My Little Purple Book, Part 2

He can't wait to present it to me. The little flower on the front, with its' purple center and bright blue petals makes it just too cute to put away.

The front cover has the letters M-O-M written vertically, and horizontally they begin the words, Memories of Mom.

I've never shown him my little purple book, but he has witnessed the answered supplications throughout his young life. He has been protected, provided for and preserved.

And this is some of what it says,

Peanut M&M's with mom.

Mom takes me to the park and buys me a little pumpkin.

My seventh birthday party- pizza and "Inspector Gadget".

First day of school. P.S. Best teacher ever!

Me and mom go to Apple Hill for the day.

I take mom to get her a teacup, she loves it!

Mom helps me pick sunflowers out for grandma.

Thank you for believing in me so much!


My little book means more to me than anything. It takes me back to a time when a little boy fell in love with his mom. It reminds me of the instruction and training he had. Soon, his heart will belong to another. The little book is no more than 2" square, but it's enough room to stow my heart.


Warmly,
Alis

Marked By Expectation

photo by Jon Sullivan

Good Morning Porch Pals!

Last night I came across one of the most endearing little notes ever written by my youngest child. He had written to the UPS delivery driver regarding his school book order. He was going to start first grade. Printed on the outside of a large wide-margined piece of newsprint he wrote, "Opn It Up." On the reverse side he penned, "Too the yoops man. I won too hav mi scul bcs!" He taped this special message to a pole in the front yard. Then he waited, watched, and rested.

What a heart full of hope! He was expecting results. He believed the school books were coming.

What are you expecting? What are you waiting for? A weekend, or a day off? Test results, an interview outcome, a financial need to be met? A child to regain his independence? It's as simple as writing it out on that worn yellow paper.

"Open It Up." And, "To the UPS Man- I want to have my school books!"

"Dear God..." And, "I ..."

The next thing is to wait, watch, and rest.

Believing With You,

Alis



Year's End

" Thy goodness has been with me during another year,

leading me through a twisting wilderness,

in retreat helping me to advance, when beaten back

making sure headway.

Thy goodness will be with me in the year ahead;

I hoist sail and draw up anchor,

With thee as the blessed Pilot of my future

as of my past..."

The Valley of Vision

Have a Happy New Year!

I look forward to spending time with you on the porch next year. We will dig into Titus 2, read from books on purpose, see what's on the menu, and dedicate ourselves to making our house a home! Thank you for joining me.

From the porch,

Alis



Bed Rest

Victoria Rose Graphics

    "Give me summer weather in my heart."



Dear Friends,

Today finds me sick in bed. In decades past I would have tried to sweat it out, literally "stepping" to music that motivated me to move up and down, and sweat. What a silly notion to think I could perspire a bug right out! Later, came the "clean it " years. With some bleach and sanitizing wipes I'd give each germ walking papers!

More recently, I have learned to embrace this rest. It has afforded me time to pray for a neighbor who is sick with cancer. I spent most of yesterday thinking about her, and what she must be thinking about. I will not complain about this cold. I am more content to knock on the doors of heaven and intercede for my friend. For this I am grateful. Thank you God for purposeful rest.

Quote is from The Valley of Vision.

With warmest regards,
Alis