Laveda D. Rockford

  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 – med...

  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...

  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 Depar...

  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...

  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...