Warm Thoughts - SoundSage

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Summertime, summertime, summertime. Good old summertime. Here it is, August, a time to reflect on summer joys and challenges. As an early riser, I have enjoyed the rising of the sun, the peaceful mornings listening to the birds sing, and as I write these lines, it is a foggy morning. A heavy dew is on the grass as one walks down the country lane. Soon school will begin, and many schools throughout the country are beginning classes earlier this year. As a lifelong learner, I look forward to these school days, and golden rule days. However, I may feel my age when grandchildren ask me. Grandma, what century were you born in?

This is a time to hike to the hills before school starts. What fun for families to picnic along the way? Sleep in tents, travel in the car in close quarters, a time to become firmly bonded before the fast paced schedules take over when back to school we go. August is a time when many families have their big family reunions. The Werner Clan extended, extended family, has always had their family reunions the 2nd Sunday in August. This year is the 60th anniversary, and they plan a really big celebration. The mother of all reunions, celebrating family. You can be sure there will be the babies there. The youngest and the oldest, and the oldies will have plenty of stories. You can be sure. I look forward to listening to the older and wiser men and women in the clan. One learns a lot from listening. Keep tuned. I will share with you, dear readers.

It is interesting what researchers are finding about the family. That family is the best reward. The researchers have learned that those who emphasize their family life over their careers end up with higher earnings. Those of us who already committed to our families realized long ago that a happy family is its own best reward.

Pioneer Proverbs: He who won't be advised won't be helped. The smart man knows how little he really knows. Have a great day. Learn something new each day.

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea written by Dr. Luetta G Werner.

Published in the Marion Record, August 9th, 1995.

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I hope you enjoyed this podcast episode! Please follow along on this journey by going to visualbenedictions.com or following me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast,Spotify,Stitcher, and Overcast. And don’t forget to rate and review so more people can tune in! I’d greatly appreciate it.

Till next time,

Trina

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Can it really be? August is here. June with its brief tranquil moments in July with its full moon and fireflies and celebration and holiday time is now a memory. August is time for the early harvest. Tomatoes ripening, the taste of roasting ears, new potatoes in the pot, fryers in the freezer, the aroma of baking bread and pies, and making pickles and preserves. August is vacation time with family before school starts. A trip to the mountains and hills, fishing by the lake, quiet brooks, streams, attending softball games, fair time, fun time, picnic time, more family celebrations and reunions, high school and college reunions, summer graduations, and for some moving on, moving on in life.

How delightful are those summer days? For some, it may be the sweetest season of the year, where one can enjoy perfect freedom while walking or relaxing by the beach or lake. Summer with its soft nights and cool dawns at sunsets. Soon, summer will be gone, and autumn in all its beauty will arrive. Autumn, the mellower season, often called Indian summer, August is a time to reflect on the beauty of the seasons of the year.

Warm Thought: Now is the high tide of the year, and whatever of life hath ebbed away, comes flooding back with a ripply cheer, into every bear inlet, and creek, and bay. James Russell Lowell.

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea written by Dr. Luetta G Werner.

Published in the Marion Record, August 4th, 1994.

Download the Found Photo Freebie and cherish your memories of the past.

Enjoy flipping through the Vintage Photo Book on your coffee table.

Till next time,

Trina

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My friend is celebrating another birthday and she wrote me and remembered that she too is having another birthday. She also wrote in detail about her senior moments. Our friendship has endured many years of joys and challenges. As time is fleeting so rapidly, each day is very precious, and I am reminded that today is the first day of the rest of my life. An unknown author helps us to be aware how special is today.

Celebrate and enjoy today. Today is here. I will begin with a smile and resolve to be agreeable. I will not criticize. I refuse to waste the valuable time God has given me. Today has one thing in which I know I am equal with others…time. All of us draw the same salary in seconds, minutes, and hours. Today, I will not waste time because the minutes I wasted yesterday are lost as a vanished thought. Today, I refuse to spend time worrying about what might happen. I'm going to spend my time making things happen. Today, I am determined to study and improve myself. For tomorrow, I may be needed, and I must not be found lacking. Today, I begin by doing and not wasting my time. In one week, I will be miles beyond the person I am today. Today, I will not imagine what I would do if things were different. I will make a success with what material I have. Today I will stop saying, “if I find time,” or “if I had time,” for I will never find time for anything. If I want time, I must make it. Today, I will act toward other people as though this will be my last day on earth. I will not wait for tomorrow, tomorrow never comes.

As we celebrate our birthdays each year, may we realize something important? The roses bloom and we don't want to miss them blooming. The birds sing, and we need to take time to listen. The sun is shining and we need to take the time to sit down and let it warm us. The world is rushing by, and we need to take the time to enjoy today.

Thank you, Bertha, for sending me the thoughts about yesterday. My heartfelt thanks to all the readers of this Warm Thoughts column who share their bits of wisdom. Bless you.

Yesterday. Put yesterday behind you. It's gone and won't come back. And we cannot see ahead, far down tomorrow's track. Enjoy the fleeting moments that come just for today. The sweet song of a bluebird, the morning sun's first ray. A warm and loving hand clasp, warm letters in the mail, a bunch of fragrant violets, rain splashing in a pail. Each day has something special, some joy or souvenir. It might be gone tomorrow, so enjoy it while it's here. Have a great day today.

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea written by Dr. Luetta G Werner. Published in the Marion Record, August 1st, 1999.

Download the Found Photo Freebie and cherish your memories of the past.

Enjoy flipping through the Vintage Photo Book on your coffee table.

Till next time,

Trina

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New billboards are getting attention in Arizona. Some folks have reported seeing one or two messages. The newspapers listed all of them. Here is a list of variations of the Godspeaks billboards. The billboards are a simple black background with white text. I have a dear friend who has retired to Arizona, and I wonder if she has seen a few of the messages.

Tell the kids I love them. Let's meet at my house Sunday before the game. Come on over and bring the kids. What part of thou shalt not, didn't you understand? We need to talk. Loved the wedding, invite me to the marriage. That love thy neighbor thing? I meant it. I love you, and you, and you, and you, and…Will the road you're getting on get you to my place? Follow me. Need directions? You think it's hot here? Do you have any idea where you're going? God.

The snowbirds who will be driving to Arizona to spend their winters may see some of these billboards. Families will be taking a trip before school and classes begin. Enjoy the summer with all the family activities.

A Summer Thought: Summer is when the children slammed the doors they left open all winter. Author unknown.

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea Written by Dr. Luetta G Werner. Published in the Marion Record, July 25th, 2002.

Download the Found Photo Freebie and cherish your memories of the past.

Enjoy flipping through the Vintage Photo Book on your coffee table.

Till next time,

Trina

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A real faithful reader of this Warm Thoughts column sent some real gems of thought which I used in a recent column. It was like a Christmas or birthday present to receive them. Today is my birthday, and I decided I would share with you some more of the thoughts she sent me. Thank you for the birthday gift. And the Christmas gift too, as it is Christmas in the summer at the little home on the prairie.

A good listener is not only popular everywhere, but after a while he knows something. Common sense is not so common. A gentle word like summer rain may soothe some heart and banish pain. What joy or sadness often springs from just the simple little things? Courage is resistance to fear mastery of fear, not absence of fear. Mark Twain. Form good habits. They are as hard to break as bad ones. Many men owe the grandeur of their lives to their tremendous difficulties. Spurgeon. The greater the obstacle, the more glory in overcoming it. Moliere. Not the cry, but the fight of the wild duck leads the flock to fly and follow. Chinese proverb. What we hope to do with ease, we must first do with diligence, Samuel Johnson. It isn't that they can't see the solution. It is that they can't see the problem. G.K. Chesterton. Responsibility educates. Wendell Phillips. If A equals success, then the formula is A equals x plus Y and Z, keeping your mouth shut. Albert Einstein. Anger does as much damage to the vessel in which it is stored as it does to anything upon which it is poured. No person, even the humblest sort, can be strong, gentle, pure, and good without the world being made better by the existence of that goodness. To be trusted is a greater compliment than to be loved. Do not keep the alabaster boxes of your love and tenderness sealed up until your friends are dead. Fill their lives with sweetness. Speak approving, cheering words, while their ears can hear them, and while their hearts can be thrilled and made happier by them. Good ideas need landing gear as well as wings. In the warmth of this summer, may you have many warm thoughts.

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea Written by Dr. Luetta G Werner. Published in the Marion Record, July 18th, 2002.

Download the Found Photo Freebie and cherish your memories of the past.

Enjoy flipping through the Vintage Photo Book on your coffee table.

Till next time,

Trina

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Have you read about the most creative job in the world? Let me tell you about it. Perhaps you have even lived it. This most creative job in the world involves taste, fashion, decorating, recreation, education, transportation, psychology, romance, cuisine, designing, literature, medicine, handicraft, art, horticulture, economics, government, community relations, pediatrics, geriatrics, entertainment, maintenance, purchasing, direct mail, law, accounting, religion, energy, and management. Now, just what are you thinking? Just who would want this creative job? You may be thinking that anyone who can handle all those creative jobs just has to be very special. Yes, she is. She is a homemaker.

Have you been able to do some summer reading? I am always interested in the new books that have just been published. A new book that is being published is about our president's wife and is entitled Laura, America's first lady, first mother. The author is biographer, Antonia Felix. The author has created a revealing, intimate portrait of the soft-spoken down to earth woman who made people magazine's list of the 50 most beautiful people in the world. At a time when our country needed the calming warmth of a mother's touch, Laura Bush stepped forward to offer just that. America's first lady transcended party politics and national tragedy to become America's first mother. We'll appreciate hearing from you about some summer reading that you have especially enjoyed reading about. Thanks for sharing your warm thoughts.

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea Written by Dr. Luetta G Werner. Published in the Marion Record, July 11th, 2002.

Download the Found Photo Freebie and cherish your memories of the past.

Enjoy flipping through the Vintage Photo Book on your coffee table.

Till next time,

Trina

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Today we celebrate Independence Day. It is a day of celebration for parades and families, and we see our nation's flag flying in the breeze. As a mother and grandmother, I save precious thoughts that my children and grandchildren have written. Recently, I ran across an essay that my daughter Kathy wrote when she was 13 years old and in 8th grade. On this Independence day, you too may appreciate these thoughts written by a teenager.

Still She Waves. Our nation's flag is a moving observance of the honor accredited to our forefathers. The men and women who made possible for us a life of liberty and justice in this great land of ours. Our flag has stirred many a patriotic citizen like Patrick Henry, who forcefully stated, “Give me liberty or give me death!” And John Paul Jones, who boldly proclaimed, “I have not yet begun to fight. To sacrifice himself for the cause of freedom and the blessings of liberty.” The colors chosen for our beautiful flag bring out the ideals and opinions of the colonists towards obtaining and keeping a more perfect union. Red is for hardiness and courage. White represented purity and innocence, and blue stands for vigilance, perseverance, and justice. We surely must admit that our forefathers use careful thought in choosing such unusually good colors to be displayed on our flag. Our nation's flag became significant in battles for several reasons. Soldiers would proudly hold aloft their flag to show members of their regiment where they were located. Other brave men would carry the flag through each war that was fought, and would suffer all, even death, rather than to give up the flag, since permitting the enemy to capture the flag meant a joyous victory for the opposing side. Old Glory deserves the respect of our nation's people. It is not a mere length of material, but in it we discover the representation of the people who have made America what it is today. People from England pioneered this country and brought about the democratic government which we now live and enjoy. These people fought and killed their fellow Englishmen and sacrificed themselves so that their families, and those that followed, might have this freedom. Often we take such noble acts for granted, though we should be ever so thankful for their unselfishness and concern. Our flag stands for people who came from Germany, Sweden, Denmark, Hungary, and many other countries, who brought their abiding faith, their talents and ambitions, their delicious styles of cooking and preparing food. Their leadership qualities and their ideas of setting up a decent republic. Yes, our flag represents all this. Throughout the years, it has become a symbol of what a country can do when it uses Christian principles in government. We can rightly be proud of our nation, for it is one that is not a shame to place the words, “In God we Trust” on their coins. May we lend our country support in joyously singing, “God bless America.”

This essay was written 41 years ago and daughter Kathy is now a grandmother - a teenager and Golden ager. She has just published a book entitled “From Hilltop to Hilltop: A Pioneer Spirit Endures.” It is a story of a people of God who have retained that pioneer spirit of courage, risk taking perseverance, generosity, hard work, and care for the community throughout the 150 year history of the oldest Lutheran Church in Texas, where her husband is the senior pastor. Thank you, Kathy, for allowing us to share your essay with the readers of this Warm Thoughts column. I will send you the original manuscript. I'm glad I saved that one! Happy Independence Day!

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea Written by Dr. Luetta G Werner. Published in the Marion Record, July 4th, 2002.

Download the Found Photo Freebie and cherish your memories of the past.

Enjoy flipping through the Vintage Photo Book on your coffee table.

Till next time,

Trina

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It seems that the readers of the Warm Thoughts column appreciate thoughts that may sometimes jog their minds. They also tell me they like essays and poetry. I really appreciate it when they share their thoughts. This column came from a very faithful reader of this column who apparently collects gems of thought. Thanks for sharing these thoughts.

Let the words I speak today be soft and tender, for tomorrow I may have to eat them. Well done is better than well said. Ben Franklin. When someone does you wrong, don't do what comes naturally, do what comes supernaturally. Love God. Among the few things more expensive than an education these days is the lack of it. A real leader faces the music even when he doesn't like the tune. A good leader inspires men to have confidence in him, a great leader inspires them to have confidence in themselves. Our words may hide our thoughts, but our actions will reveal them. No person who is occupied in doing a very difficult thing, and doing it very well, ever loses his self respect. George Bernard Shaw. Education is not received, It is achieved. A friend will strengthen you with her prayers, bless you with her love, and encourage you with her hope. The roots of education are sometimes bitter, but the fruits are sweet. Education is not received. It is achieved. Do not let any kindness go unappreciated. Pray for a good harvest, but keep on hoeing. When you were born, you cried and the world rejoiced. Live your life in such a manner that when you die, the world cries, and you rejoice. An Indian proverb.

Four things to learn in life: to think clearly without hurry or confusion, to love everybody sincerely, to act in everything with the highest motives, to trust God unhesitatingly. Helen Keller. To God, thy country, and thy friend be true. A child is the root of the heart. Give your troubles to God. He will be up all night anyway. A man who falls in love with himself has no rivals. One must never be in haste to end a day. There are too few of them in a lifetime. Have a great day and have many warm thoughts.

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea Written by Dr. Luetta G Werner. Published in the Marion Record, June 27th, 2002.

Download the Found Photo Freebie and cherish your memories of the past.

Enjoy flipping through the Vintage Photo Book on your coffee table.

Till next time,

Trina

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The month of June brings families together. There are still graduations, showers, weddings, birthday celebrations, wedding anniversaries, and it is the month for Father's Day. Togetherness can strengthen the family ties. The summer is a time to do some summer reading as a family. Perhaps at the dinner table, read something out loud to your family. Tomorrow night, another member of the family can read something. A news story, a poem, history or humor, anything really. Each night, a different family member can read a selection or share something they have read. Imagine the wide range of subjects your family would read in the 365 days of the year. It is an enriching experience and it doesn't cost a dime.

It is predicted that more families will be traveling by car this summer rather than fly. Have you ever been to the little town on the prairie at DeSmet, South Dakota? Last year, I was privileged to attend the Laura Ingalls Wilder pageant in the Natural Prairie Stage setting. It is a great family experience. I understand the theme this year is Prairie Patchwork. People from all over America and even other countries attend the pageant and all the activities one will experience. The outdoor drama is based on the life of Laura Ingalls Wilder, whose writings provided the inspiration for TV's Little House on the Prairie. The Wilder pageant is a family oriented outdoor drama. It is a live performance with all characters from the DeSmet area. Laura narrates the story reflecting on her life at DeSmet, South Dakota in the 1800s. After attending the pageant, I personally felt a deeper appreciation of the joys and hardships that challenged our ancestors when settling in the prairie. This year, the dates for the pageant are June 28, 29th, and 30th, and in July, they are July 5th, 6th, 7th, 12th, 13th, and 14th. The gates open at 7 p.m. You will want to go sooner so you will see the schoolhouse where Laura taught and other buildings and enjoy some rides. A real fun family experience.

From a friend in Florida came these thoughts: “Where there is love, the heart is light, where there is love, there is a song. To help when things are going wrong, where there is love, there is a smile, to make all things seem more worthwhile. Where there is love, there is a quiet peace, a tranquil place, where turmoils cease.” Thought for the day: When someone can't smile, give them yours.

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea Written by Dr. Luetta G Werner. Published in the Marion Record, June 20th, 2002.

Download the Found Photo Freebie and cherish your memories of the past.

Enjoy flipping through the Vintage Photo Book on your coffee table.

Till next time,

Trina

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It is interesting to know that Father's Day, which this year will be celebrated on June 16th, was, ironically, inspired by a Mother's Day sermon. Mrs. John Bruce Dodd, a Spokane Washington artist, is credited with fostering Father's Day. She got the idea while listening to her minister deliver an impassioned sermon on motherhood. Mrs. Dodd's mother had died young, so her father had to raise 6 children alone. As she listened to the minister, praise mothers for the hardship they endured in raising their children and tending to all the family needs. She reflected on her father's sacrifices, and speculated that there must be other fathers whose similar sacrifices went unrecognized. In a letter to the president of the Spokane Ministerial Association, Mrs. Dodd proposed a day to honor fathers. She suggested June 5th, her father's birthday, the association approved the idea, and the Spokane YMCA publicized it. However, the suggested date didn't allow the ministers enough time to prepare sermons, so the celebrated was scheduled for the 3rd Sunday in June. Thursday on June 19th, 1910. Spokane became the 1st city to honor fathers with a special day. A strong push for the National Father's Day came from Harry C. Meek, a president of the Uptown Lions Club of Chicago. Through the lions, or though the lions crowned him the originator of Father's Day, Meek admitted that the idea 1st occurred to him in 1915. 5 years after Mrs. Dodd's suggestion. He suggested it in speeches before several Lions Clubs, and the idea caught on.

The following year, President Wilson's participation in Father's Day ceremony by pressing the button in the nation's capital which unfurled the flag in Spokane. Despite this national gesture, many sections of the country did not take part. President Coolidge also showed interest in creating a national day to establish more intimate relations between fathers and their children while in office. And in 1936, the National Father's Day committee was formed in New York City to promote the celebration actively on the national level. It was in 1957 that Senator Margaret Chase Smith stated that the official recognition of Mother's Day required that Father's Day receive the same honor. She stated that, “Congress has been guilty now for 40 years of the worst possible oversight, to say the least, perpetuated against the gallant of fathers, young and old of our land,” she said in her proposal. It was in 1972, the long wait for a national recognition came to an end when President Nixon signed the congressional resolution giving Father's Day the same status as Mother's Day. And so, now we know the rest of the story about Father's Day. Celebrate Father's Day, 2002.

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea Written by Dr. Luetta G Werner. Published in the Marion Record, June 13th, 2002.
Download the Found Photo Freebie and cherish your memories of the past.

Enjoy flipping through the Vintage Photo Book on your coffee table.

Till next time,

Trina

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The 2nd Sunday in June is children's day. The following Sunday we celebrate Father's Day. A great deal of concern has been focused on our children as the dawn of a new century is fast approaching. Children who have graduated this last year in the 20th century are told that they will be shaping the next century. What a challenge for our children and our grandchildren. Many years ago, an author by the name of Dorothy Law Nolte wrote these thoughts about children and what they learn from those around them.

Children learn what they live. If children live with criticism, they learn to condemn. If children live with hostility, they learn to fight. If children live with ridicule, they learn to be shy. If children live with shame, they learn to feel guilty. If children live with tolerance, they learn to be patient. If children live with encouragement, they learn confidence. If children live with praise they learn to appreciate. If children live with fairness, they learn justice. If children live with security, they learn to have faith. If children live with approval, they learn to like themselves. If children live with acceptance and friendship, they learn to find love in the world. Children are our teachers. They walk with us, or push us, through a process of purification to our own maturity. How can we respect and honor this gift? I am reminded of what former First Lady, Barbara Bush, stated in a graduation speech. She said, 100 years from now, it will not matter what your bank account has, or what sort of house you lived in, or the kind of car you drove. But the world may be different because you were important in the life of a child. Celebrate the gift of a child on children's day.

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea Written by Dr. Luetta G Werner. Published in the Marion Record, June 10th, 1999.
Download the Found Photo Freebie and cherish your memories of the past.

Enjoy flipping through the Vintage Photo Book on your coffee table.

Till next time,

Trina

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It is gardening time. It was a beautiful spring day when 6 year old grandson Trevor and his old grandma decided to plant the garden and then plant flowers in the flower pots. Trevor patiently helped plant the potatoes, better boy tomatoes, carrots, and broccoli. After the completion of the gardening project, we watered the garden. I suggested to Trevor that if it did not rain, he could pray for rain for the planted garden. His reply was immediate and very emphatic. “Grandma, I will leave that job up to you.” And believe me, this grandma is thankful for answered prayer as rain from heaven watered at the planted garden.

Today is National Day of Prayer. The emphasis this year is to pray for our leaders. People everywhere have become more aware of the power of intercessory prayer. The National Day of Prayer has been an American tradition since the Continental Congress 1st declared its need for godly wisdom in 1775. In 1988, the law set the day as the 1st Thursday in May. Thanks, dear readers, for the Easter messages and letters. Your words of encouragement bless my day. Encourage your family and friends in their prayer ministry. A dear friend wrote me with her Easter message that she has now become involved in a prayer ministry in her church. And a prayer warrior she has become because someone has given her a word of encouragement. Her prayerful thoughts were published in decision magazine on page 40….

“The Quiet Heart.” Struggling with feelings of aggravation, irritation, frustration, indignation, resignation. I went outside to pray. A yellow crocus seemed to say, with shouts of proclamation. Crucifixion, resurrection, redemption, jubilation, He's alive, and I'm forgiven. Written by Maxine Kelly from Lincoln, Nebraska.

Warm thoughts: If you pray for another, you will be helped yourself. Yiddish proverb. For more of our nation's life is shaped by prayer than is formed by legislation. The single most important action contributing to whatever health and strength there is in our land. Is prayer. May the month of May bring you many warm and prayerful thoughts!

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea Written by Dr. Luetta G Werner. Published in the Marion Record, May 4th, 2000.
Download the Found Photo Freebie and cherish your memories of the past.

Enjoy flipping through the Vintage Photo Book on your coffee table.

Till next time,

Trina

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When you read this warm thoughts column, it will be just a couple days before Mother's Day. Many families will be together on this special family day honoring their mother. Recently, I read an essay, a letter a mother wrote to her daughter. It touched my heart and no doubt will be taped on a kitchen cabinet or refrigerator. And so I will share it with you, my readers.

Dear daughter, although you are only 4 years old and will not understand what I am saying, I feel the need to write this letter and put it away for you to read many years from now. When you were an infant, and the newness of being a mother wore off, I couldn't wait until you grew up. At 1st I found myself wishing, if only she would start walking. And then, if only she would start talking. One day, I suddenly realized that you were out of diapers. You were indeed walking and talking, and pretty soon you would be going off to school. I remember the morning your father and I brought your baby sister home from the hospital. You and I had been apart 6 days. When the door opened, I saw you standing there with your angel smile. You seem so big compared to the baby I was holding in my arms. It was hard to imagine you were once that small. I suddenly realized how much of your babyhood I had wished away. Being a mother is demanding. It robs you of so many freedoms, and I resented the fact that I had so many added responsibilities. And then I looked down at your soft curls and your trusting eyes. Suddenly, I felt ashamed. My heart almost broke. I cannot relive those first 4 years, but I have been trying to make them up to you. And to myself. I hope and pray that when your first child is born, you will be wiser and more mature than I was. I hope you will enjoy every phase of your child's growing up, and not wish they would hurry and pass, so you could be free of the burdens of motherhood. You and I will have our share of heated words and angry battles in the years to come. There will be days when we will find it impossible to please each other. I will secretly wish that you would hurry and graduate from high school so I could send you off to college and be rid of you. Life rushes by all too rapidly. My darling daughter, especially the lovely days and the beautiful times. Be smarter than your mother was. Don't let a single moment slip away, unsavored or unappreciated. These days are priceless and afford you the greatest opportunities for fulfillment. Never again will your heart be so full. All my love, mother.

Warm thought. Cherish each moment with your children and your grandchildren. Happy Mother's Day!

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea Written by Dr. Luetta G Werner

Published in the Marion Record, May 1st, 1998.

Download the Found Photo Freebie and cherish your memories of the past.

Enjoy flipping through the Vintage Photo Book on your coffee table.

Till next time,

Trina

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This is the last day of April. The month of April has been national poetry month. It is interesting that a dear friend in Florida sent me in the mail an original poem she wrote on her birthday. It is such a joy to be able to share with the readers of this warm thoughts column, the gems of thought and poetry. So thanks, Sarah Gray, for her precious thoughts.

Little pleasures. Oh, the joy of little pleasures tucked away in memory's treasures. Hummingbirds and butterflies, the clear blue of summer skies. Fragrant flowers wet with dew, prism colors of rainbows hue. Baby's breath, and baby's soft skin. Little drools on baby's chin. Baby smiles, and babies coos, The things that make baby book news. A pretty card with words that rhyme. The distant peal of church bells chime. Quiet time, a good book, heads that turn for a second look. Time spent together, small talk, an afternoon nap, or an afternoon walk. A smile exchanged over a cup of tea, A confidence confided just to me. A box of chocolate, a compliment, when most needed, heaven sent. The peaceful calm of a gentle breeze, I sense God's touch in all of these. A phone call, a visit from a friend, Little pleasures just never end.

This past week, poetry took precedence over politics at the White House. President Clinton and First Lady, Hillary Roddam Clinton, hosted the present and two past poets laureate. The trio read from the Legacy of American Poetry. The event is a third in a series of presidential millennium evenings designed to showcase the views of scholars and artists as the century closes. Thanks again, dear readers, for sharing your warm thoughts.

More warm thoughts: How beautiful a day can be when kindness touches it. Remember, the first Thursday in May is National Day of Prayer. May you have many warm thoughts in this post-Easter season.

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea, written by Dr. Luetta G. Werner

Published in the Marion Record, April 30th, 1998.

Download the Found Photo Freebie and cherish your memories of the past.

Enjoy flipping through the Vintage Photo Book on your coffee table.

Till next time,

Trina

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Last week, we learned some thoughts from the kids and computers. In the past, I've received some interesting comments from my readers in my peer group who are having a growing edge with all of this computer technology. I have been reading some perspectives on aging and how to be a kid again. And so I will share these thoughts found on the internet…perhaps it is the 1st draft.

Be a kid again. Dot all your i's with smiley faces. Sing into your hairbrush. Grow a milk mustache. Read the funnies. Throw the rest of the paper away. Dunk your cookies. Step carefully over sidewalk cracks. Try to get someone to trade you a better sandwich. Give someone a hug around the neck. Blow the wrapper off a straw. Refuse to eat crust. Make a face the next time somebody tells you no. Ask why a lot. Have someone read you a story. Wear your favorite shirt with your favorite pants even if they don't match. Eat dessert first. Put an orange slice in your mouth, peel side out, and smile at people. Remember to say your prayers. Ride a roller coaster 2 times in a row. Run through the sprinkler with all your clothes on. Lick all the cream out of an Oreo before you eat the cookie part. Eat just the chocolate stripe out of your Neapolitan ice cream. Start thinking now about what you want for your next birthday. Lie on your back in a field and look at the pictures in the clouds. Make a slurping sound with your straw when you get to the bottom of a drink…found on the internet. And don't forget to say your prayers.

One more closing thought: international walk day is April 30. On that day, leave your car at home, walk wherever you have to go, and enjoy the spring weather and the surroundings. And remember to mark your calendar for April 30th!

Warm Thought: Count your age by friends, not years, and count your life by smiles, not tears. May you have many warm thoughts in the springtime.

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea, written by Dr. Luetta G. Werner

Published in the Marion Record, April 23, 1998.

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Trina

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Here I go again, in my thoughts about listening to the master teachers in my life, the children. As we continue to experience rapid changes in technology, I realize every day it is my grandchildren who will be teaching me the changes in this computer world we now live in. And so I listened to the comments collected from computer children, ages 10 to 15. These are students who spend an average of 10 hours a week working in their computer labs at school and home.

Why do you like learning from a computer?

John: Computers are patient. They never yell at you.

Josh: You can work at your own pace. don't have to wait for the rest of the class to catch up.

Joy: If you get sick of it, you can turn it off.

How does working on the computer make you feel?

Jared: I feel like I'm in charge of everything. Matthew: I feel like I'm the boss. I can control it.

What do you like most about computers?

John: You can use your imagination to program games.

Stephen: I like the technology. I've always been interested in electronics and I like to be on the cutting edge of what's new.

Do you think computers will ever replace school?

John: No, teachers have feelings. You can't have a conversation with a computer.

Aaron: If you worked with a computer all day, you wouldn't know how to get along with people.

Do you like being able to learn things without anyone helping you?

Michelle: It builds your confidence to be able to learn something by yourself.

Joy: I feel smart when I configure things out myself.

How do you feel about knowing more things about a computer than your parents?

Alan: It's nice to have your parents ask you questions instead of you always asking them. Joy: We get to teach them for a change.

How can a computer help your parents? Jamie: It can help them with business and taxes.

Kara: Maybe make them less cranky because they would have more free time.

Josh: They could do things quicker and have more time for other things.

Joey told his father that he needed a computer for his homework. His father said, “You don't need a computer. When Abraham Lincoln was your age, he studied by candlelight in a log cabin.” “Yes, I know, dad.” And he thought for a moment…”And when he was your age, he was the president of the United States.” We parents and grandparents learn each day from the children.

Warm thought: Our computer broke down and we had to think. Have many warm thoughts on these warm spring days!

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea, written by Dr. Luetta G. Werner

Published in the Marion Record, April 16, 1998.

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As families throughout the world look forward to celebrating the Easter season, I am overwhelmed with many warm thoughts and memories. Memories of the place where all the events of holy week took place are so real and meaningful to me. Many times I relive that experience of walking the Via Dolorosa, also known as the Way of Sorrows, when I was there on my pilgrimage to the Holy Land. We are all pilgrims, and an unknown author wrote the following prayerful thoughts.

A Pilgrim's Prayer

Lord Jesus Christ, you were once a pilgrim in the Holy Land. We too have come as pilgrims to journey with you into the desert to listen to the powerful word of the God of Israel, spoken in our own deserts. We follow you into Galilee, to understand and experience your ministry of presence and healing. We come up to Jerusalem to join the great crowd that came to meet you crying, Hosanna, blessed is the one who comes in the name of the Lord! We walk with you on the road to Golgotha, and share in your passion, seeing you nailed to the cross, we bow down before your suffering and dying. We journey with you on the road to Emmaus, and discover you in the breaking and sharing of the word and the bread. Show us the glory of your resurrection. Open our eyes, our hearts, and our minds, so that we may find you not only in ancient stones, but in the midst of your holy people, and among all those who thirst for you wherever they may be. Write your gospel upon our hearts, send us forth carrying the good news. Continue to lead us and guide us on our pilgrimage to the heavenly Jerusalem.

More thoughts to ponder: A Simple Path by Mother Theresa. The fruit of silence is prayer, the fruit of prayer is faith, the fruit of faith is love, the fruit of love is service, the fruit of service is peace. May you have a joyful Easter season!

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea, written by Dr. Luetta G. Werner

Published in the Marion Record, April 2, 1998.
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I later joked that the pastor went through the entire message and even shook my hand as I left the services. That afternoon, as the north winds blow and snow covered the plains, I sat down at my old typewriter, and typed the very first column of warm thoughts, as I sipped a cup of tea. And I had many warm feelings, as I appreciated a warm and safe home as the winds blew. Throughout these years, you, the readers, have encouraged me and enabled me to keep on keeping on writing enthusiastically. You have been the angels in my life, for my reader of this warm thoughts column have been my friends and my friends' readers.

Together we have shared many joys and challenges in our daily lives, and you have been the greatest. Thanks for all you have shared and contributed to this column. Your warm thoughts have often written this column. And so I share these warm thoughts written by an unknown author, “Ode to Good Friends.” It has been my joy in life to find, at every turning of the road, the strong arm of a comrade kind, to help me onward with my load. And since I have no gold to give, and love alone must make amends, The only prayer is while I live, God make me worthy of my friends. Dear readers, you have to believe the buds will blow, Believe in the grass in the days of snow. Ah, that's the reason a bird can sing…On his darkest day, he believes in spring. Author unknown. Believe it is spring, happy spring!

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie, Over a Cup of Tea, written by Dr. Luetta G. Werner

Published in the Marion Record, March 26th, 1998.

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Glancing at the calendar, I note that the first day of spring is just a few days away as I write this Warm Thoughts column. Yes, another spring is here this month, and the colors of spring will soon be all around us.

The redbird and robins will sing their songs of cheer, The green frogs will start croaking in the babbling brook, The flowers, grass, and trees will come to life. The geese and ducks will fly high as they quack and giggle in the sky. Children's joyful voices will fill the air as farmers plant seeds with hopes and prayer. Another spring will soon be here. We love to welcome sweet springtime. It is indeed a time of promise, hope, and joy.

An unknown author once wrote, “Every day can be a spring in your life, even though you are approaching the winter of your life and those sunset years.” As I was deep in thought about spring and the colors of springtime, a dear friend shared a poem entitled, “Winter Colors.” Some call winter dismal. I surely disagree. Winter has its colors, if you only stop to see. Red cardinal skipping through the hedge, The shimmering blue of the pond's water's edge. The mallard's head of velvet green, Made brilliant by the sun's golden sheen. The color of winter is not dead, But filled with colorful hues instead. Author unknown.

March 22nd is “As young as you feel day.”Everyone can take this day to remember that they are no older than they feel. March 15th is Hug a Farmer Day, and the week of March 15th is National Agriculture Week, dedicated to the farmers of America, and is designated to educate the people about agriculture in the United States. Farewell winter, and we welcome spring. Each season brings with it colors to brighten our lives.

More Warm Thoughts: As we watch for the signs of spring, let us hold the warmth of all those blessings of our seasons on our hearts. May you have many warm thoughts this spring season.

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie, Over a Cup of Tea, written by Dr. Luetta G. Werner

Published in the Marion Record, March 19th, 1998.

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Recently, I attended a retreat at Cedar Shore in Chamberlain, South Dakota. It was a women's retreat, and all generations were present from the great grandmothers to the young mother with her baby daughter. It was a learning experience about the different generations which I would like to share with you this week and during family month.

1900 to 1925: The missionary generation, the happiest, most satisfied generation, this generation values family, God, and church. 99 Nobel Peace Prizes have been won by this generation.

1926 to 1945 is the sandwich generation. 50000000 in the US. They are sandwiched between boomerang children and aging parents. Family, school, church are important. This generation also believes in hard work, frugality, loyalty. Early retiring husbands are in this generation. This sandwich generation is eager to reach out to other cultures. Some joined the Peace Corps.

1946 to 1964: Our baby boomers. There are 76000000 in the US. They make up 45% of the adult population. Twice as many went to college as their parents. They are against sexism. They want help with their children and parents. They are the first generation to have television. 70% of boomer women work outside the home. They waited until their 30s to have their babies. Two out of three boomer women have been divorced. They like quality projects and want lots of choices and options. They long for traditional values in raising children.

1965 to 1976 are the baby busters. There are 40 million in the US. They are also called the 13th generation - generation Y. They were born during the era of cable TV, fluctuating economy, and desert storm. They are high tech, high touch, low self-esteem. They do not like planning and preparation. They are accustomed to divorce, they are survivors, and are expected to become more conservative during midlife crisis. They want connection and diversity.

1977 to 1995 are the baby boomlets, also known as the millennial generation. This generation is less materialistic and more social conscious. They are highly informed. They believe religion and what parents believe is not so important. They are interested in community projects and mission endeavors. Will they become a missionary generation like their forefathers and foremothers? They may, if there are enough left in that generation to mentor them.

As we reflect on the past century, it is interesting that it is the 100th anniversary of the Nobel Peace Prize. We even have a stamp to remind us about this anniversary. Mother Teresa was one of the recipients of the Nobel Peace Prize. When she was asked, how can we bring peace to the world? she answered, “Just go home and love your family.” We are not meant to do great things for God, but small things, with great love. - Mother Teresa.

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea, written by Dr. Luetta G. Werner

Published in the Marion Record, March 17th, 2001.

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Right after St. Valentine's Day was history, I immediately saw St. Patrick's Day cards and decorations in the stores. There may be signs of winter and white snow around us, but the shamrock decorations of green are symbolic of life, and soon we'll have St. Pat's Day and Spring.

I have always been curious about Bishop Patrick and why people considered him a saint in their lives. In my research, I read about the legend of the shamrock, and will share these thoughts with you. Long ago, when Ireland was the land of druids, there was a great bishop, Patrick by name, who came to teach the word of God throughout the country. This saint, for he was indeed a saint, was well loved everywhere he went. One day, however, a group of his followers came to him and admitted that it was difficult for them to believe in the doctrine of the Holy Trinity. St. Patrick reflected a moment, and then, stooping down, he plucked a leaf from the shamrock and held it before them, bidding them to behold the living example of the three in one. The simple beauty of this explanation convinced these skeptics, and from that day the shamrock has been revered throughout Ireland.

Throughout the years, I have always been so inspired by the wit and humor of my Irish friends. They have blessed my life and given me an appreciation of their culture and their appreciation of family and friends. This Irish saying could be for us all, even though we may now be able to say we have a bit of Irish.

Family and Friends: The two things we're most grateful for are our family and our friends. The care they have provided, the love so strong and true, the thoughtfulness that's spoken, in words and actions too. Our grandmas and our grandpas, our mothers and our dads, our brothers and our sisters, are there through good and bad. They're special friends to share with, Our smiles, our hopes, our fears, When counting all God's blessings, Gifts of love that never end, We could count on friends and family, And our family, as true friends. Irish Grerand Butler.

More Irish thoughts: May the raindrops fall by lightly on your brow. May the soft winds freshen your spirit. May the sunshine brighten your heart. May the burdens of the day rest lightly upon you, and may God enfold you in the mantle of His love. Have a special day on St. Patrick's Day!

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea written by Dr. Luetta G. Werner

Published in the Marion Record, March 12th, 1998.

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Recently, I attended a couple of exciting basketball games while visiting my family in Nebraska. My granddaughter performed as a cheerleader, and the folder that listed the names and pictures of the players and cheerleaders was also the top 10 reasons to sport a winning attitude. I was impressed, and since many of the readers of this Warm Thoughts column attend the sports activities, I thought I would like to share these 10 reasons.

Because taunting, trash talk, and intimidating behavior have no place in high school sports or any other level of sports. 9. Your admission allows you to watch these performances of highly impressionable 15 to 18 year old kids. Not a license to abuse coaches, officials, players, and other spectators. 8. You want others to treat you the way you want to be treated. And how many of us want to be treated with disrespect. 7. We need positive role models. 6. People don't always remember the final score, but they do remember the fans in section 3 who made fools of themselves. 5. Because coaches and officials who are also teachers in what they do. Why would you harass them in their classrooms? 4. A national survey indicates kids play high school sports to have fun. 3. It's how you play the game that counts. 2. It's simply the right thing to do. 1. Because sportsmanship begins with you. So here are the 10 reasons about attitudes and sports, whether you win or lose, it's how you play the game and your attitude is important!

Of all the Warm Thoughts columns, I have written it in over 400 columns…The thoughts on attitude have received the most comments. I was pleased to see these 10 reasons to sport a winning attitude. You are in good company when you have a good attitude. You may want to call it the zeitgeist of the new millennium. Attitude has become the spirit of the age. “I am so thankful for people with good attitudes. I feel so uplifted by wonderful folks who have life affirming attitudes of gratitude.” Victor Frankel. Once stated, everything can be taken from a man but one thing, the last of the human freedoms, to choose one's attitude in any given set of circumstances. Andrew Scott Hamilton stated that the only disability in life is a bad attitude.

More Warm Thoughts: The longer I live, the more I realize the impact of attitude on life, attitude to me is more important than facts. Charles Swindle.

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea, written by Dr. Luetta G. Werner

Published in the Marion Record, February 22nd, 2001.

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President's Day is Monday, February 19th. We now celebrate all former presidents. We originally honored only George Washington and Abraham Lincoln, both whom had birthdays during the month of February, February 22nd and 12th, respectively. George Washington was the 1st and only president to be elected unanimously by the electoral college. He received all 69 of the votes. He was a first president with false teeth, and the first to appear on a postage stamp. He was our country's 1st president and was known as the father of our country. Abraham Lincoln was the first Republican President and the first President to be assassinated. He was the first to support women's right to vote. There are four U.S. state capitals that are named after presidents. The president who have state capitals named after them are Abraham Lincoln, Andrew Jackson, Thomas Jefferson, and James Madison.

Who is your hero president? Abraham Lincoln has been my presidential hero of faith since the days that I attended the one room country school. As I studied the lives of our presidents, it was Lincoln who became my hero president, a man of great faith, courage, and compassion, and a man of prayer. Who can forget that Gettysburg address of 286 words? Today, students and dignitaries still are able to recite that famous speech. His writings and speeches are often quoted to this day. Lincoln was a 16th president of the United States. Throughout the years, I have been inspired by his thoughts, which are biblical. He learned to read from the Bible. Something to remember…”You cannot bring about prosperity by discouraging thrift. You cannot strengthen the weak by weakening the strong. You cannot help little men by tearing down big men. You cannot help the wage earner by pulling down the wage payer. You cannot further brotherhood of man by encouraging class hatred. You cannot help the poor by destroying the rich. You cannot establish sound security on borrowed money. You cannot keep out of trouble by spending more than you earn. You cannot build character and courage by taking away men's initiative and independence. You cannot help men permanently by doing for them what they could and should do for themselves.” Abraham Lincoln.

It was in 1863 that Abraham Lincoln proclaimed a day of national humiliation, fasting, and prayer. Many churches throughout the land may observe a day of prayer on President's Day, at which time they pray for the leaders of our country. Praying for our nation and for our leaders is no new thought. Instead, it has been encouraged throughout the ages. C. H. Spurgeon stated, “Whenever God determines to do a great work, he first sets his people to pray.” Pray for the leaders of our nation.

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie, Over a Cup of Tea, written by Dr. Luetta G. Werner,

Published in the Marion Record, February 15, 2001.

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Since February is National Children's Month, I thought about writing an essay on what my grandchildren have taught me. They are now in school with children of other cultures, and although they may have graduated from Crayola college, they are color blind and love their friends from other cultures. Recently, my grandson Trevor was teaching me to count to five in the Japanese language and even write the numbers.

Since we will be celebrating Valentine's day next week, I have researched how to say I love you in 15 languages: German, French, Swedish, Polish, Italian, Spanish, Chinese, Japanese, Greenlandish, Finnish, Russian, Filipino, Korean, and Hawaiian. My deepest apologies if I mispronounced any of those.

What is Love? By a teenager. "Love is an attitude. Love is a prayer for someone in sorrow, a heart in despair. Love extends good wishes for the gain of another. Love suffers long with the fault of a brother. Love gives water to a cup that's run dry. Love reaches low, love reaches high. Love seeks not his own at the expense of another. Love reaches God when it reaches a brother." This poem, What is Love, has a special place in my heart. I first heard that poem read by a young woman who is blind and read the poem with her fingers.

A former student of mine from Florida sent me this poem - one of her favorites by Emily Matthews. A Poem for You: "A lifetime of love and a hug and a smile, a reason to visit and stay for a while. The strength of a bond that's destined to last, the joys of the present and the warmth of the past. These are the treasures a fortunate few are lucky to cherish all their lives through. These are the blessings on which we depend for these are the gifts of a very best friend.” Happy Valentine's Day!

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea, written by Dr Luetta G Werner

Published in the Marion Record on February 8th, 2001

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The year 2001 is the Year of the Books, and January was National Book Month. The year 2001 is also the Year of the Child, and the month of February, Heart Month, is also National Children's month. Children can come up with pearls of wisdom that simply seem so amazing. I will share with you the wisdom of children who were asked by a teacher to write advice to their parents on how to raise children.

Don't give me everything I ask for. Sometimes I am just testing you to see how much I can get. 2. Don't always be giving orders. If you suggest something instead of giving a command, I will do it faster. 3. Don't keep changing your mind about what you want me to do. Make up your mind and stick to it. 4. Keep promises, both good and bad. If you promise a reward, make sure you give it to me. If you promise a punishment, make sure I get that too. 5. Don't compare me with anybody else, especially if the comparison will hurt somebody's feelings. I don't want to be considered smarter than anybody else, because it will hurt that person's feelings. If you make me out to be dumber than somebody else, then it will hurt my feelings. 6. Let me do as much for myself as I can. That's how I learn. If you do everything for me, I will never be able to do anything for myself. 7. Don't correct my mistakes in front of other people. Tell me how to improve when nobody is around. 8. Don't scream at me. It makes me scream back, and I don't want to be a screamer. Screamers sound awful. 9. Don't tell lies in front of me, or ask me to tell lies to help you out. It makes me think less of you and less of myself, even if I am supposed to be doing you a favor. 10. When I do something wrong, don't try to get me to tell you why I did it. Sometimes I don't know why myself. 11. Don't pay too much attention to me when I say I have a stomach ache. Playing sick can be a good way to get out of doing things I don't want to do, or going places I don't want to go. Make sure it's real. 12. When you are wrong about something, admit it. It won't hurt my opinion of you. It will make it easier for me to admit it when I'm wrong 13. Treat me like you would treat a friend. Then I will be your friend and you w be mine. Just because people are related does not mean they can't be polite and nice to each other.

Can you guess how old these students were who wrote these 13 commandments? (not just 10!) They were in the fourth grade and ages 8 and 9 years old. What can I say? The children have given us their pearls of wisdom on how to raise children. All I can say is thanks to the children who made this first column in Heart Month so special.

"The price of greatness is responsibility." Winston Churchill

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea written by Dr. Luetta G Werner

Published in the Marion Record February 1st, 2001.

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Among the many Christmas epistles received during the Christmas season was a letter from a dear old friend in Ohio. Olga has been a real inspiration to me. For many years, she has been a lifelong learner and a pioneer in the work of missions and ministry. Her letter arrived on the 12th day of December, as she had a busy Christmas season. She was born on December 24 and last year, celebrated her 100th birthday on Christmas Eve. I am really looking forward to her next letter filled with her many exciting experiences. She is living every minute of the rest of her life and enjoying the learning process.

Whatever our calling in life may be, we can never stop learning. I need to keep on learning if I want to keep up with life and all its changes. We remember John Glenn's recent trip into space at 77 years of age. It reminds us that in today's world, many senior citizens are fulfilling dreams that were forgotten. Perhaps they had to put their dreams on hold because of circumstances in their lives. We may not be able to orbit hundreds of miles or above the earth like John Glenn did this past year. However, with determination and a lot of creativity, we can be a vital part of our community at any age.

I was recently informed that people who are involved in volunteer services live longer and have rich and productive lives. Tom Brokaw, NBC anchor, has recently written the book entitled "The Greatest Generation." If you were born in the second half of this century, you owe your freedom, your prosperity, and perhaps your life, to the selfless teens and 20 somethings who fought in World War II. Their courage followed by their sense of vision in the post war years changed the world. He calls this generation "the greatest generation" that ever lived. They are the generation that survived the misery of the depression to gear up to fight in World War Two. Adversity led to their great maturity. They were 21 years old and faced life with many challenges.

Now, many are senior citizens and dying at the rate of 100 a day. We need to listen to them. They were the heroes of World War II. They are an inspiration to us and have so much to share with us. Brokaw and his new book The Greatest Generation, argues that these men and women overshadow even the founding fathers in Abraham Lincoln's generation. He states, they stepped up and saved the world. Younger people will be astonished. They'll look at their grandparents in a different way.

A New Year Thought: The author of this quote is unknown. It was quoted by England's King George the fifth when he gave the New Year's greeting to the world, he stated, "Give me a light that I may tread safely into the unknown." And he replied, "Go out into the darkness and put your hand into the hand of God that shall be to you better than a light and safer than a known way." Live every moment of the rest of your life!

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea written by Dr. Luetta G Werner

Published in the Marion Record January 21st, 1999.

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The following column appeared on January 29th, 1998. It was a favorite column among the readers, and maybe again, for those who are celebrating birthdays this month.

After I delivered last week's Warm Thoughts column, I walked to the post office. At the counter stood someone receiving a parcel. It was her 90th birthday that day. I stood there in amazement and deep in thought as she drove away alone on the streets that were glazed with ice. I just thought, "Here is a lady who understands what celebrating life each day really means. She really lives every day of her life." In my mail that day came a letter from a longtime friend and reader of Warm Thoughts. She related about how her friends and family gave her a warm reception on her 80th birthday. She shared with me one of the readings her daughter read, and I feel you too, will enjoy these Warm Thoughts today. "Dear Lord, I'm 80 and there's much I haven't done. I hope, dear Lord, you'll let me live until I'm 81. But then, if I haven't finished all I want to do, would you let me stay a while until I'm 82? So many places I want to go, so very much to see. Do you think that you could manage to make it 83? The world is changing very fast, there's so much more in store. I'd like it very much to live until I'm 84. And if by then, I'm still alive, I'd like to stay till 85! More planes will be up in the air, so I'd really like a stick and see what happens to the world when I turn 86. I know, dear Lord, it's much to ask, and it must be nice in heaven. But I'd really like to stay until I'm 87! I know by then I won't be fast and sometimes I will be late, but I would be so pleased to be around at 88. I will have seen so many things and had a wonderful time. So I'm sure that I'll be willing to leave at the age of 89. Maybe, just one more thing I'd like to say, "Dear Lord, I thank you kindly. But if it's okay with you, I'd love to live past 90!"

More Warm Thoughts: Life is a gift. Life is what we make it. Always has been, always will be. Grandma Moses. Celebrate each day of your life!

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea written by Dr. Luetta G Werner

Published in the Marion Record January 15th, 2004.

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Have you made New Year's resolutions? A recent study informed us that many who make New Year's resolution have already broken them after two weeks. Some people do make it to Valentine's Day. In my collection of thoughts on the new year, I found an article that appeared in a Nebraska newspaper on January 2nd, 1914. As we read these thoughts, can we see ourselves applying it in our lives? 85 years later in the year 1999 the last year in this century?

"Have Courage. At the beginning of a glad New Year, instead of making many resolutions try to increase your storage of courage. Have the courage to tell a man why you will lend him your money. Have the courage to wear your old clothes until you can pay for new ones. Have the courage to prefer comfort and prosperity, to fashion in all things. Have the courage to obey your maker at the risk of being ridiculed by men. Have the courage to discharge a debt while you have the money in your pocket. Have the courage to provide for the entertainment of your friends within your means, not beyond them. Have the courage to do without what you do not need, however much your eyes may covet it. Have the courage to acknowledge your ignorance rather than to seek credit for knowledge under false pretenses. Have the courage to speak your mind when it is necessary that you should do so, and to hold your tongue when it is prudent to do so. Have the courage to show that your respect, honesty, and whatever guise it appears, and your contempt for dishonest duplicity by whomever exhibited. Have the courage to cut the most agreeable acquaintance you have when convinced he lacks principle - a friend should bear with a friend's infirmities, but not his vices."

The above thoughts were written over 80 years ago. Can they be applied to the 90s and the next century? I think of what JC Penney stated when he was 95 years old. He said, "My eyesight may be getting weaker, but my vision is increasing." He could see tomorrow with a vision for the future. Let's keep the vision for a future filled with hope.

Yesterday is but a dream, and tomorrow is only a vision, but today, if well lived, makes every yesterday a dream of happiness and tomorrow is a vision of hope. Make every day count in 1999!

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea written by Dr. Luetta G Werner

Published in the Marion Record, January 14th, 1999.

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Trina

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In one of the Christmas epistles I received during the holiday season, I was reminded that there now is Bethlehem Star TV as Trinity Broadcasting Network has a station in Bethlehem. The antenna is atop the Church of the Nativity. Isn't this exciting to know this is happening in this century? This network reaches all over Israel and even into Saudi Arabia, and in the future, will reach out to the world.

When you read this warm thoughts column, it will be either the 12th or 13th day of Christmas. On the 12th day of Christmas my true love gave to me...because of that lively carol, we all know that there are 12 Days of Christmas. January 6th, the 12th day, is associated with the celebration of Epiphany. Epiphany means "manifestation," and celebrates the occasion when the wise men came from the east and presented their gifts. In some countries and cultures, January 6th is when the gifts are unwrapped.

In Spain, everyone knows about the epiphany for the 12 Days of Christmas. Leading up to it, and on the day itself, street possessions take place, with the three kings in traditional dress being led to the local church or town square. Then and only then, are gifts exchanged. The children have to wait until January 6th to unwrap their presents. Sometimes we may think that our way of celebrating Christmas is the same all over the world. Our way has become increasingly secular, as evidenced by the street decorations in our cities. Father Christmases, colored lights, and fir trees abound from autumn onwards. Yet one has to search to find any reference to the Christian celebration of the birth of Jesu,s sent to us to be our Emmanuel, our Savior, saving us from self destruction, and to show us how God would have us live.

The 12 Days of Christmas, beginning with the wonderful event of the birth of the Christ child, and ending with the epiphany have more to teach us about the reality of life and living. We are reminded that Jesus was born in a stable as there was no room elsewhere. We are also reminded that Jesus was a refugee with his parents fleeing to escape the murder of the innocents ordered by that insecure ruler, Herod, Jesus came with the promise of liberation, but that Liberty does not mean we have a license to do as we please. Love must make rules for us in order to be free to serve just as a room has to have walls, so liberty must have boundaries. When my seven year old granddaughter dictated to me the Merry Christmas story. She reminded me, "Grandma, we cannot forget the three wise men." Yes, the wise men of the Epiphany remind us that wise men and wise women still seek Him. For Jesus is the reason of this season and Epiphany.

More Warm Thoughts: When it is dark enough, men see stars. - Ralph Waldo Emerson. Happy epiphany season!

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea written by Dr. Luetta G Werner

Published in the Marion Record January 7th, 1999.

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As I write these lines on Veterans Day, a time of remembrance, many warm thoughts come to mind. I can also remember past Veterans Day when we experience a blizzard, as we had yesterday. On this Veterans Day, I would like to share these prayerful thoughts with the readers of this Warm Thoughts column as together, we pay tribute to all those who served their beloved country.

Thanks from the Heart. "They served and fought and died so that we might be safe and free. Grant them, O Lord, eternal peace and give them the victory. And in these days of unrest filled with grave uncertainty, let's not forget the price they paid to keep our country free. And so on this year's Veterans Day, we offer up a prayer - May the people of all nations be united in thy care. And grant us understanding and teach us how to live, so that we may lose our selfish pride and learn to love and give. And keep us ever mindful of the fighting men who sleep in Arlington and foreign lands, so we may ever keep the light of freedom burning in their honor through the years and hear their cry for peace on earth resounding in our ears. Forgive us our transgressions and O God, be with us yet, lest, in our pride and arrogance we heedlessly forget. From "Someone who cares."

Those of us who've never served can't truly understand the sacrifice that you made protecting life and land. You were called from homes and jobs you never turn around. You did more than was asked of you in air, on sea, on ground. You gave for us in freedom's name. Till now, the time has come for us to give you in return a thank you, everyone. Yes, thank you from the heart. Let freedom ring!

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea, written by Dr Luetta G Werner

Published in the Marion Record, November 19th 1998.

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November. Can it really be November already? It seems, the year has its last flare of youth in October. In November, the earth folds its hands, hands that have been trained in the lesson of content and waits for that garment of snow. We have had some very beautiful autumn days this year...days for travel. No, I did not travel to Florida for that historic launch into space, but I did manage the trip to Nebraska, and while there, attended a 50th wedding anniversary of dear friends who live in Seward Nebraska, that Fourth of July City. It was so special to be able to share at that "Golden Celebration" a poem I wrote, and so I will share the poem with the readers of this Warm Thoughts column.

"50 Years of Happiness. it may seem to you like yesterday, yet 50 Years have passed away. Since at the altar, you stood side by side a very young groom with his happy bride. And now your children's children stand, close gather round an eager band. You may recall with smiles and tears the joys and griefs of those 50 years. For you have known the cares of life, sweethearts you were as man and wife. Yet you have not loved each other less through those 50 Years of happiness. And now, as you are turning gray, you will trust in God, your guide and stay. He is your constant and unchanging friend, He'll lead you both to your journey's end."

At a time when the average marriage is lasting seven years, it is certainly commendable that there are still some marriages who can celebrate that golden anniversary. Cheers to Les and Dorothy!

More Warm Thoughts: Grow old with me. The best is yet to be! Browning. The glory of green grasses fades away like shadows in the quiet autumn night, the golden leaves descend like birds in flight and in them, squirrels, like children, run and play. May you have many warm thoughts these autumn days!

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea written by Dr Luetta G Werner

Published in the Marion Record, November 5th, 1998.
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The holidays are approaching so fast. Already, I am receiving those holiday letters, as I have a few friends who write their holiday letter about family in October. It seems that many people in this high-tech age no longer write those personal letters.

Donald G Mitchell once wrote, "Blessed be letters. They are monitors. They are also the comforters, and they are the only heart talkers. A letter is the warmest way to bid a friend the time of day. A keep in touch that brings the smiles across the very longest miles. And what a world of strength and hope is tucked inside an envelope, reminding loved ones that you are at least in heart and not very far in no country, state or camp, the wealth beneath a postage stamp. For memories that never age are written down upon each page, and though it's nice to telephone, one of the sweetest pleasures known are moments shared in thoughts we send that can be read and read again."

An unknown author wrote the following thoughts, "The Letter You Did Not write. I meant to write, I really did. Each morn I'd say, 'Today, I'll get the pen and paper out and send that note away.' So many tasks, my day was full. The months flew swiftly by. Tomorrow I must write for sure. Each night fall, I would sigh. The sad thing is, I really cared. He meant so much to me. He was the dearest friend. I knew how close he'd grown to be, but then the years came crowding in. Somehow we drew part. Yet I so often thought of him and kept him in my heart. But now I cannot write to him. He's gone. He'll never know how much he's missed."

If you have friends, please write and tell them so. To old friends everywhere, if you will, just sit down and write and tell them that you care.

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea written by Dr. Luetta G Werner

Published in the Marion Record, October 29th, 1998.

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Recently, my friend celebrated her 91st birthday. She has had a very full life, but is experiencing life changes. One must part with things and make the necessary changes in life and living. We call it downsizing, when one moves from your home to an apartment and then to a room in a residential setting. In last week's column, I promised that I would share some thoughts about the nifty 90s. I must do this before these nifty 90s leave us for the next century. I wrote these thoughts in the 70s. Remember that bicentennial year, the poem has been published in the 1995 National Poetry anthology entitled, "Tomorrow Never Knows the Nifty 90s."

"I can see myself in the nifty 90s, a shriveled and sprightly little old great grandma riding a motorcycle, speeding it up for the year 2000. I can see myself sailing on the seas on queen ships, flying on 921, jets through the skies, discussing politics and philosophy with my collegiate clan, recycling fableaux for the 21st Century. I can see myself still rocking little babies, running again to the hospital, carrying a baby buggy vase with fragrant blue forget me nots for another great grandchild."

Warm, Aging Thoughts: "Anyone who stops learning is old, whether at 80 or 20. Anyone who keeps learning stays young. The greatest thing in life is to keep your mind young." Henry Ford. "I shall grow old, but never lose life's zest, because the road's last turn will be the best. As you pass through the years, you will find much calmness in your heart. It is the gift of age, and the colors of fall will be deep and rich if you let it happen. Chief Dan George. Celebrate life on these beautiful autumn days!

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea, written by Dr Luetta G Werner

Published in the Marion Record, October 22nd, 1998.

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Recently, a few of my friends celebrated their 80th birthday anniversaries. It was a very special occasion where family and friends came for an Open House to celebrate life together. It is quite interesting that when I taught Gerontology classes that I called the 80s, "The Lively 80s." An essay entitled "Life Begins at 80," supports those warm thoughts.

"Life begins at 80. I have good news for you. The first 80 years are the hardest. The second 80 are a succession of birthday parties. Once you reach 80, everyone wants to carry your baggage and help you up the steps. If you forget your name or anybody else's name or an appointment or your own telephone number, or promise to be three places at the same time, or can't remember how many grandchildren you have, you need only explain that you are 80. Being 80 is a lot better than being 70. At 70, people are mad at you for everything. At 80, you have a perfect excuse, no matter what you do. If you act foolishly, it's your second childhood. Everybody is looking for symptoms of softening of the brain. Being 70 is no fun at all. At that age, they expect you to retire to a house in Florida and complain about your arthritis, and you ask everybody to stop mumbling because you can't understand them. Actually, your hearing is about 50% gone if you survive until you are 80. Everybody is surprised that you are still alive. They treat you with respect just for having lived so long. Actually, they seem surprised that you can walk and talk sensible. So please, folks, try to make it to 80. It's the best time of life. People forgive you for anything if you ask me, life begins at 80." This essay was written by Frank Laubach.

And so the birthday parties go on and on to the age of the nifty 90s. In recent weeks and in my travels, I have met many golden ages in the nifty 90s. I have met many golden ages in the nifty 90s who appear to be in the sparkling 70s. Next column will tell you a bit about those nifty 90s. Let's celebrate life every day of our lives!

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea written by Dr. Luetta G Werner

Published in the Marion Record, October 15th, 1998

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A recent article I read states that the United Nations General Assembly has designated 1999 as the "International Year of Older Persons." The theme will be "towards a society of all ages." This theme was chosen to promote the philosophy that societies should be inclusive in nature, should embrace all population groups, and share their resources equally.

October 1st, 1998 will be the day that the UN launches its year long celebration, which is also the International Day of Older Persons, having its beginning in 1990. The United States Planning Committee for this unique year recognizes aging as multi-dimensional and spanning every individual's lifelong development. The importance and contribution of older persons to intergenerational richness, the heterogeneity of the older population, and it is concerned about the continuing poverty of many older persons and the necessity to provide adequate health care in the later years. The committee seeks to create opportunities for all of our citizens to understand, appreciate, and celebrate the contributions to nation, community, and family of older persons as citizens, caregivers, volunteers and workers.

The committee is working to focus attention on the challenge to our nation to ensure that the increases in life expectancy are matched by the increased opportunities for older persons to find fulfillment to these years. It also recognizes education as an enterprise that is lifelong and takes place in many different settings. It is the mission of this committee to encourage thoughtful planning to intergenerational projects, seminars, discussion groups, and ethnic and cultural heritage programs in educational systems, corporations, religious organizations, and the public and private sector.

So dear readers of this warm thoughts column, be looking for special events in our community and be an active participant in this year's honoring many of you!

Grandma and Grandpa: I like to walk with grandma and grandpa. Their steps are short like mine. They don't say, "Now, hurry up," they always take their time. I like to walk with grandma and grandpa. Their eyes see things mine. Pebbles bright, a funny cloud, and hidden drops of dew. Most people have to hurry, they do not stop and see. I'm glad God made grandma and grandpa unrushed and young like me. Author Unknown. Celebrate towards a society of all ages all year!

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea written by Dr Luetta G Werner

Published in the Marion Record, October 8th, 1998.

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The doors to the school of learning are now open throughout the country and homework assignments seem to fill our schedules. In my many files of thoughts, I found pearls of wisdom for students taken from creating a positive learning environment by Marly Ann Dahl. These pearls of wisdom can be shared for all lifelong learners.

"Wisdom is the reward you get for a lifetime of listening when you'd rather have been talking. The person risks nothing, does nothing, has nothing and is nothing. There are plenty of opportunities for attaining success, but none of them work unless you do. It's impossible to fail totally if you dare to try, better to do something imperfectly than do nothing flawlessly. The one battle most people lose is the battle over the fear of failure. Try start, begin, and you'll be assured you won the first round. The surest way not to fail is to be determined to succeed. One of the heaviest loads to carry in life may be a bundle of bad work habits. Never let a problem become an excuse. If it's going to be, it's up to me. The great dividing line between success and failure can be expressed in five words - I did not have time. Thinking is like loving and dying. Each of us must do it for ourselves. Experience is the name everyone gives to his mistakes. To learn, you must first want to be taught. Opportunity won't often knock for the fellow who doesn't give a rap. You are the sum total of all your thoughts. When people get stressed, they get rigid and do not change. Two reasons children and adults misbehave - they're bored and/or frustrated. If you can touch them, you can tolerate them. Distance promotes stereotypes, rigid behavior, and intolerance. The brain doesn't work when the heart is breaking. Happiness is always associated with an experience. Change is slow. A person will only change on their own day and in their own way. It is better to blow bubbles than to foam at the mouth. It is easier to change behavior than it is to change attitudes. It is easier to build a child than to repair an adult. People can fail many times, but they aren't a failure until they give up on themselves or blame someone else."

Do you have more pearls of wisdom to share? Thanks for sharing. May you have many warm thoughts on many warm autumn days!

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea written by Dr. Luetta G Werner

Published in the Marion Record, September 24th, 1998.

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Trina

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Surprise! The Warm Thoughts column two weeks ago, on, "I've Learned," was favorably received by readers. It also brought me a four page email letter on more "I've learned." So here's a sequel to the first column:

"I've learned that you can get by on charm for about 15 minutes, after that, you'd better know something. I've learned that you shouldn't compare yourself to the best others can do, but the best you can do. I've learned that it's not what happens to us that's important. It's what we do about it. I've learned that it's taking me a long time to become the person I want to be. I've learned that it may be easier to react than to plan ahead, but it's much less effective. I've learned that you can keep going long after you think you can't. I've learned that we are responsible for what we do, no matter how we feel. I've learned that either you control your attitude or it controls you. I've learned that regardless of how hot and steamy a relationship is at first, passion fades and there had better be something stronger to take its place. I've learned that heroes are the people who do what has to be done when it needs to be done, regardless of the consequences. I've learned that learning to forgive takes practice. I've learned that there are people who love you dearly, but just don't know how to show it. I've learned that money is a lousy way of keeping score. I've learned that sometimes the people you expect to kick you when you're down will be the ones to help you get back up. I've learned that no matter how good a friend is, they are going to hurt you once in a while and you must forgive them for that. I've learned that it isn't always enough to be forgiven by others, sometimes you have to learn to forgive yourself. I've learned that background and circumstances may have influenced who we are or who we become. I've learned that your life can be changed in a matter of seconds by people who don't even know you. I've learned that even when you think you have no more to give, when a friend cries out to you, you will find the strength to help. I've learned that the paradigm we live in is not all that is offered to us. And again, I've learned that I still have a lot to learn, and need to just keep on keeping on learning."

Make every day a celebration of life and learning!

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea, written by Dr. Luetta G Werner

Published in the Marion Record September 17th, 1998.

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September brings us Grandparents Day. Recently, I read some thoughts from, "Grandparents with Love and Logic," by Foster W Klein and Jim Fay. These thoughts are worth sharing about grandparenting in today's world.

"Today, grandparents tend to move toward the 21st Century with images of grandparents past: silver haired, slow talking, slow moving people biding their time in wooden rocking chairs on the front porch, contemplating the sunset through wire rimmed spectacles. They smile crinkly smiles and take out their teeth at night. Grandmothers crochet booties and make cookies while grandfathers whittle wooden treasures with jack knives. Their grandchildren walk over from across town, sit on the porch with them, admire the carving and munch on the cookies."

Each of us carries variations of their picture created in our own childhood. As we set zoom feature on our cameras to grandparenting present, we realize with shock how much the picture has changed. We travel around the world instead of crochet, or play golf instead of whittle. Some become grandparents long before they are ready for rocking chairs. Many of the grandchildren live half a continent away or wear strange, baggy clothes and radical color combinations and pierce their ears.

94% of older adults with children in the US have grandchildren. Half of these are great grandparents. Of the 54 million grandparents in the US, 26% are younger than age 55 only 38% are in their retirement years, over 65. The average grandparents has three or four grandchildren. Grandparents are living longer. From 1940 to 1980 the life expectation for a 40 year old woman increased by seven years, and the life expectancy of a 40 year old man by four years. What do these numbers mean? Grandparents are more important than ever. More adults than ever are living long enough to get to know their grandchildren and for their grandchildren to get to know them. The increase in longevity is giving their relationships the potential to become stronger and longer lasting. Children close to at least one grandparent are more emotionally secure than those without such a tie. Grandparents can provide this emotional security by listening, truly, listening to their grandchildren, refusing to compete in the acquisition of material possessions, giving their most valuable gift: time.

More heart to heart thoughts: Parents need to understand that the grandparent's role is sacred to the child, and they should do whatever they can to enhance that relationship. Kornhaber. Grandparents can do more for us than anyone else in the world. They sprinkle stardust in our eyes. Alex Haley. Happy Grandparents Day!

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea, written by Dr. Luetta G Werner

Published in the Marion Record September 10th, 1998.

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It is always a joy to receive warm thoughts from readers. These special gifts can then be shared with the reading audience of this column. The column a reader once gave me entitled, "Count Your Blessings," received many comments, so it was very special this week to receive these additional thoughts on counting blessings from a special friend: "Count your garden by the flowers, never by the leaves that fall. Count your days by golden hours. Don't remember clouds at all. Count your nights by stars, not shadows. Count your years with smiles, not tears. Count your blessings not your troubles. Count your age by friends, not years."

Abraham Lincoln once said, "My friends are my best treasure, the best part of life." I recently heard someone say, "You are more than a friend. You are a blessing." "Friends are like flowers in the garden of life. A friend is like a sunbeam that can always warm your day and bring you endless treasures as you travel on life's way." William Ellery Channing once stated, "True friends have no solitary joy or sorrow." In my collection of thoughts on friends and friendship, I found this thought by John Addison, "Friendship improves happiness and abates misery by doubling our joy and dividing our grief." Coleridge describes friendship as "a sheltering tree." Friendship and friends are truly gifts.

The Gift of Friendship. Friendship is a priceless gift that cannot be bought or sold, but its value is far greater than a mountain made of gold. For gold is cold and lifeless. It can neither see nor hear, and in the time of trouble, it is powerless to cheer. It has no ears to listen, no heart to understand. It cannot bring you comfort or reach out a helping hand. So when you ask God for a gift, be thankful if he sends...not diamonds, pearls or riches, but the love of real, true friends." Thanks for being a friend!

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea written by Dr Luetta G Werner

Published in the Marion Record July 30, 1998.

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Recently, I read an article about how our attitude depends on what we eat and when we eat, as it has major impact on our performance and moods. We have heard often, "you are what you eat," according to Dr. Jack Grapple, a well known nutrition and fitness expert, he tells us how to have a better attitude. He states that we need to remember what your mother said about breakfast. Don't skip it. Grapple says no ifs, ands, and buts... eat breakfast. Breakfast is most important. He tells us why it is so important. "After a good night's sleep, your body is nearly devoid of glucose or blood sugar you need to replenish when you eat a proper breakfast, your cognitive abilities, your energy and your attitude are better. Cereals and grains are good, and even a little fat is okay."

He tells us that eating for attitude and energy is a day long project. The rule, according to Grapple, is simple: eat four or five small meals, not three big meals - a hearty breakfast, lunch and dinner is old thinking. To keep your metabolism up, your blood sugar from dropping and yourself energized, you need to eat a small breakfast, a healthy mid morning snack, a small dinner and a healthy snack. He even suggests certain foods for certain times of the day. For energy in the afternoon, for example, many people opt for a light lunch, like a salad. This is one of the worst things you can do, because when you eat carbohydrates, your body releases an amino acid called tritopan. "That amino acid," he says, "triggers a hormone that has a relaxing effect, not good if you have a busy afternoon planned, select a chicken sandwich on rye bread and skip the mayonnaise." He says the protein causes the release of amino acid tyrosine, another big word with the simple meaning energy. And what about that late night snack? Carbohydrates make you feel calm if you have to eat late eat carbohydrates, he concludesl.

Did you expect another Warm Thoughts column on attitudes? Thanks to Dr Jack grapple, a very well known nutrition and fitness expert, on the subject. I'd love to discuss this a little more with him. Yes, you guessed it, just over a cup of tea.

Warm thoughts: The remarkable thing is, we have a choice every day regarding the attitude we will embrace for the day. We cannot change the past. We cannot change the fact that people will act in a certain way. We cannot change the inevitable. The only thing we can do is play on the one string we have, and this is our attitude. I am convinced that life is 10% what happens to me, and 90% how I react to it. And so it is with you. We are in charge of our attitudes. Charles Swindoll.

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Teawritten by Dr. Luetta G Werner

Published in the Marion Record July 23rd, 1998

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Recently, I attended a Quilt Fest at the Pioneer Hall in Freeman, South Dakota. There were 155 quilts displayed, and the featured quilter was a 94-year-old resident of the Salem home. Throughout her life, she has been involved in the making of hundreds of quilts, and love has turned the patterns into works of art. As I stood there by the Christmas quilt, the wedding ring quilt, and many others, there were many warm thoughts that flashed through my mind. In the many quilts I have given away in my lifetime, I have included this poem entitled "Warm Thoughts."

"Love is a quilt. A quilt is love, both love and quilt should be soft enough to comfort you, bright enough to cheer you, generous enough to enfold you, light enough to let you move freely, strong enough to withstand adversity, durable enough to last a lifetime and given gladly from the heart." Perhaps we can even say that God's love is a quilt - bright enough to cheer you and generous enough to enfold you and comfort you.

An unknown author has written these thoughts on "Another Comforter." "Overnight visits to Grandma's house were a whole new world. Grandma turning the crank on the butter churn, kneading yeasty homemade bread, ironing on the board placed between two chairs with a flat iron heated on the old wooden stove. Then bedtime came with the long truck up the stairs, strange noises, dark shadows. But grandma would always say, there's an extra comforter on the foot of the bed. What a haven. Just pull that comforter up over my head, and strange noises were shut out. Lurking shadows disappeared. No bright flashes of lightning could be seen, no cold chill could penetrate its warmth. But most of all, every hand stitched piece of that comforter radiated grandma's love and care. And grandma reminds me of God, not only did he send his son for our redemption, He went one step beyond and sent another comforter, a haven for every need, shelter, for every storm, light for our darkest days, healer of our deepest sorrows, and the warmth of his very own love.”

A Quilters Song, "Oh, give me a scrap bag filled to the brim with bright bits and pieces. So according to when I might make a rainbow or some butterfly wings, a mountain, a sunset and number of things, I thank you, dear Lord, and make quilts be your praise for the stitches and patches that brighten my days." Barbara Kraun.

More Warm Thoughts: Oh Lord, make the scraps of my life something useful. Stitch into my life your own design and use me as you will.

May you have many warm thoughts in the good ol summertime!

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea written by Dr. Luetta G. Werner

Published in the Marion Record on July 22nd, 1999

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It was "Christmas in June" at the little home on the prairie. Family drove from various areas of America to celebrate together, a few weeks ago. The temperature was in the 70s. Instead of snowflakes, an occasional mosquito buzzed by and a few June bugs. No snow fell, but rain dashed on the tent where children played and slept nearby. Father Christmas, or Santa Claus, did not even arrive in a boat or a sleigh. However, everyone enjoyed the festive Christmas foods and picnic style, since family is widely scattered and work schedules prevent getting together on December 25. We gather together during good old summertime.

Family traditions and celebrations for holidays and every day are very important. It is a reminder of the good old days when extended families lived in close proximity and traditions were passed from generation to generation. Family means a sense of belonging and people you can count on to share their time and values and care about strengthening family ties. Yes, it was Christmas in June and not Christmas in July, as it had been in former years. Yet, there were the fireworks, the creative activities, the decorations and snow boots, the mama cat and her kittens, including little snowflake, were the joy of the grandchildren at play. The lighted Christmas tree at the top of the stairs has gifts under its branches all year long. What fun to open the surprise gifts and negotiate with one another. Laughter filled the Christmas tea room.

There is always that solemn moment when we know there will be goodbyes in the morning, when family returns to their homes. We closed with singing Silent Night in harmony while Auntie Ruth gracefully used her hands as we tried to read the words in the sign language. And oh yes, Trina, we did not forget the wise men and the star as its light shone so bright in the dark night that lighted star reminded us all that wise men and women still seek Him. The reason for all seasons.

"A house built with love becomes home. A house is built by human hands, a house is made of bricks, a home is built by human hearts. A home is made of love. Having some place to go is home. Having someone to love is family. Having both is a blessing. Happy is a home that is filled with love." Celebrate family all year long!

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea written by Dr. Luetta G. Werner

Published in the Marion Record July 9th, 1998

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Till next time,

Trina

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The month of July is a very special month. July has many reasons to celebrate! Though not widely known, it was on July 2nd, not July 4th, that the Continental Congress passed the resolution declaring the independence from the colonies. We celebrate Independence Day on July 4. Are you a celebrator? Having lived several years in the Fourth of July city, Seward Nebraska, Independence Day has very special memories for me.

Singing the Star Spangled Banner has inspired millions and moved many to tears. It has symbolized with the flag what it really does mean to be a loyal American. Are you aware that it was here in the state of South Dakota that the Star Spangled Banner received the first impetus, which eventually led to its adoption as our national anthem? I was very impressed when I first learned about the history of this stirring song. It all happened in 1892 when Colonel Calb H Carlton assumed command of the Eighth US Calvary Regiment at Fort Meade near Sturgis. Carlton writes in his memoirs that he and his wife discussed the fact that the United States had no official song. Mrs. Carlton suggested they do something about it. It was at Fort Meade that Colonel Carlton ordered his Calvary band to play the Star Spangled Banner at all parades and formations. He further states that all persons, including civilians, should rise respectfully, and all men not under arms would remove their hats. Colonel Carlton promoted the idea beyond his own South Dakota base, and consequently, the practice was adopted by other commanders. There was something patriotically contagious about the show of respect for the song and the flag it honored.

It was a one sentence bill that passed on March 3, 1931 and signed by President Hoover that designated the Star Spangled Banner as the National Anthem of the United States of America. The patriotic custom began in the Black Hills, and so it gives our national anthem its roots in South Dakota.

Patriotic Thoughts: Francis Scott Key, a lawyer, wrote the lyrics for our national anthem during the morning of September 14th, 1814, at the dawn's early light. He saw the American flag fly, and in a burst of patriotic fervor, He hurriedly penned the immortal words. We thank the father of our national anthem with renewed patriotism, let's celebrate Independence Day. Happy Independence Day!

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea written by Dr. Luetta G Werner

Published in the Marion Record, June 25th, 1998

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The first day of summer - good, old summertime is very near. Next Sunday is not only the first day of summer, but it is also Father's Day. In our own special way, we honor our fathers on this day. We have our very special memories. Many memories touched my heart as I read about the "Old Fashioned Daddy."

Daddy was from the Old School. "Daddy was from the old school. He learned his lessons well. He passed them on to me. I'm not ashamed to tell. Daddy was from the old school. He worked hard every day. He didn't want a hand out. With dignity, he earned his pay. Daddy was from the old school, a mixture of the right stuff. He knew how to be tender and he knew how to be tough. Daddy was from the old school. Big boys weren't supposed to cry. Sometimes he would slip...I'd see tears in his eyes. Daddy was from the old school. He never took the last piece of cake. He would always nod at me. I knew it was mine to take. Daddy was from the old school. His clothes lasted a long time. He bought me the latest, sometimes spending his last dime. Daddy was from the old school. He loved the American way. He believed in freedom and guarded it every day. Daddy was from the old school. I didn't understand it back then, but now I fully see he was teaching me how to win. Daddy was from the old school. I guess I am too, daddy. Thank you for the lessons I owe so much to you."

These may be tears in your eyes as you, too, read about the "Daddy from the Old School." "It takes a man to cry," is a thought not often expressed. Children are truly blessed by the wise actions of their fathers. Blessed be fathers who honor their responsibilities in guiding their families. A salute to fathers on Father's Day.

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea written by Dr. Luetta G Werner

Published in the Marion Record, June 18th, 1998

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Trina

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When you read this column, it will be only a few days before Flag Day. I have often wondered if "Old Glory" could tell her story, just what she might tell us. Recently, I read some warm thoughts, which I'd like to share with you, my dear readers of this column. "Some people call me 'Old Glory.' Others refer to me as the 'Star Spangled Banner,' or the 'Stars and stripes.' But whatever they call me, I am your flag. I remember some time ago, people lined up on both sides of the street to watch a parade, and naturally, I was leading every parade proudly waving in the breeze. What happened? I am still the same old flag, but now I don't feel as proud as I used to be when I come down your street. You just stand there with your hands in your pockets. Then I see the children running around and shouting, is it a sin to be patriotic anymore? Have people forgotten what I stand for and where I've been?"

Our flag was first raised on June 14, 1777 and oh, it is more than a piece of cloth. Having a design of stars and stripes, it symbolizes the greatest nation on earth. It has been the refuge of millions of oppressed people from everywhere. It has stood for freedom from want and fear. The red stripes symbolize hardiness and courage - the hardiness of the early pioneers, the courage of the common working man. The white stripes signify purity and innocence - the purity of the idealists who believe that each person is a child of God, and the innocence that strives for his right to be here. The blue field is indicative of vigilance, perseverance and justice - the vigilance to protect man's freedoms, and perseverance that rejects all defeat, and justice the goal of free men everywhere. The stars unified on the field of blue embrace the fifty states as one unified for the good of mankind and country. Honor her, respect her, defend her, never let her enemies from without or within tear her down in shameful defeat, lest she never rise again. Place God first and others second, then our nation will remain the bulwark of peace, freedom and equal opportunity for all mankind. This is your flag. Let your heart salute her.

Warm and Winsome Thoughts: Dear friends, let us protect and respect our flag, a symbol that is so important, significant, and meaningful to those of us who love and honor and revere our country. Respect and protect our "Old Glory."

WarmThoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea written by Dr. Luetta G. Werner

Published in the Marion Record June 11th, 1998.

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Trina

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To some, Memorial Day means a day off from work, a three day weekend, opening day for the local pool, or the official start of the summer season. But for others, Memorial Day is a time to remember the dead, especially those who perished in America's wars. Memorial Day is said to have started in Waterloo, New York, when on May 5th, 1866 residents held a commemorative program and decorated the graves of those who died in the Civil War over time and as the United States fought more wars, Memorial Day, or "Decoration Day," as it is called in some areas, added the remembrance of those soldiers who died in World War I, World War II, the Korean conflict, the Vietnam War and Operation Desert Storm. Memorial Day is also a day of prayer for peace, as well as a patriotic day in which Americans display the flag.

Memorial Day has also become a day to honor one's ancestors and family members who have died. Many Americans visit the graves of their loved ones and leave flowers on this day. For a time, beginning in 1948, Memorial Day was observed on May 30th, issued by a presidential proclamation beginning in 1948. Since 1971, however, it has been officially designated the last Monday in May. This year, it falls on May 25th.

Recently, I read a poem written for Memorial Day by an unknown author, entitled, "I'm Free." "Don't grieve for me, for now, I'm free. I'm following the path God laid for me. I took His hand when I heard Him call. I turned my back and left it all. I could not stay another day - to laugh, to love, to work, to play. Tasks left undone, must stay at that way. I found peace at the close of day. If my parting has left a void, then fill it with remembering joy. A friendship, shared a laugh, a kiss, ah, yes, these things too, I will miss. Be not burdened with time of sorrow. I wish you the sunshine of tomorrow. My life's been full, I've savored much. Good friends, good times, a loved one's touch. Perhaps my time seemed all too brief, don't lengthen it now with undue grief. Lift up your heart and share with me. God wanted me now, He set me free."

Patriotic thought from an unknown source, commonly used during the Vietnam era: "You haven't lived until you've almost died for those who have fought for it, freedom has a favor that the protected will never know." May you have many Memorial Day memories!

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea, written by Dr. Luetta G Werner

Published in the Marion Record, May 28th, 1998.

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During the month of May, many states host an annual event on the governor's conference on "Aging." At these conferences, older Americans may learn new ways for healthy living and lifelong learning. Some time ago, my friend Mary shared an article entitled, "Nostalgia," which I feel may be interesting to our readers as they review the changes of the century.

"Over the last 50 to 60 years, we have been witnesses to many changes in our lives...Here are just a few of them: We were born before cordless phones, fax machines and ice makers. Who ever heard of organ transplants or root canals? Horsepower was something to do with a horse. Callers rang the doorbell instead of blowing their horn. The fallout problem was something kept under your hat, and when folks sat down to dinner, they counted their blessings instead of calories. Guided missiles were rolling pins and frying pans. A babysitter was called a mother. A child had more brothers and sisters than fathers, and a car didn't wear out before it was paid for. A housewife canned food instead of taking it out of cans. Being a parent required more patience than money. Baths were taken once a week, and religion every day, and the only red menace was long winter underwear. $5 worth of groceries filled two bags, and when we were in school, the hard stuff meant algebra. We did without disposable diapers, velcro and scotch tape. Instead of the internet and the information superhighway, we had the party line. In our day, television was truly a luxury, and a black and white luxury at that. Tape meant to reel to reel, not cassettes or videos... and CDs were certificates of deposits, not compact discs, and owning a "hi-fi" was all the rage, and who could forget driving a Packard or a Nash? The only millionaires in baseball were the owners. Bunnies were small rabbits and rabbits were not Volkswagens. Cars in our time met running boards, cranks, Model A Roadsters and rumble seats. A mouse was a furry little creature, not part of a computer, and the only babes politicians kissed were those in their mother's arms. We were before Hawaii and Alaska became states, Rudolph, the Red Nosed Reindeer, Snoopy, DDT, interstate highways, Holiday Inns, air conditioned cars and decaffeinated anything. We came from a time when we left our front door open. College kids swallowed goldfish, not alcohol, and in our day, songs had a tune and the words made sense. "Hippie" meant big in the hips. A trip meant travel. Bread came from bakeries, not the min. We were before microwave popcorn, child proof medicine bottles, and cars with cruise control. Streaking was what happened when you washed windows. Holidays were for getting together, not for getting away. And remember when a chick was a chicken, not the girl down the street? Tennis shoes were only worn in PE class. Bathing suits would cover your knees. And when you said, "I don't have anything to do," your parents said, "Find something to do!" In our day, we would swing and sway with Sammy K, waltz with Wayne King, dance to Guy Lombardo, and polka with Leo Greco. We have survived all of these changes and many more. What an exciting time to have lived."

Warm Thought: Anyone who stops learning is old, whether at 20 or 80, anyone who keeps learning stays young. The greatest thing in life is to keep your mind young. Henry Ford. May you have many warm thoughts!

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea, written by Dr. Luetta G. Werner.

Published in the Marion Record May 21st, 1998.

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As I write this column, on the day of National Day of Prayer, many warm thoughts come to mind. Throughout the country, many students will be graduating from schools of learning this month. Graduation is both a happy and a sad occasion. The diploma a symbol of excellence in knowledge, is the inheritance of our youth. I am reminded of what a big, gray haired, soft spoken Professor Greek once stated as he handed out the diplomas. He said, "Young ladies and gentlemen, it is not possible for everyone to have a great intellect, but it is possible for everyone to have a great heart."

Over a quarter of a century ago, I read an essay written by an unknown author entitled, "Two Easy Questions," which I feel I would like to share with you, my dear readers of this warm thoughts column: "It was graduation day, and as a teacher, I sat before the speaker's lectern. "Here we go again," I amused, "another boring, unimaginative, uninteresting speech." But how very wrong I was. The speaker merely said that he had two easy questions that he hoped each graduate could answer for himself in the affirmative. If any student had to give a negative answer to one or both questions, he stressed, then that person was in deep trouble. He asked the graduates, "Do you have the ability to love? Do you have the capacity to receive love?" I was moved. So was the entire audience. He went on, "There is an identification crisis in America. People don't know who they are or where they are going. They have no purpose. They are frustrated, and hate swells within them. If we don't love ourselves, how can we possibly love someone else? Hate blunts and stunts sensitivities and sensibilities. People attempt to erase this frustration and hate by eating too much, drinking too much and smoking too much. It takes people to help people become people. If we give love, we will receive love, but to love, we must love our bodies and chasten our emotions. We must not gallop and gulp, rather, we must pause to savor and sip. We all know that love is not physical, but our spiritual and mental and emotional complexities are so entwined with the physical that we must fight hard to make ourselves physically disposed to love. Love the bodies and chasten the emotions. In a world full of lonely persons, isn't it a tragedy for anyone to be lonely, alone?"

Some time has passed since that commencement speaker, bless him, hurled those two questions at his audience...but they continue to echo and re-echo in my mind. He did, however, give us a clue, a rule to live by: we must find love ourselves. Very well, I'll begin there. I'll love myself. I'll educate myself, discipline myself, and think noble thoughts. What's more, I'll even try to make myself more lovable. It is possible for everyone to have a big heart. May the inspiration of wisdom and hope for the future be with our graduates in their journey through life. Congratulations to the graduates!

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea written by Dr. Luetta G. Werner

Published in the Marion Record May 14th, 1998.

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When you read this Warm Thoughts column, it will be just a couple of days before Mother's Day. Many families will be together on this special family day honoring their mother. Recently, I read an essay, a letter a mother wrote to her daughter. It touched my heart, and no doubt will be taped on a kitchen cabinet or refrigerator, and so I share it with my readers.

Dear daughter,

Although you are only four-years-old and will not understand what I am saying, I feel the need to write this letter and put it away for you to read many years from now. When you were an infant and the newness of being a mother wore off, I couldn't wait until you grew up. At first, I found myself wishing, "if only she would start walking," and then, "if only she would start talking." One day, I suddenly realized that you were out of diapers. You were indeed walking and talking, and pretty soon you would be going off to school. I remember the morning your father and I brought your baby sister home from the hospital. You and I had been apart six days. When the door opened, I saw you standing there with your angel smile. You seemed so big compared to the baby I was holding in my arms, it was hard to imagine you were once that small. I suddenly realized how much of your babyhood I have wished away. Being a mother is demanding. It robs you of so many freedoms, and I resented the fact that I had so many added responsibilities. And then I looked down at your soft curls and your trusting eyes suddenly, I felt ashamed. My heart almost broke. I cannot relive those first four years, but I have been trying to make them up to you and to myself. I hope and pray that when your first child is born, you will be wiser and more mature than I was. I hope you will enjoy every phase of your child's growing up and not wish they would hurry and pass so you could be free of the burdens of motherhood. You and I will have our share of heated words and angry battles in the years to come. There will be days when we will find it impossible to please each other. I will secretly wish that you would hurry and graduate from high school so I could send you off to college and be rid of you. Life rushes by all too quickly, my darling daughter, especially the lovely days and the beautiful times. Be smarter than your mother was. Don't let a single moment slip away unsavored or unappreciated, these days are priceless, and afford you the greatest opportunities for fulfillment. Never again will your heart be so full.

All my love,

Mother

Warm Thought: Cherish each moment with your children and your grandchildren. Happy Mother's Day!

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea, written by Dr. Luetta G Werner

Published in the Marion Record May 7th, 1998

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As I write these lines, my thoughts are still centered on a hill outside Jerusalem. It is so overwhelming to realize God's love in our lives. Reflecting on Easter memories shared with family and friends, one finds in life meaning, purpose, hope, and love. Easter is the greatest celebration of the year, and should be celebrated every day. It is a joyous celebration of victory. The whole world becomes more beautiful at Easter time. For Easter ushers in spring, when all nature seemed as dead, there suddenly is life from brown branches and small twigs and stems tender green leaves come forth. The whole world is a veritable garden making a beautiful Easter offering.

Have you ever wondered why the beautiful Lily is called the Easter Lily? The lily has been used to decorate churches on Easter ever since Civil War times. The desire of churches to bring consolation to those who lost loved ones in war made it natural to choose Easter, which is the promise of the victory of life over death, as the occasion for special services. The lily, because it is symbolic of purity and new life, was so widely used that it became known as the Easter Lily. April showers bring May flowers. The song tells us the showers will bring many blessings among them, the flower gardens of spring.

Warm Thoughts: God never sends the winter without the joy of spring. God Almighty first planted a garden, and indeed it is the purest of human pleasures. Francis Bacon, "And of Gardens." This wish for Easter blessings is especially for you. So it's to be expected, warm thoughts go with it. May you have many Easter blessings!

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea written by Dr. Luetta G. Werner

Published in the Marion Record April 3rd, 1997.

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As families throughout the world look forward to celebrating the Easter season, I'm overwhelmed with many warm thoughts and memories. Memories of the place where all the events of Holy Week took place are so real and meaningful to me. Many times I relived that experience of walking the Via Dolorosa, "the way of sorrows" when I was there on my pilgrimage to the Holy Land. We all are pilgrims.

And an unknown author wrote the following prayerful thoughts: A Pilgrims Prayer. "Lord Jesus Christ, you were once a pilgrim in the Holy Land. We too have come as pilgrims to journey with you into the desert to listen to the powerful word of the God of Israel spoken in our own deserts. We follow you into Galilee to understand and experience your ministry of presence and healing. We come up to Jerusalem to join the great crowd that came to meet you crying Hosanna. Blessed is the one who comes in the name of the Lord. We walk with you on the road to Golgotha and share in your passion seeing you nailed to the cross. We bow down before your suffering and dying. We journey with you on the road to Emmaus and discover you in the breaking and sharing of the word and the bread. Show us the glory of your resurrection. Open our eyes, our hearts and our minds, so that we may find you not only in ancient stones, but in the midst of your holy people and among all those who thirst for you wherever they may be. Write your gospel upon our hearts, send us forth, carrying the good news, continue to lead us and guide us on our pilgrimage to the heavenly Jerusalem."

More Thoughts to Ponder: A Simple Path by Mother Teresa. "The fruit of silence is prayer. The fruit of prayer is faith. The fruit of faith is love. The fruit of love is service. The fruit of service is peace." May you have a joyful Easter season!

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea written by Dr. Luetta G Werner

Published in the Marion Record April 2nd, 1998.
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When many of you read this column, it will be National Day of Prayer, and large and small groups throughout our nation will be praying for the future of our world. In America, these groups are found in homes, churches, offices, factories, schools and in state and national capitals. These groups believe that positive prayer is power, and that behind all leaders of church and state, there must be prayer.

Many years ago, I read some thoughts from Dr. Frank Laubach's illuminating book, "Prayer: the Mightiest Force in the World." He states, "We do not persuade God to try harder when we pray, it is our world leaders, our statesmen and churchmen, whom we persuade to try harder. When great numbers of us pray for leaders, a mightily, visible, spiritual force lifts its minds and eyes towards God. If they listen to our suggestions, we would probably be more or less wrong. But what God tells them when they listen to him, it is infinitely better for world leaders to listen to God than for them to listen to us."

Most of us can never enter the White House and offer advice to the President. Probably, he will never have time to read our letters. but we can give him what is far more important than advice we can give him a life into the presence of God. Make him hungry for divine wisdom, which is the grandest thing one man ever does for one Father. Everyone who prays can be a builder of the future.

Prayer Thoughts: "Prayer can change lives and it can change nations. A rich harvest is fulfilled by the seeds of prayer. Through prayer, we become richer in our hearts and warmer in our love." J. Carrie Sexton. "Prayer is the bridge that we throw across the space between our weakness and God's strength, a bridge over which he can walk into the hearts of men." Helen Smith Shoemaker. Pray for our country and our leaders!

Warm Thoughts from Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea written by Dr. Luetta G. Werner

Published in the Marion Record April 1st, 1997.

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I've had many warm thoughts this past week, as I have been given cards, well wishes, flowers, thoughts and prayers. It has been uplifting to receive them while I'm recuperating in the hospital. On the day of my accident, the birds were flying high in the sky.

It was a beautiful sight as they flew in formation, I couldn't help but remember what was written by an unknown author: "Unity: A Lesson from the Geese." As each bird flaps its wings, it creates an uplift for the bird following. By flying in a V formation, the whole flock adds a 71% longer flying range than if each bird flew alone. Lesson - people who share a common direction and sense of community can get where they travel on the thrust of one another. Whenever a goose falls out of formation, it suddenly feels the drag and resistance of trying to fly alone, and quickly gets back into formation to take advantage of the lifting power of the bird immediately in front. Lesson - if we have as much sense as a goose, we will stay in formation with those who are headed where we want to go. When the lead goose gets tired, it rotates back into the formation and another goose takes over at the point position. Lesson - it pays to take turns during the hard tasks and sharing leadership, because people like geese are interdependent. The geese in formation honk from behind to encourage those up front to keep up their speed. Lesson - we need to make sure our honking from behind is encouraging, not something less helpful. When a goose gets sick or wounded or shot down, two geese drop out of formation and follow him down to help and protect him. They stay with him until he is either able to fly again or dies. They then launch out on their own, either with another formation or to catch up with the original flock. Lesson - if we have as much sense as the geese, we'll stand by each other like they do.

Warm Thoughts: Peace is seeing a sunset and knowing who to thank. Spring is here. Enjoy!

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea written by Dr. Luetta, G. Werner

Published in the Marion Record March 28th, 1996.

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When you read this column, many of you will be wearing green and celebrating St. Patrick's Day in your own sweet way. It is interesting that this day is a great day, not only for the Irish, but is observed throughout the country. The day is three days before the first day of spring, and wearing green reminds us of the season of spring and is symbolic of life. The wearing of the green on St. Patrick's Day has long been featured in our country.

This little poem says it so well: "St. Patrick, it was who started the style, let's wear a bit of green for the Irish - a cheer; for the Shamrock - a smile. Let's all wear a little bit of green." In my research on St. Patrick's Day, I found that March 17th was the day St. Patrick died in AD 461. He was a Christian missionary to Ireland in the fifth century, and the founder of many schools and churches. St. Patrick's Day in Ireland, is their greatest holiday, as well as holy day, and this day is celebrated by Irish families all over the world. The Shamrock is Ireland's chief emblem. I found it interesting that a town named for it is in the warm sunshine state of Florida. Each year, many persons send letters there to be stand with the Shamrock postmark.

I have always been impressed with the Irish wit and the Blarney of my Irish friends. I love their sense of humor and all those motivational skills they seem to be born with. I had always wished for a bit of Irish ancestry in my heritage, but in my genealogy studies have found none. I have chosen some very special friends who have been blessed with all that Irish wit and wisdom. One of those friends has her birthday the day before St. Patrick's Day, and we have been friends since high school days. We have shared our joys and sorrows, our challenges and our dreams. We shared those on the job training, experiences of parenting and now grandparenting. She is a true friend who revealed to me she has prayed every day for me. No wonder she is my cheerleader. How thankful one needs to be when you have a very special friend. As we see the signs of spring appearing, many warm thoughts fill our hearts and minds. Underneath that blanket of snow, there is life, and the snow birds of Florida and Texas are returning to the north and the heartland of America. May the season of spring have special meaning in our lives.

A bit of Irish wit: "Where beauty has no ebb, decay, no flood, but joy is wisdom, time, and endless song." WB Yeats - "In the Land of Hearts Desire. A Warm Thought for the Week: "It is often just as sacred to laugh as it is to pray." Charles R Swindoll. Have a great week and remember to laugh and pray!

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea written by Dr. Luetta G Werner

Published in the Marion Record March 17th, 1994

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Over a month ago, I received a telephone call from my sister, who lives in Colorado. She stated that in a few days, a new computer would arrive in her home. She told me the name of her computer, but I just forgot. Since then, I have asked her the computer's name and whether it was a boy or girl. Now this may sound strange to the faithful readers of this warm thoughts column. However, if you remember, even America was referred to as a "she" by former President Reagan, and you are aware that ships have been known as being female. Example, "steady as she goes," and "she's sailing great captain!" I'm not a scientist when it comes to computers, and my grandchildren are far more computer literate than I am.

This is very interesting to me, and I'm sure you will find it interesting too. I was told that a group of computer scientists, of course, these were all males, announced that computers need to be referred to as being female. I really wondered about this, but I just reasoned that this might be because ships are female. However, their reasons for drawing this conclusion is spelled out in the following five reasons. 1. No one but the Creator understands their internal logic. 2. The native language they use to communicate with other computers is incomprehensible to everyone else. 3. The message bad command or file name is about as informative as if you don't know why I'm mad at you, then I'm certainly not going to tell you. 4. Even your smallest mistakes are stored in long term memory for later revival. 5. As soon as you make a commitment to one, you find yourself spending half your paycheck on accessories for it. After the men came up with their scientific conclusive evidence, the women had to proclaim their scientific findings too. And so another group of computer scientists, this time, all female, came up with their brilliant thoughts on the matter. They felt they had scientific conclusive evidence that all computers in the future should be called male. They claim they have five good reasons to believe that all computers are male. 1. They have a lot of data, but are still clueless. 2. They are supposed to help you solve problems, but half the time they are the problem. 3. As soon as you commit to one, you realize that if you had waited a little longer, you could have obtained a better model. 4. In order to get their attention, you have to turn them on. 5. Power surges knock them out for the rest of the night.

What are your thoughts on this? Do the scientific findings sound reasonable to you? Yes, what are your thoughts? I treasure the gems of wisdom and humor that the readers of this column give me. I asked my friend, and she just told me to ask my grandchildren. Until I know the answer, I will just keep on typing these columns on my very favorite IBM typewriter. She helps me think the best! More next week. "Never miss the chance to read to a child a story." Max Lucado

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea written by Dr. Luetta G Werner

Published in the Marion Record March 15th, 2001
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Trina

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Each year on the first Friday of the month of March, World Day of Prayer is held throughout the world. Women of every nation, creed and color, gather together in a place of worship to offer their prayers in word and song. They offer their prayers for peace and reconciliation and have become God's ambassadors and prayer warriors to the world. World Day of Prayer has touched the hearts of many throughout the world.

I believe it was Tennyson who once said, "More things are wrought by prayer than this world ever dreams of." So let your voice rise like a fountain night and day. Frank Laubach also stated, "Prayer is the mightiest power in the world. Throughout this world, many men and women are becoming more and more aware of the tremendous power in prayer." An unknown author once wrote, "When we depend upon organizations, we get what organizations can do. When we depend upon education, we get what education can do. When we depend on man, we get what men can do. But when we depend upon prayer, we get what God can do." May every day be a World Day of Prayer!

Warm Thoughts on Prayer: If you are going to pray, don't worry. Pray often, for prayer is a shield to the soul. The fewer the words, the better the prayer. Martin Luther. The family who prays together, stays together. May each day be a World Day of Prayer!

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea written by Dr. Luetta G. Werner

Published in the Marion Record March 15th, 1996

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Trina

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In recent Warm Thoughts columns, you have read about the joy one receives when you really listen to children. Their words of wisdom not only surprise us, but their thoughts jog our minds to higher levels of understanding, for they are our master teachers. I was so pleased to learn that our governor signed a proclamation encouraging us to find a child to read to on March 2nd. This date is America's "Read to Kids Day." It is hoped that all states will become aware how important it is to read to the children. This is a nationwide campaign to encourage reading.

There is great joy in reading to children and for families to designate a special time to read together. It encourages children to create their own stories and also develop critical thinking about the stories they read or are being read to them, listening to their creative thoughts helps us in celebrating special time together. Why was this date chosen for this nationwide campaign on reading? It happens to be the 94th birthday for Dr Seuss. So "color your world" and join in this reading campaign. "My Many Colored Days" is the last book published by Dr Seuss. Reach out beyond your world to encourage reading. Thanks for caring about our children who need our time to read to them.

Warm Thought: Rediscover the exhilaration of laughter, the freedom of honesty, and the joy of simplicity through the lives of children around you. Paul Welter. Pearls of Wisdom from Students: Wisdom is the reward you get for a lifetime of listening when you'd rather have been talking. Opportunity won't often knock for the fellow who doesn’t give a wrap. From the mail bag - Recipe for life: Take two heaping cups of patience, one heart full of love, two handfuls of generosity, dash of laughter, one head full of understanding. Sprinkle generously with kindness. Add plenty of faith and mix well, spread over a period of a lifetime, serve to everyone you meet. Celebrate life by reading to the children!

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea written by Dr. Luetta G. Werner

Published in the Marion Record February 26, 1998

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During this heart month, I would like to share some thoughts about teacher student relationships. I was recently made aware of a survey that was taken by researchers at the State University of New York at Buffalo a number of years ago, the survey examined high school students perceptions of their teachers and classes. The researchers asked juniors and seniors in 18 high schools across the nation to write essays on various aspects of their educational experience.

What were the likes and dislikes? More than 68% of the comments were directly concerned with the student teacher relationship. Students admired teachers who were informal, warm, fair, dedicated, competent, honest, curious, witty, understanding, and lively, and they wanted teachers to respect them as individuals and adults. Those teachers who did nothing more than lecture a whole period were found to be boring and monotonous by the students who favored a more varied teaching style that might include audio visual aids outside readings, class projects, and most importantly, discussions. I could not help but think, what would researchers find now in this 21st century? The sample that the researchers used was neither random nor stratified, but they believed the responses are representative enough to permit generalizations about the American students in that era.

I also found in my files "Nine Rules for Teachers" in 1872 - there were only nine, not ten, but they were commanded by the administration. 21st century teachers may find them quite interesting. 1. Teachers each day will fill lamps, clean chimneys. 2. Each teacher will bring a bucket of water and a scuttle of coal for the day's session. 3. Make your pens carefully. You may Whittle nibs to the individual taste of the pupils. 4. Men teachers may take one evening each week for courting purposes, or two evenings a week if they go to church regularly. 5. After 10 hours in school, teachers may spend the remaining time reading the Bible or other good books. 6. Women teachers who marry or engage in unseemly conduct will be dismissed. 7. Every teacher should lay aside from each pay a goodly sum of his earnings for his benefit, declining years so that he will not become a burden to society. 8. Any teacher who smokes, uses liquor in any form, frequents pool halls or gets shaved in a barber shop will give good reason to suspect his worth, intention, integrity and honesty. 9. The teacher who performs his labor faithfully and without fault for five years will be given an increase of 25 cents per week in his pay, providing the Board of Education approves.

Have a great day!

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Dr Luetta G Werner

Published in the Marion Record February 17th, 2000
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Once again, I would like to take my readers to that one room country school where I experienced many warm thoughts as a very young student of the four R's. As I stated in last week's column, I would often look at the wall, where one would see the pictures of two presidents. These two presidents, Abraham, Lincoln and George Washington, became my hero presidents. Our Pledge of Allegiance and respect for the flag was a part of the old country school. Oh yes, I did whisper in that one room school, and since this was against school rules, I would often find myself standing in the corner of the room near the bucket of water with a dipper and a row of library books on the shelf.

As I read the classics, I would dream of the book I would plan to write someday, I did learn that George Washington was known as the father of our country, and that he and his family had come from England. It was just a few years ago, when I was in Shakespeare country in England, that I was informed that George's family lived in that area before coming to America. It always impressed me that President Washington was the father of our country. This was a very impressive time in my life, and I gained a lot of respect for all fathers in our country who labored long hours to support their families. It was a time when many families faced challenges during those memorable Depression years.

As we now look forward to our national holiday, Presidents Day, it has given me an opportunity to reflect on the thirteen presidents who have been a part of my life. It may be a day when many prayers will be offered for divine guidance for the President and the leaders of our country. A Thought to Ponder: How did the saying, "Let George do it," ever get started? Is it as old as the father of our country?

Warm Thought: America has been built on faith and love in action. Our patriotic and national character is our greatest investment. Have a patriotic President's holiday.

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Dr Luetta G. Werner

Published in the Marion Record February 16th, 1995.

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Perhaps some of my readers of this column will remember the days of the one room country school as the birth date of Abraham Lincoln on February 12th approaches. My thoughts go to the old one room country school, where I would often look on the wall and see the pictures of two great presidents: Abraham Lincoln and George Washington, who were both born in February. It was back in the good old days when both birthdays were a holiday. It was also the age when children were "to be seen and not heard," and one did not whisper, as "silence was golden."

As we studied the life of Lincoln, he became my hero president, a man of great faith and courage. He was born in a log cabin living on the frontier. The family bravely endured many hardships and poverty. His mother died when he was nine years old. His father remarried and young Abe then had a stepmother, and Abe became a true son of the frontier. His life was filled with many disappointments, failures and losses. His sweetheart died and he was defeated in many elections. He faced many challenges, but was determined as President to do all he could do to save the Union. His famous Gettysburg Address has been memorized by many students. Many quotes from his speeches are still used today. His life and work has touched the lives of many. One cannot help but realize that the tangled failures that often occur in our lives can really serve as a thing of joy and beauty.

Warm Thoughts: All that I am or ever hope to be, I owe to my angel, mother. Abraham Lincoln. The best thing about the future is that it comes one day at a time. Abraham Lincoln. Live one day at a time!

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea written by Dr. Luetta G. Werner

Published in the Marian Record February 9th, 1995.

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In last week's column, it was mentioned that January 21 is national hugging day. I also read about Thank you day being in January, and the last week in January has long been known as international forgiveness week. The other morning, I was listening on the radio and heard it say that a noted Doctor stated that "70% of the people would be released from hospitals in 24 hours if they knew they were forgiven." A French philosopher once said that "to know all is to forgive all."

Among my heroes of faith are many missionary friends whose forgiving heart has taken them to their former captors. That is the story of St Patrick's, who went back to Ireland as a Christian missionary to take the love of Christ. A well known missionary and author of many books, worked among the people who killed her husband and other missionaries. There are many heroes of faith who live a life of daily forgiveness. Forgiveness is the mark of maturity. Life is too short to hold a grudge. Harry E Fausik once said, "Hating people is like burning down your home to get rid of a rat. The inability to forgive and forget is what makes someone sick." As we have many warm thoughts on forgiveness during International forgiveness week, may we remember there is a little remedy to ease the life we live and make each day a happier one. It is the word "forgive."

Warm Thoughts to ponder: "Friendship flourishes at the fountain of forgiveness." William A Ward. "The weak can never forgive. Forgiveness is the attribute of the strong." Gandhi. "I will forgive their iniquity and remember their sin no more." Jeremiah 31:34. Have a beautiful forgiveness week.

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Dr Luetta G Werner

Published in the Marion Record January 25th, 1996

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The home fires may be burning in your home as we together listen on the radio and watch TV about the travel challenges many are facing throughout the country. Upon my return from travel to Seattle during the holiday season, I was welcomed with 20 degree below zero weather. However, my heart was warmed as I listened to the phone messages and read the many cards, letters, and precious thoughts which I received - you all really made my day.

Among the thoughts sent to me was a letter from my friend, Dr Green in Vermillion, South Dakota. She included thoughts from an unknown author, which I feel are so warm and precious and need to be shared with you, dear readers of this Warm Thoughts column. "When the song of the angels is still, when the star in the sky is gone, when the kings and princes are home, when the shepherds are back with the sheep, the work of Christmas begins to find the lost, to heal the broken, to feed the hungry, to release the prisoner, to rebuild the nations, to bring peace among people, to make music in the heart."

I was also reminded the Lifelines Magazine that January 21st is National Hugging Day, and a dear friend in Florida sent me the poem entitled, "Hugs for Everyone." "It's wondrous what a hug can do. A hug can break the language barrier and make your travels so much merrier. No need to fret about the store of them. The more you give, the more there are of them. So stretch those arms without delay, and give someone a hug today." Thank you, dear friend - a hug for you across the miles.

Words of Wisdom: Patience is the ability to idle your motor when you feel like stripping your gears. Author Unknown. Instead of counting your days, make every day count in this new year. For all those who have suffered in the past incredible pain, may we remember that the light that sheltered the darkness can put together the broken pieces of our hearts. Author Unknown. Please accept my hug to help you, a true friend. Remember January 21st is National Hugging Day!

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Dr Luetta G. Werner

Published in the Marion Record January 18th, 1996.

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This is the first Warm Thoughts column for 1998. An unknown author once wrote this New Year's thought, "What the new year will bring us depends a great deal on what we bring into the new year." Among the many Christmas greeting cards received were many warm thoughts: A Prayer for Peace. "Dear Lord, let this be a year that moves us one step closer to each other. Let this be a year that brings us understanding in our hearts. Let this be a year that fills us with a yearning, burning, feeling for peace with one another and a oneness, Lord, with you."

The new year is a refreshing thought. It speaks of a new opportunity, a new beginning, a new start. It is a moment to consider again where we are going. Each new year finds us at a different place in our life's journey. How we approach the opportunity of each new year determines which way we are going. The new year is best entered when some fresh dreams have challenged the heart, when some steps of faith have been applied to plans, and when some consideration has been given to goals and objectives. The new year is ours to turn some corners and start an upward climb in our journey through life.

More New Year's Thoughts: The past is my heritage, the present is my responsibility, and the future is my challenge. Lord, grant me the common sense to profit by my yesterday, the wisdom to live to the utmost my today, and vision to cope with my tomorrows. I know not what the future holds, but I know Who holds the future. Best wishes for renewed hopes for peace, joy and success in the new year!

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea written by Dr. Luetta G Werner

Published in the Marion Record, January 1st, 1998
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Many warm thoughts crossed my mind as I attended the 20th Winter Commencement at the University of South Dakota. Amid all the pomp and circumstance, I was in the audience giving cheers to my colleagues for their achievements. Graduation at Christmas time with holiday festivities seems to have special meaning for many families. The commencement address was given by a very successful businessman, who also received the Distinguished Service Award from President Betty Turner Asher. The speaker, Doug Scholl, spoke on the "A" life - our advanced thinking can help us to give something back, we can soar with the eagles, our attitude is important in making choices...He warned us not to associate with people who hate.

I was reminded, as I reflected on his "A" message of one of the many letters I received with holiday greetings. It was from Nebraska's 1995 Mother of the year, Jeannie Berry. She wrote that as we read the papers, our prayer is to close the door of hate and open the doors of love all over the world. Again, the Alma Mater song sung by the choir had even more special meaning as I listened, "South Dakota, how dear to thy children, thy name, how daring the tales offer retold of thy builders who first to thy wilderness came. There's a glory that never grows old. Oh, the pine crested peaks of these storied Black Hills, the Missouri that ribbons thy plain, where the slant summer sunshine so lavishly spills over prairie in pasture and grain, younger feet shall come trooping to gather thy wealth. Younger voices shall ring through thy halls, keep us true to the type of the brave pioneer, no hardship, air daunted his quest, alma mater lead on to the untried frontier. We follow the trail to the west." May these warm thoughts touch your heart during this beautiful holiday season.

Warm Thoughts to ponder: Wise men still seek him. A Happy New Year to you all!

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Luetta G Werner

Published in the Marion Record on December 28th, 1995.

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Every year now, as Christmas Eve and Christmas Day approaches, my memories take me to the little town of Bethlehem. How special it was to be able to worship in a cave on the shepherd hills in Bethlehem, the night I worshiped in a cave on those Shepherd hills will long remain in my memories. We traveled the winding roads of those hills with Abraham as the driver of the bus called "the guiding star," and Elijah and Gabriel guided the driver as we sang those beautiful Christmas carols. It seems that the angels in heaven were helping us to sing on those Shepherd hills.

I wrote about this unforgettable experience later, high on the hill in an international hotel in Jerusalem, and will share a few thoughts with you: "The lights from the bus brightened the way to the Shepherd's hills. We go. Gabriel did say, with Bible in hand, and friends so dear, "we were sure that Jesus surely was here." The guiding star took us through many a path. One hardly could keep from a having a laugh. I know God must laugh at us many a time as we hurry and scurry and not watch his sign. I wondered if ever we'd reach the site, and would there be warmth and would there be light. "My child, I'm here," I heard him say, "It is night and tomorrow is Christmas Day." I knelt with the shepherds at that humble cave, and we sang and worshiped and praised his name. The beauty and joy of this Christmas night will forever make remaining days bright." Let us all return to Bethlehem in spirit and remember what the angels sang on those hills so long ago. Peace on earth, good will to men.

Warm Thoughts: Peace is not a season. It is a way of life. God gave us memories so that we might have roses in December. James M Berry. Have a joy filled Christmas season!

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Luetta G Werner

Published in the Marion Record on December 21st, 1995

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Christmas is a time when our thoughts turn to the special people God has brought into our lives, and as we remember, our hearts are warmed with love. Have you written that Christmas letter yet? Christmas epistles provide a capsule accounting of the important events which would otherwise be forgotten in the faded memory of our minds, they reflect for generations to come the love, joy and hope that were your footprints in the sands of time, even if others do not appreciate the exercise. It is a great gift to give to yourself and your family, the gift of memories.

I received from Jane Graff the "10 Commandments of Christmas Letters," and felt you would appreciate reading these commandments. #1: Keep it short! More than what fits comfortable on an 8x11 sheet probably will get laid aside to be read after the holidays, if at all. #2: Present an overall approach to the year, rather than a daily diary, much of which could be considered...who cares. #3: The intermingling to joyous and sad events, takes skill. And while these are part of life, the ongoing theme of joy and hope should come through. #4: Since this is used as a means of communications on an annual basis, bringing people up to date is part of the task. Going back through plowed ground in great detail is not needed or appropriate. Phone calls or further correspondence can be directed to or from people who are interested in knowing all about it. #5: Depending on the number of children and their ages, information on each should range from brief to none. If the children are interested in keeping in touch with relatives, they will do their own epistle. #6: The reason for the season is the focus of the exercise. Thanks be to God that Christmas comes whether we are ready or not, but that it comes once a year is important in keeping the address book current. #7: Some wait, sending only to people who write to them. However, I feel that every friend I have is worth the price of a stamp. It is good to get letters out so that cards coming back carry news and information about what is going on in their lives. #8: The understatement is always the password when describing the accounts of brag items - certainly noteworthy and needed, the wording about awards or events should be tastefully done. #9: Room for a short personal note is also a thoughtful consideration. The unsigned, photo copied letter may be viewed by some much as a card with only an insscribed name, asking about specific events or happenings in their lives invites a long term two way communication. #10: Keep a complete file of your Christmas epistles for the records, even if some look upon this exercise with a certain amount of humor or even disdain, it is for you and your family. The Chronicles of your children or grandchildren, along with Candid snapshots through the years, provide a unique glimpse into their heritage. Thanks, Jane for those 10 Commandments.

These 10 Commandments of Christmas Epistles will be appreciated by many of the Warm Thoughts readers who write those great, informative, scholarly, and precious Christmas Epistles.

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Dr. Luetta G. Werner

Published in The Marion Record, December 10th, 1998
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It is National Family Week. As I write this warm thoughts column, families have traveled from far and near to celebrate the Thanksgiving holiday. There is more travel over the Thanksgiving weekend than any other time of the year. How wonderful for families to be together and celebrate the family ties. Every day is a day to celebrate the family.

In today's world, there is a concern about the family and their relationships. Peter Marshall once wrote, "We are not willing to risk losing the love in our relationship with our children by persevering with them in matters of discipline, the biggest single cause of the breakdown of the American family is that so much of what we could call love, the Puritans would have another name for...idolatry." Unlike most modern parents, the Puritans knew that their children did not belong to them. They belonged to God. Consequently, they did not possess them. On the contrary, they considered that their children had been entrusted to their care by God. They were to protect them, raise them and teach them, training them up in the way that He would have them go.

Parenthood was sacred responsibility. Arnold H Glass once stated, "The family fireside is the best of schools. Families that are built on love, respect and togetherness, instead of social climbing or the pursuit of successful careers. Our nation's hope for survival. Every joy shared adds more love. Every crisis faced together makes the family stronger."

Think about it, how do strong families provide stability for a nation? Your kindness influences your children, your humor influences your home, your joy influences your actions, your service influences your society. A nation is only as strong as its families. God made us a family. We need one another, we love one another, we forgive one another, we work together, we play together, we worship together together. We use God's Word together. We grow in Christ together. We love all men together. We serve our God together. We hope for heaven.

An unknown writer once stated that, "A happy family is an early heaven." Thank God for our loving and caring, strong families throughout the world. Have a joy filled holiday season!

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Dr. Luetta G. Werner

Published in the Marion Record, December 3rd, 1998

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Thanksgiving Day. Have you wondered about that first Thanksgiving Day? I found it very interesting that 200 years ago, in 1789 George Washington declared November 26th the official day of Thanksgiving. This year, Thanksgiving falls on November 26th. After 1789, the States continued to celebrate on different days.

It was Sarah Hale, an editor of a women's magazine in Boston, who waged a 30 year letter writing campaign to governors and the presidents, urging them to make Thanksgiving Day a national holiday and to pick one day for the celebration. President Lincoln proclaimed the last Thursday in November as a day of National Thanksgiving in 1863. Franklin Roosevelt pushed Thanksgiving into December in 1939 but two years later, it was moved back to the present, fourth Thursday in November.

Thanksgiving really dates back to October 1621 in Plymouth, Massachusetts. Many of the pilgrims who had come over on the Mayflower the previous year had died, and the survivors had weathered a severe winter, but their fortunes had changed by the spring and summer, and they had good crop harvests, thanks to the help of a local tribe, the Wampanoags. To celebrate the better times, the Pilgrims declared a holiday so that all might, after a more special manner, rejoice together. The Pilgrims did not forget the hard times, and they had a custom of putting five kernels of corn on each empty plate before a dinner was served. These five kernels were chosen because prior to that first harvest, things were so bad that the daily ration was five kernels of corn per person per day. That custom of the pilgrims is a reminder for us to reflect upon our blessings, which are given to us by a gracious, generous God.

Thanksgiving is a day of reflection on all that America has, our freedom, and our bounty. Every day is a day of thanksgiving and thanks living. I am reminded what the late A W Tozer once wrote about the habit of thanksgiving. He stated that "Thanksgiving will cure a host of injurious evils in our dispositions, self pity, resentment, murmuring and fault finding. All these will wither and die of themselves. For how can they grow inside a heart overflowing with gratitude and praise?" An unknown author wrote these prayerful thoughts, "Lord, we thank you for the privilege of living in a land of opportunity and beauty and plenty. We thank you for a religious heritage and freedom to worship as we may desire. We thank you for houses of worship that point fingers of stone towards heaven. We thank you for friends across the street, throughout the land, and around the world. We thank you for friendly nations on our borders and the ability to help the less fortunate in our own and other lands. We thank you for fertile fields swathed in robes of golden grain, for rolling plains blanketed with herds of lowing cattle, for majestic mountains ribbed with an ooze of steel. We thank you God for strength to work, for minds to plan and hearts to appreciate all good things from heaven." Happy Thanksgiving!

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Dr Luetta G Werner

Published in the Marion Record November 26th, 1998

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Are you making preparation for the family Thanksgiving? This week, I will share some thoughts from the book, "Just Folks," by a very favorite author, Edgar A Guest.

The Old Fashioned Thanksgiving. "It may be I am getting old, and like too much dwell upon the days of bygone years, the days I love so well. But thinking of them now, I wish somehow that I could borrow a simple old Thanksgiving Day like those of long ago. When all the family gathered round a table richly spread with little Jamie at the foot and Grandpa at the head, the youngest of us all to greet the oldest with a smile, with mother running in and out and laughing all the while. It may be I'm 'old fashioned,' but it seems to me today we're too much bent on having fun to take the time to pray. Each little family grows up with fashions of its own. It lives within a world itself and wants to be alone. It has its special pleasures, its circle, too of friends. There are no get together days. Each one his journey, wends. Pursuing what he likes the best in his particular way, letting the others do the same upon Thanksgiving Day. I like the olden way the best when relatives were glad to meet the way they used to do. But when I was but a child, the old homestead was a rendezvous for all our friends and kin, and whether living far or near, they all came trooping in with shouts of "Hello, daddy!" as they fairly stormed the place and made a rush for mother, who would stop to wipe her face. Upon the gingham apron before she kissed them all, hugging them proudly, to her breast, the grown ups and small. Then laughter rang throughout the home, and oh, the jokes they told - from Boston, Frank brought new ones, but Father sprang the old. All afternoon, we chatted, telling what we hoped to do, the struggles we were making and the hardships we'd gone through. We gathered round the fireside, how fast the hours would fly, it seemed before we'd settle down, it was time to say goodbye. Those were the glad Thanksgivings, the old time families knew. When relatives could still be friends, and every heart was true."

I enjoyed these thoughts so much by Edgar Guest, that I felt I just had to share these thoughts with you, the dear readers of this warm thoughts column. Thanks for sharing your thoughts during the holiday season!

More warm thoughts: We derive the greatest joy from the fact that we have people to love. Martin Luther. A thankful heart is the parent of all virtues. Cicero.

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Dr Luetta G Werner

Published in the Marion Record, sometime in November.

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November. Can it really be November? Already, it seems, the year has it's last flare of youth in October. In November, the earth folds its hands, hands that have been trained in the lesson of content and waits for that garment of snow.

We have had some very beautiful autumn days this year, days for travel. No, I did not travel to Florida for that historic launch into space, but I did manage the trip to Nebraska, and while there, attended a 50th wedding anniversary of dear friends who live in Seward Nebraska, that Fourth of July city. It was so special to be able to share at that golden celebration a poem I wrote, and so I will also share the poem with the readers of this warm thoughts column.

50 Years of Happiness. It may seem to you like yesterday, yet 50 years have passed away. Since at the altar you stood side by side a very young groom with his happy bride. And now your children's children stand close, gathered round and eager band. You may recall with smiles and tears the joys and griefs of those 50 years. For you have known the cares of life, sweethearts you were as man and wife. Yet you have not loved each other less through those 50 years of happiness. And now, as you are turning gray, you still trust in God your guide and stay. He's your constant and unchanging friend. He'll lead you both to your journey's end.

At a time when the average marriage is lasting seven years, it is certainly commendable that there are still some marriages who can celebrate that golden anniversary. Cheers to Les and Dorothy!

More Warm Thoughts: "Grow old with me. The best is yet to be." Browning. "The glory of green grasses fades away like shadows in the quiet autumn night, the golden leaves descend like birds in flight and in them, squirrels, like children, run and play." May you have many warm thoughts these autumn days!

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea written by Dr. Luetta G. Werner

Published in the Marion Record, November 5th, 1998

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A recent warm thoughts column provided information about Make a Difference Day, which is October 26th. It is a day when everyone is encouraged to make a difference in their community and world by making it a Day of Caring, an annual National Day of helping others. Across the nation, about 1 million Americans will help others on this Make a Difference Day.

Can one person make a difference? We are aware that there have been many difference makers in history, to name a few. We remember that Thomas Edison brought us out of darkness and into electric light. Henry Ford gave us the Model T. Eli Whitney gave us the cotton gin. Ben Franklin provided your bifocals. John Bunyan guided the progress of millions of pilgrims. Then there was Columbus, Lincoln Beethoven, Einstein, and many others who made a difference. Our lives can be blessed by a caring community. I personally experienced this following a car accident that took six months of recovery. The outpouring of love and compassion was phenomenal. Over 600 cards and prayerful letters of encouragement for a speedy recovery were received. Visits and telephone calls from all parts of the country. A surprise call even came from caring friends who live in Switzerland and England. One afternoon, I experienced a caring community with their points of light and how they certainly can light up one's life and make a difference. I am very thankful for the caring communities around the world, whoever you are and wherever you are, thanks for all your caring.

Warm Thoughts: Caring is a garden where love grows. The world is blessed by people who care. The impersonal hand of government can never replace the helping hand of a neighbor. Hubert H Humfrey. A little time to care for others, a little time to share with others. That's what makes someone like you so nice to know and to be with too. Helen Steiner Rice. October 26th is National Make a Difference Day!

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Dr. Luetta G. Werner

Published in the Marion Record October 17th, 1996

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While in southern Nebraska on a weekend retreat, my daughter called the Little Home on the Prairie from Texas. Thanks to answering machines, she informed me that in their area in Texas, they got their first cold front. The temperature got to a lovely 70 degrees. I also was made aware that Boulder, Colorado had a storm, no school, and in Denver, many of the trees were destroyed because of an ice storm. And my friend in Florida informs me about the challenges their state experiences in Love Bug month. This time traveling back home throughout the heartland of America, I saw many fields not yet ready for harvest that had been damaged by the early frost. It brought back memories of the challenging years that many of us experienced as a child in those years of depression, which now seem to be history.

I thought about what a Nebraska woman wrote in her best years should be now...She went on to state that she now has a beautiful home in a lovely neighborhood, an expensive new car, anything I want to eat, a hard working husband and good health. She then went on to state that her best years were in being a kid in the depression years, even though she lived in an old house with no running water and wore hand me down clothes, she didn't realize it was a depression, as she had a lovely family, and there were no concerns about who would be the next president or if another war might start.

As I traveled along in my thoughts, I couldn't help but remember what a wise man once stated, "though the fig tree does not bud and there are no grapes on the vines, though the olive crop fails and the fields produce no food, though there are no sheep in the pen and no cattle in the stalls, yet I will rejoice in the Lord," from Habakkuk.

A Thought to Ponder: "Money is not required to buy one necessity of the soul." Henry David Thoreau. Share a warm thought with someone each challenging day!

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea, written by Dr Luetta G Werner

Published in the Marion Record, October 5th, 1995.

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A recent article I read states that the United Nations General Assembly has designated 1999 as International Year of Older Persons. The theme will be "Towards a Society of All Ages." This theme was chosen to promote the philosophy that societies should be inclusive in nature, should embrace all population groups, and share their resources equally. October 1st, 1998 will be the day that the UN launches this year long celebration, which is also the International Day of Older Persons, having its beginning in 1990.

The United States Planning Committee for this unique year recognizes aging as multi-dimensional and spanning every individual's lifelong development, the importance and contribution of Older Persons to intergenerational richness, the heterogeneity of the older population, and it's concern about the continuing poverty of many older persons and the necessity to provide adequate health care in the later years. The committee seeks to create opportunities for all of our citizens to understand, appreciate, and celebrate the contributions to nation, community, and family of older persons as citizens, caregivers, volunteers, and workers. The committee is working to focus attention on the challenge to our nation to ensure that the increases in life expectancy are matched by the increased opportunities for older persons to find fulfillment to these years. It also recognizes education as an enterprise that is lifelong and takes place in many different settings. It is the mission of this committee to encourage thoughtful planning of intergenerational projects, seminars, discussion groups and ethnic and cultural heritage programs in educational systems, corporations, religious organizations and the public and private sector. So dear readers of this warm thoughts column, be looking for special events in our community and be an active participant in this year honoring many of you.

Grandma and Grandpa: "I like to walk with grandma and grandpa. Their steps are shorter like mine. They don't say, 'Now, hurry up!' They always take their time. I like to walk with grandma and grandpa. Their eyes see things mine do. Wee pebbles bright, a funny cloud, half hidden drops of dew. Most people have to hurry. They do not stop and see, I'm glad God made grandma and grandpa unrushed and young like me." Author unknown. Celebrate "Towards a Society of All Ages" all year.

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Dr Luetta G Werner

Published in the Marion Record, October 1st, 1998

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Recently, one of the readers of this column from Texas sent me an article entitled, "We Are Survivors: Consider the Changes We Witnessed." I thought it appropriate to share some of the thoughts from this article. Individuals who were born prior to 1945 will especially understand the changes in their lives.

"We were before television, before penicillin, before polio shots, frozen foods, Xerox, contact lenses, frisbees and the pill. We were before radar, credit cards, split atoms, laser beams and ballpoint pens. Before pantyhose, dishwashers, clothes dryers, electric blankets, air conditioners, drip dry clothing and before man walked on the moon. In our times, bunnies were small rabbits and rabbits were not Volkswagens. We were before daycare centers, group therapy and nursing homes. We never heard of FM radio, tape decks, electric typewriters, artificial hearts, word processors, yogurt, and guys wearing earrings. For us, time sharing meant togetherness, not computers or condominiums. A chip meant a piece of wood. Hardware meant hardware and software wasn't even a word. In our day, grass was mowed. Coke was a cold drink, and pot was something you cooked in. Rock music was grandma's lullaby, and pizzas, McDonald's, and instant coffee were unheard of. We thought fast food was what you ate during Lent and outer space was the back of a local theater. We hit the scene when we were five and ten stores where you bought things for five and ten cents. The corner drug store sold ice cream cones for a nickel or a dime. For one nickel, you could ride a streetcar, make a phone call, buy a Pepsi, or enough stamps to mail one letter and two postcards. You could buy a new Chevy coop for $600 but who could afford one? A pity too, because gasoline was only 11 cents a gallon, and we got married first, and then lived together, and we were the last generation that was so dumb as to think you needed a husband to have a baby. But we survived!"

Warm Thoughts: Seasons change, and so do people. For me, managing change quite literally meant "survival." Terry Anderson. May you have many warm thoughts every day!

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Dr Luetta G Werner

Published in the Marion Record, September 26th, 1996

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One of the very faithful readers of this Warm Thoughts column recently sent me an article entitled, "You Can Make a Difference." It was an article informing the public to take action on October 26th and make that day a day of caring, a national day to inform us that the Make a Difference Day can help everyone to help others. The sixth annual event, in partnership with the Points of Light Foundation, takes place on October 26th. Mark your calendar!

How do you plan to spend Make a Difference Day? It may be a month away, but it is not too early to think about what you can do to help your community pull together a project for the day. You can also make a difference in the life of even one lonely shut in, give a helping hand to a busy mother, write a letter of cheer to someone in need of an encouraging word, or touch the life of a child by sharing the gift of time with that child. Perhaps Saturday, October 26th does not fit into your schedule. Then make it October 17th for a day that will also make a difference day for you or someone in need.

There is no age limit for this Make a Difference Day. The stories of volunteers are very heartwarming. In Maryland, 10 year olds gave personal items to an older friend. Two retired teachers in Selma, Alabama befriended a 96 year old widow, helping her to continue to live independently. And in Washington State, friends celebrated their 50th birthday by collecting 7,500 pounds of food, clothing, and blankets for an emergency network. Perhaps this Make a Difference Day can focus on your regular service project in the church or community. If you want a big impact on Make a Difference Day, pull the community together to blitz a needed project or solve an existing need in the community. Just think about it. Will you make a difference? One person can make a difference. Will it be you?

Warm Thoughts to Ponder: Give what you have to someone, it may be better than you dare to think. Longfellow. Remember October 26th is Make a Difference Day!

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Dr. Luetta G Werner

Published in the Marion Record, September 19th, 1996.
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Some time ago, a dear friend and great grandma who has faced many emotional challenges in her life, shared some thoughts about counting. This dear friend regularly reads this Warm Thoughts column and wanted to share the thoughts by an unknown author with all you dear readers out there, somewhere. We live in an age where we have many choices and changes. Some time ago, I heard someone state that "pain is inevitable, but misery and being miserable is a choice." In the School of learning and hard knocks, the following thoughts may warm our hearts and perhaps motivate us in our own countdown.

"Count your blessings instead of your crosses, count your gains instead of your losses. Count your friends instead of your foes. Count your smiles instead of your tears, count your full years instead of your lean. Count your kind deeds instead of your mean. Count your health instead of your wealth. Count on God instead of yourself." Thanks to your friend for sharing these warm thoughts. Your thoughtful gift of sharing, perhaps touched some dear soul who takes time to read and live these thoughts.

A Thought to Ponder: Choose carefully the company you keep, for you may become what they are.

A Warm Thought: Choose carefully the memories you live with. Have a beautiful day counting your blessings!

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Dr. Luetta G. Werner

Published in the Marion Record, September 7th 1996.

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Recently, I read a very interesting article on the challenges of aging. Studies by the experts state that "the generation who are celebrating their 50th, 60th and 70th anniversaries have succeeded in kicking the blabbers out of the stereotypes of aging." Perhaps this can be explained by one word - attitude. The experts stated, "the attitudes of a 70-year-old today are equivalent to those of a 50-year-old, but only a decade or two ago." It is interesting how many couples are in their 50th, 60th and even 70th wedding anniversaries. More individuals are also reaching that century mark. The late George Burns stated, "I see people who, the minute they get to be 60, start rehearsing to be old. They practice when they sit down and grunting when they get up, and by the time they get to be 70, they're a hit. They've got the part - they're old."

I like to think that the streams of life bring depth and wisdom in our lives. Goth finished his Faust at 81. At 80, Verdi produced his famous Falstaff. Tennyson wrote "Crossing the Bar" at 83. Valtaire was still penning plays at 84. Monet was painting great pictures at 86. Marian Baininray in "The Stillness is Dancing" says, "At 50, the mind has yet to reach its zenith. At 60, it as at its best, and then declines gradually that at 80, those who have kept themselves mentally alert can be just as productive as at 30. Judgment and reason may have actually improved and creative imagination is scarcely touched by age. I think Mark Twain says it best, "Age is mind over matter. If you don't mind, it doesn't matter."

Warm Thoughts: If you are too busy to laugh, you are too busy. The old are the precious gems in the center of the household. Chinese proverb. Have many warm thoughts every day!

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Dr. Luetta G Werner

Published in the Marion Record, August 19, 1996.

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August is the time of year that families take that last fling and perhaps go to the mountains before school starts. It is often a quiet time of reflection, a time to reflect on many happy summertime activities. At a quiet moment, I discovered some beautiful thoughts by an unknown author that I'd like to share with my loyal readers of the Warm Thoughts column.

"In this special moment in life...think freely, practice patience, smile often, savor special moments, make new friends, rediscover old ones. Tell those you love that you do. Feel deeply, forget trouble, forgive an enemy. Hope, grow, be happy and joyful. Count your blessings. Observe miracles, let them happen. Discard worry, give, give in, trust enough to take. Pick some flowers, share them. Keep a promise. Look for rainbows, gaze at the stars. See beauty everywhere. Work Hard, be wise, try to understand. Take time for people, make time for yourself. Laugh heartily, spread joy. Take a chance, reach out, let someone in. Try something new. Slow down, be soft sometimes. Believe in yourself. Trust others. See a sunrise, listen to rain. Reminisce, cry when you need to, trust life. Have faith, enjoy wonder, comfort a friend. Have good ideas. Make mistakes, learn from them. Celebrate life." Author, unknown.

More Warm Thoughts: See a silver lining in every cloud. Enjoy the Beautiful Sunsets. Have many warm thoughts every day!

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Luetta G Werner.

Published in the Marion Record, August 15th, 1996.

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Summertime. Good old summertime! It is a good time to get in some summer reading. My grandchildren from Ohio sent me the book, "If Tea Cups Could Talk," by Emily Barnes. I have enjoyed reading the many warm thoughts in this book over a cup of tea. I've also had many special moments with the grandchildren, as we have our tea party.

I have learned some interesting lessons about tea cups. China dishes recovered from shipwrecks are often good as new, long after the ship itself has dissolved in the salt water. Porcelain is fragile, but it is also remarkably durable, like us. Like life, humans are beautiful and breakable. Like tea cups, humans can heal and grow and move beyond disaster. We can reach out to one another in encouragement and comfort. Nancy Reagan has stated that, "a woman is like a tea bag. It is only when she is in hot water that you realize how strong she is." Tea time offers so many wonderful possibilities for nurturing friendships, and if tea cups could talk, they would also say so much about the past and also about the future. For hundreds of years, "come for tea" has been another way of saying, "Come. Let's share a little bit of our lives together." If teacups could talk, their message no doubt would be, "use me."

Warm Thoughts Over the Tea Cup: "If you are cold, tea will warm you. If you are too heated, it will cool you. If you are depressed, it will cheer you. If you are exhausted, it will calm you." William Gladstone. "She was passionately interested in everything I did. She spoke with candor and good grace. Then, defying the reality of crutches and straightened knee, on wings of hospitality, she flew to brew the tea. Tom Hegg from "A Cup of Christmas Tea." Have many warm thoughts over a cup of tea!

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Dr Luetta G Werner

Published in the Marion Record, August 8th, 1996.

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Recently, I read a book by H. Jackson Brown Jr. entitled, "Live and Learn and Pass it On." In the book, people, ages 5 to 95 share what they have discovered about life, love, and other good stuff. Some of the thoughts are a bit humorous, but somehow we can get the message. I've personally discovered throughout my years that if we really listen, we can learn so much.

The following are a few quotes from individuals, and it lists their age when they said these words. "I've learned that goldfish don't eat jello." Age five. "I've learned that trust is the single most important factor in both personal and professional relationships." Age 20. "I've learned that nothing of value comes without effort." Age 64. "I've learned that if you care, it shows." Age 30. "I've learned that kindness is more important than perfection." Age 70. "I've learned that education, experience, and memories are three things no one can take away from you." Age 67. "I've learned that self pity is a waste of time." Age 81. "I've learned that anger manages everything poorly." Age 53. "I've learned that some money costs too much." Age 51. "I've learned that if your children feel safe, wanted and loved, you are a successful parent." Age 39. "I've learned that encouragement from a good teacher can turn a student's life around." Age 44. "I've learned that I don't feel my age as long as I focus on my dreams instead of my regrets." Age 83. "I've learned that it is impossible to teach without learning something yourself." Age 51. "I've learned that learning to forgive takes practice." Age 15. "I've learned that I still have a lot to learn." Age 92.

Warm Thought: A life, like a garden, requires cultivation. Have many warm thoughts every day!

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Dr Luetta G Werner

Published in the Marion Record, August 1st, 1996.

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During July, in the month when we celebrate independence day, many patriotic thoughts come to mind as I see "Old Glory" wave high in the skies. If that flag could speak, what would it say? In my thought file, I have the following thoughts about our flag.

"I am your flag. I was born on June 14th, 1777. I am more than just a cloth shaped into design. I am the refuge of the world's oppressed people. I am the silent sentinel of freedom. I am the inspiration for which American patriots gave their lives and fortunes. I have led your sons into battle from Valley Forge to the bloody ridges of Korea. I walk in silence with each of your honored dead to their final resting place beneath the silent white crosses, row upon row. I have flown through peace and war, strife and prosperity, and amidst it all I have been respected. My stripes symbolized the blood filled in defense of this glorious nation. My white stripes signify the burning tears shed by Americans who lost their sons. My blue field is indicative of God's heaven under which I fly. My stars, clustered together, unify 50 states as one - for God and country. "Old Glory" is my nickname and proudly I wave on high. Honor me, respect me, defend me with your lives and your fortunes. Never let my enemies tear me down from my lofty position, lest I never return. Keep alight the fires of patriotism, strive earnestly for the spirit of democracy, worship eternal God and keep His commandments and I shall remain the bulwark of peace and freedom for all mankind."

Patriotic Thoughts: Patriotism is the sum of the three virtues - faith, hope and charity. Faith in the principles of our government, hope in the future of our country, charity toward all and malice toward none. Patriotism is that spirit that makes us help our neighbors when they are in distress, and extend sympathy when they are stricken. Patriotism is a tugging at our heartstrings in a sincere kinship with those who toil in the field, shop, or marketplace. Patriotism is loving one's country, respecting its traditions, and honoring its people - high or low, rich or poor. God bless America!

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Dr. Luetta G Werner

Published in the Marion Record July 31st, 1997.

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Traveling throughout the heartland of America, I was impressed with the beauty of the green fields. After attending the International Congress on the Family in Colorado, it was a joy to again spend special time with family and friends and celebrate another birthday. I did not realize that the year I entered this big world, it was a banner year. It was family in Wisconsin who shared these thoughts on a birthday card.

It was quite interesting for me to learn that in that banner year, a lot of things were happening out west and prices were different from our present age. Imagine a pair of Levi's from Miller Stockman, Denver's famed Western Wear Outfitter was $2.35. And a Ford Model T touring car sold for the amazing price of $290. Oh those good old Model T days! In the field of education the year I was born, the Texas officials removed the theory of evolution from school books. It was the year Congress established the Army Air Corps. As a result, the military pilots were trained in the Corps and in the next years they said numerous world aviation records. humorist Will Rogers has thoughts which may be of interest as he spoke about country and the Congress. He stated, "This country has come to feel the same when Congress is in session as we do when the baby gets a hold of a hammer. It's just a question of how much damage he can do with it before we can take it away from him." And what was happening back East and elsewhere? It was a year that Emperor Hirohito took control in Japan. It was the year that women's skirts stopped just below the knee. The shortest hemlines so far. Ernest Hemingway published, "The Sun Also Rises." And what was happening in the scientific world? In a scientific first, rocket pioneer Robert Goddard fired a liquid propulsion rocket and it rises more than 40 feet.

As I reflect on the many changes that have taken place in my lifetime, and there have been many, things may change but God is always God. Thoughts to Ponder: "Change of scenery does not change you. A changed you can change the scenery." Celebrate life!

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Dr. Luetta G. Werner

Published in the Marion Record July 27th, 1995.

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Many of the readers of this warm thoughts column are aware that I write these lines a week before you have the opportunity to read the column. When you read this column, I will have returned from the International Congress on the Family, which was held on July 5th - 9th in Denver, Colorado. So stay tuned to this column as I will share with you my personal experiences and thoughts from this Congress.

As I write these lines, they're anticipating 6,000 participants from all over North America and around the world at this International Congress. Those who come we hope will gain a fresh perspective and a renewal of hope for the future of the family and for Christian family values. As I anticipate my attendance at this Congress, I cannot help but reflect on the International Congress for the Family held in England in July 1990. It was my joy to be in England that year and serve on the publicity committee for that Congress. Opening that Congress was the Princess of Wales and among the many outstanding speakers was Mother Teresa of Calcutta. Mother Teresa closed the conference with the theme, "Family - Community of Love." She has inspired many in servant leadership in her work with the poor and the sick. She won the 1979 Nobel Peace Prize. Her love and concern for children has inspired many people to be advocates for the children of the world. Few people have matched the contributions this saintly woman has made to mankind. Now in her 80s, she continues her service to humanity.

The 1995 International Congress on the family in Denver is a joint effort of the American Association of Christian counselors and Focus on the Family. Stay tuned and experience with me a landmark event, renewing our hope together for the future of the family.

Warm Thoughts: Your kindness influences your children. Your humor influences your home. Your joy influences your actions. Your service influences your society. Author Unknown. Celebrate the family!

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Dr. Luetta G Werner

Published in the Marion Record July 13th, 1995.

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The month of July is a very special month. July has many reasons to celebrate. Though not widely known, it was on July 2nd, not July 4th, that the Continental Congress passed the resolution declaring the independence from the colonies. We celebrate Independence Day on July 4th. Are you a celebrator? Having lived several years in the Fourth of July city, Seward, Nebraska, Independence Day has very special memories for me. Singing the Star Spangled Banner has inspired millions and moved many to tears. It is symbolized with the flag, what it really does mean to be a loyal American.

Are you aware that it was here in the state of South Dakota, that the Star Spangled Banner received the first impetus which eventually led to its adoption as our national anthem? I was very impressed when I first learned about the history of this stirring song. It all happened in 1892, when Colonel Calb H Carlton assumed command of the 8th US Calvary Regiment at Fort Meade near Sturgis. Carlton writes in his memoirs, that he and his wife discuss the fact that the United States had no official song. Mrs. Carlton suggested they do something about it. It was at Fort Meade that Colonel Carlton ordered his Calvary band to play the Star Spangled Banner at all parades and formations. He further states that "all persons, including civilians, should rise respectfully and all men not under arms would remove their hats." Colonel Carlton promoted the idea beyond his own South Dakota base, and consequently the practice was adopted by other commanders.

There was something patriotically contagious about the show of respect for the song and the flag it honored. It was a one sentence bill that passed on March 3rd, 1931, and signed by President Hoover that designated the Star Spangled Banner as the National Anthem of the United States of America. The patriotic custom began in the Black Hills, and so it gives our national anthem its roots in South Dakota.

Patriotic Thoughts: Francis Scott Key, a lawyer, wrote the lyrics for our national anthem during the morning of September 14th, 1814. At the dawn's early light, he saw the American flag fly and in a burst of patriotic fervor, He hurriedly penned the immortal words, "We thank the father of our national anthem." With renewed patriotism, let's celebrate Independence Day. Happy Independence Day!

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Dr. Luetta G. Werner

Published in the Marion Record, June 25th, 1998.

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The first day of summer! Good old Summertime is very near. Next Sunday not only is the first day of summer, but it is also Father's Day. In our own special way, we honor our fathers on this day. We have very special memories. Many memories touched my heart as I read about the "Old Fashion Daddy."

Daddy was from the Old School

Daddy was from the old school. He learned his lessons well. He passed them on to me, I'm not ashamed to tell. Daddy was from the old school, he worked hard every day. He didn't want a handout with dignity he earned his pay. Daddy was from the old school, a mixture of the right stuff. He knew how to be tender and he knew how to be tough. Daddy was from the old school, big boys weren't supposed to cry. Sometimes he would slip and I'd see tears in his eyes. Daddy was from the old school, he never took the last piece of cake. He would always nod at me, I knew it was mine to take. Daddy was from the old school, his clothes lasted a long time. He bought me the latest, sometimes spending his last dime. Daddy was from the old school, he loved the American way. He believed in freedom and guarded it every day. Daddy was from the old school, I didn't understand it back then. But now I fully see he was teaching me how to win. Daddy was from the old school, I guess I am too. Daddy, thank you for the lessons. I owe so much to you.

These may be tears in your eyes as you too read about the Daddy from the Old School. "It takes a man to cry," is a thought not often expressed. Children are truly blessed by the wise actions of their fathers. Blessed be fathers who honor their responsibilities in guiding their families. A salute to fathers on Father's Day.

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Dr. Luetta G Werner

Published in the Marian Record, June 18th 1998.
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When you read this column, it will be only a few days before Flag Day. I have often wondered if "Old Glory" can tell her story, just what she might tell us. Recently, I read some warm thoughts which I'd like to share with you, my dear readers of this column.

"Some people call me 'Old Glory.' Others refer to me as the 'Star Spangled Banner' or the 'Stars and Stripes,' but whatever they call me, I am your flag. I remember some time ago, people lined up on both sides of the street to watch a parade. And naturally, I was leading every parade - proudly waving in the breeze. What happened? I'm still the same old flag. But now I don't feel as proud as I used to be. When I come down your street, you just stand there with your hands in your pockets. Then I see the children running around and shouting. Is it a sin to be patriotic anymore? Have people forgotten what I stand for? And where I've been?"

Our flag was first raised on June 14th, 1777. And oh, it is more than a piece of cloth having a design of stars and stripes. It symbolizes the greatest nation on Earth. It has been the refuge of millions of oppressed people from everywhere. It has stood for freedom from want and fear. The red stripes symbolize hardiness and courage - the hardiness of the early pioneers, the courage of the common working man. The white stripe signify purity and innocence - the purity of the idealists who believe that each person is a child of God, and the innocence that strives for his right to be here. The blue field is indicative of vigilance, perseverance, and justice - the vigilance to protect man's freedoms and perseverance that rejects all defeat and justice, the goal of free men everywhere. The star is unified on the field of blue embrace the 50 states as one, unified for the good of mankind and country. Honor her, respect her, defend her. Never let her enemies from within or without, tear her down in shameful defeat. Lest she never rise again. Place God first and others second, that our nation will remain the bulwark of peace, freedom, and equal opportunity for all mankind. This is your flag. Let your heart salute her.

Warm and Winsome Thoughts: Dear friends, let us protect and respect our flag, a symbol that is so important, significant and meaningful to those of us who love and honor and revere our country. Respect and protect our "Old Glory."

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Dr. Luetta G. Werner

Published in the Marion Record, June 11th, 1998.

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Trina

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June, the month for Children's Day, Father's Day, Flag Day, a month for birthdays, wedding anniversaries, bridal showers, weddings, graduations, family reunions and the celebration of family. I find it very interesting that Children's Day and Flag Day fall on the same day and Father's Day and the first day of summer are also on the same day this year.

It is such a joy to listen to the children, for they seem to be our master teachers. One boy, a fifth grader said, without my father, it would be like a ball without any air inside it. It seems that something and every child no matter how old yearns to be connected with his father in an affirming relationship. Their heartfelt responses can really warm your heart. A recent Gallup poll brought out that 70% use very positive words like "great," "fantastic," "tremendous," "close," or "warm" in describing their relationship with their father. Dr. Ken Canfield, Director of the National Center on Fathering states, "Children, particularly when they are young, think their father is the smartest, richest, and strongest man on earth." Research and the experience of fathers confirms this statement.

And how do we describe our children and our grandchildren? The sainted Erma Bombeck, who was famous for her column, "At Wit's End," wrote in an article which appeared in May 1977, that bringing up children is like flying kites. The following are her warm thoughts. "I see children as kites. You spend a lifetime trying to let them off the ground. You run with them until you're both breathless, they crash. You add a longer tail. They hit the roof top, you pluck them out of the spout. You patch and comfort, adjust and teach. You watch them lift by the wind and assure them that someday they will fly. Finally, they are airborne, but they need more string and you keep letting it out. With each twist is a ball of twine. There is a sadness that goes with the joy because the kite becomes more distant. And somehow you know that it won't be long before that beautiful creature will snap the lifeline that bound you together. And soar as it was meant to soar - free and alone. Only then do you know that you did your job."

A Bit of Wisdom: "The best things to give a child - roots and wings." H. Carter. "There is just one way to bring up a child in the way he should go and that is to travel that way yourself." Abraham Lincoln. Give your child or grandchild a hug!

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Dr. Luetta G. Werner

Published in the Marion Record, June 4th, 1998.
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This Warm Thoughts column on family, during National Family month, had a beginning as I was 16,000 miles in the air - flying over beautiful Ohio and returning from visiting families in Ohio. It was very special to be able to attend the grand opening of the Warner Funeral Services in Mansfield, Ohio. Another highlight of my Ohio visit was to be able to attend the graduation ceremonies of my granddaughter, Rosa Warner. Six-year-old Rosa was radiant as she walked across the stage and received her "Master's Degree in Kindness Acts" from kindergarten. It was so special for her two Grandmas to share that moment.

This is the time of year for families to enjoy times together at graduations, weddings, and many family gatherings. It is no wonder that May 11th through June 15th has been designated "National Family Month." When you read this column, I will have flown back home to the little home on the prairie after attending my niece's wedding in a cathedral in St. Louis Missouri. Yes, home sweet home. And while I was gone, family enjoyed retreating in that little home on the prairie too. Thanks dear readers of this column for sharing your samplers about Home Sweet Home. Here's another sampler that brings grace and love to another home: Home is where the heart is. Home sweet home. There is no place like home. East or west, home is best. Home is where the heart is. Home sweet home.

Warm Thought: When I graduated from college I remember the big, gray-haired, soft spoken professor of Greek, who handed us our diplomas and said, "Young ladies and gentlemen, it is not possible for everyone to have a great intellect but it is possible for everyone to have a great heart." When I felt hopelessly defeated, this thought came back to me. Author unknown. Some people come into our lives quietly go. Others stay for a while or leave footprints on our hearts and we are never the same. Celebrate the family.

Warm Thoughts from Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea, written by Luetta G. Werner

Published in the Marion Record on some day in May, the year of 1997.

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1900 to 1925 - The Missionary Generation - the happiest, most satisfied generation. This generation values family, God and church. 99 Nobel Peace Prizes have been won by this generation!

1926 to 1945 - The Sandwich Generation - 50 million in the US, they are sandwiched between boomerang children and aging parents. Family, school, and church are important. This generation also believes in hard work, frugality, loyalty. Early retiring husbands are in this generation. The sandwich generation is eager to reach out to other cultures, some joined the Peace Corps.

1946 to 1964 - Baby Boomers - 76 million in the US. They make up 45% of the adult population. Twice as many went to college as their parents. They are against sexism. They want help with their children and parents. They are the first generation to have television. 70% of Boomer women work outside the home - they waited until their 30s to have their babies. Two out of three Boomer women have been divorced. They like quality-quality projects and want lots of choices and options. They long for traditional values in raising children.

1965 to 1976 - The Baby Busters - 40 million in the US. They are also called the 13th generation, generation Y. They were born during the era of cable TV, fluctuating economy, and Desert Storm. High-tech, high touch, low self-esteem. They do not like planning and preparation. They are accustomed to divorce. Survivors. They are expected to become more conservative during midlife crisis. They want connection and diversity.

1977 to 1995 - The Baby Boomlets - the millennial eneration. This generation is less materialistic and more social conscious. They are highly informed. They believe religion and what parents believe is not so important. They are interested in community projects and mission endeavors. Will they become a missionary generation like their forefathers and foremothers? They may if there are enough left in that generation to mentor them.

As we reflect on the past century, it is interesting that it is the 100th anniversary of the Nobel Peace Prize. We even have a stamp to remind us about this anniversary. Mother Teresa was one of the recipients of the Nobel Peace Prize. When she was asked, "How can we bring peace to the world?" She answered, "Just go home and love your family."

"We are not meant to do great things for God but small things with great love." Mother Teresa.

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Dr. Luetta G. Werner

Published in the Marion Record, May 17th, 2001
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I hope you enjoyed this podcast episode! Please follow along on this journey by going to visualbenedictions.com or following me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, and Overcast. And don’t forget to rate and review so more people can tune in! I’d greatly appreciate it.

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Trina

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Snow showers in April bring us the month of May. Soon it will be the month of May - an exciting month of the year. A month of wonders. The amazing beauty and mystery of this world wraps itself into May. May is family month. There are the Mother's Day celebrations, graduations, and the May flowers help us celebrate and also honor the dead on loved ones graves. The beauty and drama of this world entwines the whole month of May.

The first Thursday in May is National Day of Prayer. The entire month of April has been "Pray USA," and people everywhere have become more aware of the power of intercessory prayer. A National Day of Prayer has been an American tradition since the Continental Congress first declared its need for Godly wisdom in 1775. Then in 1952, Congress passed a joint resolution establishing an official day of prayer. The law was amended in 1988, permanently setting the day as the first Thursday in May.

This year, one of the speakers in Washington DC will be Dr. John C. Maxwell. It was my privilege to attend a prayer seminar he presented recently in Houston, Texas. He is the author of the book "Partners in Prayer." His life was changed when a stranger came to him and stated, "John, I believe God has called me, a lay man, to disciple, encourage, and pray for pastors. And the reason I came here today is so that I could pray for you." With those words, John Maxwell saw his agenda replaced by God's agenda. This stranger who felt the need to pray for this pastor fulfilled a need in Maxwell that he didn't even know he had. The results were very evident fourteen years later in the 3,500 member church the pastor served. Many people who have become partners in prayer have strengthened their prayer life and reap the benefits of the power of prayer.

Warm Thoughts: If you pray for one another, you will be helped yourself. Yiddish proverb. For more of our nation's life is shaped by prayer than is formed by legislation. The single most important action contributing to whatever health and strength there is in our land is prayer. Eugene Peterson. May the month of May bring you many warm thoughts!

Warm Thoughts from Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Dr. Luetta G Werner

Published in the Marion Record, April 24th, 1997.

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I hope you enjoyed this podcast episode! Please follow along on this journey by going to visualbenedictions.com or following me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, and Overcast. And don’t forget to rate and review so more people can tune in! I’d greatly appreciate it.

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Trina

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Easter joy! May all of you who read this column have a joyous Easter season. The day of Easter 1993 may be history, but the joy of that first Easter and the joy of every Easter sunrise service and every Easter celebration since that first Easter will live on and on. In my last column I shared some warm thoughts about Bethlehem and the plight to the Holy Land. If it were not for Easter, the season of Christmas would not be a celebration. Easter is truly a celebration of life.

This past week, many people throughout the world celebrated the real reason for celebrating Easter. Many worshipped in their church, and some even traveled and made their pilgrimage to the Holy Land and walked the Via Dolorosa or the way of sorrows and traveled that road to Calvary. For many families, it was a time of loss and sorrow, but a time of growth as they share their grief. For many other families, it was a joyful time of being together and celebrating the season of Easter. Some schools experience spring break and holiday, and children especially appreciate this time of family togetherness.

A survey was once taken and 1,500 children were asked this question, "What do you think makes a happy family?" We are so often surprised by the wisdom of children. They don't list money, cars, fine homes, or televisions. The answer they gave most frequently was "doing things together." And so we listen to the children. "I just love the stories my mom and dad tell me when I am tucked into my bed." "Singing together and going to church together as a family." "Vacation time when we can go to the hills." Yes, a time of togetherness. Perhaps as you think about celebrating family, you will agree with the results of the survey and listen to what the children in our lives are telling us. It is the time to celebrate Easter and new life and time to celebrate the family.

A Warm Thought for the week: The greatest investment you can ever have is to spend time with your family. Have an Easter season filled with joy!

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Dr. Luetta G Werner

Published in the Canistota Clipper April 15th, 1993.

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I hope you enjoyed this podcast episode! Please follow along on this journey by going to visualbenedictions.com or following me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, and Overcast. And don’t forget to rate and review so more people can tune in! I’d greatly appreciate it.

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Happy Easter! After the long winter, the seeds of spring are beginning to appear. We are reminded once again that in our lives we will have times of winter, but spring will come as promised. Spring is a time when one gets the urge to travel with the birds and visit family and friends, renewing old friendships and making new friendships. This past weekend, it was my joy to travel back to my roots and visit family and see many of my old friends from years gone by. Celebrating a 40th wedding anniversary with family was one of the highlights of the journey. Traveling old familiar roads brought back many memories and can give one a bit of nostalgia. Memories, memories!

As I traveled down memory lane, I cannot help but be reminded of that journey to the Holy Land twenty years ago this Holy Week. It was a "touch of heaven" as the seat buckles clicked in place in the mighty jet engines of the Jumbo 747 Star of Bethlehem revved up. And the hearts of over 400 passengers on El Al charter flight 2001 from New York to Tel Aviv began to soar. We all were excited about our mission tour. The Pat Boone Family were our hosts and as the huge blue and white birds bent down the runway, all heads were bowed as Pat Boone led us all in prayer over the plane's intercom. As the star in Bethlehem dipped down, strains of "peace be unto you" a national song of welcome felt the cabin the plane rolled to a halt. We were there. And everywhere we went we were greeted with "shalom." The 400 people on that Pat Boone tour found a new dimension of love the moment they stepped on the grounds of the Holy Land mission in Bethlehem.

We came, we saw, and we were conquered by the love of the precious bent-winged angels and the orphan children in the mission complex. We saw the children we sponsored and gave our gifts of love which warmed their hearts. The voices of these happy orphans over our visit were like chirping birds on the playground on Mount David. They melted your heart and the wellsprings of the human spirit to overflowing joy.

During this Holy Week, as one reflects on this pilgrimage on the 20th anniversary, it is with a warm heart and a thankful one as one is reminded of the events of this week. The journey from Bethlehem to Calvary and then to the empty tomb and the garden is an experience that one can never forget when you return home. The songs sung at the historic and sacred sites still ringing in the ears of those who made the trip. The memory of being greeted everywhere with "shalom" is a prayer for peace in our hearts for the year 1993. Shalom, shalom.

A Warm Thought for the week: When the going gets tough, the peace of God keeps us a-going. Have a joy filled Easter season!

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Dr. Luetta G Werner.

Published in the Canistota Clipper April 8th, 1993.

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I hope you enjoyed this podcast episode! Please follow along on this journey by going to visualbenedictions.com or following me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, and Overcast. And don’t forget to rate and review so more people can tune in! I’d greatly appreciate it.

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Trina

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As I flipped the calendar, I was shocked that it was April already and April Fool's Day. Some of the readers of this Warm Thoughts column will recall the fun we had as children and trying to fool someone on that day, even if we had to lie a bit. It did seem to be permissible for just a day. You tried to fool at least one person. It was just a fun game.

The next day, April 2nd, has become Reconciliation Day. There is an interesting story about this special day. It was a California woman who wrote Ann Landers back in 1989, expressing a need for a reconciliation day. She expressed the need as she became aware that the years are flying by. Her parents suddenly seemed old and time somehow became very precious. She recalled misunderstanding and unmended fences that separate us and a sense of barriers. She stated in her letter the following words, "Wouldn't it be terrific if a special day could be set aside to reach out and make amends? We could call it Reconciliation Day. Everyone would vow to write a letter or make a phone call and mend a strained or broken relationship. It could also be the day on which we could all agree to accept the olive branch extended to a former friend. This day could be the starting place. We could go from there to heal the wounds and our hearts and rejoice and a new beginning."

Ann Landers replied that it was a beautiful idea. She suggested that in the absence of a national holiday, it would be wonderful if every person would pick up the phone and call someone with whom he or she has had a falling out. She was sure that there would be some heartwarming results. She encouraged people to just do it and not wait for the telephone rates to change. The rest of the story is that the first reconciliation day was adjusted for April 2nd, 1989. On April 2nd 1992, the letter written by the California woman in 1989 was repeated in the Ann Landers column and Ann Landers stated that "from now on April 2nd will be Reconciliation Day." It may not be a national day of reconciliation, but it would be wonderful if everyone would have a reconciliation day. Your own reconciliation day is your choice. I personally think we all need an international day of reconciliation. And this is no April Fool's joke! Will appreciate your thoughts. You, the readers, have so much to share and I know you really care too.

Thought for the Day: Life is too short to hold grudges, to be able to forgive can be enormous healing. Forgiving love can last a lifetime.

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Dr. Luetta G Werner

Published in the Marion Record, April 3rd, 2003.

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I hope you enjoyed this podcast episode! Please follow along on this journey by going to visualbenedictions.com or following me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, and Overcast. And don’t forget to rate and review so more people can tune in! I’d greatly appreciate it.

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Trina

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Happy Easter! Easter and Spring have arrived. As I write these warm thoughts, it is the week before Easter and there still are some mountains of snow surrounding the little home on the prairie. My grandson, Trevor, who lives in Nebraska and who is spending some special vacation days with his grandma in South Dakota, is overjoyed to make an Easter snowman. Is spring really here in South Dakota? The events following Palm Sunday bring many memories of my past trips to the Holy Land. Walking the Via Dolorosa on the way to Calvary is a memory that often comes to mind not only during Holy Week.

It was my special joy to make a pre-Easter pilgrimage and also a trip to the Holy Land at Christmastime. What memories. Climbing the hill of Calvary and worshiping in that Garden Tomb. Two of my friends entered the tomb in that garden with me and sang, "He is risen! He is risen, indeed!" The events that happened on Easter so many years ago, remain vivid in my mind having also walked that road of Emmaus the day before leaving the holy land to return to America. Thoughts from that beautiful hymn come to mind as I walked that road of Emmaus. "Abide with me this eventide. Thy walk with me, has made my heart within me burn as I commune with Thee. Thy earnest words have filled my soul and kept me near Thy side. O Savior, stay this night with me. Behold, tis eventide."

Warm Thoughts: Fair are the meadows, fair are the woodlands. The seasons come and the seasons go and many of the changes they bring, but in the warmth of a mother's heart, it is forever spring. May you have a joy filled Easter season!

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Dr. Luetta G Werner

Published in the Marion Record, March 27th, 1997.

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I hope you enjoyed this podcast episode! Please follow along on this journey by going to visualbenedictions.com or following me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, and Overcast. And don’t forget to rate and review so more people can tune in! I’d greatly appreciate it.

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Trina

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When you read this column, spring is on the calendar! Oh, the wonderland of spring. The birds begin to sing their springtime songs. Winter is past and sweet spring has come at last. The trees that once were lifeless will begin to turn green. Many schools throughout the country have had their spring break already and the next holiday to look forward to is Easter holiday. It is a time for special times with family and friends. Among the many Irish sayings, Irish Gerard Butler wrote some beautiful thoughts on family and friends which I would like to share with you.

Family and Friends. The two things we're most grateful for our family and our friends. The care they have provided, the love so strong and true, the thoughtfulness that spoken in words and actions too. Our grandmas and grandpas, our mothers and our dads, our brothers and our sisters are there through good and bad. They're special friends to share with - our smiles, our hopes, our fears. With counting all God's blessings, gifts of love that never end. We can count on friends as family and our family as true friends. Every day is the day to count our blessings that we have with family and friends.

More warm thoughts: Home is the resort of love, of joy, of peace and plenty. Where supporting and supported, polished friends and dearest relatives mingle in bliss. James Thompson. Time, like a snowflake, disappears while we're trying to decide what to do with it. Have a beautiful springtime day!

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Dr. Luetta G. Werner

Published in the Marion Record, March 21st, 1996.

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I hope you enjoyed this podcast episode! Please follow along on this journey by going to visualbenedictions.com or following me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, and Overcast. And don’t forget to rate and review so more people can tune in! I’d greatly appreciate it.

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Trina

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As I write these warm thoughts, we are celebrating Presidents Day. Many patriotic thoughts come to mind on this national holiday on which we celebrate the birthdays of our first president, George Washington, and of our 16th President Abraham Lincoln.

The Lincoln Memorial in Washington DC is a memorial to our 16th President, Abraham Lincoln. The memorial is a tribute to greatness and is modeled after a Greek temple. It stands at the end of the National Mall, a large park in Washington DC. From its steps, one can see the Washington Monument and the United States Capitol. The Lincoln Memorial has 36 columns that represent the 36 states that were in the Union at the time of Lincoln's death. The names of the 48 states which comprise the union when the memorial was completed, are carved on the outside walls near the top. A special plaque honors Alaska and Hawaii, states which joined the Union after the memorial had been built. The Lincoln Memorial took seven years to complete. The statue of Abraham Lincoln is 19 feet tall and 19 feet wide, and it is made of 28 blocks of white Georgia marble.

Engraved on the walls are two of Lincoln's speeches. Our nation can never forget the famous words from the Gettysburg Address, "Four score and seven years ago our fathers brought forth on this continent a new nation, conceived in liberty and dedicated to the proposition that all men are created equal." Lincoln's second inaugural address included these memorable words, "With malice toward none with charity for all, with firmness and the right as God gives us to see the right. Let us strive on to finish the work we are in to bind up the nation's wounds, to care for him who shall have borne the battle and for his widow and his orphan." This year will mark the 75th year since the monument was completed. President Lincoln died on April 14th, 1865.

Warm Thoughts: It takes both the white and black keys of the piano to play the Star Spangled Banner. God bless America.

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Luetta G Werner

Published in the Marion Record, February 27th, 1997.

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I hope you enjoyed this podcast episode! Please follow along on this journey by going to visualbenedictions.com or following me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, and Overcast. And don’t forget to rate and review so more people can tune in! I’d greatly appreciate it.

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Trina

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Every year in February, we observe Presidents Day. Many churches throughout the land may observe a day of prayer, at which time they pray for the leaders of our country. Two of my friends were among the many who attended the President's breakfast in Washington DC. This annual day of prayer is a 45 year-old Washington tradition that draws people from around the world, including politicians, judges, diplomats, bureaucrats, foreign leaders, and military personnel. Praying for our nation and for our leaders is no new thought. Instead, it has been encouraged throughout the ages. C H. Spurgeon stated, "Whenever God determines to do a great work, he first sends his people to pray."

Many of our presidents who have served our country have been men of prayer. This reliance on spiritual assistance has especially characterized times of national transition and uncertainty. When our country was ravaged by the Civil War, Abraham Lincoln remarked, "I have been driven many times upon my knees by the overwhelming convictions that had nowhere else to go." During President Garfield's term, a member of his cabinet believed a meeting needed to be called immediately to address a national crisis. President Garfield told the Cabinet member he will be late because he had another appointment. His Cabinet member was aghast, "Just who can be so important that your appointment with him can't be broken as we face this national crisis?" President Garfield responded, "Let me be quite frank, my engagement is with the Lord to meet with him in his house at 10 o'clock. I will be there." The President kept his appointment. The crisis passed and God was honored. John Wesley once said, "Nothing is accomplished except by prayer."

A prayer thought to ponder: More things are wrought by prayer than this world dreams of. Alfred Lord Tennyson. Pray for the leaders of our nation.

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Luetta G. Werner

Published in the Marion Record February 20th, 1997

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I hope you enjoyed this podcast episode! Please follow along on this journey by going to visualbenedictions.com or following me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, and Overcast. And don’t forget to rate and review so more people can tune in! I’d greatly appreciate it.

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When you read this Warm Thoughts column and look at the calendar, it tells us that Abraham Lincoln's birthday is February 12th. In the one room country school where I went as a child, the pictures of George Washington and Abe Lincoln hung on the wall along with the ten commandments. In those years, the government recognized two President holidays in February. These two presidents became examples of compassion and courage in my life. George Washington was our first president and known as the father of our country. Abraham Lincoln was president during the Civil War. Very recently, I read an incident about Abraham Lincoln that happened in the Civil War. It really touched my heart during this heart month, and I felt compelled to share these thoughts on caring and compassion with you.

Abraham Lincoln, during the Civil War, frequently visited the hospitals and addressed cheering words to the wounded warriors. On one occasion, he found a young fellow whose legs had been amputated and who was evidently sinking rapidly. "Is there anything I can do for you?" asked Lincoln. "You might write a letter to my mother," was the fate reply. The President wrote at the youth's dictation, "My dearest mother, I have been shot bad and am bearing up. I tried to do my duty. They tell me I cannot recover. God bless you. And Father, kiss Mary and John for me." At the end were these words as post script, "written by Abraham Lincoln." The boy saw those added words and looked with astonishment at the visitor and asked, "Are you our President?" "Yes," was the quiet answer. "And now that you know that, is there anything else I can do for you?" Feebly, the lad said, "I guess you might hold my hand and see me through." So, sitting down at the bedside, the tall, gaunt man with a heart as tender as a woman's, held the soldier's hand through the live long night till it grew cold and rigid. It does not surprise me that Lincoln was also a man of prayer. At the time in the Civil War when the fate of the US hung in the balance and everyone was pan stricken, Lincoln closed the door and prayed. Later, he described that moment to his friend by saying, "I told God that I had done all that I could, and that now the result was in his hands, that if this country was to be saved, it was because he so willed. The burden fell off my shoulders, my intense anxiety was relieved, and in its place came a great trustfulness." What an example for us to pray for our country and its leaders.

Warm Thoughts: "The purpose of human life is to serve and to show compassion to others." Albert Schweitzer. "Two of the best kept secrets in the 20th century are: everyone suffers and suffering can be used for growing and becoming." John Degrain. God bless America, and God bless you!

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Luetta G Werner

Published in the Marion Record, February 12th, 1998.

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I hope you enjoyed this podcast episode! Please follow along on this journey by going to visualbenedictions.com or following me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, and Overcast. And don’t forget to rate and review so more people can tune in! I’d greatly appreciate it.

Till next time,

Trina

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February - heart month - the month for Valentine's Day. The month we think "spring" even if all man winters still has his fling! Brrrr! It has been cold! One needs to keep warm with the extra comforter that would be at the foot of the bed in grandma's day. No cold chill could penetrate the warmth of that comforter as it radiated grandma's love and care. That quilt was grandma's legacy. Recently, my friend experienced all the excitement of being a grandma for the first time. My gift to her was a baby quilt, and a poem I wrote. Since many of my readers have expressed appreciation of poetry thoughts, I will share with you the poem I gave with the quilt.

Grandma's Blankie: "Grandma needs a purple blankie" I heard her grandchild say. It will warm her gentle heart. It will just make her day. When her grandchild comes to visit, she'll ask for grandmas toy. Grandma just gives her the blankie and both just jump for joy. A purple blankie's full of love and grandmas need one too, as it does warm, gentle hearts, even if it is not new. When old it gets much better, though it looks so very torn. Many grandchildren love that blankie - it's love and it has been worn.

Warm Thoughts: Love is a quilt and a quilt is love. I make them warm to keep my family from freezing. I make them beautiful to keep my heart from breaking. Prairie Woman, 1870. Keep warm with a grandma quilt!

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea written by Luetta G Werner

Published in the Marion Record February 8th, 1996.

Download the Found Photo Freebie and cherish your memories of the past.

Enjoy flipping through the Vintage Photo Book on your coffee table.

I hope you enjoyed this podcast episode! Please follow along on this journey by going to visualbenedictions.com or following me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, and Overcast. And don’t forget to rate and review so more people can tune in! I’d greatly appreciate it.

Till next time,

Trina

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Many warm thoughts come to mind as one views snow covered mountains and valleys. Pleasant memories can be rekindled by the warmth of a glowing fire in the fireplace, as we read cards and letters from family and friends. A few weeks ago I received a letter from old friends who live in the heartland of America, who have endured many winters of snow and ice in their lives. These thoughts were included on their card.

One night a man had a dream. He dreamed he was walking in a snow covered field with the Lord. Across the sky flash scenes from his life. For each scene, he noticed two sets of footprints in the snow, one belonged to him and the other to the Lord. When the last scene of his life flashed before him, he looked back at the footprints in the snow he noticed that many times along the path of his life, there was only one set of footprints. He also noticed that it happened at the very lowest and saddest times of his life. That really bothered him and he questioned the Lord about it. "Lord, you said that once I decided to follow you, you'd work with me all the way. But I have noticed that during the most troublesome times in my life, there is only one set of footprints. I don't understand why, when I needed you the most, you would leave me." The Lord replied, "My precious precious child. I love you and will never leave you during your times of trial and suffering. When you see only one set of footprints, it was then that I carried you."

Warm Thought: Christmas is neither a time nor a season, but a state of mind. To cherish peace and goodwill, to be plenteous and Christ like mercy, is to have the real spirit of Christmas. Calvin Coolidge. Have a Happy New Year!

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Luetta G Werner

Published in the Marion Record, January 9th, 1997.

Download the Found Photo Freebie and cherish your memories of the past.

Enjoy flipping through the Vintage Photo Book on your coffee table.

I hope you enjoyed this podcast episode! Please follow along on this journey by going to visualbenedictions.com or following me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, and Overcast. And don’t forget to rate and review so more people can tune in! I’d greatly appreciate it.

Till next time,

Trina

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Many years in the past, I would write the family Christmas letter on January 6th, the Christmas of the Gentiles - the festival that commemorates the appearance of the Christ child as the promised Savior to the Gentiles and to all the world. A few days before Christmas, I spent some time with family and friends in Nebraska. While there, Trina, my seven year old granddaughter wanted to make a gift for her parents. Since she is reading now and loves to tell stories, she wanted to write "A Merry Christmas Story." She dictated each word for me to print. As I patiently listened to each word, I became a bit weary and felt challenged to listen to the rest of the story. "Grandma, we can't forget about the kings," I heard her say. And so she continued, "It was a star that led three kings from a faraway country to come to Bethlehem too."

As she finished telling the Merry Christmas story, my thoughts wandered to that faraway land where that lighted star led the wisemen to Bethlehem. It must have been spectacular, as historians of that day wrote about a radiant and different star in the heavens. My granddaughter made it very clear to me to never forget those three kings from afar and the Merry Christmas Story. The lighted star that appears often throughout the year on my little home on the prairie will shine even brighter as I am reminded often that wise men still seek Him. The year 1997 is another chapter in our lives, filled with many memories. May we live throughout 1998 in the warmth and afterglow of the 1997 Christmas season. May the Spirit of Christmas be with us all year and those stars and gifts of grace, hope, joy, love, kindness, gratitude, and peace shine in our hearts.

Warm Thoughts: Looking back, may we be filled with gratitude. Looking forward, may we be filled with hope. Looking upward, may we be aware of strength. Looking inward, may we find peace. Author unknown. A thankful heart will make your year happy and joyful all year long. Have a bright new year led by His light!

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Luetta G Werner

Published in the Marion Record, January 8th, 1998.

Download the Found Photo Freebie and cherish your memories of the past.

Enjoy flipping through the Vintage Photo Book on your coffee table.

I hope you enjoyed this podcast episode! Please follow along on this journey by going to visualbenedictions.com or following me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, and Overcast. And don’t forget to rate and review so more people can tune in! I’d greatly appreciate it.

Till next time,

Trina

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Warm greetings from the Little Home on the Prairie and a Happy New Year! When you read the first column of Warm Thoughts for this new year, your thoughts may still be reflecting on memories of your traditional Christmas with friends and family. How exciting to pass on those wonderful traditions to our children and grandchildren! We can have generations of memories.

In December, I took you around the world in my Christmas memories. Christmas 1994 was Christmas in Ohio for me. The highlight for me was to be able to attend my grandchildren's Christmas programs. And of course they were angels and singing angels too. We grandparents seem to think we have almost perfect grandchildren and for some reason they love to be actors and actresses. During the program, granddaughter Rosa's halo seemed to always be slipping, and sometimes even fell off. While all this was happening, I glanced at her father while we all sang "Silent Night." He was falling asleep, gently nodding as we sang, "sleep in heavenly peace."

Traveling the Greyhound bus to and from Ohio can be quite an experience and meeting interesting people. On the way to Ohio I became educated in the field of Geology as my seat partner was a dear lady from Belgium who had her doctorate and that science. On the way home, across from me was a young man studying Environmental Science at the Heidelberg University in Ohio. My world became a little larger as I listened to all of those scientific thoughts.

How good it is to return after a long trip to "Home Sweet Home" and over a cup of tea, be able to write these thoughts. Now, as I reflect on 1994 I can't help but think, "Where has the year gone? Where have all the years gone?" I would like to share these Warm Thoughts with you for the year 1995: May you have enough happiness to keep you sweet, enough trials to keep you strong, enough sorrow to keep you human, enough hope to keep you happy, enough failure to keep you humble, enough success to keep you eager, enough friends to give you comfort, enough enthusiasm to look forward, enough faith to banish depression, enough determination to make each day better than yesterday. Author Unknown. God bless you and yours in 1995!

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Luetta G Werner

Published in the Marion Record, January 5th, 1995.

Download the Found Photo Freebie and cherish your memories of the past.

Enjoy flipping through the Vintage Photo Book on your coffee table.

I hope you enjoyed this podcast episode! Please follow along on this journey by going to visualbenedictions.com or following me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, and Overcast. And don’t forget to rate and review so more people can tune in! I’d greatly appreciate it.

Till next time,

Trina

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This is the first Warm Thoughts column for 1998: An unknown author once wrote this New Year’s thought…”What the New Year will bring us depends a great deal on what we bring into the New Year.” Among the many Christmas greeting cards received were many warm thoughts.

A Prayer for Peace

Dear Lord, let this be a year that moves us one step closer to each other. Let this be a year that brings us understanding in our hearts. Let this be a year that fills us with a yearning burning feeling for peace with one another and a oneness, Lord, with You!

The New Year is a refreshing thought. It speaks of a new opportunity, a new beginning, a new start. It is a moment to consider again where we are going. Each New Year finds us at a different place in our life’s journey. How we approach the opportunity of each New Year determines which way we are going.

The New Year is best entered when some fresh dreams have challenged the heart, when some step of faith has been applied to plans, and when some consideration has been given to goals and objectives. The New Year is ours to turn some corners and start an upward climb in our journey through life.

More New Year’s Thoughts: “The past is my heritage, the present is my responsibility, and the future is my challenge.” Lord, grant me the common sense to profit by my yesterday, the wisdom to live to the utmost my today and vision to cope with my tomorrows. I know not what the future holds, but I know WHO holds the future. Best wishes for renewed hopes for peace, joy, and success in the New Year!

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Luetta G Werner

Published in the Marion Record on January 1st, 1998.

Download the Found Photo Freebie and cherish your memories of the past.

Enjoy flipping through the Vintage Photo Book on your coffee table.

I hope you enjoyed this podcast episode! Please follow along on this journey by going to visualbenedictions.com or following me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, and Overcast. And don’t forget to rate and review so more people can tune in! I’d greatly appreciate it.

Till next time,

Trina

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Every year now, as Christmas Eve and Christmas Day approaches, my memories take me to the little town of Bethlehem. How special it was to be able to worship in a cave on the shepherd hills in Bethlehem. The night I worshiped in a cave on those shepherd hills will long remain in my memories. We traveled the winding roads of those hills with Abraham as the driver of the bus called the guiding star and Elijah and Gabriel guided the driver. As we sang those beautiful Christmas carols, it seems that the angels in heaven were helping us to sing on the shepherd hills. I wrote about this unforgettable experience later high on the hill in an international hotel in Jerusalem, and will share a few thoughts with you.

"The lights from the bus brightened the way "to the shepherd's hills we go," Gabriel did say. With Bible in hand and friends so dear, we were sure that Jesus surely was here. The guiding star took us through many a path, one hardly could keep from having a laugh. I know God must laugh at us many a time, as we hurry and scurry and not watch his sign. I wondered if ever we'd reach this site, and would there be warmth and would there be light? "My child I'm here" I heard him say, "it is night and tomorrow is Christmas Day." I knelt with the shepherds at that humble cave and we sang and worshipped and praised his name. The beauty and joy of this Christmas night, will forever make remaining days bright. Let us all return to Bethlehem in spirit and remember what the angels saying on those hills so long ago, "Peace on earth, goodwill to men."

Warm Thoughts: Peace is not a season, it is a way of life. God gave us memories so that we might have roses in December. James M. Barry. Have a joy filled Christmas season!

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Luetta G Werner

Published in the Marion Record on December 21st, 1995.

Download the Found Photo Freebie and cherish your memories of the past.

Enjoy flipping through the Vintage Photo Book on your coffee table.

I hope you enjoyed this podcast episode! Please follow along on this journey by going to visualbenedictions.com or following me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, and Overcast. And don’t forget to rate and review so more people can tune in! I’d greatly appreciate it.

Till next time,

Trina

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As the days come closer to Christmas, the children become very excited. It becomes difficult to concentrate on classes. The Christmas holidays will soon be here!

An unknown author wrote the following poem, which I recently found in my Christmas pile: "Twas the Night Before Jesus Came." Twas the night before Jesus came and all through the house, not a creature was praying, not one in the house. Their Bibles were laying on the shelf without care, in hopes that Jesus would not come there. The children were dressing to crawl into bed, not once ever kneeling or bowing a head. And mom and her rocker with baby on her lap, was watching the Late Show, while I took a nap. When out of the east there arose such a clatter, I sprang to my feet to see what was the matter. Away to the window, I flew like a flash, tore open the shutters and threw up the sash. When what to my wondering eyes should appear, but angels proclaiming that Jesus was here! With a light like the sun sending forth a bright ray. I knew in a moment, this must be the day. The light of his face, made me cover my head. It was Jesus returning, just like he said. And though I possessed worldly wisdom and wealth, I cried when I saw him inspite of myself. In the book of life, which he held in his hand, was written the name of every saved man. He spoke not a word as he searched for my name. When he said, "It's not here," my head hung in shame. The people whose names had been written with love, he gathered to take to His Father above. With those who are ready he rose without a sound, while all the rest were left standing around. I fell to my knees, but it was too late. I had waited too long and thus sealed my fate. I stood and cried as they rose out of sight. "Oh, if only I had been ready tonight." In the words of this poem, the meaning is clear. The coming of Jesus is drawn near. There's only one life and when comes the last call, we'll find that the Bible was true after all. Have a Merry Christmas!

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Luetta G. Werner

Published in the Marion Record on December 19th, 1996.

Download the Found Photo Freebie and cherish your memories of the past.

Enjoy flipping through the Vintage Photo Book on your coffee table.

I hope you enjoyed this podcast episode! Please follow along on this journey by going to visualbenedictions.com or following me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, and Overcast. And don’t forget to rate and review so more people can tune in! I’d greatly appreciate it.

Till next time,

Trina

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This week I will encourage readers of this Warm Thoughts column to light a candle on Sunday, December 12th. When your child and perhaps your grandchild dies in a family, the world changes and you will never be the same person. Life goes on, but priorities change, and remembering the child who has died is an important way of traveling through your grief journey. The holiday season is especially difficult, as old traditions often give way to new or more meaningful traditions that help to remember the child, sibling, or grandchild or great grandchild who has died.

This is the reason why The Compassionate Friends created the Worldwide Candle Lighting. The Compassionate Friends is a self-help bereavement organization for families that have experienced the death of a child. All the readers of this warm thoughts column are invited to light a candle at 7:00 pm local time on December 12th. During the worldwide candle lighting, the candles are first lit in New Zealand and then an hour later in the next timezone, eventually encircling the globe and virtual 24 hour wave of light. So we remember all children who have died, no matter their age or country of origin.

For more information on this touching tribute, visit the compassionate friends at www.compassionatefriends.org or call 877-969-0010. You may place a memorial message in the online Remembrance Book. I do hope the readers of this Warm Thoughts column will participate in the Worldwide Candle Lighting in remembrance of all children who have died. The loss of a child, no matter the age or circumstances is one of life's hardest blows.

Another Warm Thought: Lighting a candle is a simple and compassionate way to remember the children who have died. Light a candle on December 12th at 7:00pm and remember every child who is no longer with us. May God Bless America and our world!

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Dr. Luetta G. Werner.

Published in the Marion Record on December 12th, 2010.
Download the Found Photo Freebie and cherish your memories of the past.

Enjoy flipping through the Vintage Photo Book on your coffee table.

I hope you enjoyed this podcast episode! Please follow along on this journey by going to visualbenedictions.com or following me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, and Overcast. And don’t forget to rate and review so more people can tune in! I’d greatly appreciate it.

Till next time,

Trina

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Thanksgiving Day is a very special holiday for many families. Family traditions are often carried out on this day in many homes. It is also a good time to remember what we often forget to say - that we are grateful to be together and to acknowledge with thanks, each other. It is a time to thank the people who have made a difference in our lives. Many warm thoughts come to mind.

Recently, I read some thoughts by Albert Schweitzer a pioneer African missionary, and I would like to share his thoughts on thankfulness. "To give thanks is not only a happening that embraces the whole purpose of creation within itself, it is also an experience. He who thanks God with his whole heart experiences something. He is himself, enriched. All too often we think we are destitute of joy and fortune. Our lives seem empty and unsatisfied, and we know not why. Now take a look at yourselves. The times of poverty within are the times when you do not give thanks to God. What life brings has no value in itself. It acquires value only by our giving thanks to God. Today at the harvest Thanksgiving, it is not those who have gathered much into their barns who are rich. Those who thank God much are the truly wealthy. So our inner happiness depends not on what we experience, but on the degree of our gratitude to God, whatever the experience. Your life is something opaque, not transparent, as long as you look at it in an ordinary human way. But if you hold it up against light of God's goodness, it shines and turns transparent, radiant, and bright." Albert Schweitzer.

May every day of the year be a day of thanks, with an attitude of gratitude. Warm thought: "The year that is drawing toward its close has often been filled with the blessing of fruitful fields and healthful skies. They are the gracious gifts of the God most high." Abraham Lincoln. Have a beautiful, thankful day!

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Luetta G Werner

Published in the Marion Record, November 28th, 1996.

Download the Found Photo Freebie and cherish your memories of the past.

Enjoy flipping through the Vintage Photo Book on your coffee table.

I hope you enjoyed this podcast episode! Please follow along on this journey by going to visualbenedictions.com or following me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, and Overcast. And don’t forget to rate and review so more people can tune in! I’d greatly appreciate it.

Till next time,

Trina

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Every parent has a dream that their child will succeed in school. And the question they may ask is, "How can I help my children succeed in getting a great education?" As a mother and grandmother, this has been a real concern for me. I found it very interesting to learn about research that Judith Ann Hillard did for her doctorate. Her research is based on a sampling of more than 1,800 students. I believe you will appreciate the following 10 tips Judith found, which are backed up by statistics and her research.

Make sure your children ate breakfast. Only 46% of all children eat breakfast regularly - 62% of a students do and 90% of D and F students skip breakfast. This is good advice for adults too! Eat dinner as a family. 95% of A students regularly eat dinner with their families, 55% of below average students rarely or never eat dinner with their families. Involve your children and clubs, sports, community service, or church activities. The development of social skills coupled by structured responsibility is crucial. Students who fail are three times more likely not to be involved in activities. Be a positive role model to your children. Students with low grades are three times more likely to have no positive role models. 53% of all students say their role model is one of their parents. Children mimic parents behavior - if parents treat each other with respect, children will behave that way. If parents are rude and snap at each other, their children will be rude. Listen to yourselves. Listen to your children. Take the hint. Establish and keep track of goals with your children. Students who have personal goals are three times more likely to attain good grades. 89% of a students have established goals while 70% of D and F students have no goals. Turn off the television. Of students who earn A's, only 2% report watching more than six hours of television per day. A large percentage of failing students watch six or more hours a day. The longer the tube is on the more grades suffer. Encourage part time jobs. Students who worked 10 to 20 hours per week get better grades than students who do not work. But moderation is the key. Full time working students have generally lower grades than either part time or non working students. Read. Create a quiet time for your kids to read. Read it out loud to each other. Read the newspaper and discuss what you read. When you have time, read. When you do not have time, read. 65% of A students read often or at least occasionally. 63% of A student's failing or near failing students seldom or never read. Encourage doing your best. 96% of A students say they always tried to do their best, while 76% of failing students put little or no effort into schoolwork. Hint: be aware of what homework is due and when. Keep track of your sons or daughters rates of tardiness or absenteeism. Hold your children responsible for their own actions. 63% of failing students blame others, mostly their teachers. If a blame game is on your household excuse list for failure, begin with the first tip and work your way down this list again. Good things are bound to happen. And parents may even put these tips on their refrigerator door. Two bonus tips: No smoking, no alcohol, no drugs. All three of these habitual, destructive activities have a dramatic direct relationship to poor student performance. See that your children get enough sleep. Students who sleep eight to nine hours a night get the best grades. More than nine hours or less than eight lower students achievement.

Thanks to the mother for these tips for this week's column and thanks for sharing and caring!

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Luetta G Werner

Published in the Marion Record November 18th, 1999.

Download the Found Photo Freebie and cherish your memories of the past.

Enjoy flipping through the Vintage Photo Book on your coffee table.

I hope you enjoyed this podcast episode! Please follow along on this journey by going to visualbenedictions.com or following me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, and Overcast. And don’t forget to rate and review so more people can tune in! I’d greatly appreciate it.

Till next time,

Trina

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November: the month of Remembrance Day, also known as Veterans Day, and Thanksgiving Day. How thankful we are to live in our America. Liberty, so precious a gift for each of us. It is so special that we can enjoy our liberty every day here in America.

In our country, we have the freedom to vote, to participate in free enterprise and to worship as we are led. We need to be reminded often of their value. In the words of our national anthem by Francis Scott Key, the price of our liberty is made quite clear. A great price was paid by our forefathers and that price is still being paid on our country today.

An unknown author has penned these words on liberty: "I know three things must always be, to keep our country strong and free. One is a hearthstone bright and dear, with busy happy loved ones near. One is a ready heart and hand to love and serve and keep the land. One is a wide and traveled way to where the people go to pray. So long as these are kept alive, our country and people will survive. God keep them always, everywhere - the hearth, the flag, the place of prayer."

Warm thoughts: "If there is hope for the future of America, if there is to be peace and happiness in our homes, then we as a nation must return to God and to the practice of daily family prayer. My hope for the future of this nation is predicated upon the faith in God, which is nurtured in the family." J Edgar Hoover.

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Luetta G Werner

Published in the Marion Record, November 14th, 1996.

Download the Found Photo Freebie and cherish your memories of the past.

Enjoy flipping through the Vintage Photo Book on your coffee table.

I hope you enjoyed this podcast episode! Please follow along on this journey by going to visualbenedictions.com or following me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, and Overcast. And don’t forget to rate and review so more people can tune in! I’d greatly appreciate it.

Till next time,

Trina

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This is a time of year when some folks leave the Prairie Winds and go south for the winter. Folks down south who have permanent residence there will say, "The snowbirds are coming!" About the same time, the northern geese are going south too. Recently I read that these geese are not going as far south as they used to go in past years. These geese flap their wings and fly south and a "V" formation. In the spring they fly north and it is always a special time for us to learn some lessons from the geese.

We can learn about sharing "leadership" from the geese. When the goose in the lead gets tired, it rotates back into the formation and another goose takes over at the point position. We can also learn from the geese to be interdependent and take turns in doing the hard tasks...in a caring and sharing way. What happens when one goose gets sick or wounded? Two geese drop out of formation and follow him down to help to protect him. They will stay with him until he is either able to fly again or dies. Then they launch out on their own either with another formation or to catch up with the original flock.

As we traveled throughout our journey in life, we may have many challenges where we need someone to cheer us on and give us that encouraging word. We need to stand by each other and care about each other in the good and also difficult times in life. We can learn from these northern geese that when we share a common direction and a sense of community we can get where we travel on the thrust of one another. What are these geese communicating to us? We can learn many lessons from animals and birds as we go through many life experiences.

Warm thoughts: The highest wisdom is kindness. Talmud. Caring comes before sharing. Have many warm thoughts every day!

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Luetta G Werner

Published in the Marion Record November 7th, 1996.

Download the Found Photo Freebie and cherish your memories of the past.

Enjoy flipping through the Vintage Photo Book on your coffee table.

I hope you enjoyed this podcast episode! Please follow along on this journey by going to visualbenedictions.com or following me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, and Overcast. And don’t forget to rate and review so more people can tune in! I’d greatly appreciate it.

Till next time,

Trina

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My dear friend of many years, who is over 90 years old now, really warmed my heart this past week with a letter. She has always written beautiful and inspiring letters with many warm thoughts. She has enjoyed the book, "Love is a Quilt," and sent thoughts about homespun patchwork quilts on these chilly autumn evenings one feels the need for that warm comforter quilt. Here are her thoughts.

Art Appreciation: Lord, sometimes when I look at my life, it seems like a homespun patchwork quilt. Quaint, but not quite together. There are bits and pieces of cloth and colors, scraps of material, the days of my life. When you began to put together the days of my life, you must have known where each piece would go. You've told me that I am fearfully and wonderfully made. And I believe you Lord, I do. I may not be a velvet tapestry, but even crazy quilts have a purpose - to give warmth, and cozy comfort, and color to a room. Whatever I am Lord, you made me lovingly, carefully, reverently, and exactly right.

Thanks dear friend for these warm thoughts. You have touched the lives of many individuals with your letters. Thanks for all you're sharing and caring. With the holidays approaching, send along your gems with thought.

Another Warm Thought: When we become reluctant to change, we need to remind ourselves of the beauty of autumn. Have a great day!

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Dr. Luetta G. Werner

Published in the Marion Record, October 23rd, 2003

Download the Found Photo Freebie and cherish your memories of the past.

Enjoy flipping through the Vintage Photo Book on your coffee table.

I hope you enjoyed this podcast episode! Please follow along on this journey by going to visualbenedictions.com or following me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, and Overcast. And don’t forget to rate and review so more people can tune in! I’d greatly appreciate it.

Till next time,

Trina

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Recently, a few of my friends celebrated their 80th Birthday anniversaries. It was a very special occasion where family and friends came for an open house to celebrate life together. It is quite interesting that when I taught gerontology classes that I call the 80s the "lively 80s." An essay entitled, "Life begins at 80" supports those warm thoughts.

Life begins at 80. I have good news for you. The first 80 years are the hardest, the second 80 are a succession of birthday parties. Once you reach 80, everyone wants to carry your baggage and help you up the steps. If you forget your name, or anybody else's name, or an appointment, or your own telephone number, or promise to be three places at the same time, or can't remember how many grandchildren you have... You need only explain that you are 80. Being 80 is a lot better than being 70. At 70, people are mad at you for everything. At 80 you have a perfect excuse no matter what you do. If you act foolishly, it's your second childhood. Everybody is looking for symptoms of softening of the brain. Being 70 is no fun at all. At that age, they expect you to retire to a house in Florida and complain about your arthritis and you ask everybody to stop mumbling because you can't understand them. Actually, your hearing is about 50% gone. If you survive until you are 80, everybody is surprised that you are still alive. They treat you with respect just for having lived so long. Actually, they seem surprised that you can walk and talk sensible. So please, folks, try to make it to 80 - it's the best time of life. People forgive you for anything. If you ask me, life begins at 80. This essay was written by Frank Lauback.

And so the birthday parties go on and on to the age of the nifty 90s. In recent weeks, and in my travels I've met many golden ages in the nifty 90s who appeared to be in the sparkling 70s. Next column will tell you a bit about those nifty 90s. Let's celebrate life every day of our lives!

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Luetta G Werner

Published in the Marion Record, October 15th, 1998.

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I hope you enjoyed this podcast episode! Please follow along on this journey by going to visualbenedictions.com or following me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, and Overcast. And don’t forget to rate and review so more people can tune in! I’d greatly appreciate it.

Till next time,

Trina

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A loyal reader of this warm thoughts column sent me the story about how Oktoberfest began. Some communities throughout the country celebrate Oktoberfest or have harvest festivals. Thanks dear friend for sending the history of the Oktoberfest.

Oktoberfest began in Bavaria, Germany in October of 1810. Crowned Prince Ludwig announced his betrothal to Princess Therese of Saxony-Hildburghausen. The people of Munich, Bavaria through an engagement party for them. 40,000 people celebrated the event and it was such a success that King Leopold declared the feast a national holiday.

This tradition continues to the present day in Munich, Germany, beginning on the last Sunday in September and continuing for two weeks. The festival in Germany begins with fanfare of brass bands, which winds their way miles through the city on a huge fairground. When all is in place, a brass cannon is fired to begin the festival. A ceremonial mug is hoisted to the mouth of the nine-foot plastered lion in front of the Lauenbrau biertent, also known as beer tent. The lion comes to life with flashing eyes and with head and tail wagging. He goes down the tremendous stain of beer and roars with satisfaction. during these two weeks there is an abundance of singing, dancing, music, feasting, and of course, beer. The event supports the largest industry in Bavaria. 50 million gallons of beer is brewed yearly and 4/5 of it stays within the city of Munich. Husky barmaids can carry 10 Full Stein's at one time. The nonstop kitchen brings forth varieties of German foods.

In the fall of the year following harvest, many communities in America have harvest festivals. Many churches may have their soup suppers, turkey suppers, and celebrate the end of the harvest season. It is interesting how the various cultures celebrate harvest time.

The season of autumn is a time of cheer. As we travel, may we see the blaze of the sunsets, the fire of the trees, the gold in the meadows...what treasures are these? So let's walk among them and bask in their glow, for autumn awaits us wherever we go. Autumn is magic - when nature is turning and letters keep the flame of our friendship burning. Thanks for sharing your warm thoughts! Celebrate autumn.

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Luetta G Werner

Published in the Marion Record, October 8th, 1998.

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I hope you enjoyed this podcast episode! Please follow along on this journey by going to visualbenedictions.com or following me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, and Overcast. And don’t forget to rate and review so more people can tune in! I’d greatly appreciate it.

Till next time,

Trina

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Recently, one of the readers of this column from Texas sent me an article entitled, "We are Survivors: Consider the Changes we have Witnessed." I thought it appropriate to share some of the thoughts from this article.

"Individuals who are born prior to 1945 will especially understand the changes in their lives. We were before television, before penicillin, before polio shots, frozen foods, Xerox, contact lenses, Frisbees, and the pill. Were before radar, credit cards, split atoms, laser beams, and ballpoint pens. Before pantyhose, dishwashers, clothes dryers, electric blankets, air conditioners, drip dry clothing, and before man even walked on the moon. In our times, bunnies were small rabbits and rabbits were not Volkswagens. We were before daycare centers, group therapy, and nursing homes. We never heard of FM radio, tape decks, electric typewriters, artificial hearts, word processors, yogurt, and guys wearing earrings. For us, timesharing meant togetherness, not computers or condominiums. A "chip" meant a piece of wood, "hardware" meant hardware and software wasn't even a word. In our day, grass was mowed, coke was a cold drink, and pot was something you cooked in. Rock music was grandma's lullaby, and pizzas, McDonald's, and instant coffee were unheard of. We thought fast food was what you ate during Lent and outerspace was the back of the local theater. We hit the scene when there were five and ten stores, where you bought things for five and ten cents. The corner drugstore sold ice cream cones for a nickel or a dime. For one nickel, you can ride a street car, make a phone call, buy a Pepsi, or enough stamps to mail one letter and two postcards. You can buy a new Chevy Coupe for $600, but who could afford one? A pity too, because gasoline was only 11 cents a gallon. And we got married first then lived together. And we were the last generation that was so dumb to think you needed a husband to have a baby, but we survived."

Warm Thoughts: Seasons change and so do people. For me, managing change quite literally meant survival. Terry Anderson. May you have many warm thoughts every day!

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Luetta G Werner

Published in the Marion Record September 26th, 1996.

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I hope you enjoyed this podcast episode! Please follow along on this journey by going to visualbenedictions.com or following me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, and Overcast. And don’t forget to rate and review so more people can tune in! I’d greatly appreciate it.

Till next time,

Trina

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One of the very faithful readers of this Warm Thoughts column recently sent me an article entitled, "You can Make a Difference." It was an article informing the public to take action on October 26th and make that day a day of caring. A National Day to inform us that the Make a Difference Day can help everyone to help others. The sixth annual event in partnership with the Points of Light Foundation takes place on October 26th. Mark your calendar! How do you plan to spend Make a Difference Day? It may be a month away but it is not too early to think about what you can do to help your community pull together a project for the day. You can also make a difference in the life of even one lonely shut-in, give a helping hand to a busy mother, write a letter of cheer to someone in need of an encouraging word, or touch the life of a child by sharing a gift of time with that child. Perhaps Saturday October 26th does not fit into your schedule, then make it October 27th or a day that will also Make a Difference Day for you or someone in need.

There is no age limit for this Make a Difference Day. The stories of volunteers are very heartwarming. In Maryland, 10 year-olds gave personal items to an older friend in need. Two retired teachers in Selma, Alabama befriended a 96 year-old widow, helping her to continue to live independently. And in Washington State, friends celebrated their friend's 50th birthday by collecting 7,500 pounds of food, clothing and blankets for an emergency network. Perhaps this Make a Difference Day can focus on your regular service project in the church or community. If you want a big impact on Make a Difference Day, pull the community together to blitz a needed project or solve an existing need in the community. Just think about it! Will you make a difference? One person can make a difference. Will it be you?

Warm Thoughts to ponder: Give what you have to someone, it may be better than you dare to think. Longfellow. Remember October 26th is "Make a Difference Day!"

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Luetta G Werner

Published in the Marion Record September 19th, 1996.

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I hope you enjoyed this podcast episode! Please follow along on this journey by going to visualbenedictions.com or following me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, and Overcast. And don’t forget to rate and review so more people can tune in! I’d greatly appreciate it.

Till next time,

Trina

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The Labor Day weekend provides a great holiday for families who still need a few more days vacation. September is when we start counting the days of summer we still have left. September is also the month for Grandparents Day. This past summer, the grandchildren came to vacation at the little home on the prairie. One day I heard the older grandchildren laughing upstairs. They had found grandma's humor box. The youngest grandchild, very active two-year-old, Trevor, keeps everyone challenged. Grandma would rub his back at naptime. When he returned home from vacation, he ordered his dad, "Rub my back!" It is a real joy to receive many warm thoughts from the readers of this column. Recently, someone sent a poem which I will share with you.

"Hugs for Everyone." It's wondrous what a hug can do. A hug can cheer when you're blue. A hug can say, "I love you so," or "Gee, I hate to see you go." A hug is, "Welcome back again!" And "Great to see you, where have you been?" A hug can soothe a small child's pain and bring a rainbow after rain. The hug! There's just no doubt about it, we scarcely could survive without it. A hug delights and warms and charms and must be why God gave us arms. Hugs are great for fathers and for mothers. Sweet for sisters, swell for brothers. And chances are, some favorite aunts love them more than potted plants. Kittens crave them. Puppies love them. Heads of State are not above them. A hug can break the language barriers and make your travels so much merrier. No need to fret about the store of them. The more you give, the more there are of them. So stretch those arms without delay and give someone a hug today. Author Unknown.

Warm Thoughts: "Children who have the luxury or relationships with grandparents win out in all studies of child development." Dr. T. Berry Brazelton. Have many warm thoughts every day!

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Luetta G Werner

Published in the Marion Record, September 5th, 1996.
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I hope you enjoyed this podcast episode! Please follow along on this journey by going to visualbenedictions.com or following me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, and Overcast. And don’t forget to rate and review so more people can tune in! I’d greatly appreciate it.

Till next time,

Trina

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One of the most faithful readers of this warm thoughts column has sent his significant insights from the book entitled, "Never Give In." This book was written by Stephen Mansfield and is about the extraordinary character of Winston Churchill. In a recent issue of the US News and World Report, it asked about heroes and the magazine shares the lives of 20 men and women who risked it all to make a difference. Winston Churchill was truly one of the heroes of England, although he was hated and rejected in various ways.

He was born in 1874 and died in 1965. Churchill truly gives us lessons and courage and significant living. The author of the book on Winston Churchill gives interesting insights about his childhood and how his nanny had such an influence on his life. While his parents neglected him in pursuit of their social and political dreams, Mrs. Everest or "Woom," as the boy called her, was the center of Winston's existence. She was also a passionate woman of prayer and she taught young Winston well. She helped him memorize his scriptures, knelt with him daily as he recited his prayers and explained the world to him in simple but distinctly Christian terms.

Winston Churchill was a most unusual man who lived a very full life. He had abundant energy to lead his country in time of need, which was related to his basic faith. The author summed it up in one paragraph that makes a person think about how we do have a duty to serve and give. This man fought and four wars, served in his nation's parliament over a period of 63 years, led his country as prime minister for almost 10 years, wrote 50 books, published hundreds of articles, gave 1000s of speeches, reared four children, and worked to keep a marriage intact for over 55 years. The man was Winston Churchill, and he knew something about stress but he also knew about rest. Winston Churchill was indeed an unusual man. He was indeed a brilliant man who had courage and a willingness to serve. He was what we would call a "tough minded optimist who found a way." The book helps in finding some of the reasons behind the sacrifices that he made. He genuinely believed in the inspiration and truth of the Bible, and he knew his power to order his private world. That he could be such a momentous leader was due in part to the fact that he in turn, was led by a truth beyond himself - the truth of Holy Scripture.

Do you have a hero who can inspire you for a day or even for an hour? Children in this present generation are looking for a hero in their life. More than ever, people are looking for heroes. In the book "A Hero in Every Heart," H. Jackson Browne Jr. states, "Let perseverance be your engine and hope your fuel." Do you know someone who is a living example of the character and spirit of an unsung hero in America? Would love to hear who is the hero in your life. Thanks for sharing your warm thoughts! It is so good to hear from the readers of this one thoughts column every week.

Warm Thoughts from Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Luetta G Werner

Published in the Marion Record August 30th, 2001.

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I hope you enjoyed this podcast episode! Please follow along on this journey by going to visualbenedictions.com or following me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, and Overcast. And don’t forget to rate and review so more people can tune in! I’d greatly appreciate it.

Till next time,

Trina

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I recently read an article about how our attitude depends on what we eat and when we eat as it has a major impact on our performance and moods. We have heard often, "You are what you eat." According to Dr. Jack Gropple, a well known nutrition and fitness expert, he tells us how to have a better attitude.

He states that we need to remember what your mother said about breakfast - don't skip it. Gropple says, "No ifs, ands, and buts - eat breakfast. Breakfast is most important. He tells us why it is so important. "After a good night's sleep, your body is nearly devoid of glucose or blood sugar. You need to replenish. When you eat a proper breakfast, your cognitive abilities, your energy, and your attitude are better. Cereals and grains are good and even a little fat is okay." He tells us that eating for attitude and energy is a day long project. The rule, according to Gropple is simple. Eat four or five small meals, not three big meals. A hearty breakfast, lunch, and dinner is old thinking. To keep your metabolism up, your blood sugar from dropping, and yourself energized, you need to eat a small breakfast, a healthy mid morning snack, a small dinner, and a healthy snack. He even suggest certain foods for certain times of the day. For energy in the afternoon, for example, many people opt for a light lunch like a salad. This is one of the worst things you can do because when you eat carbohydrates your body releases an amino acid called tritophan. "That amino acid," he says, "triggers a hormone that has a relaxing effect. Not good if you have a busy afternoon planned. Select a chicken sandwich on rye bread and skip the mayonnaise," he says, "the protein causes a release of the amino acid triosine, another big word with a simple meaning - energy." And what about that late night snack? "Carbohydrates make you feel calm. If you have to eat late, eat carbohydrates," he concludes.

Did you expect another warm thoughts column on attitudes? Thanks to Dr. Jack Gropple, a very well known nutrition and fitness expert on the subject. I'd love to discuss this a little more with him. Yes, you guessed it, just over a cup of tea.

Warm Thoughts: The remarkable thing is we have a choice every day regarding the attitude we will embrace for the day. We cannot change the past. We cannot change the fact that people will act in a certain way. We cannot change the inevitable. The only thing we can do is play on the one string we have and this is our attitude. I am convinced that life is 10% what happens to me and 90% how I react to it. And so it is with you. We are in charge of our attitudes. Charles Swindoll.

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Luetta G Werner

Published in the Marion Record August 23rd, 1998.

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I hope you enjoyed this podcast episode! Please follow along on this journey by going to visualbenedictions.com or following me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, and Overcast. And don’t forget to rate and review so more people can tune in! I’d greatly appreciate it.

Till next time,

Trina

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In last week's column, I closed my column with a youthful and warm thought. On my way to The Clipper to deliver the column, I stopped at the store to pick up a card for a very special friend in another state who was celebrating that special 50th birthday. I find myself amused at some of the deep thoughts and brilliant sayings on some greeting cards. This one stated on the front of the card, "On your birthday, remember, with age comes wisdom, with wisdom comes deep thought, with deep thought comes thought lines, creases and wrinkles."

Words and thoughts change and affect our lives. And sometimes it is the little words that make the difference. During the past year we have been challenged, often with a word "change." It seems, to be the year that this word has been used very often and we ponder in deep thought over this word so often used in the media and newspapers. We realized that two small words like, "I do," can change our lives for a lifetime. Gallup Polls have proved that communication is a problem in many relationships.

I am reminded of the young woman who sought legal counsel because she felt there was no other solution to her communication problems but to get a divorce. The first question the lawyer asked was, "Do you have grounds?" "Oh, yes, we have an acre," she replied. "Do you have a grudge?" He asked. "No, but we have a carport," she stated. "Does your husband beat you up?" the lawyer asked. "No. I'm usually up an hour before him." the woman said. Finally, the frustrated lawyer asked, "Lady why do you want this divorce?" "Because it is impossible to hold a conversation with that man," she replied. That great big word "communication" can present some challenges, alright.

Last Thursday, I had many warm thoughts when I attended the commencement exercises at the warm auditorium in Slagle Hall, on the University of South Dakota campus in Vermillion. Listening to the commencement address by John W. Larson, professor emeritus of law, communicate to his audience on the topic: What is Success? brought my mind to many thoughts. And as I saw some international students receive their degrees, my thoughts went down memory lane as I remembered the many students I had been mum and international grandma to, while they received their education in the States. It has been a real joy to hear from them throughout the years after they have returned to their homeland and become leaders and educators for their people. They have been my colleagues too and continually inspire me as we communicate with one another across the miles. It was just a year ago that I graduated with many of them at the University of Nebraska in Lincoln. What warm thoughts overwhelm us as we realize how much we have to share as we sing that alma mater song together.

So how do we communicate what success is in our lives? Sometimes we can communicate best with a poem thought. "If you're the kind that wants to succeed, just try to help those in distress. A life that is clean, a heart that is true, and doing your best - that's success." A warm thought for the week: The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams. Eleanor Roosevelt. Have a great week and always have a dream.

Warm Thoughts from Little Home on the Prairie over a Cup of Tea by Luetta G Werner

Published in the Canestota Clipper, August 12th, 1998.

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I hope you enjoyed this podcast episode! Please follow along on this journey by going to visualbenedictions.com or following me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, and Overcast. And don’t forget to rate and review so more people can tune in! I’d greatly appreciate it.

Till next time,

Trina

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Summertime. Good, Ol' summertime. It is a good time to get in some summer reading. My grandchildren from Ohio sent me the book, "If Tea Cups Could Talk" by Emily Barnes. I have enjoyed reading the many warm thoughts in this book over a cup of tea. I have also had many special moments with the grandchildren as we have our tea party.

I have learned some interesting lessons about tea cups. China dishes, recovered from shipwrecks, are often good as new long after the ship itself has dissolved in the saltwater. Porcelain is fragile but it is also remarkably durable - like us, like life. Humans are beautiful and breakable like china cups. Humans can heal and grow and move beyond disaster. We can reach out to one another and encouragement and comfort. Nancy Reagan has stated that, "A woman is like a tea bag. It's only when she's in hot water that you realize how strong she is." Tea Time offers so many wonderful possibilities for nurturing friendships.

And if tea cups could talk, they would say so much about the past and also about the future. For hundreds of years, "come for tea" has been another way of saying, "Come, let's share a little bit of our lives together." If tea cups could talk, their message no doubt would be, "use me."

Warm Thoughts over the tea cup: If you are cold, tea will warm you. If you are too heated, it will cool you. If you are depressed, it will cheer you. If you are exhausted, it will calm you. William Gladstone. She was passionately interested in everything I did. She spoke with candor and good grace. Then, define the reality of crutches and straightened knee on wings of hospitality, she flew to brew the tea. Tom Hegg from "A Cup of Christmas Tea." Have many warm thoughts over a cup of tea.

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Luetta G Werner

Published in the Marion Record August 8th, 1996.

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I hope you enjoyed this podcast episode! Please follow along on this journey by going to visualbenedictions.com or following me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, and Overcast. And don’t forget to rate and review so more people can tune in! I’d greatly appreciate it.

Till next time,

Trina

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Recently, I read a book by H. Jackson Brown Jr. entitled, "Live and Learn and Pass it On." In the book, people ages 5 to 95 share what they have discovered about life, love, and other good stuff. Some of the thoughts are a bit humorous, but somehow we can get the message. I've personally discovered throughout my years that if we really listen, we can learn so much.

The following are a few quotes from individuals and it lists their age when they said these words. "I've learned that goldfish don't eat jello." Age 5. "I've learned that trust is the single most important factor in both personal and professional relationships." Age 20. "I've learned that nothing of value comes without effort." Age 64. "I've learned that if you care, it shows." Age 30. "I've learned that kindness is more important than perfection." Age 70. "I've learned that education, experience, and memories are three things no one can take away from you." Age 67. "I've learned that self pity is a waste of time." Age 81. "I've learned that anger manages everything poorly." Age 53. "I've learned that some money costs too much." Age 51. "I've learned that if your children feel safe, wanted, and loved you are a successful parent." Age 39 "I've learned that encouragement from a good teacher can turn a student's life around." Age 44. "I've learned that I don't feel my age as long as I focus on my dreams instead of my regrets." Age 83. "I've learned that it is impossible to teach without learning something yourself." Age 51. "I've learned that learning to forgive takes practice." Age 15. "I've learned that I still have a lot to learn." Age 92.

Warm Thought: A life, like a garden, requires cultivation. Have many warm thoughts every day!

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Luetta G Werner

Published in the Marion Record August 1st, 1996.

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I hope you enjoyed this podcast episode! Please follow along on this journey by going to visualbenedictions.com or following me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, and Overcast. And don’t forget to rate and review so more people can tune in! I’d greatly appreciate it.

Till next time,

Trina

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The world watched the passing of the torch for the Olympic Games. Whether one has the dream of carrying that torch or winning a gold medal, we all have some dreams and goals in our lives. Recently, I read an article by a noted doctor stating that everyone has dreams. What is your dream of dreams? The following thoughts by Amanda Bradley have blessed the lives of many people. I have often used it when closing a speech or at the end of a seminar or workshop. I would like to share it with all my special readers of this column.

"Always have a dream. Forget about the days when it's been cloudy, but don't forget your hours in the sun. Forget about the times you've been defeated but don't forget the victories you've won. Forget about mistakes that you can't change now, but don't forget the lessons that you've learned. Forget about misfortunes you've encountered but don't forget the times your luck has turned. Forget about the days when you've been lonely, but don't forget the friendly smiles you've seen. Forget about the plans that didn't seem to work out right. But don't forget to always have a dream."

We may not have been one of the special people who carried the torch for the Olympic Games. We can, however, give a word of encouragement to others who realize their dream and work at realizing our own dreams.

Warm Thought: Pass the torch. Pass on the torch, pass on the flame. Remember whence the glory came? And eyes are on you as you run beyond the shining of the sun. Allen Eastman Cross. Each dream is an opportunity to face a problem. Learn about yourself. It is an opportunity to grow. Always have a dream.

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Luetta G Werner

Published in the Marion Record, July 25th, 1996.

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I hope you enjoyed this podcast episode! Please follow along on this journey by going to visualbenedictions.com or following me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, and Overcast. And don’t forget to rate and review so more people can tune in! I’d greatly appreciate it.

Till next time,

Trina

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Of all the Warm Thoughts columns I have ever written, perhaps the ones pertaining to "thoughts on attitude" have received the most favorable comments from my readers. Recently I read about Jerry who had a very positive attitude. It inspired me so much and it may have a positive effect on any summertime blues that may be coming our way in this season of the year.

Jerry was the kind of guy who was always in a good mood and had something positive to say at all times. He owned his own business and his employees love to work with him. He was a natural motivator. If an employee had a bad day, Jerry was there talking about how to look at the positive side of the situation. "Employees who learn from their mistakes are better employees," he would always say. When he was asked how he could be so positive, he would reply, "Each morning I wake up and say to myself, 'Jerry, you have two choices today: You can choose to be in a good mood or a bad mood. I choose a good mood.' Each time something bad happens I can learn every time someone comes to me complaining, I can choose to accept their complaints, or I can point out the positive side of life. I choose the positive."

One day Jerry left the back door of his business open and he was held up at gunpoint by three armed robbers. While trying to open the safe, his hand shaking from nervousness, slipped off the combination. The robbers panicked and shot him. Luckily Jerry was found relatively quickly and rushed off to the local trauma center. After eighteen hours of surgery and weeks of intensive care, Jerry was released from the hospital with fragments of bullets still in his body. When asked what had gone through his mind when the robbery took place, he told his story: "The first thing was that I should have locked the back door. Then, as I lay on the floor, I remembered I had two choices: I could choose to live or I could choose to die. I choose to live. The paramedics were great. They kept telling me I was going to be fine. But when they wheeled me into the emergency room and I saw the expressions on the faces of the doctors and nurses I really got scared. In their eyes, I read, "He's a dead man." I just knew I needed to take action. But they were shouting questions at me. The nurse asked me if I was allergic to anything. "Yes," I replied. The doctors and nurses stopped working just waiting for my reply. I took a deep breath and yelled, "Bullets!!" Over their laughter I told them I am choosing to live, operate on me as if I am alive, not dead." Yes, Jerry lived thanks to the skill of his doctors, but also because of his amazing attitude. We all can learn from him that every day we have a choice to live fully.

Winsome Words: The longer I live, the more I realize the impact of attitude on life. Charles Swindoll. May you have many warm thoughts on attitude!

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Luetta G Werner

Published in the Marion Record July 16th, 1998.

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I hope you enjoyed this podcast episode! Please follow along on this journey by going to visualbenedictions.com or following me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, and Overcast. And don’t forget to rate and review so more people can tune in! I’d greatly appreciate it.

Till next time,

Trina

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It is always a joy to receive thoughts from faithful readers of this Warm Thoughts column. They share with me thoughts so precious that I feel the need to share with others. A faithful reader from Florida who has lived a long life and has a contagious attitude worth catching, sent me thoughts by Charles Swindoll on attitude. "The longer I live, the more I realized the impact of attitude on life. Attitude to me, is more important than the facts, it is more important than the past, than education, than money, than circumstances, than failures, than successes, than what other people think or say or do. It is more important than appearance, giftedness, or skill. It will make or break a company, a church, a home. The remarkable thing is we have a choice every day regarding the attitude we will embrace for that day. We cannot change our past. We cannot change the inevitable. The only thing we can do is play on this one string we have and that is our attitude. I am convinced that life is 10% what happens to me and 90% how I react to it. And so it is with you. We are in charge of our attitudes."

Attitudes are contagious! Are yours and mine worth catching? Positive attitudes are a choice we can make. The control center of our lives is our attitude. Our health and happiness depends on our relaxed attitudes. Our attitude controls our future. Edgar Jackson wrote in his book, "Your Health and You," one of the best lines: "No one can go to the drugstore and order a bottle of attitude pills." He wrote the book when he was recovering from a stroke.

Attitudes create the atmosphere of life. We are aware that if the attitude is good, positive, and enthusiastic that life welcomes adventure and discovery. Throughout the years, we have observed how attitudes are contagious. Parents pass their attitudes on to their children, teachers to their students, a coach to his players, and a boss to his employee. It is a blessing when those at the top have a good attitude. I am reminded from the familiar strains of music from Oklahoma, "Oh, what a beautiful morning. Oh, what a beautiful day." Let's make it a beautiful day with our attitude!

Warm Thoughts: I discovered I always have choices and sometimes it is only a choice of attitude. Abraham Lincoln. The last of the human freedoms is to choose one's attitude in any set of circumstances. Dr. Viktor Frankl. Have a beautiful day and a positive attitude!

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Luetta G Werner

Published in the Marion Record, July 11th, 1996.

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Enjoy flipping through the Vintage Photo Book on your coffee table.

I hope you enjoyed this podcast episode! Please follow along on this journey by going to visualbenedictions.com or following me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, and Overcast. And don’t forget to rate and review so more people can tune in! I’d greatly appreciate it.

Till next time,

Trina

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It is that time of year when many patriotic thoughts arise as we see the flag flying high in the sky. I am very impressed in my travels to note where homes fly the flag on a daily basis.

There are special days of the year beginning with January 1st, when we fly the flag resolving to keep our nation free. On January 20th, it is Inauguration Day. February 12th, Lincoln's birthday and February 22nd, Washington's Day, and also on Presidents Day in February. In April, we have Army Day on April 6th. On Easter Sunday, we proclaim our freedom source anew. In May, we have Mother's Day and Memorial Day. June brings us Flag Day and Father's Day. July 4th is Independence Day - the birthday of our freedom. A day when those stars and stripes wave over the land of the free and the home of the brave. Labor Day is when our flag speaks for the workmen in our country. September 17th is Constitution Day. October 12th is Columbus Day - the day America was discovered. October 27th is Navy Day, when the flag floats on ship or shore. In November we have Veterans Day, when the flag speaks peace. November also brings us Thanksgiving Day, a day of thanks for our freedom. December 25th is Christmas day, when we honor Him who came to give to everyone healing liberty.

The American flag has the colors of red, white and blue. Most national flags use one or a combination of seven basic colors: red, white, blue, green, yellow, black, and orange. It was on June 14th, 1777 that Continental Congress adopted the Stars and Stripes Flag. Whoever the mother or father of this flag may be, we know it represents America the Beautiful and God bless America.

Patriotic Thought: On guard then, oh America, let nothing ever dim, the flame of true democracy nor still the fervent hymn of liberty and justice and noble destiny. Again, we raise our thanks to God America for thee. God bless America!

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Luetta G. Werner

Published in the Marion Record, June 26th, 1996.

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I hope you enjoyed this podcast episode! Please follow along on this journey by going to visualbenedictions.com or following me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, and Overcast. And don’t forget to rate and review so more people can tune in! I’d greatly appreciate it.

Till next time,

Trina

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To the readers of this column: a favorite column of the readers is being repeated by request. It seems there is a special interest in angels and this topic has especially interested my grandchildren. My five-year-old granddaughter has a great need to hold her birthday angel like a security blanket as she travels on vacations.

As we were traveling along together I heard her say, "Grandma, do you believe in angels?" Deep in thought, and before I had a chance to give her a long recital about the many times I felt protection in my travels alone by air, sea, and land. And the many dark times, and the storms of life, I could hear her soft voice saying, "Grandma? Are you listening? Grandma? Do angels have wings?" "What do you think?" I asked. "Grandma, that was my question!" she reminded me. For some reason, my thoughts were carried immediately to my childhood and I shared with her that I remembered the picture on the wall at the foot of my bed and that angel in the picture had wings. Even though we could not have the kerosene lamp lit all night long, I always felt a protecting angel throughout the dark night.

We both began to feel very tired, but my thoughts carried me to a church in Cleveland, Ohio. I remembered how my heart was warmed and touched as I listened to the beautiful, soft music that a blind girl named Ruth played and sang. As her fingers touch the strings of her harp, her angelic voice sang, "When at night I go to sleep, fourteen angels watch to keep. Two, my head are guarding. Two, my feet are guiding. Two are on my right. Two are on my left hand. Two who warmly cover. Two who o'er me hover. Two, to whom tis given to guide my steps to heaven."

I was then reminded that NP Willis stated, "If there is anything that keeps the mind open to angel visits and repels the ministry to evil, it is a pure human love." Warmth Thought: It takes a heap of living to make a house a home. Have a great day and the heart of your home.

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Luetta G Werner

Published in the Marion Record, June 20th, 1996.
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I hope you enjoyed this podcast episode! Please follow along on this journey by going to visualbenedictions.com or following me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, and Overcast. And don’t forget to rate and review so more people can tune in! I’d greatly appreciate it.

Till next time,

Trina

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The second Sunday in June is "Children's Day." The following Sunday, we celebrate Father's Day. A great deal of concern has been focused on our children as the dawn of a new century is fast approaching. Children who have graduated this last year in the 20th century are told that they will be shaping the next century. What a challenge for our children and grandchildren!

Many years ago, an author by the name of Dorothy Law Nolte wrote these thoughts about children and what they learned from those around them: Children Learn What They Live. "If children live with criticism, they learn to condemn. If children live with hostility, they learn to fight. If children live with ridicule, they learn to be shy. If children live with shame, they learn to feel guilty. If children live with tolerance, they learn to be patient. If children live with encouragement, they learn confidence. If children live with praise, they learn to appreciate. If children live with fairness, they learn justice. If children live with security, they learn to have faith. If children live with approval, they learn to like themselves. If children live with acceptance and friendship they learn to find love in the world."

Children are our teachers. They walk us, or push us, through a process of purification to our own maturity. How can we respect and honor this gift? I am reminded of what former First Lady Barbara Bush stated in a graduation speech. She said, "One hundred years from now, it will not matter what your bank account has or what sort of house you lived in, or the kind of car you drove. But the world may be different because you were important in the life of a child." Celebrate the gift of a child on Children's Day.

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Luetta G Werner

Published in the Marion Record June 10th, 1999.

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I hope you enjoyed this podcast episode! Please follow along on this journey by going to visualbenedictions.com or following me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, and Overcast. And don’t forget to rate and review so more people can tune in! I’d greatly appreciate it.

Till next time,

Trina

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Today is Ascension Day. Some churches throughout the world observe this church festival day with special services. Ascension Day is on Thursday, forty days after Easter. It commemorates Christ's ascension which took place by tradition at the Mount of Olives near Bethany in the Holy Land.

My research on Ascension Day states that the earliest documentary evidence of the observance of the feast of the ascension is of the fifth century, which presents it as already long observed. Pictorial representations of the event narrated in the Acts are found in fifth century hinged tablets and frescoes. The Eastern churches know the feast as the Analepsis. The Roman liturgy ranks the day among the highest feasts, and marks its celebration with a visual and an octave. Connected with the liturgical solemnity were certain customs, including the blessing of beans and grapes during the Canon of the Mass, the extinction of the paschal candle, triumphal processions, and, in some churches, the elevation of a figure of Christ through an opening in the church roof, symbolizing the Ascension.

Ascension Day Church services have always had a very special meaning in my life from early childhood days. These services for me were as important as Christmas and Easter. Many special memories of attending Ascension Day church services flood my mind and hold even more special meaning having been able to worship in the Chapel of the Ascension on my last pilgrimage to the Holy Land. It is very interesting that the hotel where I stayed while there was near the Chapel of the Ascension on the hill where tradition has it, that Jesus left his disciples and gave us all the great commission to carry on his work in spreading the Gospel to all nations. I was able to walk the path alone to this chapel to meditate and pray and light a candle. These memories of spending precious prayerful moments at this hill so far away, will forever remain in my memories. Thank you dear readers of this warm thoughts column for sharing with me how very special today is as we celebrate and appreciate this very special festival, the Ascension of our Lord.

Some prayerful thoughts to ponder: Lord, lead me to some soul today. Oh teach me, Lord, just what to say. Lord, lay some soul upon my heart and love that soul through me. And may I gladly do my part to win that soul for Thee. Have a very special Ascension Day!

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Luetta G. Werner

Published in the Marion Record June 1st, 2000.

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I hope you enjoyed this podcast episode! Please follow along on this journey by going to visualbenedictions.com or following me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, and Overcast. And don’t forget to rate and review so more people can tune in! I’d greatly appreciate it.

Till next time,

Trina

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May is the month when families come together for the Memorial Day weekend. I shall never forget the memorial service I once attended in a cemetery. And as I stood at the grave of a veteran who had given his life for his country, this poem was read over the loudspeaker, and I would like to share it with you in this week's Warm Thoughts column.

Come Visit My Grave. I am a veteran laid under the sod. I'm in good company, I'm up here with God. Come to my grave and visit with me, I gave my life so you be free. Today is Memorial Day throughout this great land, there's avenues of flags, parades, and bands. I can hear the music, the firing squad, and taps. Here come my comrades, the Legionnaires, the Blue Caps - one of them just put a flag by my stone. Someday he will have a flag by his own. Some think of this day as just a day free from toil, while others are busy working the soil. They say they have plans other things to do, don't put us aside as you would an old shoe. Come visit my grave in this cemetery so clean. This is what Memorial Day means! There are many of us lying in wakeless sleep in cemeteries of green and oceans of deep. It's sad that for many who fought so brave, now no one comes to visit their grave. They died so you can have one whole year free. Now can't you save this one day for me? There are soldiers, sailors, airmen up here who went into battle despite of their fear. I've been talking up here to all of those men, if they had to do over they'd do it again. Look, someone is coming to visit my grave. It's my family - for them, my life I gave. My wife, I remember our last embrace as I left the tears streamed down your face. I think you knew the day I shipped out. I wouldn't return your life'd to be turned out. There's my daughter that I used to hold. Can it be that you're nearly 20 years old? Next month is to be your wedding day, I wish I could be there to give you away. My son's here too, Dad's little man. Always love your country, do for what you can. There is one thing that really did bother - is seeing you grow up without the aid of a father. I wish you could all hear me from up above, that a father's best gift to his children is love. And what better way to prove my love to the end - Is that man lay down his life for his friends. I see it's time for you to go home. Your visit made it easier to remain here alone. Don't cry honey. You look so sad. Our children are free. You should be glad. Daughter. Thanks for the bouquet, so cute. Thank you son, for that sharp salute. Come again. I forgot you can't hear me from up here but I know you'll come visit me next year. I hope all veterans are treated this way. On this day to remember, Memorial Day. Author unknown.

Love your country. God bless America!

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Luetta G Werner

Published in the Marion Record May 29th, 1997

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I hope you enjoyed this podcast episode! Please follow along on this journey by going to visualbenedictions.com or following me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, and Overcast. And don’t forget to rate and review so more people can tune in! I’d greatly appreciate it.

Till next time,

Trina

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May is family month! When you read this week's column, many of you will be looking forward to a day off from work - a three day weekend, the opening of the swimming pool, and the official start of the summer season. You may be celebrating life with family and friends. Memorial Day is a day and a time to remember the dead, especially those who perished in America's wars. This year marks the 50th anniversary of the end of World War II.

Memorial Day is said to have been started in Waterloo, New York, when on May 5th, 1866,residents held a commemorative program and decorated the graves of those who died in the Civil War. Over the years and as the United States fought more wars, Memorial Day, or "Decoration Day" as it is called in some areas, added the remembrance of those soldiers who died in World War I, World War II, the Korean conflict, the Vietnam War and Operation Desert Storm. Memorial Day is a day of prayer for peace. It is a patriotic day when Americans display the flag. Memorial Day has also become a day to honor one's ancestors and family members who have died. It is a day when many Americans will visit the graves of their loved ones and leave flowers on this special day.

Memorial Day is also a day to celebrate family and show appreciation for the living members of family and community. As we reflect on this day, in the memories of the many Memorial days of the past, may we experience many warm thoughts on peace.

Warm thoughts to ponder: Peace comes not from the absence of conflict in our lives, but from the ability to cope with it. May God's love rest upon you, like a refreshing shower and bless your life with inner peace and with his healing power. Peaceful. Before me, peaceful. Behind me, peaceful. Over me, peaceful. Under me, peaceful. All around me, peaceful. Navajo.

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Luetta G Werner

Published in the Marion Record May 24th, 1995

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I hope you enjoyed this podcast episode! Please follow along on this journey by going to visualbenedictions.com or following me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, and Overcast. And don’t forget to rate and review so more people can tune in! I’d greatly appreciate it.

Till next time,

Trina

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As I write this column we are experiencing May showers. May the May showers bring blessings and May flowers! The weekend found many in the community planting their gardens and flowers. My joy and challenge was having a two-year-old granddaughter helping plant the seeds. Indeed a challenge with those little hands planting seeds of love!

It was over ‘a cup of tea’ at the Recognition Tea for our South Dakota Mother of the Year, Margaret Connors, that I shared the joys and challenges of motherhood with mothers and grandmothers. I was seated across the table from our 1993 American Mother of the Year, Mrs. Ruby Washington and her daughter, Michele Blakely, both from Grand Island, Nebraska. Our American Mother for this year is indeed a jewel of a mother and we feel confident that she will represent motherhood well this year. Her love for God and a wonderful sense of humor has helped her through thirty-five years of marriage and motherhood. She has seven children and has been a foster-mother to two-hundred twenty-five foster children. Most of the foster children their family has had in their home have been teenagers who have needed parental guidance and support during a difficult time in their lives. Our American Mother for 1993 will tell you how her parents left an indelible imprint on her life. They, too, loved many children and helped and guided them along life’s way.

Have you ever attended a bridal shower when the bride is not present and is in another state? Recently I attended a shower for my niece who lives in Texas and will be getting married in June. It was a real fun time for family to get together and not know when the video camera would come in your direction. It was like being on ‘candid camera’ and seeing the production before returning to your homes again. The gifts were not opened as they will be taken to the bride when family goes to the wedding. However, we played the game of acting out what was in the gift we brought! Really funny on ‘candid camera!’ In this age of high technology we need not even have to fly all over the country to be present at your bridal shower - just receive the video and of course the gifts! As families together celebrate at graduations, weddings, showers, birthdays, and special family celebrations, let us plan to make a memory. And how important it is to choose carefully the memories that we live with as we travel down memory lane together.

A Warm Thought for the Week: “If you love from the heart you can love one another with all your heart.” Ruby Washington, American Mother for 1993. Have a week filled with warm memories!

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Luetta G. Werner

Published in the Canestota Clipper May 20th, 1993

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I hope you enjoyed this podcast episode! Please follow along on this journey by going to visualbenedictions.com or following me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, and Overcast. And don’t forget to rate and review so more people can tune in! I’d greatly appreciate it.

Till next time,

Trina

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Cheers to the graduates! As I write this column, on the day of National Day of Prayer, many warm thoughts come to mind. Throughout the country, many students will be graduating from schools of learning this month. Graduation is both a happy and a sad occasion. The diploma, a symbol of excellence and knowledge, is the inheritance of our youth. I am reminded of what a big gray-haired, soft spoken Professor Greek once stated, as he handed out the diplomas. He said, "Young ladies and gentlemen, it is not possible for everyone to have a great intellect, but it is possible for everyone to have a great heart."

Over a quarter of a century ago, I read an essay written by an unknown author entitled, "Two Easy Questions," which I feel I would like to share with you, my dear readers of this warm thoughts column: It was graduation day and as a teacher, I sat before the speaker's lectern. Here we go again. I amused. Another boring, unimaginative, uninteresting speech. But how very wrong I was! The speaker merely said that he had two easy questions that he hoped each graduate could answer for himself in the affirmative. If any student had to give a negative answer to one or both questions, he stressed, then that person was in deep trouble. He asked the graduates, "Do you have the ability to love? Do you have the capacity to receive love?" I was moved - so was the entire audience. He went on. "There is an identification crisis in America. People don't know who they are or where they are going. They have no purpose. They are frustrated and hate swells within them. If we don't love ourselves, how can we possibly love someone else? Hate blunts and stunts sensitivities and sensibilities. People attempt to erase this frustration and hate by eating too much, drinking too much, and smoking too much. It takes people to help people become people. If we give love, we will receive love. But to love, we must love our bodies and chasten in our emotions. We must not gallop and gulp, rather, we must pause to savor and sip. We all know that love is not physical, but our spiritual and mental and emotional complexities are so entwined with the physical, that we must fight hard to make ourselves physically disposed to love. Love the bodies and chasten the emotions. In a world full of lonely persons, isn't it a tragedy for anyone to be lonely, alone?”

Some time has passed since that commencement speaker (bless him) hurled those two questions at his audience, but they continue to echo and re-echo in mind. He did, however, give us a clue, a rule to live by: We must find love in ourselves. Very well. I'll begin there. I'll love myself. I'll educate myself, discipline myself, and think noble thoughts. What's more? I'll even try to make myself more lovable. It is possible for everyone to have a big heart. May the inspiration of wisdom and the hope for the future be with our graduates and their journey through life. Congratulations to the graduates!

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Luetta G. Werner

Published in the Marion Record May 14th, 1998.

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I hope you enjoyed this podcast episode! Please follow along on this journey by going to visualbenedictions.com or following me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, and Overcast. And don’t forget to rate and review so more people can tune in! I’d greatly appreciate it.

Till next time,

Trina

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Today, May 3rd, 2001, is National Day of Prayer. Many a church door will be open for prayer warriors to enter and pray on this special day. Wherever we may be, may we observe this very special day of prayer for our country and the leaders of our nation. Our nation was born in a meeting based on prayer. Many important decisions were only made after careful prayer to God. Unless the people of our nation and its leaders turn to God in prayer, our best plans will fail. Mighty leaders in the past have not hesitated to bow down before God. Our first President, George Washington, was recognized by members in Congress to kneel in prayer. Our forefathers and foremothers are known for being prayer warriors. Many events in history have been altered and changed when people have gone to their knees in believing prayer.

In this year of the books, I am reminded of what Dr. Frank Laubach once wrote many years ago in his illuminating book entitled, "Prayer, the Mightiest Force in the World." He stated the following, "We do not persuade God to try harder when we pray. It is our world leaders, our statesman and churchmen, whom we persuade to try harder. When great numbers of us pray for our leaders, a mighty, invisible, spiritual force lifts its minds and eyes towards God. If they listen to our suggestions, we should probably be more or less wrong. But what God tells them when they listen to Him, it is infinitely better for our world leaders to listen to God, than for them to listen to us. Most of us can never enter the White House and offer advice to the President. Probably, he will never have time to read our letters. But we can give him what is far more important than advice. We can give him a life into the presence of God, make him hungry for divine wisdom, which is the grandest thing one man ever does for another."

Prayer can change lives and it can change nations and it can change us. Everyone who prays can be a builder of the future. Recently, I read the little book entitled, "The Prayer of Jabez," by Bruce Wilkinson. The book only has 92 pages but contains a very powerful and life changing message and ends with the Jabez prayer. And Jabez called on God of Israel saying, "Oh, that You would bless me indeed, and enlarge my territory, that your hand would be with me, and that you would keep me from evil, that I may not cause pain." So God granted him what he requested. Pray for our country and our leaders on this National Day of Prayer!

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Luetta G. Werner

Published in the Marion Record, May 3rd, 2001.

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I hope you enjoyed this podcast episode! Please follow along on this journey by going to visualbenedictions.com or following me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, and Overcast. And don’t forget to rate and review so more people can tune in! I’d greatly appreciate it.

Till next time,

Trina

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Last week we learned some thoughts from the kids and computers. In the past, I've received some interesting comments from my readers in my peer group who are having a growing edge with all this computer technology. I have been reading some perspectives on aging and how to be a kid again and so I will share these thoughts found on the internet. Perhaps it is the first draft.

Be a Kid Again. "Dot all your i's with smiley faces. Sing into your hairbrush. Grow a milk mustache. Read the funnies, throw the rest of the paper away. Dunk your cookies. Step carefully over the sidewalk cracks. Try to get someone to trade you for a better sandwich. Give someone a hug around the neck. Blow the wrapper off of a straw. Refuse to eat crusts. Make a face the next time someone tells you "no." Ask "why?" a lot. Have someone read you a story. Wear your favorite shirt with your favorite pants - even if they don't match. Eat dessert first. Put an orange slice in your mouth peel side out and smile at people. Remember to say your prayers. Ride a roller coaster two times in a row. Run through the sprinkler with all your clothes on. Lick all the cream out of an oreo before you eat the cookie part. Eat just the chocolate strip out of your neapolitan ice cream. Start thinking now about what you want for your next birthday. Lie on your back in a field and look at pictures in the clouds. Make a slurping sound with your straw when you get to the bottom of a drink." Found on the internet. And don't forget to say your prayers!

One More Closing Thought: International Walk day is April 30th. On that day, leave your car at home, walk wherever you have to go and enjoy the spring weather and the surroundings. And remember to mark your calendar for April 30th!

Warm Thought: Count your age by friends, not years and count your life by smiles, not tears. May you have many warm thoughts in the springtime!

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Luetta G Werner

Published in the Marion Record, April 23rd, 1998.

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Enjoy flipping through the Vintage Photo Book on your coffee table.

I hope you enjoyed this podcast episode! Please follow along on this journey by going to visualbenedictions.com or following me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, and Overcast. And don’t forget to rate and review so more people can tune in! I’d greatly appreciate it.

Till next time,

Trina

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One morning from my hospital bed, I could see the sun rising above the South Dakota plains. What a beautiful sight. As a child, I grew up on the Nebraska plains. When I would herd the cattle along the countryside, I dreamed of being a writer and began writing poetic lines. When I was old enough to read the Columbus Telegram, I would read Edgar Howard's editorials. I will never forget his last editorial, for after that he laid down his pen. The editorial was about a Nebraska sunset and I would like to share with you these cherished words.

"I have never seen an Italian sunset. But last evening I witnessed a Nebraska sunset beyond compare it was more beautiful than an artist's dream. Peering through the haze, clouds of uncertain hue. The great orb of day flooded the landscape with the radiance of unspeakable beauty. I do not know what visions an artists beholds when he views an Italian sunset, but when I gazed last evening upon the marvelous Nebraska sunset, I saw visions of every sweet picture in my own memory mirror. I saw the peach blush bloom on the cheek of my boyhood sweetheart, the golden gleam of a true chums friendship. The Carmen tint of Holy Mother love. How many colors does God hang in the sky? When he paints a Nebraska sunset, more beautiful than any other climb has known. I could not count the colors. It was enough for me to know that they were in number to represent every fragrant flower from my conservatory of memory. Enough for me to know that they brought me face to face with every rapture of the years now dead. Enough to know that they appealed to me more eloquently than orators words or authors lines to struggle along the upward way. With promise sure that at the end of the journey, I may be privileged to behold upon the horizon of paradise, another sunset and in the radiance of it to count the colors of a welcome smile." Edgar Howard.

Warm Thoughts: Peace is seeing a sunset and knowing who to thank. Enjoy the sunset in your state!

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Luetta G. Werner

Published in the Marion Record on April 18th, 1996.

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I hope you enjoyed this podcast episode! Please follow along on this journey by going to visualbenedictions.com or following me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, and Overcast. And don’t forget to rate and review so more people can tune in! I’d greatly appreciate it.

Till next time,

Trina

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This past week I had read the book "Dakota," a spiritual geography by Kathleen Norris, who lives in Lemmon, South Dakota with her husband David Droyer, who is a poet. Kathleen has also written two books of poetry, "Falling Off," and "The Middle of the World." Perhaps some of you have read this memoir, which is a remarkable new work of nonfiction.

She writes with humor and lyrical grace. It's a book of stories about the Great Plains where things timeless and deep can be found, offering gifts of grace and revelation. It's about second, third, and fourth generation Americans who have lived on the land for many years apart from the mainstream American culture, which has become more urban and filled with cities with every passing year. It is about aging congregations in small towns. I choose not to tell you much more hoping you will read it for yourself. Many of my readers have their stories of pioneer days to tell. I would love to hear from you!

Warm Thoughts from Dakota: Handwritten prayer and Bible: Keep me friendly to myself. Keep me gentle in disappointment. The end of all our exploring will be to arrive where we started and know the place for the first time. TS Eliot. Poets and Christians are people who believe in the power of words to affect change in the human heart. Kathleen Norris. Have a beautiful day in the afterglow of Easter!

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Luetta G Werner

Published in the Marion Record April 11th, 1996.
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I hope you enjoyed this podcast episode! Please follow along on this journey by going to visualbenedictions.com or following me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, and Overcast. And don’t forget to rate and review so more people can tune in! I’d greatly appreciate it.

Till next time,

Trina

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At this time each year, we all look forward to the glorious Easter season and experience the joy of Easter morning. The week before Easter is especially meaningful to me, as I recall my pre-easter pilgrimage to the Holy Land and walking that road to Calvary. When I returned from my pilgrimmage, I wrote these thoughts that I would like to share with you now.

My Walk with Jesus: "I walked the road to Calvary and felt the cross we shared. I felt His presence and His pain and realized how much He cared. How thankful I was in that garden, to worship and to pray for guidance, strength, and courage to face life day by day. What joy there did await me as I saw the empty grave. I have a risen Savior - He came to live and save. I walked by the Sea of Galilee, what memories there we shared. You gave the world so much at the sea. You let me know how much you cared. I walked the road of a Emmaus with Jesus by my side. I heard his still voice saying, "Come with me and abide." And while on that Mount of Olives, I felt new hope, new joy, new faith, new life. His presence brought me ever nearer to the rainbow of promise that will end all strife." May you have a joy filled Easter season!

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea By Luetta G Werner

Published in the Marion Record April 4th, 1996.

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I hope you enjoyed this podcast episode! Please follow along on this journey by going to visualbenedictions.com or following me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, and Overcast. And don’t forget to rate and review so more people can tune in! I’d greatly appreciate it.

Till next time,

Trina

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It was five years ago that I wrote the first Warm Thoughts column over a cup of tea. I can remember the moment as if it happened yesterday. The first day of spring in 1993 was a beautiful springy day. Surprise, surprise! On Sunday morning, following that first day of spring, I awoke to a winter wonderland and a real South Dakota prairie blizzard. However, my pioneer spirit urged me to go to church that morning. Surprise, surprise! I was the only parishioner in church that morning. I was not aware that weather conditions were that severe to call off church services. What a lonely feeling. I later joked that the pastor went through the entire message and even shook my hand as I left the services! That afternoon, as the north winds blew and the snow covered the plains, I sat down at my old typewriter and typed the very first column of Warm Thoughts as I sipped a cup of tea. And I had many warm feelings as I appreciated a warm and safe home as the winds blew.

Throughout these years, you, the readers have encouraged me and enabled me to keep on keeping on writing enthusiastically. You have been the angels in my life. For my readers of this warm thoughts column have been my friends and my friends readers. Together we have shared many joys and challenges in our daily lives, and you have been the greatest. Thanks for all you have shared and contributed to this column. Your warm thoughts have often written this column. And so I share these warm thoughts written by an unknown author, "Ode to Good Friends. It has been my joy in life to find at every turning of the road, a strong arm of a comrade kind to help me onward with my load. And since I have no gold to give, and love alone must make amends. My only prayer is while I live God make me worthy of my friends."

Dear readers, you have to believe the buds will blow, believe in the grass and the days of snow. Ah, that's the reason a bird can sing on his darkest day, he believes in spring. Author unknown. Believe it is spring! Happy Spring.

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Luetta G Werner

Published in the Marion Record March 26th, 1998.

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Enjoy flipping through the Vintage Photo Book on your coffee table.

I hope you enjoyed this podcast episode! Please follow along on this journey by going to visualbenedictions.com or following me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, and Overcast. And don’t forget to rate and review so more people can tune in! I’d greatly appreciate it.

Till next time,

Trina

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Hello spring! When one looks at the calendar we observe that the spring equinox, which occurs on March 20th, is fast approaching. Think spring! After a long winter, we welcome the change of season. Easter and thoughts of Easter bring joy to our hearts. Spring and Easter seem to be synonymous. The days become longer and the sun's work becomes evident. There is a renewal of life as the birds sing their melodies. The March snowmelt will transform creeks into flowing rumbling song. Yes, spring will be here!

As we look forward to Easter I share with you a prayer of Peter Marshall written many years ago. "We thank thee for the beauty of this day. And the glorious message that all nature proclaims. The Easter lilies with their wax and throats, eloquently singing the good news. The birds so early this morning, impatient to begin their song. Every flowering tree, shrub, and flaming bush, a living proclamation from Thee. Open our hearts that we may hear it too. And Thy presence restore our faith, our hope, and our joy. Grant to our spirits refreshment, rest, and peace. Maintain within our hearts an unruffled calm, an unbroken serenity that knows storms of life shall ever be able to take from us.

Warm Thoughts: A bird sings it's song as if to say, "Thank you, Lord for this beautiful day." May you have many warm thoughts. Just a thought: Easter will soon be here!

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Luetta G Werner.

Published in the Marion Record March 20th, 1997.

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Enjoy flipping through the Vintage Photo Book on your coffee table.

I hope you enjoyed this podcast episode! Please follow along on this journey by going to visualbenedictions.com or following me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, and Overcast. And don’t forget to rate and review so more people can tune in! I’d greatly appreciate it.

Till next time,

Trina

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Right after St. Valentine's Day was history, I immediately saw St. Patrick's Day cards and decorations in the stores. There may be signs of winter and white snow around us, but the Shamrock decorations of green are symbolic of life and soon we'll have St. Patrick's Day and spring. I've always been curious about Bishop Patrick and why people considered him a saint in their lives. In my research, I read about the legend of the Shamrock and will share these thoughts with you.

Long ago when Ireland was the land of Druids, there was a great Bishop, Patrick by name, who came to teach the Word of God throughout the country. This Saint, for he was indeed a saint, was well loved everywhere he went. One day however, a group of his followers came to him and admitted that it was difficult for them to believe in the doctrine of the Holy Spirit. St. Patrick reflected a moment and then stooping down, he plucked a leaf from the shamrock and held it before them, bidding them to behold the living example of the three in one. The simple beauty of this explanation convinced these skeptics, and from that day the shamrock has been revered throughout Ireland.

Throughout the years, I've always been so inspired by the wit and humor of my Irish friends. They have blessed my life and given me an appreciation of their culture and their appreciation of family and friends. This Irish thing could be for us all, even though we may now be able to say we have a bit of Irish. Family and friends, the two things we're most grateful for are our family and our friends. The care they have provided, the love so strong and true. The thoughtfulness that's spoken in words and actions too. Our grandmas and grandpas, our mothers and our dads, our brothers and our sisters are there through good and bad. They're special friends to share with our smiles, our hopes, our fears. When counting all God's blessings, gift of love that never end. We can count on friends and family and our family as true friends. Irish Gerand Butler.

More Irish Thoughts: May the raindrops fall by lightly on your brow. May the soft winds freshen your spirit. May the sun shine brighten your heart. May the burdens of the day rest lightly upon you. And may God enfold you in the mantle of His love. Have a special day on St. Patrick's Day!

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea By Luetta G Werner

Published in the Marion Record on March 12th, 1997.

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I hope you enjoyed this podcast episode! Please follow along on this journey by going to visualbenedictions.com or following me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, and Overcast. And don’t forget to rate and review so more people can tune in! I’d greatly appreciate it.

Till next time,

Trina

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The first of March is "Share a Smile Day." Why just one day? Let's make every day a National Smile Day! Joseph Addison puts it this way, "What sunshine is to the flowers, smiles are to humanity...the good they do is inconceivable." Remember, it takes 43 muscles to frown and only 17 to smile! A world traveler once explained, "In all the countries I have been to, everyone understands a smile." We soon learn when we travel that all people smile in the same language.

This past month in February, many of us experienced over 200 hours of clouds and darkness. How joyful we were when the sun shone through. There were smiles. Smiles do add to our face value. :) A well known poet, Helen Steiner-Rice states at best, "There is sunshine in a smile. Life is a mixture of sunshine and rain, laughter and pleasure, teardrops and pain. All days can't be bright but it's certainly true. There was never a cloud the sun didn't shine through. So just keep on smiling, whatever, betide you, secure in the knowledge God is always beside you. And you'll find when you smile, your day will be brighter, and all of your burdens will seem so much lighter. For each time you smile, you will find it as true. Somebody somewhere will smile back at you. And nothing on earth can make life more worthwhile than the sunshine and warmth of a beautiful smile. So let's start every day with a smile on our face. And then we'll let the sun shine through. We will greet everyone who crosses our path, and it's amazing. Our day is brightened too."

From the Mailbag: Recipe for life - One cup good thoughts, one cup kind deeds, one cup consideration for others. One cup well beaten faults, three cups forgiveness. Mix thoroughly and add tears of joy, sorrow, and sympathy for others. Fold in four cups of prayer and faith to lighten other ingredients and let rise to great heights of Christian living. After pouring all this into your family life, bake well with the warmth of human kindness. Serve with a smile.

More Warm Thoughts: A smile is the shortest distance between two people. Victor Borge. Lighten up your life with a smile!

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Luetta G Werner

Published in the Marion Record, March 5th, 1998.

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Enjoy flipping through the Vintage Photo Book on your coffee table.

I hope you enjoyed this podcast episode! Please follow along on this journey by going to visualbenedictions.com or following me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, and Overcast. And don’t forget to rate and review so more people can tune in! I’d greatly appreciate it.

Till next time,

Trina

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In recent Warm Thoughts columns you've read about the joy one receives when you really listen to the children. Their words of wisdom not only surprise us, but their thoughts jog our minds to higher levels of understanding, for they are our master teachers. I was so pleased to learn that our governor signed a proclamation encouraging us to find a child to read to on March 2nd. This date is "America's Read to Kids Day." It is hoped that all states will become aware of how important it is to read to the children. This is a nationwide campaign to encourage reading.

There is great joy and reading to children and for families to designate a special time to read together. It encourages children to create their own stories and also develop critical thinking about the stories they read, or are being read to them. Listening to their creative thoughts helps us in celebrating special time together. Why was this day chosen for this nationwide campaign on reading? It happens to be the 94th birthday for Dr. Seuss. So color your world and join in this reading campaign. "My Many Colored Days" is the last book published by Dr. Seuss. Reach out beyond your world to encourage reading. Thanks for caring about our children, who need our time to read to them.

Warm Thought: Rediscover the exhilaration of laughter, the freedom of honesty, and the joy of simplicity through the lives of children around you. Paul Welter.

Pearls of Wisdom from students: Wisdom is the reward you get for a lifetime of listening, when you'd rather have been talking. Opportunity won't often knock for the fellow who doesn't give a rap.

From the Mailbag: Recipe for life. Take two heaping cups of patience, one heart full of love, two handfuls of generosity, dash of laughter, one head full of understanding, sprinkled generously with kindness. Add plenty of faith and mix well. Spread over a period of a lifetime. Serve to everyone you meet. Celebrate life by reading to the children.

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Luetta G. Werner

Published in the Marion Record, February 26th, 1998.

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Enjoy flipping through the Vintage Photo Book on your coffee table.

I hope you enjoyed this podcast episode! Please follow along on this journey by going to visualbenedictions.com or following me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, and Overcast. And don’t forget to rate and review so more people can tune in! I’d greatly appreciate it.

Till next time,

Trina

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When you read this Warm Thoughts column, it will be February and January has come and gone. Where has the month gone so fast? It has been a month of London fog flinging a crystal veil over the heartland, a real winter wonderland. February is heart month - the month of the Groundhog, Valentine's Day, Presidents Day...Did I forget something? February is also the month when many warm thoughts on love come to mind. In his book "How to Love," Arthur H. Rahner Jr states, "It is a selfish world." He defines love as not emotions or feelings, but the willingness to sacrifice for another. When we are selfish and look only to support our own causes, we cannot truly love.

It was many moons ago that a blind friend of mine read the poem, "What is Love?" As her fingers touched each line of braille, my heart's thoughts followed each word. The author is unknown and I would like to share these warm thoughts on love with you: What is love? Love is an attitude. Love is a prayer for a soul in sorrow, a heart in despair. Love is good wishes for the gain of another. Love suffers long with the fault of a brother. Love giveth water to a cup that's run dry. Love reaches low as it can reach high. Seeks not her own at the expense of another. Love reaches God when it reaches our brother. As I meditate on those warm thoughts I'm reminded what Stanley Kruisik once stated, "One can be blind in his eyes, but that doesn't make him blind in his heart."

More Warm Thoughts: Time flies, sun rises and shadows fall. Let time go by, love is forever overall. The last of the human freedoms is to choose one's attitude in any given set of circumstances. Dr. Viktor Frankl. Time is too slow for those who wait, too swift for those who fear, too long for those who grieve, too short for those who rejoice. But for those who love, time is eternity. Henry Van Dyke.

A letter to Luetta from Riverton, Nebraska, January 13th, 1995. Dear Luetta, Time after time I read your warm thoughts from the little home on the prairie in the Marion Record it seems like I'm so close to where you are, yet too far. That little picture of a barn looks just like the one Baker Smith had and Dolton between our school, where I went for 12 years and the bank. Then your trips to Bethlehem, etc. Seems like you're a traveler alright. Who are you? Where do you live? Your address is very odd. Please give my curiosity a relief. Sincerely, Esther Dirks Herman.

Warm Thoughts from Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Luetta G. Werner

Published in the Marion Record February 2nd, 1995.

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I hope you enjoyed this podcast episode! Please follow along on this journey by going to visualbenedictions.com or following me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, and Overcast. And don’t forget to rate and review so more people can tune in! I’d greatly appreciate it.

Till next time,

Trina

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After I delivered last week's Warm Thoughts column, I walked to the post office. At the counter stood someone receiving a parcel - it was for her 90th birthday that day. I stood there in amazement and deep in thought as she drove away, alone, on the icy streets. I thought, "Here's a lady who understands what celebrating life each day really means. She lives every day of her life." In the mail that day came a letter from a longtime friend and reader of Warm Thoughts. She related about how her family and friends gave her a warm reception on her 80th birthday. She shared with me one of the readings her daughter read, and I feel you too, will enjoy these warm thoughts.

"Today, dear Lord, I'm 80 and there's much I haven't done. I hope dear Lord you'll let me live until I'm 81. But then if I haven't finished all I want to do, would you let me stay awhile until I'm 82? So many places I want to go, so very much to see. Do you think that you could manage to make it 83? The world is changing very fast, there is so much in store. I'd like it very much to live until I'm 84. And if, by then, I'm still alive, I'd like to stay till 85. More planes will be up in the air, so I'd really like a stick and see what happens to the world when I turn 86. I know dear Lord, it's much to ask and it must be nice in heaven, but I'd really like to stay until I'm 87. I know by then I won't be fast and sometimes will be late, but it would be so pleasant to be around at 88. I will have seen so many things and had a wonderful time, so I'm sure that I'd be willing to leave at the age of 89...maybe. Just one more thing I'd like to say, dear Lord, I thank you kindly. But if it's okay with you, I'd love to live past 90!"

More Warm Thoughts: Life is a gift. Life is what we make it - always has been, always will be. Grandma Moses. Celebrate each day of your life.

Warm Thoughts from Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Luetta G. Werner

Published in the Marion Record January 29th, 1998.

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Enjoy flipping through the Vintage Photo Book on your coffee table.

I hope you enjoyed this podcast episode! Please follow along on this journey by going to visualbenedictions.com or following me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, and Overcast. And don’t forget to rate and review so more people can tune in! I’d greatly appreciate it.

Till next time,

Trina

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In last week's warm thoughts column we shared thoughts on the importance of listening to the children. I never cease to be amazed at the words of wisdom children can give you when you really listen to them. My experience throughout the years has also been that one can gain wisdom and understanding when we really listened to the older generation. Their wealth of experiences are a treasure and need to be shared.

As a child, I would love to sit and listen to the conversations of my elders. Their joyful and challenging experiences continue to bless me as I hear them share their life experiences. Most recently, I was amazed at the memory and brilliant conversation I had with a young at heart woman over 100 years old. She is an example of really living every day of her life. In a recent issue of "Mature Living," we are reminded of the ages of some of the movers and shakers we all know about: Oliver Wendell Holmes retired from the Supreme Court when he was 91. Thomas Edison invented until he died at the age of 85. Arturo Toscani was 83 when he conducted his orchestra on tour across our nation. Michelangelo, when he was nearly 90, was painting the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel lying on his back on a scaffold. Monet was painting some of his masterpieces past 85. Moses was 80 when God called him to lead Israel to freedom. Alfred Tennyson wrote "Crossing the Bar" when he was 83. We really live when life has a purpose. Someone has stated that "the golden years offer a glorious new life and that the senior years are, in all truth, the golden years of opportunity."

Warm Thought: We are never too old to be happy, to laugh and smile and sing. Never too old for a childlike trust that a blessing each day will bring. Perkins. Celebrate life every day of your life!

Warm Thoughts from Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Luetta G Werner

Published in the Marion Record, January 22nd, 1998.

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I hope you enjoyed this podcast episode! Please follow along on this journey by going to visualbenedictions.com or following me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, and Overcast. And don’t forget to rate and review so more people can tune in! I’d greatly appreciate it.

Till next time,

Trina

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Recently I read an article about the "Little Houses on the Prairie." Perhaps you, too, have read about the 1,400 people who came to a small Native American reservation here in South Dakota, to build thirty homes in five days. This happened in mid-July of last year and at that time, on those prairies, the wind was warm. These volunteer workers for Habitat for Humanity came from all walks of life. At one time, there were three PhDs on the roof of a house nailing on shingles. To build thirty homes in one week became a most ambitious project. It became known as "Jimmy Carter's Work Project." It was named after Habitat's best known volunteer. Alongside was former First Lady Rosalynn Carter working with her husband. There they were for the week, dressed for the work project. The people called the former president, "Wawikia Lakota - for one who cares about people."

You perhaps have heard about many completed projects by Habitat for Humanity. If you have a hammer and want to find out about more, call 1-800-Habitat. This article that I read about building new houses on the prairie was of great interest to me. Over a fortnight in December of last year, I volunteered to clean houses and apartments in an area in Ohio. It became a real mission of love when I saw the completed projects before returning to my own little home on the prairie and enjoying that cup of Christmas tea. At one time in the past, the streets in that area now had many a home-sweet-home, where the smells of baking bread and the sounds of music and lullabies and laughter were a daily activity. These houses have character and beautiful architecture and the houses and the people had something in common - caring for their families and celebrating family togetherness. After reading the article on those new houses on the prairie and reflecting on my experiences in that area at Christmas time, I had many warm thoughts. Whether it is houses on the prairie, or apartments in a city, they do have something in common - homes where there can be the warmth of love and real caring and compassion. May the Spirit of Christmas forever be in their hearts and homes.

Warm Thoughts: Amid pleasure and palaces, be it ever so humble, there is no place like home. Stephen Foster. May you have many warm thoughts on home.

Warm Thoughts from Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Luetta G Werner

Published in the Marion Record January 19th, 1995.

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Enjoy flipping through the Vintage Photo Book on your coffee table.

I hope you enjoyed this podcast episode! Please follow along on this journey by going to visualbenedictions.com or following me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, and Overcast. And don’t forget to rate and review so more people can tune in! I’d greatly appreciate it.

Till next time,

Trina

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Throughout the years, I have been aware of how much one can learn in our lifelong learning process when we listen to the children. Albert Einstein once stated, "Pay close attention to the curiosities of a child. This is where the search for knowledge is the freshest and most valuable."

Children are our spiritual mentors. They teach us so much by their questions, their answers and their lives. They are our master teachers. They do not judge you. They just like you the way you are. They love to be your helpers and are the greatest skill of comforters. We can learn humility from children, which can free us to be comfortable with our incomparable selves. I am reminded of the little boy who offered to do an errand for his grandmother. He told her, "I want to do it for you because you don't have many years left." He told it as it appeared to him - at the time she was 55 years old. Another little boy told his dad, "Dad, just remember the good things a little boy does." How often we say to the children, "later," however, the child will let you know that later means right now. Let's not put off until tomorrow the joys we can have now as we listen to the children. We lie in a world of instant coffee, fast foods, and crashed diets, but who is able to teach us about instant forgiveness, fast reconciliation and a crash method of forgetting grudges? The answer is our Lord and His children. Take time in your busy world to listen to the children.

Warm thoughts: It takes a village to raise a child. African proverb. If everyone would see children as master teachers, there would be less child abuse in this world. Have many warm thoughts for the children!

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Luetta G Werner

Published in the Marion Record January 15th, 1998.

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Enjoy flipping through the Vintage Photo Book on your coffee table.

I hope you enjoyed this podcast episode! Please follow along on this journey by going to visualbenedictions.com or following me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, and Overcast. And don’t forget to rate and review so more people can tune in! I’d greatly appreciate it.

Till next time,

Trina

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Happy New Year! This is the first column for the new year. Perhaps you have already been asked, "Have you made your New Year's resolutions already?" For me, it almost seems like a dream that 1997 is here already. As my thoughts on this new year is before us, I am reminded of the motivational plaque which declares, "Yesterday is but a dream. Tomorrow is a vision of hope. Look to this day, for it is life." Let's celebrate life!

As we look forward to this new year, I would like to share with us some warm thoughts from an unknown author: "A Prayer for the New Year." God of the years that lie behind us, Lord of the years that stretch before, Weaver of all the ties that bind us, Keeper and King of the open door. Grant us hope and courage growing, white and pure as the stars above. Grant us faith and full stream flowing from the heights of your eternal love. Out of the ruins of doubt and sorrow, out of the aches and pain and tears. Help us to fashion a new tomorrow, free from the anguish of blighting fears. All through the seasons of sowing and reaping, all through the harvest of song and tears, hold us close in your tender keeping, Oh Maker of all New Years. May you have blessings and abundance, strength for every way. Courage for each trail, gladness for each day. My wish to you in the new year.

A Warm Thought: When Henry Ford was 75 years old, he was asked the secret of his health and calm spirit. "Three rules," he answered. "I do not eat too much. I do not worry too much. And if I do my best, I believe that what happens, happens for the best." Have many warm thoughts in the new year!

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Luetta G Werner

Published in the Marion Record, January 2nd, 1997.

Download the Found Photo Freebie and cherish your memories of the past.

Enjoy flipping through the Vintage Photo Book on your coffee table.

I hope you enjoyed this podcast episode! Please follow along on this journey by going to visualbenedictions.com or following me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, and Overcast. And don’t forget to rate and review so more people can tune in! I’d greatly appreciate it.

Till next time,

Trina

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Christmas brings us many memories. For me, Christmas is a season that is very dear to my heart. I want to live in the Christmas spirit all year long! Is it any wonder when you come to that little home on the prairie that you may get a cup of Christmas tea and a warm welcome? The end of another year is approaching very rapidly. It is hard to believe that 1996 will soon be history.

Mary Alred Baker has written some thoughts on the last day of the year which I will share with you. "The Last Day of the Year." The last day of the year has come. The earth lies quiet under a blanket of snow, nor shall it waken till it feels the tender touch of the returning spring. The seasons have followed the irregular pattern, though not one month, or even one day, is exactly like its predecessor. Now, like sheaves of grain, the months have all been gathered in, ready for the harvest. We have had the gift of the year now passing into eternity to join the countless years that have gone before it. We have known both its joys and sorrows and have possessed it fully. God holds the record of it in His almighty hand. The new year is a refreshing thought - it speaks of a new opportunity, a new beginning, a new start. Each new year is best entered when some fresh dreams have challenged the heart, when some steps of faith has been applied to plans, and when some consideration has been given to life's goals. An unknown author has stated that, "what the new year will bring us depends a great deal what we bring into the new year." As we think about that, may we profit from our yesterdays, have wisdom to live to the utmost our today, and the vision to cope with tomorrow.

Warm Thoughts: The past is my heritage. The present is my responsibility. And the future is my challenge. I know not what the future holds, but I know who holds the future. Happy New Year!

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Luetta G Werner

Published in the Marion Record on December 26th, 1996.

Download the Found Photo Freebie and cherish your memories of the past.

Enjoy flipping through the Vintage Photo Book on your coffee table.

I hope you enjoyed this podcast episode! Please follow along on this journey by going to visualbenedictions.com or following me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, and Overcast. And don’t forget to rate and review so more people can tune in! I’d greatly appreciate it.

Till next time,

Trina

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Recently I heard Terry Anderson speak at the University of South Dakota. Some of the readers of this column will remember the day he was released from the gloom of a Beirut prison four years ago on December 4th, 1991. Terry Anderson had been with the Associated Press in Lebanon when he was kidnapped and taken captive for seven years, or 2,454 days. He was chained to a wall in prison and lived at the uncertain mercy of his captors.

As I listened to his tremendously moving experiences, I thought about another prisoner, Dr. Viktor Frankl, who spent three years of his life in a Nazi prison camp. Dr. Frankl stated that "the only way to come through such torture is to maintain hope and have the will to live." There were times for Terry when life seemed hopeless at a most difficult time. During the first weeks he asked for a Bible. He was granted that request and had that Bible throughout those years of hoping to be released. He learned that the human spirit can reach beyond the bars of a prison, that the Spirit can never be held hostage. Nietzsche once wrote, "That which does not destroy me makes me stronger."

Terry Anderson today lives in a suburb in New York City with his wife and daughter. His book "Den of Lions" is an eloquently told story of his years spent in the den of lions. He was the last one of the prisoners to be set free. The recent events that have taken place in the Middle East have again touched our hearts. The grief is too deep for revenge and our hearts longing for that peace on earth that the angels sang on the shepherd hills so long ago. Shalom, the word for "peace" bears a meaning of something much more than a truce for more. It has to do with the nature of the heart. Peace can be experienced deep inside, it is a quietness, a stillness that is not easily shaken. Peace, sweet peace.

Warm Thought: For me, managing change quite literally meant survival. Terry Anderson. Have a beautiful December day filled with peaceful thoughts.

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by the Luetta G. Werner

Published in the Marion Record on December 7th, 1995.
Download the Found Photo Freebie and cherish your memories of the past.

Enjoy flipping through the Vintage Photo Book on your coffee table.

I hope you enjoyed this podcast episode! Please follow along on this journey by going to visualbenedictions.com or following me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, and Overcast. And don’t forget to rate and review so more people can tune in! I’d greatly appreciate it.

Till next time,

Trina

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During the Thanksgiving and Christmas season, many people travel by air and land to visit family. It is a busy time, and often the stress and strain from travel and the social events can cause us to feel overtired. It becomes apparent that we need to focus on the reason for the season. In my travels throughout the years, I have noticed people relaxing while reading a book. It is one of the ways of finding quiet moments of relaxation. I usually travel with books and find moments to have some quiet thoughts from the heart.

Recently, a poem I wrote during some quiet moments was published in "The Best Poem of the 90s" by the National Poetry anthology. I will share these thoughts with you my dear readers of the warm thoughts column: My Bible and I. "We travel together, my Bible and I. Through all kinds of weather, with smiles or a sigh. In sorrow or sunshine, and tempest or calm, it's friendship unchanging, my lamp and my Psalm. We've traveled together, my Bible and I, when life has grown weary and death e'en was nigh. Yet through all the darkness of mist or of roam, I found it a solace, a prayer, and a song. So now who shall part us, my Bible and I? Thou sword of the Spirit, bid error to fly. And still through life's journey until my last sigh, we'll travel together, my Bible and I." The Bible is the most read and is a guide and roadmap in your travels throughout life.

Warm thoughts: "Whenever I feel sad and blue, and all my skies are gray, I read words from a wondrous book and drive my cares away." Ben Burrows.

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Luetta G. Werner

Published in the Marion Record December 5th, 1996.

Download the Found Photo Freebie and cherish your memories of the past.

Enjoy flipping through the Vintage Photo Book on your coffee table.

I hope you enjoyed this podcast episode! Please follow along on this journey by going to visualbenedictions.com or following me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, and Overcast. And don’t forget to rate and review so more people can tune in! I’d greatly appreciate it.

Till next time,

Trina

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Happy Thanksgiving! Today is Thanksgiving Day and many families will be gathered together to share thoughts on gratitude. Can you name at least seven things for which you are grateful? Do you believe in "Thank You" power in your life? The latest research on the impact of positive emotions in our lives is very interesting. The influence of gratitude is quantifiable, both physically and emotionally. Simply being thankful and making it a point to recognize those good things will positively change our lives. There is scientific proof that we will be happier, healthier, and better able to handle the stresses of daily life simply by saying, "thank you."

Warm thoughts on gratitude to always remember: 1. There are many powerful reasons for living in gratitude. 2. Gratitude is an unstoppable mindset for success and happiness. 3. The scientific studies are interesting, well documented, and very persuasive. 4. Living in gratitude opens your mind to being more creative when faced with challenges. 5. Grateful people focus more on the positive events from the past and do not waste time dwelling on the negatives. 6. Grateful people are more popular because they are a pleasure to be around. 7. We all respond positively to praise and encouragement.

I have been touched by the stories of people who have faced physical and emotional trauma and yet have found the strength to live in gratitude. The people who practice the power of "thank you" were able to turn a trauma into a positive not only for themselves, but for others as well. Always remember - we will be happier, healthier, and better able to handle the stresses of daily life simply by saying, "thank you."

More Warm Thoughts: "I thank God that I live in a country where dreams can come true. Where failure sometimes is the first step to success and where success is only another form of failure, if we forget what our priorities should be." Harry Lloyd Hopkins - Advisor to Franklin D. Roosevelt. "Remember ever and always that your country was founded by the stern, old Puritans who made the deck of the Mayflower an altar of the living God, and whose first act on touching the soil of the New World was to offer on bended knees thanksgiving to Almighty God." Henry Wilson - 18th US Vice President under Ulysses S. Grant. And may God bless America and our world!

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Luetta G Werner

Published in the Marion Record on November 25th, 2010.

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Enjoy flipping through the Vintage Photo Book on your coffee table.

I hope you enjoyed this podcast episode! Please follow along on this journey by going to visualbenedictions.com or following me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, and Overcast. And don’t forget to rate and review so more people can tune in! I’d greatly appreciate it.

Till next time,

Trina

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Families throughout our country will celebrate Thanksgiving Day. That first holiday was celebrated by the pilgrims in 1621. Chief Massasoit and his braves joined with the colonists to feast after the first successful harvest. Together they thanked God for His goodness. I was very touched and thankful when I read about the efforts of one woman, Sarah Josephea Hale, to help make it a national, legal holiday. It is true that President George Washington as the leader of the nation, issued a proclamation in 1789 that November 26th be recognized as a day of thanks.

In the years that followed, it seemed many people were too involved going west and opening new frontiers to think about Thanksgiving. Some thought the high cost of turkey and feasting was too expensive. Then began Sarah J. Hale's campaign to influence the public as editor of a woman's magazine. She wrote many articles, editorials, and letters to governors, congressmen, and even the president pleading for them to remember Thanksgiving Day. She continued her writing campaign, and by 1859, thirty states had accepted the idea of an annual Thanksgiving. She still wanted the entire country to recognize a national day of thanks. It was in 1863 that President Lincoln issued a new proclamation calling for a national harvest festival on the last Thursday of November. In 1941, our Congress passed a resolution making the fourth Thursday of each November a national, legal holiday. As it was for the pilgrims in 1621, it is for us a day to gather with families and friends, thanking the Lord for his harvest and blessings. This holiday came about because one determined woman stood firm in her beliefs. A thankful tribute to Sarah J. Hale.

Warm Thoughts: There is a lot of thanks in giving. A thankful heart is the parent of all virtues. Cicero. Gratitude is the memory of the heart. John Baptiste Masslou. Happy Thanksgiving!

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Luetta G. Werner.

Published in the Marion Record on November 21st, 1996.

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Enjoy flipping through the Vintage Photo Book on your coffee table.

I hope you enjoyed this podcast episode! Please follow along on this journey by going to visualbenedictions.com or following me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, and Overcast. And don’t forget to rate and review so more people can tune in! I’d greatly appreciate it.

Till next time,

Trina

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The holidays are approaching so fast. Already, I am receiving those holiday letters as I have a few friends who write their holiday letter about family in October. It seems that many people in this high-tech age no longer write those personal letters.

Donald G Mitchell once wrote: Blessed Be Letters. "They are the monitors. They are also the comforters and they are the only heart talkers. A letter is the warmest way to bid a friend the time of day. A keep in touch that brings the smiles across the very longest miles. And what a world of strength and hope is tucked inside an envelope, reminding loved ones that you are, at least in heart not very far. In no country state or camp, the wealth beneath a postage stamp. For memories that never age are written down upon each page. And though it's nice to telephone, one of the sweetest pleasures known are moments shared in thoughts we send that can be read and read again."

An unknown author wrote the following thoughts: The Letter You Did Not Write. "I meant to write I really did. Each morn I'd say, 'Today I'll get the pen and paper out and send that note away.' So many tasks. My day was full. The months flew swiftly by. Tomorrow I must write for sure each nightfall I would sigh. The sad thing is I really cared. He meant so much to me. He was the dearest friend I knew. How close he'd grown to be. But then the years came crowding in. Somehow, we drew apart. Yet I so often thought of him and kept him in my heart. But now I cannot write to him. He's gone. He'll never know how much he's missed. If you have friends, please write and tell them so. To old friends everywhere, if you will just sit down and write and tell them that you care."

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Luetta G Werner

Published in the Marion Record on November 12th, 1998.

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I hope you enjoyed this podcast episode! Please follow along on this journey by going to visualbenedictions.com or following me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, and Overcast. And don’t forget to rate and review so more people can tune in! I’d greatly appreciate it.

Till next time,

Trina

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This is the time of year when some folks leave the prairie winds and go south for the winter. Folks down south who have permanent residence there will say, "The snowbirds are coming!" About the same time, the northern geese are going south too. Recently, I read that these geese are not going as far south as they used to go in past years. These geese flap their wings and fly south in a V formation. In the spring, they fly north and it is always a special time for us to learn some lessons from the geese.

We can learn about sharing leadership from the geese. When the goose in the lead gets tired, it rotates back into the formation and another goose takes over at the point position. We can also learn from the geese to be interdependent and take turns in doing the hard tasks in a caring and sharing way. What happens when one goose gets sick or wounded? Two geese drop out of formation and follow him down to help and to protect him. They will stay with him until he is either able to fly again or dies. Then they launch out on their own, either with another formation or to catch up with the original flock.

As we travel throughout our journey in life, we may have many challenges where we need someone to cheer us on and give us that encouraging word. We need to stand by each other and care about each other in the good and also difficult times in life. We can learn from these northern geese, that when we share a common direction, and a sense of community, we can get where we travel on the thrust of one another. What are these geese communicating to us? We can learn many lessons from animals and birds as we go through many life experiences.

Warm thoughts: The highest wisdom is kindness. Talmud. Caring comes before sharing. Have many warm thoughts, every day!

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Luetta G. Werner

Published in the Marion Record on November 7th, 1996.

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I hope you enjoyed this podcast episode! Please follow along on this journey by going to visualbenedictions.com or following me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, and Overcast. And don’t forget to rate and review so more people can tune in! I’d greatly appreciate it.

Till next time,

Trina

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The month of October has been designated as "Clergy Appreciation Month." Many congregations throughout the country have expressed special thanks to their pastor and given honor to the pastoral ministry during this month. We have become more aware that the pastoral ministry makes great demands upon the physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual wellbeing of the individuals that we call pastor. An unknown author has expressed as thanks in the following warm thoughts. "To our Pastor: God bless you for the work you've done in the service of our Lord. May His constant blessing be your well deserved reward as you meet the challenge of the tasks God gives to you. May faith and hope and happiness be yours in all you do."

I was impressed by some thoughts I once read about the church garden. It was planted with vegetables, not flowers. "The Church Garden. Four rows of turnips: 1. Turn up with a smile. 2. Turn up for church activities. 3. Turn up with a prospective member. 4. Turn up with a Bible. Five rows of lettuce: 1. Let us love one another. 2. Let us welcome strangers. 3. Let us be faithful to the commandments. 4. Let us faithfully worship God. 5. Let us give from the heart." The month of October is not over. It is still a good time to say thank you to the men and women in the parish ministry and missionaries who serve throughout the world.

Warm Thoughts: A church is a hospital for sinners not a museum for saints. Yesterday is history, tomorrow is a mystery, today is a gift. That's why it's called the present. Be happy and enjoy it. Be thankful. Have a great day filled with warm thoughts!

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Luetta G. Werner

Published in the Marion Record October 24th, 1996.

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Enjoy flipping through the Vintage Photo Book on your coffee table.

I hope you enjoyed this podcast episode! Please follow along on this journey by going to visualbenedictions.com or following me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, and Overcast. And don’t forget to rate and review so more people can tune in! I’d greatly appreciate it.

Till next time,

Trina

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A recent warm thoughts column provided information about "Make a Difference Day," which is October 26th. It is a day when everyone is encouraged to make a difference in their community and world by making it a day of caring. An annual national day of helping others. Across the nation, about one million Americans will help others on this Make a Difference Day. Can one person make a difference? We are aware that there have been many difference makers in history.

To name a few, we remember that Thomas Edison brought us out of darkness and into electric light. Henry Ford gave us the Model T. Eli Whitney gave us the cotton gin. Ben Franklin provided our biofocals. John Bunyan guided the progress of millions of pilgrims. Then there was Columbus, Lincoln, Beethoven, Einstein, and many others who make a difference. Our lives can be blessed by a caring community. I, personally, experienced this following a car accident that took six months of recovery. The outpouring of love and compassion was phenomenal. Over six hundred cards and prayerful letters of encouragement for a speedy recovery were received. Visits and telephone calls from all parts of the country. A surprise call even came from caring friends who live in Switzerland and England, one afternoon. I experienced a caring community with their points of light and how they certainly can light up one's life and make a difference. I'm very thankful for caring communities around the world. Whoever you are, and wherever you are, thanks for all your caring.

Warm Thoughts: Caring is the garden where love grows. The world is blessed by people who care. The impersonal hand of government can never replace the helping hand of a neighbor. Hubert H. Humphrey. A little time to care for others, a little time to share with others - that's what makes someone like you so nice to know and to be with too. Helen Steiner Rice. Don't forget, October 26th is national "Make a Difference Day."

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Luetta G Werner

Published in the Marion Record October 17th, 1996.

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I hope you enjoyed this podcast episode! Please follow along on this journey by going to visualbenedictions.com or following me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, and Overcast. And don’t forget to rate and review so more people can tune in! I’d greatly appreciate it.

Till next time,

Trina

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It is very interesting to know that in a recent survey that was taken, 75% of the people believe that a positive mental attitude can snap one out of depression. Throughout the ages, great men have shared with us some very good words of wisdom and positive thoughts. And so this week, I have selected some of those thoughts for this column.

"If I tell you the truth, you don't have to remember anything." Mark Twain. "The only ones among you who will be really happy are those who have sought and found how to serve." Dr. Albert Schweitzer, African missionary. "To accomplish great things we must not only act, but also dream, not only plan, but also believe. Anatole France. "The beauty of memory is that it still sees beauty when beauty has faded." Paul Boese. "The best thing about the future is that it comes only one day at a time." Abraham Lincoln. "That's the beauty of making a mistake. Because you don't have to make it a second time." Thomas Edison. "The Art of being wise is the art of knowing what to overlook." William James. "To err is human to forgive, divine." Alexander Pope. "To profit from good advice requires more wisdom than to give it." John Churton Collins. "I expect to pass through life but once. If therefore, there'll be any kindness I can show or any good thing I can do to my fellow beings, let me do it now and defer it as I shall not pass this way again." William Penn.

If you had been questioned in the survey, what would have been your thoughts? I would love to hear from you. Warm thought: In the same way as you cultivate a garden you can cultivate a positive attitude. May you have many warm and positive thoughts!

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Luetta G. Werner

Published in the Marion Record October 10th, 1996

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I hope you enjoyed this podcast episode! Please follow along on this journey by going to visualbenedictions.com or following me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, and Overcast. And don’t forget to rate and review so more people can tune in! I’d greatly appreciate it.

Till next time,

Trina

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As I turn the calendar to October, one realizes the season of fall is really here. It is one of the most beautiful seasons of the entire year. It is the time of the bright blue skies, the cool nights, frost in the air, beautiful sunsets, and many warm thoughts come to mind. Recently, a poem I wrote on Autumn Thoughts was published by Lifelines Magazine, and I will share these thoughts with you, my faithful readers of this column.

Autumn Reflections. The glory of green grasses fades like shadows into the night. Leaves fall gracefully on parched ground, making a golden blanket. Squirrels running through trembling trees like playful children among the soft, rustic leaves. Singing birds have disappeared, like eagle feathers on wasted woodlands. Pine cones fall from shaking branches, making music on the autumn eve. Gentle sounds of music come from campfires near the mirrored lake, mountains fade as the brilliant sky sweeps across the hills. Brown forests vanish like sunset from the crimson pyramids. Beauty loves contentment. Peaceful thoughts come with the sylvan autumn setting. Gone is autumn. Winter and downy flakes of snow have covered autumn leaves and made a velvet carpet.

Warm thoughts: As we walk through the autumn of our lives, for some, the footsteps may be slower. May they know the way better. Have many warm thoughts on autumn days!

Warm Thoughts from Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Luetta G Werner

Published in the Marion Record October 3rd, 1996

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I hope you enjoyed this podcast episode! Please follow along on this journey by going to visualbenedictions.com or following me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, and Overcast. And don’t forget to rate and review so more people can tune in! I’d greatly appreciate it.

Till next time,

Trina

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Recently, one of the readers of this column from Texas sent me an article entitled, "We are Survivors: Consider the changes we've witnessed." I thought it appropriate to share some of the thoughts from this article.

"Individuals who were born prior to 1945 will especially understand the changes in their lives. We were before television, before penicillin, before polio shots, frozen foods, xerox, contact lenses, frisbees, and the pill. We were before radar, credit cards, split atoms, laser beams and ballpoint pens. Before pantyhose, dishwashers, clothes dryers, electric blankets, air conditioners, drip-dry clothing, and before man walked on the moon. Bunnies were small rabbits and rabbits were not Volkswagens. We were before daycare centers, group therapy, and nursing homes. We never heard of FM radio, tape decks, electric typewriters, artificial hearts, word processors, yogurt, and guys wearing earrings. For us time sharing meant togetherness, not computers or condominiums. A "chip" meant a piece of wood. "Hardware" meant "hard wear" and software wasn't even a word. In our day, grass was mowed, coke was a cold drink, and pot was something you cooked in. Rock music was grandma's lullaby and pizzas, McDonald's, and instant coffee were unheard of. We thought fast food was what you ate during Lent and outerspace was the back of the local theater. We hit the scene when there were five and ten stores where you bought things for five and ten cents. The corner drugstore sold ice cream cones for a nickel or a dime. For one nickel, you could ride a street car, make a phone call, buy a Pepsi, or enough stamps to mail one letter and two postcards. You could buy a new Chevy coupe for $600, but who could afford one? A pity too, because gasoline was only eleven cents a gallon. And we got married first and then lived together. And we are the last generation that was so dumb as to think you needed a husband to have a baby. But we survived.”

Warm Thoughts: Seasons change and so do people. For me, managed change quite literally meant survival. Terry Anderson. May you have many warm thoughts every day.

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Luetta G. Werner

Published in the Marion Record September 26th, 1996.

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I hope you enjoyed this podcast episode! Please follow along on this journey by going to visualbenedictions.com or following me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, and Overcast. And don’t forget to rate and review so more people can tune in! I’d greatly appreciate it.

Till next time,

Trina

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American history comes alive when one visits presidential libraries and museums. A recent visit to the Herbert Hoover Presidential Library and Museum in Iowa proved to be very interesting. Reading some of the quotes from his speeches at that time in the history of our country - the Great Depression, was very enlightening. On the lighter side, he wrote an essay which I would like to share with you at this time.

"What is a boy? You can absolutely rely on a boy if you know what to expect. A boy is nature's answer to false belief that there is no such thing as perpetual motion. A boy can run like a deer, swim like a fish, climb like a squirrel, balk like a mule, bellow like a bull, eat like a pig, or act like a jackass according to climactic conditions. The world is so full of boys that it's impossible to touch off a firecracker, strike up a band, or pitch a ball without collecting a thousand of them. Boys are not ornamental, they're useful. If it were not for boys, the newspapers would go undelivered and unread, and 100,000 picture shows would go bankrupt. The boy is a natural spectator. He watches parades, fires, fights, football games, automobiles, and planes with equal fervor. However, he will not watch a clock. A boy is a piece of skin stretched over an appetite. However, he eats only when he's awake. Boys imitate their dads in spite of all efforts to teach them good manners. Boys are very durable. A boy if not washed too often, and if kept in a cool, quiet place after each accident will survive broken bones, hornets nests, swimming holes, and five helpings of pie. Boys love to trade things. They'll trade fish hooks, marbles, broken knives and snakes for anything that is priceless or worthless. When he grows up, he'll trade puppy love, energy, warts, bashfulness, and a cast iron stomach, for a bay window, pride, ambition, pretence, and a bald head. And will immediately begin to say that "boys aren't what they used to be in the good old days." Herbert Hoover.

Warm Thoughts: I have had every honor to which any man could aspire. There is no place on the whole earth except here in America, where all the sons of man can have this chance in life. Herbert Hoover. Have a great day. Enjoy the autumn of the year!

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Luetta G Werner

Published in the Marion Record September 25th, 1997.

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Enjoy flipping through the Vintage Photo Book on your coffee table.

I hope you enjoyed this podcast episode! Please follow along on this journey by going to visualbenedictions.com or following me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, and Overcast. And don’t forget to rate and review so more people can tune in! I’d greatly appreciate it.

Till next time,

Trina

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When many of you will be reading this warm thoughts column, the season of fall we'll be here. Of all the seasons of the year, autumn is a favorite season for many people. It is one of the most colorful seasons of the year - an artist's paradise. The bright blue skies, frost in the air, beautiful sunsets, hot summers - many warm thoughts come to mind. Autumn is a season that has inspired many artists authors and poets. Samuel Butler states that "Autumn is the mellower season and what we lost in flowers we more than gain and fruits."

It seems this year has gone faster than normal, my friend mentioned to me very recently. I'd like to share the thoughts of another author on how fast the year passes along life's way. "So the year passes. Earth spins, rain fall, nights come, stars shine. Whether I stop to notice or rush blind by, and time when it touches me weighs heavy. So much to do, so much done. What is gained is lost, what is lost is found again...or not as sometimes happens. Well, life. Here we are, and this green leaf will be brown next year. I offer it to you as tithe for the time given us and for the mystery movements of stars and sky." Saara Litzsky.

Enjoy the tangy fragrance of autumn. Leaves changing their green of summer for flaming red, yellow, and brown. Blue haze on the distant hills. The large harvest moon shining on rows of corn stalks and pumpkins, where a country road meanders and the glorious sunsets in the autumn time of year. Another Warm Thought: As we walk through the autumn of our lives, for some, the footsteps may be slower - they may know the way better. Have many warm thoughts on autumn days!

Warm Thoughts from Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Luetta G. Werner

Published in the Marion Record, September 18th, 1997.
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I hope you enjoyed this podcast episode! Please follow along on this journey by going to visualbenedictions.com or following me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, and Overcast. And don’t forget to rate and review so more people can tune in! I’d greatly appreciate it.

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Trina

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Every year at this time I am reminded by letters I received about International Hug Day. This year, it is September 17th. It is rather interesting that it is a week later than Grandparents Day. The National Grandparents Day is the second Sunday in September every year.

As a great grandmother and support person for the grandparents around the country, I'm becoming more aware each day that we are the "ancestors." There are so many things that only grandparents can contribute. They give of their talents and skills, are able to tell those family stories, and listen to their grandchildren with patience and unconditional love. A recent article I read mentioned that grandparents today are rearing their children's children at an alarming pace. Over 32 million American children live with their grandparents. This is an increase of nearly 40% In the past decade. Other statistics mentioned that grandparents spend $30 billion dollars annually on their grandchildren. This is through telephone calls, travel, restaurant meals, and gifts. Two thirds visit their grandchildren regularly. Even those who don't live nearby. Dr. T Berry Brazelton states, "Children who have the luxury of relationships with grandparents win out in all studies of child development. The opportunity to experience multiple models while learning about life adds significantly to the child's potential."

Grandparents - have you hugged your grandchildren today? And grandchildren remember to give that special grandparent a hug, too. Warm Thought: The old are the precious gem in the center of the household. Chinese Proverb. Remember International Hug Day!

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Luetta G. Werner

Published in the Marion Record, September 15th, 1995.

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I hope you enjoyed this podcast episode! Please follow along on this journey by going to visualbenedictions.com or following me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, and Overcast. And don’t forget to rate and review so more people can tune in! I’d greatly appreciate it.

Till next time,

Trina

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Many families travel before the school year begins. I love to hear about the interesting places family and friends see on their travels throughout the country. A dear friend recently related the precious moments their family experienced at the Precious Moments Chapel, which is nestled among the dogwood in the beautiful meadows of the Ozarks in Carthage, Missouri. The sanctuary of the chapel is filled with many scenes depicting stories from the Bible. This Precious Moments Chapel is the realization of a dream that was born in the heart of one of America's most famous artists, Samuel J. Butcher.

The artist, Sam Butcher, was born in Jackson, Michigan on New Year's Eve of 1939. He was a third of five children who grew up in a very poor family. Most of Sam's childhood days were spent drawing and sketching under the dining room table. at a very early age, his talent was recognized by both family members and friends. Because his family was poor, drawing materials were hard to come by. So Sam's favorite place as a child was a factory dump near his home, where he would search for rolls of paper to draw. One of Sam's fondest memories was when his grandmother would tell him Bible stories. He always had a deep interest in spiritual things and even from his earliest childhood, he painted scenes from the Bible. Sam was encouraged by his teachers during his school years. It was in 1974 that Sam created his first Precious Moments drawing. It was in 1975 when precious moments was introduced to the public. The Precious Moments Chapel was completed in 1989 and thousands of visitors have come to visit the chapel. This chapel is one of the nation's most inspirational attractions.

Thanks dear friend for sharing your visit to the precious moments chapel in your travels. Warm thoughts: Yesterday is history, tomorrow is a mystery, and today is a gift. That's why we call it the present and celebrate life. Share precious moments in your journey through life.

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Luetta G. Werner

Published in the Marion Record August 28th, 1997.

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Enjoy flipping through the Vintage Photo Book on your coffee table.

I hope you enjoyed this podcast episode! Please follow along on this journey by going to visualbenedictions.com or following me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, and Overcast. And don’t forget to rate and review so more people can tune in! I’d greatly appreciate it.

Till next time,

Trina

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A high school teacher in Houston asked her students, "What advice would you give your mom and dad?" She surveyed 300 teenagers. Those who responded represent a healthy cross section of ethnic groups, ages, academic achievements, and home/life environments.

Some of the answers make one laugh and others make one think: "Don't allow your child to bring company into the house unless you know them personally. Look for things that are good about your children instead of constantly finding ways to put them down. Don't tell your children the things they do are stupid. Teach kids to take care of their things and to look out for their siblings. Accept the fact that adults are not always right - if you're wrong, admit it. Don't put too much pressure on your kids to excel. Understand they're young and need to enjoy life. Teach your children that a true friend will understand that when you say "no," you mean "no." Don't hold the past against your child. What happened? It cannot be changed. Turn the TV off and talk to your children. You can't carry on a good conversation if you're constantly worried about your show. Get involved in school activities. Acting concerned is not enough. You need to show your concern by getting involved. Teach your kids manners like how a lady sits and how a gentleman opens the door for a lady. Introduce your children to extra activities. Teach your children right and wrong and that each action brings either a bad consequence or reward. When they do right, reward them and when they do wrong, punish them. Never force your child to choose one parent over the other." The free advice from teenagers was for their parents. Their comments made some valid points to think about as another school year is about to begin in many areas throughout the country.

Warm Thought from a letter: There is a destiny that makes us brothers, no one goes his way alone. All we send into the lives of others comes back into our own. Edwin Markham. Have a great day, make it a good one!

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Luetta G Werner

Published in the Marion Record August 21st, 1997.

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I hope you enjoyed this podcast episode! Please follow along on this journey by going to visualbenedictions.com or following me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, and Overcast. And don’t forget to rate and review so more people can tune in! I’d greatly appreciate it.

Till next time,

Trina

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When I went to the one room country school as a child, I learned many pioneer Proverbs, or adages, which according to an old Webster's dictionary is "an ancient proverb." The adage I learned about weather, I thought perhaps was based on scientific fact. When the rooster crows at night, he tells us rain is in sight. Swallows fly high - clear blue sky, swallows fly low - rain, we shall know. The adages we learned are part of our American heritage.

It was interesting for me to read about the teacher who asked her class to write some original thoughts on those ancient adages. Perhaps you may feel the students deserve an "A" for their originality. Here are a few of their thoughts: The grass is always greener when you remember to water. A Rolling Stone plays the guitar. A bird in the hand is a mess. No news is no newspaper. It's better to light one candle than to waste electricity. It is always darkest just before I open my eyes. We have nothing to fear but our own principal. If you can't stand the heat, go swimming. Never put off till tomorrow what you should have done yesterday. A penny saved is nothing in the real world. The squeaky wheel gets annoying. To err is human, to eat a muskrat is not. I think, therefore I get a headache. Laugh and the world laughs with you. Cry and someone yells "shut up." There is nothing new under the bed. Don't count your chickens - it takes too long. A journey of 1000 miles begins with a blister. Early to bed and early to rise is the first in the bathroom.

Do you recognize the old pioneer proverb or adages of long ago? "Early to Rise." I remember being told what would happen if you went to bed early. "Early to bed, early to rise makes a man healthy, wealthy and wise." Many words of wisdom in those ancient proverbs of long ago. Those adages may change with the changing times. Warm Thoughts: men occasionally stumble over the truth but most of them pick themselves up and hurry off as if nothing happened. Winston Churchill. Do you have an adage to share?

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Luetta G Werner

Published in the Marion Record on August 14th, 1997.

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I hope you enjoyed this podcast episode! Please follow along on this journey by going to visualbenedictions.com or following me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, and Overcast. And don’t forget to rate and review so more people can tune in! I’d greatly appreciate it.

Till next time,

Trina

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In many parts of the country students are making preparations to return to the classroom and the books. My grandson, Trevor, is all excited about going to kindergarten. It is only recently that he graduated from Crayola College. His excitement about going to kindergarten has really rubbed off on his old grandma who lived in an era before kindergarten, and it took me all my first grade to write my long name.

Perhaps some of you have read the book, "All I Ever Really Need to Know I Learned in Kindergarten." I'm not sure what year the author was born - he no doubt is a baby boomer who went to kindergarten. Anyway, here are some thoughts after reading his book. "Most of what I really need to know about how to live and what to do and how to be. I learned in kindergarten. Wisdom was not at the top of the graduate school mountain, but there on the sandbox at the nursery school. These are the things that I learned: Share everything. Play fair. Don't hit people. Put things back where you found them. Clean up your mess. Don't take things that aren't yours. Say you're sorry. Wash your hands before you flush. Warm cookies and cold milk are good for you. Live a balanced life. Learn some and think some and draw and paint and sing and dance and play and work every day. Take a nap every afternoon. When you go out into the world, watch for traffic. Hold hands and stick together. Be aware of wonder. Remember the little seed in the plastic cup - the roots go down and the plants go up. And nobody really knows how or why, but we all are like that. Goldfish and hamsters and white mice, and even the little seed in the plastic cup. They all die. So do we. And then remember the book about Dick and Jane and the first word you learned, the biggest word of all - Look! Everything you need to know is in there somewhere. The golden rule and love and basic sanitation, ecology and politics and sane living. Just think of what a better world it would be if we all, the whole world, had cookies and milk at three o'clock every afternoon and then lay down with our blankets for a nap. Or if we had a basic policy in our nation, and other nations, to always put things back where we found them and clean up our own mess. And it is still true, no matter how old you are, when you go out in the world, it's best to hold hands and stick together."

I am really looking forward to how much I will learn from my grandchildren. As I will be listening to them tell the rest of the story. Enjoy precious memories listening to the children.

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Luetta G Werner

Published in the Marion Record on August 12th, 1999.

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I hope you enjoyed this podcast episode! Please follow along on this journey by going to visualbenedictions.com or following me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, and Overcast. And don’t forget to rate and review so more people can tune in! I’d greatly appreciate it.

Till next time,

Trina

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Throughout the country, many schools will be opening their doors already in August. Summer vacation will soon end. For some, it has been a time for summer reading and summer school activities and preparation for the coming school year.

Barbara Johnson, a noted author and humorist, has written several books that give us off-the-wall humor and down-to-earth inspiration. She believes that laughter is good for the soul. She states that our five senses are incomplete without the sixth sense, a sense of humor. Humor is to life what shock absorbers are to automobiles. A sense of humor can help you overlook the unattractive, tolerate the unpleasant, cope with the unexpected, and smile through the unbearable. She states that, "Things will probably come out all right, but sometimes it takes strong nerves to watch. When the going gets tough. We got to get tougher." Some of her thoughts bring smiles and laughter. She tells us that a smile is a wrinkle that should not be removed. And there's a light in the window of the face that shows that your heart is at home. And if you look at the bright side of life, you will never have eyestrain.

More thoughts from Barbara: Frogs have it easy, they can eat what bugs them. Man cannot live by bread alone. He needs peanut butter too. The handwriting on the wall means that the grandchildren have found the crayons. She gives us a bit of inspiration for our journey through life. She states that "if you learn to laugh in spite of circumstances that surround you, you will enrich others, enrich yourself, and more than that, you will last.”

More Warm Thoughts: Life is easier than you think. All you have to do is accept the impossible, do without the indispensable, hear the intolerable, and be able to smile at anything. Laugh out loud and often.

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Luetta G Werner

Published in the Marion Record August 7th, 1997.

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Enjoy flipping through the Vintage Photo Book on your coffee table.

I hope you enjoyed this podcast episode! Please follow along on this journey by going to visualbenedictions.com or following me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, and Overcast. And don’t forget to rate and review so more people can tune in! I’d greatly appreciate it.

Till next time,

Trina

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In last week's column, it was mentioned that one of the best attitudes is gratitude. Thanksgiving Day is celebrated one day of the year. Thanksgiving and thanksliving is an attitude that can be practiced every day, making it a daily habit. My observation throughout the years is that the happiest persons are the most grateful individuals. They live "The Attitude of Gratitude" each day of their lives, an awakened, revitalized recognition of our blessings encourages gratitude thoughts.

The late A.W. Tozer once wrote about this daily habit of thanks and gratitude, he said that "this habit will cure a host of injurious evils. In our dispositions, self pity, resentment, murmuring faultfinding. All these will wither and die of themselves, for how can they grow inside a heart overflowing with gratitude and praise. Gratitude takes three forms of feeling in the heart and expression in words and a giving in return. A grateful heart is a parent of all virtues."

I have a friend who has been an inspiration to me throughout the years of my life. She keeps a daily gratitude journal and is very generous in writing thank you notes to friends. I have learned from her that a thankful and grateful heart is an attitude and expression of gratitude for the people and things that enrich your lives. She also encourages others to write these thank you notes to people while they are still living. It seems quite apparent that the attitude of gratitude is really meant to be a daily experience for everyone. How exciting and enriching our lives can be when we daily count our blessings and practice the attitude of gratitude.

Warm thought: "Gratitude is the memory of the heart." Jean-Baptiste Massieu. "Gratitude is the fairest blossom which springs from the soul and the heart of man knoweth none more fragrant." Hosea Ballou. Counting blessings always shows a profit.

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Luetta G Werner

Published in the Marion Record July 24th, 1997.

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I hope you enjoyed this podcast episode! Please follow along on this journey by going to visualbenedictions.com or following me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, and Overcast. And don’t forget to rate and review so more people can tune in! I’d greatly appreciate it.

Till next time,

Trina

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Dear readers, today is my 70th birthday. Among the cards I received was a very special poem given to me by my sister-in-law and special friend throughout the years. Last February, family celebrated her 65th birthday, and she has accepted the aging process very gracefully. When family surprised me and celebrated my birthday in June, she shared these thoughts.

"Happy 70th birthday. Seasons come and seasons go. Soon you will reach the big 7-0. Our bones may ache and eyesight dim, it all depends on what's within. With faith and trust in God above and promise of His unchanging love. Whatever befalls us, we shall endure. He's always with us, that's for sure. We do not know what the future has in store. God grant us serenity, courage, wisdom and much more. We have so much to be thankful for - family, friends, health and daily bread. As homeward on our journey, we tread. We give our God all things and praise. May He continued to bless all our days."

Words of Wisdom: One who sees beauty in all things never grows old. To be 70 years young is sometimes more cheerful, than to be 40 years old. Oliver Wendell Holmes. Aging depends on your attitude. One should not worry about one's exact chronological age in reference to his ability to perform one's tasks. Thomas Jefferson. Count your age by friends, not years. Measure your life by smiles, not tears. Anonymous. I shall grow old but never lose life's zest because the road's last turn will be the best.

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Luetta G. Werner.

Published in the Marion Record on July 18th, 1996.

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I hope you enjoyed this podcast episode! Please follow along on this journey by going to visualbenedictions.com or following me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, and Overcast. And don’t forget to rate and review so more people can tune in! I’d greatly appreciate it.

Till next time,

Trina

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It is such a joy to receive letters from the readers of this column. I appreciate it so much when they include some gems of thought that I can share with you all throughout this column. In this day of high technology, the fax machine is used to communicate, (email and the computer) for our relationships. That personal handwritten letter may soon become a gift of the past. Here is the thought a faithful reader from Florida sent me.

A Letter. A letter is the warmest way to bid a friend the time of day. A "keep in touch" that brings the smiles across the very longest miles. And what a wealth of strength and hope is tucked inside an envelope, reminding loved ones that you are, at least in heart, not very far. In no country, state, or camp, or wealth beneath a postage stamp. For our memories that never age, are written down upon each page. And though it's nice to telephone, one of the sweetest pleasures that is known - our moments shared and thoughts we send that can be read and read and read again.

Recently I read that July 2nd has been designated as "I Forgot Day." It is a day when you make up and send to friends missed birthdays, anniversaries and other special occasions. This just may be a good month to send that special letter or card of encouragement. You can be that caring friend and make someone's day.

Warm Thoughts: Friends are flowers in the garden of life. Anyone who makes our life better can be called a friend. My friends are my best treasure. The best part of life. Abe Lincoln. Thank you for being a caring friend.

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Luetta G Werner

Published in the Marion Record July 10th, 1997.

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I hope you enjoyed this podcast episode! Please follow along on this journey by going to visualbenedictions.com or following me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, and Overcast. And don’t forget to rate and review so more people can tune in! I’d greatly appreciate it.

Till next time,

Trina

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Did you celebrate America's birthday? Over 200 years have come and gone for our good, old USA. Many ceremonies come to mind as we remember celebrating Independence Day. As we reflect on the month of June, and Father's Day celebrations with family, my thoughts reflect on historical facts about the father of our country, George Washington. Recently I read Washington's prayer for our country. And I would like to share his warm thoughts for our country.

Washington's Prayer for Our Country: "I now make it my earnest prayer that God would have you and the states over which you preside in his holy protection. That He would incline the hearts of the citizens to cultivate a spirit of subordination and obedience to government. To entertain a brotherly affection and love for one another, for their fellow citizens of the United States at large, and particularly, for their brethren who have served in the field. And finally, that He would dispose us all, to do justice, to love mercy, and to demean ourselves with that charity, humility and specific temper of mine, which were characteristics of the divine author of our blessed religion. And without a humble invitation of whose example in these things, we can never hope to be a happy nation." George Washington.

In his guest book, "Sin and the New American Conscience," William A. Emerson Jr. states, "America is into some painful self knowledge, and we all feel it. America will always have struggles and this self awareness may be a good thing. I am very hopeful for the future of America."

Warm Thoughts: On guard then, O America, let nothing ever dim the flame of true democracy, nor steal the fervent hymn of liberty and justice and noble destiny. Again, we raise our thanks to God, America for thee. God Bless America and you.

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Luetta G Werner

Published in the Marion Record, July 6th, 1995.

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I hope you enjoyed this podcast episode! Please follow along on this journey by going to visualbenedictions.com or following me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, and Overcast. And don’t forget to rate and review so more people can tune in! I’d greatly appreciate it.

Till next time,

Trina

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It is that time of year when many patriotic thoughts arise as we see the flag flying high in the sky. I am very impressed in my travels to note where homes fly the flag on a daily basis.

There are special days of the year beginning with January 1st, when we fly the flag resolving to keep our nation free. On January 20th, it is Inauguration Day, February 12th - Lincoln's birthday, and February 22nd, Washington's day and also on Presidents Day in February. In April we have Army Day on April 6th. On Easter Sunday we proclaim our freedom source anew. In May we have Mother's Day and Memorial Day. June brings us Flag Day and Father's Day. July 4th is Independence Day, the birthday of our freedom. A day when those stars and stripes wave over the land of the free and the home of the brave. Labor Day is when our flag speaks for the workmen in our country. September 17th is Constitution Day. October 12th is Columbus Day - the day America was discovered. October 27th is Navy Day, when the flag floats on ship or shore. November we have Veterans Day, a day of thanks for our freedom. December 25th Is Christmas day, when we honor Him who came to give everyone healing liberty.

The American flag has the colors of red, white, and blue. Most national flags use one or combinations of seven basic colors. Red, white, blue, green, yellow, black, and orange. It was on June 14th, 1977 that Continental Congress adopted the Stars and Stripes Flag. Whoever the mother or father of this flag may be, we know it represents America the Beautiful and God Bless America.

Patriotic thought: On guard then, O America, let nothing ever dead, the flame of true democracy nor still the fervent hymn of liberty and justice and noble destiny. Again, we raise our thanks to God, America for thee. God bless America.

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Luetta G. Werner

Published in the Marion Record June 27th, 1996.

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I hope you enjoyed this podcast episode! Please follow along on this journey by going to visualbenedictions.com or following me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, and Overcast. And don’t forget to rate and review so more people can tune in! I’d greatly appreciate it.

Till next time,

Trina

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When you read this warm thoughts column, Father's Day 1997 will be another memory. A dear Nebraska reader of this column sent me some thoughts on Father's Day - precious thoughts to ponder all year.

"How Fathers Mature." Four years: My daddy can do anything. Seven years: My daddy knows a lot, a whole lot. Eight years: My father doesn't quite know everything. 12 years: Oh, well, naturally, father doesn't know that either. 14 years: Father, hopelessly old fashioned. 21 years: Oh, that man is out of date. What did you expect? 25 years: He knows a little bit about it. But not much. 30 years: Maybe we ought to find out what dad thinks. 35 years: A little patience. Let's get dad's assessment before we do anything. 59 years: I wonder what dad would have thought about that. He was pretty smart. 60 years: My dad knew absolutely everything. 65 years: I'd give anything if dad were here so I could talk this over with him. I really missed that man.

The following thoughts were also written by a wise unknown author. "My Treasure." Dad, are you rich? Have you much more than the old man who lives next door? I nearly answered, "Why sonny, no. I haven't near as much to show." And then alas, I looked at him, recalled happy hours with my sonny, Jim. I heard his mother call and laugh as she turned in our homeward path. I thought of the work of which I'm part - old tasks to finish, new ones to start. I thought of joy with hosts of friends, in which the story of all work blends. Ah, dear child, there is no wealth, precious as happiness and good health. No treasures store in all the land compares with friendly heart and hand. When you and your mother laugh and sing, then I am richer than any king. I am rich. So Rich. Though he next door possesses the world, I have much more.

Warm thought: A child is not likely to find a Father in God unless you find something of God in a father. The finest gentleman I've ever known, and the most heroic soul, was my father. Daniel Webster. Have a great day.

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Luetta G Werner

Published in the Marion Record June 19th, 1997.

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I hope you enjoyed this podcast episode! Please follow along on this journey by going to visualbenedictions.com or following me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, and Overcast. And don’t forget to rate and review so more people can tune in! I’d greatly appreciate it.

Till next time,

Trina

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When you read this column, it will only be a few days before Flag Day. I have often wondered if Old Glory could tell her story, just what she might tell us. Recently, I read some warm thoughts which I'd like to share with you, my dear readers of this column.

Some people call me "Old Glory." Others referred to me as the "Star Spangled Banner," or the "Stars and Stripes," but whatever they call me, I am your flag. I remember some time ago, people lined up on both sides of the street to watch a parade. And naturally, I was leading every parade, proudly waving in the breeze. What happened? I'm still the same old flag, but now I don't feel as proud as I used to be. When I come down your street, you just stand there with your hands in your pockets. Then I see the children running around and shouting. Is it a sin to be patriotic anymore? Have people forgotten what I stand for and where I've been?

Our flag was first raised on June 14th, 1777. And oh, it is more than a piece of cloth having a design of stars and stripes. It symbolizes the greatest nation on Earth. It has been the refuge of millions of oppressed people from everywhere. It has stood for freedom from want and fear. The red stripes symbolize hardiness and courage - the hardiness of the early pioneers, the courage of the common working man. The white stripes signify purity and innocence - the purity of the idealists who believe that each person is a child of God, and the innocence that strives for his right to be here. The blue field is indicative of vigilance, perseverance and justice - the vigilance to protect man's freedoms and perseverance that rejects all defeat and justice, the goal of free men everywhere. The stars unified on the field of blue embrace the 50 states as one, unified for the good of mankind and country. Honor her. Respect her. Defend her. Never let her enemies from within or without tear her down in the shameful defeat, lest she never rise again. Place God first, and others second. Then our nation will remain the bulwark of peace, freedom, and equal opportunity for all mankind. This is your flag. Let your heart salute her.

Warm and winsome thoughts: Dear friends, let us protect and respect our flag. A symbol that is so important, significant, and meaningful to those of us who love and honor and revere our country. Respect and protect our Old Glory.

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Luetta G. Werner.

Published in the Marion Record June 11th, 1998.

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I hope you enjoyed this podcast episode! Please follow along on this journey by going to visualbenedictions.com or following me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, and Overcast. And don’t forget to rate and review so more people can tune in! I’d greatly appreciate it.

Till next time,

Trina

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June. The month for Children's Day, Father's Day, Flag day. A month for birthdays, wedding anniversaries, bridal showers, weddings, graduations, family reunions and the celebration of family. I find it very interesting that Children's Day and Flag Day fall on the same day and Father's Day and the first day of summer are also on the same day this year.

It is such a joy to listen to the children, for they seem to be our master teachers. One boy, a fifth grader said, "Without my father, it would be like a ball without any air inside it." It seems that something in every child, no matter how old, yearns to be connected with his father in an affirming relationship. Their heartfelt responses can really warm your heart. A recent Gallup Poll brought out that 70% use very positive words like "great," "fantastic," "tremendous," "close," or "warm" in describing their relationship with their father. Dr. Ken Canfield, Director of the National Center on Fathering states, "Children, particularly when they are young, think their father is the smartest, richest and strongest man on earth. Research and the experience of fathers confirms this statement."

And how do we describe our children and our grandchildren? The sainted Erma Bombeck, who is famous for her column, "At Wit's End," wrote in an article which appeared in May 1977, that "bringing up children is like flying kites." The following are her warm thoughts: "I see children as kites. You spend a lifetime trying to get them off the ground. You run with them until you're both breathless, they crash, you add a longer tail. They hit the rooftop, you pluck them out of the spout. You patch and comfort, adjust, and teach. You watch them lift by the wind and assure them that someday they will fly. Finally, they are airborne but they need more string and you keep letting it out. With each twist of the ball of twine there is a sadness that goes with the joy, because the kite somehow becomes more distant and you know that it won't be long before that beautiful creature will snap the lifeline that bound you together. And soar as it was meant to soar, free and alone. Only then do you know that you did your job.

A bit of wisdom: The best things to give a child - roots and wings. H. Carter. There's just one way to bring up a child in the way he should go. And that is to travel that way yourself. Abraham Lincoln. Give your child or grandchild a hug!

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Luetta G Werner

Published in the Marion Record June 4th, 1998.

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Enjoy flipping through the Vintage Photo Book on your coffee table.

I hope you enjoyed this podcast episode! Please follow along on this journey by going to visualbenedictions.com or following me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, and Overcast. And don’t forget to rate and review so more people can tune in! I’d greatly appreciate it.

Till next time,

Trina

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When you read this last column for the month of May, many thoughts come to mind about Memorial Day. As we reflect on the many Memorial days of the past, we experience many warm thoughts on peace and about our land of freedom. In this week's column, I will share a poem sent to me by a lady in her 80s. She is a very special friend who has been a real inspiration to me, especially during the last several weeks. She is a distinguished member of the International Society of Poetry, and her poetry will be featured in the "Best Poems of the 90s," a publication of the National Library of Poetry. And most recently, she was inducted into the Eastern Kentucky University's Hall of Distinguished Alumni.

Our Lady of Freedom. Have you ever been way out to sea? If you haven't, then you'll envy me. When I heard someone say, "There she stands, holding the freedom of the seas in her hands." I imagined that I was a soldier coming home. Long ago, I'd been sent over there to roam. Through country sides, so strange to me, I saw sights I hope I never see. Little children, their eyes so big and round, running to hide when they heard a loud sound. I thought of my children I hadn't seen for years. It was impossible for me to hold back the tears. The war was over. We were on our way. We would be landing early the next day. How would I feel when I first saw land? Would they be there to meet us with a band? Then I saw the lady, her light shining bright - to me, I never saw such a beautiful sight. Now I know why our soldiers kneel to pray - that the Statue of Liberty forever will stay. By Ruth T. George.

Thoughts on Memorial Day: Those heroes are dead. They died for liberty. They died for us. They are at rest. They sleep in the land they made free, under the flag they rendered stainless. Under the solid pines, the sad hemlocks, the tearful willows, the embracing vines. They sleep beneath the shadow of the clouds. Careless lake of sunshine or storm, each in the windowless palace of rest. Earth may run red with other wars. They are at peace. In the midst of battles and the road of conflicts, they found the serenity of death. Robert G. Ingersoll.

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Luetta G Werner

Published in the Marion Record May 30th, 1996.

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I hope you enjoyed this podcast episode! Please follow along on this journey by going to visualbenedictions.com or following me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, and Overcast. And don’t forget to rate and review so more people can tune in! I’d greatly appreciate it.

Till next time,

Trina

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When I visit in the homes of family and friends, I will notice a sampler on the wall. These samplers often have words of wisdom, and on the little home on the prairie, I too, have a sampler hanging on the wall in the room where I serve guests a cup of Christmas tea.

These are the words on the sampler: Love is giving with no thought of getting. It is tenderness and folding with strength to protect. It is forgiveness without further thought of the thing forgiven. It is understanding of the thing forgiven. It is understanding of human weakness with knowledge of the true man shining through. It is quiet in the midst of turmoil. It is trust and God with no thought of self. It is the one all together lovely, the light in the mother's eyes, the glory and the sacrifice, the quiet assurance of protection. It is the expectation of our Father's promise coming true. It is the refusal to see anything but good in our fellow man. It is the glory that comes with selflessness and the power that comes with the assurance of the Father's love for His children. It is the voice that says "no" to our brother, though "yes" might be more easily said. It is resistance to the world's lust and greed, thus becoming a positive law of annihilation to error. Love. The one thing no one can take from us. The one thing we can give constantly and become increasingly rich in the giving. Love can take no offense, for it cannot know that which it does not of itself conceive. It cannot hurt or be hurt, for it is the purest reflection of God. Good. It is the one eternal, indestructible force for good. It is the will of God preparing, planning, proposing always what is best for all His universe.

Warm thoughts: The art of forgiving love is one of the finest of the finest arts. A heart filled with love always has something to give. Love is the most important. Billy Graham. May you have many loving thoughts!

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Luetta G. Werner

Published in the Marion Record May 22nd, 1997.

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I hope you enjoyed this podcast episode! Please follow along on this journey by going to visualbenedictions.com or following me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, and Overcast. And don’t forget to rate and review so more people can tune in! I’d greatly appreciate it.

Till next time,

Trina

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Surprise, surprise! It was indeed a surprise when the storm and tornado hit Canistota last Friday evening. Oftentimes we read or hear about these stormy events, but it is another thing to experience it. For many there were tears over the losses. But what warm thoughts we have when we observe how a community works together and can stand stronger through life's storms. As we survived the tornado together, one could only observe a caring community and a community who really cares for one another. One cannot help but be reminded of the words of Philip Brooks who once said, "Do not pray for easy lives. Pray to be stronger people. Do not pray for tasks equal to your powers. Pray for powers equal to your tasks." Those thoughts inspire us to stand strong throughout the storm of life.

Many families throughout our land were together for Mother's Day. It was a joy to have family over the weekend and overnight guests. And those grandchildren, with their abundant energy certainly can light up your life. And what memories can be made as families celebrate life together. Mother's Day was first observed in 1908. It was in 1914 when a Presidential Proclamation was issued to set aside the second Sunday in May for the observance of Mother's Day. Today, Mother's Day is observed throughout the country. Some countries observe it in a different month. South Dakota is honored to have Mrs. Margaret Connors from Vermillion as the South Dakota Mother of the Year. She represented our state of South Dakota in the 1993 National Mother Of The Year contest and convention in Raleigh, North Carolina recently. A reception will be held honoring her on May 16th, from 2-4pm at the Father Wolf Auditorium, St. Agnes in Vermillion. As we reflect upon some warm thoughts on motherhood and about our own mothers, one cannot help but realize that motherhood is the most important career that one could ever choose. God bless the mothers everywhere in this world.

A Warm Thought for the week: No one is poor when he has had a godly mother. Have a week filled with warm and thankful thoughts! Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Luetta G Werner

Published in the Marion Record May 15th, 1993.

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Enjoy flipping through the Vintage Photo Book on your coffee table.

I hope you enjoyed this podcast episode! Please follow along on this journey by going to visualbenedictions.com or following me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, and Overcast. And don’t forget to rate and review so more people can tune in! I’d greatly appreciate it.

Till next time,

Trina

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When you read this warm thoughts column, it will be just a couple of days before Mother's Day. Many families will be together on this special family day honoring their mother. Recently, I read an essay - a letter a mother wrote to her daughter. It touched my heart and no doubt will be taped on a kitchen cabinet or refrigerator. And so I will share it with you my readers.

"Dear daughter, although you are only four years old, and will not understand what I'm saying, I feel the need to write this letter and put it away for you to read many years from now. When you were an infant and the newness of being a mother wore off, I couldn't wait until you grew up. At first I found myself wishing, "if only she would start walking" and then, "if only she would start talking." One day I suddenly realized that you're out of diapers. You are indeed walking and talking and pretty soon you would be going off to school. I remember the morning your father and I brought your baby sister home from the hospital. You and I had been apart six days. When the door open, I saw you standing there with your angel smile. You seem so big compared to the baby I was holding in my arms. It was hard to imagine you were once that small. I suddenly realized how much of your babyhood I had wished away. Being a mother is demanding. It robs you of so many freedoms and I resented the fact that I had so many added responsibilities. And then I looked down at your soft girls and your trusting eyes, suddenly I felt ashamed. My heart almost broke. I cannot relive those first four years but I have been trying to make them up to you and to myself. I hope and pray that when your first child is born, you will be wiser and more mature than I was. I hope you will enjoy every phase of your child's growing up and not wish they would hurry and pass so you could be free of the burdens of motherhood. You and I will have our share of heated words and angry battles in the years to come. There will be days when we will find it impossible to please each other. I will secretly wish that you would hurry and graduate from high school so I could send you off to college and be rid of you. Life rushes by all too rapidly, my darling daughter - especially the lovely days and the beautiful times. Be smarter than your mother was. Don't let a single moment slip away unsavored or unappreciated. These days are priceless and afford you the greatest opportunities for fulfillment. Never again will your heart be so full. All my love, Mother."

Warmth thought: Cherish each moment with your children and your grandchildren. Happy Mother's Day!

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Luetta G Werner

Published in the Marion Record May 7th, 1998

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I hope you enjoyed this podcast episode! Please follow along on this journey by going to visualbenedictions.com or following me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, and Overcast. And don’t forget to rate and review so more people can tune in! I’d greatly appreciate it.

Till next time,

Trina

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Spring is here and many of you are preparing your fields for planting and putting in your gardens. It always reminds me of the verse, "A man shall reap what he sows," Galatians 6:7. Recently, my daughter from Wisconsin came to visit me and wrote me this poem about planting seeds of love. Dear mother, you always taught me that you will reap what you sow. So we should always do unto others what you want them to bestow. But there are days when it is hard to live those words, it's true. Yet, I remember the lessons you taught me in the example I learned from you. All those days you spent cooking and cleaning, the nights you worked without sleeping, the seeds of love you kept on planting is the love you now are reaping. Even now, as you lay on your hospital bed, and others must give to you. All those years you gave of yourself, those words are coming true. Yes, true living is in true giving, and His love is what we owe. Though it may be years before we realize that someday we will reap what we sow. Ruth Stuhr.

Warm Thoughts: Grandmas can shed the yoke of responsibility, relax, and enjoy their grandchildren in a way that was not possible when they were raising their own children. And they can glow in the realization that here is their seed of life that will harvest generations to come. Erma Bombeck. Happy Planting!

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Luetta G. Werner

Published in the Marion Record on April 25th, 1996.

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Enjoy flipping through the Vintage Photo Book on your coffee table.

I hope you enjoyed this podcast episode! Please follow along on this journey by going to visualbenedictions.com or following me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, and Overcast. And don’t forget to rate and review so more people can tune in! I’d greatly appreciate it.

Till next time,

Trina

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At this time of year, we all look forward to the glorious Easter season and experience the joy of Easter morning. The week before Easter is especially meaningful for me as I recall my pre-Easter pilgrimage to the Holy Land and walking that road to Calvary. When I returned from my pilgrimage, I wrote these thoughts which I've used many times in a slide lecture on "My Journey with Jesus." And now I will share with you, my readers of this warm thoughts column.

My Walk with Jesus: I walked the road to Calvary and felt the cross we shared. I felt His presence and His pain and realized how much he cared. How thankful I was in that garden to worship and to pray for guidance, strength and courage to face life day by day. What joy there did await me as I saw the empty grave. I have a risen Savior. He came to live and save. I walked by the Sea of Galilee, what memories there we shared, you gave to the world so much at that sea, and you let me know how much you cared. I walked the road of Emmaus with Jesus by my side. I heard his still voice saying, "Come with me and abide. And while on that Mount of Olives, I felt new Hope, new joy, new faith, and new life. His presence brought me ever nearer to the rainbow of promise that will end all strife. May you have a joy filled Easter season!

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Luetta G Werner

Published in the Marion Record, April 13th, 1995.

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I hope you enjoyed this podcast episode! Please follow along on this journey by going to visualbenedictions.com or following me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, and Overcast. And don’t forget to rate and review so more people can tune in! I’d greatly appreciate it.

Till next time,

Trina

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As I flipped the calendar, I was shocked that it was April already and April Fool's Day! Some of the readers of this warm thoughts column will recall the fun we had as children and trying to fool someone on that day, even if we had to lie a little bit. It did seem permissible for just one day. You tried to fool at least one person and it was just a fun game.

The next day, April 2nd, has become Reconciliation Day. There is an interesting story about this special day. It was a California woman who wrote Ann Landers back in 1989, expressing the need for a Reconciliation Day. She expressed the need as she became aware that the years are flying by. Her parents suddenly seemed old and time somehow became very precious. She recalled misunderstandings and unmended fences that separate us and sets up barriers. She also stated in her letter the following words, "Wouldn't it be terrific if a special day could be set aside to reach and make amends?" We could call it Reconciliation Day. Everyone would vow to write a letter or make a phone call and mend a strained or broken relationship. It could also be a day on which we could all agree to accept the olive branch extended to a former friend. This day could be the starting place. We could go from there to heal the wounds in our hearts and rejoice in a new beginning." Ann Landers replied that it was a beautiful idea. She suggested that in the absence of a national holiday, it would be wonderful if every person would pick up the phone and call someone with whom he or she has had a falling out. She was sure that there would be some heartwarming results. She also encouraged people to just do it and not wait for the telephone rates to change.

The rest of the story is that the first Reconciliation Day was suggested for April 2nd, 1989. On April 2nd, 1992, the letter written by the California woman in 1989 was repeated in the Ann Landers column and Ann Landers herself stated that from now on, April 2 will be Reconciliation Day. It may not be a national day of reconciliation, but it would be wonderful if everyone would have a Reconciliation Day. Your own reconciliation is your choice. I personally think we all need an international day of reconciliation - and this is no April Fool's joke! Will appreciate your thoughts. You, the readers, have so much to share and I know you really care too.

Thought for the day: Life is too short to hold grudges. To be able to forgive can be enormous healing. Forgiving love can last a lifetime.

Warm Thoughts for Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Dr. Luetta G. Werner

Published in the Marion Record April 3rd, 2003.

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I hope you enjoyed this podcast episode! Please follow along on this journey by going to visualbenedictions.com or following me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, and Overcast. And don’t forget to rate and review so more people can tune in! I’d greatly appreciate it.

Till next time,

Trina

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Recently Fran Hendricks of Huron, South Dakota was chosen as South Dakota's Mother of the Year for 1995. Mothers in America are honored on the second Sunday in May. In England and some other countries, Mother's Day is the last Sunday in March. Many moons ago I wrote a letter to my son who, at the time, was having many challenges in his life. The Mother's Day letter was a gift with the hope he would find new joy in life and like the following, were a few thoughts I shared. These warm thoughts may inspire one or more of my readers of this warm thoughts column.

William Arthur once said, "Adversity causes some men to break, others to break records." Then he added, "Great men rise above adversity and attain new heights of achievement by turning tribulations into triumphs, failures into fortunes, setbacks with successes, obstacles into opportunities, burdens into blessings. They refuse to be hampered by handicaps, dismayed by discouragement, overcome by opponents, defeated by disappointments, or destroyed by disasters."

Prayer of serenity: "God, grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, courage to change the things I can, and wisdom to know the difference." Warmth thought: In time of trial, there is the grace of God behind it. Reach out and touch a life with a letter today.

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Luetta G. Werner

Published in the Marion Record, March 30th, 1995.

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I hope you enjoyed this podcast episode! Please follow along on this journey by going to visualbenedictions.com or following me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, and Overcast. And don’t forget to rate and review so more people can tune in! I’d greatly appreciate it.

Till next time,

Trina

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It looked more like Christmas in December when family arrived at the "little home on the prairie" for a spring retreat. The huge snowdrifts had not completely melted, but spring was in the air and in the footsteps of my grandchildren as they helped those snowdrifts to melt, hear the birds sing, and put up the birdhouses. They also had the joy of helping grandma's spring house clean that "little home on the prairie." It was Christmas in the spring of the year as the large Christmas tree was lit at the top of the stairs. Christmas is every day and a very special day when family and visitors come. Grandchildren know there will be a small gift under the tree, and how special to enjoy that cup of Christmas tea.

In all of my research, I feel certain that the angels sang on the shepherd hills either in the spring or fall of the year. The shepherds do not have their sleep on those hills at the time of the year we have placed the Christmas season on our calendar. My first pilgrimmage to His land was during the Easter season. And most recently I worshiped in a cave in the shepherd hills on Christmas Eve. This Lenten season of the year brings back many memories climbing those mountains from Bethlehem to Calvary and sharing precious moments with those bent-winged angels in the hospital in Bethlehem.

During the spring retreat, the grandchildren found special joy in doing the spring cleaning of that "little, little home on the prairie." That recycled chicken house - now an all purpose clubhouse for the grandchildren. When everyone left to return to their homes, I walked to that "little, little home on the prairie" to find it clean and in perfect order. And the music from the radio playing soft music. I just wanted to stay and gather my thoughts before returning to reality and picking up the many items in my pathway that one-year-old Trevor managed to find in the drawers and kitchen cupboards. Any day he could challenge two grandmas at the same time. Just a bit of organized chaos and planned confusion. I might add, he is blessed with his significant other grandma who has some organization skills.

Warm Thought: Home is where the heart is. Enjoy a warm spring day!

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Luetta G. Werner

Published in the Marion Record, March 24th, 1995.

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Enjoy flipping through the Vintage Photo Book on your coffee table.

I hope you enjoyed this podcast episode! Please follow along on this journey by going to visualbenedictions.com or following me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, and Overcast. And don’t forget to rate and review so more people can tune in! I’d greatly appreciate it.

Till next time,

Trina

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Every year as St. Patrick's Day approaches, I have very special warm feelings about the Irish blessings I've experienced throughout my long life by having those very special Irish friends. On March 17th, we remember St. Patrick. Who was St. Patrick? He was a boy who had been kidnapped and taken to Ireland as a slave. He managed to escape. However, he returned to spend the rest of his life telling people about the God he loved.

Although I cannot claim any genetic Irish wit, I do love to collect it. My dear Irish friends have shared with me many thoughts and philosophies of the Irish. My special friend from high school days is Irish and has been an Irish blessing in my life. It is very interesting that her birthday is the day before St. Patrick's Day. Throughout the years, my dear friend and I have shared our joys and sorrows over many a cup of tea.

The Irish seem to have a sense of humor too, and perhaps it is because they pray for a special blessing. Grant me a sense of humor, Lord, the saving grace to see a joke. To win some happiness from life and pass it on to other folk. I have learned that many of the Irish are prayers who often pray this prayer, "May this home and all therein be blessed with God's love." To all my friends around the world: May your heart be warm and happy with the lilt of Irish laughter every day, in every way, and forever and ever after.

And now as the southeast wind is blowing, while I conclude my warm thoughts, I would like to share this special Gaelic blessing: "May the road rise up to meet you may the wind be always at your back. May the sun shine warm upon your face, the rains fall soft upon your fields, and until we meet again, may God hold you in the palm of his hand." Pioneer Proverb: All things come to him who waits, if he works hard while he is waiting. May God smile on everything you do. Have a perfect day.

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Luetta G. Werner.

Published in the Marion Record, March 16th, 1995.

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I hope you enjoyed this podcast episode! Please follow along on this journey by going to visualbenedictions.com or following me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, and Overcast. And don’t forget to rate and review so more people can tune in! I’d greatly appreciate it.

Till next time,

Trina

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The other day as I observed the creative clutter on my desk and in my life, I decided that I better get the clutter-busting going. Suddenly I became energized to get rid of any cabin fever I had and begin some spring house cleaning activities. After a week of spring weather in February, I realized that the calendar does not lie. It still is winter for a few more days. This brings memories for me of the spring house cleaning time years ago, and how extensive we went into going into all those expedient tasks. I am still able to recall the years when this spring house cleaning was a major enterprise. One would begin in January to clean closets drawers and kitchen cupboards. And we managed to declutter our home and prepare for the major spring cleaning. Since I failed these tasks in January, I knew I would have to develop a battle plan.

Amid the clutter was Stephanie Culp's book, "How to Conquer Clutter." She tells us to put the following six rules into effect: Don't allow distractions. No phone calls. Stay out of the kitchen. Stop to eat only at meal time. Do one thing at a time. If you are cleaning the closet, just work on the closet. Don't try to keep everything. Learn to let go. "If you're having trouble finding the time to get things done, try reading my first book, 'How to Get Organized' when you don't have the time." Sorry. Didn't have time to read that book. It wasn't amid the clutter. :P

My friend is an authority on conquering the clutter and does workshops on conquering clutter. She claims to be a charter member of "Messies Unanonymous," a militant bunch of folks who are inherently messy. She understands clutter and has researched it by the way I have accomplished removing the clutter from my bedroom - where I always thought it could be hidden from company. This I managed without Stephanie's book on how to get organized.

A clutter-buster to live by: "If you packed it, you're not using it. If you're not using it, it's time to lose it." Stephanie Culp. Have a great day amid the clutter in your life.

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Luetta G. Werner

Published in the Marion Record March 9th, 1995.
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I hope you enjoyed this podcast episode! Please follow along on this journey by going to visualbenedictions.com or following me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, and Overcast. And don’t forget to rate and review so more people can tune in! I’d greatly appreciate it.

Till next time,

Trina

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It has been such a joy to receive letters from around the world over the holidays, and from such warm places like Florida and California. It did spread some sunshine when we had cold winter days and nights. But now we wake up for soon we will experience the glories of springtime. This past week a beautiful letter came from California. This dear lady faithfully reads the warm thoughts column and it brings many memories of living out here on the prairie near Dolton, when it was a busy city and had a bank and two grocery stores. She shares her memories on the farm, raising her family, teaching school and giving piano lessons to many students. Her retirement now is filled with memories and I hope she writes her story of her life near Dolton to share with her children, grandchildren and others. You are a real inspiration with that wonderful pioneer spirit to keep on keepin on.

I just love to hear the stories about those horse and buggy days. Those must have been some very happy days and nights too. I have heard some interesting stories about the Saturday nights, and the nights the youth would come to the city of Dolton with horse and buggy and managed to return home at the designated hour their parents gave them to be home. Life held many surprises in those days too. And one may find the book "The Tale of the Three Cities" rather interesting if you want to know about the city of Dalton in those good old days. This is a time of the year we begin to hear the voice of the prairie and I am reminded of the poem Margaret Freer wrote and I would like to share it with you.

A Time of Singing. Awake to the glories of springtime, awake to the song of the bird. Across the one sleeping Earth, the stirrings of life are heard. As this time of singing awakens new life in a dormant land. I too would be awakened anew as spring takes me by the hand.

A Bit of Wit: People were happier back in the horse and buggy days, they had a "stable" economy. A letter to your family or friend may bring joy and sunshine into your life and into the life of others. Send that letter to a special someone!

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Luetta G. Werner

Published in the Marion Record March 2nd, 1995
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I hope you enjoyed this podcast episode! Please follow along on this journey by going to visualbenedictions.com or following me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, and Overcast. And don’t forget to rate and review so more people can tune in! I’d greatly appreciate it.

Till next time,

Trina

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Among the brilliant readers of this column are retired school teachers. One of these educators is now in her "nifty nineties" and checks these warm thoughts on a weekly basis. She has been quite curious about this little home on the prairie, and recently came to visit over a cup of Christmas tea. She too, appreciates poetry and left her gift with me. And with her permission, I share with you dear readers of this column. She requested that her name remain anonymous.

Ode to Luetta. I never saw purple house. I never thought to see one. But then Luetta said hers was, and so I knew that there must surely be one. But then she said, "Twas just the trim, because she liked that color. She much preferred it to bright red or maybe something duller. With apologies to whoever wrote about the Purple Cow.

Thanks dear friend and faithful readers this column. I have learned from the many readers of this column how much they appreciate thoughts in poetry. They send me poems they have written after reading the column. And another reader sent these warm thoughts in poetry. Just You and Me. When you come my way, do stop by and say, "Let's do have a cup of tea. Just you and me." Have a cup of tea just to you and me.

Warm Thoughts: Homes and hearts are warmed by love. Warm thought from a napkin a dear friend sent in the mail - Have a beautiful day filled with warm thoughts.

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Luetta G. Werner

Published in the Marion Record February 22nd, 1996.

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Enjoy flipping through the Vintage Photo Book on your coffee table.

I hope you enjoyed this podcast episode! Please follow along on this journey by going to visualbenedictions.com or following me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, and Overcast. And don’t forget to rate and review so more people can tune in! I’d greatly appreciate it.

Till next time,

Trina

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Presidents Day is Monday, February 19th. We now celebrate all former presidents. We originally honored only George Washington and Abraham Lincoln, both of whom had birthdays during the month of February - February 22nd and 12th, respectively. George Washington was the first and only president to be elected unanimously by the Electoral College. He received all 69 of the votes. He was the first president with false teeth and the first to appear on a postage stamp. He was our country's first president and was known as a father of our country. Abraham Lincoln was the first Republican President and the first president to be assassinated. He was the first to support women's right to vote. There are for US state capitals that are named after presidents. The presidents who have state capitols named after them are Abraham Lincoln, Andrew Jackson, Thomas Jefferson, and James Madison.

Something to Remember: You cannot bring about prosperity by discouraging thrift. You cannot strengthen the weak by weakening the strong. You cannot help little men by tearing down big men. You cannot help the wage earner by pulling down the wage payer. You cannot further brotherhood of man by encouraging class hatred. You cannot help the poor by destroying the rich. You cannot establish sound security on borrowed money. You cannot keep out of trouble by spending more than you earn. You cannot build character and courage by taking away men's initiative and independence. You cannot help men permanently by doing for them what they could and should do for themselves. Abraham Lincoln.

It was in 1863 that Abraham Lincoln proclaimed a day of national humiliation, fasting and prayer. Many churches throughout the land may observe a day of prayer on Presidents Day, at which time they pray for the leaders of our country. Praying for our nation and for our leaders is no new thought. Instead, it has been encouraged throughout the ages. CH Spurgeon stated, "Whenever God determines to do a great work, he first sets his people to pray." Pray for the leaders of our nation.

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Luetta G Werner

Published in the Marion Record February 15th, 2001.

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Enjoy flipping through the Vintage Photo Book on your coffee table.

I hope you enjoyed this podcast episode! Please follow along on this journey by going to visualbenedictions.com or following me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, and Overcast. And don’t forget to rate and review so more people can tune in! I’d greatly appreciate it.

Till next time,

Trina

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Since February is national children's month, I thought about writing an essay on what my grandchildren have taught me. They are now in school with children of other cultures. And although they may have graduated from Crayola college, they are colorblind and love their friends from other cultures. Recently, my grandson Trevor was teaching me to count to five in the Japanese language and even write the numbers. Since we will be celebrating Valentine's Day next week, I have researched how to say, "I love you," in 15 languages. (And I, Trina, apologize in advance if I mispronounce any these)

German: Ich liebe dich. French: Je t’aime. Swedish: Jag älskar dig. Polish: Kocham Cię. Italian: Ti amo. Spanish: Te amo. Chinese: Wǒ ài nǐ. Japanese: Anata ga daisuki desu. Greendlandish: Asavakkit. Finnish: Minä rakastan sinua. Russian: Ya lyublyu. Filipino: Mahal kita. Korean: Saranghaeyo. Hawaiian: Aloha.

What is love? Teenager. Love is an attitude. Love is a prayer. For someone in sorrow, a heart in despair. Love extends good wishes for the gain of another. Love suffers long with the fault of a brother. Love gives water to a cup that's run dry. Love reaches low, love reaches high. Love seeks not his own at the expense of another. Love reaches God when it reaches a brother. This poem, "What is Love," has a special place in my heart. I first heard that poem read by a young woman who was blind and read the poem with her fingers.

A former student of mine from Florida sent me this poem - one of her favorites, by Emily Matthews. "A Poem for You." A lifetime of love in a hug and a smile. A reason to visit and stay for a while. The strength of a bond that's destined to last. The joys of the present and the warmth of the past. These are the treasures a fortunate few are lucky to cherish all their lives through. These are the blessings on which we depend, for these are the gifts of a very best friend. Happy Valentine's Day!

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Luetta G. Werner

Published in the Marion Record, February 8th 2001
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I hope you enjoyed this podcast episode! Please follow along on this journey by going to visualbenedictions.com or following me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, and Overcast. And don’t forget to rate and review so more people can tune in! I’d greatly appreciate it.

Till next time,

Trina

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If you were asked to prioritize the 10 subject topics among 37 subjects for news coverage, what would you consider the most preferred topics? A recent poll of 115,000 people was made, and they were asked to rank the top 10 topics in order according to their preference. They were given 37 subjects for possible radio and magazine coverage. They were asked which one is the most important and should be given priority. The first most important topic was strengthening families. Among the other top 10 chosen were listed the topics on grandparenting, values and school, parenting toddlers, school aged children - adolescents, male Christian leadership, abortion, public policy, and family devotions. It was interesting to know what 115,000 people wanted to learn more about in the 90s.

We may be living in a world of change, where old values and old truths are being challenged. Research is bringing out that there's still a great interest in knowing more about the traditional values in what makes strong families. Throughout the years I have seen families in many parts of this world drawn very close together through some of the difficult hardships and losses. I have heard them say, "In our village/community/country/church, we are concerned and care about our families and friends." A recent speaker I heard stated how important it is to remain connected with your family. And that when one shuns your family, your problems do not disappear. John Bradshaw once stated, "If you still resent your parents, you have never grown up." Strong families can provide stability for our nation. These strong families are truly one of life's most precious gifts. Families are vital in our civilization, and they are here to stay. What is your favorite subject topic? I would love to hear from you.

Warm Thoughts on Family: A nation is only as strong as its families. The family fireside is the best of schools. Arnold Glasow. Enjoy and celebrate family.

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Luetta G. Werner

Published in the Marion Record February 1st, 1996

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I hope you enjoyed this podcast episode! Please follow along on this journey by going to visualbenedictions.com or following me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, and Overcast. And don’t forget to rate and review so more people can tune in! I’d greatly appreciate it.

Till next time,

Trina

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Warmest Epiphany greetings to your home from that little home on the prairie to all dear family and friends around the world. What a joy to return home after three weeks on a mission of love in Ohio to the many letters and cards from family and friends all over the world. It has become a tradition in my life to write an epiphany letter each year on the morning of epiphany. Christmas is for always, and all year when you come to that little home on the prairie, you will see the lighted Christmas tree and a star. Grandchildren know there will be a small gift under the tree at the top of the stairs upon each visit. And we can't forget that cup of Christmas tea. And now let us go into our thoughts and spirits to Bethlehem. And like the angels, the shepherds, and the magi or wisemen, may we still seek him at that lowly manger. God sent his son in the form of a baby and humbled himself to show us something new - unconditional love and wholehearted forgiveness. It is quite significant that in this month of January that we have International Forgiveness week.

Letters from the reader of this column brought many thoughts and I would like to share these thoughts from an unknown author from one of the cards I received. "If our greatest need had been information, God would have sent us an educator. If our greatest need had been technology, God would have sent us a scientist. If our greatest need had been money, God would have sent us an economist. If our greatest need heaven pleasure, God would have sent us an entertainer. But our greatest need was forgiveness, so God sent us a Savior."That Savior taught us many lessons for our greatest need. As the wise men of old went to Bethlehem to seek Him, we realized that today many wise men are still seeking Him. Seeking Him for many is a lifelong search. May we be guided to that perfect light.

Warm Thoughts for the New Year: All the flowers of all the tomorrows are in the seeds of today. Author Unknown.

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Luetta G. Werner

Published in the Marion Record January 12th, 1995.

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I hope you enjoyed this podcast episode! Please follow along on this journey by going to visualbenedictions.com or following me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, and Overcast. And don’t forget to rate and review so more people can tune in! I’d greatly appreciate it.

Till next time,

Trina

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It was a winter wonderland as my friend and I traveled the other morning. The sun shone brightly on every tree decked out in full glory. The blizzards of yesterday and yesteryear are forgotten when one sees those snowflakes glisten and sparkle. The world around us was a heavenly mantle of white. One can truly appreciate each season of the year.

Friday the 13th was a very special day. It was a day my grandson, Jonathan Christian Werner, arrived safely into this big world. What a joy for him to soon know he has nineteen cousins alone from the Werner clan, and a family and community to love him. My sister was born on Friday the 13th and this year celebrated another birthday on that special day. I am sure you have many memories of the month of January. It is the month of winter in the heartland. The wintry nights bring us close to the glow of the hearth fireside. It permits us to dream of times past and to also dream of tomorrow's future. I love hearing from the readers of this column. I thank you all for letting me share these warm thoughts over that cup of tea. This week I learned who is the author of this beautiful prayer and I'd like to share it with you.

I Said a Prayer for You Today. I said a prayer for you today and know God must have heard. I felt the answer in my heart although he spoke no word. I didn't ask for wealth or fame, I knew you wouldn't mind. I asked him to send treasures of a far more lasting kind. I asked that he'd be near you at the start of each new day. To grant you health and blessings and friends to share the way. I asked for happiness for you in all things great and small. But it was his loving care I prayed the most of all. By Frank Zamboni

Warm thought: Life is no brief candle to me. It is a sort of splendid torch which I have got hold of for the moment and I want to make it burn as brightly as possible before handing it on to future generations. George Bernard Shaw. Celebrate Life!

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Luetta G Werner

Published in the Marion Record January 19th, 1995.

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I hope you enjoyed this podcast episode! Please follow along on this journey by going to visualbenedictions.com or following me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, and Overcast. And don’t forget to rate and review so more people can tune in! I’d greatly appreciate it.

Till next time,

Trina

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New Year's resolutions have been made by now and we are looking forward to this brand new year. May you be inspired by a blessing for the 1997 New Year. This year, choose to be happy now. Mend a quarrel. Seek out a forgotten friend. Write a letter. Share some treasure. Give a soft answer. Encourage youth. Keep a promise. Find the time. Forgive an enemy. Listen. Apologize if you were wrong. Think first of someone else. Be kind and gentle. Laugh a little. Laugh a little more. Express your gratitude. Gladden the heart of a child. Take pleasure in the beauty and wonder of the earth. Speak your love. Speak it again. Speak it still, once again.

Warm thoughts: Every time a hand reaches out to help another - that is Christmas. Every time someone puts anger aside and strives for understanding - that is Christmas. Every time people forget their differences and realize their love for each other - that is Christmas. Happy New Year.

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Luetta G. Werner

Published in the Marion Record January 16th, 1997.

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I hope you enjoyed this podcast episode! Please follow along on this journey by going to visualbenedictions.com or following me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, and Overcast. And don’t forget to rate and review so more people can tune in! I’d greatly appreciate it.

Till next time,

Trina

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Recently, my dear friend from Nebraska shared with me her anticipated pre-Christmas pilgrimage to the Holy Land. Her excitement over being able to be in His land in the Christmas season brought many warm thoughts to my mind. It was 10 years ago that I experienced the joy of worshipping in a cave on the shepherd hills on Christmas Eve. While the many experiences I had the day before Christmas, and on Christmas day were so vivid in my mind. I wrote them down the day after Christmas, in the International Hotel on a hill in Jerusalem. And I will share these thoughts with you dear readers of this Warm Thoughts column.

Christmas in Bethlehem, 1987. Twas the Night Before Christmas and up in the sky, I saw a helicopter passing me by. The noises of army trucks were out on the street, in hopes that peace they soon would meet. Some children were running from here to there, hoping that someone somewhere would care. Others were snuggled safely in bed, just wondering where to lay their head. The children on Mount David were given much love, they prayed and sang like angels above. The bent winged angels were in a hospital bed, "Dear child," I prayed, "lay down your sweet head." When what to my wondering eyes should appear, but an angel telling me Christmas was here. The rain from the heavens splashed a bright ray, I knew in a moment it would make my day. The lights from the bus brightened the way, "To the Shepherd's Hill we go!" Gabriel did say. With Bible in hand and friends so dear, we were sure that Jesus surely was here. The guiding star took us through many a path - one hardly could keep from having a laugh. I know God must laugh at us many a time, as we hurry and scurry and not watch his sign. I wondered if ever we'd reach the site, and there would be warmth and there would be a light. "My child I'm here," I heard him say, "it is night and tomorrow is Christmas Day." I knelt with the shepherds at that humble cave. And we sang and worshipped and praised his name. The beauty and joy of this Christmas night will forever make remaining days bright. A stranger walked in as we worship that night. She lived in Shepherd Hills with very little light. She was weary and worn, a poor widow burdened with care. I touched her and cared, she's an angel unaware. Oh thank you, dear Lord, for sending us God's Son, to live here and die that all peace may be won. Glory to God. May we always sing praise for each and every one of our days.

As we returned in spirit to Bethlehem this year, let us remember what the angels sang on those hills so many years ago, "Peace on earth, goodwill to men." Warm Thoughts: Jesus is the reason for the season. Peace is not a season. It is a way of life. God gave us memories so that we might have roses in December. James M. Berry. Have a joy filled Christmas season.

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Luetta G. Werner

Published in the Marion Record December 18th, 1997

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I hope you enjoyed this podcast episode! Please follow along on this journey by going to visualbenedictions.com or following me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, and Overcast. And don’t forget to rate and review so more people can tune in! I’d greatly appreciate it.

Till next time,

Trina

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"Happy Christmas to all, and to all a good night!" These heartwarming and familiar words so dear to all, complete Clement Clarke Moore's beloved poem, "A Visit from St. Nicholas." The following Christmas poem was written by an unknown author, "Twas the Night Before Jesus Came."

Twas the night before Jesus came and all through the house, not a creature was praying, not one in the house. Their Bibles were laying on the shelf without care, in hopes that Jesus will not come there. The children were dressing to crawl into bed, not once ever kneeling or bowing a head. And mom in her rocker with baby on her lap, was watching the late show while I take a nap. When out of the east, there arose such a clatter, I sprang to my feet to see what was the matter. Away to the window, I flew like a flat, till I opened the shutters and threw up the sash. When what to my wondering eyes should appear, but angels proclaiming that Jesus was here. With a light like the sun sending forth a bright ray, I knew in a moment this must be the day. The light of his face made me cover my head, it was Jesus returning just like he had said. And though I possessed worldly wisdom, and while I cried when I saw him in spite of myself. And the book of life, which he held in his hand, was written the name of every saved man. He spoke not a word as he searched for my name. When he said, "It's not here," my head hung in shame. The people whose names had been written with love, he gathered to take to His Father above. With those who are ready he rose without a sound, while all the rest were left standing around. I fell to my knees, but it was too late. I had waited too long and this sealed my fate. I stood and I cried as he rose out of sight. Oh, if only I had been ready tonight. In the words of this poem, the meaning is clear. The coming of Jesus is drawing near. There's only one life, one comes the last call, we will find that the Bible was true after all.

Next week we will go and spirit to Bethlehem, the place of Jesus's birth. Our thoughts will be with the angelic choir who sang, "Peace on Earth. Goodwill to men." Pray for peace.

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Luetta G. Werner

Published in the Marion Record December 15th, 2005

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I hope you enjoyed this podcast episode! Please follow along on this journey by going to visualbenedictions.com or following me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, and Overcast. And don’t forget to rate and review so more people can tune in! I’d greatly appreciate it.

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Trina

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As many families were cutting down a Christmas tree to bring home to decorate, we hear the sad news about the oldest and largest Silver Maple in South Dakota. During the holiday season, we had to bid adieu to a great stately tree that had graced the campus at the University of South Dakota and Vermillion for 130 years. Students at the University had planted the Silver Maple on Arbor Day in 1884. This beautiful tree of God's creation had weathered the many storms of life throughout the years. Last year's winter storms caused its branches to be bent and it became necessary for us to bid This old tree our last respects. Throughout the years we read this inscription by this stately silver maple tree. This tree was grown in a local nursery and planted by students on Arbor Day, April 23rd, 1884. Over the years it has withstood the perils of both man and nature to become the oldest and largest Silver Maple in South Dakota.

As I bid farewell to this tree, I am reminded of another bent tree I had noticed in my travels one day. It was no longer there, as it had been removed because of road construction. I remembered the many times I had seen this bent tree, many warm thoughts entered my mind and I wrote these poetic lines. The Bent Tree. "Each time I pass this bent tree, I just want to stop and pray. Thanking God for all the trees, they all have so much to say. This tree on the lonely prairie has a message for you and me. Though bent with age there is beauty, bending down on the old prairie. As the twig is bent so grows the tree. We heard this adage many a year. It now means so much more to me. As God's presence seems so very near. When I traveled in the country, God's creation I will see, how thankful I am for blessings for only God can make a tree." This poem appeared in Grit Magazine and it was also published in Carvings and Stone, Beyond the Horizon, and Famous Poems of the 20th Century.

Warm thought: Love is the miracle of Christmas. Rejoice in the wonder of it all. May you have many warm thoughts this holiday season!

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Luetta G Werner.

Published in the Marion Record December 11th, 1997

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I hope you enjoyed this podcast episode! Please follow along on this journey by going to visualbenedictions.com or following me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, and Overcast. And don’t forget to rate and review so more people can tune in! I’d greatly appreciate it.

Till next time,

Trina

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Every year on the Sunday before Thanksgiving, Bible Sunday is observed. The theme for this year is "planting seeds of hope." As one research is survival on words of hope, there are many Bible promises on hope. Recently, pollster George Gallup Jr. speaking to a group of international reporters said, people in many nations appear to be searching with the new intensity for spiritual warnings. One of the key factors prompting this search is certainly a need for hope in these troubled times.

Some years ago, a woman went to consult a famous New York physician about her health. She was a woman of nervous temperament. She gave the doctor a list of her symptoms and answered his questions only to be astonished at his brief prescription at the end. Go home and read your Bible for an hour every day. Then come back to me a month from today. And he bowed her out before she could protest. At first she was inclined to be angry. Then she reflected that the prescription was not an expensive one. She went home determined to read conscientiously her neglected Bible. In a month she went back to the doctor's office a different person and asked him how he knew that was just what she needed. For his answer, this physician turned to his desk. There, worn and marked, lay an open Bible. "Madam," he turned. "If I were to omit my daily reading of this book, I would lose my greatest sources of strength and skill."

In closing these warm thoughts, I will share the poem I wrote, which was published in the best poems of 1997 by the National Library of Poetry, "My Bible and I." We travel together, my Bible and I, through all kinds of weather with smiles or sigh. In sorrow or sunshine, in tempest or calm, it's friendship unchanging, my lamp and my psalm. We've traveled together my Bible and I, when life has grown weary and death e'en was nigh. Yet through all the darkness of mist or of wrong, I found it a solace, a prayer and song! So now who shall part us, Bible and I? Thou sword of the Spirit, bed error to fly. And still through life's journey until my last sigh, we'll travel together my Bible and I.

Warm Thought: If a man's Bible is coming apart, it is an indication that he himself is fairly well put together. James Jennings. May you have many warm and thankful thoughts!

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie, Over a Cup of Tea, by Luetta G. Werner

Published in the Marion Record November 20th, 1997.

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I hope you enjoyed this podcast episode! Please follow along on this journey by going to visualbenedictions.com or following me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, and Overcast. And don’t forget to rate and review so more people can tune in! I’d greatly appreciate it.

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Trina

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A warm spirit of the approaching holiday season makes us especially thankful for family. Life is full of many reasons to celebrate, reflect and share our feelings during the coming holiday season. The United Nations designated 1994 as International Year of the Family with the theme of the year as "family resources and responsibilities in a changing world." The emblem of the International Year of the Family is a heart sheltered by a roof linked by another heart. It symbolizes life and love in a home where one finds warmth, caring, security, togetherness, tolerance, and acceptance. The open design is meant to indicate continuity with a hint of uncertainty the brushstroke with its open mind roof completes an abstract symbol representing the complexities of the family.

Families today are under a great deal of stress. During the holiday season, many families feel pressured, tired, worn down and frustrated. We seem to expect our holidays to be perfect, but the many tasks needed to make them flawless absolutely guarantee tension. Hans Selge states that the simple way to reduce stress is to develop a sense of gratitude. People who focus on life's blessings, find contentment and peace. Thanksgiving and thanks living is an attitude and an expression of gratitude for the people and things that enrich our lives. It is a time to reflect on all that America has - our freedoms and our bounty - our blessings. During Thanksgiving week, November 20th-26th, Congress in the White House is proclaiming and celebrating National Family Week.

Warm Thoughts: Be generous! Give to those you love. Give to those who love you. Give to all the fortunate. Give to the unfortunate. Yes, give especially to those to whom you don't want to give. You will receive abundance for your giving. The more you give the more you will have. Clement Stone. Celebrate family.

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Luetta G Werner

Published in the Marrion Record November 16th, 1994.

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I hope you enjoyed this podcast episode! Please follow along on this journey by going to visualbenedictions.com or following me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, and Overcast. And don’t forget to rate and review so more people can tune in! I’d greatly appreciate it.

Till next time,

Trina

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A TRIBUTE TO MY SON:

A Vietnam Veteran

by Dr. Luetta G. Werner

Just why did you do it... go to war?

So many people wondered why

You volunteered to serve your country;

You left as a teen and said, "Good-bye."

To serve your country…that was your goal.

You believed the cause was to fight to win.

God was your quide and stayed by your side,

And you felt His great love again and again.

The scars of this war will always be there.

You went a teen and came back a man.

Faith in your god and prayer saw you through,

Love for your country and this prairie land.

May God bless all those who serve their country!

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I hope you enjoyed this podcast episode! Please follow along on this journey by going to visualbenedictions.com or following me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, and Overcast. And don’t forget to rate and review so more people can tune in! I’d greatly appreciate it.

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Trina

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Recently I visited dear friends who are now living in an Assisted Leisure Living Center. Before I left, one of them quoted words from Shakespeare, and another told me about her voice activated computer who gave her information about the purple hat. She shared these thoughts with me and I would like to share them with the readers of this warm thoughts weekly column.

The Purple Hat. Age three: She looks at herself and sees a queen. Age eight: She looks at herself and sees Cinderella. Age fifteen: She looks at herself and sees an ugly sister. "Mom, I can't go to school looking like this." Age twenty: She looks at herself and sees "too fat/too thin, too short/too tall, too straight/too curly," but decides she's going out anyway. Age thirty: She looks at herself and sees "too fat/too thin, too short/too tall, too straight/too curly," but she decides she doesn't have time to fix it so she's going out anyway. Age forty: She looks at herself and sees "too fat/too thin, too short/too tall, too straight/too curly," then says, "at least I am clean" and goes out anyway. Age fifty: She looks at herself and says "I am" and goes wherever she wants to go. Age sixty: She looks at herself and reminds herself of all the people who can't even see themselves and she goes out to conquer the world. Age seventy: She looks at herself and sees wisdom, laughter, and ability and she goes out and enjoys life. Age eighty: She doesn't bother to look, just puts on a purple hat and goes out to have fun with the world. Maybe we should all grab that purple hat earlier.

After you read this column, you may believe that life begins at 80!

Warm Thoughts: To be 70 years young is sometimes more cheerful than to be 40 years old. Oliver Wendell Holmes. One who sees beauty in all things never grows old. Aging depends on your attitude. Anyone who stops learning is old, whether at 20 or 80. Anyone who keeps learning stays young. The greatest thing in life is to keep your mind young. Henry Ford.

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Luetta G. Werner

Published in the Marion Record November 1st, 2001

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I hope you enjoyed this podcast episode! Please follow along on this journey by going to visualbenedictions.com or following me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, and Overcast. And don’t forget to rate and review so more people can tune in! I’d greatly appreciate it.

Till next time,

Trina

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It is always a joy to have that extra hour in your life, in the fall of the year when the time changes. Change. Yes. Change is a way of life. The month of October makes us really aware of the joys we experience when seasons change in some parts of the world. In the month of October, there is also a Sunday called "mother in law's day". I call it, "mother-in-love," and then a column last May, I shared the poem by an unknown author entitled "Mother-in-Love." I would be glad to send you this beautiful poem, if you write me and ask for copy.

In checking my mother-in-law file with copies of the mother-in-law poem, I found thoughts from daughter-in-laws that brought to mind many warm thoughts. From the third world, a daughter-in-law refers to the mother-in-law, as "a mother so unique." A mother never tired. Whose love never grows old. So loving and caring. No one can forget. Man cannot compensate, but it teaches us lessons of a great mother whose love is always constant. Her hands never weary. Whose thoughts so wide, give peaceful words. Of special interest were the thoughts in my file about the daughter-in-law also written by an unknown author. A daughter-in-law is a joy to the heart, a very special part of a family's warmth and love.

October is a beautiful month, filled with many joys. Enjoy this season of beauty. And remember, it is the month we change our clocks. Warm Thoughts: All that I am, or ever hoped to be, I owe to an angel mother. Abraham Lincoln. May silent thanks, at least to God be given with a full heart. Our thoughts are heard in heaven. William Wordsworth. Have a beautiful and thankful autumn day.

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Luetta G. Werner

Published in the Marion Record October 27th, 1995
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I hope you enjoyed this podcast episode! Please follow along on this journey by going to visualbenedictions.com or following me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, and Overcast. And don’t forget to rate and review so more people can tune in! I’d greatly appreciate it.

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Trina

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Last week's column projected some thoughts about preparing ourselves, already, for a 21st century. I realize that many of you may be thinking, “I can only handle one day at a time.” It is in the here and now that we live that “one day at a time.” And as I age, I realized more each day how important servant leadership skills and customer service is a must in the world of competition. I was really made aware of this, even more the other day when I needed to reach out and seek help from customer service. I received the help I needed, and was given respect and understanding. You can be sure I will tell others about the fine customer service and support I received.

We now live in a competitive and high technological world. There is a lot of competition for exceptional customer service, and then delivering this excellent service. This service of excellence will be the key to the future. We can be the advocates, the voices in an organization. It is also a time to turn the problems and challenges we face into opportunities. We can make a difference, and have the power to make someone's day.

A number of years ago I read these thoughts by an unknown author on service. “He has not served, who gathers gold, nor has he served, whose life is told and selfish battles he has won or deeds of skill that he has done. But he has served, who now and then, has helped along his fellow men. The world needs many men today, red blooded men along life's way with cheerful hearts, and helping hands, and with a faith that understands the value of a simple deed to serve another's hour of need.”

Thoughts for the week: Service is the rent we pay for living. Give, and serve. Don't take and preserve. Author Unknown. Have a beautiful day of service!

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Luetta G Werner Published in the Marion Record October 19th 1995

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I hope you enjoyed this podcast episode! Please follow along on this journey by going to visualbenedictions.com or following me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, and Overcast. And don’t forget to rate and review so more people can tune in! I’d greatly appreciate it.

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Trina

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As I was traveling home after ending the Prayer Vigil of the American Mothers Association, many warm thoughts came to mind...thoughts about the future and how important it is that we think in the future tense and prepare ourselves for a 21st century. We do need to respect and honor the traditions and opinions of our forefathers and foremothers. It is in their accumulated wisdom and experience that much of the stability of a civilized society now rests, and we are thankful.

Recently I heard a noted writer, lecturer, and commentator state her thoughts on preparing for the 21st century. As she spoke, I tried to have an optimistic view of the future, and understand that many events in history have turned chaos into order. She stated that the reasons we are going through change is technology, economics, demographics, and a lack of cultural frame. The knowledge workers in our society no longer want to be run around like a hierarchy. In times of great change, people alienate and become estranged. In her message of hope for the future, she stated that we do need more compassion, better communications, maintenance of contracts, and non violence.

One of the basic skills we will need for the 21st century is a sense of humor. Are you all surprised I'm filling my humor box with humorous thoughts for that century? And I better get it on the computer too!

In this age of violence, it was John Miller who reminded us that it is the quiet forces which rule our world. This is what he stated: “In all of life, it is the quiet forces which affect us most. Sun beams fall all day long, silently, unheard by human ears. Gravitation is a silent force with no rattle of machinery, no clanking chains and yet it holds all the stars and worlds together in their orbits and swings them through space with unvarying precision. The dew falls silently at night while men sleep, yet it touches every plant and leaf and flower with life and beauty. Thus, even in nature, strength lies in quietness and the mightiest energies move noiselessly.” Thank you, John, for reminding us of the quiet forces!

More Warm Thoughts: A merry heart does good, like medicine.” “Do not rush after the planned work; trust that the time to finish will be given some time and keep a quiet heart about it.” Annie Keary. Look forward to the future with hope!

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Luetta G. Werner

Published in the Marion Record October 12th, 1995

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I hope you enjoyed this podcast episode! Please follow along on this journey by going to visualbenedictions.com or following me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, and Overcast. And don’t forget to rate and review so more people can tune in! I’d greatly appreciate it.

Till next time,

Trina

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This is a wonderful time of year to travel along the country lanes and see the beautiful fields and the healthful skies above. The green earth is beginning to turn to gold and soon the reddish harvest moon, like a beacon from another planet will beam down on our world.

Recently I received a letter from a writer and poet in Florida. Sarah Gray has given permission to use her beautiful thoughts in this week’s warm thoughts column.

God Owns it All

God owns the cattle on a thousand hills-

The gold in every mine,

The oceans deep - the mountains steep,

The red wood and the pine.

The meadows green; the country stream;

The rumbling waterfall,

All of these were created by His hand and God owns them all.

The dove on wing - the birds that sing.

He created summer, winter, autumn, spring.

The flowers in bloom -

The world in tune - with nature’s harmony,

Yes, God created all these including you and me.

He stretched the skies across open space,

And hung every star in place

He also hung the moon and sun,

His work was finished - it was a job well done.

-Sarah Gray

The autumn season of the year is a favorite season for many people. Someone may drop by to visit you ‘over a cup of tea’ and perhaps you can share Sarah’s lovely poem.

Words of Wisdom from the Voice of a Child: “God must listen to the prayers of Americans real close because he has given them so much to be thankful for.”

Have a beautiful autumn day!

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Luetta G. Werner

Published in the Marion Record September 21st, 1995

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I hope you enjoyed this podcast episode! Please follow along on this journey by going to visualbenedictions.com or following me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, and Overcast. And don’t forget to rate and review so more people can tune in! I’d greatly appreciate it.

Till next time,

Trina

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September. Thirty days have September. Do you remember this rhyme? Some ancient smart person must have invented mnemonics a fancy word meaning tricks, or devices for remembering things hard to remember. In September, we have our first autumn day, and the first Sunday after Labor Day is national Grandparents Day. Although it is called Grandparents Day, the purpose is to honor all older citizens.

Have you wondered who started Grandparents Day? It was Mrs. Marion McQuade of Oak Hill, West Virginia. She is the mother of 15 children and 18 grandchildren. She shared her grandmother's concern for the elderly, and often visited residents in nursing homes. She realized many residents were forgotten, except for Christmas and birthdays. Her experiences with the elderly motivated her to lead a five year campaign for a national holiday, honoring the nation's elderly. In 1973, she persuaded the governor of her home state of West Virginia, to proclaim Grandparents Day. She then wrote letters to the governor of all 50 states, asking them to do the same. The same year, she worked with a West Virginia Senator to introduce legislation about Grandparents Day in the US Senate. The bill passed, but it took Mrs. McQuade five more years of almost single handed lobbying members of the House of Representatives to get a joint resolution out of Congress. It was in 1978 that President Jimmy Carter signed the proclamation, establishing Grandparents Day to be the first Sunday in September, following Labor Day. Mrs. McQuade hopes that this interest in older people will last all year long, not just on the special day she started.

Warm thought: The cards and gifts I prize the most from my children and grandchildren were handmade. Marion McQuade. Happy Grandparents Day!

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Luetta G. Werner

Published in the Marion Record September 4th, 1997.
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I hope you enjoyed this podcast episode! Please follow along on this journey by going to visualbenedictions.com or following me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, and Overcast. And don’t forget to rate and review so more people can tune in! I’d greatly appreciate it.

Till next time,

Trina

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Recently I read a very interesting article on the challenges of aging. Studies by the experts state that the generation who are celebrating their 50th, 60th, and 70th anniversaries have succeeded in kicking the belabbers out of the stereotypes of aging. Perhaps this can be explained by one word - attitude. The experts stated, "the attitudes of a 70 year-old today are equivalent to those of a 50 year-old, only a decade or two ago." It is interesting how many couples are their 50th, 60th, and even 70th wedding anniversaries. More individuals are also reaching that century mark.

The late George Burns stated, "I see people who, the minute they get to be 60 start rehearsing to be old. They practice when they sit down and grunting when they get up, and by the time they get to be 70 they're a hit. They've got the part. They're old." I like to think that the streams of life bring depth, and wisdom in our lives. Goethe finished his Faust at 81, at 80 Verdi produced his famous Falstaff, Tennyson wrote "Crossing the Bar" at 83. Valtaire was still pending plays at 84, Monet was painting great pictures at 86.

Marian Bannon Ray in "The Stillness is Dancing" says, "At 50, the mind has yet to reach its zenith, at 60 it is at its best, and then declines gradually that 80, those who have kept themselves mentally alert can be just as productive as at 30." Judgment and reason may actually improve and creative imagination is scarcely touched by age. I think Mark Twain says the best, "Age is mind over matter. If you don't mind, it doesn't matter."

Warm Thoughts: If you are too busy to laugh, you are too busy. The old other precious gems are the center of the household. Chinese proverb. Have many warm thoughts every day.

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Luetta G Werner

Published in the Marion Record August 29th, 1996
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I hope you enjoyed this podcast episode! Please follow along on this journey by going to visualbenedictions.com or following me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, and Overcast. And don’t forget to rate and review so more people can tune in! I’d greatly appreciate it.

Till next time,

Trina

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The Centennial 1996 Olympic Games are now history. The world watched these games with great interest. Children and adults of all ages were inspired and perhaps have dreams of being an athlete in the Olympic Games someday. Throughout the country, many schools have already opened their doors of learning. Many students also have goals and dreams in the academic world. I have many memories of attending classes in a one room country school house, and the real life struggles for even a high school education.

In my day, many aspiring young girls and boys had to forego a high school education because of having to go to work. Many young men who started high school went off to fight in World War II. The dream and goal for many to have a college education remained only a dream for many years. When non traditional students went off to college and became part time students, I was there taking college classes with my children who are enrolled in colleges and universities. It was a very special moment in my life when I received my first Master's from the University of South Dakota in Vermillion on July 31st, 1976 - that famous bicentennial year. As a lifelong learner and advocate for education on all levels, another dream and goal was realized on August 1st, 1996, the year of the Olympic Centennial Games. On that date I received the specialist degree in education, from the same university where I first received a master's in educational psychology and counseling 20 years ago. I value my many life experiences, and the struggles and challenges there are in getting an education. At a time in the history of education when budgets are being questioned, may we never lose heart but continue to reach for our dreams and goals in education. Whatever your dream or goal, it can come true. Always have a dream.

Warm Thoughts: Live each day as if life has just begun. Goethe. One has within themselves, a powerful motivator to open doors you thought were closed. May you value education from preschool to the halls of higher education. May you have many warm thoughts every day.

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Luetta G. Werner.

Published in the Marion Record August 22nd, 1996.
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I hope you enjoyed this podcast episode! Please follow along on this journey by going to visualbenedictions.com or following me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, and Overcast. And don’t forget to rate and review so more people can tune in! I’d greatly appreciate it.

Till next time,

Trina

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Summertime. Good, ole' summertime. It is a good time to get in some summer reading. My grandchildren from Ohio sent me the book, "If Teacups Could Talk" by Emily Barnes. I have enjoyed reading the many warm thoughts in this book over a cup of tea. I have also had many special moments with the grandchildren, as we have our tea party. I have learned some interesting lessons about tea cups. China dishes recovered from shipwrecks are often good as new, long after the ship itself has dissolved in the salt water. Porcelain is fragile, but it is also remarkably durable, like us, like life. Humans are beautiful and breakable, like china cups. Humans can heal and grow and move beyond disaster, we can reach out to one another and encouragement and comfort. Nancy Reagan has stated that a woman is like a tea bag. It's only when she's in hot water that you realize how strong she is. Tea Time offers so many wonderful possibilities for nurturing friendships, and if tea cups could talk, they would say so much about the past, and also about the future. For hundreds of years "come for tea" has been another way of saying, "Come, let's share a little bit of our lives together." If tea cups could talk their message no doubt would be "Use Me."

Warm Thoughts over the teacup: If you are cold, tea will warm you. If you are too heated, it will cool you. If you are depressed, it will cheer you. If you are exhausted, it will calm you. William Gladstone. She was passionately interested in everything I did. She spoke with candor and good grace. Then defied the reality of crutches and straighten knee on wings of hospitality, she flew to brew the tea. Tom Haeg - A Cup of Christmas Tea. Have many warm thoughts over a cup of tea.

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Luetta G Werner

Published in the Marion Record August 8th, 1996.
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I hope you enjoyed this podcast episode! Please follow along on this journey by going to visualbenedictions.com or following me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, and Overcast. And don’t forget to rate and review so more people can tune in! I’d greatly appreciate it.

Till next time,

Trina

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Recently I read a book by H. Jackson Brown, Jr., entitled, "Live and Learn and Pass it On." In the book people ages 5 to 95 share what they have discovered about life, love and other good stuff. Some of the thoughts are a bit humorous, but somehow we can get the message. I have personally discovered throughout my years that if we really listen, we can learn so much. The following are a few quotes from from individuals and it lists their age, when they said these words.

I've learned that goldfish don't eat Jello. Age 5. I've learned that trust is the single most important factor in both personal and professional relationships. Age 20. I've learned that nothing of value comes without effort. Age 64. I I've learned that if you care, it shows. Age 30. I've learned that kindness is more important than perfection. Age 70. I've learned that education, experience, and memories are three things no one can take away from you. Age 67. I've learned that self pity is a waste of time. Age 81. I've learned that anger manages everything poorly. Age 53. I've learned that some money, costs too much. Age 51. I've learned that if your children feel safe, wanted, and loved, you are a successful parent. Age 39. I've learned that encouragement from a good teacher can turn a student's life around. Age 44. I've learned that I don't feel my age, as long as I focus on my dreams instead of my regrets. Age 83. I've learned that it is impossible to teach without learning something yourself. Age 51. I've learned that learning to forgive takes practice. Age 15. I've learned that I still have a lot to learn. Age 90.

Warm Thought: A life like a garden requires cultivation. Have many warm thoughts, every day.

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Luetta G. Werner.

Published in the Marion Record August 1st, 1996.
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I hope you enjoyed this podcast episode! Please follow along on this journey by going to visualbenedictions.com or following me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, and Overcast. And don’t forget to rate and review so more people can tune in! I’d greatly appreciate it.

Till next time,

Trina

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Where has the month of July gone?

When many of you read these warm thoughts, there will only be three precious days left in the month. Does time really fly faster when one gets a year older? I am reminded of the words I overheard while sitting in church one Sunday morning, and listening to voices around me, before the service. "Every day is the day to celebrate," I heard it said. I realized how true those words of wisdom really mean to me as I celebrate life each day. Jonathan Swift has said as well, "May you live all the days of your life." This plaque is high on the kitchen range this summer, and is a reminder to live and enjoy each day of your life. July is a month when many families celebrate, beginning with Independence Day and family reunions. Have you ever thought of celebrating Christmas in July? Our family has found it a most convenient time to celebrate Christmas with all the family Christmas traditions. Perhaps this is nontraditional, but we managed to celebrate everything that has happened during the past year. This includes those who have birthdays, anniversaries, and additions to the family. We recognize achievements and graduations and each member of the family is so special. Traditional holiday and birthday gifts and treats are given to the loved ones, good food,

good memories, all go together. It is probably the mother of all celebrations. Yes, Christmas in July, where extended family from both sides celebrate all the celebrations of the year. My precious friend from Nebraska wrote this on a Christmas card when she learned about our family celebration, and I cherish those warm thoughts.

She wrote, "We are not positive what time of year our Savior was born. It was most likely in the fall. So why not celebrate in July?" And as we celebrate, we seem to have the feeling of fall weather, as we have our big family celebration. And as we travel down memory lane, we have memories, and more precious memories. This past weekend, grandma had a Barney birthday celebration for my grandson, complete with Barney balloons, and the Barney birthday party video. How different in this age of technology, with the video games to entertain. I recall the many birthday parties when the children tried pinning the tail on the donkey blindfolded and the old traditional fun games. What fun it was to observe the grandchildren playing together and having their cup of tea, which was orange juice. And we can't forget the birthday cake and ice cream.

Time together. This is one of the secrets of strong families. In a survey conducted to 1,500 school children, they were asked, "What do you think makes a happy family?" The answer they gave most frequently was, "doing things together." Children really surprise us with their wisdom. So why not celebrate together with grandpas and grandmas and aunts and uncles and all the children, and enjoy one another celebrating the mother of all celebrations with family. Until next week, celebrate every day and sing the Barney song.

A Warm Thought for the week:

A friend is one who is a source of sunshine, when you are under the weather. Have a great week, and celebrate each day!

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by the Luetta G. Werner

Published in the Marion Record July 29th, 1993.

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I hope you enjoyed this podcast episode! Please follow along on this journey by going to visualbenedictions.com or following me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, and Overcast. And don’t forget to rate and review so more people can tune in! I’d greatly appreciate it.

Till next time,

Trina

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It is such a joy to receive letters from the readers of this column. I appreciate it so much when they include some gems of thought that I can share with you all through this column. In this day of high technology, the fax machine is used to communicate, email, and the computer for our relationships. That personal handwritten letter may soon become a gift of the past. Here is the thought a faithful reader from Florida sent me.

A Letter. A letter is the warmest way to bid a friend, the time of day. A "keep in touch" that brings the smiles across the very longest miles. And what a wealth of strength and hope is tucked inside an envelope. Reminding loved ones that you are, at least in the heart, not very far. In no country, state, or camp, the wealth beneath a postage stamp. For memories that never age are written down upon each page. And though it's nice to telephone, one of the sweetest pleasures that is known: Our moments shared and thoughts we send that can be read and read and read again.

Recently I read that July 2nd has been designated as "I Forgot Day." It is a day when you make up and send to friends missed birthdays, anniversaries, and other special occasions. This just may be a good month to send that special letter or card of encouragement. You can be that caring friend and make someone's day.

Warm Thoughts: Friends are flowers in the garden of life. Anyone who makes our life better, can be called a friend. My friends are my best treasure, the best part of life. Abe Lincoln. Thank you for being a caring friend!

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Luetta G. Werner.

July 10th, 1997.
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I hope you enjoyed this podcast episode! Please follow along on this journey by going to visualbenedictions.com or following me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, and Overcast. And don’t forget to rate and review so more people can tune in! I’d greatly appreciate it.

Till next time,

Trina

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Each year on July 4th we commemorate the adoption of the Declaration of Independence in 1776 and we celebrate the birthday of our nation. It is a time to renew patriotism, and add a consciousness that our nation needs our prayers. It is a time when we are even more aware of the freedoms we enjoy here in America. With thankful hearts we sing America the Beautiful, and God bless America. It was John Adams, our first vice president, and second president who said, "It ought to be commemorated as the day of deliverance by solemn acts of devotion to God Almighty. It ought to be solemnized with pomp and parade, with shows, games, sports, guns, bells, bonfires and illuminations from one end of this continent to the other, from this time forward, forevermore." John Adams also said, "Our constitution was made only for a moral and religious people. It is wholly inadequate to the government of any other." John Quincy Adams, our sixth president stated, "Is it not that the Declaration of Independence first organize the social compact on the foundation of the redeemers mission upon earth, that it laid the cornerstone of human government upon the first precepts of Christianity?" As I reflect on this very special Independence Day, I cannot help but think of our founding fathers, and those special great grandparents with their pioneer spirit who believes with all of their hearts and freedom of religion in the advancement of the Christian faith. Patriotism will prevail on this Independence Day, as we fly the flag. And may we never flaunt our independence and celebrate our dependence on God every day, like the pioneers of yesteryear.

Warm Thought: You stand free because they fought. William D. Hersey. The smart man knows how little he really knows. Pioneer proverb. America has been built on faith and love in action. Our national character is our greatest investment. Celebrate Independence Day!

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Luetta G Werner.

July 3rd, 1997.
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I hope you enjoyed this podcast episode! Please follow along on this journey by going to visualbenedictions.com or following me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, and Overcast. And don’t forget to rate and review so more people can tune in! I’d greatly appreciate it.

Till next time,

Trina

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The month of July is a very special month. July has many reasons to celebrate. Though not widely known, it was on July 2nd, not July 4th that The Continental Congress passed the resolution declaring the independence from the colonies. We celebrate Independence Day on July 4th. Are you a celebrator? Having lived several years in the Fourth of July city in Seward, Nebraska, Independence Day has very special memories for me. Singing the Star Spangled Banner has inspired millions and moved many to tears. It has symbolized with the flag, what it really does mean to be a loyal American.

Are you aware that it was here in the state of South Dakota, that the Star Spangled Banner received the first impetus, which eventually led to its adoption as our national anthem? I was very impressed when I first learned about the history of this stirring song. It all happened in 1892, when Colonel Caleb H Carlton assumed command of the eighth US Cavalry Regiment at Fort Meade, near Sturgis. Carlton writes in his memoirs that he and his wife discussed the fact that the United States had no official song. Mrs. Carlton suggested they do something about it.

It was at Fort Meade that Colonel Carlton ordered his Calvary band to play "The Star Spangled Banner" at all parades and formations. He further states that all persons, including civilians, should rise respectfully and all men, not under arms would remove their hats. Colonel Carlton promoted the idea beyond his own South Dakota base, and consequently the practice was adopted by other commanders. There was something patriotically contagious about the show of respect for the song and the flag and honored. It was a one sentence bill that passed on March 3rd, 1931 and signed by President Hoover that designated the Star Spangled Banner as the National Anthem of the United States of America. The patriotic custom began in the Black Hills, and so it gives our national anthem its roots in South Dakota.

Patriotic Thoughts: Francis Scott Key, a lawyer, wrote the lyrics for our national anthem during the morning of September 14th, 1814. "At the dawn's early light," he saw the American flag fly, and in a burst of patriotic fervor, he hurriedly penned the immortal words. We thank the "Father" of our national anthem. With renewed patriotism, let's celebrate Independence Day! Happy Independence Day!

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Luetta G. Werner

Published in the Marion Record June 25th, 1998.
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I hope you enjoyed this podcast episode! Please follow along on this journey by going to visualbenedictions.com or following me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, and Overcast. And don’t forget to rate and review so more people can tune in! I’d greatly appreciate it.

Till next time,

Trina

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To the readers of this column: A favorite column of the readers is being repeated by request. It seems there is a special interest in angels, and this topic has especially interested my grandchildren. My five-year-old granddaughter has a great need to hold her birthday angel like a security blanket, as she travels on vacations. As we were traveling along together I heard her say, "Grandma, do you believe in angels?" Deep in thought, and before I had a chance to give her a long recital about the many times I felt protection in my travels alone by air, sea and land...and the many dark times...and the storms of life. I could hear her soft voice saying, "Grandma. Are you listening? Grandma, do angels have wings?" "What do you think?" I asked. "Grandma, that was my question." She reminded me. For some reason my thoughts were carried immediately to my childhood, and I shared with her that I remembered the picture on the wall at the foot of my bed, and that angel in the picture had wings. Even though we could not have the kerosene lamp lit all night long. I always felt a protecting angel throughout the dark night.

We both began to feel very tired, but my thoughts carried me to a church in Cleveland, Ohio. I remembered how my heart was warmed and touched, as I listened to the beautiful soft music that a blind girl named Ruth played and sang. As her fingers touched the strings of her harp, her angelic voice sang:

When at night, I go to sleep, fourteen angels watch to keep. Two, my head are guarding, two, my feet are guiding. Two are on my right, two are on my left hand. Two, who warmly cover, two, who or me hover. Two, to whom tis given, to guide my steps to heaven.

I was then reminded that NP Willis stated, "If there is anything that keeps the mind open to angel visits, and repels the ministry to evil, it is a pure human love." Warm Thought: It takes a heap of living to make a house a home. Have a great day in the heart of your home!

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Luetta G. Werner

Published in the Marion Record June 20th, 1996.

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I hope you enjoyed this podcast episode! Please follow along on this journey by going to visualbenedictions.com or following me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, and Overcast. And don’t forget to rate and review so more people can tune in! I’d greatly appreciate it.

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Trina

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Have you ever wondered who was the mother of Father's Day? It was Sonora Louise Dodd and the thought for Father's Day came to her in church, as she listened to her pastor extol the virtues of motherhood in his Mother's Day message. Sonora felt he failed to mention the value and importance of fathers. She felt fathers deserved equal credit and praise.

To understand her feelings, we need to learn about her father. Her father was left to care for six children after the death of his wife. The magnitude of the task confronting this father took a lot of courage and devotion. As Sonora sat in church that Mother's Day she felt that fathers deserved a special day too. She decided at that moment she was going to do something about it.

She first approached her pastor in the Spokane, Washington Ministerial Alliance and presented her idea of setting aside a special day for fathers, and she suggested June 5th (her own father's birthday). Newspapers across the nation heard about Spokane's Father's Day. William Jennings Bryan was the first nationally known figure to endorse the day. However, Congress never proclaimed the day a national holiday. Did Sonora become discouraged? She persisted in her efforts to promote Father's Day. Fifty-six years after that particular Mother's Day in her church, Sonora wrote the last of a long line of letters to President Lyndon Johnson. She urged him to support the resolution, elevating Father's Day to the same national status as Mother's Day. The resolution was finally passed in 1971. Her vision to honor father's will long be remembered as a symbol of family unity.

Sonora died at the age of 96 years. She had lived a long and full life, and we are thankful for the memory of Sonora Louise, the mother of Father's Day.

And so cheers to all you men around the world who are fathers! You may be called Pops, Pa, Pop, Papa, Pater, Dad, Daddy, or Father in the language of your culture. Fathers, you are, and you are loved, every day!

Warm Thought: A father and son were walking along the beach. The boy was lagging behind, and suddenly shouted. "Look, Daddy, I'm walking in your footsteps!" Happy Father's Day around the world!

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Luetta G. Werner

Published in the Marion Record. June 13th, 1996.

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I hope you enjoyed this podcast episode! Please follow along on this journey by going to visualbenedictions.com or following me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, and Overcast. And don’t forget to rate and review so more people can tune in! I’d greatly appreciate it.

Till next time,

Trina

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May is family month. When you read this week's column many of you will be looking forward to a day off from work, a three day weekend, the opening of the swimming pool, and the official start of the summer season. You may be celebrating life with family and friends. Memorial Day is a day and a time to remember the dead, especially those who perished in America's wars. This year marks the 50th anniversary of the end of World War II. Memorial Day is said to have started in Waterloo, New York, when on May 5th, 1866, residents held a commemorative program and decorated the graves of those who died in the Civil War. Over the years, and as the United States fought more wars, Memorial Day, or Decoration Day, as it is called in some areas, added the remembrance of those soldiers who died in World War I, World War II, the Korean conflict, the Vietnam War, and Operation Desert Storm.

Memorial Day is a day of prayer for peace. It is a patriotic day when Americans display the flag. Memorial Day has also become a day to honor one's ancestors and family members who have died. It is a day when many Americans will visit the graves of their loved ones and leave flowers on this special day. Memorial Day is also a day to celebrate family and show appreciation for the living members of family and community. As we reflect on this day, and the memories of the many Memorial days in the past, may we experience many warm thoughts on peace.

Warm Thoughts to Ponder: Peace comes not from the absence of conflict in our lives, but from the ability to cope with it. May God's love rest upon you, like a refreshing shower, and bless your life with inner peace, and with his healing power. Peaceful before me peaceful behind me peaceful over me peaceful under me peaceful. All around me, peaceful. - Navajo.

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Luetta G. Werner

Published in The Marion Record May 25th, 1995.

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I hope you enjoyed this podcast episode! Please follow along on this journey by going to visualbenedictions.com or following me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, and Overcast. And don’t forget to rate and review so more people can tune in! I’d greatly appreciate it.

Till next time,

Trina

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Since it is Older Americans Month, I had planned to repeat a favorite column including thoughts by a grandchild, until the following poem crossed my desk. The author is unknown. Whoever wrote it must have had a sense of humor and hoped their adult children would appreciate their literary skills.

When I'm an old lady then I'll live with my children and bring them great joy to repay all my life had for each girl and boy, I shall draw on the wall and scoff up the floor, run in and out without closing the door, I'll hide frogs in the pantry, socks under my bed. Whenever they scold me, I'll just hang my head. I'll pester my children, when they're on the phone, as long as they're busy won't leave them alone. Hide candy in closets, rocks in a drawer, and never pick up my clothes from the floor. I'll stuff up the plumbing and deluge the floor, as soon as they've mopped it I'll flood it some more. When they correct me, I'll lie down and cry, kicking and screaming, not a tear in my eye. I'll take all the pencils and flashlights and then when they buy new ones I'll take them again. I'll spill glasses of milk to complete every meal, eat my banana, and just drop the peel, put toys on the table, spill jam on the floor, I'll break lots of dishes, as though I were four. What fun I shall have, what a joy it will be to live with my children, the way they lived with me.

Author Unknown.

After reading the poem a few times, I couldn't help but ponder on who could have written the poem. As the baby boomers in our world are coming of age, could a baby boomer have thought of how to handle aging gracefully?

Warm Thoughts: A good laugh is sunshine in a house. - Thackeray The best time to give your children advice is when they are young enough to believe you know what you are talking about. - Unknown. Have a great day and smile,

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Luetta G. Werner

Published in the Marion Record May 23rd, 1996

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I hope you enjoyed this podcast episode! Please follow along on this journey by going to visualbenedictions.com or following me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, and Overcast. And don’t forget to rate and review so more people can tune in! I’d greatly appreciate it.

Till next time,

Trina

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May is Older Americans Month, and the theme for May 1996 is "Aging: A Lifetime Opportunity." This theme was selected because it recognizes the millions of seniors who truly have made the most of growing older by continuing to make invaluable contributions to their families, their places of worship, their communities, and society as a whole. Older Americans Month began with proclamation 3527, which President Kennedy issued on April 18th, 1963, declaring the month of May to be Senior Citizens Month. That original celebration established a tradition of celebrating older Americans contributions to society as well as raising awareness of their special needs. In 1980, President Carter changed the name of the month-long celebrations to Older Americans Month. Today it provides all of us with the opportunity not only to focus on the contributions and needs of current older Americans, but to think about how we as a nation need to prepare to meet the needs of future older Gen. But to think about how we as a nation need to prepare to meet the needs of future older Americans. This year's theme is very meaningful because it represents the Administration of Aging's idea to rally the nation in preparing for the aging of baby boomers. The Administration on Aging will be working throughout 1996 to focus national attention on the need to take critical steps now so that we will be ready to meet the challenge posed by an aging society.

This theme, "Aging: A Lifetime Opportunity" also encourages all of us to view growing older as a gift, something we can look forward to and take concrete steps to prepare for throughout our entire lives. Thoughts on Aging: Senior Citizens have used for band aids, hearing aids, medic aids, eating aids, seeing aids, and walking aids. Today as a gift...Let's focus on the present. Celebrate Older Americans Month!

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Luetta G. Werner

Published in the Marion Record May 16th, 1996.

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Enjoy flipping through the Vintage Photo Book on your coffee table.

I hope you enjoyed this podcast episode! Please follow along on this journey by going to visualbenedictions.com or following me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, and Overcast. And don’t forget to rate and review so more people can tune in! I’d greatly appreciate it.

Till next time,

Trina

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On Thursday, May 2nd we will again observe National Day of Prayer. It is interesting to know that the National Day of Prayer actually traces back to 1775 when the Continental Congress called for a day of prayer. It has become an annual observation for the people of the United States to turn to God in prayer and meditation. During this election year, our prayer thoughts are often for the leaders of our country and nation. I will share a prayer for our leaders I wrote many moons ago.

A Prayer for Our Leaders

Dear Lord...we humbly pray that You will bless and guide our country’s president and stay Lord at his side. Lord bless our beloved church and let her light so shine with Christian noble leaders who seek Your love divine. Give all our leaders wisdom and understanding, too; give them kindness, truth, and courage and bless the work they do. Lord, fill them with Your spirit so we may truly go forward together in the faith. Help us to grow, go, glow.

Many church doors will be open for prayer warriors to enter and pray on this special day. Wherever we are may we observe this special day throughout the United States.

Sometimes we need to pray: Slow me down, Lord. Ease the pounding of my heart by the quieting of my mind. Steady my hurried pace with a vision of the eternal reach of time. Give me, amidst the confusion of the day, the calmness of the everlasting hills. Break the tension of my nerves and muscles with the soothing music of your singing streams that live in my memory. Help me to serve you with Your love.

Warm Thoughts: “Lord, make my life a window for your light to shine through, and a mirror to reflect Your love to all I meet.” Mother Teresa. Life is fragile...handle with prayer!

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Luetta G. Werner

Published in the Marion Record May 2nd, 1996.

Download the Found Photo Freebie and cherish your memories of the past.

Enjoy flipping through the Vintage Photo Book on your coffee table.

I hope you enjoyed this podcast episode! Please follow along on this journey by going to visualbenedictions.com or following me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, and Overcast. And don’t forget to rate and review so more people can tune in! I’d greatly appreciate it.

Till next time,

Trina

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This is the last day of April. The month of April has been National Poetry Month. It is interesting that a dear friend in Florida sent me in the mail, an original poem she wrote on her birthday. It is such a joy to be able to share with the readers of this warm thoughts column, the gems of thought and poetry. So thanks to Sarah Gray for her precious thoughts.

Little pleasures. Oh, the joy of little pleasures tucked away in memory's treasures. Hummingbirds and butterflies, the clear blue of summer skies. Fragrant flowers wet with dew, prism colors of rainbow hue. Baby's breath and baby soft skin, little drools on baby's chin. Baby smiles and baby's coos, the things that make baby book news. A pretty car with words that rhyme, the distant peel of church bells chime. Quiet time, a good book, heads that turn for a second look. Time spent together, small talk, an afternoon nap or an afternoon walk. A smile exchanged over a cup of tea, a confidence confided just to me. A box of chocolate, a compliment, when most needed, heaven sent. The peaceful calm of a gentle breeze, I sense God's touch in all of these. A phone call or visit from a friend, little pleasures, just never end.

This past week, poetry took precedence over politics at the White House. President Clinton and First Lady Hillary Rodham Clinton, hosted the present and two past Poets Laureate. The trio read from the legacy of American poetry. The event is the third in a series of Presidential Millennium evenings, designed to showcase the views of scholars and artists as the century closes. Thanks again dear readers, for sharing your warm thoughts. More Warm Thoughts: How beautiful a day can be when kindness touches it. Remember the first Thursday in May is National Day of Prayer. May you have many warm thoughts in this post Easter season.

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Luetta G. Werner.

Published in the Marion Record April, 30 1998.

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Enjoy flipping through the Vintage Photo Book on your coffee table.

I hope you enjoyed this podcast episode! Please follow along on this journey by going to visualbenedictions.com or following me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, and Overcast. And don’t forget to rate and review so more people can tune in! I’d greatly appreciate it.

Till next time,

Trina

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It was Palm Sunday evening and I was returning from a trip to Nebraska over the weekend. Many warm thoughts flooded my mind as I traveled along and reflected on the joyful events with family and friends. Suddenly, as I came to South Dakota, a winter storm greeted me, and I realized that the remainder of my journey I would encounter ice, snow, wind, and large snowdrifts before reaching my destination. What a warm feeling to arrive safely in a warm home, realizing that there must have been an angel guiding my pathway back home to the little home on the prairie. The storm continued for a few days and one realizes that we do not always stroll through pleasant valleys. As I realize this over a cup of tea, I thought about the many travelers who go to the Holy Land at this time of the year to travel that road to Calvary and also see the empty tomb in the garden. Pilgrims throughout the world, make their pilgrimage to the Holy Land at this time of year to worship at the many sacred sites. Perhaps uppermost in our hearts and minds with those travelers, is the fervent desire that peace may prevail throughout the world. As I write these thoughts during Holy Week, for you to read next week, may we reflect on the joys of the Easter season, and say, with the pilgrims in this land, "Shalom. Shalom." And may we always in our hearts sing with the angels who announced our Saviors birth, "Peace on earth, goodwill to men!" The cold winter storm now is over, and let's think warm spring thoughts. Warm Thoughts to Ponder: "Spring unlocks the flowers to paint the laughing soil." Goldsmith. "Spring hangs her infant blossoms on the trees, rocked in the cradle of the western breeze." Halpert. May you have a joyful Easter season!

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Luetta G. Werner.

Published in the Marion Record on April 20, 1995.

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Enjoy flipping through the Vintage Photo Book on your coffee table.

I hope you enjoyed this podcast episode! Please follow along on this journey by going to visualbenedictions.com or following me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, and Overcast. And don’t forget to rate and review so more people can tune in! I’d greatly appreciate it.

Till next time,

Trina

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Throughout the years, the last week of March has brought to the heartland some surprises weather wise. This year, 1995 was no exception. Rain, blowing winds, and blankets of snow covered many areas of the heartland country. It was two years ago, the last Sunday afternoon in March that I wrote my first Warm Thoughts column. Early that morning flakes of snow covered the roads and prairie country. As a descendant of pioneers, I never dreamed the church would be canceled that morning, but I was mistaken, and appeared in church, as the lone parishioner. A first experience in my life. That afternoon in the solitude of that little home on the prairie, and over a cup of tea, I wrote my first Warm Thoughts column. Yes, I feel like celebrating, as I now share with you a few thoughts from that column. As I write these lines, I am also listening to my grandchildren who are here on their spring retreat from their studies in Colorado. In that first column, I stress how important it is to listen to the children. Reading to the children, and listening to them, can teach us many things. We learn so much from them and their needs are so great to have us really listen to them. I will never forget when I was reading to my grandson, a book about the tree houses and squirrels, and he interrupted me and said, "I don't want to dream about squirrels." And what would you like to dream about? "My grandma," he replied. What a warm and precious thought!

Let's make memories for children and listen to them. They have many warm thoughts to share with us. Do you have any warm thoughts to share? Send them along and give them away and keep in touch. Warm Thoughts for the week: Listening is a prerequisite to almost any kind of effective giving or expressing of love. Great thoughts come from the heart. Vauvenargues. It is possible for everyone to have a heart of love. Have a great week, filled with warm, loving thoughts!

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Luetta G Werner

Published in the Marion Record on April 6th 1995

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Enjoy flipping through the Vintage Photo Book on your coffee table.

I hope you enjoyed this podcast episode! Please follow along on this journey by going to visualbenedictions.com or following me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, and Overcast. And don’t forget to rate and review so more people can tune in! I’d greatly appreciate it.

Till next time,

Trina

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Happy Easter! Easter and Spring have arrived. As I write these warm thoughts, it is the week before Easter, and there are still some mountains of snow surrounding the little home on the prairie. My grandson, Trevor, who lives in Nebraska and who's spending some special vacation days with his grandma in South Dakota, is overjoyed to make an Easter snowman! Is spring really here in South Dakota?

The events following Palm Sunday bring many memories of my past trips to the Holy Land. Walking the Via Dolorosa, on the way to Calvary, is a memory that often comes to mind, not only during Holy Week. It was my special joy to be able to make a Pre-Easter pilgrimage, and also a trip to the Holy Land at Christmas time. What memories. Climbing the hill of Calvary and worshiping in that garden too. Two of my friends entered the tomb in that garden with me and saying, "He is risen! He is risen indeed!" The events that happened on Easter, so many years ago, remain vivid in my mind, having also walked that Road of Emmaus, the day before leaving the Holy Land to return to America. Thoughts from that beautiful hymn come to mind as I walked that Road of Emmaus. "Abide with me this eventide...Thy walk with me, has made my heart within me burn as I commune with Thee...Thy earnest words have filled my soul, and kept me near Thy side...Oh Savior stay this night with me. Behold, tis eventide.

Warm Thoughts: Fair, are the meadows, fair are the woodlands. The seasons come and the seasons go, and many the changes they bring. But in the warmth of a mother's heart, it is forever spring. May you have a joy filled Easter season!

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Luetta G. Werner

Published in the Marion Record on March 27th, 1997.

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Enjoy flipping through the Vintage Photo Book on your coffee table.

I hope you enjoyed this podcast episode! Please follow along on this journey by going to visualbenedictions.com or following me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, and Overcast. And don’t forget to rate and review so more people can tune in! I’d greatly appreciate it.

Till next time,

Trina

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On a recent flight to Texas, I was seated near a retired pilot, and also near a very verbal young mother who's sister will be on that space flight going up on July 9th at 3am. Her sister is making this flight with the First Woman Commander. The retired pilot told me about his mother, who is now in her 90s. I shared the column on Live, Learn, and Tell, where I challenged you my readers to finish the thoughts on...at age 90. This loving son finished the thought, so here it is. "At age 90 I survived at all, but I forgot what it was." Thanks Lenny!

I love to hear the creative thoughts from the readers of this column. As I have stated in another column, you indeed make this column, and I haven't forgotten that thought. And thanks for the emails too. We read and hear so much on radio and TV about computers and the confusion over Y2K. One of my readers sent me a copy of "The Wise Farmer's Computer Guide." It just may open the windows of our mind, as we read this guide.

The Wise Farmer's Computer Guide

Modem - what you do to hayfields. Keyboard - where you hang your keys. Windows - what to shut when it's 30 below. Windows 95 - what to open when it's really hot. Log on - what to put on the stove, when implementing windows. Hard Drive - getting home during a blizzard. Download - getting the firewood out of the pickup. Megahertz - what you get if you're not careful, downloading. Microchips - what little cows leave in your pasture. Crash - what you do after you receive your accountant's bill for your tax return. Computer - what you say when calling your dog "Puter" to dinner. Byte - what pewter does when you don't feed him.

It's time for a bit of humor in our lives. Send me your favorite joke and or family joke. You'll enjoy seeing your favorite joke in this column. I just looked on my calendar and notice that spring is on the calendar for March 21st, when spring begins. Someone told me it is March 20th on their calendar...Anyways. Happy Spring!

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Luetta G Werner

Published in the Marion Record, March 18th, 1999.

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Enjoy flipping through the Vintage Photo Book on your coffee table.

I hope you enjoyed this podcast episode! Please follow along on this journey by going to visualbenedictions.com or following me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, and Overcast. And don’t forget to rate and review so more people can tune in! I’d greatly appreciate it.

Till next time,

Trina

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March. Is it really here already? Where does the time go? March is a month during which the season of spring is welcomed after the long winter. Recently I read some thoughts on time and what a precious gift, time is. Time is a treasure. Each day is precious with 24 hours to use as I choose, and to spend at my own discretion. Time is life's greatest asset, a generous gift from the Creator, yet not one hour may be stored for the future. And our affluent society, no one can beg, borrow or buy an additional day. Even the most fabulous fortune cannot purchase the fleeting moments, or call them back once they are gone. Time waits for no one. It travels swiftly and in silence linked with the rising and setting sun. Like a vapor, it is here one moment, and gone the next. Days disappearing so quickly that we sometimes stand in utter amazement and ask, "Where has the time gone?" If challenges have been met with courage, tasks accomplished to the best of our ability, and warm meaningful relationships made along the way, then we may say with certainty that this day has been lived to the fullest. Warm thoughts: Take time to pray. It is the greatest power on earth. Read. It is the fountain of wisdom. Think. It is the source of strength. Love and be loved. It is a God given privilege. Give. It is too short a day to be selfish. Be friendly. It is the road to happiness. Laugh. It is the music of the soul. Play. It is the secret of perpetual youth. Work. It is the price of success. Take time to have many warm thoughts.

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Luetta G. Werner

Published in the Marion Record, March 6th, 1997

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Enjoy flipping through the Vintage Photo Book on your coffee table.

I hope you enjoyed this podcast episode! Please follow along on this journey by going to visualbenedictions.com or following me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, and Overcast. And don’t forget to rate and review so more people can tune in! I’d greatly appreciate it.

Till next time,

Trina

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Is spring really in March? As I turn the calendar my thoughts turned to the potential life that must be under the blanket of snow. We seem to need to have winter to appreciate spring and see life make it's appearance again. I love all the seasons of the year, and the beauty of the snow too. And even blizzards can be invigorating. I arrived home in time for the TGIF Blizzard, and was shut in my home as the north wind blew. It was another snow day last Friday and no school for many students. It brought back memories for me of being snowed in, and not able to attend school in that one room country schoolhouse when I was a young student. It was a time for family togetherness in that warm kitchen. It was the era of no TV and video, but we had our games and read and told stories around that round kitchen table. The warmth of the old kitchen range and the aroma of homemade goodies permeated the room, and gave me warm feelings of family contentment. A memory I will always cherish. I do believe every story I've ever read about the 1888 Blizzard, and the many heroic stories of our pioneers. My own life experiences have convinced me that these stories are truth and not fiction. Some days I think I may be one of the last pioneers to weather the winter storms and blizzards that are challenging, but those spring blizzards can be even more unexpected and challenging.

Traveling alone when the calendar tells us it is spring and one suddenly drives into an area of ice and snow can be a most unforgettable experience. It happened a couple of years ago when I was still living in Nebraska. It was the week after spring was announced on the calendar, and I wanted a spring break to visit family in South Dakota and I also scheduled a lecture. I was dressed for spring, and was excited about my spring break. On my return home I encountered a few inches of ice on the interstate and snow that made visibility impossible. The car made a dive into the ditch and there I was, as I watched that robin in the snow. "Will someone find me?" I thought. Moments past and I recalled how God always sent an angel to rescue me in all my travel dilemmas. I was not at all prepared, or dressed for the cold and all the snow. After all, it was spring according to the calendar. Before I even had a chance to have my own personal self-pity party, I noticed a light in the distance, and a jeep and two angels who came to rescue me and take me to a fire station, until I could get help to get the car back on the road. After six hours in the fire station we finally were able to get that car out of the ditch. I drove back to Nebraska on ice as I felt an angel on each shoulder. The joys and challenges of traveling in the spring bring back many memories. I am sure you have many true stories to share.

A bit of wisdom: May you laugh as long as you live and live as long as you laugh. A letter from Wisconsin: "Grandma, Will you come to see me when the snow melts?" Warm Thoughts for the week: Belief is truth held in the mind. Faith is a fire in the heart. Joseph Fortnew. Have a great week, enjoying the warmth of home and family.

Warm thoughts from The Little House on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Luetta G. Werner

Published in the Marion Record on March 2nd, 1994

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I hope you enjoyed this podcast episode! Please follow along on this journey by going to visualbenedictions.com or following me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, and Overcast. And don’t forget to rate and review so more people can tune in! I’d greatly appreciate it.

Till next time,

Trina

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During heart month, we have had some very cold days and nights. It feels so good to be warmed with the quilt that loving hands have made. There are many dedicated women throughout our country who spend many hours making quilts in their homes in churches. These quilts are made for world relief, the homeless, and the needy. Quilts made with love really make wonderful gifts for that newborn baby, that child who loves to nestle in bed at night with the quilt all around. And that young student, first going off to college. That quilt for a young married couple can also be a very special gift of love. The past week I read about a pastor's mother who lived alone, and had a fall at the foot of her bed. She fractured her hip, and was unable to move and could not reach her phone. Two days later, she was found, but it was too late. She had gone to God's warm, loving care. Her elbows were scraped, and somehow she managed to cocoon herself with a warm quilt that had brought memories of her childhood. Loving hands had made that quilt. Love is a quilt, a quilt is love.

I am reminded of what a prairie woman in 1870, who was a quiltmaker for her family, stated, "I make them warm to keep my family from freezing. I make them beautiful to keep my heart from breaking." To all those quilt makers - may you send out another comforter that may be a haven for a need, a shelter for the storm, in the warmth of love. One can almost hear a loving quiltmaker say, "there's an extra comforter at the foot of the bed."

Warm Thoughts: A heart filled with love always has something to give. Love is the answer that everyone sees. Love is the language that every heart speaks. Right in your heart, every day is the best day of the year. - Ralph Waldo Emerson. May every day be your best.

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Luetta G. Werner

February 23rd, 1995

Published in the Marion Record

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I hope you enjoyed this podcast episode! Please follow along on this journey by going to visualbenedictions.com or following me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, and Overcast. And don’t forget to rate and review so more people can tune in! I’d greatly appreciate it.

Till next time,

Trina

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In the last warm thoughts column, I shared thoughts on the celebration of Presidents Day. Perhaps the first celebration of Presidents Day was in 1782. George Washington's Birthday was first celebrated in that year. The observance took the place of the birthday celebrations of the various sovereigns of Great Britain, which had been customary during colonial times. Services were held at Washington's home in Mount Vernon and at the Washington Monument in the National Capital. Since George Washington was our first president, he was often called the "Father of our Country." I often thought that perhaps, that was the reason the expression, "Let George do it," still is heard at times of confusion and distress. In front of the Federal Building in New York's financial district, stands on bronze statue of Washington. The world has moved on in a dizzying pace since his time. But the figure has not moved in inch.

Also unchanged are the vital and eternal principles which shaped his personal and public life. To the passing throng, he still preaches in the memorable words of his farewell address. It is my earnest prayer to God, that He would be most graciously pleased to dispose us all to do justice, to love mercy, and to demean ourselves with the charity, humility and specific temper of mind, which were the characteristics of the Divine Author of our religion. Without a humble imitation of whose example in these things, we can never hope to have a happy nation.

More Warm Thoughts: "Speak, not injurist word, neither in jest or earnest, scoff at none although they give occasion." George Washington. From the Mail Bag These Thoughts: We are never too old to be happy, to laugh, to smile and sing, never too old for childlike trust that a blessing each day will bring. May you have many warm thoughts!

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Luetta G. Werner

Published in the Marion Record on February 19th, 1998.

Published in the Marion Record

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Enjoy flipping through the Vintage Photo Book on your coffee table.

I hope you enjoyed this podcast episode! Please follow along on this journey by going to visualbenedictions.com or following me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, and Overcast. And don’t forget to rate and review so more people can tune in! I’d greatly appreciate it.

Till next time,

Trina

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We welcome the month of February. It begins with National Freedom Day, on February 1 and Groundhog Day on February 2. It is the month for Valentine's Day, the month when our attention is focused on love, and gifts of love are presented to those for whom we have warm and loving feelings. It is the month we celebrate Presidents Day, and have many warm and patriotic thoughts for our beloved country. I recently read thoughts about the story of Saint Valentine. Perhaps it is best understood from the poem Helen Steiner Rice wrote that describes what the real meaning of this special signifies.

This story of St. Valentine is a legend, it is true. But legends are delightful and very lovely, too. The legend says Saint Valentine, while imprisoned in a cell, was thinking of his little flock he had always loved so well. He wanted to assure them of his friendship and his love, So he picked a bunch of violets, and sent them by a dove. And on the violets' velvet leaves he pierced these lines divine. They simply said, "I love you, and I'm your Valentine." So through the years that follow from that day unto this, folks still send messages of love and seal them with a kiss. Because a saint in prison reached outside his bars one day, and picked a bunch of violets and sent them out to say that faith and love can triumph, no matter where you are, for faith and love are greater than the strongest prison bar.

As we bid farewell to January's wintry night we have many more thoughts about tomorrow's future. I like what Abraham Lincoln once said, "The best thinking about the future, is that it comes one day at a time." More Warm Thoughts: "Lord, make me an instrument of thy peace, where there is hatred, let me sow love." Saint Francis of Assisi. There is one word that stands out and that is respect. This is a very good thing to learn early in life, for instance, respect for your parents, your country, your God. Country singer Randy Travis. "Be the sunshine of God's love to your parents, friends, and neighbors." Mother Teresa. May we have many warm thoughts in this month of February!

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Luetta G. Werner

February 5th, 1998

Published in the Marion Record

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Enjoy flipping through the Vintage Photo Book on your coffee table.

I hope you enjoyed this podcast episode! Please follow along on this journey by going to visualbenedictions.com or following me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, and Overcast. And don’t forget to rate and review so more people can tune in! I’d greatly appreciate it.

Till next time,

Trina

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When you read this Warm Thoughts column, it will be February, and January has come and gone. Where has the month gone so fast? It has been a month of London Fog flinging, a Crystal Veil over the Heartland! A real Winter Wonderland. February is heart month...the month of Groundhog, Valentine's Day, Presidents Day...Did I forget something? February is also the month when many warm thoughts on love come to mind. And his book, "How to Love," Arthur H Rauner, Jr states, "It is a selfish world." He defines love as not emotions or feelings, but the willingness to sacrifice for another. When we are selfish and look only to support our own causes, we cannot truly love. It is many moons ago that a blind friend of mine read the poem, "What is Love." As her fingers touched each line of Braille, my hearts thoughts followed each word. The author is unknown, and I would like to share these warm thoughts on love with you.

What is Love

Love is an attitude. Love is a prayer for a soul in sorrow, a heart in despair. Love is good wishes for the gain of another. Love suffers long with the fault of a brother. Love giving water to a cup that's run dry. Love reaches low, as it can reach high. Seeks not her own at the expense of another. Love reaches God when it reaches our brother.

As I meditate on those warm thoughts, I am reminded what Stanley Krawezyk once stated, "One can be blind in his eyes, but that doesn't make him blind in his heart."

More warm thoughts: Time flies... sunrises... and shadows fall... let time go by...love is forever over all. "The last of the human freedoms, is to choose one's attitude in any given set of circumstances." Dr. Victor Frankl. "Time is too slow for those who wait, too swift for those who fear, too long for those who grieve, too short for those who rejoice; but for those who love, time is eternity." Henry Van Dyke

A Letter to Luetta:

Dear Luetta,

Time after time I read your "Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie" in the Marion Record. It seems like I am so close to where you are, and yet too far. That little picture of a barn looks just like the one banker Smith had in Dolton between our school (where I went for 12 years) and the bank. Then your trips to Bethlehem, etc. Seems like you are a traveler alright. Who are you? Where do you live? Your address is odd! Please give my curiosity, a relief.

Sincerely, Esther Dirks Herman.

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Luetta G. Werner

January 13th, 1995

Published in the Marion Record

Download the Found Photo Freebie and cherish your memories of the past.

Enjoy flipping through the Vintage Photo Book on your coffee table.

I hope you enjoyed this podcast episode! Please follow along on this journey by going to visualbenedictions.com or following me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, and Overcast. And don’t forget to rate and review so more people can tune in! I’d greatly appreciate it.

Till next time,

Trina

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In last week's column, it was mentioned that January 21st is National Hugging Day. I also read about Thank You Day being in January. And the last week in January has long been known as International Forgiveness Week. The other morning I was listening on the radio, and heard it say that a noted doctor stated that, "70% of the people would be released from hospitals in 24, hours, if they knew they were forgiven." A French philosopher once said that, "To know all is to forgive all." Among my heroes of faith are many missionary friends whose forgiving heart has taken them to their former captors. That is the story of St. Patrick who went back to Ireland as a Christian missionary to take the love of Christ. A well known missionary and author of many books, worked among the people who killed her husband, and other missionaries. There are many heroes of faith, who live a life of daily forgiveness. Forgiveness is the mark of maturity. Life is too short to hold a grudge. Harry E. Fosdick once said, "Hating people is like burning down your home to get rid of a rat." The inability to forgive and forget, is what makes one sick. As we have many warm thoughts on forgiveness during International Forgiveness Week, may we remember, there is a little remedy to ease the life we live and make each day, a happier one - it is the word, forgive.

Warm thoughts to ponder: Friendship flourishes at the fountain of forgiveness. William A. Ward. The weak can never forgive. Forgiveness is the attribute of the strong. Gandhi. I will forgive their iniquity, and remember their sin no more. Jeremiah 31:34. Have a beautiful forgiveness week.

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Luetta G. Werner

January 25th 1996

Published in the Marion Record

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Enjoy flipping through the Vintage Photo Book on your coffee table.

I hope you enjoyed this podcast episode! Please follow along on this journey by going to visualbenedictions.com or following me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, and Overcast. And don’t forget to rate and review so more people can tune in! I’d greatly appreciate it.

Till next time,

Trina

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The home fires may be burning in your home, as we together listen on the radio and watch TV, about the travel challenges many are facing throughout the country. Upon my return from travel to Seattle during the holiday season I was welcomed with 20 degree below zero weather. However, my heart was warmed as I listened to the phone messages and read the many cards, letters and precious thoughts, which I received. You all really made my day! Among the thoughts sent to me was a letter from my friend Dr. Green in Vermillion, South Dakota. She included thoughts from an unknown author, which I feel are so warm and precious - indeed to be shared with you, dear readers of this warm thoughts column.

"When the song of the angels is still, when the star in the sky is gone, when the kings and princes are home, when the shepherds are back with the sheep the work of Christmas begins. To find the lost, to heal the broken, to feed the hungry, to release the prisoner, to rebuild the nations, to bring peace among people, to make music in the heart."

I was also reminded in Lifelines magazine that January 21st is National Hugging Day, and a dear friend in Florida sent me the poem entitled, "Hugs for Everyone."

"It's wondrous what a hug can do. A hug can break the language barrier and make your travels so much merrier. No need to fret about the store of them, the more you give, the more there are of them. So stretch those arms without delay and give someone a hug today." Thanks dear friend, a hug for you across the miles!

Words of wisdom: Patience is the ability to idle your motor when you feel like stripping your gears. Author Unknown. Instead of counting your days, make every day count in this new year. For all those who have suffered in the past incredible pain, may we remember that the light that shut out the darkness can put together the broken pieces of our hearts. Author Unknown. Please accept my hug to help you, a true friend. Remember January 21st is National Hugging Day.

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Luetta G. Werner

January 18th 1996

Published in the Marion Record

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Enjoy flipping through the Vintage Photo Book on your coffee table.

I hope you enjoyed this podcast episode! Please follow along on this journey by going to visualbenedictions.com or following me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, and Overcast. And don’t forget to rate and review so more people can tune in! I’d greatly appreciate it.

Till next time,

Trina

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Warmest greetings to my dear family, friends, and gentle hearts around the world. It has become a tradition for me to write my Christmas letter on January 6th. The Christmas of the Gentiles. Today is Epiphany - the festival that commemorates the appearance of the Christ child as the promised Savior to the Gentiles, and to all the world. The lighted star shines today even brighter on that little home on the prairie, as I am reminded of the star that led the wisemen to Bethlehem. As we all travel the road of life, and reflect on the past year, may we have many warm thoughts as we reflect on what an unknown author wrote so many years ago. "Looking back, may we be filled with gratitude. Looking forward, may we be filled with hope. Looking upward, may we be aware of strength. Looking inward, may we find peace."

The year 1995 is a closed chapter in our lives, filled with memories. What a joy for me to have received so many Christmas letters and cards from around the world. Thanks for sharing your joys and challenges of the past year. You have all been the angels in my life, and I wish for you all many great blessings as you continue your journey throughout life.

Family celebrations and visits this past year have taken me to Iowa, Nebraska, Wisconsin, Colorado, Ohio, Washington DC, and Washington State. In August, the 60th Werner family reunion was held at Battle Creek Nebraska. In June, four families arrived and painted the barn red in that little home on the prairie also got a facelift. It is now Periwinkle blue with purple trim. Perhaps in 1996, you will come to visit. Christmas is every day of the year in this little home on the prairie. The welcome mat is out and the teapot will be on for our cup of Christmas tea. You will enjoy God's beautiful creation in God's country, South Dakota has its seasons of beauty. May we all live throughout 1996 in the warmth and glow of Christmas. And may, the stars of grace, hope, joy, love and peace shine in our hearts.

Quiet thoughts from the heart - for you a special New Year prayer. "God bless you all year through, and may his loving presence be always close to you. God grant you many blessings of the real and lasting kind. The best of health, true happiness, and peace of heart in mind." Author unknown. "The day spring from on high has visited us to give light to guide our feet into the way of peace." From the book of Luke. Have a bright new year, led by his light.

Warm Thoughts From the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Luetta G. Werner

January 6th, 1996

Published in the Marion Record

Download the Found Photo Freebie and cherish your memories of the past.

Enjoy flipping through the Vintage Photo Book on your coffee table.

I hope you enjoyed this podcast episode! Please follow along on this journey by going to visualbenedictions.com or following me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, and Overcast. And don’t forget to rate and review so more people can tune in! I’d greatly appreciate it.

Till next time,

Trina

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In last week's column I shared with you many warm thoughts on accepting challenges in life, with a heart filled with thanks. Each day brings us new challenges and changes in our lives. And sometimes it seems unbelievable in our way of thinking about challenges.

It was a quiet moment in my prairie kitchen, when suddenly the telephone rang early in the morning - the day before Thanksgiving. I was surprised to receive calls so early from my daughter Kathy in Texas. The lives of their family are very busy as her husband serves a large parish in Texas. I had an intuitive feeling that something must have happened for her to call so early in the morning, and immediately my thoughts wandered as I lifted up the receiver of the phone. "Mom, our church burned down last night," she stated loud and clear. For one moment I could not believe what I was hearing. I had to believe what had happened, as I listened to her relate the details and events of the past few hours of the life of that large congregation of members. "It's a miracle no one else in the building at the time. We are so thankful. And even though the church is in ashes, the fire departments were able to save the family center near the church."

It is now the evening of Thanksgiving Day, and the telephone, again, rings. Kathy is again on the line sharing the events of the past 24 hours. "Mom, we were able to have four Thanksgiving services in the school. I was able to share with the congregation and the media, my experience when I was 12 years old." Memories of another church burning on a windy March day is still very real for Kathy and her siblings. The legacy of her father, who was pastor of that parish at the time, and the words he spoke to her, and the unspoken wisdom is now touching the lives of many through her testimony. Through the grief and the pain of the loss of a church building, there was a spiritual growth that was phenomenal and will be long remembered. She told me that when she viewed the ashes of their burning church, she saw the cover of a book that had not been consumed by the fire, entitled "The Abiding Word." And as she stood there holding it, she observed a parched piece of paper on which were these words, "Keep looking to God, your source. Keep expecting miracles."

A very warm thought: Expect miracles. Remember, God loves you. God bless you, dear readers, with a blessed Christmas season.

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Luetta G. Werner

November, 30 1995

Published in the Marion Record

Download the Found Photo Freebie and cherish your memories of the past.

Enjoy flipping through the Vintage Photo Book on your coffee table.

I hope you enjoyed this podcast episode! Please follow along on this journey by going to visualbenedictions.com or following me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, and Overcast. And don’t forget to rate and review so more people can tune in! I’d greatly appreciate it.

Till next time,

Trina

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Thanksgiving Day is a very special holiday for many families. Family traditions are often carried out on this day in many homes.

It is also a good time to remember what we often forget - to say that we are grateful to be together. And to acknowledge with thanks, each other. It is a time to thank the people who have made a difference in our lives. Many warm thoughts come to mind. Recently I read some thoughts by Albert Schweitzer, a pioneer African missionary, and I would like to share his thoughts on thankfulness.

To give thanks is not only a happening that embraces the whole purpose of creation within itself. It is also an experience. He who thanks God with his whole heart experiences something. He himself is enriched. All too often we think we are destitute of joy and fortune. Our lives seem empty and unsatisfied. And we know not why. Now take a look at yourself. The times of poverty within are the times when you do not give thanks to God. What life brings has no value in itself, it acquires value only by giving our thanks to God. Today at the harvest Thanksgiving, it is not those who have gathered much into their barns who are rich. Those who thank God much, are the truly wealthy. So our inner happiness depends not on what we experienced, but on the degree of our gratitude to God, whatever the experience. Your life is something opaque, not transparent, as long as you look at it in an ordinary human way. But if you hold it up against the light of God's goodness. It shines and turns transparent, radiant, and bright. - Albert Schweitzer

May every day of the year, be a day of thanks with an attitude of gratitude. Warm Thought: The year that is drawing toward its close, has been filled with the blessing of fruitful fields and healthful skies. They are the gracious gifts of the most high God. -Abraham Lincoln

Have a beautiful, thankful day!

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Luetta G Werner

November 28th, 1996

Published in the Marion Record

Download the Found Photo Freebie and cherish your memories of the past.

Enjoy flipping through the Vintage Photo Book on your coffee table.

I hope you enjoyed this podcast episode! Please follow along on this journey by going to visualbenedictions.com or following me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, and Overcast. And don’t forget to rate and review so more people can tune in! I’d greatly appreciate it.

Till next time,

Trina

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Every Veterans Day brings to mind many memories. It is also known as Armistice Day, and in some locales, it is Remembrance Day, Victory Day, and World War One Memorial Day. Some places observe silent memorials at the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month each year. It is a time of remembrance from the heart to all who stood tall for freedom. These thoughts by an unknown author, say it very well.

From the Heart

Those of us who've never served can't truly understand the sacrifices that you made, protecting life and land. You are called from homes and jobs. You never turned around. You did more than what was asked of you, in air, on sea, on ground. You gave for us in freedoms name. Till now the time has come for us to give you in return, a thank you from the heart.

Last summer when I was in Washington DC, I met the author of the poem, "America's Prayer." This poem by Richard G Wench, is now in the collection commemorating the Statue of Liberty National Monument Ellis Island Immigration Museum.

America's Prayer

Oh God above, I trust in Thee to keep my country free. With honesty and felicity, I pledge my love to Thee. The Liberty we have today will only last till dawn. Unless we live our life with you, our eternal life is gone. For lies, deceit will surely meet with failure, death, and pain. And our endurance will not keep if our faith in you does wane. Adultery, greed, dishonesty have always shown to lead to suffering, pain and poverty in every living creed. The hate we have must go away, our lust must turn to dust. If only to dear God, we pray, and pledge Him all our trust. The Roman Empire is no more and death did show no sorrow For men that live just for the day, with no thought of tomorrow. Belief in God will surely bring a nation strong and free. Eternal life will then be ours, as well as liberty. Thank you Richard for touching our hearts with your warm thoughts and prayer for our country. America has been built on faith and love in action. God bless America and God bless you. Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Luetta G. Werner

November 9th, 1995

Published in the Marion Record

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Enjoy flipping through the Vintage Photo Book on your coffee table.

I hope you enjoyed this podcast episode! Please follow along on this journey by going to visualbenedictions.com or following me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, and Overcast. And don’t forget to rate and review so more people can tune in! I’d greatly appreciate it.

Till next time,

Trina

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November. We are thankful as we complete the gathering in of ripened crops that mature under the autumn skies. In November we honor our veterans who fought so that we stand free. We give thanks for our freedom of worship set in the beginnings of the pilgrims' landing, and the signing of our Declaration of Independence. It is the month when Abraham Lincoln delivered his Gettysburg Address November 16th 1863, that this nation, under God, shall have a new birth of freedom. So that government of the people, by the people, for the people, shall not perish from the earth. J. Edgar Hoover wrote an essay about the hope for America's future.

America's Hope for the Future

If there is hope for the future of America. If there is to be peace and happiness in our homes, then we as a nation must return to God and to the practice of daily family prayer. Can we build homes without God, or have worthy parents who do not know and practice his teachings? Our nation is sadly in need of a rebirth of the simple life, a return to the days when God was a part of each household. When families arose in the morning with a prayer on their lips and ended the day by gathering together to place themselves in His care. As our nation grew and prospered, has overcome vestitudes and adversities, its people never lost faith in a personal God. Our generation seems to have allowed old, faithful, religious practices to slip into oblivion. As a result, family life has weakened and our nation has suffered. A godless home is built upon sand. It is an inviting, breeding ground for moral decay and crime. My hopes for the future of this nation is predicated upon the faith in God, which is nurtured in the family.

November. It is the month of treasured moments with loved ones, a month of warm thoughts as we share the warmth of a fireside glow. Warm Thought: In America, every day is a new beginning, and every sunset is the latest milestone on the voyage that never ends. God bless America.

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Luetta G. Werner

November 6th 1997

Published in the Marion Record

Download the Found Photo Freebie and cherish your memories of the past.

Enjoy flipping through the Vintage Photo Book on your coffee table.

I hope you enjoyed this podcast episode! Please follow along on this journey by going to visualbenedictions.com or following me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, and Overcast. And don’t forget to rate and review so more people can tune in! I’d greatly appreciate it.

Till next time,

Trina

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The author who wrote the book, "All I ever Learned I Learned in Kindergarten," could not have meant it for the generation who were born before kindergarten began. Since I never attended kindergarten, I find special joy and listening to granddaughter Trina telling me what she is learning in her kindergarten class. She is learning some new songs I've never heard before, among other things that I do not know. How exciting it must be to go to kindergarten! I was amused the other day when I read an essay written by an unknown author entitled, "All I Need to Know About Life, I Learned From a Cow."

There's always a lot at steak. Successful people are moovers and shakers. Don't have a cow. Chew your food at least 20 times before swallowing. If you need to get somewhere, "hoof" it.

Don't be just one of the herd. If you've herd a good joke, milk it for all it's worth. Graze your way to the top. He who lives with the herd learns to watch his step. It's butter to have milked and churned than to never have milked at all. Don't be bossy. The cream always rises to the top. Party till the cows come home. Munch hay while the sun shines. Following your heart will always steer you in the right direction.

Not only am I learning what is taught in kindergarten, and some lessons from animals too, I am also learning new words. Trina has called the little calves, "cow babies." Stay tuned - I will share some lessons I learned from the birds.

We are never too old to learn something, each day of our lives. Education requires that we answer many questions. Continuing education requires that we question many of our answers. William, Arthur Ward. Give a little love to each child, and you get a great deal back. John Ruskin. Have many warm thoughts, every day.

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Luetta G Werner

October 31st, 1996

Published in the Marion Record

Download the Found Photo Freebie and cherish your memories of the past.

Enjoy flipping through the Vintage Photo Book on your coffee table.

I hope you enjoyed this podcast episode! Please follow along on this journey by going to visualbenedictions.com or following me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, and Overcast. And don’t forget to rate and review so more people can tune in! I’d greatly appreciate it.

Till next time,

Trina

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It is always a joy to have that extra hour in your life in the fall of the year when the time changes. Change. Yes. Change is a way of life. The month of October makes us really aware of the joys we experienced when seasons change in some parts of the world.

In the month of October, there is also a Sunday called, "Mother-in-Law's Day." I call it, "Mother-in-Love." And in a column last May I shared a poem by an unknown author, entitled, "Mother-in-Love." I would be glad to send you this beautiful poem, if you write to me and ask me for a copy. In checking my mother-in-law file with copies of the mother-in-law poem, I found thoughts from daughter-in-laws that brought to mind many warm thoughts. From the third world, a daughter-in-law refers to the mother-in-law as a mother so unique and mother never tired, whose love never grows old, so loving and caring. No one can forget, man cannot compensate. But it teaches us lessons of a great mother whose love is always constant, her hands never weary, who's thoughts so wide give peaceful words.

Of special interest were the thoughts in my file about the daughter-in-law, also written by an unknown author. A daughter-in-law is a joy to the heart, a very special part of a family's warmth and love.

October is a beautiful month, filled with many joys. Enjoy this season of beauty, and remember, it is the month we change our clocks.

Warm thoughts: All that I am or ever hoped to be, I owe to an angel, mother. Abraham Lincoln. May silent thanks, at least to God, be given with a full heart. Our thoughts are heard in heaven. William Wordsworth.

Have a beautiful and thankful autumn day.

Warm Thoughts From the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Luetta G. Werner

October 26th, 1995

Published in the Marion Record

Download the Found Photo Freebie and cherish your memories of the past.

Enjoy flipping through the Vintage Photo Book on your coffee table.

I hope you enjoyed this podcast episode! Please follow along on this journey by going to visualbenedictions.com or following me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, and Overcast. And don’t forget to rate and review so more people can tune in! I’d greatly appreciate it.

Till next time,

Trina

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It is such a joy to receive letters from the readers of this warm thoughts column. Your comments are always greatly appreciated. I have learned that there are many who appreciate the art of poetry and essays. Recently, the following poetry thoughts came across my desk. I am not sure who wrote them, but they brought encouragement to my friend who shared these thoughts.

"It isn't the thing you do, dear,

It's the thing you leave undone

That gives you a bit of heartache

At the setting of the sun.

The tender word forgotten,

The letter you did not write,

The flowers you did not send,

Are your hunting ghosts at night.

The stone you might have lifted

Out of your brother's way,

The bit of hearthstone counsel

You were hurried too much to say.

The loving touch of the hand, dear

The gentle, winning tone

Which you have no time nor thought for,

With troubles enough of your own.

These little acts of kindness,

So easily out of mind,

Those chances to be angels,

Which we poor mortals find.

They come in night and silence,

Each sad reproachful wraith,

When hope is faint and flagging

And a chill has fallen on faith.

Life is all too short, dear

And sorrow is all too great,

To suffer our slow compassion

That tarries until too late.

And it isn't the thing you do, dear,

It's the thing you left undone

Which gives you a bit of a heartache

At the setting of the sun.”

It was George Adams who said, "We should seize every opportunity to give encouragement." Warm Thought: Kind words are the music of the world. May you have many warm thoughts to share! Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Luetta G. Werner

October 16th 1997

Published in the Marion Record

Download the Found Photo Freebie and cherish your memories of the past.

Enjoy flipping through the Vintage Photo Book on your coffee table.

I hope you enjoyed this podcast episode! Please follow along on this journey by going to visualbenedictions.com or following me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, and Overcast. And don’t forget to rate and review so more people can tune in! I’d greatly appreciate it.

Till next time,

Trina

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Now that you know about that humor box that needs a filing system, you may just be a little curious what gems of thought are in that box. I have always been blessed whenever I listen to the children. Consequently, I file away their thoughts in my treasure thoughts, along with that bit of humor that adds zest in my day.

I remember reading this poem, years ago.

Between the dark, and the daylight. When the night is beginning to lower, come the pause and the day's occupation. That is known as the children's hour. Amazing as it may seem, some of the greatest creative thoughts come to the children in the evening hour, and we may think that we are too tired.

Since I was born in the day before kindergarten, I cannot say with Robert Fulghum, "All I really need to know I learned in kindergarten." I find the need to listen to the children who could write many how-to manuals and handbooks. Especially interesting is their thoughts on how they would manage a farm. Their methods sound so simple. For they choose to do it the simple way, not so complicated. The simplest way of how to milk a cow is to first get a lady cow. The second step is to pull her "others," and just squeeze. And of course, the third step is to get milk and fill the bucket. "Isn't that simple as pie?" I was asked after listening to these simple directions. Feeding Old McDonald's pig is another story, and very interesting and rather simple, when you listen to the children with a creative imagination. First step is to listen when the pig says, "oink, oink!" Next, you put on rubber gloves because the food smells. Then you mix old beans, corn, old eggs, or anything too old to eat. Put food in the pig dish and wait until he eats it.Then you can go and play.

I am simply filled with wonder at the creative imagination that children in kindergarten have these days. I am sure I will learn more, as I listen. I still have a lot to learn as I missed kindergarten.

Warm Thoughts: Respect your child's enthusiasm and creative imagination. Make time for hunting rainbows. Have many warm thoughts, as you listen to the children.

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Luetta G. Werner

September 18th, 1994.

Published in the Marion Record

Download the Found Photo Freebie and cherish your memories of the past.

Enjoy flipping through the Vintage Photo Book on your coffee table.

I hope you enjoyed this podcast episode! Please follow along on this journey by going to visualbenedictions.com or following me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, and Overcast. And don’t forget to rate and review so more people can tune in! I’d greatly appreciate it.

Till next time,

Trina

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Remembering 911. America, a day in September, we cannot forget. The month of September will always bring thoughts about 911. On that day, each year, we commemorate the courage so many individuals exhibited when in unimaginable horror, we watched the collapse of the World Trade Center, a burning Pentagon and a smoke filled black hole in the Pennsylvania field. It was on that dreadful day 10 years ago that I was inspired to write these thoughts.

God, You are Our Refuge

God, You are our refuge now.

And our strength in every need you help us.

In all sorrows, you will always guide and lead.

Though the earth shall be removed, there is nothing we need fear.

Though the mountains move the seas, we all know that you are here.

Though the waters troubled roar, and the mountain shake and swell,

Streams shall make God's city glad. Our God's holy place will tell.

Be still. Our God is with us.

He will always be on time.

He's in rage and kingdoms move, but his glory, it shall shine.

Lord of hosts, you are with us.

Lead us on eternally.

Come and see His mighty works.

God our refuge, he shall be.

Memories and thoughts of World War II have made me remember the tenacity of one of our great men of history, Winston Churchill. How can we ever forget his most famous words, "Never, never, never give up." It was in 1940 that France collapsed and Britain faced the powerful Nazi onslaught alone. How can one forget his most unforgettable words. Let us therefore brace ourselves to our duties. And so bear ourselves, that if the British Empire and the Commonwealth last 4000 years, men will still say this was their finest hour. Those words, "their finest hour," are so relevant, and will require our finest hour in the future of our world. The challenges are before us. And may we also never forget that God is our refuge, and it is he who will guide and lead us. God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Psalm 46.

The International Day of Peace is on September 21. The UN's International Day of Peace is a global observation and not a public holiday. It is a day when nations around the world are invited to honor a cessation of hostilities during the day, a UN resolution established the International Day of Peace in 1981 to coincide with the opening of the UN General Assembly. The first Peace Day was celebrated in 1982, and was held on the third Tuesday of September, each year until 2002. By setting a fixed date for the International Day of Peace, the assembly declared that the day should be observed as a day of global ceasefire and non violence. By creating the International Day of Peace, the UN devoted itself to worldwide peace and encouraged people to work in cooperation for this goal. Since its inception, Peace Day has marked personal and planetary progress towards peace. It has grown to include millions of people worldwide, and many events are organized each year to commemorate and celebrate this day. On the International Day of Peace, also known as Peace Day, people around the world take part in various activities and organize events, centered on the theme of peace. Events vary from private gatherings to public concerts and forums involving large audiences activities include interfaith peace ceremonies, a toast for peace, a peace choir lights lighting candles, peace prayers, a peace convoy of vehicles, tree planting, peace art exhibitions, promoting peace picnics, for peace and peace works. Organizations such as roots and shoots and international environmental and humanitarian programs for youth show their support for the event on an annual basis. Young people involved in roots and shoots may engage in activities, such as crafting giant peace dove puppets from reuse materials and flying the doves in their communities. People from diverse religious and spiritual backgrounds are also committed to organizing an International Day of Peace vigil. Some groups observe a minute of silence at noon in every time zone across the world on Peace Day.

More Warm Thoughts: The peace dove flying with an olive branch in its beak is one of the most commonly featured symbols for the day.In Judaism, Christianityand Islam, a white dove is generally a sign for peace, the dove can also represent hope for peace, or a peace offering from one person to another. Hence the phrase, "to extend an olive branch." Often, the dove is represented as still in flight to remind people of its role as a messenger, pray for peace. May God bless America and our world.

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Dr. Luetta G. Werner

September 15th, 2011

Published in the Marion Record

Download the Found Photo Freebie and cherish your memories of the past.

Enjoy flipping through the Vintage Photo Book on your coffee table.

I hope you enjoyed this podcast episode! Please follow along on this journey by going to visualbenedictions.com or following me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, and Overcast. And don’t forget to rate and review so more people can tune in! I’d greatly appreciate it.

Till next time,

Trina

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Recently, at a mother daughter banquet, I was asked to read an essay written by an eight year old daughter. Laughter filled the room, and I was not so sure if the group was laughing at me, or the essay that I was reading. Since National Grandparents Day for this year is another memory, I thought I'd share the essay with you, my dear readers of the Warm Thoughts column. The young unknown author shares thoughts on what is a grandma. I will share thoughts from the essay.

Grandmas. What a great idea!

Grandmas are one of God's most wonderful inventions. They don't really have to do anything, just be there. They're old, so they shouldn't play very hard or run. They go to the store with their grandkids and always seem to have lots of change in their purse for pretend horse and a Tootsie Roll. When they go for walks, they always seem to slow down past things like pretty leaves and caterpillars. They never hurry up. They usually wear glasses, and most of the time can take their teeth out to show them to the grandkids. Grandmas don't have to be smart. They only need to be able to answer questions like why dogs hate cats, and how come God isn't married. When they read to their grandkids, they don't skip pages, or mind if it's the same story over and over again. Everybody should try to have a grandma. If you have one call her today and tell her how special she is. Grandparents Day for me each year is a special time to write special Granny letters and cards, make calls, and send special gifts.

Warm thoughts: "Grandmother's have a special way of overlooking the bad and seeing the good, understanding what's understood, caring and sharing as no one else could. Grandmother's have a special way." Eleanor Leah Woods.

Have a very special day and give a grandchild, a hug.

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Luetta G. Werner, September 11th 1997

Published in the Marion Record

Download the Found Photo Freebie and cherish your memories of the past.

Enjoy flipping through the Vintage Photo Book on your coffee table.

I hope you enjoyed this podcast episode! Please follow along on this journey by going to visualbenedictions.com or following me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, and Overcast. And don’t forget to rate and review so more people can tune in! I’d greatly appreciate it.

Till next time,

Trina

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"Grandma, I want to go to the farm!" This had been an earnest plea of my two year old granddaughter, each time I would visit her in her home in Vermillion. So this past weekend, it was her special time to spend at the farm and I was getting myself ready for sharpening my communication - listening skills. With great anticipation, Trina looked forward to her retreat on the farm. As we traveled along by highway, she often asked, "When will we be there?"

When we arrived after our long journey, she was delighted to sit down and have her cup of tea with Grandma, and have some thoughtful conversation. "Grandma, I just love the farm," was her first response and then she continued, "And I want to go to church with you too." I was determined to practice my listening skills, and so she told me all the things she liked about the farm. She is very fond of the mommy cat, and her kittens, and was very excited to see the little calves. "Grandma, look at those cow babies!" she exclaimed. I began to realize that this weekend I would be increasing my vocabulary, with a few new words. Stories about the farm animals were of special interest. The story about the mouse in the house, especially fascinates her. And as I read stories, I was surprised at her long attention span. "Read another story grandma," she pleaded. The weekend seemed much too short for her, as there was so much to explore on the farm.

When Sunday morning arrived, I was busy in the kitchen and the birds were chirping in the old kitchen range chimney when I heard that cheerful voice in the other room, announcing her awakening. "Grandma, I'm awake!" she joyfully exclaimed. "I am listening. I hear you." I quickly reply. "Is this church day?" she asked. I assured her this was indeed church day. She was excited about the trip to church, and we arrived a bit early. She examined the rooms and noticed that there was a nursery with a teddy bear. Before the sermon she asked to go to the nursery and carried on her conversations with the teddy bear while I tried to get my thoughts together and practice my listening skills in communication.

Before the long journey back home, we sat down to relax with that cup of tea and her little teacup filled with cow's milk. Her thoughts apparently were on the story about the mouse in the house. The mommy kitty was in the house at the time, and seemed to be investigating the place. "Grandma, do you think there is a mouse in the house?" Remembering this story I quickly replied, "Oh, I believe he may be hiding." "Do you like to have a mouse in the house?" she asked. "I'd rather have a mouse in the house, than have bats in the belfry!" I quickly replied. Looking rather puzzled, she asked, "Grandma, are you alright?" This had been one of her favorite questions all weekend and now it was time for her journey back home. Two miles from the little home on the prairie, she was fast asleep and no more questions the rest of the way.

A warm thought for the week: "We learn so much listening to children."

Have a super week, filled with warm thoughts.

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Luetta G. Werner August, 19th 1993.

Published in the Marion Record

Download the Found Photo Freebie and cherish your memories of the past.

Enjoy flipping through the Vintage Photo Book on your coffee table.

I hope you enjoyed this podcast episode! Please follow along on this journey by going to visualbenedictions.com or following me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, and Overcast. And don’t forget to rate and review so more people can tune in! I’d greatly appreciate it.

Till next time,

Trina

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I began writing this column as I was flying 35,000 feet in the air, on my way to a symposium and convention in Washington DC. It was my very first trip to the nation's capitol. And I remember long ago reading how to reach Washington DC. I read that one was to go to Harvard first, and then turn left. And here I was flying by air to my destination and hearing

those famous words, "Fasten your seat belts!" Yes. The weather was very warm there until on Sunday afternoon when I was to return home, that showers of rain fell upon the city. It was also a great joy to be able to meet with extended family at the Crystal Cafe near the airport, and share with them the exciting days at the Washington Hilton, where the symposium and convention was held.

The 1995 Symposium and Convention of the International Society of Poets was held August 3rd, 4th, 5th, and 6th at the Washington Hilton in Washington DC. Writers and poets attended from 50countries. Every state of the union, and every province in Canada. Among the keynote speakers was Senator Eugene McCarthy, twice a candidate for president of the United States, and one of today's most fascinating poets. Florence Henderson was the keynote speaker, and also shared her musical talents at the banquet on Friday evening. Johnny Cash, June Carter, The Shirelles were also a highlight as the convention entertainment.

The final awards program was in the international ballroom on Sunday with a presentation for the Young Poets Scholarship, the Poet's Choice Prizes and the grand prize for the winning poem was given. The grand prize was entitled, "Old Man's Treasures." The young poet wrote a poem entitled, "Relatives," and related her thoughts about her relatives who attended the family reunion.

As I write these last few sentences to this column, I am making plans for another trip. Yes. The big, 60th anniversary family reunion with extended, extended family. I will try to write something nice about them. I have attended many reunions in my lifetime. This one may be the mother of all reunions. Stay tuned.

A thought to ponder: "It will be the poets of the world, who will bring us back to God." Walt Whitman.

May you be inspired to write a relative or a friend.

Warm Thoughts From the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Luetta G. Werner

August 17th, 1995

Published in the Marion Record

Download the Found Photo Freebie and cherish your memories of the past.

Enjoy flipping through the Vintage Photo Book on your coffee table.

I hope you enjoyed this podcast episode! Please follow along on this journey by going to visualbenedictions.com or following me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, and Overcast. And don’t forget to rate and review so more people can tune in! I’d greatly appreciate it.

Till next time,

Trina

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Some time ago, I heard someone state that, "Pain is inevitable, but misery and being miserable is a choice." In the school of learning and hard knocks, the following thoughts may warm our hearts, and perhaps motivate us in our own countdown.

Count your blessings instead of your crosses,

Count your gains instead of your losses,

Count your friends instead of your foes,

Count your smiles instead of your tears,

Count your full years instead of your lean,

Count your kind deeds instead of your mean,

Count your health instead of your wealth,

Count on God instead of yourself.

Thank you dear friend for sharing these warm thoughts, your thoughtful gift of sharing, perhaps touched some dear souls who take the time to read these thoughts.

A thought to ponder: Choose carefully the company you keep, or you may become what they are.

A warm thought: Choose carefully the memories you live with.

Have a beautiful day counting your blessings!

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Luetta G. Werner

August 7th 1995

Published in the Marion Record

Download the Found Photo Freebie and cherish your memories of the past.

Enjoy flipping through the Vintage Photo Book on your coffee table.

I hope you enjoyed this podcast episode! Please follow along on this journey by going to visualbenedictions.com or following me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, and Overcast. And don’t forget to rate and review so more people can tune in! I’d greatly appreciate it.

Till next time,

Trina

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This past weekend I drove to the city of Vermillion, where I frequently visit family, and my little granddaughter teaches me some new things she has learned recently. While there, I also traveled down memory lane in my thoughts. What warm thoughts overwhelmed me as I remembered the joys I experienced that last day in July, during the Bicentennial year. How can I ever forget that memorable year in the history of our country, and all the celebrations in South Dakota too? There were tears of joy as I stood with my collegiate clan on that open air field, and the music of the USD song resonated throughout the city, family, friends, and the students. I had taught in a class for gerontology and shared the joy of achievement of my "Grandma Day."

After all the graduation ceremonies, we all celebrated with one big picnic in the park, sweet memories. While in Vermillion, I spent some relaxing moments on the campus of my alma mater. This university has graduated many students from all parts of the world. It is widely known for its accreditation, and is listed among the top universities in the nation. It has graduated men like Tom Brokaw, who never forgot the state where they received their education. What memories there are as one walks the campus and sees "Old Main," the many buildings of learning, and that chapel steeple in the center of the campus. Many parents are helping their children get ready for school. I was simply amazed at how busy the shopping centers were this past weekend. After all those Christmas in July sales, it took no time for the advertisements to come out and inform us of the back to school values. The word, "values," has become a buzzword, and also in the advertising world of school supplies. Walking the aisles, one is impressed with all these values, and it gives one a nostalgic feeling of going back to school to learn more, with the grandchildren. We learn each day how much there is still to learn.

My precious granddaughter in Texas is quite insightful and once said, "I think my grandma goes to school for her recreation." I am reminded of what W. Somerset Maugham once said, "It wasn't until quite late in life that I discovered how easy it is to say, I don't know."

And so each day of my life is a learning experience, and thanks to those precious grandchildren, for they give me the energy to "keep on, keepin' on," in the school of learning.

You will read these warm thoughts in August, and believe me, warm summer has arrived. May you find joy and excitement, as you prepare for those good old school days, and values that soon are here.

A warm thought for the week: "You are as young as your faith, your hope, your confidence." H.B. Vanvelzer.

Have a great week filled with warm and youthful thoughts!

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie by Luetta G. Werner

August 5th, 1993

Published in the Marion Record

Download the Found Photo Freebie and cherish your memories of the past.

Enjoy flipping through the Vintage Photo Book on your coffee table.

I hope you enjoyed this podcast episode! Please follow along on this journey by going to visualbenedictions.com or following me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, and Overcast. And don’t forget to rate and review so more people can tune in! I’d greatly appreciate it.

Till next time,

Trina

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When traveling throughout the heartland of America. I was impressed with the beauty of the green fields. After attending the International Congress of the Family in Colorado, it was a joy to again spend special time with family and friends to celebrate another birthday.

I did not realize that the year I entered this big world, it was a banner year - it was family in Wisconsin who shared these thoughts on a birthday card. It was quite interesting for me to learn that in that banner year, a lot of things were happening, and prices were different

from our present age.

Imagine, a pair of Levi's from Miller Stockman, Denver's famed western-wear outfitter was $2.35. And the Ford Model T touring cars sold for the amazing price of $290. Oh, those

good old Model T days! In the field of education, the year I was born, the Texas officials

removed the theory of evolution from school books. It was the year Congress established the Army Air Corps. As a result, the military pilots were trained in the Corps, and in the next year set numerous world aviation records. Humorous Will Rogers, had some thoughts, which may be of interest as he spoke about country and congress. He stated, "This country has come to feel the same when Congress is in session as we do when the baby gets hold of a hammer. It's just a question of how much damage he can do with it before we get away from him." And what was happening back East and elsewhere? It was the year that Emperor Hirohito took control in Japan. It was the year that women's skirts stopped just below the knee, shortest hemline so far. Ernest Hemingway also published, "The Sun Also Rises." And what was happening in the scientific world? In a scientific first, rocket pioneer Robert Goddard fired a liquid propulsion rocket, and it rises more than 40 feet.

As I reflect on the many changes that have taken place in my lifetime, and there have been many, things may change, but God is always God.

Thoughts to ponder: "Change of scenery does not change you, a changed you can change the scenery."

Celebrate life!

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Luetta G. Werner

July, 27 1995

Published in the Marion Record

Download the Found Photo Freebie and cherish your memories of the past.

Enjoy flipping through the Vintage Photo Book on your coffee table.

I hope you enjoyed this podcast episode! Please follow along on this journey by going to visualbenedictions.com or following me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, and Overcast. And don’t forget to rate and review so more people can tune in! I’d greatly appreciate it.

Till next time,

Trina

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It is fun to live on a farm and to live in the little home on the prairie. Some days I feel like one of the pioneers who homesteaded on the prairie. After all, I told myself that I am one of the last of the pioneers with the, "good old pioneer spirit." Yes, I sometimes feel like I live between the old ways of Midwestern culture and the new world of technology.

This past weekend, family from Nebraska, South Dakota and Colorado came to celebrate my birthday, and the first anniversary of my survival of living out here on the prairie. My collegiate friends really wondered about me and even questioned my survival skills when I chose to live here in this Mount Rushmore State. Some days I did too! But then I thought about that sparrow in the red barn and remembered, "His eye is on the sparrow." The winter with the snow and storms was not as severe as years in the past, and we even survived tornadoes and a tornado warning. The London Fog brought many challenges, and our historical year of 1993 is as wet as it can be. The lake in the garden gives gardening a challenge. What fun it is to fish for salamanders in the flooded basement. Not even the cats are interested in these friendly creatures. And the animals and pets can sometimes be too friendly, as the cool and wet weather can break into a warm home

a "mouse in the house." I would much rather read the story about "a mouse in the house" to my grandchildren.

What a joy to receive the card from my grandson in Ohio sending greetings to his "cookie grandma" with these words. "There are not many places I enjoy as much as grandma's chicken coop play house. There is so much warmth and love inside and out."

Yes, and thanks for my family who sent an Alaskan greeting with the seeds of Alaska State flower, the myosotis or the forget me not. I will plant the seeds in a cool spot next spring and forget me not the gardening challenges of 1993.

As we think of vacation time and family time and this wet, cool, often humid weather, I am reminded of a one liner I read recently: "A rainy vacation is like spending two weeks in a carwash." Yes, it is fun to live on a farm and send you my warmest greetings from the little home on the prairie. Have a great vacation.

A warm thought for the week: It is out of my prayer life that my service begins. Mother Teresa.

Have a week filled with peace, love, and joy.

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie by Luetta G. Werner

July 23 1993

Published in the Marion Record

Download the Found Photo Freebie and cherish your memories of the past.

Enjoy flipping through the Vintage Photo Book on your coffee table.

I hope you enjoyed this podcast episode! Please follow along on this journey by going to visualbenedictions.com or following me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, and Overcast. And don’t forget to rate and review so more people can tune in! I’d greatly appreciate it.

Till next time,

Trina

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Many years ago I attended a seminar on Adventures in Attitudes, which at that time, made me very aware of the dynamics of positive and negative attitudes and their results.

A positive attitude, can be your choice and mine.To change your attitude is to change your life.

Dr Viktor Frankle writes, "The last of the human freedoms, is to choose one's attitude in any given set of circumstances." James Allen, long ago wrote the wonderful little book titled, "As a Man Thinketh," where he compared the mind to a garden, pointing out that the garden will always bring forth what is planted there. "If no useful seeds are put into it," he wrote, "then an abundance of useless weed seeds will fall therein, and will continue to produce their kind. So may a man tend to the garden of his mind weeding out all the wrong, useless, and impure thoughts and cultivating toward perfection, the flowers and fruits of right, useful, and pure thoughts. By pursuing this process, a man sooner or later discovers that he is the master gardener of his soul, the director of his life. He also reveals within himself. The laws of thoughts, how the thought forces, and mind elements operate in the shaping of his character,

circumstances, and destiny."

Marcus Aurelius expressed it this way. "Your life is what your thoughts, make it."

Abraham Lincoln stated, "I discovered I always have choices, and sometimes it is only a choice of attitudes. One's attitude can make a big difference."

Hugh Downs once said, "A happy person is not a person in a certain set of circumstances, but rather a person with a certain set of attitudes."

Attitudes are contagious. Let's make ours worth catching. In this day of change, a change of attitude can change one's life and be a very enriching experience.

Warm Thought: Gratitude is one of the best attitudes.

Have a great and grateful summer day.

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Luetta G. Werner July 17th 1997

Published in the Marion Record

Download the Found Photo Freebie and cherish your memories of the past.

Enjoy flipping through the Vintage Photo Book on your coffee table.

I hope you enjoyed this podcast episode! Please follow along on this journey by going to visualbenedictions.com or following me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, and Overcast. And don’t forget to rate and review so more people can tune in! I’d greatly appreciate it.

Till next time,

Trina

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It was Christmas in June at the little home on the prairie. Family drove from various areas of America to celebrate together a few weeks ago. The temperature was in the 70s. Instead of snowflakes an occasional mosquito buzzed by and a few june bugs. No snow fell, but rain dashed on the tent where children played and slept nearby. Father Christmas or Santa Claus, did not even arrive in a boat or a sleigh. However, everyone enjoyed the festive Christmas foods in picnic style. Since family was widely scattered and work schedules prevented getting together on December 25th, we gathered together during good old summertime. Family traditions and celebrations for holidays and everyday are very important. It is a reminder of the good old days, when extended families lived close by and traditions were passed from generation to generation. Family means, “a sense of belonging” and people you can count on to share their time and values and care about strengthening family ties. Yes. It was Christmas in June, and not Christmas in July, as it had been in former years. Yet, there were the fireworks, the creative activities, the decorations and Snow Boots - the mama cat, and her kittens, including Little Snowflake, were the joy of the grandchildren at play. A lighted Christmas tree at the top of the stairs has gifts under its branches all year. What fun to open the surprise gifts and negotiate with one another. Laughter filled the Christmas tea room.

There is always that solemn moment, when we know there will be goodbyes in the morning when family returns to their homes. We closed with singing “Silent night” in harmony while Auntie Ruth gracefully used her hands as we tried to read the words in the sign language. And, oh yes, Trina. We did not forget the wise men and the star, as its lights shined so bright in the dark night. That lighted star reminded us all that wise men and women still seek Him. A reason for all seasons.

A house filled with love becomes a home. A house is built by human hands. A house is made of bricks. A home is built by human hearts. A home is made of love. Having someplace to go his home, having someone to love his family, having both is a blessing. Happy is the home that is filled with love.

Celebrate family all year long.

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Luetta G. Werner

July 9th, 1998

Published in the Marion Record

Download the Found Photo Freebie and cherish your memories of the past.

Enjoy flipping through the Vintage Photo Book on your coffee table.

I hope you enjoyed this podcast episode! Please follow along on this journey by going to visualbenedictions.com or following me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, and Overcast. And don’t forget to rate and review so more people can tune in! I’d greatly appreciate it.

Till next time,

Trina

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Recently, I read an article on the Millennial generation. I found it most interesting and would like to share my thoughts on this generation with my readers. We have heard and read about the Baby Boomers and the Generation X, Baby Busters. But what do we really know about the next generation? Neil Howe, and William Strauss have written a groundbreaking new book titled, “The Fourth Turning,” to describe what is being called the Millennial generation. That generation, beginning with those born in 1982 and later, is now entering high school. Howe and Strauss have discovered that this emerging generation is considerably different from the Gen Xers, who preceded that there were significant findings about Millennials, that will affect the way youth activities will be like in the next few years. Millennials are a generation nurtured during a veering of protective family structures, they are looked upon very favorably by elders. Movies that tended to demonize Gen Xers now characterize Millennials, as virtuous, and nearly angelic. Older people are very interested in protecting this generation.

Example: VHS for TV, school uniforms, school curfews, increased chaperoning. A new birth of team, group, collaboration, etc. characterize this group. The slogan of Gen Xers may have been, “Just Do It.” The slogan for Millennials may well be, “Just Do It Together.” This togetherness attitude will contribute to what Howe and Strauss are calling, “A Civic Rebirth,” which is similar to the decade but saw the birth and incredible growth of the Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts, Camp Fire Girls, and church youth groups. This generation will be a generation that believes it can get things done and it will do it with optimistic peer pressure, which will be seen as a solution and not a problem. Am I happy about this generation? You bet I am. These are my grandchildren!

Warm Thought: I still find each day too short for all the thoughts I want to think, all the walks I want to take, all the books I want to read, and all the friends I want to see. The longer I live, the more my mind dwells upon the beauty and the wonder of the world. John Burroughs.

Enjoy the beauty and wonder of the world!

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie, Over a Cup of Tea by Luetta G. Werner

June 26th, 1997

Published in the Marion Record

Download the Found Photo Freebie and cherish your memories of the past.

Enjoy flipping through the Vintage Photo Book on your coffee table.

I hope you enjoyed this podcast episode! Please follow along on this journey by going to visualbenedictions.com or following me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, and Overcast. And don’t forget to rate and review so more people can tune in! I’d greatly appreciate it.

Till next time,

Trina

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The first day of summer. Good old summertime is very near! Next Sunday is not only the first day of summer, but it is also Father's Day. In our own special way, we honor our fathers on this day. We have very special memories, many memories touched my heart as I read about the “Old Fashioned Daddy.”

Daddy was from the old school.

He learned his lessons well,

He passed them on to me,

I'm not ashamed to tell.

Daddy was from the old school.

He worked hard every day,

He didn't want a handout,

With dignity, he earned his pay.

Daddy was from the old school,

A mixture of the “right stuff.”

He knew how to be tender,

And he knew how to be tough.

Daddy was from the old school,

Big boys weren't supposed to cry,

Sometimes he would slip,

I'd see tears and his eyes.

Daddy was from the old school.

He never took the last piece of cake.

He was always nod at me,

And I knew it was my piece to take.

Daddy was from the old school.

His clothes lasted a long time.

He bought me the latest,

sometimes spending his last dime.

Daddy was from the old school.

He loved the American way,

He believed in freedom

And guarded it every day.

Daddy was from the old school.

I didn't understand it back then,

But now I fully see,

He was teaching me how to win.

Daddy was from the old school.

I guess I am too.

Daddy, thank you for the lessons.

I owe so much to you.

There may be tears in your eyes, as you too, read about the “Daddy from the Old School.”

“It takes a man to cry,” is a thought not often expressed. Children are truly blessed by the wise actions of their fathers. Blessed be the fathers who honor their responsibilities in guiding their families.

A salute to fathers on Father's Day!

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Luetta G. Werner June 18th, 1998

Published in the Marion Record

Download the Found Photo Freebie and cherish your memories of the past.

Enjoy flipping through the Vintage Photo Book on your coffee table.

I hope you enjoyed this podcast episode! Please follow along on this journey by going to visualbenedictions.com or following me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, and Overcast. And don’t forget to rate and review so more people can tune in! I’d greatly appreciate it.

Till next time,

Trina

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This warm thoughts column on family during National Family Month had a beginning as I was 16,000 miles in the air, flying over beautiful Ohio, and returning from visiting family. It was very special to be able to attend the grand opening at the Werner funeral services in Mansfield, Ohio.

Another highlight of my Ohio visit was to be able to attend the graduation ceremonies of my granddaughter, Rosa Werner. Six-year-old Rosa was radiant as she walked across the stage and received her Master's Degree in Kindness Acts from Kindergarten. It was so special for her two grandmas to share in that moment.

Thank you dear readers of this column for sharing your samplers about Home sweet Home. Here is another sampler that brings grace and love to another home:

Home is where the heart is

Home sweet Home

There's no place like home

East or west, home is best

Home is where the heart is

Home sweet Home

Warm Thought: When I graduated from college, I remember the big, gray-haired, soft spoken professor of Greek, who handed us our diplomas and said, “Young ladies and gentlemen, it is not possible for everyone to have a great intellect, but it is possible for everyone to have a great heart.” Whenever I felt hopelessly defeated this thought came back to me. - Author Unknown

Some people come into our lives and quietly go. Others stay for a while and leave footprints on our hearts, and we are never the same. Celebrate your family!

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Luetta G. Werner June 5th, 1997

Published in the Marion Record

Download the Found Photo Freebie and cherish your memories of the past.

Enjoy flipping through the Vintage Photo Book on your coffee table.

I hope you enjoyed this podcast episode! Please follow along on this journey by going to visualbenedictions.com or following me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, and Overcast. And don’t forget to rate and review so more people can tune in! I’d greatly appreciate it.

Till next time,

Trina

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A recent letter informing me about my elderly friend in Nebraska brought joy to my heart. In the lively 80s this octogenarian, who is 88 years old, was recognized as Nebraska's 1995 outstanding adult at the governor's conference. Many memories came to my mind of how her radiant faith has blessed my life and so many others. She is able to bring rays of sunshine into the cloudy lives of the people she surrounds herself with. She has an encouraging word for everyone, regardless of age and seems to always see a silver lining in every cloud. I am sure she must believe the birds always sing after every storm. There have been the trials and triumphs, and she will tell you that she couldn't accomplish anything without God's help, she gives credit to her faith in God. Cheers, Levada!

I recently read that the Minnesota Medical Association states that you may be old at 40, or young at 80. In all of my own research, I have noticed that old people, and even old, old people can accomplish a lot as long as they feel young at heart. As I jogged my memory, I could think of a number of individuals who made significant contributions to the world in their 70s, 80s, and 90s. Tennyson produced his famous poem, “Crossing the Bar,” when he was 83. Webster compiled his famous dictionary, at age 70. John Wesley was still preaching every day, at age 88. Philip Brooks was still preaching at age 84. Benjamin Franklin wrote his autobiography, at age 80. Michael Angelo painted the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel on his back at nearly 90. And wasn't it Grandma Moses who started painting in her 80s? Oh yes, people can still accomplish a lot at any age. I am sure you have your own story to tell, or can tell me about someone you know, I would love to hear from you, as I just became a great grandma. last week. A new chapter in my life!

Warm thoughts to live by: Count your friends, not years. Count your life by smiles, not tears. I grow old, learning something new every day. Shalom. Celebrate life at every stage of life! Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Luetta G. Werner

June 1st, 1995

Published in the Marion Record

Download the Found Photo Freebie and cherish your memories of the past.

Enjoy flipping through the Vintage Photo Book on your coffee table.

I hope you enjoyed this podcast episode! Please follow along on this journey by going to visualbenedictions.com or following me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, and Overcast. And don’t forget to rate and review so more people can tune in! I’d greatly appreciate it.

Till next time,

Trina

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As we approach Memorial Day, our warm thoughts may go down memory lane and remember many of the patriotic holidays of past years that have brought joy into our lives. For many, Memorial day is the day of vacation, a time to travel, and perhaps spend time with family and friends, it is also a time to appreciate family and decorate the graves of our loved ones. For many years, this annual date was known as Decoration Day. It was early in May of 1868 that General John A. Logan, then the commander in chief of the Grand Army of the Republic, officially designated the 30th of May, as a day for decorating the graves of the comrades who died in defense of their country. Decoration Day then acquired its present, and more symbolical meaning of Memorial Day.

Have you ever wondered how Memorial Day began? It was Mrs. Mary Cotton Redpath who noticed many uncapped soldier graves in Charleston, South Carolina, and appealed to her friends to remedy this situation. It was on May 30, 1865 that scores of interested persons marked these neglected graves and decorated them with myrtle, yellow roses, and other dainty blossoms.

Today, on Memorial Day, millions of American people visit the cemeteries throughout the land and decorate the graves of their noble dead, who have fought and died to defend the nation they left. This day is also observed by Europeans who gave honor to the thousands of Americans who live buried in the soil far from their homeland.

As we observe from Memorial Day in 1993, may it be a day of reflection, we look back so that we can better look ahead. When we recall the sacrifices of our loved ones in time of war, whether at home or abroad. We soften our hearts, increase our energies to renew a determination to walk in the path of peace. Let this patriotic and solemn day become merely a day on which we reflect upon the loss and departure of loved ones. Let us consider what appreciation we need to show for the sacrifices they have made for us as we decorate the graves with flags and flowers. May it proclaim to the world that with loving affection, we remember our loved ones and may we be thankful for the sacrifices they have made. As we travel down that memory lane, this coming Memorial Day may we reflect on the real meaning of this very special day of the year.

A warm thought for the week: Inner beauty comes from a gentle and quiet spirit.

Have a week filled with warm thoughts and memories!

Warm Thoughts From the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Luetta G. Werner May 27th, 1993

Published in the Marion Record

Download the Found Photo Freebie and cherish your memories of the past.

Enjoy flipping through the Vintage Photo Book on your coffee table.

I hope you enjoyed this podcast episode! Please follow along on this journey by going to visualbenedictions.com or following me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, and Overcast. And don’t forget to rate and review so more people can tune in! I’d greatly appreciate it.

Till next time,

Trina

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Recently I attended a mother daughter banquet. It was so interesting to see the mothers and daughters wear old fashioned hats. Those hats had stories to tell!

In my past columns I have shared thoughts giving tribute to mothers, mothers in law, mothers in love, and daughters in law, at another daughter banquet. A tribute was given to daughters, written by an unknown author. I would like to share these thoughts for daughters.

A Tribute to Daughters.

Sometimes you've been a handful as you'd be the first to say,

but you've always been a heartful, with warm and winning ways.

Some days you've been an angel, and some days that's not so true.

But you've always been disarming, and so charming being you.

Special to your friends and your family, special for the love you so freely give to others. Special for the faith you are always willing to share,special just for being you.

God has really blessed you. Not only have you grown into a woman of grace and beauty, but your life radiates the joy of Christ, which fills your heart.

You have touched so many lives with your caring ways.

Your life is an expression of the true meaning of love.

Warm Thought: There are only two lasting treasures we can give to our children. One is roots,

and the other is wings.

National family month is May 11th - June 15th, and is a great time to celebrate and promote supportive families.

Celebrate family!

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Luetta G. Werner May 15th, 1997

Published in the Marion Record

Download the Found Photo Freebie and cherish your memories of the past.

Enjoy flipping through the Vintage Photo Book on your coffee table.

I hope you enjoyed this podcast episode! Please follow along on this journey by going to visualbenedictions.com or following me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, and Overcast. And don’t forget to rate and review so more people can tune in! I’d greatly appreciate it.

Till next time,

Trina

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It is always a joy to receive surprises in the mail! A letter from a friend in Texas shared a poem called “Thoughts of Home.” She had received it from someone in Nebraska who found it in her Bible. I thought it was a good poem to share as Mother's Day is so near!

Thoughts of Home

Home is where the heart is where the children's scribbled art is

Where the random blocks and skates are, where the socks without their mates are

Home is where the bills are, where the fevers and the chills are

Where the crumbs of bread and cake are, where no one knows where the rakes are

Home is where the weeds grow, where all except the seeds grow,

Where the dogs and frogs and cats are, where the scratches, cuts, and spats are

Home is where the salami is and thank heaven where the mommy is!

In case you were thinking of baking a cake for Mother's Day, this recipe will be appreciated by all mothers! Light oven, get bowl, spoons, and ingredients. Grease pan. Crack nuts. Remove ten blocks and seven toy autos from kitchen table. Measure two cups of flour, remove Johnny's hands from flour. Wash flour often. Measure one more cup of flour to replace flour on floor. Put flour, baking powder and salt in sifter. Get dustpan and brush up pieces of bowl, which Johnny knocked on floor. Get another bowl. Answer doorbell. Return to kitchen. Remove Johnny's hands from bowl. Wash Johnny. Get out a bag. Answer phone Return. Take out greased pan. Look for Johnny, remove a quarter inch of salt from pan. Look for Johnny, get another pan and grease it. Answer telephone. Return to kitchen and find Johnny. Remove his hands from bowl. Wash shortening, etc, etc, off of them. Take grease pan and find quarter inch of nutshells in it. Head for Johnny who flees, knocking bowl off table. Wash kitchen floor. Wash table. Wash walls, wash dishes, call the baker, relax in your rocker. Isn't motherhood, the most creative job in the world?

Warm Thoughts: A mother's prayer can build a fortress around her children. Happy Mother's Day!

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Luetta G. Werner

May 8th, 1997

Published in the Marion Record

Download the Found Photo Freebie and cherish your memories of the past.

Enjoy flipping through the Vintage Photo Book on your coffee table.

I hope you enjoyed this podcast episode! Please follow along on this journey by going to visualbenedictions.com or following me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, and Overcast. And don’t forget to rate and review so more people can tune in! I’d greatly appreciate it.

Till next time,

Trina

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It is springtime, in the Rockies. After the wintry April of South Dakota, it was a spring retreat for me to fly to the mountains of Colorado. It is always a joy to go see family in Colorado and celebrate special family events. Going to the mountains provides special moments for reflection and meditation. It was many years ago that I reflected on Psalm, 121, a favorite psalm for many and at that time, I penned these lines, which I will share with you.

On to the hills I lift my eyes

from whence I seek our aid.

My help does come from Him alone,

whose power shall never fade.

The Lord shall never forget your needs,

nor let your foot be moved

And He that keepeth Israel

shall yet provide you food.

The Lord shall e’er your keeper be

your shade on your right hand.

The Sun and Moon shall not use smite,

for he does care for man

from evil he shall you preserve

your soul sustain shall be.

He will watch over you, with loving eye,

until eternity.

Let's remember May 4th, The National Day of Prayer. Since 1988, the first Thursday in May has been an annual observation, a day, “the people of the United States may turn to God in prayer and meditation.” The National Day of Prayer actually traces back to 1775 when the Continental Congress calls for a day of prayer. This year, organizers are planning hundreds of events to take place nationwide on May 4, the 1995 National Day of Prayer.

Warm thought: for low the winter is past. The rain is over and gone. The flowers appear on the earth. The time of singing has come. Song of Solomon. Remember, the National Day of Prayer.

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Luetta G. Werner

May 4th, 1995

Published in the Marion Record

Download the Found Photo Freebie and cherish your memories of the past.

Enjoy flipping through the Vintage Photo Book on your coffee table.

I hope you enjoyed this podcast episode! Please follow along on this journey by going to visualbenedictions.com or following me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, and Overcast. And don’t forget to rate and review so more people can tune in! I’d greatly appreciate it.

Till next time,

Trina

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As I write this column, it still feels like a wintry day across the prairie land. We are still awaiting Spring Fling days and planting those trees on Arbor Day. Last week, April, 18th - 24th marked National Volunteer Week, and we thank all those volunteers who give of themselves and volunteer their services. The national average is that volunteers give over four hours a week of their time to volunteerism. And many of these volunteers say that they receive more than they can ever give, we pay tribute to the many volunteers who are willing to serve so unselfishly for their church community and country. You deserve our thanks. Cheers!

Last week, National Library week was also celebrated. We are encouraged to read more to keep our minds real active for teenagers and grandparents who may not be able to jog with the younger generation, they can still jog their minds. Reading to someone you love is an encouragement for those grandchildren to find joy and relaxation through the gift of reading books.

Last week I was reading to my two-year-old granddaughter and relaxed so much that it was difficult to stay awake. “Grandma, you're falling asleep on me,” I heard her sweet little voice beckoning me before I fell into a deep slumber. Her remark awakened me and I became even more mentally alert to what she was telling me, and I tried to listen. I realized what a treasured gift one can give to generations in the future by reading and listening to the children, the week of the young child was also celebrated last week, and many organizations and schools celebrated it all month. The theme is “Young Children, Their Future in Our Hands.” That theme really makes us aware about the needs of the young children and their families, and how we can make a difference in helping them to meet those needs. Our lives will truly be enriched when we volunteer and give of ourselves without expecting anything in return. It is time to celebrate the age of real caring and we can find that joy and caring about the future.

A warm thought for the week: We cannot always build the future for our youth, but we can build our youth for the future. Franklin Delano Roosevelt. Have a great week of caring!

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Luetta G. Werner

April 29, 1993

Published in the Canistota Clipper

Download the Found Photo Freebie and cherish your memories of the past.

Enjoy flipping through the Vintage Photo Book on your coffee table.

I hope you enjoyed this podcast episode! Please follow along on this journey by going to visualbenedictions.com or following me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, and Overcast. And don’t forget to rate and review so more people can tune in! I’d greatly appreciate it.

Till next time,

Trina

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It is a real joy to receive letters from the readers of this warm thoughts column. There are so many gifted writers and I am happy that I can share their thoughts, often in my column. Keep sending your warm and precious thoughts. A reader of this column from Ohio, who has had her poems published in books and magazines, recently sent me her thoughts on memories from long ago.

Memories of a precious love.

I wonder where you are tonight. I wish I knew if you were alright.

60 years is a long long time to remember things that happened from January to December. And yet as I read the words in my diary, so true. It brings back all the happiness, I knew with you.

Our walks in the snow beneath a winter's moon. I wonder why it all ended so soon?

We spent so many precious moments together. It didn't matter to us, what was the weather. We walked in the rain. You held me so tight. It was always so hard to say good night.

We always said, “Good night, my love, until tomorrow.” We hoped we would never know, a heartbreak, or sorrow.

But fate stepped in and we went our separate ways. How I wish we could relive some of those happy days.

Sweet memories of a precious love. Kissed by sunbeams from heaven above.

In my heart, they will always stay. Wrapped in wishes that will meet again someday.

Ruth T. George.

Thank you, Ruth for the memories. You have inspired many other writers, keep on writing. Warm thoughts: For low the winter is passed, the rain is over and gone. The flowers appear on the earth, the time of the same birds is come. May you have many warm thoughts in springtime!

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Luetta G. Werner

April 17 1997

Published in the Marion Record

Download the Found Photo Freebie and cherish your memories of the past.

Enjoy flipping through the Vintage Photo Book on your coffee table.

I hope you enjoyed this podcast episode! Please follow along on this journey by going to visualbenedictions.com or following me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Stitcher, and Overcast. And don’t forget to rate and review so more people can tune in! I’d greatly appreciate it.

Till next time,

Trina

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Happy Easter everyone!

After the long winter, the seeds of spring are beginning to appear. We are reminded once again that in our lives, we will have times of winter, but spring will come as promised. Spring is a time when one gets the urge to travel with the birds and visit family and friends, renewing old friendships and making new ones. This past weekend, it was my joy to travel back to my roots and visit family and see many of my old friends from years gone by. celebrating a 40th wedding anniversary with family was one of the highlights of the journey. Traveling old familiar roads brought back many memories and can give one a bit of nostalgia memories, sweet memories. As I traveled down memory lane, I cannot help but be reminded of that journey to the Holy Land 20 years ago, this Holy Week, it was a touch of heaven as the seat buckles clicked in place. And the mighty jet engines of the jumbo 747 Star of Bethlehem revved up, and the hearts of over 400 passengers on l Al's charter flight 2001, from New York to Tel Aviv began to soar. We all were excited about our mission tour. The Pat Boone family were our hosts. And as the huge blue and white bird sped down the runway, all heads were bad as Pat Boone led us all in prayer over the plains. As a star of Bethlehem dip down strains of peace be unto you a national song of work on the cabin. The plane rolled to a halt. We were there. And everywhere we went, we were greeted with shalom. The 400 people on that Pat Boone tour found a new dimension of love The moment they stepped on the grounds of the Holy Land mission in Bethlehem. We saw and we were conquered by the love of the precious angels and the orphan children in the mission complex. We saw the children we sponsored and gave our gifts of love which warms their hearts. The voices of these happy orphans over our visit were like chirping birds on the playground on Mount David. They melted your heart and the wellsprings of the human spirit to overflow with joy. During this Holy Week as one reflects on this pilgrimage on 20th anniversary, it is with a warm heart and a thank for one as one is reminded of the events of this week. The journey from Bethlehem to Calvary and then to the empty tomb in a garden is an experience that one can never forget when you return home. The song sung at the historic and sacred sites still ringing in the ears of those who made the trip. The memory of being greeted everywhere with shalom is a prayer for peace in our hearts for the year 1993. Shalom!

A warm thought for the week: When the going gets tough, the peace of God keeps us going. Have a joyful Easter season.

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Luetta G. Werner

April 8th, 1993

Published in the Marion Record

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Every year since 1959, the Freeman community has a festival of tasting, which they call the “Schmeckfest.” At the 43rd annual schmuck fest,the menu of traditional German foods that has had such universal appeal over the years will again be served. These foods have retained their popularity with guests from many states and several foreign countries. The dates for the Schmeckfest this year are March 29, 30th, and 31st. The musical “Secret Garden” will culminate the activities of the 43rd Schmeckfest.

Francis Hodgson Burnett wrote the beloved children's story, “The Secret Garden.” It is the story of Mary Lennox, a young girl who comes from India to live with her uncle at Misselthwaite Manor and York Shire England following the death her parents from colora. At Misselthwaite, she is drawn to her aunt lilies garden, which has been neglected since she died in childbirth. Mary works and cares for the garden, and in the process, helps reconcile her uncle to his wife's death, brings her cousin Collin back to health, and finds both a new family and a sense of peace with her past. Why are certain parts of the mansion forbidden territory? What secrets lie hidden in the garden her uncle has locked up and most perplexing of all who or what

is behind that wailing Mary hears at night? I am certain that this will be a delightful musical.

Each evening it will be performed at eight o'clock pm I always like to attend the Sunday matinee performance at 2pm, which will be on April 1. Recently, I saw a quaint old sundial engraved around the base were these words:

With the kiss of the sun for pardon, and the sound of the birds from Earth. One is near God's heart in a garden than anywhere else on Earth. As one may gaze at the old sundial, we may realize we could reclaim the secret garden for a new generation.

Among the last words of the author of the novel, she wrote, “As long as you have a garden, you have a future and as long as you have a future, you are alive.”

Food for thought: The Adventure of life is to learn the purpose of life is to grow. The nature of life is to change. The challenge of life is to overcome. The essence of life is to care. The opportunity of life is to serve.The secret of life is to dare. The spice of life is to befriend. The beauty of life is to give things to remember.

May I always remember to encourage you find the time. Keep a promise. Forego a grudge. Forgive an enemy. Listen, think first. Love someone else. Laugh a little. Gladden the heart of a child. Take pleasure and the beauty and wonder of the earth. Speak God's love. Speak it once again.

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie, Over a Cup of Tea by Dr. Luetta G. Werner

March 29, 2001

Published in the Marion Record

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Now, before we leave heart month and the extra day of the year, thoughts seem to linger on recipes for the heart and many warm thoughts. Great minds have given us many thoughts from the heart on love.

How deep is love? What is love? When I have quiet thoughts from the heart, I am reminded of the poem which was decided by Dr. Carl A. Meneinger at the literary symposium on October 27th, 1981 at the Dag Hammarskjold auditorium, United Nations. It is entitled, “Anyway.” People are unreasonable, illogical, self centered. Love them anyway.

If you do good people will accuse you of selfish ulterior motives. Do good anyway.

If you are successful, you will win false friends and true enemies. Try to be successful anyway.

The good you do today will be forgotten tomorrow. Do it anyway.

Honesty and frankness make you vulnerable. Be honest and frank anyway.

People favor underdogs, but I notice they follow the top dogs. Fight for some underdogs anyway.

What you spend years building may be destroyed overnight. Build anyway.

People really need help but they may attack you if you help them. Try to help people anyway. Give the world the best you have and you’ll get kicked in the teeth. Give the world the best you have anyway. Love them anyway.

Warm thoughts: Speak gently. It is far better to rule by love than fear. Speak gently. Let no harsh words mar the good we may do here. My home is where you hang your heart. May you have many great thoughts from the heart.

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Luetta G. Werner

February 29, 1996

Published in the Marion Record

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Valentine greetings! When you read this column it will be the week of Valentine's Day. From Ohio this past week, came a letter with several poems and one was on love, which really touched my heart. Ruth George is something and still very young at heart. It will bring her much joy to be able to share these warm thoughts on love with you, dear readers of this column.

Love is God's Precious Gift.

God has given us many gifts along life's way.

The most precious is the love in our hearts, it will stay.

Love makes the sun shine through a dark cloud.

It makes a father look at his baby son and feel so proud.

Love soothes the aches and hurts we are asked to bear.

Love teaches kindness to those for whom we care.

It eases the troubled heart and makes us strong to help a loved one that is done around. When we have love, the world is so bright.

It spreads happiness to everyone inside.

It bridges the lonely hours when we are apart from those we love with all our heart.

So meet each day with a great big smile.

Help your neighbors if only for a while.

Their cares and worries you will help to lift by showing that love is God's precious gift.

Thank you Ruth for sharing your poem thoughts from the heart. Warm thoughts to ponder: Most people are nicer after they have had their heart broken a couple of times. Emma Thompson. And the central place of every heart there is a recording chamber, so long as it receives messages of beauty, hope, cheer and courage, you are young. Samuel Omen, 1842-1924.

Have a Happy Valentine's Day!

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Luetta G. Werner February 15th, 1996

Published in the Marion Record

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Recently, I read an article based on research conducted by a high school teacher in Houston, Texas, who has surveyed more than 300 teenagers and two school districts asking for their comments on these two questions. One, what advice would you give to your mom and dad? What do you believe it takes to produce respectful and respectable teenagers? The teenagers ranged in age from 14 to 18 years of age, providing responses such as these.

Don't let your small children watch TV a lot. Teach your children about God. Try to raise them according to the principles of the Bible. Be consistent and what you say. Follow through with your decision. Cook for your family. When you let your children go out, give them a curfew. Let them know you love them and want them to be safe. Guide your children toward good marriages by giving them a good example. Sit with your children and just talk. Ask them questions like, “How was school? Did you make any new friends?” Take your children to church. Try not to scold your children in front of their friends. Be there for teens even when they try to push you away. The harder they resist, the more they need you. If your child tells you that something wrong is going on, believe them. Don't ignore your child. Let your child grow up. No matter what your children go through, stay by their side. Teach your children right from wrong, and that each action brings either a bad consequence or a reward. Don't jump to conclusions. Say, I'm sorry.

Love the children. And listen. What nuggets of truth can be learned from them. Happy Valentine's Day!

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Luetta G. Werner

February 13th 1997

Published in the Marion Record

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February is a month when many romantic and patriotic thoughts are expressed. Fields may still be bedded down with snow and yet we are aware that spring will soon be here. Springtime inspires thoughts of love and affection.

Have you ever wondered who was St Valentine, the namesake of our February 14 celebration of Valentine's Day, St. Valentine, a priest and physician, lived in Rome during the third century. At that time, Christianity was a persecuted faith, and Valentine was imprisoned for the faith he professed when he would not recant of his faith. Valentine was put to death on February 14. According to the legend, while Valentine was a priest in Rome, Emperor Claudius the second ordered young men not to marry believing that If they did not have wives, they would be more willing to go to war. Moved by compassion for the young lovers, Valentine performed wedding ceremonies for them in secret as the United them in marriage.

Centuries later, the earliest English settlers brought Valentine's to the United States. JOHN Winthrop, Governor of the Massachusetts Bay Colony, wrote to his wife, February 14 1629, thou must be my Valentine. Esther, a Holland of Worcester, Massachusetts developed the first Valentine cards in 1847. Since then, billions of Valentine's Day cards have been sold. On Valentine's Day, I hope you will think of the saint who gave his life for his faith, and of the many lives that have been touched by his love of others.

Warmth thought: Love is the only thing that multiplies when you divide it. A good friend doubles the joy and divides the pain. Happy Valentine's Day.

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Luetta G. Werner

February 6th 1997

Published in the Marion Record

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A dear friend who lives in the heartland of America shared with me some amusing thoughts given by a child upon his return home from spending the Christmas holidays with his grandparents in Arizona.

A child's view of retirement and a mobile home park.

After Christmas break, the teacher asked her small pupils how they spent their holiday.

One little boys reply went like this:

We always spend Christmas with Grandpa and Grandma. They used to live up here in a big brick house. But grandpa got cold and they moved to Arizona. They live in a park with a lot of other old people. They all live in tin huts. They ride golf carts that are too big for me. They all go to a building they call The Rec Hall. It is fixed now. They all do exercises, but not very well. They play a game with big checkers and push them around on the floor with sticks.

There's a swimming pool, but I guess nobody teaches them. They just stand there in the water with their hats on. My grandma used to bake cookies for me, but nobody cooks there. They all go to restaurants that are fast and have discounts. When you come into the park, there is a doll house with a man sitting in it. He watches all day so they can't get out without him seeing them. I guess everybody forgets who they are because they all wear badges with their names on them. Some of them don’t hear very well. They could hear better if they took the button out of their ears. Grandma says grandpa worked hard all of his life to earn this mansion. I wish they would move back home but I guess the man in the doll house won't let them out.

Warm thought: Laugh a little. Laugh a little more. Blessings in this new year!

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Luetta G. Werner

January 30th 1997

Published in the Marion Record.

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In this information age, it sometimes seems that our minds have become as stuffed as a computer, and that we cannot swallow another bit of information. Many people feel stressed, overworked, and are sleep deprived. A topic, therefore, that has captivated people's interest is how to sharpen their memory. Dr. Allen Searleman, a professor of psychology at St. Lawrence University and Canton, New York, stated that memory lapses can be caused by lifestyle factors, overwork, anxiety, lack of sleep, a poor diet, or not enough exercise. An action plan designed to sharpen your memory includes these activities: learn to relax, get enough sleep, practice good nutrition, exercise your body and mind, give yourself time, find places for things, keep a box of mementos. For this will help you remember what is important in your life.

Warm thought: It takes more than a memory to have good memories. A quote from a forgotten author.

Make a memory. Have a great day!

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Luetta G. Werner

January 23 1997

Published in the Marion Record

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This warm thoughts column is the last column for this year. As we reflect on this past year, there have been mountains of joy and some valleys of sorrow and real sadness and grief. The New Year, 2006 will soon be here. The thoughts for this new year are titled “Each Day.”

A new year will soon begin each day a fresh new start

to fulfill your hopes and pursue the dreams sustained within your heart,

put God in charge. He'll plant the seeds of affection, love and care,

like a garden, your life will grow with kindness flowering there.

And as you face the wonder of each day's mysteries.

You'll see God's hand unfolding daily possibilities.

And as each day comes to a close, dream a dream or two.

Then with a prayer, thank Dear God, for each day, given you.

As we reflect on the past year, the year 2005. May the light of our faith shine like stars in the heavens, and reflect His joy, love, forgiveness, peace, and hope for the New Year of 2006. Thank you for sharing your warm thoughts in the coming year. God bless you all for sharing your thoughts. You have so much to share, and the coming year, an unknown author shared this thought: What the new year will bring us depends a great deal on what we bring into the new year. May you have a happy new year.

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Luetta G. Werner. December 29 2005

Published by the Marion Record

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The many beautiful Christmas cards and letters that have arrived at this little home on the prairie have indeed warmed my heart. One of the letters from a dear friend included a poem from a Christmas card, and she suggested that it be included in the warm thoughts column.

A Wondrous Christmas Cake

Stir till the very soft and dreamy one cup of Christmas light.

Pour the milk of kindness in to make it snowy white.

Never spare the sweet tidbits of gentle love and caring.

Add as much as you can spare of giving listening, sharing.

No need to brown or bake. No need to frost or ice.

Just share your wondrous Christmas cake, give everyone a slice.

Since this is the last warm thoughts column for the year 1997, I will share another thought from a Christmas card for all you special angels in my life. It was written by the poet, Amanda Bradley.

Special people live the Christmas spirit, all year long,

Special people keep the Christmas spirit in their hearts

And share it joyfully throughout the year.

In lots of big and little ways they show how much they care with generosity, that's most sincere.

They're the thoughtful people who can sense, our every need.

And in troubled times their first to show concern. They're always there.

Most sure to care to help in any way without expecting favors in return.

Yes, special people live the Christmas spirit, all year long, and give us happy memories to recall of all the gifts that means so much at Christmas time, and always these special people mean the most of all. May we all live the Christmas spirit, all year long, and touch the lives of others.

Warm thought: The way to spend Christmas is far more important than what you spend. Anonymous. It is good to be children sometimes, and never better than at Christmas when it's mighty founder was a child himself. Charles Dickens. Merry Christmas!

Warm Thoughts on the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Luetta G. Werner December 25 1997

Published in the Marion Record

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At this time during the Christmas season, we feel pressured and overwhelmed when we look at the calendars, which remind us that soon it will be Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. Perhaps we have procrastinated in getting shopping done and getting something for the special people in our lives. Many people again will receive costly gifts in beautiful wrappings, toys that will fall apart, flowers that will fade, and many other gifts. As I thought about this, I came up with twelve gifts for the twelve Days of Christmas, that will not wear out and can be given all year long.

One can live in the spirit of Christmas all year, the Christmas season is the season of cheer. The first gift is the gift of cheerfulness,

the gift of encouragement,

the gift of forgiveness,

the gift of gratitude,

the gift of hospitality,

the gift of joy,

the gift of kindness,

the gift of love,

the gift of prayer,

the gift of support,

the gift of time,

and the gift of values.

These kinds of gifts, come from the heart. One can spread the spirit of Christmas with these gifts, every day. A kind word, a caring moment can make this world a kinder and more peaceful and gentler place. It can make someone's day and these gifts will always last and can be given all year long. May your Christmas overflow with the Christmas spirit.

Warm thoughts: Christmas is an attitude of gratitude that flows out from us to others and back again. This Christmas as so many families find themselves in turmoil, remember to embrace the Christ Child. The real reason for coming to earth to make us all one and Gods family through forgiveness. May the greatest gift you will give this Christmas be forgiveness. Jay Rhodes. Catch the Christmas spirit!

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Luetta G. Werner December 12th 1996

Published by the Marion Record

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Last week in the warm thoughts column I shared thoughts about the Old Fashioned Thanksgiving. As Christmas rapidly approaches, I will share some warm thoughts about an Old Fashioned Christmas, written by a dear old friend from Lincoln Nebraska. It was written by Darlene M. Miltner and published in Life Lines.

Old Fashioned Christmas

I fondly recall Christmas on the old homeplace

Treasured memories to always embrace

Father would read and mother would sew

While we nibbled on apples and sweet pastry dough.

Snowbound days, the chilling, wintry breeze

And ice-jewels sparkling on skeleton like trees.

Vast open fields garnished with snow

And haymows of grain with livestock below.

An angel reigned atop the pasture-cut tree

Paper chains and snowflakes were fashioned in glee,

Garlands of popcorn trailed branches grace

Cranberry ribbons swung gently in place.

Spice-scented fragrance permeated the air

From pies, breads, and cookies all baked with great care,

The warmth of the fire from a pot bellied stove

Carols and Christmas-morn gifts, interwove.

Now, time is passing, and as I grow old

Memories of school friends and neighbors unfold,

We prayed together for peace from above

In the little white church we grew to love.

We were told of this star, and the Christ child's birth

The Wiseman's journey and heaven on earth,

The manger scene and heavens aglow.

Yes, I remember Christmas of long, long ago.

Christmas memories. Sweet memories are precious gift. The holidays are a time for families to get together to strengthen family ties and affections. Traditions can help preserve memories. Sometimes traditions change, leaving only the memories. As we prepare for the Christmas holidays may we have many happy memories!

Warm Thought: “Children of Christmas are givers. That's what the day is for. They give thanks love gratitude, joy, and themselves to one another.” Erma Bombeck.

May we have many warm thoughts this Christmas season!

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Luetta G. Werner December 4th, 1997

Published by the Marion Record

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Over the river and through the woods to grandmother's house, we go!

May you all around the world have a happy, joyful, and thankful Thanksgiving with family and friends. Let's all be joyful, with an attitude of gratitude. Two days before writing this warm thoughts column, I received in the mail from a reader, a poem by Edgar, a guest, written in 1917 and published in the book, “Just, folks.”

The Old Fashioned Thanksgiving.

Maybe I am getting old and like too much to dwell upon the days of bygone years, the days I loved so well. But thinking of them, now I wish somehow that I could know a simple old Thanksgiving Day, like those of long ago, when all the family gathered around a table ritually spread with little Jamie at the foot, and grandpa at the head, the youngest of us all to greet the oldest with a smile with mother running in and out and laughing. All the while it may be I'm old fashioned, but it seems to me today, we're too much bent on having fun to take the time to pray. Each little family grows up with fashions of its own. It lives within a world itself, and wants to be alone. It has its special pleasures, its circle to a friend. There are no get together days each one his journey when there are no get together days each one his journey wins, pursuing what he likes the best and his particular way, letting the others do the same. Upon Thanksgiving Day. I like the olden way the best when relatives were glad to meet the way they used to do when I was but allowed the old home was around a view for all our friends and kin. And whether living far or near, they all came trooping in with shouts of, “Hello daddy.” As a fairly stormed the place, and made a rush for mother, who would stop to wipe her face. Upon her kingdom apron before she kissed them all. Upon her give them a brand before she kissed them all, hugging them proudly to her breast. The grown ups and small. Then laughter rang throughout the home, and oh the jokes they told all afternoon. We chatted telling what we hope to do the struggles we were making and the hardships, we'd gone through. We gathered around the fireside, how fast the hours would fly. It seemed before we settle down it was time to say goodbye. Those were the glad Thanksgiving the old time families know. When relatives could still be friends. And every heart was true.

Thank you dear friends for sharing your warm thoughts throughout the year. And to all you pilgrims. Many thanks!

More Warm Thoughts: Grateful hearts are healthier. I am convinced that one really lives when you live with a joyful attitude of gratitude. Make every day, a Thanksgiving Day.

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Luetta G. Werner

November, 27th 1997

Published by the Marion Record

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This is the season to be thankful. But really isn't every day, a day to give thanks for our many challenges and blessings? It was many years ago that a dear friend taught me to always be thankful, no matter what happens.

One day after listening to her, I stated that it seemed to me that she was really being tried and tested. Her reply left an indelible impression on me. Her face was radiant and her eyes sparkled as she spoke, emphatically. “I love God so much and I just can't look at all these troubles as problems. I thank God for every problem. I mean, every challenge for they are doors of opportunity to talk about my Heavenly Father through the wonderful privilege of prayer. I know he will see me through it all. God is bigger than all these challenges and I feel so close to him when I have so many things to talk over with him. I thank God every day for the challenges he has given me.”

At that moment I felt challenged and wondered if I could accept all the burdens she was bearing as challenges. I felt this kind of thanksgiving would be some of the hardest things that one could give my friend was giving it all out of sincere love. She did not permit her challenges to defeat her, but found joy in their potential good. She accepted each challenge in the spirit of joy. Every Thanksgiving Day I remember in thankfulness the lessons, this dear friend taught me and thankful living and giving. Many years have passed since that visit and the kitchen of my friend over a cup of tea. Since that morning long ago, I too have faced many challenges, which at times have seemed overwhelming and insurmountable. I have learned when one accepts the challenges and a spirit of thankfulness, we can find joy and peace, and have a quiet heart.

Warm Thoughts: We derive the greatest joy from the fact that we have people to love. Martin Luther. A thankful heart is the parent of all virtues. Cicero. May you have a thankful Thanksgiving season.

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Luetta G. Werner

November 23rd 1995

Published by the Marion Record

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November. The month of Remembrance Day, also known as Veterans Day, and Thanksgiving Day. How thankful we are to live in our America.

Liberty, so precious a gift for each of us. It is so special that we can enjoy our liberty every day here in America and our country we have the freedom to vote, to participate in free enterprise, and to worship as we are lead. We need to be reminded often of their value. And the words of our national anthem by Francis Scott Key, “the price of our liberty is made quite clear, a great price was paid by our forefathers. And that price is still being paid in our country today.”

An unknown author has penned these words on liberty.

I know three things must always be to keep our country strong and free.

One is a heart stone bright and, dear. With busy, happy, loved ones near.

I know three things must always be to keep our country strong and free.

One is a Hearthstone bright and dear with busy happy loved ones near.

One is a ready heart and hand to love and serve, and keep the land.

One is a wide and traveled way to where the people go to pray.

So long as these are kept alive, our country and people will survive.

God keep them always everywhere, the heart, the flag, the place of prayer.

Warm thoughts: If there is hope for the future of America. If there is to be peace and happiness in our homes, then we as a nation must turn to God and to the practice of daily family prayer. My hope for the future of this nation is predicated upon the faith in God, which is nurtured in the family. J. Edgar Hoover.

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Luetta G. Werner

November 14th 1996

Published in the Marion Record

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This is the time of year when some folks leave the prairie winds and go south for the winter. Folks down south who have permanent residents there will say, “The snowbirds are coming!”

About the same time, the northern geese are going south too. Recently I read that these geese are not going as far south as they used to go in past years. These geese flap their wings and fly south in a V formation. In the spring, they fly north, and it is always a special time for us to learn some lessons from the geese. We can learn about sharing leadership from the geese. When the goose in the lead gets tired, it rotates back into the formation and another goose takes over at the point position. We can also learn from the geese, to be interdependent and take turns and doing the hard tasks in a caring and sharing way.

What happens when one goose gets sick or wounded? Two geese drop out of formation and follow him down to help, and to protect him. They will stay with him till he is either able to fly again, or dies. Then they launch out on their own, either with another formation, or to catch up with the original flock. As we travel throughout our journey in life, we may have many challenges where we need someone to cheer us on and give us that encouraging word. We need to stand by each other and care about each other, in the good and also difficult times in life. We can learn from these northern geese, that when we share a common direction and a sense of community, we can get to where we travel on the thrust of one another. What are these geese communicating to us? We can learn many lessons from animals and birds, as we go through many life experiences.

Warm Thoughts: The highest wisdom is kindness. Talmud. Caring comes before sharing. Have many warm thoughts, every day.

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie by Luetta G. Werner

November 7th, 1996

Published in the Marion Record

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Recent articles have emphasized the importance of reading those bedtime stories to the children. Research and a panel of experts have found that the percentage of children whose parents read to them is far too low. Children appreciate the time we spend with them and they learn the most from the examples we give them in our daily lives. A poem by Dorothy Law Nolte shares these thoughts.

Children Learn What They Live

If children live with criticism

They learn to condemn

If children live with hostility

They learn to fight.

If children live with ridicule

They learn to be shy.

If children live with shame,

They learn to feel guilty.

If children live with tolerance,

They learn to be patient.

If children live with encouragement,

They learn confidence.

If children live with praise,

They learn to appreciate.

If children live with fairness,

They learn justice.

If children live with security,

They learn to have faith.

If children live with approval,

They learn to like themselves.

If children live with acceptance and friendship,

They learn to find love in the world.

If you would like a beautiful copy of “Children Learn What They Live” feel free to write me or call me on the phone.

Abraham Lincoln once said, “There is just one way to bring up a child in the way he should go and that is to travel that way yourself.” Warm Thoughts: Children need good role models - heroes. “The best things to give a child - roots and wings.” H. Carter.

Love the children of the world!

Warm Thougths From the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Luetta G. Werner

October 30th, 1997

Published by the Marion Record

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While I sip a cup of tea on this foggy morning, I will tell you about my grandkitten who is making her home in the little home on the prairie. Some grandparents just love to tell stories about their grandchildren and I will have to admit that I enjoy doing it too for my recreation, but this morning I will share with you my thoughts about my little grandkitten.

Little Orphan Nannie is pretty special as she just about did not make it in this world. She is a little black kitten with bright eyes that just shine and that little tail seems longer than normal. Today she is a frisky little grandkitten who loves to play games and will do all sorts of antics to delight her audience. Before long she may even be able to join “The Cats” on that famous Broadway Show! Right now she is just too young to join the real world of cats or live in the cat house (the big red barn) as her cat family has rejected her. So she is our Little Orphan Nannie and the joy of our hearts as she just about did not make it to see the light of day.

Little Orphan Nannie literally fell through the cracks. When she was a tiny baby kitty she managed to explore and find a hold in the wall in the hay loft where her mother thought she had her baby kittens in a safe place. She fell many feet down the wall and for days I heard this crying baby kitten. I mentioned it to David and using a flashlight he discovered where she was in the wall. He made a hole in the wall and rescued Little Orphan Nannie and began to feed her with an eye dropper. This starved little kitten just had to be a survivor. With lots of tender loving care she has become the dearest little grandkitten and she is a lucky little kitten for she just about did not make it. She is now the delight of my grandchildren too!

This is the time of year one will hear individuals say that they do not want a black kitten crossing their path! I never cease to be amazed how those thoughts about black kittens ever came to America! Black cats in many countries are considered to bring good fortune into their lives. Our Little Orphan Nannie now has become domesticated and accustomed to home living. Will we ever be able to give her wings to again join the cat world?

Some grandparents love to talk about their grandchildren and others like to talk about their grandkittens....or did I tell you that already? Thanks for listening. Have a cup of tea on me!

A warm thought for the week: “If you don’t have wrinkles, you haven’t laughed enough.” Phyllis Diller.

Have a great week and laugh a lot!

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Luetta G. Werner

October 21st, 1993

Published by the Marion Record

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Last week we had a few warm days, and we really enjoyed the beautiful summer weather. I remarked to my granddaughter about the warm weather and emphasized that it was really warm.

“Grandma, what does warm mean?” “Not so hot” was my quick reply.

Apparently I was having a brain cramp. At the moment, I said it would be too difficult for her to understand Webster's dictionary, or how the dictionary got started. I remember long ago, I was told how the dictionary got started, it was one night when Mr and Mrs Webster, got into an argument, and one word led to another and his famous dictionary was compiled at the age of seventy years.

It wasn't long afterward that my mind traveled down memory lane. And I remembered the parishioner who always shook his pastor's hand each Sunday, and would say, “Warm sermon, warm sermon, pastor.” One day the pastor asked him what exactly he meant by his encouraging words, “Not too hot pastor, not too hot.” He replied,

This column will be sweet this time. And I'd like to share with you some memories of Sweetest Day, in October, when my family lived in Ohio, Sweetest Day was a very special day in October. Employers gave their employees sweets, and even boxes of chocolate candy. Friends remembered each other with a sweet gift to candy stores and Hallmark really appreciated this day. I especially remember the banquet on Sweetest Day when couples exchange sweet thoughts, and of course, enjoy a sweet dessert, at the banquet to the most meaningful experience was a renewing of the marriage vows for the couples who attended the program at the banquet color renewal of marriage vows on a yearly basis at a Sweetest Day banquet enrich marriages and families, a suite that for many young and older couples to ponder and keeping things going. The sweet, long way down marriage line. I do hope we will have many glorious autumn days, filled with many sweet thoughts on enriching marriages and families. It is strong marriages and families that build strong communities and countries. Let's have a heart and keep them sweet.

Sweet thought for the week: Even if marriages are made in heaven. Man has to be responsible for the maintenance. John Graham

Have a great week filled with the sweetest days of autumn.

Warm Thoughts From the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Luetta G. Werner

October 14 1993

Published by the Marion Record

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Last week I shared thoughts by President Herbert Hoover on “What is a Boy.” When I read those thoughts to my seven-year-old grandson, he stated very emphatically, “Grandma, you still have a lot to learn yet about boys.” Lou Henry Hoover, wife of President Hoover, wrote an enlightening essay on “The Independent Girl.” This essay was perhaps written a century ago.

The Independent girl is truly of quite modern origin, and usually is a bewitching little piece of humanity. Although this word may be taken in many different meanings, the one generally accepted in our day refers to the ambitious little personage who never asks for, and seldom receives advice of any kind. She will not receive aid from anyone, especially if she faintly imagined the offer to be prompted by a little feeling of sympathy for herself. She prefers fighting her own battles in this life, and sallies forth to each encounter with a martial spirit, which is quite startling. If there are a pair of admiring or doubting eyes watching her course, she delights to find many obstacles in her path, which she overcomes, with the skill of a learned engineer, or flanks with tact, like that have a great army strategist. The independent girl is a person for whose wrath only the most rash dare stand. And It must be confessed, with much fear and trembling. But sooner or later she is sure to meet a spirit equally as independent as her own. And then there is a clash of arms ending in mortal kombat, or they unite their forces and with combined strength to go forth to meet the world.

Does this sound like a girl and the 1990s? Please share your thoughts. I would love to hear from you.

Warm thoughts. Let us remember that the great human advances have not been brought about by mediocre men and women. They were brought by distinctly uncommon people with vital sparks of leadership. Herbert Hoover.

Have a great day and share your thoughts.

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Luetta G. Werner

October 2 1997

Published by the Marion Record

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As I write these lines, I hear reports of snow falling throughout various parts of the country. And it is not even the last day of September. Oh, well, I am sure we can expect autumn and beautiful summer weather and that favorite month of the year, October. Letters always come when I need to be inspired with the changing seasons of the year. And this one came from Esther E Young from Auburn, Maine. She shares some of her beautiful writings and has given permission to share a few with you the readers. Incidentally, she writes that she is currently busy writing Christmas thoughts already. Here's Seasons of Beauty.

Seasons of Beauty by Esther E. Young

I've seen rock maples in the valley.

All are tinged with shades of orange red.

Pasture grass is fringed with frost each morn;

Chill winds blow and dark clouds gather overhead.

Farmers have been harvesting their cattle corn;

Saws are buzzing, firewood is being stacked.

Kitchens have a smell of pickling spice and dill.

Mittens, hats and winter coats have been unpacked.

Adventure in the air touches young and old,

As the seasons of beauty come and go.

New England's children thrill at these signs of fall,

Dig out their sleds and wait for winter snow.

Thank you, Esther for sharing your ‘warm thoughts’ on ‘seasons of beauty.’ I very much needed those thoughts. I'm sure the readers of this column will enjoy them as much as I have. And someone may be traveling to New England to see the autumn colors very soon. Thank you readers for sharing your very special thoughts with many readers of this column.

Warm Thought: Could we live over the years that have gone, we should upon reflection, call back for each year only the one perfect month, October. Burton H Saxton

May you have many warm thoughts to share!

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie, Over a Cup of Tea by Luetta G. Werner

September 28th, 1995

Published by the Marion Record

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Recently, I attended a convention in St. Louis and while there heard an essayist speak on the year of the child. The whole year, 2001, centers on children. However, every year could be the year of the child.

Since the greatest generation is now in decline. We are depending on the millennial generation. This generation is also referred to as the Baby Boomlets. The essayist emphasized that they need meaningful youth ministry with mentors. They may become the next greatest generation. He stated that our Millennials are self reliant because their parents work and they have electronic babysitters. This generation is interested in learning about the heroes of the past. They are impressed by their deeds and by their needs. They want to hear the stories of their grandparents and value their experiences. The Boomer parents lament the fact that there are a lack of real heroes for their children.

A recent Harris Poll reported that Americans, by and large, do not have heroes. Posters surveyed more than 1,000 people and found more than half could name no living public figure, they considered a hero and one in six could name no hero. The older generation, which is sometimes also called the missionary generation, is very protective and concerned about this millennial generation. They have become their mentors and feel the need to give them a vision for their future. Many have been their babysitters and have been able to be good models and examples of courageous and heroic living.

Mark Twain knew about the power of modeling when he wrote, Few things are harder to put up with than the annoyance of a good example. Edmund Burke wrote, example is the School of Mankind and we learn from no other. During this month, when we grandparents celebrate Grandparents Day, and reflect on our mission and ministry to this millennial generation, we realize the importance of our mission. I believe this generation, our grandchildren, will be a generation that believes it can get things done. And it will do it with optimistic peer pressure, which will be seen as a solution and not a problem.

Every Day is Children's Day, and every year is the year of the child. The emerging generation of millennials are different than the generation Xers who preceded them. There are significant findings about this generation that will affect the way youth activities will be like in the next few years. The movies sometimes even characterize them as virtuous and nearly angelic. Am I happy about this generation? You bet I am. These are yours and my grandchildren and we are their grandparents.

The wealth of children comes first. Nigerian proverb. Who teaches children learns more than they do. German proverb.

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Luetta G. Werner September 13th 2001

Published in the Marion Record

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One day I heard the older grandchildren laughing upstairs. They had found grandma's humor box. The youngest grandchild, very active two year old Trevor keeps everyone challenged. Grandma would rub his back at nap time. When he returned home from vacation, he ordered his dad, “Rub my back!” (laughter) Okay, sorry.

It is a real joy to receive many warm thoughts from the readers of this column. Recently, someone sent a poem which I will share with you.

Hugs for everyone

It's wondrous. What a hug can do.

A hug can cheer you when you're blue.

A hug can say I love you so. Or gee, I hate to see you go.

A hug is welcome back again. And Great to see you. Where Have you been?

A hug consumed a small child pain and bring a rainbow after rain.

The hug. There's just no doubt about it. We scarcely could survive without it.

A hug delights and warms and charms. It must be why God gave us arms.

Hugs are great for fathers and for mothers. Sweet for sisters, swell for brothers.

And chances are some favorite aunts love them more than potted plants.

Kittens crave them, puppies love them. Heads of State are not above them.

A hug can break the language barriers and make your travels so much merrier.

No need to fret about the store of them. The more you give, the more there are of them.

So stretch those arms without delay, And give someone a hug today.

Author unknown

Warm Thoughts: Children who have the luxury or relationships with grandparents win out of all studies of child development. Dr. T. Barry braised Alton have many warm thoughts every day.

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Luetta G. Werner September 5th 1996

Published in the Marion Record

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After reading last week's Warm Thoughts column with the winning poem on relatives, you perhaps anticipated (as I have) just what I will write about those relatives - the ones who attended the family reunion. Yes, this reunion was a real historic event as it was the 60th anniversary. Imagine 60 years having a Werner Reunion on the second Sunday of August.

As an in-lawI have learned throughout the years to develop some listening skills as my future plans are to be a lifelong learner. Relatives can teach one so much. I will share with you some warm thoughts and the theme of listening.

I'm Listening

I'm listening, dear relatives, to what you have to say.

Reunions are for the wise guys who have already had their day.

Oh, but we're the next generation who still love to do our thing.

You guys love your rocking chair. And Oh boy, you still can sing.

We're the teenagers in this clan. We try so hard to get along

with every generation and we love to sing their song.

Lullaby, don't forget us. We are so young and sweet.

Because everyone just loves us. And family reunions are our big treat.

New additions to the joys of sharing with family and all those relatives are some of life's treasures. Reunions can renew us and strengthen the bonds. I was so impressed by the dear lady who managed to make all 60 reunions of her husband's family. She is now in a wheelchair and in great pain after experiencing severe burns on her body. Yet her cheerful smile and her pioneer survival skills inspired us all. I'll see you all at next year's reunion.

Warm thought - Learn how happiness is with all those who wish to sing and always find the song. Swedish proverb: Enjoy every day of the rest of the summer.

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea

By Luetta G. Werner

August 31 1995

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In last week's column I mentioned that the Young Poets award winner for 1995 in Washington DC had the winning poem entitled “Relatives.” As I was planning for this column and sharing with you my thoughts on the family reunion I was planning on attending…. surprise, that winning poem arrived in the mail.

This year’s winner, by young lady age 14, is one to share in this warm thoughts column.

Relatives.

I love my relatives, though they're relatively weird.

And I got really anxious as a family reunion neared.

I thought of Aunt Wilhelmina and her deadly pinching fingers.

And good old Uncle Joe. All his wives had been lounge singers.

See now grandpa Jones, the one who had no teeth.

And I found this strange disco music loved by Uncle Keith.

Then I thought of the twin cousins, Herbert and Fred.

Once they start talking, you wish you were dead.

My dad’s sister Josie, my aunt, I'm sad to say

Came to visit for the Fourth of July and didn't leave till Christmas Day.

I love grandma Rose on my mom's side. She's married to grandpa Jones.

Then there's cousin Paul. He repairs telephones.

Then there's my great aunt Don. All she does is sleep.

And her second hubby Mike, the one who's really cheap.

I hope my little brother doesn't put frogs in all the food.

Or my uncle Rob, the teacher will give another lecture on being rude.

My mom loves Uncle Dave. Personally, I think he's weird.

I like my Uncle Joe. But he has strange things in his beard.

Then there's cousin Jeremy, whose hair is very long,

and grumpy old aunt Bertha. She believes she's never wrong.

If you could see aunt Beth's clothes and the way they were fitted,

Then you'd know why my Uncle Joe had himself committed.

Lately, everyone's worried about my mom's cousin Sean.

You See, unlike most of my family, He thinks he's a leprechaun.

Now Don't get me wrong. I love them all. As strange as they may be.

But none are as relatively weird as the relative known as me.

By Adrian Dunning, 1995

Dear readers, you all just have to wait until next week for me to share with you my thoughts about family reunions. Keep tuned.

Warm thoughts. Our family as a circle of strength. And with each birth and every Union the circle grows. Every joy shared adds more love. Every crisis faced together makes the circle stronger. Author unknown.

Celebrate the family at family reunions.

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Luetta G. Werner

August 24th 1995

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Summertime. Good ole summertime. Here It is... August. A time to reflect on summer joys and challenges. As an early riser, I have enjoyed the rising of the sun. The peaceful mornings listening to the birds sing and as I write these lines, it is a foggy morning. A heavy dew is on the grass as one walks down the country lane. Soon school will start, and many schools throughout the country are beginning classes earlier this year. As a lifelong learner, I look forward to the school days and Golden Rule days. However, I may feel my age when grandchildren asked me Grandma, “what century were you born in?”

This is the time to hike to the hills before school starts. What fun for families to picnic along the way! Sleep in tents, travel in the car, and close quarters. A time to become firmly bonded before the fast paced schedules take over when back to school we go!

August is a time when many families have their big family reunions. The Warner Clan: extended, extended family has always had their family reunion the second Sunday In August. This year is the 60th anniversary and they plan a really big celebration. The mother of all reunions celebrating family. You can be sure there will be the babies there. The youngest and the oldest and the oldies will have plenty of stories, you can be sure. I look forward to listening to the older and wiser men and women and the clan. One learns a lot from listening. Keep tuned, I'll share with you dear readers.

It is interesting what researchers are finding out about the family. That family is the best reward. The researchers have learned that those who emphasize their family life over their careers and up with higher earnings. Those of us who were already committed to our families realized long ago that a happy family is its own best reward.

Pioneer Proverbs: He who won't be advised won't be helped. The smart man knows how little he really knows. Have a great day. Learn something new each day.

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Luetta G. Werner

August 10th 1995

Published in the Marion Record

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As I traveled early one morning, many warm thoughts came to mind about summer days. For many people summer is their favorite time of year. July is the “get up and go” vacation time of the year. It is festival and celebration time and a long remembered holiday. The lakes and countryside, the sunrise and sunsets bring many peaceful and tranquil thoughts on warm summer days.

I was pleasantly surprised to receive a recycled birthday card from a very dear friend who has reached that magic age of 90. She reads this column of warm thoughts every week, and apparently liked my column on recycling. I am sure she has been a pro on recycling all her years. The recycled birthday card and poem she sent really made my day. She can be sure that card and poem will be recycled many times and will go around the world. We have often said that about challenges and the mountains and valleys that come into our lives. The poem she sent had four stanzas and did not state who wrote this inspiring message. I would like to share a few thoughts from that poem:

Mountain Moving

Lord, I've never moved a mountain. And I guess I never will.

All the faith that I could muster, wouldn't move a small anthill.

When I needed grace to lift me from the depths of deep despair.

And when burdens, pain and sorrow have been more than I could bear,

You have always been my helper to restore life's troubled sea

And to move these little mountains that have looked so big to me.

Many times when I've had problems, the bills I've had to pay,

And the worries and heartaches just kept mounting every day.

Lord, I don't know how you did it. I can't explain the wares and wise.

And I know I've seen these mountains turn to blessings in disguise.

And as long as there are mountains, in my life I'll have no fear

For the mountain moving Jesus, He shall make them disappear.

Thank you dear friend for the recycled birthday message. As I reached the sunset years of my life, you dear friends and family have become even more beautiful. As I traveled that evening, watching the sunset in the West, I became even more convinced that the sunsets and South Dakota are the most beautiful in the country.

Warm Thoughts: Life is no brief candle for me. It is a sort of splendid torch, which I have got hold of for the moment. And I want to make it burn as brightly as possible before handing it on to future generations. George Bernard Shaw.

Peace is always beautiful. Walt Whitman.

Have beautiful and peaceful summer days.

Warm Thoughts from the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Luetta G. Werner

July 21 1994

Published in the Marion Record

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