Tag: Peace

Posted on in Fear/Don't Fake Brave, Finding Grace Weekly Recap, Miscellaneous, Parenting, Prayer

Finding Grace #185

I love giving God a shout out for what He has done. We don’t do that nearly enough!

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

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

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

This was a full, but good, week!

The weather turned quite warm again, which was a nice change from last week. Still, I am ready for cool weather. That said, I am not quite ready for snow. I still need to finish outdoor chores, like getting my patio furniture inside!  I did notice my trees are starting to change color this week!

Work went well and was steadily busy. I felt helpful and productive! I also had orientation on Thursday and Friday, because, in August, I couldn’t make the timing work until Lydia was in school. It was long but worthwhile. I enjoyed learning more about the history and mission of the VA, and the many important services we provide.

Lydia had a good week and let it slip (twice!) that she is really enjoying the Y program, after all. I happily teased her about it because her original attitude was pretty negative. Thanks for your prayers! 

Tornado sirens went off last night after dinner. I was not concerned because I was tracking the thunderstorm and knew it wouldn’t last long. Lydia was a little scared, though, which gave us good reason to snuggle on the couch downstairs. We talked about big topics like “if I were to die, what would happen,” wills, guardianship, and life insurance. Along with grief and death, we are used to talking about the “what ifs” in our house. Lydia’s fear soon left as she realized God is in control and we are as prepared as we can be. It was really sweet to hear Lydia pour out her heart to Jesus and receive His peace.

Today, I caught up with another widowed, single mom friend over the phone. We connected years ago, and she encouraged me after Dave died. She had some questions for me today, and I was able to help her. It was fun to catch up!

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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 Books and Movies I Like, Miscellaneous, Parenting, Perseverance, Prayer, Wisdom, Worship

On Religion vs. Relationship

Recently, Lydia and I have been reading a book series I loved when I was growing up. We just finished reading the fourth book (out of eight) in the Addie McCormick series.

Lydia enjoys the fun adventures, and I enjoy seeing her engage with book characters. She has really gotten into the books! She can relate to some of the same concerns the characters are having, and then we discuss them together.

As a parent, I appreciate how the characters reflect godly principles. In addition to solving mysteries and making friends, they also go to church, pray, and talk about God.

On Monday night, we were reading at bedtime. The main character, Addie, was thinking about the difference between someone who is religious and someone who is a Christian.

Of course, Lydia also wondered about this, so we were able to discuss it in simple terms. I told Lydia, “Yes, we can go to church, pray, give and serve… and still miss Jesus.”

“What?! How is that possible?” Lydia was surprised.

“Well,” I replied, “If we only focus on doing all those things, even though they are good, it’s like me saying, ‘Here’s your dinner, here’s your laundry, here’s your shoes.’ I would be doing all the right mom things, but I wouldn’t necessarily connect with you.”

“Oh, I see,” Lydia said.

I continued, “The difference is when I say, ‘Hey, for dinner, do you want pasta or potatoes? Did you have fun at school today? Do you need help folding your clothes?’ Instead of just serving you, I actually want to talk with you and enjoy being with you.”

Lydia easily understood my point, but it was a timely reminder for me, too.

Whether in life or in faith, it is easy to get caught up in the to-do lists full of never-ending tasks. With our misguided expectations, sometimes, we make life unnecessarily difficult.

Being overwhelmed by all I have to do is my first clue that I should take a step back and reevaluate what I am doing, my priorities.

Has my to-do list become my idol? Has my ‘religion’ become just that? What is really important, and am I doing it? Why or why not?

As we gain perspective, the gift is that we have the ability to make adjustments. However, switching gears requires courage and discernment. It doesn’t just happen!

Thankfully, as soon as we realize we are off track, we can ask God for help and forgiveness. He can redirect our paths and maximize our efforts.

The great part is if we seek His input first, that is relationship instead of religion, we can get where we need to more quickly. And when I bring it all to Jesus, He gives me grace and freedom. His yoke is easy and His burden is light (Matthew 11:30).

Interestingly, no other major religion besides Christianity offers a personal relationship with God. Instead, people are left always trying to earn their salvation. I’m so grateful Jesus, God’s own Son, did all the work for us by dying on the Cross. Thank You, Lord!

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God, thanks for setting us in right relationship with You. Help us focus on loving You and being with You, instead of just doing more things for You. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: Is it easier for you to DO or just BE? Have you accepted God’s free gift of salvation through Jesus Christ?

Task: Haha, just kidding… there is no task for you to DO today. 😉 Lay aside your list, even if only for a few minutes. Then, just spend time with Jesus and soak up His great love for you!

Posted on in Fear/Don't Fake Brave, Finding Grace Weekly Recap, Life is Short, Miscellaneous, Perseverance, Prayer

Finding Grace #184

I love giving God a shout out for what He has done. We don’t do that nearly enough!

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?

So many awesome things happened this week!

We had several days of rain, which I didn’t mind. I was happy for the sunshine when it came, but I really loved running to my car after work and getting soaked from head-to-toe!

On Sunday, I contemplated mowing but knew the rain would make the grass grow even more. I decided to wait until today (Saturday) when the weather improved so I could focus on other things! However, on Tuesday, a friend volunteered to mow for me (again!). Then, he asked if he could trim the two trees in my front yard. This was a blessing and answer to prayer. I had just told a neighbor I needed to figure that out. The trees and my yard look so good!

On Wednesday, I caught up with a dear friend over the phone. We shared our recent updates and successes, along with some prayer requests. It was just what I needed, and I’m grateful for godly friends. Iron sharpens iron!

Then, on Wednesday evening, we started AWANA at church. It is our first year being involved, and Lydia and I both had fun. I have six little kids in my group. I’m praying these kids learn God’s word and learn about His love for them!

After we returned home on Wednesday night, a new friend contacted me for help. We don’t know each other super well, but she needed a safe place to stay overnight while some personal issues were resolved. This friend does not have family nearby, so I was honored she asked. I’m grateful God has given me a house with a spare bedroom to use as a blessing to help others. My friend’s issue resolved and she went home the next morning. She is brave!

This week, my ladies Bible study had a breakthrough of sorts. These friends have grown quite close, but God took our relationship to another level. One lady shared a part of her testimony (how God saved her and forgave all her mistakes). As a result, another friend was finally empowered to share her similar story, too. She has carried her past burdens for many years, and I have been praying she would find relief and forgive herself. It was a true transformation. Our stories of God’s saving grace are such a precious gift! If we are willing, He can use our failures, weaknesses, and mistakes to bring life to others! Thank You, Jesus!

Work went well, and I am still learning new things. Each week, I take on a little more responsibility. I learned about the MOVE! program, covered the nutrition clinic (scheduled appointments), and covered the walk-in clinic while someone was off. I am proud of myself!

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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 Journey of Grace, Miscellaneous, Perseverance, Prayer, Worship

All Good Things

The last few weeks have been exciting and intense, fun and challenging. It’s been quite a ride, and I am loving it! But with so many changes, I need to focus on the little things.

I have only been able to accomplish a few things each evening after work. Sometimes we have evening activities or other obligations, so I’m keeping it simple at home.

We’ve had a lot of leftovers, which really isn’t too far from our normal! 😉

Ironically, even though we are busier than usual, I am not super stressed.

I have been giving myself a lot of grace, which often means only doing what really needs to be done for the next day. That includes meal prep, reviewing Lydia’s school day, etc.

I have cut back on frivolous timewasters (ex. social media). I’ve changed my blog writing days and have saved certain chores for the weekend. Even so, I am confident God has a purpose in this season. I know I am covered by His grace!

Ephesians 2:10 says, ” For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.”

As soon as I heard about my new job, I sensed it was God’s plan for me. Similarly, Lydia’s teacher and the YMCA after-school program were specifically laid out for her this year.

God made plans for me, just as I made plans for Lydia. Yes, we’ve both had to adjust and ‘make room’ for these gifts of God’s grace, but they are worth it!

I have heard all good things about my new place of work, Lydia’s teacher, and the YMCA program. I am not naive to think everything will be perfect, and there certainly are some challenges and learning curves. But I know God has all good things in store for us. 

We just have to ‘walk out’ the plans He has made. So when my dishes sit in the sink or I wait another day (or two or three) to mow… I can still keep my joy because I am covered by God’s grace. That brings me a special peace because I am right where God wants me!

He has made a special planned provision for us during this time, so I am not going to worry about all I can’t or won’t accomplish. Which is a lot! 😉

That doesn’t mean life is easy or trials won’t come. But, I know God will be with me in those times, too. He loves me so much and will help and empower me then, as well.

I know, with God’s help, eventually, the important things will still get done. He will work it all out at the end (Romans 8:28). I am going to praise Him for all good things!

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Heavenly Father, thanks for giving us all good things! You are the Master Planner and have such good plans for us. Give us wisdom and discernment as we walk this path. Draw us close to You. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: What does this season bring for you? Are you keeping the status quo or looking forward to new things?

Tasks: Praise God for all good things!

 

 

Posted on in Finding Grace Weekly Recap, Journey of Grace, Miscellaneous, Parenting, Prayer, Words

Finding Grace #183

I love giving God a shout out for what He has done. We don’t do that nearly enough!

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 really good week!

My parents were safe and dry as Hurricane Dorian passed by the Florida coast. It had major impact elsewhere, however. Thanks for your prayers and support!

Work went well, and I felt like I accomplished a lot. I still have a lot to learn, but it has already been very fulfilling. I can see why God placed me in my role. One morning, I walked in during the ‘honor guard’ for a veteran who just died. It was a touching moment as “Taps” was played in the hallway and everyone stood at attention.

Lydia seems to be adjusting to school and the daycare program! Thanks so much for your prayers. We are both being stretched this year, but I am excited for what God has in store. Lydia doesn’t quite understand how this is good for her just yet. I pray she grows and learns important lessons this year. It may be challenging, but I know it is for the best!

This week, I had lots of important conversations and received several well-timed compliments. At different times, I caught up with five different ladies, building them up and cheering them on. I also heard I was doing a good job at work, was doing well as a mother, and also heard quite a few good things about Lydia at school. We can’t live for praise, but the kind words were just what I needed. They were confirmations that we are on the right path. God has us right where He wants us, and I am so grateful!

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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, Miscellaneous, Perseverance, Prayer, Wisdom

Pray and Prepare

It’s hurricane season and my parents live in Florida! 😮 Hurricane Dorian has come close to breaking records and has already had a major impact.

Recently, as my mom and I were talking, she mentioned the need to have about ten days of food and water on hand, just in case the storm shuts down her city and local resources.

My parents have spent the last week watching the weather forecasts, all while planning for several possible outcomes. Mom said, “We don’t quite know what to expect, so we pray and prepare.” Smart move.

Regarding Dorian’s trajectory, last week, meteorologists mentioned that all they had were educated guesses based on radar and data from previous hurricanes. “We won’t know where it will go or what will happen until it actually hits.”

We now know Dorian hit the Bahamas as a deadly Category 5 hurricane, and then started to weaken. Yet, the wind and rain could still do a lot of damage and bring flooding to several states along the Eastern coast.

We all face uncertainties and storms in life. A hurricane shows up on radar several days before it hits, but tornadoes can happen within a matter of minutes.

Sometimes, we have a long time to adjust to the inevitable, but often we are blindsided by grief and despair. Examples may include long-term terminal illness versus a sudden, accidental death. Both are tragedies.

In planning, it is best to pray AND prepare. Prayer is a priority because we invite God into our situation. He is our Creator and can do the impossible. He is the difference-maker.

God can weaken any storm or turn it away. We trust Him to protect us and provide for us.

At the same time, we would be foolish to ONLY pray. God has given us many resources to use, such as creative thinking, strong bodies, hands to work hard, and other people who offer practical support.

Often, by preparing and helping each other, the impact of life’s storms is minimized. We can build a stronger community when we all come together and help.

Even before disasters strike or hardships come, we can pray, asking for the Lord to intervene. Then, we can use our God-given resources to spread love and encouragement to those in need.

God’s grace shows up in the ‘sweet spot’ of prayer and preparation.

On Monday, I was struck by a hurricane headline that stated ‘Millions united in fear.’ What a misguided scare tactic! We have God Almighty on our side… Regardless of what happens, our Victory is in Jesus!

We do not need to fear when bad times come… Instead, we can live prayerfully and give generously knowing the Lord will provide for us and use us to bless others.

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Heavenly Father, thanks for your provision and protection. Help us to seek You and see the needs of those around us. Help us be a blessing to all we meet. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: Do you have a disaster plan for your home and family? Does everyone understand the plan? Do you regularly practice what to do in an emergency?

Tasks: If you don’t already have a disaster plan, create one! Do this out of wisdom, not fear. Think about all sorts of what-ifs, like fires, floods, tornadoes, and hurricanes. Keep a small store of water, canned foods, blankets, flashlights, and cash on hand.

 

Posted on in Journey of Grace, Life is Short, Miscellaneous, Perseverance, Wisdom

Living Forward

I’m in my second week of work at the Fargo VA. I am loving it so far!

There is quite a bit to learn in my new position, in terms of charting and protocol. Thankfully, I already know the nutrition education piece!

I have started to see a few veterans on my own, with a little supervision on the charting side to make sure I get the hang of it. I don’t want to miss an important detail!

The building where I work is very patriotic. There are American and military flags in several hallways. Even the elevators are patriotic-themed!

Seeing what goes on behind-the-scenes, I have a new perspective. It is refreshing to see the impact of our government and leaders in terms of innovation and stewardship.

Several times, I have been struck by the fact that these brave men and women put their lives on the line for mine. Some, though not all, of their issues are related to their time in service to our country. It is humbling.

I have seen many veterans over the years, but have never had the opportunity to see only veterans. As such, I’ve never considered all the potential problems they face. Post-traumatic stress, Agent Orange, wounds, and other factors can cause long-term issues.

When I think of what many of these veterans have suffered through, I am filled with gratitude. I have tried to maintain my composure enough to shake hands or say thank you at the end of a session. A few times, it has been tough!

Jesus Christ also put his life on the line for us. He literally gave His all.

How do you respond to someone who gave so much on your behalf?

We can honor both Jesus and veterans with how we live our lives.

We can live forward. And though our struggles often define our circumstance, we don’t have to stay stuck in all our struggles or pain (surely they have suffered more). We can keep our heads high, walking in gratitude for their sacrifices.

We can use our freedoms, which came at such a high cost. This may be voting, being a good neighbor, or helping those less fortunate. It could also be enjoying time with family, knowing we are safe and sound because of those who protect us.

Lydia and I are in a transition phase right now. School started again this week, so both of us need to adjust to new schedules. Most of that is good, but it can certainly be challenging.

Life is short, and we have no time to waste. I’m reminded that just because something is difficult, doesn’t mean it is wrong or impossible. If it was easy, everyone would be doing it!

Living forward is not for the faint of heart. Difficulties make us grow strong, and we can rely on God’s power working through us. Challenges require grit but are always worth it.

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Heavenly Father, thanks for walking with us during life’s challenges. Empower us so we can keep on going. Make something beautiful in us. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: What challenges are you facing right now? How can you change your perspective and live forward?

Tasks: When you feel like giving up, hold fast to Jesus. Consider all who have gone before to pave the way or be an example. Take heart!

 

 

 

Posted on in Finding Grace Weekly Recap, Miscellaneous

Finding Grace #181

I love giving God a shout out for what He has done. We don’t do that nearly enough!

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 amazing week!

We flew home from Florida on Monday, then I started my new job at the VA on Tuesday. Our flights were uneventful, and we landed on time. It was fairly late, but I spent the next few hours preparing for the workweek. I even made pasta for my lunch at midnight! It was funny, and thankfully, I was not too tired for work. 😉

On Tuesday, I had the best first day ever. I met about 12 dietitians, all in various positions. To my great surprise, they all welcomed me with a thoughtful card and delicious trifle to celebrate my August birthday! My coworkers all seem so warm and friendly. I’m super grateful.

On Thursday, my ladies group got together. A new friend joined us, too. It was fun to catch up since I was out of town last week. I really appreciate the fellowship and the courage these ladies have to share what’s going on in their lives. It is good to encourage each other and pray for one another.

I had several thoughtful surprises from people all around me! For example, one night, we attended a special ‘thank you’ dinner for serving at church. Then, my neighbor bought me a little bundt cake to celebrate my first week at my new job. Those kindnesses made my week a little sweeter! Thank you!

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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, Journey of Grace, Life is Short, Miscellaneous, Parenting, Wisdom

New Beginnings and Blessings

This is another red-letter week for me!

First, Monday was my birthday! I received some great calls, texts, emails, cards, FB messages, and really cool gifts. I feel blessed to have so many people cheering me on from around the world. Thank you!

To celebrate, I had lunch with a friend and a fun day with Lydia. The last week has also included a massage, a movie (The Lion King… so good!), pizza with my neighbors, and another friend mowing for me. Life is good!

A couple of weeks ago, it was really touching when Lydia set up a ‘private meeting’ with my mom to discuss my birthday options. She is so thoughtful, and I love the bracelets I received from her (with Mom’s help). We will celebrate with my parents later this week!

I always enjoy looking back on the previous year and seeing all the Lord has done for me and through me. This last year was amazing. I left some big things in God’s hands, and it has been inspiring to see all that has happened as a result of trusting Him more.

Today, I am finishing up my job at a local clinic. This job was a blessing to me after the company bought out my previous job. For me, I felt God ‘grandfathered’ me into the system when many people would have been otherwise cut.

I have appreciated my time there, and I am grateful for my coworkers. God always provides for me, protects me, and prepares me for what is ahead. And, I’m happy to report that next week, I start a new job at the Fargo VA Health System!

This, too, is no coincidence. Years ago, when Dave was very sick in the ICU, my dietitian friend, Laura, gave me a much-needed, well-timed hug and walked into his room with me. Dave was on a ventilator and Laura was able to explain all of his details to me.

Then, this past February, I contacted Laura to explain how much that hug meant to me. It felt like Jesus Himself was embracing me. It was a turning point for me and just what I needed in the midst of such uncertainty.

Similarly, Laura said the experience impacted her and changed how she views patients. It reminded her that those critical patients are someone’s husband, son, friend, not just a calculation, or tube feeding, or problem to be solved.

A few weeks after we talked, I learned that Laura’s two-year-old twin daughter is fighting leukemia. I have been praying for the family, along with several other people I know who are sick.

Then, in early July, Laura contacted me for this opportunity. It just seemed like a good fit, and I trust God is in this. The timing, connection, and even the different job requirements all add up to be a big blessing. The job seems to cater to my strengths, but also will provide a place to challenge myself and grow.

It will be a transition, though, and I appreciate all your prayers! I will be working more hours and days (still part-time), and that means Lydia will need to be in the after-school YMCA program. Thankfully, it is at her school and close to home.

It seems each year, God stretches us a little more than the previous year. Thankfully, it is a slow process. He is so gracious.

Still, I’m so excited to see how we both grow and change. Lydia is a little nervous, but I reminded her that God’s plans for us are good. The best is yet to come!

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God, there is no one like You! You are so good! Thank You for leading me on this new path. Thanks for blessing me with peace, provision, and protection. I commit it all of this to You. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: As you survey your life, can you see God’s provision and protection? How is He preparing You for greater things? How can you trust Him more?

Tasks: Listen to the song, “God of this City,” by Chris Tomlin.

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

Finding Grace #179

I love giving God a shout out for what He has done. We don’t do that nearly enough!

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 exciting yet fairly unpredictable week.

After church on Sunday, my friend, Naa, came to visit. We ended up making zucchini noodles, zucchini fritters, and shortbread cookies. It was a fun day!

On Monday, I went to a local float spa to use up a gift certificate. It was very interesting to float in such a high concentration of saltwater. Apparently, it is good for all kinds of ailments, though I haven’t seen any research on this. Overall, I enjoyed it, but I don’t think I would try it again. I was thankful for the experience though!

On Monday evening, I attended a basic life support class. Several years ago, I was CPR certified but let it expire. Now I need it again before I start my new job. It was even better this time around, and I appreciated the hands-on experience with the dummies. My friend, Sara, volunteered to watch Lydia for me, which was so kind of her!

On Tuesday evening, we had a really cool surprise. An old friend came to visit! John and Dave both started at Caterpillar in Decatur, IL, at the same time. John doesn’t work for Caterpillar anymore but was in Fargo for other engineering work. I was so honored he stopped by, even without Dave, and I got teary-eyed as we caught up since it has been a few years. It was also fun to video-chat with his wife, Jess, and their toddler, Anna! I was so touched that Dave’s legacy lives on. A true highlight of my week!

This week we went to a meeting Wednesday evening and had my ladies’ small group come over Thursday evening. But between those two events, we had a whole lot of other things pop up! 🙂 Lydia had a dentist appointment, we went shopping for shoes and groceries, and ate pizza for lunch. Then, we ran home because a friend said he could mow for me. I was grateful because I had too much going on. Then, I headed out again to a picnic to briefly say hello to someone else. Lydia ate a hot dog at the picnic before we picked up another friend and ran home for small group. Whew!

Yesterday morning, I got a pre-birthday massage. All this week, I asked God to direct my steps. I felt overwhelmed at times, trying to keep up with meetings and appointments. The rest of the month is go-go-go, so I wanted to take advantage of the moment and relax.

Yesterday afternoon, when another meeting was canceled, I was grateful. On a whim, I took Lydia to see “The Lion King” matinee. It was a spontaneous adventure and my friend, Naa, was able to join us last minute. It was a great way to celebrate such an interesting week!

Today, I am trying to get ahead for the rest of the month. I am doing laundry, getting work and school stuff ready, and packing for another quick trip. Lydia is excited to go to a sleepover tonight, and I am grateful for friends who are gracious to help with 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)!