Have you ever been in “ON HOLD” mode? You’ve planned, worked hard, danced three steps forward -two steps back, and seen the light at the end of the tunnel. You’ve rechecked your list, raised the bar, tweaked, and polished away the imperfections. You’re almost there.
Then, things beyond your control happen. Someone else’s schedule takes over, or their demands become your obligation. Maybe you need the sun to shine, but the rain just won’t stop. Perhaps the money you saved to finish the task gets rerouted to a unexpected repair. Whatever it is, “it” happens, and you’re on hold.
Being on hold is hard, and the bigger the reward, the more laborious this stretch of time seems.
What a blessing!
It really is. What a perfect opportunity to remember all the obstacles that have already been overcome; to count the blessings so far.
Are you on hold? Make it your time to rest, reflect, and refuel. Be assured, the fruit of your labor will come.
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How joyful are those who fear the Lord—all who follow his ways!
You will enjoy the fruit of your labor.
How joyful and prosperous you will be! Psalm 128:1-2 NLT
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My spotlight artists this week are Anthony and April Duff.
Read what April wrote.
“Anthony and I live in Pocahontas, Arkansas. We are excellent helpmates, followers of the Old Farmer’s Almanac, and suckers for kittens.
We gardened with our families before we married. When we entered our marriage in 2002 with different gardening knowledge and put our know-how together – wow! What bountiful gardens God has blessed us with!
We try to grow something out of the ordinary every year. This year, we’re trying our hand at blue potatoes! We garden before and after work, during the coolest parts of the day.
We love gardening for two reasons. Our favorite thing is watching in awestruck wonder at the intricate details of God’s plan as seed or seedlings grow into full size plants. Second, eating the fruit of your labor and preserving the produce for the fall and winter months is very enjoyable. Nothing beats a jar of home-canned goodness! We also enjoy sharing our bounty with friends and family.
Anthony has worked at Walmart for 20 years and I work for the Randolph County Clerk’s Office. We have three outside dogs, CJ, Corky and Lucy, and one inside dog, Jasper. We have several outside cats: Harvey, Basil, Gotye, Bobbsie, Herman, Ashley, plus a batch of new kittens that haven’t been named yet.”
This video shows the fruit of their labor…what a blessing!
Stay in touch: Anthony and April
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Lovely story of two lovely people!!
what a wonderful garden
I have been blessed to call the Duffs friends for many years. They have a lot of things figured out that the world has missed out on due the fast-paced, want-it-all-now mentality. I don’t have a green thumb but I love canning and preserving with the two of them. So thankful for these amazing friends!
Your faith shines on everything you do! God rewards those share His love.
Anthony and April can create a beautiful garden. No weeds! Thank you Jeannine. I hope to encourage others in what I do.
Love the video! Beautiful garden and work!
This was SO lovely!! Thank you for sharing about our precious friends, the Duffs!!