The day I was taken to look at apartments around Naples, I took random pictures from inside the car to share with you. I hope you can feel the excitement of this amazing country!
First Post of my Precious Granddaughter
On Saturday, 9 May 2020, at 3:57 pm, my gorgeous daughter Kristina, gave birth to a 7 lb. 7 oz. princess by the name of Ella Renae. She is the most beautiful Angel I have ever seen. Without further ado…
Apology for the Delay
I’m so sorry it’s taken so long to post the last property I visited on Tuesday. It’s been a busy week. I took my Italian driver’s license test so I can drive a car in Italy. I continue to work in the office a couple of days a week and telework the other days. At this moment, I am anxiously awaiting the entrance of my granddaughter, Ella, to the world. My sweet daughter entered the hospital in Newport News, VA on Friday morning, 8 May, 8:00 am US time, and as of Saturday morning, 9 May, 7 am US time, Ella remains unseen. I am starting to get worried so I have to do something while I wait by the phone.
So which of the five do you think I should pick?
Believing God
In the Believing God Bible Study by Beth Moore, she presents a multiple choice “Test of Faith” for us to complete. Her instructions read, “Your answers aren’t meant to be right or wrong. They are meant to be honest…The first gut-level honest answer that comes to you is probably the most accurate.” She goes on to say, “Do not under any circumstances feel condemned by any question…God could very well use this tool to liberate you from an area of bondage to unbelief.” As I considered her question on prayer, I was forced to consider something I hadn’t in the past. The question reads: I _______ pray generic prayers because I don’t want to be disappointed by God. Answer options: a. rarely, b. occasionally, c. often, and d. most commonly.
Those close to me know I have struggled with prayer since I was 18 years old and my Mother was rushed to Riverside Hospital. My continuous prayer was, “God, PLEASE don’t take my Mother.” Simple, but to the point. The following day, my Mother died in the Coronary Care Unit of a massive coronary. Immediately after I walked through that hell on earth, my prayer changed to, “God, PLEASE don’t take my Dad!” Two months later my Dad was diagnosed with cancer after having surgery at Riverside Hospital and he died in my arms seven months later in the Hospice Unit.
My answer to the prayer question has to be d. MOST COMMONLY! I have faith and I honestly believe in God and that HE’S in control of everything. However, I pray generic prayers because, I thought, I trusted Him. But maybe it’s really because it’s easier and I won’t feel disappointed.
Today, I’m praying a prayer of SPECIFICS! And I’m asking you to join me! PLEASE PRAY MY DAUGHTER, KRISTINA, HAS HER BABY GIRL SOON AND DOES NOT HAVE TO HAVE A CESEREAN SECTION! No matter the outcome, I trust Him and know He has a purpose. But as He says in James 4:2: You have not because you ask not. Well, I’m not taking that chance today!
Properties three and four
So these two properties were not my favorites. I didn’t ask my realator for details on the locations, but remember they were in Pozzuoli. In these locations I would only be able to see the sun set (not rise), which I don’t enjoy as much.
I took a couple of pictures and will post them for your viewing pleasure. Not too many as the first two properties had my heart.
Property Number 2
The second home was located in Discesa Gaiola, also in Posillipo. The major benefit to this home was that everything was brand new – and stunning! This property had a large deck area and balconies all around the home. It was within walking distance of the beach and had five beautiful dogs I could love as my own (without the responsibility). However, I would need to purchase everything for the kitchen and the road in and out of the location was only large enough for one car! People literally stop or backup to allow others to pass – with VERY LITTLE ROOM!
Now the beautiful photos of Property Two…
Day 60 in Naples, Italy, and first opportunity to search for a home
I was given the amazing opportunity to visit five homes that are available for
the next three to five years of my life. After this 60 day lock-down, I’m thankful I had the extra time to consider what matters most when in comes to my home.
I found my mind drifting to Nags Head where I always connected most with God. The experience of pondering the activity of His ocean and the glory of His AMAZING sun rise, provided me the most peace I have experienced in life. So, I decided THAT was my first priority – a view of the Gulf of Naples and a balcony to enjoy the sun rise in His Word!
Other considerations include safety, of course, a wonderful landlord, a minimum of two bedrooms (for visitors!), furnishings, and a washing and dryer.
Property number one was located in Via Orazio in Posillipo. The apartment was in a gated community, with security round the clock. I would have my own parking space inside the community, close to the entrance and the elevator. The apartment was beautiful and the landlord was extremely kind. He spoke some English, which was helpful, and told me he was happy to leave everything in the apartment for my use. I wouldn’t have to purchase one thing!
Another benefit to this location is the proximity to markets, public transportation, and beaches – all within walking distance.
Tomatoes in Italy
I’m trying to make a conscious effort to eat healthier while I’m in Italy. I’m also trying to learn to cook and use seasonings. I google’d simple Italian recipes with tomatoes and here’s the result! After marinading for 2-3 hours, I’ll top with cheese and partake!
I can’t wait for dinner!
An early Mother’s Day Gift
While shopping yesterday at the NEX, I saw something beautiful marked 20% off as a Mother’s Day gift. It was too expensive in my mind, but after some time walking around the store, decided it would be MY gift to ME!
A short time later, I saw something else I liked. It wasn’t on sale, but I decided it would be my second Mother’s Day gift to ME!
I LOVE them both!
The tea was absolutely AMAZING and my room smells beautiful! Happy Mother’s Day to me!
Weekend pondering
I spent this weekend re-watching the opening night session of Orange Conference Live 2020 #OC20. I am always AMAZED at what I take away. Thanks to Facebook, I was also reminded of past Orange Conferences I have had the privilege to attend. I can’t say enough wonderful things about the heart of this ministry. It is INCREDIBLY APPARENT in the words of wisdom shared by all the leaders. They don’t simply talk about faith, they “walk the walk” and LIVE IT!
I was blessed to be raised by a Mother who lived her faith and attend a Church where they do too.
I thought I would share a modern day version of the Love passage from 1 Corinthians 13 from Kristen Ivy. Kristen serves as the Executive Director of Messaging at Orange and the Co-Founder and Director of The Phase Project.
I am so thankful I was introduced to this amazing ministry by our previous Children’s Minister years ago!
Blessings Galore in Naples Italy 