Last week, I was silent online because I was busy. I finished the layout part on Amazon/ KDG publishing, which means my Christian Children’s book Santa’s Magic Hat will be live on Amazon in three days. It is time for the happy dance and then to move on to the novel.
I put this on Amazon to encourage parents to buy the book for their children.
Discover the Heartwarming Story Behind Santa’s Magic Hat!
In Santa’s Magic Hat, children will embark on a delightful adventure to the North Pole, where joy, kindness, and faith shine brightly! Watch as Santa and his cheerful elves prepare for Christmas with their fun-filled Countdown Dance, spreading the holiday spirit in every step. But the real magic begins with Santa’s extraordinary red hat—a gift with a heavenly purpose.
This enchanting story reveals how Santa’s hat helps him share love, kindness, and the true meaning of Christmas with children all over the world. Perfect for kids ages 4 to 8, this book combines festive fun, colorful traditions, and a heartwarming message about Jesus’s love.
Give your child the gift of a story that celebrates the magic of Christmas while pointing to the greatest gift of all!
I’m so excited to step into this Hallelujah season together! God has graciously answered our prayers, giving us the reprieve we’ve longed for and filling our nation with His light once more. Can you feel the change in the air? The joy and hope are palpable!
This season is a precious gift, and it’s one we must cherish and nurture. As believers, we’re called to stand together in unity, celebrating a return to our roots in faith. Protecting these values is like guarding a fine diamond or a priceless pearl, handed to us by our Creator. We’re all members of the body of Christ, and this is the time to put aside differences and come together as one. Let’s show the world the love Jesus commanded us to share.
“A new commandment I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this, everyone will know that you are my disciples if you love one another.” (John 13:34-35)
Now, more than ever, we must be steadfast in prayer. Together, our united prayers have made a difference, pushing back darkness and bringing God’s light into our homes, communities, and nation. But the work isn’t done. Our prayers need to continue, covering our families, cities, states, and leaders. We are the watchmen and women of this time!
As we pray and stand guard, let’s also reach out. Let’s move beyond the walls of our churches and small groups to touch those who haven’t experienced God’s love yet. Consider small acts of warmth and welcome—like setting up a little firepit at the end of your driveway on a Friday or Saturday night. Invite neighbors over to roast marshmallows, share hot chocolate, and enjoy the warmth of friendship. Whether they’re from your church, another church, or have yet to find their faith, let’s meet them with open hearts and listening ears. Small moments of kindness can make a big impact.
For now, let’s lift our voices in praise, singing hallelujah to the Lord Jesus Christ, who invites us to be part of His family.
God bless you abundantly in this season of Hallelujah!
Have you noticed how deeply we Americans rely on our infrastructure? From the winding back roads to the highways and bridges, we depend on these structures to keep our country connected. However, as recent hurricanes have shown us here in Western North Carolina, a single storm can wash them away instantly, leaving devastation in its wake. It’s a sobering reminder of how fragile these man-made systems truly are.
Yet, while reflecting on this, I am deeply grateful that nothing—no storm or sin—can destroy our unshakable foundation in Jesus Christ. There were times in my past when I tried to tear down my relationship with Him, believing I was too far gone to deserve even a mustard seed of forgiveness, mercy, or grace. But in His boundless love, He reached down, pulled me from the muck and mire I had gotten myself into, and embraced my messy, broken self—inside and out.
When I look at the state of our country today, I sometimes wonder why God would want to do the same for us. Why would He want to pull us out of the murky, broken state we find ourselves in? It’s hard to imagine, especially when many Christians have gone silent or turned away from Him. And while there are many reasons for our spiritual disconnect, the most heartbreaking is the tragic loss of innocent lives through abortion. In 2023 alone, over a million children were lost, and who knows how many since 1973.
Jesus’ words in Matthew 18:6 resonate so powerfully here: “If anyone causes one of these little ones—those who believe in me—to stumble, it would be better for them to have a large millstone hung around their neck and to be drowned in the depths of the sea.” Can you imagine the weight of the consequences that our nation carries for allowing such loss?
So what can we, as individuals, do to reverse the course of this devastation and seek healing for our nation? There are tangible steps we can take to make a difference:
Pray – Ask God for guidance on how you can be part of the solution. Whether it’s through personal action, supporting others, or simply standing firm in your faith, prayer is where transformation begins.
Support organizations that help pregnant mothers—Many nonprofits and ministries are dedicated to providing resources and support for expectant mothers, helping them choose life for their babies. Volunteering or donating even small items like a baby blanket or clothes can significantly impact.
Give what you can – Whether it’s your time, talents, or financial resources, giving, even in small ways, can make a difference for someone in need.
Join a community of believers – When we come together as a faith community, we tap into an abundance of ideas, resources, and strength. God has equipped us with unique gifts, and by joining forces, we can achieve more than we ever could.
In times of crisis, whether from natural disasters or spiritual battles, we are reminded of how fleeting the things of this world can be. But our hope in Christ is eternal; through Him, we can rebuild what has been lost and restore what has been broken.
Let’s commit to being part of that rebuilding process—not just for our country, but for each individual life we encounter. With compassion, prayer, and action, we can be healing instruments in a world that so desperately needs it.
It deeply saddens me to share that our nation—and my beloved home state of North Carolina—has become a breeding ground for anger, division, and hostility. Even those who serve the public, like FEMA employees, are facing threats to their lives. These are people who have dedicated themselves to helping others in crisis, yet they are now the target of misplaced rage. And what makes it worse is that our own government casts blame on these dedicated workers, who are simply following orders and trying to provide for their families.
If you’re angry, let it be at ourselves. We are the ones who have allowed this toxic environment to grow. We have let it fester through our votes, our silence, and our division. We need to survive not just the hurricanes; it’s the storm of hatred fueled by the leaders we have put in place.
Galatians 6:2 reminds us to “Bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ.” Our duty is to help each other, to lift each other up in times of need—not tear each other down. The anger and division we see today are in direct opposition to this call.
In Leviticus 25:35, we are urged: “If any of your brothers become poor among you in any of your towns within your territory that the Lord your God is giving you, do not be hardhearted or tightfisted toward your poor brother.” Yet, here we are, turning our backs on those who need our compassion the most. We have become hardhearted, not just toward the poor, but toward one another. This is not who we are meant to be.
1 Timothy 5:8 warns us: “But if anyone does not provide for his relatives, and especially for members of his household, he has denied the faith and is worse than an unbeliever.” How can we claim to love our families and communities if we allow hate to poison our hearts? How can we stand by while our neighbors are torn down when it is our responsibility to build them up?
This is a call to action. We must reject the division and hatred allowed to take root. We must return to a place of love, compassion, and responsibility for one another. It’s not too late to change the path we’re on—but we must act now.
Let’s bear each other’s burdens, open our hearts and hands to our brothers and sisters in need, and remember that the storms we face, whether physical or emotional, can only be weathered together.
Let’s choose love over hate. Let’s choose unity over division for the sake of our families, communities, and country.
Those who fan the flames of hatred remain untouched by the venom they spew, sheltered by their wealth and power. They pass down their rancid legacy to the rest of us, burdening us with their corrosive influence. But here’s the truth: we don’t have to accept their toxic gift! We have the power to live with true integrity, guided by the profound plan Jesus laid out for us. Each of us is endowed with the gift of Christian discernment—a divine ability to view our lives and the world through the lens of God’s Word and apply that sacred wisdom to our everyday choices.
But then again, it is easier to hate than to love, blame others, or take responsibility for our actions. Getting instant news and information from influencers, actors/actresses, famous sports figures, or media icons is more accessible. What is happening in America is a culmination of our own irresponsibility, religious seatwarmers, and lukewarm Christians. We don’t want to step on the toes of organizations and people whose philosophy differs from ours. Can you hear the tree fall in the forest? Silence is not golden or good at this time in Christianity!
We have removed God from our Judeo-Christian country. Yes, that was one of America’s founding principles, and our younger generations have no clue. Why? Because they were not taught history, real history. Our founding principles are lost and will become myths and folklore if we do not correct them. What is happening in the Middle East is not “now” news; it goes back to the Ottoman Empire. You will be shocked if you begin to read up on history and how in tune it is with our Bible.
And in our Bible, God tells Abraham in Genesis 12:3
“I will bless those who bless you, and him who dishonors you I will curse, and pin you all the families of the earth shall be blessed.”
I am deeply convinced that God is withdrawing His hand of favor from America, and in the coming months, we will be engulfed by rising tides of hatred, agitators, and troublemakers. The truth is that those who stir the pot are exploiting us for their gain—fueling their power and amassing wealth at our expense. Reflect on this: Are you relying on God’s divine discernment to guide your decisions, or are you being swayed by manipulative voices seeking to serve their interests? The choice is clear, and the stakes are high.
During our time back home, finding a nearby church has been challenging, which is crucial for me and my ever-present health issues. While watching local churches on YouTube on Sundays, we stumbled upon a church that immediately resonated with us. My husband and I were impressed by the church and its pastors, so we started tuning in on Wednesdays, Saturdays, and Sundays. After four months, we’ve grown very fond of it. However, it turns out the church is located seven hours away in Murfreesboro, Tennessee. Now we’re considering whether a move might be necessary. I’m sharing this because I believe being physically present in a church community is especially adamant during these tumultuous times.
My family and I will continue to look for a local church while watching World Outreach Church on YouTube. We will pray, treat others with respect, and openly demonstrate our values and love for Jesus for all to see.
We can turn America around back to the Judeo-Christian values the Pilgrims, and our founding fathers came to imbed into this land.
Yesterday, my heart shattered into pieces, and my eyes overflowed with tears of sorrow. I could only cry, “God, forgive us for how careless we have raised our children. We purposely removed You from our schools, workplaces, homes, social gatherings, and government—even our places of worship. We have allowed the demons of this world to grab our children and infiltrate their lives.
The movies they watch, the music they hear, the heroes they worship, the closed-door churches they attend, and their communities are full of hatred and prejudice! Yes, Father, we have brought this upon ourselves and can’t understand why. Please forgive us for our love of self and culture. We are more of this world than Yours. Open our eyes to the truth and help us to find a way back!” In Jesus Name, Amen.
So, if you are wondering what my prayer is about, it concerns the shooting at the Georgia Apalachee High School yesterday—the shooter, a 14-year-old kid, and four dead – 2 students and two teachers. And the words of the politicians and our government officials went round and round, all over town. “Gun control legislation is what we need, and a child should never have to go to school and be made to do shooter drills.” Oh yes, my ears rang with the same old, same old—no solution in sight. Until we admit we are the problem and find a way to heal our hearts and our land with God, it will only get worse.
The solution is complex and multifaceted; the church and Christians must stand up with God in the middle! You can not be seat warmers in your place of worship; you must go out and change the world. And you can’t sit at home and vocalize what needs to be done. Poof, it is gone within the air; the results are nothing. Think about how you can stand up to make a difference in our country, and then do it!
Next week, I will tell you how I found a way to get out into our community and bring joy and light. My prayers are with the two student’s families, the two teacher’s families, and the shooter’s family. I will lift the community of Apalachee High School and our country to God in my daily prayers. You should, too.
A Bible verse came to me while writing the post. 1 Thessalonians 5:17 The Message/Remix
“Be cheerful no matter what; pray all of the time; thank God No Matter What Happens. This is the way God wants you, who belong to Christ Jesus to live.”
Heavenly Father,
I come before you with thankfulness in this time of sorrow. I am grateful for all you do for us, even when we turn our backs on you.
Please heal my broken heart for your blessed children. I love them so much, Father, and see hopeful promises within each of them. And then their light of promise is taken away. Please help the families who lost their loved ones yesterday feel Your presence and understand the “why.” Bless them with your mercy, grace, love, and joy. Walk with them through this devastating road they must travel. Thank you, Jesus, for everything! In Jesus Name Amen.
Hello, dear readers! It’s been quite a rollercoaster for me these past two weeks, as my heart seems to be on a quest of its own. There’s this peculiar sensation of missing someone, but the catch is, I can’t quite put my finger on who that someone is. Strange, isn’t it? I’ve tried to unravel this mysterious feeling through prayer, and while God has brought a particular person to mind, the emptiness persists. It’s a curious dilemma, as there are numerous individuals who could potentially fill this void in my heart.
Leaving Texas marked a significant chapter in my life, bidding farewell to friends who were more like family. The pastor and church that guided us through thick and thin, becoming an integral part of our journey. Then, there’s the memory of my best friend, Suzanne, who departed from this world some years ago. Her absence has left an irreplaceable void, and I find myself yearning for her companionship more than ever. It’s a feeling that cuts deep, leaving me pondering the intricacies of the heart.
Now, you might be wondering, what on earth is going on? And no, it’s not indigestion – let’s keep it light-hearted! But seriously, have you ever experienced a sensation like this? The feeling of a missing piece in your heart, despite your best efforts to identify and remedy it? It’s a perplexing journey, one that many of us traverse at some point in our lives.
Leaving behind the familiar faces and comforting embrace of our Texas community has opened up a space that no new friendship or experience seems capable of filling entirely. It’s not about forgetting the past or discounting the value of new connections; rather, it’s a testament to the profound impact certain individuals have on our lives.
In the midst of this emotional labyrinth, I’ve come to realize that our hearts have a language of their own. They carry the imprints of people who have touched our lives in ways we may not fully comprehend. It’s a mosaic of emotions, a collage of memories, and sometimes, a longing for a connection that transcends the boundaries of time and space.
As I navigate these unseen spaces of the heart, I invite you to reflect on your own journey. Have you ever felt a similar tug, a yearning for someone or something that defies explanation? Perhaps it’s a sign that our hearts are more intricate than we give them credit for, weaving a tapestry of emotions that shape our identities.
In the grand tapestry of life, each person leaves a unique thread, contributing to the beautiful and sometimes complex patterns of our hearts. So, here’s to embracing the mysteries, acknowledging the voids, and finding solace in the shared human experience of navigating the uncharted territories of our hearts. After all, it’s in these moments of vulnerability that we often discover the profound beauty of connection and the resilience of the human spirit.
Hello there! As we find ourselves in the swift currents of February, it’s a good moment to pause, take a breath, and genuinely ask ourselves, “How are you doing?” This month is often associated with expressions of love, and in the spirit of “Give Love to Get Love,” it serves as a timely reminder to not only extend kindness to others but also to conduct a thoughtful mental health check-up for ourselves.
February, with its Valentine’s Day celebrations, is traditionally dedicated to love, affection, and connection. While expressing love to our friends, family, and partners is undoubtedly important, let’s not forget the significance of self-love and self-care. In the midst of our busy lives, it’s easy to overlook our own well-being. This month encourages us to prioritize our mental health and emotional balance.
Taking a moment to reflect on your mental well-being doesn’t necessarily mean dwelling on challenges or stressors; it can also involve acknowledging your achievements, expressing gratitude, and embracing moments of joy. Cultivating self-awareness allows us to better understand our emotions and respond to them in healthy ways.
Consider incorporating simple yet effective practices into your routine, such as mindfulness meditation, journaling, or spending time in nature. These activities can contribute significantly to your mental health by promoting relaxation, reducing stress, and fostering a positive mindset.
In addition to focusing on self-care, February offers an opportunity to connect with others on a deeper level. Acts of kindness, whether big or small, can have a profound impact on our relationships and our own sense of well-being. Reach out to friends, family, or colleagues, not just to express love but also to genuinely inquire about their
well-being. Sometimes, a thoughtful conversation can be a powerful form of support.
Remember that mental health is a continuous journey, and checking in on yourself doesn’t have to be reserved for a specific month. However, the symbolism of February can serve as a gentle nudge to prioritize your emotional well-being and strengthen the connections that contribute to a fulfilling life.
As we navigate the rapid pace of the year, let’s make an intentional effort to give love, receive love, and nurture our mental health. May this month be a reminder that amidst the hustle and bustle, taking care of ourselves and each other is a meaningful and valuable pursuit.
I am mad, angry, and utterly frustrated that the whole world can sit back and watch in real-time the obliteration of an innocent country! While world leaders are trying to walk the middle of the road and give a reflection of helping Ukraine, our American President is systematically allowing America to disintegrate under inflation, high gas prices, supply chain breakdowns, and open borders. And when he smiles that asinine Cheshire cat grin while listing the excuses for his failures, you know it is a big fib!
By the way, President Biden, Jen Psaki stated that to start up the Keystone Pipeline would take years to see any results. So isn’t it better to go ahead and start it now than to be two years behind the eight ball? Just asking you.
I try to think about Jesus and what He would do to help His people during my times of frustration. For example, when Jesus got mad, He cleaned house, and I wish I possessed the ability and courage to do just that!
And Jesus entered the temple and drove out all who sold and bought in the temple, and he overturned the tables of the money-changers and the seats of those who sold pigeons. He said to them, “It is written, ‘My house shall be called a house of prayer,’ but you make it a den of robbers.”
Matthew 21:12-13
Yep, America’s leaders are a den of robbers! We are not alone; the other world leaders have followed us into the pit of lies, deceit, and lack of care for their fellow citizens. If you don’t believe me watch President Biden’s State of the Union address. He had an open mic moment when he expressed that he doubted the independent voter would buy the inflation excuse. Maybe the people who voted him into office will swallow his stinky disguise of sewage lies. But not me! I have lived too long and seen too many politicians foam at the mouth.
Only President Zelensky has displayed the courage of Jesus! Swift action should have been taken months ago. But it is too easy for leaders to double talk and play both sides of the field. They are hedging their bets. No one seems to have the resolve to stand firm on what is right. Because if they do, they can’t fill their pockets with golden calves or maybe 30 pieces of silver.
And in two years from now, when Russia has invaded more countries and America is in the ashcan, what’s next? Was it worth selling your soul to the highest bidder? Did you know that if you lose your soul to the world, you will have nothing to stand before Jesus? If the world leaders and our politicians do not mind living eternity in hell while their relatives reside with Jesus in heaven, that is not my problem. It only makes me sad for them.
For whosoever will save his life shall lose it; but whosoever shall lose his life for my sake and the gospel’s, the same shall save it. For what shall it profit a man, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul? Or what shall a man give in exchange for his soul? Mark 8: 34-38
I wonder what did President Biden, the World Leaders, and Putin exchanged for their souls?
What do you think?
The video below displays pictures of t-shirts on my Etsy store, Originally Amelia. I tried to price each one so they would make a $5.00 profit after the Etsy costs and the Printful costs are paid. Every penny of the profit will be donated to the orphanages of Abundance International in Ukraine. Abundanceinternational.org
I wish I could go and help. It stinks to be held down by this darn disease. But I will keep praying and posting.
My prayer.
Heavenly Father,
I come before your throne of grace, mercy, love, and hope and bow down before you with praises, my never-ending love for you, and my tears of sorrow for what is happening to Ukraine and the world. I ask for Your wings of protection to cover Ukraine, her people, and her leaders. Please lead the Russian soldiers to peace and to sabotage their equipment so that they will not be able to engage in war. Have them stand up for what is right when their leaders will not. If needed, please send your Angel armies to help the Ukrainian people fight for their land.
Father, please heal the hearts of all involved and give peace to a nation living in fear.
There is good news and bad news. I am sure you have heard the statement at least once. But good and evil are everyday occurrences in living life, don’t you think? The good news every day is that Jesus Loves You and that you are still alive! Rejoice! The bad news can be numerable things that don’t go your way, including financial, health, and family issues. Are they really that bad? I recently read that rent is going up, creating a dilemma for those on limited incomes, middle-class and low-income families, and single parents. As inflation soars, so will the cost of living, including rent, food, and gas. What are our legislators thinking? When those who have plenty of money and resources can not find a way to care about those who do not, there is no America, and there is no community. Educated ignorance is the great divide that separates us all! I believe within the next three years; we will see America’s demise. The rich will survive, and the rest of us may become their laborers. We will be providing them with their lavish lifestyles while trying to put food on our tables. Now that is a bad day, month, and year! But I have heard stories of incredible survival, murmurings of one who can change your life even when the circumstances surrounding you do not change. One who can make a way, open a door, and change the way the powerful and wealthy even think. I am talking about Jesus. There are stories throughout the centuries of those who have withstood the famines, wars, and inflations. They put their complete trust and control in Jesus by giving Him their heart, family, and finances. I am not saying they did not have difficult times or became extremely wealthy. For when we dedicate ourselves to Jesus, we will have tribulations. But, He will be there to go through them with us and show us the way. So what do you do? First, you pray to Jesus and ask Him to become Lord of your life. Then inquire about your family, finances, work, and America’s inflation. Maybe if we all pray together regarding America’s inflation, God will open the ears and hearts of our leaders! God will answer you, and it might not be what you want to hear. I always like to tell Him what I want to hear. And I can hear Him from heaven sighing and stating, “Uh, Huh.” Or it may not be in the time frame you desire because it will always be in God’s timing. Which, by-the-way, is the best for us. Next, pray some more. Make prayer a daily habit. You don’t have to express lofty words or bible verses; make it from the heart. All He wants is your heart to worship and praise Him, and God wants to love you back throughout eternity.
A blessing for you. May God bless you and keep you. May He give you Devine insight during your prayers to help you navigate difficult times and peace knowing He is the one in control! In Jesus Name, Amen!
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