Articles

Nov 12 2016

Thank You, Dear Friends

Author: Karan Gleddie • Discussion: No Comments

Thank You, Dear Friends

coffee-jesus

minions712

Your Insights From my October 15, 2016 Survey

I promised to summarize my results from my survey, which I sent out on October 15, 2016. I want to share the conclusions I have as a result of the data. Thank you to each one who took the time to respond. It has helped me to understand who my readers are and to write what interests you.

servey I love to write and laugh, but ultimately I want to bring a little sunshine and laughter to your world also.

As a point of reference, I had eight brave souls complete the survey so far. The survey was anonymous and each person was a number. I like surveys like that so people feel that they can give an honest opinion about the questions. If you haven’t taken the survey, I will add the link at the end of today’s blog and give you the opportunity to do so. It is not too late, and I value your thoughts.

Based on my readers’ comments, here are some of those conclusions:

Q 1. The average age of my readers are:

45 to 54 – 12.50%
55 to 64 – 00%
65 to 74 – 00%
75 or older – 12.50%

Q 2. In what country do you currently reside?

United States – 50.00%
Canada – 37.50%
Other (please specify) – 12.50%

Response:

7 months in Canada…5 months in Arizona. 11/1/2016 5:12 PM

Q 3. How often do you log into social media networks (e.g. Facebook, Google+, etc.)?

Less than a few times a month 50%
A few times a month – 0.00%
A few times a week – 25.00%
About once a day – 25.00%
More than once a day – 37.50%

Q4. How did you hear about my blog and website?

Friends – 25.00%
Family – 37.50%
Other (please specify) – 37.50%

Responses:

I don’t remember. Maybe through someone in Stonecroft? 11/1/2016 5:12 PM
From you. 10/16/2016 8:43 PM
Saw it online & realized I knew you, Karan! 10/16/2016 12:24 PM

Q 5. Compared to our competitors, is our blog and website quality better, worse, or about the same?

A great deal better – 0.00%
Quite a bit better – 42.86%
About the same – 14.29%
Somewhat worse – 0.00%
Quite a bit worse – 0.00%
A great deal worse – 0.00%
Don’t know – 42.86%

Q 6. How likely is it that you would recommend our blog and website to a friend or colleague?

96% – 11/1/2016 5:12 PM
95% – 10/30/2016 3:20 PM
85% – 10/16/2016 8:43 PM
50% – 10/16/2016 12:24 PM
99% – 10/16/2016 11:08 AM
64% – 10/16/2016 8:04 AM
73% – 10/16/2016

Q 7. What changes would most improve our blog and website?

I have sent it on or friends I thought would enjoy it. I can’t think of any changes. 11/1/2016 5:12
Results from readers when you ask their opinions. 10/30/2016 3:20 PM
Better proofreading – some grammatical errors and misspellings. 10/16/2016 12:24 PM
Maybe you could have encouragement to memorize scripture, a passage a week cause we all need to know Gods word, have it in our hearts and minds especially now when our Christian faith is being challenged in the laws of our country and persecution of our beliefs is rapidly becoming the norm. 10/16/2016 11:08 AM
Newer jokes. Have heard most of them. 10/16/2016 7:47 AM

Q 8. What do you like most about our blog and website?

Responses:

You’re down to earth anecdotes, the bible quotes, and Auntie Acid for a bit of humor. Also the blond jokes. 11/1/2016 5:12 PM
Bringing God’s Word into each situation. 10/30/2016 3:20 PM
The stories. 10/16/2016 8:43 PM
Uplifting and encouraging. LOW stress! Lovely Christian encouragement. 10/16/2016 12:24 PM
Your stories and encouragement, sharing your heart and applicable scriptures. Love the humor, things that make me laugh out loud. 10/16/2016 11:08 AM
Funny and inspiring. 10/16/2016 8:04 AM
Friendly, loving. 10/16/2016 7:47 AM

Q 9. What topics would you most like to learn about or discuss at our blog and website?

Responses:

Humor and Inspiration – 50.00%
Image and Fashion – 0.00%
Both = 50.00%
Other (please specify) – 0.00%

Q 10. Do you have any other comments, questions, or concerns about our website, writer or content?

Responses:

Thank you for doing it! 11/1/2016 5:12 PM
Yes, the writer is such a pretty lady! 10/16/2016 11:08 AM
Refreshing. 10/16/2016 7:47 AM

I am praying that I will be able to make my blog posts, emails, and resources more interesting, and relevant to you. Thank you to each of you dear friends.

If you feel you missed out on the survey, you can still take the survey and add your comments. The results are completely anonymous, and I will not share your results with anyone. Just click below.

I Would Love to Help. Take me to the Survey!

Have a great weekend, Hugs to all.

Lovingly, Karan

Sep 25 2016

Traveling Lite!

Author: Karan Gleddie • Discussion: No Comments

Traveling Lite!

Last week I heard about a traveler who, between flights at an airport, bought a small package of cookies. She then sat down in a busy snack woman-reading-newspaper-airport-628x363 shop to glance over the newspaper. As she read her paper, she became aware of a rustling noise.

Peeking above the newsprint she was shocked to see a well-dressed gentleman sitting across from her, helping himself to her cookies. Half-angry and half-embarrassed, she reached over and gently slid the package closer to her as she took one out and began to munch on it.

A minute or so passed before she heard more rustling. The man had gotten another cookie! By now there was only one cookie left in the package. Though flabbergasted, she said nothing. Finally, as if to add insult to injury, the man broke the remaining cookie into two pieces, gulped down his half, and left without even saying “thank you.” She sat there, dumbfounded.

Some time later when her flight was announced, the woman opened her handbag to get her ticket. To her shock, there in her purse was her package of cookies. And somewhere in that same airport was another traveler still trying to figure out how that strange woman could have been so forward and insensitive. Author unknown

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Reflections:

Traveling to Montana for a women’s event, I never dreamed a friendship would begin. Two young women with totally opposite personalities collided and became lifelong girlfriends.

Dee has alway been a no-nonsense, goal setting woman who embraces laughter and life with a bear hug. She is wise beyond her years with a sensitive heart. I have seen her notice a complete stranger in need, and stop to help them.

two-ladies My friend has the keen business savvy of Donald Trump (with good hair), and the creative talents of Martha Stewart— a domestic goddess with a warped twist. She has a style all her own; a possible visual might include Peppy Long-stockings dressed in Ralph Lauren, with the sense of humor and the quirkiness of Carol Burnett— ready to laugh at almost anything (especially herself). That is my dear friend, Dee.

She is a very physical and thinks she hasn’t had a thorough work out unless she is sweating buckets. My idea of a good workout is a color coordinated sweat suit, 1-inch gold flip-flops and pearls, fully loaded makeup, hairdo—the works. (In case I run into someone I might know).

Besides, I never sweat, I mist. Taking a walk with us is truly comic relief. Dee in practical shoes and clothing, charging ahead, getting the workout over in good time, with as much sweat as possible; while I leisurely stroll along, trying my best not to get all misty, gingerly stepping over rocks, puddles, and other debris.

Although we have never lived in the same continent, we try to meet occasionally. I love having a friend to talk to; someone in whom I can confide my deepest secrets (even if she is jogging circles around me so she can keep her heart rate up.)

But the greatest comfort about my friend, Dee, is the assurance that our friendship is secure. I know she loves me even with all the fluff and glitter, blonde hair and pearls. She allows me to the freedom to be myself, I never have to impress her; she is already on my side, and loves me.

I have often heard it said, “If you have five best friends in a lifetime you are fortunate.” True friendship is a blessing. ©

The Bible says;

“No one has greater love than this, that someone would lay down his life for his friends.” John 15:13

“For this is how God loved the world: He gave his one and only Son so that everyone who believes in him will not perish

but have eternal life.” John 3:16

The longer I live, I realize that I would not have made it without my friendship with Jesus. I can talk to him, rely on him and trust him.

He is my shelter in the storms, and most of all I know he loves me and wants the best for me.

Where would I be without him?

Who is your best friend?

Thank you, dear friends for spending your time with me, have a wonderful week.

Hugs to all.

Lovingly, Karan

Sep 17 2016

The Golden Years ~ Are You Speeding

Author: Karan Gleddie • Discussion: No Comments

The Golden Years ~ Are You Speeding

Several days ago as I left a meeting at a hotel; I desperately gave myself a pat down. I was looking for my keys. They were not in my pockets. A quick search in the meeting room revealed nothing.

Suddenly I realized I must have left them in the car. Frantically, I headed for the parking lot. My wife has scolded me many times for leaving the keys in the ignition.

My theory is the ignition is the best place not to lose them. Her theory is that the car will be stolen. As I burst through the door, I came to a terrifying conclusion. Her theory was right. The parking lot was empty.

I immediately called the police. I gave them my location, confessed that I had left my keys in the car and that it had been stolen. Then I made the most difficult call of all, “Honey,” I stammered; I always call her “honey” in times like these. “I left my keys in the car, and it has been stolen.”

There was a period of silence. I thought the call had been dropped, but then I heard her voice. “Idiot”, she barked, “I dropped you off!”

Now it was my time to be silent. Embarrassed, I said, “Well, come and get me.”

She retorted, “I will, as soon as I convince this policeman I have not stolen your car.”

Author unknown

antie-acid-32

Reflections: Are You Speeding

Over the years I realized I have a heavy foot. As I speed along I am always in a hurry. My family blames my California roots for all my bad habits.

I have struggled with time management over the years and usually, think I have much more time than I do. And yes the police and I have had our discussions over several tickets.

I always try to be respectful but sometimes I grumbled about the tickets I didn’t think I deserve. Although in my heart I know I deserved far more tickets than I received. How about you? I remembered a time when I was on my way to a speaking engagement and a police officer pulled me over.

I knew I had not been speeding (thank goodness for the speed control) and surprised to learn my taillight was not working.

The officer walked back to his patrol car and check my registration and data. I watch him walk back a thought came to me about how thankless his job is, I can’t imagine that people are grateful for their tickets. I sure haven’t!

When the officer came back to my car he handed me my license, insurance card, and a new ticket. I thanked him for his service, for my ticket and for the good job he does to make our highways safe. He was speechless for a moment and then, thank me and said no one had ever told him that before. How sad. As I drove away I giggled and wished I had taken a picture of his face. Priceless.

Makes me want to do it again. LOL. Isn’t wonderful to honor someone else and you get the joy in the deepest part of your soul.

The Bible says:

Lord, we show our trust in you by obeying your laws; our heart’s desire is to glorify your name. Isaiah 26:8 NLT

“Well, then,” he said, “give to Caesar what belongs to Caesar, and give to God what belongs to God.” Matthew 22:21 NLT

I am so glad that I didn’t react like I felt I wanted too. After all, I was in a hurry to do God’s work. But while I am here on earth, I am to trust the Lord, obey his laws and the laws of the land. And to bring honor and glorify His name. That is my true purpose as I walk daily close to him. ©

Some people, no matter how old they get never lose their beauty,

they merely move it from their faces into their hearts

Smile, God Love You
*************************

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

Lovingly,
Karan Gleddie

Sep 09 2016

Dear Friends

Author: Karan Gleddie • Discussion: No Comments

Dear Friends,

It has been a tough week this week, and last night we lost one of our family members to Cancer after a short and brave struggle.

My heart is broken, of not only losing a family member, but also a sweet friend. She is with the Lord tonight, and God has freed her from the pain. I take comfort in the Bible that tells me:

And now, dear brothers and sisters, we want you to know what will happen to the believers who have died so you will not grieve like people who have no hope 1 Thessalonians 4:13

That is a promise that I am resting on today. We have that hope of seeing each other again one day.

I am sad for our great loss and yet understand Ruby has fought the fight and won the battle. She now is face-to-face with the Lord she loves and enjoying a great reunion with friends and family who have gone on before. She went home last night… HEAVEN.©

Home Where I Belong© B.J.Thomas

They say that heaven’s pretty, And living here is too.
But if they said that I would have to choose between the two.
I’d go home, Going home, Where I belong.

And sometimes when I’m dreaming, It comes as no surprise.
That if you look and see the homesick feeling in my eyes.
I’m going home, Going home, Where I belong.

While I’m here I’ll serve him gladly, And sing him all my songs. I’m here, But not for long.

And when I’m feeling lonely, And when I’m feeling blue.
It’s such a joy to know that I am only passing through.
I’m headed home, Going home, Where I belong.

And one day I’ll be sleeping When death knocks on my door.
And I’ll awake and find that I’m not homesick anymore.
I’ll be home, Going home, Where I belong.

I Am Just Passing Through

Hugs to all, See you next week.
Lovingly, Karan Gleddie

Sep 03 2016

Is Anyone Watching, Swimming lessons anyone?

Author: Karan Gleddie • Discussion: No Comments

Is Anyone Watching?

lunch The children were lined up in the cafeteria of the Catholic elementary school for lunch.

At the head of the table was a large pile of apples. The nun made a note, and posted it on the apple tray:

“Take only ONE. God is watching.”

Moving further along the lunch line, at the other end of the table was a large pile of chocolate chip cookies.

A child had written a note, “Take all you want. God is watching the apples..’

antie acid 70

Reflections: Swimming lessons anyone?

As I enjoyed watching the Olympics the last few weeks, the discipline and commitment that each Olympian strives to achieve are amazing.

Every time I see or hear about the Olympics, I think about my daughter who became intrigued with the swimmers. I would find her in the living room practicing the butterfly stroke with the swimmers on our shag carpet. Every day she came home after school to practice. And at night I would find water on the bathroom floor as she perfected her strokes.

swimming2 We soon learned that she be going on a kindergarten school trip. The class was going to a swimming pool, and she did not know how to swim. And the trip was only a week away. So we went and bought a new swimsuit for the occasion, but caution our daughter not to go into the deep end because swimming around the living room does not make her a swimmer. But, she kept insisting that she knew how to swim, after all, she had practiced!

The day arrived, and Lyle took her to school that morning and again cautioned her not to go into the deep end. He got a smile, hug, and a wave as she headed for the bus and her friends.

We waited impatiently until the time arrives to pick her up, and Lyle raced down to the school to get her.

As she got into the truck, she was unusually quiet, so Lyle asked her how the day went. And with a surprised look on her face, she said,” I jumped into the deep end of the pool, and I almost drowned?”

She was so convinced that she knew how to swim. After all, she learned all the strokes and had practiced with the best. The only thing she was missing though was the water!!!

Although we laugh at remembering this story, I wonder how many times do I think I know what’s best for myself too?

Those times when I don’t want to bother God with my problems. And when I try to fix them myself I only I only make them worse. I was so sure I knew how to do it. I used God as my last resort when He should be my first. Is it pride or stubbornness that keeps me from asking for His help? © In:

Psalm 121:1-3 (NLT)

I look up to the mountains— does my help come from there?

My help comes from the Lord, who made heaven and earth!

He will not let you stumble; the one who watches over you will not slumber.

Do yo ever feel like God has too much to do to take care of your little problems?

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

Lovingly, Karan

Karan K. Gleddie

Offering Love and Laughter to Women who need Hope

Articles

Thank You, Dear Friends

Traveling Lite!

The Golden Years ~ Are You Speeding

Dear Friends

Is Anyone Watching, Swimming lessons anyone?