My heart is overwhelmed
with a desire I will try to describe.
Within me now, there’s a higher realm;
a realm of glory that will abide.
It’s like a volcano
that trembles beneath.
It’s roaring up
about to erupt.
It’s a mighty glow
like lava it flows.
It’s a heart on fire;
my great desire.
My heart is overflowing
with a joy I cannot really explain.
Within me now, there’s a joyful praising;
a praising of my Saviours name.
Archived now in: 🦋 Christian Reads | Riverside Peace
Dawn illuminates the sky
caressing the trees
Songs of the birds fill my ears
and slumber from my eyes
The crispness in the air
awakens the senses.
© Chrissy Siggee – https://riversidepeace.com/
Archived in: 🦋 Poetry Mix
Archived in: 🦋 Christian Reads
Hebrews 13: 5 says: Let your conversation be without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee.
My grandmother used to have some funny sayings that left me wondering. One of these sayings was: I’m as contented as an old cow put out to pasture. It was like she was trying to teach us something but I was too young to understand.
We all understand contentment in our own way just as we are all different in our own likes and dislikes. Contentment is a satisfaction or an accomplishment in something we have achieved, or in life itself. I would be surprised if my grandmother hadn’t found satisfaction in her senior years.
I’ve met people who are never contented. They always want the ‘greener pastures’ just beyond the fence. And, although striving for a better job, a better lifestyle or a better future can be a good thing, we need to be careful about how we achieve our goals.
Do we allow the temptations of cutting corners, taking advantage of others or neglecting our priorities in our attempt for a better life? Do we compromise our Christian beliefs or family’s needs? We need to take a good look at our actions and the motives behind our actions to get to where we want to be. Sometimes we need to take a step back and be contented. If we allow God to use what we have He will take us forward into the desires of our hearts, if it’s in His plan.
1 Timothy 6:6 “But godliness with contentment is great gain”
© Chrissy Siggee 2018
Scripture Verses used are from the King James Version of the Bible
Archived in: 🦋 Christian Reads
By the time you read this, I should have had my surgery, or going into theatre. I’ll be home tonight. It will be over and done with and ready for physio before Christmas. It’s just another small arthritis hic-cup in my life.
Archived in: 🦋 Living with Chronic Illness
Archived in: 🦋 Christian Reads
Some things don’t feel right.
Unpleasant confrontations generate a mood of sadness.
Shivers torment already traumatised nerves,
like fingernails dragged across a blackboard.
Yet, there’s nought to fear.
Some things are not right.
Hostility clutches hold with naive dishonesties
and confusion creeps in with unsuspected lies.
Cold fingers of fear grip with malicious rumours.
Yet, there’s nought to fear.
Some things are never right.
Malice and corruption run amok in a violated world
with greed and self-absorption taking hold.
Unpredicted anguish and hearts full of darkness.
Yet, there’s nought to fear.
Some things can be made right.
Terrors of the night flee with the promise of the sunrise.
Integrity re-established to transform thoughts
to benefit the practice of honest, uncorrupted lives.
Yes, there’s nought to fear.
© Chrissy Siggee -2019
Archived in: 🦋 Poetry Mix
James 1:5: If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him.
Hebrews 4:12: For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.
We all have times in our lives when we need to make decisions. You know the type: those decisions that require wisdom. This kind of wisdom can only be found in Christ; wisdom we need to seek through His Word. However, Scripture is not a catalogue of “do’s and do nots” of all matters of life, but it is critical to rely on prayer.
If you have read any of my other devotions you would know how vital prayer is in my life. Prayer, and the seeking direction through the word of God, will give us the result of wise decisions.
Scripture consists largely of general and specific principles in particular contexts to which they apply. Because of this, decisions cannot be made without taking them to the Lord in prayer. We need to express our needs, our desires, and our hopes. Give Him the glory for all he has done for us and what He will continue to do. He knows our needs before we ask, but we need to ask first, wait, and listen.
Simple? No. I know many times that by simply asking, waiting, and listening, doesn’t always disclose His direction immediately. However, His direction on how to seek wisdom, and why, is clear:
Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth: for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak: and he will shew you things to come. John 16:13
May God lead you into His wisdom and show you direction for those decisions you need to make.
© Chrissy Siggee
Scripture Verses used are from the King James Version of the Bible
Archived in: 🦋 Christian Reads
Archived in: 🦋 Christian Reads
Jenny sat on her window seat staring into the night sky. Stuffed animals snuggled in round her patiently waiting for a bed time hug. The night light by the bed gave the room a soft glow and the moon lit up the window.
‘I wonder if there is someone on the moon’, Jenny whispered into the ear of Jerry the monkey that had curled his long arms around her neck.
There was no answer of course but Jenny continued to speak softly. ‘One day I want to fly in a rocket ship and visit the moon. He looks so lonely way up there.’ Her voice faded and her eyelids drooped.
‘Will you take me with you?’
‘Who said that?’
‘Me!’
Jenny turned to see all the animals smiling at her.
‘Which one of you can talk?’
‘All of us’, they said in unison.
‘But you’re not real!’
‘Yes, we are.’ Jerry loosened his hold and slid to her lap. ‘Why do you think the moon is lonely?’
Jenny blinked rapidly before answering. ‘Well, look at him. He just hangs there all night every night. I never see anyone out there with him.’
‘Just like us.’ He nodded to his friends who quickly nodded back.
Betsy the cow mooed loudly. ‘We sit and watch the moon all night every night.’
‘Why?’, Jenny wanted to know.
Jerry answered. ‘Because you only take one of us to bed.’
‘But there’s no room for all of you. I don’t want anyone to fall out while I’m sleeping.’
‘Oh, it’s OK really’, Marty the rhino replied. ‘We like watching the moon too. We’re his friends.’
They were all watching the moon when Jenny heard another voice.
‘It’s time you were in bed.’
‘Can I take my toys?’
Mum kissed Jenny’s forehead. ‘Not all of them. The moon needs his friends.’
Jenny smiled but didn’t open her eyes as her mum place her in her bed and left the room.
‘Good night Mum. Good night moon.’
And the animals on the window seat just watched the moon.
© Chrissy Siggee – 2019
Archived in: 🦋 Children’s Corner
It was nice to get away for a few days last week. These are just a few photos we took while roaming Charlesworth Beach in Coffs Harbour N.S.W. Our time away was relaxing and enjoyable. Pool, gym, spa and walking. Oh, and of course a little bit of shopping.
Archived in: 🦋 Travel + Retirement
Archived in: 🦋 Christian Reads
Archived in: 🦋 Christian Reads
James 4:8: Come near to God and he will come near to you. Wash your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded. (NIV)
My desire to grow closer to my God is overwhelming. There’s a need for Him to replenish my dwindling strength to fill my heart. I acknowledge my Lord’s perfection and my own sinful weakness. Gifts and talents mean nothing if He’s not the centre of my life, and I always keep seeing the art of losing myself in His presence.
I’m conscious of God’s love and His presence refreshes my soul. His majestic glory floods my constantly craving heart and my spirit rises to new heights of joyfulness and victory. Even in the face of unanswered prayer, I am full of gratitude because His divine presence is sufficient for me.
I genuinely desire more time with Him. In His presence, and by prayer and supplication, I will make my requests known to God. He is infinite in holiness and power; I am sinful and weak. I will pray with assurance knowing the Father does all things well.
Jesus, I ask that You cause me to desire to draw near to You above everything else. Help me to see clearly when I can set aside time to spend with You and help me never to compromise that time. Amen
Chrissy Siggee
Archived in: 🦋 Christian Reads
Amelia’s book titled ‘Amelia’s Holiday with Ma & Pa’ has arrived. As you can see, Pa is very proud of of Amelia. So too is her Ma.
Amelia created this 35 page book and presented it as a travel guide filled with information about where she visited including galleries, museums, wetlands, historical buildings and more. The title page was her creation too. Photos by Amelia, Ma & Pa were mostly placed by her. She also wrote a poem about whales. – Well done Amelia. We are so pleased you enjoyed your pre-highschool holiday with us.
Archived in: 🦋 Children’s Corner & 🦋 Updates
Dreams
A dream can be something you imagine –
Some dreams are sad or scary
Some may even be happy.
~
Don’t dream of falling into a chasm –
Some dreams can be disgusting
Some dreams smell like a nappy. – ewww!
by Amelia Siggee – aged 11
Note: Nappy – Aussie for diaper
Archived in: 🦋 Children’s Corner
Greens galore. Does anyone have a recipe that will use LOTS of spinach? We keep picking and it keeps growing. The lettuce, cucumber, salad capsicums and snap peas are growing well too. It’s a garden of greenness and abundance.
Archived in: 🦋 Down on the Farm
O taste and see all things He has done—
there’s naught but good in our LORD,
His gentleness touches every life
and took our place on the cross for us.
He takes the shame when we yield to Him
all sin and grief are buried from sight…
He speaks to hearts and calms all fear,
and stood in our stead and bore our sin.
Do not grieve nor hold to your guilt and sin,
but leave it all at the cross of the Father’s Son—
Jesus gave His life, His all, for you and me
and lives forever and reigns on high.
You can take joy in what I tell you here,
for the LORD will hear your every plea…
His sons and daughters, yes, we are His heirs
, and takes us by His hand to lead us home.
Trust in this LORD, our God, and King,
for no one, can match His worthiness
Take Him for what He says He is
and know He is the LORD of lords.
© Chrissy Siggee – 2010
Archived in: 🦋 Christian Reads
We haven’t grown potatoes in our garden previously but after we have had thriving spinach for three years in the same plot, it was time for some soil regeneration. There’s more to dig up when we have eaten these. Of course, we didn’t go without spinach for very long. They happily grew from seed in another plot where the previous season of lettuce grew. More about our green vegetables next time on…🦋 I’m in the Garden
Archived in: 🦋 I’m in the Garden
Tommy entered the kitchen; his head bent forward to watch his feet as he walked. His hair skimmed the underside of the kitchen counter as he cut the corner.
‘Grandpa, can you help me tie my shoelaces please?’
‘Sure. Up we go.’ He lifted his grandson onto a high kitchen chair.
‘Grandpa, why is it so hard to learn how to tie shoelaces?’
‘That’s a good question. Everything we learn in life can be hard.’
‘Why?’
‘Because it’s part of learning.’
‘Why?’
‘Well, if everything was easy to learn in life there wouldn’t be any strength to our character.’
‘Huh!’
Grandpa slowly looped a shoelace as Tommy watched. ‘Let me put it this way,’ Grandpa continued as he twisted one end of the lace around the loop. ‘Do you remember when your daddy and I took you fishing last summer?’
‘Yes.’ Tommy’s face screwed up. ‘It was so hard to get the worms to stay on the hook and get the fish to bite them.’
‘That’s right. Do you remember how many times you had to practise to get it right?’
‘Lots.’ The little boy nodded once and continued to study his grandfather’s hands.
‘By the end of the weekend you had it just right and you caught the biggest fish for supper.’
Tommy’s face beamed and revealed a toothy grin. He let his foot drop and held up the other one.
‘Your turn,’ Grandpa encouraged.
Tommy wriggled his foot onto his other leg and concentrated on the shoelace. It took a few minutes but eventually he made the final turn and pulled the loop through.
‘There will be other things in life you will need to learn and they won’t be easy either.’
Tommy sat looking at his shoes while he listened. ‘Like what?’
‘Oh, all sorts of things, like how to know the difference between right and wrong, when to make an important decision and how to choose which decision to make.’
‘Why?’
‘Because that’s life and we need to learn lots of things like tying shoelaces and how to fish. Making a decision when choosing what kind of friends we should have can be a tough one.’
‘That sounds really hard. Will I have to learn how to talk to grandsons too?’
The old man laughed. ‘Yes, but not for a while yet; that’s a grown-up’s lesson. You can wait for that.’
‘Look, Grandpa. We tie shoelaces the same. Maybe you practised lots too.’
‘Yep, I practised lots too but some life lessons took longer to learn than others.’
‘Grandpa, can you teach me how to learn other life lessons?’
‘I certainly can but right now… why don’t we have some ice-cream?’
Tommy giggled and his eyes brightened. ‘I guess we don’t have to learn how to eat ice-cream.’
© Chrissy Siggee
Archived in: 🦋 Children’s Corner
We have just returned our granddaughter, Amelia, to her home in Sydney after a full week of non-stop activities. We explored wetlands, visited aircraft and historical museums. We also visited the Koala Hospital, a Butterfly House, indigenous art galleries and walked on a sky bridge high on a mountain. We went whale watching on a catamaran and did lots of hiking. Amelia also got to swim with dolphins. We took hundreds of photos – many we haven’t sorted through as yet. Now, for a week of sleep.
Archived in: 🦋 Travel + Retirement
Sixty days she walked alone,
counting memories along the way.
She stumbled every now and then
but knew she couldn’t fall.
Her mind was full of images;
her heart was full of grief.
Too many nights alone,
many days that would not end.
Now she sits on her garden seat,
bought together one summer’s day.
Tears spilled down her cheeks
lost in a world without her Paul.
She knows her life must go on;
her mind still filled with disbelief.
With every breath it hurt,
alone, she could comprehend.
One day she’ll fall in love once more,
with a restored heart to give away.
For now, she lives with memories
that she cannot help recall.
His presence’s felt all around;
memories bring fruitless relief.
Worst of all, no doubt about it,
she had lost her very best friend.
Autumn leaves fall to the ground,
like the tears they portray.
Her face stings with salty wetness—
she wipes them away with assurance.
She’ll face new challenges boldly;
yet still, sorrow will not be brief.
Time will heal and life will go on,
and her mourning heart will mend.
© Chrissy Siggee – 2019
Archived in: 🦋 Poetry Mix
We traveled to Sydney on the weekend and returned with Amelia, our middle granddaughter for a week’s holiday. To pass the time on the long road trip, she used her creativity on her phone and tablet. These were just to good to delete.
They now feature on her phone contacts. She made one for each of her contacts which are highly restricted by her mum and dad.
Archived in: 🦋 Children’s Corner & 🦋 Updates
The teacher talked on and on about the Livonian War that lasted twenty five years back in the mid to late fifties of the seventeenth century. History could be boring. Mr Tirone was boring.
Finally, the bell rang and Todd snapped out of his trance.
‘Thank goodness that’s over.’ Trish groaned aloud when she caught up with him at the door.
Todd agreed. ‘Yeah, I didn’t think it would ever end. I thought history was going to be an easy class.’
‘How’s it going with the assignment?’
‘Don’t ask. I mean, where do I start?’
‘We could work on it together at my house tonight. My parents are both working the late shift and my kid sister is staying over at a friend’s house.’
Todd grinned. ‘OK. I’ll come over right after I do my Math homework. Now Math I can handle but I can’t afford to get behind on it.’
She gave him her best see-you-later smile as she entered her next class. Todd continued to the gym where the last forty minutes of the day would be a little more active.
It was just after seven when Trish open the front door to him. She was wearing a pretty pink top with a low cut neckline.
‘My parents will be home about nine so we only have a few hours.’
Todd force himself to look above her shoulders where he met her smile. ‘OK. My curfew is nine thirty so let’s get started.’
He followed Trish into the kitchen where her text books laid open on the dining table. His back pack slipped off his shoulder and he let it rest on an empty chair.
‘Drink?’
‘Thanks. Do you have juice? I’m not into soda stuff.’
‘Sure. Orange or apple?’
‘Apple please.’
After a few minutes of casual chitchat over the breakfast bar Trish leaned forward. ‘So, where do you want to do this?’
Her breath smelled of mint and her floral perfume tickled his nose. He cleared his throat and turned toward the table.
‘The table is fine.’ He picked up his back pack and opened the zip. ‘I just brought the main textbook and a note book. It’s great that you have offered to help. Maybe I just need to get started.’
Trish came close but didn’t sit so Todd did. Big mistake. He turned his head and placed his juice on the table to his right. He cleared his throat again. Trish walked around to the other side of the table and pulled out a chair.
‘Are you OK Todd? You seem nervous. I can assure you that no one else is here.’
Todd nodded and took another sip before he spoke again. ‘Let’s get on with this.’ He opened his text book to the Livonian War. ‘I really don’t see why we need to study stuff that happened in the seventeenth Century.’
‘I find it intriguing. I could listen to Tirone all day.’
Todd grimaced. ‘I take it that History is a favourite subject.’
‘No. I prefer Human Dynamics.’
Todd was confused. ‘What? Which one is that?’
Trish knee bumped his sending chills up his spine but she didn’t seem to notice.
‘Silly. I was joking. Now let’s open to page two-six-five.’
It was exactly nine when Todd looked at his watch. ‘I’d better go.’
Just then the back door opened and a man entered. ‘Hello there.’ He must have been six foot three at least.
‘Hello Daddy. This is Todd. We’re working on our History assignment.’
He looked from his daughter to Todd and back again. ‘Yeah right.’
Todd wished the floor would open up and swallow him.
‘Oh Daddy, don’t be so dramatic.’
Todd rose and stuffed his textbook and notes into his bag. ‘I was just leaving. Nice to meet you Sir. Thanks Trish. I really appreciate your help.’
Trish stayed where she was. It was then he noticed why. She held her text book close to her chest.
Todd left the kitchen with a nod and headed to the front door.
The following day while Todd was sitting in the History classroom early to jot down yesterday’s notes from the blackboard, Trish came in and stood behind him.
‘Thanks for a great night.’
He stopped writing and looked up. All he could think of was the moment she opened her front door.
A few sniggers followed by other students who had also entered the room.
Todd sucked in air. ‘We should do it again sometime.’
More sniggers.
Trish winked and moved to her usual seat.
What’s going on here?
Mr Tirone entered. ‘Open your textbooks to page two-six-five. Todd Hughes, what did you learn from yesterday’s “boring” class?’
Heat rose to Todd’s face. Good thing Trish helped me out last night. He turned to the requested page and answered the question.
‘I’m impressed’, Tirone stated. ‘And I thought you went to sleep.’
Laughter rose across the classroom and Todd felt Trish’s eyes on him. He dared a look and returned her smile.
I can handle this. She’s cute enough and knows her history.
Over the lunch break Todd sort out Trish to thank her for getting him out of an embarrassing situation.
‘Hello Todd.’ The voice was soft and warm.
‘Hello to you too.’ He smiled at Trish. She’s beautiful, even in her school uniform. ‘Thanks for last night. It came in handy today.
The girls who were sitting with Trish stood and left. He felt awkward. ‘We can talk later.’
‘That’s OK. They get it.’
Todd looked around. ‘Get what?’
‘You know. You me. Us.’
‘Us?’
‘Don’t you like me?’
‘Yes, but I thought we were just friends.’
‘Friends are cool I guess.’
Todd bit his lip. ‘You mean…all that last night?’ It felt like his stomach flipped and he found it hard to breathe. ‘What about your Dad?’
‘He’ll get over it. We’ll just have to be more careful.’
Todd didn’t answer.
‘We didn’t do anything wrong.’
‘No, we didn’t. We were just studying together.’ He thought about what he would say next. Yes, he liked Trish but he wasn’t sure if he was ready for a relationship. He had thought it would be nice to have a relationship with someone when he went on to university. He may have been ready for that. Now he wasn’t so sure. ‘Trish, where do you want this to go?’
She shrugged. ‘As far as you want.’
They were so close that he could look into her eyes. They were a pretty blue and her blonde curls kinked at her perfectly shaped eyebrows. He breathed in her scent and his nerve endings quivered.
‘I don’t know.’ He drew in another long breath.
‘What’s wrong with me?’ Her voice broke.
‘Nothing. Nothing at all. You’re perfectly beautiful. I just don’t think either of us are ready for this.’
‘Oh Todd. We could just study together after school. Maybe at your house if you’re not sure about mine.’
He sighed. ‘I don’t think we can study together now.’
‘We could make out.’
Todd smiled. ‘Why don’t we wait a while. We can be friends at school.’ He paused. ‘You helped me more than I would have thought last night. I think I may even grow to like history.’
They both gave a short laugh.
‘I’m not sure if I could handle being in the same class now.
Todd took her hand. ‘We’ll get through it. I promise.’ With that he kissed her hand and left.
© Chrissy Siggee – 2019
Archived in: 
Teen Reading
I very much enjoy having Norm in retirement but I also enjoy a day once in awhile on my own. Saturday was one such day. Most of the morning I spent in the garden and my very own garden shed. – now completed. https://riversidepeace.com/2024/09/16/a-shed-almost-complete/
The morning concluded by indulging in a favourite meal of salmon, corn on the cob, garden greens, a tiny portion of cheese and a dash of mayonnaise. Oh… and I even partook of a half a glass of Cabernet Merlot.
I also took advantage of having the place to myself all afternoon by doing some of the things I love to do indoors. I made cards for up coming family events and birthdays, posted on Riverside Peace and caught up on what fellow bloggers were writing, all while I listened to, and watched YouTube worship music tracks on our big screen TV. All because I could. 🙂
Later I continued with my online Biblical Hebrew learning which I’ve been enjoying so far. I also caught up on the ironing – my least favourite chore but it didn’t take long.
Archived in: 🦋 I’m in the Garden
John 15:8-10 (KJV)
Herein is my Father glorified, that ye bear much fruit; so, shall ye be my disciples. As the Father hath loved me, so have I loved you: continue ye in my love. If ye keep my commandments, ye shall abide in my love; even as I have kept my Father’s commandments, and abide in his love.
The Word of God breathes the spirit of love. God is love. There are over 450 references to love in the Bible. Our Christian faith is based on love: a Love that sacrificed His life so we could live.
In 1 John 3:23, we read that there is a new commandment from God, that we should believe in his Son, Jesus Christ, and love one another.
It’s not always easy to love and sometimes it’s easier not to love. Or is it? Often the consequences of not loving others as we should can be destructive to ourselves and those we do love.
How often do we choose not to love someone because of their behavior, lifestyle or simply being afraid to love them? I have a couple of friends who fear being hurt. They have chosen not to love, and in doing so have cut themselves off from so many who love them. They believe they are happy and don’t need love from others. I find their choice to be a very sad and lonely one.
If God is love and we are to live in love, we should be following all His commandments. They are all focused on his love.
If there’s someone in your life you are struggling to show love to, ask God to reveal how you can. Seek His wisdom in dealing with those who hurt you or agitate you and show them His love today.
Be encouraged… 1 John 4:7 Beloved, let us love one another: for love is of God; and everyone that loveth is born of God, and knoweth God.
Father, in your great mercy, help me to show your love to those whom I find hard to love. Help me forgive those who have not shown love and grace to me so they may see Jesus in my life. Amen.
© Chrissy Siggee
Question time:
How many times does the word love appear in the text above? I will accept words that include love.
What is this post about?
I would love to read your comments.
Archived now in: 🦋 Christian Reads | Riverside Peace
A 2 man job. Takes 2 hours. – Well in theory, and if the instructions are clear. It’s been a worthwhile project though and with the assistance from a couple of neighbours it’s almost completed. The sliding doors are all that needs to be added and Norm is doing this as I’m writing. I’ll post an update when it fully assembled. I’ll be able to keep all my gardening tools, pots, bits and pieces a whole lot tidier.
Archived in: 🦋 Travel + Retirement
I was looking through a few old USB sticks when I found this. It made me laugh. I had forgotten all about it. I also found the story which I have posted below. I can’t remember where it was published but it was at least 10 years ago.
Granny Bike
‘This is the Police! Come out with your hands in the air!’
Three police cars had parked strategically around the front of the gas station, where an alarm had been activated. There had been a spate of break-ins and they had finally caught the culprit—in the act. Fire-arms used in the previous two robberies made the police nervous and they were ordered to guard themselves behind their cars. Neighbours awakened by the early dawn invasion, gathered cautiously outside their homes to observe the commotion.
‘“’Do you hear me? This is Police Officer Brody. Come out with your hands up!’
The door opened slowly revealing a petite laced-up boot. The officers dropped down behind their vehicles; guns cocked.
‘Please don’t shoot,’ came a quiet shaky voice that was barely audible.
The door opened a little further and an elderly woman hobbled out, stooped low and walking with a cane.
‘What the…? Ma’am, please step out in the open and put down your… cane.’
She dropped the cane and raised her hands as far as her skinny arms would take them.
Officer Brody stepped forward to access the situation and motioned Police Officer Mandy Walters to carry out a body search. Brody steadied the shaken old lady with his powerful hand under her elbow. Officer Walters placed the crooked walking stick back into an arthritic hand and stepped back.
With an indignant expression, the woman faced the officer in charge. ‘I think there’s been a mistake. You see, I left my keys in the bathroom and when I went back in to get them, I noticed I had grease on my clothes.’ She rubbed at the spot on her weathered skirt. ‘I tried to wash it, but I had to take it off because the skirt wouldn’t reach the faucet. I locked myself in so no one would disturb me. Unfortunately, I think the nice young man behind the counter must’ve closed up for the night and didn’t realize I was still there.’
‘Where’s your car, ma’am?’
‘Oh, no sir! I don’t own a car.’ She lifted her cane and pointed with her bent fingers past the squad cars and confused police officers. ‘That’s my motorcycle.’ A Harley Davison sheltered under an ancient oak tree, glistened in the morning sunlight.
‘Ma’am, I find this all hard to believe. Tell me how you were in there all night without triggering the alarm?’
‘Well, you see… I sat on the lid of toilet seat to adjust my tights and I slipped off into the corner. I was stuck and didn’t have the energy to get up until this morning. When I left the bathroom, I discovered I couldn’t get out; so I shook the door. That pesky alarm just kept screaming at me.’
Brody scratched his head, completely mesmerized while she shuffled towards the Harley across the road. She mounted the motorcycle with only a little difficulty, placed an opened-face helmet over her greying, outdated hairstyle, and turned the key. The engine started up with a roar. Thrusting the cane into a side pouch, she flipped the kick-stand up and drove off in one smooth movement.
Officer Brody glanced at a smug-faced Walters before replacing his gun into its holster. ‘What are you looking at? You can do the report when we get back.’
© Chrissy Siggee
Archived in: 🦋 Short Fiction
Much to the disgust of the Lorikeets, young Magpies are visiting the garden at feed time. They soon found there was enough food around the garden for all.
The Farm is thriving. We recently planted tomatoes, capsicum and cucumbers to add to the mass of lettuce that keeps growing. The neighbours don’t mind though. We’ll be picking all our salad vegetables as we need them real soon.
Those tall plants sharing the plot with yet another sun flower, are potatoes. Our first crop in the garden. We have grown potatoes in garden bags but they didn’t produce much. We’re waiting in eagerness to see how many potatoes we will harvest later in the year. Spring irises, hyacinths and pansies are also showing their true colours this year. I think there are a few tulips in there too. We’ll see.
Archived in: 🦋 I’m in the Garden
James 1:8 “A double minded man is unstable in all his ways.”
James 4:8 “Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you. Cleanse your hands, ye sinners; and purify your hearts, ye double minded.”
It never ceases to amaze me how people can say one thing and do another. Or, how people act one way in public and then act differently behind closed doors.
I think we all can be guilty of deceit or pretense to create a better image of ourselves in the eyes of others, but God sees all and never turns a blind eye to sin. I also believe we should seek to do what is right and not at the expense of trying to deceive…or, for our own gain. We need to reconsider our ways, speak truth and serve Him with a humble heart.
Why do we do the things we do?
Why do we say the things we say?
Sometimes we need to re-evaluate our motives. Sometimes we have to check our behaviour in the sight of the Lord, and in the eyes of others. We can only live truthful lives with cleansed hearts before God…and renewed minds to serve Him in a way that is honourable.
Surely, we all want to live as we ought, represent the truth of The Word, and show integrity in all we do—seen and unseen. Don’t be double minded but seek to do what is right in His eyes and others.
Father, teach us to speak with integrity to honour you. Cleanse our heart and mind so that, in all we do, we do to reflect the life of Your son, Jesus. Amen.
© Chrissy Siggee 2018
Scripture Verses used are from the King James Version of the Bible
Archived now: 🦋 Christian Reads | Riverside Peace
.
I am very blessed to be the Pastoral Care Coordinator at our local church. My key responsibilities are to oversee and support the pastoral care volunteers and encouraging the pastoral care of the church.
I also support volunteers who are interested in furthering their call to ministry. I always love to encourage others to follow their call and to use their gifts and talents for God.
Archived in:🦋 Updates
Good friends never say goodbye. They simply say, ‘see you soon’.
My dearest friend, who has always been as close as a sister, I will miss you dearly and I will think of you often.
We’ll keep those little painted rocks, your special gifts and loving cards with the dearest messages. I’ll always remember those writer trips away together, your visits and the meals we shared.
I’m so thankful that you sent me one of your first copies of your book not so long ago. I’m glad it was published before you left us as you always hoped. I just wish it wasn’t so soon.
I’m so sorry I wasn’t there to say, ‘I will see you soon’.
We’ll meet again.
Love always, Chrissy.
Archived in: 🦋 Updates
Early blooms and sunny days means more outdoor living. Evenings too, are warming up. It’s almost time to put the outdoor heater back into storage.
Archived in: 🦋 I’m in the Garden
Finally the weather has been warm enough to get back into the garden. This weekend we cleaned up the potted herbs in the outdoor kitchen. I was surprised to see many of them still alive after the bleak winter. I re-potted some, trimmed others before removing the soggy muck that had accumulated along the fence.
Norm then brought out the sugar soap and scrubbing brush to clean the tiles. Actually, except for a few stubborn stains, the gurney wasn’t really needed.
Once the area was clean and tidy, I put the pots back in place. Reminding Norm to bend his knees and mind his back, he kindly moved the heavier pots for me.
Ready for Spring, new growth and seeds to sprout.
Archived in: 🦋 Down on the Farm
Recently I discovered a book review by Sana Edoja. – see below. Just as my email and blog addresses listed at the end of the review are out of date, so are Sana’s. If you’re reading this, Sana, or if anyone knows of her, I’d love to touch base again. Thank you, Sana, for the review.
Finding the review came at a much needed time. I often wonder where the 5,000 copies of ‘Out Of the Shadows – Jenna’s Secret’ books ended up. I had the book updated with 2020’s teenage language and reprinted by Skoobebooks during Covid 19. Unfortunately, the company dissolved when the editors past away. I had received a only hand full of copies of the updated editions before the website shut down leaving me no way of having more copies printed or contact anyone. Fortunately, I still have the manuscript but unable to afford a new publisher, nor do I have the the time and energy to self-publish.
1/17/2011 / Book Reviews – Sana Edoja
I just wanted to thank Chrissy Siggee for giving me the opportunity to read her fiction book called “OUT OF THE SHADOWS – JENNA’S SECRET”. I was a bit reluctant at reading it at first because I’ve never really believed in the impact of Christian fiction books could change lives, but, I must admit that Chrissy’s book proved me wrong.
I very much enjoyed reading Chrissy book as it is well written and easy to read and it took me only 2 days to get through it.
Chrissy book relates the story of a young girl called Jenna, who is passionate with playing hockey, her dream to make to the finals is shattered following a serious injury during a soccer game. As a result, Jenna found herself struggling with anorexia but she manages to fight her illness with the help and love of doctors, family, and friends. Her faith in God plays a major part in her healing and also, leads her to help another young girl who had been struggling with bulimia for years.
The story moved me to tears as I noticed that power of the love of God brought dramatic healing to those young girls struggling with self-esteem and eating disorders.
To conclude, I would recommend this book to any parents who have kids with eating disorders.
God bless you all.
You can order Chrissy Siggee by clicking on the link below .
You can contact Chrissy Siggee on her email: chrissy@chrissysiggee.com
http: //chrissysiggee.com/
http: //chrissysiggee.com/shadows/
Sana Edoja
Archived in: 🦋 Updates
From the Archives:
What Became of Marjorie: All five chapters
Chapter One
Chapter Two
Chapter Three
Chapter Four
Chapter Five
Archived in: 🦋 Short Fiction
O taste and see all things He has done.
There’s naught but good in our LORD,
His gentleness touches every life
and took our place on the cross for us.
He takes the shame when we yield to Him
all sin and grief are buried from sight…
He speaks to hearts and calms all fear,
and stood in our stead and bore our sin.
Do not grieve nor hold to your guilt and sin,
but leave it all at the cross of the Father’s Son—
Jesus gave His life, His all, for you and me
and lives forever and reigns on high
You can take joy in what I tell you here,
for the LORD will hear your every plea—
His sons and daughters, yes, we are His heirs
and takes us by His hand to lead us home.
Trust in this LORD, our God and King,
for no one can match His worthiness —
Take Him for what He says He is
and know He is the LORD of lords.
Psalm 34:8
O taste and see that the LORD is good: blessed is the man that trusteth in him. (KJV)
© Chrissy Siggee January 10th 2010
Archived in: 🦋 Christian Reads
Lettuce Rejoice!
It’s been a colder, dryer and windier winter this year and most of our vegetables are struggling to provide us with what we need. We have been relying on produce from local grocery shops. Spinach and silver-beet has been non-existent for the first time since I stared the garden back in January 2020. However, we have been continually blessed with lettuce. We haven’t shared much with the neighbours, simply because they don’t like our varieties and they don’t eat salad vegetables in winter. It’s a good thing we like our greens. Surprisingly, most of our herbs are doing OK too.
Archived in: 🦋 Down on the Farm
I couldn’t believe what I was seeing. We usually have a lot of Lorikeets visiting the garden, but this is was first. Apologies for the poor photo quality. My aim was to identify the makings.
The Rosella stayed most of the day. At times we caught glimpses of damaged feathers on the top of his head so he may have sought refuge after a possible dispute with members of his flock. Norm needed to refill the bird feeders before the Lorikeet invasion later in the day.
Archived in: 🦋 I’m in the Garden
Love is something that we share
It is something we declare
Happiness brings us excitement
It is used to cheer us up when in distress
Both love and happiness are all that we need
Although it also might be because of greed
Amelia Siggee – aged 11
Archived in: 🦋 Children’s Corner
Archived in: 🦋 Poetry Mix and 🦋 Children’s Corner
Archived in: 🦋 Poetry Mix
Back in early 2019 when we lived in Sydney, we often witnessed victimisation and bullying in nature, and birds were no exception. Across from our house was an open green area with a scattering of trees. A neighbour had donated a birdbath for the birds to enjoy and many residents would encourage the birds to hang around by feeding them. Usually the same variety of birds would gather together at various times during the day. Sometimes stragglers were left from a previous flock and fighting often breakout with loud screeches and squawks. Usually, it was the same breed who fought among themselves but this pretty bird flew in alone. By the time I set up my camera he had had a drink and was moving awkwardly up the branch of a jacaranda tree. That’s when I noticed how battered he looked. Where there should have been brilliantly blue feathers on his head they were quite dark and ruffled. His belly feathers were partly missing. He may have been just old but in this case he was more likely to have been an escaped caged bird and had recently been in a fight with native birds who didn’t appreciate his arrival.
Archived in:🦋 Poetry Mix
Some things don’t feel right. Unpleasant confrontations generate a mood of sadness. Shivers torment already traumatised nerves, like finger nails dragged across a blackboard. Yet, there’s nought to fear. Some things are not right. Hostility clutches hold with naive dishonesties and confusion creeps in with unsuspected lies. Cold fingers of fear grip with malicious rumours. Yet, there’s nought to fear. Some things are never right. Malice and corruption run amok in a violated world with greed and self-absorption taking hold. Unpredicted anguish and hearts full of darkness. Yet, there’s nought to fear. Some things can be made right. Terrors of the night flee with the promise of the sunrise. Integrity re-established to transform thoughts benefits the practise of honest, uncorrupted lives. Yes, there’s nought to fear. © Chrissy Siggee
Archived in: 🦋 Christian Reads
From the Archives:
Clutching the wooden spoon tightly and shaking it at my younger sister, I began my investigation. ‘OK, who did it? Who licked the mixing spoon?’
‘Not me.’ Madison answered, not looking up from the table.
‘Did too. Who else would have done it?’
‘Did not.’
‘Did too.’
The back door closed with a thump. Mum came in with her arms loaded with towels.
‘All right you two, break it up.’
‘But Mum…’
Madison crossed her arms tightly. ‘I… did… not… lick… Crystal’s… spoon.’
‘Did too.’
‘Girls, that’s enough!’
I tossed the spoon into the sink. ‘Mum, you promised that if I peeled the potatoes last night, I could lick the spoon when we baked the cookies this morning. It was my turn.’ I glared at my seven-year-old sister.
She poked her tongue out and I stomped out of the kitchen.
When I returned a few minutes later, notebook and pencil in hand, Mum and Madison were busy removing cookies from a baking tray.
‘OK… Mum, what happened when I left the kitchen to use the bathroom?’
With an audible sigh, Mum opened the oven door and placed another tray onto the top shelf. ‘Well, after we finished mixing the cookie dough, I went outside to bring the towels in from the clothesline. If Madison licked the spoon, I didn’t see her.’
Madison added a fairy-shaped cookie to a large plate and then turned toward me. ‘I… did… not… lick… your… spoon.’
I noted her statement. ‘Madison, what were you doing while Mum was outside?’
‘Colouring in my book.’
‘Before that, stupid.’
‘Please Crystal.’ Mum intervened. ‘You can play your detective games but please don’t be rude to your sister.’
Madison pushed a tiny candy bow into the icing on the top of a pink fairy before she continued with her defence.
‘I didn’t touch the spoon. Mum said it was your turn to lick it so I went and got my colouring pencils and book from my bedroom.’
Sandy, Madison’s kitty brushed against my legs. ‘Where was Sandy?’ I crouched down and checked the kitten’s paws and mouth.
‘She followed me outside,’ Mum replied, then handed Madison the container of sprinkles.
‘Well, it couldn’t be Sandy.’ Madison added not looking at anyone.
I added my notes about Sandy then poked the pencil behind my ear and placed the notebook onto the table. ‘Can I help decorate the cookies?’
‘Wash your hands and show Madison how to use the icing gun.’
Obediently but aggravated, I moved to the sink and washed my hands. I still think Madison did it. I kept my eyes on miss goody two-shoes while I turned on the tap. Little sister seems to always avoid punishment.
‘Did you come to any conclusions,’ Mum asked.
My attention remained focused on Madison. I took a small spoon from the drawer to use to fill the icing tube. ‘Well, if it wasn’t Madison or Sandy, who else could it be?’
‘It wasn’t me!’ Madison announced her innocence again. ‘You always blame me.’
Momentarily, I concentrated on filling the tube.
‘Well,’ Mum was saying. ‘If you did Madison, no one would be mad at you for it. It’s the lies that I don’t tolerate.’
Madison’s lips quivered. ‘I didn’t.’
A noise from the living room caused me to turn suddenly. ‘What’s that?’
Mum glanced up at the doorway as Dad entered.
Madison’s frown disappeared. ‘Daddy, you’re home early.’
I placed the icing gun on a clean plate. ‘How long have you been home, Dad?’
I grabbed my notepad and drew the pencil from behind my ear. I tapped my foot. ‘Well?’
‘Well…nice to see you too.’ Dad laughed.
I approached Dad and leaned forward. There on his loosened tie, was a tiny blob of chocolate. ‘Dad… you didn’t. How could you?’
‘Do what?’
Mum pointed her finger. ‘So, you’re the culprit.’
Dad bent down to kiss my forehead.
‘Da…ad, your lips are sticky.’
Dad just stood there and grinned. ‘Yeah, I came in to see my beautiful girls before I put my briefcase away. No one was here so I licked the spoon.’ He grabbed a paper serviette and wiped his mouth. ‘I guess you found me out.’
‘You licked the spoon? It was my turn!’
Mum came over and touched my shoulder. ‘I think you have an apology to make, Detective Crystal.’
© Chrissy Siggee
Archived in: 🦋 Children’s Corner
Last week we traveled about 90kms north of home to do a little sightseeing. We stayed the night and travel home late Saturday.
We were there just long enough to decide we would like to visit another time. Perhaps for three or four nights. My favourite place was the Shell Shop to which I will definitely revisit.
Archived in: 🦋 Travel + Retirement
Archived in: 🦋 Poetry Mix
I’m not sure if these have grown from seeds dropped by birds or if the seeds were in the mulch we spread around the garden. The tallest sunflower has already grown higher than the front windows and it’s still yet to bloom. Norm took these photos for me because they are so tall. Note the clever angle in the fifth photo.
Archived in: 🦋 I’m in the Garden
Rain is a shower but cold
It comes down soft or bold
When the rain and sun collide
It makes a rainbow in the sky
Amelia Siggee – aged 11
Archived in: 🦋 Children’s Corner
On Thursday May 30th 2024 we finally returned to Tamborine Mountain in Queensland for a visit. The first gallery shows just a few random photos of the many we took in the main street.
The highlight of the day trip was our bush-walk to Curtis Waterfall. My greatest achievement was descending and ascending the numerous steps. My new knee held up well. I’ve also limited photos in this gallery being mindful to my media page GB usage. There’s more in my Facebook holiday album.
Archived in: 🦋 Travel + Retirement
Riverside Peace 
You must be logged in to post a comment.