Archived in: 🦋 Just HAIKU
HAIKU #8
Bible Inspiration #4
Archived in: 🦋 Christian Reads
Majestic Is Our God
Your peace flows through me like a river,
soothing and graceful.
Your presence embraces my soul like a hug,
comforting and restful.
I drink in the beauty of your establishment—
how wonderful is your supremacy?
The promises you gave are with me every day,
directing and truthful.
The assurance you provided is one to treasure,
enduring and fruitful.
I feed on the awesomeness of your creation—
how magnificent is your power?
You transformed me to this new way of thinking,
obeying and heedful.
You changed my soul to one of obedience,
willing and dutiful.
I taste the sweetness of your ambiance—
how comforting is your presence?
I found this piece of God’s paradise,
calming and peaceful.
I have met with the Creator and Master,
redeeming and powerful.
I leave with the knowledge of His peace—
How majestic is our God!
© Chrissy Siggee
Under Copyright: https://catalogue.nla.gov.au/catalog/4537869
ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
Archived in: 
Christian Reads
Evening Sky
colours of the evening sky
reveal the setting sun—
aromas of the sleepy garden
refresh my musty senses.
© Chrissy Siggee
From my book: Glimpses of His Glory
Under Copyright: https://catalogue.nla.gov.au/catalog/4537869
ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
Archived in: 🦋 Christian Reads & 🦋 Poetry Mix
An Update on my Health
A brief update:
Symptoms of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS) have finally ceased. However, fatigue is also a notable symptom of Fibromyalgia which requires re-managing. There are also a few serious symptoms of Fibromyalgia that have arisen since the flare-up in August that needs time to be treated. I’m now focusing on these symptoms and sorting through Arthritis issues aggravated by the CFS.
The Cortisone injection I had before Christmas has brought much relief to the Arthritis in the L4/L5 area. Unfortunately, the Sacroiliac Joint pain returned five days after the injection. This pain is managed most days with Holistic and Topical treatments avoiding further issues with medication reactions. I have an appointment with my spine specialist in early March when the next step in the treatment of the Sacroiliac Joint will be organised.
Living with three chronic illnesses has not been easy, but knowing I have ongoing support makes a huge difference to both of Norm and myself. Be assured there has been a significant improvement in my overall health.
Chrissy
Archived in: Living with Chronic Illness
HAIKU #7
Good Advice #03
Archived in: 🦋 Christian Reads
Bartholomew’s Adventure
From the Archives….
‘Bartholomew? Is that you?’
pant pant
‘Bartholomew, it’s hard enough to get six babies to have a nap after Sunday School without you coming home late. This floor shook all the way through the singing. The entire ruckus has given me a headache.’
pant pant ‘When I catch my breath…pant…I’ll explain.’
‘Were you chased by the janitor?’
‘Mildred, he’s on to us again.’
‘Well, it’s no wonder. Your snooping around those Sunday School classes is going to get us into trouble one of these days.’
He ignored his wife and continued. ‘I got right up close to the piano. It was awesome. They were singing Jesus loves me; my favourite. I managed to sneak in behind the young ones going into class. Mildred, their new Sunday School teacher, Miss Cooper, is delightful.’
‘I thought you were going to find us some Sunday lunch, not check out the girls.’
‘I did. Anyway, I was captivated by the way she presented the Noah’s Ark story—pictures of the ark, birds, animals, and even Noah. Young Tommy asked if there were any rats on board and everyone laughed. Miss Cooper assured Tommy that if there were rats around now; they would’ve been on the ark. She spoke with enthusiasm about our Maker and His promises. Oh, Mildred, you’d have loved it. It was a perfect morning.’
‘So why were you panting?’
‘I was coming to that. You see, Billy was about to leave the room with his Bible still on his chair.’
‘Again? His parents must have replaced his Bible a dozen times.’
‘I know, and I thought if I could get someone’s attention before they left, they’d see it and return it to him.’
‘So, what did you do, scare poor Miss Cooper half to death on her first morning?’
‘No, I simply marched over to the Bible and stood on it… only I didn’t see the janitor passing the door with his broom. He saw me at about the same time as Billy did. Billy stood between the janitor and me so I could get away.’ He chuckled. ‘You should’ve seen me run. I slipped out the door as quick as a flash with that broom coming mighty close.’
‘OK, so where’s lunch? Maybe we can enjoy some of His gifts before the babies wake up.’
Bartholomew removed the pack from his shoulder and began to unload his findings. ‘I found a couple of potato crisps in the foyer. A gummy bear with his head removed in the cry room and a half-eaten peanut butter and jelly sandwich in the Sunday School Hall. All while they were busy singing themselves silly.’ He chuckled again.
‘Oh, this is great, Bartholomew. We won’t go to bed hungry tonight.’
‘I’LL FIND YOU, RAT!’ A voice bellowed through the walls.
Mildred began to shiver. ‘Bartholomew…’
‘Mildred, take the babies through the side door to the end of the stage. Take the underground route to Uncle Moses… and don’t stop until you get there.’
‘Bartholomew, don’t leave us. Where are you going?’
‘It’s all right. I’ll distract him and meet you at Uncle Moses’s later. I’ll be fine. GO!’
‘WHERE ARE YOU, RAT?’
Bartholomew scurried back through the hole and across the stage. His feet skidded beneath him on the varnished boards, causing him to slide sideways and crash into a pile of electrical cables. He scanned the stage and the hall just as one of the cables hit the floor below.
‘I HAVE YOU NOW.’
As fast as his little legs could carry him, Bartholomew scampered into Miss Cooper’s classroom, raced past Noah and the ark, and up the drapes on the other side of the room.
There he waited.
It was dark when Bartholomew reached Uncle Moses’ place, tired and hungry. He listened, but there was no sound. He tapped lightly before entering.
‘Bartholomew, where have you been? I’ve been worried sick. The babies wore out poor Uncle Moses. They’re all curled up with him on his bed.’
‘I’m fine. I told you I’d be fine. I know that place blindfolded. We can return in a few weeks once the exterminators have gone and the air is clear again.’
‘In the meantime, Bartholomew, you can help me with the babies. When we return home, I want you to take them to Sunday School, but no more adventures.’
‘All right, Mildred, no more adventures for me.’
© Chrissy Siggee
This is a work of fiction. Names, characters, businesses, places, events, locales, and incidents are either the products of the author’s imagination or used in a fictitious manner. Any resemblance to actual persons, living or dead, or actual events is purely coincidental.
Archived in: 🦋 Children’s Corner
HAIKU #6
Archived in: 🦋 Just HAIKU
Bible Inspiration #3
Fields of Laughter
From the Archives:
The sun was warm on the sombre faces of ten-year-old twins, Holly and Steve. Their legs swung carelessly over the edge of the old rustic fence. Aunt Mary shuffled past with her black veil held tightly against her chin, barely noticing the children.
Steve’s voice was solemn and quiet. ‘Holly, do you remember last summer when Grandpa fell into the river trying to reel in that big trout?’
Holly laughed unexpectedly. ‘Yes, my sides hurt from laughing while he was explaining to Mother how he got so wet.’
Uncle Peter hurried past with his weeping wife and two protesting young children tagging along behind. He glared at Holly and shook his head in disgust before hurrying up the drive. Steve and Holly tried to stifle their giggles as they watched the small family group approach the house.
Holly laughed again as she remembered. ‘We never did get to eat fish for tea that night.’
‘Hello, Holly. Hello Steve.’
The twins smiled and waved back to their cousin Gerald. His father grumbled and prodded Gerald in the direction of the house.
Quite a few relatives lived nearby and sometimes they walked the short distances between the farms and their community church but visits weren’t common. They were all busy with their own lives, their own farms.
Holly frowned. ‘Do you think Grandpa ever found out I was the one who hid his tobacco?’
Steve grinned at his sister. ‘Probably, he always said he had eyes in the back of his head.’ He threw his head back and snorted, almost losing his balance in the process and sending them both into fits of uncontrollable laughter.
Mr Snyder, the owner of the farm that adjoined theirs, drove his rattling pickup truck in the direction of the open gate and stopped almost directly in front of Steve. ‘You children should have more respect for the dead. For pity’s sake, I can hear you from my front door.’ With that, he accelerated toward the grass area where other vehicles were parked haphazardly under trees.
The twins were silent for a few moments before Steve spoke again. ‘I don’t think Grandpa ever liked Mr Snyder.’
Holly smiled, trying to smother another giggle. ‘Remember when Mr. Snyder let our cows out of the back field and Grandpa chased him with his shotgun?’
‘Yes, that was funny, especially since Grandpa had forgotten to buckle his trouser belt before leaving the outhouse.’
The twins were continuing their banter when they noticed their father strolling up from the barn toward them. Work still needed to be done, even if Grandpa’s funeral had been held earlier that morning.
‘Hey, you two. What’s the joke?’
‘Holly and I were talking about Grandpa. Sorry Dad.’
‘Dad, why is everyone mad at us?’ Holly asked sadly.
‘Because, my sweet child, no one knew Grandpa like you both did…and like I did, for that matter. Even your mother could tell you a story or two.’ He leaned up against the fence between the twins and nodded in the direction of the house. ‘Not one of these guests will miss Grandpa after today.’
‘They didn’t really know him.’ Steve said this more as a statement than a question.
‘No Son, they didn’t.’
‘That’s sad’, Holly concluded.
Their father looked up and scanned the fields.
The children turned their heads to follow his gaze.
‘I remember when I was about your age,’ he began. ‘Your Grandpa worked the farm completely on his own. One day, Mr. Snyder let his cows into our cornfield. Your grandfather decided from that day on, that he would get revenge. It was never anything serious. They both got over it soon enough. Grandpa’s funny antics were really something to witness.’ He finished with a short, choked laugh and wiped his hand across his eyes.
Holly and Steve jumped down from the fence and walked hand-in-hand with their father back through the gate. The trio didn’t enter the house full of mourners. Instead, they headed for the corn field which was now ready for harvest, and then on to the fields beyond. Their laughter echoed across the farm.
© Chrissy Siggee
This is a work of fiction. Names, characters, businesses, places, events, locales, and incidents are either the products of the author’s imagination or used in a fictitious manner. Any resemblance to actual persons, living or dead, or actual events is purely coincidental.
Archived in: 🦋 Children’s Corner
HAIKU #5
Archived in: 🦋 Just HAIKU
Good Advice #02
Archived in: 🦋 Christian Reads
Romans 8:28
Archived in: 🦋 Christian Reads
HAIKU #4
Archived in: 🦋 Just HAIKU
Bible Inspiration #2
Archived in: 🦋 Christian Reads
Summer in Our Front Garden
The front garden is the best it’s ever been. Solid clay with pipes going every which-way is not the easiest place to grow a garden. Even after 7 years of loads of mulch and topsoil every Spring, the clay stays in charge.
All three Hibiscus are flowering at the same time as the yellow Frangipani. The pink Frangipani is a new plant so I’m waiting to see how our recent heatwaves have affected it. The front garden gets full sun most of the day.
Archived in: I’m in the Garden
HAIKU #3
Archived in: 🦋 Just HAIKU
Rainbow Smile
I asked an old lady in the park if she had seen my little boy.
‘What does he look like?’ she replied.
‘Well,’ I answered, quite sincere—
‘He has brown eyes
and hair to match;
Too many curls for a little boy,
combed to perfection every day;
His teeth are white as white can be—
A very tidy little man is he!
He wears a smartly pressed sailor suit
with little white shoes to match.’
— A perfect darling is my boy.’
‘No child like this I have seen,’ the lady did respond,
‘but a treasure you will find, just around that path.’
Around the garden path I went
and before me, a treasure my eyes beheld—
He had brown eyes
and hair to match.
A shock of curls in disarray,
band-aid knees, and soiled clothes—
What happened to my little boy?
In front, he had a missing tooth;
he was eating ice cream from a cone,
his face aglow with a rainbow smile.
— ‘A perfect darling is my boy.’
© Chrissy Siggee
Under Copyright: https://catalogue.nla.gov.au/catalog/4537869
ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
Archived in: 🦋 Christian Reads 🦋 Poetry Mix
Good Advice #01
Archived in: 🦋 Christian Reads
HAIKU #2
Archived in: 🦋 Just HAIKU
My Latest Update
This update has been a little slow in the making but things change every day. We enjoyed a few days rest up the coast early December before a long fun-filled weekend with the youngest two grandchildren in Sydney. Road trips left my pain levels screaming but thankfully, after a few hours of rest, pain eased each time.
I’m blessed that the worst of the chronic fatigue and fibromyalgia symptoms seem to have subsided. However, flares happen at anytime of day and night which means planning to go anywhere or do something can change in an instant. Some symptoms have persisted which are now considered by the medical team as not related to these two conditions. These symptoms are now being investigated further.
A two hour road trip to Newcastle mid December for an CT-guided L4/5 facet joint block with cortisone injection went well. For the first week the Cortisone did its ‘textbook’ job. After that the Sacroiliac Joint pain returned. Although I’m not on the arthritis pain medication again, topical treatments are getting well used. My next appointment with the orthopedic specialist is not until March but I’m keeping him up to date via emails. In regard to the Radio-Frequency Neurotomy (RFN) the specialist had commented on in his report, it’s a Sacroiliac Joints Procedure. We have made further inquiries and this procedure will help with – the probable ‘pain generator’. This procedure would be done under a sedative anesthetic which is why the my spine surgeon/orthopedic specialist needs to do the procedure himself in Sydney. This procedure will be discussed again in March at my appointment.
In conclusion, reports from my medical team are promising. It’s good to have had a diagnosis (or 2 or 3), but now we are looking at the prognosis. If we view diagnosis as the discovery and prognosis as the prediction/outcome, that’s where I’m at. I have been able to return to walking which also helps with pain although walking often triggers pain. Unpredictable fatigue is keeping me at a slower pace.
Archived in: Living with Chronic Illness
Bible Inspiration #1
Archived in: 🦋 Christian Reads
HAIKU #1
Archived in: 🦋 Just HAIKU
Happy New Year Everyone!
I hope everyone had a blessed Christmas and a safe and happy New Year.
The past two weeks has been quiet giving me the opportunity to doing other things.
Painting the large garden statues was a big job and I’m thankful for Norm’s assistance with cleaning and scrubbing them. I’ve also been experimenting with my bread maker I receive as an early Christmas gift. Gluten-free has never tasted better. I’m still practicing. 🙂
Happy New Year!
Archived in: Updates
Heavenly Angels Sing
A king is born today,
within a stable full of straw—
This baby in a manger lay,
is who the shepherds saw.
He came to earth to breathe as man,
to live, to die for us all—
This was God’s own plan,
what shall I bring the Father’s son?
Worship in humble adoration,
to this child our offering bring—
Praise, love, faith and hope,
heavenly angels sing.
© Chrissy Siggee
Archived in: 🦋 Christian Reads
The Christmas Star
It twinkles high above the earth
Once glistened on a royal birth—
Encircled by an angel’s choir
Proclaiming God’s desire.
Shepherds feared that dazzling light
Attending their sheep that holy night
It lured wise men from afar—
Vowed to follow this shining star.
Jesus was born in a cattle stall
Found wrapped in a shabby shawl
Beneath a clear night sky—
His mother Mary sits nearby.
No matter where we are
You can see the Christmas star—
Look within your heart He called,
It’s the brightest star of all.
© Chrissy Siggee
Archived in: 🦋 Christian Reads
Jesus, Hope to the world.
Psalm 72:12-13 “For he will deliver the needy who cry out, the afflicted who have no one to help. He will take pity on the weak and the needy and save the needy from death.”
Colossians 1:27 “To them God has chosen to make known among the Gentiles the glorious riches of this mystery, which is Christ in you, the hope of glory.”
It’s sad to think that for many people Christmas means nothing more than parties, decorations, holidays, and time off work. I see more to this time of year; it’s a blessed reminder of the birth of Jesus Christ. My hope is founded in this baby; a baby that was born to save mankind. My hope in him is real.
In reality, though, it’s difficult for many people to find hope. We live in a misplaced world of social injustice, crime, poverty, homelessness, unemployment, disease, pain and loneliness. Jesus means hope to all mankind, but we have to grasp the promises of God and take them to the world – whether it be across the road or across the ocean.
When you find Jesus, you find hope, and there’s no false hope in Jesus. It’s not a fanciful fairy tale wishing for a happy ending. We as Christians need to spread hope; not just by preaching The Word but by doing The Word. Millions of people do not even know Christmas is just around the corner, or what the fuss is about. Many people don’t know where their next meal will come from, and wouldn’t know what turkey and Christmas pudding is. They don’t see any hope. They see nothing but despair…
As Christians, we are supposed to be the hands and feet of Jesus. As His hands and feet, we are to serve Him by serving others. Christmas is a renewal of hope. It reconfirms for us the revelation that Jesus is the reason for this season. It was settled long ago, so we don’t have to doubt it. Jesus is the fulfillment of our hope; our deepest longings come true.
Lord, let your hope and joy radiate through us. Help us to embrace the hope we have in you and share it with those less fortunate than ourselves, whether it be spiritually, emotionally, or by using our hands and feet for your glory. Amen.
© Chrissy Siggee
Scripture Verses used are from the New International Version of the Bible
Archived in: 🦋 Christian Reads
A Christmas HAIKU
Archived in: 🦋 Just HAIKU
Shepherds
Luke 2:8-20 says: “And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid. And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord. And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger. And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying, Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, goodwill toward men. And it came to pass, as the angels were gone away from them into heaven, the shepherds said one to another, Let us now go even unto Bethlehem, and see this thing which is come to pass, which the Lord hath made known unto us. And they came with haste and found Mary, and Joseph, and the babe lying in a manger. And when they had seen it, they made known abroad the saying which was told them concerning this child. And all they that heard it wondered at those things which were told them by the shepherds. But Mary kept all these things and pondered them in her heart. And the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things that they had heard and seen, as it was told unto them.”
At the time of Jesus’ birth, people who attended sheep were considered one of the least significant of the human race by other people. They lived quiet and humble lives, often spending their days and nights with their flocks. The sheep that they tended were probably bred as sacrifice animals for the temple in nearby Jerusalem. These shepherds were just doing their usual job when the angels appeared before them.
I think I would be shaking in my sandals too. The news the angel gave the shepherds would have surprised them too. Babies would have been plentiful during the census and specific descriptions were to help the shepherds find Jesus among the crowded town.
When they went down to Bethlehem, they found Mary, Joseph, and the baby Jesus. They worshipped the newborn king before returning to their flocks glorifying and praising God for all the things they had heard and seen. It had been just as the angel had told them.
I can imagine the shepherds telling their friends and families for weeks after the event. This incident would have made a significant change in their tedious lives. History tells how shepherds had become accepted and probably even admired by many.
Jesus refers to himself as the “good Shepherd”.
John 10:11 tells us, “I am the good shepherd: the good shepherd giveth his life for the sheep.”
John 10:14 says: “I am the good shepherd, and know my sheep, and am known of mine.”
The next time you sing the Christmas carol While Shepherds Watched Their Flocks by Night, take notice of the words and remember their significant place in the Christmas Story.
Father, thank you for sending your son to earth as a small baby. Thank you that lowly shepherds were among the first to greet Jesus and for the reminder of the significance of the birth. We praise you, just as the angels and shepherds did on that night so long ago. Amen.
First Published 2014
Scripture Verses used are from the King James Version of the Bible
Archived in: 🦋 Christian Reads
A Cradle Fit for Royalty
Luke 2:15-16 says: “And it came to pass, as the angels were gone away from them into heaven, the shepherds said one to another, Let us now go even unto Bethlehem, and see this thing which is come to pass, which the Lord hath made known unto us. And they came with haste, and found Mary, and Joseph, and the baby lying in a manger.”
I’ve often heard of women not making it in time to a hospital to give birth. Even a well-prepared home birth can be messed up if the expecting mother is caught across town in the supermarket. Taxi births are common, and so are babies born in elevators. But what would be more degrading for a mother in the modern world than to give birth in a tiny barn full of smelly animals?
It’s true that the birth itself is often quickly forgotten when the joy of holding your newborn baby in your arms follows. Your baby is the most beautiful princess or little prince, you have ever laid eyes on. It’s then time to show your precious new family member the nursery that you have so lovingly put together during the months of waiting. The cradle that took you forever to choose, and don’t forget the bunny rugs.
But wait a moment! I don’t remember reading that part in the Christmas story. The shepherds found the baby lying in a manger. A manger is kept in a stable. It’s used as the feeding trough for donkeys and milking cows! There would probably even be hens and a goat or two sharing the small space around the manger. Here is where the King of the Jews was sleeping. And, sitting close by with watchful eyes, were Mary and Joseph; a humble pair who had traveled many miles to find no room in the inn.
This cradle was made for royalty. Jesus was born in a manger because He was, and is, and will always be “Lord of Lords and King of Kings”.
This same Jesus was found by the shepherds wrapped in swaddling clothes and lying in a manger—a cradle made for royalty.
Father, thank you for sending your son to earth. Help me never to forget the wonder of that first Christmas morning when the King of Kings came as a humble baby who was given by you to be called Jesus our Saviour. Amen
© Chrissy Siggee
Scripture Verses used are from the King James Version of the Bible
Archived in: Christian Reads
Chronic Pain Suffers
Pain is something born
Pain is our norm
Pain is our life as a whole
Pain is embedded in our soul
It’s part of us
It’s like being thrown under a bus
It’s what we daily bear
It’s just always there
Poem by Chrissy Siggee
Archived in: Living with Chronic Illness
Shine – Like the Christmas Star
Matthew 5:16 says: “In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.”
Christmas is approaching fast and stores are filled with decorations and gifts for all ages. Christmas trees, real and fake, dazzle us with lights and baubles. Let’s face it; it gives us all a feeling of excitement that Christmas is just around the corner.
Celebrations of the birth of Christ may vary from family to family, from church to church, and from tradition to tradition. In reality, it doesn’t matter how we celebrate as long as the true message of Christmas is our main focus.
As a child, my favourite Christmas decoration was the Christmas Star. We placed the star on the top of our tree year after year. One Christmas, we visited cousins who used a fairy. A star was nowhere to be seen. As a nine-year-old at that time, I could not comprehend how a fairy could replace the precious tree-topper. Later in life when I had my own family the idea of a fairy tree-topper never entered my mind. Our own children were brought up knowing the true meaning of Christmas: The birth of Jesus. The brightness of that Christmas star reflected the announcement of royalty’s birth, Jesus—the light of the world and guided the shepherds and the wise men to Jesus.
In the same way, our hearts need to reflect the love of Jesus who resides in us. Our lives need to reveal the light that burns just like the Christmas Star. We can let our light so shine before men—and our families who don’t always see eye-to-eye on what Christmas is about. Live as Jesus would live. Speak as Jesus would speak; with love in our hearts that shines like the Christmas Star that can lead others to Jesus.
This Christmas, let’s show love and grace to those who see things differently from us. Let your light shine so we glorify your Father, who is in heaven.
Father, let our light shine from within that we may lead others to Jesus, and let the true message of Christmas be seen by your love within us. Amen
© Chrissy Siggee
Scripture Verses used are from the New International version of the Bible.
Archived in: 🦋 Christian Reads
Fifteen Tarnished Christmas Bells
David took a deep breath. The musty smells of the old town hall made his nose itch. This place still reminded him of community gatherings, nativity plays, and combined Easter services. An old plastic Christmas tree leaned against the wall; bent over and covered in cobwebs. He pushed aside the sagging stage curtain and touched one of the fifteen tarnished Christmas bells which hung in a neat row. He closed his eyes and tried to recall the familiar sounds. All he heard was the squeak of the front door.
‘Mrs Jessop, good to see you. What’s it been…?’
‘Twelve months’, she groaned. The old woman placed her scarf and handbag on a nearby table. ‘Where is everyone? I want to be home early tonight.’
‘Well, Teresa married in January and moved to the coast. Donald won’t be here… you knew his wife died from cancer a few weeks ago?’
‘Yes, I read the funeral notice in the obituaries but I was too busy to go.’
David was about to continue when a soprano rendition of Hark the Herald Angels Sing echoed in the empty hall. He turned toward the door and laughed as his star performer approached. The girl’s chubby face reflected the enthusiasm that oozed from her.
‘Meredith, you look um… colourful… as usual.’ He stepped back and gazed at her peculiar outfit.
Mrs Jessop stood with her hands on her hips. Her head moved slowly from side to side. ‘I hope we’re not dressing in florescent angel costumes this year to sing Angels in the Realms of Glory.’
Meredith giggled. ‘It’s been a fabulous year David. I earned an art scholarship in London.’ Her eyes sparkled. ‘I have always wanted to work in London. Perhaps this will be my big chance.’
The side door swung open and a middle-aged woman entered as she spoke. ‘David, I can’t believe it’s that time of year again.’ She smiled and offered a hug. ‘John won’t be coming. He’s still away at army training.’
Mrs Jessop frowned. ‘Well, well. That was a bit inconsiderate of your son, Joan. He could have at least waited until after caroling season before he joined the Army.’ With another shake of her head, she slumped heavily into a chair.
Almost simultaneously, two other choir members burst into the hall through the front and side entries. The commotion rose with reminiscing and laughter which now seem to brighten the dreary hall.
David glanced at his watch and whistled. ‘Okay everyone, you know the routine. We’ll have three practices before we start caroling. Let’s begin tonight with Meredith’s choice, Hark the Herald Angels Sing.’ He paused as the choir members took their places in a curved line, shuffling closer to fill gaps where others had once stood. David cleared his throat. ‘It’s sad to think that if we go on like this, within a few years our town’s caroling group will no longer exist.’
Smiles disappeared and expressions became solemn. Whispers betrayed their thoughts.
Joan, one of the older group members, broke the quiet chatter. ‘Oh please, don’t say that David.’
He straightened and coughed. ‘Well let’s not spoil our practice. Maybe we can have a meeting sometime and do some recruiting for next year.’
Mrs Jessop made a throaty gruff noise. ‘Oh, but we can’t have strangers singing carols with us.’
‘Why not?’ Meredith’s face flushed.
‘Well… because…’
David tapped his baton on his music stand. ‘Twelve years ago, we began with fifteen carolers. We all knew each other like family and regardless of which church we attended, we visited each other during the year. We shared each other’s joys and sorrows.’ He sighed heavily. ‘When was the last time we commenced our annual caroling practice with a party… or polished our bells?’
Meredith sat on the floor and crossed her legs; her head in her hands. The line dispersed. Joan’s husband Rolf, brought a chair over so Joan could sit.
‘So, it’s come to this?’ Mrs Jessop sighed.
The hall grew silent. The only sound was the occasional creaking of the rafters and the wood-rotted door rattling with the slightest breeze.
‘I still want to sing Hark the Herald Angels Sing’, Meredith whispered.
David tapped his baton again. ‘OK, let’s sing our best this year. We’ll polish our bells and let the whole town know that we want caroling to continue. Let’s announce the birth of Jesus like we haven’t done before.’
A gentle white snow began to fall outside and the words Hark the Herald Angels Sing echoed in the old town hall and throughout their little town.
© Chrissy Siggee
This is a work of fiction. Names, characters, businesses, places, events, locales, and incidents are either the products of the author’s imagination or used in a fictitious manner. Any resemblance to actual persons, living or dead, or actual events is purely coincidental.
Archived now in: Christian Reads | Riverside Peace
Forester’s Assignment
All eyes followed the smartly dressed young woman marching between the rows. Her head moved from side to side inspecting the finest examples. She stopped occasionally for a closer assessment.
‘Stand straight Forester’, the commander yelled. ‘What happened to you anyway?’
Forester leaned back as far as his twisted limbs could take the strain. ‘Sir, I…’
‘Hush son. You’re a disgrace to the ranks.’
Forester watched Farmer Stanley as he followed the woman who had suddenly turned into his row. Their conversation grew louder.
‘What kind of tree are you looking for? They all look the same to me.’
‘I need something… different.’ Was the woman’s reply.
She stopped suddenly and pointed. ‘That one! It’s perfect.’
Staring forward, Forester focused on the woman’s jacket which blocked his view of the commander.
Farmer Stanley moved his cap back and scratched his head. ‘Why would anyone want a Christmas tree that looks like this? It’s just a mangled mess. It’s stunted and undeveloped.’ He ran his calloused hands over the branches.
A fearful Forester tried to keep still.
‘There’s too much space between these limbs’, Stanley pointed out. ‘There’s more on one side than the other. It’s worthless.’
‘Nevertheless, it’s the one I want.’
‘OK, Ma’am, but I’m not going to charge you. I don’t want you coming back for a refund or giving my plantation a bad name.’
Stanley removed his axe from its belt that hung loosely under his protruding belly.
‘Where are you going to put this…thing? There has to be a reason for choosing such a pathetic-looking tree for Christmas.’
‘It’s was my son Sam’s idea.’ She took a deep breath and then exhaled slowly. ‘Sam’s a paraplegic. He fell from his horse a few years back. He spends a lot of time in the children’s hospital and since I have to work over Christmas, well we have to make the most of it. I’ll be the pediatrician on call over Christmas.’
Stanley smiled. ‘A doctor, aye?’
‘Yes, Dr Anne Shepherd. Anne, please.’
She accepted his outstretched callused hand before continuing in a more subdued manner. ‘Sam’s father is in the army and has been serving in Iraq but he expects to be home for Christmas. Anyway, Christmas with the children is going to be the only way we’ll spend any time together.’
Stanley was staring at the woman for a few moments before he shifted his attention back to the narrow trunk and lifted the axe.
With one crack Forester fell sideways and looked up at his commander. ‘Sorry Sir.’
The commander glanced momentarily at his fallen comrade. ‘It’s all right Forrester. I think you may be worthy of this important assignment after all. Do us proud.’
‘Yes Sir’, Forester replied as he swayed back and forth in Stanley’s hand.
Stanley walked behind Anne to where she had parked her vehicle. There he waited while she opened the rear door.
‘Sam, I found one.’
‘Cool! Let me see.’
Hanging almost upside down, Forester appreciated Stanley’s strong grip and watched Anne climb into the back of the modified van. Anne pulled a small lever at the base of the boy’s seat and turned it around.
Forester became suddenly dizzy and almost lost his bearings when Stanley unexpectedly flipped him upright.
‘Here it is’, The farmer announced.
‘WOW! It’s perfect Mum.’
Forester blinked and opened his eyes wide so he could see clearly a child who sat in a strange chair with big wheels. The boy was smiling broadly and Forester realized it was he, Forester, whom Sam was so excited to see. Forester felt six feet tall.
‘Thanks, Mum. Thanks Mister.’
‘You can place the tree here beside the wheelchair in a moment’, Anne told Farmer Stanley. She turned Sam’s chair back into place and secured it before climbing back out through the rear exit. ‘Thank you, we appreciate your kindness.’
‘It’s my pleasure Ma’am and you have a great Christmas Sam.’
Resting beside Sam’s chair, Forester was overwhelmed by the excitement that had glowed on the boy’s face. Forrester didn’t even flinch when the door closed and latched.
‘Come on Mum! We need to get to the hospital so the kids can decorate it. It’s going to be a neat Christmas and with Dad unexpectedly home, everything will be perfect.’
Forrester heard the front door open and close. Anne’s sweet response and cheerful laughter sounded beautiful. When the engine started, he felt Sam’s fingers wrap around his feeble trunk. He shivered with pride. His assignment had begun.
© Chrissy Siggee
This is a work of fiction. Names, characters, businesses, places, events, locales, Christmas trees and incidents are either the products of the author’s imagination or used in a fictitious manner. Any resemblance to actual persons, living or dead, or actual events is purely coincidental.
Archived in: Children’s Corner
When I’m told “You Just Need More Sleep”
My response:
Sure – and my car just needs more gas to become a spaceship!
(I wish it was that simple)
Archived in: 🦋 Living with Chronic Illness
Mary
Luke 1:26-28 says “And in the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent from God unto a city of Galilee, named Nazareth, to a virgin espoused to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David; and the virgin’s name was Mary. And the angel came in unto her, and said, Hail, thou that art highly favoured, the Lord is with thee: blessed art thou among women.”
The New Testament begins its account of Mary’s life with the visit of Gabriel the angel who was sent by God as His messenger. The Lord God himself selected Mary to be the mother of Jesus. The Bible records Mary’s role in key events of the life of Jesus from his virgin birth to his crucifixion.
Christians acknowledge Mary as “blessed among women” (Luke 1:42) but we do not all agree that Mary is to be venerated. She is considered to be an outstanding example of a life dedicated to God.
Luke 1:38 says “And Mary said, Behold the handmaid of the Lord; be it unto me according to thy word. And the angel departed from her.”
Mary used the word “handmaid” which is usually translated as “bond-servant” or “slave”, which refers to someone whose will is consumed by the will of another—in this case, Mary’s will is consumed by God’s. From this I see her attitude being parallel with what John the Baptist said in John 3:30 “He must increase, but I must decrease” (KJV) or, “He must become greater; I must become less.” (NIV).
Whichever argument you choose, or doctrine you follow, Mary had to have been one special lady for God to choose her to be the mother of Jesus. She was a handmaiden of the Lord.
This Christmas let us remember that we celebrate the birth of our Lord Jesus Christ who came to earth as a human child. It was Jesus who died for our sake and put our sins upon Himself. He is the Lord of Lords and the King of Kings.
He was born of Mary—a servant of the Lord.
© Chrissy Siggee
Scripture Verses used are from the King James version of the Bible unless otherwise stated.
Archived in: 🦋 Christian Reads
Don’t Waste Those Christmas Cards
We sing our Christmas carols
and pray our saintly prayers—
We decorate our Christmas trees
and share our Christmas cheer.
We are tempted to dispute
over wasted Christmas cards—
Buy a ten-for-a-dollar pack
and write some worthless words.
Do we ever take the time
to choose a better card?
Do we really want a Santa
who drives a flying sleigh?
There’s something more to Christmas
than dashing through the snow—
A message of the new-born King,
is what I want to see.
Scenes of Mary and her child
with shepherds kneeling near—
Angels in the realms of glory,
announcing Jesus’ birth.
Do you see the Christmas star
reflecting in the clear night sky?
Those tiny specks of glitter dust
brings gladness to my heart.
Treasures of the Saviour’s birth
displayed upon each card—
To decorate our mantle shelf
or hung in every room.
Gold, Frankincense and Myrrh
three very special gifts—
Each to honour our new-born King,
asleep within His crib.
I want to share the joy I feel,
with every card I send—
Each one affirms our Father’s gift
and hope to all mankind.
So precious is our Savour’s birth,
we need to spread the news—
It’s time we took a stand
and share Him with the world.
Take some time to choose a card
it’s really not that hard—
Perhaps you could design your own,
but make it from your heart.
Come; let’s rejoice in His birth,
spread the news, Christ is born—
Choose a card that declares the truth;
don’t waste those Christmas cards.
© Chrissy Siggee
Archived in: Christian Reads
Just a Little
Just a little
of Your Holiness,
Just a little touch
of Your gentleness
Brings healing to my soul.
Just a little
of Your inward peace,
Just a little
of Your purest joy
Brings freedom to my soul.
Just a little
of Your glory revealed,
Just a little
of Your Word of life
Brings knowledge of Your love.
© Chrissy Siggee
Under Copyright: https://catalogue.nla.gov.au/catalog/4537869
ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
Archived in: 🦋 Christian Reads
Health Update – December 5th 2025
A typical specialist report. Undecipherable and needing a degree to understand. He lost me after radiological activity noted. Huh!
Anyway, I have a CT-guided L4/5 facet joint block with cortisone appointment in Newcastle on Dec 16th. Even if this is slightly successful/helpful, it will be just a temporary fix and will proceed to a radio-frequency neurotomy in the future 
(Please explain) which I will need to travel to Sydney for but no future surgeries are expected. 
There’s a lot more about the sacroiliac joint being a pain generator. What does that suppose to mean? Butt what I do know is that it’s painful to sit.
On a more positive, understandable note, my chronic fatigue and fibromyalgia symptoms have eased some. Sleep has found to an acceptable pattern but could be better. Fibromyalgia pain persists, especially with these crazy summer storms, high temperatures and sudden weather changes.
Day time naps are a new mandatory activity. Thankfully, only the arthritis medication is needed – at least until cortisone injection.
I’m now exploring a new ‘normal’ although it’s slow and frustrating since every day is different. I have been able to take short walks even if it’s just around Bunnings or shopping malls. The problem I have with walking the aisles of Bunnings is that I stop often and buy stuff – like plants and anything related.
I have been very blessed and encouraged by get well cards, text messages, emails and prayer support. Thank you.
– Chrissy
Archived in: Living with Chronic Illness
It’s That Special Time of the Year
Christmas trees and candy canes,
Holly wreaths and jingle bells—
It’s that special time of the year.
Giggles, secrets, and bon bons,
Decorated stores galore—
It’s that special time of the year.
Granny smiles and Poppy winks,
Sharing gifts and candy canes—
It’s that special time of the year.
Garland hanging on the door,
Sending festive Christmas cheer—
It’s that special time of the year.
Greeting cards to choose and mail,
Wishes sent to someone dear—
It’s that special time of the year.
Good times remembered and shared,
Love ones missed no longer here—
It’s that special time of the year.
Celebrate the virgin’s birth,
Carolers and Christmas plays—
It’s that special time of the year.
Glory to the newborn king,
Remembering the reason—
It’s that special time of the year.
© Chrissy Siggee
Archived in: 🦋 Christian Reads
What Does Christmas Mean To You?
Jubilance radiates tranquil moments,
Young lovers pursue tender embraces–
Neighbourhood children join in games
Sweet aromas saturate festive appetites
Families share in united harmony.
Midnight services fill the churches,
Choirs sing in joyous proclamation–
Nativity scenes and dramas unfold,
Ascended praises announce His birth
Jesus Christ, Saviour and Lord.
Silence falls before the dawn,
Morning excitement awakes the birds–
Gifts are exchanged and children squeal,
Doorbells ring by kith and kin
Celebrations unfold with a festive feast.
Church bells echo through the town,
God’s people gather near and far –
Scripture is read of our Saviour’s birth,
Mankind raises their voices with carols sung,
Christians celebrate the birth of Christ.
© Chrissy Siggee
Archived in: 🦋 Christian Reads
Beautiful Jesus
Beautiful Jesus, to you I sing,
My life and plans are yours
Let this life of mine
Be filled with gladness and joy
I sing praises and songs to you.
Wonderful Jesus, to you I pray,
My heart and my gifts are yours
Let this heart of mine
Be filled with love and kindness
I pray praises and songs to you.
Loving Father, to you I give,
My soul and my will are yours
Let this heart of mine
Be filled with images of your love
I give praises and songs to you.
© Chrissy Siggee
ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
From my book: Glimpses of His Glory
under copyright: https://catalogue.nla.gov.au/catalog/4537869
Archived in: 🦋 Christian Reads
Praise
Psalm 103:1 tells us “Praise the Lord, my soul; all my inmost being, praise his holy name.”
A recent visit by the coast had me reminiscing about the days spent writing my first book. As I breathed in the seaside freshness, it stimulated the desires that once beckoned me to explore the dream. Pale pink clouds caressed the sunrise like a morning hug. Birds sang praises to welcome the dawn.
My thoughts reached out as in a dream, capturing a peace within my soul. While the sun elevated slowly into a glowing sky, words surged forth like a shifting stream. My fingers moved quickly to keep up with the flow of thoughts. My heart was overwhelmed by the outpouring of phrases previously unknown. There’s something about the break of day that gives freshness to the mind and releases expression onto a page.
Immersed in my writing, I was still aware of the increasing brightness filling the sky beyond the open window, but I was also conscious of the glow within my inner being. If there is ever a place I feel in harmony with God, it’s when I’m absorbed in writing. To not write would create an empty cavern in my life.
My desire is to praise Him through words inspired by creation. My hopes and dreams rest in knowing that He is the only one I need to bring joy and delight.
Father, let Your Word penetrate my soul. You are the author of my faith. Allow me, Lord, to bring joy and delight to your heart in return. May the words I write be inspired by your love and grace. Amen.
© Chrissy Siggee 2012
Scripture Verses used are from the New International Version of the Bible
Archived in: 🦋 Christian Reads
Chronic Illness – Reminders to Self
Chronic Illness - Reminders to Self
• I did not cause my illness
• I can do everything right and still struggle
• Take one day at a time at my own pace
• Pain is real but it’s invisible to others
• Pain levels change without an invitation
• Asking for help doesn’t make me weak
• If I did it today, it doesn’t mean I can do it again
• Ignore those who think they have all the answers
• Rest when I need it
• It is OK to cancel plans
Archived: 🦋 Living with Chronic Illness
Peace
Philippians 4:7 – And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. (KJV)
The dictionary meaning of peace:
calm, quiet, stillness, tranquillity, silence, harmony, serenity.
My thoughts on peace:
When the storm is over, peace stretches like a rainbow.
Peace is the beautiful presence of my Saviour while in prayer.
When there are no more tears, peace surrounds me like a hug.
Peace flows like a river through my soul.
Philippians 4:7 – And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.
Colossians 3:15 – And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to the which also ye are called in one body; and be ye thankful.
John 14:27 – Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid. (KJV)
Peace isn’t always easy to find in the midst of stress, pain, and struggle.
Peace is not always found among those we love and care about.
Peace needs to be a desire of our hearts.
Peace can be our goal.
Peace be with you this time of year.
Father, thank you for the peace you bring to our lives. Guide our path through life and let your peace reign in our family and friends. Lead our enemies into a life of peace with You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
First Published 2009
Scripture Verses used are from the King James Version of the Bible
Archived in: 🦋 Christian Reads
Sunset Hues
my soul awaits the sunset hues…
dawn, so long ago—
troubles of the day, be gone
and let me feel God’s peace,
permit the setting sun to give this body rest.
© Chrissy Siggee
ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
From my book: Glimpses of His Glory – (the book)
Archived in: Christian Reads
Health Update – 21st November 2025
To date there doesn’t appear to be any significant improvements. However, we have found that the new medical team, tests and treatments have been very informative and helpful as I move forward to recovery.
The medical team reports in brief have indicated that the most recent Fibromyalgia and Chronic Fatigue flare-ups were so severe that they triggered a sudden and massive biological shift (how the body works). These biological shifts usually happen as we age. In simple speak, my biology flipped on end overnight. Now that we understand what happened we can work on adapting our lifestyle for an acceptable recovery. All blood tests results remain at good levels with no sinister underlying causes.
Arthritis Findings in brief: The spine surgeon is pleased with the low general wear and tear after the previous surgeries in 2017. No further surgeries are anticipated in the future. However, arthritis has increased in its severity and has extended from the previous L4 to beyond S1. A bilateral CT guided Facet Joint block Injection has been ordered to be done by a radiologist. There are no guarantees on its success, and the surgeon has already advised that he may need to follow this up with an injection of a high dose (unpronounceable) medication into the area, but deeper into the spine which can only be done by him. A new year decision.
Moving forward will be slow but we can look forward to some positive outcomes. With so many life-threatening reactions, most medications have been ruled out. Planning ‘one day at a time’ is the number one priority.
Thank you for all for continued love and support.
Norm & Chrissy
Archived in: 🦋 Living with Chronic Illness
Summer
Blue skies, gentle rains
Summer’s sun sweltering heat
Hot days – sticky nights.
© Chrissy Siggee – 2018
Archived in: Poetry Mix
Questions
Psalm 22:1 – My God, my God, why have you forsaken me? Why are you so far from saving me, so far from my cries of anguish?
I believe God is big enough to carry our doubts, criticisms, anger, confusion, and frustration, but there often seems to be no explanation as to why things happen. Yes, we are free to question God, but we need to develop patience for God will reveal the answers only when we are ready to hear them.
Our world is not at all perfect, and neither are we. God is perfect. He wants us to continue to read His Word so our faith may be strengthened for He sent Christ to show us the way. Don’t look to find meaning to the suffering, but let the suffering add meaning to our lives. If we have never suffered, how can we empathize with others who suffer? If we never fail, we can’t lift up those who also fail. Our suffering adds meaning to our lives. Our pain adds to our love for others who also suffer, as we suffer, as Christ suffered.
Hebrews 4:16 says: Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need.
We need to ask God to help us to become more patient and more like what he wants us to be. Thank Him for the good things, and seek the resilience to endure the bad. To live, not in the shadow of fear and despair, but in the light of God’s love.
Perhaps one day, God will answer our questions of ‘why?’ Perhaps we are just impatient, and want to know the answers before we are ready to understand or accept them. Whatever the reason, trust Him and know it’s all right to ask Him questions. Allow God to develop patience and trust.
Father, as we call on you in our times of need, help us to grow in patience and understanding as we learn to trust you in all things, bad and good, in our lives. Amen
Scripture Verses used are from the New International Version of the Bible
Archived in: 🦋 Christian Reads
Riverside Peace 
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