Tag: Lydia

Posted on in Fear/Don't Fake Brave, Journey of Grace, Miscellaneous, Parenting, Perseverance

See A Victory

“The weapon may be formed, but it won’t prosper
When the darkness falls, it won’t prevail
‘Cause the God I serve knows only how to triumph
My God will never fail
Oh, my God will never fail

I’m gonna see a victory
I’m gonna see a victory
For the battle belongs to You, Lord”

–From “See A Victory” by Elevation Worship

This coming Friday marks seven years since Dave died. It doesn’t seem like it should already be that long, but here we are. I am so grateful for God’s faithfulness.

Lydia continues to process what Dave’s absence means for her. It is an on going development as she learns and grows. We’ve had many in-depth conversations in the last six months, in particular. Thanks for your continued prayers.

It is still bittersweet at times, but I am amazed when I think about how far God has brought us. We have certainly had our battles, but each time, God has come through for us.

Just think: God has never lost a battle. He always claims Victory!

I don’t know what life would be like if Dave were still here. He could still be sick or totally healed. But truthfully, it does me no good to think about all the ‘what ifs,’ and I don’t have time or mental space for that rabbit trail.

What I do know is this: I have seen major Victories in my life that I probably would not have noticed or achieved any other way. For instance, I started this blog and put myself ‘out there.’ I wrote a book (details soon!!!) and started a business. I have continued learning various skills and am teaching others. In the fall, I started an awesome job serving Veterans. I have grown through parenting Lydia. That’s the short list! 

If things had turned out differently, perhaps I would not have been compelled to cling to the Lord in the way I have. And, I would have continued second-guessing myself and my ability. Not anymore!

Becoming who I am now has taken time, effort, and a lot of intention. But, I am not the same person. I am stronger and more stable. I make quicker and more solid decisions, without fearing the outcomes like I used to. That doesn’t mean I don’t make mistakes, just that I am more confident when I say YES and when I say NO.

Victory, for me, is choosing faith as my default, not fear.  This big Victory has lead to many smaller Victories along the way. They just keep coming!

As a result, I have much more peace internally. I don’t feel the need to prove myself or do things perfectly. I have stopped putting limits on what I can do! I am happy to be just me, knowing with Jesus, that is enough.

I have also made various lifestyle changes in recent years. I still am involved with several activities, but they are choices I make on purpose. I want to, not I ‘have’ to.

I have taken on more challenges and cool projects as my capacity has grown. We don’t think about grief every day, thankfully, so we are able to handle other things. Plus, Lydia has been able to care for many of her own needs. I still supervise and help, of course.

Lydia and I enjoy doing a lot of fun things these days. When she was little, it felt more like survival mode. She need a lot of care and I was grieving. But now, we are thriving.

For Mother’s Day, on Sunday, Lydia gave me a little book that she filled out all on her own. (Thanks to my mom for buying it and sending it to her!) A common theme was that I have taught Lydia to be brave and not give up. Amen!

Ironically, I could never show Lydia bravery or perseverance if I hadn’t had to face my worst fears. And, I couldn’t do that without Jesus. He taught me what it means to be brave, and now I have the honor of passing those lessons on.

These days, we play games, go on adventures, make food and art together, and laugh a whole lot. On Friday, we will do something fun to celebrate Dave’s life and memory. We may eat his favorite foods, play a game, or go on a walk.

I will also give Lydia a special gift in Dave’s honor. He would be so very proud of her.

Loving Jesus, and living a fun, adventurous faith-filled life… a wholehearted Victory!

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Heavenly Father, all praise and honor to YOU!! Thanks for all the Victories in my life (including many more I haven’t mentioned here!). Help me continue to trust You for greater things! In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: What Victories have you seen in your life this year? What would you do if you had unlimited resources and there was no way you could fail?

Tasks: Listen to “See A Victory” by Elevation Worship. Trust God and make bold moves today. We cannot lose with Jesus on our side! He has never lost a battle! Victory is His!

Posted on in Finding Grace Weekly Recap, Miscellaneous, Parenting

Finding Grace #218

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 and good! We enjoyed a Zoom video chat with family on Sunday. I also enjoyed talking with my brothers a little more than usual as they helped me with some technology upgrades!

We have had several rainy days, with a couple of sunny days in between. I don’t mind, though. It has made the grass green (so much so that I mowed on Friday!).

Friday was very productive. Besides mowing, I upgraded my internet modem and router. I did all the work myself, but my brothers helped me decide which models to purchase and answered a few questions. Then, I did some laundry, helped Lydia with some homework, and we watched a movie (the original That Darn Cat)!

Today, it was rainy again. So, we snuggled, did some cleaning, cooking, and paperwork. Tonight, we are watching another movie (Spies in Disguise)!

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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, Parenting

Finding Grace #217

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! We kicked off the week with a fun family video chat on Sunday evening. We always have a great time and laugh a lot! It took a little coordination since my brother and his wife recently moved to Phoenix, AZ, so now we are in at least three time zones! We hope to do it again soon!

Lydia and I tried to get outside each day this week! We visited with neighbors, did some yardwork, and played some games. I noticed baby leaves on my trees, and Lydia took a picture of some tree swallows. We even went to check out the river one afternoon!

I am really grateful for God’s leading and guiding in my life! The last few weeks, I have been considering various options and decisions. I have prayed, researched, and asked questions. This week, I took some steps forward. I’m excited for what God has for me next!

Yesterday, I called a dear family friend and talked with her for 2+ hours. We hadn’t had the chance to connect for quite some time, so it was wonderful to catch up and learn all about what her family is doing. I loved hearing about God’s faithfulness!

Today, I practiced my kitchen knife skills for our online cooking class. I already feel like that was worth the cost of the class. Somewhere along the way, I realized that working on dicing, chopping, etc., will only make me more efficient and create more sustainable habits. I am a good cook, and this will take me to the next level!

This afternoon, a friend came over to visit. We hadn’t seen them for awhile, so it was great to catch up. We chatted for awhile and ended up playing some games. It was also fun to see Lydia’s competitive side come out!

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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, Life is Short, Miscellaneous, Parenting, Perseverance, Wisdom, Worship

On Beating Boredom

We all know what it feels like to be bored (or in a pandemic, cooped up with nowhere to go). I have previously listed many wonderful options, such as virtual tours of famous cities, zoos, and museums, so will take a different angle today!

During this time, I have not been very bored. But, unlike many people, I have not been ‘stuck’ at home for the last month-and-half. I am thankful I’ve had the opportunity to work!

At home, Lydia and I often talk about being content and making the best of each situation. We probably talk about gratitude just as much as we talk about healthy grieving!

I am so happy Lydia is not a routine complainer. That all makes the difference! 🙂

Yet, in my tenure as a parent, I have periodically heard her say, “Mom, I’m bored. I have nothing to do.” Sure, as an only child, Lydia has no built-in playmates. But she still has loads of art supplies and a fair amount of books and toys.

Awhile back, I read an article (somewhere) about how boredom can lead to creativity. So, I am not worried about Lydia being bored, per se. Instead, I encourage her to do something creative… or I give her a chore to do!

The more she starts to whine, the more I lean toward chores…

Naturally, in terms of personal application, this makes me wonder…

How often do we tell God we are bored or stall in disobedience? How often does our attitude affect how we see what is going on in our lives? How often do we overlook the good and complain about what we still don’t see?

When life is stable, isn’t that a good thing? Still, there have been times, in my life at least (ahem), when I have been tempted to complain. “God, when will my circumstances change? I’m so bored doing the same old thing. Hurry up and do something new!”

But, when we simply change our attitude, it’s amazing how quickly our perspective can change! How about this instead: “God, here I am. I am available. Let me know what You would like me to do. Help me be content.”

Then, suddenly, our eyes are open to what God is doing around us! We start looking for opportunities to serve others and find joy in meeting their needs. Having an outward focus and blessing others is what makes life exciting again!

Reminder: This life is not about me, it’s about loving God and loving others.

Ironically, at other times, we can grow so comfortable in our own little bubble, that we don’t appreciate or enjoy when God shakes things up or challenges our security.

How fickle we can be! I’m sure grateful for God’s mercy, grace, and patience!

Lydia and I were recently discussing the concept of ‘beating boredom.’ We decided instead of saying, “I’m bored, I have nothing to do,” we should say, “Well, I have a lot of time right now.  Is there someone who needs help? What can I do?”

Just that little switch helps us recognize the gift of time, which is from God. May we use our time wisely and not waste it with grumbling and complaining!

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God, thanks for the gift of TIME. Thanks for giving us so many resources and creativity. Help us use all of our gifts and talents to bless others and bring You glory. Make us aware when we start to complain or take it all for granted. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: How are you doing this week? Are you bored or do you have plenty to do? Either way, how can you bless someone else?

Task: Next time you are bored, consider how best to use your time. Sure, you can learn a new skill or clean out a closet, but perhaps you can find a way to help someone else!

 

 

 

Posted on in Being Gracious, Finding Grace Weekly Recap, Miscellaneous, Parenting, Wisdom

Finding Grace #216

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 fairly relaxing week! Lydia and I continued to go to work and daycare. She kept up with distance learning and I made progress on a few personal projects.

This week felt like spring… finally! It was a little cooler at the beginning of the week, but each afternoon was nice. Lydia and I noticed the Red River is retreating a little at a time.

Yesterday was the most beautiful and warm day of all! We did a few inside activities early on and then spent the afternoon outside! I swept the garage and put out all the deck furniture (a small table with two chairs and two benches). Lydia and I also raked a bit, and I took down the Christmas lights. Later, we noticed the grass is turning green while played a game of croquet. After that, we ate a picnic dinner and played some fun water games.

Today, I had an online video chat with some friends from church. We discussed a book on personal growth, and I enjoyed hearing everyone’s different perspectives!

After that, Lydia and I started a three-month online cooking class, which began with us cleaning out the refrigerator and reorganizing our pantry! She was so excited! Hopefully, the pictures and explanation we posted earn us a good grade. 🙂 It should be a fun class!

Otherwise, we are enjoying our time at home. We are doing our best to social distance, but have been checking in with friends and family. We also are minimizing our errands and wearing masks. We did make it to Costco this week, and I am thankful we were able to get what we needed without too many stops. Thank You, Jesus!

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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, Miscellaneous, Perseverance, Wisdom

The Eyes Have It

I am glad that more and more people are wearing homemade masks in public, per current CDC guidelines. The masks are helpful to prevent spreading germs in the midst of this pandemic.

There are several easy and inexpensive ways to make a masks, but I purchased a few masks online. Lydia got a few for daycare and I got a few for work.

While we waited for those masks to arrive, my mom’s cousin also sent us each a homemade mask. We were so thankful for her generosity and support.

When they came, Lydia tried hers on right away. She was super excited and asked me to take her picture. “Mom, please make sure to tell Elizabeth that I’m smiling!”

It is a little strange wearing masks at work and throughout the day. I typically take mine off in the ‘safety’ of my own office. After all, it can be a little awkward to talk on the phone with a mask!

But, I forgot to put it on once yesterday and was walking around wondering why people were looking at me. Whoops!

When wearing a mask, I have noticed it is even more important to look people in the eye and acknowledge them. Otherwise, it makes everyone feel alone and unseen.

There are several ways to reach out while still needing to social distance and wear a mask.

You can still say hello, call or text someone, and yes, even smile at those around you. Often, someone’s smile reaches all the way up to their eyes. Smiles are contagious, even if they are hidden.

We’re all facing uncertainty, so look out for ways to help ease the burdens of others. For example, you can still hold doors for people or stop and answer their questions.

Even with a mask, you can still say thank you or write someone an encouraging note. You can even do random acts of kindness, like paying for someone’s coffee or giving an extra large tip.

Thankfully, I don’t foresee most of us wearing masks forever. A little discomfort now will pay off in saved lives. Then, we can keep moving forward!

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God, thanks for protecting us and providing for us. Help us have awareness to the needs around us. May we bless others with Your kindness and love. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: Are you wearing homemade masks in public? Did you buy them or make them? How is your quarantine season going?

Task: Be on the lookout for ways to help someone else today!

 

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

Finding Grace #215

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

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

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

This was a great week! I received several compliments throughout the week regarding various areas of my life. It was gratifying to get such positive feedback. One person even presented me with a cool opportunity. (I don’t know if it will work out, but it was nice to be asked.) All of this made me feel like God has me in just the right place. I’m grateful!

Lydia continues to attend daycare and participate in online school. She is doing well overall, but this week, she grew frustrated with some of the technology. It probably doesn’t help being gone all day and then starting homework just before dinner. In the end, I let her take my tablet to so she could some of the tasks at daycare. (The kids are supervised.) That way, she does not have to cram in more at the end of her day.

This weekend has been spent doing a variety of activities. We sat outside and enjoyed some nice weather. I enjoyed researching some information online. We talked with several friends and family members on the phone and over social media. I appreciate having the down time and have been making good progress on some personal projects!

On Thursday, after work and daycare, Lydia and I went to check out the Red River in its flood stage. It’s always impressive to see the river flooding over its banks! (See picture above.) It was a beautiful day, and it was nice to meander on the way home. 

This afternoon, Lydia threw herself a beach party, complete with sea shells, stuffed sea turtle, beach towel, and a cooler for snacks. She decided to camp out in the living room tonight. I love her creativity!

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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, Perseverance

Finding Grace #213

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 well, and I sensed God’s grace all around me. I have continually praised Him for my stable job and for Lydia’s daycare. So many people are facing financial uncertainty (due to layoffs and/or daycare issues, etc.). I am not immune to this, but I can see how God led me to this position and daycare over seven months ago. I could never have foreseen this global pandemic, but I am grateful He had me covered.

On Wednesday, Lydia started online schooling through her school district. So far, it has been pretty manageable. She could do some of it at daycare, but we have just been doing after we get home in the afternoon.

We had beautiful weather early in the week! Lydia and I took some walks in our neighborhood after work and daycare. It felt great to get fresh air and enjoy the spring sun! It was also fun to see much of the snow gone!

Then, on Thursday, we had a spring blizzard! It was a little weird since we haven’t had snow in several weeks. Nonetheless, it was quite pretty and I’m grateful we could stay home for the rest of the weekend. (I don’t work on Fridays.)

I was able to call or video chat with several people again this week. Last night, one of my dearest friends and I video chatted for over two hours. It was so much fun. I casually rode over 26 miles (yes, a marathon!) on my exercise bike during some of our chat!

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

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

Posted on in Being Gracious, Fear/Don't Fake Brave, Life is Short, Miscellaneous, Perseverance, Wisdom

Strong, Resilient, and Capable

Happy April Fools Day!! Can you believe it’s April already?

This day can be fun for many people, as they play hilarious pranks on their friends.

But maybe today feels like a cruel joke. Social distancing has a way of making us feel isolated and alone. I’m sure we’ve all had moments of doubt and questioning lately.

What is going to happen? What if someone I love gets sick? Will we be okay? 

Much of what we are collectively feeling is grief. Lydia and I talk about grief often, so we are fairly familiar with the concept of loss. It’s not a far stretch for us… But, that doesn’t mean it is easy or comfortable.

Perhaps you have feelings of loss or missing out. Not to mention sadness, uncertainty, and possible despair. Grief is not just about death. It’s about learning to make adjustments. 

This sense of grief is totally normal, but now is the perfect time to make lemonade.

Earlier this week, I read some words of encouragement from someone at work. These words stood out to me: IMPROVISE. ADAPT. OVERCOME.

We have a choice to make: We can try to make it on our own, or we can ask God to help.

The truth is, only Jesus can give us the fortitude to make the best of the situation. Only He can bring something good from overwhelming evil and pain. He alone is the source of all wisdom. His Name is Power!

Only He can teach us how to improvise, adapt, and overcome.

If you are alive today, you come from a long line of survivors. Our ancestors had their own share of problems. Most recently, they dealt with the Spanish Flu, the Great Depression, and two World Wars. Sure, maybe they were afraid, but they pushed through, made sacrifices, and did what was needed. And so, here we are.

Strong. Resilient. Capable.

Overall, Lydia and I are adjusting well. I am still working and sending Lydia to daycare. We are saving some time each day by not running errands or driving to activities, but we are still involved remotely. Oddly enough, we really haven’t had much downtime!

Lydia starts online school today. There will be some challenges, but I know she will do well. I’m grateful for her teacher, our school district, and all those working behind the scenes!

I feel our personal grief experiences have served us well over the years. Here are a few takeaways I have learned that may help you.

First, lean on the Lord as if your life depends on it. Give yourself credit for what is going well. Celebrate wins, no matter what size. And, finally, this will not last forever.

Be strong. Be courageous. Remember God is with you and for you!

Grief looks different for everyone. Sure, there may be similarities or patterns, but each of us copes in unique ways. There is no right way to get through something painful.

Yet, as long as we don’t give up, we will get through it together! Let’s cheer each other on! God’s got this. With Him, nothing is impossible! 

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Father God, thanks for being our refuge and hiding place. Thanks for giving us Your strength! Please protect us and help us trust You more. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: How has social distancing affected you? Has it been difficult or are you glad for the ‘break’? How can you encourage your family, friends, neighbors, and community?

Task: Fear is a normal reaction, but we don’t have to let it run our lives. When you feel afraid, challenge those thoughts and feelings with God’s Word!

 

Posted on in Being Gracious, Finding Grace Weekly Recap, Miscellaneous, Perseverance

Finding Grace #212

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 felt smoother than last week! This week, I received some solid answers about Lydia’s child care, in that they will continue offering services. I am really thankful for their efforts to provide continuity of care. I am also grateful for God’s provision while I work.

The week started off with gray skies but turned out sunny and bright. With Jesus, we are never without HOPE!! Lydia and I saw several birds this week, including a robin, a sparrow, and several geese. Thank You, Lord!

On Thursday night, I was also able to video chat with some ladies in my small group from church. It was fun to see parts of everyone’s houses and hear how they are coping. I’m grateful we can support each other through prayer and encouragement.

One afternoon, Lydia and I saw our neighbors outside enjoying the relatively warm weather. It has been a while since we connected, so we took the opportunity to catch up with them (from ~6 feet away!). It was fun and felt at least a little more like normal!

Because we canceled plans to visit family in Illinois, we switched gears and decided to meet virtually. Last night, we met with everyone online via Zoom! Although we were in four states and two timezones, we had a fun time laughing and visiting for ~two hours!

This week, Lydia was able to do some practice school work online. Her actual coursework will resume online next week. It will be an adjustment, perhaps, but I am glad for this option. Really, it adds another layer of resiliency for our school district! We will get through this together, and I bet many of the kids will remember this as a positive time!

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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)!