20 April 2026 Everyday

April 21, 2026April 21, 2026 by saymber, posted in animals, Bipolar life, history, human rights, In the News, Leading Life by Example, Mental Health, Music, Nature, photography, Spirituality and Religion, Veteran Affairs

Hello to you. How are you doing? I’m doing ok – just back from my second walk today. It’s really warm! It’s 74 degrees right now. Today began early as Link had his grooming appointment with Clean Pups Diana. She does such a good job with him!

My heart goes out to the families that lost their little ones in Louisiana – so senseless! I hope the women involved will be surrounded with love and healing. They will need so much understanding and kindness if they survive their injuries:

https://www.npr.org/2026/04/19/nx-s1-5790483/mass-shooting-eight-children-louisiana-shrevepor :

A gunman killed eight children and wounded two women in a Northwest Louisiana incident that stemmed from a domestic disturbance, the Shreveport Police Department said Sunday.

The adult male suspect is dead, authorities said. Police named the suspect as 31-year-old Shamar Elkins, of Shreveport. Elkins was believed to be the father of seven of the children killed, Shreveport Police Cpl. Christopher Bordelon said.

https://youtu.be/N_lrrq_opng?si=kUDiXWpCESMfNxYO – Mercyme – I Can Only Imagine

Can Only Imagine

Song by MercyMe

Overview Lyrics

I can only imagine
What it will be like
When I walk by Your side
I can only imagine
What my eyes would see
When Your face is before me
I can only imagine
Yeah

Surrounded by Your glory
What will my heart feel?
Will I dance for You Jesus
Or in awe of You be still?
Will I stand in Your presence
Or to my knees, will I fall?
Will I sing hallelujah?
Will I be able to speak at all?
I can only imagine
I can only imagine

I can only imagine
When that day comes
And I find myself
Standing in the Son
I can only imagine
When all I will do
Is forever, forever worship You
I can only imagine, yeah
I can only imagine

Surrounded by Your glory
What will my heart feel?
Will I dance for you Jesus
Or in awe of You be still?
Will I stand in your presence
Or to my knees will I fall?
Will I sing hallelujah?
Will I be able to speak at all?
I can only imagine, yeah
I can only imagine

Surrounded by Your glory
What will my heart feel?
Will I dance for you Jesus
Or in awe of You be still?
Will I stand in your presence
Or to my knees, will I fall?
Will I sing hallelujah?
Will I be able to speak at all?

I can only imagine, yeah
I can only imagine
I can only imagine, yeah-yeah
I can only imagine
I can only imagine
I can only imagine

I can only imagine
When all I will do
Is forever, forever worship You
I can only imagine

Source: Musixmatch

Songwriters: Bart Millard

https://youtu.be/HuV2ID4PVgA?si=9CnoJb3AKUF92Yr1 – Why – Enigma

Why!…

Song by Enigma ‧ 1996

Overview Lyrics

I was childish and unfair
To you, my only friend
I regret, but now it’s too late
I can’t show you any more

The things I’ve learned from you
‘Cause life just took you away
I’m asking why? (I’m asking why?)
I’m asking why? (I’m asking why?)

Nobody gives an answer
I’m just asking why?
But someday we’ll meet again
And I’ll ask you

I’ll ask you why?
Why it has to be like this
I’m asking you why?
Please, give me an answer

Many years and stupid fights
Till we accept to see
How it was and it’ll always be
Why it has to be like this?
Why we don’t realize?

Why we’re too blind to see the one
Who’s always on our side?
I’m asking why? (I’m asking why?)
I’m asking why? (I’m asking why?)

Nobody gives an answer
I’m just asking why?
Just tell me why?
Why it has to be like this

That the good ones disappear
I’m asking you why?
I’m asking why? (I’m asking why?)
I’m asking why? (I’m asking why?)

Nobody gives an answer
I’m just asking why?
I’m asking why? (I’m asking why?)
I’m asking why? (I’m asking why?)

I’m asking why? (I’m asking why?)
I’m asking why? (I’m asking why?)

Source: Musixmatch

Songwriters: Michael Cretu

Why!… lyrics © Enigma Songs Edition

Prayer I found online specifically for victims of gun violence:

A Prayer for Healing and Comfort
“God of mercy, our hearts ache for those injured in acts of violence. We pray for healing for those who are injured and hospitalized. We pray for comfort for families and friends of each victim. Give solace to grieving communities, and bring peace to anxious hearts. Bring them healing and peace in the face of this tragedy. Amen

8 Apr 2026 Pushing On

April 9, 2026 by saymber, posted in Bipolar life, Health, history, human rights, Nature, photography, Politics and Government, Spirituality and Religion, Veteran Affairs

Hello to you. How are you doing? Since Sunday I haven’t been feeling so good. I’m writing to you from bed and it’s only 7 pm! Still very light out. I just feel weak and low energy. This too shall pass and I know I will push on beyond whatever this is. The only thing different I’m doing is I have started taking loratadine which is generic Claritin for allergies. The Flonase hasn’t arrived yet. This is another way of tackling the fullness in my ears.

Dear Jesus please be with my Uncle Bill as he navigates issues going on with his heart. I also ask you be with my cousin Heidi as she continues to heal. I ask you to be with the people in war torn countries- let there be peace. I pray you guide leaders at all levels of government – please give our elected officials the courage to stop the mad king! Amen.

2 Timothy 1:7: “For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind”

27 Mar 2026 Blooms

March 28, 2026 by saymber, posted in animals, Bipolar life, Health, human rights, In the News, Leading Life by Example, Mental Health, Nature, photography, Spirituality and Religion, Veteran Affairs

Hello to you. How are you doing? I hope well. Today is day three of taking the Oregano oil – no real change yet. I am in the supposed clean out phase but don’t feel it yet. My Aunt recommended my talking to my doctor about a drug called wegovy. It can help with weight loss. I’m not happy with the side effects I read about- it supposedly slows down digestion which could affect the effectiveness of Depakote I take for being Bipolar. I am pretty sure I would have to pay out of pocket for it too but can’t hurt to ask about it. When I was prescribed a multi vitamin and vitamin D3 through the VA and had to pay out of pocket for both of them.

During the walk today I noticed lots of flowers – especially dandelions. I learned a while back that dandelions are not weeds but natural medicine. Also the bees rely on dandelion as an early food source. I saw but couldn’t capture actual images of bees visiting the yellow flowers. I am grateful to my neighbors who just let them bloom and don’t spray poison on them.

Dear Jesus I pray for this world and all the life within it. May there be peace in the war ravaged regions. I pray especially for the innocent children in these places- shield them from harm. I pray for you to make your presence known – illuminate the dark places. Please be with those dealing with the destruction of their homes after natural and man made disasters. I pray you be with all those who are suffering from Alzheimer’s and dementia. I pray for your presence with the sick, healing, recovering and the poor. Please be with all animals that are suffering needlessly. Amen.

Romans 15:13New International Version

¹³May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peaceas you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.

14 Mar 2026 Wind

March 14, 2026 by saymber, posted in Music, Nature, photography, Spirituality and Religion

Hello to you. Hope this finds you well. I’m just back from a short walk and boy is it windy! I remembered to take my camera so I could get a couple pictures of spring blooms. It was a little tricky with it being so windy.

Yesterday began early for me. I actually didn’t wake up until my alarm went off! My Aunt invited me to the monthly gathering of Sisters of Grace and they meet at 9:00. When I go with her I drive to her house and then we drive together to the church. She made bread pudding to take along that came out really good. There was a good turnout. The ladies are so welcoming and kind! Being with so many kind souls is good for me. We sang this song that I really like:

https://youtu.be/r3K3roEF36k?si=vqBS5MqMhSzaiU9v – 10,000 Reasons Bless the Lord – Matt Redman

Matt Redman and Jonas Myrin [Key: C#]

Chorus Bless the Lord, O my soul, O my soul, worship His holy Name. Sing like never before, O my soul. I’ll worship Your holy Name.

Verse 1 The sun comes up, it’s a new day dawning; It’s time to sing Your song again. Whatever may pass and whatever lies before me, Let me be singing when the evening comes.

Chorus Bless the Lord, O my soul, O my soul, worship His holy Name. Sing like never before, O my soul. I’ll worship Your holy Name.

Verse 2 You’re rich in love and You’re slow to anger, Your Name is great and Your heart is kind; For all Your goodness I will keep on singing, Ten thousand reasons for my heart to find.

Chorus Bless the Lord, O my soul, O my soul, worship His holy Name. Sing like never before, O my soul. I’ll worship Your holy Name.

Verse 3 And on that day when my strength is failing, The end draws near and my time has come; Still my soul sings Your praise unending, Ten thousand years and then forevermore.

Chorus Bless the Lord, O my soul, O my soul, worship His holy Name. Sing like never before, O my soul. I’ll worship Your holy Name.

Bless the Lord, O my soul, O my soul, worship His holy Name. Sing like never before, O my soul. I’ll worship Your holy Name.

17 Nov 2025 Storehouse of Faith

November 18, 2025 by saymber, posted in Bipolar life, Leading Life by Example, Mental Health, Nature, photography, Spirituality and Religion, Veteran Affairs, Writing and blogging

Hello to you. I hope this finds you well. Today has been good but long. It began with me going to the ladies coffee at the Grace House at 9:00 am. There was a good turnout and goodies to be had. There were lots of things and people we prayed for. While we visited, Missy mentioned enjoying my friend Jeannie’s testimony on Sunday and one of the other gals said something about it that was perfect – having a storehouse of faith to carry you through the tough times when they come. Jeannie certainly has had hers full! Here is link to her testimony and Pastor Jason’s sermon:

https://youtu.be/Id0YOqTORA8?si=TLdV2CRSPPsHxwYm – 16 Nov 2025 testimony and sermon

I went and got groceries afterwards and it was twice as much as I normally pay! I am grateful it’s just me and Link that I am buying for.

Key verses for faith in hard times

Philippians 4:6-7: “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”
Proverbs 3:5-6: “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.”
Jeremiah 29:11: “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”
Romans 8:28: “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.”
Isaiah 41:10: “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”
1 Corinthians 6:13: “Be on guard. Stand firm in the faith. Be courageous. Be strong.”
James 1:3: “…because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance.”

27 Oct 2025 Morning Walk

October 27, 2025 by saymber, posted in animals, Nature, photography, Spirituality and Religion, Writing and blogging

Hello to you. I’m back from a walk. It’s really cool and crisp out. The trees in the neighborhood are all starting to change color and drop their leaves. I miss taking Link out but he just can’t do it. His back legs bother him. He’s going to be 11 this year – he’s still a puppy to me! I hope this finds you well and knowing you are cared about. You are never alone – Jesus is always with you.

Some positive food for your spirit:

Keep your face always toward the sunshine, and shadows will fall behind you” by Walt Whitman,

Hebrews 10:24-25New International Version

²⁴And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, ²⁵not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching.

1 June 2025 Joy

June 2, 2025 by saymber, posted in history, Home, Leading Life by Example, photography, Spirituality and Religion

Describe one simple thing you do that brings joy to your life.

Hello to you. Hope this finds you well. Today has been simple. I woke up to my alarm after tossing and turning much of the night and went to church. I’m glad I went. I got to sit with my friend Mark and keep him company as his wife Beth is still healing from surgery. He is the sweetest man! Today Pastor Jason touched a bit on what heaven might be like and it nearly made me cry! He had a little bit of the “almost fifty” health scare which made him reflect on his own mortality. As I get older I too am hyper aware of the fact time only goes forward and waits for no one!

My neighbor Diana always has something blooming in her yard

One simple thing I do that brings me joy is to stop and notice beauty around me. I’ve always been the person that notices change in my surroundings- good or bad. For example, when I look back at living in Delaware when we lived in apartments that were made section 8 after we moved in – if you were to look at the pictures you would never guess it was filled with trash much of the time. I looked for and found beauty and overlooked the dump it really was!

2 Timothy 4:1-9New International Version

4 In the presence of God and of Christ Jesus, who will judge the living and the dead, and in view of his appearing and his kingdom, I give you this charge:²Preach the word; be prepared in season and out of season; correct, rebuke and encourage—with great patience and careful instruction. ³For the time will come when people will not put up with sound doctrine. Instead, to suit their own desires, they will gather around them a great number of teachers to say what their itching ears want to hear. ⁴They will turn their ears away from the truth and turn aside to myths. ⁵But you, keep your head in all situations, endure hardship, do the work of an evangelist,discharge all the duties of your ministry.

⁶For I am already being poured out like a drink offering, and the time for my departure is near. ⁷I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. ⁸Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day—and not only to me, but also to all who have longed for his appearing.

Personal Remarks

⁹Do your best to come to me quickly,

20 July 2023 Dogs or Cats

July 20, 2023 by saymber, posted in animals, Nature, photography, Spirituality and Religion

Dogs or cats?

Hello to you. It’s a smoky hot day already. I walked over to our prayer meeting at Grace House and back – got my 10 minutes plus in for today. I’ll probably still go later this evening. I spoke with a recreation therapist yesterday from the VA and we established a goal of walking at least 10 minutes each day.

As for todays prompt I have had the honor of sharing my life with both species. I would say of the two, cats are the lowest maintenance but I love each equally. There are pros and cons to sharing life with each of them. Dogs can’t be left alone for more than a day whereas cats can. I don’t miss cleaning up cat litter but I still have to pick up dog poop! It’s more convenient to just scoop it out of one place. Both species can be very affectionate and love to play. May, my Russian Blue, loved to play ball with me. I would toss a small fuzz ball to her and she would hit it with her paws like a bat. So cute! Link loves to cuddle and sometimes we play with his toys. He hides his favorite fur babies and challenges me to find them. Sometimes he acts like a Dat – a little bit dog and a little bit cat. Amber and May were his first cat family. So as you can see, I can’t settle on whether I favor dogs or cats- they are pretty much even in my books!

These flowers make me think of an exotic location like Hawaii or something

Proverbs 3:3-13New International Version

³Let love and faithfulness never leave you;
    bind them around your neck,
    write them on the tablet of your heart.
⁴Then you will win favor and a good name
    in the sight of God and man.

⁵Trust in the Lord with all your heart
and lean not on your own understanding;
⁶in all your ways submit to him,
and he will make your paths straight.^[a]

⁷Do not be wise in your own eyes;
fear the Lord and shun evil.
⁸This will bring health to your body
and nourishment to your bones.

⁹Honor the Lord with your wealth,
with the firstfruits of all your crops;
¹⁰then your barns will be filled to overflowing,
and your vats will brim over with new wine.

¹¹My son, do not despise the Lord’s discipline,
and do not resent his rebuke,
¹²because the Lord disciplines those he loves,
as a father the son he delights in.^[b]

¹³Blessed are those who find wisdom,
those who gain understanding,

19 July 2023 Time

July 19, 2023 by saymber, posted in animals, Art and Poetry, Bipolar life, drawing, Mental Health, Nature, photography, Spirituality and Religion, Veteran Affairs, Writing and blogging

Which activities make you lose track of time?

Hello to you. How is your week thus far! My week is going ok. I’m sitting on the front porch with Link as I write to you. Its still pretty nice out. I wish it would rain so my car would get rinsed off! Its pretty dirty! I know as soon as I wash it pollen and dust will cover it again.

Todays prompt makes me think of when I was being creative and crafting. When I made jewelry, did drawing in chalks on the back porch and also when I used to be play video games. When I get in the flow, the zone where I’m focused on something so completely I am not operating in time and a place. When I’m doing something I love to do it’s such a good feeling. It’s been a couple years since I had this feeling. I can remember when I used to draw portraits of people I would sit for hours and be totally focused but that was mainly when I was younger.

Psalm 145:9New International Version

⁹The Lord is good to all;
he has compassion on all he has made.

13 July 2023 Bedtime

July 13, 2023 by saymber, posted in animals, Health, Home, Leading Life by Example, Mental Health, Nature, photography, Spirituality and Religion, Veteran Affairs, Writing and blogging

What time do you go to bed and wake up currently?

Hello to you. I’m just back from Grace House where we have a prayer meeting each Thursday at 9:30 am. Today it was Lois, Brie and me. We are hoping that may be this fall our group will grow some. I walked over and back. My lower back wasn’t happy but the prayers helped. I have been having some vertigo/swaying spells the past couple of days. I hope this isn’t a side effect of the new medication I’m on! We prayed for my Aunt and Dad too. Just found out my Aunt is having shoulder surgery later this month.

So bedtime and getting up are something I’ve been having to work on. I try to start going to bed at 9 pm and I usually wake up around 8-9 am. It takes me a long time to fall asleep and I don’t like getting out of bed right away. I think the reason I have trouble falling asleep has to do with being on screens before bed time. Last night I didn’t have anything on after lights out and I don’t remember falling asleep! Just takes good practice and consistency I think.

Today was good because I needed to be up early to go to the prayer meeting. It’s good to have a reason to get up and have something to look forward to.