We live by three things, pretty much, in the South. God. Guns. And Rock and Roll.

Oh yes, there are lots of other staples and traditions that go along with being all things Southern. Plenty of things to talk or write about. But those three are in the top 40.

So each morning I wake, fix coffee and read two daily devotionals. Everyday.  I’m not tellin you this to brag, I’m tellin you this because it is the ONLY way I can make it through the day. And since my good friend from high school, Vicki, and my Momma, Mawdine, read one of the same ones, I get it reinforced all through the day through Facebook postings and email conversations. How nice. (Not said in the usual tacky way.)

Due to “circumstances way beyond our control”, the perfect little job I thought I had landed is now less than perfect.

Therefore; All that glitters, in the UAE, is not gold, Nadine.

So relax. Enough said…move on. I’m a Registered Nurse, right? I can work anywhere, right? Of course I can…but here again lies a HUGE challenge. And to think, I thought, this whole idea was gonna be so easy. A couple of years…in and out…and then a beautiful life back home in the Happy Family Trailer Park.

Well!

This morning, my devotional read stated…and I quote, “WELCOME CHALLENGING TIMES as opportunities to trust Me.” (Ok, God. Thank you for this opportunity, See? I’m waking up grateful! Keep reading.)

 “You have Me beside you and My Spirit within you, so no set of circumstances is too much for you to handle.” (Enter Tawanda.)

“When the path before you is dotted with difficulties, beware of measuring your strength against those challenges. That calculation is certain to riddle you with anxiety.” (Ya think?!)

“Without Me, you wouldn’t make it past the first hurdle!” (Don’t I KNOW that is right? See why I read this stuff everyday?)….

…”Regardless of the day’s problems, I can keep you in perfect Peace as you stay close to Me.”(Thank Goodness!)…

…and then there are several scriptures from the Bible. One read, “I can do all things, through Christ, who strengthens me.” Philippians 4:13 (Now there’s something I can sink my teeth into and carry with me. All. Day.Long.)

Not meaning to “preach from the porch” of Trailer #3, (there is a very good reason we live in #3, explanation to come in later post), but there it is! In black and white. Written in a beautifully leather bound copy that my Momma, Mawdine, gave me. This stuff just literally jumps off the pages at me. Right when I need it.

I really don’t have to write a word.

It writes itself.  

Have a very nice day. (Also NOT said in the sometimes tacky way)

Nadine loves Ya’ll, and Jesus loves Ya’ll!

Your very best friend in the whole entire world,

Nadine Bodine<3<3<3+