Dec 05 2015

Christmas or Crises?

Author: Karan Gleddie • Discussion: No Comments

Christmas or Crises?

Nine years ago when my husband and I were living in California for a while. We stayed with our daughter whose husband deployed to Iraq for fifteen months.

We decided to fly back to Canada for Christmas, to be with our daughters and their families. And finding a great flight at a discount price was a bonus. I thought it would be fun to bring some special treats back for everyone, especially the Jelly Belly jelly beans. So the Christmas shopping began.

As it happened, the Jelly Belly factory was located in the next town. And can you believe it when I arrived the Jellybeans was on sale! I could buy one bag and get two free. I love a bargain) I bought four bags, with my free bags I ended with 12 bags, 2pds each which = 24 pounds of candy. I was so into the Christmas spirit (I forgot I had to pack them in a suitcase) I then decided to buy three boxes of See’s Candy that added five more pounds. My poor husband was wondering how we would get it all in our suitcases.

I went into my ostrich mode, k so- rah, sur-rah, what will be, will be.

The night before we left for the airport, we made plans to leave at 5:00 a.m. Our flight left at 8:00 a.m. I stayed up half the night packing, trying to decide how to make our luggage lighter. At one point, Lyle couldn’t even lift the luggage off the floor, so I decided to add another suitcase.

After a few hours’ sleep, we carried or should I say dragged our luggage to the car. Three large suitcases, two larger overnight bags, one computer, and book bag. And a huge purse and tote. I was excited; everything fits into our luggage. Although I had to sit on it to get it shut! To be honest, I jump up and down on it is more like it. Lol. Hi-Ho-Hi-Ho. Christmas here we go.

Our daughter dropped us off at the airport and headed home. We couldn’t handle all the luggage ourselves so we hired someone with a cart to help us. I was afraid Lyle, or I would have a stroke if we had to carry it all. (So much for flying light)

I couldn’t wait to get to Calgary and get to our hotel room, and get a good night sleep before we traveled south to see our family. I was feeling a little tired, from all the stress, excitement, and Christmas preparation. Only 15 days left.

With tickets and passports in hand, we moved slowly towards the airline desk, and the man pushing our luggage cart was straining to keep up. He helped us put our luggage on the weight scale, and I held my breath. I was heavy (imagine that) the airline agent looked at me and said she was sorry, she couldn’t check us in now?

I pulled out my e-ticket showing her that we were on the 8:00 a.m. flight. She replied,” we don’t check people in 12 hours early. Your flight leaves at 8:00 p.m. (No wonder the fight was so cheap!) At that moment a picture was worth a thousand words when I looked at my husband’s face. His mouth dropped open, and had that distinctive look that said I have to do all this again tonight? And no way am I sitting in this airport for 12 hours.

I called my daughter who was happily enjoying her quiet drive home and told her of our circumstances. To which she replied, “I knew it was too easy, you and dad never fly anywhere without something unusual happening.

After leaving our Airport at 8:30 p.m. we found ourselves delayed in Salt Lake until 1:30 a.m. Arriving in Calgary at 4:30 p.m. Lucky for us I had booked a hotel room near the airport and had guaranteed the room. So at 5:15 we headed for our room, dragging all our luggage and promising ourselves we would make sure we checked the times of arrivals and departures before we ever bought another airline ticket.

And to add insult to energy, as we climbed into bed and turned out the lights we received a call from the front desk. Notifying us it was our good morning wake-up call, I must be dreaming! I assured him he had made a mistake. After all, we just climbed into bed!©

Reflections:

Restlessness is characteristic of our generation today. In these days of confusion and turmoil from life’s activities. We become so exhausted that we miss the sweet rest and peace that the Christ of Christmas wants to give us. Our lives become so busy; we get distracted and worn out leaving us no time for those we love. Our families, friends and God. Why?

Over this last year, there have been illness and hard lessons to learn, but God in faithful. He is showing me that the things in my life are not as important as the people in my life. Especially, when we are suddenly faced with the facts that there may not be any tomorrows. It’s funny how our priorities change. Suddenly spending time with God, and talking to him seemed more important than all my busy-ness for him.

Jesus knows about all of activity in our lives because he made us. He also knows that we need times of rest both—Physically and spiritually. One night long ago God in his love, gave Himself to man in the person of Jesus Christ. Angels announced his birth to the shepherds in Bethlehem on a beautiful starry night. We still celebrate His birth today; we call it Christmas.

And Thirty-three years later, Jesus Christ continued loving me when He willing took the punishment I deserved, by giving His life on the cross in order that I might have my sins forgiven. He is the only source for perfect peace and complete rest for our souls, especially at this busy time of year.

What will you be doing when you hear His name.

The shepherds accepted Him

The wise men expected him

The King rejected him

The innkeeper neglected him

And you? —-Do you have room for him?

Thank you for sharing your time with me I love the privilege of hearing for each of you. You bless my life. Have a wonderful weekend with the ones you love.

Lovingly, Karan

Nov 27 2015

Dream Big ~ Exercising is Fun, don’t you Think??

Author: Karan Gleddie • Discussion: No Comments

Exercising is Fun, don’t you Think??

A retired couple decided that they should walk two miles a day to stay in shape.

They chose to walk a mile down the beach so they would have no choice but to walk back.

At the one-mile mark on their first venture, the man asked his wife, “Do you think you can make it back all right, or are you too tired?”

“Oh, no,” she said. “I’m not tired. I can make it fine.”

“Good,” he replied. “I’ll wait here. You go back, get the car and come get me.”

“What does Encouragement mean to you?”

Johann W. Von Goethe once said,” Instruction does much, but encouragement is everything.”

Many times a kind word of encouragement, a smile or a simple touch can lift a heart out of sadness, grief, exhaustion or despair. An act of kindness encouraging others lets them know we care about them, and they are not alone. It also gives us the opportunity to show God’s love as we touch the lives of others. Encouragement gives me hope and determination to keep moving forward when life is tough, and I become weary of the struggles.

A while back I found myself in a place of discouragement. Wondering if the goals and dreams God had placed in my heart were achievable anymore. The way forward seemed so complicated and challenging, and I wasn’t sure I had the enough energy to finish. You know those moments when doubts sneak in and steal your confidence and joy, replacing it with worry and fear.

One morning as I was reading my Bible and praying I asked God to encourage my soul with his love, compassion and guidance. Asking Him to give me a new perspective and passion for the task He had given me. I had become tired. And His promises and love lessons come just in time. I received emails that afternoon of encouragement and confirmation that God is not finished with the dreams and goals He has placed in my heart. God is never late.

I know life can be tough, and the struggles of life can be harsh. But, with God’s encouragement we can remember His promises and rely on Him. The journey will be brighter for us and others as we stand together building each other up with encouragement and care

What do encouraging words mean to you? How have you been encouraged lately?

Thank you, dear friends for spending your time with me, Have a wonderful weekend. Hugs to all.

Have a great week, HUGS

Lovingly, Karan

Nov 20 2015

I Know Just What You Need!

Author: Karan Gleddie • Discussion: No Comments

I Know Just What You Need!

It was one of the worst days of my life; the washing machine broke down, the telephone kept ringing, my head ached, and the mail carrier brought a bill I had no money to pay.

Almost to the breaking point, I lifted my one-year-old into his high chair, I leaned my head against the tray and began to cry.

Without a word, my son took his pacifier out of his mouth and stuck it into mine

What Am I Thankful For?

Am I thankful? When God does not answer prayers as I have hoped, and circumstances have left me broken and vulnerable, do I see the hand of God’s wisdom? When the people I love are hurting and going through unimaginable trials, can I still cry out to a God who says He loves me and believe Him? Where can I find a thankful heart?

I always thought as I aged that somehow I would know all the answers to life. However the more I matured I realized I have more questions than answers. Surely I have learned something along the way, or have I forgotten?

The awareness of having a personal relationship with God has given me a great peace in my life. Through the highs and lows, disappointments and joys, sickness and deaths, I have found God a trustworthy and loyal friend. Holding me up, calming my heart, and giving me the confidence to keep moving forward, even when I felt numb.

Some days I must confess that I would rather sit in a closet with a large bag on my head. But in those times He gently reminds me that He is the same today as He was yesterday. The same God, who calmed the storms on the Sea of Galilee and healed the sick so many years ago, lives today. He would die on a cross and then rise again to life a living God. He is the same God I rely on today who calms the storms of my life and gives me peace. He is everything I need.

Because I know the creator of life personally and trust Him, I can choose to be thankful even when I do not feel like it. I have a God, who holds my life and my loved ones in His hands. I think He is better at handling the details of my life, don’t you agree?

When I look back on the life that I have been given, my family, friends, and ministry, how can I not be thankful? I am blessed with God’s incredible protection, love, and forgiveness. Today, I choose you Lord, and desire to be thankful because of who you are, not my circumstances. I love you, Lord.©

Happy Thanksgiving America, Have a great week!

Lovingly, Karan

What are you Thankful for today? I would love to hear from you.

Nov 13 2015

Remembrance Day ~ Thank You

Author: Karan Gleddie • Discussion: 2 Comments

Remembrance Day ~ ‘Daddy’s Poem.’

Her hair was up in a ponytail, her favorite dress tied with a bow. Today was Daddy’s Day at school, and she couldn’t wait to go. But her mommy tried to tell her, that she probably should stay home. Why the kids might not understand, if she went to school alone.

But she was not afraid; she knew just what to say. What to tell her classmates of why he wasn’t there today. But still her mother worried, for her to face this day alone. And that was why once again, she tried to keep her daughter home. But the little girl went to school eager to tell them all. About a dad she never sees a dad who never calls.

There were daddies along the wall in back, for everyone to meet. Children squirming impatiently, anxious in their seats. One by one the teacher called a student from the class. To introduce their daddy, as seconds slowly passed. At last the teacher called her name, every child turned to stare. Each of them was searching, for a man who wasn’t there.

‘Where’s her daddy at?’ She heard a boy call out. ‘She probably doesn’t have one,’ another student dared to shout. And from somewhere near the back, she heard a daddy say, ‘Looks like another deadbeat dad,
too busy to waste his day. ‘The words did not offend her, as she smiled up at her Mom and looked back at her teacher, who told her to go on.

And with hands behind her back, slowly she began to speak. And out from the mouth of a child,
came words incredibly unique. ‘My Daddy couldn’t be here because he lives so far away. But I know he wishes he could be since this is such a special day. And though you cannot meet him, I wanted you to know. All about my daddy, and how much he loves me so.

He loved to tell me stories he taught me to ride my bike. He surprised me with pink roses and taught me to fly a kite. We used to share fudge sundaes, and ice cream in a cone. And though you cannot see him. I’m not standing here alone. Because my daddy’s always with me, even though we are apart I know because he told me, he’ll forever be in my heart’.

With that, her little hand reached up and lay across her chest. Feeling her heartbeat, beneath her favorite dress. And from somewhere here in the crowd of dads, her mother stood in tears. Proudly watching her daughter, who was wise beyond her years? For she stood up for the love of a man not in her life. Doing what was best for her, doing what was right.

And when she dropped her hand back down, staring straight into the crowd. As She finished with a voice so soft, the message was clear and loud. ‘I love my daddy very much; he’s my shining star. And if he could, he’d be here, but heaven’s just too far. You see he is a Canadian soldier, and died just this past year. When a roadside bomb hit his convoy and taught Canadians to fear.

But sometimes when I close my eyes, it’s like he never went away.’ And then she closed her eyes she saw him there that day. And to her mother’s amazement, she witnessed with surprise. A room full of daddies and children, all starting to close their eyes.

Who knows what they saw before them, who knows what they felt inside. Perhaps for merely a second, they saw him at her side. ‘I know you’re with me Daddy,’ to the silence she called out. And what happened next made believers, of those once filled with doubt.

Not one in that room could explain it, for each of their eyes had been closed. But there on the desk beside her, was a fragrant long-stemmed rose. And a child was blessed, if only for a moment, by the love of her shining star. And given the gift of believing, that heaven is never too far. Take the time…to live and love. Until eternity. God bless! Author unknown

Lest We Forget!

Today as we remember those who have served, and all who continue to serve, my heart is full of respect and admiration as I looked at these fine men and women in our military. And I wonder what would cause them to volunteer so freely to serve his country and willingly go into harm’s way for others. To stand and fight for people he does not know so they can enjoy the safety and freedom he loves.

Is it the strong determination of character to serve God and to do what is right because he loves his country and family? They say, “Freedom is never free,” but there is always a price… physically, mentally and emotionally. I am humbled and honored to thank you to the brave soldiers who fight for my peace and freedom.

“Christ paid a price I could never pay to give me life I did not deserve”. I am loved and blessed.

Thank You to all who serve, I am praying for you!

Thank you all for stopping by, have a great weekend. Hugs

Lovingly, Karan

Oct 16 2015

Happy Birthday Cowboy

Author: Karan Gleddie • Discussion: 4 Comments

Surprise, Happy Birthday Cowboy

Every morning in our ranching and farming community the men would always meet at the local restaurant to enjoy coffee and breakfast and to keep up with the happenings of the day before. Topics included: cows, crops, politics and solving all the world’s problems for the day. At 6:00 am – 8:30 am it was the men’s den!

On my husband’s birthday, October 7th a few years back, I decided to surprise him with a singing telegram at the restaurant so all the friends could enjoy his birthday too. I took the cake to the restaurant the night before so when they sang Happy Birthday the cake could appear. I thought it would make a memorable birthday for my husband and his friends

When I booked the singing telegram, I chose the dancing Gorilla in a hula skirt to show up at the coffee shop at 6:30 am for the biggest effect. I was excited about the next day’s surprise. However, the night before, the woman from Party Singing Grams called and said she was sorry but they were double booked and couldn’t come. I was so disappointed, all the plans seemed to be falling apart at that moment. She then suggested she could lend me the gorilla suit with the hula outfit, taped Hawaiian music and the birthday song recorded if I would come and get it.

I decided to go ahead, how hard can a hula dance be with music? I saw it on TV once, two steps to the left waving your arms then two steps to the right still waving your arms. I was so confident about the steps and music when I brought the outfit home I never practiced. Besides, if I were wearing, the gorilla outfit no one would recognize it as me.

After my husband left for work at 6:00 I hurriedly put the outfit on. My daughter drove me downtown, and I stood outside the window trying to get my brave on. Finally I went in, messed up my husband’s hair, took a pose with my arms out and pressed the button to start the music on the tape-recorder. To my shock “Credence Clearwater Revival” blasted out a rock and roll tune– she had sent the wrong tape! Stunned my mind raced at what to do next, so I just decided to try and make the Hula work. Lol

I started the music again and did the two steps left waving my arms and two steps right still waving my arms only at a much more accelerated speed. I thought that tape would never end, and I was starting to sweat. That was hard work in a gorilla outfit!

Finally, the happy birthday song started, and I just ran out the door, giving the proper birthday wishes and left. I raced home, packed the gorilla outfit up and waited for him to come home; all the while trying to pretend nothing unusual happened. The hardest part was for my daughter and me to keep a straight face when he came home. He described to us about what happened to him at the coffee shop. How some woman dressed as a hula dancing gorilla tried to do the hula dance to a “Credence Clearwater Revival’s” rock and roll song, very strange.

But the cake was great. He also added that he thought the Party Singing Gram lady had put on some weight because she was much heavier than she used to be! And by the way, he noted, her hair was blonde now, she must have dyed it because he saw blonde hair at the back of the gorilla’s neck!!!

It took me two years to confess that the gorilla was me, but when I think of the fun I had it still gives me the giggles. Thank you, God, for giving us a sense of humor, where would we be without it?©

Thank you for sharing your time with me today, dear friend. If you find and inspiration, love or laughter here, please share with the ones who might enjoy a giggle too.

Have a Great week, HUGS

Lovingly, Karan

Karan K. Gleddie

Offering Love and Laughter to Women who need Hope

Hope

Christmas or Crises?

Dream Big ~ Exercising is Fun, don’t you Think??

I Know Just What You Need!

Remembrance Day ~ Thank You