Laveda D. Rockford

  BEING A BLESSING My objective in closing out the year 2021 is to excel at one thing or another in 2022. One of my objectives is associated with the word blessing . According to Webster’s New Collegiate Dictionary , defines the word blessing as, bless ˖ ing   n. 1 a : the act of one that blesses    b : APPROVAL. ENCOURAGEMENT     2 : a thing conducive to happiness or welfare    3 : grace said at a meal Many people know how to be a blessing and say a blessing, but a few people do not know how to receive a blessing and if they receive a blessing, do not know how to acknowledge it for what it is. So, my prayer for us in the year 2022 is: In 2022 may we, ·          be a blessing ·          learn how to receive a blessing and acknowledge it for what it is ·          continue to say the blessing This is my prayer for everyone around the world. May 2022 be a blessing for all of us in one way or another. God bless and Happy New Year! With love, Laveda D. Rockford

  A Melancholy Christmas: Part 3 He held her for a moment and then He said, “Dorthea, you will be okay. One day I will wipe away all your tears and the joy you will have with me, here, is beyond the joy that you feel now. I came to tell you that I need you there for a while longer. There are some people that need to hear from you. People need to know that they are not alone. I can use someone like you. One day soon we will be together, but your time in eternity has not yet come.” He gently pushed her back from Him to look into her eyes. His hand came up to brush a tear from her face and as He did, He said, “Tell them that I am real.” And the scene faded, and she was back in her bed, and it was morning. Christmas Eve. I do not have much time. I must hurry, Dorthea thought. “Thank you, Jesus. I do have a purpose. Thank you, Jesus. Forgive me for feeling the way that I did. You have put new life into me. Thank you, Jesus,” she said looking up and around, amazed about the whole thi

    A Melancholy Christmas: Part 2 Dorthea was working in the line at the soup kitchen when she heard a commotion across the room. A woman with five children was pleading for a place to stay the night. Dorthea could not hear the whole story but knew the woman was desperate. The woman’s five children looked hungered and tired. Dorthea felt a nudge in her heart but serving food in the line kept her busy. At the end of Dorthea’s shift, she inquired about the woman, Lucinda. The charity that ran the soup kitchen had found lodging for her and her children, but their story was sad. Her children would have no Christmas this year and the soup kitchen did not have the extra funds to give them Christmas gifts. Lodging took all the extra cash they could acquire for her. Dorthea thought about that little family on the way home. She was still not feeling well, but she thought, at least that little family was together. She arrived home, opened the door, and saw a dark and lonely house. Her sho

  The Lord placed it on my heart to author a little story for you. While Christmas is usually a wonderful time of the year, Dorthea has had a couple of lonely years. But all that is about to change. Follow along with Dorthea while her life changes in the most unbelievable way when she least expects it.  A Melancholy Christmas Dorthea woke up, looking around her dark room thinking of her disrupted sleep. She did not want to get out of bed yet and laid there thinking about her night. It was just like the last few nights since she received the call from her son, Jake. She woke up three times last night with aches and pains. She should make an appointment to see the doctor, she thought. She just hated to bother him at this time of the year. Today was the day before Christmas Eve and she always heard that a doctor’s office is busy before the holidays. So, she decided not to call and turned on the light beside her bed and looked on the floor for her shoes. After putting her shoes on, she d

  Me, Mother, and Brothers CHERISH YOUR FAMILY | Laveda D. Rockford When I woke up this morning, I heard about the tornadoes that swept through several states and the death toll is still rising. I am sure that those honorable people who come to assist are on their way. I have already seen posts from people asking for volunteers and releasing information of their organization willing to assist. Indescribable devastation is the only way to describe the scene of damage those tornadoes caused. My heart and prayers go out to all who are suffering. If you are one of those who are dealing with the aftereffects of this horrible situation, know that you have a whole group of people praying for you. Praying for your comfort, care, and future. Though tragedy happens, it cannot help but remind us of how important it is when we have the chance to be with those we love. This past Thanksgiving, I had the chance to spend it with a few of my Brothers. I cannot tell you how good it was to be with

ROCKFORD SMILES: Evening Bliss | Laveda D. Rockford Welcome to this episode of Rockford Smiles. It has been a difficult year for many people and this short episode of Rockford Smiles is to make you smile. I added a few photos of my Christmas Tree and my new painting. Do you remember last year when I was bringing wood into the house for the wood burning stove and I found that cool looking piece of wood? Well, I started painting on that piece of wood and I am taking this opportunity to introduce you to my new painting, Evening Bliss. It was a new experience to paint on wood. I used oil and acrylic paint. It turned out nice and the wood grain made it special. If you look closely, the wood grain caused it to look like rocks under the water. A rocky stream in the middle of a forest valley. I hope you have a wonderful week. God bless! Love ya, Laveda D. Rockford © 2021 Laveda D. Rockford    

  THANKSGIVING IN PRAYER   Thanksgiving is a time when we gather with family and friends to give thanks. The first Thanksgiving in America was to celebrate the harvest and the alliance of new friends. The years when this happened was difficult, but they found this moment in history to give thanks.   Many of us pray before our Thanksgiving meal. When things are good, we pray – when things are bad, we pray. And that reminds me of the time Nehemiah proclaimed a thanksgiving prayer. In the book of Nehemiah, you can read about this.   Nehemiah was heartbroken over receiving word of the spiritual and physical condition of his beloved city. King Artaxerxes granted him permission to return to Jerusalem and restore it to its former beauty.   After Nehemiah completes the wall, he leaves Jerusalem for a time only to return and find that it had fallen into apostasy. This urges him to reestablish worship through prayer.   “… was the principle to begin the thanksgiving in prayer.”

VETERAN’S DAY | Laveda D. Rockford I thought it was a good day to introduce you to my Dad and Mother. This is their engagement photo. My Dad was going into Basic Training, and this was the perfect chance for them to announce their engagement. They were married shortly after Basic Training.    I appreciate all those who have served in the military! God bless and Happy Veterans Day! © 2021 Laveda D. Rockford

  SURPRISE IS NOT KNOWING: SCREENPLAY EXCERPT | Laveda D. Rockford THE CASE OF THE BLACK PEARL RING Screenplay excerpt In the previous excerpt, the team was in the process of securing an elevator to carry them down to ground level. Through heroic attempts to secure the elevator, they finally succeed. Their attempt at providing protection for Wade and his son seem to be working. Meanwhile, in the banquet hall, TWO-SHOT Brad and Ben watched the private conversations going on around the room. BEN: “I wish I knew what they were saying.”   BRAD: “Yeah, but sometimes the surprise is not knowing.” Brad answered with an emphasis on, not knowing.   ***   FS The elevator bell rang announcing their arrival in the lobby hallway. Cindy and her team exit the elevator quietly, guns drawn. They get into formation with Wade in the middle and they proceed to the front lobby. *** © 2021 Laveda D. Rockford The team continues toward the front lobby… What happens next?

  PRESERVING THE BEAUTY OF IT ALL | Laveda D. Rockford   Temperatures cool as the days grow shorter, And winter starts its path. Dewy mornings and chilly days, When plumes appear above tall grass.   The smallest of flowers floating close to the ground, Its white petals blowing slightly all around. Autumns feathery fields preserved in its dreamy stage, Delights this late afternoon state.   Reds, greens, yellows, and golds, Dot the landscape before it gets cold. A beauty to behold!   There’s joy in every season, You only have to look, Winter, Spring, Summer, and Fall, To Preserve the beauty of it all.   © 2021 Laveda D. Rockford

  An Exuberant Declaration of Faith Psalm 27:4-5 While riding home today with my mother and Aunt Mary, I saw clouds heavy with rain coming down from heaven as if a shelter was being placed on earth. What majesty it portrayed. I was amazed at the sight. No fear or fright, only peace, sheltered within a cloud. I would imagine that these days we all have dealt with times that we think about our future and what may become of it. While it is normal to think about these things, do not think about them all the time. There are better things to think about. There is a scripture that reads, “ think on these things,” and what are these things? Well, these things are included in The Epistle of Paul the Apostle to the Philippians.   Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy – meditate on

  Today is my 57 th birthday and my mother and I spent the last few days traveling and visiting family. First, we went to Texas to visit my younger brother. We had a wonderful time talking, going out to dinner, just spending time together, and we were very glad that we could attended church together on Sunday. It was a wonderful visit and we drove away from Texas with a new car! Next, we went to Oklahoma to visit my older brother. Even though we drove through road construction that delayed our arrival, we know that the road work is going to be good for all those who travel this winter. We finally arrived and met him and his family at a Mexican restaurant to celebrate my birthday early. Here is a photo that my brother took and sent to me.     Finally, we are back home relaxing for the evening. I must go back to work tomorrow so the relaxation will be much appreciated! I hope that y’all are having a wonderful week! God bless you and yours! Love always, Laveda D. Rockford ©

  A Solemn Day: American History | Laveda D. Rockford On this day we remember the terror attacks that happened twenty years ago. The first time that we, as a nation, was attacked on our own soil. Not that we have not had a war here in this beautiful country that I call home, but it was an unforeseen tragedy that lifted us up into a nation. I watched programming this morning that still brings tears to my eyes. My fellow Americans jumping from buildings making the decision that most people in their predicament would have weighted on their minds while the building behind them was billowing smoke and fire into their immediate position where they had always felt safe. Then there were the people in the streets that looked on in terror as the buildings fell. These people had walked those streets many times and never had they come to this type of imagery. The tears could be heard in their voices while all of America watched, prayed, and sat solemnly waiting. The Fire and Police Departmen

  These words are words to lead each of us on this journey called life. If we truly are in this together, why all the bloodshed and hatred? My heart is heavy because of child-like behavior from some of you. When you are a child, you act like a child. When you are grown, you put away childish things and become an adult. Adult up and grow up, and just maybe, just maybe, this world will be a better place.   A good name is to be chosen rather than great riches, Loving favor rather than silver and gold.   The rich and the poor have this in common, The LORD is the maker of them all. Proverbs 22:1-2   My heart and prayers go out to all the military families and friends who have lost loved ones. May God watch over all those in harm’s way.   © 2021 Laveda D. Rockford

  MID-AUGUST BLOOMS IN MISSOURI There is not a lot blooming during August. The days have been hot and humid lately and the roses have already bloomed twice and are resting for their third blooming session. While we wait, here are a few photos of Hibiscus, Liriope, and Sedum. The beauty of Hibiscus on a sunny summer day is amazing.  Their delicate petals, as if floating in midair, look like thin silk shining in the sun while a slim stem holds it in place.   Liriope is a delicate plant. The leaves arch up and around to the ground with little purple flowers circling the flower stem, sweetly decorating the landscape next to the tree. Adding a little interest at night when the landscape lighting is on.   The Sedum is not in full bloom yet, but with their luxuriant green leaves that give interest in the garden all season long, it is a staple in any garden. Blooms grow from green to pink late in the season. Beautiful to watch. I hope you enjoyed looking at Mid-August blooms in M

  JESUS: A THEATRICAL RENDITION   On Saturday afternoon, Mary, Sarah, Ida, and I had the opportunity to watch Jesus performed at Sight & Sound Theatre in Branson.   The Apostle John opened the scene with an entertaining disagreement with the Sons of Thunder before Jesus walked onto the stage. Jesus changes everything.   He commands the storm to settle down, He walks on water before He is crowned, He heals the blind, And leper, too.   You should have seen legion sent over the ledge, And the man, sound, instead of on edge. And Lazarus brought back from the dead, Wow, what a performance everyone said.   Then thirty coins is all it took, For Judas to set all in motion, A kiss, a walk, a cross was chosen, My Savior above the clouds floating. Sad and tearful is what they thought, While evil satan, cheerful and gloating.   But three days later the morning bright, An angel above our heads in flight, rolled the stone, and… Oh, NOT DEAD. H

  THE BIRTHING PAINS BEGIN: A Representation | Laveda D. Rockford   I spent Saturday morning at Herriman Chapel camp meeting and heard a very good sermon about The Armor of God. Not only did the speaker talk about the armor, but he also explained how the evil one comes against us. One thing that was interesting, he noted that in Ephesians 6:11 it says to put on the whole armor of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. Then in Ephesians 6:13 it says to, wherefore take unto you the whole armor of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having all, to stand.   These are two separate ways, to stand and to withstand. To stand means to hold your ground and to withstand is defined as to stand up against or oppose with firm determination.     To stand against the wiles of the devil is to know the truth about your salvation through Jesus Christ. Wiles means to use tricks or strategies to ensnare or deceive and could also mean a skill i

  I thought it would be nice to show you a selection of flowers. From Tulips in spring to Almond blooms, this video is one that you do not want to miss. It will add a little relaxation to your day. I hope you have a wonderful week! God bless! Love always, Laveda D. Rockford © 2021 Laveda D. Rockford 

I signed my painting today and included a couple of photos for your perusal. I hope you like it.  And since it is the ninth of Av, I thought I would share a few thoughts on the subject. The ninth of Av is one of the most devastating and terrible days in historical data. From the beginning of time, the evil one continues to try and destroy God's people. Those who chose Him as their God and His son, their Messiah. Jesus Christ came to give us the freedom that we are unable to achieve on our own. Jealousy is what the evil one indwelled from the beginning. What we can rely on is that the evil one will be held accountable for all things done in jealousy. Jealousy is a strong emotion that can send people into the same downward spiral that the Lord said He witnessed when the evil one was thrown down from heaven.  And He said to them, "I saw Satan fall like lightning from heaven." Luke 10:18 So, my advice, guard your heart from jealousy which gives the evil one access into your l

  A short movie of still shots for marketing two screenplays, ‘ Yahreh’ and ‘ The Case of the Black Pearl Ring ,’ created by Laveda D. Rockford   YAHREH | Screenplay Wade Hamilton accepts the assignment that leads him into an investigation that changes his life. He learns a new way of looking at things, and the ability to see beyond his own understanding. Combine that with the help of his team, and the criminals are rounded up and he closes the case that brings Gina into his life. THE CASE OF THE BLACK PEARL RING | Screenplay After Gina and Wade open their own private investigation company, they find out that the world is not as small as they thought. Wade travels across the country only to find the answer that they are looking for in their own backyard. When his old team members join the investigation, the list of criminals get longer, and the team acquires new technology that help them get a positive result with an unexpected ending. © 2011 – 2021 Laveda D. Rockford

  While we celebrate our nation’s birth, remember that all freedoms listed in our Constitution was first found in the Bible. The words of God set the first words among our people and freedom was created for our nation. These freedoms are self-evident, that all people are free and share in this freedom. Together we can make our nation better. Let the bitter fight among themselves while we share the Word and carry Peace to all. And Jesus will lead us in our endeavor. Have a safe and happy 4th of July! © 2021 Laveda D. Rockford