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WRITE 2 THE HEART Stories that are aimed "Write 2 the Heart" November 23, 2004 Cheryl Speir, Editor, moderator @ write2theheart.com
Welcome to your latest issue of "Write 2 the Heart." All new subscribers will receive a free downloadable copy of the e- cookbook, "Write 2 the Heart of the Chocolate Lover."
Take a moment to browse our new bookstore at: http://www.write2theheart.com/html/book_store.html You will find wonderful books written by, or that include stories by many of our talented writers. You will also find books that aide the budding writer. I highly recommend “Sally Stuart’s Christian Writers’ Guide,” and “2005 Writer’s Market.” Both are must haves for all serious writers. They are great tools to find that perfect market for your writing, or would make great gifts for the writer in your life.
As Thanksgiving approaches here in the States, Kathy counts her blessings and reminds us of the things we can be thankful for.
In Thanksgiving Kathy Whirity
It's that time of year again Lord, when we fill our tables with a bounty of food and surround ourselves with the love of family and friends. As if on cue, all of us reserve this special day to take the opportunity to reflect on all the reasons we have for being thankful.
But, it seems that when times are tough and life isn't running as smoothly as we're use to, we become much more aware of the little things in life , and we treasure them with a renewed compassion that only hard times allow.
This year, in spite of the havoc threatening our world, there are still so many things to be thankful for. Things that may not have even drew a second glance from us in years past, but now give new meaning to this fragile world we find ourselves living in today. Through these eyes I see so very much to be thankful for. Help me Lord to always seek out the joy in the little things.
So much to be thankful for… The graciousness of all grocery store cashiers and baggers who are always so friendly and courteous despite the hardships they face under uncertain employment conditions.
Neighbors who are never too busy to lend a cup of sugar or a smile when needed.
A forwarded e-mail from a child away at college that brings tears to your eyes because you realize they really have been listening all along.
The gentle reminder that, 'nobody's perfect' will help us all to enjoy quality time with relatives gathered around the Thanksgiving day table.
The joy of welcoming my husband home, after a long day at work, and through his tired eyes I still see the sparkle in his eyes that says he's glad to see me too.
As we continue to be bombarded with news updates of potential terrorist threats we can take some comfort in knowing our nation's leaders are doing their best to keep us safe.
The gift of waking up each morning with the choice of how I will greet the new day.
The comfort in knowing that with my family and friends beside me, there is nothing I cannot do.
The incredible bravery of the men and women of our Armed Forces, who are aware of the dangers this country faces, who know the cost of freedom, and who are willing to pay the ultimate price for what they believe in. To them we owe our deepest thanks.
Most of all Lord, help us to remember that as long as the spirit of humanity is alive and well, there will always be something for us to be thankful for.
Kathy Whirity kathywhirity @ yahoo.com
Kathy Whirity is a newspaper columnist who lives in Chicago with her husband, Bill, their 2 daughters, Jaime and Katie, and 2 rambunctious retrievers, Holly and Hannah. The love of writing is what motivates Kathy to share her joy with others. You may visit Kathy at her new web page 'KATHY WHIRITY'S MUSINGS FROM THE HEART': http://www.heartwarmers4u.com/members?kathyw
You are encouraged to write to the authors to let them know what you think of their story. Have a comment on today's story? Send it to: moderator @ write2theheart.com
Write 2 the Heart now has an affiliate program with Cognigen. They have several long distance plans to chose from. I personally use the PowerNet Global 4.5¢ Per Minute Plan. I love having my own toll free number without the monthly fee; I only pay for actual calls. My family can call home whenever they are out of town. I have used it more times than I care to remember over the last three years in emergency situations.
Cognigen has more than just great long distance rates; they have calling cards, internet access, web hosting services and much more. You can check out all of their telecommunication products and services at http://ld.net/?cbspeir. Looking for an affiliate program? You will be surprised at all the products and services you will have access to.
Military Prayer Reminder As you read over this list of names, please take a moment to pray for these young people and their families: Chris Speir Tim Speir Alan Todd Holland Graham William Julie Sagel Jessie Marshal Thompson Jason Eric Hernandez Kristin Danielson Ryan Larry Miele Daniel Amy John Joanne Gary Boardwine Josh Hadassah Chanz Wackerly Robert Henderson David Habighurst Tonia Melissa Bair Matthew Nutter Please continue to pray for our country, our leaders, and our troops at this time. If you have loved ones in the military, or who are being called to go overseas, send their names (first and last or first only) to be included in our prayer reminder.
Cheryl’s Corner
David and I are going to celebrate Thanksgiving this Thursday at a local restaurant that has been advertising a feast. This will be the first time I have not cooked and I am looking forward to no leftovers and no kitchen to clean! Of course my girls think they need to invite us to their parents. I keep telling them to enjoy the time with their families because I will need them heavily from Christmas to New Years.
We will be having a family Christmas celebration for son Tim and nephew Todd before they leave to go to Iraq. I am looking forward to seeing Todd and Jamie’s small son. It has been a long time since there has been a baby in the house. David’s sisters should be down and it will be a real family reunion.
Immediately after Christmas begins the whirlwind preparations for Jeremy and Heathers wedding on New Years Eve. The bride will be home just days before the wedding. She has had to plan long distance from where she is stationed in Colorado. It has been hard to match colors by a verbal description, “a pretty pink” can mean anything to me. Bright blue, is that a shade or intensity?
I’m so glad that God gives us times of refreshing or I would be tired just thinking about all of this!
God bless, Cheryl
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