Fabulous Fall!

I believe fall is HERE! It's kind of difficult to know here in sunny Mobile, Alabama, but I believe perhaps it has finally arrived. The nights are cooler and the days are not so sticky. And for a little more proof, it's October 16th!

I saw a friend post on Facebook that said the 'ber' months are here and they are her favorite! Gotta agree. I love college football, the Thanksgiving season with family, fun and food, and EVERYTHING Christmas. My favorite Christmas decoration is a small statue of Santa Claus holding the baby Jesus . . . to me, the essence of Christmas wonder.

In September, I get all ramped up going into the amazing Hobby Lobby displays. But, I know to get out FAST - my eyes are WAY bigger than my pocketbook!

As the "BER" months close in on us, I'd like to thank those of you who have already supported the William Carey scholarship fund through prayer and/or purchase. In just a few short months we have come almost one-third of the way to the $10K endowment mark through book purchases and gifts.

If you know of a reader that you'd like to gift for Christmas, please consider either "Three Miracles at Trinity Trails" or "Smart Little Sunny Saves Christmas." Either can be easily purchased at www.drwandasue.com.

Here's to an awesome, faith-filled fall from my heart to yours!

Our First Workout Wednesday

So, I'm going to try to be a little disciplined and begin sharing a short daily (and hopefully inspirational) blurb. Today’s is entitled ... Workout Wednesday!

IS WRITING A WORKOUT??

Good Morning! I am dubbing this morning’s post as “Workout Wednesday.” It is a quick bit of insight into the work that was done (or is on-going) for my current writing project. I hope you enjoy.

Today I am reminded of my journey to this point. The first time I considered writing this book, “Three Miracles at Trinity Trails” was in 1995 while I was working on my doctorate at the University of North Texas. Thirty years ago!! Even then, I knew it would be for more than mindless pleasure - that the work would have a greater purpose.

You see, I was raised in rural Mississippi on a cattle farm and have incredibly wonderful memories of that time. I have since always believed what a marvelous way that was to raise a child. Smelling the dirt of a newly plowed garden, walking barefoot through clover, riding horses and chasing cows, and fishing with a cane pole are some of my fondest childhood memories.

When I began my quest to write this book, I felt a tugging at my heart to create a place where less fortunate children could do the same. I had a vision but not a clear path to that vision. Life brought nest building and career advancement and while the vision remained, it was never acted on.

As I reflect on this thought that many times in life we “talk about” what needs to be done but we seldom act to create movement toward a vision; I am reminded of the old adage “actions speak louder than words.”

Fast forward to about five years ago, my husband asked me if I was ever going to finish the book. It was about half completed at that time. I thought, “now? what is the point - it’s too late, I am too old now to do anything worthwhile.” But, it is never too late with God. Just ask Abraham and Sarah!

Most recently, while praying and listening to the Spirit of God, I knew it was time to get busy. Time to finish the book and begin a ministry of supporting good Christian work that was already ongoing.

That brings us to today where we (you and I) currently have joined up to support the work at William Carey University. We are a little over two weeks into the book launch and have already raised over $1000 toward that end!

I am so grateful for those of you who have seen fit to and/or are able to make a book purchase. More importantly than sales though, I appreciate those of you who have prayed for its success. With the Lord’s blessing of this effort, well, you know … we “can do all things through Christ” … Phil. 3:16.

Thanks for taking this journey with me and for reading this post. May our good Lord richly bless you on YOUR “workout Wednesday” today!

How about Thankful Thursdays?

Let's shoot for Thankful Thursdays here instead of Throwback Thursdays ...

Sunny

Instead of the notorious Throw-back Thursday, today I’d like us to consider a Thankful Thursday.

If I post everything I am thankful for, we could be here for days. So I’ve decided that Thankful Thursday posts will hold a theme which includes a specific event that has happened recently.

So, as I am writing this morning, the first thankful thing that popped into my head happened yesterday, with one of God’s most beloved creations - the horse.

After feeding, I decided it was time to let the horses go out into our recently fertilized pasture. They have been eyeing it for a week - muzzles shoving fence panels trying to find entry to the sweet grasses; a path worn down at every potential accessible point. I knew they were dyin’ to get in.

As I walked over to pull the pins on the panel and give them their opportunity, the big one slipped up right behind me. It’s amazing how an 1100-pound animal can move so quietly. I had no idea he was so close. As I reached with both hands to pull the top pin of the panel, I felt a muzzle against my shoulder. A quiet, gentle touch. He didn’t shove, as they sometimes will - he did not nibble - he was just letting me know he was present. Still, quiet, patiently waiting.

Reminded me of someone else I know. Not pushy or demanding. Giving me time and berth to do the job - whatever the job might be.

I released the bottom pin and walked the gate open turning to see the big guy’s reaction. His head immediately dropped - entire satisfaction. And while he grazed, I just rubbed him all over and was thankful to share the moment.

Perhaps, our God is waiting for that opportunity with each of us daily. Gently nudging us as we go about our way, silently observing. It’s in the little things that our good Lord helps us to see Him sometimes. For that, today I am thankful. #drwandasue @followers