Articles

Dec 10 2018

The Holiday Season

Author: Karan Gleddie • Discussion: 2 Comments

A Reindeer Game

The game show contestant was only 200 points behind the leader and about to answer the final question – worth 500 points!”

To be today’s champion,” the show’s smiling host intoned, ”name two of Santa’s reindeer.”The contestant, a man in his early thirties, gave a sigh of relief, gratified that he had drawn such an easy question. “Rudolph!” he said confidently, “and, …Olive!”

The studio audience started to applaud (like the little sign above their heads said to do,) but the clapping quickly faded into mumbling, and the confused host replied, “Yes, we’ll accept Rudolph, but could you please explain…’Olive?!?’”

“You know,” the man circled his hand forward impatiently and began to sing, “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer – had a very shiny nose. And if you ever saw it, you would even say it glowed. *Olive,* the other reindeer…” Author unknown

 

 

 

 

 

The Holiday Season:

I love the Christmas season, expecting the cherished times with family and friends that no amount of money or wrapping could buy.

The smell of Christmas baking, the glowing tree with the Angel on top, I would love to keep the tree up all year long if I could. It is so relaxing to sit under the glow of lights and meditate and reflect on the former years. And reflect on God’s love and grace.

As I reflect on this last year, I am reminded of all the love, encouragement and prayers of family and friends. What an extraordinary year. Although there are many difficulties, I can see how each season has put amazing color in my life. Giving me meaning and enriching everyday life. With faithful friends who pray for me, a trustworthy and compassionate God who loves me, and a Savior who forgives me. 

I read a little quote that said, “Dark fears flee in the light of God’s presence”. In this hectic season, we need to take the time to breathe and walk in his light and presence. What a beautiful thought of comfort and peace God brings to us as we look forward to 2019. ©

For a child is born to us, a son is given to us. The government will rest on his shoulders.

And he will be called: Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.

His government and its peace will never end.  Isaiah 9: 6 & 7a

Praying you have a wonderful Christmas season with your family and friends. 

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

Have a wonderful weekend. HUGS

 Lovingly, Karan

What is your favorite Christmas recipe?  

 

Nov 19 2018

I am Sorry

Author: Karan Gleddie • Discussion: 11 Comments

 

Happy Thanksgiving, America

 

 

Reflections: I am Sorry

I am sorry; I have not been constant in my writing, In November 2017, they moved my husband to a senior lodge, for extra care.

It has been a transition for all of us. I found the last year a lonesome time after so many years of marriage together. 

After, almost a year now I am looking forward to moving into a smaller apartment.

Along with the sorting of years of memories, furniture, books, and papers, and arranging to sell our house, it’s been hectic. All the while wondering why I held on to so much “stuff.”

I would ask if you would remember me in prayer for the next few months. I get overwhelmed by all the decisions of downsizing in all areas and letting go of things.

I have been praying that God will help me to live with open hands and an open heart.  To pass on the things I have loved and enjoyed,  I need to learn to bless others as He has blessed me. ©

“A memory is a photograph taken by the heart to make a special moment last forever.”  And sweet memories remind us of the roads we have traveled and the people we have loved. Unknown author
Praise the Lord. Blessed are those who fear the Lord, who find great delight in his commands. Psalm 112

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

 
HUGS,
Lovingly, Karan

 

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Nov 05 2018

Are Memories Timeless Treasures?

Author: Karan Gleddie • Discussion: 3 Comments

 

 Dining Out in Style    

‘We’d been invited out to dinner one chilly evening, and I wanted to look elegant.” Elaine admits.           

I dressed carefully, Finally, my husband, growing impatient said he was going to warm up the car.

Hurrying, I reached in the dresser for my soft white shawl.

I flung it around my shoulders, quickly tied the ends in front and without bothering to look in the mirror ran downstairs.

It was only after I got in the car that I realized in my haste, I’d pulled a pair of thermal underwear from the drawer instead of a shawl…and knotted the legs in front! 

My Husband is still laughing…   

                                                            © Elaine Fowler Palencia of Champaign, Illinois, USA.   

elainepalencia.com                          

Thank you, Elaine

 

 

“Are Memories Timeless Treasures” 

While visiting my sister in San Diego, California a few years ago, I needed to go to the mall for a few things. My sister was busy and recommended I take her car for the afternoon and enjoy some retail therapy. I was grateful for the time to just browse the shops and seeing the different stores and shops we don’t get in Canada.

I needed to be home by 4:30 to meet my sister, so I gave myself plenty of time and headed for the car at 3:00 pm. As I headed to the parking lot, I could not remember where I parked my car.  

I walked back and forth down the aisles of the parking lot twice, and couldn’t find the car. Panicked; it occurred me, I might have to contact the police and report the car stolen.

After having a total meltdown, and no cell phone I walked the aisles one more time. And finally found my sister’s car, a white Buick. I was looking for my gray Chrysler, which was in Canada. I was two hours late; my family was worried and about to send a search party after me! Whew, what a day.

A funny thing happened on this journey to maturity. I learned that “normal is just a setting on the dryer” and aging is not a scary process but an extraordinary adventure. I can look back at the love lessons God has taught me, both the hard and enjoyable. And each memory has become a timeless treasure hidden in my heart. I have seen how he has been faithful to his promises and walked with me every step of my journey. I have never been alone.

Although my Blonde hair is becoming whiter, and my body isn’t the same as it once was, I am never too old to serve God. I can still encourage, love and help others. God has blessed me with many memories and experiences to share. And besides, today is a fabulous day, and I don’t feel so old! LOL©

What are your favorite memories?  I would love to hear about them

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

 

 

Oct 04 2018

Happy Thanksgiving, Canada

Author: Karan Gleddie • Discussion: 2 Comments

 

 

 

Thanksgiving in Canada

As an American living in Canada, I enjoy two Thanksgivings each year.  Our Canadian one is this Monday, October 8th. The American one is November 22nd.  Thanksgiving is my favorite time of the year and having two is special.  

Now that maturity has found me, I can help with the preparations by adding a few of my favorite dishes to the family feast. I love that each person gets to bring their dish and share in the festivities.

I can almost imagine the first Thanksgiving in a new country with new friends.  Each giving the best of what they could share. A true Thanksgiving of open hearts and open hands. I wish I could have been there.

I have been thinking about my own thankfulness at this wonderful time of year. As I ponder the current struggles in the world today, I think it would be great if we could overlook our differences and look at others the way that God sees them. Loved and cherished regardless of the flaws we all have.

 It seems God’s love through us is needed more than ever today. To be able to see people and the world through God’s eyes instead of our own. What would our world look like then?

As each new day comes, I try to find joy and thankfulness in the small moments each day.

What are you most thankful for?©

Thank you for sharing your time with me, dear friend.

Hugs to all, Lovingly Karan

Sep 25 2018

The Mid-term Elections

Author: Karan Gleddie • Discussion: 2 Comments

 

 

 

 

The Mid-term Elections

Over the year and particularly the last few months, I have experienced stress and anxiety leading to the upcoming Mid-term elections.

As Americans residing out of the United States, Lyle and I were thrilled to receive our ballots and have the opportunity to vote.

I am surprised how people seem so interested here in Canada about these midterms. And like the US each person has their favorite candidate and a verity of views on them. No matter where I 

travel, folks feel the need to debate about our U.S. politics.

I read an editorial a few months ago about an “election stress disorder.” It made me laugh, but later I thought I had many of the symptoms as well. LOL. I had become anxious, constantly looked at surveys, Twitter, and the news every morning and evening. Even Canada will be having elections in the fall, and there is a concern there also.

I was telling my friend in South Carolina, I thought I had the “election stress disorder” and she giggled and pointed out I am like this every two or four years. What are friends for, to give us perspective when our focus becomes small?

As I was reading my Bible, I was telling God how disturbed I am about this entire process.

Luke 18:27 it says; “What is impossible from a human perspective, is possible with God,”

What a comfort to know God is a big picture, God. He is never surprised, caught off guard, or doesn‘t have a plan. He knows the plans he has for each of us, plans for our good that are greater than we could ever imagine.  God is trustworthy and true.  And all is well when we are in his care.

Oswald Chambers said it well, “Faith never knows where it is being led, but it loves and knows the one who is leading.”

My confidence and happiness is knowing God is in Control©

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