Tag: no excuses

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

Sprinkles, Leaves, and Kindness

A couple of Sunday mornings ago, we were preparing for church when Lydia had an ‘accident’ in the kitchen. She was not hurt, but when she reached up into the cupboard for the cinnamon-sugar shaker for her toast. In a flash, Lydia touched a small condiment container full of tiny sprinkles, which immediately crashed out all over the counter, sink, and floor.

“Mo-ooooom!” Lydia yelled. She needed help.

I was still getting ready for the day but rushed out to see what happened. I was a bit angry when I saw sprinkles in every direction, but tried to stay calm and just started cleaning up.

It took about twenty minutes to move aside (and rewash) a few dishes on the drying rack, shake off a package of English muffins, and clean out the toaster. Yes, sprinkles were EVERYWHERE.  I found them on the stove, under the blender, in the sink, and on the floor.

Of course, this made us a little late to church, and honestly, I was still a little upset. I felt Lydia should have seen it coming and been more careful. Similar ‘accidents’ have happened in the last few weeks, where she drops something because she wasn’t paying attention.

But mostly, I was annoyed that I ‘always’ have to clean things up. A parent’s job never ends! Lydia helped, but I did the majority of the work because I could see more of the mess.

Now, Lydia is fairly conscientious, as am I. A touch of discipline usually goes a long way for her. Thus, I have to manage my emotions, so she doesn’t take them to heart. I can’t prevent all the world’s problems, but I can prevent her from taking on my anger or drama and turning it into fear. Been there, done that!

We talked about it on the drive to church because we needed to clear the air. I’m so glad we did because we had a good time worshipping God together!

Later that day, Lydia and I took went on our Autumn Adventure. I took a cute picture of her throwing up some leaves in the woods. It was like a ‘ticker tape parade,’ and I loved seeing the joy on her face. Then, we went to eat and had a fabulous time.

Now, I could have let the stress of the morning stop us from having fun. But, I extended grace to Lydia, and it made all the difference. In other news, I found more tiny sprinkles all throughout the week. 😉

Well, you may have heard the saying, “Throw kindness around like confetti.” To me, that implies an abundance of generosity and goodness toward others. It also implies celebration. But, I never thought about it in the context of parenting! 😉

Truthfully, kindness isn’t the same as being nice. It’s loving someone enough to tell them what they need to hear, or show them tough love.

So… last night, when I was writing this blog post, guess what I found in the kitchen. Yep, a solitary white sprinkle! This time, I just smiled and moved on.

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God, thanks for Your lovingkindness, which knows no bounds. You are always quick to forgive and extend us grace. Help us share Your love with everyone we meet; may kindness spread just like sprinkles… everywhere! In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Question: How can you ‘throw kindness around like confetti’ today?

Task: Here’s a simple double-check for you: Make sure all the lids are tight on all your pantry and refrigerator items. You’re welcome. 😉

Posted on in Gratitude, Life is Short, Miscellaneous, Perseverance

A Few Loose Screws

Lately, I have done a lot of hands-on work around the house. I have moved benches and deck furniture, and I put up the Christmas lights as I prepare for winter. I have taken a few trips to the recycling station, too.

In addition, I have taken apart several things to sell. These include a table and four chairs, two ottomans, and a weight bench. I was making room for other priorities. Most of the items were fairly easy, but it was challenging to tear the table apart. It hadn’t been moved in twelve years, so the screws were in tight.

And, I have put together some things, too. These include a dolly and two pieces of exercise equipment (upgrades for my personal gym!). The dolly was actually the toughest thing of all because the metal just would not cooperate and the directions were a little confusing! I did manage to get a couple of bruises, but nothing to worry about.

All in all, I followed all the directions, and thankfully, I haven’t had many parts left over!

Free photos of Stainless steel screw

As I was piecing together one item, the directions mentioned how if certain screws weren’t in just right, it could cause an accident, or even death. They were tiny screws!

I made sure to double-check all the nuts, bolts, and screws. Just to be sure. I wouldn’t want to put my weight on something and have it fall apart.

In fact, I was incredulous that my safety could depend on the smallest component. A few loose screws could be quite a problem!

Then, I got to thinking… God holds all things together through Jesus and the power of His Word; no screws needed! Not just my life or yours, but the entire world. He is more than capable!

Whether it is a lot of steps or just a few, God always knows just what needs to be done. He wrote the directions, or guide, to Life! We can trust Him to hold the full weight of whatever we are going through. He will protect us but also catch us if we happen to fall. He’s got us covered!

Ultimately, God loves us even when we have ‘a few screws loose.’ 😉 We fall short, but He accepts us as we are. He can take all of our mess and make something strong, beautiful, and purposeful!

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God, thanks for covering us with Your wisdom, strength, grace, and love. You never let us down! Help us trust You every step of the way. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: Do you enjoy hands-on tasks, like putting together items around the house or refinishing furniture? What are your favorite tools?

Task: Next time you buy something with a lot of pieces to assemble, reflect on how God organizes the pieces of your life, too. You are a perfectly designed masterpiece (Ephesians 2:10)!

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

Finding Grace #343

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 photos of Oak

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

This was a really good week! I enjoyed talking with family, including my parents who live in Florida. Hurricane Ian brought wind and rain, but they were protected. The hurricane was not a direct hit for them. There is much to be grateful for, and my prayers are with those who were affected.

All week long, I was behind on charting at work. I tried not to be too stressed, however. Several of my coworkers helped out, as I kept getting patients which took time away from getting caught up. One day, they took four of my easier patients, and then I got three more since I am in the walk-in clinic. It was a little funny, and I am glad to be part of such a great team of ladies!

I happily noticed our new little neighbor girl was wearing Lydia’s old winter coat! The mornings certainly felt chilly in the 50s and 60s, but of course, it will only get colder! I was honored when the mom called me simply to check on me. She hadn’t made it to the bus stop because of the chilly weather, but she wanted to make sure I was doing well and having a good week. That little surprise made my day!

My medical test went well, and I received excellent news that everything is normal. I had a follow-up on Friday, and my provider said I didn’t need to come back! She made a couple of recommendations to ease my gut symptoms, and I will be implementing those. All in all, it is a huge relief knowing that I don’t have to make big changes. Praise God!

This week, I did some hands-on projects. I bought and put together a dolly/cart and used it to move and assemble some gym equipment. I had asked someone for help, but they weren’t available when I was. It will be a couple of weeks until they are free, and I decided not to wait any longer. The equipment was fairly heavy going down the stairs, which ironically made me feel strong and accomplished just moving it! I prayed for God to help me, and He did! I am proud of myself for doing the hard work and getting it done!

As I drove around town this week, I noticed some of the beautiful fall colors starting to pop! It’s such a pretty time of year! I mowed yesterday, but only did the long parts. Some of the grass didn’t really need it! Lydia was also glad she didn’t have to help after all! 😉

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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, Food and Nutrition, Gratitude, Life is Short, Miscellaneous, Perseverance, Wisdom, Worship

Sweet Relief

This week, I had a simple medical test/procedure. It was fairly straightforward and, as such, almost not worth mentioning. But, I wanted to share a little of my experience in case it benefits someone else… 

In short, I have had mild gut issues over many years. I had similar issues as a kid, in college, and before/after Dave died from colon cancer. I don’t know if my symptoms are related to internalizing stress or my Hashimoto’s thyroid disease, an autoimmune disease I have had for twenty-five years.

Indeed, I mentioned my concerns to my doctor after Dave’s funeral, but then talked myself out of further testing when she offered it. I was really emotional at the time and didn’t want deal with it. I don’t recommend that avoidant approach, however!

Earlier this year, I got my back in better shape and realized my gut could also use some help. I had gotten so used to the discomfort that I just assumed it was normal.

To clarify, my symptoms are somewhat normal… no overt signs of disease. But, some people are just more sensitive than others, and I tend to have gut discomfort when others don’t (even when we eat the same foods). The gut is known as the ‘second brain,’ so when it is not functioning correctly, it can impact quite a lot of other things!

Free photos of Manzana

Well, this year, I again spoke up at my annual physical in May. This time, I requested a referral to gastroenterology. I appreciated that both of the providers listened to my concerns, though I was still a little nervous.

In June, we decided to do some more testing, which occurred this week. The prep was less than glamorous, but the results were “pretty darn good” to quote the doctor running the test! 🙂

Leading up to the test, I kept my focus on Jesus and took on His peace, which is freely given. He is the Source of my life and strength, so it is always wise to trust Him.

On the day of the test, everyone was extremely friendly and helpful. They were so kind and knowledgeable that it put my mind at ease. I was able to relax and go with the flow. It was a much different feeling than when I waited for Dave’s test results all those years ago.

When the doctor introduced herself, she agreed it was good to get tested since autoimmune diseases can often run together. I briefly mentioned my concerns, especially since Dave had zero symptoms at his colon cancer diagnosis. (Mine was a test to rule out a wide variety of potential illnesses!) She was so compassionate, and I was glad I chose her to do the test!

Free photos of Fruit

I still have those mild symptoms – and a follow-up for potential next steps – but ALL my results came back clear! I don’t have celiac disease, Crohn’s disease, an ulcer, micro-colitis, diverticulosis, H Pylori, cancer, or anything else. Whew, I am so relieved!! It is still possible to get a generic diagnosis (like IBS or a food intolerance), but I can’t self-diagnose those things. Thankfully, we ruled out all the major red flags!

My hunch has been that it just will come down to paying more attention to my food choices and how they affect me. I already do this to some degree; as a Registered Dietitian, it’s right up my alley. Fiber and water are key! But, even though I eat well and enjoy most foods, my gut may think differently.  😉

Other good strategies will include ongoing stress management to lower chronic inflammation; continuing my exercise routine, so my gut runs well; and getting adequate sleep to restore my system each night. This is easier said than done, but I am committed to doing the work it takes to feel good consistently.

Professionally, I always tell my patients: “You are your best advocate, and you know your body best.” Today, I am thankful I was brave, despite my earlier fear. I am glad I advocated for myself, and I am grateful for the good results. We only get one body, and we have the privilege of caring for it, as a Temple.

All in all, I wanted to praise God and to share a little— but not too much– with you about my health journey (a.k.a. my Forty-Year Tune-Up)! Also, I want to give a shout-out to the three women doctors and their staff who have helped me.

Thank you for reading and celebrating with me!

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God, You are so gracious and merciful!! Thanks for protecting me and giving me peace of mind. May I continue to make healthy choices that honor You. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: What part of this post resonated with you? Do you need to advocate for yourself or someone else?

Tasks: Listen to “The Healing“ by Blanca and Dante Bowe. Sing out your praises to God! He is Jehovah-Rapha, the God Who Heals.

Posted on in Being Gracious, Gratitude, Kindness, Miscellaneous, Parenting

Immigrant Introductions

Lydia rides the bus to school each week, and I am grateful the bus stop is in front of our house. I, along with a few other parents, stand out there with the kids to make sure everything goes well. I don’t really worry about Lydia, but I do enjoy using that time to catch up with some of the neighbors.

Recently, I noticed two new kids running to get on the bus, a boy and a girl. It happened to be pajama day at school, so the little girl had a cute pink robe. It provided warmth and looked cozy on the slightly cooler morning!

A few days later, the father joined the kids at the bus stop. I introduced myself to him, as well as the kids. I will have to work on learning the kids’ names; I couldn’t quite make them out, even after I asked them to spell them. But, smiles go a long way in these instances. 🙂

Thankfully, their dad had a name I recognized right away. It was similar to some of my other African friends’ names, representing a character quality or similar word in English, such as Courage, Boldness, or Blessing.

Free photos of Children

The father is a specialty nurse at a local hospital. Originally from South Africa, they just arrived in America less than three months ago. I look forward to hearing more about their journey, and I was quick to welcome them. But, I also put myself in their shoes. 

I offered to help, if they need something as they acclimate to their new surroundings. I also asked if they were ready for the winter. The father said he had “never set foot on snow.” I don’t think he fully understands just how cold and windy winter will be!

Winter is just around the corner, and I want them to be prepared. I asked if he needed help finding snow gear. I swapped phone numbers with him and sent some links/pictures of snow pants. I also listed other items, such as hats, gloves, and snow boots. He was grateful.

I wouldn’t normally mention that after just meeting someone, but it seemed important to make sure this family has the heads-up. Lydia and I did this a few weeks ago because I know how fast the season can change and don’t want to be caught off-guard.

Earlier this week, I wanted to check in with my new neighbors yesterday at the bus stop. The kids are doing well, but the dad was at work. Thankfully, today, I met their mom! Talk about perfect timing!

We made introductions, and I asked her about the snow pants. 🙂 I invited her in to show her what I meant. When I opened the closet door, I saw Lydia’s old coat from the last two years! I was so happy because I thought we had donated it, and it was still in good condition! I offered it to her, and she was so sweet and grateful. She quickly understood what I meant about snow pants and coats needing to be thick.

We also exchanged numbers, and she wrote down her kids names so I could see them and pronounce them correctly. I answered some questions and asked if they had found a church, a grocery store, etc. Thankfully, they have been able to find a place to worship and shop!

It is fun to learn about different cultures, welcoming foreigners and making new friends. Sometimes there is controversy if we should allow certain immigrants to come to the United States. That’s beyond the scope of this post, and while I don’t have all the answers, I can certainly help my neighbor. That’s always been important to Jesus.

Of course, it is wise to be cautious; we don’t have to help every person we meet. Though, in this case, I felt comfortable, and it seems like the right thing to do.

I am interested to see how it all plays out and will let the Lord lead me as I try to be a friendly face to these new friends. I want to learn more of their story!

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God, thanks for my new neighbors and the opportunity to show them kindness. Help me be a good witness to them, as they acclimate to their new home and country. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: Do you enjoy meeting people from other countries? Do you have any fun stories to share?

Task: Open your eyes to see the people around you. Be willing to speak up, ask good questions, and help out if the Lord leads you.

Posted on in Gratitude, Life is Short, Miscellaneous, Wisdom

On Trimming Trees

Yesterday, two of my trees got a haircut, and it really spruced up the place! #punalert

When Dave and I moved into our house in 2010, we planted two trees on the boulevard right away. One was a linden, and one was a maple.

Well, the trees have grown quite well in the last twelve years! I have done some pruning over several seasons, but I don’t know all the ins and outs of tree trimming. So, this year, I decided to get some professional help! It was time.

The trees are big enough that it was getting difficult to see around them when on the sidewalk and pulling out of my driveway. And even just walking on the sidewalk meant you’d have to move over to the far side to avoid getting poked. Some of the branches hang low but actually start much higher. I didn’t know if it was good to cut those ones, or if it risked ruining the shape of the tree. I’m glad I called in the pros!

Safety is one concern, but there are also city requirements for those trees since technically, they own them. (Homeowners do all the work, but we do get a credit for planting them originally.)

Yesterday, the three workers came to trim my trees. I was able to take a couple of hours off work since they require the homeowner to be present. Thankfully, it was a beautiful morning!

They cut several branches, which might sound extreme, but they will continue to grow several more feet! The trees are better off because they can use that energy to move upward rather than maintain the weightier branches below.

Growth is difficult sometimes, but it’s even more challenging if we hold on to what no longer serves us. It’s good to let go of some things in order to keep moving forward (or upward, if you are a tree!).

A few takeaways for if you are trimming trees or just want to keep growing:

  1. Take baby steps.  You can learn a ton, but sometimes you just need to get it done. Started slowly, and the rest will become clear.
  2. Timing is important. Things happen in seasons… for a reason. Sometimes it matters if you are too early or too late.
  3. Know when to call in the professionals. These are the specialists who can answer questions, help with the tough stuff, and set you up for success. In life, that might also look like a counselor, a teacher, or even a mentor (who has experience with what you are facing). Be willing to ask for help.
  4. Dress for the work ahead. In most professions, clothing is functional. Would you really trust a maintenance worker dressed like they didn’t like to get dirty? On the other hand, would you want to eat food prepared by a chef with dirty clothes?!
  5. The right tools are key. Chainsaws, knives with jagged teeth, long poles, and pulleys, were all used yesterday. Each job requires its own gear. Speaking of tools, don’t forget to put on your spiritual armor (read Ephesians 6:10-17)!
  6. Don’t be afraid of difficult work; it’s worth the effort to get results. Pruning hurts, but it is necessary.
  7. Don’t beat yourself up for what you didn’t know. Trust God has it all under control. He can take care of any mistakes and use them for your good!
  8. God does the ultimate pruning. Stay close to Him, so you are on the right side of the cutting (read John 15:1-5)!

Well, I am so happy with the results and noticed an immediate improvement! The trees should be good for a couple of years before some maintenance pruning. That gives them plenty of time to keep growing!

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God, thanks for pruning me. Help me stay close to You, the True Vine and Source of Life! In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Question: What is your favorite type of tree?

Tasks: Read John 15:1-5 and contemplate how God may be pruning you!

Posted on in Finding Grace Weekly Recap, Gratitude, Miscellaneous

Finding Grace #339

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 photos of Wheat fields

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

This week was a good week, made even better by the excellent weather! Slightly cool mornings and 70-80s in the afternoon. The sunshine and blue skies are absolutely perfect. It should be like this for a couple more months, give or take!

Work was busy but good. Right now, I am seeing both my own scheduled patients and walk-in patients. There can be a lot of traffic in the hallway, which makes it noisier than I’d like and a little difficult to concentrate. When I am not with patients, I keep my door ajar so people know I am available. But, I don’t really mind since I know it is temporary; it’s good to keep me on my toes! I actually volunteered to help my team this way, and it does make the days go fast!

Yesterday, I stayed at work an extra hour to finish some paperwork. I didn’t get everything done, but I least I tried. Then, I went to get a facial! Some friends had given me a gift card a while back, and I decided to pamper myself. It was a fun way to relax! Then, I went shopping for some household items and used some coupons before they expired.

Today, we cleaned and mowed. I changed a light bulb on the stairs with a ladder all by myself and took apart a table to hopefully sell. Then, Lydia and I put up the outdoor Christmas lights early! It sure beats a freezing cold, windy day in late November! We also cleared out some cobwebs for the umpteenth time from our porch/entryway. It’s that time of year, I guess! 😉

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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, Journey of Grace, Life is Short, Miscellaneous, Perseverance, Pivot, Wisdom

Like A Mother Hen

On our recent Montana trip, we saw a grouse family on our long hike up Sentinel Mountain. These birds, also called partridges, were along the trail and then fanned out when we came along. There were about seven birds, and most of them must’ve been babies.

The mother called them to her as we passed by. It was cool to watch as they flocked back to her. She stood in one place and let them come to her, but I imagine she would’ve gone berserk if we had come closer!

These birds reminded me of the partridges we have at my house. For some reason, lately, they have been all over my yard! It makes me smile and laugh when I see them all waddle across the street into my yard. Occasionally, I have seen them by my free little library… maybe they like to read?!

Anyway, it is fun to watch the birds, even though they all run or fly away when I come around the corner. So funny! Soon the weather will change, and I wonder where they will end up.

Now, I could make this post about mothers or mothering… such as how ‘mothers know best’ or ‘mom is always there for you.’ But, for today, I want to keep the focus on Jesus.

In Luke 13:34, NLT, Jesus said, “Jerusalem, Jerusalem, you who kill the prophets and stone those sent to you, how often I have longed to gather your children together, as a hen gathers her chicks under her wings, and you were not willing.”

Jesus was filled with sorrow because His people would rather kill Him instead of turn to Him. He knew the disaster that was coming their way years later when the temple and much of the city were destroyed. He wanted to protect them, and He was saddened at their resistance.

Jesus said all that about Jerusalem and the Jewish people, but His words are a good reminder for us, too. When chaos comes, who do we run to? What is our gut reaction?

 It’s easy to turn to friends or turn on the television, but only Jesus saves.

We can find temporary comfort in the things of this world, but only Jesus brings peace that lasts. When you don’t know what to do, ask Jesus.

Better yet, seek Him first! Find where He is and join Him. Then, you for sure will be on the right path! His grace covers you, and He will make a way for you.

God sees you and knows you…even better than your mother. 😉 He understands exactly what you need even before you figure it out! 

Run to Him. Lean on Him. Let Him protect you and lead you. He is faithful.

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God, thanks for drawing us near and holding us close. May we not turn away from you, but run to You instead. May all we do glorify You. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: Do you like to birdwatch? Do you have a favorite bird? Do you find yourself running to God in hard times, or do you try to solve your own problems?

Tasks: Grab a bird identification book and put a pair of binoculars in your car, so you are ready when you see some cool birds! Remember, draw near to God and He will draw near to you!

Posted on in Being Gracious, Gratitude, Journey of Grace, Kindness, Life is Short, Miscellaneous, Parenting, Perseverance, Personality, Pivot, Wisdom

Comfort Zones

I read a quote this week by Pastor Levi Lusko, and it said, “Comfort zones don’t keep your life safe, they keep your life small.” Wow. As someone, who often prays for God’s protection and safety, this spoke to me!

As Lydia starts her last year of elementary school this week, I am thankful for the (relative) status quo of this year. It is bound to be a transitional time, but still, more of the same. Some of her friends were redistricted to a different school, but Lydia got to stay where she’s been. I am glad for her, but also helping her understand how others may feel.

I can foresee some changes on the not-so-distant horizon (also known as middle school next year). But, we will address those needs when they come. For now, I am going to enjoy each moment that Lydia (still) hugs me in front of her friends. Each moment she laughs at my jokes or tells me all the things I am doing well and that she’s proud of me.

Those are all good things, and far be it from me to rush into the next season. At the same time, I don’t want to run away from challenges. Not all problems are bad, if they push us to be our best!

Recently, Lydia and I have been discussing growth. Physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually. Growth means many things, but I think about beating stagnancy with learning, serving, and giving. If nothing changes, nothing changes!

Growth is possible when we lean on God and trust Him to bring us through. If we fight the growing process or drag our feet, we just prolong the test. As Joyce Meyer once mentioned the Holy Spirit lets us repeat the test as many times as it takes to get it right! Of course, the sooner we “get it,” the faster we can get on to new things!

If we are wise, we will use both comfort zones and challenges to draw close to Jesus.

Even with things staying mostly the same this school year, we still have plenty of opportunities for growth. Each day has its own challenges and troubles, and some days we are just glad to stay afloat. I am really grateful Jesus is with us!

You know, praying for safety is good, but perhaps it is better to pray for God’s will be done in each season and situation. There is always something to learn. We can’t expect life to be easy, but we can ask and expect God to show up and fight on our behalf.

Again, if you are in a comfort zone, that may be just fine. But if you’ve been there for a while, God might just be calling you to grow. Don’t be afraid; He is with you. Lean into His grace and let Him lead you to greater things!

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God, You are so good! Thanks for leading us with love and kindness. Don’t let us stay stagnant, but help us lean into Your grace during each challenge. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: Are you in your comfort zone? Are you needing to trust God through a challenge?

Tasks: Start each day with Jesus! Be grateful for when the days are calm and even-keeled, and be grateful when life rocks your boat and challenges arise! Be willing to grow and be stretched!!

Posted on in Gratitude, Life is Short, Miscellaneous, Perseverance, Travel

Forty and Fabulous

Last week, Lydia and I spent a fun-packed few days in Missoula, Montana visiting some dear friends and celebrating my fortieth birthday! Birthdays just aren’t the same without Dave, so this year, I really wanted to do something special. I am very glad I did!

We went to visit one of my best friends, who happens to be one of my college roommates. Katie’s husband is like the big brother I never had, and her kids are both around Lydia’s age. It was great to reconnect since it’s been several years since we met in person! (This is the same Katie in my book, and we have had lots of adventures over time!)

We flew in on Wednesday and hung out that evening. The next day, we hiked the “M” and made it to the top of Sentinel Mountain and looked down in the valley at Hellgate where the pioneers came through. It took about four hours in the heat, but we had water and snacks to get us through. We saw some grouse, a redtail hawk, a hummingbird, and a few chipmunks! We also met an 89-year-old woman hiking with her son and some fellow North Dakotans! Later that afternoon, we went to Splash Montana, a water park with slides, pools, and a lazy river. It was the perfect way to wrap up our day.

Earlier on Thursday, we tried to get a reservation to Glacier National Park, but 500+ tickets were sold out in three minutes! It has been on my bucket list for a while, but in the past, it seems something has always come up. So, while I didn’t visit Montana just for Glacier, I really hoped to go. I decided just to leave it in God’s hands, knowing He could work out the details on my behalf.

Eventually, Katie found a boat tour at St. Mary’s Lake that would let us gain entry for Sunday instead. So, that gave us time to regroup and spend my birthday in another awesome way. Yes, on Friday, we went white water rafting!

After a special birthday breakfast, we rafted the Clark Fork River (Alberton Gorge) with Katie and her kids. Our twenty-year-old guide was very experienced, and no one fell out! We saw three beavers swimming and sunning themselves, as well as a few bald eagles and a huge golden eagle! It was absolutely breathtaking floating through the mountains. The only other time I had been white water rafting was on the famous New River Gorge in West Virginia right before I turned twelve. So, it seemed like a fitting way to celebrate my fortieth!

On Saturday, we attended a ladies’ self-defense class in the morning, and then we went ziplining through the mountains! The course was part of the off-season attraction at a ski resort. It was beautiful flying through the woods, and we had fun racing each other! That evening, some of the neighbors came over for a party! I made a charcuterie board and cheese board to share. It was so cool that one of the neighbors made a carrot cake and a chocolate espresso cake (as well as a cute mini version for me!). She enjoyed reading my book last fall, and so it was an honor for both of us to meet!

On Sunday, we drove three hours to Glacier National Park! It was even prettier than I imagined! We saw glaciers and fire damage, but also waterfalls, fields of flowers, bighorn sheep, and even a moose swimming! We swam in the icy river, too. Actually, the others went swimming, and I fell in while wading. But I think that counts, right?!

All in all, we laughed morning, noon, and night. We stayed up late playing games. We caught some beautiful sunrises and sunsets. We saw magpies, wild turkeys, burros, and a fox, among other animals. My legs are still sore from all the hiking we did, and I wore my swimming suit three of the days we were there! It was just what I needed!

We flew back on Monday, after a brief in Minneapolis-St. Paul. My car was dead, and I flagged down a kind lady who let me borrow her car to jump mine in the airport parking lot after I left the light on last week! We had to connect our two sets of jumper cables, but I was grateful for her willingness to help with no hesitation.

Well, this new decade is off to a great start! I wanted to make this one count, so I don’t look back with regret. It’s easy for me to get stuck in a routine and obligations. But, it occurred to me that occasionally I have to create my own adventure! I only have one life to live, and no one is going to live it for me!
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God, thank You for forty, fabulous years! Thanks for being so kind and gracious. Thanks for the beauty of Nature and dear friends. Help me to live with an expectation of Your goodness. In Jesus’ Name, Amen
Questions: What adventures have you been on this summer? What is your favorite National Park?
Tasks: Live every day like it is an adventure. Look for ways to step out of your usual routine and have some fun. Walk freely in God’s grace and love!