Month: August 2023

Posted on in Gratitude, Miscellaneous, Perseverance

Collision Course

Yesterday, I had a few minutes before work, so I went to get the mail that I missed the day before. On my way back inside, I looked up at the sky and noticed two airplanes. From my perspective, they were only an inch or so apart. šŸ™‚

In fact, based on their trails, they looked like they could collide. Though I knew they wouldnā€™t. The air traffic controllers would have them on separate paths at different elevations. Safety first!

I tried to take a picture, but they were gone by the time I came back outside. I could only see part of the trail from one airplane. Itā€™s crazy how fast they moved apart!

Free Plane Aircraft photo and picture

But, then that got me thinkingā€¦ we are all on our own course, but God makes sure we get where we are going. Your destination might be work or school today, or maybe the grocery store. But, for those of us who know Jesus, our final stop is Heaven.

I also thought about how there are people on the journey with us, such as family, friends, and coworkers. At times, our paths collide and we go together, and occasionally our paths diverge. But, in both cases, we can trust God to lead us.

Finally, I was thankful for all the ways God keeps us safe, even when we canā€™t see the danger around us. We face many possible ā€œcollisionsā€ (or challenges) in a day, but God watches out for us. We typically have all potential problems on our radar, but He does.

Occasionally, we see life from a different angle and get a glimpse of who God is or what He is doing. Itā€™s like we are on a collision course with Godā€™s grace! HeĀ wonā€™t let us get too far from His love!

In those moments, letā€™s praise Him for carrying us, protecting us, and providing for us. Letā€™s encourage those who are on the same path (or plane) as us, too!

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God, thanks for taking good care of us and navigating our path. Help us trust You along the way. In Jesusā€™ Name, Amen

Question: When you see airplanes, do you ever imagine where they are going or think about the lives on board?

Task: Next time you see an airplane, briefly watch its trailā€¦ from where it has come and consider the trajectory. Remember, each person and plane is important to God!

Posted on in Finding Grace Weekly Recap, Food and Nutrition, Gratitude, Miscellaneous, Parenting

Finding Grace #390

You may have seen the acronym GRACE as Godā€™s Riches At Christā€™s Expense. Grace is also Godā€™s unmerited favor, or God doing for us what we cannot.

I find grace overflowing with Godā€™s love, joy, peace, blessings, mercy, power, provision, protection, and wisdom. Thank You, Jesus!

Free Dahlia Flower photo and picture

Where did I find Godā€™s love and favorā€”His abundant graceā€”this week?!

This week was a little hectic but good! Lydia and I had several events that took planning ahead and felt ā€˜big.ā€™ I had to keep praying, working hard, and trusting God. I also took several deeeeep breaths. But, it all turned out really well.

Ā On Sunday, we volunteered at church in the morning (greeting at the kids ministry) and in the evening (an outdoor womenā€™s event). We had good food and saw some friends. I thought I would be really tired after a full day of serving, but I was actually energized!

On Monday, Lydia babysat for a little baby all on her own. She is very responsible and good with little ones, but I was a little nervous anyway since we had not previously met him. Lydia had a blast and entertained him for two hours. She even earned a few bucks!

Lydia started middle school this week! She had fun and already has three favorite teachers, so I think thatā€™s a good sign! We are excited for this next season.

Work was good but fairly busy and full of problem-solving. Nearly all of my patients came this week, but it made me happy to be using so many of my skills. I also had fun attending a yoga session with my coworkers on our lunch break! Then, I worked a couple extra hours on Friday and also went in today for two hours (my on-call weekend). Whew!

My mother-in-law came to visit this week, as she sometimes does when I am on-call. She took Lydia shopping, and then I joined them for a few other activities. We always have fun together and have some more things planned for tomorrow!

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These are only a few examples, but Godā€™s grace never runs out!

Thereā€™s grace in every situationā€”we just need to look for it. God promises if we seek Him, we will find Him (see Jeremiah 29:13)!

Posted on in Gratitude, Journey of Grace, Life is Short, Miscellaneous, Parenting, Perseverance

This Is The Day

Well, itā€™s back-to-school season for many of us! I love seeing all the first-day-of-school pictures posted by all my friends and family online.

Lydia is starting middle school tomorrow and will be in a new building this year! Iā€™m glad she can walk to school, justĀ down the street.

We went to her school last night (Tuesday) to find her classes, meet her teachers, and try out her locker. Lydia has classes all over the building, but overall, it should be a good experience. We saw some of her friends, too!

The evening was a blessing because Lydia was a little nervous at dinner, and I encouraged her to make the best of it. But, later when we returned home, we both felt at peace. Her teachers were so friendly! She is right where she needs to be.

Lydia has been looking forward to this day for years. Middle school is an exciting new step, but there will also be new challenges, boundaries, and consequences. I pray she continues drawing close to the Lord and relies on Him for wisdom, courage, and grace!

As you may guess, my heart is also being stretched as Lydia becomes more independent. She has taken on more responsibility around the house but also is becoming her own person outside our home. Thankfully, itā€™s a normal transition for both of us!

Free Lockers School photo and picture

Considering all the above, I was reminded of an article I read a couple of years ago during the peak COVID years. You can read it here.

Essentially, it is a reminder that each of us was born for ā€œsuch a time as thisā€ (see Esther 4:14). We can trust God even in uncertainty because none of it surprises Him.

God has a specific plan and purpose for Lydia, but also for you and me. Of course, each generation faces its own trials, but from the beginning of time, each day is already covered with an overwhelming abundance of grace. Life can be difficult, but He equips us to fulfill our calling.

It is natural to want to shield our loved ones from pain and make it easy on them. However, I am reminded that pain is not inevitable. I canā€™t protect Lydia every moment, but I can trust God. Pain can become a pathway to growth in Him, and His mercies are new every morning.

So whether you are facing middle school or even middle age, rejoice. Today is a day of blessing. God sees you and is for you. He has your back and knows your heart. Let Him direct your path!

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God, thanks for carrying us to this point in time and for all Your blessings along the way. Help us to grow in this new day and season. In Jesusā€™ Name, Amen

Question: What are you looking forward to in this coming season?

Task: When you feel overwhelmed, remember THIS is the day the Lord has made. This is the year, the season, the month, the week He designed for You. Rejoice and trust in Him!

Posted on in Gratitude, Life is Short, Miscellaneous

Finding Grace #389

You may have seen the acronym GRACE as Godā€™s Riches At Christā€™s Expense. Grace is also Godā€™s unmerited favor, or God doing for us what we cannot.

I find grace overflowing with Godā€™s love, joy, peace, blessings, mercy, power, provision, protection, and wisdom. Thank You, Jesus!

Free Flowers Zinnia photo and picture

Where did I find Godā€™s love and favorā€”His abundant graceā€”this week?!

This was a good week! It started off around Midnight on Sunday watching the Perseid metro shower for my birthday (Saturday). We saw about ten meteors, and a couple were very close and spectactular!

Work went well, and I had a nutrition student shadowing me each day. Sheā€™s trying to decide if she wants to be a dietitian. I had a variety of patients, and it was fun to show her what I do. Iā€™m sure she will choose whatever path is best for her!

Lydia had two sleepovers this week. I was happy for her to soak up the last few days of her summer. Each girl is a good friend, and I also enjoyed a couple of evenings to myself.

Today, while Lydia was gone, I made the most of the time and did some deep cleaning while catching up on a podcast. I would have done it if she was home, but I probably got more done on my own!Ā Tonight, I am doing a little organizing while watching a movie!

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These are only a few examples, but Godā€™s grace never runs out!

Thereā€™s grace in every situationā€”we just need to look for it. God promises if we seek Him, we will find Him (see Jeremiah 29:13)!

Posted on in Gratitude, Life is Short, Miscellaneous, Perseverance, Pivot, Wisdom, Worship

Rush Hour

Rush hour in Fargo is, well, nothing compared to say Chicago or Minneapolis! In the big cities, you could be in traffic for over an hour and barely move. I donā€™t think I could handle that on a regular basis!

In contrast, you may drive for fifteen to twenty minutes in Fargom yet typically keep moving along. But you still need patience, especially when people try to rush ahead or cut in traffic on the highway.

Yesterday, I spent some time running errands after work. I decided to skip the busier route and went through town. I still hit some traffic, though not as many vehicles switching from one lane to the other. Funny how the other lane always seems to move faster!

I am just as guilty as others trying to get home after a long day or move on to the next activity. But yesterday, I just took it easy and enjoyed the ride. Even so, I was home within eleven minutes after finishing my errands.

Free Traffic Cars photo and picture

I thought about how a spiritual ā€œrush hourā€ might go. Now, often, Godā€™s timing is much slower than ours. He is never early, never late, and always right on time!

Second Peter 3:8 says, ā€œBut do not forget this one thing, dear friends: With the Lord a day is like a thousand years, and a thousand years are like a day.ā€ Godā€™s timing is unique, but so are His purposes for us.

So as I sat in traffic and watched other people, I wondered how often I rush to move closer to God or hurry up my routine to spend time with Him. I donā€™t usually have a lot of wiggle room, so I have to set aside time diligently and even invite Jesus to come with me.

Do I speed up and ā€˜switch lanesā€™ to get to Him?

Do I readjust my schedule and rush to Him, or do I rush through my time with Him to move on to the rest of my day?

Every day is a little different, with a morning and evening rush (traffic, and often at home). But ideally, we should be excited to spend as much time with the Lord as possible. I am challenged to rethink my daily routine, and I hope you are, too!

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Heavenly Father, thanks for these little insights into the spiritual world. Help us throw off everything that entangles us so we can run toward You.Ā  Help us keep You as our main priority. In Jesusā€™ Name, Amen

Questions: How can you focus on God in your travel time? Do you like to sing and worship God; pray for your day or others; or listen to a podcast or audiobook about spiritual matters?

Tasks: Listen to Godā€™s word through the YouVersion Bible app. Or, tune your car radio to KLOVE or your local Christian radio station (in Fargo, thatā€™s Life 97.9 FM). If you have SiriusXM, check out The Message. Several of these have phone apps, as well!

Ā 

Posted on in Finding Grace Weekly Recap, Gratitude, Life is Short, Little Free Library, Miscellaneous

Finding Grace #388

You may have seen the acronym GRACE as Godā€™s Riches At Christā€™s Expense. Grace is also Godā€™s unmerited favor, or God doing for us what we cannot.

I find grace overflowing with Godā€™s love, joy, peace, blessings, mercy, power, provision, protection, and wisdom. Thank You, Jesus!

Where did I find Godā€™s love and favorā€”His abundant graceā€”this week?!

This was a fun week, partly because it was all leading up to my birthday TODAY!!

Work went well, and I enjoyed a lighter patient load. There were a few little surprises, but one good thing is that my patient with a complicated case has been improving quite a bit. He called me with good news, and I was so happy his condition is stable, and he is eating more.

Lydia and I went to check out some more sunflower fields. They are so pretty en masse! We got some fun pictures and enjoyed seeing more of the North Dakota countryside!

On Friday, I met a friend for lunch after work. We had a good two-hour conversation about all God has been doing in our lives. This friend has been through a lot but continues to challenge herself and grow in faith. Itā€™s encouraging to me, and I always enjoy hanging out with her!

After that, Lydia and I got a head start on celebrating my birthday! We went to see those sunflowers, then followed it up with dinner at a Lebanese restaurant. The food was so delicious and such a treat. We shared several dishes and had baklava for dessert. Then, we took a walk around our neighborhood and the middle school!

Today, I woke up early and enjoyed some espresso and quiet time. I made a full breakfast with eggs, toast, fruit, and veggies. Then, when Lydia woke up, we went on a bike ride. The weather was perfect with bright blue skies and just a slight breeze!

After that, I did a little weeding ā€“ because I wanted to!! I also updated some hardware on my little free libraries. I did NOT feel like mowing on my birthday, though! So, that will have to wait. šŸ˜‰

Later, I caught up with several birthday shout-outs online and a number of texts and phone calls. I really appreciate everyone cheering me on and reaching out. Also, thanks to all of you who faithfully read my blog each week!

Tonight, we are enjoying some homemade cherry dump cake, watching a movie, and playing Qwirkle. If we can stay up late enough, we hope to go see the Perseid meteor shower. It comes every year around my birthday, but I always seem to miss it. Occasionally, itā€™s due to the weather, but most of the time, I have to work or be somewhere the next day. So, hopefully, it works out tonight since itā€™s supposed to clear. It would be the best ending to a wonderful birthday!

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These are only a few examples, but Godā€™s grace never runs out!

Thereā€™s grace in every situationā€”we just need to look for it. God promises if we seek Him, we will find Him (see Jeremiah 29:13)!

Posted on in Gratitude, Journey of Grace, Miscellaneous, Parenting, Perseverance, Pivot

The End of An Era

This week, Lydia and I are contemplating and celebrating her last days at the YMCA.Ā 

For the last four years, the Y has been a staple in our lives. And now, Lydia has aged out. The transition was necessary, as she is going to middle school in a couple of weeks!

The Y has been a big blessing to us, though Lydia had to make many adjustments. We have seen it at Godā€™s provision and as a proving ground.

Free Crayons Coloring Book photo and picture

We could have skipped the Y this summer, but I wanted to ensure we had a transition point. I didnā€™t want her staying home alone ALL summer, so I pushed Lydia to make the best of it during the school year so we had the option for summer. Of course, that meant she was the oldest kid there all year!

I encouraged Lydia to mentor the little kids, perhaps like a big sister. I coached her through social issues and asked her to put up with a lot of yelling and heckling. She loves little kids, but it was a stretch for an only child who appreciates peace and quiet! Her POTS and tinnitus was an extra challenge, but she was able to manage.

Sometimes, I spoke to the Y leaders about ways to cope, but they didnā€™t have much space to discipline the kids. Thus, Lydia and I had lots of character-building talks!

Over the years, Lydia enjoyed many things at the Y that would have been difficult to do otherwise. She learned about different cultures and music, developed her artistic talent, played games and sports, went on field trips, went swimming, and so much more. She ate lots of good meals and snacks, too!

Free Kid Child photo and picture

Lydiaā€™s last day was supposed to be Tuesday, but due to me missing an email, it ended up being Monday. Mainly, she came unprepared for a field trip, and instead of making her go and sit out from the activities, I took her home for the day.Ā 

Understandably, Lydia was a little sad and teary-eyed. While it has been a struggle at times, it has also been a source of stability and familiarity for her. She had some great leaders and made some good friends. It was a growing experience, and she has excelled.

We live nearby to the Y location at her elementary school, but I didnā€™t have time to run her gear back and forth, or I would have been late to work. So, we made a quick decision to call it good! (I knew Iā€™d pay either way.)

Thankfully, Lydia has learned the ins and outs of staying home alone. While I donā€™t always like this option and keep it to a minimum, it is necessary at times. My mom has been good to text her during the day sometimes (and Lydia texts her friends). In fact, Lydia feels a special connection and responsibility to check in with those she loves. Thatā€™s a bonus!

Free Chalk Sidewalk Chalk photo and picture

As we reflect on all this, I cannot help but be so grateful for God leading us to the Y. Lydia has been there every day after school and on most school-out days or holidays. Having her at the Y has ensured that I can work more hours. I love my job at the VA but would not have been able to meet the demands as it has evolved.

And during the two peak COVID years, the Y was vital. I never missed one day of work because the Y stayed open! Without this consistent childcare option, I would have had to quit working (as many people did). Most other daycare options closed, but the Y prioritized children of ā€˜essential workers.ā€™ Not having the Y could have been disastrous for me financially, but God protected us from getting sick and made a way for us. All glory to Him!

So, while this feels like the end of an era, itā€™s really a new beginning. We had challenges along the way, but God was faithful. I know He also will be with us as we keep moving forward. He always is!

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God, thanks so much for all your grace, provision, and protection! Thanks for carrying us all this time. As we take our next steps, help us keep leaning on and listening to You. In Jesusā€™ Name, Amen

Questions: Can you see Godā€™s hand at work as you reflect on the last 3-5 years? How has He carried you? How can you keep moving forward?

Tasks: Reflect on your journey with the Lord thus far. Make a list of all you have to be thankful for. Reconnect with Him when your path looks dim. He will come through for you!

Ā 

Posted on in Being Gracious, Finding Grace Weekly Recap, Food and Nutrition, Gratitude, Journey of Grace, Kindness, Life is Short, Miscellaneous

Finding Grace #387

You may have seen the acronym GRACE as Godā€™s Riches At Christā€™s Expense. Grace is also Godā€™s unmerited favor, or God doing for us what we cannot.

I find grace overflowing with Godā€™s love, joy, peace, blessings, mercy, power, provision, protection, and wisdom. Thank You, Jesus!

Where did I find Godā€™s love and favorā€”His abundant graceā€”this week?!

This week went well!

My lawn mower wasnā€™t working on Sunday. Through a little reading and tinkering, I realized it likely was the carburetor. My neighbor offered to take it in for a tune-up, which was so kind. I called and set it up, and he transported it back and forth. In the meantime, he let me borrow his mower, which was a big help!

We celebrated someoneā€™s birthday at work, which gave us a chance to laugh and connect. I also had a lot of interesting patients, including the one from last week. He seems stable but had some issues with his tube feeding regimen. I worked behind the scenes with the pharmacy since we donā€™t carry the formula he needed. Thankfully, it all worked out!

On Wednesday, I dropped Lydia off at our church youth group and then went to pick some veggies from a friendā€™s garden. She was out of town and didnā€™t want them to go to waste. I picked a zucchini, a few tomatoes, and some peppers. On the way back to get Lydia, I saw two fields of sunflowers, which called my name. I pulled off to get a few pictures, and as I was sitting there, a couple of men drove by. A minute later, one returned to check on me. I appreciated him and did not feel threatened since he never got out of his vehicle. Thanks, Lord!

For Wednesdayā€™s post, I wrote about how friendships are sometimes complicated as we age. They just take more effort because there are more factors involved. Many of my good friends have moved away, so it can be hard to keep putting myself out there when people might leave. Thankfully, Jesus always draws me closer. Furthermore, I aim to be a light wherever God leads me, so I wonā€™t hide away even though that would be easier! šŸ™‚

Today, we stayed home and mostly relaxed. I woke up early, lifted weights, and walked through the neighborhood. It was overcast and I saw some pretty cattails (pic above). Later, I made some fried green tomatoes with my friendsā€™ garden produce! I just added a tiny bit of oil and some Maldon sea salt flakes. So good!

Now, we are enjoying a good thunderstorm. My lawn really needs the water, so I am thrilled. The downpouring rain on my windows means itā€™s a perfect night for a movie and some popcorn with Lydia!

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These are only a few examples, but Godā€™s grace never runs out!

Thereā€™s grace in every situationā€”we just need to look for it. God promises if we seek Him, we will find Him (see Jeremiah 29:13)!

Posted on in Being Gracious, Gratitude, Kindness, Miscellaneous, Perseverance, Personality, Wisdom

Closer

I overheard some really joyful news this week about a not-so-close-friend. I really like her, but, I am not sure I will reach out. We havenā€™t seen each other in a couple of years, and I donā€™t know how she would respond. I assume if she wanted me to know, it would be clear. Iā€™m sure she will make an official announcement when sheā€™s ready.

We have never been ā€˜superā€™ close; we just had a few good times together. For now, I will pray for her and cheer her on behind the scenes. And, if I get the chance, I will tell her how happy I am for her.

Do you have friends like that? Or maybe the term really should be acquaintances. šŸ™‚

Indeed, many people are in my not-too-close category. Itā€™s not that we donā€™t connect; people consistently tell me I am friendly and approachable. I am compassionate and good at listening. When asked for help, I always provide a basic plan to follow. But, then the problem is solved, and they tend to move on.

Free Flowers Siberian Bugloss photo and picture

So, I donā€™t know if it is me or them, or both! It certainly could just be a bunch of random circumstances not worth mulling over. Yet, here we are. šŸ˜‰

When it comes to relationships, weā€™ve all heard something to the effect that if they talk about other people with you, they will talk about you with other people. But, I avoid gossip because so many people trust me to keep their confidence and I take that seriously.

Iā€™m also fairly low-key. No drama hereā€¦ but that also makes me one of the last to know!

Similarly, I use caution (wisdom!) when opening up to people. Iā€™m fairly good at reading people and know not to misplace my trust. (#boundaries) I am okay with having a few solid friends who ā€˜get meā€™ rather than many loose acquaintances. It is important to know whoā€™s in your corner.

Free Forget-Me-Nots Flowers photo and picture

Randomly, I think, ā€œHmm, maybe Iā€™m just not that memorable, or maybe I just donā€™t have anything exciting to offer.ā€ Case in point: I am great at remembering names and personal details, but I often have to reintroduce myself to peopleā€¦ multiple times, which gets old. Thankfully, Jesus never forgets me ā€“ He knows me better than I do!

I suppose most of these thoughts reflect my introverted personality. I am quiet and appreciate solitude, but Iā€™m not really shy. I shine in asking good questions, but people donā€™t often reciprocate. Iā€™ve been told Iā€™m ā€˜blendableā€™ and can relate to a wide variety of people and interests. While that may mean I get lost in a crowd, maybe Iā€™m the gel that helps keep everything cohesive. I appreciate that about myself!

Building community can be an art. Though, I only have so much extra time and energy, and we are all going in different directions with various obligations. Thatā€™s not necessarily a bad thing, but it may preclude vulnerability.

Free Forget-Me-Nots Purple Flowers photo and picture

To clarify, having a lot of friends and acquaintances is a huge blessing. I have needed help from at least four friends this summer (Lydia, yardwork, questions, etc.). Yet, while my friends (and family) are sometimes unavailable, Jesus is always there for me.

Despite my occasional self-doubt, I understand itā€™s not ā€˜all about me.ā€™ I am an Ambassador for Christ, so I am happy to share anything personal to help someone grow closer to Jesus for Eternity. It could be embarrassing, but as long as it is useful, I donā€™t mind! If that brings awkward conversations, so be it!

Ultimately, our contact list, Facebook likes, birthday shoutouts, or blog followers can only get us so far. They have a place, yes, but they donā€™t measure our true worth. Afterall, we donā€™t have to be popular, but we do need to live purposefully.

So, letā€™s draw closer to Jesus every day. He always welcomes us in and is eager to chat, no matter how much time may have passed!

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God, thanks for Your Friendship! You never let me go! Help me be a good friend, and help me keep drawing closer to You. In Jesusā€™ Name, Amen

Questions: Did you know there are more than seventy varieties of forget-me-nots? How do you invest in your friendships?

Task: Make a list of your best qualities and how they apply to friendship. When it feels like people have abandoned you, pull out the list and pray about your next steps. (Donā€™t sell yourself short. Not all relationships are intended to last forever, and thatā€™s okay!)