Your group of friends, rating them?

I see where it’s posted on social media in reference to, “You are the combination of the five people you are around the most.” I ponder this every time I see it.

I wonder what it means really. Does it mean we’re to value each friend like a card hand in a poker game? Here’s an Ace, two Kings, a Four, and a Two. There’s some good possibilities in that, but nowhere near the top rung of winning hands. So, do you discard some friends…say the four and the two…for hopefully another King or Ace? Or do you think you’ve got something better than the worst hand, which is an odd mixture of nothing worthy…like a Two, a Five, an Eight, a Jack, a Ten? Thinking further, do you consider your own ideas and values in that mix? You are the one holding the cards.

There are some friendships that do need to be evaluated and discarded from time to time. The reasons can be any of all sorts of things…your values don’t mesh anymore, the time for the friendship has run it’s course, an incident of some sort happened. In these situations, it’s up to you to decide on a keep or throw away card.

I often look at that statement and think it’s saying, “Get rid of the card that’s a two.” What if that two card is valuable in some ways worth keeping? I mean, what if you kept the Two card, discarded the Four and Eight, to get two more Two cards. There, you’ve got three of a kind and that’s more valuable in a hand than a pair of Kings.

I guess that statement, like any other, is a pondering of, “Check your circle of friends.” “Check in with yourself.”

Who you are? Who are you?

I asked God this morning on what to post for you. He reminded me of my being gifted in reading colors and other psychic gifts. He also reminded me of my faith and ability to build up other people’s faith. Of how I tried for years to “pick a side”, but then would get not very far with either one.

I could attend an online psychic development group one evening, then speak with a man the next in the grocery department about his faith and how God is right there, listening, guiding, loving. Both, in my world, are completely genuine. In each situation, I am uplifting an individual to trust the creation of their own life.

So, are there parts of you not being able to “meld” together? Do you feel as if you can only be a great mother or a great business worker? Does someone in your life ask you to choose? Do you ask yourself to choose? Maybe putting off trying to have a child or adopt because you think it doesn’t “rationally” fit?

If you start any sentence about anything in your life with, “What will people think?” You are not living your life as if you’re meant to create it for yourself. By thinking what other people will think, you’re limiting yourself to what “looks” like the right move.

Let me tell you, I am far from trying to create a life “those people” will be proud of. I’ve done things and even now am looked at by “those people” as if I don’t have my life straight. I’ll admit, there are a lot of things I don’t have straight. Lots of things that may make someone new even think I’m the low person on the totem pole. However, I am happy with the life I’ve created and think I’m awesomely blessed in ways that aren’t “seen” upon the first look.

There may be something in your life you think you don’t have time to add or may seem “frivolous” to other people, but you really, really want to try/pursue/create it. I encourage you to do that very thing. If you feel led, despite what you feel “those people” will think, then follow your feeling.

Somewhere along the way, up ahead in your life, someone will need the bit of you you’re being brave enough to create. If you’re feeling led to be a diverse person, be that diverse person boldly.

Intuition in Mowing Grass

I wanted to explain to you a little bit about how intuition works and what it feels like. It may not be much and maybe you won’t understand it, but I’ll do my best.

Yesterday evening I became intent on mowing my grass. The weather was just right, I figure I was due a little sunshine, and got to it.

I have a massive oak tree in my front yard. It’s my most favorite thing about living here. We let the branches grow quite long and they now droop and touch the ground, almost like an umbrella effect. This is a great bit of shade, just walking under that tree lowers the temperature at least 10 degrees. Mowing around it is a little bit of a challenge though. So, I start there first this time, figuring if I did what I liked least, I’d be happier mowing the remainder.

As I’m mowing the grass, I get the notion that I could leave a strip of the grass on one side so as to have a little “border” between me and my neighbor. When all of my grass is cut and his and the next…all three of our yards seem to flow together. That’s not a bad thing, but I do like my definition of space.

I get this notion and figure, well, let’s just see how far I get. So, I start under the oak tree, make it pretty there, then one side, the next side…working my way around the tree and yard. On the far side is a big area of yard that would be the “border”. I was doing that last just because I was still debating doing it based on my notion of a feeling.

As I’m turning a corner, just starting the area, a wheel pops off of the lawn mower. Just, stops me from mowing any more of my front yard. It’s not an easy fix. I have to order or find the wheel local if I can.

Either way, my notion of a feeling of “leave a border this time” happened. I didn’t know it would be like this. God did. God wasn’t going to say to me, “April, you will mow and only get so far because the mower will loose a tire.” No, God said, “It’s a good idea to leave a border this time.”

You may ask, “April, why didn’t you get the intuition in a direct way, like saying the tire will be lost?” Well, if I would have gotten that notion, maybe I wouldn’t have mowed at all. Now, I have a nice mowed front yard with a “border” of sorts. So it does look neater than it did and even looks almost like I planned it.

That’s an interesting bit of thinking there to ponder I guess. For me, yes.

A Flower Garden

I asked God what I should write about this morning. I figure it’s Mother’s Day here in the US and some people consider this day a little more than ordinary.

As I was stirring my coffee, God showed me a flower garden. One of those full, happy, colorful gardens that really do soothe the soul just to look upon all of those colors. That one.

He showed me the roses, the little growing flowers, and lots of different sizes in between. He reminded me that each flower holds its own individual beauty.

The rose is busy being the rose and nothing else. I want you to consider, lots of people aspire to be the rose. They think their low growing lily-of-the-valley size just isn’t show garden worthy. I want to show you something about that rose.

If you’ve ever noticed, lots of rose bushes are very skinny, tall, not really well rounded plants. They also have thorns, not being very friendly of a plant either. Yes, they are beautiful, but they do have some unwholesome qualities too.

Take a dahlia for example. Those range in size from a golf ball pom to a dinner plate full 11″! That’s amazing really. I haven’t seen one yet, but maybe I’ll grow them sometime? They actually produce a lot of greenery though. No matter the size of the flower, there’s lots of “stuff” behind the flowers. It’s like they put themselves on display, yet draw you in for that green healing color too.

The lily-of-the-valley. I’ve always admired this plant. It’s such a very modest, unassuming plant. It doesn’t draw attention to itself very much, but does show gentle beauty when looked at…almost like fine china.

One more, the carnation. This used to be my favorite flower. If I had to describe me in a flower, this would be it. It’s a beautiful spot of color. It’s got some greenery, but not so much that it overpowers the plant. It’s a tall plant, one that wants to show itself to you. It wants you to see it’s beautiful color for your color soothing pleasure. However, it’s also got rough edges on every petal. There isn’t much “refined” about the carnation. She’s not polished, she’s not fancy, she’s rather ordinary and probably does things differently.

This is, literally, life in a picture. Each person is their own beautiful flower and shows themselves in a different way to the world. Have a beautiful day!!

Tisket Tasket Basket and Flower

A few weeks ago I posted about a crocheted flower I created after seeing several other patterns and working them. I love what I created and made quite a few.

Fast forward to about a week ago, I, for whatever reason, ended up making a little basket. The basket works great to hold the flower! They become a trinket box set together. I LOVE how it turned out and have made several of these also!

I love when I make something that will bring a smile to my face every time I create it! This set of patterns does just that!

You can order a trinket box set (of what I have on hand) or you can order the crochet pattern set. If you are looking for a specific color for a theme/party, we can discuss colors in your favor then. The trinket set is about 3″ square, not very big, but just enough for small objects and is perfect for gift giving.

The actual crocheted set is $12 for the first one (in the US only, ask about other countries) and $8 for each thereafter. This is a great way to order multiples for bridesmaids, little girl parties, a lightweight gift for someone with less grip, or any other great gifting idea. The crochet pattern set is $6 and will be sent to you via the email you give me.

You can email me directly to discuss your order: aprildaisy4@yahoo.com

Basket and Flower

Thoughts and Perspectives, Bible

I’ve been researching lots as of late…trying to seek out more of my personal path. I want to let go of the panic, fear, and worry in certain areas of my life…to have more room for grace, love, and right direction.

In the process, I’ve come across Bible talking, verses to explore, and a new insight into validation for my perspective. I’m not one to explore the Bible more than what God gives to me because I know it’s a tricky slope to wander.

There are some people completely sure of the words in their Bible; however, there are also many versions of the Bible with different perspectives and guidelines they follow. A Pentecostal clearly sees the Bible differently than a Catholic. A Jehovah’s Witness has a different perspective than a Baptist. I am not saying any of them are wrong as it’s what each person feels in their heart to be truth words to them. I am saying it proves this world is much more diverse and needs more understanding of each other than just, “Are you saved?”

Some people tell us psychics we’re wrong and not following God in our life. One of my biggest eye openers this week was being reminded that Jesus appeared after his death several times, in spirit. That means he appeared to someone having the ability to see him. That right there is considered a psychic phenomena.

I was also comforted by the verse 1 Peter 4:10, which states “use the gifts you are given”. It says directly that God gave gifts. I believe everyone is known for something that people seek them out for. It could be a great apple pie, organizing books, or being a doctor. It is something unique to that no one else does quite like anyone else.

My ongoing analogy in this area is the gift of singing. There are lots of songs many different singers cover. Because each person’s voice is unique, despite them singing the same exact song with most of the same exact tune, each version is different. That’s how it is. That’s the beauty of differences.

Today is a Clean Slate

Today is a new day and while there may be things you know you have to do, some bit of routine in your life, you have the opportunity to make choices that are different than what you usually do.

Take a different route to work. Join a class for something new. Eat lunch at an eatery you’ve been wanting to try. Go to a bookstore and browse, choosing a topic completely different than you’d normally pick.

Something different can also be even more important to yourself…saying “no” to a project you really don’t have time for, buying yourself the nicer item because you want to “uplevel” your life from the ordinary choices, a trip you plan just for you.

Today I’m simply suggesting for you to consider something new, something different, something outside of your comfort zone so that you broaden your choices, your bravery, your possibilities.

A Donkey

There’s a pasture out here I pass by fairly regularly. In that pasture is many cows and one donkey. I figured the farmer had their reasons and went about my way. I’d learn the reason years later.

Yesterday my youngest noticed that donkey and asked about it. I told her the donkey was there to protect the cows from coyotes. She asked me how that worked and I said, “I’m not really sure how it works…just that it’s good practice.”

I realized in that moment that it’s ONE donkey. Whomever discovered this and everyone who practices this are smart. It’s a great idea that works!

So, there’s one donkey in this pasture full of cows. It’s job is just to be there. It protects the cows from coyotes by just being there. One donkey.

I’d like you to think on this for a moment. Yes, it’s a donkey…doesn’t seem like much of an animal in this modern age. Yet, it’s valuable to a farmer. The farmer doesn’t have to invest in many gadgets for the safety of his cows. He just has to have one donkey.

You’re one person. You make a difference in every day, on some level, just by being you.

Giving to Others

What does this mean? Does this mean to give of yourself and your life every time someone else asks of you? Does it mean giving your extra often because you can and others have come to think you’ve got it, we’re friends, therefore it’s accessible to them?

I think you and I should discern what is best based on each incident and what we are able to give. I also think some things shouldn’t be overthought. You may think, “April, I don’t have anything to give so they don’t need to come finding anything here anyway.” Want to bet on that?

I live a very modest life I guess you could say. I take care of my family and have a few dollars left over for fun/savings. If you drove up to my spot right now, today, you may not think much of what I’ve got. I live in a converted school bus. My yard has some nice spots…my beloved oak tree…space for my dogs to play…a rose bush that decided to survive against the odds. It also has a small junkyard of sorts.

But, anyways, there are people who still see what you have, however much you think it’s not much, and ask about it anyway. Some may think since we’re friends, they can simply borrow or use it. That has happened a time or two. Friends of mine learn it’s okay to share and be kind, but it’s also expected that they give back. The ones that last do learn this well.

So, we’ve got this little junkyard of sorts. My son likes to tinker and it’s been an interesting thing having this area. It’s worked out well for us many times in having a spare part right in the yard of something we need for a running vehicle that needs a part. It’s also worked well for people coming to us asking if we have parts to sell.

While it doesn’t look like I’ve got much to give, someone looking for what I do have will come asking. Also, lots of people ask for your time. They think you may have freedom in a day or an hour and ask for your time. Do you have the time to give? Do you want to give of your time? You can say yes…you can say no. It’s really all up to what you’re willing to give that doesn’t drain you of energy or build resentment.

Some people make it a point to give regularly in a specific way that speaks to them, like volunteering. Some people agree to help out a friend and it becomes a regular contribution to their life. Sometimes it’s best to say “no” and that’s okay too.

If you are inclined to say “no” and you feel guilty, wondering if you really were all that person has as a helping hand, I want to assure you that you are not the only avenue of help. I believe God will put help before someone and if that someone is you and you say”no”, God will send someone else to help.

It’s like when you ask for help and get a “no”. Do you think that’s the only avenue of a solution or aid? Do you trust there is someone out there, some situation out there, that will give you a “yes”? It’s the same with others? The “no” is a guiding wave towards a yes…either for another person or yourself. Trust the flow. Loose the guilt.

Time….

Time is an interesting and important part of life. People ask you, “How are you spending your time?” You tell them how you’re taking care of the household chores, the children, your partner, and working to make a living. That’s a fair response and one most people say, even I do.

That’s just the surface routine of time. It’s how you fill your days, weeks, months, years. So, what am I wanting to say about time that’s different? I want you to understand the value of time. It’s something I’ve come to see in my own life over the past couple of years and it’s vitally important.

Do you deeply feel the moment you’re in? I may have posted about this before. I really do feel strongly about it though.

I’ve come to appreciate my youngest child’s laughter. I feel my husband’s presence while sitting beside him. I appreciate the perfect weather days. I feel the depth of my blessings.

Okay, so, what does that have to do with time? Well, the depth of your feelings will give you a richer life. By feeling your life in this way, you create much more than a passing connection. When “time” shifts something, say a child moving into their own place, a parent or partner passing away, a baby born to a short life, or any other experiences that speak of connecting…when time shifts something, you can say you valued the time you were given. You valued. You lived it in depth. You felt the blessing and goodness and love you are/were given. That’s powerful.

As you go through the routine of your day, notice who you’re with…their presence, their love, their added value to your life. Notice it with a depth down to your soul. It will truly make a difference in the kind of life you’re living.

Time doesn’t say, “You can have him/her for just one more week. Cram all of what you want to feel, love, and say within that week.” Sometimes time warns you about the limits you’re about to have, most often not. Time asks you to appreciate the moment you’re in at this very breath you’re taking. Time says, “Did you hear that laughter? Did you hug that person with a big hug? Did you speak about how you truly feel? Were you brave enough to go after your dreams? Did you value YOURSELF as a key person making a difference by living your life?” Time says, “Live and feel in the NOW.”