Tag: faith

Franticness

Posted on by jonithetentmaker

Frantic could be my middle name at times. Because of the trauma of my earlier years of life, I allow these feelings to take over from time to time.  My understanding of PTSD is an inside-out situation. From inside me to the outside world, my actions and emotions express who I am.  I do have anxiety medications if required, but I like to self-soothe, which helps me to realize I can’t do it all.

Recently, I decided to be a creator and marketer and use all of the online platforms available. Yes, Christmas can make me very frantic.  And that was the trigger this time, the upcoming season. And even though I remind myself of what I have to manage daily, health-wise, I still remember that women are supposed to be superwomen! Even at 63. Trying to write marketing content, make the videos, and place them in strategic positions online is utterly nuts.  Yep, meet me, the new Mrs. Squirrel.

Comparatively, the online platforms are like surfing the Banzi pipeline in Hawaii for the first time, ever surfing. You can hop from Whatsnot, to TikTok, to Facebook, to Instagram, to your webpage, Etsy, WordPress, and Youtube. The big all-swallowing wave is bound to hit sooner rather than later. For me, thank God, it was sooner! I have overcome the franticness and moved to a more straightforward approach. Giving me time each day to work on my novel, Austin.

So if you read my past post about my merch going on here, please ignore it. I am very much human.

Some ways I self-soothe are listening to music, reading my Bible, and doing stretching exercises. I love this bible verse,  “Peace I leave with you; my Peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.”  Love Jesus. I added the love Jesus part because I do feel like it is a love note from my Savior!

If you are struggling with franticness or the stress of the season, take a break from your own mind.  Put some music on and breathe deeply. Tell yourself that you are God’s child and loved far more than this world can show you.  Imagine Him wrapping you in His arms, holding you, and gently rocking back and forth.  Because you are His child, you are worthy!

God Bless You!

When the Battle Knocks You Down—Create Anyway

Posted on by jonithetentmaker

People often call me a static writer—and it’s true. I don’t just write to fill the airwaves. I write when I have something to say. Because these days, you have to be careful with what you allow into the atmosphere. The enemy loves to clutter the air with noise—confusion, frustration, competition, and strife. Why open the door for him?

Lately, my own battle has been with my health. My diseases have done their best to keep me down and out, but I am a child of God, and He is still writing my story. I’ve started treatment with doctors at Duke University, and I’m feeling hopeful. I even love the area—it may end up being my retirement home! God has a way of guiding us where we need to be, even when we don’t understand the journey. I’ve learned to loosen my grip a little and let Him steer the wheel… though my “control” side still wants to argue sometimes.

But here’s the thing—I refuse to stop creating. Even when my body slows down, my spirit doesn’t. While I’ve been resting and recovering, I designed a few new pieces for my Etsy shop—T-shirts, hats, and hoodies that declare faith and joy boldly!

When I wore one of my new “YAY GOD” shirts to Wednesday night Bible study, sweet Mary, one of our older members, came right up to me and read it out loud with a big smile:
“YAY GOD!”

She got it immediately. It’s not just a shirt—it’s a declaration of praise. A reminder that God is still good, no matter what battles we face.

I also created another shirt that speaks to something close to my heart—aging gracefully. With wrinkles forming and society shouting about fillers, tucks, and lasers, it’s easy to feel like we’re falling behind. But I see it differently now. Every line is proof of a life lived, of laughter shared, of faith tested and strengthened. And maybe, just maybe, the enemy uses vanity to distract us from seeing the beauty God already placed in us.

Both shirts—and more—are up on my Etsy shop now. Each design is created during quiet moments with God, inspired by faith, joy, and real life.

If you’d like to wear your faith proudly or gift a reminder of God’s goodness to someone you love, visit my shop and check them out. Because every “YAY GOD” moment deserves to be shared.

👉 [Shop Faith-Inspired Designs on Etsy] (originallyameliastore.com)

A Prayer for Healing — when the body grows weary

Posted on by jonithetentmaker

Today has been one of those heavy, aching days. Arthritis sits like a weight in my neck, shoulders, and spine — every movement feels slow and costly. My body is tired in a way that goes deeper than sleep. I want healing. I need God’s touch.

Psalm 103:3 — Who forgives all your sins and heals all your diseases.

Isaiah 53:5 — But he was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was on Him, and by his wounds we are healed.

These verses rise up in my heart like a promise I must cling to. Jesus bore a pain I cannot imagine, and He did it for my sake — to forgive, to restore, to make whole. My own pain feels small beside His sacrifice, and yet it is real to me. It pains me to remember the cost of my salvation: the cruelty He endured so I might be healed. I am unworthy of that grace, and that truth makes me fall deeper into gratitude and into prayer.

Heavenly Father, forgive me — for the sins I know and the ones I do not. I lay this tired, aching body before You and ask for Your healing hand. You forgive all our sins and heal all our diseases; I claim that promise now. Touch my neck, my shoulders, my spine. Breathe strength into my bones. Restore movement where there is stiffness and bring peace where there is weariness.

Lord Jesus, by Your wounds I am healed. Help my faith to rest not in the absence of pain but in the presence of Your power. Teach me to praise You in the valley, to trust You in weakness, and to receive Your comfort when I am most fragile.

Amen.

If you’re reading this and your body is weary too, join me now — take a breath, speak these words, and believe that the God who healed then still heals today.

God Bless You!

Courage that Multiplies

Posted on by jonithetentmaker

Courage That Multiplies

Scripture:
“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” — Joshua 1:9

Courage is never wasted. When one person stands boldly for Christ, their courage doesn’t end with them—it spreads like wildfire. That’s the beauty of living faithfully: our boldness multiplies in the lives of others.

Charlie’s testimony reminds us that a single voice, spoken with conviction, can spark thousands more. His life was a living message: do not be afraid to stand for truth. And now, even though his earthly journey has ended, his courage continues to inspire a generation.

Fear whispers that we should shrink back, stay quiet, and avoid standing out. But God’s Word commands the opposite—be strong, be courageous, for He is always with us. When we step out in faith, others gain the confidence to do the same.

Reflection:

  • Where do I need to take a bold stand for Christ today?
  • Who might be encouraged by my faith if I live it openly and courageously?
  • Am I choosing to trust God’s presence over my fear?

Prayer:
Lord, thank You that I am never alone. You have called me to live with courage, not fear. Fill me with Your strength so that I may boldly stand for You. Let my courage inspire others, just as the courage of others has stirred my faith. Amen.

FRIDAY 13 TO PRESENT…UGH!

Posted on by jonithetentmaker

I thought Friday the 13th on WhatNot would soar because it was my dad’s birthday. Every Friday, the 13th, is my dad’s birthday because that was the day he was born, and he and I would have so much fun with the teasing back and forth. What you imagine happening in your mind and reality can be different scenarios. It was for me.
The show was a revolving door of visitors. There were no sales, interactions, or anything else. I ended the show and sulked my way downstairs to bed. Tomorrow will be better because I am going to estate sales and finding some sale-worthy treasures with my peanut budget. I love the scavenging. There will be excitement and boosted endorphins on the way.
When Sunday rolls around, I am hoarse and not feeling well. By nightfall, it was an ambulance ride to the hospital. You never know when the disease is going to kick into overdrive and send you over the cliff. To enhance the trauma of the night, the hospital visit, the doctor, and one nurse were horrific. They did more harm, and I felt like I was in some crazy Alfred Hitchcock movie. I will write about this next week because we will file a complaint.
Next week, I see several of my own doctors, and they start getting me back on track, except the darn laryngitis wants to linger. Now it is Fourth of July week, and I want to do a reset with my Whatnot shop. I will see if I can actually do it. When you have a disease that can be all-consuming, you learn to go with it, fight like hell along the way, and praise God for the successful moments.
I pray your week is full of successful moments, family time, and the love of Jesus Christ.

God Bless You!

Praise God, We Made Three Sales on Whatnot

Posted on by jonithetentmaker

We did it! Last night’s show resulted in three sales — and our Vaseline glass finds are going to new homes where they’ll be truly treasured. As we went through box after box of our collection, we knew it was time to make a decision: if we’re not going to hang it up, display it, or use it ourselves, it’s time to let someone else enjoy it. Our treasures deserve a chance to bring happiness to someone new.

We learned a lot last night, too. A kind community member shared some helpful suggestions about what sells well — heavy items can be a challenge to ship — and we’re taking that to heart. This weekend, we’ll be adding some of our finds to Etsy, TikTok, and eBay. We appreciate all the support and guidance.

Looking ahead, we’re excited for Christmas in July! But tonight, we’re having a PJ night with snacks, drinks, and a game — a chance to connect, have fun, and appreciate each moment. It’s a special Friday the 13th, which happens to be my dad’s birthday. He’s gone now, but I still celebrate him by calling or thinking of him each time Friday the 13th rolls around. It’s a tradition that brings a smile, even through the tears.

Tonight’s sale will feature vintage and new clothes, shoes, and accessories. Even if we sell nothing, last night filled me with hope. I’m looking forward to whatever this new chapter brings.

I do want to say a prayer of praise.

Dear God, Thank you for our success last night, for I know Your hand was on us. I have cried out to you lately about our tough financial situation because I could not see the end of the tunnel. I believe you brought us there last night. Thank you, gracious Father! Forgive me when I doubted and let the dark clouds fill my mind. I lost my focus on You! In Jesus’ Holy Name, Amen!

God Bless You!

What Not and My Epic Crash and Burn

Posted on by jonithetentmaker

Hello, fellow travelers and friends,

How are you on this fine June day? I hope the sun is shining on your side of the street. As for me, well, the weather was lovely, but I got my tail feathers a little singed on WhatNot yesterday. Let’s just say… the show didn’t go as planned. I know it takes practice, but whew—what a hit to the ego!

When my husband and I lived in Texas, one of our favorite weekend adventures was going to estate sales. We had an antique booth in Alvin, Texas, and honestly, it was one of the best experiences we’ve ever had. The people were wonderful, the atmosphere was welcoming, and everything about it just felt right.

That love for vintage and antique treasures never left me, so I decided to give WhatNot a try. I started sourcing vintage and antique items, watching shows to see what people were buying and what was trending. I didn’t have the funds to dive into the big pallet pulls like some sellers do, but I’m slowly working my way up—one piece at a time.

I’m doing this because I want to help my husband with the overwhelming stack of medical bills we’ve built up over the past three years. Most of it is because I was in and out of the hospital during that time—including one stay in the ICU where I crashed twice. But by God’s grace, He wasn’t ready to take me home just yet.

My husband works so hard to provide for us, and even with insurance, we’ve still been left with a heavy financial burden. So, even though we didn’t have extra money to invest in WhatNot, we set aside a little to help me get started. I also had some handmade items for products—like tumblers and jewelry—that I already loved creating. It just felt like the right time to take a step of faith and try.

But you have to build up a following, and I have not yet. We had two shows where we made money and a few nada shows. It is hard to talk to yourself with no one in your live and even harder to have no sales. I have scheduled a show every day this week at 5:20, and then on Friday, it is a PJ party with your favorite food and drink while you watch and shop.

So, if anyone has suggestions, I would greatly appreciate them! At 63, I think I can learn! Tonight is vintage Avon and household knick-knacks!

God Bless You!

Resolutions Fail

Posted on by jonithetentmaker

Hello, Fellow Travelers!

As we step into the second week of January, I want to pause and reflect with you. Statisticians often point out that by this time, many of us have already abandoned our New Year’s resolutions. If that resonates with you, don’t worry—you’re not alone.

Personally, I don’t set resolutions. Instead, I create a list of goals I’d like to accomplish throughout the year. It’s a flexible, evolving list that grows as I do. Today, I’d like to share a glimpse of my goals with you, not to boast but to inspire and encourage you to think about what matters most to you in this season of life.

Here’s a portion of my list:

  • Finish writing the children’s book manuscripts I’ve been storing for years.
  • Complete the fiction and non-fiction projects I’ve started.
  • Find ways to share my work and contribute to our household income.
  • Read through the Bible in a year.
  • Make more cross bracelets and keychains to give as gifts.
  • Honor God in my home.
  • Tithe faithfully.
  • Listen to and cooperate more with the Holy Spirit.
  • Say “yes” to godliness and “no” to ungodliness.
  • Join a church and actively participate.

Some of these are continuations of what I’ve already started, while others are entirely new adventures for me and my family.

One of my more practical goals is to exercise regularly. I’ve started riding a stationary bike—thank you, Goodwill! As my legs grow stronger, I plan to try a ballet DVD because dancing brings me so much joy. On the nutrition side, we’ve committed to eating at home to prioritize health and save money. Meal planning has been a game-changer for us: we create a weekly menu, shop on Saturdays, and post the plan on the fridge for accountability.

You might be thinking, That’s great for you, but my schedule is packed with appointments, kids, and endless obligations. Trust me, I understand. I’ve been there too. But here’s a gentle challenge: carve out two days and two hours that are just for you. Communicate this clearly to your family—ask your spouse and kids to step up and help. It’s okay to stop doing everything for everyone.

Of course, life doesn’t always cooperate. There will be moments when you or a loved one gets sick, or you’re too exhausted to exercise or stick to your Bible reading plan. It’s easy to feel defeated in those moments, but don’t let temporary setbacks derail you. When you’re ready, pick up where you left off. If you were reading the Book of Matthew and stopped at chapter 8, but your plan says you should be at chapter 14, start at 14. If you have time, go back to what you missed. Life moves forward, and so can you.

Remember, this journey is not about perfection—it’s about persistence.

Time passes quickly. Kids grow up, parents age, and we find ourselves at the end of our earthly journey sooner than we expect. Let’s make the most of the time we have. Be kind—it costs nothing but can mean everything to someone else. Love as many people as you can. And above all, praise God through it all.

You’ve got this, my friend. Let’s walk this road together.

God Bless You!
Joni

New Orleans Tragedy

Posted on by jonithetentmaker

Hello Fellow Travelers,

This morning, my heart was heavy as I lifted up a prayer for New Orleans, for the victims, their families, and everyone touched by the devastating terrorist attack. It’s hard to fathom the pain and loss they are enduring and will continue to face in the days ahead. In moments like these, we must come together as one nation, offering a collective embrace of love and support. Writing letters to the city, to let them know they are not alone, is a small but meaningful way to stand with them. I plan to send one to the mayor’s office—will you join me?

Today, my sadness is mingled with righteous anger. The kind of ideology that justifies violence against those who believe differently is not faith; it’s a betrayal of humanity. It is a manifesto of destruction that has no place in a world striving for peace. Our freedoms in the United States are precious, and we will not let fear or hatred strip them away. The voice of the American people has spoken loudly and clearly, and we stand united in our resolve to protect what we hold dear. God has shaken us awake over these past years, reminding us of His presence and His call to stand firm under His guidance.

Some may ask, “Where was God in New Orleans?” I believe He was there, grieving with those who grieve and standing against the evil that arose. This tragedy is a stark reminder of the battles we face, both seen and unseen. As we move forward, we must align our hearts, our families, and our communities with God’s will. Only through this realignment can we hope for lasting peace and restoration. God has given us a chance to rebuild—not just policies or systems but our very souls. Let us rise to this challenge with faith, love, and unwavering determination.

Here is my blessing for New Orleans, with a little help from the Apostle Paul.

May God Bless You and Keep You.

May His Face shine upon you.

May God position His angel armies around New Orleans, blocking all flaming arrows from evil.

May God wrap His loving and healing arms around the victim’s families, friends, and anyone who has been traumatized. And anyone who can use a Holy hug from Jesus.

May God give New Orleans its bright lights, glitter, and music back so that it can share its own hope with the world.

And may God bless all who read this blessing.

In Jesus Name, Amen!

God Bless You! Joni

James 4

Posted on by jonithetentmaker

Hello, Fellow Travelers,

What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes. (James 4:14)

The world feels like it’s unraveling, doesn’t it? Who has the duct tape and time to fix it? Duct tape can patch up almost anything—or so we say. Imagine if we duct-taped world leaders together, locked them in a room, and returned a week later. Would they finally learn to work together? Perhaps. But this cycle of power and conquest has been with us since Adam and Eve. Power feeds power, and power breeds greed.

Greed seems more rampant than ever. Just look around this holiday season. The Grinch is a fitting mascot, isn’t he? “Gotta have it all, right, Grinchie?” And it’s not just the holidays. Open any social media app, and you’re bombarded with ads and influencers competing for your attention and your wallet. Greed isn’t just a problem; it’s a pandemic.

But it’s not just greed. Our children are lost. We’ve allowed confusion and chaos to infiltrate their lives. We’ve blurred their sense of identity and drowned out their ability to think critically or make responsible decisions. Instead of guiding them, we shove screens in their faces and yell, “Dance, kid, dance!” We’ve turned our children into commodities for likes, views, and virtual applause. This is not okay—not with God, not with anyone. And yet, we’ve prioritized the “good life,” the glamorous life, over what truly matters.

Stepping off my soapbox for a moment…

This weekend, I heard a pastor speak on James 4, and his words struck me like a lightning bolt. It felt as if James himself was standing before us, calling out, “Listen up, you heathen generations!” The message was clear: time is short. We must get right with God. I want to be in His Kingdom with my family and friends. Have you thought about what that means for your loved ones? So many professing Christians think they can coast by, having said “the prayer” and leaving the rest until the last minute. That’s a dangerous lie. The world’s deception can lead us straight to hell.

I know—I was on that path myself. God had to knock me upside the head to wake me up.

James 4 offers a sobering reality check:

What causes fights and quarrels among you? Don’t they come from your desires that battle within you? You desire but do not have, so you kill. You covet but you cannot get what you want, so you quarrel and fight. You do not have because you do not ask God. When you ask, you do not receive, because you ask with wrong motives, that you may spend what you get on your pleasures.

James doesn’t pull any punches. He calls us out for our selfishness, our pride, and our friendship with the world. Friendship with the world, he says, is enmity against God. That’s a hard truth, but one we need to hear. God’s grace is abundant, but it requires humility. “God opposes the proud but shows favor to the humble.” (James 4:6)

The call is clear: submit to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee. Draw near to God, and He will draw near to you. Humble yourselves before the Lord, and He will lift you up. These are not just words; they are a lifeline.

James also warns against arrogance and complacency:

Now listen, you who say, “Today or tomorrow we will go to this or that city, spend a year there, carry on business and make money.” Why, you do not even know what will happen tomorrow. What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes.

At 62, the fleeting nature of life feels more real than ever. We are here for a moment, a breath, a mist. What will we do with the time we have left? Will we chase the world’s empty promises, or will we humble ourselves and seek God’s Kingdom?

The choice is ours, but the time is short. Let’s not waste it.

God Bless You! Joni and Merry Christmas