Feather your Nest Friday, 19th September, 2025.
Sifting. That has been my word of the last couple of weeks. It has come to me in verses, in conversations, online, at Church... sifting.
Andy always said I was the friendliest person and nice to everyone. He thought it was funny I would make friends in the queue at the supermarket, ladies bathroom, while shopping... anywhere. He told me men did not talk to each other in public toilets. I said, well, women do. He was amazed. haha
Sometimes it doesn't matter how nice you are to people they are not nice to you. And worse sometimes no matter how much you love someone they don't love you back. These are the saddest realisations and most heart breaking of all. But probably this has happened to all of us.
When you have a major life crisis you usually learn (with great surprise) who supports you and helps you and who doesn't. Every single time I've been shocked how wrong I was about who I thought I could count on and who I never even had imagined would help me... to the extend my brain could hardly process how far off I was! But I have always still felt in the end it is better to know the truth, even if it was very painful to get there.
The flip side is sometimes God sends you angels! Help will come in all sorts of unexpected ways! No matter who has let you down or abused you do not forget you are a daughter of the King (or son) and so very precious.
Now and then I get a random unkind comment on my blog but really it's rare. A recent one was to tell me that she (who remained anonymous) could not live like me as she has to be equal with her husband. Ok... well my husband died a year and a half ago so there's that. I just didn't reply.
But last week was different. Way different. I have had a wake up call. For what I said last week I have had a stream of shocking comments. They go like this... more or less.... "I see myself as a Christian but I pretty much support the assassin." They think I took the wrong side. If you are confused join the club. But this is real and I have seen it on social media and elsewhere... people who think they are good who think the assassination was a good thing. It has been made clear to me now that there are people so messed up now that they think a man who teaches scripture should be shot. If you believe in the Word of God you are a horrible person who deserves to die. Let that sink in.
Sifting. You are either for God or against. There is no middle ground.
Why do I blog? I absolutely love having friends around the world. I thrive on having someone to work along side with. I think there is not enough encouragement for women to keep their homes and love their families and I just want try to be an encourager! I want to be a Proverbs 31 and Titus 2 woman. Someone said I was being shortsighted. But I am actually trying to be long sighted in all I do. I am playing the long game! It is eternal? Is it furthering the kingdom of God, is it beautiful, is it uplifting, is it of value? How will my decisions today affect the generations? Who am I pointing to?
I am not sure why anyone who hates God so much is even reading my blog. You are welcome here as is everyone but you are not welcome to abuse me. Just leave! Go read something that will tickle your ears with what you want to hear. If you want to convince me to celebrate the assassination of my brother in Christ please do not message me. Please go away. The day is here where good is called evil and evil is called good.
For my Christian readers. Please be careful. This is like nothing I thought I would witness in my lifetime.
Now back to normal. Do not be derailed, right!?
I am knee deep in flowers I am doing for a wedding. My dining room table looks like this...
It is a pretty mess to have! Now I am working on the bridal bouquets. A bit more pressure than the table flowers.
I took a trip to the city as I had appointments. This is what I came home with...
I made a double batch of scones.
Many weeks of work have gone into the shearing shed. It has been my big farm project for the year. Here Tom is having a ride and he is pretty good with the controls.
Be encouraged! Do not let anyone steel your joy! People that are hateful and miserable cannot stand that you are happy and content. It irritates them! 😊
I hope you had a week of building up your home and family, pantry, garden... maybe even present cupboard as we have to start thinking of Christmas! We just had some rain to finish off the week. It is so good to be home.
I have been following your blog for years but rarely comment. I follow because you are so wise and encouraging and I am now building and feathering my own nest due to your encouragement. I am so sorry to hear that people feel the need to leave such awful comments on such a kind, encouraging, friendly blog by someone who only ever says positive things and encourages and uplifts others. I am so glad you blog, I love reading every word and look forward to your posts. Much love, Vanna in regional WA.
ReplyDeleteDear Vanna, Thank you so much! It is great to hear from you! I am very happy if you are building and feathering your nest and Ive helped! That really encourages me! That is the whole goal! Have a wonderful new week! With love Annabel.xxx
DeleteAnnabel the flowers look beautiful! Did you used to be a florist or is it a skill you’ve picked up over the years? That egg is huge!
ReplyDeleteWe are on school holidays! I’m so happy for everyone to have a break. I plan to get some spring cleaning done and tidy up the garden. We have a lovely tree covered in pink blossom. I think that’s one of the funnest parts of a new house, seeing what happens in the garden over the first year.
I hope you have a nice weekend
Jen (NZ)
Dear Jen, Thank you! Both of my Nanas were self taught florists. One Nana is in several books for making floral carpets and she won all the prizes at the Royal Adelaide show for so many years. So I just love flowers... I did a few weddings and Chloes wedding. This one is a favour for a lovely local girl. I cant wait to show the bouquets next Friday! It will be school holidays here from next weekend and Sidney is coming. I want to have things going smoothly so I can put that time into him. I wonder what your pink blossoms will turn into! Fruit with luck! With much love Annabel.xxx
DeleteBeautiful flowers! I'm very amazed at how much work you do at your farm plus your homemaking which is always a generous amount! There is nothing new under the sun. Christians were persecuted and killed in Jesus' time and still are. andrea
ReplyDeleteAdrea, You are completely correct. I think in my life Ive had it very easy (persecution wise) and this shook me up. But you are right. Thank you for your kind comment! With love Annabel.xxx
DeleteDear Annabel
ReplyDeleteI’m sorry you had people being so unpleasant in your own blog space. You’re right you cannot tell accurately how people are going to react on anything.
Looks like you kept yourself seriously busy and wonderfully creative despite the hurtful types.
Take care.
Enjoy the pretty spring season.
Kate.
Dear Kate, Thank you! Spring had held off a bit, it's giving me a bit more time to complete other projects. But Im having a seedling buying session on Friday, the first of a few to stagger (hopeful) harvests! I have some new big pots to plant up! Hope it's been a good week, almost over! With love Annabel.xxx
DeleteI am agnostic but for the life of me I could never condone the taking of another person’s life just because he / she has a different view than me. Thank you for you wonderful blog Annabel.o
ReplyDeleteThank you so much for your kind comment!xxxx
DeleteGood on you for standing up for God and yourself. There is no reasoning with someone who is so committed to their thoughts that they can’t hear you. It’s sort of like wrestling a pig: the pig likes it and you just get dirty. All you do on the farm is making such a difference! I like doing a big project a year on our farm. It makes such sense because it gets done right away and doesn’t linger! Ha! This year we are fencing. Talk about a challenge! We get it almost done and the cows jump or push it down! I hope you’ll tell a bit about the wedding because those flowers are gorgeous!!! Have a blessed and productive week!
ReplyDeleteDear Matty, Fencing seems like a never ending job! Over the years Ive done some new and some repairs. But I do like to do something each year to say I improved the farm... some years of course this has had to be a more modest improvement! But each year it adds up. Cows though are pretty rough on fences. And troughs! Thank you for your kindness! With love Annabel.xxx
DeleteThat was a good chuckle - get a job! I cannot even fathom the amount of work that goes into running a farm - I've seen how tough it is just to work a suburban garden! At least when I leave my office - I'm gone - with a farm it is 24 hours a day!
ReplyDeleteSo sorry for all the negative comments - I have never understood that on blogs or vlogs - you can disagree with someone and put forth your side of an issue but to just trash someone seems so strange - just don't read or watch - find something that suits you better.
I have bben truly appalled at some of the reaction to Charlie Kirk's death - no matter what someone's political or social outlook may be - how can people be so cruel over a murder!
I hope that this is a better week and that you enjoy the wedding - those flowers are just so beautiful - well done you!
Thank you Margie! I really appreciate that you get farming is weird hours and all weather!
DeleteA lot of people have disgusted me over jokes and comments over an assassination. It tells me a lot. I cant argue with them it's a waste of time.
Yes this week is much better! I see so many good things and I completed the wedding flowers. The icing on the cake was the bride was overwhelmed with love for them! So it was so worth it! With much love Annabel.xxx
I am so thrilled that you are standing your ground, as a Christian and I am one who also wants to stand stronger and braver. This is not the time for lukewarm faith. I live in Kansas (USA)and it is has been such an honor to follow you and see all that you accomplish each week. Thank you, so very much and may God continue to bless you and may you continue to bless all of us.
ReplyDeleteThank you! So much! I agree. Lukewarm is over. Fence sitting is over! And I am happy to be bold for Jesus and the Gospel. If I lose friends/readers well that is ok. God is number one in my life! Thank you for such kind words! xxx
DeleteDear Annabel and Bluebirds,
ReplyDeleteIt saddens me that anyone would come to this site with such malice in their hearts!
I cannot tell you how encouraging this blog has been to me over the years!! When I began visiting, I had 8 children at home and homeschooled them all. We lived in rural Missouri without a well. We lived on my husband's tiny income because jobs were scarce. But land was cheap! We soldiered on so I could stay at home with our children. This was one of the few places I could come for encouragement! I loved my life! I spent every day with my children. We all worked hard at gardening, butchering, baking, carpentry, and tending the chickens and goats. Now all our children are hard workers, readers, and top students. And one serves in the military.
I'm glad you are not listening to these foolish people. Just a few minutes ago I was reading in Proverbs that "the foolish hate wisdom."
The Lord bless you all as you share how you build your pantries and bless those around you! You are all a blessing in my life! Thanks Annabel, for this place of encouragement that you have created. Thanks that it is dedicated to the Lord and His works!
Love, Leslie
Ohio, USA
PS. I am thankful for the blessings of bartering this week and home haircuts saving me $$.
Thank you so much dear Leslie. You did a brave and great thing getting that land! And what a success you made!
DeleteThe foolish do hate wisdom! With passion apparently! They sure hate the word of God.
Bartering is FANTASTIC. I do believe many things come via a good batting system and community. This is where we can all help each other so much! With love And thanks. Annabel.xxx
It never fails to amaze me how many entitled, hate filled two legged creatures walk this earth. They seem to think they have the right to impose their will on someone else. They don't but they still try. Toxic people are to be shunned and ignored. No one would willingly drink bleach, so please don't expose yourself to people who love to destroy souls. They are evil.
ReplyDeleteUnfortunately, some of those people will call themselves Christian's, but their words and actions will expose the lie. True believers are living a life of love and light. Much of the Bible speaks about judgement for actions. Yeshua said, Ye shall know them by their fruit (actions) which is visible. Yeshua cursed the fig tree for not producing fruit, yet it looked healthy. Our fruit is to be real, not surface or to deceive. Charlie Kirk's fruit was real, which is why demons hated him. It is why Yeshua was hated, also. As a matter of fact he spoke about his true followers being hated. There are several parables that give that message, plus his direct speech.
Your flowers are gorgeous, my friend. Wool is a special fabric and one that is so difficult to find here.
With love,
Glenda
Dear Glenda, Thank you. I have had so many say "I am a Christian BUT..." Well it's a big butt. I dont care for scripture kind of butt.
DeleteNow the fruit... the 100million that tuned in and all that attended the service... it was so inspiring and the Gospel went out to so many. That is good fruit. I never really understood the cursing of the fig tree. And NOW I get it! Thank you, I can always count on your support and love! With love Annabel.xxx
I don't usually comment here, but have been reading your blog for many years. I'm always so encouraged and lifted up in spirit when I leave the blog. It is so good to see how fellow believers are living and serving God all over the world.
ReplyDeleteI'm sorry you had such terrible comments. People are not well mentally, and spiritually. You keep posting about your life and work and serving others. It is a light into the world.
Thank you Deanne, that is such a kind and beautiful thing to say. And it is so encouraging to me. I have picked myself back up and got back to work! With love Annabel.xxx
DeleteYou said, "This is like nothing I thought I would witness in my lifetime".
ReplyDeleteYes! I am floored and confused by all of this and the blaming of who is the hateful side. It's just too much. What I know is that Charlie Kirk did not deserve to die. I'm going to concentrate on my corner of the world and do what I can here for my family.
Dear Belinda, Thank you! Concentrating on caring for your family is the thing to do! And it is a big job! Thank you for your kind words! With love Annabel.xxx
DeleteI live half a world away and a very different type of life but I never miss a post. You have encouraged and blessed me. Thank you for your wisdom and heart for God.
ReplyDeleteThank you! What a lovely thing to say! We are sisters across a long distance! xxx
DeleteDear Annabel ,
ReplyDeleteThank you for blogging week after week and for encouraging us to nake our homes and our hearts beautiful .
There are some ugly hearted people in this works and tge world has gone madder than ever before .
I am sorry you ate getting horrible comments , these people obviously do not have the love of god in tgeir hearts like you do and lije tge ladies here do .
And as for tge get a job um ….😳
You work harder than any full time job , you never stop during the day .
Ive messaged you and you have told me all you are doing but reassured me you are there for me and that you will be back .
I consider you to be one of my best friends yet we are thousands of km apart .
I owe you happy mail and its nearly finished , i am finishing off your letter before o go back to sleep .
I crashed at 5.30 pm after i had tge electrician here , let there be light ! , i ca now see in my hone again .
I wad the young mans jast job for today ( hes 36 , but thats a young man to me !) .
He said this is an easy job and when i thought one light bulb was going to be replaced well he surprised me a d said ill replace all of the lights in uour home , this was dobe free through my landlord .
Im so happy because lightbulbs were on ny list to buy abd tgey are nir cheap these days and because if my mobility issues and we dint gave anyone to change them well it became a big problem.
The area i was most concerned about was my fairly newly established craft space ! Priorities right !
This comment might not go through as two i did last week did not go through but the system let the bad ones through ?! Too many bad comments !
Before i go , i love tge photos of Tom and the lovely dog who is the supervisor .
Please keep going Annabel , i have a happy heart because of you abd all the ladies ive met here .
I owe a lot of ladies happy mail !.
Im starting laye in the year becayse of my health .
I received my planner for next year and i love it .
Ive gone with a different business this year but it was a tough decision .
I will talk to you mire in messages maybe next week if tge wedding is this weekend !
Love to all nice bluebirds !xx🩷🌻
Barb E🩷🩷
Dear Barb, Thank you for such a beautiful and kind comment! You are so kind. You have your planner! Oh! I love getting my planned and even choosing which one to get. I am not sure yet. I will message you and find out what you chose. Many thanks Barb, With love Annabel.xxx
DeleteAnnabel, I am sorry that you have received such unkind comments. I look forward to reading your blog each week as it gives me such a feeling of peace in a chaotic world. I fear that many people have lost their way and their humanity when they can celebrate the loss of any human being.
ReplyDeleteThank you so much! I think the more the world goes crazy the more we better feather our nests. I found my feet again! Thank you!xxx
DeleteOh my gosh the first part of your post makes me so sad, and mad. I just don't understand how people think sometimes. You don't have to get mean or hateful at someone if you don't agree with them - just scroll on by or choose not to interact. Some people are just not happy unless they are confrontational about everything. Sigh. I'm glad you have way more supporters than detractors. The hateful people just need to go away. Keep doing what you are doing - we love you, Annabel!
ReplyDeleteThanks Kathy! I am back on my feet and doing all the things. And it's been a good week! xxx
DeleteThe first of your post saddened me. I am appalled that anyone would think murder of an innocent man was ever a good think. I saw some of the early response and have avoided social media for the last week. I guess I am glad that I did. I did snap at a man from our church on Sunday when he said it was the victims fault. I called into question his Christianity. I later had to apologize as I am not the judge. I did avoid saying that even though I was apologizing I thought he needed to do some self examination, just barely but I did it. This week I had to spend some extra time in prayer for our world and my attitude. I need to be more like Charlie in pointing others to salvation. I confess sometimes I would rather just write them off as a lost cause so I don’t have to deal with them. I had to do a bit of self examination also. I thank God I am forgiven!
ReplyDeleteDear Nancy, It is even more confusing when someone claiming to be a Christian says something so dreadful. It is hard to know what to say! I kind of think it is interesting when people show their true colours. You have the answer though to pray and be more like Charlie and point to God. It was a week that was tough to navigate! Have a very good and happy new week! I am using my Sunday afternoon now to do some planning! With love Annabel.xxx
DeleteYou are an encourager.! Thank you for encouraging me on the other side of the world. I love the wool collection. Love your pictures of ALL the projects you've taken on at the farm. Lots of hard work.
ReplyDeleteA thought on the commenters. You will know they are Christians by their love. There is no love in those who celebrate murder.
Thank you for fighting the good fight.
Thank you for breaking that down to such a simple equation. How true!xxx
DeleteHello Annabel,
ReplyDeleteI have followed your blog for several years now, but I don't usually comment. I always look forward to Friday so I can read the latest from you. :) I just wanted you to know that I pray for you often. I hope that you know how much good you are doing just by faithfully sharing here. I am always so encouraged by what you write. Don't let anyone steal your joy! The enemy wants to discourage and silence all who share truth, and righteousness. You are a great encouragement to many. Thank you so much for all you do. It is not in vain.♡ Emily C.
Dear Emily, Thank you so much for such a kind comment. I do really appreciate it and you have encouraged me! With love Annabel.xxx
DeleteAnnabel, I am so very sorry about the unkind comments. I share your beliefs and attitude towards life. I try to live as our Heavenly Father tells us. Every word you wrote is true. And like you, I never thought I would see this negative, unkind behavior running rampant in my lifetime. Satan is working overtime of late. We sisters of Christ must stand strong and united and “pray without ceasing.” Know you have my full support. Your blog is a highlight of my week. I had to laugh when I read the question about you getting a job. Farming is like working a double shift every day 365 days a year. People just don’t understand all that goes into feeding the world with such a small financial return. Anyway, I was able to feather my nest this past week by canning 10 pints of pasta sauce using tomatoes from my garden plus a quart bag of cherry tomatoes from my neighbor. I didn’t need anymore tomatoes when my neighbor offered them to me, but then I remembered what you said about always saying yes to food. I took them and added them to make the sauce. I’m sure I got at least one extra jar of sauce out of that deal. I was able to get a great deal on the extra large boxes of Cheerios. They were on clearance plus my digital coupon worked with the purchase. I got 3 huge boxes for $1.25 each. I don’t usually buy cereal, but this was too good to pass up so I bought a box for each of my kids to share and want to have on hand as I like to snack on Cheerios occasionally. I also got a good deal on toilet paper at Rural King. I stocked up significantly.😁. I still have tomatoes on the vine so am hoping to be able to can pizza sauce soon. Wishing all the bluebirds a week full of blessings. Marley in the Mountains
ReplyDeleteDear Marley, Thank you for being my sister in Christ! I am feeling better seeing so many positive things this week. And I do have to laugh off the dumb stuff like get a job and Im not equal to my husband. Normally it doesn't bother me, I just had too much come at one time.
DeleteI am proud you took the tomatoes and got an extra jar of sauce. One day you might be so glad of it even if it is to help someone else. Great job on stocking up! With many thanks, Annabel.xxx
I've been a reader for a number of years, but I do not comment much. The things that I have seen and read and heard since Charlie Kirk was murdered have shocked me a bit also. It is definitely looking like good is evil and evil is good and it is heartbreaking to me. Don't let any of these miserable, hate filled people get to you. God will always prevail!!
ReplyDeleteThank you Lori! This week I have been lifted up seeing so many boldly proclaim the Gospel and go to church and other positive things!xxx
DeleteI'm so sorry that you are getting so much criticism lately! That's a sign that you are doing the right things because the devil hates that you are such an encourager for so many women world wide and a fount of knowledge for us all.I can't wait to read each new post you write ,thank you !Your flower arrangements are very beautiful.Beautiful creations come out of a beautiful heart.
ReplyDeleteThank you Peggy that is the kindest thing you could say!xxx
Deleteway to go annabel, thank you for your fortitude and encouragement. people lash out because they were confronted with their sin and didn't want to give it up or hear the consequences. jesus said that in this world we will have tribulation, but annabel, take heart, i have overcome the world. he came to take us away from all of this and to save us and forgive us. don't ever stop speaking your mind and saying what stands for truth, Gods word the bible, it is our instruction manual. i believe satan is blinding many people, like you said , what we see as good they turn into evil and what is evil is now glorified. (halloween is a current example) thank you again for such a wonderful post, i so enjoy reading your encouraging words. i also would like prayers for my granddaughter, who is in the hospital to be evaluated for mental health, she is 12 and demonstrating some bizzare behaviors. pray for her parents too. bonnie in southern pa.
ReplyDeleteDear Bonnie, Thank you. I think you are exactly right. The anger Ive seen when some hear the Gospel is frightening. I had an eye opener. Charlie Kirt actually spoke about Halloween and that was really interesting and good!
DeleteI am very sorry to hear your granddaughter has struggles. I will pray. I hope they find a way to help her and her parents and you must be so worried. Please update when you are able. With love Annabel.xxx
;galatians 6:9 it's bonnie again, just saw this scripture for your encouragement.
ReplyDeleteOh Annabelle, please rest assured that you are definitely an encourager! I’m always blessed reading your blog and your encouraging comments to each and everyone who posts on the Tuesday Afternoon site! I was shocked to read that anyone would come against what you shared last week about Charlie Kirk! This world is getting darker by the day, but that just means our light shines brighter, and the darkness cannot tolerate the light! I was so stunned and shocked when I heard Charlie Kirk was murdered while speaking on a college campus. But when I see how God is using his death to multiply his message, I’m amazed! Romans 8:28! God is using his death to spark revival across the globe! I believe we are entering the Third Great Awakening! The younger generation is taking up the torch and there’ll be no stopping them! Praise God!
ReplyDeleteThank-you for sharing your heart and being honest! We need more of that. God Bless you!!!
Hugs,
Laura C. (Aka Nana C)
Dear Laura, Thank you. Even up until yesterday I saw examples of darkness cannot stand the light as you say. Absolute hate-violence. When I saw over 100 million watched his service and the Gospel was preached well that was just so encouraging! I am on track again. I can see what is happening here. Darkness loathes light. We have to keep on working, believing, sharing and encouraging! With much love Annabel.xxx
DeleteAt difficult times in my life I have also been surprised by those who stepped up to help and those who left a trail of dust as they exited elsewhere. When it became clear that one of my children had severe developmental problems friends, who I thought would be friends for life, simply disappeared. When my mother died and I was struggling with clearing her house prior to selling it not one of my many cousins who lived locally offered to help, yet a friend of my sister and her new husband (who had never met me) pitched in and saved the day.
ReplyDeleteI think that the folk who left horrible comments for you to read must not have experienced the loss of a loved one and have not taken the time to read what you actually wrote. I am often shocked when reading the comments left on news articles to realise that the people commenting are having a knee-jerk reaction to a headline and haven't actually read the article, let alone taken the time to think about it.
Dear Tracy, I am happy that someone stepped up to help you deal with your Mums home... but yes it is just a shock who helps and who doesn't! And I am really sorry friends deserted you when you most needed them. That is shocking. Sometimes there are just no words. I hope now you do have the support you need. I hope your child is doing well. With much love Annabel.xxx
DeleteI enjoy your letters every Friday. I love both your dogs. Our Rosie is a stinker at times but we love her. How great to have Tom to help and for company. I am sorry you have had evil comments. I think the devil works overtime some days. I am thankful for the produce I pick from our little courtyard garden. Sometimes CFS is discouraging. If anyone has it please share your secrets to coping. I am thankful for what I can do and a wonderful husband. Love Friday updates. Be encouraged! Nancy in NW Indiana USA
ReplyDeleteDear Nancy, Thank you! I am so sorry about your CFS. The closest I can compare is times of illness with no energy or times of depression/loss with no energy. In those times I would set a timer for five minutes to do things or get up and do ten things... and rest and repeat. But I had a period of terrible energy/pain/aches ... which I always had to some extend.... but got worse. I tried eating no wheat at all and after 4 days my energy came back and my pain left. I now have to stick to this. It is worth trying. Even for a small improvement ... but it is an experiment and experiments are worth a go! With love Annabel.xxx
DeleteDear Annabel,
ReplyDeleteThe flowers you are doing look so beautiful. I love the smile on Scout's face. My chooks are laying lots of eggs too so I have been able to share some. We spent two days at my parents, they hired an excavator and my husband did lots of jobs around the farm that have been bothering my 85 year old Dad, who was very grateful to have the help.
I am sorry you have to sift through comments at all. I also cannot understand why people just don't read your blog if they think like that. The world is certainly topsy turvy at the moment.
I for one thankyou for your continued encouragement to uplift ourselves and our families and make our lives as beautiful as possible.
Love Clare
Dear Clare,
DeleteScout sees herself as management. haha. Your husband is wonderful to help your Dad like that! I already know he is a good guy but this was so kind.
Thank you for your kind words! I am back on my feet and all the more determined! Thanks Clare, with love Annabel.xxx
I love your wedding flowers. Just beautiful! I don't post nearly enough, but I always look forward to your posts and love to see what you're doing. And then I wonder where you get all your energy!!
ReplyDeleteI wish I had reasons for why people do what they do. It's rather sad that they see trolling as a better option than many other things. Life is too short and getting shorter every day! My life's wise women always told me that if you can't say something nice, don't say anything.
Enjoy your week, Annabel! Can't wait to see what you get up to!
Dear Debby, Thank you! Yes indeed why say anything unkind? Well... I have got up to a lot so tomorrows post will cover a few things with a lot of flowers! With love Annabel.xxx
DeleteFinally (I hope) I’m able to comment. I kept thinking, They will call evil good and good evil… and then you wrote it, I read it and it is true, Annabel. I must be ready to give my life, unashamed of The Gospel.
ReplyDeleteThose flowers…
And you DO HAVE A JOB! Your candle never goes out…
*hugs*
Kelley! Thank you! That was the highest compliment you could pay me! Yes... we are in the days of good is called evil and evil is good. That has arrived. I must be ready too to stand on the Gospel whatever the cost. Thank you for encouraging me! xxx
DeleteThis comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteOh Annabel, I'm so sorry you have been a target for nasty comments. The polarisation of opinion whether it be over religion, politics, the environment etc has become extreme and it seems we are not allowed to disagree politely any longer. Celebrating someone's murder because they expressed their beliefs is beyond shameful.
ReplyDeleteThere is so much aggression in the world it seems and people have lost respect for others and their views.
I expressed a mild opinion, politely, at my sewing group and a new member jumped down my throat so aggressively I think she must have bounced off my tonsils. She isn't interested in a reasonable polite exchange of views so I sit well away from her and don't engage. Long live lovely Bluebirds and Annabel!
You are an example to us all to keep encouraging, spreading kindness and tolerance, feathering our nests and placing family first. Christians , those of other faiths or none, can all relate to those values. I hope you can put the haters out of mind.
I have been ill so very little achieved this week but the house is clean, laundry done, meals cooked so I count that as a win!
Best wishes to you Annabel and all Bluebirds around the world
Penny in the UK
Dear Penny, I am sorry someone jumped on you like that. You are right... it's extreme over everything from diet, climate, gov policies, education... like wow there is no safe subject!
DeleteI am really sorry you weren't well, I hope you are feeling better. You always do a lot! We will keep on building our nests! Maybe this experience is good in the way that I know encouragement is more needed that even I ever thought! With love Annabel.xxx
Hi Annabel, I've been following your blog for several years now and comment now and again you do a wonderful job encouraging us all.When you start to read a negative comment don't read the rest just delete it why waste your time on it.I feel sorry for them they must have a rotten life.
ReplyDeleteYour flowers look beautiful and that large egg, well poor chook the thought of it is enough to make your eyes water. HA HA.
From Shirley in Perth W.A.
Thank you dar Shirley! Haha yes some of the eggs are gigantic and are double yolks. I think they are having some kind of competition! Thanks for your kind words! With love Annabel,xxx
DeleteHi Annabelle,
ReplyDeleteThank you so much for writing this beautiful blog. Though I don't comment often, I’ve been reading your posts ever since I stumbled upon your site years ago, and I’ve remained a loyal fan ever since. Your words have taught me so much, and I genuinely look forward to each new post.
I honestly can’t understand why some people choose to read and then leave negative comments. If someone doesn’t resonate with a blog, they can simply walk away without hurting anyone. I’m a Buddhist, but I have absolutely no issue with your beliefs and I love your blog. If there’s ever something I don’t personally connect with, I know I can just move on respectfully - no drama needed.
What I love is that you’re not pushing your religion on anyone. You’re simply sharing your life, your joy, and your values. That’s something I deeply respect. Please don’t let the negativity get to you. I’m sure many of us, myself included, are cheering you on and grateful for what you share.
Also, I have a little request—when you have a moment, could you please include a photo of Mollie? I absolutely adore doggies, and seeing them always lifts my spirits. The way you talk about your doggies and cows is just so heart warming and they truly feel like friends, and it’s such a joy to read about them.
Wishing you all the best, and thank you again for everything you bring to this space.
Love,
Millie
Thank you Millie! I will try and make sure I have a photo of Mollie coming up soon. She is very kind and patient with Sparkie... I will try to get some good ones as this is sweet. Thank you for your kindness! With love Annabel.xxx
DeleteAnnabelle, sounds like the devil is after you. Stand strong against him, your community stands shoulder to shoulder with you.
ReplyDeleteI come here for soothing, calming, peaceful fellowship. The flowers are so beautiful!
Thanks Wendy. Yes I think I was under attack. I am one op of it now! Thank you re the flowers! They are complete! xxx
DeleteSifting. At first I was wondering where you were going with that. If anything you’re always drawing people in, helping, encouraging. The last week has been an eye opener hasn’t it? People’s masks have come off. I have found myself turning off the news for a while, getting back to taking care of the people and things God has entrusted me with. You’re very good at that. My husband mentioned that a way to brainwash people is to teach them to hate. Once you do that they’ll believe anything. I think it’s something we as Christians need to be careful of. Our world is becoming so divided. There are so many of us around the world who are thankful for your blog. For boosting us up when we’re weary. For showing us that “we can do it too”. I’m thankful for you Annabel. Mel in Co.
ReplyDeleteDear Mel, Thank you. The hate really staggered me. And yes... we can grow weary! But we have to bounce back! And I have.... But boy we did some sifting! And not the baking type. lol. With love Annabel.xxx
DeleteAnnabel and Bluebirds,
ReplyDeleteYour blog ( and the comment section) are such an encouragement to me! I can't imagine why someone would criticize, but you are brave to carry on! Rest assured, there are so many of us who feel that kindred spirit with you and enjoy working alongside! I do know this. The critics don't change my mind. No matter how loud or obnoxious they are, I will stand firm. May the Lord bless you and keep you.
Stacy in Virginia
Thank you Stacy, I will stay firm too. Feet on the rock! Thank you for your encouraging words.xxx
DeleteI have been a reader of your blog for at least 10 years and it has been an unbelievable comfort and encouragement to me. I am not a Christian, but I was when I found you. I have no idea why someone would leave you cruel comments, but I wanted to tell you that no matter how much of a hell escape, my life has been. It has been a weekly comfort to see your post and to see you continue to live the life you want to live. Thank you so much for writing. I pray the creator continues to comfort and provide for you. Those flowers are absolutely stunning. What a wonderful life you live.
ReplyDeleteThank you so much for your most kind comment. I hope things in your life are much better! Dont worry... Im back to usual! Thank you!xxxx
DeleteAnnabel, I read your blog every week and am so encouraged by it. I have felt such a heaviness in the past days. I wish Christ would come today, but I realize we must just try to be lights where we can in this sometimes dark and confusing world. Thank you for being an encourager to so many! ❤️
ReplyDeleteDear Peggy, The heaviness really hit me and so many have said the exact same to me. But I am feeling better now and so are you. However... I think Andy could not have handled this and Im glad he didnt have to. Thank you so much! Love Annabel.xxx
DeleteAnnabel you are the first thing I read on Saturday morning, or in this case for some reason it was Sunday. You make my day.
ReplyDeleteJulie
Thanks Julie!! What an encouragement to read this! xxx
DeleteDear Annabel, I am so sorry you have had this. I feel it’s getting worse. Maybe because people are now switched on and speaking up. Your blog has been such a light for me. Your kindness, encouragement and kindness has really shown me what it is like to be a Christian in this world. You are my inspiration. Thank you for reminding us to do all we can to love and serve others. Lots of love, Bridget
ReplyDeleteDear Bridge, Thank you so much. Goodness what a time. It opened my eyes to a lot. Keep the home fires burning! With love Annabel.xxx
DeleteHi Annabel. Thank you for this post. You are a bright light for us, full of hope and kindness and just doing the work in front of you. I love your blog, have been here for years. I am saddened by how many people in this world have lost their moorings and think murder is good. As you said, evil is good and vice versa. As one of your commenters said, at least the masks have been removed and we can see more clearly. All we can do is love God and love our neighbors, that is a hard challenge right now for me with some of the neighbors ;(. But I am focused on loving my enemies or at least trying to see God in them. Love to you and thank you for being here for us. Hilogene in Az
ReplyDeleteDear Hilogene, Thank you! Yes things are just as the Bible said they would be. So here we are. But we cant be discouraged, keep going! With love Annabel.xxx
DeleteIt seems to me a person who claims to be Christian but hates Charlie Kirk should not be celebrating his death but instead should have been praying that he'd see the wrongness of his views and is sad he is dead before he did change his views.
ReplyDeleteMurder is wrong because the killer substitutes their judgment for God's and the dead person was deprived of an opportunity to get right with God before death.
But for what it's worth a person celebrating Kirk's death is not a Christian.
I appreciate that you did comment on his death. For too long Christians have been silent on many things.
If you're doing something good and right, you will meet opposition. If you have a ministry of any sort, there will be someone coming along in the hopes of derailing it and putting you off what you're doing. They don't mean to be the instruments of evil they are being but there they are.
ReplyDeleteMy pastor today said, "React in love" and that is too often exactly what some cannot do, right or left, saved or unsaved. They cannot react in love.
I have been overwhelmed by life, personal changes, and duties to pay my home the full attention it deserves. But this week I hope to see things settle a little bit and then I shall happily return to my usual domestic bliss.
While prices are higher here on meat most especially and on all things, I am blessed to continue to find good sales and prices on items we typically stock. I am happy with what I was able to accomplish last month and now feel prepared to greet our colder months (though they aren't so terribly cold as a rule).
Hugs to you dearest Annabel and prayers of blessings upon you for being such a beautiful, brave and lovely soul! You've added much to my life. Thank you for that!
Dear Terri,
DeleteThank you. I dont blame you for feeling overwhelmed. I have felt the same. I think partly it is from feeling under attack. I hope you are feeling better. You have the skills and work ethic... you have been working away.... we will keep adapting to changing prices and seasons. Thank you for your prayers and blessings Terri! With love Annabel.xxx
Just catching up now. I'm so sorry people have been unkind in their words. The commandment is clear: Thou shalt not kill. I take that to mean that not only should I not kill anyone, but that I shouldn't condone killing for any reason, and I hope I don't. For a Christian to ignore that commandment is sad. Yes, we are saved by the Grace of God and the sacrifice of the cross, so the Old Testament laws don't apply, but Jesus was very clear: "If you love ME, keep MY COMMANDMENTS". Its not a brain teaser, it's quite clear and that includes the 6th commandment. I love the flowers, they are gorgeous. Scout is doing a great job as site manager, keeping an eye on everything. I've taken a break from news. The hate is spreading, and I am sure the nightly news and the news feeds are mostly responsible. The last couple of weeks no news has been wonderful. I've been able to concentrate on finding joy and peace in the day-to-day, and this week in being busy and quietly kind. Oh, I believe angels are everywhere and we don't know if who we are speaking to is an angel, so being friendly and polite and showing kindness to everyone could well include angels. And just when would you have time to get a job - that did make me smile. Cath xxxx
ReplyDeleteDear Cath, Thank you! Good point! The commandments are clear. We can stand on those. I have had to lessen the news too and dodge what I know I cannot handle. I do also believe angels are amongst us. Most certainly. You know what... this could be the subject for a show. If we work day and night and get told to get a job... it just shows that there is no value apparently in running a homestead, be it large or small or located anywhere it is a huge job! Sometimes I just have to roll my eyes! Thank you for being so supportive! With love Annabel.xxx
DeleteYou are a light, one of the many true believers whom Jesus uses to draw the lost and confused to Himself. Keep shining my precious friend. I love you for being open to Him, and for sharing Him with others...even when you know it will shake the friendship tree of fruit.
ReplyDeleteHugs
Jennifer
Thank you Jenny. Thank you for encouraging me!xxx
Delete'Be encouraged! Do not let anyone steel your joy!' Well said!!
ReplyDeleteLove God with ALL that's in you and love your neighbour AS yourself. May that command guide us and help us each day. Esther🌷
Dear Esther, Thank you very much! Bless you! With love Annabel.xxx
DeleteDear Annabel,
ReplyDeleteJust got back from being out of the country, and I haven't been online much (thankfully, by the sounds of things) to witness the fallout from the assassination. I can never understand how it gets turned around for evil to be called good...this has mystified me a lot over the last 5-10 years!!! I certainly don't understand why anyone would bother leaving you, of all people, a nasty comment!!!!!!!!! Thankfully you are still here; I would have a hard time if it were me, and would be running those comments over and over in my mind, keeping me from focusing on whatever is good, true, lovely, of good report (I know those are probably in the wrong order...I'm just winging it without my bible handy :))...which only makes the evil one happy! Keep up the good work, Annabel, both with your teaching and encouragement of others, and with the farm! You know I'm drooling over all that wool for your quilt. :) xxx Jen in NS
Thank you Jen! Well I am glad for you, it sounds like you had a holiday and missed a lot of the trouble. I knew you would like the wool quilt concept! In fact... Im finding more projects to do with recycle wool and knitwear. As spring kicks in I'll go ver to lighter projects but keep collecting these fabrics and Im so excited to make blankets! Many thanks, with love Annabel.xxx
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