Happy Valentine's Day Weekend! ... :) Shangy! >Here are the details on our Yahoo ShangyFunList: To Subscribe send a blank email to ShangyFunList-subscribe@yahoogroups.com To UnSubscribe send a blank email to ShangyFunList-unsubscribe@yahoogroups.com Group home page: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/ShangyFunList Through no fault of my own we suddenly became an adult club in the love and romance directory so you will have to confirm that you are an adult when you go here. I still have no idea how to change this back as it sends me around in a circle when I try! or Web Site: http://www.ShangralaFamilyFun.com/ShangyFunList.html Group email address: ShangyFunList@yahoogroups.com or email me here: bcrsystems@earthlink.net ================ *~* A REMINDER: PLEASE Send me sweet, interesting, funny, inspiring, family type forwards ANY TIME here... bcrsystems@earthlink.net I Need them, Love them, Use them, and Share them! THANK YOU!! AND For Facebook Users: Please Friend Me / Like Me here... http://tinyurl.com/cma6all AND Please Share This email with All Your Friends And Family! ^~^ May God SUPER BLESS You As You Do! THANK YOU! :) -<>- * NOTE: An easy way to adjust the size of print in email or any page is to hold down the Ctrl tab while moving the scroll button on the mouse. You can also use the keyboard to change the font size in your web browser or emails. Hold down the Ctrl key while pressing the + key for larger text or the - key for smaller text! ================ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ /` \/ `\ _ _ /` \/ `\ _ _ /` \/ `\ _ _ /` \/ `\ \ / /` \/ `\ \ / /` \/ `\ \ / /` \/ `\ \ / '. .' \ / '. .' \ / '. .' \ / '. .' \/ '. .' \/ '. .' \/ '. .' \/ _ _ \/ \/ \/ _ _ /` \/ `\ /` \/ `\ \ / \ / '. .' H A P P Y V A L E N T I N E' S D A Y '. .' \/ \/ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ /` \/ `\ _ _ /` \/ `\ _ _ /` \/ `\ _ _ /` \/ `\ \ / /` \/ `\ \ / /` \/ `\ \ / /` \/ `\ \ / '. .' \ / '. .' \ / '. .' \ / '. .' \/ '. .' \/ '. .' \/ '. .' \/ jgs \/ \/ \/ *~* Wishing You A Blessed, Safe And Happy Valentine's Day Weekend! :) >LINKS For Valentine's Day.... POEMS: Friends Together http://www.ShangralaFamilyFun.com/poems/together.html I Need A Hug! http://www.ShangralaFamilyFun.com/poems/hug.html It Takes Two! http://www.ShangralaFamilyFun.com/poems/two.html Love's Lust! http://www.ShangralaFamilyFun.com/poems/desire.html Moody Is My Day http://www.ShangralaFamilyFun.com/poems/need.html TEACHINGS: Our Valuable Anchor http://www.ShangralaFamilyFun.com/BibleStudy/ouranchor.html Choose His Children? http://www.ShangralaFamilyFun.com/BibleStudy/choosehischildren.html You Are The Only You God Has http://www.ShangralaFamilyFun.com/BibleStudy/onlyyougodhas.html Return To Me - God http://www.ShangralaFamilyFun.com/BibleStudy/return.html PAGES: That's God! http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/thatsgod.html Best Friends! http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/poems/bestfriends.html Friendship! http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/friendship.html I Believe... http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/believe.html God's Little Love Notes http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/notes.html Love Thoughts http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/love.html Love Story http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/lovestory.html Love Test http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/lovetest.html What Is Love 1 http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/wlove1.html What Is Love 2 http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/wlove2.html What Is Love 3 http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/wlove3.html Would You Care? http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/care.html Jesus Laughing Art http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/Jesusart.html Akiane Child Prodigy http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/prodigy.html Akiane Thru The Years http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/prodigy2.html Australian Cockatoo Story http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/cockatoos.html Kisses Sweeter Than Honey http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/kisses.html Tale Of Two Swallows http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/swallows.html Wild Kisses And Snuggles http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/wildkisses.html GIFTS/PLACES: All Occasion Cakes 2 http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/aocakes2.html Beautiful Flowers http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/bflowers.html Beautiful Rare Flowers http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/rareflowers.html Beautiful Rare Flowers http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/rareflowers2.html Big Hearts In Nature http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/heartsinnature.html Big Hearts In Nature 2 http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/heartsinnature2.html Big Boy Toys http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/bigboytoys.html eleMMent Palazzo Mobile RV http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/rv2.html Expensive Hotel Rooms http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/ehotels.html Extreme US SPAS http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/topspas.html Lamborghini Aventador http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/lambo.html Niagara Falls In Neon http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/niagaraneon.html New York At Night http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/newyork.html Romantic Castles http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/castles.html Romantic Castles 2 http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/castles2.html Romantic Getaways http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/romantic.html Romantic Getaways 2 http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/romantic2.html Woman's Dream http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/woman.html World's Most Expensive Things http://www.ShangralaFamilyFun.com/expensive.html World's Most Spectacular Places http://www.ShangralaFamilyFun.com/spectacularplaces1.html World's Most Spectacular Places 2 http://www.ShangralaFamilyFun.com/spectacularplaces2.html World's Most Spectacular Places 3 http://www.ShangralaFamilyFun.com/spectacularplaces3.html ANIMATIONS Hearts http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/agifs_f-j.html Valentines http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/agifs_u-z.html -<>- >-->HOT Off The 'Shangy' Press :) This too hot to handle new page is from forwards from our friends Linda and LouiseA. These cuties are so adorable they are sure to give you plenty of smiles. Give this one time to load, turn on your sound and enjoy it here... _ _ ((`'-"``""-'`)) ) - - ( / (o _ o) \ \ ( 0 ) / _'-.._'='_..-'_ /`;#'#'#.-.#'#'#;`\ \_)) '#' ((_/ #. .# '#. SMILE .#' jgs / '#. .#' \ _\ \'#. .#'/ /_ (((___) '#' (___))) Come Smile With Me http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/smilewithme.html --- ...These smiles are so catching! Thanks Ladies! -<>- .-.*_, {*(,\}/___ .-"-, `;)@\*|" `", _.' \ '((/; | .-' | *;-.=-=-=._ .;-, | __;____..---/' -,\ ; .--';`_ __.-'` _/ / / `;---'__0 \ .' | / (__) \ _.' _.-,_ { |-'` ({\*,;) \,'-`-' /' /*(@-'}) ___",_ __ __,;`.--, \_,'-;}`.' `'."".,---.._, ) / _`) |`----'`( (= /`-._ / ', \ =";`--'\ '=. /| ()() | | /` / |\ '. ` | ()@()* | ,_/.=\ .; | | '. /-' -##@() \ || '--'/| \ \ \`-` ##)@() '.||_,.--'/ / / ) |/ *`(\A/)() || { |.'.| /_.'./ .-.* { >*< }*) |/ { | (\A/) @(/V\)()@() /{ \___{ >*< }()()##()()*{ { \ / ###(/V\)()@()(####\) | `--.. ,' #########()()##### { / <><><><><><><><><> \ | | ; \ / jgs \ | / _.-'` { `-. .' } .`\ `.-' _.-'`'-._ \' `"""` `""""` >-->From The RAK: From today through the 15th, The RAK Foundation is challenging every American to do something truly amazing: Perform at least 1 random act of kindness every day this week. This can be for a family member, a coworker, or even a stranger you never see. It doesn’t really matter what you do… the simplest acts of kindness can make such a big difference. Most people think you need to spend money to perform an act of kindness…but there are plenty of things you can do besides pay for the coffee of the person behind you…things like: 1. Send an anonymous compliment. Disguise your handwriting and jot down a few kind words about a friend or family member. You can mail them a card or leave them a post-it…it doesn’t have to fancy, just genuine. 2. Talk to someone new. If there’s someone in your office who you haven’t really spoken to before, this week is the perfect excuse to change that. Extend a few kind words to them, and try to get to know them a little bit — you never know what a difference 1 kind word can make in someone’s day. 3. Let the person behind you check out before you. Even if you only have one or two things. This may seem simple, but it means leaving the store just a few minutes faster —which means you’re giving them just a few minutes more to spend with their family and friends. 4. Park farther than usual. This may not seem like a random act of kindness…but if you park further away than you usually do, you’re saving that premium spot for someone else. 5. Smile at a stranger. Mother Teresa once said “We shall never know all the good that a simple smile can do”. You never know what kind of day someone is having — or how much a smile from a stranger can brighten their day. There are a lot of ‘holidays’ out there: Pie Day, National Peanut Butter Day, International Square-dancing Month, National Karaoke week... you can find something to celebrate every single day of the year. These holidays are fun to celebrate and help pass the time…but that’s really all they are. But this week celebrates something I really believe in: Paying it forward. It doesn’t take much to complete a random act of kindness…but it tends to cause a ripple effect, touching not just the person you reached out to, but everyone they come in contact with. So by reaching out to just 1 person, that kindness will eventually ripple out to 100 people… That’s why as far as I’m concerned, we should be celebrating Random Acts of Kindness Week all year. I know we can’t always focus all of our attention on passing on kindness to others... but if we all take the time to reach out every once in a while, the world will be a much more beautiful place. Stay Healthy, Stay Happy Craig Cappetta PS. For more information & ideas for RAK week, check out the official website. https://www.randomactsofkindness.org/rak-week --- ...Also Check out... Pay It Forward http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/payitforward.html The Blue Ribbon http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/blueribbon.html =========================================================== >-->From Heartwarmers: ,===,._ | `", | / ,-..-"-.=-,,_/ /,- \.""-`\ )_ \_ - '--' \ / 0 __0 7_/ |/ _ (__) \ /`| |/(@) |` _.-"\-; '. \ # \/ /'_.-" \ \ `)\ .="#,_ __ _,'` ;-'-.`) __`;.#/|/ \/ \. | /` # | () |\ _.-"`` | .--# |'--' `-`\|-'` \ / `)\ `./ \| '. | .-#\ \ \ \ `\__/# \ |_ /`-. /| / # \|`-` . ` } / .#-, | ; ,} / / # `' , .} / /`\ # _,-' //` `#_ ,--'{ (( _,;` { } jgs `""` / } { ,-'` } `-._ .' _,-``, `\ (_(_(_.' `-.__)_)/ >SOUTHERN HOSPITALITY AND LOVE by David Welch The story of how I met, and then fell in love with my Valentine might be what some people would say is an odd way of meeting, but in our case it has worked for us. God has a plan for all of us though, and we understand we are together because God brought us together for a reason. I have never questioned God for the health troubles I've had to deal with, and try an live in the present. I look forward to the future, but never blame God for what troubles I've had during my past. My name is David Welch, and I've been a diabetic since I was four years old. Since I was 23 I've had many health problems -- blindness, loss of my kidneys, open heart surgery, and now I'm in a wheelchair. The one thing I have enjoyed doing since my health has declined is to use my computer with a screen reading program for the blind. One evening, I downloaded a program I had heard about called Freedom Chat, which was for blind people. Chat programs are something I really never enjoyed, but I'm so glad this time I tried it out. I didn't call anyone when I got online, but I received a private message from a young lady asking who I was. We started chatting and we both had health problems and felt comfortable with our conversation. Come to find out she was legally blind in one eye and completely blind in the other, along with being deaf in one ear. She had Lupus which had created many of her health problems. We chatted several times as the weeks went by, but neither of us thought much more of it than just a friendly conversation. I found out that she was from Thailand, but had become an American citizen nearly twenty years earlier. Her name was Nualanong Pumyam, but wanted to be called an American name, Nicole. Nicole mentioned to me that she was in school still working on her English, and computer skills using JAWS, the same screen reading program that I was using, and I thought I could help her out with her school work. We spent many evenings on the phone, with free long distance service, working on the computer skills, and her English. I had no problem helping her with her computer skills -- but hey, I probably need a little help at times myself with English! The one thing I kept telling her, was she should never trust anyone that she chats with. I told her many times she should go out and enjoy her life, but never agree to meet some guy that she was talking with over the Internet. I wanted Nicole to understand that meeting someone she had been chatting with over the computer could be very dangerous! As time went by the two of us started feeling much closer, and she said she would love to see what Kentucky was like. We managed to arrange for a plane ticket so she could visit Glasgow, Kentucky, where I live. Yes, we did exactly what I had been preaching for her to never do, and brought her to my hometown. With help from my brother driving me to the airport in Nashville, we picked up Nicole. It didn't take her long to notice a big difference between the people in San Jose, California, and the southern hospitality of the people that she would meet here in Kentucky. She said the people in Glasgow all seemed so friendly, and she fell in love with the town. The visit turned into a move to Glasgow, and she has never returned to California since. Actually, as I mentioned, Nicole fell in love with Glasgow, but we fell in love with each other as well. We have been together now for four years, and we have built a good life with one another, and on July 5, 2009, Nicole became my bride. I may not have the ability to always provide her with material things, like other men might give their girlfriend or wife, but we certainly give each other loyalty, respect, happiness, and most significantly... love! -- David Welch ========================================================== >-->From LaughAndLift: "There is only One Being who can satisfy the last aching abyss of the human heart, and that is the Lord Jesus Christ." - Oswald Chambers The Lift ...... ...... .:oOOOOo:. .:oOOOOo:. .:oOO:'':Oo:. .:oO:'':OOo:. .:oO: 'Oo:oO' :Oo:. :oO: 'o' :Oo: :oO: :Oo: ':oO: :Oo:' ':oO: B E :Oo:' ':oO. .Oo:' ':oO. .Oo:' ':oO. .Oo:' ':oO. .Oo:' 'oO:Oo' ...... 'oOo' ...... .:oOOOOo:.'o'.:oOOOOo:. .:oOO:'':Oo:. .:oO:'':OOo:. .:oO: 'Oo:oO' :Oo:. :oO: 'o' :Oo: :oO: :Oo: ':oO: :Oo:' ':oO: M Y :Oo:' ':oO. .Oo:' ':oO. .Oo:' ':oO. .Oo:' ':oO. .Oo:' 'oO:Oo' ...... 'oOo' ...... .:oOOOOo:.'o'.:oOOOOo:. .:oOO:'':Oo:. .:oO:'':OOo:. .:oO: 'Oo:oO' :Oo:. :oO: 'o' :Oo: :oO: :Oo: ':oO: V A L E N T I N E :Oo:' ':oO: :Oo:' ':oO. .Oo:' ':oO. .Oo:' ':oO. .Oo:' ':oO. .Oo:' jgs 'oO:Oo' 'oOo' 'o' Two Valentines (By list member Debbie Preuss) >VALENTINE TO THE LORD (By Debbie Preuss, February 3, 2002) Lord, I love You, You are mine You fill me with a love divine In everything I say or do Father, I want to glorify you May Your love light shine through me To lead others to eternity Every breath I take is Yours As Your love over me pours My heart beats only for You May I honor You in all I do My spirit lifts it's voice in praise I will worship You, all my days Lord, I cannot understand Where I'd be without Your hand You lift me up when I fall You answer me when I call Lord, all I am I give to You For You make my heart brand new I am the branch, You are the vine Lord, I want to be Your valentine >DEAR CHILD, A VALENTINE FROM THE LORD (By Debbie Preuss, February 10, 2002) Child I love you, you know that now As I reach down, to caress your brow Trust Me now to work things out Child, please come, don't My love doubt I love you with My love divine I know you are My valentine So come to Me with everything Let your doubts and fears take wing Rejoice in Me, let your hair down Someday, you will wear a crown Lift your voice and sing with Me Join all nature in the harmony Come and worship, take a rest Lay down your burden, be My guest Let Me hold you for a while How I love to see your smile Know My child, that you are mine I'm glad you are My valentine SUBSCRIBE INFO Want to receive a Christian inspirational item AND great clean humor in an email to you each day of the week? It's easy and FREE! Read all about Laugh & Lift at http://www.laughandlift.com ========================================================= _ _ _ _ /` \/ `\ _ _ _ _ /` \/ `\ /` \/ `\ _ _ /` \/ `\ /'. .'\ /` \/ `\ \ /'. .' \/ '. .'\ / _ ;. .' \/ \/ '. .; _ /` \/ `\/ \/` \/ `\ \ / L o v e S t o r i e s \ / '. .; _ _ ;. .' \/` \/ `\ _ _ _ _ /` \/ `\/ \ /` \/ `\ _ _ /` \/ `\ / '. .'\ /` \/ `\ /'. .' \/ '. .'\ /'. .' \/ jgs \/ '. .' \/ \/ >-->Love Stories for Valentine's Day >A Valentine Surprise By Faisal Fransu Valentine Cupid worked at an Assyrian restaurant, although he wasn't Assyrian himself. Nevertheless, he really enjoyed Assyrian music, food, among other things. You see, Valentine was a student of the Bible and ancient peoples. Therefore, researching the Assyrian people fell into both categories for him. On a particular afternoon, he was invited to lunch with the family of the owner of the restaurant. As far as he knew, they didn't have any children, because he had never heard them speak of any. When Valentine sat at the table, he observed that there were four chairs, although only three people would be eating. "Is there somebody else coming?" he asked the restaurant owner, whose name was Mr. Odisho. "Nope… Just the three of us. But why do you ask?" "Well there are four chairs here," responded Valentine. So Mr. Odisho's wife pointed at the empty chair and sighed. "There would've been a fourth person, but…" and there she stopped. "Well you don't have to tell me if it's a private thing," quickly remarked Valentine. "We don't mind telling you," said Mr. Odisho. "Many years ago, when we were still living in Iraq, my wife gave birth to a very beautiful girl. The moment we saw her, she became the apple of our eyes. But a few days later, our daughter was stolen by a villain named Ahmed Ahmed. Never mind all the details. So when my wife and I came to this country several years ago, I saw him walking in the street. So I reported him to the police. He admitted that he had stolen our daughter, but he didn't say where she was. Now he's in jail." "How old would she be right now?" Valentine asked when the grieving father was done telling his story. "Almost twenty," said Mr. Odisho. "Is there anything I can do to help?" offered Valentine. Read The Full Story Here: http://www.booksie.com/romance/short_story/199429/a-valentine-surprise -<>- >Intertwined By JK Vancouver, Canada Her cell phone rang, shattering her train of thought as she drove home from work. Glancing at it, sitting in a cup holder, she recognized her mother's number. Sighing, she parked at the side of the road and picked it up. "Hi Mom," She cheerily greeted. However, all she could hear were sobs and sniffles. "Mom?! What’s the matter?” She inquired, alarmed. “Do you think you could fly over tonight? Your dad and I have something to tell you.” “Of course. Why?” “It’s nothing serious but dad had a minor stroke this morning but he’s perfectly fine now. He thinks it’s time we told you something important.” “Well, I might be able to catch a flight tonight but I’ll have to check first. I’ll let you know as soon as I book one.“ “Thanks Ceci, I knew we could depend on you”, sighed Lily, relief evident in her voice. “No problemo mom, it’s my duty as your only daughter. I’ll call you ASAP.” “Take care, Ceci. Don’t worry too much, the doctor said that dad just needs to rest up and take a break,” Lily said as she hung up the hospital phone. She hated having to pester her daughter but Cecilia had insisted that they tell her everything. Finally relaxing, Cecilia ran her hands through her hair. Right after she’d returned home, she’d checked for available flights and seats to Vancouver. She’d managed to catch a flight at 11:30pm. Right after booking the flight, she’d packed her duffle bag, taken a shower and called her boss to let him know that she was taking the week off but would continue to work from her laptop. She’d eaten dinner and caught a bus to the airport. Read The Full Story Here: http://storystar.com/php/read_story.php?story_id=5354 -<>- >A COLLECTION OF LOVE SCENES By Charles E.J. Moulton Germany NINE LOVES SCENES FROM NINE SHORT STORIES I HAVE WRITTEN Enjoy! http://storystar.com/php/read_story.php?story_id=6747 -<>- >''Now the Carnival has Gone'' By Will Neill United Kingdom I remember the first time I ever set eyes on Gracie Adams; she was sitting on her front porch holding on tight to a piece of white paper in her right hand while drying her tears with the other. Her little sparrow legs were sticking out from under her faded blue floral dress and her flaming red hair was tossed and tangled. Maw had sent me on an errand to the grocery store to get some sugar for her morning coffee when I came across Gracie sobbing her heart out. I had a mind to keep on walking but if I had I couldn’t think what the rest of my life would have been like. Gracie and her Mother were new to our street that I did know, simple thing being I had overheard my Aunt Cassie and my own Maw gossiping about them one evening after supper. ‘’You been talking to that lady up at 41?’’ my aunt asked her. She didn’t answer at first seeing how she was too busy sucking on a newly rolled cigarette that was refusing to stay lit. ‘’Mmmn, Mmmn’’ she nodded blowing out a smoke ring towards the ceiling. ‘’Met her up at the store yesterday’’ Maw stated ‘’ Got a little girl just about the same age as Joshua’’ she said pointing in my direction; I believe the father is still overseas fighting somewhere in France or Belgium she happened to say. Read The Full Story Here: http://storystar.com/php/read_story.php?story_id=9516 ========================================================== >-->From Our Friend LouiseA :) ..8888888.. ..8888888.. .8:::::::::::8. .8:::::::::::8. .8:::::::::::::::8:::::::::::::::8. .8:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::8. 8:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::8 8::::::::::/` \/ `\:::::::::::::::::8 8::::::::::\ /` \/ `\:::::::::::8 '8:::::::::::. .\ /::::::::::8' '8:::::::::::\/:::. .:::::::::::8' '8::::::::::::::::\/:::::::::::8' '8:::::::::::::::::::::::::8' '8:::::::::::::::::::::8' '8:::::::::::::::::8' two hearts '8:::::::::::8' beat as one... jgs '8:::::8' '8' >Put Your Life Where Your Mouth Is (Author Unknown) Matthew 7:18-23 "A good tree cannot bear bad fruit, and a bad tree cannot bear good fruit. Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire. Thus, by their fruit you will recognize them. "Not everyone who says to me, `Lord, Lord,' will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only he who does the will of my Father who is in heaven. Many will say to me on that day, `Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name, and in your name drive out demons and perform many miracles?' Then I will tell them plainly, `I never knew you. Away from me, you evildoers!'" Jesus says that a person's life may not line up with his lip. Just because a person calls Jesus "Lord" does not mean that he lives his life under Jesus' lordship. Really living for Jesus means actively entrusting our lives to Him and living in obedience to Him-much more than mere lip service. In 1958, America's first commercial jet air service began with the flight of a Boeing 707. One month later a passenger on a piston-engine, propeller-driven DC-6 airliner found that he was sitting next to a Boeing engineer. The traveler asked the engineer about the new jet aircraft, and the engineer proudly told him all about the extensive testing Boeing had carried out on the jet. He also recounted Boeing's vast experience with engines, from the B-17 to the B-52. Asked if he had yet flown on the 707 jet, the engineer replied, "I think I'll wait until it's been in service awhile." You see, the engineer talked about the greatness of the jet, but he wasn't willing to risk his life by flying on it. He wasn't willing to put his life where his mouth was. Do you put your life where your mouth is, as far as your Christian walk is concerned? Do you really live with Jesus as "Lord", or do you just talk about Jesus being Lord? Think about it. --- ...Thanks LouiseA! The old saying 'Action Speaks Louder than words' Still holds true! You have to back up your talk with your walk! -<>- ,;;;, ,;;;, ;;;;;;;,;;;;;;; .:::. .::::;;;;;;;;;;; :::::::.:::::::;;;;;;;;;' :::::::::::::::;;;;;;;' ':::::::::::::';;;;;' ':::::::::' ';' ':::::' ':' >MARVELING AT THE SUPERABUNDANCE OF GRACE Last year I visited Niagara Falls for the first time and was awed by the sight and sound and overpowering sense of it all. Every minute, about 200,000 tons of water plunge into the Niagara River gorge in a thunderous ovation to the lavish, generous nature of God. The Lord could have used a lot less water, but He didn't. He could have made the falls lower, but He built them 12 stories high. And because they are what they are from the creative hand of God, people come from all over the world to see Niagara Falls. What a picture of God's grace in Jesus Christ! "In Him we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of His grace which He made to abound toward us in all wisdom and prudence" (Ephesians 1:7, 8). The Greek word translated "abound" means "an exceeding measure, something above the ordinary." God's grace toward us is not squeezed out from an eye-dropper or carefully rationed like water during a drought. His grace is a Niagara of superabundance so lavish that we marvel at its display. Today, as you approach God to "find grace to help in time of need" (Hebrews 4:16), remember how much there is -- grace beyond measure. -- D. C. MacCasland --- ...Awww, so beautiful! Thanks LouiseA! ====================================================== >-->From Archives InspiredBuffalo: ,;;;;;;, ,;;;;;;, ,;;;@@@@@;;;@@@@@;;;, ,;;;@@,;;;,@,;;;,@@;;;, ;;;@@;;;' ';' ';;;@@;;; ;;;@@;;; ;;;@@;;; ;;;@@';;, ,;;'@@;;; ';;;@@';;,;;'@@;;;' ';;;@@';'@@;;;' jgs ';;;@@@;;;' ';;@;;' ( ';' (#) ) (#) ( (#) ) (#) >NAMASTE Has this ever happened to you? The day after we moved to a small town in Colorado my wife Bev did grocery shopping. We moved few food items with us so she filled four grocery carts full. She asked if she could pay with an out of state check. "We just moved here," she explained, "and don't have local checks yet." They said, "Yes, no problem." But when she began looking for her checkbook, she discovered that she had left it at home. All of the groceries had been checked and sacked. "I'm so sorry," she said, "I thought I had it with me. If I could just leave the groceries here for a few minutes, I'll run home and get the checkbook." "Don't worry about it," the cashier told her. "Take the groceries home. The next time you're in the store you can pay for them." We had just moved from a large city and she couldn't believe what she was hearing! This clerk had never seen her before. But she treated her as if she were a VIP. She was somebody! Don't you love it when you are treated like you are somebody? Because the truth is, we are all somebody. We are all important. And maybe most businesses cannot (and should not) let everybody pay with credit, but even strangers can be treated with honor and respect. "Namaste" is a polite Indian gesture of greeting or farewell. From Hindi, the word literally means "bowing to you." Namaste has also been used to mean "I honor the sacred that is within you." What a remarkable thing it would be to actually honor the sacred that is within each person we meet! Even strangers. Nobody would go unnoticed and everybody would count. Here is an exercise that may dramatically change your life: for one month treat everybody you meet as if she or he is the most important person in the world. The man sweeping the sidewalk, your spouse and children, a teenager in the neighborhood, the elderly woman seated across the aisle from you -- honor that which is sacred in all of them. Give your undivided attention. By your words and actions, communicate to them all how important they are to you. Show them great respect and kindness. You may be amazed at what happens to your relationships! You may not single-handedly solve the problem of world peace -- but in one small way at least, you will make a great difference. Namaste. -- Steve Goodier -<>- .oOOo. .oOOo. .oO:::::Oo.oO:::::Oo. .oO::o88o::o::o88o::Oo. oO::888888o:o888888::Oo oO::888888888888888::Oo 'oO::8888888888888::Oo' 'oO::88888888888::Oo' 'oO::8888888::Oo' 'oO::88888::Oo' 'oO::8::Oo' jgs 'oO:Oo' 'O' >GENTLENESS AND HUGS By: Joseph J. Mazzella In my life I have experienced a lot of different types of hugs. I have gotten the warm hug that goes on forever. I have gotten the bear hug that squeezes the air right out of your lungs. I have gotten the neck hug where the little child jumps in your arms and wraps lovingly around your neck. I have gotten the back slapper hug where the hugger gives you the bam, bam on the back. I have even gotten the leg hug which toddlers all over the world use to melt your heart. The most memorable hug I ever got, however, came when I was a teenager. I was visiting a monastery in the Midwest with several other boys. Our guide took us through the simple rooms where the Priests and Monks lived, worked, and prayed. As we entered a small kitchen one of the Brothers walked in. To say he was intimidating would have been an understatement. He was a giant of a man. He stood well over six and a half feet tall. He must have weighed over three hundred pounds as well. He looked like a lineman for a professional football team dressed in a brown, wool robe. As we talked, though, his kind spirit and delightful sense of humor put us all at ease. That is until he rose to leave. Then he walked right at me to give me a hug. At first I feared he might crack a rib, but when he took me in his huge arms all I felt was the love from his soul. It was the gentlest hug I ever got. Leo Rosten said: "It is the weak who are cruel. Gentleness can only be expected from the strong." I learned that lesson first hand in the arms of one of the strongest but gentlest spirits I have ever met in this world. He showed me with one hug that God is love and that our real strength comes from loving each other as He loves us. He showed me that our true power comes when we aren’t afraid to embrace our goodness or express our joy. He showed me too that gentleness and hugs will forever go together. May your life always be full of both.( -<>- ..8888888.. ..8888888.. .8:::::::::::8. .8:::::::::::8. .8:::::::::::::::8:::::::::::::::8. .8:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::8. 8:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::8 8:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::8 8:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::8 '8:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::8' '8:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::8' '8:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::8' '8:::::::::::::::::::::::::8' '8:::::::::::::::::::::8' '8:::::::::::::::::8' '8:::::::::::8' jgs '8:::::8' '8' >LOVE LETTERS FROM GOD by Lydia E. Harris As the bridegroom rejoices over the bride, so shall your God rejoice over you. Isaiah 62:5 Read: Isaiah 62:1-5 On Valentine's Day I like to send and receive love notes with the special people in my life. I'm always eager to tear open the envelopes from family and friends and read the special sentiments. The cards may be humorous, sweet, or even romantic if they are from my bridegroom of 40 years. Often I save messages in my "special cards" file to reread later. I treasure another volume of love letters written to me--the Bible. God's Word overflows with messages to encourage, affirm, and guide me. But I'm ashamed to admit, I don't always read it as eagerly as my valentines. Although God's Word is penned with sacrificial love, at times it remains unopened. Busyness, interruptions, and life's cares may cause my disinterest and neglect. Just as love between a husband and wife wanes if it isn't nurtured, love for my heavenly Bridegroom grows cold if I don't cherish my time with Him. Yet God's love for me never changes. In Isaiah 62, I learn He sees me as a crown of beauty and a royal diadem in His hand (v. 3). And He delights in me (v. 4). Not only that, He rejoices over me as a bridegroom rejoices over his bride (v. 5). Ponder that thought: God Almighty rejoices over you and me. Incredible! Author Joni Eareckson Tada describes God's amazing love this way: "It's a jump- up-and-down, throw-your-head-back, yell-out-loud 'Rejoice!' God is brimming with heartfelt love for you. This is a God in love." Dear God I'm thrilled by Your love. Give me a deep, consistent love for You and Your Word. Day by day, may I fall more in love with You! Questions: What causes you to neglect God's love letters to you? What can you do to be consistent? How has God shown His deep love for you? What can you do to fall more in love with Him? Perhaps one way is to reflect on the words of the hymn, "The Love of God." by Frederick M. Lehman. Could we with ink the ocean fill, And were the skies of parchment made, Were every stalk on earth a quill, And every man a scribe by trade, To write the love of God above, Would drain the ocean dry. Nor could the scroll contain the whole, Though stretched from sky to sky. -<>- >Links for Your Enjoyment: Kid Lessons!- http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/kidlessons.html Best Playmate!- http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/playmate.html Aww Animals 4!- http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/animals4.html Driftwood Horses!- http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/horses.html Endangered Wolf!- http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/wolf.html Who Is Jesus Christ!- http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/BibleStudy/whoisjesus.html Amazing Dog Houses!- http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/doghouses.html Moon Photography Art!- http://www.shangralafamilyfun.com/moonart.html -<>- >From Our Friend Karen :) Keeping the old folks occupied http://www.freebrainagegames.com Friends https://www.youtube.com/embed/OvN1jTkzXbY?rel=0 Sgt. Lucca’s feats of military heroism ! http://tinyurl.com/nrmqxz2 --- ...So heartwarming! Thanks Karen! -<>- >From Our Friend LouiseA :) Gregg's Kitchen with other good video recipe's to choose from. RED THAI FISH CURRY VIDEO RECIPE http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2kOGphuy6Ps Sneezing Animals Compilation https://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_detailpage&v=EbwvPYV1i8E --- ...So cute! Thanks LouiseA! Visit Melissa's Online Store You can get anything you want (except for Melissa ) at the online store http://pdhomes.net/mall/babylissa/mySTORES/ISELL4.html ========================================================== >-->From Our Friend Karen :) ..8888888.. ..8888888.. .8:::::::::::8. .8:::::::::::8. .8:::::::::::::::8:::::::::::::::8. .8:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::8. 8:::::: ::::' ':::' ':::: : :::::8 8:::::: ::: ' ::: : :::::8 8:::::: ::: ::: : :::::8 '8::::: ::::. .:::: : ::::8' '8:::: ::::::. .:::::: : :::8' '8::: ::::::::.::::::::. .::8' '8:::::::::::::::::::::::::8' '8:::::::::::::::::::::8' '8:::::::::::::::::8' '8:::::::::::8' jgs '8:::::8' '8' A Church goer wrote a letter to the editor of a newspaper and complained that it made no sense to go to church every Sunday. "I've gone for 30 years now," he wrote, "and in that time I have heard something like 3,000 sermons. But for the life of me, I can't remember a single one of them. So, I think I'm wasting my time and the pastors are wasting theirs by giving sermons at all." This started a real controversy in the "Letters to the Editor" column, much to the delight of the editor. It went on for weeks until someone wrote this clincher: "I've been married for 30 years now. In that time my wife has cooked some 32,000 meals. But, for the life of me, I cannot recall the entire menu for a single one of those meals. But I do know this. They all nourished me and gave me the strength I needed to do my work. If my wife had not given me these meals, I would be physically dead today. Likewise, if I had not gone to church for nourishment, I would be spiritually dead today!" When you are DOWN to nothing..... God is UP to something! Faith sees the invisible, believes the incredible and receives the impossible! Thank God for our physical AND our spiritual nourishment! "When Satan is knocking at your door, simply say, "Jesus, could you get that for me?" --- ...I love these! Thanks Karen! ========================================================== >-->From Our Friend Jacinto :) .-"""-. .-"""-. / `..' \ _ | ___ _ _ _ _ | .-' / | | ( \/ )| | | ///// < <======\ | \ / | | /====<<<<< '-._\ \ _|_ \/ \_/ / \\\\\ `\ /' jgs `\ /' `\ /' `\/' >Thoughts Never make Promises when you are too Happy!! It takes a long time to do a thing right than it does to explain why you did it wrong. Hurt me with the truth but never comfort with a lie. One lie can trouble you with 100 lies ahead and at the end it is defeat and you are exposed. Prayer is an amazing exchange. You hand over your worries to Almighty God and he hands over his blessings to you. No matter how good is your intention, the World sees only presentation. AND No matter how good your presentation is, The almighty God sees only intention. Choice is yours! Do not break a promise made as it is a short term gain and a long time loss with only regrets. Be at peace with your creator. For He is all you have after you leave this life with all your deeds earned good, bad or worst the decision is yours to implement during life exits! Laughter is God's sunshine. Everyone has beauty but not everyone sees it. It's important for parents to live the same things they teach. Take time to laugh, for it is the music of the soul. Patience is the ability to idle your motor when you feel like stripping your gears. Love is strengthened by working through conflicts together. We take for granted the things that we should be giving thanks for. --- ..Wise thoughts! Thanks Jass! ======================================================= .-"""-. .-"""-. / `..' \ ; ___ _ _ ; | | | / \| ||_ | ; _|_ |__\_/|/ |_ ; \ _ / \__ \_// \| | / _ / | | \_/\_/ /' | \ \/_/\ /' \_\| / __ `\ /' \/_/__\ `\/' .--='/~\ ____,__/__,_____,______)/ /{~}}} -,-----,--\--,-----,---,\'-' {{~}} jgs __/\_ '--=.\}/ /_/ |\\ \/ >An Extended Little Hand Story Editor: by Greg Bland Joyce Schowalter Queensland, Australia My daughter is a single mum bringing up two daughters, 6 and 3 years old. She is on limited money, aware it only stretches so far, so she economises, yet is aware her children need to be trained to be caring. So for a treat, she decided on a trip to the movie theatre to see "Spirit: Stallion of the Cimarron". She bundled the little one into the stroller and all three headed out the two kilometres to the shopping mall where the movie theatre is. Of course, when going to the movies lollies and drinks are the order of the day, so she stopped at the store for that purchase. Next, she gave the children balloons each. As they continued on toward the movie theatre, the younger one was loudly singing the song, "Yes, Jesus loves me." My daughter saw a fairly old grey-haired bloke slowly shuffling along toward them. The next thing she knew, the old bloke had turned and was making his way straight to them. My daughter was a little concerned, so she stopped. All the while her 3-year-old, Ellie, was still singing. The old bloke shuffled up to them, bent down and addressed Ellie in a kindly voice saying, "That's a pretty balloon you have there, may I have it?" Ellie looked him straight in the eye and with an accepting smiling voice replied "Yes", and handed the balloon to him. A look of surprise and shock passed over the old bloke's face, as he reached for the balloon offered in an extended little hand. He thanked her gracefully and smiled broadly. Ellie's response surprised my daughter greatly. Three-year-old Ellie began to sing again but changed the lyrics slightly, to "Yes, Jesus loves you." Still smiling, the old bloke handed the balloon back, and said, "Thank you very much for sharing the balloon with me but it is really yours to keep." He looked at my daughter and said that it was unusual these days to experience such a kind and polite child. She explained that she was endeavoring to teach her children the value of sharing and respect of elders. With that, the old bloke turned and continued on his way and my daughter started walking again. Ellie bent forward in the stroller and looked back toward the old bloke as he shuffled away, calling out loudly, "Bye, bye" a number of times and waving. The old bloke stopped, partly turned and waved back. Tears were rolling down his cheeks as he waved, and when he continued on his way he seemed to stand taller and his shuffling seemed less pronounced. =======HeroicStories======= >-->CupO'Cheer: __ __ __ / \ / \ __ / \\""'-./ _ _ \.-'""// \ \ e\__o / \ / \ o__/a / | e / | | ` | | \ a | | ,__/ \ / \__, | \_______/ \ / \_______/ / \\ ' // \ / | \ \\_ _// / | \ ; \ \_ |_) (_| _/ / ; | \___) | _ _ | (___/ | | /_-/ | | \-_\ | jgs _; ----/ |__/ \__| \---- ;_ \_\__________/ \__________/_/ >GIVING YOUR BEST By Rick Ezell "Honor the LORD with your wealth, with the first fruits of all your crops; then your barns will be filled to overflowing, and your vats will brim over with new wine" (Proverbs 3:9-10 NIV). In Biblical thought what was first was best: first of the harvest, first of the flock, first of the children. When Abraham sacrificed Isaac he was giving his best. Isaac represented all the best things, the good things in Abraham's life. He represented his hopes, his dreams, his love, his future, his security, his prestige, his power, his life. Isaac was the most precious thing that he could have offered God. God doesn't want our leftovers; he wants what is best. Many years ago my wife and I were called to pastor a small church while I attended seminary for the second time. While I had served on staff at various churches this was my first pastorate. As was their tradition, they gave us, the new Pastor and his wife, a "pounding," a throw back from the old days when church members would bring a pound of flour, a pound of sugar, a pound of sausage, and so on to help the pastor's family set up house. When we arrived at the parsonage for our first night in our new home, we opened the cupboards to discover the shelves were filled with canned goods, the refrigerator was stocked to overflowing, and several craft items were lying on the kitchen counter to decorate the new home. We were very thankful and appreciative. But as we began to place the craft items around the house we noticed that some items had pieces missing and others were broken. When we checked out some of the items in the refrigerator they had already passed their expiration date. Then we started to go through the canned goods in the cupboard. Some were so old that rust was on the cans. While many of the church members donated items that were of good quality others gave items that were destined for the garage sale or the garbage can instead redirected to our pounding. They gave leftovers. They gave less than their best. We had two simultaneous emotions: one was of great joy for the generosity of many of the people and the other was of great sadness for getting unwanted discards. I wonder if God often feels the same way. The fact is that many people give their best to God. But, others give their leftovers. They treat God and his church like a garage sale. If it is something they have already used and worn out then they will give it to the church. The fact is that most of our giving is done from our surplus, not as a sacrifice. In other words, if we have any money left over after we have paid the bills, had a good time, and set aside some for ourselves, then we will give. Often times those gifts are nothing more than pocket change, spare time, and burned-out talents. Giving secondhand items to the church or Goodwill is better than throwing them away. But giving something away because we don't want it in the first place is not giving; it is selective disposal. Sacrifice is giving what we had rather keep. It is parting with the new and keeping the old. It is yielding the best and holding on to what will make do. Sacrifice is proven not by the gift made, but by what is left over after the gift has been made. Copyright 2012, Rick Ezell. --- ...A note here... II Corinthians 9: 6 -- But this I say, He which soweth sparingly shall reap also sparingly; and he which soweth bountifully shall reap also bountifully. 7 -- Every man according as he purposeth in his heart, so let him give; not grudgingly, or of necessity: for God loveth a cheerful giver. Check out this good teaching: http://www.absolutebiblestudy.com/Basics/TITHING_AND_THE_LAW.htm -<>- ___ .--. .--.-" "-' .- | / .-,` .' \ ` \ '. ! \ | ! .--. | \ '--' /.____ /`-. \__,'.' `\ __/ \`-.____.-' `\ / | `---`'-'._/-` \----' _ |,-'` / | _.-' `\ .' / |--'` / | / /\ ` | | | .\/ \ .--. __ \ | '-' '._ / `\ / jgs `\ ' |------'` \ | | \ / '._ _.' `` >BECOMING OUR OWN ROLE MODELS There was a time where women stood together in a bond of sisterhood, women supporting women. As women embrace the fullness of who they are as individuals, they may find themselves supporting other women, helping others to reach the level of inner comfort and outer freedom that they themselves have found. Among those who are less sure of themselves and their place in the world, it may be more common to criticize other women than to seek their help. But there are things that a woman can only learn from another woman, as there are things about being a man that can only be learned from other men. We all recognize that we have much to learn from each other regardless of gender, but sometimes we could use a supportive role model that gives us a more precise example of what and who we can become. There was a time where women stood together in a bond of sisterhood, women supporting women. It is only natural that the pendulum swings out of balance for a while so that we may have the experience of what we do not want. It is up to women to bring the pendulum back into balance and bring back the sacred sisterhood we yearn for at our core. If we envision a world where women support each other and help each other find their place in an ever-changing world, then we can become the change we want to see. Jealousy, envy, criticism, and judgment are refuges for the insecure. As we help others to become self-assured, we create a world in which all people help each other, regardless of gender. Only women can make the change in how women are seen and understood, not just by other women but by the world at large. The way we speak about each other to other women and to the men in our lives informs everyone to treat us with the respect that all women, and all people, deserve. as seen in Inspiration Plus -<>- .-. _,,,,,_ .-. ( , ' : : ' , ) / : : \ ; 0.---.0 ; \ / _ \ / \ | (_) | / ." `\ -'- /` ". / `"""""` \ / .' .-== '. \ / / .-=='\ \ ( / \ ) '-;`. .';-' jgs /_ `-.______ .-` __\ /` `\ / `\ / `\ \ | / \ | / `'--'` `'--'` >HOW WILL I GET IN? A man had a friend who was a highly decorated Air Force officer. One day, the officer decided to give him a tour of the Air Force base. As they were approaching the front gate, he wondered to himself, “How will I get in? Will they ask me lots of questions and make me wait while they do a background check?” But just as they arrived at the gate, a burly sergeant waved them through without hesitation. “How did we get in so quickly?” the man asked the officer. “This sticker,” he replied, pointing to a decal in the corner of the car’s windshield. “It lets me and any of my guests onto the base.” Because this man was with a decorated officer who had previous clearance, he could get through the gate with no difficulty. This is exactly how you and I can get into heaven! On our own, we wouldn’t stand a chance trying to enter those gates. We don’t deserve the right and could never earn it. But when you trust Jesus your Saviour, you become identified with Him. And if you are “in Christ Jesus,” you have free access to God’s favour in this life and a sure hope of entering heaven’s glory! Pray that God would give you a new appreciation for your status in Christ Jesus-- and that because of Him alone, you can enter heaven’s joy! --Author Unknown (The Timothy Report, www.timothyreport.com) -<>- To SUBSCRIBE: Send an e-mail with SUBSCRIBE CUP O'CHEER in the subject line to cheer316@sc.rr.com. ========================================================== >-->From Our Friend LouiseA :) _______ / /_ / -/- / / / / / / /_______/ / jgs ((______| / `"""""""` >Where is Your Foundation? (By Debbie Preuss, April 24, 2009) Where is your foundation? Is it safe and sure? When the storms of life come, Will yours still endure? What are you building on? Your life, your heart, your hope? What is there in your life, That will help you cope? Have you built on shifting sand, On the values of this earth? Where is your foundation? Where do you find your worth? Have you built your life On the Solid Rock of Christ? Where you have peace with God, Because He paid the price. Is He your foundation, The center of your heart? When the storms of life come, Do you know He'll never part? No matter what the forces, That come against your soul - If Christ is your foundation, He will keep you whole. Long after your life is over, Your foundation will remain; A glorious testimony, To the power of Jesus' name. So when others look back at your life, One thing will endure: That on the Rock of Jesus Christ, Your foundation was secure. --- ...Amen! Thank You LouiseA! >Updated FUN STUFF URLS - Oh Yeah Shangy! ------------------------------------------------------------------------ http://www.ShangralaFamilyFun.com/urls.html FUN URLS ------------------------------------------------------------------------ -->FULL LENGTH - FREE On line AUDIO MP3 Christian Foundational Class http://www.truthortradition.com/modules.php?name=News&file=article&sid=61 NEW LIFE IN CHRIST! ------------------------------------------------------------------------ -->This is for all you who love food and DARE to make it at home Yep. You guessed it - Recipes. These are Tried and True, Yummy to the Tummy, good old fashioned home cooking recipes that are EASY to do Visit Shangy's Easy-Does-It Home Recipes: http://www.ShangralaFamilyFun.com/easy.html Home Recipes >Got A good Recipe? 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