For Thursday, December 15th, 2022

 ON THE BRIGHT SIDE 

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 15TH, 2022

The moments of our lives may be bright with possibility, dark with fear or sadness, or even plain everyday gray, but God's glory never fades.  May God's glory shine into the exciting lights, upsetting darks,  and boring grays of your every day.

Slightly adapted from one of my morning devotionals

'

6 DAYS UNTIL WINTER 

 Sunrise:  7:47 am

 Sunset:   4:59 

pm

Life is a special  

occasion!

Hallmark!

Today is International Tea Day which is a day to drink the most popular beverage in the world.  The day seeks to raise awareness of the impact the tea trade has on farmers and workers and also    encourages a worldwide celebration.  

The origins of tea have been traced back to China.  It was mostly used for medicinal purposes until the 17th century when tea made its way to the United Kingdom.  The main types of tea include black, green, white, herbal, oloogn and pu’erh. 

While this holiday has been celebrated since 2005, in 2019 the United Nations introduced a new International Tea Day on May 21st.  We of course celebrate both. 

There is no better way to start the day than with the pleasant taste and aroma of tea.   In the 16th century tea made its way across the globe to Europe by Dutch traders and became a widely traded commodity thanks to the establishment of the East India Company in England.  The rest they say, is history.

We celebrate the the health benefits, economic and cultural heritage of tea while ensuring a more sustainable production from fields to our cups.  Bringing together civil society organizations and small tea businesses, this holiday aims to regulate uneven competition, safety regulations, land occupations, social security, living wages and women’s rights for all tea workers.

To celebrate today, enjoy a cup or two of your favorite tea. 

If you cannot see the bright side, polish the dull side

THOUGHT FOR TODAY

You can never get a cup of tea large enough or a book long enough to suit me.

C.S. Lewis 

While I start my day with coffee, I do enjoy a cup of tea and will be sure to enjoy some today.  This time of year I usually like to have a cup of Christmas tea.  I haven’t been able to find it so I’ve chosen Constant Comment which is very close in taste. I like mine black with a spoon full of honey.

In the summer I like iced tea but in the winter I like my beverages hot.  They do help to warm us up!

This is going to be the day I get all my gifts wrapped.  Tomorrow I start cooking for our family Christmas and won’t have time. And Saturday is when we’ll be celebrating.  Sad to say we got news that DDIL#1 and family won’t be coming, but I think all the others here in Ohio will be there.  It’s exciting getting ready for Christmas.  Always my favorite time of year.

I still have a few gifts to mail to those who won’t be coming and they’ll probably be going out soon, but won’t make it in time for Christmas delivery.  Sorry but I seem to be running behind.   Oh Well,  I celebrate Christmas until January 6th, so hopefully they’ll make it before that !

I was cold going out yesterday but today it’s going to rain so I’m glad I got all my shopping done.  I’ll be staying home and keeping dry today.

If you are cold, tea will warm you;

if you are too heated, it will cool you;

If you are depressed, it will cheer you;

If you are excited, it will calm you.

William Ewart Gladstone 

I hope you all have  a GREAT day!  Happy Thursday!

COUNTING 

MY GIFTS 

There are few hours in life more agreeable than the hour dedicated to the ceremony known as afternoon tea. 

Henry James 

Counting at least 3 things every day that I'm thankful for.  There is truly is always something to be thankful for.

 

10,878.  for tea good and good for you too!

10,879. for a day to stay in and get the wrapping done

10,880. for a warm cozy home 

Enter into His courts with thanksgiving — and in His presence is fullness of Joy!

PRAYER FOR OUR TROOPS

  

Please pray for God's protection of

our troops and HIS wisdom for their

commanders.

 

Almighty and eternal God,

Protect our military

as they discharge their duties

with the shield of your strength,

may the power of your love

enable them to return home in safety

that with all who love them

they may ever praise you for your loving care.

AND bless our Police Officers, Firefighters and EMT’s.

We ask this through Christ our Lord.

Amen

GOD BLESS YOU ALL!

ADVICE FOR TODAY

Rainy days should be spent at home with a cup of tea and a good book.

Bill Watterson

A little smile, a word of cheer, 

A bit of love from someone dear…

 

Love,

ma