Saturday Silly – September 28, 2019

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Aunt Irma helped me with some writing I had to do today. I was actually working on two projects at the same time. One was a Bible Study, and the other was a little fill-in Trivia Quiz worksheet for the Red Hat Ladies from Aunt Irma’s Senior Center. Aunt Irma offered to edit them for me, as I had a last minute errand that came up. I didn’t realize she was entertaining RuthAnne’s grandchildren this afternoon. Ruthanne is Aunt Irma’s BFF, and her grandchildren are little monkeys. That’s putting it mildly; and nicely. Those little Mennesses! That’s their last name. Fitting, I think. I left the key under the doormat and went off to do my errand. This is how the two projects came out:

The twelve disciples were: Eenie, Meenie, Miney, Mo, and Curly, Peter, Paul, and Mary, Matthew, Mark, Luke, and Puff the Magic Dragon. What folk-song did Peter, Paul, and Mary sing in the days of Noah? “If I Had A Hammer.” How did Jesus know the two coins would be found in that fish: He was the Son of God. Only the Son of God would have known they fell out of Jonah’s pocket when that whale swallowed him. The fish must have been in there too, and ate them. Where did Puff the Magic Dragon live: By the Sea of Galilee. He was the reason Jesus liked to walk on water. Puff kept it nice and warm, so it was like a foot bath… Who did Peter heal from being lame? Meenie; he’d been lame ever since he broke his leg when he went to kick Balaam’s donkey and accidentally kicked the cartwheel. (Not the gymnastic kind-the one that’s round and rolls)

I arrived home to find the two kids and Aunt Irma working, like busy little beavers, on my two projects…Oh, Aunt Irma! Thank God I don’t need these until Saturday…and it’s only Wednesday evening. Hmm…Does anybody have any spiked Holy Water? Help!

Love you from Cafe du Mondieu

Start Where You Dwell

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Today’s message from God Calling – A.J. Russell, bids us to dwell in the secret place of God’s Shadow, or Spirit. I’ve written before, about entering into that place through praise and worship. I’ve written about making time to spend time alone with God. The message bids us to make that dwelling place our home; and not to merely visit there fitfully, when it all gets to be too much for us. “Dwell there,” we’re told.

Some years ago, I made the connection between the dwelling place of God’s Presence, and my own dwelling place. There’s a place in the book (God Calling), that talks about homemaking in the spirit. Jesus said, “the kingdom of Heaven is upon, or within you.” That means God’s there. So, how do we translate that into daily living? We do that by homemaking for our spirit, and our soul…This message ties in well with the one about cultivating ourselves.

Part of cultivating ourselves, is tapping into our creativity, embracing our loves, likes, passions, and joys. It involves managing our dislikes, and eliminating all sources of discord. This works at home, at work, at church, in personal schedules,etc. However, we’re talking about home. When I think about that, I remember when I had to settle for freebies, bargain basement, mismatched, eclectic stuff. Not that I wasn’t grateful; but, oh, the difference in emotional ease and joyousness of spirit, mind, and soul, when you get to purposefully pick and choose. You get to choose; you’re the designer. You are the creator of your sacred space. This is the place where your body, mind, heart, spirit, and soul dwell. Do you know there’s a difference between a dwelling and a residence?

To dwell suggests being connected, being a life-force in that place. It suggests a warmth, and a joyful habitation. It’s where we stop, stay, rest, linger, live, abide. To reside suggests a mere being there, without a real connection, or warmth. There’s really no life-force or joyful habitation. No engagement with or in the place. It is what we occupy, are placed, are found, and, are situated. Can you see, and feel, the difference? The bottom line, is that your surroundings affect your spirit, mind, and soul; and your heart, as well. After you design, or create, your sacred space, the chores, the schedules, all the daily living issues, etc., need to be addressed, so all discord is eliminated or brought to a bare minimum. What a wonderful difference, to walk into a welcoming home that wraps you in everything you love. How wonderful to feel the peace settle over you as you enter. Your home is sacred space. Be purposeful, be deliberate when you create it. You’ll soon find that God’s Presence dwells there with you. What you surround yourself with will be absorbed by your heart, mind, and soul. Let it be God’s Presence.

Love you from Cafe du Mondieu

Cultivating The Treasures Within

Today’s message from God Calling – A.J. Russell, reminds us that we are a work in progress. We are not to be stagnant. We are bid to cultivate ourselves.

“Remember your great field of labor is yourself. That is your first task, the weeding, the planting, digging, pruning, bearing fruit. When that is done I lead you out into other fields.” This is a direct quote from the message on the twolisteners website. I recently posted a list of books that I’d read over the summer. They were all inspiring to me as a poet and a story writer. One, in particular, was quite inspirational to me as a Christian, and as a woman. I’ve also spent some time researching articles on how cancer cells fool our immune system, how they communicate with each other, and how they shut down communication between healthy cells, even blocking communication from healthy cells. This all has to do with DNA glitches. Lastly, I’ve been designing homes, clothes, and great food offerings. I do the designing in theory, as I am still homeless at the moment. I shop online, sketch things in my notebook, and combine some different things when I’m putting my lunches from the supermarket together. This is how we cultivate ourselves. I love to do all these things.

So many of us don’t really take the time to spend time doing things we love, at home, or away. We attend events, we volunteer time, we give of our resources. But we don’t give back to ourselves in the way of time and discovery. Of course, the best canvas you have to paint you on, is yourself. God doesn’t need cookie cutter Christians. God needs each and every one with all your uniqueness, your talents, your strengths, your joys, and even your weaknesses. Yes, He does. Once again, one of my favorite inspirational books is Simple Abundance by Sara Ban Breathnach. It got the juices flowing for me, and I will cherish it forever. She also has one for men. There is also God Calling, by A.J. Russell. And, there are so many things out there to inspire us. Look at some of the beautiful floral creations out there. Check out some menus online. Go windowshopping, or even browse some online shops. Whether you’re into home design, or clothing design, they’re a great way to get some ideas and inspiration. You’ll be surprised at how much fun you can have. You’ll also be surprised at the beautiful, wonderful treasures within. You know, God puts them there because He knows each one of us. He loves to see us excited and loving ourselves.

Love you from Cafe du Mondieu

Is It Really “No?”

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Today’s message from God Calling – A.J. Russell, reminds us that all the promises of God are yes and amen. (2 Corinthians 1:20) That means that “I can do all things through Christ, who strengthens me.” Just because it isn’t happening right now, or just yet, doesn’t mean we should give up on it.

“As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts.” (Isaiah 55:9) Is referenced in the message. As I’ve said before, it’s not always all about you because it is all about us. God has perfect timing, perfectly pure motives, and perfect aim and reach. So, if you’re ready to give up, don’t! Look again, listen again, read it again, and see if you didn’t miss something along the way. You just may have, and now is a great opportunity to get that thing-whatever it is. That’s called gleaning, by the way. Speaking from personal experience, God’s used the same exact scripture to speak to me in several different situations. Now, this does not apply if you’re plans are for evil; I wouldn’t recommend that to anyone. God will hedge you in to save you from yourself. I’m speaking from personal experience there too. Okay, ’nuff siad. Have a beautiful day, know that God is with you, and He’s for you…so don’t give up!

Love you from Cafe du Mondieu

Eden’s Quick Fix Springtime Salad

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Yes, I did! Mixed everything up right in the bag and had a feast! I happened to catch some already prepared tomato and onion slices on sale. How could I let that opportunity pass me by? Enjoy!

Eden’s Favorite Quick Fix Springtime Salad

Your favorite Salad kit – sometimes you can pick these up at Smith’s for under 2 dollars.

2-5 ounce cans, or one large can, of tuna, chicken, or beef

1 Cup diced firm tomato

1 medium yellow or white onion, peeled and diced

1 Cup shredded Colby Jack cheese – or use your favorite

2 Cups seasoned croutons, your favorite seeds, or broken up chips for crunch

1 Cup diced celery –optional, but it gives the salad a nice lift

Half a lemon to squeeze over the salad-especially great on the tuna or chicken

Toss the meat into the salad kit, making sure to distribute evenly throughout. Add the tomato, onion, celery, and cheese, tossing to distribute well throughout. Squeeze the lemon over the salad and toss lightly. Now add the dressing and toss lightly again. Top with the croutons, seeds, or chips. Enjoy.

I like to use Buffalo or Chipotle Ranch dressing for these. You can also use Thousand Island or French dressing. Raspberry Vinaigrette works well too. * Skinny it up by thinning the creamy dressings with a little milk before adding them to the salad.

*Budget Saver: In a pinch, you can use Buddig sliced meats. Just roll the meat slices tightly and slice into thin ribbons. Cubed leftover chicken or beef works well too.

Love you from Café du Mondieu

Love you from Café du Mondieu Copyright by Marina Morrison (aka) Eden Stillwater, April 30, 2019, 10:30 a.m.

‘Nuff Said

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Today’s message from God Calling – A.J. Russell, reminds us that we talk too much at times. I know I sure can get wordy when I’m writing these posts. Still, when it’s the words are spoken, it doesn’t seem like there’s that much. But, we have to keep in mind that God is very efficient, and loves simplicity.

The message is actually about pushing ourselves to speak to someone, or speaking to someone who isn’t ready to hear. “Be not too ready to speak to others. Never make yourselves do this. Pray always that the need may be apparent, if you are to do this, and the guidance very plain. My Spirit has been driven out by the words of men. Words, words, words.” That’s a direct quote from the book. I have often found that a hug, a smile, a simple thank you or God bless you, convey so much more than all the words I might have found to speak could. Jesus was a man of few words, actually, when it came down to the wire. “Take heart, you sins are forgiven.” “Talitha Cummi, rise.” “Lazarus, come out,” and of course, “Father, forgive them for they know not what they do.” That’s just a few, but they all changed the world for some of us.

I had a young lady walk up to me recently, and offer me one of those beautiful cactus leaf crosses you see being made on Fremont Street Experience; and probably on the Strip as well. She said, “Excuse me, would you like this?” I said, “It’s beautiful; is it a gift?” “Yes,” she replied, “You can have it.” I said, “Thank you, and God bless you.” Then I hugged her. She was smiling when she left me; and I smiled all day long. As a matter of fact, I’m smiling now, remembering it. She made my whole week! I have that cross tucked safely away, awaiting it’s new home-which hopefully will come soon. I’m pretty sure I will have to smile every time I see it. What a beautiful young lady, and what a beautiful gesture to reach out like that. Okay, ’nuff said.

Love you from Cafe du Mondieu

Are You Blocking The Doorway?

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Today’s message from God Calling – A.J. Russell, reminds us that pride blocks the doorway and keeps the Lord out.

“As one on earth who loves another says, “Where you are is home,” so it is in relation with Me. Where I am is My Home — is Heaven.” -quoting directly from the message. The message goes on to say that Jesus can make His home in a sordid slum in a palace, but only with the humble heart. As I think about this message, I think about some people I’ve known. They need to appear affluent to their neighbors. They have this “keep up with the Joneses” malady. Without realizing it, they’ve banged the door shut on the Lord and opened it to all kinds of evil; all kinds of trouble. (James 3:16)

Where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is, indeed, freedom. There is Heaven. Peace, joy, love, and laughter can be found there. I don’t know if I’ve told this story before, but I know what it’s like to feed a multitude with just a little-and everyone had a feast. Heaven helps you turn a roast into stir fry for a dozen people on a moment’s notice. Love, which is what the Lord is, changes the atmosphere from one of, “Oh, no! Now what!?” – to “Oh, wow, it’s so good to see you!” And with all sincerity, too.

We often mistake humility for something unsavory. Humble circumstances, a humble abode…contrary to popular worldly opinion, lowliness is not low living. It is, in fact, elevated and abundant living right there in whatever circumstances you are. That’s one of the joys of being a child of God. God is a Creator, we are created in His image. Therefore, we are creators, filled with creativity. We have only to tap into it. You don’t have the headaches and ulcers that come with trying to keep up with the Joneses, and trying to put on airs and appearances of affluence-or influence, for that matter. You have the power to make the best of everything you have.

When we get caught up in putting on airs appearances, or facades, we find ourselves on a vicious treadmill that begins to run faster and faster, and careen out of control. We end up face down in the dirt, humiliated, dejected, and often rejected. Lies catch up with us. By the time it’s all over, we may be buried neck deep or in over our heads under debt, anxiety, depression; all kinds of consequences that are very difficult and very painful for us to face. That’s all the result of pride; the pride of life. (1 John 2:16, Mark 4:19) Jesus told us not to worry about food and clothing, meaning worrying to excess, being anxious and stressed about them. (Matt. 6:25) God knows what we need, even before we do, and He provides richly and gladly.

Love you from Cafe du Mondieu Copyright by Marina Morrison (aka) Eden Stillwater, April 9, 2019, 12:33 p.m.

Happy April First!

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Happy April, One and All! I’m going to try to have a ball. We’re observing several things today; like Atheism, Poetry, and April fool’s day-by the way. That being said, I have some news…DO you Queens out there know about free shoes? Oh, yes, my friends, oh, yes indeed. Thank Payless Shoes for this great deed. Come in decked out in your best suit. Leave with a free pair-and, yes that includes boots. I hope you like this little ditty. I think it’s rather clever and witty. Don’t run to Payless-no, stay away. Because this is my joke for April Fool’s Day. LOL Have a beautiful day, week, and while you’re at it, have a beautiful month!

p.s. It’s also National Sourdough Bread Day, and there’s a brand, Goldminer, that’s absolutely awesome! I love my Tuna Salad on this bread!

Love you from Cafe du Mondieu Copyright by Marina Morriosn (aka) Eden Stillwater, April 1, 2019, 10:31 a.m.

Saturday Silly – March 16, 2019

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I found this cute little picture online and couldn’t resist. Thanks to Shutterstock.com

Image result for little girl bottoms up cartoon images

Kiss me! I’m Irish!

That gives me an idea for next year…just need some stencils and indelible ink…

PS – March is also Irish American Month

Love you from Cafe du Mondieu Copyright by Marina Morrison (aka) Eden Stillwater, March 15, 2019, 1:11 p.m.

Christmas Magic Memory Stars

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It’s December 2nd…and if you haven’t already been, it’s time to get busy creating some Christmas magic. I was thinking about my grandmother this morning. One of her favorite homemade gifts was stars made from straws. I think it would be a beautiful way to remember loved ones who have passed, or those who cannot be with us over this holiday. make the stars by cutting straws to three and five inch lengths. Glue them together -five, six, or seven for full stars-straws per star. When they’re dry, brush a little more glue on them and sprinkle a fine glitter over them. Now, take your favorite pics of loved ones and/or friends, shrink them down into a circle that will fit in the centers of the stars. Glue the pics into the centers of the stars. Add a length of looped thread for hanging. You can do this by poking two holes in the top of one of the straws and threading it through, or by gluing the thread onto one of the straws. Hang them from the ceiling, strung on a garland as a backdrop for a buffet table, or fill a vase with colored sand or beads, mount the stars onto lollipop sticks, and insert them into the beads. Use a color coordinated garland, or some greenery in wreath form to surround the vase with. Now you have a wonderful centerpiece for the table.

Love you from Cafe du Mondieu Copyright by Marina Morrison (aka) Eden Stillwater, December 2, 2018, 12:25 p.m.