~ab

Compassion - 845

2012-02-07T23:39:00.000-06:00

We had a great church service tonight in the jail and there were a lot of testimonies. Both the inmates and the visitors are going through many challenges in their lives and because this church family is so close knit, we bring those things to others as a witness to what God is doing in the situation. Encouragement for one another, directed prayer, laying on of hands, and anointing with oil are the natural things that come forth when we are in one accord, and when our compassion for one another is greater than our own concerns. This is a changed heart that many described and one that we shared with each other. God changes our hearts from cold stone to soft flesh. Compassion for others is a result.

We now get to keep our eyes open to watch the great I AM change things for good.

God Bless You,

~ ab

Go To The Ant - 844

2012-02-06T06:33:00.001-06:00

Proverbs 6:6-8
Go to the ant, you sluggard!
Consider her ways and be wise,
Which, having no captain,
Overseer or ruler,
Provides her supplies in the summer,
And gathers her food in the harvest.

Cocoons, Rocket Stove Research, and Other Natural Systems - 807.2011

2011-12-16T22:09:00.000-06:00

Cocoons, now there is a natural system. A system of rebirth, one of transformation from crawling to flying. i wonder sometimes if the caterpillar ever gets depressed wondering if he will ever get out of this cocoon. Do such thoughts ever enter into your mind or maybe that is just how we feel at times. Will we ever get out of this constraining bondage, these closed in walls? The cocoon as a natural system really doesn't care what the contents think or feel. It is there, created by it's occupant to protect and sustain a process of transformation, a process of change, one that the caterpillar must go through and one we often have to go through ourselves. The difficult time is in the bondage and times of walking through the valley. Sure is quiet. The time of rebirth and regeneration comes after one emerges from the cocoon. Instead of crawling, it is a time to fly. i also remember that we often create our own cocoons or walls in order to separate ourselves. Time to ponder, reflect and hope for the future.
One of the interests i have had over the years (pondering) is to research and learn the simpler ways, old technologies, time-tested methods, and this has sparked a renewed interest in researching additional pieces to a puzzle. My love for good masonry and the fireplace as the hearth of the home lead me to find a European fireplace called a masonry heater. Lately i've looked into simpler variations on this, something the common man may be able to build and afford. The rocket mass heater surfaced and the many varieties of use were only as limited as the immense body of imagination out there. Really amazing to see what people around the world are doing to survive and live with the basics, the inventive nature is very alive. Several well outfitted, well financed examples of homesteading exist, but i have witnessed that many of the simplest solutions are the most elegant and easy to maintain.
i've had my head in various research on energy and natural systems, permaculture and wood gasification. Real broad variety of sites and videos leads me to realize that there is a huge move in people to already be living a life different from where they once were and who they used to be. There is a better way and a simpler life, within this beautiful creation, just open your eyes and watch it work, then borrow the beauty and truth of the natural system. Permaculture is the best current description, with a pioneer Spirit guiding this new movement.
There are the complex, expensive solutions, but my eye was always drawn back to naturally sustaining systems. It was a real eye opener to see working examples of people helping the soil by rebuilding it and increasing the wormbed, organic matter, etc., the results are a whole host of changes in the natural system. Grasses, weeds and trees find a fertile soil, birds and beneficial insects return, and what was initially planted takes a home in the naturalized landscape. You help the soil and it returns the favor, ten to one hundred fold. Creation of natural swales on a slope allow the rainwater to percolate into the layers as it drains into the hill rather than washing over it. Building up the organic matter on these hills creates vistas of planting beds and the water allows the process of garden making to begin. Makes me want to dig more, continue growing the compost and organic base.
Beyond the land i am also looking back into a greenhouse that will morph out of and into some type of structure. i've always seen this garden house as a hybrid of multiple natural systems and technologies and there may be one possible outlet to actually build something now that the idea is pretty ripe.

There is an amazing garden in a couple places that show what is possible with a little property and an insanity and love of growing, innovating, and making a whole lot out of a small lot.

One great example is from my hometown, Milwaukee, WI . Growing Power
Will Allen, Founder of Growing Power

Path to Freedom Urban Homestead - Pasadena, CA

Merry Christmas, Happy New Year, and May God Bless You and Your Family,

love, ~ antbrother

The Ways of The White Man - 757.1

2011-11-11T23:48:00.001-06:00

Once I was in Victoria, and I saw a very large house. They told me it was a bank, and that the white men place their money there to be taken care of, and that by and by they got it back, with interest.
We are Indians, and we have no such bank; but when we have plenty of money or blankets, we give them away to other chiefs and people, and by and by they return them, with interest, and our hearts feel good. Our way of giving is our bank.

Maquinna

Nootka Chief

Native American Wisdom

The Solution to the Economic Collapse - Oasis 11.11.11 - 757

2011-11-11T18:53:00.001-06:00

Bring all the tithes into the storehouse,
      That there may be food in My house,
      And try Me now in this,”
      Says the LORD of hosts,

      “ If I will not open for you the windows of heaven
      And pour out for you such blessing
      That there will not be room enough to receive it.
       “ And I will rebuke the devourer for your sakes,
      So that he will not destroy the fruit of your ground,
      Nor shall the vine fail to bear fruit for you in the field,”
      Says the LORD of hosts;
       And all nations will call you blessed,
      For you will be a delightful land,”
      Says the LORD of hosts.

~ Malachi 3:10-12

The Season of Building and Planting - 750

2011-11-05T08:57:00.001-05:00

These are pretty amazing times that we are living through.

The last month has held additional changes and challenges and has made me focus back to past directions as to why i am where i am. i had gone through much paper work, cleaning and making room while organizing the new tree house space, and i came across a birthday card my Mother has sent me last year. She went to heaven this year and memories of her bring a smile, a tear, and continue to motivate me in walking this path in which God has placed me.

"Just Think.
You're here not by chance,
But by God's choosing.

His hand formed you and made you the person you are.
He compares you to no one else - You are one of a kind.
You lack nothing that His Grace can't give you.
He has allowed you to be here at this time in history
To fulfill His special purpose for this generation."
How thankful I am that He has allowed me to be here at the same time you are!"

The rest of the card is for me alone - thanks Mom, Much love to you too.

This morning i was making the staple peanut butter and honey sandwiches for lunch and i had some Proverbs time which always provides the spiritual food for consideration during the day. Today's message goes directly with this season of building and planting.

Proverbs 31:8-9
Open your mouth for the speechless,
In the cause of all who are appointed to die.
Open your mouth, judge righteously, and plead the cause of the poor and needy.

...and as it is said of wisdom...

20
She extends her hands to the poor,
Yes, she reaches out her hands to the needy.

Just what is needed in this time of upheavel and those changes that were part of the past campaign promises. Unfortunately words cannot adequately describe the motivation that i've received in answer to prayer to keep me focused on His work. As i've written a couple times, it is a season of building and planting for me and manifesting those things that have been put in my heart and mind. i have fortunately been working with Stephan and enjoying the construction projects and hands on, as he too allows me the trust to take responsibility on more work.
One of the current jobs over the last month is a residence in Tupelo, MS that needed a solution for water problems in the basement. The solution was excavating the foundation walls to the footings and installing drainage pipe and gravel fill. The house also was never waterproofed at the foundation so i was awarded that messy tar job...lol... see more trust to mop the right way and fill every single pore in that foundation wall. The dirt had to be hauled out in five gallon buckets and the gravel had to hauled in with the same. We have since moved inside and completed hardwood floors in the entire house, new trim, mirrors and base, as well as fixing a couple rotted thresholds. The last part of this project brought us to the basement for tile work and new tile base. It has been a great experience here and with a great variety of work.
The next building and planting i am focusing on is how this experience can be used toward the prison ministry efforts. i believe it is integral to helping both the poor and needy and teaching the paroles through building and planting. We are beginning to search on a possible halfway house location near the Clay county jail and are beginning to talk to the county about this. This is a natural extension of how to use those gifts for others and to reach out in that manner, one of action followed by words.

i'm off to check the garden and enjoy the sun shooting through the fog on this beautiful day. God Bless and Love as always,

~ antbrother

Behold, I Make All Things New - 717

2011-10-03T11:24:00.000-05:00

Revelation 21:5-8

Then He who sat on the throne said, “Behold, I make all things new.” And He said to me, “Write, for these words are true and faithful.” And He said to me, “It is done! I am the Alpha and the Omega, the Beginning and the End. I will give of the fountain of the water of life freely to him who thirsts. ⁷ He who overcomes shall inherit all things, and I will be his God and he shall be My son. But the cowardly, unbelieving, abominable, murderers, sexually immoral, sorcerers, idolaters, and all liars shall have their part in the lake which burns with fire and brimstone, which is the second death.”

Nothing like a fresh coat of paint to make an old front door new. i know that is a light-hearted comment to a scripture telling us of salvation and condemnation. It is what it is. Open your ears. Ideas and visions are flowing lately, that designers mind, creators mind is busy filling up notebooks again but we have several new tools to use during this season. My humble abode definitely needs some attention and work but that just makes sense as this is a time for new thoughts and directions and for putting into action those things that have been placed in our hearts and at our feet. For me, having taken on work with The Carpenator, this season is one of building and planting. The ant has gathered supplies and scraps, throwaways and roadside trash to some, but "Behold, I make all things new." Time to use what has been given to us.

Part of the scrapping efforts have been collecting old hand tools and old kitchen utensils - no power needed. i happened to stop by an estate sale Saturday and received a real blessing of several old saws, hammers, wrenches, etc., etc., some real deep boxes of what i remember seeing in old-timers shops. i had been needing to get a hand saw for some new projects and knew that typically the older, "Made in the U.S." tools were of better quality than anything you can buy now, so i kept an antennae out. Four boxes for about $10 a box and all i need is some mineral oil and steel wool to clean up the gift. Thanks Father. Another interesting piece, that i traded out for some work with one of my grandmas, is a Root & Heath Co. corn sheller. i'll have wait till next seasons harvest to be able to try this one out.

Continued prayers to all in this coming time of change. Listen to your heart and look at what has been placed at your feet, all blessings.

Love,

~ antbrother

The Carpenator - 708

2011-09-24T09:25:00.000-05:00

My boss has taken on the title of "The Carpenator", as an adaptation of The Terminator genre toward his work in construction. It's a determination mindset in regards to work and the jobs, strong work ethic and pride of work. You have to have a sense of humor when you're replacing a rotten roof on top of the elevator equipment room of a 1926 building. Seventy feet up has a nice breeze and a great view, one thing i love about working with my friend again. The German and the Polish are back together - guess i'm the side kick and Stephan is The Carpenator... lol.... i'm the ant.
After moving most of my lifelong possessions this year for work and home, i have consolidated, simplified and began a new focus in building and planting from what i have been given. Still from scraps, but look what is possible with a bunch of leftovers.

More forthcoming... an update from the weedbed, i mean garden.

Love and Blessings,

~ antbrother

The Worker / The Warrior - 694

2011-09-10T12:05:00.001-05:00

2 Timothy 2:15
Be diligent to present yourself approved to God, a worker who does not need to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.

Indian Steel - Sorghastrum nutans

There has been a bit of a drought on words here and on my main website this year, though the messages and work at hand have only multiplied over this year of changes. i have many fronts to update on but will keep it simple and direct - the truth does not take many words though i will surely ramble on in a GoOD way.
i have been moved into place as is typical with the children of God at this time. We are positioned and enabled to do His work as the main spiritual preparation is complete and the Lord is now maturing us in His Ways - continually teaching His children. You may have been relocated this year, through displacement or other factors, and you have been taught though this process why you are here and Who you serve - you now know your purpose and path. Along the way we have all experienced the difference and separation between the sheep and goats and have learned to ask God in everything by prayer - just to make sure we stay on the path through His leading. Who wants to be head butted by a goat anyway? Do you really trust your own judgement and decisions in this time of upheaval?
My heart wants to share so many things right now, but i will simply send it out in prayer and focus on the issue of working for the Lord through the Way of the Spiritual Warrior. The nice clump of Indian Steel grass is an excellent example of what God can do and has done in us and through us. This grass is one of many throw away plants that i have picked up on the side of the road (someone else's trash) and nurtured and planted in order to be restored to it's true beauty - an original prairie grass of North America. That is what God did with me. He changed me from the dead clump of dried grass laying on the side of the road, and He planted me in Amory and fed me with His Word - He restores us to our true purpose. i just love the way He works.


Herb Garden expansion

This year i have been moved out of my apartment and into a "tree house" and the old office space has been taken over by a future retailer so there has been some definite consolidation between home, garden and office. i have also been moved outside and have been nudged further toward being able to use what is at hand by scrapping, planting and building - firepit, root cellar. i have a surplus of wood scraps and a healthy pile of bricks started, as well as doors, windows, shutters and scrap steel. Healthy eating has been an integral part of this restoration as well and, in addition to growing organic food and herbs, i have also begun brewing my own organic kombucha tea. This has really felt like an urban homesteading process and i know it will continue to be a more prominent focus as resources are taken away or become unusable. Work continues in my landscaping and i am in full weeding mode on the gardens to get the fall crop planted. The daily job has changed recently from working in the furniture frame plant to being back with my German friend doing carpentry and cabinet work. The journeyman has been maturing with more hands on work. My technical drawing has also been put to use recently. The rebuilding and planning taking place in Smithville, MS (post EF-5 tornado that eliminated the town) has spurred me on to refocus on the community gardens i am slowly growing for Amory. As markets crash, currency defaults, and industries struggle, the urban farmer and homesteader will be the real answer to survival, real sustainability and restoration. We are to become an Oasis for others in Word and deed.
Praying has been my foundation and has strengthened my relationship with Jesus in a profound way - a very personal, intimate connection and oneness is present daily. The more time i spend in reading the Bible and in prayer, the closer we have become. Jesus has been and is my refuge and peace within while He moves me through this landscape, teaching me and leading me to help others. i look forward to each day and anticipate the full indwelling of the Holy Spirit coming forth for all of God's children.

Love and Blessings,

~antbrother

Working on the website link and information on the herbs i grow.

Genesis 1:29
And God said, “See, I have given you every herb that yields seed which is on the face of all the earth, and every tree whose fruit yields seed; to you it shall be for food.

The Ways of the Heart - 645

2011-07-23T12:21:00.000-05:00

My friends, how desperately do we need to be loved and to love. When Christ said that man does not live by bread along, he spoke of a hunger. This hunger was not the hunger of the body. It was not the hunger for bread. He spoke of a hunger that begins deep down in the very depths of our being. He spoke of a need as vital as breath. He spoke of our hunger for love.
Love is something you and i must have. We must have it because our spirit feeds upon it. We must have it because without it we become weak and faint. Without love our self-esteem weakens. Without it our courage fails. Without love we can no longer look out confidently at the world. We turn inward and begin to feed upon our own personalities, and little by little we destroy ourselves.
With it we are creative. With it we march tirelessly. With it, and with it alone, we are able to sacrifice for others.

Chief Dan George

Burma and my Other Grandmas - 625

2011-07-03T21:57:00.000-05:00

Wilma had been praying for several years that God would help the elderly that were confined to their houses due to physical limitations or other health issues. She would say, "Lord, please comfort the shut-ins." Sometime last year God had been coming through on her prayer and i was part of that answer, well for a few of my grandmas so far. i didn't see it coming, i was just looking for more lawn jobs and several elderly women needed help at a reasonable price. The Lord told me, "Don't worry about the money.", and that has been my approach to work all year. He didn't tell me that i would get cookies and coffee, or iced mocha's and good conversation.

i was blessed with three grandmas who i just hang out with each week, whether it be for a breakfast biscuit and coffee before yard work, or watching church on Sunday's before i make an omelet for us. There have been more blessings in the relationships i have with these women than money could ever fulfill. Today Burma and i watched service and then i surprised her with a tomato, garlic and pasta frittata with fresh herbs.
Burma is a blessing for certain, as are Ava, and Peggy. i pick up with Wilma's prayer and pray that other elders out there are cared for by someone, family, or in my case, just an adopted grandson. Blessings to the elders as there is the wisdom of our past and lessons worth listening to. Better company than an old book because you get to relive their history and learn their wisdom.

Love and Blessings in Jesus,

~ antbrother

My All-Star Son - 624

2011-07-02T23:23:00.001-05:00

My youngest son and his local coach-pitch baseball team were undefeated this season and are part of an all-star tournament. He's got some talent and a lot of heart. Sam also had his first chance at playing catcher for this second game in the series. After a close loss the night before the team re-focused and really played a great game and had a strong win. Such a blessing to watch, win or lose, there is heart in these kids and coaches. Another benefit is that we get to play catch in between batting rotations. :)

Amory heads to a state tournament this month and we're looking forward to that.

Baseball anyone?

The New Man - 623

2011-07-01T11:31:00.000-05:00

Jeremiah 29:11
For I know the thoughts that i think toward you, says the Lord, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope.

Over the last seven years God has been remaking me into something different, someone He can use for His purpose. Back in Atlanta in the year 2000, i began praying earestly for God's Will to be done in my life, not knowing what that would entail. His process has taken a bit of time, but like the potter that is remaking a vessel, there can be no rushing this process. The old vessel must be destroyed first, pulverized to a powder and remixed with His special ingredients before it can be thrown again on the Potters wheel and made into the vessel that He intended us to be. i am now seeing, in hindsight, all the things that He has done with me over these years and i humbly say, "Thank You Fathe r."
One of the most precious things that is done when God begins His work in you, to remake you, is the softening of the heart and turning to the heart from the focus on self to the focus on God and others. He cannot put us to work unless we are equipped and made right for His will and purpose. Call it re-wiring, re-creation, or scripturally reborn in His image, but this new creature has to be made in order to walk the paths of good works that He has established for us. Part of that purpose for me has been to become a farmer, gardener, and grounds keeper - to keep and defend His Garden.
i used to jokingly say to friends in the past that when i grow up i want to be a farmer. Well, this light hearted comment has actually manifested in the new man that God has created out of the old. Words are inadequate to describe the intensity of this transformation and the beauty of the result of God's work, but if you could feel what i feel inside, you would instantly understand... and smile. God has grown me into something new while He has used me to grow His Garden in a place where one should not be. Another good work that God has placed before me is prison ministry. To be able to walk into a cell and share the joy of the Lord is another way that He allows me to plant seeds in others hearts - seeds of love, joy, hope and humility. Prison ministry work extends past the bars and cells out to the places where people have created their own internal jails.
This independence day, i urge you to seek God and pray for the completion of His work in you. Release the bonds and chains that keep us locked in the prison of self, the prison of the mind, and allow Jesus to free you from this world and its bondage. The time is Now!

What do you want to be when you grow up in Him?

Love and Blessings,

~ antbrother

The Ride Home With God - 559

2011-06-07T15:02:00.000-05:00

Much has happened since i last posted and i'll try to provide a real quick recap as i have some landscaping work to attend to in an hour. i was evicted a couple months ago, found a new one room attic flat thanks to one of my grandmothers, the brakes went out on my truck with no injuries, a tornado wiped out the local town of Smithville, a family of five that lost their home moved in with me for a couple weeks (in my one room attic flat), and i was blessed to be able to make a trip to Wisconsin to see my mother off to Heaven and be reunited with my family. On the trip home my daughter invited me to dinner with her boyfriend on the lakefront in Milwaukee and then i stopped by to see my blessed friend in Iowa and this picture was taken heading back home with God. This past Saturday we attended a funeral for my friends 20 year old nephew and five people came to Jesus Christ. It would take a couple hours to fill in all that has transpired in between these major events so i will simply say that God is working in peoples lives and He is shaking us up for the harvest and He is bringing hearts and families back together. i've been in the fields again and of course in the garden, mine and my mothers.

My mother past away and went home on May 20 from endocarditis which is an inflammation of the inner liner of the heart. She was 76 just short of her 77th birthday on May 31. She had just gotten over cancer treatment and a lengthy recovery with the blessing of a cancer free report. Over the years she had several heath issues but she continued working as an in-home care nurse taking care of children until just a few years ago. i pray that we all have that giving and serving attitude throughout our lives that she had. My mother was a child of God and she was a blessing to many people. The last several years we have talked each Sunday of the past week just to catch up and stay in touch. We talked often of faith and knowing Jesus personally as the Way home. She found the Way. Thank You Father. We also talked much about gardening and the love for nature that we hold in common. i was able to spend some personal time in my mothers garden, tending and keeping what she wasn't able to get to this spring.

Of course the news of my mother was most important and the grieving process has been hard often and filled with blessings of love and memories. The grieving is my loss, our loss, but the strong Irish my mother past on to me celebrates her relief from pain and sorrow while all things have been made new for her. Celebrate the passing of a loved one saved. My brothers and sisters were reunited for a week while we stood vigil each day and night with mom, recalling many good times together and many fond memories. My daughter was able to see mom as well which was a blessing. i really enjoyed the reunion as well.

The local and national weather has devastated many areas across the nation which has had a major impact everywhere. The local town of Smithville is seven miles from Amory and they lost a lot of people and most of the town in an EF-5 that came through on April 27. A friend that works with me used to live there with his family of five and they were able to find shelter just in time while their house was destoyed. During the last few storms that came through, they headed to the post office for shelter, but this time Robbie took the family back to a storm shelter in Amory and ten minutes later they saw the tornado heading for Smithville. Shortly after trucks with fatalities and injuries began pouring into Amory and emergency vehicles headed toward the damage. Robbie and his family moved in to my 20 foot square abode that night and spent a couple weeks while we sorted through what was salvagable and they learned how to rebuild their lives from nothing. Everything was gone but the family was safe and God opened up a door and the hearts of people. It's a blessing to be able to witness this first hand and to serve out of my comfort zone. So often we want to place our own needs first, but when you reverse that, forget about yourself and walk in the footsteps of your brother or sister, then you are walking scripture and loving them, esteeming them about yourself. There are many giving hearts in this country as is evidenced at the recent outpouring of help and hearts following all the damage from weather events.

The garden has reall been progressing here and the heat has been an issue already. Mississippi has been running in the 90 degree range for a couple weeks and there has been no rain. This month we are again ahead of the normal weather by about a month and this has been the case since last year seemingly. i have been told to plant everything this year and that has kept me busy in the garden. i am also planning for an expanded rain water collection system that i can rely on when the real dought comes. Storing between the major rainfalls will be important in maintaining a local food source. More pictures to come of the garden. Tonight is church with the prison ministry group which is always a soul filling evening. May you be blessed and comforted in your losses and remember to count it all joy and love from Father. He is calling us to be closer to Him so under His wing we may find shelter and peace.

God Bless and Good to be posting,

~ antbrother

Chapter 2 - 510

2011-04-19T00:24:00.000-05:00

A friend sent an email to me last week which seemed odd back then. It was hard to understand in the moment, because i couldn't see past the door jamb at the time.

God closes doors no man can open
and
God opens doors no man can close.

Chapter 1 - Gen 2:8
and
Chapter 2 - Gen 2:15

Love and Blessings,

~ antbrother

Leafing Out with Russell Burbank and The Strawberries - 495

2011-04-04T17:56:00.000-05:00

i have been amazed at the rapid growth since the warming temperatures and the spring rains came through. The roller coaster of thirty degree temperature shifts continues and with each passing wave a new severe storm. We're dealing with flood warning and high winds today and have probably received about 3 inches of rain already today. This is tornado country here and the spring sprouts daffodils and twisters.

Here's a few pics of the garden coming forth as the naturalized landscape containing edible and medicinal organic herbs and veges. The apple tree i planted from seed 5 years ago needs trimming and i will attempt to root some cuttings. There are also blackberries and strawberries in flower within the landscape - these fill in quickly and multiply. Glad to be able to share this blessing of a garden with you.

God Bless from the fields,
~ ab

Green Up - 465

2011-03-05T21:15:00.003-06:00

Some shift started a few weeks ago, green began to come back again. i posted a few more pictures on the photoblog of the garden progression since the warmer temperatures have changed the flow of growth upward. i really enjoy spring time. It is always a time of renewal and restoration. There are also enjoyable surprises for anyone that is a gardening lover. Plants begin to emerge from sleep after the first heavy rains of the season. It is almost a washing away of the gray making room for the green up and miracle of growth that shoots forth from God's creation. Time to pull away some of the mulch and see what is poping forth from the warming soil beneath. i know there is definitely a thousand strawberry plants that invaded the mound last year and the bunch onions came back and showed me why they are called that. Lol...

It has really been interesting watching this landscape transform over the last several years. i have started from a compost pile four years ago and really started enjoying landscaping more with a passion, one for growing and learning what it is to be a farmer and the other interest in health through growing your own, including medicinal and culinary herbs. You know what's in there because you provided the ingredients and God made it grow.

With the accumulation of all the landscaping mulch and yard waste like leaves and trimmings comes the addition of many raised beds and the start of a more permanent landscape. This year all the plants will be grown in the ground with little or no use of pots. The watering issue has been a burden the last couple years limited by rain water collection barrels - in summer droughts there wasn't enough - there is a need for a pond but not like this one from the rain today.

The vegetable patch has always been separated from the ornamentals and that was to ensure clean soil for edible plants. There is also a new source of clean sawdust through the local rip saw operator so that is being added to the composting efforts weekly. i'm looking forward to growing more this year and slowly taking another step along this garden walk. i'll have to share some pictures of the dandelion patch that started accidentally.

Here's and older post that i enjoyed reading from my Wisconsin Woodsmoke book - thanks Mom.

May God Bless You Today even if it is with a dandelion garden,

~ antbrother

More Than Weeds - Wisconsin Woodsmoke by Ced Vig (May entry - pgs. 68-69)

Dandelions will be popping their golden heads out on lawns and roadsides. They were originally grown in the English gardens and brought to the United States by the colonists. They were considered vegetables rather than weeds. The dandelions adapted well to their new environment and spread all over the United States.

Dandelions are super-vegetables. Ounce for ounce, dandelions greens have 50 percent more Vitamin C than tomatoes, twice as much protein as eggplant and double the fiber found in asparagus. They have as much iron as spinach and more potassium than bananas. Picked properly, usually before the yellow blossoms appear and the acidity of the leaves increases, dandelions make for fine eating.

The leaves and shoots of the dandelions can be boiled in water for five minutes, drained and seasoned with salt, pepper and butter.

Another recipe that you might want to try: Using the full flower blossoms and prepared pancake mix, dip each blossom into the mix and drop into hot oil. Fry until golden brown and serve hot. The blossoms can also be cooked in omelets and used in making wine.

When gathering dandelions for table use, collect them in areas where they have not been sprayed with weed killers or chemical fertilizers. Use several rinses of water to flush out the soil particles and small insects.

Break Up Your Fallow Ground - 453

2011-02-21T23:31:00.000-06:00

Hosea 10:12

Sow for yourselves righteousness;

Reap in mercy;

Break up your fallow ground,

For it is time to seek the LORD,

Till He comes and rains righteousness on you.

Miracles that follow the plow. ~ Audio Sermon by A.W. Tozer

Common Man - 439

2011-02-07T18:16:00.001-06:00

i remember hearing Richard Wurmbrand talking about a keen interest in the common man. So many people that are born, work in a factory, and die without much of any great fanfare. Wurmbrand remarked that God created so many common men / people, that He must really love them. Jesus came as a carpenter, not a noble or king, not of high standing in society - He related to the common man, by being one of them and living among them. What a better way to minister to people than through understanding where they are coming from by being in their midst. Can you reach who you are trying to minister to from within the walls and closed doors of your church? Look to the common, the simple, where you stand this moment - this is your ministry, right under your feet. You are standing in the harvest fields.

Onion Box - Blackberry Trellis - 429

2011-01-29T18:46:00.000-06:00

Lean on Me - 422

2011-01-22T12:47:00.000-06:00

Lean on Jesus

Annointing - 420

2011-01-20T00:28:00.000-06:00

at 12:20-21.1.20.2011 1 John 2:20-21

But you have an annointing from the Holy One,
and you know all things.
I have not written to you because you do not know the truth,
but because you know it, and that no lie is of the truth.

Have a Blessed night... sweet dreams...

Signal to Turn Right - 419 (from the elec. dept.)

2011-01-19T23:53:00.002-06:00

The Main Powers that Be - The Great I AM, Jah, Yahweh would just like to inform you that this would be a great time to turn right(eous). Sometimes a simple message in the spirit is just blatant and unmistakable. When i noticed a blinking light coming from the electric departments parking lot, i noticed it was a right turn signal left on one of the trucks. i let it go thinking that surely someone would be in and turn it off. This was last Friday night and it was on for three days. Pretty simple message. We tend to complicate God and search for the razzle dazzle - the big sign. He wispers right in front of you. ... turn right my children, turn right, this is the right way...

Proverbs: 19:23
The fear of the Lord leads to life,
and he who has it will abide in satisfaction;
He will not be visited with evil.

Proverbs: 20:6-7
Most men will proclaim each his own goodness.
But who can find a faithful man?

The righteous man walks in his integrity;
His children are blessed after him.

Sword in Hand - 415

2011-01-15T15:40:00.002-06:00

i have been blessed with a little more time on the main website extending into February before the renewal fees are due. Making the best use of this time, i am working on an update and some more postings. i started writing this latest post back in 2007 and never uploaded it to the site, i just didn't think i was ready or informed enough to write about it, though i had a profound drive to do so.
Still using the old tools at hand and whatever still functions i tend to make use of. i'm running an old pentium ii - 450 Mhz w/384 Mb ram... but the monitor is a 21" - good for the older eyes and seem much clearer, deeper than current flat screens. This is the old Micron box i bought back in Atlanta is over 10 years old - SCSI is solid. Something awesome about some of those old technologies, like windmills, masonry heaters, water collection and filtration systems, using what was at hand... and using the natural, there was a flow harnessed.
That is one way that God has led me over the years and directed my path. i think this is a good lesson for everyone to listen to and employ in their lives. If you feel like you have hit a wall somewhere in your life, then look for the door as God will provide one. If there isn't a door, look for a window, or if there is no way to get past this current obstacle, then that is the intent. Then we must sit and wait patiently where we are in prayer. Each opportunity, door, window, wall, must be brought before God for confirmation and direction before we pass through. Just as the wise fireman checks a door for heat or smoke before opening, we must also take that level of caution in this spiritual walk. Look at your feet as well and understand the ground you stand on. That is where you will make your stand.

i took down my sword today and dusted it off. i haven't done that since 2007 either and, just like this next post on my website, there is something profound about it's presence at this time. i made a wooden sword a couple years ago. i carved the wooden sword from a piece of poplar which had a beautiful green and blue streak of grain flowing through the wood. Just playing around with the toy, an old type of training tool... just like the Samurai weapons. Today both the wooden and metal swords caught my attention as i was reading in my Sword (The Bible - The Word of God). It is a time to lean on the Word and take it in Hand and Heart to sustain us in the coming challenges. It is comfort, peace, and joy amid the chaos that allows us to fall asleep in the boat with Yeshua, while the stormy sea laps against the boat. Where is your faith?

Much Love and Many Blessings From Father,

~ antbrother .../\...

HE IS!/i am... Psalm 73 - 413

2011-01-13T20:49:00.004-06:00

Psalm 73

1 Truly God is good to Israel,
To such as are pure in heart.

2 But as for me, my feet had almost stumbled;
My steps had nearly slipped.

3 For I was envious of the boastful,
When I saw the prosperity of the wicked.

4 For there are no pangs in their death,
But their strength is firm.

5 They are not in trouble as other men,
Nor are they plagued like other men.

6 Therefore pride serves as their necklace;
Violence covers them like a garment.

7 Their eyes bulge[a] with abundance;
They have more than heart could wish.

8 They scoff and speak wickedly concerning oppression;
They speak loftily.

9 They set their mouth against the heavens,
And their tongue walks through the earth.

10 Therefore his people return here,
And waters of a full cup are drained by them.

11 And they say, “How does God know?
And is there knowledge in the Most High?”

12 Behold, these are the ungodly,
Who are always at ease;
They increase in riches.

13 Surely I have cleansed my heart in vain,
And washed my hands in innocence.

14 For all day long I have been plagued,
And chastened every morning.

15 If I had said, “I will speak thus,”
Behold, I would have been untrue to the generation of Your children.

16 When I thought how to understand this,
It was too painful for me—

17 Until I went into the sanctuary of God;
Then I understood their end.

18 Surely You set them in slippery places;
You cast them down to destruction.

19 Oh, how they are brought to desolation, as in a moment!
They are utterly consumed with terrors.

20 As a dream when one awakes,
So, Lord, when You awake,
You shall despise their image.

21 Thus my heart was grieved,
And I was vexed in my mind.

22 I was so foolish and ignorant;
I was like a beast before You.

23 Nevertheless I am continually with You;
You hold me by my right hand.

24 You will guide me with Your counsel,
And afterward receive me to glory.

25 Whom have I in heaven but You?
And there is none upon earth that I desire besides You.

26 My flesh and my heart fail;
But God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever.

27 For indeed, those who are far from You shall perish;
You have destroyed all those who desert You for harlotry.

28 But it is good for me to draw near to God;
I have put my trust in the Lord GOD,
That I may declare all Your works.

Selah

Design for Climate Change - Covered Raised Beds - 410

2011-01-10T15:30:00.002-06:00

Interesting... how this developed. i am a scrapper out of necessity lately but i have to admit that i have always squirreled some odd things away. You just never know when you might need something, like that piece of rope off of a hay bale. So one of the latest things i have been collecting are shipping crates. There is a local company that throws some of them out and after receiving permission i acquired a few. My initial intention was for firewood or to build some rustic planter boxes but when the recent winter storm kicked up i had to prepare something to protect the plants i still had in the ground. The temperatures here in MS have roller coastered from the 50's to the 20's and back again so some plants were just getting established in the boxed beds.

Since some of the boxes came with tops, i used them to cover what i had planted in some boxes and grabbed a few pieces of scrap plywood to cover the cold frame. Pretty cool idea YAH! Other benefits of the 18" boxed beds will come to light after i install corner braces (seats) to reinforce them this spring. It is much easier to work the beds from the siting position rather than bending over and the boxes will definitely lead into some interesting garden layouts.

On another note: The main website is up for DNS renewal and i have not been able to update that just yet due to limited funds. i will retain the domain http://www.antbrotherfarms.com/ but it will be offline until i can make some money. i just started back at the factory and a month without any income has stressed the support, pantry and rent needs. i think you can still view the site through search engine cached pages but that is limited. i have been updating some content in a bigger way, yet to be posted, and since my time is limited, i am only able to update that main site once every few weeks or so. That site is where i started this walk and is a good resource with a broad array of areas of interest. So if it's down, remember it is not out and will stand again soon. The DNS update is due tomorrow - 01/11/2011 - so anticipate the return.

God Bless and Love in Yeshua,

~ antbrother

Just a Circle - 407

2011-01-07T23:42:00.000-06:00

Cistern First Steps

i was remarking to my friend today how amazing the Holy Spirit is when we become the willing vessel, the empty circle that allows God to work through us here on earth. i would like to write more tonight on this but the hour is late and i have an early morning call to head into work. Storms are on the way this weekend and Sunday to Monday will be bringing some snow accumulation to north Mississippi. The store shelves should be emptying out tomorrow in preparation for 3-8" of snow expected. i was hoping for more snow and have much last minute preparation and some herb harvesting to complete before the cold temps and snow cover are here.

Be a circle for God and let His Spirit flow into and through your life. What i thought i was is not and who i became in Him Is.

Love and Anticipation of a Winter Blanket,
~ antbrother

Awoken - 406

2011-01-06T23:42:00.001-06:00

At 2:24 a.m. the Lord woke me and asked me to read the Bible.

i asked, "What would You have me read?"

He replied, "Mathew 24:24-25"

i reached for my Bible and opened it, to my delight, on the exact page and scripture He quoted.

Mathew 24:24-25
"For false christs and false prophets will rise and show great signs and wonders to deceive, if possible, even the elect.
See, I have told you beforehand."

Ripping Again - 405

2011-01-05T16:16:00.000-06:00

Church at the jail last night was pretty amazing and Whooooaaaa did God show up and show out last night. For anyone that is really close in their walk with God, or just anyone that happens to Know Yahweh, i am sure that you have experieced the "wash of the Holy Spirit". This is such a beautiful feeling, such a closeness to our Creator and such a blessing to receive. It is the softest caress from the inside out and top down that anyone could ever feel. So gentle is God's touch and so awe inspiring a gift to know that He cares for us. i couldn't help but share that before a little news on work.

i have been fortunate to have been called into my old job at the furniture frame factory for the rest of the week. Back to running the industrial rip saw during the day at least for a few more. There were several things since last fall that really added to the decline in work. The obvious is that winter is not a landscaping season even if you do happen to live in the south. But there were other issues and lessons from God that i have taken in and taken to heart and these have strenghthened me and my faith over the last few months. Lean months and GoOD lessons from Father.
We ran around 3,500 pieces today which is well below what we used to run, but then again it was just day one out of the gate. i thought my old injuries would flare up and not allow me to work in this capacity again, but it went well and i covered the aches with prayer and some song amid the noise of the factory. This really brought forth some humility and gratitude to realize that it doesn't matter the situation, circumstances and surroundings because you can always be with God in your walk. Praise Him.

Thank You Father! ~ your little ant

Prison Work - 403

2011-01-03T17:38:00.000-06:00

Working on last years attendance list for the residents from jail (church). One of the mothers of an inmate had an idea where we could put together a role of attendance and present the inmates with a certificate to encourage them. We average 15-20 inmates per service and about the same number of visitors attend each week as well. i know this sounds strange and simplistic but a man in prison that truly wants to change, Really appreciates any encouragement and contact from outside the bars. The request came from a mother and a member of our prison ministry.
Something more is coming out of this - more prayer for these men and for others that i have come across when i do an inmate search online. Some of the names are difficult to read so i use the MDOC (Ms Dept of Corrections) Inmate Search to locate them and the correct spelling of each mans name. Well,,, through this process i have really been touched to see so many people in so many jails across this state of MS. i know some have hardened hearts and are truly non-repentant but there are others, even just a few, that see their wrongs and repent, seeking God in the process. These are the few that are worth working for and worth reaching a hand out to in just saying, "i will pray for you. Jesus can make this change inside of you and you don't have to be the man that committed the crime. He will re-create you and you can be born again in Spirit."

It's worth the effort, even if it was just one.

ARK-ans-as - 402

2011-01-02T21:30:00.001-06:00

http://quake.ualr.edu/public/epicenters.htm

Lots of activity in our neighboring state of Arkansas. Earthquake swarms, fatal tornado, thousands of dead drum fish, and thousands of dead blackbirds falling from the sky.

Sounds to me like we're about to get a severe shaking - upside down. The obvious signs of nature point to an anomaly and lack of balance. The New Madrid fault is a bit northeast of the recent activity but there was a "previously undiscovered" fault line running through that state and in proximity to the New Madrid.

Spiritually speaking - get on your knees and prepare. Under the Wing of The Most High God is your protection and your Ark to weather this coming storm.

God Bless, ~ ab

Articles / Links:

Tornado in Cincinatti Arkansas - 2010.12.31
http://www.cnn.com/video/?/video/weather/2010/12/31/vo.arkansas.tornado.aerials.kotvkwtv

"A series of mysterious events has occurred in various places in Arkansas—odd, and disturbing events. Events which, when strung together, give one pause for thought. "

http://www.theepochtimes.com/n2/content/view/48485/

State commission says dead fish now cover 20-mile section of Arkansas River - 2010.12.31
"the number is likely in the hundreds of thousands."

http://www.wreg.com/news/sns-ap-ar--deadfish,0,4149236.story?track=rss

4,000-5,000 Blackbirds fall from the sky in Beebe, Arkansas - 2011.01.02
http://www.wctv.tv/home/headlines/Arkansas_Officials__112779149.html?storySection=story
"As of Saturday, between 4,000 and 5,000 blackbirds had been found dead, said Keith Stephens with the commission."
More...
http://www.reuters.com/article/idUSTRE7010UO20110102

"The small community of Guy has 549 residents and is north of Little Rock. It has experienced an almost constant shaking from a large series of measurable earthquakes, since Sep. 20, 2010. The last reported number of quakes during that period was 487."

Arkanasas Earthquake Swarm - 2010
http://earthquake.usgs.gov/earthquakes/eqarchives/poster/2010/201010ARswarm.php

Scientists Discover New Fault Line in Arkansas - 2009.21.22
http://tennesseewx.com/index.php?PHPSESSID=0e52b0230edda8c2636abdb41c02726c&topic=1920.msg44537#msg44537

Father Sky - 401

2011-01-01T16:06:00.002-06:00

Some rough storms came through last night feeding up from the gulf and connecting to a low pressure system blowing out of the northwest. Tornado fatalities in Arkansas. Prayers go out to those in bereavement and loss from this passing line of storms and time. Starting the year with nothing and some with even less due to the loss of a family member or friend. These are the circumstances that many face in life through this walk. Each day may open up something that we had never anticipated, in a moment the whole world around us has changed and we are challenged to face the new landscape before us. Wandering in our minds as lost orphans, our foundation as we knew it disappeared. So many trials and yet we must continue to walk through this incident for the promise of a clearer sky on the other side of the storm. The sun will rise again on another day if we are blessed with that option.

Where do we search for meaning in these trials and changes to our lives? Where do we find comfort and strength enough to wash away the pain? Few have answers and some know that just being present in silence with a friend speaks an enormity of words through our hearts. We each need to search within our hearts and the silence within - that still small voice of our Creator is there amidst the outer noise and chaos. He brings solace and peace, He settles the heart, He strengthens us when we are weak so that we are able to continue. Others need us too, so we cannot just disappear within our own troubles and sink into despair. The peace that transcends all understanding, may you find it in your heart and live there with God.

Loving and Blessed New Year to All,
~antbrother

Colere Terra Mare Caelum - 400

2010-12-30T16:38:00.002-06:00

Out of a box you say, or was it out of "The" box? The first question would pertain to how i appear somedays after work, as in "Where did you climb out of?", while the second question is typical rhetoric for think tanks, generating of new concepts and ideas, solving problems that need new solutions. What i have found in some of my most recent research is that most of the new ideas that are considered innovative and "out of the box" thinking, have all been used before. Nothing new under the sun as Solomon wrote, but there are lessons to learn from the past and new applications of this knowledge into contemporary life. The gap in generational knowledge tends to create an atmosphere of amnesia between the new and old generations.

Case in point is my recent searching for some guidelines and references for writing grants for our Prison Ministry group. Much of the work and efforts have paralleled my work interests as they have developed over the years and i found an overall phrase that depicts the direction. It is called permaculture and involves multiple interests to creation of a balanced coherent whole involving architecture, landscape, environment and planning. This is nothing new and dates back to indigenous tribes being good stewards of the land. Native American Indians were advanced in how they managed their natural resources to create a relationship with and through the natural world, a relationship of balance and respect not of control and dominance.

i looked up a few latin phrases for the elements and culture. The simple phrase that came forth translated is "To Cultivate, Earth, Sea, and Sky (or Heaven). Some references came out of this that i've included below - one of scripture and the other of the sculptor's chisel.

God Bless,

~ antbrother
- - - - - - - - - - - -
Revelation 14:14-20
Reaping the Earth’s Harvest
14 Then I looked, and behold, a white cloud, and on the cloud sat One like the Son of Man, having on His head a golden crown, and in His hand a sharp sickle. 15 And another angel came out of the temple, crying with a loud voice to Him who sat on the cloud, “Thrust in Your sickle and reap, for the time has come for You to reap, for the harvest of the earth is ripe.” 16 So He who sat on the cloud thrust in His sickle on the earth, and the earth was reaped.

Reaping the Grapes of Wrath
17 Then another angel came out of the temple which is in heaven, he also having a sharp sickle.
18 And another angel came out from the altar, who had power over fire, and he cried with a loud cry to him who had the sharp sickle, saying, “Thrust in your sharp sickle and gather the clusters of the vine of the earth, for her grapes are fully ripe.” 19 So the angel thrust his sickle into the earth and gathered the vine of the earth, and threw it into the great winepress of the wrath of God. 20 And the winepress was trampled outside the city, and blood came out of the winepress, up to the horses’ bridles, for one thousand six hundred furlongs.

_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _
http://www.constellationsofwords.com/Constellations/Caelum.htm

Latin caelum means both 'the heavens' (from the same root as 'celestial'), and 'sculptor's chisel', or burin; an engraving tool for metals. It is this instrument that La Caille had in mind when he named this constellation.

History
from Star Names: Their Lore and Meaning, 1889, Richard H. Allen

Caelum or Scalptorium, the Burin or Graving Tool, sometimes incorrectly written Cela sculptoria, is the French Burin, the Italian Bulino, and the German Grabstichel.

It was formed by La Caille from stars between Columba and Eridanus, directly south of the Sceptrum Brandenburgicum; Gould now assigns to it twenty-eight components, of magnitudes from four to seven.

Burritt, in the early editions of his book, arbitrarily changed the name to Praxiteles, perhaps thinking thereby to avoid possible confusion with the constellation Sculptor.

Caelum comes to the meridian with the star Aldebaran on the 10th of January, and is entirely visible from the 40th parallel.

Blessings to You All - 396

2010-12-26T23:56:00.000-06:00

i have been catching up on my hibernating since October when i first mentioned what a good idea that might be, wake up sometime in spring 2011... This may have something to do with quitting smoking – seven weeks now behind me and each day filled with no desire, more like a complete distaste for them. i was thinking that at some point, the non-smoker stops counting and just stays confident in the fact that the addiction has been removed – stop counting and just be, i really feel like i am there – so i will. Make sense? :) The loss of this habit has created a void that feels like it may need to be replaced with something positive. Chocolate has helped but i was thinking more in terms of an activity, like working out again. Hmmm… Maybe some serious digging is in store for me in the coming year?

i have been fortunate that the Christmas celebrations inside and out, have woken me from my slumber so i might eat a bit more, snack on some great cookies and contemplate the deeper meanings of this Spirit walk that God has led me on while I sip on my own special coffee concoction. Although this season is obviously, and obliviously, lost in the commercial nature of buy, buy, buy, run, run, run,... we are often given these frequent opportunities to stop, pause and watch the snowflakes. Here in Mississippi we had a white Christmas for the first time since 1963. It really was a blessing to see those big flakes covering everything, softly floating down to settle in for the season. But these moments of silence and pause are precious and important. As Jesus said – “I am the silence and the much deeper silence.” i pray that you have taken that moment in the silence with Him to find peace within.

God Bless and Love to You All,

~antbrother

Psalm 23 - 390

2010-12-20T14:04:00.001-06:00

1 The LORD is my shepherd;
I shall not want.

2 He makes me to lie down in green pastures;
He leads me beside the still waters.

3 He restores my soul;
He leads me in the paths of righteousness
For His name’s sake.

4 Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death,
I will fear no evil;
For You are with me;
Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me.

5 You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies;
You anoint my head with oil;
My cup runs over.

6 Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me
All the days of my life;
And I will dwell[a] in the house of the LORD
Forever.

The Journeyman = 387

2010-12-17T18:20:00.002-06:00

Nice header.

So where are you headed? I'm a Journeyman on my way to Heaven. Actually it is already here - at hand.

i spent some time up on a scaffolding today finishing some exterior trim work. i hadn't planned on becoming a carpenter growing up or even after moving to Mississippi, but that is one of the trades that i have been blessed to learn. i tell clients that i drew buildings for 20+ years and learned how to detail them correctly and now i am blessed to be able to build and fix them with the knowledge gained over all those years designing and drawing. Sure is different when you are working "full scale". Vectors don't warp either and every component in the digital drawing is too scale - if drawn correctly. In the real world we have moisture, heat, sunlight, the nature of materials, and an array of items and influences that take the straight lines in the structure and bend them. This is where the tricks and the skills come in and if you spend some apprenticeship time under a master you will learn many. i know a few. A good painter always saves the job for a bad carpenter. :)

Now is the time of being a Journeyman for me. It is a strange place and an awkward one where we are pushed forward out of our comfort zone, but armed with the confidence of using what we have been taught and that we have been taught right from wrong. The Journeyman is not a Master but is given jobs that he will handle himself - jobs where the Master is not directly needed. So the Journeyman is armed with all the knowledge of the Master, what has been taught so far, and has a certain number of skills which he has gained confidence in using over the time of preparation. The Journeyman is in this awkward place because he has to learn to work on jobs by himself and is entrusted with this, he moves forward but the Master has already been sent ahead of him. All eyes seem to be on him, and all around him want to see what this is all about. "Let's see what he has been taught." is what they say. They want the opportunity to see his work and judge. If it is nothing worth noting, maybe lukewarm, they shrug their shoulders and go back to their realities. Nothing has changed.

The Journeyman is poised and confident, though, and he has been taught patience and persistance. Granted there were numerous chunks of skin and flesh that he lost in the learning process and there was of course the crushing of the ego when he first started, but these were just parts of the learning process and something that he would have never experienced if he never tried and didn't have the courage to step out in the first place. So now is a time when his hands and work represent His hands and His Works. The Journeyman knows that there are other apprectices coming up and he lends a hand and shares his knowledge and support while settling in on his job and his opportunity to learn and share and raise up the Master who taught him everything. The Master chose the Journeyman because He saw something in him, a potential and purpose, a stuborn persistant perfectionist and a man that has a passion and love inside. He saw something beyond the exterior, He saw and sees within.

The Master chose us first. So where are you headed?

Love and Blessings in the name of Yeshua,

~ antbrother

385 - Very Much Alive

2010-12-15T16:14:00.000-06:00

i smirk thinking about a local car dealer - Sam Stevens - in one of his commercials, climbing out of the trunk of a car and stating, "Hi, Sam Stevens here, and i'm not dead." Such are the small town tv ads that show us a humorous side of our neighbors, just that touch of humanness that unites us. Some days it may seem like we, as people united in this world together, are still locked in the trunk of the car. But we have a choice. Let's chose to step out into the world for a while since you are reading this now and are very much alive and breathing. Thanks to that first breath of Life that primed the pump for us all at birth.

This winter cold spell sure has sent many of us indoors to deal with the change in weather. i pray for those that work outside in the elements everyday and those others that just have no shelter, or anything that we would call shelter. Last year i was behind an industrial rip saw working indoors but not in a conditioned or heated space. The wind was kept out by the metal building but that was about it. This winter has been a bit different and i have been able to work in between the breaks in the weather. Work has slowed considerably to just a couple days a week, so i have been forced to search for income in other areas, eat less and simpler meals and conserve. Prayer is always the first step, in or out of season - in good and bad times, and i do know that any trying times are merely God strengthening our faith. Whenever paying work has slowed in the past, God has placed a need to serve someone in my path, a definite ministry outlet.

i am not up on a scaffolding working on exterior trim today due to the freezing rain on the tail end of this arctic front. i should be back up there tomorrow though - as the the ice thaws and the rain briefly subsides. Prayers go out to the Salvation Army bell ringers all over the country. You are continuing in a ministry outreach effort that God began in the heart of a man named William Booth.

http://www1.salvationarmy.org/heritage.nsf/0/c2af02232cb1f005802568cd0034a9fa?OpenDocument

Stay warm, be blessed. Love, ~antbrother

382 - Where Are You?

2010-12-12T11:05:00.000-06:00

Proverbs 12:24-28

...

24 The hand of the diligent will rule,

But the lazy man will be put to forced labor.

25 Anxiety in the heart of man causes depression,
But a good word makes it glad.

26 The righteous should choose his friends carefully,
For the way of the wicked leads them astray.

27 The lazy man does not roast what he took in hunting,
But diligence is man’s precious possession.

28 In the way of righteousness is life,
And in its pathway there is no death.

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+12&version=NKJV

His garment is covered with dust - 380

2010-12-10T00:00:00.001-06:00

LEAVE this chanting and singing and telling of beads Whom dost thou worship in this lonely dark corner of a temple with doors all shut? Open thine eyes and see thy God is not before thee!

He is there where the tiller is tilling the hard ground and where the pathmaker is breaking stones. He is with them in sun and in shower, and His garment is covered with dust. Put off thy holy mantle and even like Him come down on the dusty soil!

Deliverance? Where is this deliverance to be found? Our Master Himself has joyfully taken upon Him the bonds of creation; He is bound with us all for ever.

Come out of thy meditations and leave aside thy flowers and incense! What harm is there if thy clothes become tattered and stained? Meet Him and stand by Him in toil and in sweat of thy brow.

TAGORE

Wisdom and Purpose - 378

2010-12-08T14:00:00.010-06:00

Reading Proverbs each day as a foundation
of my daily scriptures has really been a blessing and a love that i look forward to each morning. True wisdom is readily available from the wisest man ever to have lived on the earth, and the wisest man that will ever live on the earth - King Solomon.

1 Kings 3:6-14
And Solomon said: “You have shown great mercy to Your servant David my father, because he walked before You in truth, in righteousness, and in uprightness of heart with You; You have continued this great kindness for him, and You have given him a son to sit on his throne, as it is this day. Now, O LORD my God, You have made Your servant king instead of my father David, but I am a little child; I do not know how to go out or come in. And Your servant is in the midst of Your people whom You have chosen, a great people, too numerous to be numbered or counted. Therefore give to Your servant an understanding heart to judge Your people, that I may discern between good and evil. For who is able to judge this great people of Yours?”

The speech pleased the Lord, that Solomon had asked this thing. Then God said to him: “Because you have asked this thing, and have not asked long life for yourself, nor have asked riches for yourself, nor have asked the life of your enemies, but have asked for yourself understanding to discern justice, behold, I have done according to your words; see, I have given you a wise and understanding heart, so that there has not been anyone like you before you, nor shall any like you arise after you. And I have also given you what you have not asked: both riches and honor, so that there shall not be anyone like you among the kings all your days. So if you walk in My ways, to keep My statutes and My commandments, as your father David walked, then I will lengthen your days.”

Your Wisdom for the Day -> Proverbs 8

Tornados - 377

2010-12-07T14:08:00.001-06:00

i stayed up late last week on November 30 - the night of my last post. This was the night that a 30 degree temperature change blew through on the winds, much like the one that came through last month - radar pic (typ.). After the waves and waves of rain came through for most of the day, the higher winds began to kick in. The siren went off sometime close to midnight and the winds died down to nothing - calm before the blowout.

After watching Dick Rice for a while (our local weather man), i realized that the worst of it had blown through and tomorrow was to be a day of cleanup. Welcome to December.

Tornado Rips Through Monroe Co. Community
http://www.wcbi.com/article.php?subaction=showfull&id=1291158003&archive=&start_from=&ucat=2&

This is a good opportunity to encourage people again to prepare your food storages and safe places and make sure you are well stocked in water, food and medical supplies. Just in case the next tornado chooses a path that you happen to be on.

This storm created several tornados and the town of Becker, five miles from Amory, was hit. There were about 20 houses totaled and a good deal of other damage. Thankfully there was no loss of life.

That concept of an earth home seems to make more and more sense these days. Back to the drawing board. :)

Dang - 370

2010-11-30T11:40:00.000-06:00

Frost on Strawberry Leaves

i took some pictures this past weekend and it was amazing to see the structure in the ice crystals that formed on the strawberry plants. Time really does seem to be flying by these days and the transition from summer to autumn to winter has been like a hop-skip-jump from warm to cold to warm to frost. In between work and home, i have a good deal of things to keep up on and grow, transplant, build, write.... Some are simple concepts, some are just emails and prayers to friends, and some are looking to the future and what God may hold in store for our ministry group, my family and friends.

i was listening to an older audio by AW Tozer (they all are) and he was discussing the seasons of our lives and how we transition through those parts of our lives as Christians - Followers and Servants of Yeshua. Time will continue to move forward and changes will be constant, but the one defining permanence is within our hearts - that Love that God places there. Love does grow inside and looks for a way to find others to share with. You can't keep it inside. By the time you enter into the winter of your life, this relationship with Jesus must be first and foremost - well, it should be in all the other seasons too, but i am referring to a maturity in the walk, a humble confidence in your spiritual stride. The love that comes out has this ability to melt all the cold that is within closed hearts, like spring blooming forth just below the white winter cover.

The blessing of gray hair and sore joints, they just seem to be a reminder that this time, this season that is upon us, is one that we must strive to work His works while it is still light. i have sometimes felt like hibernating through the winter, but there is too much to experience and too little time to do so within. So with whatever you may have at your feet, i encourage you (and of course my self) to let that warm love of Jesus inside your heart come through and pop out of the surface of the cold like impatient daffodils stretcfhing for the Son.

God Bless,

~ ab

ThanksLiving - 363

2010-11-23T23:46:00.004-06:00

Something like 80+ people showed up for church tonight and our Thanksgiving dinner and service. it was more just like family getting together before dinner and then having a really long prayer before we ate. Pretty cool for a church service. i'll have to upload a couple pictures to share some of the night with you, some of the family and friends that i have come to know over the last several years.

It really something amazing, what has occured within this county jail. What God has created here is beautiful. It is a place of family and friends where many do not or have not had family or friends in their past. Nothing like real family, someone that truly loves you and you can feel that, you know that these people are real. So, we had a GoOD night, some singing, a great sermon on Hebrews (be content with your blessings), some fellowship and a lot of food.

Come join us if you happen to be in West Point, MS on any Tuesday night at 7:00 at the Clay County Jail. God Bless and a joyous evening to you. We don't eat this well every Tuesday, just at Thanksgiving and Christmas.

Cosmos Bee MegaFlare - .357 Magnum

2010-11-17T17:59:00.002-06:00

Opening weekend for deer hunting is coming in a few days. i grew up in a family of avid hunters, outdoorsmen/mom, and general nature lovers. There was always a time when we were somewhere in nature or taking a family trip to see the sites. That is one thing i really miss, the way my family was close before my father died. We had our dysfunction at times but we were a close family almost 40 years ago. i share with friends how we used to enjoy doing things as a family, hunting was one of those family outings once a year. Deer hunting season is a passion in Wisconsin - akin to shutting down the state to support the hunters. The season doesn't run as long, but it sure runs deep. :)

As a family, we would come home after the weekend fun with a blessed bounty from the woods. We would usually process the deer at home. We would setup in the garage for the skinning and butchering and setup in the kitchen for making sausage or further cutting/cleaning and processing the meat for the freezer. Roasts, stew meat, tenderloins, steaks... we had our fill of venison each year and that certainly helped feed a family of four boys and two girls. The time working together with eachother, that bonding time is really what i miss. i think i maybe miss them more, don't know? You see, i was the one that moved to the south for work and school years ago, while my family remained in the Nortwoods (typo intended). At times, like now, i can feel it/them calling me back home. Deep roots growing up in the north woods... Ojibwe feet.
http://www.mpm.edu/wirp/ICW-51.html

Must be the season, my favorite, Autumn... seasons. This is time of the year to stock preparations for the winter months... actually we're already in the throws of some decent winter storms already, west and north of MS. My past recollection of Autumn was always a time to bring in the harvest and stack the firewood, process the deer and fill the freezer with food, shelves stocked with canned goods and plenty of water, or fresh well water like we used to pump by hand. These were not considered "preparations" back in the day, but they were common sense and needed in order to make it through the winter months. This concept of preparations is not in the mind of many these days, it is not even considered by some unfortuantely as we have turned into a drivethrough society in essence. Time to stop a second and pause in the season, breath in the cool air and see what your heart tells you. It is time to prepare - start with your heart.

The seasons are changing and my Ojibwe feet tell me that a winter storm approaches. Bundle up and pray most importantly. Stay close to God and He will keep you warm and fed and at peace in your heart. i love the forest in the winter, such peace and solitude. Blessings and Love, Remember the Strength of Family,

~ antbrother

Plumbago Imagination - 356

2010-11-16T12:22:00.002-06:00

Sounds like the combination of a fruit and a recreational utility vehicle, when in actuality it is a flowering shrub with the most beautiful soft blue petals. In the right growing conditions and a bit warmer climate than MS, a plumbago can reach six to eight feet in height. They continue to bloom all summer as well. This is why i have moved these two indoors in an unheated space - my office. Hopefully they will handle the cold and last till spring. i have a few ideas that will help, like a large quilt for their roots... :)

Just looking at the area where i have placed these, gives me some ideas on a passive solar enclosure. By adding a makeshift back wall and some thermal mass in the way of bricks or water jugs, this space can stay warm enough (above freezing) for these plants to weather the cold. Some simple guidelines for shelter - whether it applies to these plants or some camping shelter - imagine and be creative.

Just One, or 300 Trumpets - 348

2010-11-04T14:52:00.002-05:00

i have been reading through some of Judges Chapter 7 since this past Tuesday. Pastor Avant gave the message of how God used Gideon and a small group of 300 men to defeat the Midianites, who numbered as the sands of the desert. The initial group that were to go out to war was around 32,000 and God told Gideon that this was too many because Israel may think that the defeat was theirs and not given into their hand by God.

So God first separated all those that were afraid and wittled the number down to 10,000. This still being too many, God selected a few 300 men based on how they drank water. These men lapped out of their hand rather than drinking from the water on their knees. This was the few that stood and would stand in the face of adversity and challenge, the few with faith enough. God then took this small group and sent them out to the enemy camp each armed with a trumpet and a pitcher with a torch inside. At the sounding of the 300 trumpets, they shouted "The sword of the Lord and of Gideon!", and they broke their pitchers. They held torches in their left hand and the trumpets in their right hand. The enemy was awoken and disoriented and those that didn't flee turned on one another with their swords. God accomplished the victory alone, while using a small remnant to witness His method.

Would you believe that 300 men with horns could defeat such a vast army? Most would view that as foolishness - that is, foolishness to the world. But God uses the foolish to defeat the proud.

This story has importance in learning how God uses people for His Will. He selects the weak to show His strength, He uses the few to defeat the many, He uses those who believe and are not afraid to accomplish His Will to stand in the gap. He needs Spiritual Leaders that will simply Stand for Him. It just takes one, or 300 trumpets, or whatever simple means that God decides to use. Believe.

~ antbrother

The Pause "Selah" - 346

2010-11-02T02:01:00.000-05:00

There was a definite pause that began last week and will be lasting through the next few days. Can you feel it... What do i mean by a pause? In the Psalms there was often a pause or "selah", which was a note to stop and listen. (Those with eyes and ears) For us it was a pause in work and an effort to organize and set a new course of direction. Where i thought the tempo would pick back up was a bit off the mark from where God stood. i have appreciated the Way He leads.

Since placing an ad in the local paper, an interest has been cultivating in creating a community garden program. There are many local small farmers and backyard horticulturalists in the area that we are hoping will be involved and are we are seeking some support from the local extension service through Mississippi State University - Plant and Soil Sciences.

We've set some basic goals for the program:
~ Establish local organic vegetable and flower gardens
~ Educate the community on the health benefits of organic food
~ Establish a local farmers market outlet w/ Co-Op
~ Teach a cooking class using the produce grown

Part of the process of developing a program is looking to other local and national efforts to learn what works. The next week will be an effort to organize some simple handouts and focus on locating a property or properties as candidate sites. We've gone through several site selections this year with no success yet. One of the best options is anyone open to using their backyard. That's where most of the victory gardens of the past were planted.

i really shouldn't drink coffee this late... lol.. Gute Nacht

God Bless and GoOD Shoveling,
~ antbrother
ameiseBruder

We Live In a Beautiful World - 342

2010-10-29T00:38:00.001-05:00

We Live in a Beautiful World by Katelyn Smaglick 2010 (Puzzle Art)

Disregard the caption under the art, she is studying biology, morphology and all that other medical stuff. So what i'm trying to say is that we do live in a beautiful world even if it says red lesions with silvery scales under our art... lol. She'll appreciate the sense of humor.

This drawing is by my daughter and i just needed to share it with you. She is a true blessing to me and makes me a very proud Dad.

Never Compromise - 340

2010-10-27T00:15:00.001-05:00

That was the last point that i picked up out of the sermon tonight on Triumphant Living - "Never Compromise". Minister Kevin Cuevas delivered the Word and began with point one which is Be In The Word. Read your Bible daily and spend daily time in prayer (talking to God and asking for directions). The interesting thing about the H.O.P.E. Church is that a different minister or preacher comes each Tuesday night so we receive a different flavor of message from each. It is amazing to see how the Spirit of God instructs and teaches through each of these individual ministers.

The final point on the sermon is pretty straight forward. Once we are on the path that God has set us on we should never deviate. Taking into account that we are human and make mistakes is a given but we must always apologize for our error, stand up and stay the course. Live your faith with complete conviction and belief.
God Bless.

~ ab

Luke 9:62
Jesus replied, "No one who puts his hand to the plow and looks back is fit for service in the kingdom of God."

Fresh and Dried Herbs - 338

2010-10-25T22:17:00.000-05:00

i've been cutting and drying herbs the last two weeks and preparing the garden for the autumn plantings. This is a busy time in the garden for cleaning up the weeds, putting up the harvest and planting cool weather plants - cabbage, spinach, kale, brussel sprouts, brocolli, carrots, etc. The tomatoes have come back since we finally cooled off and had a little rain, so i am planning on protecting them if temperatures drop.

i have three composting bins that serve well with one another. As a mature bin is turned into the garden beds, the other two are in the process of composting and are continually used for a place to recycle garden weeds, trimmings, coffee grounds and kitchen vegetable scraps. This ensures that you have a constant supply of rich compost to renew the soil with every six months.

There is a hope that someone out there has the same passion and drive for growing things that i have. The garden is a place that comforts me and it is a place where i can lose myself and just relax. That is just another positive thing from organic gardening.

Hope you are having a blessed day - Love and Blessings, ~ ab

http://www.antbrotherfarms.com/
www.photoblog.com/antbrother

Canning Peppers - 333

2010-10-20T23:49:00.002-05:00

i received a call a few minutes ago from downstairs asking if i could look in the kitchen for a noise that keeps waking her - sounds like a "dink".

i asked, "How many have you heard it so far?"

She replied, "It's woken me up three times."

Unfortunately i canned twelve pints of pickled peppers tonight...

Mrs. Smith's House - 331

2010-10-18T23:49:00.000-05:00

Some of the work that has come my way is repairing badly rotted windows and sills on older houses and retriming the exterior. These projects have dropped into my lap and given the crew an opportunity to get some experience and know how on what to do when "the stud is gone." :) This house has been good in learning to work together better as well.

Some days it's almost like i've been here before and am walking back through those steps again - the remembrence.

Buzz - 330

2010-10-17T16:10:00.003-05:00

i stopped to check out the marigolds in front and took a few pics. A ten pounder (what i call a large bumble bee) was enjoying his time on the flowers so i took a few pictures of him and watched as he worked his way from flower to flower digging for pollen.

It's a GoOD day today - something in the air as if a change of seasons is taking place - or has inside of us. i would call it the healing, cooling salve of mercy and grace from above. Don't you feel something? Haven't those burdens and walls felt like they have melted and crumbled to the ground. The Spirit of God is moving and His angels are here to comfort each of us and strengthen us for the upcoming time. We are each as unique and beautiful as God made us. He too is tending His garden.

Just moving from flower to flower and gathering the pollen....

Why Follow Bread Crumbs When You Can Smell Fresh Baked Bread From Your Own Kitchen? - 319

2010-10-06T00:17:00.013-05:00

That's a bit of a lengthy title but it conveys the message, quickly. Can you hear me?

i experienced the Outpouring of the Holy Spirit tonight in Church in jail. A young man that i met earlier this year at the laundromat, came to work with me after a month or so, and tonight he went with me for a second time to Church. What we all experienced was God first hand, saving the heart of a young man that was hurting and wanting to change. My friend was tired of hurting, of searching for something good in life, wanting freedom and joy. i know he opened his heart up to God tonight, and The Lord answered. This fundamental change brought on by an act of The Spirit of God is called being reborn in the Spirit and is what Jesus said had to happen for a man to enter into the Kingdom of Heaven.

During our service we have Testimony time. When my friend stood up and started talking, he first thanked the Church for the gift of a Bible. His heart really softened and he shared the pain of the life he came from in brief. One of the ministers stood up and asked that all the preachers and assembly pray over my friend, while he annointed him with oil. The air was already full of the Spirit of God from our praise songs and many other testimonies and scriptures (mini-sermons). What happened then was the feeling of the Outpouring of the Holy Spirit over everyone. We were all praying for my friend and some started singing their own songs and others receiting scriptures..... the sound of many voices, each unique yet all in one accord and one heart. My whole body shivers with the remembrence of just a few hours ago. This Church in jail is something special that God has created for His Glory.
You don't have to look for crumbs of blessings elsewhere. You don't have to search through someone else. Look into your heart and search for God. Talk to Him and seek the only way to freedom and rebirth in the Spirit of God. Tell Him you don't believe in Him and He will have convince you that HE IS. He is with you always and knows everything about you, try Him.

He's in your kitchen baking the best bread you have ever had. (Can you tell i'm getting the bread baking desire back?) But seriously, take a moment each day to sit with Him and get to know your Creator...just talk. May you also be blessed to experience the Outpouring of the Holy Spirit and the humility to know that God can use you for His Will, even if you are beat up and tossed out like the rest of the herd.... lol.. He'll pick you up and clean you up and bless you for His purpose.

i haven't written much in a long time, but have mostly walked quietly this year, learning, seeking God in prayer, stumbling over myself, and becoming an apprentice. i hope to be writing more, regularly, and on many things in my heart and mind, and from my hands at work and play.

my heart feels really good today - free. To be able to watch someone else experience God - to watch Him do something right in front of you to a man - is simply amazing, profound... or Just God. My friend knows Jesus tonight, i saw a huge burden lifted from him tonight. He is feeling free too.

Thank You Father.

Well,,,,, Stop and Smell the Fresh Baked Bread!

Love and Blessings,
~ab

Matthew 11:28-30
Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. ²⁹ Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. ³⁰ For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.”

Church - 312

2010-09-28T23:53:00.000-05:00

There's a Tuesday in every week and tonight was Church night at Clay County Jail - That's the Church i call home. The sermon this evening was based on Job 21:15:
"Who is the Almighty, that we should serve Him?
And what profit do we have if we pray to Him?"

Prayer strengthens our bond and relationship with God the Almighty. When we work on a relationship with someone, we spend time with them and talk to get to know them better. That's all prayer is, talking with God - The One God that created you - and getting to know Him better. What a better Friend and Counselor, Comforter and Master Carpenter do we have in the Lord? None better and none more deserving of our time and service as He blesses the path and purpose for which He created you.

Our purpose here is to serve and God created good works for us to walk in before we even arrived here. Seek Him and wait on Him in the silent comfort of your secret place.

God Bless,
~ab

Phillipians 4: 6-7

Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; ⁷ and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.

Punch Out - 311

2010-09-27T08:38:00.000-05:00

The Final phase of any project is the punch out or punch list as referred to in construction. This is the small details that need to be completed to wrap up the job. Depending on how proficient the crews are, there may or may not be a lot to detail for completion.

Today, i'm finishing the final coat on the last seven windows and will be pathching a small squirrel hole in the fascia board. This project and client have been a blessing all year and the project has turned out to be a success on the level and amount of work done. This really has been a lesson in restoration, one of restoring a building and one of restored faith and love for Jesus. You see, He has walked me through this project as He walks us all through the challenges of our lives.

So today, as i complete the final details, i place my faith in God to continue to restore my soul and to provide a Way for the needs of the day - both mine and others. If you open your spiritual eyes and ears, God will provide all your needs while using you to minister and lift up others. Each day, our walk is one of faith and service - doing His will while He restores us to our rightful place as sons and daughters of God.

God Blesses You Greatly This Day,

~ ab

Two ina Row - 305

2010-09-21T01:03:00.000-05:00

Well it could have been, if i had been online earlier, but just an hour turns the calendar twice so, it's Day 305. i have been blessed with work this summer and several new outlets and clients. Just a little more to fund the work and equipment, but i have always looked at my feet and where God is dropping the next blessing in my path. Along the way there has been much ministering, you know just helping others along.

i am nearly finished with a house restoration that has lasted several months. The last of the windows have been installed and the interior and exterior trim and finishing is in progress. Here's a snapshot of work in the woodshop last week - rebuilding the last four windows. These units are wood framed with insulated glass, which was cutting edge 30 years ago. Each frame had to be disassembled, cleaned, and new sashes and stiles glued up to complete the window rebuilding and restoration. The windows are then glazed, primed and assembed into the jambs and sills of the double hung unit. Lol... no this isn't this old house, more of a Spiritual lesson through the analogy of restoration. It really doesn't matter where you look throughout your entire day - there is a lesson of teaching, growth and understanding from God.

You might start planting flowers and then the next thing you know, you're rebuilding a house. Follow the still small voice of your heart - God is there in the silence, waiting to rebuild you.

God Bless! ~ antbrother

Out of Nowhere - 303

2010-09-19T23:57:00.000-05:00

Miracles out of Nowhere, that is where they come from ~ God. Nowhere and everywhere. Just Love and Miracles. i didn't really go anywhere, just haven't been online much and have been busy with work - Blessed Indeed!

The lyrics from that old Kansas song are foretelling of our journey here.
"When you comin' home now son, the world is not for you."

But the GoOD News is that we are in essence ordained and sent here for wisdom and understanding ~ that of God's ~ so that we may complete the Will of why He has placed us here. i have watched in Spirit while walking through the heat of this summer and i have grown in some ways and showed my flesh at other times - my apologies. But the point that is most important is that through the process of learning from God we continue to stand, get up and shake the dust off, and keep walking. Our primary purpose is to get to know a guy named Jesus ~ Yeshua ~ as a friend and savior and He'll walk you out of this mess and back home. The interesting thing is watching how He walks.

God creates everything from nothing.

God Bless from the ant mound,

~antbrother

Three Years of Composting...so far... - 180

2010-05-19T01:06:00.000-05:00

This font name reminds of verbena... but anyway - Here are some of the latest photos of the garden. Time to stake up some 'mater plants. :)

God Bless, ~ ab

Eyes and Ears of The Spirit - 172

2010-05-11T00:19:00.000-05:00

An earful came my way this past Sunday and i was humbled to the point of exhaustion. The rest of the day was spent weeding the garden and basically praying - talking to God, asking Him questions and laughing the afternoon away in His company within the Garden He made.

i must decrease so that He can increase... less and less of me and more and more of Him. Without the exchange of power in one's life there really is no way to steer clear of all the barrage of onslaughts. Yeshua leads the way out but first, take a knee to Him and keep faith in the Master. He will be your eyes and ears.

Be Blessed This Day!

~ ab

Conviction of The Holy Spirit - 130

2010-03-30T23:30:00.001-05:00

There is a force in the world that acts upon the hearts of men. It is a force comprised of Spirit, not flesh, and it acts from within and of Itself, through a simple process called Conviction.

If you are brought to court for an offense and are found guilty, you are considered convicted of a crime. Truth is found through the trial process and a consequence is rendered. Spirtual Conviction is a Holy act and process of cleansing, step by step, in preparation of complete and unhindered indwelling. The process is simply being convicted toward purity and truth - love and all that is GoOD and of Him. This is your consequence for accepting Jesus for your Life.

Individuality and uniqueness of each person is never sacrificed, but is enhanced when the Holy Spirit Convicts a heart. We were each created unique as the snowflakes in the sky. This is the love that God has for each one of us. He is in control and performing His Will through your obedient vessel here on earth. Your hands become His, your feet become His and your Life is because of Him.

How perfect is that? How perfect is God?

I Love Him with everything inside me!

Fresh Lettuce - 129

2010-03-29T22:50:00.000-05:00

I wasn't planning on making a salad until i remembered the fresh baby bibb lettuce in the cold frame. I grabbed a gallon ziplock back and began to thin the row a bit. This helps in two areas, firstly it feeds me, and secondly it makes room for other plants to fill out. I plan to do more thining about Wednesday. Between the lettuce i planted in the cold frame and that which i planted in the open garden, only the cold frame was successful. All the plants that began to come up in the garden were eaten.

I was also able to pick some fresh carrots that i had planted last fall. They overwintered well and were vey crisp and flavorful. i plan to plant a larger area of broadcast seed for a carrot bed around the small cabbage seedlings. I tried my hand at juicing tonight with my "Back to Basics" hand juicer. It's just like an old timey hand crank grinder with a fine screen for juicing fruits and veges. The carrots worked pretty well, but it will take quite a few to get a decent size glass of juice. Wheatgrass juice may be next on the menu - we'll see.

Love and Blessings, ~ ab

The Transformation of "Work "- 125

2010-03-25T23:59:00.001-05:00

http://www.antbrotherfarms.com/

Two weeks ago i woke up at 4:31am and said, "GoOD Morning Father." He replied, "GoOD Morning Son. Today you quit your job." Now this was odd, because i had almost stopped praying about it and asking if now was the time, i had been praying on this for the past 9 months. i would trust when the time was right in God's Will, not my anxious nature. Patience. Wait on the Lord. So the "Today" back then was Saturday March 13, 2010 - 113. Significance, probably not, but what was significant, was what happened that day. And Since ... .... ......;:/|*|\:;..... .. a seed is planted.

Amory, MS

God Blesses You All Greatly This Day!

Love, ~ab

Wow! - 123

2010-03-23T23:08:00.000-05:00

We just got back from church tonight at the jail in Clay County and we were all blessed with a great service. There is a true church family that has developed over the past year there, one that is strong and connects us all at the heart. This is a church of inmate trustees, visiting family and friends, police officers, and paroles that began many years ago. These men and women are all my brothers and sisters in Jeshua.

It is hard to put into words the love that i feel for this prison ministry work and "The Church" inside the jail. Every Tuesday night at 7:00 pm Church gets underway and The Holy Spirit is invited to feed us The Word. There is a portion of the service that is devoted to "testimony time" where anyone can stand up and provide a personal testimony of what God has done in their lives. Some like to share a song or a scripture and there is the occasional mini-sermon.

I always leave there filled to the brim with joy, excitement, and definitely the peace that transcends all understanding. It is a gift to be part of this family and to feel the presence of the Holy Spirit wash, share and teach. As one former inmate turned pastor shares, "God took a mess, and made a messenger."

Thank You Heavenly Father,

~ ab

Genesis ~ A Beginning - 122

2010-03-22T23:42:00.000-05:00

The beautiful birth of spring gives new hope again to growth and the potential of the soil. Lying dormant through the cold months of winter and storing energy in the earth, the green shoots of new growth slowly emerge from the ground and the leaf bud as temperatures begin to warm.

Can you tell that i am a bit of a romantic regarding spring? We have seen some strange weather here though, as i'm sure many have witnessed in their own area. From 70's one day to sleet and 30's the next seems to be the range of fluctuation from day to day. Spring temps were very slow in warming this year and i have appreciated the time invested in a small cold frame. Although the local fire ants have taken up residence (they too appreciate warm soil), several plants have thrived in the small greenhouse. The changing and unpredictable weather seems to warrant the use of greenhouses or some level of controlled growing environment. Just my thought.

I have been busy with work and the day to day needs of life lately. The main website has been down for a while though i have a blessing of a gift in a new server host. Being out of "tech" for so long has made it a challenge for me to get the site back up and learn to use new tools. It will get there soon, i pray.

With spring comes more landscape work. Several new and old clients have called about some "work". There is also a start to a small garden using some makeshift coldframes and gathered soil from compost piles and other stored sources. i was talking with several of the residents involved in the prison ministry and they are making their own efforts at starting a garden on the prison grounds. The H.O.P.E. group helps them out with seeds, plants and other needs - though they don't seem to need it based on their success last year. Being able to share a common love of growing with these men has been a way of ministering, or just talking. That is time that i have enjoyed sharing with them.

This walk of faith continues. ...just walking a step at a time...

Love and Blessings of new growth,

~ ab

Coaching - 106

2010-03-06T12:42:00.002-06:00

I had the privledge of coaching my youngest son's basketball game today. Talk about winging it - i had never before coached anything and pretty much had to rely on the help of others, including the young players, to point me where i needed and tell me what to do. Thanks and Blessings to them all. i relaxed into being "coach" after the first couple periods and encouraged the players to open their eyes to certain things happening on the court to help direct them as i could. i explained a new play at halftime, not expecting them to pick it up in such short time, but surprisingly a couple players did try the new play.
The league my boys are both in is called Upward and is sponsored by the local churches. It includes devotional time and Biblical teaching as the foundation in team sports. At halftime there is a miny sermon to the whole assembly. This is a positive mix as i've witnessed and a GoOD lesson to put God first in all our endeavors - work, play, entertainment, etc.
During halftime the team went into their private team room and we talked a bit about the game first and then came time for a scripture. i wasn't provided a "standard" verse to teach so i gave the children one of my first favorites Genesis 2:8 - And God planted a garden eastward in Eden and there He placed the man he had formed. i explained in the simplist terms to the young boys how God first intended for us to walk in a garden that He gave to us as a gift. He wanted to be close to us as He made us for Him and we are just wired that way - connected in our Spirit - Deep within our hearts God planted a seed.
The Holy Spirit teaches us in all circumstances as we mature our relationship with Him. This "coaching" lesson has been to show me what He does with us and how He coaches, teaches, and counsels us in our game here on earth. The Counselor is very intimate in His teaching and very direct. i have been shown this to understand empathy for how God is trying to guide us and direct us through each day. As a coach may suggest a new play or point out some area we may improve upon, so does the Holy Spirit lead in this way. He cannot play the game for us, He can only lead and suggest and protect. Look to God for your guidence in all situations and cultivate your relationship so that you may always know to rely Him. He is Truth and Love in action.

May You be Blessed this day by Father,

~ab

Rivers - 96

2010-02-24T00:11:00.000-06:00

Come on'! Jump in! The Water is just fine!

I've been reading lately between A.W. Tozer, The Counselor and A. B. Simpson, Christ In You, and have been filled with a lot of good straight talk on faith, what it is and what is expected. The Counselor talks a great deal of specifics on The Holy Spirit, "the promise of the Father", that was sent to the original apostles as a gift. This Spirit of God has never stopped flowing and is available to all who call on Jesus, Yeshua as Lord and Savior. I was particularly interested in what Tozer spelled out as the process of being "filled" based on several scriptures - that of offering up our bodies as living vessels, asking for the Spirit to Come, being obedient to what the Spirit leads and having faith. The combination of the two books is really a blessing because the concept of faith is also illustrated in these two books as that of a river. The River of God's Will. When we jump into His River, we go with His flow and follow as He leads. We are the ones that change to become His purpose here for us. This is how He is glorified ~ through our filling and then outpouring of the Holy Spirit.

Be Blessed,

~ ab

Doors and Windows - 87

2010-02-15T21:57:00.001-06:00

My main site has been down for a little while and i sure have been itching to get back to some regular content work on that site. I will have it back online this week. Many irons in the fire right now, but there has been an amazing sense of calm in the quiet time before this brewing storm... while each Peace is put into place in this beautiful drama of Life that God has Created. What i have experienced along the way is pretty comforting and something that i want to share with everyone else today - this day. A scripture defines where i am in this walk - and the beauty of how the Word, the pure Truth in it becomes your life. I am very fond of this Passage as it is one that i was given to memorize before i moved to Mississippi.

Phillipians 4:6-7
Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.

There is a great process that God performs inside you when you pray, with all your heart and mind to Him that His Will be done. A dear friend and client shared with me the beautiful aspect of praying for God's Will. God is pure and perfect and constant in love. God doesn't change, so He changes us to be In and To Be His Will - you know for Him while we're here. :) This scripture doesn't say how your requests will be answered, it does state that you will be at peace and not worry - God will take it if you let Him have it. But first, just let go and relax.

The unfortunate thing is that this is not obvious to all "Christians" that walk half the line and don't fully die to self. It is past time to drop the old man off at the trash can and walk out through that door that Father has put in place for you - or through that window you have left cracked, just in case you needed to go through it. Now is the time to get off the fence and earnestly seek God's face.

Ask Him to show you His Glory, boldly like Moses wanted - or like David... seeking Him always. Put forth the effort in building your relationship with Jesus as your number one priority and let this effort replace the one that thing is now most important to you. You will not be disappointed.
God is True, Jesus has a sense of humor, The Holy Spirit washes and leads and Comforts. You will not be disappointed.

In the beginning of this year i began to have a very hopeful anticipation of where Life was heading. Let's face it, we have all been going through some stuff and many people are looking for some relief, maybe some normalcy, or stability. There is chaos around us all in varying degrees of "realness" and yet the guys working the knobs and switches behind the curtain keep telling us the water is just fine. I feel your pain. But consider the trials and tribulations as being "purified". Through this same process we have to become humbled. One important point is that when i had lost everything, when God was the only thing left that i could count on, that is when i realized that He was really all i ever needed to start with. That has led to this great search to want to know God better, to know the Trinity, each separate yet all One and One inside me as well.

Well, tonight was mostly a ramble and a wanting, yearning, need to share. i am reading a great book right now - The Counselor by A.W. Tozer. He covers in detail, through many sermons, the Person of the Holy Spirit. Very good, simple, nuts and bolts read - powerful.

Good Night and God Bless. He strengthens Us!

~ ab

The Word - 72

2010-02-01T22:00:00.000-06:00

In talking with a friend a couple weeks ago, we stumbled upon a brief discussion of The Bible, Jesus and our general beliefs. What i heard from this friend was something that i remember others saying in the past - that the Bible was merely a bunch of fictional stories and that Jesus was just another enlightened being.

There was a sadness in my heart at hearing this and i realized that who i am now is wholly different - a new creation from who i was. The sadness was because of the emptiness i knew was in the heart of this friend for not knowing the truth of What and Who The Word truly means. I have come to Know Jesus and Know The Bible as Life - plain and simple. It is hard to put into words because the experiences that i have been blessed with are so deep and so filling - bone deep enough to take your breath away.

i pray this day that the Holy Spirit anoints those that do not know Jesus, those that take the Bible as just another story book, and that this beauty is revealed to them as The Living Word of a Living God. In Jesus and in His Word we find our purpose - layer upon layer revealing more and more of the Love He has for us.

Be Blessed - Be Strong!!!

~ ab

Wood - 71

2010-01-31T19:02:00.001-06:00

Despite the recent cold temperatures here in the south - down in the single digit lows - i've been able to work in a semi-heated shop. Some of the projects have involved creating benches for childrens' Christmas presents, while other work has entailed repair work on 30-year old windows. The woodworking has been enjoyable and challenging. i believe i forewarned about more time in the shop in one of the last posts on the antbrotherfarms website. The work has been generated by just using the scraps and tools available to make what would be needed.

The finish carpentry work of repairing the old windows involves the recreation of sash, stiles, and sill while reusing the old insulated glass units. This is considered some unchartered territory for me and has been some good experience. The bench/stool/table pieces were made from scraps we generally grind up into woodchips at the plant. The thinner strips of wood are from various species - oak, ash, pecan, poplar.

i am working on getting the main website back online this next month. i have run into limited funds to be able to support the site and the yearly renewal came up in early January. Thanks and Blessings to a beloved supporter in helping me get the main site back online.

On the ministry front, i can't praise God enough for what i am seeing take place. It is truly a moving of the Holy Spirit in the various aspects of ministry work that i was given a vision of in 2007. Amazing Grace, really Lord, Just Amazing.

Love Blessings and Strength,

~ab

The Anvil - 28

2009-12-19T18:40:00.000-06:00

Last eve I passed beside a blacksmith's door
And heard the anvil ring the vesper chime;
Then, looking in, I saw upon the floor
Old hammers, worn with beating years of time.

"How many anvils have you had," said I,
"To wear and batter all these hammers so?"
"Just one," said he, and then with twinkling eye,
"The anvil wears the hammers out you know."

And so, thought I, the anvil of God's Word,
For ages skeptic blows have beat upon;
Yet, though the noise of falling blows was heard,
The anvil is unharmed - the hammers gone.

~ Author Unknown

GoOD News ~ Cancer Cure - 24

2009-12-15T23:37:00.000-06:00

My mother made it through surgery successfully today for removal of cancerous lymph nodes in her groin area. i am not able to be with her or help her in recovery as i am many states away and lacking any transportation of funds to do so. Thankfully my oldest brother has stepped up to help out for the week and, based on his phone call tonight, mom is doing well and may be discharged tomorrow.

I shared a Col. Joe book on Oxalic acid with my mom last month and sent her a case of carrot juice to get her started, but she is relying on what she knows for treatment, being a nurse and a stubborn Irish woman. :) i don't think she has discounted the cancer diet but she doesn't have complete faith that it will work all by itself. Personally i am not an advocate of current treatments - cut it out and radiate. i lost my Dad to colon cancer when i was 14 and i lost a brother to leukemia when i was six. i really know this diet / natural treatment works, but you can't force others to buy into your beliefs. Even if it is your mother. Prayers have done the most GoOD for her and i am leaving the recovery and a clean, cancer free future in His hands. Thank you Father for Your Grace this day.

Spotted Hawk - The Heart of a Friend - 23

2009-12-14T21:30:00.001-06:00

i've recently re-posted an email from Nathan dated back in July 2007.
http://www.photoblog.com/antbrother/2009/12/12/feather-and-hoop.html

i had initially heard Nathan on Zeph's show years ago and instantly felt a connection in my heart to the pure Spirit that flowed from him. i know over the years he has helped many, many people and, although i have lost touch with him, i know he continues to share that healing Spirit of Jesus with all that are in contact with him. Words from the past continue to heal and bring meaning back to those he has touched. i am one such friend, blessed to have shared a bit of time with Spotted Hawk.

Thank you Brother!

Hard Flesh ~ High Spirit - 21

2009-12-12T01:53:00.002-06:00

The last couple days have been days of growth inside and out. Strange how my time picking up pecans while sitting on a five-gallon bucket have given me time to focus. 50 cents a pound. My impatient humanity has shown through from time to time as well, but the Spirit within comes through and blots it all out making things clear, healing. The simple process of clarification permeates everything that i have gone through since birth on this rock and shows me - the purpose, the preparation. i lay my head to rest tonight covering, protecting and blessing all the brethren and sistren and "idren" under the Wing of The Most High, written in The Book of Life since before the foundations of the world were established.

Wet Feet and Sharp Chisels - 19

2009-12-10T01:55:00.002-06:00

The wood shop is about to kick into gear again for the next couple weeks - part time. i have always preferred making gifts for others rather than buying them. i wouldn't mind disappearing among the wood chips for longer than that but people might wonder where i had gone, perhaps one day more time there may be justified.

Working with wood is therapeutic for me, as much as gardening, and to be able to create something from wood with my hands gives me great satisfaction. Often times it is the uncovering process that is so exciting. Choosing a piece, looking at the grain of the wood and deciding what to do with it are all part of the starting points. There is always an anticipation of applying the first coat of danish oil to the finished piece, patience, patience - it's not ready yet. Just another hour of sanding...
i remarked to a friend of mine yesterday that my dad always taught me to do the best that i possibly could no matter what work i may be doing. The work of our hands is our signature. i miss those days as a youth, hanging out with my dad in his wood shop, watching him work and asking a million questions. But for now, i have a GOoD Friend and Master Carpenter to spend some time with while making wood chips fly and sawdust. Often times the project is already mastered in my mind before i begin - the image is complete and it is just a matter of time before my hands, tools and abilities catch up to that image. That's the beauty of manifesting an image from your heart - sharing the beauty, goodness and love from within.

God Bless, ~ ab

47 Bags - 13

2009-12-06T20:36:00.000-06:00

Autumn has an extended season here in the south. At times i think that gives each of the trees and shrubs time to have their own moment of transition in the spotlight, turning fall colors and shedding their leaves / needles. The fall season also appears to last longer as winter is slow to show. This is a time of shedding the old coat and resting, recuperating for the next season of growth. Roots and foundations grow stronger and energy is rebuilt while we rest in this season. Nature may slow in its progress visually but it continues to prepare for the next years growth. What is lost and shed becomes the foundation of the soil for future seasons as the old breaks down and transforms to nourish and replenish. In this season, The Son never ceases to shine.

Preparation.

This Day - 12

2009-12-04T13:53:00.000-06:00

Let's rejoice in This Day, another day that we have been blessed to live. We each woke this morning, blessed before we opened our eyes. We were given the breath of life and were sustained while we slept. Protected and watched over by our Creator, our Father, while our bodies continued to heal and grow without our control - that is how He created us and continues to give us life. Today, This Day, i take simple pleasure in my relationship with God. One that He has nurtured and guided me through, while He taught me how and who i am to be for others. God showed me what it takes to have a relationship - to be a friend, a dad, a brother, a son. He has taught me honor, discipline and focus through faith.

Post on post-T-day - Day 6

2009-11-28T17:39:00.000-06:00

Great day today spending time with my sons - mostly football, and football of course. MSU beat Ole Miss and Florida was working on a shutout last i saw. The most interesting game was the one that took place in the front yard - Max and Sam and Dad. We don't keep score, though there always seems to be just a few seconds left in the game - every play - and we need a touchdown to win. (We always seem to win as any incomplete passes are of course ruled in our favor as pass interferrence.) Just fun in the front yard - the imagination of a child and the ability to win in all last minute situations. Sounds like some good rules for faith.

God Bless to all, hope you had a thankful day with your family or friends and reflected on what is most important in your life. Thanks be to God.

Love,

~antbrother

Church in the Cosmos - Day 5

2009-11-25T00:08:00.000-06:00

We had Church tonight at the jail and enjoyed a wonderful thanksgiving buffet afterward. There is something beautiful about the assembly of people in this place, what has happened in the Spirit transforming them and working through them inside and outside the walls of that prison. There were about 100 people - residents, friends, family and children. The service tonight did not have any testimony time but that is a regular part of each worship. We overcome by the blood of the Lamb and the testimony or witness of our word - His Word. That's really what this blog is all about and the website i have been chinking on for many years. Just a testimony to fellow Jesus followers out there, and to those that have not yet opened their hearts to God.

The cosmos is a pretty big place and the God, our God that created it all put us here for a reason. If you have something to say about your faith and belief in a Carpenter that happened to be the Son of God then speak up. Minister to one another through the Word of our testimony - a testimony of words and walk through the heavens.

Love and Blessings

~antbrother

**thanks for the pic deer

Edification on Cleaning Tombstones - Day 4

2009-11-16T21:57:00.000-06:00

I was thinking of the post a few days ago about the Red Sky Prophecy as foretold by Grandfather Stalking Wolf. One of the texts has continually rung back at me... i didn't quite see the connection to cleaning tombstones that morning to the lessons from that prophecy. i have long been a follower and reader of Stalking Wolf - Tom Brown Jr. - and have that profound connection to Creator / creation...

Grandfather taught, "The Earth is dying. The destruction of man is close, so very close, and we must all work that path of destruction. We must pay for the sins of our grandfathers and grandmothers [Editor's note: a concept taught in Christian scripture] for we have long been a society that kills its grandchildren to feed its children. There can be no rest, and we cannot run away; far too many in the past have run away. It is very easy to live the spiritual life away from man, but the truth of the Vision, in spiritual life, can be tested and become a reality when lived near society."

Reflecting on Dadhood - Day 3

2009-11-14T23:49:00.000-06:00

Beautiful day today... Blue Sky, cool temps, and time with my sons. Watching them grow up is really a gift and one that i truly have missed with my daughter. My sons are growing fast and maturing. They are coming of age and watching them grow and learn is a blessing. i have missed so much at times, i have missed this closeness with my daughter and regret not being a real Dad, someone that was always there, when she most needed me.
We have been separated from each other for way too long and there are days when my heart aches because of that separation. You see children are a part of us, and we are part of them. They possess portions of our hearts and the goodness that is inherent in each of us. i believe that. i have to reach back out to her in faith because you see, she makes me want to be a better Dad and the man that i was created to be - the Spiritual leader of the family. Hopeful restoration of our relationship is something that i continually pray about. Today i leave us in God's hands.

God Bless Sweetie - Love You - 2i+beyond

Red Sky - Washing White Tombstones (Day2?)

2009-11-14T01:13:00.000-06:00

Today was a bit odd... Prior to heading out to a clients' home to do some landscape maintenance, i received a call and was told that i would be washing tombstones today - those of his family. While doing the work, i came through various thoughts that questioned what impact and effect that those before us have had. What did they do with their lives and how did they affect others? Were they close to the Spirit, or were they self-absorbed and living a life driven by flesh? Time is short, very short when you think about it, and we have only so many days in our lives to make a positive impact, a selfless impact toward helping others and taking care of this gift of a planet.

Tonight we were talking - late night chats around the sofa - and the Red Sky Prophecy came up as a topic. i printed out the text and read back through it again. Clear direction and vision from Grandfather. ->http://www.wolflodge.org/visibiliti/prophecy/redsky.htm

Digging Bricks - Day 1?

2009-11-13T00:55:00.000-06:00

Every now and then, i come across a pile of bricks, scraps of wood or various throw away items (you know the old adage.. one man's junk is another man's treasure.), and so, i collect things from time to time. Bricks, plants, composting matter and dirt of course, old pottery, metal work, wood... Today i was collecting worms for the compost pile. Eventually the piles of collectibles have to be sifted and organized and maybe even put to use. Well, i happen to have a lot of piles of stuff - time to organize them and put them to use.

i don't know if this is day one or just somewhere along the time-stream into the process of this project already. i'll have to get my 10 year old mathematician son on cyferin'. He said, "You know, Dad. We still have to finish figuring out that 977 thing." i am being obscure here on purpose, and partly because i am still putting this project together. 977 was a number given to me back in 2007, when the Spirit of God completely filled me and i was blessed to experience God walking in me while i could see the world as He sees. This lasted for two weeks.

Sorry to have been away so long. i started this blog for a daily blurb on what it is like walking a life of faith in Jesus Christ - following Him in The Way. This is for encouragement to all out there walking the same walk. Journaling always helps to refer back to as well - it is a comforting confirmation when i am able to read something written in the past that pertains to what is currently happening in life.

Love and Blessings, ~ antbrother

... just the first step ...

2009-02-27T01:16:00.000-06:00

There was a preacher that lived in a town named Anias. Somewhere in Mississippi, I'm told. He said he was having a revelation about finding God and he went around town clearly stating so. I think he committed suicide if I remember the correct story around town, after shutting himself up in a hotel room filled with beer bottles. Drank himself somewhere bad I guess? I don't know the whole story and my memory is terrible anyway. Some days. I remember the oddest details and often forget the simple, "obvious" things.

When I heard the story and thought about how much I talked about God I thought, and I think I stated, "That's not me. Something must have happened to him along the way for him to give up like that. Didn't things change for him? Wasn't he doing something right?" I think we're the only ones that mess up - Jesus is just watching and waiting for us.

So this is a story about a man they called Antbrother who lived in a town called Anias. Talk about a fish out of water, a real Connecticut yankee in King Arthur's court... comes to mind. It may not have any, um .... yeah! ~ She's Home!

A View From the Nosebleed Seats

2009-01-15T12:47:00.000-06:00

I have a couple days off due to the cold snap that is blowing down from the north. It gets pretty cold on a scaffold, 20 feet up... scrape - scrape - scraping paint and sandblasting. The view from the nosebleed seats is pretty good though and I've enjoyed learning some new hands-on work with this most recent employment. Today I'll be working on some house plans for my brother and catching up a bit on the main website - spring cleaning early.

Reading Isaiah Chapter 6 again today.

Hope you have a blessed day,

~ antbrother

Out of the Wilderness

2009-01-09T18:35:00.000-06:00

Greetings!

Day One. I just thought this might be a GOoD way to start out 2009.

Love and Blessings,

~ antbrother