by the Forest Service to spray trees to protect spruce bud worm.

Bannack Cemetery

2010-08-07T12:59:00.002-06:00

Friday night, I was coming home from a great hike, and as I was passing the Bannack Cemetery, a rainbow appeared in the sky. Of course I stopped and took a few pictures. There should have been a few more, but I still have this camera to figure out.

2010-08-07T12:47:00.002-06:00

August 6, a great bunch of friends and I hiked up to Rock Island Lakes in the West Big Hole of the Beaverhead -Deerlodge National forest. It was a great day for a hike. The trail was lined with vegetation, lots of wild flowers seen along the way. Got to the destination, and absorb the beauty. The lakes are accessed by a 3 mile hike, with an elevation gain of 1500 feet.
This summer this group, a motley crew from the Food Pantry, have decided to hike to a different mountain lake each Friday. So far we have made seven such hikes. Have seen lots and got to use a few muscles that otherwise stay dormant.

Jesus paid it all

2010-02-10T07:21:00.003-07:00

Today the Proverbs 31 devotional was on grace. I look out my picture window and see the ground covered in wintery white. Thinking of grace, seeing snow, I am reminded of the lyrics to "Jesus Paid It All" by Elvina M. Hall. My life, as dark and dirty as the bare ground in winter has been robed in the beauty and perfection of Jesus.

Jesus Paid It All

# hear the Savior say,
“Thy strength indeed is small;
Child of weakness, watch and pray,
Find in Me thine all in all.”

* Refrain:
Jesus paid it all,
All to Him I owe;
Sin had left a crimson stain,
He washed it white as snow.

# For nothing good have I
Whereby Thy grace to claim;
I’ll wash my garments white
In the blood of Calv’ry’s Lamb.
# And now complete in Him,
My robe, His righteousness,
Close sheltered ’neath His side,
I am divinely blest.
# Lord, now indeed I find
Thy pow’r, and Thine alone,
Can change the leper’s spots
And melt the heart of stone.
# When from my dying bed
My ransomed soul shall rise,
“Jesus died my soul to save,”
Shall rend the vaulted skies.
# And when before the throne
I stand in Him complete,
I’ll lay my trophies down,
All down at Jesus’ feet.

snow

2010-01-18T10:02:00.000-07:00

Snow falling freely
covering the ground with white
Like God's amazing Grace

Now Thank We All Our God Happy Thanksgiving

2009-11-25T09:31:00.005-07:00

Now thank we all our God,
with heart and hands and voices,
who wondrous things hath done,
in whom his world rejoices;
who from our mother's arms
hath blessed us on our way
with countless gifts of love,
and still is ours today.

O may this bounteous God
through all our life be near us,
with ever-joyful hearts
and blessèd peace to cheer us;
and keep us in his grace,
and guide us when perplexed,
and free us from all ills
in this world and the next.

All praise and thanks to God
the Father now be given,
the Son, and Holy Ghost,
supreme in highest heaven,
the one eternal God,
whom earth and heaven adore;
for thus it was, is now,
and shall be evermore.

The Camel's Back

2009-11-13T07:42:00.002-07:00

The camel's back is almost broken, I haven't gotten to the last straw , but the bundle in my hand is thinning out, and the load the camel is carrying is growing. It's been a hard fought year, one with many stresses and trials--strong tension threaded through all the days of this year. And, yet, I find refuge through it all, in the loving arms of my God and Savior. Is my anxiety gone-no, are my tears vanquished-no, do my fears linger-yes, do I still grapple with anger and resentment-yes. But, now I have a strength to help me hold on, to muddle through this cat's cradle web of life.

OWIE

2009-09-09T08:45:00.005-06:00

Last Thursday, I walked over to a neighbor's house to have her co-sign a check for our QRU. To "protect" ourselves, we have to signatures on each check. We visited for awhile, she had to to return to house cleaning-her mother-in-law was soon to arrive, and I had to eat and get ready for Bible Study. As I walked out of their yard, their old dog, Silver, grabbed and bit my ankle. OWWIIIEEEEE. It did hurt, and I thought it drew a bit of blood, but went to the locked boxes to mail the signed check and invoice--for AED pads. As I walked home, I finally looked down at my ankle, saw blood, but it looked rather dried. "Well, I guess I'll attend to it when I get home." I thought. I could feel it still bleed, and feel the blood soak up in my shoe. "This is not good."
I knew I'd probably going to see the Doc that day. Before I went in house, I shut off the water on the east side of the house. Entered the house, went to the utility sink and took off my shoe. Still bleeding. I hoisted myself to the washing machine and plunged the injured foot in the sink and ran water, hoping to clean the wound out and to see the damage. Quite a large gash. I sat down in the dining area. Collected my thoughts, took a deep breath, thought of a game plan. I called ER. Since it was a dog bite, they recommended: Go to your Doc, go to the walk in clinic, or if all else fails, come to Er, but probably a wise thing to do soon. I called the owner of the dog a, told her I got bit by their dog, and I was going in to get it looked at and stitched. I mostly called because I knew whomever treated the wound would notify the Sheriffs office. The gal came over, somewhat in disbelief, but as a former EMT could at least appreciate the seriousness of it. She offer to drive me to Dillon, and pay for the treatment, though not to willing to pay for an ER visit. Not a real problem , as we have insurance. Got to the walk-in clinic--my doc was too busy to fit me in, had the wounds examine- the dog chipped my calcnus, tore two gashes, one on each side, and a puncture wound. Stapled up the largest gash-to cover the exposed bone to protect it from further contamination, and gave me a prescription for an antibiotic, and a bill for about $158.00. The gal graciously paid the bill. The bill, though, stunned me. Last May, I went to ER (Barrett Hospital and Healthcare in Dillon) for a ragged laceration cause by a fall and dragging my hand across and exposed nail. Got seven stitches in the palm of my hand. IN both cases, no extra tests, no x-rays or other imaging, just basic wound care. The ER visit bill became a $1500.00 claim against my (our) insurance. OWWIIEE!!!!
But, I'll can sum this one up quickly, I was "heeled by a heeler, but, now I'm being healed by the Great Healer.

About Pearls Of Wisdom - Spiritual Quotes & Wisdom For Personal Growth

2009-08-16T19:17:00.001-06:00

About Pearls Of Wisdom - Spiritual Quotes & Wisdom For Personal Growth

Shared via AddThis

2009-08-10T08:53:00.000-06:00

When I was little,
I used to believe in the concept of one best friend,
And then I became a woman.
And found out that if you allow your heart to open up, God would show you the best in many friends.

One friend is needed when you're going through things with your man.
Another friend is needed when you're going through things with your mom.
Another will sit beside you in the bleachers as you delight in your children and their activities.
Another when you want to shop, share, heal, hurt, joke, or just be.
One friend will say, 'Let's cry together,'
Another , 'Let's fight together,'
Another , 'Let's walk away together.'

One friend will meet your spiritual need,
Another your shoe fetish,
Another your love for movies,
Another will be with you in your season of confusion,
Another will be your clarifier,
Another the wind beneath your wings.

But whatever their assignment in your life,
On whatever the occasion,
On whatever the day,
Or wherever you need them to meet you with their gym shoes on and hair pulled back,
Or to hold you back from making a complete fool of yourself .
Those are your best friends.

It may all be wrapped up in one woman, But for many, it's wrapped up in several..
One from 7th grade,
One from high school,
Several from the college years,
A couple from old jobs,
On some days your mother,
On some days your neighbor,
On others, your sisters,
And on some days, your daughters.

Don't break the elastic!
In April, Maya Angelou was interviewed by Oprah on her 70 birthday. Oprah asked her what she thought of growing older.
And, there on television, she said it was 'exciting.' Regarding body changes, she said there were many, occurring every day...like her breasts. They seem to be in a race to see which will reach her waist, first.

The audience laughed so hard they cried. She is such an honest woman, with so much wisdom in her words!
Maya Angelou said this:
"I've learned that no matter what happens, or how bad it seems today, life does go on, and it will be better tomorrow.
"I've learned that you can tell a lot about a person by the way he/she handles these three things: a rainy day, lost luggage, and tangled Christmas tree lights.?
"I've learned that regardless of your relationship with your parents, you'll miss them when they're gone from your life.
"I've learned that making a 'living' is not the same thing as 'making a life.'
"I've learned that life sometimes gives you a second chance.

"I've learned that you shouldn't go through life with a catcher's mitt on both hands; you need to be able to throw some things back.
"I've learned that whenever I decide something with an open heart, I usually make the right decision.
"I've learned that even when I have pains, I don't have to be one.
"I've learned that every day you should reach out and touch someone. People love a warm hug, or just a friendly pat on the back.
"I've learned that I still have a lot to learn.
"I've learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel."

Summer on the Prairie

2009-08-10T07:29:00.003-06:00

It's the 10th of August, and yesterday we had our first real smoke-filled day. We assume that the smoke is from a fire somewhere in Utah, which yesterday, involved over 44,000 acres. It's been an amazing summer. One, the humidity has stayed around 30 or above, and we've more rainy days than in the last few years. Our yard and the surrounding hills are still green, though the native grasses have matured to a light golden color. Secondly, the temperature has rarely been above 90* F--the highest so far. Most of the summer has been spent with temps ranging in the mid 70's to mid 80's. Nice, but a little hard on the things you try to grow in your garden. And, thirdly, there is still water in the creek. Early summer rains and late spring snows have recharge several of the nearby springs.
We watched a family of robins nest and fledge in a nest built on a buffalo skull, next to our front door. The view from the kitchen window was fantastic. We pray at least on of the 4 chicks made it. All a part of God's amazing design and provision.

Summer

2009-07-23T07:46:00.002-06:00

It's July, and the weather is heating up. From a cool 60* to near 90*, very little wind to gusting winds. The grass, once lush and green, has matured, and wave it's sere stalk. Quite the transformation is just a week. The robin's chicks now all fledged. I hope at least one of them survive, but, biologically, it's a real crap shoot. I think summer is the hardest season, mostly because it's all about change, not the subtle changes of winter, spring, and fall, but dramatic change. And boy, do we humans like to resist change.

2009-06-29T11:46:00.001-06:00

Wolf Ad in Missoulian, June 28, 2009

2009-06-29T11:33:00.001-06:00

Walf Ad

It's 2009 OH NO!!!

2009-01-13T19:37:00.005-07:00

2009-This year I'll be double nickles-just like the old mandatory speed limit in my home state of North Dakota. Joey, the Blue tick/mutt cross dog on the rug will be ten.. He's been the best buddy for the last ten years. We raised him as a pup, his Mom, Sadie, a Blue Tick, and Side Meat, Papa-a real Heinz 57 dog. I don't think he really likes his picture taken, but I was busy taking pictures of our tree, so I couldn't resist. Guess I woke him up with the flash. Actually, he's in my profile picture on top of Anton Peak of the Madison Range, Beaverhead Deerlodge Forest with his Papa, Side Meat

Growing Stronger

2008-11-30T09:32:00.002-07:00

Growing Stronger by James Hollihan

When I stop and look around me
and see how far I've come.
The road ahead gets to lookin' long
and I've only just begun.
A voice inside reminds me
I haven't come alone.
You wouldn't bring me this far
Just to leave me on my own.
Through the word I have the Power
to conquer anything.
I can overcome any situation
That tries to hinder me.
Chorus:
Growing Stronger
With every step I take
I'm learning to depend on you
And how to use my faith.
Growing Stronger
With every battle that I win.
It's plain to see
You're teaching me
Everything I need to know
To be strong enough for anything.

When my dreaming turns to wandering
and my feet give in to go.
It doesn't take me long to see
That there are things I still don't know.
In your gentle way
You teach me how to walk with you.
Prepare me for the open door
You want to take me through.
Even Though it seems sometimes
Things aren't working as they should.
I can stand and say
That everything is working to the good.

I first hear this song over 30 years ago and it come back to me every once in awhile when I have trials I don't understand and situations I can't control.

2008-11-26T11:59:00.001-07:00

A PROCLAMATION
The year that is drawing toward its close has been filled with the blessings of fruitful fields and healthful skies. To these bounties, which are so constantly enjoyed that we are prone to forget the source from which they come, others have been added which are of so extraordinary a nature that they can not fail to penetrate and soften even the heart which is habitually insensible to the ever-watchful providence of Almighty God.
In the midst of a civil war of unequaled magnitude and severity, which has sometimes seemed to foreign states to invite and to provoke their aggression, peace has been preserved with all nations, order has been maintained, the laws have been respected and obeyed, and harmony has prevailed everywhere, except in the theater of military conflict, while that theater has been greatly contracted by the advancing armies and navies of the Union.
Needful diversions of wealth and of strength from the fields of peaceful industry to the national defense have not arrested the plow, the shuttle or the ship; the ax has enlarged the borders of our settlements, and the mines, as well of iron and coal as of the precious metals, have yielded even more abundantly than heretofore. Population has steadily increased notwithstanding the waste that has been made in the camp, the siege and the battlefield; and the country, rejoicing in the consciousness of augmented strength and vigor, is permitted to expect continuance of years with large increase of freedom.
No human counsel hath devised nor hath any mortal hand worked out these great things. They are the gracious gifts of the Most High God, who, while dealing with us in anger for our sins, hath nevertheless remembered mercy.
It has seemed to me fit and proper that they should be solemnly, reverently and gratefully acknowledged, as with one heart and one voice, by the whole American people. I do therefore invite my fellow citizens in every part of the U.S., and also those who are at sea and those who are sojourning in foreign lands, to set apart and observe the last Thursday of November next as a day of thanksgiving and praise to our beneficent Father who dwelleth in the heavens.
And I recommend to them that while offering up the ascriptions justly due to Him for such singular deliverances and blessings they do also, with humble penitence for our national perverseness and disobedience, commend to His tender care all those who have become widows, orphans, mourners or sufferers in the lamentable civil strife in which we are unavoidably engaged, and fervently implore the interposition of the Almighty hand to heal the wounds of the nation and to restore it, as soon as may be consistent with the divine purposes, to the full enjoyment of peace, harmony, tranquility and union.
In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and caused the seal of the U.S. to be affixed.
Done at the city of Washington, this 3d day of October, A.D. 1863, and of the Independence of the U.S. the eighty-eighth.
ABRAHAM LINCOLN.

Be Still

2008-11-17T13:50:00.004-07:00

Psalm 46

1 God is our refuge and strength,
always ready to help in times of trouble.
2 So we will not fear when earthquakes come
and the mountains crumble into the sea.
3 Let the oceans roar and foam.
Let the mountains tremble as the waters surge!

4 A river brings joy to the city of our God,
the sacred home of the Most High.
5 God dwells in that city; it cannot be destroyed.
From the very break of day, God will protect it.
6 The nations are in chaos,
and their kingdoms crumble!
God’s voice thunders,
and the earth melts!
7 The Lord of Heaven’s Armies is here among us;
the God of Israel is our fortress.

8 Come, see the glorious works of the Lord:
See how he brings destruction upon the world.
9 He causes wars to end throughout the earth.
He breaks the bow and snaps the spear;
he burns the shields with fire.

10 “Be still, and know that I am God!
I will be honored by every nation.
I will be honored throughout the world.”

11 The Lord of Heaven’s Armies is here among us;
the God of Israel is our fortress. NLT

I don't know why, but I was hanging out my wash today and the verse,"Be still and know that I am God," flooded my brain.. I went to my computer, quickly looked it up on www.BibleGateway.com. Mainly, I was trying to find the book, chapter, verse. I read the first verses of Psalms 46, and thought of all the troubles the world faces today. Listening to the news you hear of mountains and towns collapsing under earthquakes and floods, destructive fires, the stronghold of our world economy weak and feckless, murders, riots, etc.
Be still and know I am God.
I thought of the many ways we collectively use to solve the problems. We rush in to Fight, we stand powerless in Fear, we Foolishly try to Fix it, or Feel we can resolve everything through Finances. But we Fail. We get a Grade "F."
But when we Acknowledge that God is Almighty and All powerful, when we Accept his Lordship, when we Await on Him and Allow Him to work, well, we get the "A."

Trust and Obey

2008-11-14T13:26:00.000-07:00

Yesterday on my "walk"-when I ponder all things great and small-I started to think about the concept of "Trust and Obey." Yup, just like the title of the familiar hymn. I had been reading about training mules, now there is one named "Bud" or Bannack" grazing in our yard. A trainer stated a mule needs to trust you before he will obey you. He needs the confidence that you have a clear vision of what you want him to do, are able to communicate that vision, and have a relationship with him in which, you've only had the best for him in mind. The Trust comes before the Obey. It's not obey the commands we want to obey or think we should obey, then "trust the outcomes", it's "Trust and then obey." Just like the song says, "There's no other way." That's the way it is with our relationship to
God. God has established a relationship with us through His Son, Jesus, communicates His will through His Word, His voice, His Spirit, and has promised all things work for our good!
The mule came to mind, since my first post my husband was using him to pack out the elk. It's Friday afternoon, and the elk is still up in the mountain. His mule didn't understand what Graeme really wanted. So, it's drudge up and down hill tomorrow with the elk strapped on our backs.