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.

24 Mar 2026 Beauty

March 25, 2026 by saymber, posted in Health, Nature, photography, Spirituality and Religion

View from my back door today- the fruit trees are in bloom. When you get close to them you can hear the humming of the bees.

Hello to you. How are you? Today has been long for me. The fullness in my ears has been really intense the past couple of days but I am pushing on. I have an appointment with my doctor next week. I am curious as to what she is going to say since the ear drops/ear infection treatment didn’t get rid of it.

With my physical discomfort aside, boy is it beautiful outside these days! The fruit trees in my neighbors backyard are literally humming with new life. The bees love fruit trees! We have cherry, apricot, plum and apple trees in our neighborhood. Sadly most of the fruit ends up on the ground or the squirrels and birds eat it.

Matthew 7:16-20New International Version

¹⁶By their fruit you will recognize them. Do people pick grapes from thornbushes, or figs from thistles?¹⁷Likewise, every good tree bears good fruit, but a bad tree bears bad fruit. ¹⁸A good tree cannot bear bad fruit, and a bad tree cannot bear good fruit.¹⁹Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire. ²⁰Thus, by their fruit you will recognize them.

Ai interpretation of this passage:

Matthew 7:16-20 teaches that people’s true character, especially that of spiritual teachers, is revealed by their actions and life outcomes (“fruit”), not by their words or appearances. Jesus explains that good character produces good deeds, while corrupt hearts produce bad fruit, urging followers to evaluate and avoid false prophets.

https://youtu.be/HAbwGTcPA_k?si=FVOMvUOjN2Q7_hEl – The Chosen – Nathanael under the fig tree meets Jesus

Dear Jesus thank you for yet another day of life. I pray to you for all in this world that need your healing and loving touch. All that need reassurance that you are present in their lives. For with you no one is truly alone in whatever it is they are going through. Amen.

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.

15 Oct 2025 Walk

October 15, 2025 by saymber, posted in Bipolar life, Mental Health, Nature, photography, Spirituality and Religion, Writing and blogging

Hello there! How are you today? I’m just back from a nice walk. My head condition (I get a tightness in my ears that affects my balance) bothered me but I kept on walking. It’s currently a crisp 60 degrees- perfect walking temperature. I was going to get groceries today but decided I’ll go tomorrow after prayer. I have started a list on my phone. It’s going to be expensive as I will picking up toilet paper and Links new food! Even for just me it’s almost $200 and that’s not even a full cart!

One of my favorite color combos in roses

Isaiah 43:1New International Version

Israel’s Only Savior

43 But now, this is what the Lord says—
    he who created you, Jacob,
    he who formed you, Israel:
“Do not fear, for I have redeemed you;
    I have summoned you by name; you are mine.

7 Aug 2025 Power of Prayer

August 7, 2025 by saymber, posted in Bipolar life, Health, Leading Life by Example, Mental Health, Spirituality and Religion

Hello to you! Hope this finds you well. I’m just back from my Thursday prayer meeting and extra walk home. I’m so grateful for our group – Pastor Jason, Pastor Jim, Lois and Amy today. We were missing Jeannie and Briana – they both have life stuff going on and couldn’t be there today. Our group is small but powerful in our prayers and praise. We pray for each others intentions and Lois puts together a prayer sheet that lists things to pray for within the church. Today Jason shared some disturbing statistics about youth suicide rates for Canyon County. It’s a leading cause of death among teens and younger children. We have a lot of young people who go to our church. Right now a bunch of them are at summer camp. Lots to pray for! My personal requests were for my two uncles. My Uncle Bill who is struggling with ongoing health issues and for my Uncle John who is having shoulder surgery next week. I will miss being able to walk to Grace House when the lease is up! God will provide!

Isaiah 41:10New International Version

¹⁰So 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.

5 Aug 2025 Morning Walk

August 5, 2025 by saymber, posted in Bipolar life, Nature, photography, Spirituality and Religion, Veteran Affairs, Writing and blogging

Hello to you. This morning on my walk I decided to take a couple pictures:

Most of the roses in the neighborhood are done blooming

The world is a different place when you walk. If you were to drive through my neighborhood, you would probably miss the things I notice when I’m walking. God is so creative! Most of my neighbors take really good care of their yards and I notice! I hope by my sharing this with you that you are inspired to look at your own neighborhoods with new eyes.

Psalm 24:1New International Version

Psalm 24

Of David. A psalm.

¹The earth is the Lord’s, and everything in it,
the world, and all who live in it;

4 Aug 2025 Joy

August 5, 2025 by saymber, posted in Bipolar life, Health, Home, Mental Health, photography, Spirituality and Religion, Veteran Affairs, Writing and blogging

Describe one habit that brings you joy.

Hello to you. I hope this finds you well. Today’s prompt isn’t easy for me to answer. It should be after all Joy is literally my middle name! There isn’t one habit that springs to mind that brings me genuine joy. Ever since the divorce and changing from Lithium to Depakote feeling genuine emotion has been hard for me. Sometimes it feels like I am an actress playing a part of a human being. Prior to what happened to me about three years ago, I was a very emotional person. Tears and belly laughs came to me easily and that’s just not the case anymore. I have become a very serious person in my old age. I miss the silly and youthful woman I used to be!

The things that use to bring me joy and fulfillment aren’t a part of my life now. I use to crochet, make wire jewelry, experiment in my kitchen, draw, write poems and short stories, take lots of pictures, spend time with nature, sing and dance. The only things I still do is this blog and from time to time is take nature pictures! I guess I just haven’t found a way to completely fill the void getting divorced left in me. Loving Jesus is gradually healing me but it’s taking time! He is the great physician and I know in his time he will restore me to my best self again.

Picture from a walk with my cousin Laura a couple years ago

James 4:8-10New International Version

⁸Come near to God and he will come near to you.Wash your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts,you double-minded. ⁹Grieve, mourn and wail. Change your laughter to mourning and your joy to gloom.¹⁰Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up.