Category: encouragement

Mirthful Tidbits

**That smile looks good on you!
** Balance is the key to all functional movement. Balance training is important because if you don’t use it, you could lose it.
** It is not always easy to love. The love of God helps you love even when you don’t feel like it.

*** Tidbit 1: Humor Time

A smile is a curve that sets everything straight.
— Phyllis Diller

Leaving Miami for Ft Lauderdale, I decide to stop at one of those rest areas on the side of the road. I go into the bathroom. The first stall is taken, so I go into the second stall. I had just sat down when I hear a voice from the other stall…………
      
      “Hi there, how is it going?”

      Okay, I am not the type to strike up conversations with strangers in washrooms on the side of the road. I didn’t know what to say, so finally I say:
      
      “Not bad…………”
      
      Then the voice says:
      
      “So, what are you doing?”
      
      I am starting to find this a bit weird, but I say:
      
      “Well, I’m going to Ft Lauderdale……….”
      
      Then I hear the person, all flustered, say:
      
      “Look, I’ll call you back. Every time I ask you a question, this idiot in the next stall keeps answering me!!!”

Things My Mother Taught Me

  • My mother taught me the CIRCLE OF LIFE.
    “I brought you into this world, and I can take you out.”
  • My mother taught me about BEHAVIOUR MODIFICATION.
    “Stop acting like your father!”
  • My mother taught me about ENVY.
    “There are millions of less fortunate children in this world who don’t have wonderful parents like you do.”
  • My mother taught me about ANTICIPATION.
    “Just wait until we get home.”

Pearls of Wisdom  
– Junk is something you’ve kept for years and throw away three weeks before you need it.
– By the time you can make ends meet, they move the ends.

*** Tidbit 2: Balance Training
Balance training is important because if you don’t use it, you could lose it. It’s the key to all functional movement. We tend to ignore the importance of trying to improve our balance. Sometimes we are not fully aware that we may have weak balance until we try balance exercises. Balance training is more about strengthening muscles and improving stability. Exercise can help you improve your balance and balance training is a great place to begin. The good news is that balance training usually involves slow, methodical movements. You can begin at any age. You can practice anytime and anywhere.

Benefits of having good balance include the following:
+ Prevents back pain by strengthening your core.
+ Improves coordination and stability thereby helping to prevent falls.
+ Supports mental clarity and eases anxiety.
+ Helps arthritis by giving more support to painful joints.

The following exercises may improve your balance:
~ Walk while alternating knee lifts with each step.
~ Stand on one leg while brushing your teeth: one minute on one leg while brushing the upper teeth, and another minute on the other leg while brushing the lower teeth.
~ Practice sitting down and getting up from a chair without using your hands.
~ Be a tree – Stand on one foot for at least 30 seconds, and then switch.

You can do balance exercises as often as you like. Consider adding at least two days of strength training, because it can help improve your balance by working the muscles that keep you stable.

Make balance training a part of your DoBetter Challenge (I hope you’re still trying to do better). The DoBetter Challenge is simply making a decision to do better by making positive lifestyle changes.  You set goals and do all you can to achieve those goals.  You can do this alone, with a friend or a group. Happy balancing!

*** Tidbit 3: Loving Even When You Don’t Feel Like It  
It is not always easy to love. Sometimes you may struggle to love. There’s no way you could do it on your own. Don’t despair, there is hope. It’s the love of God that helps you love even when you don’t feel like it. You can do it, because He will give you the strength to do it. He is always willing to help you when you call on Him.

God’s love:
* Motivates you to try to talk privately with your neighbor before taking legal action against him or her – as a result, you may be able to peacefully dissolve your dispute.
* Moves you to speak the right words at the right time: life and not death, positive and not negative – as a result, a life, a business, a church, a family can be changed.
* Induces patience in you – you think about your words or actions before you say or do anything that would promote ill will.
* Produces self-control. Self-control is a form of freedom. You have the freedom to do what you know is wise. You have the freedom to say no to that 3rd piece of cake. You have the freedom to not curse at your neighbor.
* Provides wisdom. You won’t outwear your welcome when you visit someone. You’ll know when it’s time to leave without them having to throw hints. 
* Teaches you how to be a good neighbor and to not blindly trust anyone but God.

When filled with God’s love, we can do and see and understand things that we could not otherwise do or see or understand. Filled with His love, we can endure pain, quell fear, forgive freely, avoid contention, renew strength, and bless and help others in ways surprising even to us. There’s no way we could do it on our own.

Jesus Christ was filled with deep love as He endured intense pain, cruelty, and injustice for us. Through His love for us, He rose above barriers that appeared to be impossible. We can choose to follow Him and experience His unlimited love so we too can love as He loves.

The Good News: If you welcome God’s love into your heart, then you will be able to love like Him, also.

The information that I have shared with you is intended for informational purposes only. Always check with your healthcare provider if you have health issues or concerns.

Have you accepted Jesus Christ as your personal Savior?  If you wait, it could be too late. For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have everlasting life (John 3:16). If you have already accepted Him, He wants you to get to know Him even better.

Bye for now. Thanks for visiting. Don’t forget to click the Follow button.   

Sources:
The First Stall – Mistakes Jokes (christiansunite.com)
https://tensionnot.com/jokes/one_liner_jokes/things_my_mother_taught_me
http://www.inspire21.com/stories/humorstories/25PearlsOfWisdom
photo of silhouette photo of man standing on rock photo – Free Silhouette Image on Unsplash
Aziz Acharki (@acharki95) | Unsplash Photo Community

Winning Tidbits

**Humor does a body good, so keep smiling & laughing!
** Overcoming & Winning – all the way! Yet in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us. -Romans 8:37
** Celebrate National Salad Month – Salads are nutrition powerhouses. Have you had one today?

*** Tidbit  1   Humor Time

Email Goes Astray 

Mr. Arnold, a businessman from Tulsa, Oklahoma, went on a business trip to Amarillo, Texas. He immediately sent an e-mail back home to his wife, Paula.  Unfortunately, he forgot his wife’s exact e-mail address and the e-mail ended up going to a Mrs. P. Arnold in Rapid City, South Dakota, the wife of a preacher who had just died. The preacher’s wife, Penny, took one look at the e-mail and promptly fainted.

When she was finally revived by her daughter, Penny hysterically pointed to the message, which read, ‘Arrived safely, but it sure is hot down here.’

The Ugly Baby

A woman got on a bus holding a baby. The bus driver said: “That’s the ugliest baby I’ve ever seen.” In a huff, the woman slammed her fare into the fare box and took an aisle seat near the rear of the bus.

The man seated next to her sensed that she was agitated and asked her what was wrong.

 “The bus driver insulted me,” she fumed.

 The man sympathized and said: “Why, he’s a public servant and shouldn’t say things to insult passengers.”

  “You’re right,” she said. “I think I’ll go back up there and give him a piece of my mind.”

  “That’s a good idea,” the man said. “Here, let me hold your monkey.”

Things My Mother Taught Me

  • My mother taught me about CONTORTIONISM.
    “Will you look at that dirt on the back of your neck!”
  • My mother taught me about STAMINA.
    “You’ll sit there until all that spinach is gone.”
  • My mother taught me about WEATHER.
    “This room of yours looks as if a tornado went through it.”
  • My mother taught me about HYPOCRISY.”
    If I told you once, I’ve told you a million times. Don’t exaggerate!”

*** Tidbit  2   Overcomer

Yet in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us. -Romans 8:37

An overcomer is someone who succeeds in dealing with or gaining control of some problem, weakness, opposition, difficulty, etc. In most cases, we have to choose to be overcomers (I choose to think positive. I choose to exercise today. I choose to pray every day.)  Sometimes we have gifts in certain areas that allow us to be overcomers with minimal effort. Sometimes we have to really put forth an effort, for example, training to run a marathon or working to earn a degree. Being an overcomer is not all about winning.  It’s about putting forth your best effort. If you’re a born- again believer, God wants you to overcome. He’s your biggest cheerleader.

Here are some are some tips that can help you be an overcomer in every situation.

  • Have confidence in yourself and God, the Creator.
  • Renew your mind with the Word of God.
  • Have a support system.
  • Stick with it. Don’t quit unless God tells you to quit.
  • Don’t dwell on negative thoughts or past failures.
  • Remember that nothing is impossible with God

*** Tidbit  3    Celebrate National Salad Month

Tomorrow begins the month of May. May is National Salad month.  It’s the perfect time to enjoy a lighter meal with the warmer weather approaching. Eating a salad almost every day could be one of the healthiest eating habits you can adopt. It can be a nutrition powerhouse as long as you don’t douse it with salad dressing, meat, croutons, etc. (remember – moderation).

Experts tell us over and over again, the importance of including fruits and vegetables in our diet. How many of us actually strive to be overcomers in that area? Need more convincing? Okay. Salads are good for you because:

  • They provide fiber, which may help lower cholesterol levels and prevent constipation.
  • They provide much needed vitamins and minerals.
  • They can help you get enough fruits and vegetables.
  • When you eat most veggies and fruits raw, you can get the most benefits. Some people cook the nutrients out of their fruits and veggies. All that’s being consumed is dead food.

You don’t have to eat the traditional side salad or green salad. Use your imagination. Be sure to add lots of color and texture. Instead of using only iceberg, try mixing in darker greens like kale, chard, spinach, and red leaf lettuce. The possibilities are endless: cucumbers, red onions, nuts, seeds, protein, berries, etc.  Include them in your 2022 DoBetter Challenge. I hope you’re still trying to do better. Set a goal to get them in.  Enjoy and have fun!

The information that I have shared with you is intended for informational purposes.

Have you accepted Jesus Christ as your personal Savior?  If not, what are you waiting on? In crazy times like these, we need a Savior. If you have already accepted Him, He wants you to get to know Him even better.

Thanks for stopping by.  Don’t forget to click the Follow button. Thanks for following this blog.  Thanks for the “likes.”

Until next time, have a wonderful day!

sources:
http://www.guy-sports.com/jokes/funny_religious_stories.htm
The Ugly Baby – Mistakes Jokes (christiansunite.com)
http:// clipart-library.com/clipart/yck5yn5cE.htm
https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Romans%208%3A37&version=NKJV
http://clipart-library.com/clipart/1098244.htm
https://unsplash.com/photos/2RrBE90w0T8

Cheery Tidbits

**Humor does a body good, so keep smiling & laughing!
** “You may trust the Lord too little, but you can never trust Him too much.” ~Anonymous
** Spice up your diet with Cayenne pepper (fresh, dried and/or powdered). It has impressive health benefits.

*** Tidbit  1   Humor Time

Laughing is good exercise; It’s like jogging on the inside.
~Kurt Vonnegut

Helpful Prayer

Billy had been misbehaving and was sent to his room. After a while he emerged and informed his mother that he had thought it over and then said a prayer. “Fine”, said the pleased mother. “If you ask God to help you not misbehave, He will help you.” “Oh, I didn’t ask Him to help me not misbehave,” said Johnny. “I asked Him to help you put up with me.”

Politically correct ways to say someone is stupid (not so intelligent):

  • A few fries short of a Happy Meal.
  • A few clowns short of a circus.
  • His antenna doesn’t pick up all the channels.
  • His belt doesn’t go through all the loops.
  • One Fruit Loop shy of a full bowl.
  • One taco short of a combination plate.

Things My Mother Taught Me (Part 1)

  1. My mother taught me to APPRECIATE A JOB WELL DONE.
    “If you’re going kill each other, do it outside. I just finished cleaning.”
  2. Mother taught me about TIME TRAVEL.
    “If you don’t straighten up, I’m going to knock you into the middle of next week!”
  3. My mother taught me RELIGION.
    “You better pray that will come out of the carpet.”
  4. My mother taught me LOGIC.
    “Because I said so, that’s why.”
  5. My mother taught me MORE LOGIC.
    “If you fall out of that swing and break your neck, you’re not going to the store with me.”
  6. My mother taught me FORESIGHT.
    “Make sure you wear clean underwear, in case you’re in an accident.”
  7. My mother taught me IRONY.
    “Keep crying, and I’ll give you something to cry about.”
  8. My mother taught me about science of OSMOSIS.
    “Shut your mouth and eat your supper.”

*** Tidbit  2   Trusting the Lord

 “You may trust the Lord too little, but you can never trust Him too much.”
                                                                                               ~Anonymous

As born-again believers we are called to trust God. Sometimes it’s easier said than done. It’s especially hard when things don’t seem to work out the way we think they should. Are you feeling anxious, worried, and/or depressed? Are you going through a negative situation and you doubt that God will come through? Maybe you believe He can come through but, will He come through for you? Maybe you’re thinking that He needs your help, and you can come up with a solution that is better than His. The bottom line is that you don’t trust Him. I think we’ve all been there. It started with Adam and Eve. Read the 3rd chapter of Genesis in the Bible. They doubted God and took matters into their own hands, and look at the results.

Trusting God is an act and a process. The following are tips for trusting Him in every area of life.

  1. Get to know Him. The more we get to know Him (by praying and talking to Him throughout the day) & the more we learn more about Him (by reading the Bible) the easier it will be to trust Him.
  2. Believe. Believing increases our trust in God. Believe that He is who He says He is and that He will do what He says He will do. He cannot fail.
  3. Remember the past. We all have testimonies of how we trusted God on some issue and how He came through for us. This causes our confidence to grow. If He did it before, He can do it again.
  4. Meditate on how He feels about you. He loves you (John 3:16, Zephaniah 3:17) and wants the very best for you (Jeremiah 29:11).

So, the next time something goes wrong, you find yourself filled with fear and anxiety or if you are uncertain about what the future holds, try these 4 tips. Take some deep breaths; know that Daddy God has this, and all you need to do is simply trust Him.

Trusting Jesus

Author – Edgar Page Sites, 1836-1921          Composer – Ira D. Sankey, 1840-1908

1. Simply trusting every day, Trusting through a stormy way; even when my faith is small, Trusting Jesus that is all

Refrain:
Trusting as the moments fly, Trusting as the days go by; Trusting Him whate’er befall, Trusting Jesus, that is all.

2. Brightly doth His Spirit shine into this poor heart of mine; While He leads I cannot fall; Trusting Jesus, that is all.

3. Singing if my way is clear, praying if the path be drear; if in danger for Him call; Trusting Jesus that is all.

4. Trusting Him while life shall last, Trusting Him till earth be past; Till within the jasper wall, Trusting Jesus, that is all.

*** Tidbit  3   Cayenne Pepper

Cayenne pepper (fresh, dried and powdered) has impressive health benefits. The pepper’s active ingredient, capsaicin, is valued for its therapeutic effects. Here are 10 reasons to include cayenne pepper in your diet.
  1. May improve digestion.
  2. May lower blood pressure.
  3. May help relieve pain.
  4. May protect your heart against inflammation.
  5. May improve Psoriasis.
  6. May reduce cancer risk.
  7. May provide detox support.
  8. May boost your metabolism.
  9. May prevent allergies and clear congestion.
  10. Is easy to include in your diet because of the many ways it can be consumed.

There are simple ways to take advantage of the awesome benefits of cayenne pepper:

  • Add it to meals.
  • Take it in capsule form.
  • Mix the powder with water and lemon as a detox drink.
  • Apply it topically. There are creams available to treat skin infections, sore muscles and tension.

Cayenne pepper powder lasts between 3-4 years. You can tell it has gone bad when it loses its flavor. Red-colored spices should always be stored in the fridge. Remember that it adds heat and can be too much for people who are spice-sensitive.

The information that I have shared with you is intended for informational purposes only.

Have you accepted Jesus Christ as your personal Savior?  If not, what are you waiting on? In crazy times like these, we need a Savior. If you have already accepted Him, He wants you to get to know Him even better.

Thanks for stopping by.  Hope you were blessed.

Don’t forget to click the “follow button.”

Find me on YouTube: Annette Harris – YouTube        
www.youtube.com/channel/UCcrxz9YI7Eg7ycPTbPyllSw

Resources
Kurt Vonnegut
https://www.beliefnet.com/ilovejesus/features/hilarious-christian-jokes.aspx
https://tensionnot.com/jokes/one_liner_jokes/how_say_if_someone_stupid
https://tensionnot.com/jokes/one_liner_jokes/things_my_mother_taught_me
https://www.gracefullittlehoneybee.com/10-bible-verses-trusting-god/
https://hymnary.org/text/simply_trusting_every_day

Jolly Tidbits

*Don’t laugh yourself to death. Laughter does a body good. Laugh yourself to life!

* You can’t praise God and be depressed at the same time, so praise Him. Your situation may not change, but your attitude will.

* Keep reading to find out several health benefits of peppermint.

*** Tidbit  1   Humor Time

Round John Virgin
A kindergarten Sunday school teacher had her class draw a nativity scene. One youngster had done a very fine job in drawing the baby in a manger, with Mary and Joseph and the animals; but the teacher noticed with anxiety that he had drawn a little fat man right beside the manger. She asked, “Jimmy, that isn’t Santa, is it?” Jimmy replied, “Of course not, that’s the guy we sing about in Silent Night, That’s Round John Virgin.”

Cheap Perfume Christmas Gift
Michael wanted to buy something different for his wife for Christmas this year.  He knew she liked “girlie” things, and “things that made her feel special.”  He wasn’t quite sure what that meant however.

He went to the big department store downtown.  After all, they had counters and counters of ladies’ things.  They also had helpful clerks that would understand this stuff better than he could.

“How about some perfume?” he asked the cosmetics clerk.
She showed him a bottle costing $50.

“That’s a bit much,” said Michael.
She returned with a smaller bottle for $30.

“That’s still quite a bit,” Michael wined.
Growing disgusted, the clerk brought out a tiny $15 bottle.

Michael was becoming more and more frustrated, “What I mean,” he said, “is I’d like to see something real cheap.”

. . . . . . . So the clerk handed him a mirror.

I love Christmas. I receive a lot of wonderful presents I can’t wait to exchange.
– Henny Youngman

*** Tidbit  2  Praise the Lord!

For years I would get depressed during the Christmas season. I got depressed before I accepted Christ as my Savior. I got depressed after I accepted Him.  A group called the Emotions sang the song, “What Do the Lonely Do at Christmas.” “Tis the season to be jolly, but how can I be, when I have nobody? The yuletide carol doesn’t make it better, knowing that we won’t be together. A silent night I know it’s gonna be. Joy to the world, but it’s gonna be sad for me.”

That was my theme song and as I said, I sang it for years. My testimony is – I don’t sing that song anymore. I haven’t sung it for years. I’m still single. There’s no boyfriend in the picture. I can’t tell you the exact date or time God delivered me, but He did!

If you’re depressed this Christmas (maybe you’ve lost a loved one, maybe you’re single with no prospects in sight, maybe your money’s funny and you can’t buy what you desire for your family) whatever the reason, you don’t have to stay depressed. If God delivered me, He can deliver you. Go to Him, tell Him how you feel. Find some praise scriptures in the Bible and meditate on them. Begin to thank and praise God.

When you allow yourself to get down and out, praising God is the best way to lift your spirit. Praising God may not change your situation, but it can change how you feel about the situation and how you react to it. You can’t praise God and be depressed at the same time.

Praising God is more effective than any advice from a counselor. It’s greater than any medicine. Praise invites God to come into your presence, and when He does miracles can happen. You don’t have to ask for any favors or anything like that. Just praise Him with your whole heart.

[Click on the video below to view the oral presentation of this blog and hear the song that I’m singing, “Praise the Lord.” The Lord gave the words to my sister, Pastor Charlotte Bryant, years ago. I hope it blesses you.]

*** Tidbit  3   Peppermint & the Candy Cane

Peppermint is the most universally used plant and is considered to be the greatest of all therapeutic remedies. You can get peppermint leaf through tea, capsules or as an extract. You can get peppermint oil in essential oils, extracts and capsules. Make sure that you know what kind of oil you are using. Read directions very carefully. Essential oils are highly concentrated and should be diluted if you are going to drink them or apply them to your skin.

Here are 8 health benefits of peppermint. 
1. Peppermint oil has antibacterial properties and has been shown to kill germs that lead to bad breath.
2. Studies confirm that it effectively fights several types of bacteria like E. coli, listeria, and salmonella.
3. Peppermint may treat gas, stomach pain, constipation, nausea, Irritable Bowel Syndrome, and diarrhea.
 4. Help ease tension headaches when it is applied to the forehead and temples.
5. Provide relief from itching and muscle pain when it is applied to the skin.
 6. Reduce the intensity and length of menstrual cramps because it helps prevent muscle contractions.
7. Boost your memory and increase energy.
8. Reduce common cold symptoms as well as allergy symptoms like an irritated, stuffy nose, sneezing, and red, itchy eyes.

The original candy cane was made 50 years ago. It was white, completely straight and flavored with only sugar. The first red and white striped candy canes were made at the turn of the 19th century. The first striped candy canes appeared around that same time. Then, the peppermint flavor was added. Over time the candy cane has become a symbol and tradition during the Christmas holiday.

The solid texture or hardness of the candy cane is said to symbolize the solid rock which was the foundation of the church, and firmness of the promises of God. Jesus is our solid rock of all ages. Turn the candy cane upside down and you will see the “J” that reminds us of Jesus, who was born to save us. Turn it back upright and you will see the crook that reminds us that He is the Good Shepherd.

The stripe on the candy cane reminds us that Jesus was beaten for us. Some canes have 3 fine stripes and some do not. Those three fine stripes are believed to represent the Holy Trinity. The red color reminds us of how He shed His blood on Calvary to save us from our sins.

The white represents the virgin birth and the purity, (the sinless nature) of Jesus. It tells us that He can wash our sins white as snow. The peppermint flavor is said to originate from an herb called hyssop. Hyssop was used in the Old Testament to symbolize the purity of Jesus and the sacrifice He made.

When you break the candy cane be reminded of Jesus’ broken body. As you eat it be reminded that fellowship with Jesus is so very sweet.

The information that I have shared with you is intended for informational purposes.

Have you accepted Jesus Christ as your personal Savior?  If not, what are you waiting on? In crazy times like these, we need a Savior. If you have already accepted Him, He wants you to get to know Him even better.

Thanks for stopping by.  Thanks for following this blog. 
Until next time, have a blessed day!

Resources
Funny Christmas Stories: Kids Say The Funniest Things! (clean-jokes-and-humor.com)
Cheap Perfume Gift (atimetolaugh.org)
christmas candy cane clipart – Clip Art Library (clipart-library.com)

Hopeful Tidbits

* Having a sense of humor can make life easier. Laughing at yourself can make life even easier.

* Singing: (Trouble Doesn’t Last Always© ℗ 2006 Annette M. Harris All rights reserved.). I hope it blesses you.

* Sweet potatoes are rich in vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and fiber. Include them in your diet.

*** Tidbit 1   Gotta Smile

When you can laugh at yourself, you are free.

To make mistakes is human; to stumble is commomplace; to be able to laugh at yourself is maturity.~William Arthur Ward

Learn to laugh at yourself. Life will be a lot funnier. ~Valley & Co.

Blessed are we who can laugh at ourselves for we shall never cease to be amused.

Having a sense of humor can make life a little easier. Being able to laugh at yourself can also make life a little easier.  When you can laugh at yourself you admit that you are not a perfect person. You’re confident enough to share your flaws.

The ability to laugh at yourself can help you remain humble. It can be therapeutic. It can allow you to help someone else. It brings about courage because it’s not always easy to laugh at yourself.

I received an email from a friend.  She wrote, “I fixed supper and forgot to put meat on my plate.  I laughed at myself when I ate without it. Goes to show I can do without meat sometimes.” One of the best things you can do after laughing at yourself is to see what you can learn from the incident.  In her case, she saw that she didn’t have to eat meat at every meal.

One time I went in Walmart, had other things on my mind, came out and didn’t remember where I parked my car.  I was so embarrassed. I walked slowly, trying to find it. I was hoping nobody who knew me saw me. If all else failed, I would have pressed the alarm on my keys, but I found it, thank the Lord. Lesson learned: pay attention to where I park or write down where I parked.

 I’m cold natured so when the weather turns cold, I like to wear layers. One morning as I got dressed for work, I put on a black top and the matching pants.  On my way out the door, I remembered that I hadn’t put my footless tights on under my pants.  I went in my bedroom, took off my pants and put on my tights.  I already had on my knee highs. I put on my shoes and went out the door.  

When I got outside, I looked down and saw that I had forgotten to put my pants back on. Now the top was a long tunic and somebody might have thought that I was wearing a mini dress. I looked around; hoping none of my neighbors had seen me. I hurriedly went back in and put on my pants.

Usually I will look at myself in a full length mirror before I leave the house. If I would have taken the time to look, I would have seen that I only had on the pantyhose under the tunic.  Now I could have taken this story with me to my grave but I decided to share it.  I told my coworker; she felt to share it with my boss.  Another lady overheard me telling my coworker so I had to retell it.  I know I must have repeated that story at least 5 times that day. But you know what, people had a good time laughing and laughter does a body good!

Lesson learned: Always take time to look in the mirror before I go out the door, even when I’m in a hurry. It’s good to have a full length mirror and a shorter mirror.  You can hold up the shorter mirror to look at yourself from behind.

Also, be careful what you pray for.  I often ask the Lord to let me be a blessing to others. Well, that day I was a blessing to others cause they had a good laugh at my expense. I was blessed also because each time I told it, I got a good laugh.

Whenever you feel like you have nothing to laugh about, maybe it’s a good idea to laugh at yourself. In this life you’re gonna find plenty occasions to do just that. Look back over your life at some of the stupid things you did.  Some of them were funny and stupid. Some of them were dangerous. Then thank God that He kept you. He kept your mind. He kept your body. He kept you from going to jail. He kept you from beating somebody up. The list can go on and on. God is a keeper, yes He is!

We can’t blame everything on the ageing process. At all ages humans make some not so intelligent decisions. God didn’t make us perfect.  Sometimes we just need to slow down, concentrate, and stop multitasking. Sometimes God may try to warn us but we’re too busy to listen or we just think we know.  Whatever your age, don’t take yourself so seriously. You’re gonna be doing stupid stuff until you die or until Jesus comes, so you might as well learn to laugh!

*** Tidbit 2   Trouble doesn’t last always.

Aren’t you glad that trouble doesn’t last always?  Each particular trouble does have an expiration date. Good news! Born again believers don’t have to go through that trouble alone.

You will find in Psalm 91, that you can go to God and find refuge. He’ll be with you in that trouble and He will deliver you. He may deliver you while you’re on earth and He may deliver you by taking you to Heaven. Either way you’ll be delivered.

Click on the video below to view the oral presentation of this blog and hear the song God gave to me, (Trouble Doesn’t Last Always© ℗ 2006 Annette M. Harris. All rights reserved.). I hope it blesses you.

*** Tidbit  3   The Sweet Potato

The sweet potato belongs to the root family – meaning that the part you eat is the root. The white potato is part of the nightshade family, which includes tomatoes, eggplant and hot peppers. There are hundreds of different varieties of sweet potato. They are usually orange, but can also be white, purple or deep red.

Sweet potatoes are rich in vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and fiber. The following are some impressive health benefits. Sweet potatoes may: improve digestion, treat inflammation, relieve asthma, reduce arthritis pain, help with stomach cramps, and boost the immune system.

Cooking sweet potatoes quickly in high heat (like steaming) is the best way to prepare them. This method retains their nutritional value. The second best way would be boiling. Boiling them in water leaches out some nutrients, but it lowers their glycemic index, which means you get less insulin spike after eating them. Steam or boil them with the skin on to retain as much of their nutritional value as possible.

Remember to include steamed or boiled sweet potatoes in your 2022 DoBetter Challenge. Set a goal to replace some unhealthy junk food with them.

The information that I have shared with you is intended for informational purposes.

Have you accepted Jesus Christ as your personal Savior?  If not, what are you waiting on? In crazy times like these, we need a Savior. If you have already accepted Him, He wants you to get to know Him even better.

Thanks for stopping by.  Thanks for following this blog.  Thanks for the “likes.”

Until next time, have a blessed day!

potato-clipart-27.jpg (1280×720) (clipartmag.com)

OCTOBER Tidbits 

*Keep smiling & laughing!

* When I look around and see what this world is coming to & what the aging process is doing to me, I don’t know what I would do without the Lord!

* 50 and over? You are automatically a member of the Celebrated 50 PLUS club. Enjoy the journey!


Great day everybody! It’s a great day because Jesus is alive! I don’t know what I would do without Him. 

Tidbit 1  Humor Time
*** A good laugh is sunshine in the house.
— William Thackeray
*** Biblical Songs
Noah: “Raindrops Keep Falling on My Head”
Adam and Eve: “Strangers in Paradise”
Lazarus: “The Second Time Around”
Esther: “I Feel Pretty”
Job: “I’ve Got a Right to Sing the Blues”
Moses: “The Wanderer”
Jezebel: “The Lady is a Tramp”
Samson: “Hair”
Salome: “I Could Have Danced All Night”
Daniel: “The Lion Sleeps Tonight”
Joshua: “Good Vibrations”
Peter: “I’m Sorry”
Esau: “Born To Be Wild”
Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego: “Great Balls of Fire!”
The Three Kings: “When You Wish Upon a Star”
Jonah: “Got a Whale of a Tale”
Elijah: “Up, Up, and Away”
Methuselah: “Stayin’ Alive”
Nebuchadnezzar: “Crazy” ~Unknown

*** Actual Announcements from Church Bulletins
 – Barbara remains in the hospital and needs blood donors for more transfusions. She is also having trouble sleeping and requests tapes of Pastor Jack’s sermons.
– Remember in prayer the many who are sick of our church and community.
– This evening at 7 pm there will be a hymn sing in the park across from the Church. Bring a blanket and come prepared to sin.
– Ladies Bible Study will be held Thursday morning at 10. All ladies are invited to lunch in the Fellowship Hall after the B.S. is done.

Tidbit 2  I Don’t Know What I Would Do Without The Lord
In times like these we need someone that we can depend on. We need someone who will always be there. We need someone who we can call on anytime and anywhere.  When I look around and see what this world is coming to, I don’t know what I would do without the Lord. When I look in the mirror and see what the aging process is doing to me, I just don’t know what I would do without the Lord. Click on the video below to hear my (50 PLUS) rendition of I Don’t Know What I Would Do without the Lord.(4:11 min.)

Tidbit 3 Welcome to the club! 
If you’re 50, 60, 70, 80 and over, you are automatically a member of the Celebrated 50 PLUS.  Age brings intelligence, experience, wisdom and beauty. So why are many people scared of it? I blame society. Society has played a big role in our perceptions of aging.  As a result some people struggle with the fact that they are growing older. Is it possible that we fear and deny aging, because we fear and deny death? As a result, are we rejecting the wisdom of the aged? Are we robbing old age of its meaning and the youth of its direction?

Adults 50 and over can feel that they are invisible and neglected by society.  JESUS loves you!  You are not invisible to Him. He will never neglect you. He can still use you if you’re on top of the hill (50) or over the hill (PLUS).

Really though, age is just a number… a number that gets you extra discounts and savings (woohoo)! Turning 50 and going beyond 50 is not a time to look down, but a time to look up.  Exciting things can still happen.  We’ve got places to go, people to see, goals to fulfill, books to write, songs to sing, people to inspire, people to mentor. The list goes on and on. 

  • Harland Sanders, didn’t become “The Colonel” of Kentucky Fried Chicken until he was 65.
  • Laura Ingalls Wilder didn’t publish her first novel until she was 65 years old. She’s known for the book –Little House on the Prairie. She went on to write 12 more books.
  • Grandma Moses (Anna Mary Robertson Moses) was 76 when she began her career as a painter.
    Research shows that people 50 years and older who had a more positive self-perception of aging lived 7.5 years longer than people with negative self-perceptions about aging. Research also suggests that those who are grateful report less pain and take better care of themselves, which can increase longevity. 
      
    Affirmations for the Celebrated 50 plus:
  • Whatever my age, my personal relationship with Jesus Christ will empower me to discover and share the hidden wealth that lies within me.
  • Today I make the choice to enjoy life fully, with no regrets (no shoulda, coulda, or woulda from me).
  • It is what it is. I can’t reverse all of the effects of aging.  I WILL strengthen those things that remain because I have work to do for God.  Read Revelation 3:2.
  • Laughing, living in the moment, and adopting a positive attitude will help me stay young at heart.

    Perks Of Being on & over the Hill
  • Kidnappers are not very interested in you.
  • In a hostage situation you are the most likely to be released first. 
  • No one expects you to run — anywhere.
  • You can quit trying to hold in your stomach no matter who walks into the room.

    It’s good to keep a sense of humor as we age, otherwise we could become bitter. The last thing I want to become is a bitter older woman. The aging process and all that goes with it is a reality, a natural part of the life cycle. It’s going to happen, whether we like it or not. The only alternative is – instead of being on top of the hill or over the hill – to be under the hill. So, why not just celebrate?

If you know Jesus Christ as your Savior, now is the time to get to know Him even better.  If you don’t know Him, accepting Him as your Savior will be the wisest decision you will ever make.

Thanks for stopping by. Thanks for the “likes.” Don’t forget to click the Follow Button.
 
Until next time, have a blessed day!


                      

Resources
https://www.laughteronlineuniversity.com/quotes-about-laughter/
http://swapmeetdave.com/Humor/Religious.htm
https://www.google.com/search?q=funny+quotes+about+aging&sa=X&biw=1494&bih=766&tbm=isch&tbo=u&source=univ&ved=0ahUKEwi_uKPDrrjOAhUCSyYKHR1QDc0QsAQIGw#imgdii=1O2Zt42HnEhdlM%3A%3B1O2Zt42HnEhdlM%3A%3Bl_jSHhHlBHBRcM%3A&imgrc=1O2Zt42HnEhdlM%3A

Encouraging Tidbits

*A joyful heart is good medicine. Proverbs 17:22. Have you taken your medicine today?

* Encourage yourself and speak LIFE. Matthew 12:37. It does work!

* Planks – One exercise, multiple benefits. It only takes a few minutes a day. The only equipment you need is your body.

Most of us love a smile. Most of us love a good laugh. Proverbs 17:22 even declares that “a joyful heart is good medicine.” So, let’s get started with some humorous titbits.

*** Tidbit  1    Gotta Smile

An inexperienced preacher was to hold a graveside burial service at a pauper’s cemetery for an indigent man with no family or friends. Not knowing where the cemetery was, he made several wrong turns and got lost. When he eventually arrived an hour late, the hearse was nowhere in sight, the backhoe was next to the open hole, and the workmen were sitting under a tree eating lunch.
      The diligent young pastor went to the open grave and found the vault lid already in place. Feeling guilty because of his tardiness, he preached an impassioned and lengthy service, sending the deceased to the great beyond in style.
      As he returned to his car, he overheard one of the workman say to the other, “I’ve been putting in septic tanks for twenty years and I ain’t never seen anything like that.”

Politically correct ways to say someone is stupid (maybe slow-witted would be kinder):

*  Elevator doesn’t go all the way to the top floor.
*  Receiver is off the hook.
*  Couldn’t pour water out of a boot with instructions on the heel.
*  A few peas short of a casserole.
*  Doesn’t have all his cornflakes in one box.
*  The wheel’s spinning, but the hamster’s dead.

What did one ocean say to the other ocean?

Nothing, it just waved.

*** Tidbit 2    Encourage Yourself

We all like to be encouraged, but sometimes there’s no one around to encourage us. It’s during those times when must know how to encourage ourselves.

Whenever I need to encourage myself, one of my favorite songs is, “Encourage Yourself” written by Donald Lawrence.

Sometimes you have to encourage yourself. Sometimes you have to speak victory during the test. And no matter how you feel, speak the word and you will be healed.
Speak over yourself. Encourage yourself in the Lord.

Sometimes you have to speak the word over yourself. The pressure is all around, but God is present help. The enemy created walls, but remember giants, they do fall.
Speak over yourself. Encourage yourself in the Lord.

As I minister to you, I minister to myself. Life can hurt you so ’til you feel there’s nothing left. No matter how you feel, speak the word and you will be healed.
Speak over yourself. Encourage yourself in the Lord.

Speak over yourself: I’m encouraged. I’m victorious. I’m a winner. I’m an overcomer. I’m healed. I’m covered by the blood of Jesus. No weapon formed against me shall prosper.

I’m encouraged!

*** Tidbit 3    Planks – One Exercise, Multiple Benefits

Planks are one of the most effective exercises you can do because they offer great results in a short period of time (about 1 – 10 min.). The plank, or planking, is an exercise that involves your core muscles, improving your strength, balance and endurance. They are called planks because, when done properly, you straighten your entire body and maintain it rigidly, just like a plank of wood. No extra equipment or weights are required, only your body, making it a convenient form of strength training if you’re on a small budget or are traveling.

Here are 4 things that can happen when you plank every day.

1.   Your posture could improve.
2.   You could become more flexible than ever.
3.   Your core definition and performance could be improved.
4.  Your risk of injury in the back and spinal column could be improved.

How to hold a plank position

1.  Get into pushup position on the floor.  Position your feet so that your toes touch the floor. You can start with a bent-knee plank if you can’t perform a regular plank yet.
2.  Now bend your elbows 90 degrees and rest your weight on your forearms.  OR Bring your hands forward, near the sides of your head, so that your forearms lie on the floor, parallel to one another and to your torso.
3.  Keep your torso straight and rigid and your body in a straight line from ears to toes with no sagging or bending. Imagine your body as plank of wood.
4.  Your head is relaxed and you should be looking at the floor.
5.  Hold the position for at least five seconds or 10 seconds to start. Over time work up to 30, 45 or 60 seconds. 
6.  Remember to breathe throughout. Inhale and exhale slowly and steadily.
7.  When your form begins to suffer, pull the plug.  Gently bring your torso back to the ground. You’re only benefiting from the plank by actually doing the plank.

How to improve your plank time gradually

— If you can hold a basic plank for more than two minutes with ease, you can move on to these tougher variations. They include the elbow plank, leg raised plank and the side plank.
— Perform other body-weight exercises at the same time. Push-up and squat will improve your core strength too.  You can increase the intensity of the plank position using an inflatable exercise ball. Using an exercise ball, start out with your belly on the ball. 
—Practice every day. Space your planking exercise throughout the day. Do 3-4 times every day if you like.

Are you ready to devote 1-10 minutes of your day, every day, to stay fit, healthy? Then jump in and make doing plank exercises a part of your life.

If you know Jesus Christ as your Savior, now is the time to get to know Him even better.

If you don’t know Him, accepting Him as your Savior will be the wisest decision you will ever make.

I am so grateful that you took the time to stop by. Don’t forget to click the Follow button. 

Until next time, don’t forget to smile and/or laugh at least once a day!

The information that I have shared with you is intended for informational purposes only. Remember to do your own research and check with your health professional if you have health issues.

Sources

https://tensionnot.com/jokes/one_liner_jokes/how_say_if_someone_stupid
https://parade.com/1041830/marynliles/clean-jokes/
https://www.pinterest.com/pin/202450945740355986/
https://www.google.com/search?q=donald+lawrence+encourage+yourself+lyrics&source=hp&ei=zUMuYf2ZBcSm_Qa0_4bYBw&iflsig=ALs-wAMAAAAAYS5R3TFbIN2X_uewy1nqThSl0nOY-OXW&oq=Donald+laurence+encourage&gs_lcp=Cgdnd3Mtd2l6EAEYATIHCC4QDRCTAjIECAAQDTIECAAQDTIGCAAQDRAeMggIABAIEA0QHjIICAAQCBANEB4yCAgAEAgQDRAeMggIABAIEA0QHjoRCC4QgAQQsQMQxwEQowIQkwI6CwguEIAEEMcBEKMCOggILhCxAxCDAToRCC4QgAQQsQMQgwEQxwEQowI6DgguEIAEELEDEMcBEKMCOggIABCABBCxAzoICAAQsQMQgwE6CwgAEIAEELEDEIMBOgsILhCABBCxAxCDAToFCAAQgAQ6DgguEIAEELEDEIMBEJMCOggILhCABBCxAzoLCAAQgAQQsQMQyQM6BQgAEJIDOgUILhCABDoICAAQgAQQyQM6CwguEIAEEMcBEK8BOgsILhCABBCxAxCTAjoICC4QgAQQkwI6BggAEBYQHjoECC4QDToHCCEQChCgAVCEC1iqZ2CkemgAcAB4AIABoAGIAbwWkgEEMC4yNZgBAKABAQ&sclient=gws-wiz
https://metrowomanng.wordpress.com/2014/08/04/speak-life-into-your-days/comment-page-1/
https://i.pinimg.com/originals/d3/8e/7a/d38e7a71782a5ee22d9438a21de46ceb.jpg