Tag: adventure

Posted on in Gratitude, Miscellaneous, Travel

Like Ants or Amoebas

This past week, Lydia and I flew to Chicago and stayed overnight with my sister’s family. Then, we all drove together to northwestern Ohio to see family for my aunt’s birthday. The party was fabulous, and we loved the dueling pianos!

It was extra special since it was the first time my parents and all my siblings have been together in close to three years! We are now spread out over several time zones, plus we have work and family responsibilities, which can be a challenge to show up all at the same time and place. I’m grateful for calls, texts, and Zoom, but meeting in person is best!

On our way back to Fargo, I let Lydia have the window seat on both flights. She loves looking out the window, and in a small way, I am shielding her from potential trouble by keeping her tucked out of the way. She really enjoys watching earth fade away and then grow close again. The picture above shows Lake Michigan and beyond!

Monday was a beautiful, sunny day, and we watched the lush green Ohio countryside grow into a patchwork quilt of trees and farmland. It was so pretty. We watched river and lakes shine back their reflection to the sky. Stunning!

We saw whole communities spread out before us. We even saw tiny little cars driving along the road. Lydia and I both agreed they looked about the size of ants! 

Then, we had a cool conversation about God. We talked about how people are even smaller than cars, and we wondered just how tiny we must look to God. If you watch this video (below) from the airplane, you’ll see a couple tiny cars! 

Isn’t it cool to think about? God is SO much greater than us, and as our Holy Creator, He so far above us. Heaven is far beyond our flight pattern! Yet, at the same time, God is right here with us. Before us, after us, within us, all around us. Mindblowing!

Our problems really must seem insignificant to God, yet He still cares about every little detail of our lives. Perhaps my problems appear like ants… or microscopic amoebas to God! No worries, He’s got this!

Indeed, a good vacation can remind me that my problems aren’t that important. Time away doesn’t make problems disappear, but when I return, I see they carried on just fine without me! Still, I am grateful for the break!

Jesus ascended in the clouds, and that’s how He will return, too. Whatever problems are on your mind today, trust God. He rides upon the wind and speaks peace to the waves. He calms the storm and controls the weather. He sustains us and takes good care of us, too!

**********

God, be praised, forever and always! Thanks for the reminder that I don’t have to handle all my burden on my own. God, thanks that You are with me and for me. Help me keep my problems in the right perspective. Help me trust You more. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: When going on vacation, do you prefer to drive or fly? Where is your favorite place to visit?

Tasks: Consider how great our magnificent God is and how small we are. Watch this video by Louie Giglio about our awesome Creator and Father and Sustainer.

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

Finding Grace #282

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 full week! On Sunday, Lydia enjoyed telling everyone on Zoom about her adventures at camp.

Work went well, too. A lady in our department is retired after 20+ years, so we had a surprise celebration for her. It was so funny because we chose Wednesday for the actual party, but I suggested Friday as a “fake” celebration to throw her off a bit. My other coworkers  and I had a fun time covertly planning the party. We will miss having her around, but we also have a good plan in place for the transition as she leaves.

On Tuesday I felt so loved at work. A friend, who arrives earlier than me, saved me some coffee from the old batch, specifically knowing I am not a fan of the fresh, flavored kind that she made afterward. It was sweet of her to think of me! Also, a couple of the managers went out of their way to help me transition to my “new” office space. It was kind of them to take the time to help when they are usually so busy!

Lydia and I had a great time visiting family in person this week!! We celebrated my aunt’s birthday, and it was the first time my parents and all my siblings had been together in at least a couple years. We saw my nephew, now a year old, and met my new baby niece. Lydia enjoyed playing with both of her little cousins and seeing much of our extended family. Many of us meet weekly over Zoom, but visiting and hugging in person was wonderful!

Otherwise, Lydia and I did some deep cleaning as we prepare for a busy August full of visitors. She reorganized some of her play areas, desk, and backseat of the car. I worked on the kitchen table and my bedroom, since things seem to pile up there! It felt good to cross these tasks off our list! Now, we just have to keep these spaces looking nice!

**********

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 Gratitude, Life is Short, Miscellaneous, Parenting

When God Stretches Us

Sometimes God stretches us and it is painful. But often, we grow and stretch without even realizing it. Either way, if we look for His grace and purpose, we will be thankful.
Case in point: Lydia’s first time away at Bible camp was a hit!! At first, I wasn’t sure about sending her a couple hours away, for three days, since I haven’t been there before and it’s the most time we’ve spent apart.
It was a stretch, but, I knew it would be good for both of us.
I’m grateful for the drivers to and from camp and for the leaders giving their time to invest in Lydia. I dropped her off at our church on Wednesday and she came home last Saturday. Four other girls and two boys went, too. Lydia knew the girls, but I was hoping they would grow closer together.
Lydia loved the speaker, Kyle Jorris, and said, “He does great sermons, Mom!” Lydia was able to tell me some of the lessons she learned, which included the Holy Spirit, as well as God’s heart for the lost.
Lydia also said, “He’s so cool, Mom. He was raised by clowns!” He really captured the kids’ attention with balloon animals, magic tricks, puppets, juggling, and riding a unicycle. Wow!
More importantly, it was so cool when Lydia showed me the extensive notes she took. She learned some new praise and worship songs, too! I’m looking forward to hearing more about all God did in her heart in the coming days.
Lydia had fun with the Olympics sports theme, and while her team didn’t win many races, they did receive bonus points for sportsmanship and being helpful. 🙂
When asked about the food, here is what Lydia said: “It was amazing, I don’t want to eat anywhere else, it was sooo good.” The banquet last night was her favorite, followed by pizza, cinnamon rolls, and chocolate chip pancakes on various days. Yum!
I received a bunch of pictures with friends from camp enjoying various activities. All smiles! And, she’s excited to see her friends again at church. Plus, she met a couple new friends from around the state.
When asked if she missed me, Lydia very sweetly said, “Not really.” To that I said, “Same!” I think we both meant: “Sure, we missed each other, but we were having a lot of fun and weren’t overly sad.” 🙂
This was a great learning experience for both of us. For Lydia, it was a chance to exhibit responsibility and make some decisions on her own. For instance, she came back with a fair amount of the money I sent, though she also bought some snacks and stuff from the store.
As a dietitian, I secretly loved when Lydia said she thought one of the treats was too much sugar for her, so she picked something else. Some money went to the offering, too!
For me, it was a funny thing to think, “Does she know how to make her bed with the fitted sheets?” Or, “Does she know not to leave her wet clothes and swimsuit in her suitcase?” Or, “What happens if she gets homesick?” and so on.
All the things we don’t think about as parents! But, it was definitely a good mom-check to see if she has learned what she needs to know up to this point.
I have already seen Lydia grow in confidence and independence. It seems the stakes keep going up as each year passes. Our dynamic is currently strong, but it takes work. Besides that, Lydia has already realized many of her school friends think and behave differently than her. Having Christian friends in her life is a must!
Similarly, this time apart was good for me. I didn’t have much down time, unfortunately, but it was good for me to practice trusting God with Lydia’s safety, her spiritual formation, and for everything outside my direct influence. And, it was a good reminder that, really, she’s His kid first!
Finally, I’m glad I listened to God’s leading and “stretching.” He always know just what we need. As always, this has been good practice for what the next few years hold. As Lydia learns and grows, we both will need to rely on the Lord at a deeper level.
**********
God, You are so good! Thanks for teaching us more about Your love and grace this past week. Thanks that we can rely on You at all times. Keep stretching us, Lord! In Jesus’ Name, Amen
Questions: Did you go to summer camp or as a kid? If so, what was your favorite part? How is God stretching you today?
Tasks: If you feel God stretching you this week, lean into it. Embrace what He wants to do in your heart and life.

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

Finding Grace #281

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 that flew by! Work was very busy, but good. There were times my coworkers and I were all over the building to educate Veterans. It kept us on our toes!

Lydia had yet another exciting week!! She went to Bible camp with some kids from church. I wasn’t sure if sending her two hours away for three days was a good idea, but I am glad I listened to God’s leading. She had an awesome time, made deeper friendships, and learned more about God’s love. I’m sure I will be hearing about her experiences for days!

With Lydia at camp, I also had a busy week. On Wednesday, I had dinner and a meeting with friends. We had yummy food and great conversation, while making plans for this fall!

Thursday night was a women’s game night at church. I saw several ladies I knew and met many more! It was a lot of fun. I even met three new nutrition grad students!

Last night, I did a few things around the house while Lydia was gone. I didn’t mow since it was so hot, but I did trim some of the areas that are still green and growing! I also did the dishes, cooked some food, paid some bills, and signed up Lydia for the next school year! We’ll have to go shopping for school supplies soon!

**********

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 #277

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 flew by. We were able to Zoom with family on Sunday, and we got to see my new little niece, Lily. She was sleeping, of course, but it was fun to see her anyway!

Work was super busy this week, and I spent a lot of time catching up from last week. My phone was ringing off the hook, and I was covering for a couple of other people. I prayed and asked God to direct my steps. Thankfully, He helped it all work out in the end!

We were able to squeeze in a couple evening walks this week. One evening, we walked around the middle school and high school near us. I told Lydia I didn’t want to hear any complaining (it was 1.5 miles, in all). Well, she had fun collecting flowers and leaves, and I didn’t hear a peep of complaint! We had fun identifying the trees after we returned home.

Another night, Lydia grabbed her scooter for what ended up to be a 2.55 mile roundtrip. She rode and I walked along the bike path in our neighborhood, and we enjoyed seeing all kinds of houses and landscaping! I heard no complaints, as Lydia enjoyed seeing some new-to-her areas!

Yesterday, we met up with some friends who are moving to another state! We have been so blessed by their friendship, and we will really miss them. We played mini golf and then went to Space Aliens to eat and play arcade games. It was a fun sendoff!

**********

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 Gratitude, Miscellaneous, Perfectionism, Perseverance, Wisdom, Worship

MacGyver Mishmash

As a single parent and homeowner, I have had to be resourceful over the years. Sure, I can call someone to help me with random issues, and sometimes I do. But often, it is a matter of timing. I don’t want to inconvenience someone, or I don’t want to wait for them to show up.

Occasionally, a friend will volunteer to help me, but I don’t always run into these handy types of friends! I have a few bigger projects that I might pay someone to do, but even then, I’ll have to organize the logistics of calling and being available.

I know I am not the only one with these issues or house projects, but sometimes, I just decide to do it myself! Sometimes, I research it online and other times, I have ‘jerry-rigged’ a solution. So far I have figured out how to “unstick” my garbage disposal with a crowbar, fix my coffee machine with a dremel, change toilet seats, fix a dent in my car, and more. I have used safety pins, glue, and tape to attach buttons and shore up pant hems, too!

These are in addition to other routine tasks, like changing a plethora of light bulbs and adding air to my car tires.

On Monday evening, I (once again) attempted to fix one of Lydia’s drawers. The drawer has a track for wheels that periodically comes loose. I have had to tighten the screws from time to time. But, on Monday, I couldn’t find all four screws!

I found a couple of the screws, which had fallen down into the drawer beneath. I did what I could to replace them, but the two screws were different sizes, and I needed two more.

I searched the garage for more matching screws, but alas, I didn’t find what I was looking for. No worries! I thought of a solution. Just call me MacGyver!

Lydia learned a new word that day: INGENUITY. I told her what it meant and then showed her a practical example. Yes, I used one screw on each side of the drawer railing, but then I also superglued the remaining edges!

It worked so well (or at least until next time) that I also superglued part of my gutter outside! It has been coming loose, and I will still have to go to the hardware store at some point. But, it should hold until the next storm, at least!

I’m really thankful God gives us bursts of creativity and helps us when we need it. The slightly sticky, gluey fingers are worth the feelings of accomplishment. But, I am also glad He doesn’t rely on superglue, duct tape, paper clips, safety pins, or zip ties to hold us together or fix our problems!

Colossians 1:16-17 (NLT) says, “for through him God created everything in the heavenly realms and on earth. He made the things we can see and the things we can’t see—such as thrones, kingdoms, rulers, and authorities in the unseen world. Everything was created through him and for him. He existed before anything else, and he holds all creation together.”

God holds the whole world together through Jesus. And that includes us. Whatever problems you are facing today, bring them to the Lord. If you find yourself in a sticky situation (sorry, I had to!), remember nothing is too difficult for Him.

He cares for you and knows exactly what you need!

**********

God, thanks for giving us creative solutions to our problems. There is nothing You can’t do, and You extend that grace to us! Help us come to You first, and not as a last resort. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: Do you enjoy DIY projects? Do you consider yourself pretty hand-on (as in building, repairing, gardening), or would you rather hire someone to do the dirty work?

Tasks: Meditate on Colossians 1:16-17 today. Here you can compare several versions. Consider what it means for Jesus to hold all things together and what that means for your life. Trust Him!

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

Finding Grace #276

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 an awesome week full of surprises! On Sunday afternoon, we went to see the new movie, Peter Rabbit 2. It was really cute and full of good lessons.

Lydia and I went for a handful of walks this week to enjoy the beautiful weather. I’m hoping to make it more of a habit to walk around our neighborhood! I used to do it twice a day when we had a dog, so it is doable. Though, I don’t plan on getting a dog anytime soon.

One evening, we walked toward Lydia’s school, and then stopped at the Holiday gas station on the way back. She wanted to buy “something” and even offered to buy me a donut. Of course, I said yes and saved it for breakfast! I love my generous girl!

The next night, we helped a young neighbor track down her dog that had gotten loose (again). Then, she invited herself and her dog on our walk, and that was approved by the little girl’s dad. We had fun hearing all sorts of funny stories. The little girl is so sweet and never stopped talking! Lydia had fun and wanted to walk other dogs in the neighborhood!

On Thursday, President Biden signed a law making Juneteenth a federal holiday. This is today (Saturday), which means that it was “observed” on Friday. It was unexpected, but I’m always grateful for extra time with Lydia. We discussed the meaning of the holiday, played some games, and enjoyed walking along Forest River Park!

Also on Thursday, I gained a new little niece! My brother and sister-in-law had their baby a couple of weeks early. Lily’s a cutie and we can’t wait to meet her!

Today, we hung out at home, and I finally finished some chores I had been putting off. Lydia helped too. Since we had a three day weekend, I was able to both relax and get some stuff done! We also enjoyed a morning and evening walk together!

**********

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, Perseverance

Finding Grace #274

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! It started off with having friends come visit, which meant a good ol’ Tour de Fargo! We had so much fun!

Lydia spent a couple nights at a friend’s house so they could attend puppy camp! The camp consisted of little dog art projects. Lydia and her friend also went to the pool and played lots of games. I appreciated my friend offering to help out, so Lydia didn’t have to miss out.

Today, I was on call for work and had to go in for a few hours. Lydia stayed home with some family who came to visit. Last night, we went to Scheels and out to dinner. This afternoon, we went to see the new movie, “Dream Horse.” It was good to get out of the nearly 100F heat, and it was our first time in a theater in over a year! The movie is rather inspirational and is based on a true story. I would recommend it!

**********

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 Gratitude, Journey of Grace, Life is Short, Miscellaneous, Parenting, Perseverance, Prayer, Travel, Wisdom, Worship

Grand Forks Getaway

As I previously mentioned, Lydia and I had a special getaway last weekend.

We had a great weekend about an hour north in Grand Forks, North Dakota! I had made a short list of potential activities and places to visit. But, as always, God took my loose plans and put His own spin on them!

On Friday evening, we visited dear friends at a park and were visited by the ice cream truck! My friends have three kids, ages 2 to almost 6, and they are all so cute. The little boy, the middle child, wanted to hold Lydia’s hand, sit right next to her, and have her carry him. It was fun seeing Lydia respond favorably to him and his sisters. As an only child, she’s not used to siblings!

Then, Lydia and I drove across the border to Cabela’s in East Grand Forks, Minnesota. She loved it and even came out with a new stuffed animal! Soon, we crossed the bridge back to the North Dakota side. We walked around downtown before heading back to Minnesota for our car. Later, Lydia lived it up at the hotel arcade. She even won first place in the racing game! Reminds me of her dad!

On Saturday morning we had breakfast with the same friends, this time the kids were left at home. The man was one of Dave’s Caterpillar coworkers and a pallbearer at his funeral. After Dave died, I gave him Dave’s Bible. It felt like the right thing to do to bless this ‘CAT guy.’ God has blessed that small act of faith, and it has been fun to see him lead his family toward Jesus.

This man was mourning the lost of his best friend, who had just died from COVID-19 complications earlier in the week. So on Saturday, we talked about faith, Dave, family, our Caterpillar connection, and more. He acknowledged that our visit seemed like God-ordained meeting. I am so grateful I could encourage this couple because they have been such an encouragement to me!

Then, Lydia and I drove around town, visiting Widman’s confectionery and the University of North Dakota/Ralph Engelstad Arena (known for intense ice hockey games!). Later, we went to the Blue Moose Restaurant and ate tapas, walked around the mall, and visited a local indie bookstore. Lydia also drew a crowd with her marksmanship skills at Scheels!

Saturday night, we spent a couple hours at the water park in our hotel. It was huge, and we had a blast on the water slides and practicing Lydia’s swimming skills. We even ran into another friend! Then, we relaxed and watched a movie while eating some snacks.

On Sunday, we drove about 20 miles west to Turtle River State Park. We had fun hiking around and were glad we went early to beat the heat. It was gorgeous! Then, we came back home and listened to an audiobook on the way. Lydia played with a friend while I did some yard work before family Zoom.

When making our plans, it took me awhile to decide what to do and where to stay. I was trying to decide about the water park and what other attractions to see. I was also uncertain if I should contact my friends since it had been a few years since we saw them. I didn’t want them to have to adjust their plans. Turns out, I contacted them on the same day they found out about the loss of their friend. Wow!

Our whole trip was covered by God’s grace. I’d like to take Lydia to Medora, ND sometime, too, but this was the best weekend we’ve had in awhile!

**********

God, You are so good and faithful! Thanks for leading us and for guiding our steps. Thanks for helping us encourage others as we honor Dave’s life and legacy. Help us continue to be a blessing. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: Have you been to Grand Forks or Medora? What do you like to do on vacation? Do you like to relax or go sight-seeing? Do you make big plans or just meander?

Tasks: Next time you are considering a trip or step out of your normal routine, prayerfully go for it! Invite God to direct your path and see how He moves on your behalf! You never know just how He may use you to bless someone else.

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

Finding Grace #271

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 busy but fun!

Work went well, and there were many interesting things that happened. Besides patient care, we had various meetings and trainings that show just how capable my team is. I really appreciate the perspective each person brings to our field. We have a lot of fun, too!

Lydia had fun at swimming lessons and learned some new techniques. It’s fun watching her bop along with the other kids. I enjoy watching her learn and grow!

Thursday, I took Lydia for a quick health check-up before school. She had symptoms of a cold and I just wanted to make sure it wasn’t COVID. Thankfully test was negative. The provider thought it was just allergies and gave her some Claritin. Overall, that seems to have helped. As a side note, I am grateful that was our first go-around with any sort of symptoms during the pandemic. Praise God!

The weather was great this week, with a lot of sunny days. It finally felt warm enough to leave my jacket at home! Spring is later here than my home state of Illinois. But, I also noticed my tulips are starting to bloom!

Today, we met with old friends, ate out, and spent time at a local water park marking eight years of Dave in Heaven. It was fun to do something different as we celebrated his life and legacy. I’m thankful for how far God has brought us, and I know Dave would be so proud!

**********

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)!