Articles

Jun 17 2017

I’ve Embarrassed Myself! ~ News Flash!

Author: Karan Gleddie • Discussion: 2 Comments

 

Reflections: I’ve Embarrassed Myself!

Did I cause your hearts to stop sending out a Father’s Day newsletter last weekend? I somehow thought it was last week; I was so proud of myself for remembering the date. Wrong, Lol.

My husband and I spent the whole weekend having an enjoyable Father’s day celebration. We went to church, and as we walked home I mentioned it, Lyle, how strange it was no one talked about Father’s day, to which he replied: “It’s usually Mother’s day everyone makes a fuss over, not Father’s day.” We laughed at that observation, had a lovely afternoon meal and he had a Father’s day nap.

Later in the evening, we were to Skype with our daughter in California. She phoned to coordinate our time for later in the evening. I asked her if she had read the Father’s day blog? She started Laughing and said she had forgotten it was Father’s day herself.

Earlier in the afternoon, she reminded her husband to call his dad and wish him a good day, which he did. He called his father who was vacationing in Finland and wished him a happy Father’s day; it was then they found out it was the wrong weekend. Who knew?

My Husband Lyle’s Happy, this year he gets to enjoy two weekends of Father’s day. I hope I didn’t send any of you out on the wrong weekend to find cards and gifts if you did you were prepared early like me. Lol. Preparedness is always good; I seem to be the last minute rose.

I am a procrastinator, I tend to get motivated under pressure, but it has also caused many problems. You know, “When in trouble, fear or doubt, run in circles, scream and shout!!”

I have learned over the years that God is my refuge in the circumstances, troubles and mistakes I often find myself in. He is the one person I count on. His Love and forgiveness if constant, forever and eternal. ©

God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.

Psalm 46:1

But I will sing of your strength, in the morning I will sing of your love; for you are my fortress, my refuge in times of trouble.

Psalm 59:16

Are you a procrastinator or a planner? Do you ever misjudge your time? I would love to hear your thoughts

Thank you, dear friends, for spending your time with me.
Have a great week, HUGS
Lovingly, Karan

 

 

 

Attention: News Flash!

If you have written to me on my Website and have not had a reply, would you let me know? We have made some adjustment and hope we have alleviated the problem.

It was my mistake, I assumed everyone received a reply, I am sorry to each of you who wrote and did not hear from me. Please don’t give up on giving your thoughts and questions, I love hearing from each of you.

Sending much love, Karan

Jun 10 2017

What Makes A Dad ~ Fathers’ Day

Author: Karan Gleddie • Discussion: 6 Comments

What Makes A Dad 

 

God took the strength of a mountain, 
The majesty of a tree, 
The warmth of a summer sun, 
The calm of a quiet sea, 

The generous soul of nature, 
The comforting arm of night, 
The wisdom of the ages, 
The power of the eagle’s flight, 

The joy of a morning in spring, 
The faith of a mustard seed, 
The patience of eternity, 
The depth of a family need, 

Then God combined these qualities, 
When there was nothing more to add, 
He knew His masterpiece was complete, 
And so, He called it … Dad

~ Author Unknown

 

 

 

 

Reflections:  Fathers’ Day

As a child growing up, I always wondered about the father I never knew. Did he have blonde hair, was I like him? My mother never talked about him, and I never inquired because it caused her great sadness to discuss that time in her life.

For years, I would think about meeting him, and dream about our wonderful reunion. But that scenario would not happen. I had found out that he had passed away many years before I had started to look for him. I was so disappointed, all my questions would go unanswered.

I remember at church the minister talked about how much God cares for each of us, and he knows our pain and hurt in the secret places where only he can see. And he quoted a Bible verse that I never forgot:

God in His holy house is a father to those who have no father.

And He keeps the women safe whose husbands have died.

God makes a home for those who are alone.

                                      Psalm 67:5 & 6a

I found great comfort in that verse but wondered if it would happen for me.

Little did I know that God had prepared a father for me in Alberta, Canada. When I married Lyle, I not only got a husband but a new father who became my dad.

Trygve was a kind, loving and humble man who loved life and loved me. As the years passed by it amazed me, how much alike we were. We both loved books, collected funny stories and loved humor. He loved to sing, loved people and most of all loved God.

Trig passed away in 2000; there is not a day that goes by that I don’t reflect on all the times we spent together. We would both cry through “Little House on the Prairie”, sad movies and touching books. We liked to laugh, sing in the car, go shopping, eating out and share the important family stories and our walk with God. How I loved and miss him.

I am thankful for the great privilege to call Trygve my DAD.

God gave me the desire of my heart, and his timing is perfect.

Thank you, Lord, for your wonderful gift.©

Happy Fathers’ Day!

Do you have special memories of your Dad?  I would love to hear them. Hugs

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

Lovingly, Karan

Jun 04 2017

Are You Going My Way? ~ Are You Someone’s Hero?

Author: Karan Gleddie • Discussion: 5 Comments

 

Are You Going My Way?

A truck driver was hauling a load of Penguins going to the San Diego Zoo when his refrigeration truck breaks down on the freeway. The driver got out of the cab and was looking at the engine when a second truck driver stopped and asked if he needed any help.

The Penguins’ driver explained that he is taking the penguins to the zoo and asked if the other man could take the penguins to the zoo for him. He also agreed to give him $500.00 for extra expenses.

Some hours later, the second truck driver drove past the first one, who was still waiting on the freeway for help to come. The Penguins, however, were still on the truck!

“I thought I asked you to take those penguins to the zoo,” shouted the first driver. The second replied, “I did, but I had some money left, so we’re going to the movies.  Author unknown

 

 

 

Reflections: Are You Someone’s Hero?

Over the last few weeks, as we celebrated Memorial Day, I have thought about the different seasons of life and the Heroes I looked up too. How the heroes and faces have changed for me as I enter each New Year.

When I was a young girl, my mother was the most important person in my life, and I wanted to be just like her. But soon I was in third grade and met the beautiful Mrs. Mitchell.  She was kind, patient, and recognized the heart of a wounded child.  How I loved her, I was going to be a teacher just like her.

However, roads bend and turn taking us on new adventures to find out who we are, and what we will become. And exciting time but also a fearful time for me.  I loved to laugh, sing, dance and wanted to be popular in high school that is what would make me happy. Friends, lots of friends.

I didn’t think much about heroes in my life then because I was too busy, trying to please and keep up with everyone else.

As I look back, I can see a long line of the heroes that God sprinkled into my life. Each one pushed, encouraged, and inspired me to become a better person. To reach for my dreams and never stop, and when I slow down and get discouraged, they cheer me on with their prayers.

To have Godly mentors who showed me that loving God, putting him first and serving him would give the greatest joy in life, each one has blessed me.

The Bible says we need to remember all that God has done for us and lean on his promises.©

Psalm 77:11

I remembered the works of the Lord: for I will be mindful of thy wonders from the beginning.

Joel 1:3

Tell your children about it in the years to come, and let your children tell their children. Pass the story down from generation to generation.

 

Who are some of your heroes? I would love to hear from you.

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

Have a great week, HUGS
Lovingly, Karan

May 22 2017

THE BBQ RULES~ Singing My Song

Author: Karan Gleddie • Discussion: No Comments

 

THE BBQ RULES

 I laughed my mascara and eyeliner off.   I hope you enjoy the “Rules” too.

We are about to enter the summer and BBQ season. Therefore it is important to refresh your memory on the etiquette of this sublime outdoor cooking activity, as it’s the only type of cooking a ‘real’ man will do, probably because there is an element of danger involved.

When a man volunteers to do the BBQ the following chain of events are put into motion:

 Routine..

(1) The woman buys the food.
(2) The woman makes the salad, prepares the vegetables, and makes dessert.
(3) The woman prepares the meat for cooking, places it on a tray along with the necessary cooking utensils and sauces, and takes it to the man who is lounging beside the grill – cold drink in hand.

 Here comes the important part:

(4) THE MAN PLACES THE MEAT ON THE GRILL.

 More routine….

(5) The woman goes inside to organize the plates and cutlery.
(6) The woman comes out to tell the man that the meat is burning. He thanks her and asks if she will bring another cold drink while he deals with the situation.

 Important again:

(7) THE MAN TAKES THE MEAT OFF THE GRILL AND HANDS IT TO THE WOMAN.
(8) The woman prepares the plates, salad, bread, utensils, napkins, sauces, and brings them to the table.
(9) After eating, the woman clears the table and does the dishes.

 And most important of all:

(10) Everyone PRAISES the MAN and THANKS HIM for his cooking efforts

(11) The man asks the woman how she enjoyed ‘her night off.’ And, upon seeing her annoyed reaction, concludes that there’s just no pleasing some women.  Author unknown

 

 

 

 

Reflections:  Singing My Song

Living on the ranch in Tilley, AB Canada was an incredible experience for me. When out first daughter was born, it was great fun to have grandma and grandpa Gleddie living so close. 

Every day she would go out to the ranch yard to see the animals.  She loved them all so much it was only natural that we would practice and learn “Ole Mac Donald Had a Farm.”  She also learned “Jesus loves me at Sunday school.” 

We wanted to surprise Grandma and Grandpa with the singing talents of their first grandchild.  And surprise them we did!

One Saturday we all rode to town for our weekly groceries, and on the way home, we decided it was the perfect time for a concert. Our daughter would start with “Jesus Loves Me, ” and next do “Ole Mac Donald Had a Farm.”  She belted out the Song, (you can sing along)

Jesus Loves me this I Know,

For the Bible tells me so,

Little ones to Him belong,

Ole MacDonald had a Farm!

I must say that there was a moment of silence as we tried to process the words, then there was a burst of laughter.  All the words had fit perfectly with the tune.  She’s a Genius!

Do you step onto the stage of life every day striving for the perfect appearance and performing your best for love, acceptance, and approval of others?

There have been times when I have rushed ahead of God, making my own plans.  Trying to fit the Lord into my will and wants.  Only to realize that I messed up trying to impress God that I am worthy enough to be loved.  Wow, really?

God knows the secret longings of our hearts. He knows all about our unfulfilled desires and dreams, our feelings of loneliness and fears for the future. He alone knows our joy and pain, our successes, failures, and doubts. He knows everything about you, inside and out, past, present and future.

Although every life is different, and your circumstances are not the same as mine, you may have had some of the same feelings.

I have news for you,

CHRIST PAID A PRICE WE COULD NEVER PAY, TO GIVE US LIFE WE DIDN’T DESERVE.

I sometimes get in such a rush I forget that I can never work, buy or beg enough for God’s love.  He gives Love, life, and forgiveness freely if I ask. 

Psalm 118:6-7b NLT

6. The Lord is for me so that I will have no fear.

What can mere people do to me?

7b. Yes the Lord is for me, He will help me.

                                                      

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

 Do You find yourself running ahead of God sometimes, like me? 

Smile, God Love You. Hugs to all.

Lovingly, Karan

 

May 08 2017

You’re a Mom When …

Author: Karan Gleddie • Discussion: 2 Comments

 You’re a Mom When …

  • Your feet stick to the kitchen floor…..and you don’t care.
  • You can’t find your cordless phone, so you ask a friend to call you, and you run around the house madly, following the sound until you locate the phone downstairs in the laundry basket.
  • Your favorite television show is a cartoon.
  • You’re willing to kiss your child’s boo-boo, regardless of where it is.
  • Your baby’s pacifier falls on the floor and you give it back to her after you suck the dirt off of it because you’re too busy to wash it off.

  • Your kids make jokes about farting, burping, pooping, etc. and you think it’s funny.
  • You’re so desperate for adult conversation that you spill your guts to the telemarketer that calls and HE hung up on YOU!

 

The closest you get to gourmet cooking is making Rice Crispies bars

  • You are out for a nice romantic meal with your husband, enjoying some real adult conversation when suddenly you realize that you’ve reached over and started to cut up his steak.

 

  • You spend a half hour searching for your sunglasses only to have your teenager say, “Mom, why don’t you wear the ones you pushed up on your head?”
  • You weep through the scene in Dumbo when his mom is taken away, not to mention what Bambi does to you.
  • You can never go to the bathroom alone without someone screaming outside the door.

 

  • You find yourself humming the Barney song as you do the dishes.
  • You hear a baby cry in the grocery store, and you start to gently sway back and forth, back and forth. However, your children are still at school! Author Unknown

 

 

 

 

Reflections:  Are You Like Your Mother”                                                                      

People would say, “You’re just like your mother” and I would cringe. At the ripe old age of 15, 20 and 28, those were not the words I wanted to hear. I wanted to be a super mom, you know, the woman that did and had it all. I was going to be organized, clever and insightful at life. No traumatic crisis for me.

My mother came from a harsh background; I think she spent her life trying to work through the difficulties she encountered as a child. She strived to be understanding and kind towards others. Unlike her parents, she achieved her goal. There were painful personal and emotional struggles in her life, as well as great highs. Mother was always optimistic no matter what life handed her. Her motto was: “Tomorrow’s a brand new day.”

She worked hard to put a roof over our heads and food on the table, never giving up or expecting handouts. Although others13 thought we were poor, I can’t say that we ever thought we were. We always had enough, when we outgrew our shoes and clothing; she made sure we had something new to replace the old. I often wondered how she worked her magic with the budget, but as I look back I realize she went without so that my sisters and I would have more opportunities and a few extras.

Mother loved a good deal, so thrift stores, Salvation Army, garage sales and flea markets were thrilling when she found the ultimate bargain.

She loved her flower beds and gardening much better than house cleaning and often said she felt closer to God outside. She loved to spend time talking to Him in the quietness of the morning as the sun rose on a new day.

We knew mother loved us and loved God too. She trusted Him, leaned on Him, and believed His promises would sustain her throughout life. She taught us daily about God’s grace, forgiveness, and love. Through her life, we were able to see how God faithfully protected and care for our needs. My mother has given me a lifetime of wonderful memories that are worth more to me than silver and gold. 

Now when I hear “You’re just like your Mother,” I say thank you. I pray that my children will know how much they are loved and that they would see the light of God’s love in my life too.©

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 Thank you for sharing your time with me dear friend, what are your special Mother’s Day memories of your mother?

Happy Mother’s Day!

Lovingly, Karan

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