Category: Kindness

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

Finding Grace #487

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 Cookies Flags photo and picture

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

This week, I was exhausted but God did so many good things through me. I was short on sleep almost all week, but was able to sleep in a bit one day.

Work was…. a lot. But good, too! In addition to my normal load, I had about ten other patients who needed some help.  But, I was also was “off” 8 hours, due to the holiday weekend. My coworker took two patients that I was supposed to cover another coworker, so that was very helpful. I worked today from 8 to Noon, as it was my designated holiday weekend. God helped me and it all turned out just fine.

On Wednesday, I was off in the afternoon (since I had to work the weekend), and that’s when the appliance repairman was able to come! He was only at my house for about twenty-five minutes. He was able to figure out what was wrong – an internal hose was clogged. He only charged me for the house call since he didn’t need to replace anything. What a blessing!

Friday was Independence Day! We had a pretty relaxing day. Lydia packed for camp next week, and I did a little cooking while talking on the phone. We thought we’d hang outside for fireworks with our neighbors. But, it rained for a little bit that evening, so Lydia and I decided to stay inside and watch The Chosen, Season 5, instead. It’s on Amazon Prime and so good! Watching it for a second time is helpful to catch things I missed before.

Today, on my way to work, I prayed and thanked God for the opportunity to serve Veterans. I appreciate not having to work the other holidays this year, and I’m glad I could do this one for my coworkers. As it turned out, I only had one patient to see and chart. Then, I was able to finish up some other charting, so I don’t have to do it next week! Whew!

I was able to leave work on time today, so I got a few things done around the house. Lydia and I mowed this evening, and now we are hanging out!

**********

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, Kindness, Life is Short, Little Free Library, Miscellaneous, Worship

Everyday Kindness

These days, we find ourselves in a fast-paced, highly politicized world, and we must keep our eyes on Jesus, who is the Way, the Truth, and the Life (John 14:6). It can take a lot of discernment to see where He is working and how I should join Him. Many of the world’s “causes” are important, but I am not called to go and get involved in each one of them.

There are so many issues, and sometimes it feels like I am not doing enough. Have you ever felt that way? Time feels short, and problems accumulate faster than solutions. Often, I feel called to donate money and pray. However, I also keep my eyes and heart open to those who are in need of help and encouragement in my local community.

Every day, God gives us opportunities to share His love with others. Quite often, He does not require big or bold gestures, but simple acts of kindness…

Recently, at work, I heard about a special request. A hospice Veteran with ALS wanted to take a last ride in his son’s convertible. Our VA police helped the Veteran get into the vehicle. He had a look of pure joy. Over a hundred of us lined the front driveway of the VA to cheer and wave to him. It was also funny when people started cheering for the UPS and garbage trucks, too!

The Veteran also had another wish: to travel to Europe. This is a challenging task to accomplish, given his circumstances, but we were able to assist him by using a virtual reality headset. I’m sure it made a world of difference to this brave man.

Free Antique Car Mg photo and picture

On Sunday afternoon, my doorbell rang unexpectedly. I almost didn’t answer because I thought it was simply a routine package delivery. I’m glad I did because I met a family of four siblings. The kids asked to use my garden hose to fill up their water balloons. At first, I was skeptical, but then I realized they did not have access to a hose at their apartment building.

On the one hand, it is not my responsibility to provide for them, but a few gallons of water is not too much to pay to be a good neighbor. English might be their second language, so I want to make sure they feel safe and welcome. As we talked, I learned their ages range from second to ninth grade. I did not get many details, but I sent them home with their water balloons and some other water toys. If they come back, maybe I will offer them a popsicle!

Yesterday, I made Lydia and her friend frozen pizza and fruit for an impromptu dinner before loading her bike into my car and driving her home. An enterprising young neighbor also sold me a little bracelet to earn some money to fix up his bike.

Free Colorful Colourful photo and picture

For many years, I have had a Little Free Library in my front yard. On Monday, I chatted with a couple of ladies and pet their dog. One of them was happy that she had found a paperback of a book she has been listening to. I encouraged them to stop by anytime.

At work, I’ve had several “extra” patients who needed some help. One that stood out was a tube-feeding patient who has had several challenges. He called me with bad news; he is not long for this world. I offered encouragement, yet he is at total peace and is looking forward to seeing Jesus soon. I included that part in my chart note to inform others, per his request, but also to remind them of our eternal hope.

There are times when we need to take a firm stand for what is right. But with everyday kindness, little by little, we can change the world.

**********

God, thanks for showing me that I am making a difference in the lives of those around me. Thanks for each person listed above and for all of my readers. Help me continue to live for You and share your grace and love with others. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: How have you seen God at work this week? What can you do to join Him in blessing others?

Task: Don’t overthink kindness (like I sometimes do). Just start small and offer a smile, a listening ear, or a word of encouragement. It might be making a frozen pizza, contributing to a fundraiser, or offering a popsicle… it all counts!

Posted on in Gratitude, Kindness, Miscellaneous

Catching Up and Baby Snuggles

Last night after work, Lydia and I had the pleasure of meeting our friends’ new baby! Baby snuggles are the best!

These friends live just outside our neighborhood, and we don’t go by their house that much. We are just far enough away and have a different schedule that we don’t see each other often. I have known the dad since Lydia was little and the mom since they got married a few years ago. Now, they have two precious little boys!

My friend told me about her new baby boy’s birth story while Lydia played with her toddler. The new baby was born on Mother’s Day and came very quickly at home. It sounds a little scary, but her body knew exactly what to do. I am grateful God kept them all safe.

As I held the baby yesterday, I joked that Lydia was never that small. She was about two pounds more at birth (and a bit longer, too). The baby was wide awake the whole time I held him, but he fell asleep during Lydia’s turn.

Free Baby Feet photo and picture

I brought my friend some Clif bars (she requested) and talked about some parenting tips. She’s doing a great job, so I didn’t have much to share. But I did buy her a Time Timer to help her set some boundaries for her toddler. He’s still adjusting to the new baby and pushing more limits.

The Time Timer is a visual tool, and I have a few of my own! I use them in the bathroom to help me stay on track, or in the kitchen, similar to a regular timer. I use one downstairs to document how long I have been exercising. I also got one for my nephew so he can understand how much time is left while brushing his teeth.

It was such a joy catching up with this sweet little family and encouraging them. The mom is a middle school teacher (but not Lydia’s teacher). She helped out with FCA this year, and that was a huge blessing for us. We also briefly talked about Lydia spending time with them this summer… I know she’d love to help with the boys at the park in our neighborhood!

I love seeing God move in the lives around me. He is so good and faithful!

**********

God, thanks for my friends and their new baby. Help them adjust to being a family of four. Thanks for all the ways you grow and stretch us. May we keep pursuing your heart. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: When was the last time you got to snuggle a newborn baby?! How can you bless another family around you? Bring them a meal? Mow their lawn?

Tasks: A small gift can go a long way to bless others. Make a list of some simple gifts to have on hand, so you are not left empty-handed in a pinch. You can keep these small items in a drawer or closet. For kids, consider a small puzzle, board books, silly putty or play-dough, a fidget spinner, and/or art supplies. A gift card, a candle, a crossword puzzle, a picture frame, and/or a devotional book might be appreciated for parents.

Posted on in Being Gracious, Fruit, Gratitude, Kindness, Little Free Library, Miscellaneous, Parenting, Perseverance, Personality, Wisdom, Words

Be Kind, Not Just Nice

My mom, Debbie, had what some people have called the face of an angel. Funny, I know! But several people have told me that lately, and Mom also heard that often. 😀 I suppose people think “cherub” when considering the unique shape of her face combined with her cheerful, sunny side! She looked so sweet and nice.

That said, Mom was often vocal about things that mattered to her. Not content just to talk, she often got involved, too! She volunteered at various places, including women’s shelters and pregnancy centers. She loved being hands-on.

For instance, Mom volunteered at our local schools for many years as a “mother helper,” even after her kids were out of those grades. Perhaps she was most passionate about listening to kids practice their reading. She patiently would help them “sound it out,” and she would call out their other strengths. In some ways, she was the parent they needed at the time. One boy struggled throughout school and did not seem to have much support at home. But, he always reminded himself that Mrs. Yeagle believed in him. As an adult, he later tracked Mom down to thank her for the difference she made in his life. He didn’t know how he would’ve made it otherwise.

Volunteering is good and nice—absolutely. Being community-focused is vital. But there is a difference between being nice and being kind.

Romans 2:4 explains that “the kindness of God leads us to repentance.” Mom demonstrated this whenever “Debbie Torpedo” came around. She wasn’t just nice, she was also kind. She spoke the truth in love so people would change. (Change doesn’t usually occur with badgering and belittling!)

Being nice is not a fruit of the Spirit, but kindness is! An example of being nice is complimenting someone. Kindness is letting them know they have a piece of spinach in their teeth. It is nice to greet someone on a hike. Kindness means telling them they are walking directly toward a tricky drop-off. They may still choose to proceed, but you warned them. More importantly, telling people about Jesus’ love and the consequences of sin can impact their eternity. It is worth the risk!

Mom often influenced other women as they parented their young children. When a mom caved at her child’s whining or temper tantrum, my mom would say, “You wouldn’t let me treat you that way. Why are you letting your three-year-old act like that? Be the parent.” Usually, the woman caught on and learned how to correct her child. Mom would coach her until she was confident, explaining that it is good for children to have boundaries.

The tough love approach can be intimidating sometimes. It takes a lot of courage to speak up! But Mom empowered these ladies to do what was needed. She showed them what they could be, and many of them thanked her later.

As a mother myself, I appreciate good advice. Thankfully, Mom didn’t have to tell me to “be the parent” specifically, but I have seen these situations fester. Over time, a child might stop being invited somewhere if they don’t behave well. This affects their future friendships and opportunities. A child that lacks discipline becomes a hindrance and a liability of sorts. Frankly, they are not fun to be around! So, my mom was doing a kindness in pointing that out to those who would listen.

Bottom line: Being nice is a good start. But niceness is not enough. We must also accept the challenge of being kind.

**********

God, thanks for Your lovingkindness. Thanks for loving us enough to correct us when we need it. Help us be wise with our words so we may be kind and draw people to You. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: What would it look like for you to speak with kindness today? What if God was only nice to us, not kind? (I find that to be a little scary!)

Tasks: Consider your words before speaking. Think through whether the situation calls for being nice or being kind. If you don’t know, ask the Lord to show you!

 

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

Finding Grace #471

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 Red Finch Bird photo and picture

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

This was a good week. We zoomed on Sunday, and while we missed my mom’s cheerfulness, it was good to be “together.” Our family text chain is not the same without here either. We chat several times a week, giving updates, prayer requests, jokes, and pictures. But, it does bring us some comfort now, too.

Back in December, I filmed an update on my testimony for church. On Sunday, it aired during the service. I was grateful for the opportunity to do that again, and of course, it was a personal reminder of God’s goodness and the need to keep moving forward. I had several friends reach out after church, and all of them cheered me on.

The weather this week was sunny and reached the 60s (F). Overnight, however, the temperature dropped thirty degrees! The wind was so strong, I thought it would blow over the fence along my property line. I prayed because it had just been replaced (for the third time!). We had a few snow flurries here and there, but it melted quickly. Lydia and I saw a pair of housefinches on the deck and in one of our trees. I’m grateful for God’s goodness!

This week, I talked with two dear friends on the phone. One has known my parents for over fifty years, so knew us from before we were born. The other is the mom of my college BFF. She has always been such an encouragement to me. Both ladies are like family and it was wonderful to catch up! I’m grateful for all their prayers over the years, especially now.

Today, I caught up around the house. I did a little cooking, cleaning, and reorganizing. Lydia helped me for a bit and then hung out with another friend.

**********

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/Don't Fake Brave, Gratitude, Kindness, Life is Short, Miscellaneous, Perseverance, Personality, Wisdom, Worship

Defiant Joy

My mom loved a good party! With her magnetic personality, she usually became the social director wherever she went, lol. Like her mother, she enjoyed organizing anything from casual events to formal affairs. But mostly, she enjoyed having fun!

Mom spread joy through classy decor, delicious food, and laughter with her sense of humor. She bought colored tablecloths before they were even a thing. Her centerpieces might include candles, colored gems, marbles, balloons, and/or beautiful floral bouquets. She taught us to wrap up silverware and added a little flare with colored curling ribbon. Music typically set the mood, at least for home parties.

Mom knew how to elevate basic, everyday foods. She was known for her spaghetti sauce, beef stew, potato leek soup, barbecue, egg rolls, and chicken salad. Her infamous relish tray with celery, baby carrots, red grapes, sweet pickles, and olives was a standard we still replicate. She would even “doctor up” mundane foods with fresh ingredients, like fruits or vegetables—anything to add color, flavor, and nutrition.

Everyone was welcome at mom’s events. She wanted to include everyone because she saw their inherent God-given value. She had her own opinions and convictions, but she looked past differences to see the individual.

Mom was bold and generous toward others. She loved shopping for good deals, partly, so she could give away what she bought. She had a little stockpile of things at home and was always prepared with a gift. Mom often interacted with total strangers at the grocery store, gas station, airport, bank, etc. She would notice something special about them and mention it. She asked good questions and connected them with resources, if warranted. 

Mom loved a good outfit accessory. She loved jewelry, sunglasses, hats, scarves, and purses. But, she didn’t hold onto anything too tightly. She often gave away personal items as she felt led in the moment. For example, if you told her you liked her necklace or bracelet, chances were she might just give it to you.

For someone who just met her, it would be easy to assume my mom was only surface-level or light-hearted all the time. Nothing could be further from the truth. While Mom attracted people with her bubbly personality, she could go deep.

Free Cookie Cookies photo and picture

Mom’s personal motto was “Never a dull moment.” She faced many personal challenges, losses, and pain, but she learned to trust God’s goodness and provision through the messiness of life. She knew He would continue fighting for her, so she didn’t have to win every battle.

Instead, my mom used her energy and influence to point people to God. Mom knew joy is not based on circumstances, like happiness often is. Joy is based on knowing the contagious, steadfast love of Jesus. Indeed, He was the most joyful person ever!

This week, I came across a funny video of my mom. It was from her last birthday in October, and I loved hearing her joy and laughter. I imagine her experiencing Heaven the same way. Although I am grieving, I don’t want to miss the chance to celebrate God’s goodness. Indeed, I don’t have to have all the answers to trust Jesus and walk in faith.

**********

Heavenly Father, thanks for the beauty and joy You instill into our daily lives. Show us Your glory! Help us take advantage of the opportunities You give us and draw closer to You. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: How can you live with defiant joy today, however trying your circumstances? What are you grateful for?

Tasks: Join me in carrying on my mom’s legacy of defiant joy. There is always a reason to be grateful and celebrate! Nice weather, all green traffic lights, met a goal, received a compliment, ate delicious food? Buy yourself some flowers or dance around while praising God! Read this fun throwback about my mom’s epic 60th birthday party.

Posted on in Being Gracious, Kindness, Life is Short, Miscellaneous, Parenting, Personality, Wisdom, Words

Debbie Torpedo

Well, it’s been about a week and a half since my mom, Debbie, went to Heaven. I miss her so much and know I’m not the only one. She was like a mother figure to many people. Mom took many people under her wing and encouraged them. She was gifted at identifying their strengths and helping them grow into who God made them to be.

My family has received many messages from people about how Mom changed the course of their family’s life. She taught a friend to pray in public; now that friend’s son is a pastor. Mom challenged another woman to love her husband by making time for him. That marriage has never been stronger. Mom mentored many and called us all a little higher.

Mom knew how to get right to the heart of the matter. Although she sometimes spoke harsh truths, she did it with love and grace. Her conviction was always mixed with witty charm. I don’t know anyone else who could do that like she did!


Most of us would just keep quiet despite seeing a glaringly obvious problem in someone else. Not Mom. If she loved you, she would not let it go. She would speak up so you could make it right. She was a force, but came from a place of love. Mom wanted the best for and expected the best from her friends and family.

Mom did not worry whether someone liked her. She gave tons of compliments but would also risk telling someone the truth. She did not do it to demean or gloat, but to correct an error. In essence, she loved you too much to leave you that way.

Mom looked sweet, but she could pack a wallop when needed. One of her favorite lines was, “Don’t let the freckles fool you!” Similarly, a dear family friend called her “Debbie Torpedo”—because you never saw it coming!

If you’ve experienced “being laid flat” as I like to say, I’m happy to report that God really refined my Mom over many decades of walking with Him. When I was little, she was still working on controlling her fiery temper… So, I know how it feels! But, as my parents and siblings often discussed later as adults, it was just the forge we needed.

Mom and Dad didn’t set out to raise weak kids who would flounder in the real world. My parents have been through some tough circumstances, and they wanted to prepare us. So they taught us first about Jesus and second about showing up and doing hard things. They promoted independence and standing on our own two feet.


My parents held us to high standards and expected us to rise to that level. For every gift we received, we wrote a thank you note. She would tear it up if it weren’t “thankful enough” or legible, and we would have to start over. We can laugh about it now, but there were many tears. 😉

Mom and Dad didn’t ask us to do anything they weren’t already doing. They lead by example. Mom was well known for writing cards to people. She cultivated this discipline over decades. When her arthritis flared up and she was in so much pain (often daily), she would reach out and bless others.

Indeed, I have learned so much from my mom. At the end of her life (though we did not see it coming), Mom, aka “Debbie Torpedo” still had some of that fire, yet her faith in Jesus tempered it. She was born a fighter, but He made her into a warrior. She did not blame Jesus for the pain or complain about it. She praised Him and blessed others. That’s an example worth following!

**********
God, You are so good and wise. Thanks for working in each of our lives and transforming us. May we submit to You and use our strengths for Your glory. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions:  Have you ever had someone speak a harsh truth to you? Was it done in love or spite? Did you resist change or did you grow through the process?

Task: If you want to read my mom’s obituary but haven’t, here it is.

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

Finding Grace #461

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 Mountains Nature photo and picture

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

This was a good week with a mixture of work and relaxation!

Work was busy, but it was nice to have Wednesday off for New Year’s Day. Monday and Tuesday were busy, and then Thursday and Friday were calmer. I was able to stay on top of things, but I also got ahead on some projects for the next few weeks.

On Wednesday, I enjoyed cooking, exercising, and starting my new Bible plan for the year. I watched a show and mostly relaxed. I could get used to having a day off in the middle of the week! 😉

The weather was closer to normal, but we still don’t have much snow! I’m sure we will get more soon, but I am grateful!

My internet went out this week, and I spent three hours working on it. My brothers were great at helping me via text, but I still needed to call the company to send a service person. He came the next day after work and still spent an hour figuring it out! Thankfully, it’s all good now. I still don’t quite know what the problem was, lol!

I spent about four hours on the phone this week at various points. I enjoyed catching up with family and friends. I feel blessed to have good connections with people who care about me (and vice versa)!!

Today, Lydia and I did a little cleaning but mostly relaxed. Tonight, we’re watching “Your Friend, Nate Bargatze” on Netflix. He’s quite funny, and I appreciate the clean comedy!

**********

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, Gratitude, Kindness, Life is Short, Miscellaneous, Parenting, Personality

Moving Forward During the Holidays

Yesterday was my late husband Dave’s 46th birthday, our twelfth without him here. To celebrate, I usually give Lydia a gift in his honor. When she was little, it was a way to connect with her dad since she was so little when he died. She does not remember him but can still feel close.

So, on Monday night, Lydia got her ears pierced with a second hole. She had wanted this for a while, and it just happened to work out this week. We had an appointment at a tattoo shop, and I bet Dave would have loved it! He was usually up for an adventure and understood some of the nicest people you’ll ever meet have tons of tattoos. 🙂

Dave didn’t have any tattoos, and neither do I. But I opted for the tattoo place because Lydia had a little trouble after getting her ears pierced the first time at a box store. I wanted to be able to go back and talk with someone knowledgeable if needed. Thankfully, she is doing fine now!

The man at the tattoo shop reminded me a lot of Dave’s good-naturedness. He was cheerful and friendly,  able to converse on a wide variety of topics, eager to help, and a good teacher. He has three kids and loves Christmas movies. He was a lot of fun, and if I ever did decide to get a tattoo, I know I’d be in good hands. 😉

Meeting the tattoo artist was a surprising breath of fresh air! I did not expect the experience to be so intriguing. As I listened to him chat away, I thought about how his excitement and passion for his work and life mimic how we Christians should represent Jesus.

I don’t know if this man knows Jesus, but I pray he does. His zest for life was contagious, and I envisioned the spiritual impact he could have. His little tattoo shop has ministry potential! I have a few friends with similar personalities, and they make following Jesus fun!

Free Joy Christmas Tree photo and picture

Did you know Jesus was the most joyful person who ever lived? Despite being born into poverty, He lived a full and fulfilled life. Despite coming to die (on purpose!), He lived out his mission. He was empowered by the Holy Spirit and stayed connected to His Father.

I love how we can connect to God all throughout our day and in various places. Who knew I would see glimpses of Jesus (and even Dave!) at a tattoo shop?! It is cool to read in Isaiah 49:16 that God has written (or tattooed) our names on His hands!

The holidays can be tough for many people, and if you are struggling, I would encourage you to keep your eyes open. Look for joy in unexpected places. Keep moving forward. Jesus is with you and for you. Put your trust in Him, and let Him surprise you!

**********

Heavenly Father, thanks for all the ways You show up and surprise us with Your goodness. Help us navigate our complex emotions. Help us move forward with Your joy, peace, and grace this season. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: Do you have any tattoos? How is your holiday season going so far?!

Task: Take each day as it comes. Look for Jesus and stay present with Him.

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

Finding Grace #458

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 Red Fruits Ice Crystals photo and picture

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

This was an active week with lots going on! On Sunday, we attended the 98th Annual Concordia Christmas Concert. Our neighbor had extra tickets; we are glad she thought of us! We really enjoyed each of the choirs and the orchestra.

On Monday, I stayed home from work due to bronchitis. I just wanted an extra day since I was still coughing a bit. I went back on Tuesday and felt much better, though I still have a random cough.

This week, Lydia and I went to the chiropractor. Those visits are helpful and less painful now that I have been working on mobility in between sessions! My chiropractor is amazing, but she can only do so much for me! It’s my job to do the rest.

On Wednesday, I had a peaceful evening. I worked on the church editing project after taking Lydia to church. I was able to finish it on Friday, at least this round!

Thursday’s excitement after work was videotaping my testimony at church. I did this about nine years ago, so it was fun to see how their process has changed. I know I have changed too, so how I conveyed the story was also different. I was not as tearful, thankfully! I am not sure when they will show it, but I know it will bring God glory!

On Friday, I took the day off from work for Lydia’s holiday chamber orchestra concert! They went to a local nursing home late in the morning, and I was glad I could make it! I ran some errands and caught up around the house, using part of a time-off award I had earned previously.

Today, I was on-call and was also scheduled for some additional hours. This morning, I went to work for two consults. Later, I went in to help in the kitchen for the evening shift. They are short-handed and asked if some of us dietitians would cover for awhile. I haven’t worked in food service since college, so being back in that environment was fun! I put on about 7,000 steps in three hours!

**********

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)!