Category: Finding Grace Weekly Recap

Posted on in Finding Grace Weekly Recap, Little Free Library, Miscellaneous

Finding Grace #117

I love giving God a shout out for what He has done. We don’t do that nearly enough!

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 good week, that both felt long and rushed at the same time! We enjoyed a quiet Memorial Day weekend, which included painting two benches (see above) and mowing. Then, Lydia had three more days of school before summer break.

Thursday was Lydia’s last day of school. I tried to get as many errands done as possible before I have a little shadow for three months! Being together ‘all day’ will be a slight re-adjustment, but we are both looking forward to a freer schedule! (Of course, Lydia will also have to attend daycare while I work.)

We caught up with several neighbors this week and ate pizza with one family. Lydia and I chalked up the sidewalks to spread the word about our little free library. We also pulled weeds, laid mulch, and cleaned the garage. We were productive!

My mother-in-law came to visit this weekend, so we have been enjoying time with her! Lydia has been counting down the days for nearly a month. 🙂 So far, we went out to eat, celebrated her birthday, went shopping, saw a movie, and enjoyed cheesecake. We always enjoy having company and have other fun activities planned, too!

Where did you find God’s grace this week?

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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, Miscellaneous, Wisdom, Words

Finding Grace #116

I love giving God a shout out for what He has done. We don’t do that nearly enough!

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 week made me feel like I am right where I need to be. I had several awesome conversations with people on a wide variety of topics. I encouraged a friend online who is searching for answers and greater spiritual understanding. Another friend was in Fargo on a work trip and stopped by to catch up. And, I met with a new friend to discuss her life story and see how God is using her. We also discussed her personality, gifts, and heart for others. I felt honored to be able to connect with each person, and they encouraged me too!

Lydia had a field day this week at school. It was a hot day for an obstacle course and picnic, but it was fun and lead to an early dismissal. Lydia and I ran a couple of errands afterward, which included Costco samples and buying white spray paint to update two benches I bought last year. Hopefully, they turn out well!

I enjoyed a writers group meeting this week, where a local author discussed her first book and how it came about! I also had a good meeting with my writing coach this week. He is pleased with my projects so far, though I still have a long way to go! 🙂

This week, I was reminded just how much of a difference one person can make. One smile, one conversation, one offer to help… Even small acts of kindness can go a long way! Thank You, Jesus!

Where did you find God’s grace this week?

**********

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, Miscellaneous

Finding Grace #115

I love giving God a shout out for what He has done. We don’t do that nearly enough!

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 week I noticed God’s grace even more than usual. We had several milestones along the way and I was grateful for the extra support. I am glad that Jesus leads us in Victory… onward and upward!

Sunday was Mother’s Day, though it was a little bittersweet for me. Mother’s Day weekend reminds me of Dave’s sickness and death… because those dates all coincide. So I was a little hesitant about the day. But then, Lydia and I went on a bike ride before church and I let Jesus help me sort through my feelings. In place of sorrow, He gave me strength and joy. After church, we had lunch with a friend and then enjoyed a relaxing day at home. I worked on some projects while Lydia played outside. It was a good day after all!

Tuesday was the five year anniversary of Dave’s death. Overall, it was a good day. I gave Lydia a little cat ring to help her associate that day with God’s goodness and grace (instead of sorrow). He has taken such good care of us! I also was encouraged by friends on social media, and then two other friends came over that evening. We had a fun time!

We had great weather again this week, which included heat and then rain. I noticed so many beautiful flowering trees, like the one above (pictured). I love seeing God’s handiwork on full display!

All week, I have been following the news about the royal wedding (Harry and Meghan). 🙂 My paternal grandmother was English and so I feel somewhat connected to those big events. Like millions of other people, I woke up before dawn this morning to watch it on television. My sister and I chatted the whole time, just like we did during the 2011 royal wedding (William and Kate). I had a scone and tea to mark the occasion!

Today, after the royal wedding, I attended a training at church. My friend, Sara, graciously watched Lydia for most of the day. Lydia was thrilled and had a lot of ideas for what to do with Sara. I think they had fun…and I am grateful for the help!

Where did you find God’s grace this week?

**********

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, Miscellaneous

Finding Grace #114

I love giving God a shout out for what He has done. We don’t do that nearly enough!

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 week was awesome in so many ways! It felt so relaxing as I soaked up God’s grace!

This week was ‘clean up’ week where the garbage collectors take just about anything we leave on the curb. I put several items out early, including a foosball table, love seat, bicycle, electronics, and some flower pots. It was fun watch people stop by and our old things. I had a few good conversations with strangers and felt it was a win-win for everyone!

We had great weather this week, which included some rain. Sometimes it was warm and chilly all in the same fifteen minutes! Early in the week, we ate dinner with the neighbors and several of the kids stopped by to play ‘water buckets.’

This week, I visited two local parks near the Red River on the ND/MN border (see pic) while Lydia was in school. It was so refreshing! Then, today, Lydia and I went to a birding event and saw several cool birds (some I had never seen!). Some will stay in the area while many are migrating through!

Other highlights this week included chatting with a friend and winning a gift certificate to a local bakery. I also hung up the wind chimes we received as a memorial to Dave. It always makes me happy when Lydia calls the music from the chimes her “Daddy’s song.” She also lost another tooth this week…she is growing so fast!

Where did you find God’s grace this week?

**********

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, Miscellaneous

Finding Grace #113

I love giving God a shout out for what He has done. We don’t do that nearly enough!

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 week was full of God’s grace! I had enjoyed each day and was able to catch up with my family and several friends in-person, and via texts or phone calls. Thank You, Jesus!

I worked extra hours this week, but it was all fun and purposeful. This week, I lead a diabetes class with an intern. In my volunteer role at church, I also started another three-week class. I teach this class regularly and we discuss several topics related to personal development. I enjoy teaching others and it feels good to have a positive impact on others’ lives. It makes me glad to use the skills God has given me!

Thursday was an all-around awesome day. First, I met up with a friend to catch up and pray. We walked outside to enjoy the beautiful day. After that, I took a bike ride to a local park. It was the perfect day with bright blue skies and no wind! Later, I walked Lydia and a friend to another park to play. I read a book before we walked back home for an impromptu picnic! I felt refreshed as I soaked up the sun and God’s grace that day!

Lydia played outside today, while I mowed for the first time! I also put out a few items for clean-up week. Next week, the City will pick up just about anything we leave curbside. I put my items out early in case someone else wants my old treasures (still in good condition)… I noticed one item is gone already! 🙂

Today was the Kentucky Derby! I don’t normally follow horse races, but this one caught Lydia’s interest, too. So, we watched the movie, Secretariat, last night so she understood a little more. Then, we watched the race this evening. It was a fun way to spend time together!

Where did you find God’s grace this week?

**********

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 Books and Movies I Like, Finding Grace Weekly Recap, Little Free Library, Miscellaneous

Finding Grace #112

I love giving God a shout out for what He has done. We don’t do that nearly enough!

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 week was full of beautiful weather and God’s grace! Lydia played outside on several days and it was all around enjoyable for both of us. Thank You, Jesus!

Work went well and included a meeting with several dietitians and nurses! It was nice to have a change of pace and connect with other like-minded health professionals.

I finished a great audiobook this week and have been contemplating God’s grace ever since. When Breath Becomes Air, by the late Paul Kalanithi, was so good. It was as comforting and encouraging as it was bittersweet. It was a great reminder to not take anything for granted… Not our day or job or time, and not our family or friends or health.

Lydia had an exciting week at school, which included a field trip and school program. On Friday, after her ‘Three Piggy Opera,’ we went to the bookstore, read a dozen books and ate a sweet treat. Then, we visited a music store and a gift shop, before eating dinner at Blaze Pizza. Then, we watched the movie ‘Pele’ on Netflix. We had the best time together! I love my sweet girl! God is so good to me…

Today, we enjoyed the gorgeous weather around 60 degrees! Lydia played outside with friends while I updated our little free library. We noticed my tulips coming up and also the start of green grass!! Praise God!

Where did you find God’s grace this week?

**********

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, Miscellaneous

Finding Grace #111

I love giving God a shout out for what He has done. We don’t do that nearly enough!

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 week went fast and was filled with activities. It was a full week, but I was able to catch up and finish a couple books, podcast, and webinars. God is so good!

On Thursday, I started reorganizing the pantry and bought some little carts and extra shelves! Today (Saturday) I finished the job while Lydia went to play with the neighbors at their house. It feels good to have a home for everything instead of leaving certain items on the floor!

Thursday was also the day when the remaining snow on my property melted. It was around 56 degrees that day! After school, Lydia played for three hours outside with most of the neighborhood kids. I supervised and also was “it” during three rounds of hide-and-seek. I certainly got in my exercise that day! We had a blast and enjoyed the first round of popsicles for the season.

We had a no-school day on Friday because we had an extra snow day that we didn’t use. Lydia and I relaxed and errands. She played outside before we went to church for a special worship night. She insisted on wearing a little black dress and a pretty floral scarf for the event. I loved that she dressed up for God, but am thankful He loves and accepts us just as we are. We don’t have to impress Him!

Today Lydia and I went to an early spring farmer’s market. Then, we went to a local park and ate lunch on our deck. It was a beautiful day! Later, I finished the pantry project while Lydia played with the neighbors. We joined them for dinner too!

Where did you find God’s grace this week?

**********

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 Books and Movies I Like, Finding Grace Weekly Recap, Miscellaneous

Finding Grace #110

I love giving God a shout out for what He has done. We don’t do that nearly enough!

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?

As I reflect on God’s grace this week, I am filled with gratitude. It was a full week, and while we accomplished a lot, it didn’t seem too daunting. It was fun and relaxing!

This week was filled with creative pursuits! I tried a few new recipes, including a spaghetti sauce with no added sugar. I met some personal writing goals as well. This boost of creativity carried over to my dreams, too! I had several interesting dreams and slept very soundly! In one dream, I was trying to sell a house, but the house kept morphing between a tree house, brick house, and condo. Another dream revolved around politics and a circus… perhaps it mirrored real life in more than one way! 🙂

Perhaps my vivid dreams were also related to two intense audiobooks I finished. The books, If I Run, and, If I’m Found, by Terri Blackstock, kept me in suspense. I had to take a break at times to let the intensity subside, but both were very well-written. I have the audio version of the third book, If I Live, too. I hope to listen to it soon!

On Wednesday, I shared my story with a group of moms at my church. I always appreciate any opportunity to speak about God’s grace in my life. It is healing for me! Each of our personal stories has value. As we share our stories with each other, we are encouraged to embrace what God is doing in our lives. He is so good!

On Thursday, we took a tour of Lydia’s new school for next year. It was fun to see so many neighbors! We enjoyed learning about the school and meeting some of the staff. Everyone was friendly and Lydia should have a smooth transition in the fall.

We still have a decent amount of snow on the ground, but much of it melted this week. We were “supposed” to get more snow this weekend, but I think we will miss it. Many friends across the Midwest got hit instead… Thankfully, I saw a few more signs of spring. I saw the return of songbirds this week, including Mr. House Finch who serenaded me on Thursday and Friday! 🙂

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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, Miscellaneous

Finding Grace #109

I love giving God a shout out for what He has done. We don’t do that nearly enough!

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 week I was intentional about staying in the present moment. As usual, we had a lot of potential activities to do each day. But, I postponed some on purpose to stay focused on the Lord. It was a peaceful week!

Recently, the students at Lydia’s school held a small fundraiser for a local boy battling cancer. Just with spare change, they raised around $1100! When the little boy stopped by the school this week, the students surprised him with a song. Lydia was so excited to tell me all about it…but it unexpectedly took me back a few years…  Later, I watched a video of that day and could see how encouraged the boy and his family were. I’m glad the community is rallying for this little boy. And, I’m thankful Lydia is still somewhat unaware of how much turmoil cancer can bring.

My parents celebrated their 43rd wedding anniversary on Thursday and have been in Florida for a little over a week! What a way to start off a new year of marriage! I’m grateful for all they have accomplished and look forward to how God will use them next!

Today, some neighbor boys came to play for a few hours. We always enjoy when they come to visit! Then, Lydia went to a birthday party at SkyZone, which is a trampoline park. She ended up riding with the family hosting the party, so I had a couple hours to myself! 🙂

**********

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, Miscellaneous

Finding Grace #108

I love giving God a shout out for what He has done. We don’t do that nearly enough!

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?

Once again, this week was low-key but enjoyable. We had snow on Monday and Friday, so that was a factor in some of my decisions (to stay home). But, I am equally grateful for a reliable car for when we do need to run errands or get around town!

My parents made it safely to Florida! I talked to them yesterday and it was 82F. I told them about my snow and they were teasing me that it is time to move to Florida! It was so good to hear them enjoying themselves. I am excited for all God has in store for them!

Work went well this week. I had a lot of paperwork to fill out…and no patients. It was kind of funny; occasionally everyone cancels. But I was glad to have the extra time to fill out the important documents! I’m grateful for the Lord’s timing.

On Tuesday, I ran into a friend at the movie theater. It was an unexpected blessing and a great reminder of how God also directs my steps! God is good!

We celebrated Good Friday yesterday at a noon church service. Lydia was off of school and we enjoyed a day together. We also baked PINK Hello Kitty cookies and then hung out with the neighbors that evening. A good time was had by all!

We celebrated the Holy Week leading up to Easter with these Easter story eggs. Lydia has been excited to open each day’s egg and read a little bit of the passion week story. Lydia also made me a special sticky note reminder for the regular Easter eggs, 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)!