June Caedmon's Blog, page 40

Inspired by . . . warm, frothy milk

Inspired by . . . warm, frothy milk




I've always preferred my milk cold. Even growing up on a farm where we had fresh milk twice a day, I drank the cold milk out of the refrigerator. But reading about warm, frothy milk paired with freshly baked bread, spread with freshly churned butter, topped with jam makes me wonder what I've been missing.

Maggot Meatloaf, on the other hand, is far less appetizing.

As you might have guessed, I've been indulging in some fantasy lately. When you're hurting and grieving it's a healthy way to escape for an hour or two.

The worlds of The Little White Horse and The Wingfeather Saga couldn't be any further apart if they tried. Fearsome Toothy Cows and lions that protect frolicking lambs simply do not coexist.

But as different as these stories are, certain elements remain the same. Evil and trials challenge the pure-hearted and courageous heroes who long for peace and acceptance. Yes, there is a happy ending in each of these stories. But not for all the characters. Even the good ones. There is pain, disappointment, and suffering.

Perhaps these fantasy worlds are not as far removed from our own as we first thought. While we don't live in fear of the Fangs of Dang or the Men from the Dark Woods we face personal trials and corporate evils that, in some ways, seem to be increasing every day.

It's tempting to respond like Sir Benjamin or the Hollowsfolk by simply ignoring the Dark Woods, or building walls to keep out the Fangs. But we all know that neither of those responses is the answer. We all live in this world together and what happens affects us all. 

There has always been evil in this world, and there have always been those who have stood against it. We all have a choice to make. We can be part of the problem or part of the solution. Our action or inaction falls on one side or the other.

There are many ways to stand against evil. You don't have to join the military or march in a protest. You can speak love to your neighbor and have compassion on your fellow man.

God has given all of us unique gifts and a specific place of service. Stand against the evil of this world with your actions and with your words.

Do what the Lord requires of you. It's really that simple.


Act justly. Love mercy. Walk humbly before God.
We may not all be Moon Princesses, but we are sons and daughters of the King.
Shalom,





Sharing inspiration here:
Small Wonders, Testimony Tuesday, #TellHisStory,
Thought Provoking Thursday, Grace & Truth, Let Us Walk Worthy,
Inspire Me Monday, RaRa Link Up, Intentional Tuesday,
#WordswithWinter, Titus 2 Tuesday, Thoughtful Thursdays,
Encourage Me Monday, Wholehearted Wednesday,
Women with Intention Wednesdays, Word Filled Wednesday,
#GiveMeGrace, Sitting Among Friends

Inspired by . . . Life thru My Lens 28:52

Inspired by . . . Life thru My Lens 28:52

I've been saving these images for a while. I think this week is the perfect time to share them with you. We can all use a little humor, a little levity to balance the heaviness and sorrow.

If you're a regular here you know I love birds. I delight in watching their activity. The simple acts of feeding, building nests and raising families. I enjoy capturing them on film with my camera and am always amazed by their vibrant colors and detailed markings. Each one is a work of the Master's hand.

But just as with our family pictures sometimes the camera catches them in a not so flattering pose. Today I'm sharing with you some of those unflattering shots that I've collected over the years. 




Eastern Phoebe
Scissor-tailed Flycatcher
Black-chinned Hummingbird
Lesser Goldfinch
Black-chinned Hummingbird
Black-chinned Hummingbird
Greater Roadrunner
Carolina Wren
Eastern Srub Jay
House Finch
Northern CardinalBirds look so different "head-on" don't they?

I hope these brought a smile to your face today.
Blessings,


Sharing inspiration here:
Nature Notes, Through My Lens, Little Things Thursdays,
Bird D’pot, Saturday’s Critters, Life thru the Lens, Wild Bird Wednesday,
Our World Tuesday, Community Global, Photo Friday

Inspired by . . . my voice

Inspired by . . . my voice

We have a lot to grieve over in this country.

We have a lot to feel angry and concerned about . . .


Bad cops

Blacks killing blacks - in countless numbers, every day 

Protests that result only in innocent lives lost and businesses plundered

The rush to judgement and erroneous reporting by the major media outlets

Injustices like the Kate Steinle murder

The recent terrorist acts in San Bernadino and Orlando

A government that is no longer for the people and by the people

. . . to name a few.

We have reason to despair.



Keep in mind that where you see disunity, chaos, and hate the enemy is at work. And those who are helping to perpetrate these things are working for him.

We have reason to despair.

Amid the clamor of social media voices mine is barely a whisper. As a white, Christian, conservative, lower-middle-class female my voice has been all but silenced in this country. 

No one wants to hear from the white, middle-American housewife, who loves her country and her God. Who tries to love her neighbor and her enemies. How could I possibly understand the issues? Or have something helpful to bring to the table? I'm expected to clam-up and go back to my privileged, blessed life.

It's tempting, let me tell you. It's much easier not to speak out. It's a lot easier to bury my nose in a book and walk with tunnel vision through my privileged, blessed life. It's certainly much easier to sit on my porch and lose myself in the wonder of God's creation than it is to sit in sackcloth and ashes in front of my computer screen for 30 minutes and pray, and lament, and pray and repent, and pray and grieve, and cry out to God with hundreds of others who ache for unity, peace, and understanding.

We have reason to hope.

God hears the prayers of His people. Don't let the prevailing evil in this world make you doubt this Truth.

God hears and God ACTS.

And this little white girl will continue to share the wonders of His creation. She will continue to share the Gospel Truth.

Because JESUS is our ONLY hope for change in this world.




Shalom,


A note to my readers:
If you visit here often you know that I don't normally post about controversial issues. Instead, I've chosen to combat the evil in this world by simply sharing and speaking God's Truth in this space, rather than addressing specific injustices. 

I prayed long and hard about this post and even after writing it I didn't hit publish right away. But I couldn't let it go, as much as I wanted to. I decided that candidly sharing my feelings about my "voice" was important. My intent is not to make any of this about me, but rather to share one perspective, one voice in a sea of voices. I can't be the only one who feels this way. Despite how we may feel the truth is, every voice matters. Thank you for your grace.







Sharing inspiration here:
Small Wonders, Testimony Tuesday, #TellHisStory,
Thought Provoking Thursday, Grace & Truth, Let Us Walk Worthy,
Inspire Me Monday, RaRa Link Up, Intentional Tuesday,
#WordswithWinter, Titus 2 Tuesday, Thoughtful Thursdays,
Encourage Me Monday, Wholehearted Wednesday,
Women with Intention Wednesdays, Word Filled Wednesday,
#GiveMeGrace, Sitting Among Friends

Inspired by . . . Life thru My Lens 27:52

Inspired by . . . Life thru My Lens 27:52

I thought you all might enjoy seeing an encounter we had earlier this week. It appears our dog, Sandy, has been making friends.

We had just finished putting out her food when we spotted this doe approaching. Since we were only a few feet away, I was surprised she kept advancing. We decided to wait around and see what would happen.



It's been hot here, so we assumed she was after Sandy's water. We were surprised when she started eating Sandy's food, instead!

Sandy was getting a drink of water off to the right side of this picture at the time.

The doe ran when Sandy finished drinking and headed back toward the food. But she didn't run far. We figured the she must know from experience that Sandy won't hurt her.



As you can see, Sandy is more interested in her food than her new friend!



The doe came right back when Sandy got down for another drink of water. 



Sandy came back for her food and seemed completely nonplussed by the presence of the doe. I wonder how often Sandy misses out on her meal. Around here, you snooze - you lose!



We were sitting just a few feet away the entire time. Normally, the deer won't come this close. 



I took all these with my cell phone and it was after sunset, so the pictures aren't the best. 

What I really want to know is: why do the deer have to eat my plants when they have Sandy's food to eat?


What interesting encounters haveyou had this week?
Blessings,


Sharing inspiration here:
Nature Notes, Through My Lens, Little Things Thursdays,
Bird D’pot, Saturday’s Critters, Life thru the Lens, Wild Bird Wednesday,
Our World Tuesday, Community Global, Photo Friday

Inspired by . . . my banner

Inspired by . . . my banner

Happy Independence day, everyone!

If you're celebrating in any way at all today chances are that the colors red, white and blue are part of your landscape. Although Flag Day is June 14, I think July 4th is the holiday we most associate with the Old Glory, the Stars and Stripes, the symbol of our nation.



I grew up during a time when we said the pledge of allegiance every morning before the start of our school day. I was taught the proper way to handle the flag, and what the stars and stripes meant. I was taught to honor and respect the symbol of our nation. This nation that so many have fought and died for so that we may remain free.

The American Flag is a symbol that is recognized all over the world. It is a symbol of our nation's principles. The colors of the flag have come to mean: white for purity and innocence. Red for hardiness and valor. Blue, the color of the Chief, for vigilance, perseverance, and justice.

Admittedly, there have been times in history when we Americans have failed to uphold the principles and beliefs of our nation both at home and abroad. As a result, there are places where the American flag is neither revered nor respected. Only our future actions as Americans and as a nation can change this.

Symbols are used in every facet of life, to educate and to convey ideas and beliefs. As our nation's symbol, the American Flag should encourage and inspired us to live out the ideals of our nation and ensure that these ideals are passed on to future generations.

You may have several banners or symbols in your life that represent certain principles to which you ascribe. Nearly every organization has a banner or flag of some kind.



If you're a believer there is a banner that represents our principles and beliefs as well. However, it may not be the banner you think. It's not the Christian flag or even the cross.

In the book of Exodus, after the first recorded war, Moses set up an altar and declared, Jehovah-Nissi -"The LORD is my banner!" (Ex 17:15)

The Lord Himself is our banner. Not only is He the banner under which victory is certain, but in Christ, God leads us in a perpetual victory parade!

But thanks be to God, who in Christ always leads us in triumphal procession, and through us spreads the fragrance of the knowledge of Him everywhere. (2Co 2:14)

The implication is clear, just as we as Americans should live our lives governed by the ideals of our nation, even more so, as Christians, ambassadors of Christ, parading under His banner, we should live our lives according to His word. 

I have been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ Who lives in me. And the life I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, Who loved me and gave Himself for me. (Gal 2:20)

Yes, we will fail. And although people may not always extend grace to us when we do, God always will.

Perhaps when we look at the flag this week, when we spot the colors, red, white and blue, we'll be reminded of another, higher banner. And another, higher sacrifice. And be inspired to live by that faith.


Blessings,


Sharing inspiration here:
Small Wonders, Testimony Tuesday, #TellHisStory,
Thought Provoking Thursday, Grace & Truth, Let Us Walk Worthy,
Inspire Me Monday, RaRa Link Up, Intentional Tuesday,
#WordswithWinter, Titus 2 Tuesday, Thoughtful Thursdays,
Encourage Me Monday, Wholehearted Wednesday,
Women with Intention Wednesdays, Word Filled Wednesday,
#GiveMeGrace, Sitting Among Friends

Inspired by . . . June - a look back

Inspired by . . .  June - a look back

I don't want to say goodbye to June. She was a blaze of steamy sun-scorched days and moonbeam-filled nights.Thirty days hasn't been enough time to savor her goodness. I want to hold her close and drink her in - I'm not ready to release her stillness to the noise of July.

I thought I was taking the time, savoring the stillness, soaking in the warmth of her days. And maybe I was doing just that because June's swiftness came as a surprise. She didn't feel fleeting, yet here we are and suddenly, she's gone.

Perhaps what I'm feeling is just a yearning for more.

More rest.
More indulgence.
More living in the moment.
More paying attention to the sacred art of living.

Maybe June was all these things and she just looks different to me from the other side. 

The pictures tell the story.



What was June like for you?
When you look back what do you see?
Blessings,

Sharing inspiration here:
Mona's Picturesque

Inspired by . . . Life thru My Lens 26:52

Inspired by . . . Life thru My Lens 26:52

Although I never tire of the view from my front porch, I'm guessing some of you may be weary of hummingbirds, butterflies, and bees. So this week I'm sharing some photos taken a couple of years ago during a trip that my Dreamer and I took to Asheville, North Carolina.

These photos were taken with my little Kodak point-and-shoot, which meant I had a lot of editing to do. Some of the exposures are still pretty blown, but hopefully, you can ignore that and enjoy the journey.

*** ***
Asheville is a vibrant city surrounded by the Blue Ridge Mountains, and right at its heart sits the 19th-Century Biltmore Estate.



It's a grand house, from a grand time. This marvelous 250-room French Renaissance chateau boasts 35 bedrooms, 43 bathrooms, and 65 fireplaces.

Still owned by the original family, the Vanderbilt's continue to welcome all who visit.

In sorting through my photos, it seems I took pictures of only the left side of the house. It is probably my favorite due to the motion of the windows slanting along the grand staircase.






The view from inside is majestic!




This courtyard seems rather bleak, but I suppose it is left open for grand, outdoor parties.



Notice the beautiful green vines in the picture above? Here is an up close shot of their source. My Dreamer likes to take pictures of me, but what I want you to see in the picture below are the beautiful, gnarly, ancient vines! They must be nearly as old as the estate itself.



There were more vines on the way down to the informal gardens, winding themselves around timeworn concrete columns.



But first, let me give you a taste of the formal gardens, close to the house.





The beauty of the formal and informal gardens can be attributed to landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted. If you recognize his name it may be because he also designed New York City's, Central Park.

Here is a view of the rose garden which boasts over 250 varieties.



The garden atrium maintains the sense of grandeur prevalent everywhere throughout the estate.



There is something here for everyone.






There is so much more to this estate than can be testified to by a these few photographs. I would love to return with my Canon and spend some time on the grounds during the golden hour.

If you're interested, you can find the estate history here, which will tell you more about the winery, and the village. 

The tickets are a little pricey, but after experiencing the Biltmore first hand, we felt they were well worth the cost. We would definitely visit again.

If you're wondering why there are no pictures of the interior, it is because they are not allowed. But you know me . . .


. . . I prefer to spend my time in the garden.
Blessings,


Sharing inspiration here:
Nature Notes, Through My Lens, Little Things Thursdays,
Bird D’pot, Saturday’s Critters, Life thru the Lens, Wild Bird Wednesday,
Our World Tuesday, Community Global, Photo Friday

Inspired by . . . threads of His mercy

Inspired by . . . threads of His mercy 


I've been reading through the book of Kings this week, and I'm struck by the enormity of mercy that God has shown His people.

Remember Ahab? The king who married Jezebel. The king of who it is said in v. 25 of 1 Kings 25:

Never was there a man who sold himself to do what is wrong in the Lord's eyes as Ahab did, and all at the prompting of Jezebel his wife.

Ahab was the worst of the worst. Yet when Ahab heard the word of the Lord from the prophet Elijah, he tore his clothes, put on sackcloth, and fasted. What was the Lord's response?

"Have you seen how Ahab has humbled himself before Me? Because he has thus humbled himself, I shall not bring disaster on his house in his own lifetime, but in that of his son."

God poured out His mercy on Ahab, deferring His wrath to the next generation (which, incidentally, was no less guilty). In fact, you can read in 2 Kings 22-23 about King Josiah's reform and of all the shrines and idols that he tore down, dating back to the time of King Solomon. Israel's sin was great indeed.

Yet, time and again we read accounts of God's great mercy toward His people.

Christ's sacrifice didn't do away with our need for God's mercy. There are still consequences to our sin. God still pours out His mercy on His people. I can see the threads of His mercy in my own life, just as I'm sure you can see them in yours.


In today's world I think we are in danger of two things:

Believing that our sin is not that bad, (or worse, believing that we do not sin at all) or
believing that our sin is more than what God will forgive.

Both are lies of the enemy.

The standard we are to hold ourselves to is not our neighbor, or the miscreants we see on TV. The standard is Jesus Christ, Who knew no sin. None. Zero. Zilch.

On our best day we are in need of God's grace.

One person may be a relatively decent sinner and another may be a flagrant sinner, but both are sinners, and God’s law admits no degree of failure. ~ Bridges, Jerry. The Discipline of Grace

On our worst day we are in need of God's grace, and God's mercy.

And on both days we have it, when we repent, humble ourselves before God and accept the gift He has provided; the sacrifice of His Son.

To believe that our sin is more than God will forgive is flat unbelief. God says, "Ask and it will be given you." He doesn't qualify the asking. Take Him at His word.

For by the blood of Christ we are set free, that is, our sins are forgiven. How great is the grace of God, which He gave to us in such large measure! (Eph 1:7-8)

Do you look in the mirror and see the truth of your sinful state? Do you look in the mirror and see a soul worthy of God's love and adoration?

Both are required to receive His mercy and grace. Anything less is believing a lie. 



May you receive the truth of the Gospel today. 

For God loved the world so much that He gave His only Son,
so that everyone who believes in Him may not die
but have eternal life. (Joh 3:16)

Blessings,



Sharing inspiration here:Small Wonders, Testimony Tuesday, #TellHisStory,Thought Provoking Thursday, Grace & Truth, Let Us Walk Worthy,Inspire Me Monday, RaRa Link Up, Intentional Tuesday,#WordswithWinter, Titus 2 Tuesday, Thoughtful Thursdays,Encourage Me Monday, Wholehearted Wednesday,Women with Intention Wednesdays, Word Filled Wednesday,#GiveMeGrace, Sitting Among Friends

Inspired by . . . Life thru My Lens 25:52

Inspired by . . . Life thru My Lens 25:52

Happy first day of summer! and

Happy Birthday to my Mom!

These shots are pure south Texas summer. EnJOY!


Strawberry Moon - watch for it - tonight!


A Northern Cardinal coveting the water fountain.

For everything there is a season.
When the bully won't let you drink from the feeder.

I'm enjoying the bees this year!
Dinner for baby.
Speaking of babies! I finally captured one of our fawns. So cute!
Enjoying a lot of little visitors to the blooms this year. This is some kind of Hairstrike, I think.
Finally, a nice, gentle, soaking rain!
What are you seeingthrough your lens this week?
Blessings,


Sharing inspiration here:
Nature Notes, Through My Lens, Little Things Thursdays,
Bird D’pot, Saturday’s Critters, Life thru the Lens, Wild Bird Wednesday,
Our World Tuesday, Community Global, Photo Friday

Inspired by . . . Dad

Inspired by . . . Dad

Please forgive me. I just don't have the words today.

Letting the pictures do the talking . . .

Me and Dad, 2013
Dad and his sister, Sylvia, 2014 Me and Dad, circa 1970s circa 1980s circa 1980s Me, my brother and Dad, Easter circa 1970s
Happy Father's Day,