Tag: neighbors

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

Finding Grace #520

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 relatively slow and calm!

Lydia and I both had Monday night off for Presidents’ Day. I had an orthodontic appointment, which went well. Otherwise, we mostly relaxed and got caught up around the house.

Work was predictably busy, but that’s nothing new! We celebrated a coworker’s birthday, had a few meetings, and had lots of good patients. I was asked to work a full day on Friday to help provide coverage. I’m glad I did because I ended up seeing several patients!

The weather turned cold and snowy again this week! Of course, it is still only February, so what do we expect? I didn’t need to do much shoveling, since my snow service took care of the driveway, and my kind neighbors did the sidewalks!

Lydia was sick on Friday, so she stayed home from school. She also skipped her Speech tournament today. She has been working so hard, and I think her body just needed a break. Thankfully, she is feeling better now.

Today, I ran a few errands while Lydia rested. Otherwise, I did some Saturday things and then relaxed. We might watch a movie tonight!

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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, Gratitude, Life is Short, Miscellaneous, Parenting, Perseverance, Pivot

Finding Grace #513

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 quieter than expected, but still good! I worked one full day (Monday) and then only two-and-a-half hours on Tuesday. Lydia has been sick on and off since the Friday before Christmas, so we’ve mostly been staying home. 

We were invited to see the Trans Siberian Orchestra concert with friends, but we had to skip it because Lydia was sick. It would have been really cool, but it was for the best! We also canceled an appointment and two get-togethers with friends. Thankfully, we can reschedule those!

With Lydia down, I had some “extra” time to do quiet activities around the house. (I had already taken off Wednesday and Friday, plus had off Thursday anyway.) I caught up on some paperwork, read some books, started my next online course for church, cooked some meals, deep-cleaned a few areas, and exercised. It was really nice to have unhurried time.

My neighbors on either side of us were really kind to help clear my sidewalks this week. I cleared some snow before dawn, knowing the snow company would clear the main driveway. Later, I left work an hour early on Monday to do the sidewalks before my chiropractor appointment (instead of after), but the two men had already done them! I was so grateful and took some cookies to each of them. Plus, it was good to check in with each family and thank them for being good neighbors!

Well, Lydia was in bed most of the week and is starting to feel better now. I think we will watch church online tomorrow, just in case she is still contagious. Hopefully, next week everything will be back to normal!

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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, Gratitude, Kindness, Life is Short, Miscellaneous, Travel

Finding Grace #504

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 Autumn Gold photo and picture

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

Happy November!! This week was full, but also fun.

My neck and shoulders are feeling better day by day. I was able to do more exercise this week, and I think that helps them, too! As it has been said, motion is lotion. 🙂

The weather was again windy, cloudy, and drizzly. One day, we also had some frost! As a matter of principle, I try not to wear my winter coat as long as possible. The longer I put it off, the shorter winter seems to be. So, I made it through October at least! I did put my coat in my car, just in case I need it. 😉

I had an important appointment this week… Most likely in January, I will be starting what will be a few years of orthodontic care. It’s something that has been brought up for decades, but I only recently learned more about what that would entail. I see people every week with mouth and tooth issues, so I would like to avoid anything like that! Perhaps I will share more later, but for now, I have peace and am trying not to think about the pain and awkwardness too much, lol. I appreciate your prayers!

Work was busy with lots of little fires to put out. But I kept a good attitude and just tackled things as they came. Our dietitian team had fun dressing up as Dominos for Halloween!

Lydia had an orchestra concert on Thursday, with a Halloween theme. It was fun to listen to the 6-12th graders each perform some classic scary songs! Just about everyone dressed up, which means I got my money’s worth for her honeybee costume! She’s worn it at least three times already!

Lydia joined some friends for trick-or-treat, while I passed out candy at home. I didn’t have a ton of kids, but I enjoyed seeing those I did! It is a good time to catch up with neighbors, too!

Today, we traveled an hour south to Wahpeton to see my Aunt Terry, who is there visiting her mom’s extended family. This has been a little tradition for us the last few years. This time, we met for breakfast at a local truck stop and caught up for a couple of hours. Lydia and I also just happened to see “the world’s largest catfish,” too!

After that, we did our usual Saturday things, and I studied for my class at church. I also tried on some new winter gear for the season. After fifteen years in Fargo, I needed some upgrades!

PSA: Don’t forget to turn your clocks back one hour tonight!

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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, Food and Nutrition, Gratitude, Journey of Grace, Life is Short, Miscellaneous, Prayer

Finding Grace #495

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 Monarch Echinacea photo and picture

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

This was a great week, and I saw God work all around me!

On Monday, I started a ministry training class at church. We will be covering two courses this semester and two next semester. It will be a commitment, and also a great opportunity. I don’t know all that God has in store for me, but I am excited to learn and grow!

Work was steady but really good. There is always a lot going on, but it always feels worthwhile. I am happy to be where God has me, making a difference!

On Tuesday, I had an appointment which has me thinking about possibilities and answered prayers. I might have a decision to make, but I am still researching the information presented. I am grateful for how God guides and cares for me!

This week, I received garden-fresh beets and carrots from a friend at work. I roasted them last night, and they are delicious. After that, a neighbor gave us some freshly-picked sweet corn! I love it when people share the bounty of the season!

I woke up early this morning with lots of energy and ideas. I decided to organize a few spots around the house and started right away. I did not complete all that I wanted to do, but now I have a plan. 😉 I also mowed, did laundry, and cut up watermelon. With the long weekend, I hope to make more progress!

This afternoon, Lydia and I attended a little friend’s third birthday party. It was fun to see how much she has changed in one year! I pray God will do mighty things in her life and that she will one day trust in Him as her Lord and Savior.

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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, 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 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.

Posted on in Finding Grace Weekly Recap, Gratitude, Miscellaneous

Finding Grace #452

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 Path Trees photo and picture

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

This was a really good week!

On Wednesday, Lydia was not feeling the best and decided to stay home in the evening from youth group. She texted me early, so I had some extra time to vote early ahead of next week. I went to the county courthouse since I was close by and got in and out right away!

Halloween was on Thursday. My coworkers and I dressed up as dalmations and one of them was Cruella Deville. It was pretty funny! Later in the evening, I passed out candy while Lydia went trick-or-treating with a friend! I always enjoy seeing neighbors and their little ones.

This week, I am happy to report that I qualified for a standing desk at work! I am really grateful and hope it will improve my physical well-being and complement the mobility work I am doing at home. My goal is to spend at least half the day standing at work, but I might have to build up to it first and adjust to sitting for patient education sessions.

Lydia had a day off school on Friday, and we went shopping after work. I had to make some returns, and we looked for a few select items. It was a little rainy, but we were thankful it wasn’t snowing! 

Today, Lydia and I saw an early showing of The Best Christmas Pageant Ever. It’s officially in theaters next weekend, and we recommend it!

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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, Finding Grace Weekly Recap, Gratitude, Kindness, Life is Short, Miscellaneous, Prayer

Finding Grace #445

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 Butterfly Flower photo and picture

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

This was a fun week full of various social interactions, some planned and unplanned!

I saw a monarch butterfly; I don’t recall the last time I saw one in person! I’m sure I will notice more now that I am aware.

This week, we had another birthday celebration at work. I also enjoyed some good conversation and a couple of lunchtime walks with various coworkers. I am grateful to work with a fabulous group of ladies!

Lydia has naturally curly hair, but we had fun straightening it this week. It was just a whim, not an everyday thing. She has asked to try it many times, and I found a way to do it easily. I don’t expect to do it often, but she was happy when all her friends noticed! 🙂

On Wednesday, I attended an informational meeting at Lydia’s school for a cool opportunity in the Spring. I saw one of her friends, a girl from our neighborhood. They were good friends in grade school, but during COVID, they ended up on different paths. In middle school, they have grown close again. The mom and I got to catch up this week, and I am grateful for another family cheering us on!

On Friday, I mowed again after work since the next several days will be busy. I think the weather is starting to change, so I hope I won’t need to mow too many more times!

Last night and today have a bit of a whirlwind. Last night, Lydia went to hang out with a friend. When I went to pick her up, I talked with the girl’s parents for quite a while, discovering we have some mutual friends. We had such a fun time laughing and playing with their puppy. I even asked for their input on something, and God answered a prayer by giving me peace of mind. Then, I came home and had a good long conversation with my uncle for an hour! It was also very good to chat with him, though it was a late night before an early morning commitment.

Today, we had a special church event in the morning. It was a celebration of sorts and an opportunity to encourage volunteers. We had some yummy food and heard a good message from a visiting pastor. I am grateful for all God has doing!

Tonight, we are meeting up with my Aunt Terry! She came from Illinois to see some of her extended family as she did in 2021. It will be wonderful to see her!

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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, Gratitude, Kindness, Little Free Library, Miscellaneous

Finding Grace #444

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 Orange Flowers Flowers photo and picture

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

This was a fairly peaceful week! 

We enjoyed having Monday off for Labor Day. I used it as a free day for the most part! I caught up with a few small projects but also tried a new recipe, read a book, and played a game with Lydia. It was fun just to spend time together!

Work went well Tuesday through Friday. I had friendly patients and did meaningful work. One of my coworkers returned from maternity leave, so catching up with her was fun! We also celebrated someone’s birthday, and it was my turn to bring a treat! I made magic cookie bars, and they were a hit. Yum!

This week, a new family moved into the house across the street. We brought some cookies and met some of the family. One of the girls is about Lydia’s age. I hope to get to know them all better!

Yesterday, after work, I ran a few errands and then decided to mow. The grass was indeed long enough, but it was also a beautiful day in the 70s! I enjoyed being outside. As I was mowing, two of the kids across the street stopped by to check out my little free library. They said they love to read!

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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)!