Summer, 2001

Water Those Weeds!
Submitted by Carol Skipper of Apron Strings

Each year, I try to get my back yard in decent shape by the 4th of July, which means consistent effort on my part, beginning on Memorial Day, and sometimes, sooner.

This year however, I haven't been very interested in weeding, planting, transplanting and mulching (until yesterday, that is), when I decided to work a miracle in one day.

Yesterday I felt a surge of new energy and off I went to the back yard with garden gloves, shovel, spade and rake in tow. (Me garden girl! Me conquer!)

To my dismay, those tiny March weeds were now July monsters! No problem! Never a coward, I tackled those intruders with the same gusto as little David. Yep, I was out to conquer all and leave no survivors behind.

It didn't take long for me to realize it really would take a miracle to overhaul my back yard in one day.

When I grew tired of working in one area, (my back was killing me)! I went to another section of my yard and began to pull-up a fresh batch of giants....I mean weeds.

A couple of areas were more weed-infested than others, and I also needed to get rid of some grass. I had some flowers that I wanted to transplant to that section. Oh yes! They would be BEAUTIFUL!

I bent over, pulling tall weeds and grass until it seemed my back would split into, from the exertion. The root system of some of the weeds had grown quite strong. Hot, tired and weary, I asked myself, "Are we having fun yet?" "Nope!" I answered.

Out of nowhere, it seemed, a brilliant idea emerged....."I bet those weeds and grass would come out of the ground much easier if I hosed them down and soaked them real good to loosen the soil. Then I can get those big bugars at their roots."

And that is exactly what I did! I was amazed at how much easier they were to remove, now that I had applied water to them. I didn't know if I had time or energy to do the entire yard, but I sure was going to give it my best shot.

And that is when I heard the gentle voice of the Holy Spirit.....

He told me that what I was doing in the natural, is very similar to what I do in the spiritual.

Sometimes there are weeds in my heart, and they're tiny in the beginning. He shows them to me, but I don't want to face them, so I ignore them, not realizing they are growing, ever growing from tiny issues to great big monsters.

The Holy Spirit said that when I choose to ignore them they not only grow tall, but they also multiply, and their root systems become so imbedded in my heart, they are hard to remove.

Then when I try to pull them up all by myself, I find that I only break off the top-half of the weeds of bitterness, hate, strife, unforgiveness, anger (among others), and leave their roots intact within my heart...and on some future date, when I least expect it, they begin to appear...again.

The Holy Spirit also pointed out that I was trying to get my back yard (just like my heart) 'weed-free' in one day, and that's an impossibility.

"After all," (he reminded me) they didn't grow strong and tall overnight, even if it did seem that way!

The Holy Spirit also instructed me (as only he can) when he told me that if I will apply the Water of the Word to my heart, (and not just a sprinkle, mind you)......But a good soaking daily, those yucky old carnal weeds can't grow because the soil of my heart's garden will be softened by the Water of the Word.

He gave me wise advise when he told me that if I will strive to stay 'weed-free' daily, in my back yard and my heart's garden, the process won't be overwhelming and my back (and my heart) will thank me for it.

Needless to say, I did not work the miracle in one day, but it is
safe to say that a miracle was worked in me.

Isn't it amazing what a day in God's wonderful outdoors can do?

If you or someone you know hates to 'pull weeds', please share my story with them....their heart will thank you!

"Turn your ears to wisdom and apply your heart to understanding." (Prov. 2:2)

Happy Gardening!

Havens from the Heat

Although summer is fabled as a time of carefree fun and relaxing vacations, it often becomes a stressful season of hectic activities as we try to cram in too much. What with Summer camps, youth group outings, family reunions, family "vacations," Vacation Bible School, etc. it's no wonder tempers get short and nerves begin to frazzle. Here are some helpful ideas to bring peace to the long, hot days of Summer.

Cool and Dark
When we first bought this house, I hated the dark paneling in the living room, but now in the heat of summer, I find it the most relaxing room in the house. With the curtains drawn and lighting kept to a minimum, this is my sanctuary. Try muted colors in a dark, quiet environment as a retreat from the heat and bustle of summer.

Simple Vacation
Most folks need a rest after their vacations. They have kept impossible schedules, tried to "do it all," and failed to really enjoy any of it. Why not simplify by agreeing on one or two special places to visit or things to do that are agreeable to every family member. Forget schedules and itineraries. Just let the days lead the way, being spontaneous about it. If you need some rest spend a day doing nothing... It can be a great adventure.

Just say No
As others go on vacations you may be asked to fill in at church, a club, work, etc. Before long you're overwhelmed... I know. I've been there. Avoid the temptation to accept too many responsibilities. Sure, it feels good to be needed, but remember it feels better to be there for your family and have enough energy left for living.

You may have to say no to the kids or your mate, too. I have a friend who is the consummate care giver. Even on vacation, she took care of everything for everyone... until she keeled over one day. A "good" mother lets (or makes) her children learn responsibility. A "good" wife asks her spouse for help when needed and lets him share the load of home and children.

Honest Hostess
Summer guests are great fun but can really put you in a stressful mood and tire you out. To ensure you enjoy their company without turning into the maid rather than the hostess, start by showing them where the clean linen and dish towels are kept and openly telling them to "make themselves at home" by picking up after themselves, making their bed, etc.

If you really don't have room for overnight company and the guests plan to be with you for more than one night, suggest motel accommodations. Everyone will enjoy the visit far more this way.

Don't Forget Him
In our busy summer schedules it's easy to leave the Lord out of things. Make sure even your busiest days include family and personal prayer times. Also, take your Bible along and read at least some each day. Last and certainly not least, attend church while on your travels.

Did You Know...
Submitted by Stephanie Schafer

The citrus soda 7-UP was created in 1929; "7" was selected because the original containers were 7 ounces. "UP" indicated the direction of the bubbles.

Mosquito repellents don't repel. They hide you. The spray blocks the mosquito's sensors so they don't know you're there.

Dentists have recommended that a toothbrush be kept at least 6 feet away from a toilet to avoid airborne particles resulting from the flush.

The liquid inside young coconuts can be used as substitute for blood plasma.

The first product to have a bar code was Wrigley's gum.

Apples, not caffeine, are more efficient at waking you up in the morning.

The 57 on the Heinz ketchup bottle represents the number of varieties of pickles the company once had.

The plastic things on the end of shoelaces are called aglets.

Most dust particles in your house are made from dead skin.

Pearls melt in vinegar.

And an addition from iona: Take those pesky price tags, labels, etc. off of any nonporous surface with creamy peanut butter.

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