Flowers from my hike along North Steele Creek at Anne Springs Close Greenway is my entry for Cee’s Flower of the Day Challenge .
Look
👀
Closer
has a
Visitor
God bless. Thank you. I appreciate y’all.
FOTD: September 2
Look
👀
Closer
has a
Visitor
Look
👀
Closer
has a
Visitor
Catawba River: Westminster Park Area
River
Park
Adams
Trail
South Carolina
Catawba River
God Bless. Thank You! I appreciate y’all.
Wordless Wednesday: 8/31 – Green Anole: AKA Carolina Anole
God Bless. Thank you! I appreciate y’all.
Have A Seat: Relax & Reflect
@ Andrew Jackson State Park
A bench is a wonderful place to sit and catch your breath. A place you can enjoy the view. A place you can read. A place you can relax. A place you can reflect on life, On what God has done for you.
This particular bench is one I take advantage of when visiting Andrew Jackson State Park. I love the views from here of the lake. I thank God for His beautiful creations and the delight it brings me.
God Bless. Thank you! I appreciate y’all.
Plants and Trees: Bougainvillea
On the Left:
Parana’ Pine
Bougainvillea
`San Diego Red’
on the Right:
California Fan Palm
Washingtonia filifera
God Bless. Thank you! I appreciate y’all.
Silent Sunday: Clouds – View Above
God Bless. Thank you! I appreciate y’all.
Do Not Worry: Pray Instead
“Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.”
Matthew 6:34 NIV (New International Version)
Saying do not worry is a lot easier than actually not worrying. When you worry, you allow yourself to dwell on the negative, the difficulties, the troubles in your life. Worry doesn’t help anything, it doesn’t prevent troubles from coming your way. So what does worry do? It can lead to feelings of high anxiety and possibly cause you to become physically ill. It is natural to worry about our problems, our situation in life, however, it never resolves anything.
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.”
Philippians 4: 6-7 ESV (English Standard Version)
about Nothing
Pray
about Everything
Philippians 4:6
God already knows our thoughts, our troubles, our concerns so why not talk to Him about what is on our minds? Pray about your troubles and concerns. Pray about what causes you to be anxious and worry. Do not lose sleep over your troubles. Give them all over to God through prayer instead. God cares about every detail of your life. Do not suppress your emotions, it is better to pour your heart out and lay your thoughts and concerns at the feet of Jesus.
“Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me. In my Father’s house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you, I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also.”
John 14:1-3 KJV (King James Version)
Why should you pray? There are many healthful benefits of praying. God instructs us to pray. The following are a few reasons why we should prayer.
- Prayer reduces stress. When you prayer your heart rate and blood pressure decreases, and your breathing regulates...
- Prayer reduces empathy…Pray for others, not just yourself
- Prayer Builds Relationships…strengthens your relationship with God and others. You do not have to prayer alone.
- Prayer is Spiritual Exercise…Helps keep your soul in shape. Prayer exercises the mind.
- Prayer improves your Emotional Health…It gives you a connection to someone greater than yourself. It gives you a greater sense of purpose, betters your mood, and helps you to cope and overcome difficulties.
“Casting all your anxieties on him. because he cares for you.”
1 Peter 5:7 ESV (English Standard Version)
“When the righteous cry for help, the LORD hears and delivers them out of all their troubles.”
Psalm 34:17 ESV (English Standard Verion)
God takes care of you always. He has in the past, he is now in the present, and he will continue to take care of you in the future. Even though it is hard not to worry, giving your troubles over to God is for your betterment. God will not fail you. God loves you and only wants the best for you. Lean on Him. Let God be your strength in difficult times.
And lean not on your own understanding;
In all your ways acknowledge Him,
And He will direct your paths.” Proverbs 3:5-6
lordsguidance.com
God Bless. I pray the Lord strengthens you, guides your every move, protects you from harm, and grants you the peace that passes all understanding. Thank you for listening. I appreciate y’all.
FOTD: 8/25
My Flower of the Day (FOTD) is one I took in August 2021. I hope you enjoy it.
Asiatic Dayflower
God Bless. Thank you. I appreciate y’all.
Rainbow Baby: What does it mean? Why are they celebrated?
Yesterday, August 22nd, was National Rainbow Baby Day. Have you ever experienced a Rainbow Baby? Do you know what is meant by a Rainbow Baby? I do and remember every year.
A Rainbow Baby is a baby born subsequent to a miscarriage, stillbirth, or death of an infant from natural causes. I actually have three Rainbow babies. Each of my three living children were born within a year of a miscarriage or stillbirth. I have not and will now ever forget the babies I lost. I treasure the babies, now grown, which God graciously allowed me to have.
The Rainbow represents beauty after a dark time. It is sad that nearly one in four pregnancies ends in loss. That loss could be due to miscarriage, stillbirth, ectopic pregnancy, or blighted ovum. My maternal grandmother lost a baby girl after fourteen days of her birth. I had two miscarriages and one stillbirth. The loss is one which is never forgotten, even though you go on with life. The majority of people would never know the experience you went through.
The term Rainbow Baby began to be used approximately around 2008. Before that time things like that weren’t really discussed. The term Rainbow Baby has gained popularity through social media and on blogs. The term has come to symbolize hope and healing.
On August 22nd, families throughout the country commemorate the lives of the infants they lost while also celebrating motherhood. I, myself, commemorate all three of the infants I lost and am very grateful for my three living children. Those of us that have experienced the loss of a baby welcome and celebrate our Rainbow Babies with joy, reflection, healing, and a deep set of mixed emotions. When one carries a Rainbow Baby after a previous loss, one can feel anxiety as well as joy. You grieve the one you lost while celebrating the new life growing inside of you. The feelings of anxiety come from not knowing if the new baby will survive, if you’ll lose it as well. You pray that the Rainbow baby will be healthy and that you’ll be able to hold him or her in your arms.
God Bless. Thank you for listening. Rainbow babies are very dear to my heart. Mine bring me joy, but I will never forget the ones I lost. I, truly believe I will see my babies I lost again one day. I appreciate y’all.
Wordless Wednesday: 8/24
God Bless. Have a funtastic day. Thank you. I appreciate y’all.
Flower of the Day Challenge
These entries are from my hike along the Catawba River. The flowers I notice along the river are not always the same. Different ones catch my eye at different times. The wildflowers are beautiful to observe and enjoy .
My entries for Cee’s FOTD Challenge from 8/22. Hope y’all enjoy.
God bless. Thank you! I appreciate y’all.
Coleman Meets his Paternal Great Grandmother
My grandson turned three on July 25th and had never met the majority of his paternal relatives including his paternal great grandmother. His paternal great grandmother lives in Japan and hasn’t been in this country, at least not for a very long time. She recently got on a plane in Japan and flew to South Carolina. She is here because her daughter, my grandson, Coleman’s paternal grandmother, is extremely ill. She doesn’t seem to know where she is, hasn’t been eating for weeks before she was taken to the hospital. Her lack of substance and her alcoholism has destroyed a lot of the normal bodily functions, like walking, her organs, and her breathing to name a few. At this time, she has not been given a sufficient diagnosis and was sent to a rehabilitation facility. This does not make since to several people, but the only person who has any say in her treatment is her husband. She is on oxygen, is unable to walk, even for short distances like to the bathroom. Prayers would be appreciated on her behalf.
&
his paternal
great grandmother
Most people that cross Coleman’s path on the trail or out and about know he is not usually shy, but very friendly and says hi to everyone. That was not the case today when he met his paternal great grandmother for the very first time. He backed away, hid behind me and didn’t say anything for a long time. I’ve never known Coleman to be shy. Coleman’s dad, David picked her up from his dad’s home and brought her to our home. The meeting was in familiar surroundings, but a strange person in his home seemed to baffle him. It took some coaxing to get him to sit next to her.
paternal
great grandmother
trying to
get him
to talk
Since Coleman has a very strong attachment to me, I left the room to try to help him not to cling to me, but to allow him an opportunity to get acquainted with his paternal great grandmother. I feel gratitude that Coleman was given this opportunity to meet her. Thankfully she does speak a little English as her primary language is Japanese. My grandson’s father does not speak Japanese, it was not taught to him when he was growing up.
Thankful for the short time Coleman had to spend with his paternal great grandmother. Maybe she can come again to visit him while she is in the United States.
God bless. Thank you. I appreciate each and every one of y’all.
Cell Pic Sunday: Lake Haigler
Here’s my entry for John’s Cellpic Sunday
View
from
Timberline Trail
View
from bench
east of dock
God bless. Thank You! I appreciate y’all.
Desktop Photo: August 2022
God Bless. Thank You! I appreciate y’all.
Mushrooms: Fungi kind of Day
Today as Coleman and I hiked along Timberline Trail at Anne Springs Close Greenway we saw several groups of Mushrooms. Several of the hikers in the hiking club enjoy taking photos of mushrooms. Some refer to them as shrooms.
A Mushroom or toadstool is the fleshy, spore-bearing fruity body of a fungus. They are typically produced above ground, on soil, or on its food source. Most mushrooms have a stalk (aka a stem), and a cap, which is usually disc shaped.
The mushroom helps the tree extract minerals and water from the soil. In exchange, the tree supplies the mushroom with sugar compounds. An interesting fact is that mushrooms are genetically closer to humans than plants. You might wonder how that can even be possible. Well, I wonder that too. It is something I never knew before. It is always beneficial to keep learning new things. Below is a list of amazing facts regarding mushrooms.
- Fungi breath oxygen and exhale co2.
- More than 80% of the earth under your feet is mycelium.
- The mushroom is the tip of the iceberg & is the fruity body of the mycelium.
- The fruity body makes up less than 5% of the organism.
- Mushrooms spores can survive the vacuum and radiation of space.
- Death Cap is one of the most deadliest organisms on the earth.
- psilocybin mushrooms (magic mushrooms) are being researched at John Hopkins University to treat depression, addiction, and many other psychological problems.
- Mushrooms taste good and are free.
I try my best to make sure that Coleman, my grandson, does not touch any mushrooms we see out on the trails. One question to ask: “Is it okay to Touch a mushroom?” There are many common mushrooms which contain toxins, so one needs to be cautious about touching them. It is important not to touch mushrooms growing in the wild. Why you might ask? They may be rare species which should not be damaged. It is difficult to tell if a mushroom is toxic, so it is pertinent to instruct your children to not touch or play with mushrooms. Mushrooms are typically fragile; therefore, it is best to leave them untouched. Touching them may damage or discolor them dye to the oils that are present naturally on our skin.
God Bless. If you come across wild mushrooms, think twice before touching them. You never know the harm that touching them might cause. Thank You for stopping by. I appreciate y’all.
FOTD – August 19 – Tea Rose Hybrid
My entry today for Cee’s Flower of the Day Challenge (FOTD). A, I think, beautiful Tea Rose Hybrid.
Rose 🌹
Hybrid
I originally took this photo of a rose from my garden back in September of 2013. I loved having a small garden back then, but unfortunately I am unable to have one at present.
God bless. Thank you. I appreciate y’all.
Mid-Week Monochrome Challenge: MWM #101 – A Blast from the Past
Brashley Photography blog Mid-Week Monochrome challenge. This week I decided to post Monochrome pictures from my past.
North Carolina
Deep Gap,
North Carolina
for
Henrietta Walters
(aka Waters)
My Great Grandmother
Bethune,
South Carolina
I love to research my ancestry and visit my ancestral cemeteries when possible. It is fun for me to look back and enjoy the memories.
God bless. Thank you. I appreciate y’all.
All photos ©️gfpacificbee. Photo Credit: Debbie L Waters
Wordless Wednesday: Painted Rocks
God Bless. Thank You! I appreciate y’all.
Flower of the Day Challenge (FOTD)8/16
My entries for Cee’s FOTD Challenge. I hope you enjoy them.
Feasting on a
False Sunflower
anar (Punica granatum)
flowers
enjoying the nectar
from a
Cephalanthus occidentalis
Commonly known as
Buttonbush
God Bless. Thank you! I appreciate y’all.
Flowing River Water 💦 💧 💦
The sound of flowing water is calming to the soul. It can calm you spirit, help you to relax, and improve your sleep quality. I enjoy being near the flowing waters at the river and lakes. Do you? My grandson loves to be near any outdoor body of water. He enjoys watching the water flow, but he loves playing in it more. He loves to jump in water or throw things like rocks, tree limbs, or whatever he can find and watch them make the water splash.
The Bible often speaks about water. It uses water as a symbol for faith, salvation, and provision. Water is used as an example of our relationship with God.
- Spring of Water from God leads to Eternal Life. John 4:14
- Thirsting for God is illustrated through the deer panting for streams of water. Psalm 42:1
- God uses Water as a guide Isaiah 49:10
- The Living Water – Jesus is the living water. John 7:37-38
- God will be our Constant Guide through the storms of life. He will walk through them with us.
When I see the river or lake waters flowing, I am amazed at the wonders of God’s creation. The natural calming effect the sounds of the flowing waters have upon me. It is truly miraculous how it all flows together for our benefit.
Take the time to enjoy nature and if possible watch the waters flowing from a lake, river, or stream and let me know how you are affected by them.
God bless. Thank you. I appreciate y’all.
Cell Pic Sunday: 8/14
Catawba River
Overlook
Couldn’t pick just one. Catawba River and Coleman. Love ❤️ them both.
God Bless. Thank you. I appreciate y’all.
Silent Sunday:Riverwalk_Catawba River
of
Catawba River
from
Under
the
Bridge
God bless. Thank You! I appreciate y’all.
Mid-week Monochrome: MWM 8/11
Brashley Photography blog Mid-Week Monochrome challenge
Marion Walsh
Outdoor Classroom
Stone Marker
sitting on a
Slanted U
shaped tree
in the
Greenway
of my
daughter
Taken
by my
3 year old
grandson
Coleman
God bless. Thank you! Remember I appreciate y’all.
Black & White: Moving Water in the Greenway
Cee’s Black & White Photo Challenge: Moving Water
Coleman
threw a log
in Lake Crandall
water
movement
God Bless. Thank you. I appreciate y’all.
Never Give Up….Never Ever
Give
Up
depositphotos.com
“Never give up, for that is just the place and time that the tide will turn.”
~ Harriet Beecher Stowe ~
Gr8learnings.com
Never means that at no time in the past, present, or future; on no occasion; not ever. Simply put it means that we will never do something; not now, not ever. So don’t hold your breath for me to change my mind. I will never give up.
The Bible speaks several times about the term never. It speaks of what God will never do. The following is just a few of the things that God will never do.
- God will never leave us
“ Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the LORD your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you.”
—- Deuteronomy 31:6 NIV (New International Version)
- God will never forsake you
“Keep your life free from love of money, and be content with what you have, for he has said, ‘I will never leave you nor forsake you.’”
— Hebrews 13:5 ESV (English Standard Version)
- God will Never let the righteous be shaken
“Cast your cares on the Lord and he will sustain you; he will never let the righteous be shaken.”
— Psalm 55:22 NIV
- God will Never forget me
“Can a woman forget her sucking child, that she should not have compassion on the son of of her womb? Yea, they may forget, yet I will not forget thee.”
— Isaiah 49:15 KJV (King James Version)
- God will never let me go
“And I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; neither shall anyone snatch them out of My hand.”
— John 10:28 NJKV ( New King James Version)
If God never gives up on us, how can we give up on ourselves? We need to follow God’s example and NEVER give up.
You may think life isn’t fair, what’s the point in going on? The point is your life is worth it, it is not over. Never Give Up! God has a purpose for your life, a reason for you being on this earth. Sure, you may fall, but then pick yourself up. You may stumble and when you do, stop, recover your balance and go on with your life. No matter what life brings you, always remember to Never Ever Give Up.
Never give up.
livelifehappy.com
even if you fall. You must stay on to
see the rise.
mydiscover.net.in
There are a few positive things regarding Never.
- Never stop believing in yourself
- Never stop learning
- Never stop being self-confident
- Never stop having fun
- Never stop dreaming
- Never stop loving others or yourself
- Never stop being grateful
- Never stop giving of yourself
- Never stop improving
- Never stop growing
The list could go on and on. Let’s always remember to think positively and Never Give Up.
BELIEVE in yourself
NEVER Give UP
God bless. Thank you. Stay strong. Keep learning. Keep growing. Be confident. You are loved. You are worth it. Never give in to the war within. Remember I appreciate y’all.
Wordless Wednesday
Gulf of Mexico
God bless. Thank you! I appreciate y’all.
National Book Lovers Day
Today, August 9th is National Book Lovers Day. It is a day to encourage the joy and fun of reading. It celebrates literature and books, encouraging people to out down their smart phones and to simply enjoy reading. It harnesses all the excitement which bibliophiles feel about books into one celebration.
National
Book
Lovers
Day
http://www.brighterkind.com
National Book Lovers Day is an unofficial holiday observed to encourage bibliophiles to celebrate reading and literature. You might ask what is a bibliophile? Simply put, it is a person who has a great appreciation for or collects books. This term I have not been familiar with, but I suppose you could say that I am one. I love books. I love reading books. I love the feel of an actual book in my hands and prefer a physical book to an eBook even though I do read eBooks on occasion.
August 9th
edorathy.com
It is unknown exactly when or how National Book Lovers Day became a part of the calendar. It is noted that people have been carrying around books with them for centuries. At one time books were extremely large and expensive so only the wealthy were able to afford owning them. Today books come in a variety of formats for the Book Lovers to enjoy. There are many different genres, authors, and books from various time periods. Book Lovers have the option to choose from thrillers, romance, non-fiction, and graphic novels. There are many subdivisions to each of these categories as well. Personally, I love to read Amish fiction, both romantic and mystery novels.
— Mark Haddon
Eventsyard.com
Books are easily accessible for everyone on computers, smartphones, tablets, and kindles, as well as the trusty old common paperbacks. As I stated earlier, I love the feel of a book (paperback or hardback) in my hands. I love to turn the pages while I am reading. Reading on my computer or smartphone just does not give the same feel, the same thrill or enjoyment for me while I read.
is a dream
that you hold
in your hand.”
— Neil Gaiman
http://www.latestly.com
I want to take the time to thank all authors for their inspiration, their dedication, their research, and thought inspiring words they put to print so that I may escape to another realm, to be inspired and learn life lessons from their vast knowledge. Thank y’all for being dedicated authors who desire to write wholesome faith-based novels that continue to relate and captivate the interest of not only me, but many others also.
when you’re reading a book
shutterstock.com
God Bless. Take time out of your day to read. Read a book, a magazine, read online or pick up a book in your hands and take pleasure in reading. Thank You! I appreciate y’all.
Monday Portrait: Coleman, my favorite subject
on
Blue
Star
in
his
favorite
place
ASCG
Nana’s
Boy
Color
Popped
Happy
on
Timberline
Trail
God Bless. Thank You! Remember I appreciate y’all.
Cell Phone Selfie: By Three Year Old
selfie
Coleman used my cell phone. iPhone 13 Pro Front camera— 23mm f2.2. ISO 250 1/40s
God Bless. Thank You! I appreciate y’all.
Silent Sunday: 08-07-2022
Have a blessed day. Thank you! I appreciate y’all.
Public Art: Wall Art Plus_West Jefferson, NC
Public Art, what is it? Have you noticed any when you’ve been out and about? I’ve been noticing Public Art more and more the last several years. Almost everywhere you may wander there seems to be some form of Public Art to enjoy.
West Jefferson
Wall Art
Public Art is art in any media whose form, function and meaning are created for the general public through a public process according to Wikipedia.org. Simply put it is art located in public spaces for the public to enjoy and admire. Some forms of public art are murals and sculptures mounted on buildings or other structures. They are usually large scale and highly visible on the street.
Wall Art
West Jefferson, NC
West Jefferson is a town in Ashe County, North Carolina in the United States of America. It is nestled within the Blue Ridge Mountains in the northwest region of North Carolina. The town was developed around the Virginia-Carolina Railroad depot in the early 1900’s.
Public
Art
West Jefferson’s art district features an array of colorful murals that are interesting to look upon and are part of the Appalachian Mural Trail. There are distinctive public art and numerous galleries. West Jefferson offers pedestrian-friendly streets. There are several bump-outs filled with attractive green and flowering plants adding beauty.
West Jefferson
North Carolina
Wall
Mural
Cheese 🧀 Made
Ashe County
Cheese Factory
I visited West Jefferson, Ashe County, North Carolina in August of 2017 when I went up to Deep Gap, North Carolina for a family reunion. I made a long weekend of it and enjoyed seeing the sights after my reunion. The streets truly were pedestrian-friendly and the sights were amazing to look upon and admire. I was able to watch cheese being made which is a craft all its own.
Photo Credit: ©️DebbieLWaters @gfpacificbee
God bless. What Public Art have y’all spotted? I’d love to see them shared. Thank You! I appreciate y’all.
Friendship: Do You Have A Close Friend…A Best Friend Who’ll Always Be There?
“A friend loveth at all times, and a brother is born for adversity.”
Proverbs 17:17 KJV (King James Version)
The Bible speaks often about friendship and what characteristics qualifies a true friend. Do you have a true friend, a best friend who is always there for you? A good friend is a blessing, but not everyone has one. You may have had one at one time, but life got in the way and you may no longer have one.
“A man who has friends must himself be friendly, But there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother.”
~ Proverbs 18:24 NKJV (New King James Version)
Ever wonder if you are the reason you do not have true friends? I never really gave it much thought. I have online friends, but can’t say they are close friends. I have had work friends, but they were never close friends. I have friends I’ve known since my childhood, but distance limits the closeness of the friendship.
A friend is a person who has a strong liking for or trust in another person. Good friends handle conflict respectfully and respect boundaries. True friends may have differences of opinions, you might upset one another, but they will tell you the truth and let you know if you’ve crossed a boundary or hurt them in any way. Do you have a true friend?
Friend
Loves
at all
Times.
~ Harvest House Publishers ~
You might ask what qualities a true good friend should have. The following list are examples of those qualities of a true friend.
- They live with integrity….
- You can trust them….
- “Dependability” is their middle name….
- They’re loyal….
- They have empathy for others….
- They’re good listeners….
- Their confidence is contagious….
- Spending time with them makes you feel good…. ~http://www.betterup.com~
- They understand you all the time…
A best friend is a blessing from God. Is one who will forgives as Christ forgives. Is someone who prays for you continually. Is willing to risk their life for you.
BibleVerseImages.com
is like a
four leaf clover,
hard to find,
blessed to have.
~ LetterPile.com ~
I am thankful for the friends I have regardless of whether they are near or far away. They are all close to my heart and I treasure their friendship.
Thank you God for the friends you have given me, for the sharing & the praying, for the laughter & the encouragement they bring to me. Thank you Lord for their presence in my life. Please watch over them and bring hope and blessings to them. I trust you, Lord, to protect them, comfort them, and surround them with your loving arms. Lord, help me to be a better friend & remind me to pray for them continually. Amen.
God Bless. Thank You! Do not ever forget I appreciate y’all.
Favorite Shots: This Week at the Greenway
Glimpse
of the
Trestle
Horse
Close
Up
Gaggle
of
Geese
Plump
of
Geese
Young
Calf
Spotted
Cow
God Bless. Thank You! I appreciate y’all.
Shhh….Be Very Quiet….Look Closely….What Do You See?
Did you see what my grandson, Coleman and I spotted on our afternoon hike? It is amazing what you can see out in nature if you keep your eyes open and observe your surroundings c l o s e l y. The only problem with our observations is that Coleman tends to speak real loud when he spots an animal that he scares them into running away.
God Bless. Thank you! Remember I appreciate y’all.
Wordless Wednesday: Flower Sequence
‘Diana’
(Rose of Sharon)
God Bless. Thank you! Remember I appreciate y’all.
ASCG Trail Passport: What does earning a Passport Certificate Entail?
The Anne Springs Close Greenway has a Trail Passport program that members and visitors may choose to participate if they so desire. The Trail Passport booklet is a guide for your benefit to assist you in exploring the over 40 miles of hiking, biking, and equestrian trials. The Greenway has 26 unique trails and points of interest. The Passport provides an easy way for you to keep track of which trails you have accomplished, and which trails you have yet to complete.
Anne Springs Close Greenway
To earn the Passport Certificate, you need to participate in the Hiking Challenge. The following are the requirements for the Hiking Challenge.
- Hike, bike or horseback ride a trail
- Initial and date each hike that you complete
- After you have completed all the trails bring your Passport to the Greenway to receive you completion certificate (subject to availability).
The Greenway has a Trail Map that is a guide to let you know where the trails are located and from which Greenway Entrance is best to take for your desired trail. My grandson loves to carry a Trail Map with him whenever we go for a hike. When he looks at it you would think he knows exactly what he is looking at and can figure out which way he wants to go next.
While some members choose to participate in the Hiking Challenge, there are many that do not. Completing the challenge is not something that everyone accomplishes, however, it is well worth it. It takes dedication and determination to complete all twenty-six (26) trails consisting of thirty-six (36) miles of hiking, biking or horse riding in the Greenway.
My grandson, Coleman, picked up a Trail Passport on one of our visits to the Greenway. He indicated that he wanted to participate in the Hiking Challenge. He did not let his young age deter him from taking up the challenge or completing the challenge. He loves the outdoors and loves to hike and spend time out in nature with me. Coleman just recently turned three. He completed all 26 trails of 36 miles in the Hiking Challenge before his third birthday. He is amazing, but then again you might say I am biased.
Some trails in the Greenway are as short as 0.4 miles while others are over 3 miles in length. On some days we combined several trails and we hiked 5-6 miles. Was he tired by the end of the hike? Definitely, but that never stopped him from keeping going and finishing each day’s hike. After completing each day’s hike, he would lift his hands up and yell “I did it.” He really loves hiking and would do it every day if he could.
Congratulations Coleman! You did it. I am proud of you, your love of hiking, the outdoors, and your determination to succeed.
God Bless. Thank You for stopping by. Take time to enjoy the outdoors. Take a hike, a walk, admire God’s creations along the way. I appreciate y’all.
Always on Christ’s Mind
“See, I have inscribed you on the palms of My hands; Your walls are continually before me.”
— Isaiah 49:16 NKJV (New King James Version)
See, I have inscribed you
on the palms of My Hands.
Isaiah 49:15b-16
No matter how weWellspringChristianMinistries.org
No matter how we feel, God has never forgotten us, and He never will. We might at times feel lost and alone, however, we are never alone. Jesus Christ is always there with us. We are always on Christ’s mind. We might not think about Jesus constantly, but he always thinks about us. He is concerned about us. He loves us. He always watches over us and will never abandon us.
No Matter what you face in Life…
Don’t let go of God’s Hand!
Rose P/Good Morning Prayer.@Pinterest.com
You might be like me, or you might be stronger than I am. Putting up barriers or walls, shielding ourselves from our troubles does not prevent Jesus Christ from seeing us, remembering us, loving us, and being our constant friend and companion. Jesus knows all our thoughts, He knows all our troubles, all our circumstances, and He loves us anyway. He will never stop being there for us or loving us. Always remember that Jesus is a loving, compassionate God that is committed to us one hundred percent. His love and compassion never waivers. We are His children, just like any parent, He will always be devoted to you, stand by you, and love you forever and ever.
scpeanutgallery.com
God Bless. Never be afraid to turn to God. He already knows everything about you, and He will never leave you nor forsake you. Thank You for visiting. Remember I appreciate y’all.
“The LORD himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.”
— Deuteronomy 31:8 ESV (English Standard Version)
Persistence: Are We Persistent in Our Life?
“He may not get up and give you the bread, just because you are his friend. But he will get up and give you as much as you need, simply because you are not ashamed to keep asking.”
— Luke 11:8 CEV (Contemporary English Version)
Persistence is the act or fact of stubbornly continuing to do something. It is being extremely determined to accomplish a task regardless of how long it might take. When you are persistent, you might fail along the way, but you learn that in your failure you gain another opportunity to learn. You will learn to overcome any challenges you might face.
Problems Can’t Stop You
Most of All
Other People Can’t Stop You
The Only One Who Stops You
is Yourself
PictureQuotes.com
This is a wonderful quote, and it is so very true. Obstacles, problems, and circumstances may try to stop you, but the only person that can is you. Be persistent. Never give up. Keep trying over and over again until you succeed.
“Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.”
— James 1:2-4 NIV (New International Version)
Willpower is possibly a tremendous incentive to enable you to push yourself harder and make you continue to strive for more. It is what gets you up after you have fallen, or experienced failure. It gives you the gumption, the resolution to forge ahead on your road to success. That is what is known as persistence.
and perspiration
make an unbeatable
combination for success.
Patience
PassItOn.com
You and I may at times feel like giving up, succumbing to our failures, but we need to Never Give Up and always be Persistent in every area of our lives. Why? Persistence is a virtue we need to cultivate. It is hanging in there and keep pressing on Irregardless of how tough our circumstances might be. It is at those times when we persevere that we are able to grow and become more spiritually mature in our lives. Perseverance, being persistent, builds a strong character within us. We develop a strong character by overcoming difficulties in our lives, sticking to our goals despite the difficulties, thereby making us stronger people in many aspects of our lives.
Let us all keep being persistent in our lives. Never Giving Up, but continually striving to become a better, stronger person by not giving in to our failures. Let us learn from our mistakes and grow through our perseverance.
God Bless. Thank You! Never forget I appreciate y’all.
Last Cell Pic: July 2022
Last on the Card or photo on your phone challenge from Bushboys world for July 31st. My last photo for this challenge is from my iPhone13Pro. Hope y’all enjoy the photo.
God Bless. Thank You. I appreciate y’all.
Into the Woods We Shall Go
The
We
Go
Into
the
Woods
We
Go
God Bless. Take time to Go into the Woods with Family or Friends. Thank You for stopping by. I appreciate y’all.
All photos were taken by Debbie L. Waters, (c)2022@gfpacificbee.
Silent Sunday: Afternoon Sky
Anne Springs Close Greenway
Dairy Barn
God Bless. Thank you! I appreciate y’all.
Black and White Photography: S
God Bless. Thank you! Remember I appreciate y’all.
National Korean War Veterans Armistice Day: Thank You for Your Service
Let’s celebrate the 69th anniversary of the National Korean War Veterans Armistice Day. It was on this day 69 years ago in 1953 that the United States of America and North Korea reached a ceasefire agreement. This is a time to remember the many American troops which is estimated to be around 50,000 who died in the conflict and more than 100,000 soldiers were wounded and thousands of prisoners of war.
My dad never talked with me about his time in the U S Navy or his time serving during the Korean War. I wish I knew more, to have asked questions while he was still alive. I honor my dad’s service to America, remember and appreciate the sacrifices he made for our country. My dad was fortunate to not have been wounded or made a prisoner of war, however, thousands plus were not as fortunate. I remember those who made the ultimate sacrifice, those who were wounded, and those who were captured and held prisoners of war. Our Korean War Veterans should be remembered, honored, and appreciated for their service to America and the freedoms we have because of their service. My dad, Nornal Hule Waters, served in the U S Navy from the time he enlisted on September 24, 1948, until his release on September 12, 1952. He was a hospital corpsman stationed on the USS Consolation during his service in the Korean War. While he was aboard ship serving his country, his brother, Eddie Woodrow Waters, was service on the ground in the mist of the battleground. My uncle was wounded during his time of service in the Korean War and was awarded the Purple Heart. I am proud of my Korean War Veterans and will continue to remember and honor their service.
The Korean War was fought on the ground, in the air, and on the seas for three years before the Ceasefire Agreement was signed at Panmunjom in 1953. North Korea has at times refused to recognize the armistice. This on-off engagement has historically been frustrating for world leaders. Both South Korea and the United States of America hold observances remembering the armistice in which they honor and remember the veterans who served during the Korean War. Let us all remember and thank our Korean War Veterans for their service as we should do for all our servicemen and women.
The ship my dad, Nornal Hule Waters
served on during the Korean War
God Bless America. God Bless y’all. Veterans and active-duty military, thank you for your service. I appreciate your service and your sacrifice for our country. Thank You!
Wordless Wednesday: Golden Sulfur Cosmos
God Bless. Thank you. I appreciate y’all.
Coleman: Birthday Boy Turned Three
Coleman 🎉
3 Years Old
Today 🎈
Black & White
Portrait
Collage
Birthday
Expressions
My Heart ♥️
My Love
My Grandson
Investigating
His Presents 🎁.
Bat, Ball, Puzzles, Pound Puppy
and Thomas the Train 🚂
God Bless. Thank You! I appreciate y’all.
My Cell Pic Sunday: Lake Haigler
Anne Springs Close Greenway
Johnbo’s challenge: Cell Pic Sunday
God Bless. Thank You! Remember I appreciate y’all.
Contentment: We are to be content, but are we?
Contentment is a state of happiness and satisfaction. Are you content and satisfied with your life? Am I?
Contentment is being happy with what you have, who you are, and where you are. Do you respect your present reality? Do you appreciate what you have and where you are in life?
I have to admit I am not always happy with my life right now. I wish things, my circumstances were different. I accept my present reality and I do appreciate what I have and where I am, but that does not mean I am always content. I do dream of a different reality, but making that dream come true isn’t the simplest of things.
Did you know there are 4 States of Contentment in life? I hadn’t realized that before. What are those states you ask? Let me tell you.
- Good Contentment – Use to enhance your joy.
- Bad Contentment – Use to remind you of what to avoid.
- Bad lack of contentment (bad discontentment) – Use to spur your life toward the goal.
- Good lack of contentment (good discontentment) – Use to invigorate and inspire you toward growth.
“ Life is about balance. Be kind, but don’t let people abuse you. Trust, but don’t be deceived. Be content, but never stop improving yourself.” —- Zig Ziglar
I really like this quote. We definitely should not be so content that we become complacent. There is always room for growth and improvement in our lives. If you are discontent, understand what you should avoid and take steps to change your circumstances to strive to become a better you.
“I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances.” —– Philippians 4:11 (NIV)
In the Bible, Paul faced many circumstances that he could have been discontent with, but instead He lend on God to be content regardless of his situation.
I am content whenever I am at the Greenway or near the lake at a state park, or near the local river. My grandson, Coleman, is the most content when he is out in nature hiking or near a body of water such as a lake or river. His favorite place to be outdoors is at Anne Springs Close Greenway a few miles away from where we live.
Where are you most content? I challenge you to continue to grow and improve yourself. Embrace change and enhance your life with joy.
God Bless. Thank you for stopping by. Remember I appreciate y’all.
ASCG:Greenway Stables Entrance-Part Two_Dogwood/Blue Star….
For our second day of hiking Dogwood at the Anne Springs Close Greenway Stables Entrance, we began on the Dogwood Trail on the right side after passing through one section of the horse stables.
But before we began hiking, we stopped to enjoy the Sweet Black Eyed Susan Seeds and the honeybees feasting on their nectar behind the Gibson House.
and Sunflowers
@Greenway Stables
Gibson House
Shortly after we began hiking along the Dogwood Trail, we came upon the Airport Pond. We enjoyed the views of the water and the reflections within the water. Whenever possible my grandson loves to play in the water either with his hands or his whole body. Luckily on this day it was just his hands.
Stables Entrance
Airport Pond
off Dogwood
After snapping a few pictures, we hiked on further down on Dogwood. My grandson, Coleman, loves to have his picture taken at the Trail Posts. The Trail Posts serve the purpose of letting people know where they are along the trail and which trail they are hiking on. Keeping track of the numbers on the trail posts allows us to know exactly where we are at and how much further we need to travel.
Dogwood Trail
Coleman hiking
leading the way
We proceeded onto the Blue Star after we had been hiking for approximately 1.4 miles. This trail contains several mushrooms of varying heights and sizes. I have to watch Coleman, or he’ll swipe at them breaking them apart. O try to teach him about varying things along the trail and that we shouldn’t disturb them. Also, that what is in the park should remain in the park and what we bring in, we must also take out with us. Leave No Trace.
Coleman
checking out his map
and the Trail posts
for directions
The Blue Star trail is mostly natural surface with some plank bridges and a couple of swinging bridges. At Blue Star H27, Coleman stops to check his map. He likes to carry his own map instead of just looking at mine. We venture off of Blue Star and onto Hickory Trail which leads us back to Dogwood.
Dogwood
and
Hickory Trails
Which way should we go?
Once back on Dogwood, the trail leads us back to the horse stables and eventually back to our car (Mommy’s car as Coleman would say since I use her car to take him places.)
(Not the same stables as we first entered)
Greenway Stables Entrance
loving on the horses.
The horses
instinctively
come straight
up to him.
They know
he is not afraid
and loves them.
My Heart ❤️ My love
God Bless. Get Outdoors. Enjoy a hike, a walk, or any adventure communing with nature. Thank you for visiting. See you next time. Remember I appreciate y’all.
Silent Sunday: Dragonflies
God Bless. Thank You! I appreciate y’all.
Gfpacificbee’s Insights & photography 