Category: Finding Grace Weekly Recap

Posted on in Finding Grace Weekly Recap, Gratitude, Life is Short, Miscellaneous, Parenting, Pivot

Finding Grace #404

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

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

Free Coffee Latte photo and picture

Where did I find God’s love and favor—His abundant grace—this week?!

This was a pretty good week!

Work was hopping, that is… good but busy! I had some interesting patients and some fun conversations. I heard that one of my patients died, which is always sad. I also tackled several patient issues that popped up while covering for other people. It was one of those weeks where I felt I was making a difference!

The weather has been amazing this week. We had a tiny bit of snow on Monday but it melted the next day or so. It was in the 40s and felt like spring! Winter is on the way, but this reprieve has been so welcome!

On Thursday, I saw the sunrise on my way to work and the sun set on my drive home! We also attempted to see the predicted aurora borealis by waking up in the middle of the night to check a live stream in Grand Forks, but it wasn’t as exciting as we had hoped, so instead of driving out of town a few miles, we went back to bed.

Lydia is dealing with a POTS flare-up today with several of her usual symptoms. She had hoped to spend time with a friend or two, but instead, we are just taking it easy so she can rest. I am catching up on quiet activities, like paying bills, comparing new health/dental/vision plans, and planning ahead for the new year, which is less than a month away!

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These are only a few examples, but God’s grace never runs out!

There’s grace in every situation—we just need to look for it. God promises if we seek Him, we will find Him (see Jeremiah 29:13)!

Posted on in Finding Grace Weekly Recap, Gratitude, Kindness, Miscellaneous

Finding Grace #403

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

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

Where did I find God’s love and favor—His abundant grace—this week?!

This was a fun week with so much packed in that it seemed longer than usual! 🙂

On Monday, I went to visit two Veterans in long-term care facilities. One of the places, I used to fill in when I worked on-call as a dietitian (one of my first Fargo jobs). It’s been about eleven years since I was there, and it brought back some good memories. 

Tuesday was Lydia’s birthday, so we spent the evening celebrating. We ordered some burgers and fries from Five Guys, then went home to watch Elf and open presents. She received several gifts in the mail, so she had about four days of birthday fun!

For Thanksgiving, we stayed home and put our own spin on some of our favorites. We made potatoes, cranberry sauce, and turkey meatballs. Lydia put together some fancy drinks, and then we enjoyed some pumpkin pie. It was a relaxing day together, and we enjoyed watching a movie and playing a game, too!

I also heard from my African friends on Thursday. They reminded me that last year, I introduced them to pumpkin pie. They thanked me for being their guide when they first came to Faro. It was so cool they thought of me and called to say that!

Today, some of Lydia’s friends from school came over for a little party. They did some painting and had some treats. Lydia had fun opening presents, I enjoyed all the laughter!

The weather was great again this week! It is getting chilly, but every day or week without snow makes me feel like winter might not last so long. I’m sure it will be here soon, though!

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These are only a few examples, but God’s grace never runs out!

There’s grace in every situation—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, Fear, Faith, and Moving Forward book, Finding Grace Weekly Recap, Food and Nutrition, Gratitude, Journey of Grace, Kindness, Life is Short, Miscellaneous, Parenting, Perseverance

Finding Grace #401

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

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

Where did I find God’s love and favor—His abundant grace—this week?!

This was a great week, full of God’s grace!!

On Sunday, Lydia and I attended a Scotland Forever orchestra concert. It was delightful, and I envisioned God as the Master composer and conductor of our lives. He is faithful and good!

On Wednesday,  I enjoyed talking with a couple of ladies. In each conversation, we talked about our faith journeys. It was so cool to see how God came through for them, and I was able to share my story and book with them, too!

It was a short work week because of Veterans Day (observed on Friday). Lydia and I had a relaxing day after some plans were canceled. We have had colds off and on, so it was so nice to not have a huge agenda. I did some gentle exercise and completed a few chores and paperwork, while Lydia read and played some games on her tablet. It was perfect!

Today, I had to work on actual Veterans Day. I previously traded with a coworker, and I am glad because I had eleven Veterans to chart on, and she is due to have twins any day! It was a lot of work to do solo, but I am glad she didn’t have to do it! It was an honor to serve these heroes today.

After working until 3:00 p.m. today (three hours longer than I expected!), I took Lydia to Chik-Fil-A. She has only been there once and was patient all week… and today, she was waiting for me to finish at work. It was nearly 4:00 p.m. before I had lunch! I had some crackers at work, but hadn’t thought I would need to bring lunch! Oh well, it all worked out just fine, and we went to Kohl’s to make some returns and do a little shopping afterward. 🙂

This week, I made some yummy dishes, which included a pumpkin chili, fresh cranberry applesauce, and a veggie tray! I love this time of year!

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These are only a few examples, but God’s grace never runs out!

There’s grace in every situation—we just need to look for it. God promises if we seek Him, we will find Him (see Jeremiah 29:13)!

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

Finding Grace #400

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

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

Free Leaves Autumn photo and picture

Where did I find God’s love and favor—His abundant grace—this week?!

This was a solid week with lots going on each night after work and school. And work was busy as usual, too!

On Monday, Lydia and I went to the chiropractor for routine adjustments. I’m thankful to have finally found a female chiropractor just a few minutes away. We go every couple months, and I feel much better physically than I did even a year ago.

Tuesdays are usually my blog writing days (well, nights), but this week, it was also Halloween. I had to shovel new snow in the early morning before work. (Most of it has melted!) Then, Lydia went trick-or-treating with a friend, while I stayed home to pass out candy and write. It was a good night, and we enjoyed some classic chocolate treats!

We had a good Wednesday night at church. My Alpha group talked about the topic of evil in the world and how we get distracted from God’s purposes. Lydia said the youth group topic was about dealing with fear. Timely topics all around!

On Thursday, Lydia had her first orchestra concert! It was a combined program with the middle school and high school (6th -12th grades, of course). I sent the link to my family, and it was so cool that they got to watch from several states and time zones. Lydia had a blast and can’t wait for the next concert!

Last night, Lydia and I made chicken fajitas and a delicious fruit salad after I got home from work and coffee with a friend. Then, we relaxed and watched a movie after a long week!

Today, Lydia is not feeling as well, so she is taking it easy. I am trying to get caught up around the house and also doing a little relaxing. I’m thankful for Saturdays!

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These are only a few examples, but God’s grace never runs out!

There’s grace in every situation—we just need to look for it. God promises if we seek Him, we will find Him (see Jeremiah 29:13)!

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

Finding Grace #399

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

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

Free Fall Avenue photo and picture

Where did I find God’s love and favor—His abundant grace—this week?!

This week was relatively low-key. It was busy with a few surprises but mostly routine.

On Monday, I moved the deck furniture inside in anticipation of wintery weather later in the week. I moved the benches, patio table, and chairs into the garage. I also took in my windchimes so they don’t crack in the icy cold.

While my dad helped me with a dozen house projects, I found one more that needed some work. My garage door needs a new piece of weatherstripping. I asked a neighbor for help, and he special ordered the item for me since it is longer than the standard. When it comes in a couple of weeks, he will help me install it. Thanks, Lord, for good neighbors!

Speaking of neighbors, Lydia and I met some new neighbors renting the house directly across from us. We took them some cookies and answered some questions about the garbage, recycling, and snow removal responsibilities. They are from Idaho, but I hope they feel welcome!

Early Friday morning, we received the first snowfall of the season! I’d say it was less than an inch and was mostly just slush. October snow is early but not necessarily unusual. Right now, it is quite pretty and may melt off before we get more!

Last night, Lydia and I made a recipe that she picked out. I want her to develop her cooking skills, and it was a little more complicated than she realized. We had fun working together, and the cheesy pasta dish (with veggies and panko topping) was delicious!

Today, I went to a church retreat! It was fun to hang out with people who love God. We talked about the Holy Spirit, and I ministered to a friend who sat at my table. The food was tasty, and then our team won the minute-to-win-it style games! It was a nice way to relax.

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These are only a few examples, but God’s grace never runs out!

There’s grace in every situation—we just need to look for it. God promises if we seek Him, we will find Him (see Jeremiah 29:13)!

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

Finding Grace #398

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

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

Free Autumn Leaves Ilse photo and picture

Where did I find God’s love and favor—His abundant grace—this week?!

This week was wonderful and relaxing, though I got a lot done! We Zoomed with family on Sunday, which happened to be my mom’s birthday. I always appreciate time with family… and mine is pretty cool!

Monday was the only day I worked, but it went well. I took the rest of the week off to spend time with my parents! They came to visit on Tuesday and headed back to Florida today. We had an amazing time!

My dad helped me with quite a few house projects, some that I have been trying to figure out for years. We went shopping and enjoyed eating out at some new restaurants. We watched several episodes of ‘The Chosen,’ too! It was the best week with them.

Tonight, Lydia was invited to hang out with a friend, so I had some free time! First, I did a little cleaning and exercising. Now, I am watching a movie!

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These are only a few examples, but God’s grace never runs out!

There’s grace in every situation—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, Finding Grace Weekly Recap, Gratitude, Kindness, Miscellaneous, Parenting

Finding Grace #397

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

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

Free Sunrise Mountains photo and picture

Where did I find God’s love and favor—His abundant grace—this week?!

This was a full week, but good all around! Sometimes, this season can feel overwhelming, but by God’s grace, I am enjoying all the busyness this year. I think it’s because we are connecting with new and old friends and have a lot of fun things to look forward to! I am relishing it all and focusing on keeping a quiet heart.

On Monday, I was invited to coffee by a friend and fellow VA employee. Our girls are friends, and the two of us talked for about two hours! It was fun catching up and a refreshing way to spend our day off (Columbus Day).

There were school conferences on Tuesday. We took the opportunity to practice opening Lydia’s locker and also attended the book fair! We also ran into several neighbors and friends, which was a great surprise!

Work was busy, but I stayed on top of charting. I had three patients who had good breakthroughs after many months of struggling. It’s so gratifying to see them succeed! I also had some meetings for the two upcoming maternity leaves. I think it will be challenging but also a good chance to grow professionally. I know God will be with me!

This morning, I received a special delivery. I had looked around for an older fridge/freezer to put in the garage, but I had not found anything that seemed reliable. Then, I found a new one on sale and made the purchase. I have been thinking about it for several months, but it will be good to separate some of our items so we can actually see what we have. It will also be helpful when we have excess leftovers, company, or need to plan ahead for holidays.

Today, two of Lydia’s friends have birthdays! Last night, she went to an escape room with some of her girlfriends to celebrate. And tonight, we are going to a birthday/ housewarming party for our African friends (remember them?!). They are doing well, and I am really happy for them!

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These are only a few examples, but God’s grace never runs out!

There’s grace in every situation—we just need to look for it. God promises if we seek Him, we will find Him (see Jeremiah 29:13)!

Posted on in Finding Grace Weekly Recap, Gratitude, Life is Short, Miscellaneous, Parenting

Finding Grace #396

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

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

Free Autumn Fall photo and picture

Where did I find God’s love and favor—His abundant grace—this week?!

This week was busy but really good! The mornings are darker, but the sunrises are gorgeous. It is definitely feeling like Autumn now; we’ve had some cooler temperatures and a little wind and rain. The pretty fall colors are starting to pop!

Lydia’s been enjoying orchestra class at school, where she is learning to play the viola. It’s fun to hear her talk about it and tell me new things. She can play a few notes of “Ode to Joy” and is really proud of herself!

Work went well, and we learned more about the current plan for when we cover two maternity leaves. My role will be slightly changing, and I will be working a few more hours temporarily – no more than about six months. I’m grateful for the flexibility and that I can help cover what needs to be done. While I didn’t exactly volunteer, I agreed to do more, knowing God will use this for my good and for my provision. 

This week, I realized it’s been about two years since my book, Fear, Faith, and Moving Forward went live! Thanks for all your support. If you have read it, I’d love to hear what you thought and would appreciate you telling your friends! 🙂

Today, we mostly relaxed. We did a little housework and Lydia showed me her viola again. Then, my sister and I discussed a book we are reading together, and I worked out.

Tonight, Lydia and I have another baby shower to attend. This will be a barbecue and should be a lot of fun with friends. A perfect night to enjoy the weather, too!

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These are only a few examples, but God’s grace never runs out!

There’s grace in every situation—we just need to look for it. God promises if we seek Him, we will find Him (see Jeremiah 29:13)!

Posted on in Finding Grace Weekly Recap, Fruit, Gratitude, Miscellaneous

Finding Grace #395

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

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

Free Apple Red photo and picture

Where did I find God’s love and favor—His abundant grace—this week?!

This week was good, and we did some fun activities!

Lydia invited a friend over for Wednesday night youth group. The topic was on godly friends, and then they enjoyed apple cider and smores. It was fun hearing them laugh on the way home!

This week, I took home some fresh apples a coworker brought in to share. I made some apple fritters, which were delicious! She was unsure of what to make (which is one reason she was giving some away), so I let her borrow my food processor and gave her some tips.  It’s fun to collaborate!

On Friday night, my coworkers all got together for a baby shower. We had a lot of fun laughing, eating, and watching them open baby gifts. It was fun to see my friends’ little kids and a big German Shepherd, too!

Today, Lydia and I did Saturday things, including chores around the house and even mowed this evening (maybe the last time this season!). I made some phone calls and worked on some projects. Then, we watched the movie, Elemental!

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These are only a few examples, but God’s grace never runs out!

There’s grace in every situation—we just need to look for it. God promises if we seek Him, we will find Him (see Jeremiah 29:13)!

Posted on in Finding Grace Weekly Recap, Gratitude, Miscellaneous, Parenting

Finding Grace #394

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

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

Where did I find God’s love and favor—His abundant grace—this week?!

This was a pretty normal week, but I felt God working all around me!

Work went well, and I had some good laughs with my coworkers. I enjoyed a walk on my lunch break one day. The weather was gorgeous, and yesterday, I took the picture above at a park after work. I’m glad because today is a little overcast and rainy.

On Wednesday, I met with my group at church. We had good discussion on who Jesus is; it was so cool to hear that he fulfilled over 300 prophecies and changed the world. Afterward, I talked with a new friend about some medical conditions similar to what Dave faced. I encouraged her and prayed for her and her husband. I’m grateful that God can use me!

It was Homecoming week, so Lydia went to the Friday night football game with friends. They had fun wearing all their Mustang school gear and putting on some paint in blue and orange. It’s fun seeing her step into the excitement!

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These are only a few examples, but God’s grace never runs out!

There’s grace in every situation—we just need to look for it. God promises if we seek Him, we will find Him (see Jeremiah 29:13)!