New book format!

While today the Lord has really put a different spin on the original idea for my book. I think this was due to someone I suspect started praying for me after revealing my original book idea. All the pieces seemed to fall together and I definately feel God's hand upon it. I am really going to think how I blog without revealing too much of the book to my audiance! So be patient with me, my audiance,while I PRAY upon this. Join me with your prayers which are so needed.
Blessings,
The gift giver

When giving is a step of faith!

Hello to all who may be following my blog. As I have no idea who you are. It would be great for you to join my 'follower' section or email me if a story touches your heart. It can feel lonely without 'comments' etc. coming my way.
Well to catch up from my last blog, I had a lovely visit with my son whom I had not seen in 8 months. Much too long for this mother's heart!! Thanks to a 'GROUPON' I took him to a special dinner for his 21st birthday! It was such a special memory and half price!
His whole visit has left me short on cash and Christmas is coming. besides travelling to my parent's for Christmas and presents I Still need to get, there is not much for essentials.
But God showed me two needs and I do have a reserve of food in my cupboards. Firstly,it was the 'Samaritan's Purse' shoe box time again!. Go to www.samaritanspurs.ca to find out about this great cause. I am sure there are similar programs throughout different country's and churches.
Essentially it is a shoebox which you fill with school supplies, toys, hygiene items and hard candies. They are delivered to poor countries. You can pkut a note in it. Mine is going to South America. Many are going to Haiti this year. You also pay a small amount for delivery costs and you can make a cash donation. I felt the nudging of the Holy Spirit to do one. Amazingly I found many of the things I needed around my apartment to help fill my box. You list the age category and sex of the child on the label they give you and you can decorate and wrap your box.
The second prodding was for the lady who does the Christian 'Clubs' program with her own funds while living on a lower income. She does receive some donations, but she puts most of her extra income into it. I found out today that her van broke. Besides using it for her daycare job, she also uses it for clubs. She needs it to set up for clubs and she drives quite a few of the kids home. So out of my food reserve I gathered up groceries from my cupboard and freeaer, trusting God will provide for me and also allow me to visit my son! Sometimes it is a gift of faith. I am putting items on craigs list to sell so pray that they do!! Pray for the club lady that all of her needs are met.I also need prayer for funds for my book. Writing is expensive with promotion etc. All I Know for now is that I am to write.
You may have noticed that my post came later in the day due to my health issue. I need more sleep and I get busy in the day, so the timing will vary but keep checking back!! It feels great to be back!!
Blessings
The gift giver

Off sick until Mon. Nov.7, 2011

Sorry for not getting back to you all, but the gift giver is taking a break from blog writing until Nov. 7/11 due to illness. You can all pray for me!!
Many blessings!
The gift giver

Holiday while son is visiting

The gift giver will be taking a vacation while her son is visiting. She willl be back to here regular blogging on Oct. 24/11. Happy blessings and gift giving!
Blessings
The gift giver

Happy Canadian Thanksgiving!!

To all my Canadian Thanksgiving readers, may God bless you with a special reflective Thanksgiving this holiday. For me it has been a time of prayer with the Lord and realizing what I am most thankful for was my family. Oddly enough, it was the first in a long time that I did not spend time with at least one set of them, due to geograpy or busyness. But I held them close to my heart, thinking of the relationships I had with each of them this last year.
I am keenly aware that my parents are aging, yet their health is maintaining though not necessarily good. So I know the need to pray for them is high. My son still lives away from me with his dad, but I found out his dad might be moving in the new year. This is a relief to me as his dad is not the best influence for him and he will get a real sense of living on his own, if even with a room mate (or future working wife).
I am thankful for the prayers God has been answering and how He has being giving me gifts as I give gifts to others in my year of gifing challenge giving.
I am thankful for how my health has been improving. I have had a bit of SADS kicking in, so I have the good fortune to use a Sad lamp which mimics the sun and really helps those "winter blues". I already have noticed an improvement.
I am thankful to live in this part of the planet, where there are so many things that we just take for granted. Things like, running water and proper healthcare. Just watch the you tube video "in my eyes" Poverty in Africa" to see how much we are blessed!
So bless and be blessed, is the theme of today's entry. Reach out to someone in need and receive the joy in your heart. Jesus ministry was not a "clean" ministry. He went to the untouchables to touch. Love as you would want to be loved!
Blessings
The gift giver

The gift of thanksgiving.

Well thanksgiving weekend is approaching. The lineups are extending themselves further and further, leaving some shoppers inpatient! Menus are being planned with new and traditional dishes. Guests are being invited to tables so no one has to be alone. This is a giving day.
The true meaning of thanksgiving is to give thanks to our God. So this weekend take some extra time to read His word, meditate and pray, and worship. Tell God the small things and larger things that you are truly thankful for this year, especially living in the Country we do. Tell Him the most difficult thing this year that you are now thankful for.
So enjoy that turkey and praise the Lord!
Blessings,
The gift giver

The gift of baking.

Today I have a stock of ammunition lined up for my "bake out". Three pounds of butter await the fate of my mixers and oven. Recipes have been chosen including favorites from the past and those new to be explored.
An ingredient list is to be compiled, checking out supplies I have on hand and what is needed. Of note, flour will be finished soon and needs to be bought!!
I have two full days to accomplish all I want to get done. I have already made a batch of my son's favorite shortbread cookies, for him to take home. Another batch is needed while he is here. Ginger bread and cocoe/coconut cookies are amongst the building list of items to bake.
I had a cautioning and discussed it with my friend. "Am I showing that food is love?" I asked. " Every single birthday cake, I ever baked for my kids was baked WITH love!" she exclaimed.
Then it occured to me. As long as I did other things to express my love to my son that I loved him, baking or creating food was an act of love!
So on with the worship music! Today I am listening to my friend's Debbie Knighton Fortnom "reCOLLECTION" CD, available through CD baby or www.DebbieFortnum.com Part of her money raised goes to "poverty revolution" You can download her CD or get a hard copy!!
So come on a baking, praying, worshiping spree this upcoming thanksgiving weekend!
God bless,
The gift giver

Here is some money for your son's birthday dinner, God told me to give it to you

It had been a powerful church service yesterday. At the end of the service about five of us women got together, and prayed for each other's needs. I could see God at work.
Suddenly a woman I had talked to before church pulled me aside. Earlier I had told her excitedly about the birthday plan I had for my son in a restaurant when he arrived here in about 10 days. I had got a "groupon" which made the dinner half price!
Quietly she slipped some money into my hands that was rolled up. "Here is some money for your son's birthday dinner," she said "God told me to give it to you, and I have learned that I need to listen to what God says."
My eyes welled up in tears as I thanked her. She had given me thirty dollars! Through her listening to the Holy Spirit God it was showing me that I was reaping financially what I was sowing. Everyday I had given away something, since begining my giving challenge I had received something. I was journaling it, so I would not forget.
I had not been expecting that at all. But this weekend I had bought diapers, and some potluck food items that almost came to that exact amount of money for a baby shower put on by my friend. Considering that I had a wonderful dinner with my friend and company, the Lord had blessed me even more.
I do know that God has my heart in the right place as I am not expecting it. I am just wanting to know His views on giving, through His eyes. I have been entering online contests, I must confess though, with the hope of winning something nice. But I know if God wants me to win, I will win.
So if you have accepted this giving challenge, I encourage you to keep track of what you give, and how God responds! Be cautious that your heart does not turn to greed and just stand back in awe and see the hand of the Master at work! You will see His love for you and for others along the way!!
God bless,
The gift giver

Anonymous giving

It is easy to look back in time and remember how a special gift received made you feel? How would you feel if you didn't even know the giver who gave you the the gift? Would that make it seem even more special?
In anonymous giving the recipient feels no need to repay the giver. There is a freediom and almost a surprise and joy. For me the most impressionable way of this gift giving ad been gift certificates mailed to me in a card.
This is why many of my cards come with the "Blessinng" words found within it.
So this weekend, I encourage you to bless someone anonymously. Let the circle of love begin with you today!!
Blessings,
The gift giver

Meditating on Chris Tomlin's song "Our God is Greater."

Today I feel a little distracted from writing a post about giving but I would rather write about the power of God!!
This week has been a difficult one for me, with old emotions re-surfacing. What I do realize is that God wants to do a deeper healing and I am ready. Before I can "give" myself fully in marriage to a man there are core relationship issues I need to work out so I am not attracted to men whom hurt me. Wow that is deep stuff!!!
As difficult as this has been to look at, along with my relationship with food to cope or as a source of comfort, Jesus has been with me the whole way. The song by Chris Tomling "Our God is Greater." has been meditating on the deeper valves of my heart.
I encourage you to google his name and song putting "you tube" beside it. You might want to hear it a few time over, looking at the beautiful nature scenes. Then to sit in a private area, get comfortable, close your eyes and really listen to the words. What is the song speaking to you? For me it was speaking of God's boundless power. He will get me through any painful experience I was going through and to simply lean on Him.
I can't tell you how many times that song has resonnated with me today. For you it may be a different song. I would love to hear of your comments of your songs and stories! Or you can email me privately @ giftgiversboxshowschristslove@gmail.com Remember their is power is sharing our stories and gifts you can give to those facing other sturggles!!
Be blessed! Have a listening time with God today. If you do not own any Christian music, google 106.5fm praise channel) and thrift stores are good starting places!
In prayer,
The gift giver!!

The gift of hospitality:it is the company that is the real gift!!

This weekend had been having a particulary lonely one for me. My son was busy in his life, so he didn't return my phone calls or texts on his days off like he usually does. "Oh how I miss you," I thought. My heart was pained by our 8 month physical separation. It is difficult as a mom to let go!
My sister had an insane schedule of family commitments. She had time to text me twice in ten days and I had missed two of her messages. This lack of contact was so difficult as she was a teacher, going from having the summer off to back into the reality of her life. My heart was grieving.
But along came Sunday and a friend who so often offered me an after church invitation for lunch offered one!
I loved to go to her house for lunch as nothing needed to be perfect. She whized around the kitchen serving myself, another mother with her two kids, as well as her own smookie dogs! They were delicious!! We had little cupcakes she had got at Wallmart, and icecream from the other friend. Not a low calorie lunch but worth the fellowship and fun!
She then dyed her friend's hair and I gave her a scalp massage!
We watched a movie, which I fell asleep in the middle of!! But my friend had taken my lonely weekend and ended it up with such a "girlie" day! She is gifted in the gift of hospitality. I think this is a real love language and it ministers to peoples hearts and souls!
Thank you my friend for making my day! Sunday can be lonely after church if you live on your own!! It is the company that is the real gift!!

Getting rid of "excess" one gift at a time

While it is another blog day today and I am sipping on my coffee trying to recall what God has shown me about giving this week. He has shown me two main things.
Firstly that there is joy in giving your excess away, whether that is money or belongings. Secondly, it can be difficult to give away "things", even if we haven't used them for a long time.
I have items in my apartment which I haven't used in years which will surely benefit someone else. I have loved seeing or hearing about the reactions of someone being given a random gift or blessing by me. Since this one year challenge of giving began for me (Sept. 8th) I am already feeling a release from "things". I am also having to be deliberate and think about my giving each day.Today I have a Joyce Myers book for a friend. Praise the Lord!!
I have also learned that giving up some items can be difficult. Suddenly re-looking at an item one has not even used can bring about this new "love" for the iteme. I'll see the item I have a double for, and I'll think "I'll need it one year." One year never comes and I am crowding up my cupboard space! The cookbook I hold onto for those few recipes stays on my book shelf.
Just last night I really saw this over a "homemade" loaf of bread. I had not given to anyone yet yesterday, as my friend did not accept my gift of clothing. She had given me two delicious loaves of bread with lentil soup. I felt the nudging of the Holy Spirit to leave one of the homemade bread loaves in my lobbey.
I rationalized thinking that I could put 1 loaf of frozen store bought bread out instead. But when I really thought about it I really remembered how the fact that the bread was homemade was such a blessing to me. I was feeling blessed and fortunate to be able to leave that gift of bread out for somebody, knowing God was at work!
It has really taught me not to ignore the nudgings of the Holy Spirit, though sometimes I will have no other understanding other than it is part of God's plan. I know my own greed can get in the way. Mold my heart Lord! Mold me! Maybe God's plan, was to start molding me!

"The Lord watch between me and thee when we are absent from one another" Genesis 31:49

"The Lord watch between me and thee when we are absent from one another."Genesis 31:49
Being a gift giver this scripture rings out from the mountaintops to me.
Firstly it describes my own brokeness from divorce. So clearly I remember the days when everything I knew fell apart. I went through the motions of life, surviving to get my parenting tasks for my five year old son done. He depended upon me and I wanted his life as normal as it could be. Tireless nights were with my pillow and rolls of toilet paper, wiping up the tears of my sorrows. I just felt so overwhelmed. Like no one knew what I was going through and I was the only one.
But the Lord knew of this whole situation and the circumstances of why we were absent from each other. We both have our own accounts to give before the Lord. Out of tragedy he bloomed this ministry!
In the people that the Lord has directed me to minister to, many have deep woundings. "When we are absent from one another" it screams out and echos with grief and loneliness. So many people around us are hurting and grieving if we take the time to notice and help.
I remember each person and their unique ways that reached out to me in my crisis time. That is pretty amazing. Sad that there was so few. But rich, for the depth of kindness shown at the exact time I needed it.
Some of you have started my give a gift every day for a year challenge. I challenge you to make something special for someone hurting this week. Even that person who irritates you as they seem stuck!! Pray first and see yourself as a bridge to help that person to Jesus. I encourage others who are not following the challenge to follow. Remember we can change lives with our prayers to Jesus and one gift, one day at a time! I wonder what Jesus' hands looked like in his lifetime?
Blessings
The gift giver!

Frequency of blog

Hi fellow readers!! I have made a decision to regularly blog on Mon., Wed, and Fri. until I can build up a list of followers or my stats go up. I am going to spend that extra time on my book.
When I see that my blog is being more read I will resume Mon. to Fri. so spread the word, become a follower, check my posts, and make some comments. I would LOVE to hear feedback from you the readers whom I have always said this was your blog. If I find also that this blog is also really changing lives, I will resume Mon.-Fri.
Feel free to email me at giftgiversboxshowschristslove@gmail.com

Many, many blessings!!
The gift giver

Thank you Jeus for showing us in your unique ways how you care for us through giving

I was feeling a heaviness about me. A certain tiredness or weariness from the week before. It had been so long since I had taken a full Saturday off. I had decided to take a home day off. I was going to read, including my bible, listen to inspirational shows on the internet and music, and look at other blogs.
Yet something nudged at me to take a shower and wash my hair in case a better offer came along. I put my pj's on expecting a day/night retreat.
It was then I remembered the hamburger I had left overnight defrosting in the fridge. I immediately reminded myself of the lasagna I was supposed to be pre-making today for my son's upcoming visit. I needed to go get some cottage cheese.
I proceeded to walk downtown when I noticed someone setting up for an event in the square near the courthouse. When I asked the lady what it was for she said it was for "customer appreciation day". I knew this meant I could go to the store I was buying my chicken in and return by 11:00 am for a free wrapped gift! I returned on time. It took me a while to pick from the bag selection and gift certificates.
What an absolute God thing I thought. That I had decided to leave my apartment, taken the route I had chosen, and seen the group in the early phases of set up to know what it was!!
To my sheer delight when I opened the gift it had two gifts. For me a luscious tropical budy scrub. My mother is a very difficult person to buy for as she is downsizing in her house, doesn't like scents and is difficult to find the correct size for.
But as I tore back the pink tissue paper, the white tissue paper, and finally the bubble wrap, I finally saw the perfect gift for my mother. It was an older style hand mirror. At the back of the mirror it said "A weekend in Paris". Paris was my mothers' favorite holiday that she ever took. My mother was immaculate about her hair and liked everything including the back to be in order. She had only relied on mirrors in cosmetics packs like eyeshadows.
Thank you Jesus that you are ever present. That you care and protect your people. Lord it never ceases to amaze me how you show us your love in such unique and personal ways that we can only say that was God.
Praises and glory to You Lord. Without You I am truly nothing!

My favorite gift as the gift giver

When I started my gift giving ministry I had a purpose of bringing back the ancient art of gift giving. Thinking of times in the past when folks did not have much money or distractions like television and all our technology, they had a deep understanding of gift giving. They gave of their time and created things!
We, in our jam packed schedules, have forgotten this art or let it become less valued in our society.
There still are a generation of largely woman who carry out the art of giving. These are the retired woman who once volunteered before in their busy schedules. Now that their responsibilies have lessened, they give much of their time to other causes. Many stay at home moms also give gifts that are handmade and service.
I know of such a woman in her early eighties. She is "slowing down" now, by cutting down in some of the volunteer committees she serves on. Notably she and a handful of ladies started a non-profit agency for mental health clients. Today besides the original ten bed apartment building they have eighteen "satellite" apartments that they manage.
She also continues to be involved with a MCC quilting club. The club makes thousands upon thousands of baby quilts each year to ship to countries in need like Russia.
Lillian came visiting me one day. She asked if I had a sewing machine and if I would like to have it! I was delighted and accepted it as my machine was broken. I then found a huge discount on a store of a quilting kit for a bed. Being a novice, little did I know how difficult the pattern I had chosen was. I asked for Lillian's help who accepted knowing what she was getting herself into.
For weeks I came to Lillian's house with my quilting supplies. We always went straight to work as we usually had an hour to an hour and a half to work. Being a former home-ec teacher Lillian was very precise. She showed me how to get my sewing lines straight, and my squares and triangles to be perfect. At the end of our session she would always give me "homework" to do.
I will never forget the finishing of my quilt for my queen size bed. Lillian had it "shown" at two of her committees. Lillian was truly a mentor in the spirit of giving.
For me, my favorite gift as a gift giver was a baby quilt that I sewed. My care box went to a single mom through the "crisis pregnancy center." I imagined the obstacles the mom had gone through with her pregnancy and had overcome. I gave many things to help with a new baby but the quilt was hand made. An expression of my heart through my hands. It also gave me fond memories of my teacher Lillian.
As a gift giver I enjoy giving the handmade gifts the most! This is something I plan to focus on more! My "brownies in a jar" are a close second.
Today I am making up some homemade squash soup from an incredible deal that I got. A non-profit agency has set up a food co-op for people on low income near my home. You can get many items at wholesale prices. I am buying three more butternut squashes there and some carrots. Then I am making up soups and will give a portion for my busy sister! A gift from my hands to her heart! The joy of giving!!

The power of prayer as you give on gift gat a time.

If in your life or as a ministry, you need to know that you will have spiritual opposition. These distractions are: pulling from your marriage, your children, and division among our churches in the world.
For me, that often came through my son. I would be working on a bunch of gift baskets and have them ready for delivery. Like clock work, Mathew would begin to act out add a lot of pain to my family. At other time he became sick. One time he had tenderness and pain in his liver. The doctor did not know the cause depite numerous tests.
It was during this time that I made a concentrated effort to pray for my son. I prayed that his heaiing would happen and it did. Before the doctors had come up with a diagnosis healing had occured. Mathew's healing had been a miracle to all of us us!!
Divisions in my family seemed so me much less, and the internal battle in my mind settled.
Prayer also seemed to be guiding force who I gave my gift packages to. My "secret santas" delivery persons, often found who they delivered to those who were in worse condition than they thought. Circumstances had worsened. God knew these situations and was reaching out through me to other people.
Prayer became the foundation of the ministry, which I needed to give my gift baskets, boxes, and other gifts. It was also needed to give gifts to people once a day for a year. These were just to randomly bless recipients!
So I never forget the power of prayer as you bulld your own gift giving practice. We often forget the power of prayer in the heavenlies. Today I will pray for you!!
God bless,
The gift giver!

Chicken from the Lord, my gift for giving!

Today I stood in a long line at customer service of a grocery store. A friend was going to buy me some gift certificates for a past favor I had done for her. She had to rush off to the bathroom and asked if I could save a spot for her. I watched and moved forward with the crawling line-up, wondering if my friend would get back on time.
My friend was not back when I hit the top of the line. I ended up letting 3 more people in. I wasn't paying attention until I heard of an incredible deal by listening in to the person behind me explaining the great deal over her phone. This was for Canada, so I am not sure what it would be like in other countries. It was basically half price! For 4 kg. frozen, boneless, skinless, chicken breasts you could get a package for $17.57. There was a limit of two boxes. My friend returned and she bought me enough to buy 2 boxes by giving me $40 in gift certificates.
Now that may not seem very newsworthy, but I believe it was God's perfect timing and provision. If my friend hadn't left for the washroom and returned exactly when she did I would not have known about that sale. Also that my friend gave me $40 the exact amount I needed for two boxes was not just by chance. There was just under $4 to provide a tithe with or I might give chicken!
God had seen my need and my giving ministry. He does care about the intimate, details of my life. PTL!!
Thank you Jesus for the chicken. I am truly grateful and I gleefully obtained my rain-check! I then emailed local friends to tell them of this bargain!!
I invite some of you to come along me in the:"Change your world giving challenge, one gift at a time." You give one gift a day(or more) for one full year. See the write up in the previous day entry (Sept.23, 2011). Please join my site and if you are starting this and comment on it. For you a starting point may be for one week, not one year! Comment about any fears etc. that you may be going through!!
This time on earth is but a moment, our real reward lies in eternity. Be anonymous when you can!
God bless,
The gift giver



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Change your world, one gift at a time.

Everyone has a unique purpose in life which God has given to you. Besides mothering, God has been leading me on this journey of giving. Being the gift giver has changed my life as I have come out of suicidal thoughts to joy from giving gifts to others.
Sunday I visited a friend's church. The theme of the service was "Change your world." I realize each of us have unique ways in which we can change our world around us. God has us where we are for a reason.
It was then that I thought of a giving challenge. I already had been giving gift baskets, boxes and other gifts to people for over two years. But I asked God how I could really change the world around me.
The I looked at the "stuff" around me in my apartment. One gift at a time, I thought. What would my world look like if I gave something everyday for a year. I don't have a lot of money, but the gifts didn't have to be lavish.
I remembered when I was having a stressful day this year and a woman came up to me. She had a small bunch of daffodils. "Blessings," she said and she walked away even before I could look at her. That gesture made my day.
On Sunday I left some new nailpolish and lipgloss in my apartment building.
Yesterday I mailed my father's birthday gift. Today I am going to give a scented candle to someone in starbucks. The candle is in a tin. The top of the lid has Psalm 118.4 on it. "This is the day that the Lord has made, let us rejoice and be glad in it." I have written this blog address out on the gift bag tag.
So Lord, may these gifts touch others and may you guide me to the ones whom need it the most. Thank you Lord for the heart surgery you will continue to do on me as I take this giving to a deeper level.
May I impact the world around me, one gift at a time, each day for a year. I wonder if this will continue to be my ministry.
For others who feel lead to give more please leave your comments and unique stories in the "comment" section. May you be truly blessed. I hope to change the world by bringing back the love of giving back again in our rushed society, one gift at a time!

Change your world, one gift at a time.

Everyone has a unique purpose in life which God has given to you. Besides mothering, God has been leading me on this journey of giving. Being the gift giver has changed my life as I have come out of suicidal thoughts to joy from giving gifts to others.
Sunday I visited a church service of a friend. The theme of the service was "Change your world." I realize each of us have unique ways in which we can change our world around us. God has us where we are for a reason.
It was then that I thought of a giving challenge. I already have been giving for over two years baskets, boxes and other gifts to people. But I asked God how could I really change the world around me.
Then I looked at the "stuff" around me in my apartment. One gift at a time, I thought. What would my world look like if I gave something every day for a year. I don't have a lot of money, but the gifts don't have to be lavish. I remembered when I was having a stressful day this year and a woman came up to me. She had a small bunch of daffodils. "Blessings." she said and she walked away even before I could have a good look at her. That gesture made my day.
On Sunday I left some nailpolish and lipgloss that I had not been using in my apartment building. It was gone one hour later. Yesterday I mailed off my dad's birthday present. Today I am going to give a scented candle to someone in starbucks. The candle is in a tin. The top of the lid has Psalm 118.4 on it. "This is the day that the Lord has made, let us rejoice and be glad in it." I have written this blog address out on the gift bag tag.
So Lord, may these gifts touch others and may you guide me to the ones whom need it the most. Thank you Lord for the heart surgery you will continue to do on me as I take giving to a deeper level.
May I impact the world around me, one gift at a time, each day for a year. I wonder if this will continue to be my ministry!! For others who feel lead to give more please leave your comments and unique stories in the "comment" section or email me for my book (giftgiversboxshowschristslove@gmail.com). May you be truly blessed!!
I hope to change the world by bringing the love of giving back again in our rushed society, one gift at a time!

Canadians rejoice as 3 year old Keinan Herbert is returned to his shome trou the power of prayer, polices actions, search parties and the a

As the world was grieving Sept 11th ten years ago, Canadians were also rejoicing the safe return of Kienan Herbert Sept. 10th, 2011. The three year old boy had been abducted four days ago from his home.
Police were notified immediently, search and rescue parties began, and an amber alert was issued. The whole county became aware of Kienan's abduction. Posters were made and newscasts showed Kienan's appearance, and the suspect's appearance and car.
Many of us across the country began to pray. We prayed fervently, and with great empathy.
Finaally the father of Kienan made an emotional appeal to the offender. He said this was his chance to walk away. Kienan was still non- verbal and the police wouldn't be there.
Then a miracle occured. Later that night Kienan was returned to his home!! His parents staying at the neighbors were given an anonymous phone call and Keinan was sitting on the couch in the living room. A police officer specializing in these crimes said it was the first time in 24 years he had seen an ending like this! This indeed was a mirale!!
One could only imagine the graditude and joy of this family who had been through this horrendous event!!
Later a press conferance was called and a very emotional father of Keinan. He even thanked the offender for returning his son.
But prayers need not to stop here, as there is much healing to be done. "May God use this experience to give hope to other parents of missing children, or give other parents the oportunity to grieve their own missing children, and may He continue to heal and restore everything this horrific trauma still stolen from all of them. God loves justice, and in the end, He WILL get the final word!" (Debbie Fortnum)
So keep Kienan and all affected by this trauma (especially his parents) up in your prayers continually. Also echo these prayers for families and friends of those going through chidhood abductions. Always remember God has the FINAL WORD!!

Christ will give you the strength you need.

Today as I sit at my keyboard as each key touches the pad and comes back to me, the thought come to m my mind. Do i have what it takes! I am learning all the features of blogging and the technology that comes along with that. The instruction has been fun but often foreign to me. Looking at others and their sites they are graphically more appealing. I like my content and writing style though! This is still at the heart of a blog.. My blog centers around giving and I am hoping I will inspire others to give. It has a bit of a unique niche. It specifically describes how giving along with self care has helped my very serious struggles with depression. Though I never know it my depression will return,If it does I know I will see someone in worse circumstances than me. The seed to giving will be planted. I will have the chance to bring forth flowers in a person's life which will bloom in a different season. My blog, though brings me to the main project in my life I am working on It is my book. . My book will be called "The Gift Givers Box". The box at the side of my blog "About Me" describes the book..It is a new and exciting process and I am having to narrow my niches to appeal to the right market place. When ever I am having a really bad day I remind myself of the bible verse : "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me." Phillipians 4:13 NKJV. This verse helps me when the panic starts to head in. When self imposed deadlines are not met. When old pain resurfaces. May this be a verse you can really claim! God sees your pain and wants to help. Christ took all of your sins, past, present and future and paid the price. He was crucified and rose again! He will help bear your problems if you only open your heart and ask. God is a big God!! Just ask!! Blessings, The gift giver .

A heart filled gift can stitch two hearts together

Have you ever had a time of deep heart connection from the giver and recipient of a gift.

Some gifts are so unique, thoughtful, personal or timely that they touch the very core of our existance.
These pivital moments in giving and receiving can shape and change our lives forever.

Often someone who has developed this art of giving has had their own struggles and their heart has become fractured. Depression from deep hurts or losses have scarred their hearts.

Likewise for the recipient in pain. Often they are in a deeper stage of grief or pain.

The commonality is both parties need heart surgery.

The heart-filled gift brings these hearts together. God at that moment in time stitches their hearts and lives together.

The process of heart surgery has begun. The spiritual medicine for depression in part is giving. Receiving teaches this and can be a glimmer of hope in the deepest of storms.

The first dance

Being the gift giver, I am constantly amazed at the way God blesses me for giving. He always provides for my needs and often more.

He has taught me not to expect a "reward" on earth, but to know my needs will be provided and sometimes more. Today that was an emotional need He was going to fulfill.

It was a very special celebration. It was my parent's forty-fifth wedding anniversary and they were taking us to an exclusive restaurant where I had many happy moments as a child. We had stayed in the hotel there growing up. The restaurant was magical to me. I wanted that for my son though he was sixteen.

All my sisters',their husbands' , and children were there. I was the only single one in the group having been through divorce. But today that didn't bother me! All I could think of was wanting Andrew to experience the same joy I had.

We all were full of laughter and the children were mesmerized! There was a 1950's band playing and a dance floor. They had a special dance floor for children so all the kids wildly proceeded to the floor to express their own creative dance styles. Mom ordered "Shirley Temples" for them.

That brought back an instant memory of how fancy the "Shirley Temples" had been as a child. I used to sip on it slowly so it would last the whole night. Everything seemed so much smaller now. It was like when you go visit your elementary school. It just seems so small.

Gradually they brought out the three course meal, with no rushing between the courses. They knew people planned to stay about three hours here. My favorite was the strawberry cheesecake decorated with a rich chocolate sauce. Mathew was quite impressed with the meal.

But it was the socializing of my whole family that made the evening. I especially enjoyed seeing with my parents and seeing the love they shared. My dad was laughing and kept looking towards my mom when she was sitting away from him.

Mathew and I shared priceless conversation as he opened up to topics he never had before. Then I asked him the question I as his mother had wanted to ask him all night. He looked so dressed up in his suit and I did in my black skirt and black print top. "Will you have one dance with me son."

"Oh Mom, I don't know how. " he stated sheepishly. "It is easy and you will need it for the girls. But it would be so special if I had the first dance." I said. "Sure." he said to my surprise.

Together we bumped around touching toes and getting caught between the crowds, but I realized my boy was growing into a man!

"Oh Matthew ," I said, " you have no idea how special that was! You made my month!"

After that there wasn't dances shared between us. Three months later he went to his first youth group dance and danced with three girls. But deep in my heart I knew. I had the first dance.

If it is God's will for him to remarry and I am still alive, we will have another dance. But I have learned in life to enjoy the moment. You never know what will come around, but memories last a lifetime. That is why I treasure my first dance and Mathew may one day!

God only knows!

You are the only one who looks at me and doesn't turn away.

The aromatic smell of coffee wafted from the bathroom, which was the most dreaded room in my apartment. Looking today at my reflection I saw my sagging skin had come down near my elbows from my underarms. I slowly, painstakingly, lifted up my underarm to put on more deodorant. I slipped my sleeve down again. I clung to my walker and started the slow process of walking to my couch.

I had left the door open so Joy could come into my apartment without me having to get up again. I was so looking forward to seeing her for my birthday celebration. Being around three hundred and sixty pounds, I did not know how many more I would see.

My phone rang and my mind started to regret that I had not taken the time to shower and change. Joy was coming up now. Grease lined my short hairs which stood up unkempt at the back and sides especially. I smelled a musty odor coming from my jogging outfit and the stench of urine.

Joy came in brimming with a smile as she looked at me and she exclaimed, "Happy birthday Judy! Here is your coffee!" She handed me a cup of coffee prepared exactly how I liked it and she sat down. She talked about loving things that were going on in her life. My thoughts raced to wishing I had made similar choices in my life.

"Judy, today my gifts to you are going to give us a great time together! We are going out to lunch. You can use your wheelchair." she explained.

"First you are going to shower."she said. She pulled out a dress with burgondy roses on it and fresh smelling. Joy had always shopped at thrift stores so she could give more. There was some rose smelling body wash and rosemary herbal shampoo.

Every ounce of my being wanted to say no, but Joy had prepared so much. I went and got some fresh underwear and an incontinent pad. Slowly I undressed in the bathroom and showered. I was thankful to God that I could still do this independently with the help of the aids that the occupational therapist had recommended.

When I was finished with my shower and changing, Joy brought my wheelchair. "Wonderful."she stated. She had brought a blow dryer and began to style my hair. The slow stroking of the brush on my scalp made me feel like I was in a health spa.

"Now," she said, "we are going to do make-up." It had been over ten years since I had last worn makeup. She put the foundation on my cheeks, nose, and chin. Starting with the nose she started blending it in with her pad. The pad felt so gentle as it rubbed against my skin.

Next she put on the blush applying it in a similaar way to the foundation except using a make-up brush and different areas. The powder came next as she applied it lightly over my face sweeping the make-up brush. It had been so long since I had been touched in this way.

"Now for the eyes!" Joy exclaimed. She gve me different directions as she painted them with various colors and mascara.

Lovingly she bent down to my level in my chair. She put her hand on my shoulder. It felt so warm and calming. "Oh my! You look absolutely gorgeous!" she exclaimed. Her eyes were staring deep into mine. It was at that moment I realized what I loved most about Joy with me being so overweight.

"You are the only one who looks at me and doesn't turn away." I said as tears ran down my cheeks most likely smudging my mascara. My heart was filled with such a deep wounding remembering how many times people looked at me then quickly turned away.

Joy explained, "That is because you have such gorgeous eyes and your eyes are the windows of your soul!"

I have never forgot that day or my friend Joy. Each day, no matter how I am feeling, after I wake up I have a shower.

Labour Day Weekend and the cost of back to school

With labour day approaching here in Canada (and? in the States) it often is a time of preparation. The children are returning to school and all that goes with that. It often is a stressful time of expenses for those parents on low income. Even doing their clothing shopping at thrift stores and many being grateful to God for His provision, school supplies seem to be getting more costly each year. My challenge to you this labor day is if you know such a family to give them an anonymous gift. Either slip under their door or mail a grocery gift card or cash. Pick out a beautiful card (many of which you can get at the dollar stores) and write the word "Blessings" on it!! This will make their day or perhaps years as they remember what came in the mail when they needed it most. God in my past has given me similiar cards and being a single parent it made such a large impression. It also met some pressing needs. Someone was listening to the nudging of the Holy Spirit!!
God bless,
The gift giver

No expectations

I think when we give we need to examine our hearts and our motives. Do we think God is a bank account and He will return financially more than we have given. It is true that He will always provide. Also that we reap what we sow: "Do no be deceived. God can not be mocked . A man reaps what he sows. Whoever sows to please their flesh, from the flesh will reap destruction. Whoever sows to please from the Spirit will reap eternal life."
To me (and I am not a bible scholar) I see many meanings from the scripture. If you do not sow anything into your garden you will not have produce or "fruit." God looks at your heart motive with your sowing (how man used to make money and eat). If it was for all the "flesh" ways of this world you will reap destruction. But if you are sowing to please God guided by His Spirit leading us to give, we will reap eternal rewards.
This specific scripture does not promise a reward on earth. I have heard this to be true with missionaries who give so much of their potential finances in life and always struggle financially. Yet God always provides for them and even at times blesses them unexpectedly.
My own experience has been that God has blessed me more than I have blessed and sometimes before or after a blessing. I admit I have struggled with an unpure heart motive but it only made me miserable. It was like trying to wrestle with God. Releasing things to God makes life so much easier!!
Blessings
The gift giver

The element of surprise

Being a gift giver, one of the things I love most is the element of surprise. If I give anonymously my secret "santas" often report the reaction of the recipients of my gifts. Most are completely shocked for this gift from the heavens. For those who are also struggling financially, it shows how God loves them and will meet their needs. I love to pamper those who financially struggling, as well as give practical gifts. I know this is something they rarely do for themselves. Try to think of the last time you blessed someone in this way. Did you not receive a blessing yourself!
Blessings
The gift giver

Tweeter account

Well today I took another step in modern technology. I am hoping to attract more readers to my site so I set up a tweeter account. My username is: giftgiversbox
If you are new to my site have a browse and see the purpose of it. But today for the writing of my book I am looking for your stories. You can answer this blog or email them privately @ giftgiversboxshowschristslove@gmail.com
Write about how a special gift has touched your heart and the circumstances behind it. Let the readers know if it was anonymously or what kind of a relationship you had with the giver. By writing your stories you are giving me permission to use them or fictionalize them. This book has a lot of potential to generate a "pay it forward" style of giving and really minister to people. It is in God's hands, all the details but I must use my hands to write and continue to give.
Blessings,
The gift giver

He will meet your needs as you show compassion to the lost

Today I am feeling incredibly blessed and at peace. I realize I have been hearing God correctly. I have a $100 gift card from price mart foods and a $40 gift card from starbucks. I realize I have a stock of food in my freezer and cupboards. What I do realize in this giving adventure is God is wanting me to reach the lost with my little "love" baskets I assemble.
Today on my heart is a teen girl whose father committed suicide a year ago. She sounds as if she is going through such inner turmoil by her postings on facebook. The music she is listening to is somewhat hopeless, though I am sure she is relating to the pain of the artist. The Lord has inspired me to give her a CD by a Christian artist "Lisa Adrianne" called "Carry On". Her music is geared to a younger audiance. She also lost her mother during her teens (I believe) to cancer. I can see how through the medium of music, this artist may build upon her hope in her soul and help sort through the confusion in her soul.
The second person I am going to make up a gift basket and a gift certificate to the "Treasure Box" thrift store is a prostitude. My friend the other night was coming to my house and had gospel tracks on her. She is a great evangelizer. The prostitude shared much of her story with her and her address. I am hoping my gifts will touch her soul.
I believe God is showing me that this ministry matters. He is showing me that my dream to write a book matters so others will also do the same also matters. A sort of "pay it forward". So many people in our culture need someone with love to come around them and show them their support. Many blessings! Happy giving if you are so inspired! Share with me your stories!
God bless!!

Heart motives

Today I am wrestling with myself and my true heart motives. I have visitors coming and I am deciding if the amount I spend on them should come out of my giving budget. I am wondering if I am trusting in the Lord's provision as I have not received gifts in a while from Him. But deep in my heart I know this can not be my motive to give. God is the giver of all perfect gifts and I need only trust in Him to meet my needs. He also does beyond that and meets my desires also. This is something I must pray over. It does fall under the gift of hospitality. Lord, show me the needs you have for me, the priorities. Let your Holy Spirit guide and I honor what all belongs to you anyways. Heal my heart of any greed motives. Let my security lie with you in this journey and love like you love.

Happy Canada Day and Fourth of July!!

Yesterday I was reminded the great privileges we share in this Canadian country of ourselves. The available health care is only to name one. Basic needs like clean water are another. So my challenge for all you Canadians an Us citizens (with upcoming forth of July celbrations) is to donate a minimum of $5 to a third world country. Let me know what you chose, and how you felt. Post your results in my comment section or email me @ giftgiversboxshowschristslove@gmail.com
Spread the world and make others aware of this blog. I am going to try to post 5 shorter entries a week, but need reader's encouragement. Let me know of your stories of giving, especially gifts of encouragement and mercy to those you meet in your pathway.
Many blessings,
The giftgiver!!!

Catching up!!

It has been a while since my last post. Today I feel the Holy Spirit nudging me to write again. I have been to a workshop on recovery from illness. The workshop discussed setting goals based on your dreams and visions.
Since my last blog entry my compassion child that I sponsored was discontinued due to his family relocating to an area to far away from the area of compassion's ministry.
The reasons were spiritual opportunities, which gives me peace in my heart. I am still grieving the loss of our relationship, but I continue to pray for him and his family. He wrote that he does the same.
It was very difficult to write my goodbye letter to him. I wished I had the funds to give him a university education but that is way beyond my means. That is a desire of my book to be a success, financially. So I can give to him and others.
Perhaps someone will read this blog entry and decide to fund his post-secondary education. I know for some people that might be a significant sacrifice or it may not.
Today I urge you to google: "Thank you for giving to the Lord" Ray Boltz you tube.
This will move your heart and refresh you to give more in the different ways we give.
Please write back with your stories, and tell how this video inspired you to give!
Let's start a GIVE REVOLUTION!!
God bless!!
The gift giver:)!!