tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-52727933420404392142024-03-05T23:21:24.123-05:00Today I Praydaily prayer for hope and inspirationLaurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13461281675925684997noreply@blogger.comBlogger186125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5272793342040439214.post-27607859854634558492019-10-10T06:27:00.001-04:002019-10-10T06:27:36.661-04:00Know yourself. Be yourself. Trust in God.<div style="font-family: ".SF UI Text"; font-size: 12px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-top: 20px;">
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<span style="font-family: ".SFUIText"; font-size: 12pt;">Everything I need to know about the recipe for overcoming fear I learned from David as he prepared for battle with Goliath. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: ".SFUIText"; font-size: 12pt;">David, in his infinite faith in God, raised his hand to battle the giant. Saul did what he thought he needed to do to prepare David for the battle. He dressed him in a suit of armor and provided him a sword. But David knew himself well enough to know that he wasn’t comfortable in that suit of armor. He knew that he couldn’t win unless he used his own God-given talents to slay the beast. So he took off the armor, and picked up the tools with which he was comfortable fighting - a few rocks. It was with those rocks that he took down Goliath. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: ".SFUIText-Italic"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: italic;">“Then Saul dressed David in his own tunic. He put a coat of armor on him and a bronze helmet on his head. David fastened on his sword over the tunic and tried walking around, because he was not used to them. “I cannot go in these,” he said to Saul, “because I am not used to them.” So he took them off.”</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: ".SFUIText"; font-size: 12pt;">God gives us every tool that we need to succeed in. When we know ourselves and trust in God, and stop trying to fight our battles as anyone other than ourselves, we will succeed. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: ".SFUIText"; font-size: 12pt;">Know yourself. Be yourself. And most importantly, trust in God.</span></div>
<div class="blogger-post-footer">Unless otherwise noted, all posts are original work from <a href="http://today-i-pray.blogspot.com/">Today I Pray </a> and should not be used without consent from the blog administrator.</div>Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13461281675925684997noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5272793342040439214.post-69922085736997947192019-09-19T07:20:00.002-04:002019-09-19T07:20:31.175-04:00Forever, Bless this House<br />
Bless this house<br />
...and all who enter.<br />
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Bless every morsel of food<br />
...every drop of wine.<br />
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Fill our hearts with love and laughter.<br />
Let tender words be the stronghold.<br />
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Let this home be a welcoming place<br />
That embodies your goodness and graciousness.<br />
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Let the sun shine bright through every window<br />
And your gentle breeze flow through our doors.<br />
Keep every room filled with your amazing grace.<br />
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Keep us safe within this house<br />
...and put an angel on our shoulders to protect us when we leave.<br />
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God, forever bless this house.<br />
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<i>“Now be pleased to bless this house of your servant, that it may continue forever in your sight; for you Lord, have spoken and with your blessing the house of your servant will be blessed forever.” </i><br />
<i>2 Samuel 7:29</i><div class="blogger-post-footer">Unless otherwise noted, all posts are original work from <a href="http://today-i-pray.blogspot.com/">Today I Pray </a> and should not be used without consent from the blog administrator.</div>Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13461281675925684997noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5272793342040439214.post-9768443116227987802019-08-28T06:23:00.003-04:002019-08-28T06:23:37.616-04:00A Line in the Sand<div style="font-family: ".SF UI Text"; font-size: 12px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-family: ".sfuitext"; font-size: 12pt;">Yesterday I had two of the hardest conversations I have had in a long time. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: ".sfuitext"; font-size: 12pt;">With tears in my eyes, feeling like a fool, I sat down and talked to my bosses about how I have been feeling at work. Overwhelmed, floundering, lacking confidence, feeling like I am failing --- feeling like they deserved better. Feeling like I wasn’t sure if my new the job was right for me. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: ".sfuitext"; font-size: 12pt;">The overwhelming support they showed me was a gift from heaven. David especially -- reminded me of a very simple truth -- mindset is everything. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: ".sfuitext"; font-size: 12pt;">I was the one who had to make the decision that it either was or wasn’t going to work. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: ".sfuitext"; font-size: 12pt;">It reminded me of a quote I have used 1000 times in my fitness coaching efforts -- a quote by Henry Ford that says -- “Whether you believe you can or believe you can’t, you are right.”</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: ".sfuitext"; font-size: 12pt;">I am grateful for both Chip & David and the way they talked me off the ledge. They supported me and gave me the shot in the arm that I needed to see my work, my role, and my purpose a little differently.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: ".sfuitext"; font-size: 12pt;">This morning I woke up and decided I was going to make this work. And I reminded myself that it starts with taking care of me. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: ".sfuitext"; font-size: 12pt;">In my prayer journal I wrote...</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: ".sfuitext"; font-size: 12pt;">The line has been drawn...today marks my new beginning. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: ".sfuitext"; font-size: 12pt;">Self-care means:</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: ".sfuitext"; font-size: 12pt;">• Daily devotion</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: ".sfuitext"; font-size: 12pt;">• Meditation</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: ".sfuitext"; font-size: 12pt;">• Writing</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: ".sfuitext"; font-size: 12pt;">• Healthy, nutritious foods</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: ".sfuitext"; font-size: 12pt;">• Plenty of Exercise</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: ".sfuitext"; font-size: 12pt;">• Water</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: ".sfuitext"; font-size: 12pt;">• Good sleep</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: ".sfuitext"; font-size: 12pt;">• Daily personal development</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: ".sfuitext"; font-size: 12pt;">I know this recipe works and sets me up for success in all aspects of my life...including my career.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: ".sfuitext"; font-size: 12pt;">So beginning today...I will fill my cup and let it spill over to serve others. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: ".sfuitext"; font-size: 12pt;">With that, I opened my bible to begin my daily devotional...and was met with these beautiful words.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: ".sfuitext"; font-size: 12pt;">‘He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death’ or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.” Revelations 21 :4 </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: ".sfuitext"; font-size: 12pt;">The line in the sand has been drawn. It is a new day. And I am back.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: ".sfuitext"; font-size: 12pt;">Today I pray with a grateful and happy heart. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: ".sfuitext"; font-size: 12pt;">Thank you for your patience with me. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: ".sfuitext"; font-size: 12pt;">For putting the right people and the right messages in my life</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: ".sfuitext"; font-size: 12pt;">For quieting my mind so that I can hear you </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: ".sfuitext"; font-size: 12pt;">It’s a new day.</span></div>
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<div class="blogger-post-footer">Unless otherwise noted, all posts are original work from <a href="http://today-i-pray.blogspot.com/">Today I Pray </a> and should not be used without consent from the blog administrator.</div>Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13461281675925684997noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5272793342040439214.post-28649684567723479762017-05-26T06:41:00.005-04:002017-05-26T06:41:53.734-04:00I'm coming home.<span style="background-color: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "san francisco" , , "blinkmacsystemfont" , ".sfnstext-regular" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: -0.23999999463558197px;"><span style="background-color: transparent;">It's been too many long years away....but I'm coming home. </span></span><br />
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I never felt so fulfilled as when I was maintaining <i>Today I Pray</i> -- but as I shared this morning on my Facebook page -- <a href="http://www.facebook.com/goodlifesister">Good Life Sister</a> -- when my job circumstances changed years ago, so too did my daily discipline for writing. <br />
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This stops today. <br />
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Please enjoy the post I shared this morning on Facebook -- and just as I'm asking my Facebook friends to get to know the Lauren who maintained this blog, I'm asking you to get to know the Lauren who has found her purpose at Good Life Sister. Expect to see me more -- in fact, expect to see me daily. <br />
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My posts may look a little different and the blog itself may undergo a transformation -- but it is still the same me -- trying hard to become a better person, to inspire hope and joy, and to connect the dots between these different times in my life. <br />
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I know that everything happens for a reason... and I am putting my trust in the Universe that this is the step I am meant to take...regardless of how imperfect or ill-prepared I am to take it. I trust that I am stepping further along the path of my purpose.<br />
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Enjoy the post ...and I can't wait to reconnect with you.<br />
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❤️Lauren<br />
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P.S. If you are reading this -- I would love it if you left even just a single word comment below. I am looking for signs.<br />
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<i>Posted today on Facebook</i><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "san francisco" , , "blinkmacsystemfont" , ".sfnstext-regular" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: -0.23999999463558197px;"><i>If you really knew me....you would know that years ago I maintained a blog called Today I Pray. I loved that blog and the ritual that came with it. </i></span><br />
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<i><br /><span style="background-color: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "san francisco" , , "blinkmacsystemfont" , ".sfnstext-regular" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: -0.23999999463558197px;">Every morning I would get up and walk -- camera in hand -- and I would snap a picture of something in nature that spoke to me. It was like a walking meditation....and after my walk I came home, poured myself a cup of coffee and let what ever insp</span><span class="text_exposed_show" style="color: #1d2129; display: inline; font-family: "san francisco" , , "blinkmacsystemfont" , ".sfnstext-regular" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: -0.23999999463558197px;">iration I had found, flow through me and into a poem....and then into my prayer for the day.<br /><br />It was like magic.<br /><br />It filled me with joy every single morning....and at that moment, I knew I was somehow fulfilling a purpose I didn't quite understand.<br /><br />That practice ended when I started a different job with more rigid hours. It left a big void in my heart. Day by day though, I am starting to realize I am finding that joy again. The outlet may be a little different -- or maybe it isn't at all.<br /><br />I'm getting up early...camera propped up to snap pictures of the thing that moves me (literally)...and afterwards I sit down with my shake and share whatever inspiration comes to me during my workout.<br /><br />Perhaps it's time to connect the final dot...to let that inspiration flow into my prayer for the day.<br /><br />Yes...I believe today I had an ah ha moment...and I'm taking another step into my purpose.<br /><br /></span></i><br />
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<i><span class="text_exposed_show" style="color: #1d2129; display: inline; font-family: "san francisco" , , "blinkmacsystemfont" , ".sfnstext-regular" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: -0.23999999463558197px;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgt_y1Lgz_BU4qYwKpdmleGBLSi8mpdvBYqL8wspKxw2QPY08xP5EELfHVnHQ_n8RJbpvKJmk3PytGeefsE8a5D10pI3SjsqqO1JW2TuifjqLgqr6ddqUsbQyqMvwUgCRSG8B9X355wkhdR/s1600/2+Corinthians+9_6-8+%25E2%2580%2593+%2522Now+this+I+say%252C+he+who+sows+sparingly+will+also+reap+sparingly%252C+and+he+who+sows+bountifully+will+also+reap+bountifully.+Each+one+must+do+just+as+he+has+purposed+in+his+heart%252C+not+grudgingly+or+.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="800" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgt_y1Lgz_BU4qYwKpdmleGBLSi8mpdvBYqL8wspKxw2QPY08xP5EELfHVnHQ_n8RJbpvKJmk3PytGeefsE8a5D10pI3SjsqqO1JW2TuifjqLgqr6ddqUsbQyqMvwUgCRSG8B9X355wkhdR/s400/2+Corinthians+9_6-8+%25E2%2580%2593+%2522Now+this+I+say%252C+he+who+sows+sparingly+will+also+reap+sparingly%252C+and+he+who+sows+bountifully+will+also+reap+bountifully.+Each+one+must+do+just+as+he+has+purposed+in+his+heart%252C+not+grudgingly+or+.png" width="400" /></a></span></i></div>
<i><span class="text_exposed_show" style="color: #1d2129; display: inline; font-family: "san francisco" , , "blinkmacsystemfont" , ".sfnstext-regular" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: -0.23999999463558197px;"><br />Today I Pray...</span></i><br />
<span class="text_exposed_show" style="color: #1d2129; display: inline; font-family: "san francisco" , , "blinkmacsystemfont" , ".sfnstext-regular" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: -0.23999999463558197px;"><i><br />...take my hand and guide me.<br />...if this is the path I'm meant to walk, illuminate the way.<br />...help me live a life of purpose and meaning. To inspire others to find their greatness.<br /><br />... I trust in You.<br /></i></span><br />
<span class="text_exposed_show" style="color: #1d2129; display: inline; font-family: "san francisco" , , "blinkmacsystemfont" , ".sfnstext-regular" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: -0.23999999463558197px;"><i>Always have. Always will. </i></span><div class="blogger-post-footer">Unless otherwise noted, all posts are original work from <a href="http://today-i-pray.blogspot.com/">Today I Pray </a> and should not be used without consent from the blog administrator.</div>Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13461281675925684997noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5272793342040439214.post-79148150334094888062013-04-16T08:02:00.001-04:002013-04-16T08:05:03.216-04:00The UnthinkableThey were jubilant<br />
Aching<br />
Tired<br />
Exhilarated<br />
Proud<br />
<br />
They were moms and dads<br />
Sisters and brothers<br />
Aunts and uncles<br />
Friends and colleagues<br />
<br />
They were runners<br />
They were fans<br />
<br />
Taking the final strides<br />
Towards the finish line<br />
Shouting words of encouragement<br />
And celebration<br />
<br />
When the unthinkable happened<br />
<br />
They say that in the moments<br />
Immediately after the explosions<br />
There was an eery quiet<br />
As the victims lay<br />
Wide eye <br />
In stunned silence<br />
<br />
Hours later<br />
I sit here<br />
In the quiet of my home<br />
Still in shock<br />
<br />
My heart aching...<br />
...for the victims<br />
...and their families<br />
<br />
...for the people who were there by chance<br />
...and the ones who had a change of plans and couldn't be there afterall<br />
<br />
...for the people who were at mile 25<br />
...and those who had already crossed the finish line<br />
<br />
...for those whose memories immediately took them back in time<br />
...and those whose lives will never be the same again<br />
<br />
On this day, I dedicate my prayers to you.<br />
<br />
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</a><strong><em>Today I Pray...</em></strong><br />
<br />
...with a aching heart<br />
<br />
...for those that were taken from this earth too soon<br />
May you find peace and rest in heaven<br />
<br />
...for the families whose lives were forever changed<br />
May you be surrounded by loved ones<br />
And find strength from the prayers<br />
That are being offered around the world for you<br />
<br />
...for my family and friends who were too close for comfort<br />
All praise to the Lord for keeping you out of harms way<br />
<br />
...for the first responders, law enforcement and health care providers<br />
May God guide your work<br />
<br />
...for those responsible for this tragedy<br />
May God help to heal your troubled heart<br />
<br />
...for a world that wakes -- still stunned and feeling broken<br />
May we each find a way to make this world just a little better<br />
<br />
<br />
<em>"Because he himself was tested through what he suffered, he is able to help those who are being tested." Hebrews 2:18</em><br />
<br />
<br /><div class="blogger-post-footer">Unless otherwise noted, all posts are original work from <a href="http://today-i-pray.blogspot.com/">Today I Pray </a> and should not be used without consent from the blog administrator.</div>Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13461281675925684997noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5272793342040439214.post-51016688581133594062013-04-03T10:43:00.000-04:002013-04-03T10:43:06.496-04:00Wonder & Awe RevisitedJust a month ago I wrote <a href="http://today-i-pray.blogspot.com/2013/03/wonder-awe.html">Wonder & Awe</a><br />
A post for my children<br />
To let them know what my heart holds for them<br />
<br />
Today I discovered<br />
This beautiful song<br />
That captures even more of those emotions<br />
<br />
Thank you Mark Harris for this beautiful expression of love.<br />
It made me smile...and cry.<br />
<br />
Roots and wings...<br />
That really is the very best that I can give my children.<br />
<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/IPQ9WvSZnF0" width="420"></iframe><div class="blogger-post-footer">Unless otherwise noted, all posts are original work from <a href="http://today-i-pray.blogspot.com/">Today I Pray </a> and should not be used without consent from the blog administrator.</div>Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13461281675925684997noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5272793342040439214.post-61555278898323187702013-03-31T08:07:00.002-04:002013-04-01T11:32:56.905-04:00Nature's ChorusFrom the moment I left the house this morning
<br />
I could tell that today was different
<br />
The world was quiet
<br />
Sleeping perhaps?
<br />
<br />
Not yet aware
<br />
Of nature's chorus
<br />
Being sung right outside the door
<br />
<br />
The birds seemed to dance
<br />
From tree to tree
<br />
Awakening the world
<br />
....Singing a sweet song of salvation
<br />
<br />
And in the distance
<br />
Even the rooster crowed
<br />
A joyful alleluia!
<br />
<br />
He is risen!
<br />
<br />
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<strong><em>Today I Pray...</em></strong><br />
...with a grateful, humble heart
<br />
<br />
How do I even begin to understand<br />
The amazing sacrifice You made
<br />
So that we might enjoy<br />
Eternal life?<br />
<br />
I cannot.<br />
<br />
I can only pray <br />
that somehow,<br />
someway,<br />
I live my life<br />
In a way that makes You happy<br />
<br /><div class="blogger-post-footer">Unless otherwise noted, all posts are original work from <a href="http://today-i-pray.blogspot.com/">Today I Pray </a> and should not be used without consent from the blog administrator.</div>Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13461281675925684997noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5272793342040439214.post-58134816439167415352013-03-28T06:53:00.001-04:002013-04-03T10:44:05.108-04:00Moon over the morning<br />
<br />
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<div class="blogger-post-footer">Unless otherwise noted, all posts are original work from <a href="http://today-i-pray.blogspot.com/">Today I Pray </a> and should not be used without consent from the blog administrator.</div>Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13461281675925684997noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5272793342040439214.post-50219698557100589222013-03-27T07:51:00.001-04:002013-04-01T11:42:54.362-04:00Heavenly HugsEverywhere my eye could see<br />
Cotton candy swirls <br />
Of delicate pink <br />
Against a soft blue sky<br />
<br />
A morning hug<br />
Straight from heaven<br />
<br />
Today I Pray...<br />
<br />
...with gratitude <br />
For another glorious day <br />
<br />
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<div class="blogger-post-footer">Unless otherwise noted, all posts are original work from <a href="http://today-i-pray.blogspot.com/">Today I Pray </a> and should not be used without consent from the blog administrator.</div>Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13461281675925684997noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5272793342040439214.post-18157509126431579952013-03-25T07:59:00.001-04:002013-04-01T11:42:54.360-04:00A Zip-A-Dee Doo Dah Day!Setting out this morning<br />
The air was brisk<br />
And the grey sky bulging with the snow<br />
Its been waiting to drop on us<br />
<br />
Though the sky is lightening<br />
In the early morning hour<br />
There is no hope of a sunrise<br />
To start the week<br />
<br />
The coldness reminds me <br />
Of the somber week ahead<br />
Recounting the suffering <br />
our Savior endured<br />
<br />
My reaction is to walk<br />
With my head down<br />
<br />
But lo and behold<br />
I'm reminded otherwise<br />
As a dainty blue bird <br />
Fluttered across the path<br />
And perched in the tree<br />
<br />
As I walked the path<br />
He swooped along with me <br />
Moving gracefully <br />
From branch to branch<br />
<br />
His beautiful blue wings<br />
And salmon underbelly<br />
Vibrant against the grey sky<br />
<br />
Beautiful, delicate, hope.<br />
<br />
I walked the rest of the path<br />
With the Song of the South<br />
playing over and over in my mind<br />
<br />
"Mister Bluebird's on my shoulder...<br />
It's the truth, it's actual...<br />
...wonderful feeling, wonderful day!"<br />
<br />
I couldn't help but smile<br />
Filled with hope for what this week brings<br />
<br />
As I crossed the street back to my house<br />
My bluebird friend followed me<br />
And swooped into a nest <br />
In a shrub in front of my garage<br />
<br />
"My oh my, what a wonderful day!" <br />
<br />
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<strong><em>Today I Pray</em></strong><br />
....with gratitude for the many ways<br />
you reveal yourself to me.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="blogger-post-footer">Unless otherwise noted, all posts are original work from <a href="http://today-i-pray.blogspot.com/">Today I Pray </a> and should not be used without consent from the blog administrator.</div>Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13461281675925684997noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5272793342040439214.post-64265555063822131832013-03-20T08:44:00.003-04:002014-08-07T07:14:35.525-04:00Daybreak SpeaksI don't know what it is about sunrises, <br />
but one look through my photos <br />
and you can see how amazed I am by them. <br />
<br />
Maybe it's the fact <br />
that like snowflakes<br />
...each one is different. <br />
<br />
Perhaps it's the representation<br />
of a brand new day<br />
...a new beginning.<br />
<br />
Or the amazing transformation in the sky<br />
to which we all can bear witness.<br />
<br />
Whatever it is...<br />
...sunrise speaks to me.<br />
<br />
During my walk today<br />
the sky lightened without any great incident<br />
It seemed another day was beginning<br />
without great fanfare.<br />
<br />
But then as I stood at the kitchen window<br />
I saw what appeared to be <br />
The quintessential sunrise<br />
<br />
An orange ball slowly rising over the treetops<br />
<br />
Imagine my surprise when I saw<br />
what my camera captured.<br />
<br />
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Once again, I am amazed.</div>
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My God is an awesome God.</div>
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<em><span class="text Luke-1-77" id="en-NASB-24971">"To give to His people the knowledge of salvation b</span><span class="text Luke-1-77">y <sup class="crossreference" value="(<a href="#cen-NASB-24971A" title="See cross-reference A">A</a>)"></sup>the forgiveness of their sins,</span><br /><span class="text Luke-1-78" id="en-NASB-24972">Because of the tender mercy of our God,</span><br /><span class="text Luke-1-78">With which <sup class="crossreference" value="(<a href="#cen-NASB-24972B" title="See cross-reference B">B</a>)"></sup>the Sunrise from on high will visit us,</span></em></div>
<div class="heading passage-class-0">
<em><span class="text Luke-1-78">To shine upon those who sit in darkness and the shadow of death, </span><br /><span class="text Luke-1-79">To guide our feet into the <sup class="crossreference" value="(<a href="#cen-NASB-24973D" title="See cross-reference D">D</a>)"></sup>way of peace." Luke 1:77-79</span></em></div>
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<br /><div class="blogger-post-footer">Unless otherwise noted, all posts are original work from <a href="http://today-i-pray.blogspot.com/">Today I Pray </a> and should not be used without consent from the blog administrator.</div>Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13461281675925684997noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5272793342040439214.post-24870124510470651212013-03-18T08:38:00.000-04:002013-03-18T08:38:42.283-04:00Skies Are ChangingI see you everywhere<br />
<br />
In the chirping of the birds <br />
I hear your voice<br />
<br />
In the sky <br />
I see your face<br />
<br />
In the glow of the sun <br />
I feel your warmth<br />
<br />
Somehow you always find a way<br />
To let me know you are there<br />
<br />
You remind me<br />
In ways that only you could<br />
Of the simplest<br />
of life's lessons<br />
<br />
And you give me reason<br />
To trust and believe<br />
To have faith<br />
<br />
But today<br />
You confused me<br />
There's an uneasiness <br />
That I feel in the pit<br />
of my stomach<br />
I am scared, unsure, and anxious<br />
<br />
The very first glimpse at the morning sky<br />
Was ominous<br />
Heavy grey clouds<br />
And a coldness in the air <br />
That immediately struck my bones<br />
<a data-ved="0CAUQjRw" href="http://www.google.com/url?sa=i&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&frm=1&source=images&cd=&cad=rja&docid=BDq6rKKuKCg1EM&tbnid=kY5lc03tMWiJeM:&ved=0CAUQjRw&url=http%3A%2F%2Fknitspot.com%2F%3Fp%3D761&ei=tP9GUeOTO8HD0QHo74FA&bvm=bv.43828540,d.dmg&psig=AFQjCNEQDlf5Yx6pHkEQ4_C5ax2YVJQVPQ&ust=1363693862474076" id="irc_mil" style="border: 0px currentColor;"><img height="351" id="irc_mi" src="http://knitspot.com/wp-content/uploads/dailies_2008/skyA12_25.jpg" style="margin-top: 21px;" width="468" /></a><br />
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But as you so often do<br />
Within just minutes<br />
You revealed the splendor <br />
of the sunrise<br />
And you put my mind at ease<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAG_bZzHL0oviM7zT4TVCAtS5m6URiep0Ru7tYpwFSHKf8Qenfo0fwoDRCqXdCa4mtuwLADWXPqiaakOUAnY-6eUeDIy-KXtKH7hcMfL8aQe9wwGkxO4idpoI9HDi32_PQCgbSXFiWUg8G/s1600/splendor.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="194" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAG_bZzHL0oviM7zT4TVCAtS5m6URiep0Ru7tYpwFSHKf8Qenfo0fwoDRCqXdCa4mtuwLADWXPqiaakOUAnY-6eUeDIy-KXtKH7hcMfL8aQe9wwGkxO4idpoI9HDi32_PQCgbSXFiWUg8G/s320/splendor.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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With each step<br />
A more magnificent sky<br />
Colors so vivid and rich<br />
Combined with the crisp cold air<br />
It took my breath away<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuqezxoOtRFN5MuYa6btPfblewGi7Y0aM5c5o4nGahA4TVVXqlX4jkl3MHnAOMd1FHMwdL2aAM6jg4TvCzMheYWJOcyiHc8Tb-q6NPAL3sWKvvqxzt3-DqSWVIqpIwqCQi8jDaCiJkgaS1/s1600/080.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuqezxoOtRFN5MuYa6btPfblewGi7Y0aM5c5o4nGahA4TVVXqlX4jkl3MHnAOMd1FHMwdL2aAM6jg4TvCzMheYWJOcyiHc8Tb-q6NPAL3sWKvvqxzt3-DqSWVIqpIwqCQi8jDaCiJkgaS1/s320/080.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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I was awed by the dark branches<br />
Against the amazing sky<br />
It reminded me of life<br />
<br />
So many twists and turns<br />
People coming in and out of our lives<br />
Decisions made along the path<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaUPO9JXborXIuanXDAEdJg2GzRezMpiHHfv4SbNfLSuEHjD1MEWIOkwsKtSatGy6Co_3fcgFeD8zTeMOr-S7lqILM3a945eC-SVWg5RuX0qubq2IWza1rqmAJyt15xfncxt2Gzu2-QPy3/s1600/087.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="224" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaUPO9JXborXIuanXDAEdJg2GzRezMpiHHfv4SbNfLSuEHjD1MEWIOkwsKtSatGy6Co_3fcgFeD8zTeMOr-S7lqILM3a945eC-SVWg5RuX0qubq2IWza1rqmAJyt15xfncxt2Gzu2-QPy3/s320/087.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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And then...just moments later<br />
Only a few steps down the winding path<br />
That brilliant sky<br />
Was gone<br />
Without a trace<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjP_uPT3mTyjfOYa2VF_18Zbs4OgaQ6Xzcy8ucKyM5_FTfz01c1MUPR7F7CrJly3e5TQmYlThWMlLcdSI4c66Zzbi95JIml_w3ioTSeZAf2-SMtngwbL6A_YdUbe6n9jDsAfQU-M_cvm3oq/s1600/090.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjP_uPT3mTyjfOYa2VF_18Zbs4OgaQ6Xzcy8ucKyM5_FTfz01c1MUPR7F7CrJly3e5TQmYlThWMlLcdSI4c66Zzbi95JIml_w3ioTSeZAf2-SMtngwbL6A_YdUbe6n9jDsAfQU-M_cvm3oq/s320/090.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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All I could think<br />
Was just how quickly<br />
Things can change<br />
<br />
Had I started my walk <br />
Just 20 minutes earlier<br />
Or later<br />
<br />
Had I blinked<br />
<br />
....I would have missed it all<br />
<br />
<strong><em>Today I Pray...</em></strong><br />
<br />
I feel so unsettled right now<br />
I look for you<br />
In the sky<br />
<br />
And I hear you<br />
In the wind<br />
<br />
And today's dramatically changing skies<br />
Sent a chill through my veins<br />
<br />
I don't want to take<br />
Even one moment<br />
Of this journey<br />
For granted<br />
<br />
Help me to make the most of it all<br />
To see beauty in every step<br />
To seize the opportunities<br />
Enjoy the friendships<br />
Let go of the hurt<br />
And always <br />
Always<br />
Live in the light of your warmth and love<br />
<br />
<em>"Give ear, listen humbly, </em><br />
<em>for the Lord speaks." Jeremiah 13:15</em><br />
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<div class="blogger-post-footer">Unless otherwise noted, all posts are original work from <a href="http://today-i-pray.blogspot.com/">Today I Pray </a> and should not be used without consent from the blog administrator.</div>Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13461281675925684997noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5272793342040439214.post-1972891869260375912013-03-14T08:06:00.000-04:002013-03-14T08:06:30.920-04:00We're All in this TogetherWe are on our own unique journey<br />
Some of us searching...<br />
Some celebrating...<br />
Some hoping...<br />
Some praying...<br />
<br />
As much as I hope <strong><em>Today I Pray</em></strong> can be a source of inspiration ...<br />
I hope it can also be a resting place for those who visit<br />
A place where you can find comfort<br />
....share what's on your mind<br />
...seek support<br />
...and show support to others.<br />
<br />
Life is so full of ups and downs<br />
Find strength in knowing<br />
You are not alone....<br />
<br />
....we are all in this together.<br />
<br />
<strong><em>Today I Pray</em></strong><br />
For a heart full of compassion<br />
and understanding<br />
<br />
For peace<br />
And comfort in the knowledge<br />
That despite the differences<br />
We are the same<br />
<br />
All searching for happiness, acceptance, and love<br />
<br />
Help me every step of the way<br />
To give and accept these blessings<br />
<br />
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<br /><div class="blogger-post-footer">Unless otherwise noted, all posts are original work from <a href="http://today-i-pray.blogspot.com/">Today I Pray </a> and should not be used without consent from the blog administrator.</div>Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13461281675925684997noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5272793342040439214.post-91758214913110534692013-03-13T08:14:00.000-04:002013-03-13T08:14:32.159-04:00That's Just Love Sneaking Up On YouLike any other day <br />
I set out for my morning walk with the pups<br />
<br />
The sky was still mostly grey<br />
With an ever-so-slight<br />
Hint of a new day breaking<br />
<br />
Across the street<br />
To the path<br />
Up the street and around the corner<br />
<br />
I thought I was alone<br />
And lo and behold<br />
There You were<br />
<br />
Your calming light<br />
Peaking over the mountain<br />
Dancing on the treetops<br />
<br />
Again You've blessed me<br />
<br />
<img alt="Photo" class="tDMXke" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaCyXj2TZQpD2Dy5flEJYdRCDeH96Lwlu9jEYqScLpe3CkYHfEXNMrgIrvWHmmyIgobZjPdbhdmUw2kFsoq7YiYwwObxD5N_wguJ4NfrY_lMD3NrPQ8AcryH0US_Hb3gXTAj8NRgQmIpfW/w517-h386-o-k/sunrise+-+december+002.JPG" style="height: 276px; margin-left: 0px; margin-top: 0px; width: 369px;" /><br />
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<strong><em>Today I Pray</em></strong><br />
<br />Lord, I offer you my prayers, works, joys and sufferings of this day. <br />
<br />
May I never be too busy<br />
Or too consumed to remember <br />
That You are walking beside me<br />
<br />
<div class="blogger-post-footer">Unless otherwise noted, all posts are original work from <a href="http://today-i-pray.blogspot.com/">Today I Pray </a> and should not be used without consent from the blog administrator.</div>Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13461281675925684997noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5272793342040439214.post-4127681397412547162013-03-06T08:06:00.002-05:002013-03-06T08:06:23.153-05:00Wonder & AweWhen they were younger<br />
I watched them in awe<br />
Their tiny feet and hands<br />
The gentle coos and giggles<br />
<br />
Tiny miracle.<br />
Heaven sent.<br />
<br />
They're older now...<br />
Almost all grown up<br />
And still filling my life <br />
With wonder and awe<br />
<br />
Did I do enough? <br />
<br />
Do they know all the talents<br />
That God has bestowed upon them?<br />
Will they let themselves dream?<br />
Will they reach for the stars?<br />
Will they make the most of each day?<br />
<br />
Do they know how loved they are...<br />
Here on earth and from the Heavens?<br />
<br />
Do they know?<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKYX-aUaC95sFC3nC2lkrqF0dIPfd4sIipuAExm4yZNa4wrSR8qmOdnQUzpQbHD549Aa2ecQCFLb4_ehrBb3gH1p5lMhGmIzxQ85tAH-NQZSlnGu5pb2aENqqz3-Gqw26VTbGPnG6KuuQO/s1600/copy+backs.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="155" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKYX-aUaC95sFC3nC2lkrqF0dIPfd4sIipuAExm4yZNa4wrSR8qmOdnQUzpQbHD549Aa2ecQCFLb4_ehrBb3gH1p5lMhGmIzxQ85tAH-NQZSlnGu5pb2aENqqz3-Gqw26VTbGPnG6KuuQO/s320/copy+backs.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<strong><em>Today I Pray...</em></strong><br />
Bless my sweet children<br />
Guide their journey <br />
That they might step tenderly<br />
On the path You have made <br />
Just for them<br />
<br />
Keep their hearts open<br />
Giving, loving, and kind<br />
<br />
Keep their hopes high<br />
And their faith deep<br />
With the knowledge <br />
That with You<br />
All things are possible<br />
<br />
Help me too sweet Lord<br />
To be the best that mother <br />
That I can be<br />
<br />
I know I have stumbled along the way<br />
I keep trying.<br />
<br />
They are my miracle<br />
My gift from You<br />
My Heaven on earth.<br />
<br /><div class="blogger-post-footer">Unless otherwise noted, all posts are original work from <a href="http://today-i-pray.blogspot.com/">Today I Pray </a> and should not be used without consent from the blog administrator.</div>Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13461281675925684997noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5272793342040439214.post-2804901068356078342013-03-04T08:15:00.002-05:002013-03-06T20:07:14.376-05:00Every Step For YouEach morning as I walked my dogs<br />
I try to use that time<br />
For thoughtful reflection<br />
<br />
I let my lungs fill<br />
With the crisp fresh air<br />
Enjoy the wind at my face<br />
And thank God for the clothes on my back<br />
That warm me<br />
<br />
I admire the changing skies<br />
As the sun peaks over the tree tops<br />
Or slices through the dense morning clouds<br />
And I marvel how the skies change<br />
Just like the seasons<br />
<br />
But this morning as we walked<br />
I watched my dogs running down the path...<br />
A path we walk daily<br />
<br />
I was struck by the enthusiasm<br />
That filled their every step<br />
<br />
They ran from tree to tree<br />
Sniffing and exploring<br />
As if it was the first time <br />
They had ever walked that path<br />
<br />
The landscape hadn't changed one bit<br />
Since yesterday<br />
Yet to them it was brand new<br />
<br />
Running in and out of the brush<br />
Circling the trees<br />
Running freely through the field<br />
Stopping occasionally <br />
To roll in the grass <br />
And delight in the day<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgee8S_emdrh1HQr4hkprZHkbNBmfCgd0sr8pstMjBqHzO34umYPa2QM7UG8n4zUXF93jQl5ZXTGYp_HtZ3Bn1R3IPSYVM5mwcht3_Fv2KQOtF2SKiw6EuSddVfs9xfznpq3AzELDXAGp0i/s1600/misc+017.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgee8S_emdrh1HQr4hkprZHkbNBmfCgd0sr8pstMjBqHzO34umYPa2QM7UG8n4zUXF93jQl5ZXTGYp_HtZ3Bn1R3IPSYVM5mwcht3_Fv2KQOtF2SKiw6EuSddVfs9xfznpq3AzELDXAGp0i/s320/misc+017.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgee8S_emdrh1HQr4hkprZHkbNBmfCgd0sr8pstMjBqHzO34umYPa2QM7UG8n4zUXF93jQl5ZXTGYp_HtZ3Bn1R3IPSYVM5mwcht3_Fv2KQOtF2SKiw6EuSddVfs9xfznpq3AzELDXAGp0i/s1600/misc+017.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><div style="text-align: left;"> </div><br />
<strong><em>Today I Pray...</em></strong><br />
<br />
That I might embrace every day<br />
With unbridled enthusiasm<br />
<br />
That I might relinquish <br />
my worries and troubles to You<br />
And remember that <br />
As sure as the sun rises<br />
You will be there for me<br />
<br />
And all You ask in return<br />
Is for me to live my life to the fullest<br />
<br />
<em>"Find your delight in the <span class="sc">Lord</span>, who will give you your heart's desire. </em><em>Commit your way to the <span class="sc">Lord</span>; trust that God will act, and make your integrity shine like the dawn, your vindication like noonday." Psalms 37:4-6</em> <br />
<br />
<div class="blogger-post-footer">Unless otherwise noted, all posts are original work from <a href="http://today-i-pray.blogspot.com/">Today I Pray </a> and should not be used without consent from the blog administrator.</div>Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13461281675925684997noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5272793342040439214.post-50244521174107994412013-02-14T07:59:00.001-05:002013-02-14T07:59:21.584-05:00RenewalIn this season of Lent, my pledge is not a sacrifice but a heartfelt renewal.<br />
<br />
May my mind and heart never be too busy to remember my daily offering to you. <br />
<br />
Today and always I pray....<br />
<br />
Lord, I offer you my prayers, works, joys and sufferings of this day. <br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="blogger-post-footer">Unless otherwise noted, all posts are original work from <a href="http://today-i-pray.blogspot.com/">Today I Pray </a> and should not be used without consent from the blog administrator.</div>Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13461281675925684997noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5272793342040439214.post-31018839622747644942011-11-13T12:33:00.000-05:002011-11-13T12:33:27.015-05:00Every Morning"You've got to get up every morning with a smile on your face, and show the world all the love in your heart..."<br />
<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/HOfBW6-vzu4" width="420"></iframe><br />
<br />
Thank you Carole King!<div class="blogger-post-footer">Unless otherwise noted, all posts are original work from <a href="http://today-i-pray.blogspot.com/">Today I Pray </a> and should not be used without consent from the blog administrator.</div>Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13461281675925684997noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5272793342040439214.post-30593213748844858472011-11-11T07:46:00.000-05:002014-08-07T07:01:01.228-04:00Celebrate the MoonMy new neighbor owns a rooster, <br />
so for the past few months <br />
I've been getting used to nature's reveille<br />
A morning greeting<br />
A true "cock-doodle-doo"<br />
That breaks the silence of the night<br />
At the very first moment <br />
the sun slices the morning sky<br />
<br />
Crazy as it sounds,<br />
I've come to love it<br />
Dependable, certain,<br />
Yet subtle and distant enough<br />
To quickly fade off<br />
Into the buzz of the day<br />
<br />
On this morning however,<br />
That rooster's crow surprised me<br />
Coming long before the sun was ready to rise<br />
<br />
This morning the rooster crowed<br />
For the brilliance of the moon<br />
That shone across the field<br />
<br />
I laid in bed and listened<br />
The moonlight shining on my face<br />
Like a spotlight on a stage<br />
<br />
Not bothered,<br />
But inspired<br />
<br />
This rooster was His way of reminding me<br />
To celebrate the shining lights in our life<br />
That are sometimes forgotten <br />
Or overlooked<br />
Or taken for granted<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSDzdyRB774M5JEvmjmix8RA1B45SVze9umjDOODVxCUwmFIOrJOwGPge4sHJdcrucKiGjb9zZdGP8avNYb5_vxdZQPEUlWf7yalbuenyycopsmriBDVDuQSmGvwpLBgV-JWO8g3WBzdHU/s1600/roostermoon.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSDzdyRB774M5JEvmjmix8RA1B45SVze9umjDOODVxCUwmFIOrJOwGPge4sHJdcrucKiGjb9zZdGP8avNYb5_vxdZQPEUlWf7yalbuenyycopsmriBDVDuQSmGvwpLBgV-JWO8g3WBzdHU/s640/roostermoon.jpg" height="400" nda="true" width="265" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">image from Google Images</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<strong><em>Today I Pray...</em></strong><br />
<br />
There isn't a day that goes by<br />
That You don't amaze me<br />
With the gifts You bring<br />
Every day<br />
<br />
Thank You for each and every one<br />
The ones I see<br />
And the ones that go unnoticed<br />
<br />
Help me today<br />
And always<br />
To appreciate my blessings<br />
<br />
Keep me ever-aware of the power <br />
of some very simple words <br />
when said with sincerity...<br />
<br />
"Thank you"<br />
"You are wonderful"<br />
"I need you"<br />
"I love you"<br />
<br />
Today and always<br />
Help me<br />
Celebrate the moon<div class="blogger-post-footer">Unless otherwise noted, all posts are original work from <a href="http://today-i-pray.blogspot.com/">Today I Pray </a> and should not be used without consent from the blog administrator.</div>Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13461281675925684997noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5272793342040439214.post-44752173130896989972011-11-02T18:13:00.000-04:002011-11-02T18:13:38.522-04:00Seasons ChangeQuietly reflecting <br />
On the way the seasons change<br />
<br />
How one morning you can wake up<br />
And your summer blooms are still clinging<br />
To that last breath of warmth<br />
In the Autumn air<br />
<br />
And that very same day<br />
They become buried under a blanket <br />
Of unexpected snow<br />
And those vibrant flowers<br />
Surrender to the Earth<br />
<br />
...Quietly thinking about how life <br />
So often mirrors nature<br />
And one moment<br />
Changes the next<br />
<br />
...How an anxious "little girl" <br />
Walks down the aisle<br />
Clutching her daddy's hand<br />
<br />
And just moments...<br />
and two simple words later<br />
that little girl becomes her joyful husband's bride<br />
<br />
...How one moment <br />
Our world enjoys the laughter and joy<br />
Of a compassionate, generous man<br />
<br />
Or the free, and easy spirit <br />
Of a young teen<br />
<br />
And the next moment, <br />
They are gone<br />
And the world is still<br />
...and speechless<br />
<br />
... Sad for its loss<br />
But happy to have ever known them<br />
<br />
If there is one thing<br />
This year has shown me...<br />
<br />
Enjoy every moment<br />
Take nothing for granted<br />
<br />
When you think <br />
You have given all you can<br />
Give a little more<br />
<br />
Choose to live every day<br />
...With purpose<br />
<br />
<br />
<strong><em>Today I Pray...</em></strong><br />
<br />
...For a happy ever after<br />
For my beautiful niece and her husband<br />
<br />
You may not know what each day will bring<br />
But remember how you feel today<br />
And hold onto that love through <br />
every season.<br />
<br />
And ...<br />
<br />
...For the peaceful rest <br />
Of two special people<br />
Both taken from this life too soon<br />
<br />
The world is a better place<br />
...because of the way you lived<br />
...everyday.<br />
<br /><div class="blogger-post-footer">Unless otherwise noted, all posts are original work from <a href="http://today-i-pray.blogspot.com/">Today I Pray </a> and should not be used without consent from the blog administrator.</div>Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13461281675925684997noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5272793342040439214.post-51449221002574157722011-10-26T11:10:00.000-04:002011-10-26T11:10:15.226-04:00The Best Policy<link href="file:///C:%5CUsers%5CLAUREN%7E1%5CAppData%5CLocal%5CTemp%5Cmsohtmlclip1%5C01%5Cclip_filelist.xml" rel="File-List"><link href="file:///C:%5CUsers%5CLAUREN%7E1%5CAppData%5CLocal%5CTemp%5Cmsohtmlclip1%5C01%5Cclip_themedata.thmx" rel="themeData"><link href="file:///C:%5CUsers%5CLAUREN%7E1%5CAppData%5CLocal%5CTemp%5Cmsohtmlclip1%5C01%5Cclip_colorschememapping.xml" rel="colorSchemeMapping"><style>
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</style><i><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Lucida Grande"; font-size: 13pt;">“Our lives improve only when we take chances and the first and most difficult risk we can take is to be honest with ourselves.” Walter Anderson<br />
<br />
</span></i><div class="blogger-post-footer">Unless otherwise noted, all posts are original work from <a href="http://today-i-pray.blogspot.com/">Today I Pray </a> and should not be used without consent from the blog administrator.</div>Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13461281675925684997noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5272793342040439214.post-6742952581904143542011-10-26T09:02:00.001-04:002011-10-26T10:36:54.483-04:00A Day Like TodayI'm not quite sure what it is<br />
About a day like today<br />
That speaks to me differently <br />
Than any other day<br />
<br />
...Maybe it's the morning sky <br />
that calls to me<br />
...almost begging me to jump in and seize the day.<br />
<br />
<img border="0" height="240" ida="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimZBycCziuUI24syqZOwTsyswHFcnoM9y_sjQKmocicc9ibI7AZXzg33o0oOZUfgND2TSInFqEd5YZMMYFCM9d5LnbwXrpy5kTS0GMrDHuVePSRbVpAjGNPDw6-llvOG4Pyg6SftQbbZQn/s320/sunrise+005.JPG" width="320" /><br />
<br />
...Maybe it's the ability to see the path that is before me.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjToC0Dygw4xz9lXg4xww9l3Hgr6rOA9YHK0r5pcaubrxBi5p4caSvhdawE2skBn_QmvyLjhHZHXo6JCGTwZpL0-Ixrs1cWyb6vXCCYDcdIQbxgnCeTKw_GG9402jE5KUrdiCq032v_MO0K/s1600/sunrise+002.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" ida="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjToC0Dygw4xz9lXg4xww9l3Hgr6rOA9YHK0r5pcaubrxBi5p4caSvhdawE2skBn_QmvyLjhHZHXo6JCGTwZpL0-Ixrs1cWyb6vXCCYDcdIQbxgnCeTKw_GG9402jE5KUrdiCq032v_MO0K/s320/sunrise+002.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">...or the world of possibilities in the distance</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAu2ZtM4HlW-rqiYCoMYB1xR30TPoimZs53JnPxeOaxHR92mPc8pJ-zYh-0p9fq3xkz-39fCG5WyVdGVXY7oajeD3k04BwRGx8ZJ-iqjMY833gTvJ1FHMe7ilK042hs7v9LkycZR09d_9s/s1600/sunrise+015.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" ida="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAu2ZtM4HlW-rqiYCoMYB1xR30TPoimZs53JnPxeOaxHR92mPc8pJ-zYh-0p9fq3xkz-39fCG5WyVdGVXY7oajeD3k04BwRGx8ZJ-iqjMY833gTvJ1FHMe7ilK042hs7v9LkycZR09d_9s/s320/sunrise+015.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: left;">...Or the beauty of what is right before my eyes.</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0hSFpCo-v7spcAV3N63znauK6FtaH9eak8bn-ttDD9HzEybjwEes36wjVOplrpYUFIpPkXbCJJ3wPQsmEqwONu4c2D5jD-CO5IqHIUqYFK80gAZHaGXGYQSaiy-c662cXzuG7AnVa07Ji/s1600/sunrise+022.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" ida="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0hSFpCo-v7spcAV3N63znauK6FtaH9eak8bn-ttDD9HzEybjwEes36wjVOplrpYUFIpPkXbCJJ3wPQsmEqwONu4c2D5jD-CO5IqHIUqYFK80gAZHaGXGYQSaiy-c662cXzuG7AnVa07Ji/s320/sunrise+022.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"> Or maybe...</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Just maybe it is a moment of awakening</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">When I see how His Light peaks through</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">In the most unexpected places.</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNQ9ZyyLrYb66aA73d7WmVsaj94JXfF5W7708XBfShClNCwuRhhAChxgiv9mSTanwJMUFNUhMd1CZygqcGBI5JInJkaE9q1odHoMag5nU2rGqljXtgw8bhreeLPT5ajm43ZAPR_-Xee0bT/s1600/sunrise+033.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" ida="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNQ9ZyyLrYb66aA73d7WmVsaj94JXfF5W7708XBfShClNCwuRhhAChxgiv9mSTanwJMUFNUhMd1CZygqcGBI5JInJkaE9q1odHoMag5nU2rGqljXtgw8bhreeLPT5ajm43ZAPR_-Xee0bT/s320/sunrise+033.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: left;"><strong><em>Today I Pray...</em></strong></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: left;"><em>With gratitude</em></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: left;"><em>for this day of awakening</em></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: left;"><em>And for the reminder of all that is possible </em></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: left;"><em>through You</em></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: left;"><em>Keep me focused </em></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: left;"><em>so that I might not become </em></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: left;"><em>lazy or complacent</em></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: left;"><em>Guide so that I don't lose my way</em></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: left;"><em>Help me, always, </em></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: left;"><em>to hear that rooster crowing</em></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: left;"><em>in the distance</em></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: left;"><em>To awaken my spirit</em></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: left;"><em>Today I Pray...</em></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: left;"><em>for more days like today.</em></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
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</div><div class="blogger-post-footer">Unless otherwise noted, all posts are original work from <a href="http://today-i-pray.blogspot.com/">Today I Pray </a> and should not be used without consent from the blog administrator.</div>Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13461281675925684997noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5272793342040439214.post-7691210708136231652011-07-05T07:34:00.000-04:002011-07-05T07:34:26.257-04:00Something So PerfectThere's something so perfect about a morning like this.<br />
The house is so still<br />
Children still sleeping <br />
And those of us awake just enjoying the quiet <br />
Before a hectic day<br />
<br />
The morning sun casting shadows through the trees<br />
That dance across the dewy grass<br />
<br />
Birds singing sweetly in the trees<br />
While others gracefully soar by the window<br />
<br />
Outside my window<br />
A fluffy bunny nibbles on a leaf <br />
<br />
I can't help but take a moment<br />
To breathe in the perfection<br />
<br />
<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAx7rmTiq9_BJmLu6ibnqLPaWXD1Wmwu84klrh01OaDmTdYqMcXwqusVFDLe4hoQVUBHca2ezqYvYRRJ8r3CB1E5pvjJdIQfTMAtiKakWwlfeq9T49tpshyDJ4eJgE49L7pkR7ynvX_d47/s1600/perfect+morning.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" i$="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAx7rmTiq9_BJmLu6ibnqLPaWXD1Wmwu84klrh01OaDmTdYqMcXwqusVFDLe4hoQVUBHca2ezqYvYRRJ8r3CB1E5pvjJdIQfTMAtiKakWwlfeq9T49tpshyDJ4eJgE49L7pkR7ynvX_d47/s320/perfect+morning.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">photo from <a href="http://grahamettridge.blogspot.com/">http://grahamettridge.blogspot.com</a></td></tr>
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<strong><em>Today I Pray...</em></strong><br />
<br />
...Thank You for this magnificent day<br />
<br />
...Let the calm that I feel at this moment,<br />
Settle deep in my bones and stay with me throughout the day<br />
<br />
...Should I start to feel anxious<br />
Help me to recall this moment, and reclaim the peace <br />
That is Your perfect gift to all of us, here on earth.<div class="blogger-post-footer">Unless otherwise noted, all posts are original work from <a href="http://today-i-pray.blogspot.com/">Today I Pray </a> and should not be used without consent from the blog administrator.</div>Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13461281675925684997noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5272793342040439214.post-36155018253606987332010-12-15T07:46:00.000-05:002010-12-15T07:46:57.874-05:00All that GlittersLights twinkles and glitters...<br />
Bells jingle and ring<br />
Bags overflowing...<br />
Cookies and ribbons...<br />
Carols sung...<br />
Stockings hung...<br />
<br />
Each day is a whirlwind <br />
As we ready for the celebration<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlr-tx5W-GSw1cBZTeUb8wvrZP7ayZqm-oud1-aTGg7BJlEK99P6_DX26FwcX3U46e_gIDEuJqrVZHQl2KwUWBTRAfKsMD1HUQdCYYSnhKqPZPeMKpW26x9Bz0mLMYmkJuz0qEeTBytCy_/s1600/Christmastime09+028.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" n4="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlr-tx5W-GSw1cBZTeUb8wvrZP7ayZqm-oud1-aTGg7BJlEK99P6_DX26FwcX3U46e_gIDEuJqrVZHQl2KwUWBTRAfKsMD1HUQdCYYSnhKqPZPeMKpW26x9Bz0mLMYmkJuz0qEeTBytCy_/s640/Christmastime09+028.JPG" width="480" /></a></div><br />
<strong><em>Today I Pray...</em></strong><br />
<br />
Dear God,<br />
May we all take a moment<br />
To remember the real meaning of Christmas<br />
To turn down the volume <br />
Put aside the lists<br />
Quiet our minds<br />
Receive Your blessings<br />
And let our hearts remember<br />
That this is a celebration of You<br />
<br />
You are the reason<br />
You are the light <br />
You are the one true gift of Christmas.<br />
<br />
<em>"For a child is born to us, a son is given us; upon his shoulder dominion rests. They name him Wonder-Counselor, God-Hero, Father-Forever, Prince of Peace." Isaiah 9:5</em><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
...<div class="blogger-post-footer">Unless otherwise noted, all posts are original work from <a href="http://today-i-pray.blogspot.com/">Today I Pray </a> and should not be used without consent from the blog administrator.</div>Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13461281675925684997noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5272793342040439214.post-723501148992160232010-08-19T06:43:00.003-04:002010-11-05T22:27:22.733-04:00Seasons ChangeEarly this morning<br />
As the sun was just beginning <br />
to peek through a pale gray sky<br />
I stood at my window<br />
And welcomed the new day<br />
<br />
There on the patio table<br />
I saw it --<br />
cool, glistening, dew...<br />
<br />
something I hadn't seen<br />
throughout the scorching days of summer<br />
<br />
And across the lawn <br />
a blurry half circle <br />
of yellow fallen leaves<br />
against the burnt green late-summer grass<br />
<br />
Just like that<br />
I realized that Summer and Autumn<br />
have started their graceful dance<br />
<br />
Seasons are changing<br />
<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguqoiw0DaTKg5W6-9GqsRANFOjPbqnJhgaJz01aoQe8eGayeWV-iimS8i22rwEBeoXre1fGhvCTiYO2qzLs8Hyj0hL5q3zL1jmDv7NBH-V-udHIz3l4jzgTlW5XDqUuBPF06SGUQiDGGb2/s1600/early-autumn-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguqoiw0DaTKg5W6-9GqsRANFOjPbqnJhgaJz01aoQe8eGayeWV-iimS8i22rwEBeoXre1fGhvCTiYO2qzLs8Hyj0hL5q3zL1jmDv7NBH-V-udHIz3l4jzgTlW5XDqUuBPF06SGUQiDGGb2/s320/early-autumn-2.jpg" width="228" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">photo from Google image</td></tr>
</tbody></table><i><b>Today I Pray...</b></i><br />
<br />
for Your help, Lord<br />
<br />
that I might accept and embrace<br />
the inevitable changes<br />
<br />
that are quickly coming to pass,<br />
with a grace that only comes<br />
from knowing and trusting<br />
in You<div class="blogger-post-footer">Unless otherwise noted, all posts are original work from <a href="http://today-i-pray.blogspot.com/">Today I Pray </a> and should not be used without consent from the blog administrator.</div>Laurenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13461281675925684997noreply@blogger.com2