Lisa M. Buske's Blog, page 106

A Trip to Texas...A Journey of HOPE Part I

Meet the Heidi Search Center ~ San Antonio, Texas
and the two angels behind their mission ~ Heidi Seeman ~ ~ Erica Marie Botello ~ "The Heidi Search Center for Missing Children was established in August 1990 after the abduction of 11-year-old Heidi Seeman from her neighborhood in Northeast San Antonio. On August 4, Heidi was abducted while walking home from spending the night at a friend’s house. A search was initiated by her father and grew rapidly from a small group of family and friends to thousands in the community.

In the midst of the search for Heidi, another child, 7-year-old Erica Marie Botello was abducted while playing at her apartment complex playground in Southwest San Antonio. Within a matter of hours, team leaders were dispatched from the Heidi command post to assist in the search for Erica. This team included Heidi’s father, Curt Seeman.

On August 25, 1990, fear became reality when both girls were found murdered. Heidi’s body was found in a rural area in Wimberly, Texas, 60 miles from San Antonio. Erica’s body was found in a storm drain less than one mile from where she lived." to read more - click on Heidi Seeman or Erica Marie Botello's photos above. Although our connection to this Heidi Search Center was established in 1994 when their director at the time, Rick, traveled from Texas to New York in order to join our team. He brought expertise and drive while restoring hope and positive attitudes. He trained, led, partnered, and listened to our family, law enforcement, legislators, and our community with only one goal...to bring our Heidi, Heidi M Allen, home.

Shortly after the school year came to a close earlier this year I received a Facebook message from Crystal, the Heidi Search Center's executive director,  in San Antonio, Texas. Only God knew where this initial contact would lead. As I stood on the sidewalk outside the pet store while Mags pet the cute puppies, Crystal and I talked, laughed, and encouraged each other.

At the time of this conversation, last week's banquet was still in its early planning stages. I never dreamed that between June and September I would receive an invitation to be their keynote speaker at the very event Crystal and I shared ideas on ways to encourage families of the missing.

The day my phone rang with a very excited Crystal on the other end, I couldn't believe my ears. "Lisa, we would like to invite you to San Antonio to share a message of HOPE with families of the missing at our annual banquet in December. Is this something you might be interested in?"

I was speechless, to say the least. I couldn't speak! (and this doesn't happen often, lol) Crystal spoke again, "Lisa, are you there? Are you okay? You don't have to, we just thought..." and I tried to speak.

With tears rolling down my cheeks and with a choked up and froggy voice, "Yes, I would love to. I'm just...."

Crystal laughed a little and said, "Oh my, you're crying You must stop because I don't let people cry alone." Then I laughed. Once I got myself together, the excitement of the planning went into motion. There were different things that needed to happen to make this opportunity a reality, all of which God orchestrated and made possible. One of my greatest challenges for this opportunity was the travel. Something many of you might not know is a fear I have.

Most people are afraid of something and my fear stems back to April 3, 1994 when my only sister was abducted while working along on Easter Sunday at the local convenience store. What is this fear I struggle with? 

On some levels it might seem silly to some of you yet it is still very real to me. Since God opened the door for me to speak, this has provided times for me to face my fear. I typically don't travel to speak or for book signings by myself, my family or friends almost always travel with me. Some of this is because it's more fun to travel with someone else yet the underlying and honest reason, I fear traveling by myself.

Now you know the bitter truth - I'm forty-something and the idea of traveling, even an hour from home by myself creates great stress and anxiety within me. So you can imagine the turmoil accepting an invitation to speak in Texas created. Yet, on some levels, there was such a peace and knowledge I was doing what God planned. I prayed right up until days before my flight was set to depart for someone to bless the center with another ticket so I wouldn't travel across the country alone BUT this wasn't God's plan for me.

I am happy to say I didn't let fear stop me from traveling to Texas. If I stayed home, satan would of won the battle and I can't let this happen. There are other challenges we are facing in our life right now, to pass up an opportunity to share Jesus, HOPE, and Heidi with others far outweighs the fear, anxiety, and doubt that weighed on my shoulders prior to this adventure.

I won't bore you with the "Murphy's Law" flight adventure to Texas I had but know this, I never gave up, and didn't say "Forget it, I'm not going." Two trips to the Syracuse airport to fly out, three different flight plans, and many tears equal one woman facing her fears to share hope and stay obedient. What a joy this weekend was.

My time in Texas was and will always be a blessing to me. I'm grateful for each of your prayers in the weeks and days leading up to my departure, while I was in Texas, and for the return trip home. God is good and I pray the people I met in Texas are as blessed, encouraged, inspired, and motivated as I am because of the time we spent together.

During the next week I will share the message of HOPE I shared while in Texas. I hope you'll visit the blog throughout the week and be encouraged...there is always HOPE! Has God ever knocked you off your feet by His love for you?
Will you share with all of us below?

Looking for Christmas Family Fun? Head to Mexico...NY that is!

It is a bittersweet year for me as it relates to "Christmas in Mexico". The past two years I have spent this day in the basement of the Presbyterian Church with information about my "upcoming" book release and my availability to speak. In April when Where's Heidi? One Sister's Journey released I was excited for this day because I would not only be able to meet more people and say "Merry Christmas" to friends I've met in past years...but I would have the book many stopped to purchase before it was even a reality. Thank you all so much.

This brings me to the reason for it being a bittersweet day. As much as I looked forward to being with all of you in Mexico, New York today to celebrate Christmas in an old-fashioned and Dicken's way...God opened a different door and opportunity. One I could never of dreamed. While you are walking amidst the snow and singing carols, I am doing the "River Walk" in San Antonio, Texas!

In April of 1994 my aunt and uncle found a search expert at a different "Heidi Search Center" and invited him to join us in New York to come along side our local law enforcement to help in the search and rescue of my sister, Heidi M. Allen. Although we didn't find Heidi while Rick was here, he brought expertise, education, and hope to a tired community seeking assistance to do all they could to bring Heidi home.

Well, this is where the bittersweet part of my trip to Texas comes in. Last night I had the honor to speak to the families and volunteers of this very same "Heidi Search Center" as part of their annual banquet. To say I was overwhelmed, humbled, and blessed by their invitation is an understatement. So although I can't be with all of you today, I'm representing our wonderful New Haven and Mexico community. Over nineteen years later and we have the opportunity to share HOPE with them.

God is good and even though both Heidi's have been taken from their families and communities - hope, love, and compassion remain a bond keeping us connected.

Merry Christmas! Be sure to follow the blog this week for a new series. A series to share the HOPE I shared with the "Heidi Search Center" in San Antonio last night, one I pray will also encourage you as you forge ahead this holiday season. See you Monday for a joyful journey to Texas! In case you are at Christmas in Mexico and were hoping to get your signed copy of any of my three books - they are available at The Carriage House Shoppe on Route 104 (Dr. Harter's old house), across from Beck's. They are always available at The River's End Bookstore in Oswego too. What is your favorite part of "Christmas in Mexico"? Why?

Flight to Texas Delayed Due to Weather...

Let's try this again!

Yesterday, directly after school my husband and daughter picked me up and delivered me to the airport to start my first solo adventure. Where to? Texas, of course. I made it through registration, security, and waited with the other passengers. I even thought to myself, "Why was I so concerned? I can do this?" Shortly after said thought, I received an email notification my flight was delayed but I would still be required to make my connection. I checked the times and realized I would have eight minutes to make my connecting flight. I went and joined other passengers in the line for assistance.

Once at the desk the airline attendant ended up being an angel dressed in a uniform, at least this is my story. He informed me due to another delay I wouldn't make my connecting flight at all. By the time we were home and snuggled in last night, my original flight delayed at least 3 times. Long story short - Mike, my UA angel, was able to arrange a new flight for today that puts me in San Antonio around 2 p.m. This allows a couple hours to head to my hostesses' house and prepare for tonight's banquet and my time of sharing HOPE with the families of the missing.

As I type it sounds like I had it all together, not so much. I shed many tears last night, so many that when I called Crystal to tell her when I would be arriving, I couldn't even talk. I so wanted to be at the Heidi Search Center in San Antonio to give back a small portion of what they shared with us over nineteen years ago. God had different plans.

Instead of spending today dwelling on what didn't happen, I am starting the day (bright and early! lol) and with a positive attitude. God will have both my flights leave and arrive on time. We will have save travels to San Antonio, while there, and on the return trip home. A praise - on the way there, I had two lay overs, now I have one.

Thanks for your prayers yesterday, today, and for the weekend. Pray hearts are open and God's message is shared.

Gotta go! Do you have a message to share with the Heidi Search Center?

A Blog for the "Cookie Exchange" ~ Part II

What kind of cookie exchange will you have if you don't have an assortment of Christmas cookies. Some of you have cookies you make each year because it's part of your heritage. Others make a certain cookie because of the memory it holds. Maybe there is a cookie you love but because it's such a pain to make, you only do it once a year.

Whatever the reason for this one cookie standing out, will you share it with us in a comment below. I'd love to hear why the recipe is special to you or the reason you decided to share it with everyone. Thank you in advance. My favorite is one I attempt to make each year because of the memory it holds yet I've yet to make it like my mom - I'll keep trying though. My Favorite: Betty Crocker Candy Cane Cookies

The reason these are my favorite...because I enjoyed watching my mother make them, and I like mint. Mom's patience and wisdom to now what was enough rolling without overdoing always amazed me. Thanks Mom!

Betty Crocker's Candy Cane Cookies
click on candy cane cookie photo for a direct link
Ingredients
1  cup sugar        
1  cup butter or margarine softened                                              
1/2 cup milk         
1  teaspoon vanilla 
1 teaspoon peppermint extract                                              
1 egg              
3 1/2 cups Gold Medal® all-purpose flour                                              
1 teaspoon baking powder                                              
1/4 teaspoon salt    
1/2 teaspoon red food color                                              
 2  tablespoons finely crushed peppermint candies  
2 tablespoons sugar                         

DirectionsStir together 1 cup sugar, the butter, milk, vanilla, peppermint extract and egg in large bowl. Stir in flour, baking powder and salt. Divide dough in half. Stir food color into 1 half. Cover and refrigerate at least 4 hours.           Heat oven to 375ºF.                             Stir together peppermint candy and 2 tablespoon sugar; set aside.              For each candy cane, shape 1 rounded teaspoon dough from each half into 4-inch rope by rolling back and forth on floured surface. Place 1 red and white rope side by side; press together lightly and twist. Place on ungreased cookie sheet; curve top of cookie down to form handle of cane.                             Bake 9 to 12 minutes or until set and very light brown. Immediately sprinkle candy mixture over cookies. Remove from cookie sheet to wire rack. Cool completely, about 30 minutes. Will you share your favorite Christmas cookie recipe below?
If you have a link for a photo - feel free to include it.

A Blog for the "Cookie Exchange" - Part I

The original title for this blog was, "What is your favorite Christmas cookie?" but then as I started to write, well, let's just say a different blog came to mind. This is the first of two parts and it's the second part I think everyone will enjoy the most. Of course the reason for this blog is my love for Christmas cookies, and the excitement and fun of participating in a cookie exchange.

As I thought about this though I realized something, not everyone might know what a "cookie exchange" is or how it's organized or plays out. As with any fun, festive, and traditional activity - one cookie exchange might be very different than another yet the ultimate and most important similarity...you acquire an assortment of holiday cookies to share with friends and family. What is a "cookie exchange"?
Basically, you and a group of your friends, co-workers, neighbors, church family, club, or who ever decide you want to have an assortment of cookies when you entertain without the work of making ten different types of cookies. By doing an exchange like this, you bake only one type of cookies but after the "party", you have a platter of cookies any bakery would pay for.

Who do I invite?
Anyone you enjoy spending time with and you wouldn't mind spending time with during the Christmas season in a relaxed, fun, and super-delicious manner.

How many cookies do I have to make?
This depends on how many people choose to participate in the cookie exchange. If 6 people sign up, then you make 6 dozen. If 12 people sign up, you made 12 dozen.

How do I make sure there aren't duplicates of cookie types?
You create a sign up sheet. When someone agrees to join the cookie exchange (aka PARTY), you ask, "What type of cookie are you going to bring?" and then write them down for that cookie. When the next person joins, you let them know what is already on the list and they pick something different. How do I sort my cookies after I baked, to bring to the exchange?
There are many ways to do this. It's usually unique to the person bringing the cookies and the type of cookie they are sharing. I've placed a dozen on a paper plate, put the plate in a zip lock baggie, sealed it, and placed a Christmas bow on top in the past. I've also bought the decorative containers and used those. It all depends, there is no right or wrong way to separate and wrap your cookies for the exchange - as long as you have a dozen for each person sorted and sealed in a way the other people can bring them home without losing them in your driveway on the way out the door.

I'm confused - you said one dozen cookies for each person but I don't need a dozen of my own - where does the extra dozen go?
This is probably the greatest perk to a cookie exchange. The extra dozen is to eat while exchanging. Have an empty platter in the center of the table. As people bring in their cookies, one dozen is opened and added to the large tray. Once everyone has handed out and collected their cookies - you have a "sample" cookie platter to enjoy over coffee, tea, milk, or your favorite drink with Christmas cookies. Where do I hold a cookie exchange? How much time do I need?
This, like the way you separate and present your cookies is up to you and your inner creativity. We've had cookie exchanges at school - we meet in the school's library before school one morning, divide up the cookies, carry them out to our cars, put the extra dozen in the teacher's room, and then get back to work. I've also gone to one where we met a friends, swapped cookies and then enjoyed a time of fellowship with the kiddos watching a Christmas movie in one room and the husbands watching sports in another. It's your party - have fun with it and make it as big, or small as you need it to be.

In a nutshell - the cookie exchange is an opportunity (or excuse if you need one) to get together with your friends and/or family to enjoy a time of laughter, festive cheer, and just plain togetherness. The bonus, you'll get to eat cookies you probably would never make.

Tomorrow's blog is an opportunity for you to share your favorite Christmas cookie recipe. Oh yeah, get out those recipe cards and share them with others. Who knows, your cookie might become a cookie exchange favorite across the country just because you shared the recipe here. Do you partake in a cookie exchange during the holidays?
Is there something you do different or would like to add?
Leave a comment below.

TOP's Tuesday: A day at Baldwinsville Baptist

This summer I received an email from the associate pastor of the Baldwinsville Baptist Church located on Syracuse Street in town. After proper introductions, Pastor Chris shared a little about himself and how he first learned of my sister's kidnapping. As he shared, I listened in awe as another aspect of how God was working to locate and help Heidi in 1994...one I was unaware of until over nineteen years later.

Pastor Chris attended Onondaga Community College (OCC) during the same time period as my sister, Heidi M Allen. Although they didn't "know" each other per say, they did have a few classes together. He shared how he remembered Heidi's smile and how nice she was to everyone. A memory many of us share when we think of Heidi don't you agree? I wasn't surprised by the fact I didn't know each person had class with but it was Pastor Chris' next tidbit that left me so thankful.

If you attended OCC in April of 1994, you may remember this also but for those of us that didn't, let me enlighten you on how God was at work in at least one of our neighboring counties. Pastor Chris said that upon arrival back to classes after the Spring/Easter break, each professor started class by explaining Heidi's kidnapping while holding up one of the missing person flyers. The professors said there were additional flyers for people to hang around campus, in their neighborhoods and anywhere they might think of, and encouraged "anyone with information to contact law enforcement" -- even giving out the tip line's phone number.

This is so cool! I knew OCC did some amazing things and were an encouragement when they told my parents "We will make sure everyone knows." They not only were true to their word, they went above and beyond. Pastor Chris said classes started like this for at least a week and possibly into the next week to make sure every student on campus was aware. As if this isn't enough, they also offered counselors for anyone who might need to talk. Thank you OCC, and thank you Christ for sharing this with me. I passed it along to my family and now to those reading the blog. This wasn't the reason Pastor Chris contacted me yet it our initial conversation that brought such a peace and humility, that at the very time I was cranky with God ~ He was working through the administration at OCC. 

The purpose of the initial email and then phone conversations was to talk about the possibility of speaking at the Baldwinsville Baptist Church sometime in the near future. I won't bore you with all the details of arranging a speaking engagement but I will say, it was a great time of planning and preparation. In addition to Pastor Chris, I had the privilege of talking with the head pastor, Pastor James. Both men are true men of God seeking to serve Him and their community.

Pastor James offered the idea to do an "interview" as part of the morning worship service. A little Q & A, if you will. I was hesitant in the beginning but Pastor James was patient and compassionate with me. To ease my nerves of "What might you ask me on the fly?" I could almost hear his smile as he said something like, "I wouldn't just ask you then without going over the questions with you before hand." Phew, I wiped the sweat from my brow and we did a run through, right then and there, over the phone. I felt so much better. Thank you Pastor James.

My husband Ed, and daughter, Mags, joined me for the day and we enjoyed it a lot. In addition to the morning worship service, we were able to see the array of Bible Studies going on before church, the bread give-away, coffee hour, and of course the preparation of the "Thanksgiving Feast" downstairs. It is a busy church with a big heart to serve. The worship service was uplifting and caused me to reflect on the reason for Thanksgiving and the many reasons to be thankful. I shared the video Pastor James played last week after I found it on YouTube.

After the service, there was a delicious feast of turkey, stuffing, potatoes, and all the traditional fixings. Boy were we full but the amount of desserts awaiting everyone was even greater and I spied cheesecake while I set up. I commented a couple times and one of the church members asked if he could "sneak me a piece" to the side so I could enjoy it after I spoke. I told him "If there is some left, then I meant to eat it. If not, then God's watching out for me.", we both laughed.

As everyone found their seats with dessert and a cup of coffee, Pastor James introduced me so I could "continue" my message and story from the interview portion of the worship service. This was the first time I introduced a presentation prior to speaking and then had to pick up, kind of in the middle, yet at the beginning. I'm up for a challenge and I prayed God would give me the words and keep it interesting for the parts important to revisit, while still moving forward. I shared my presentation titled, "Tragedy to Triumph". This has become one of my favorites to share and one Ed and Mary tease me about because they haven't seen it presented the same way yet.

My family teases me about this yet when Elaine W. Miller (http://splashesofserenity.com/) mentored me with the speaking aspect, she suggested I develop at least one message that is versatile enough to change with my audience and interesting enough to kind of be a staple in my speaker's toolbox.

After I finished I asked if there were any questions. When I started to speak I didn't accept questions in an open forum style but slowly transitioned to opening it up at select engagements. I don't know about you but sometimes when we say, "I'm not doing that." you can almost picture God up there smiling and shaking His head saying, "Oh yeah, you just wait." Or am I alone in this thought?

Anyway, now I am more comfortable with answering questions about my books, testimony, faith, and life in general. An aspect of this process I wasn't prepared for was how inspiring, encouraging, and reflective the audiences questions would be to me as I traveled home. Some questions have ignited riveting conversations with my family, while others leave me silent and in my own thought process the entire trip, if not for a few days. I've learned it is during this process that I am challenged and learn to stretch and grow a little bit more...for Him and in sharing hope and Heidi with others.

It was a wonderful day and I'm thankful for the opportunity to meet Pastor Chris and Pastor James, and their families. We were thankful to enjoy a Thanksgiving feast with the Baldwinsville Baptist Church family and their community. I was thankful to hear someone knew she had hope because of something God used me to share. What would have happened if I said no? Has God ever forced you out of your comfort zone? How?

"Christmas Kindness Challenge" - Will you join Paula and me?

Meet my friend Paula.... Last year for Advent Paula released her first devotional, Cherish This Christmas. I shared this and another Advent devotional with you yesterday here on the blog. Well, once again, Paula has found a way to help each of us draw closer to God and remember the reason for the season. This one won't cost you a penny, can be delivered to your inbox each morning, and will have you thinking about the "reason for the season" throughout the day and this entire month.

As I checked my mail last night I saw Paula's email in my inbox. I subscribe to her blog and enjoy reading them very much yet last night's title caught my attention, "Christmas Kindness Challenge". I was excited and intrigued. Since it was so late when I saw it, I didn't complete Day 1 so I'm adding it to my Day 2 things to do. I'm not going to skip it but instead, add it to today's challenge.

This is the type of fun challenges we all should accept, especially at this time of year. And you never know, after seven days of doing something it becomes a habit. What would happen in your chunk of the world if you signed up to receive Paula's "Christmas Kindness Challenge" blog series this month, you not only complete each challenge but made a list and revisited days of past. My hope and goal is to build on each challenge. I'll start with the current day's challenge and then go back and try to do the other day's challenges too. So initially by the time Christmas arrives I would be doing 25 random acts of kindness a day. I think this sounds fabulous and I accept your challenge Paula.

You might not be an overachieving first-born like myself so you might want to just do each days challenge and this will be wonderful too. If you are kidded for being the Grinch, then maybe this is just the challenge you need to recognize there is still so much good, caring, and joy left in this world. If you are thinking, "I don't do this kind of stuff. It's good for you but not me." then I challenge you to try at least one day and see how a smile creeps onto your face when you're not looking because you made someone else's day.

*There is a direct link to Paula's blog by clicking her picture, so you can "subscribe" to receive her blog directly in your inbox. Both challenges posted above are directly linked to Paula's blog too so you can read her insight and

Enjoy the days leading up to Christmas...
do you have a tradition in your home you would like to share?

Do You Pause To Reflect on the Reason for Christmas? Here are a couple advent devotionals to get you started...

Today is the last day of November. Can you believe it? At this time last year I was scratching my head, praying and anticipating the release of Where's Heidi? One Sister's Journey on the nineteenth anniversary of my only sister's abduction, April 3, 2013. It has been a whirl-wind of a year and God continues to wow, overwhelm, love, provide, protect, and bless us through the feedback of those who've read the book or heard me share the message God places on my heart at various speaking engagements.

Why do I share all this with you today? I'm glad you asked. Although the "Month of Thanksgiving" is over, this doesn't mean we should stop being thankful or looking for reasons to thank God for what He is doing in our lives. If this month is one of thanks then next month, December, must be a thanksgiving of praise. After all, you can't be thankful if your not also praising the One establishing your list of blessings. Right?

On December 25th, most of the country, and even those across the world will pause to celebrate Christmas and the birth of Jesus. My question for you is this, do you wait until the month is almost over to reflect and praise God for what He has done, is doing, and is yet to do? I hope not. The days leading up to Christmas can be wonderful, inspiring, motivating, and joyful if you spend time each day in "preparation". Some call it "Advent", others might say it's a "Countdown" (one we do with chocolate, lol), and then others like me do both. Where do you fall in this preparation process?

Last year my author friend, Paula, released her first Christmas devotional, Cherish This Christmas: Seeing Christ Amidst the Chaos. I usually sign up for one that is delivered to my inbox each morning yet last year, I decided to prioritize STOPPING, not pausing to remember "the reason for the season" as some say. I plan to use this devotional again this year AND add another to my daily routine.

Another author friend, Terri, released her first Advent devotional this fall, One Clear, Still Night. I'm not sure which I'll read in the morning, and which I'll enjoy before going to bed, but one thing I am sure of is this...both are beautiful and will help keep me focused on WHY we are celebrating Christmas and the reason the school is closed for two weeks.

Will you join me in this adventure, or dare I say, challenge? I hope you will.

If you don't have a favorite Advent/Christmas Devotional to help you stay on course, there are links (below) to both of the books I mentioned above. Let the Christmas season begin! Cherish This Christmas
Seeing Christ Amidst the Chaos "This collection of daily devotions will take you back to the days of Jesus' birth and help bring more meaning to the chaotic days of December. Through scriptural insight and personal reflection Paula will help you to "Cherish This Christmas" and into the new year.

$8.50 on Amazon.com
(direct link when you click the cover above)

To visit the author, Paula A. Davis' blog:
http://pauladavispeace.com/ One Clear,
Still Night " A miraculous event took place one clear, still night that changed the world...There is deep meaning and symbolism in the advent of Christ...One Clear, Still Night also includes inspirational readings, as well as recipes and ideas to help make your Christmas meaningful."

$10.28 on Amazon.com
(direct link when you click the cover above)

To visit the author, Terri Groh's blog:
http://www.heartsinservice.blogspot.com/ What is your favorite tradition to help you remember
"The Reason for the Season"? Will you share with us today?

When the Heart is Open to Receive...Part II

On the eve of Thanksgiving, throughout of the day yesterday, and still this morning ~ the daily Facebook posts on things people are thankful for. Some posts touch my heart more than others. I read of families celebrating their first Thanksgiving without a loved who passed away during the year.

On the flip side, there were families (like mine) who haven't celebrated Thanksgiving together since the loss of a loved one, and this year marked a huge step forward. There is so much to be thankful for ~ if you lost a loved one and this is your first year without them sitting with you, there is hope, you were still together keeping their memory alive. The sadness and grief is inevitable yet the comfort found in togetherness is such a blessing. Please know a special prayer was said for you too. 

Our family, similar to many of yours, has faced loss, tragedy, and celebrations over the years. We each are on a journey different, yet similar to others. Our faith, lack there of, or religions may vary. Winter holidays and snow have started. Some will enjoy a Thanksgiving feast surrounded by many. Others will have a smaller number around the table, and sadly...some will be alone. Regardless of your situation, location, or plans for this holiday week ~ may I extend a thought to ponder for you?

We are all different, yet the same. One thing I think that is common to all of humankind is this ~ we all want to be loved, accepted, and valued. Do you agree? Can you think of someone looking for these three simple, yet BIG things in their life? Is there room at your Thanksgiving table for one more? What about calling them to meet for coffee?

On the flip side, there are those who might cross our paths only once. How do we respond? Are we showing love, acceptance, and value to them? I wish I could say, "I always do." but I can't. I try and pray to show and share God's love to all I meet.

It is for this reason I share one reader's testimony. There are days I cover my eyes and cry because life seems to be winning and I ask all those silly "W" questions. These also seem to be the days, when God uses someone like you, to encourage and remind me of his love for me and others, to keep trusting, and move forward in faith. I share her testimony, with permission.

The private messages I receive are such and encouragement to me. Typically, I keep these private yet as I communicated with this reader the Holy Spirit nudged me. "Just ask..."

She started an amazing journey this week. She shares with you in hopes that her story, may help someone else in a similar situation.

It isn't me, or my book, that changed her heart, only God has that power. I'm thankful God spoke to her through my writing.

One Reader Wrote to say:
"So as I am finishing up your book Where's Heidi? I realized you are my Jonathan!

I am on a very low income and can not afford anything extra but something kept pulling me to your book and finally I broke down and bought it. I am so glad I did! I am going through a very rough time kicking my habit on pain meds...I just can't do it no more and I want my life back!

I prayed to God last night after reading your book and getting chills and tears in my eyes. I knew what I was missing in my life and recovery and you opened my eyes and I realized, God, I need Him. So I prayed to him to help guide me through this struggle I am going through and help him guide me to worship Him.

I know He can't do it all, I have to put some work into it but I am so ready to do so. So I just wanted to say thank you for touching my heart and soul with this book and making me realize who should be number one in my life...I made the decision to find a church that I can start going to on a regular basis. God is good!"

Will you join me in praying for this reader? ~ Please leave a note of encouragement for this reader below ~
Be safe this first major shopping weekend of the season.

Happy Thanksgiving 2013 - What are you thankful for?

*Click on the photo above to read last year's
Thanksgiving post and watch the
video my Dad made. Watch with tissues.*

Have a great and safe Thanksgiving!
My day is starting with a 5K to raise food Share 1 person and 1 thing you are thankful for...