God's Angels are Everywhere!

I went to the dermatologist today as part of my medical checkups this summer. I wasnt planning on going to the dermatologist, but I've had this tugging in my heart to go for a few months now. As a teacher I am required to take my kids out for recess and/or p.e. everyday and since I had major surgery last summer, I've noticed that my skin, especially my face is much more sensitive to the sunlight. So I thought during summer break, I'd go have a "skin check" as they refer to it at my new dermatologist's office. So I went today. Thus begins this blog.......it was an interesting experience. The doctor's checks out your entire body with this lighted magnifying lamp thingy. She was a nice lady and thankfully all of my freckles check out as being okay ..........but then she looked at the bottom of my foot. I've always had a dark spot on the bottom of my foot, like a big freckle. Well she looked at it again and did some measuring and said it probably needed to come out. The last thing I imagined was that it needed to come out right there and then!!!!!!!!!!! Didnt she know that I'm the scaredy-cat that can't do things by herself, especially not without my hubby! She tells me that she will have the nurse get me ready. That's when I started to panic. I prayed really fast and panicked some more. I don't do well with blood and I faint easily so I was afraid that I might not do well during the procedure without my better half at my side. The doctor gave me a shot to numb the area and my tears began to quietly flow. I was so embarrassed that I couldnt be strong enough so I looked away. I don't know how but the sweet nurse, her name was "Kelly," must have noticed that I wasn't doing so well so she held my hand. I held her hand so tight! The rest of the time she told me little stories of how she was a grandmother and it was her granddaughter's 3rd birthday today. Before I knew it I started to relax and then it was all over. Whew! I asked the nurse if I could give her a hug and thanked her for holding my hand. I knew right there and then that it was not by coincidence that she was my nurse today. Her gentleness and patience reflected God's love and He knew I would need just that today. Nurse Kelly was the perfect example of how we should treat others that are in need.......She took the time to encourage me and care for me, a perfect stranger. A beautiful angel! Now I just have to elevate my foot and take care of the itty-bitty wound until its time to get my stitches out. Meanwhile, my "beauty mark" is being sent in for biopsy

Thank you God for sending nurse Kelly to me today. Thank you for putting that tug in my heart to see the doctor, for following through on Your nudging and guidance, and for making me feel so safe throughout the entire ordeal. In Jesus' name I pray, Amen

Quiet Time

One of my favorite things to do during summer vacation is to catch up on my quiet time. This is the time I try to set apart each day for God. I used to be really good at reading, reflecting and praying before bedtime each night. Lately, between having had major surgery and spending the day teaching energetic 5 year olds, I find myself completely drained in the evenings. So my plan for the new school year is to get better about having quiet time early in the mornings before leaving for school. Now that both kids have started college and are more and more independent, I'm hoping it will be easier. Thus my love for summer mornings!

So let me tell you about this new book I picked up at the library: "Me and My Big Mouth!" Its written by one of my favorite authors, Joyce Meyer, and so far the premise of the book seems to be focused on how we should be careful how we speak. Our choice of words not only affect our own lives but influences those around us. I love that verse in the Bible that tells us to be "slow to speak" Check out James 1:19. In one of the chapters I read yesterday, the author reminds us that not only gossiping is sinful but so is complaining. Oh No!!! I had to stop right there when I read the word "complaining" As I reflect back on this school year I complained so much at work!! Not about my job so much, I love my job, but I used these words constantly "I'm so tired!" Almost everyday when talking to my coworkers I found myself exchaning those words all the time "I'm so tired" or "Its so early" "Its so hot outside!" blah blah blah ! Gosh, what kind of example was I ? I don't think it was a coincidence that I picked up this book!! Thank you Joyce Meyer for writing it! In it she writes that "complaining is sinful" and I am going to remember that! Check out John 6:43. She goes on to remind us that we should start our day by giving thanks to God for everything. (I'm usually very good about that and then when I get to work ---why do I forget? ugh!) My neighbors, the Garcias, have always been such great examples of living out the "no complaining because its sinful" thing. There ar 7 people living in their house including a 3 year old, a brand new baby and a great grandmother! In the 6 years I have known them, I have yet to hear them complain about anything. I admire them so much for the example they are living out. Love you Rosa, Orlando, Sandra, and Orlandito!

So I'm off to start my day and I promise not to complain! I will be joyful and Praise God for all that I have and that I am today. Thank you Jesus!