Vacations

Mar 24 2020

The Messy Look

Author: Karan Gleddie • Discussion: 4 Comments

 

Sorry I couldn’t resist this one!

 

The Messy Look

I stopped at Costco to pick up a few staples and as I wandered up and down the aisles, I became aware of a man who was staring at me. “I like your hair, he said.  “I know what it’s called, it’s a messy bun.”

I felt suddenly self-conscious and thought the messy look was not what I was aiming for. He then explained he had seen a young woman with the same hairdo, and she told him it a messy bun.   I thanked him for his comment, but in my heart, I was feeling insecure about my thinning hair.

Last year when I returned from a vacation in California, I was so overwhelmed and fatigued and unable to get enough sleep. Along with sleeping problems, I noticed a large amount of hair falling-out. After visiting my doctor and tests taken, he confirmed it was Lupus.

During the time it took to find the right medication, I watched my hair go from a ponytail to a miniature tuft.  Seeing the balding and thinning at the sides and back of my head was traumatic.

I now spend time searching the web and watching YouTube videos on how to find a good wig, extensions or a great hat. Lol

After I left Costco, I reflected on my hair problem. The thought of people looking at my missing hair had made me anxious and fearful when in reality no one likely noticed. My insecurity became so severe I didn’t want to go anywhere or see people and I just stayed home and felt sorry for me.

And then, at my lowest moment, someone mentioned they admired my hairstyle. Thank you, Lord. You knew just what I needed, a new perspective! God delivered a gift at Costco that afternoon.

For almost a year, I put so much emphasis on this problem and it robbed me of joy. I am so thankful God is gentle in leading us to consider new perspectives when we lose our way.

God uses the old, the broken and the messy lives of ordinary people to show us His great love and compassion.  How many times have I believed the sting of Satan’s lies? “Telling me I am unworthy and not good enough to serve a Holy God. The lies we believe take our joy and confidence, so we stay home.”

What are the lies that you believe that steals your joy?

Should we hide in shame from God? He is the one who knows us best and will always love us?

I am so glad God uses ordinary, broken and hurting people to share His Good News and love to a broken and hurting world.

Philippians 4:13      For I can do everything through Christ who gives me strength

Jeremiah 1:7    Don’t be afraid of the people, for I, the Lord, will be with you and see you through.”

Father, help me stand with open hands before you, surrendering to your will. I want my ordinary life to be extraordinary for you.©

Do you ever feel you are too old, too broken, flawed or wounded to be usable to God? Do you think it’s too late for you?     I would love to connect, let me hear your thoughts.

Thank you, dear friends, for spending your time with me.
I love you all and am praying. 
 God loves you,

Lovingly, Karan

 

 

Dec 16 2019

I Bought a Discounted Ticket

Author: Karan Gleddie • Discussion: No Comments

 

 

I Bought A Discounted Ticket

A few years ago, when Lyle and I were living in California we stayed with our daughter whose husband deployed.

We traveled back to Canada for Christmas, to be with our daughters and their families. And finding a great flight at a discount was a bonus. Thinking it would be fun to take some candy treats back for everyone, the Jelly Belly jellybeans.

We located the Jelly Belly factory in the next town. And can you believe it when I arrived there was a great sale on the Jellybeans? Buying one bag and get two free. Don’t you just love bargains? I bought four bags, with the free bags I finished with 12 sacks, 2pds each, 24 pounds in all. 

While getting into the Christmas spirit I failed to remember we needed to pack them. On the way home, I later purchased three boxes of See’s Candy which added five more pounds. My poor husband started wondering how we would get it all in our bags. 

The night before we took off for the airport, we planned 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, we could not lift the luggage off the floor, so we included another suitcase.

 After a few hours’ sleep, we carried, or should I say dragged our baggage to the car. Three large suitcases, two larger overnight bags, one computer, and a book bag. And an enormous handbag and tote, everything fits. Although I had to sit on it to get it shut! To be honest, I jumped up and down on it is more like it. 

Our daughter dropped us off at the terminal and headed home. We didn’t manage the luggage by ourselves, we hired someone to help us. I couldn’t wait to get to Calgary and our hotel room and have a good night’s sleep before seeing our family. Only 15 days left.

With tickets and passports in hand, we ambled towards the airline counter, and the man pushing our luggage cart was straining to keep up. He helped us put our baggage on the weight scale, and I held my breath. It’s heavy (imagine that) the airline agent glanced at me and said sorry, she can’t confirm us in now?

I pulled out my e-ticket showing her our 8:00 a.m. departure. She responded,” 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 Lyle’s face. His mouth dropped open and had that distinctive look that said, “You mean I have to do all this again tonight?” 

 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 fly nowhere 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 injury, 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 a bad dream! I assured him he had made a mistake, we just climbed into bed! ©

When life turns upside down it has a way of giving you a whole new perspective on what is important. 

In reflection I have learned when life is tough, I need to focus on the priceless treasures in my life. God’s love, my family and friends who encourage and pray for me.  I am blessed.

“The best Christmas gift of all is the presence of our families and friends all wrapped up in love for one another.” I believe that is true, no matter what our circumstance or need.

This year as we come into the Christmas season, there will be joy and expectation knowing we have the presence of our loved ones and friends. And as we wrap our love around each one, we will lovingly remember those who could not be with us.

I wish each of you a Merry Christmas and pray that the Christ of Christmas will bless your homes as you prepare for the Holiday Season.©

Luke 2: 13 & 14

Suddenly, the angel was joined by a vast host of others-the armies of heaven—praising God and saying,

“Glory to God in highest heaven,
    and peace on earth to those with whom God is pleased.”

Lovingly, Karan Gleddie

Thank you, dear friends, for spending your time with me,

Have a wonderful Holiday Season, be safe.

Hugs to all.

Dec 23 2018

Merry Christmas Dear Friends

Author: Karan Gleddie • Discussion: 3 Comments

 

 

 

Merry Christmas Dear Friends:

Looking back over the year I have been amazed how God’s love and care have constantly been close beside me. There have been times I have felt alone, even in a crowd, how can that be?

I was afraid of the unknown and forgot that God is my strong comfort and strength. Have you ever found yourself there?  I am thankful for family and friends who have encouraged me and prayed for me. Words cannot express my love and gratitude to each one.

I am almost moved now, and the Christmas tree is up. To be able to remember the joy of Christmas and the precious gift of God’s son gives me confidence for the future.

Catherine Pulsifer, Said:  When we remember a special Christmas, it is not the presents that made it special, but the laughter, the feeling of love, and the togetherness of friends and family that made that Christmas special.” 

Would You Follow?
Anonymous

How many would follow the star tonight
If it shone past the Milky Way,
Leave comfortable homes and follow it still,
Over the hills and away.

How many would open their doors tonight
For a weary and shabby pair?
Make room at hearths for a Stranger-Child,
Though the Infant be wondrous fair?

How many would give of their goods tonight,
The best they possess and more,
For their faith in a star and an angel choir
And a King forevermore?

We criticize the folk of a bygone time
For indifference to Mary’s plight.
How many would do any better now?
Would you follow the star tonight?

The Hope of all the world was born that night In Bethlehem.

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 the privilege of calling you friends, you bless me more than you will ever know.

I am sending you a special Christmas wish as you celebrate this joyous season with families and friends.

Hugs,

Lovingly  Karan

 

Jul 30 2018

Special Made

Author: Karan Gleddie • Discussion: 2 Comments

Special Made

How do You beat the Heat?

I’m not sure my trash bin is big enough.

 

 

Special Made

The heat in Southern Alberta is about 90 today and the flowers and grass are feeling the burn. This last week a dear neighbor shared some of her annual plants with me, making my empty flower containers look beautiful.

As the plants along with the grass were starting to suffer I went out to water and ended up having a fight with the sprinkler after trying to set it. Consequently, my pants are hanging by the door sopping wet and my hair is all frizzed up again after spending 40 minutes straightening it yesterday. Lol

As most of you have guessed, I am not a gardener, but I love flowers and admire people who have great gardening skills. I always try to learn all I can from them and I get some great tips too.

So, with a new porch almost finished last week, I am inspired again to turn something plain into a peaceful and serene space for morning coffee. I’ll keep you posted on how it turns out.

Often I get discouraged about the things I don’t do well. I look at others’ talents and gifts and wish I could be more like them. Forgetting to be thankful for the gifts God has given me. So much time has been spent wishing instead of praising God for the blessings I already have.

I love the verse in: 1 Corinthians 12:4-6 

There are different spiritual gifts, but the same Spirit gives them. 

There are different ways of serving, and yet the same Lord is served. 

There are different types of work to do, but the same God produces every gift in every person.

God has not left me out, he has allowed me to have a special gift to serve him and tell others of his amazing love and grace. Like each flower or plant, each one of us is different and beautiful. In God’s eyes, we are uniquely special and precious to Him.

No matter what our circumstances are or the road each of us travels, knowing that I have a special place in God’s heart and plan gives me security as I live my life for Him.©

 

Thank you, dear friends, for spending your time with me.
 I love you all and am praying. 
 
HUGS,
Lovingly, Karan

I’ve Lost My Teeth

Update By: Karan Gleddie
Date: June 22, 2018

I’ve Lost My Teeth

 

Starting the vacation Happy Dance

 

Reflections:

Three hours past our departure time, my husband, Lyle, and I, and our two teenage daughters were finally pulling away from our southern Alberta home. We were on our way to the State Fair in Great Falls, Montana, but the way our car was packed, it seemed like we were off on a world tour.

I was looking forward to six days of rest and relaxation. No cooking, no early mornings, and plenty of my favorite hobby—retail therapy. We had a poolside room and our girls were ready to find their swimsuits and head to the water. However, my husband (the practical one) decided we would have supper first before the swimming suits came out of the suitcases and everyone headed for the pool.

After a delicious Mexican dinner, I hurried back to our room because I had something stuck under my upper partial plate. As I hurried into the powder room, I took out my “two front teeth” and laid them on a tissue next to the sink. After I brushed my teeth, I wiped off the counter, threw the paper and tissue into the toilet, and flushed. I turned around to get my teeth, but they were nowhere in sight. I ran around the hotel room crying, praying, and hoping that I would find those teeth, but I knew in my heart they were gone—flushed—adios—good-bye.

My family returned to find me flustered and crying. They were clearly concerned, but before I told them what happened to my poor teeth, I made each one promise not to laugh. It did not help one bit. By the end of my story, they were rolling with laughter and asking to see my toothless smile, which only brought more uncontrolled laughter.

I decided right there my vacation was over. I wanted to go home. I told my family I could not spend the rest of the week without my two front teeth.

“Oh yes you can,” my husband said. “All you have to do is keep your mouth shut and no one will know.”  Now, why didn’t I think of that?

I spent the week more quietly than usual. When I sometimes forgot myself or was carried away with the fun and laughter, my teenagers would lovingly point at their teeth to remind me that mine was missing. However, after the first few days, I forgot about my teeth and had a fun, memorable vacation.

If I had carried through with my plan to go home because of pride and concern about how I looked, just think of what we would have missed as a family. My daughter said we were making memories, and she was right. Now that my daughters are grown women, we remember our vacation with great fondness.©

Proverbs 29:23  says, “A man’s pride brings him low, but a man of lowly spirit gains honor.”  How often have I missed the opportunities God has for me because of selfish pride?

Father, Forgive me for my selfish pride. Help me not to miss the gifts you want to give me that fulfill my life because I am thinking only of myself.   Help me to put you first.

Thank you, dear friends, for spending your time with me.

Have you ever had a “Vacation Mishap?” 

 I love you all and am praying. 
 
HUGS,
 Lovingly,  Karan Gleddie