Ryan – Page 2 – Chrissy Drew

Tune in to God’s Frequency

If you only had one channel to tune in to—tune it to God. A direct frequency to answers, guidance, peace, and unconditional love—no matter what. Never interference—unless it’s coming from you. Doesn’t distort like the father of lies—the enemy, Satan, who sends forth confusion, guiding your steps towards sin. No! God’s channel is the straight path to truth.

It is a journey filled with hope and abundant living. But, you must listen. Be still. Know He is God and causes good in your life. You must believe—He wants you, right here, right now. He wants your salvation, to live eternal life with Him. This is His promise to ALL who believe He died for all our sins and rose again and is alive in the believer’s heart.

Be ready for the biggest, most spectacular change of your life. God will always keep His communication channel open. He will always be there—arms and ears wide open. Remember though, the channel must be two-way. You must also listen—be still and hear Him, get to know Him. He will guide you through trials and He will also celebrate triumphs—rewarding you abundantly.

Yes, you have a direct line to the Almighty God. A choice I encourage you to choose. Doesn’t cost you a thing—He’s already paid the price.

Look around, the world we once knew, is no longer a place to be without the One who will protect us to the end and guide us home. He will never leave or forsake us. His security line is always there—grab onto it—open the channel to His frequency and keep it open. You won’t be disappointed.

Come as you are, He’s waiting to hear from you.

Psalm 46:10 Be still and know that I am God.

June 23, 2017 4

Just Pause

It has been a little over a year since I officially retired. I never knew how wonderful it would be to have so much time on my hands.

At first it felt like I was playing hooky. An awkward feeling, like someone would see me if I was shopping or out and about. It felt down-right odd. But I got used to it in no time. Especially, when I no longer had to hit the snooze button. Ahhh. This is the life.

I soon made a morning appointment with God on my swing in the backyard. Why haven’t I been doing it more often? Oh, I would get my devotionals, Bible and a cup of coffee every morning. But this, this was different. I wasn’t rushed, time really didn’t matter. Making sure no one else was outdoors when I chose to be, made it even more peaceful.

It didn’t take long, I wasn’t alone.

We have two hummingbird feeders in close proximity to one another—and my swing. It became quite clear my time alone would be marked each morning by their buzzing and battling for the feeder. And me watching them and giggling. Not what I had in mind for my quiet time with God. But hey, God make those creatures, so I can’t help it if I enjoy their presence. Daily. A lot.

I soon learned more about them. They don’t like to share. There is always a dominant hummer, as I have gotten to know their habits quite well, which refuses to let any other hummer land on the feeders. It chases them off and not one of them gets to eat. But I notice one, somehow manages to fly under the radar. I watch as it pauses to eat, anxiously looking back and forth for the “chaser.”

It occurred to me, we are much like the hummingbirds. We too are busy. We are very territorial. We sense trouble. Especially us moms with our sixth sense. And we don’t know how to pause. This can’t be a good thing, right? Not good for the mind, body or soul.

My time alone with God in the morning has been great for my mind, body & spirit. It has slowed me down enough to think about—well, slowing down. I am enjoying my time with Him. He reminds me I’m never alone and He has given me such abundant blessings. Even sending His little creations called Hummingbirds, to bring a smile to my face. He knows the joy they bring to my small world. I am so thankful to have this morning time on my swing with God. I cherish the calm, peaceful, and joyful moments. He gives us these abundant blessings, even as small as a Hummingbird, to enjoy. I encourage you to stop, look and listen to His calling for peace and tranquility.

I hope this small bit will help you think about some things you are missing out on simply because you are too busy. If only to notice the sunrise or sunset. Or a smile a stranger gives you and you were too deep in your busy thoughts to notice. Or a beautiful butterfly. There are so many blessings around us. Take the time to pause, take a deep breath, and enjoy them.

May you be blessed beyond measure, as you take the time for ‘you.’

For I know the plans I have for you, says the Lord…Jeremiah 29:11

June 7, 2017 6

Again Daddy, Again

Again…

Remember as a child saying, “Again, Daddy, again,” when you wanted him to lift you up and twirl you, or dance on his feet or toss you up in the air, knowing and trusting fully he would catch you? Or maybe to let him know you wanted him to watch you do something you felt was magnificent, and he just couldn’t miss out? Like maybe do another cartwheel? You’d say, “Watch, again, Daddy.” Or, to simply be picked up and held in the strength of his arms.

Now, imagine how Jesus feels when you come to Him saying, “Again, Lord, again. Help me get through this trial. Teach me to love as You love. Help me to focus on You more each day.”

On and on, over and over. He doesn’t mind. He longs to hear your voice. He wants to give you the desires of your heart—as long as they are what He wants for you, as He knows what is best for you. Even if you think you do. Think ‘again.’

God will always want you to talk to Him. About everything. He’s your best friend and since He knew you before you were born, He has only your interest at heart. His answer(s) may not be what you want to hear, but you can be certain, it will be for your own good. He knows—all.

But, what do you think about Jesus asking you, “Again, child, again?” It doesn’t matter how many times you drop to your knees to pray about the same thing. He wants to hear you. He wants you to come to Him, again and again.

If you haven’t asked Jesus into your heart, I encourage you to do so. Your life will never be the same. His loving kindness will be unfathomable. His mercy is new every morning. And, oh, so much grace.

Once you know Him, you will be going to Him—again and again. He will lift you up and carry all your burdens, time and again.

His compassion is so great. He’s waiting, as He will, again and again.

Lamentations 3:22-24

May 30, 2017 6

Memorial Day is Not Just for Barbeques!

Arlington Cemetery - taken Sept 2006 — Arlington Cemetery – Taken Sept 2006

Most people consider this long weekend a time for fun with barbeques, picnics and beer. But do they know the true meaning of why they are celebrating? Do you?

For those of us who had or have family and friends who serve(d) in the military. We know. Even more importantly for those who have lost loved ones while serving. This is what Memorial Day is all about.

Originally called “Decoration Day,” back in 1861, the first Civil War soldier’s grave was decorated. The first widely publicized observance of a Memorial Day-type observance after the Civil War was in Charleston, South Carolina, on May 1, 1865. There are conflicting stories as to when Memorial Day truly began. (You can find more information out on the web and Wikipedia.)

My purpose of writing about today is merely due to my passion, respect, and love for our country.

In my heart of hearts I feel we should teach our children why they get these long weekends. Yes, enjoy the holiday, picnics and all. But respect is learned and it starts in the home. We see all kinds of pictures posted on Facebook, Twitter, etc. about our men and women who paid the ultimate price to give us the freedoms we know and take for granted. Explain this to your kids. It is not only part of our history, it is our present and future. Forever.

On my first sabbatical in 2006, my husband and I took a trip to Washington, DC and visited Arlington Cemetery. Unless you have experienced that, you can never really know the impact. We also experienced the Vietnam Memorial.

We witnessed people scratching names onto a piece of paper directly from the wall. There were combat boots laying on the ground nearby. It was heart-wrenching. We know, since we have family and friends who were drafted and deployed there. Some didn’t come back the same and their experience in that awful war has affected them in one way or another—forever. Please don’t forget this.

We then moved on to the Korea Memorial.

We saw thousands upon thousands of names on the wall and gravesites of our fallen. Engraved on one wall was “Freedom is not Free.” It gave us both chills. Truth. And this is for all of us.

So, before you take that first bite or guzzle of beer, say a thankful, sincere prayer for the families who lost their loved ones who aren’t there to enjoy the holidays with them anymore, who died for your freedom and mine. Then celebrate your day in honor of those fallen.

I get it. Do you?

Amen?

Signing off as,

Thankful and proud of our service men & women.

Chrissy <><

May 19, 2017 4

It’s How You See Things…

We all see things differently.

When I saw this scene for myself, in a shallow riverbed—it was breath-taking. I mean, in the middle of a riverbed—beckoning.

Irresistible…Serene…Peaceful…Beautiful…Appealing.

Didn’t matter how cold the water appeared. After all, it’s in the middle of Big Sur, CA. More of God’s beauty and what I call, “Godscapes.”

No, to me, I didn’t see two lonely looking chairs. I saw wonderful possibilities.

I was with my eldest son and daughter-in-law. We stopped at this café alongside Highway 1. As I walked closer and closer to the river, each step of the way I became awe-struck. I stood on the riverbed for a little while. Staring at the brilliance. My daughter-in-law decided she needed to cool off, and she walked into the cool, shallow water and sat on one of the chairs. I did the same. Sat, on a chair situated in the middle of the creek. Just amazing!

Even though this trip was during a busy 4^th of July weekend, for just a few precious moments, no one else was around, I was alone, lost in my thoughts. It was a wonderful feeling. Not a care in the world. Feeling the cool water trickle across my feet, the stress of the work-week was washed away.

God has a way of doing that. Right when we need it most. He brings peace within our soul and directs us to a place where there are beautiful wood chairs.

I will be going back to that place when it is less crowded. Where I can really be at peace among the Redwoods and sit in a chair in the middle of a creek, that is now flowing wildly from the recent record breaking storms.

So, I ask…”What do you see when you look at those chairs?” Does it speak a gentleness to your spirit? Would you like to experience sitting in them, among God’s beauty, surrounded by redwoods? Magnificent redwood trees showing off their huge, yet peaceful, characteristics, reaching to the sky. It’s how I felt. If only you would be able to one day.

Psalm 46:10 “Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth.”

Deuteronomy 8:7 “The Lord your God is bringing you into a good land—a land with brooks, streams, and deep springs gushing out into the valleys and hills.”

April 26, 2017 10

Fitting In…Or Not, The Choice is Yours

I’m more of an introvert, sometimes shy. Unless I know someone, I pretty much stand around and observe. Don’t get me wrong, it’s not from lack of trying.

Maybe it’s the way I look, or the way I stand, or how I act, or how I’m not able to articulate what I want to say, so I ramble. Not sure, no one has ever mentioned anything to me. But then again, what are they supposed to say…to an introvert? “Hey, introvert, cat got your tongue?”

I do know, I’m not alone. There are many of us floundering in a crowd. Or sometimes at a conference or a party. Maybe I should hold a sign that asks, “Introvert? Come and join me in the awkwardness?”

Someone once wrote, “If you would get to know me, you may find me interesting, loving, caring, and somewhat funny.” Oh wait, that someone is me. Knee slapper.

I found myself in many of those awkward moments at a place I worked. I didn’t fit in with what they considered the in-crowd. I wasn’t “like” them. They never gave me a chance. Only a handful did. For that, I’m actually thankful. God knew I needed those few in my life who “got” me and accepted me for who I am. I’ll forever be grateful to them. Believe it or not I learned a ton from those who pretty much shunned me, gossiped about me and quite frankly were rude. I would never treat anyone that way…ever.

Sometimes at churches too. One would think church would be a safe place. Where everyone accepts all types. No matter how old or young, women can be cliquey.

Merriam Webster’s dictionary defines a “clique” as: a narrow exclusive circle or group of persons; especially: one held together by common interests, views, or purposes.

So, church? Where common interests and purpose should be about the love for Christ and His church…His people? I’m not saying all churches. But I have had some uncool experiences.

When I see these cliques, I run as fast as I can. They are not for me. I don’t even bother with them. They may not intend to be hurtful, but for a sensitive, shy introvert, it can put anxiety in overload. Steer clear the mind says. A total sense of shielding the heart. Not worth it.

Sounds a lot like a rejection issue, right? In a way, I suppose it is. The difference being, knowing the difference.

I’m blessed to have family and close friends who love me and weave me into their fold, no matter what. And I, them. Blessed beyond measure.

Writing this wasn’t about woe is me, the pitiful introvert. I’m writing this because I know I’m not alone. And, I want you to know God loves you as you are, exactly where you are in life. He made you perfectly—You! He’s not telling us to “fit in” everywhere we go, but to pray for everyone we meet. Whether they know you or not. I do a lot of praying. ~smile. There may be pain behind someone’s smile, who needs your genuine smile. They may be going through something unbearable and just trying to get through the day. Everyone has a story not all are aware of. Introverts usually keep it all wrapped up tight and cozy inside.

So, the next time I/we go to a place where there is a crowd, smile, lift your head high and know you are a Daughter of a King. He will never leave you. He loves you right where you are. And why wouldn’t He? He formed you before you…were you.

We don’t fit into another’s mold. We aren’t borrowed Jello molds. We are, who we are. Embrace that. Right?

Be blessed.

April 18, 2017 14

Color Pencil Shavings

All those bottled-up emotions and feelings—deep, hidden emotions bursting to the surface.

Some would describe them as, “peeling the onion layers.”

Me? I’d prefer to think of them like color pencil shavings after they are sharpened. I mean, wouldn’t you rather have colorful emotions pouring out than stinky ones? Unless of course, your pencils are fruited-fragrance. Then stinky could be good. Or not. If you don’t like fruit.

We all—and I mean all, have stuff we’ve buried. Many of us never get them out. Some don’t know how to express them, some of us can’t or won’t.

It’s a failure to communicate; if you don’t even try.

There are experts who can help. They sit and listen. Unbiased. Non-judgmental, experts, trained to peel those shavings.

But, there are those people who feel going to an expert is a sign of weakness, because they should be able to deal on their own. After all, it’s their feelings. No one knows you better, than you. Right? Kind of. How’s that working for you?

You are in relationships. Relationships, to succeed, must have communication.

“What if, I speak or write out my hidden emotions, feelings or thoughts that have been buried and then I’m totally misunderstood and my words are twisted and turned back on me?”

What if? What ifs will drive you batty. Sheering the layers will set you free, no matter what the outcome. This is my humble opinion.

It’s not healthy, holding things in. Men are known to be notorious for this. Not macho to share feelings. HA! Could be why men seem to die sooner too. (Not a medical or factual statistic—just an opinion). It’s a stressor one doesn’t need. No one is a mind-reader. Although, some charge to pretend they are. (Again, my opinion). We need verbal communication.

The best way to trim those emotions, can be found in One who doesn’t judge, who knows every hair on your head, who knows where you’ve been and where you’re going, what you’ve said or not said, done or not done. And that One, is God.

If there is anything you think He doesn’t know about you—think again. He knew you before you were born. And He loves you. He would love to help you peel those shavings away and set your mind free.

There are so many scriptures in the Bible about laying your burdens at the foot of the cross, to trust Him to carry them. To seek His face. He wants you to come to Him. He adores you and wants the very best for you…mentally, physically and spiritually. If you are unable to communicate with another person, be it an expert or not…He is the ultimate choice. And a very good listener. Allow Him to shear those color pencil shavings and make something beautiful out of you.

In one of the books I have an article in, Inspire Promise, I wrote about how God will never leave me. He won’t leave you either. This book is filled with stories of other writers who tell of how God’s promises never cease. Communicate with Him, and with the ones you love.

1 Peter 5:7 Casting all your cares upon Him, for He cares for you.

Jeremiah 29:11-13 For I know the thought I think toward you, says the Lord, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and hope. Then you will call upon Me and go and pray to Me and I will listen to you. And you will seek Me and find Me, when you search for Me with all our heart.

Psalm 16:7 I will bless the Lord who has given me counsel.

Psalm 27:7 Hear, O Lord, when I cry with my voice! Have mercy upon me, and answer me. When You said, “Seek my face,” My heart said to You, “Your face, Lord, I will seek.”

Psalm 28:6-7 Blessed be the Lord, Because He heard the voice of my supplications! The Lord is my strength and my shield; My heart trusted in Him, and I am helped.

(Scriptures taken from NKJV)

April 12, 2017 24

How Did That Happen?

So age is just a number? My current “number” states eligibility for SS. Whhhhaaat? My son, Ry, asked me, “Ma, how did that happen?” I chuckled. Isn’t that the question of a lifetime? Where does the time go? Seriously. I cannot believe I’m well past half of my life.

I told him I had no idea but that I was thankful for each and every sunrise.

Obviously, I cannot remember when, where, how or who took this baby picture. I only know it was a very long time ago. The span between then and now is also a long time. Do I remember all the years? No. Heck no. I remember many milestones though. Especially the birth of both sons. How in the world are they both now in their 40’s? HOW? How in the world am I a grandmother of four and the oldest is nineteen? HOW? HOW? HOW? I mean, I still don’t know what I want to be when I grow up, let alone grow old-er.

Time stops for no one. God knows when our time will stop. For Him I am thankful. He gives life. He gives the sunrises and sunsets. He offers His hand in all things wonderful—all around us, daily.

So, as another birthday is in the not-too-distant future, I want to thank all those from the top of my heart, who have and will celebrate with me—my God-given day of birth. I want to thank all those who reign in every single year filled with hope, joy, love, fun, smiles/laughter, with me. I have much to be thankful for—past, present and future gifts. Gifts I call family, friends, and health.

I love you all.

Many blessings,

Chrissy D. <><

This is the day the Lord has made, I will rejoice and be glad in it. Psalm 118:24

March 25, 2017 6

It’s About Thanks…Giving

Thanks and giving go hand in hand.

Thanksgiving is my favorite holiday. I love Christmas and Easter, don’t get me wrong, as a Christian, those two mean the world to me and fit my beliefs.

Thanksgiving is different. It’s a day to be thankful. A day to give back to those who are less fortunate. It’s a day to enjoy a wonderful meal with family and friends. (Used to be a day to watch football, for me).

Check out this video on the brief history of Thanksgiving.

Holidays can be a time of sorrow for many. Whether they are grieving the loss of a loved one, are single without anyone around, those away to college and can’t get home, family is too far away, etc. To those people, I would suggest going out and helping someone in need. They say if you help others, in return you are helping yourself heal.

There are organizations you can get plugged in to. Salvation Army is one. There are also food lockers you can donate food to. Or, you can see if you can visit a nursing home with someone who has no family nearby, or hospitals to spread some cheer. You can go to your search engine to find where to volunteer for Thanksgiving, locally.

This year a portion of my family will be doing the Run to Feed the Hungry. (My Darlin and I will be walking…just saying). This is the first time for us. I’m praying for decent weather, though. This organization raises a ton of money to help with the homeless and hungry in our area. It will be an honor to help in some small way.

Growing up poor and getting help from St. Vincent DePaul will always be a memory…good because we had a turkey, bad because we were poor and I knew it.

So, yes, thanks and giving go hand in hand. I’m thankful to have abundant blessings, and I don’t mean monetarily. But am able to give of my time to help support someone in need.

I encourage you to pray/think about doing something for others less fortunate. We can always find ways to complain about our own circumstances, but I guarantee there are others far worse off.

Here’s a little tidbit I wrote several years ago. I hope you’ll enjoy it

From my family to you and yours, we wish you a very Happy and Healthy Thanksgiving.

November 14, 2016 2

A New Journey

In a million years the word “retirement” only happened to other people. It wasn’t a word in my vocabulary, until NOW.

I’m not ready…so I thought. Thinking…that’s what gets me in so much trouble.

Remaining at the same company for 17 years has its pros and cons. I’ll start with the cons.

Cons:

Remaining at a company for 17 years.
It usually becomes hum drum…car is in auto-pilot.
The feeling of being stuck. Where can I go from here?
Is this all there is?
Multi-tasking is not a good thing.
Most people are out for themselves. It’s a brutal and dog-eat-dog world.

Then reality checks in. Boom. Seventeen years of your life and then you’re out of there!

Pros:

It’s a grand accomplishment to stay at a company for 17 years.
Gaining of knowledge of all sorts of things. In my case, software, technology, training, different cultures.
Learning what you want and don’t want to do going forward.
You learn about people you want to spend your day with and those who might be toxic and
you RUN. You now have the option.
Me time. I don’t have to rush in the morning. I can take my time to do my devotionals and pray
and breathe.
No traffic jitters.
If I want to view the sunrise, I can.
Too many more to continue.

I’m sure you get the jest of what I’m saying.

For me it came quick. It wasn’t a planned event, by me…but it was by God. So, it was a matter of accepting His purpose and moving onward. Tough love.

I decided to go straight into volunteer work for the next year anyway. Only He knows if I will continue after the year commitment. My plans are not usually God’s. That’s the beauty of knowing He has a plan for all of us. (Jeremiah 29:11)

I’m still trying to wrap my head around this “retirement” thing, but I’m certain I’m going to get the hang of it quite soon.

My youngest son calls it my “re-invent-me” time. I think he’s right. Possibilities are endless.

Onward…

February 17, 2016