Month: January 2024

Posted in Florida, Insects

God made Insects even No see ums

Posted on by ChronicallyGratefulDeb

BugsGod made them to take care of other insects but I dislike all bugs but I really hate them here in central Florida . Especially No see ums.

What’s a No see I’m?

No See Ums are microscopic little blood-sucking biting flies (technically a midge) that pack a mean punch. While only the females bite you, it’s disconcerting when you can feel something land on you, crawl across your skin, but you can’t see them. Next thing you know, you feel a painful bite, which is really an injection, and then you itch like crazy.

Before you know it, little red bumps arise on my calves, ankles, and abdomen and the itching begins. Calamine lotion, rubbing alcohol, and even hydrocortisone offer scant relief. As the adage goes, the best defense is a good offense. Taking a proactive approach to these microscopic buggers by protecting yourself before you encounter them is the best defense.

Noseeums, mosquitoes, midges hate them all but noseeums are the worst…yep it’s a real bug and you can’t see them but they bite and it hurts and leaves welts.

I am learning to wear protective spray but I swear they get in your house and wait til your comfortable and then get you.

These all seem to work for a minute, but what gets rid of them!

Effective Mosquito -Noseeum- biting midge Repellents: they work for a moment but I’d like to get rid of them and not fight a losing battle.

  1. Citronella, derived from lemongrass, is a key ingredient in commercial bug sprays and candles. Its citrusy scent repels mosquitoes, making it a great natural option for skin application or creating homemade deterrents.
  2. Peppermint’s minty fragrance acts as a deterrent for mosquitoes. Planting peppermint or applying crushed leaves directly to your skin can effectively ward off these flying insects. Peppermint oil also helps relieve itchiness from bug bites.
  3. Basil, known for seasoning, serves as a versatile natural repellent. The essential oils in basil emit a potent aroma that irritates mosquitoes. Grow basil in your yard and make homemade sprays using its essential oils for maximum repellent benefits.

  1. Garlic, rich in allicin, serves as an edible repellent by masking our scent. Scatter slivers around outdoor areas or blend with oils to create yard sprays. Combine garlic with essential oils for a body spray, ensuring mosquitoes steer clear of the unappealing smell.
  2. Lemon Balm, with its lemon scent, deters insects while being loved by bees and humans. Grow it in targeted areas or apply crushed leaves for personal repellent. Utilize leftover leaves in herbal teas for added stress relief benefits.
  3. Lavender, favored by many but disliked by mosquitoes, can be used by extracting oils for skin application or creating a body spray. Plant it in your garden for added charm and effective mosquito deterrence.
  4. Marigold’s pungent aroma repels mosquitoes; plant them strategically and use cut flowers indoors to prevent mosquito migration. Enjoy the added benefit of colorful, edible flowers in your garden.
  5. Catnip, with Nepetalactone, is highly effective, surpassing DEET in repelling mosquitoes. Plant it in your garden, apply crushed leaves to your skin, or use them in tea for natural healing. Bonus: share surplus leaves with grateful feline friends.
  6. Rosemary, a versatile herb, combats mosquitoes when planted in the garden. Place sprigs on the grill while barbecuing to keep mosquitoes at bay or infuse into lotions and sprays for simple body repellents.
  7. Eucalyptus, akin to citronella, disrupts mosquitoes’ senses. Plant it in your yard or apply its oil directly to the skin for optimum protection against mosquitoes, ticks, midges, and sandflies.

Do you have any good products You like?

Comment below.

Thanks

On a spiritual note

As I dealt with the consequences of these troublesome ankle-biters, and forehead biters when your walking ,it occurred to me that we encounter spiritual “No See Ums” in our daily lives. We may be sailing smoothly, only to face betrayal or belittlement from a friend, or family member leading to discouragement. At times, misinformation and fear-inducing news soundbites can trigger anger. I’ve come to realize that while we can defend against both physical and spiritual “No See Ums,” complete victory over them remains elusive.

Exodus 8:16-32 AMPC

Then the Lord said to Moses, Say to Aaron, (Aaron was the elder brother of Moses) Stretch out your rod and strike the dust of the ground, that it may become biting gnats or mosquitoes throughout all the land of Egypt. And they did so; Aaron stretched out his hand with his rod and struck the dust of the earth, and there came biting gnats or mosquitoes on man and beast; all the dust of the land became biting gnats or mosquitoes throughout all the land of Egypt.

Posted in Lent,

Journey of Reflection: Understanding Lent and Holy Week

Posted on by ChronicallyGratefulDeb

As we approach February 14, 2024, Christians worldwide will embark on the solemn and introspective season of Lent, a spiritual journey lasting 40 days, excluding Sundays. This period of reflection begins on Ash Wednesday, where a tangible symbol of penance is marked on the foreheads of congregants in the form of a cross created from ashes.

The significance of 40 days in Lent carries deep spiritual weight, drawing inspiration from pivotal events in biblical history. Most notably, Jesus, before commencing His public ministry, spent 40 days and 40 nights fasting and praying in the desert (Matthew 4:2). This sacred number has always been associated with spiritual preparation and transformation.

Lent culminates three days before Easter Sunday on Thursday, March 28, 2024, marking the end of a journey that encourages introspection, repentance, and a deeper connection with faith. The week leading up to Easter, known as Holy Week, holds immense importance in Christian tradition.

Palm Sunday, on March 24, commemorates Jesus’s triumphant entry into Jerusalem, where crowds welcomed Him with palm branches. Holy Wednesday acknowledges the ominous plot of Judas to betray Jesus. Following this, Maundy Thursday commemorates the Last Supper, representing the culmination of Lent.

As we immerse ourselves in this sacred season, may Lent be more than a tradition but a profound opportunity for spiritual growth, mirroring Jesus’s 40 days in the desert. Let Holy Week serve as a poignant reminder of the events leading to Easter, a celebration of resurrection and renewal.

Posted in Loneliness or Isolation

Navigating Loneliness: A Journey of Faith and Fellowship

Posted on by ChronicallyGratefulDeb

As beings created in the image of God, our social nature is intrinsic, designed for fellowship with both the divine and one another. Loneliness, a universal emotion, can stem from various sources, be it rejection, isolation, or internal feelings of separation. Yet, for believers in Jesus Christ, the promise in Hebrews 13:5 becomes our anchor: “I will never desert you, nor will I ever abandon you.”

Distinguishing between loneliness and solitude is crucial. Loneliness, an unwanted experience, can drain and leave us feeling empty. In contrast, solitude, a choice to be alone, was essential even for Jesus, who sought moments of refreshment in communion with His Father.

Some people can feel all alone in a room full of people.

Some people live isolated, because of chronic pain, illness, etc…

Isolation, a prevalent theme at every life stage, can either lead to destructive habits or become a catalyst for drawing closer to God. Confession of loneliness is not a sin; it’s a step toward seeking God’s comfort. Examples from the Bible, including David, Paul, and even Jesus, highlight that loneliness is a shared human experience.

The pathway to victory over loneliness involves confessing our feelings to the Lord, establishing a personal relationship with Jesus Christ, and developing godly friendships. Discerning companionship is vital, seeking friends who laugh with us, pray with us, understand us, and anchor us in God’s Word.

Scripture becomes the steadfast anchor in times of loneliness, as God’s promises provide solace. Responding to loneliness with a cry to God deepens our relationship with Him, enriching our understanding of His ways and love. In moments of despair, He lifts us out, reminding us that we are never truly alone.

Reflection questions prompt us to assess the direction loneliness drives us and emphasize the importance of godly friendships and anchoring our souls in Scripture. In the tapestry of loneliness, our faith intertwines with God’s promises, guiding us through the journey of solitude towards a deeper, more intimate relationship with the Divine.

If you are new to an area, job, school or just need to know what to look for to make friends

Look for friends with the following qualities:

  • Someone you can laugh with.
  • Somebody you can pray with.
  • Someone who understands you.
  • Someone with whom you can share secrets.
  • Somebody you can trust.
  • Someone who is an extension of God in your life, who points you to the Lord and reminds you of His Word and promises.
  • Someone who sticks with you through good times and bad times.

Posted in Embrace the uncertainties

Embracing the Unseen: Trusting in God’s Grand Plan

Posted on by ChronicallyGratefulDeb

In the tapestry of life, our perspective is often confined to the present moment, leaving the grand design hidden from our sight. Isaiah 55:8-9 reminds us that God’s ways are higher than our ways, and His thoughts surpass our understanding. The mystery of life’s unfolding is a testament to the divine orchestrations beyond our comprehension.

Though we may not perceive the entirety of God’s plan, we find solace in the certainty that He is working towards something extraordinary at the finish line. The journey is a testament to our trust in Him, a trust that extends beyond what our eyes can behold. It is an assurance that, despite life’s uncertainties, God is in control.

Another guiding light in our journey is found in Jeremiah 29:11, which reassures us that God has plans for our welfare and not for evil, plans to give us a future and a hope. This verse is a beacon of optimism, affirming that every twist and turn in our lives is a part of His overarching purpose.

In the midst of life’s challenges, we draw strength from the conviction that God’s great plan for us is filled with hope and purpose. As we navigate the unknown, let us remember Proverbs 3:5-6: “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.”

Embrace the uncertainties, for in trusting God, we discover the unfolding of a divine masterpiece. Let us walk with confidence, knowing that God’s plan for our lives is a tapestry of love, purpose, and boundless grace.

Posted in Grateful, Ministry

Embracing God’s Hope and Love: A Grateful Message to Our Blog Community

Posted on by ChronicallyGratefulDeb

Dear cherished readers,

I am filled with gratitude as I reflect on the connection we’ve formed through this online blog ministry. My ultimate goal is to guide you on a personal journey with God, allowing you to experience His presence in every moment of your life. Your best days lie ahead, and together, we can make a positive impact by spreading the message of God’s hope and love.

Wishing each of you a truly blessed day.

With love,
Deb

Posted in Grief

Grief a Complex Journey

Posted on by ChronicallyGratefulDeb

Grief is a complex journey, an intricate dance with time and emotions that can ebb and flow unexpectedly. It’s a process that takes its own course, marked by milestones that bring the ache to the surface, much like a flood of emotions on significant days such as the anniversary of a loved one’s passing or on Mother’s or Father’s Day.

For instance, January 26, 2024, marks the 24th year since my mom passed away. While I believed I had worked through my grief, the truth is, on her death date, a wave of sadness still washes over me. The passage of time hasn’t made missing her any less poignant.

The sting of her loss hasn’t dulled because the yearning for her presence remains. Losing her at the age of 65 and my dad at 56 left an indelible mark on my heart. This year, the ache is amplified as I can’t visit her grave. Living in Florida adds geographical distance, and the inability to lay flowers or tend to her resting place weighs heavy on my heart.

Despite knowing she would be happy for my journey, a tinge of guilt lingers for being unable to fulfill these small acts of remembrance. Grief, it seems, is not a linear path but a winding road with unexpected turns.

Yet, even in the midst of this ache, there’s solace in Psalm 34:18: “The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit.” In the depths of grief, there’s a reassurance that divine comfort is present, offering solace to the brokenhearted.

Miss you and Love you Mom

Give Dad a kiss for me

Posted in gods-love, Grateful, joyful-echoes, Ministry, Nobody

Just A Nobody

Posted on by ChronicallyGratefulDeb

I listen to Z88.3 Orlando it’s a Christian radio station and I just love all the talks, music etc….

I listened to KLOVE when I lived in Ohio.

One of my favorite songs is by Casting Crowns called Nobody.

It’s basically saying what I have thought for the past few years, why me? Why was I selected and lead to take ministry classes? To be ordained when I am so flawed? We all have flaws but I wonder why God lead me to take classes the ultimately led me to become ordained.

Was it to teach me how to become better, wiser?

I’m just an ordinary person spreading the word about Jesus. In ways of stories I create , thoughts I have . And teachings I have studied as well as my own Life experiences etc..

The mystery of why You chose me Lord has persisted throughout my life. I’ve often been told that I belong at the end of the line with the Not-Quites and the Never-Get-It-Rights and How can you be a minister you used to swear smoke, etc….

As the song goes

I’m just a nobody, sharing the story of Somebody who saved my soul. Since You rescued me, my heart now sings a song,

In moments of doubt, when the devil questions my worth, I confidently respond that I’m just a nobody proclaiming Somebody great.

The stories of Moses’ stage fright and David facing a sword with a rock remind me that outsiders like the twelve You picked can change the world. Everyone has a purpose, and when the devil questions my identity, I assert that I’m just a nobody proclaiming Somebody who saved my soul.

Thank you Lord for saving me and allowing me to spread your word

And in the spirit of the message, let’s reflect on Psalm 27:1 – “The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? The Lord is the stronghold of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?”

Here is the song by the casting crowns enjoy. Called Nobody

Posted in Wednesday

Wonderful Wednesday

Posted on by ChronicallyGratefulDeb

In this post I’d like to share the most powerful and best Wednesday blessings and quotes.

To help you get a great start to your Wednesday. To help you power through the rest of the work week.

And to help you to both focus on gratitude for what you have but also on hope and motivation to step by step move yourself towards your goals and dreams.

I hope you’ll find something positive, uplifting and recharging here.

Inspirational Wednesday Morning Blessings

Good morning, Wednesday! As we step into the middle of the week, let’s welcome it with open arms, hopeful hearts, and a mindset that invites blessings in unexpected ways. Wednesdays hold the promise of new opportunities and the potential for positive surprises.

Choosing Gratitude for Blessings:

Expressing gratitude for the blessings in our lives is more than a simple acknowledgment; it’s a conscious decision to attract more positivity and abundance. When we cultivate a thankful heart, we create a magnetic force that draws in even more blessings. So, take a moment this Wednesday morning to reflect on the blessings you’ve received and express your gratitude.

A Wish for Your Wednesday:

May this Wednesday bring you unexpected joys, unexplored opportunities, and a sprinkle of luck in the areas that matter most to you. Embrace the day with optimism, knowing that each moment is a chance for something wonderful to unfold. Let the energy of gratitude and positivity guide you through this blessed Wednesday.

Wishing Unlimited Blessings:

As you navigate through your Wednesday, imagine a gentle rain of unlimited blessings showering down upon you. Picture these blessings as opportunities, moments of joy, and unexpected delights. Allow this mental image to uplift your spirit and infuse your day with a sense of divine favor.

In the grand symphony of life, may your Wednesday be a harmonious melody of positivity and blessings. Embrace the day with a grateful heart, and let the universe respond with even more reasons to be thankful. Have a wonderful Wednesday morning, and may unlimited blessings rain over you today!

Posted in selfcare

Honoring the Temple: Embracing Self-Care as a Spiritual Practice

Posted on by ChronicallyGratefulDeb

In the hustle and bustle of life, it’s essential to remember the significance of self-care. Caring for the body, a divine gift from God, is not only a physical necessity but also a spiritual responsibility. Let’s explore the importance of pampering ourselves as a form of self-care and honoring the temple that houses our spirit.

Bible Verses on Self-Care:

  1. 1 Corinthians 6:19-20 (NIV)

“Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your bodies.”

  1. Proverbs 19:8 (NIV)

“The one who gets wisdom loves life; the one who cherishes understanding will soon prosper.”

These verses emphasize the divine connection between our bodies and spirituality, encouraging us to treat our bodies with respect and care.

Positive Tuesday Quote:

“Embrace this Tuesday with gratitude for the gift of a new day. Just as we care for our bodies, let’s nurture our spirits with positivity, kindness, and the promise of new opportunities.”

Remember, self-care is not just a luxury; it’s a way of honoring the sacred vessel that carries the essence of who we are.

Ensure your well-being and honor your body as a sacred temple by following these five principles:

  1. Prioritize sufficient sleep, aligning with both scriptures (Doctrine and Covenants 88:124) and medical recommendations.
  2. Nourish your body with proper fuel.
  3. Engage in regular exercise to promote physical health.
  4. Effectively manage stress to safeguard your overall well-being.
  5. Pay attention to your mental health for a holistic approach to self-care.
Posted in Love

Prioritizing Love in 2024

Posted on by ChronicallyGratefulDeb

In the midst of setting the usual New Year’s resolutions – diet, exercise, and spending less time online – there’s one goal that promises not just commitment, but genuine enjoyment: spending quality time with your spouse or partner in 2024.

Our lives are busier than ever, consumed by work, job searches, shuttling kids to various activities, and the demands of daily life. It’s easy to get caught up in the whirlwind of responsibilities, often neglecting the foundation of our support system – our relationships.

Putting conscious effort into spending more time with your partner can be a game-changer. Amidst the chaos, taking a moment to hold their hand signifies a simple yet powerful act of connection. It’s a reminder that amidst the hustle, the heart of your life lies in the bond you share.

Here are six ways to spend quality time with your partner and foster a thriving relationship:

  1. Weekly Date Nights: Set aside dedicated time each week for a date night. Whether it’s a cozy dinner at home, a movie night, or a spontaneous adventure, prioritizing this time enhances intimacy.
  2. Technology-Free Time: Create windows where both of you disconnect from devices. This allows for undivided attention, fostering deeper conversations and strengthening emotional bonds.
  3. Shared Hobbies: Identify activities you both enjoy and make time for them together. Whether it’s cooking, hiking, or even learning something new, shared interests deepen your connection.
  4. Express Gratitude: Regularly express appreciation for each other. Small gestures of gratitude, like a heartfelt compliment or a thoughtful note, contribute to a positive and affirming relationship.
  5. Travel Together: Plan a getaway, even if it’s just a short weekend trip. Exploring new places creates lasting memories and provides an opportunity to reconnect away from the routines of daily life.
  6. Volunteer as a Couple: Giving back to the community as a team is not only fulfilling but also strengthens your bond. Find a cause that resonates with both of you and contribute your time together.

Bible Verse: Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 (NIV)
“Two are better than one because they have a good return for their labor: If either of them falls down, one can help the other up. But pity anyone who falls and has no one to help them up.”

In essence, this verse emphasizes the power of unity and mutual support, underscoring the importance of having a partner by your