tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-351935022012-02-01T22:19:16.067-08:00The official Blog of Oregon Author Bonnie LeonBonnie Leonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05739210745162252731noreply@blogger.comBlogger3261100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35193502.post-90265403290449645092012-01-27T11:59:00.000-08:002012-01-27T12:14:40.208-08:00

My heart is full. I spent several hours continuing my interviews with Bonnie Preschern, a native woman who grew up in Alaska. I am working on her memoir, an amazing story of survival and redemption. She lived a life few have ever known. She has every reason to be bitter . . . but she's not. She is a light that casts a glow of forgiveness and wonder on the greatness of God. I don't want to give

Bonnie Leonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05739210745162252731noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35193502.post-76540882011435421232012-01-19T22:28:00.001-08:002012-01-19T22:48:18.129-08:00

The first week of October, my eighty-seven-year-old mother underwent open heart surgery to replace a bad valve, correct an irregular heart rhythm and to perform a single bi-pass. She experienced horrific pain and a grueling recovery. Even so, in the days following the surgery all signs were good . . . and then her pain increased and she started going downhill in every way. Staph had invaded the

Bonnie Leonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05739210745162252731noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35193502.post-14233709690721501872012-01-19T20:47:00.000-08:002012-01-19T20:51:53.140-08:00

Anna has informed me that she already has a copy of Judy's book and has asked me to draw a new winner. And . . . the winner is . . . JoAnn Brown!JoAnn, can you contact me through the website by hitting the contact button? Make sure to include your mailing address so I can get it to Judy.Congratulations and bless you.Bonnie

Bonnie Leonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05739210745162252731noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35193502.post-47609498794060672602012-01-16T11:30:00.000-08:002012-01-16T11:35:14.875-08:00

Anna Popescu, you have won a copy of Judy Gann's book, The God of all Comfort! Congratulations!Please hit the contact button on my website and leave your mailing address. I'll make sure to get it to Judy.And thank you, Judy for being my guest this month and sharing your words of wisdom with us.Grace and peace to you from God,Bonnie

Bonnie Leonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05739210745162252731noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35193502.post-28414802583045537292012-01-09T14:55:00.001-08:002012-01-11T20:38:18.682-08:00

Judy, I’ve known you for a good number of years. And I’ve watched as your sweet spirit reaches out to those around you. You are definitely a person making a difference. I’m privileged to call you my friend. I’d love it if my readers could become better acquainted with you. Can you share a little about your background, and can you tell us who Judy Gann is?Thank you for the warm welcome, Bonnie. I

Bonnie Leonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05739210745162252731noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35193502.post-66298932566398583062011-12-30T11:12:00.000-08:002011-12-31T21:56:40.487-08:00

In two hours it will be a new year--a time of new beginnings. We might even want to call it a do-over, if we're not happy with the last year. After the ball drops in Times Square I usually spend time thinking on the good and the bad of the year I've just traveled through, and I contemplate on the year to come. The big question for me this year is, "Where does God want to take me?" And, "Am I

Bonnie Leonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05739210745162252731noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35193502.post-39842254401224483532011-12-28T12:25:00.000-08:002011-12-28T22:07:00.055-08:00

Last evening I attended a 50th wedding anniversary party for some dear friends. There were stories, photographs, songs, prayers and reminders of what it took to reach a fifty year anniversary. This couple was committed. They resolved to remain together. They resolved to be faithful. They resolved to do their best to help the other be their best. And most importantly, they resolved to make Christ

Bonnie Leonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05739210745162252731noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35193502.post-72848915307361798842011-12-24T14:53:00.000-08:002011-12-24T15:07:56.005-08:00

It is Christmas Eve. Every year I take time on this holy night to reflect, remember why there is Christmas. In the midst of the excitement of Christmas preparations and my new book news it's easy to lose sight of what this day is all about. Emmanuel has come. God is with us! HE IS WITH US! How do we get our minds and hearts around this unbelievable gift?What kind of love gives everything? God

Bonnie Leonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05739210745162252731noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35193502.post-84420390170544943332011-12-24T08:35:00.000-08:002011-12-24T08:41:50.603-08:00

I intend to write a Christmas note tomorrow evening, but today I cant' wait to give you the news. The first book in my Sydney Cove Series, TO LOVE ANEW is NOW FREE on Kindle, Nook and other places. There's still time to download it for Christmas! And if Santa leaves something special just for reading under your tree I'd be thrilled to introduce early Australia and John and Hannah to you on your

Bonnie Leonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05739210745162252731noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35193502.post-38918166184166274292011-12-20T00:07:00.000-08:002011-12-21T00:41:05.669-08:00

Recently while visiting a friend she shared a wonderful piece of cowboy poetry with me. I want to share it with you. By the way, she wrote it.The old man rose from the table, Said, "Thar's somethin' I gotta do."T'weren't no question 'bout what it was.The family, they all knew.His wife's fine feast sat before him.And she'd outdone herself, o'course.Sure, his mind was on his belly,But his heart was

Bonnie Leonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05739210745162252731noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35193502.post-49313460162659333952011-12-15T09:28:00.000-08:002011-12-15T22:46:57.721-08:00

When I was young I never imagined that as I aged that I'd be tempted to skip out on special events. After all, they made life richer. What I didn't understand then, but do now is that for some of us going out can be a challenging process of--taking it easy during the day so that we have the energy we need and the physical ability to attend a party, picnic, concert or whatever. Once you arrive at

Bonnie Leonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05739210745162252731noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35193502.post-84537246919659838422011-12-12T10:20:00.000-08:002011-12-12T11:23:02.776-08:00

How is the Christmas season for you this year? Is your head full of Christmas carols, gift lists, things to do? Are you singing while you drive along the highway or spending lots of time in the kitchen baking Christmas goodies? Or are you saying "Tis the season . . . NOOOT?"For some, this isn't a happy time. In fact, expectations often drag us down. Family time isn't what we'd expected. There's

Bonnie Leonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05739210745162252731noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35193502.post-28686980498700562012011-12-05T12:32:00.001-08:002011-12-07T13:53:20.439-08:00

This months very special person is Mistie Shaw. It is a pleasure to introduce her to you. Everywhere she goes, she touches lives just because she is who she is. She can't help but make a difference.Mistie, we’ve known each other for less than a year. There’s much I don’t know about you, but I do know that you make a difference in peoples’ lives wherever you go. Could you share a little about

Bonnie Leonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05739210745162252731noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35193502.post-42205512074005391182011-11-28T11:10:00.000-08:002011-11-28T11:49:18.420-08:00

This morning, feeling heavy-hearted, I picked up my devotional and my Bible. I prayed the Lord would meet with me. And of course there he was, waiting. He knows my thoughts before I speak a word of them. He knows every sorrow, every worry and all my joys. He's amazing Father God whose love never fails.I read and prayed and then rested in His gentle, capable hands. And then I went to a section of

Bonnie Leonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05739210745162252731noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35193502.post-14909711341520908162011-11-23T00:14:00.000-08:002011-11-23T20:16:36.445-08:00

While going through some of the photos recently taken while on a trip to Seattle I came across one I took while stuck in a traffic jam. It reminded me of my life.We'd been zipping along on the freeway when all of a sudden we were forced to a stop, surrounded by cars on every side. The freeway had functioned perfectly until it reached a certain threshold of numbers -- too many cars had created a

Bonnie Leonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05739210745162252731noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35193502.post-53986910007038865242011-11-22T00:47:00.001-08:002011-11-22T01:40:51.971-08:00

My daughter Sarah and I just returned home from one of several trips to Washington. My eighty-six-year-old mother had open heart surgery six weeks ago. It wasn't what we expected. Random ThoughtsMom should be home -- Instead she's still sick, but she hasn't lost her smile.I think staph infections are evil.A Wound Vac is brutal but can save lives. I hope it saves my mother's.Thank you God for

Bonnie Leonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05739210745162252731noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35193502.post-55516796093427268212011-11-16T10:39:00.000-08:002011-11-16T21:54:00.715-08:00

Bookstores are dying off--a bitter pill for readers, bookstore owners and writers to swallow. Why aren't we gathering together in protest, carrying our signs and demanding that someone save our our beloved stores?Okay . . . protests may be a bit much, but we aren't helpless. We don't have to allow the stores to fail and drop by the wayside. We do have power. It's time to stand up to the bookstore

Bonnie Leonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05739210745162252731noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35193502.post-33856947824739956462011-11-08T11:21:00.000-08:002011-11-08T21:53:42.578-08:00

Heaven waits for us. God's Word tells us that His children will spend eternity with Him there. And God doesn't lie. These days I cling to this promise more and more. My mother had open heart surgery four weeks ago. At age eighty-six we were uncertain that she'd survive the surgery, but she did. We were grateful, but the weeks that have followed have been harrowing and full of physical suffering.I

Bonnie Leonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05739210745162252731noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35193502.post-78697436962016697952011-11-04T23:09:00.003-07:002011-11-05T09:14:57.609-07:00

I’m thrilled to introduce a new feature to my blog – MAKING A DIFFERENCE. The first week of each month I will introduce you to someone who is making a difference in their part of the world. We’ve all crossed paths with someone who has altered our lives for the better. I'd like to share some of these special people with you and give you an opportunity to meet someone new and I hope take time to

Bonnie Leonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05739210745162252731noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35193502.post-76328204052985385702011-11-02T10:54:00.000-07:002011-11-02T19:51:23.001-07:00

My granddaughter Olivia and grandson Ezra both had surgery three days prior to Halloween. Ezra had repair work done on both of his ear drums and Olivia had her tonsils removed. Halloween arrived and both of them were feeling miserable. Ezra had started to rally a bit and was excited about the evening's fun. Olivia had been running a fever for two days and that afternoon it was steadily holding at

Bonnie Leonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05739210745162252731noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35193502.post-63630328203849096812011-10-24T10:58:00.000-07:002011-10-26T00:13:56.724-07:00

This week, while working on a Bible Study I was reminded of an inspiring incident that took place years ago while at a retreat. There were four speakers scheduled that weekend, with the last speaking on Sunday morning. We had a great three days filled with fun, words of wisdom, tears and laughter. We had a front row seat at God's production. I love retreats not just because it's an opportunity to

Bonnie Leonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05739210745162252731noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35193502.post-16365449619798655282011-10-22T14:07:00.001-07:002011-10-24T10:49:41.492-07:00

This is my last evening in Bend. I've spent a weekend with my future daughter-in-law's (Brandi) friends and family. Her friends wanted to do something special for her upcoming wedding to my son (only eleven days away) and so they arranged a time for Brandi and friends to lounge and pamper themselves at a local spa. Last night Brandi prepared a delicious meal for my husband and I, our son Paul,

Bonnie Leonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05739210745162252731noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35193502.post-80652418653389919662011-10-15T20:30:00.000-07:002011-10-15T22:29:04.541-07:00

Mom made it through surgery and though the days following were rough she's getting better and better. Today she was released from the hospital and will spend several weeks in a rehab center. I'm thankful.The strange thing is that when I should be smiling and doing a jig, I'm feeling down in the dumps. I chatted with my sister today and we talked about how I'm feeling. She knows quite a bit about

Bonnie Leonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05739210745162252731noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35193502.post-84993863695165200932011-10-12T23:07:00.000-07:002011-10-14T18:04:31.686-07:00

I don't know anyone who likes to suffer. I certainly don't. But because God created us and because from time to time pain and suffering is part of our life I figure there's a purpose for it. In fact, I can come up with a long list of reasons fairly quickly. However, several days ago while sitting with my mother after she'd had open heart surgery I couldn't think of one. All I wanted was to

Bonnie Leonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05739210745162252731noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35193502.post-58059401079986919592011-10-09T21:22:00.000-07:002011-10-09T23:29:22.487-07:00

I want to introduce you to my mother--an incredible woman. Though she often felt as if she lacked faith she has lived a life full of faith. During my growing up years, she was the neighborhood savior--always willing and able to help in a crisis--she was steady when it counted. And to this day, I don't think I've ever met anyone who has a more grateful heart. Though she's had her share of tragedy

Bonnie Leonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05739210745162252731noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35193502.post-52493797851314791122011-10-05T21:47:00.000-07:002011-10-06T15:51:57.668-07:00

Sarah said it's a no-go. She's not going to run. There have been several "No's" recently--Sarah, Chris Christie, Marco Rubio and others. Palin and Christie both sighted family as part of their reason for not running. Is there something that's keeping good people out of the race? Could it be intolerance, unfair practices by the press and a toxic public atmosphere? Could it be ambushes, assaults

Bonnie Leonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05739210745162252731noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35193502.post-91925753614127798692011-10-01T13:05:00.000-07:002011-10-03T13:02:53.538-07:00

I love the movie, You've Got Mail. One scene in particular stands out for me at this time in my life. Meg Ryan is speaking to Tom Hanks (who plays her nemesis) online. She tells him she's losing her business. His response--"Go to the mattresses", which is a term from the movie the God Father that means go to war. Meg cutely punches the air and says, "Fight. Fight. Fight".She goes to war, fighting

Bonnie Leonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05739210745162252731noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35193502.post-15122684761410258082011-09-28T21:50:00.000-07:002011-09-29T21:52:53.462-07:00

Do you like to dance? I do. I remember my very first dance. My mother had sewn me a pretty new dress and I'd taken extra time with my hair and make up. I was only thirteen and remember that my nerves were tightly strung. I didn't know what to expect, but I remember being afraid no one would dance with me--back in those days girls waited for the boys to ask.When the music started the kids hung

Bonnie Leonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05739210745162252731noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35193502.post-67888002697744298242011-09-23T22:04:00.000-07:002011-09-25T17:06:31.770-07:00

What do you see from your front porch?I watched a movie tonight in which a man spent hours sitting on his front porch. He watched the world outside his home, observing the people but not really seeing them. He couldn't look beyond his own pain and prejudices. However, as the story progresses, against his better judgment he begins to connect with his neighbors. Strangers become friends. And by the

Bonnie Leonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05739210745162252731noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35193502.post-45943234127641747902011-09-19T12:02:00.000-07:002011-09-19T22:08:17.208-07:00

This morning while reading my Bible I came across several verses about wisdom. Wisdom should be part of every Christians box of gifts that we receive when we believe. It's a thing of beauty to be treasured. Sadly, there are some who do not open the gift. The world views wisdom differently than God does. It believes that wisdom comes from knowledge and is possessed by scholars or by those who have

Bonnie Leonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05739210745162252731noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35193502.post-3247345568993224642011-09-14T19:28:00.000-07:002011-09-14T19:31:25.850-07:00

Now, this is the kind of review I like! Just had to share. : - )It was a long wait, but Bonnie Leon is back with the second book in the Alaskan Skies series, Wings of Promise. I'm more in love with her writing after this volume than ever before. If you're looking for a book with love, loss, forgiveness, reunions and more then this is for you. We meet up again with female Alaskan bush pilot Kate

Bonnie Leonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05739210745162252731noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35193502.post-22077043080862342502011-09-07T11:36:00.000-07:002011-09-07T12:00:21.169-07:00

It has been six years today that my beautiful niece Crystal was snatched from us. She died in an auto accident. The last time I saw her I didn't know it would be our final conversation, our final smiles exchanged, our final hug. There was no sign pasted across her forehead telling me, "Make the most of this moment. It is your last."Isaiah 40:6-8 says, "People are like the grass. Their beauty

Bonnie Leonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05739210745162252731noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35193502.post-84301214638008754542011-09-05T11:01:00.000-07:002011-09-05T11:38:15.483-07:00

I woke up this morning with my back screaming at me. "Why? This is not fair! What did I do?" No answer. I'm frustrated and angry. I did my exercises anyway . . . barely. It's not easy to do them when my back is yapping. When I finished, my attitude still stunk. I needed God. Before settling into work mode I sat down with one of my favorite devotionals, "My Utmost for His Highest." Oswald Chambers

Bonnie Leonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05739210745162252731noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35193502.post-30252533488911739012011-09-02T13:35:00.000-07:002011-09-05T11:01:21.173-07:00

Labor Day is always on the first Monday in September. Greg and I usually take the day off and spend time with family or friends. We rarely travel because of the stampede to the campgrounds and resorts. We save our vacations for quieter seasons. Labor Day was created by the labor movement to set apart a time to honor the social and economic achievements of American workers. I like that. The people

Bonnie Leonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05739210745162252731noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35193502.post-28425991586727119022011-08-28T19:14:00.000-07:002011-08-29T23:01:09.126-07:00

Nature reminds us of our Creator. Sometimes it's something spectacular like the Grand Canyon or Niagara Falls, but often He reveals Himself to us in the simple things of life--like an egg or a worm. God's creation is everywhere, but we often miss The Creator in what we see as something insignificant. Children give us sight because they see Him. In their eyes the world is new and interesting.

Bonnie Leonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05739210745162252731noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35193502.post-31230514344597755532011-08-23T13:22:00.000-07:002011-08-23T22:02:10.908-07:00

I've had many memorable days with my sister, Myrn. She and her husband, who live in Alaska, have been here on vacation. I cherish time with my sister. She lives in a remote area of Alaska and we don't see one another often. While she was here, the weather was spectacular. We had lots of good chats, we ate too much, reminisced, laughed and cried. I'm feeling a bit sad today because she's on her

Bonnie Leonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05739210745162252731noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35193502.post-10081400897735353652011-08-13T22:35:00.000-07:002011-08-25T14:58:11.866-07:00

Today, my husband and I celebrate forty years of marriage. Often people are surprised to hear we've been married so long. In today's world long marriages seem to be the exception rather than the rule. I think that's sad. So, how did Greg and I make it this far? It wasn't us. It was God. Without Him we wouldn't be together. Thirty-six years ago, we separated and Greg filed for divorce. He

Bonnie Leonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05739210745162252731noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35193502.post-32798251114487642672011-08-10T16:32:00.001-07:002011-08-11T00:33:52.541-07:00

Truth is powerful. It is triumphant. It offers freedom and comfort. It will set us free. Why then do we listen to lies? Satan whispers--You're no good, You'll never amount to anything. You can't overcome. Your faith is too weak. You're a fool. It's not that bad, everyone else is doing it. God's not real. The Bible is just a book. What lie are you listening to? I'm still learning to discern

Bonnie Leonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05739210745162252731noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35193502.post-30831934575301011992011-08-02T22:48:00.000-07:002011-08-03T00:06:01.798-07:00

We are rejoicing! Today, our new grandson, Kadin Matthew Ketcham was born. From the beginning of time, God knew about this momentous event. We only learned about it a few months ago. We've waited and prayed and anticipated his arrival. Today was the day.When I held little Kadin in my arms I was overcome with emotion and couldn't hold back tears of joy and thankfulness. He is an answer to prayer.

Bonnie Leonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05739210745162252731noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35193502.post-88078920196537207322011-07-26T11:16:00.000-07:002011-07-26T15:48:10.659-07:00

This week I'm a guest on K Dawn Byrd's blog at www.kdawnbyrd.blogspot.com. She asked me if I would share three things people didn't know about me. One of the three that I mentioned is a speech impediment I had when I was a child. A speech impediment doesn't sound like a big deal, but it was for me. The response from others left deep wounds. I'd try so hard to make people understand what I was

Bonnie Leonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05739210745162252731noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35193502.post-84347069290948671412011-07-22T14:43:00.000-07:002011-07-23T17:46:05.449-07:00

Our small town is losing its Borders bookstore and its Christian bookstore, both in the same month. They are the only two in our community. Our town's not the only one who is losing its stores. For months, brick and mortar bookstores have been closing across our nation. One by one, we've watched them fall, overtaken by huge online corporations, electronic books and a sick economy. How far will it

Bonnie Leonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05739210745162252731noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35193502.post-3147028321948702642011-07-18T21:25:00.000-07:002011-07-18T22:22:12.900-07:00

Recently in a devotional I read, the author talked about whispering God's name. I remembered a time, as a young woman, when I was in the midst of darkness and all I could do was say His name. I knew very little about Jesus, but He carried me through days of fear and heartache. I didn't know Him as Savior, but I knew His name was powerful and healing.I was going through one of the toughest times

Bonnie Leonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05739210745162252731noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35193502.post-15811903658142096662011-07-11T14:59:00.000-07:002011-07-11T23:11:12.823-07:00

I love my grandchildren. God has blessed me by planting them close. We get to spend a lot of time together and I'm convinced they're exceptionally lovable. They teach me things about life that I might not see if not for them. I learn from their goodness and their naughtiness.Recently, I've been thinking on the behavior of two of my grandsons. They're usually buddies who support one another and

Bonnie Leonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05739210745162252731noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35193502.post-17680689722319547732011-07-05T10:35:00.000-07:002011-07-06T16:12:23.012-07:00

The verdict is in. People are in shock. Casey Anthony innocent?For nearly three years, we've heard what a monster Casey Anthony is. And maybe it's true. I don't know her heart, only God does. In recent weeks, during the trial, the news media pounced. They crucified Casey Anthony, reminding me of sharks in bloodied water. The United States has a judicial system that was created to avoid things

Bonnie Leonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05739210745162252731noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35193502.post-51556225121571215192011-06-30T00:04:00.001-07:002011-06-30T11:40:31.154-07:00

Have you ever been lost? I mean physically lost, like in the woods or while you've been wandering around a new city? Without a guide or a map, how did you know which way to turn? There is no way to know--we guess. And guessing sometimes gets us more lost than ever and sometimes into deep trouble.Every day we make choices, thinking we know the way except we don't. Decisions are part of life. Some

Bonnie Leonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05739210745162252731noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35193502.post-38562209079308128752011-06-30T00:04:00.000-07:002011-06-30T00:05:20.522-07:00

Bonnie Leonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05739210745162252731noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35193502.post-55611521612130819512011-06-27T22:59:00.000-07:002011-06-27T23:39:34.181-07:00

I received my first review for my upcoming book, Wings of Promise. As much as I'd like to say I don't care about reviews, I do. Romantic Times gave me 4 1/2 stars for my last two books. They don't give five stars, so those are excellent reviews. Four stars is also very good, which is what Wings of Promise received. I should be thrilled. Instead I'm having a bit of difficulty getting excited over

Bonnie Leonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05739210745162252731noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35193502.post-47842968301145741892011-06-17T23:49:00.001-07:002011-06-20T12:20:34.143-07:00

I love a good movie, especially when it's based on a true story. And so a few nights ago when my husband and I settled down to watch the movie Secretariat I was looking forward to a good time. However, God never wastes anything and He had more than just fun in store for me. From the moment Penny Chenery inherited the family stables she had a fight on her hands. It was her grit, belief in her

Bonnie Leonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05739210745162252731noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35193502.post-90131169810279058702011-06-06T00:05:00.000-07:002011-06-08T12:25:57.749-07:00

Who do you love--your spouse, children, parents, grandchildren, best friend? As the saying goes, "Isn't love grand?" We can probably come up with a list of those we love. How about one for the people who love us? Many are alone and lonely. Cast off souls have always been part of this world, but in our present generation there are so many more. We're too busy, too self absorbed. We may be building

Bonnie Leonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05739210745162252731noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35193502.post-45253733619357205982011-05-25T12:01:00.000-07:002011-05-25T13:24:51.857-07:00

Sometimes I hate being human. I react too quickly and open my mouth when I should keep it closed, particularly when I'm offended or hurt for someone else. The Holy Spirit quickly convicts me, reminding me who I am. I am a child of God. And all that I do and say I do as a representative of Him. When I'm at my worst I dishonor Him. This morning I did just that. And I know of no way to retrieve my

Bonnie Leonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05739210745162252731noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35193502.post-68397772100378873982011-05-23T13:44:00.000-07:002011-05-24T09:09:32.279-07:00

It's been all over the news -- Judgment is coming. It's true. But it didn't come last Saturday. Only God knows the time and day. Even Christ said He didn't know. It's foolish for man to believe he can figure it out. My heart aches for those who believed and prepared, some giving up everything. And then they waited and there was no return. It really was just another Saturday. What was I doing last

Bonnie Leonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05739210745162252731noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35193502.post-78383275407730265672011-05-16T10:50:00.000-07:002011-05-16T23:16:46.810-07:00

We've all heard the question, "What would happen if there was a war and no one came?" That would likely be a good thing, but I got to thinking about the concept, only in the context of church. What if the doors of the churches were open and no one came? If statistics are accurate that's where we're heading. Attendance is down, the 20 and 30 something's are staying home. There's a spiritual war

Bonnie Leonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05739210745162252731noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35193502.post-64129504075182126452011-05-11T08:50:00.000-07:002011-05-13T13:27:24.803-07:00

How many of you like the word SUBMIT? Come on, be honest. I admit right here in front of God and everyone -- I don't like it. I understand its importance. And even when I'm living a submissive life, rebellion niggles at me.Why? I'm always asking why. When I was a child, I'm sure I drove my parents mad with all of my "why" questions. God is good and He understands my need to know why. I can count

Bonnie Leonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05739210745162252731noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35193502.post-48460110652057018892011-05-07T11:19:00.000-07:002011-05-07T23:27:12.938-07:00

In today's economy, finding work is on the minds of many Americans. Living without a job is something far too many American are well acquainted with. Most are willing to take whatever they can get--they just need a job. Our area has been hit hard. In fact,not long ago while reading the classifieds in our local paper I was stunned to see only one job opening listed--one. Unbelievable! Yesterday,

Bonnie Leonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05739210745162252731noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35193502.post-70369501957906289002011-05-04T09:41:00.000-07:002011-05-04T21:46:56.678-07:00

Last weekend I attended a church retreat. I love retreats! They are good places to connect with old friends and to make new ones. There is time for rest and for fun, and it seems God always has something new to teach me. This retreat was extra special because it was my first trip away from home since I hurt my back in August. I left home with some trepidation, but all turned out well. Praise God!

Bonnie Leonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05739210745162252731noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35193502.post-22299544563844602762011-04-27T09:30:00.000-07:002011-04-27T21:40:16.189-07:00

God is persistent. I love that about Him. Whenever He's trying to make a point or get me to see something important I'll hear His truth from all sorts of sources and usually in a short period of time, which helps to make the point. This morning when I opened my devotional, these were the words meant for me today. "Your life path has been difficult, draining you of strength. Come to Me for nurture

Bonnie Leonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05739210745162252731noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35193502.post-53446224464670833622011-04-21T23:19:00.000-07:002011-04-22T17:35:40.693-07:00

Today is Good Friday, the day Jesus Christ was nailed to a cross and died. A momentous day in world history. A day when the Son of God allowed Himself to be nailed to a cross and where He willingly hung there until He died . . . for us. His sacrifice offered mankind entrance into heaven. And yet, the headlines don't mention Jesus Christ or the greatest gift ever offered.On google trends there is

Bonnie Leonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05739210745162252731noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35193502.post-58077357289755176632011-04-16T12:16:00.001-07:002011-04-18T12:20:42.867-07:00

Sometimes I'm lonely. And I wonder what God was thinking when He set me atop a mountain in front of a computer. Recently, from many quarters, I've been hearing about lonely people who can find no way out of their isolation. Sadly, this is common in our present society, which seems to have given up on personal relationships. We have too many tasks to do to be bothered with others.I always counted

Bonnie Leonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05739210745162252731noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35193502.post-49416722370907313312011-04-15T11:06:00.000-07:002011-04-15T23:37:37.720-07:00

These past months, or more accurately years, we've watched our leaders step into office with high ideals and hopes of making the country they love better and then over time, many lose sight of who they had intended to be. They discover if you want to get something done in Washington you have to learn to play the "game", you have to compromise your principles, make deals and sometimes even break

Bonnie Leonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05739210745162252731noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35193502.post-10187036591870771492011-04-11T09:22:00.000-07:002011-04-11T23:11:14.213-07:00

Last week a group of six deer decided to spend the day grazing in an open field behind our house. We had a downpour all day, yet the deer persisted in staying out in the open, grazing, investigating and sleeping . . . in the rain. I thought it made more sense to find shelter and I wondered what the deer knew that I didn't.And then I remembered what nature felt like when I was a little girl. I

Bonnie Leonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05739210745162252731noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35193502.post-25665646668727095712011-04-04T09:50:00.000-07:002011-04-05T00:14:36.000-07:00

I have a prayer book. It's just a tablet that I've divided into days of the week. I pray for certain needs on different days and I have a section for special needs that a pray for everyday. In the back of my booklet I have answered prayers listed. They are a wonderful reminder when I'm feeling discouraged and wondering what's up or where's God? Today is Monday and as I usually do I started down

Bonnie Leonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05739210745162252731noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35193502.post-51754003603414333762011-04-01T10:31:00.000-07:002011-04-01T21:36:46.563-07:00

Today is April 1st. It's always been a special day in my family. It's my youngest sister's birthday. Sadly we lost her to lupus many years ago, but the day of her birth never arrives that I don't think of her. Mom always said that Leslie played a practical joke on her by arriving three weeks early and on April Fools Day. As youngsters we always had fun trying to fool one another. We'd do our best

Bonnie Leonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05739210745162252731noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35193502.post-82721126966836714692011-03-28T08:57:00.000-07:002011-03-28T21:39:30.023-07:00

We're all familiar with the statement, "Just do it." But have you asked yourself, what IT is?In my reading this morning from My Utmost For His Highest Oswald Chamber's last statement is "Whatever He says to you, do it." The reference he uses is taken from John 2:5. "But his mother told the servants, "Do whatever he tells you." As the story goes, Jesus was at a wedding in Cana and the hosts had

Bonnie Leonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05739210745162252731noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35193502.post-72668586625804287602011-03-23T11:08:00.000-07:002011-03-23T21:34:29.601-07:00

Elizabeth Taylor died today. She wasn't a personal friend of mine, but I feel as if I knew her. She made more than fifty movies, her photo could often be seen in the tabloids and the stories of her turbulent life were snatched up by the press.I remember my first introduction to Elizabeth Taylor. It was in the movie National Velvet. I loved that movie and still do. She entertained hundreds of

Bonnie Leonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05739210745162252731noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35193502.post-12253149343494360272011-03-14T13:50:00.001-07:002011-03-21T11:37:53.021-07:00

Like most of you, I've watched the terrifying images of the earthquake and tsunami in Japan. My heart breaks for the people who have lost loved ones and who are now suffering. The numbers of dead are staggering.My grandmother, who lived in Unalaska as a young woman, witnessed a tsunami that swept into the shores on the Aleutian Chain of Alaska. Her encounter was what inspired my first book, The

Bonnie Leonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05739210745162252731noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35193502.post-71992212968326071712011-03-13T11:17:00.000-07:002011-03-14T21:05:54.423-07:00

Perspective is everything.Four days ago I adopted a twelve pound little girl, half dachshund and half chihuahua. She's sweet and funny and full of energy. Sadly, she brought home a tummy bug from the dog shelter. So today we made a trip to the veterinarian's office. While on our way, Gracie whined, gave me the worried dog look, shivered and panted. Although she was on the seat right beside me and

Bonnie Leonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05739210745162252731noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35193502.post-32086955383749605922011-03-09T10:20:00.001-08:002011-03-09T22:50:56.345-08:00

I've been loosely following the coverage of Vivian Schiller's resignation from NPR. She is the latest to fall victim to political correctness. Last year it was Juan Williams, a man I much admire, but often disagree with. He had the audacity to speak honestly during an interview about the discomfort he felt when sharing space on an airliner with Muslims. That was too much for NPR and he was

Bonnie Leonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05739210745162252731noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35193502.post-63245870331342008412011-03-07T08:28:00.000-08:002011-03-07T23:42:20.183-08:00

Last week I wrote about following God and then yesterday at church our pastor touched on the reason why we follow. I've been thinking on it. "Why do I follow the Lord?" Take a moment to pray and then ask yourself, "Why?" Contemplate and wait for the answer.In the book of Mark Jesus made an interesting statement to evil spirits that fell down before him. He gave them strict orders not to tell

Bonnie Leonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05739210745162252731noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35193502.post-45819865378810870702011-03-01T07:46:00.000-08:002011-03-02T12:33:20.948-08:00

What do we do when we hear the Lord's voice say, "Follow me," and we don't know where that is? Or when we're afraid to step out into the world with all of its uncertainties. And again He says, "Follow me."We need to take time to rest in Him, to soak in God's love and wisdom. But Jesus said to the paralytic, "Take up your mat and walk." And to the blind man, He said, "Go." Lingering with our Lord

Bonnie Leonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05739210745162252731noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35193502.post-68389850661662702642011-02-27T21:12:00.000-08:002011-02-27T22:18:24.964-08:00

Worst Oscars ever? Already the vultures are out, putting their stamp of disapproval on this yearly star-studded event. There have been times when I've joined those who seem to take pleasure in degrading the successful. Shame on me.I love movies. They take me places I'll never go, they make me cry or make me laugh when I feel like crying. Some inspire me or leave me speechless and thoughtful. And

Bonnie Leonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05739210745162252731noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35193502.post-70580286708850349462011-02-23T10:49:00.001-08:002011-02-24T14:18:25.955-08:00

Have you read the headlines? Jennifer Aniston has a new haircut, Sarah Ferguson was left off the guest list for the royal wedding and Lindsay Lohan's back in court. In light of what's going on around the globe I'd consider this news trivial. Why are they noteworthy? Did you read about the mother trapped amidst the rubble in Christchurch who left a touching message for her son, saying "I don't

Bonnie Leonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05739210745162252731noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35193502.post-74282711954475187422011-02-20T19:30:00.000-08:002011-02-20T21:51:09.792-08:00

This week I've been reminded of what it's like to ride a see-saw. When I was a child, the up and down ride used to be fun. This week was filled with highs and lows but I wouldn't describe it as fun. There were moments of triumph and hope as well as times when defeat seemed at hand. I'm not particularly proud of the way I faced the sorrows. It's easy to cheer when we stand on a mountain top, but

Bonnie Leonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05739210745162252731noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35193502.post-17157392807307883792011-02-18T23:24:00.000-08:002011-02-19T00:58:03.744-08:00

The clock just ticked past 12:00 PM and so it is technically the day after my birth--February 18th. I know that fifty-nine years ago on February 18, my mother saw me for the first time and cradled me in her arms while my father looked on. They fell in love and my life began. But I was already known. God knew me. Scripture says, "For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother's

Bonnie Leonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05739210745162252731noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35193502.post-56357882937073370572011-02-15T09:06:00.000-08:002011-02-15T21:07:55.361-08:00

Evidently dogs are becoming more significant in our lives. An example of this is the prestigious Westminster Dog Show, where the "best in show" will be decided this evening. Even the rich and famous have been spotted cheering on their favorites. Personally, I enjoy dog shows. It's always fun to have a look at what are considered the best in each breed. This year there's a newcomer, a Pekinese who

Bonnie Leonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05739210745162252731noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35193502.post-37435117144699670482011-02-14T09:33:00.000-08:002011-02-15T00:01:05.583-08:00

Do you ever feel like you've come to the end of your rope? Responsibilities gobble up time. Family and friends need more from you than you have to give, or you've been confronted by losses or conflicts. There's a long list of of circumstances that soak up our energy reserves. Sometimes it's just living. I've been in that place many times--drained and wondering how I'm going to pull myself

Bonnie Leonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05739210745162252731noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35193502.post-91174090552249588932011-02-09T09:21:00.000-08:002011-02-09T20:08:45.003-08:00

There are a lot of Americans who are not getting enough sleep. I'm one of them. As long as I can remember, I've been a night owl. As a child, I'd lie awake at night with the house silent and dark, longing for sleep and knowing 6:30 AM would arrive too soon.I read a news article today which stated that sleep deprivation is a global problem, and that those who are not getting enough zzz's are at a

Bonnie Leonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05739210745162252731noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35193502.post-82706296936966823042011-02-07T12:33:00.000-08:002011-02-07T13:35:12.280-08:00

A week ago, I attended the memorial service of a dear friend, Bob Rowe. He's always been a one of a kind person--a special man. He didn't always walk with the Lord, but when his eyes were opened to the truth of Jesus Christ he grabbed hold and quietly went about the Lord's business. My husband had the privilege of baptizing him mamy years ago when he was a new believer.During his memorial service

Bonnie Leonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05739210745162252731noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35193502.post-57048252928591114032011-02-04T09:50:00.000-08:002011-02-05T00:35:03.958-08:00

Did you know that this is "World Cancer Day?" I didn't until I saw it in the headlines. It's a good day to remember those who battle for life and those whom we've lost to the fight. Science has made great strides forward and I'm thankful to say that cancer no longer necessarily means we've run out of time.I've known people with cancer, presently know some with it and I'll know others in the

Bonnie Leonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05739210745162252731noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35193502.post-64586906804665995522011-02-02T13:26:00.001-08:002011-02-02T21:04:34.976-08:00

Is this the winter that wouldn't end? Blizzards have hit the Midwest again. I'm reminded of a book called the "Long Winter", which was part of the "Little House" series. An entire town nearly perished.Here in the Northwest, winter is usually about growing webbed feet and trying to stay alive while driving in dense fog. We get our cold snaps and a bit of snow now and then, but I'm grateful for our

Bonnie Leonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05739210745162252731noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35193502.post-59655256188041705172011-01-22T18:56:00.000-08:002011-01-29T18:21:34.576-08:00

There's a key to unlocking the door to contentment. It's right in front of us, but we often frantically look for it and can't find it. The reason is, we're looking in the wrong places.That's me. I do it all the time--even after all the years I've walked with the Lord--I take wrong turns and get myself lost. In the last couple of years, it feels like my life has been one storm after another, and

Bonnie Leonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05739210745162252731noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35193502.post-20820157691434803002011-01-20T01:38:00.000-08:002011-01-20T02:46:22.019-08:00

On days like today I'm reminded -- "If I speak in the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I am only a resounding gong or a clanging cymbal. If I have the gift of prophecy and can fathom all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have a faith that can move mountains, but have not love, I am nothing. If I give all I possess to the poor and surrender my body to the flames, but have not

Bonnie Leonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05739210745162252731noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35193502.post-59439091800140701172011-01-13T10:48:00.000-08:002011-01-15T00:50:37.398-08:00

I'm not a morning person, and this morning I awoke feeling as if I'd been dumped in a black hole. My mind traveled back to 1991 when my van was hit by a log truck. Life has never been the same, and this morning all I could see were the negatives in my life. On the day of the accident, however, that's not how I felt. That day, my daughter and I were joyfully overwhelmed by the power and presence

Bonnie Leonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05739210745162252731noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35193502.post-38325245184794232312011-01-10T00:38:00.000-08:002011-01-10T00:47:08.142-08:00

I didn't make a resolution this year, so to speak, but it has been on my heart to love like Jesus loved. I see so much cruelty in the world and it makes me want to cry. However, loving like Jesus loves is a tough (actually impossible) goal. He gave His life. I'm certain He doesn't expect me to be nailed to a cross, but I am to offer my life up to His use and I'm expected to be patient and kind,

Bonnie Leonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05739210745162252731noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35193502.post-80028422688485650322011-01-03T11:50:00.000-08:002011-01-03T23:13:44.463-08:00

This morning, I woke to an empty house. It was just me and my dog, Bentley. It was too quiet, too empty and I felt lonely. For nearly two weeks we've had a houseful of family. There were moms and dads, cousins, aunts and uncles, nieces and nephews and grandparents. They came from around the globe. We gathered to celebrate Christmas . . . together. We gabbed, laughed, cried, baked, played games,

Bonnie Leonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05739210745162252731noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35193502.post-90890736946384942762010-12-22T00:54:00.001-08:002010-12-23T09:00:37.830-08:00

A few days ago, a friend of mine said, "It's never as good as you expect." I asked her what she meant and she explained that things(holiday celebrations) weren't what she'd imagined and she couldn't help but be disappointed. We all have expectations about special celebrations or holidays. Christmas is the one we pin our highest hopes. When it's not as perfect as we'd imagined we're deflated and

Bonnie Leonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05739210745162252731noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35193502.post-46855015812652880262010-12-15T09:44:00.001-08:002010-12-15T22:47:48.441-08:00

A couple of weeks ago I watched my dog, Bentley, bury two of his bones. These were his treasures, and yet he buried them. I chuckled as I watched him use his stubby nose to carefully push the dirt into place, just so. Finally, satisfied that his treasures were safe, he trotted away. I thought, how silly. What good would his bones do him buried beneath the dirt? He could no longer chew on them or

Bonnie Leonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05739210745162252731noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35193502.post-85613044081802440542010-12-13T08:41:00.000-08:002010-12-13T09:16:14.824-08:00

Christmas is only twelve days away. The malls and stores are crowded with harried shoppers, who seem to have forgotten what the season is all about--Love, Joy, Peace--Christ.I was reading in 2nd Peter this morning in chapter one vs 19. and these words leaped out at me, The words of the prophets are like a lamp shining in a dark place. I thought about believers who are in the midst of the shopping

Bonnie Leonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05739210745162252731noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35193502.post-59215310515900628572010-12-07T10:14:00.000-08:002010-12-07T20:57:27.735-08:00

This morning I awoke feeling tired of the battle. I sought out God. I needed to feel His presence, His comfort. And I needed to listen to Him, not to me. A picture of trees in bloom fillled my mind, and I knew that spring is coming. And then I heard that quiet voice, I know so well, saying, "Hope in Me."When we despair or are filled with fear or temptation where do we go? Where do we place our

Bonnie Leonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05739210745162252731noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35193502.post-60998436801009570762010-12-03T10:59:00.001-08:002010-12-03T20:58:34.366-08:00

Suffer? I don't like that word or the experience. However, it is part of the real world we live in. Some of us rale at it or we ask why, again and again. Sometimes I gripe--loudly. What we need to do is see our sufferings as opportunities.1 Peter 4:1 says, "So then, since Christ suffered physical pain, you must arm yourselves with the same attitude he had, and be ready to suffer, too."How do you

Bonnie Leonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05739210745162252731noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35193502.post-2160895584165532412010-11-29T11:49:00.000-08:002010-11-29T22:16:30.115-08:00

Our lives are filled with delightful moments and events. Some of my favorites are tender kisses from my husband, fresh falling snow, time to gaze at a clear night sky glittering with stars and the thrill of a spring storm and a long list of other goodies. My favorite delight is time spent with loved ones.This morning, my daughter Kristina strolled over to my place and we had a long chat. We

Bonnie Leonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05739210745162252731noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35193502.post-154803537886290722010-11-23T09:18:00.001-08:002010-11-23T09:22:28.872-08:00

Take time. Remember who you are in Christ. Give thanks. Enjoy family and friends. And for those of you who dare to venture out -- Have fun on Black Friday.See you after the holiday!Grace and peace to you from God.Bonnie

Bonnie Leonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05739210745162252731noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35193502.post-62077554429697259802010-11-14T21:50:00.000-08:002010-11-15T20:54:26.166-08:00

I'm still overwhelmed by what happened today and don't really know where to begin. I pray that I can communicate the exquisite experience in a way that helps you to taste its essence along with me.I spent the afternoon at a "hat" party. I don't suppose that sounds spectacular at all, but this was a very special hat party. It was held for a dear friend of mine-- Deena. I'm several years older than

Bonnie Leonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05739210745162252731noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35193502.post-42474890238706309102010-11-12T11:02:00.000-08:002010-11-12T21:49:24.290-08:00

Temptation, frustration and discontent are part of being human. The television shouts at us, hoping to convince us we can't live without the latest gadget, or the stories streaming across the airwaves do their best to convince us that the troubles of life are easily and quickly resolved. We want perfection from ourselves or our friends and family. We want to be smarter or prettier or healthier.

Bonnie Leonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05739210745162252731noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35193502.post-87609423728852579232010-11-09T15:58:00.000-08:002010-11-09T22:14:27.770-08:00

We get ourselves into some of the worst situations. When we step into trouble, we don't usually intend to jump into a mess. Making wrong choices because of earthly desires can get us lodged between a rock and a hard place--the consequences of rebellion. Being stuck is usually painful, and getting out can be agonizing.I've been in such a place, more than once. I've purposely made choices I knew

Bonnie Leonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05739210745162252731noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35193502.post-21354226653045512152010-11-04T10:49:00.000-07:002010-11-04T21:35:22.312-07:00

This morning while reading 1 Peter 2:2-3 I was reminded of a time when I was a newborn babe. The scripture says, "Like newborn babies, you must crave pure spiritual milk so that you will grow into a full experience of salvation. Cry out for this nourishment, now that you have had a taste of the Lord's kindness.In those early days of my salvation, I craved more and more of the Lord. I wanted

Bonnie Leonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05739210745162252731noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35193502.post-15477956628116405342010-10-28T15:03:00.000-07:002010-10-28T15:31:40.163-07:00

Touching the Clouds, my most recent book, has received some very good reviews. I love good reviews, they make me smile. I received one that is especially meaningful, written by Sarah Varland. She loved the book, but I think the reason her review meant so much to me was because she's an Alaskan. As I read, I felt as if I'd been given a gift. I encourage everyone to accept gifts that come your way.

Bonnie Leonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05739210745162252731noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35193502.post-80004865710267114852010-10-24T14:32:00.001-07:002010-10-25T21:07:47.747-07:00

Last Saturday, I had such a great time watching my oldest grandson, Corey, play football. He's eleven and weighs in at seventy-two pounds--the littlest guy on the team. He plays center for offense and on defense he plays right tackle. It's hard to imagine, a boy his size taking the position of defensive lineman, but all seventy-two pounds of this boy are a lean, mean, fighting machine. I watched

Bonnie Leonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05739210745162252731noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35193502.post-11460860949393402092010-10-18T09:59:00.000-07:002010-10-19T09:51:17.959-07:00

Have you ever considered that you are a walking, talking Bible? That you may be the only Bible a person will ever read? If that's true, ask yourself this question -- "What will people learn from me?" Will they see Christ?I've heard people say, "I knew there was something special about so-and-so. And I wanted what they had. Their spirit or their love or their peace is what drew me to Christ."I

Bonnie Leonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05739210745162252731noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35193502.post-87762877597520895362010-10-12T11:35:00.000-07:002010-10-14T14:25:09.423-07:00

The past three months, I've felt as if I've been overtaken by affliction. For many years, physical difficulties have been part of my life. The difference this time is that my pain has been more intense, and I've been "benched", so to speak. I like my independence and to be honest, this stinks. But as I've moved through these difficult months a thought has resonated through my mind--Crisis always

Bonnie Leonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05739210745162252731noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35193502.post-49834914975038314462010-09-27T12:33:00.000-07:002010-09-27T22:08:03.685-07:00

I find it interesting that my last blog was about our being focused on The Shepeherd and to follow Him, trusting that He will never let us down. The day following that blog I became one of the lost sheep.On Thursday of last week my therapist added a couple of new exercises. They didn't seem too bad at the time, but the following morning my back told me otherwise. It screamed at me first thing and

Bonnie Leonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05739210745162252731noreply@blogger.com7