Tag: joy

Posted on in Gratitude, Kindness, Miscellaneous, Parenting

Just Keep Growing

As a parent, it’s fun to see our kids learning new things. Lydia has been lounging for most of the summer, and I have been happy to let her. Sure, I have given her chores several days a week, but I also realize we are only young once.

Teenagers need more rest, and I can let her sleep in. She prefers to have a small to-do list, so if I don’t have chores for her that day, I encourage her to make her own. I might suggest practicing her viola, reading, spending time with Jesus, cleaning her room, showering, etc. I don’t worry if she doesn’t get it all done.

Someday, Lydia will have to get up and go each summer morning. So, I relish letting her chill for now. It has been an interesting summer in that when I get home, Lydia is eager to chat and hang out. It probably helps that I put some time limits on her phone and internet use! 😉

Since she has a lot of downtime, Lydia enjoys making wish lists of things she wants to buy. She has limited cash, of course, so either she will have to burn through her funds or I will have to chip in. I have to laugh because a lot of what she is picking was popular when I was a kid: faded jeans/shorts, sweatpants, baggy shirts, and Birkenstocks.

Lydia is my only child, and she is generally an easy kid, so it would be easy to spoil her. However, I set good limits and remind her to look for value and a good deal. I rarely buy the first thing Lydia sees and make her research the best price for the quality. I tend to resist buying name brands and ask for a list of the pros and cons since I don’t want her to feel entitled. Sometimes I will splurge, but often we’ll split the cost, shop at a thrift store for the item, or buy a knockoff.

It has been fun to see how Lydia has grown this summer, moreover, in the last two weeks! She’s grown a little taller, yes, but she’s also impressed me lately in other areas. Lydia has shown more responsibility and initiative around the house. She has grown in spiritual maturity, too, asking her friends if she can pray for them. She has texted them the most thoughtful prayers on their behalf! I love seeing her heart for her friends!

All on her own, Lydia also found a website that encourages people to write to the elderly. She plans to start doing this regularly, though I am not holding her to it. We bought some cards, stationery, and other supplies so that she can bless these strangers. (She’s a little timid to write to people she knows, but I hope she will in the future.) I will review what Lydia writes to ensure it meets the guidelines, but my mom would be so proud because she had her own card-writing ministry!

As I reflect on these points above, I am reminded that each of us has a special way of helping others. Serving and loving people is not about giving a lot of money, but about having a compassionate heart to bless others and spread the love of Jesus.

As much as I am proud of Lydia, just think about how much God loves you and is proud of you. Let that sink in for a minute!

If you have not connected with the Lord for a while, now is your chance. Call out to Jesus, and He will be right there with you. He loves you so much and wants the best for you. He has good plans in store, so just keep growing in Him!

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Heavenly Father, thanks for all the ways You love us and help us grow. Help us continue to draw near to You and mature in our faith. May we love others like You do! In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: How has God blessed you this week? How can you serve someone else today?

Tasks: Use your unique gifts, skills, personality, opportunities, and interests to love God and serve others. Let your roots grow down into Him… and read Colossians 2:7-9. Pray about what to do and then move forward!

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

Finding Grace #490

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 has been pretty calm, compared to some weeks! 

Work was steady but good. No big changes this week, lol. Visiting the chiropractor was greatly needed and appreciated; I am glad to have access to quality healthcare benefits. I feel way better than I did a year ago!

I talked with one of my best friends late one night. We always end up laughing a lot. We’ve been playing phone tag for a while, but finally managed to catch up just as I was ready to turn out the light and go to bed. It was worth staying up another forty-five minutes to chat with her! Good friends are good for the heart!

On Thursday, Lydia got her final orthodontic retainers (meaning she doesn’t have her Invisalign trays anymore). The change was rather subtle since she didn’t have actual braces this time. She did when she was seven, but we opted for the trays a year and a half ago instead. She’s happy with the transformation and will soon only have to wear the trays overnight.

Yesterday, I dropped off Lydia and a friend at the Redhawks baseball game, where they met the youth group for a fun outing! After that, I visited the NDSU horticulture research plot nearby. I took several pretty pictures of flowers (phlox above) and reminisced about the times I would call my mom from there to tell her about the flowers and get her insights on life. She’s been gone five months, and it seems like forever.

After we arrived home from the Redhawks, Lydia was in the mood to chat. It’s always at bedtime, lol! But, as my dad reminded me this morning on a phone call, these times go by so fast, and it’s good to be available for her. Lydia did say she’s glad she can tell me anything, so I’m grateful to take advantage of the opportunity!

Today, we are mostly relaxing after a late night and sleeping in. Tonight, we worked out together for a little bit and then played three mean games of Sorry!

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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 Gratitude, Miscellaneous, Personality, Pivot, Prayer, Wisdom, Worship

Worthy of Praise

We sing a song at church called “Praise” by Elevation Worship. It is a fun song to sing, but the message is also important. Here’s one section of the lyrics:

I’ll praise when I feel it
And I’ll praise when I don’t
I’ll praise ’cause I know
You’re still in control
Because my praise is a weapon
It’s more than a sound (more than a sound)
Oh, my praise is the shout
That brings Jericho down
 
 
God is worthy of our praise whether we feel like it or not. Praising Him is not always easy or enjoyable. Sometimes, it is downright difficult. Distraction, pain, suffering, grief – there are so many things to take our eyes off Jesus. Still, praise and worship are tools to show others how great God is.
 
When we give God credit for His work in our lives, we magnify His glory and shine attention back to Jesus. Our pride and self-promotion take a worthy hit in the process. As we redirect our focus, we see things His way and trust Him at a deeper level.  This frees us from our chains and confuses our enemy.
 
It’s difficult to praise God when things are going wrong, but it blesses God and brings blessings upon us, too. Praising God may or may not change our circumstances, but it does change our hearts as the Holy Spirit moves and tweaks our perspective. Talk about transformation!

 
Praise is a timely reminder that people will fail us, but our Creator and Almighty God, never will. He is infinitely faithful and good. He is merciful and gracious, slow to anger and abounding in love. Our Heavenly Father will never leave nor forsake His children. 
 
Praise has the power to prepare us for God’s greater work. As the Holy Spirit redirects us, we are open to what He wants us to do. We align our vision with His and gain confidence to move forward with intention.
 
Praising God has the potential to prevent panic when things go awry. We can praise, pray, and plan in advance! Then, whenever a problem does arise, we are prepared.
 
Praise can be a form of prayer, which is really just communicating with God. The acronym ACTS starts with Adoration, then Confession, Thanksgiving, and Supplication. In some ways, you can praise, worship, and pray all at the same time!
 
Don’t worry if you are a good singer. You can shout your praises or whisper them. There is always a reason to praise. Just come and give God the glory for all He has done for you. He just wants your heart!
 
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Heavenly Father, I praise You for Your mighty works! Thanks for all the ways You love me and provide for me. Help me walk worthy of Your calling today. In Jesus’ Name, Amen
 
Questions: What are some things you are praising God for today? Do you like to sing, or shout, or dance, or journal?
 
Tasks: If you need a primer on praise, the Psalms are a great place to start. I came across Psalm 93 today and encourage you to check it out! Also, here are some of my other blog posts on praise.
Posted on in Finding Grace Weekly Recap, Gratitude, Journey of Grace, Life is Short, Miscellaneous

Finding Grace #489

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 Iris Flower photo and picture

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

This week was fairly full but really good! We ended up skipping family Zoom on Sunday because each family had something going on. That gave me time to mow the lawn!

On Monday, I went on a long walk with an old friend and coworker. She was so good to me after Dave died, as we shared an office and helped each other solve life’s problems (including my grief). Her girls are a few years older than Lydia, so she also helped guide me through the process of choosing a preschool and preparing for Kindergarten. We covered several miles while talking and catching up. It was just what I needed, and I hope to do it again soon!

Work was busy but went well; I say that a lot, don’t I?! We had an Employee Appreciation Day, which I almost missed due to patient care. But I did manage to grab a plate of food and eat it in between patients. I did not get a chance to play any games or visit with other employees, but that’s okay. I had a nice day, anyway!

This week, I found out that I have been accepted into a leadership and ministry training program starting in August at my church. Lydia is on board and encouraged me to apply. I’m glad I took a leap of faith, as it’s been on my heart for a while. I’ll be in the non-traditional track, which is designed for individuals with regular jobs, families, and other responsibilities. I anticipate spending a few hours a week completing Bible study coursework and then applying what I learn. I am excited to see what God has in store for me!

Yesterday, I took Lydia to get her school supplies! I also registered her for 8th grade, which is hard to believe! Her school list was surprisingly short, and we reminisced about elementary school, when she needed lots of markers, crayons, glue, and scissors. I’m sure it will be an awesome year for her!

Today, we met some friends downtown at the street fair. This is different from last week’s county fair, but I prefer it because it feels quieter and less crowded. The main difference is that there are no rides, but there is music, fair food, and vendors offering various products. I bought some handmade flowery storage pouches and totes, along with a couple of treats to share. It was a gorgeous day to be outside and spend time together!

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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, Gratitude, Journey of Grace, Kindness, Life is Short, Miscellaneous, Perseverance, Personality, Pivot, Wisdom, Worship

Becoming Like Jesus

“I have found that trying to become more like Jesus yields far better results than trying to become a better me.”

I came across the quote above last week on Substack, and it has stuck with me since. (I could not find the original source.) The process of becoming more like Jesus is a work of the Holy Spirit, commonly referred to as sanctification. It is not always fun or easy, but it is really the main work of God in our lives.

Our Heavenly Father wants us to come to Him just as we are; we don’t need to do a bunch of good things to earn His favor (that’s grace). At the same time, He also loves us enough not to leave us the way we are. So, God transforms us into the character likeness of Jesus and makes us holy, as He is holy. (Holy does not mean perfect, but set apart.) He is fitting us for Heaven!

Sanctification occurs when the Holy Spirit checks our heart and prompts us to do something different than we would in our own human power. This might be giving money or a favorite belonging when you’re feeling stingy. This might be biting your tongue instead of letting someone know what’s really on your mind. You know you are on the right track when something doesn’t seem fair, but you listen and follow God’s lead anyway.

Free Mountain National Park photo and picture

Slowly but surely, we start to think and act like Jesus. Our hearts become more aligned with His, and we are able to see things from a Heavenly perspective. The Holy Spirit is patient but diligent. If we make a mistake, no worries, He can convict us and set us straight. He is not condemning, but gracious with us if we are humble and repent (Romans 8:1).

Becoming like Jesus is never time wasted, even if it takes a while to come full circle. Often, we have to lay aside our desires and expectations to serve someone else. We can hold space for God to move when we want to rush ahead. We can submit our ideas and plans and take His on instead. We may not fully see the impact of obedience, but, it is always worth the sacrifice.

We will never be perfect on this side of Heaven, but we will receive an eternal reward if we don’t give up. We don’t have to be right or justified, we just need to follow Jesus.

Sanctification often involves serving other people, which helps refine us. It may include waking early to spend time with the Lord before a busy day at work. It may include tending to the kids and letting your spouse sleep in. Or, maybe it’s praying for that certain person who drives you a little crazy. 🙂

Even recently, I have been learning that I don’t have to figure out what I want to do next in life. I don’t have to worry or try to become a more ‘exciting’ person. This frees me up to let God shine in my life more than my own accomplishments. As John the Baptist said, “He must become greater; I must become less” (John 3:30).

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God, thanks for saving me and preparing me for Heaven. Change my heart, Lord, and make me like You. Holy Spirit, continue to move in my life. Thanks for not giving up on me. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Question: How are you becoming more like Jesus… today, this week, this month, so far this year?

Tasks: Read Romans 8 and also Romans 12. Instead of running after your dreams and goals, submit them to Jesus. Chase after Him and be transformed.

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

Finding Grace #485

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 Cranesbill Geranium photo and picture

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

This week was a great week! We had a perfect mix of hard work and relaxation, rain and sunshine, cooler weather and heat.

On Tuesday, Lydia had volleyball camp and is feeling more comfortable.

I worked two days and then had the rest of the week off! I kept busy at the office but mostly helped my coworkers after I was done with my own patients.

On Wednesday, I was off to prepare for a trip. On Thursday, Juneteenth, I was off anyway, so we flew to Nashville for a family reunion (just a central spot we hadn’t been to yet).

Several people came to the reunion. This includes my dad’s family from all over the US, plus Greece and England. We also invited some sweet Florida friends who have been so kind to our family. The more the merrier! We went downtown, to the Zoo, ate lots of yummy food, played games, and so much more.

Before we left, my washing machine stopped working. I am hoping it is an easy fix, but I could not figure it out. My family offered ideas over the phone, but I ended up asking my neighbor to check it out. However, it will have to wait until next week due to the timing. Thankfully, I have plenty of clothes and towels, so it is not an emergency!

Yesterday, several parts of North Dakota had tornadoes. I don’t know all the details but there were some damages and a few deaths. So sad. I am grateful for my neighbors watching my house and glad we were safe (far 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 Fear/Don't Fake Brave, Gratitude, Journey of Grace, Life is Short, Miscellaneous, Perseverance, Wisdom

Microwave Christians

I was reviewing some notes on my phone yesterday and found a few comments I saved for later. These were some things I discussed with my dad in February, when Lydia and I visited my parents one week before my mom died.

We were eating dinner one night at Cracker Barrel. We weren’t too hungry, but I wanted to make sure Dad had something good to eat. He was tired from weeks of being stretched, and we were trying to make sense of the situation. Over biscuits and cornbread, we talked about how we need to lean on God and trust Him during trials.

Dad mentioned how many Jesus followers are “microwave Christians” in that they have no patience and want life to go their way, right away. Ding! But we can’t get by just pressing buttons and hoping for the best. God calls us to go deeper with Him.

Free Marguerite Close Up photo and picture

Then, we compared other kitchen gadgets and how they take a long time to work, but accomplish much more satisfying results. A “pressure cooker Christian” develops an intensity during trials. It’s extreme but yields a tender heart, pliable for doing God’s work. A “rotisserie Christian” may face the same situation repeatedly, always coming back around. But, those trials also serve their purpose: a softened heart understands God’s grace and can nourish others in the Truth.

We could make other parallels, such as a “crockpot Christian” or an “oven-baked Christian.” Haha, maybe not! If anything, these are best seen as we marinate or stew in God’s goodness. In doing so, we let Him have His way in our lives, slowly and steadily waiting for Him.

Also, don’t get me started on a “deep-fat-fryer Christian!” As a Registered Dietitian, I’d recommend an air-fryer and using minimal oil, if any at all! 😉

Looking at this another way, we see that very few things in Nature happen quickly. Mammals tend to have a long gestation period before the baby is born. Flowers take days and weeks to grow leaves and stems before blooming. Trees grow only one ring each year. Good things take time!

Overall, we can see that in trials, we need to settle in for the long haul, becoming all God has for us. As Dad said, “How will you learn to wait upon the Lord, if you don’t ever have to wait upon the Lord? Or, how will you learn to persevere in faith, if your faith is never tested?”

We can’t run away or bypass trials. We can’t just push the “easy button.” With God’s help, we can bear up under the weight of our trials and choose to be cheerful in affliction…

Trials are a guaranteed part of life. Romans 5:3-5 (NIV) says, “…we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. And hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been poured out into our hearts through the Holy Spirit, who has been given to us.“

I also love James 1:4-5 (NIV), which says, “Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything. If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.“

Today, resist acting like a microwave Christian and settle into God’s mercy, grace, and provision. He is faithful and more than able to bring you through… until Christ is formed in you (Galatians 4:19).

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God, thanks for being with us in trials. May we grow in perseverance, character, and hope so we can be mature in Christ, lacking nothing. May we yield to the Holy Spirit as He refines us! In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: Which kitchen tool do you identify with the most, based on the explanation above? How can you trust God more as you face trials?

Tasks: Consider how your current circumstances are growing you and making you more like Jesus. Pray for wisdom and strength, and be prepared to dig deep!

Posted on in Being Gracious, Gratitude, Life is Short, Miscellaneous, Parenting, Personality

Introverts and Ice Cream

A few days ago, I watched a social media post for introverts about how to meet people. It was so funny, and I laughed when Kelsey Pomeroy said, “Stop trying to make the friends, and let the friends make you. Set yourself up to be claimed, adopted, and befriended by an extrovert…”

Her idea was that introverts can “advertise” their interests to find people with whom they can connect. For instance, you may carry a book on a topic you like; people who enjoy that book might want to talk about it. You could wear a shirt representing your favorite sports team or put stickers on your water bottle to find like-minded people.

We all give off signals, but we may not be aware of what messages we are sending. Putting headphones in says you don’t want to talk, while making eye contact and smiling implies you are open and available.

Free Ice Cream Ice Cream Cone photo and picture

I am an introvert — I am not shy or socially awkward. I love getting to know people on a deeper level, but sadly, it can be difficult since people don’t take the time to have deeper conversations. I am quiet and appreciate calm places without excess noise or commotion (like really loud music, flashy lights, or crazy traffic). I am happy to be out of the spotlight, but the flip side is that I must guard against feeling unimportant, overlooked, or forgotten. 

Don’t feel sorry for me, I am okay with it! In fact, I have a deal with God. He directs my steps, and I go where He leads. If He has something for me to do, I don’t want to miss it. But, if He doesn’t tell me to get involved, I can do what I want… I can go home, lol!

I love solitude and can easily stay by myself for a couple of days. (I am totally fine when Lydia is at camp or out with others!) The key difference is that I also like being around people. Sometimes, I will go to the mall or bookstore to make sure I don’t isolate myself too much.

Because I am content to chill on my own without much fanfare, sometimes I have to push myself to join a group event. If I am excited for an activity, then nothing will stop me. But, if I am on the fence, a personal invitation is the golden ticket! I feel included and already have a friend! In some cases, I give myself an out: If no one invites me and I don’t really want to go, then I am off the hook!

Free Ice Dessert photo and picture

Still, there are plenty of times I need to go somewhere and don’t know anyone. In those situations, I make up my mind to get through it and find someone who may need some help or encouragement. I specifically make eye contact and smile to make sure I am approachable. I go with a servant heart and try to be the friend I’d like to have.

I also find if I am included in the planning of an event, then I feel more comfortable. This is probably because I know what to expect, but I also try to make others navigate the situation.

At work, I have no problems, as our culture is to greet each other in the halls. I meet new patients all throughout the week. We already have a set topic to discuss, but I invite them into my office and jump right in!

As you may guess, Lydia is a lot like me. As such, I can guide her on how to avoid some classic pitfalls. Last night, I dropped her off at a 1.5-hour volleyball camp, and she was so nervous! I prayed for her but knew exactly how she felt. Thankfully, she came home saying she was glad she went. We talked about being introverts while enjoying some ice cream. I’m so glad I could share more about how God made us. There are challenges, but pushing through the awkwardness is still important!

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Father God, thanks for making me according to Your purpose and plan. My identity is found in You. Thanks for helping me confidently move forward and serve others. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: Are you an introvert or an extrovert? Do you find it easy or difficult to make friends?

Task: If you are an introvert, try subtly advertising your interests. Who knows, you might find a new bestie! Remember to make eye contact and smile. When in doubt, keep your eyes open to see if you can encourage someone. Most introverts are really good at that!

Posted on in Finding Grace Weekly Recap, Gratitude, Journey of Grace, Miscellaneous

Finding Grace #482

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 Flowers Salvia photo and picture

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

This week was another wild ride, but a good one overall! On Sunday, Lydia hung out with a friend, so I went to a forest preserve to walk around. I’d say hike, but it wasn’t too steep… 😉 Either way, it felt good to be outside.

Overall, one of my summer goals is to enjoy the slower pace by sitting outside and reading. It doesn’t take much to make me happy! The longer days are a little deceiving since I can easily lose track of time and suddenly it’s 10 p.m. I like to get up early as well, so ideally, I’m in bed before that! Nonetheless, I feel I have extra time to dawdle a bit without having to snowblow, layer up, and drive over ice. I love that part about summer — everything is easier!

Work was very busy again, but that’s not too unusual. We had a short week due to being off for Memorial Day. The crazy part was that I heard from four of my tube feeding patients in addition to all my scheduled ones. So, I had several extra calls and coordination to answer questions and get them what they needed. On Friday, two of my coworkers helped by seeing my scheduled patients so I could take care of some of the tube feeding issues. After getting interrupted daily for the last two weeks, I finally finished listening to a recorded meeting I missed when I was off on May 15th (for Dave’s twelve-year anniversary). 🙂 So, it felt good to get caught up.

Speaking of catching up, we got in some baby snuggle on Tuesday! That was a really sweet part of my week. Otherwise, our evenings were spent cleaning and mowing!

Yesterday, my mother-in-law arrived for a weekend visit. It is her birthday tomorrow, so we are enjoying celebrating her. We picked up some pound cake to eat with strawberries. We went out to eat, shopped for Lydia, looked at some flowers, played games, and have laughed a lot. I miss my own mom, but I am so glad I have Dave’s.

This week, I realized it has been ten years since I started this blog! I officially went live on my birthday in August 2015, but I came up with the idea, bought my domain name, and set up my blog in May. I am grateful for my readership and for what God is doing through me! I don’t know how long I will keep blogging or how things will change in the future, but for now, I am happy to continue. Thanks for being here!

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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 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!

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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.