R's rue

On the verge of happy tears today!  I am just so blessed.  I want to find the good in life!  It seems like we only hear of the bad in the world, so I want to hear of what's good in your world!
"With God all things are possible"
Song pick of the day- "As for me and My House" by John Waller
R

1.  I love sweets!
2.  I love to watch tennis
3.  I love game shows
4.  I love romantic comedies
5.  I don't know who I want to win the Super Bowl
6.  I wish I could wear high heels

What are yours?
R

Good morning!
God asked Abraham "Is anything to hard for The Lord."  Of course not, but it doesn't mean we don't doubt sometimes.  If Sarah could have a child at her old age, God can do anything.  He wants us to seek His face, and trust Him completely.
Do I doubt God more than I'd like?
Yes!
Hopefully, with prayer and practice I can have more faith.
Song pick of the day- "Amazing Grace, My Chains are Gone" by Chris Tomlin
Have a blessed day,
R

The Super Bowl is coming up!  I love football tremendously, but I have a more interesting topic.  What are your favorite game day foods?  I love a good chicken wing, and buffalo chicken dip.
Chips and salsa follow closely behind.  Any healthy recipes for good appetizers and dips?
Would love to hear?
R

1.  A hug
2.  A good movie
3.  Solitude
4.  Dark chocolate
5.  A letter

What's making you happy, today?

Good morning,

in the early morning
i seek to find You
the Only One
who can fill
that hole
a mile wide
You find me
happy and sad
in desperation
or utter jubilation
to serve you
is a duty
and a pleasure
it's only in You
i can be forgiven
and made fully whole
with you
i learn what it is
to love and be loved
you say 'look at the mirror'
you are my beautiful Child
i give you life
i give you hope
i give and i take away
The Almighty where my heart must be
He is my check and balance
my sin
He makes His own
i receive Love
though I deserve not a thing

Matthew 20:28
"just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many"

Song pick of the day- "Keep My Heart Alive" Sanctus Real

Tonight, I am sitting here thinking.  For a writer, thinking can be dangerous.  Don't get me wrong, thinking can be a good thing, but only in moderation for me.  Too much of a good thing can lead to disaster.  Intrinsically, I am a pessimist by nature.  I post many Bible verses and inspirational quotes because I need constant positive reinforcement.  This is catharsis for me.  I worry about anything and everything if you'll let me.  I can make myself sick with worry over anything.  Can I change the end result?  Mostly, no, but that doesn't stop me from trying.  Sometimes I just wonder if I enjoy worrying or projecting the future.  See, thinking can be dangerous and hazardous to one's health.
Just some thoughts,
R

"for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God"
Romans 3:23

"Be faithful in small things because it is them that your strength lies"
Mother Teresa

Song pick of the day-I Can Only Imagine by MercyMe

Have a blessed day,
R

I went to church today, and the sermon hit me squarely between the eyes.  It was being a Christian steward.  The part about your talents being a part of your stewardship struck me.  Some days I wonder if I have talent, or if I am using my talent properly.  I am no Novak Djokovic, Grand Slam champion; I am no doctor saving lives. I am just an ordinary girl with a blog, hoping to make Him proud.  Maybe I make a difference.  I would like to think that I do that.  I am a girl with CP, hoping to not merely exist.  I fall short every day.  I have more fears and unnecessary worry than I can quantify.  All I can hope is that I do a job worthy of the King's pleasing.
Tearing up writing this.  Acceptance is a tough pill to swallow.
Have a blessed afternoon!
R

"Humble your yourself before The Lord and he will lift you up"
James 4:10

It's cold here today!  Looking forward to a good book and some good food!
Any recommendations for a good book or recipe?
Have a great day!
R

Song pick of the day- Let it Rain by Michael W. Smith

I love getting to know you, friends!
Here another round of Five Q's!

1. Name
2. Favorite drink
3. Dream vacation
4. Favorite fruit
5.  Favorite movie

1. Regine
2. Smoothie
3. Paris
4. Cantaloupe
5. Rudy

Your turn now!
R

Good morning, friends!

"Finally brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable- if anything is excellent or praiseworthy think about such things."
Philippians 4:8

"Faith activates God-Fear activates the enemy"
Joel Osteen

Song pick of the day- I Still Believe by Jeremy Camp

Have a blessed day,
R

1.  Tonight is a new episode of The Big Bang Theory
2.  Trying a new recipe
3.  A quick shopping trip to the drugstore
4.  Reading a new book
5.  My Moleskine notebooks

What are your five things?
Good afternoon!
R

Blessings on this beautiful Thursday!

"For we know, brothers and sisters loved by God, that he has chosen you, because our gospel came to you simply with words but also with power, with the Holy Spirit and deep conviction.  You know now we lived among you for your sake."
1 Thessalonians 4-5

"Courage is the mastery of fear not the absence of fear"
Mark Twain

Song pick of the day- All My Praise by Selah

Have a great day!
R

Good afternoon, friends!
This is a subject that is very hard to discuss.  In fact I have been in denial about writing about denial.  According to Merriam Webster's free online dictionary, being in denial is defined as "refusing to admit the truth or reality of something unpleasant."
Until I started blogging about my Cerebral Palsy, I was in denial about my condition, and who I was. Putting my struggles out there, the true and not so pretty ones, has helped face my truth.  I will have moments where those negative thoughts return, but your kind words are a boon to my spirit, and I have and will continue to read your encouraging comments when I need a smile, rather than a frown.
Getting out of denial one step at a time.
Song pick- You are for me by Kari Jobe
R

Happy Wednesday!

"A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for a difficult time."
Proverbs 17:17

"If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you."
James 1:5

Song pick of the day- My hope is in You by Aaron Shust
Have a blessed day!
R

Happy Tuesday!
Just a little morning inspiration.
"I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me"
Philippians 4:13

"Trust in The Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding.  In all your ways acknowledge him and He will lead your path straight."
Proverbs 3:5-6

Finding You by Bebo Norman
Have a blessed day!
R

Thought I'd ask a fun question on this Monday.
What are your favorite places to shop?
1.  Amazon.com
2.  Gap
3.  J Crew
4.  Barnes&Noble

What are your favorites, friends
R

In honor of Martin Luther King  day in this country, I wanted to share two of his most poignant quotes.

"Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that.  Hate cannot drive out hate; only love can do that."

"Faith is taking the first step even when you don't see the whole staircase."

Dr. King was an astute observer and so very right.  I look forward to watching the Presidential Inauguration, and relishing in the hope of God's promises.

Enjoy the day!
R

Today has been a good day.  Nothing beats a good worship service!  Nothing beats being able to talk to someone, and being able to confide in them.  The building can't be worshiped as the preacher mentioned today, but it is a place to share your heart will fellow believers.  I appreciate all the kind words and encouragement as I face my impediments and reality in the face.  When I write this blog, I realize I must be truthful.  My job with these words is to please God, and hope He is pleased with me.  I hope to bring hope and a smile once in a while.
Thanks in part to your encouragement, I am starting to see life in a new light again.  I have a bounce in my step again.
Thank you again, friends!
R

Good afternoon, friends.  I had so much fun with the first five Q's, I thought I would do another five.

1. Name
2. Favorite flower
3. Favorite television show
4. Beauty product you can't live without
5.  Favorite restaurant

1. Regine
2. Tulip
3. The Big Bang Theory
4. Chapstick
5. Virginia's on King in Charleston, South Carolina

Your turn now, friends
R

Good morning, friends!  It's Friday!
After yesterday's post, I realized I am starting to let my burdens go.  Thank you for all your support.
Here are some thoughts on that subject:
"Every burden is a blessing"
Walt Kelly

"None knows the weight of another's burden"
George Herbert

With that being said, I am indeed learning that I am not a burden but a blessing.
Matthew 11:28 says "Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest."

Song pick of the day- Your Grace is Enough by Matt Maher.
Have a blessed day,
R

I realized the other much to my dismay that I had to write this post.  Monday, the nurse in the doctor's office pleaded with me to use my walking cane as much I hate it.  She said, "I'd rather you use it than fall."  She said:  "I know it's not sexy to use it."  It is not, but having bloodied hands and knees isn't either, I later thought.  The kicker came yesterday when my mom pleaded with me to read that day devotional in the Journey magazine.  It spoke of a girl who didn't use her cane, and almost missed her stop because the driver didn't announce her stop.  Her teacher pleaded with her to take her cane the next time, she did, and with a much different result.  Upon seeing the white cane, the driver, made a point to help her.
I am learning to cross intersections among other things, and like this girl, I hate to use my cane.  The cane for me is associated with weakness and not very attractive.
This last portion has had me thinking.  "I forced myself to trade the assumption that people saw me as helpless for the reality that I was simply letting them see the truth."  This statement has hit me like a ton of bricks.  I have felt that as far as I have come, I would resign myself to using a cane.  It would be a sign of backward progress.  Not many people can tell that I have Cerebral Palsy or that I have severe visual impairment.  As long as that was the case, I could perpetuate the notion that I was "normal".  Normal is what I have dreamed of for so long.  I have to accept that "normal" is not in the cards for me.  Don't even get me started on whether I would think that the opposite sex would find me attractive with a cane.  That's another story for another day. If the truth sets you free, the truth is what you shall receive.
This has been one post that has been hard to write.  Truth is hard, but necessary.
When God calls, I must respond.
Pushing the publish button will be difficult, but here we go, readers!
R

Happy Thursday!
My Bible verse today is:  2 Corinthians 12:9
But he said to me, My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ's power may rest on me.
I am left speechless at how powerful this verse is for me.
Is there a verse that has particular meaning for you?  Would love to hear!
Blessings,
R.

* Verse courtesy of BibleGateway.com
Song pick today:  I Will Rise by Chris Tomlin

Good afternoon, friends!
Here are five questions for you?

1.  Name
2.  Favorite color
3.  Nail polish
4.  Food
5.  Place you've visited

Here are my answers:

1.  Regine
2.  Green
3.  Essie limo-scene
4.  Key-lime pie
5.  Venice, Italy

Can't wait to see your answers!
R

*Modeled after popular Glamour.com posts for Reader Appreciation Day!

Happy Wednesday, friends!
Other than a cup of coffee, I need something great to jump start my day!

"A friend is someone who knows all about you and still loves you"
Elbert Hubbard

"I've learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how they made you feel."
Maya Angelou

"So I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh."
Galatians 5:16 NIV

Strong Enough by Matthew West is my song pick of day!

Any words of wisdom you like to share, friends?  Any song picks for me?
Have a great day!
R

Here are a few of my guilty pleasures:

1. A nice long shower
2. Cookie dough ice cream
3. An all day marathon of Law&Order episodes
4. The newest issue of Vogue magazine

I know these don't sound too guilty, but what are yours?
R

Happy Tuesday, friends!  Enjoying a day with nothing on my agenda.  I am a bit tired still, but very blessed.  Gabriel Robins at the University of Virginia compiled some famous quotes.  I thought I would share a few.

"It's kind of fun to do the impossible"
Walt Disney

"The true measure of a man is how he treats someone who can do him absolutely no good"
Samuel Johnson

'To love oneself is the beginning of a life-long romance"
Oscar Wilde

What quotes inspire you, friends?  Would love to hear!
Have a great and blessed day!
R

This morning I had to have my baclofen pump refilled.  This happens every several months, so I am not unaware of what happens.  The baclofen pump is located at my abdomen, and is used to alleviate spasticity.  I always get so anxious about these visits.  It doesn't matter how many times I have the pump refilled, my anxiety hits the roof.  Making matters worse, a new doctor, was to refill the pump.

I was so worried about the pump refill, doctor and getting on that darn scale, that I couldn't focus on all the good in life.  The weather was beautiful outside, I am walking, I am relatively pain-free and I have access to some of the best healthcare a girl could ask for in this world.  Fear consumed me.  What if this, what if that.  I realized I have no faith once I walk into that waiting room.  My weight will fluctuate.  And the baclofen pump will be with for a while.

I was reading a Max Lucado book where it said:  "Pray first and then exercise 'gratitude'."  After the appointment, I felt terrible for having the anxiety I had.  The new doctor is very nice and competent.  I could stand to lose a few pounds, but my weight stayed the same as the last time.
I need to exercise Philippians 4:6-7 every day.
"Don't worry about anything, pray about everything."
If I believe as I say I do, I need to let God do His job.
I am home now.  I am a bit weary and tired, but nothing a good nap can't fix.
God Bless,
R

I hope everyone is having a great day!
Here is a great Scripture verse from Jeremiah 29:11.
"For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future."
Enjoy the afternoon, friends!
R

I just finished watching The Help this morning.  It is one of my favorite movies.  One of my favorite quotes from the movie is when Abilene tell the little girl, "you is kind, you is smart, you is important."
What is your favorite quote from a movie?
Have a great Saturday!
On an unrelated note, good luck to Miss South Carolina, Ali Rogers!
All of South Carolina is rooting for you tonight!
R

It's a rainy day in my neck of the woods.  How is the weather in your neck of the woods?    Spending the day writing and gathering ideas for future posts.  I am also trying out a new recipe for tonight.  Polish-style Country Ribs sounds really yummy right about now!  Any new recipes, books or movies dear friends, you could recommend on this dreary day?
Thanks,
R

Happy Friday, friends!  I plan on watching the Miss America pageant, and the NFL divisional playoffs this weekend.  I am aware of the vast contrast.  I thought I would start off with a humorous quote by the legendary Ethel Barrymore.
" You grow up the day you have your first real laugh--at yourself"
I have a hard time doing just that.  It's something to work on.
Have a great day!
R

"The road to success is always under construction"
Author Unknown
I love this quote!
Success for me is measured in each small step taken.
How is success measure for you?
R

Good Thursday!
I hope all of you are well!
Today in some South Carolina cities, starts Restaurant Week.
These restaurants are usually very pricey, but for one week, they are quite affordable. 
I do have a few favorites!
Virginia's on King
Carolina's- those truffles fries are amazing
Pane e Vino- classic Italian at its finest

I would love to try Husk, Leaf and Rue de Jean.  These restaurants are located in Charleston, South Carolina.  Charleston is one of my favorite cities in our great United States!

Which are your favorite restaurants, friends?  Any recommendations?
Have a great day!
R

Better to write for yourself and have no public, than to write for the public and have no self.
Cyril Connolly

I am finding this statement to ring true.  I am finding that the more I write for myself, the more the public seems to like the product, that I am providing.
Be true to myself and the rest will follow.
Have a great day!
R

I amaze myself sometimes.  I always thought I would never cook.  I was too afraid of burning down the house, or making inedible food.  Yesterday I made a vegetable pasta salad from my new Betty Crocker cookbook that was surprisingly good.  I always thought microwave dinners would be my main source of nutrition given my fear of the stove.  I am learning that I may never be Eric Ripert, but I can cook in the traditional sense if that is what I want.  I also am learning that I may not be the worst cook that ever lived, either.  I am making a lot of pasta dishes, but I am starting somewhere!
I am learning to face my fear, no matter how paralyzing, it may be for me.
I am being the change I wish to see in the world
Gandhi spoke no truer words than this.
The change is starting within me.
I am proud of myself!
What are you proud of today?  Would love to hear!
R

Good Tuesday, friends!
I love to travel!  These are some of the locales I would love to visit.

1. Nashville- the home of country music
2. New Orleans- The Garden District, jazz music and beignets!
3. San Francisco- The Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz and so much more

There are so many more destinations on my wish list, but these are just a few.  I will also have a global list compiled soon!
Any others places I should consider, readers?
Have a great day!
R

Happy Monday!
Here's a Scripture verse to get your Monday started off right.
He replied, "Because you have so little faith. Truly I tell you, if you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, 'Move from here to there,' and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you."
Faith as small as a mustard seed.  I need to be reminded of that.
Have a blessed and great Monday!
R

Blessed Sunday!
I received a cookbook for Christmas.  I guess I will be learning to cook.  I need to know how to more than three things.  I can make rice, cheesecake and cornbread.  I want to learn how to cook easy, simple and healthy meals.  This cookbook has great recipes, but many look quite complex.  Friends, do you have any simple and healthy recipes I could make?  Any favorite recipe websites?  I am truly a novice.  I could use any and all helpful suggestions!
Thank you in advance!
R

Happy Friday!

I love to travel!  I have a serious case of wanderlust!  Conde Nast Traveler is one of my favorite magazines.  Next week I will share some of my favorite places to visit.  I will also share my top picks for places I would love to see.

What are your top travel destinations?  Would love to hear!
Have a great weekend!
R

Good morning!
Scripture for the day.
I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.
Philippians 4:13
Any favorite verses of Scripture?
Have a blessed day!
R

New Year's Day may be the beginning of a new year, but for football fans, this day is pure utopia.  The amount of college football games on yesterday was pure football overload for me.  I love football.  I love sports, period.  I was tuned into the Outback Bowl pitting South Carolina against Michigan.  The Gamecocks versus the Wolverines.  It was a nail biter to watch.  I usually like to watch the game alone so that no one sees me yell at the television.  I also pace around the house for the duration of the game.  I love football.
It was sad to see Denard Robinson end his college career with a loss.  I enjoyed watching Jadeveon Clowney be the spectacularly talented star that he is.  In sports, however, there must be losses.  Nobody wants second best on a given day.
I will be watching Alabama versus Notre Dame on January 7th.
Friends, Did you watch the Carolina game yesterday?  Will you be watching the National Title game?
Who will win it all?

Good morning!

Today I choose to smile
for a frown
gives me nothing
but a hard time

A smile brings hope and joy
a frown
can only lead
to unnecessary frustration

Happiness is a choice
One I must make for my own sanity
A choice
that only has two answers

Yes means
I choose the glass half full
No means
A glass half empty


I want to live a happy, joyous life!  I want to make a decision each day to see the beauty in any circumstance.
Have a great day, friends!
R

Happy New Year!

'I think in terms of the day's resolutions, not the years'.  Henry Moore

"Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come:  The old has gone, the new is here!"
2 Corinthians 5:17

I am a new creation, and this is a new day!
Have a great day!
R