Tag: Peace

Posted on in Finding Grace Weekly Recap, Miscellaneous, Parenting

Finding Grace #157

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 banner week in many exciting ways! God answered a prayer that I first mentioned five years ago. I met Huldah Buntain, a missionary to Calcutta, at church; it was a dream come true for me!

My mom sent Lydia the original Mary Poppins movie (on DVD), and it arrived this week. It is one of my mom’s favorites and I’m grateful she wanted to share it with Lydia. We watched it on Tuesday after school, and Lydia loved it! Soon we will watch Mary Poppins Returns, but I wanted Lydia to see the original first so she would understand the context. Thanks, Mom!! 

Lydia also received her new fitness device this week. It works well and has already out-performed the old, faulty one. She walked 10,000 steps two days in a row! I’m grateful we finally got a satisfactory resolution.

Yesterday, I had my three month (post-Lasik) eye checkup. My eyes look like they should and my vision is good. I still have some healing to do, but that is normal and to be expected. I’m grateful I took step of faith and underwent surgery in December!

Today, we have had another winter storm. But that gave us a good opportunity to stay in and relax. Lydia and I played games, read books, researched black holes, exercised, and watched videos. Tonight, at bedtime we were snuggling, and she said, “Mom, I wish we could stay like this forever!” It melted my heart. So sweet. 🙂

Finally, I set my clocks one hour forward for Daylight Savings Time! I always miss that hour of sleep, but I am glad for the upcoming spring and summer! Woohoo!

I’m grateful for how God always directs our path and blesses us. He is so good!

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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

Finding Grace #156

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 another grace-filled week! I finished many small tasks and made progress on larger ones. God stretched my time and helped me accomplish what I needed to do.

Nothing super eventful happened, but our routine activities went smoothly. I enjoyed catching up with family over the phone and had several good conversations.

Yesterday morning, my neighbor surprised me by leaving monster cookies on my front step. Yum! I tried one and saved the rest. Sooo good. (Thanks!!)

Then, after school, Lydia joined the same neighbor’s family out our back door to try snowboarding for the first time. She had fun and came inside with a few new words in her vocabulary (ex. wipeout!). I’m grateful they included her and showed her some new tricks.

Last night, a friend came over for dinner, chatting, and Netflix. She also brought some snacks. It’s always nice to spend time together!

Today, we went to a birthday party for one of Lydia’s friends. I helped out with the party, and then afterward we stay to visit/play. They also fed us a yummy taco dinner!

I’m grateful for how God always directs our path and blesses us. He is so good!

**********

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

Holy Help

For most of February, I’ve been in contact with customer support at one of my favorite fitness companies. Unfortunately, I had several issues that were not easily resolved!

Previously, I received a special voucher for a new fitness tracking device…

I have had one for several years, with minimal problems, so I thought I would get one for Lydia. She loved the idea and we discussed how it could be a fun tool for her.

Note: Lydia does not have access to any of the technology—I am the one logging in for her and seeing the information, so it doesn’t become a problem or obsession for her.

Technically, Lydia may be a little young for her own device, but they do have one model available for her age group. I had planned to give her a fitness tracker for her next birthday, but this opportunity came a little earlier. We decided to try it out.

First, I asked about getting the children’s device, but it was not included in the voucher requirements. I called both companies to see if they could agree to add the device I wanted… and was on hold for at least an hour altogether. Nope.

Eventually, I decided to get Lydia the adult device. It is essentially the same as the children’s version, but with a few more ‘bells and whistles.’

To my surprise, the device has not worked well for Lydia. It doesn’t track data correctly and does not charge or sync correctly. So disappointing.

Over the last few weeks, I have called customer service 5 times about the device, trying to make it work. I have been on the phone for at least three hours total.

I have emailed three times asking questions and replying. At least they’ve been polite…

I could focus on the problem and remain frustrated. I could feel sorry for myself, or I could throw a fit and make threats.

But thankfully, with Jesus, our problems don’t stand a chance! He has the final authority and has already done the difficult work. It is finished.

When we have needs, we can come to Him at any time. Most of the time, life isn’t easy or fair, but Jesus is available day and night. He takes our burdens and eases our pain.

Jesus leads by example, excelling in both service and support. He has our back and keeps us on track. He doesn’t leave us to fend for ourselves, but through His Word and the Holy Spirit, He teaches us how we should live.

Sometimes I have to wait for the resolution, but the Lord always hears me and answers my prayers. True, my prayers may not be answered quite how I want—but He wisely gives me exactly what I need.

The Lord’s love is not something we have to earn. I don’t have to beg or bargain with Him. It is freely given. The Lord is gracious and does not give me junk!

Jesus always comes through for me and gives me what is BEST.

Sometimes I can prolong my struggles if I am not obedient, but Jesus never changes the rules halfway through. He doesn’t make it difficult or make me jump through hoops.

He is the same yesterday, today, and forever.

Finally, after a month of my patience levels being tested, I finally succeeded in ordering a replacement (yesterday). I am trusting God that this one will work correctly!

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Father God, thanks for all You do for me. Thanks for faithfully leading me to Victory. Please continue to refine me and build patience. Help me be kind to others, even when I am frustrated. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Question: Do you have any tips for getting through customer service with minimal frustration?

Task: Listen to “More Like Falling in Love” by Jason Gray.

Posted on in Finding Grace Weekly Recap, Miscellaneous

Finding Grace #155

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?

I saw God working in several areas this week.

On Monday, we had a quiet President’s day. We enjoyed time at home. Lydia played outside and read. I was able to get ahead for the week, without rushing!

We received more snow this week, and I used my snowblower twice. I also shoveled, but enjoyed the slightly warmer (10-20 degrees F) weather! Three different times neighbors helped clear the snow for me, which I greatly appreciated. (Thank you!!)

Last night, a friend came over for dinner. We had tacos and watched Netflix. It was a great way to relax after a busy week. We had a fun girls night!

Today, Lydia and I took another friend and her mom (visiting from another country) to the local home and garden show. It was at the Fargodome and we spent several hours walking around and seeing the sights. Then, we went to my friend’s apartment for lunch. She made salmon, rice pilaf with vegetables, and fried plantains. It was a real treat!

Lydia has been adjusting well to her braces. She has only had one or two times where she needed some pain medication. Overall, she’s very pleased to have them on. We can already see her teeth improving! Praise God!

I’m grateful for how God always directs our path and blesses us. He is so good!

**********

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, Life is Short, Miscellaneous, Parenting

Finding Grace #154

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 week was full of cool surprises! I love when that happens!

On Monday, I noticed it was snowing just like a snow globe. There was no wind and the snow fell gently for hours! It was so pretty and completely different than the wild blizzards we’ve had lately. God is so creative!

A couple months ago, I bought an online voucher to swim at a local hotel. On Monday, I was able to use it one more time before it expired this week. I went while Lydia was in  school and had a wonderful time. It was so peaceful!

This week I ran into two old friends and had good conversations with them. I also met a new friend for coffee, talked online with other friends, and chatted with family throughout the week. It’s great to feel connected!

On Thursday, Lydia lost her ninth tooth; got her expander removed at the orthodontist; and received braces (top front teeth only). She was really excited and seems to be doing well. She didn’t even mind skipping most of her Valentine’s candy from school!

I’m grateful for how God always directs our path and blesses us. He is so good!

**********

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

Heartbeat of Heaven

Recently, Lydia and I talking in the car on our way to an evening activity. At some point, Lydia wondered out loud, “Mom, can you imagine how BIG God’s heart must be?!”

She then excitedly exclaimed that God’s heart is bigger than our car, bigger than the apartment we drove by, bigger than any mountain or ocean, and even bigger than the MOON!

We had a good laugh at all the possibilities, and it prompted more conversation about God’s love. I love her perspective.

Sometimes, as adults, we have a hard time remembering or understanding God’s love for us. Somewhere along the way, we may lose our childlike excitement for Jesus or find it hard to believe.

Little doubts creep in telling us that we are not good enough or that there’s no way God could love us for how we’ve behaved.

Or perhaps in the busyness of life, we just put Him on the shelf and forget He is there. We occasionally dust off that relationship out of guilt, but then put it back until next time.

But if we really understood how big God’s heart is we would run to Him… we would accept His forgiveness and grace with gratitude and joy.

We would also understand the depth of His love.

Lately, I have seen God’s heart in new opportunities. I have seen Him direct me in new ways and I have taken some steps of faith.

I am excited to see what He has in store for me!

I’ve also seen God’s heart in answers to prayer. Sometimes the answers take a while to come and sometimes they are seen right away.

But when we understand God’s heart for us, we are content to go at His pace.

We can trust His timing!

God’s heart is for us and not against us. He’s always there, even when we don’t “feel” His presence. He wants to be invited into our day so He can share all that is on His heart.

Come, Lord, Jesus!

It’s great if you can find a quiet place to linger with Jesus, but if not, just talk to Him wherever you are. He loves you so much. His heart beats strong for you!

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Heavenly Father, thank You for loving us so much. Help us seek your sweet and refreshing grace. May we understand Your heart for us and others. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: Have you ever considered how big God is…or how big His heart must be?! How does that realization make you feel?

Tasks: Make a list of all the ways God loves you and blesses you. Praise Him! Listen to this song: “Nobody Loves Me Like You Do” sung by Chris Tomlin.

Posted on in Being Gracious, Miscellaneous, Prayer, Worship

Niceness Is Not Enough

Last Friday night, Lydia and I volunteered with Feed My Starving Children, an organization which works to alleviate hunger and poverty around the world. FMSC operates entirely on donations and volunteers to purchase and pack the foods.

Then, they partner with a network of other organizations to distribute food to those in need. They don’t “just give handouts” but focus on sustainability too.

It’s been a while since I’ve worn a hair net… but that night was worth it! It was good for Lydia to realize how privileged she is… and a great reminder for me as well.

Lydia and I rotated through several positions. We opened, filled, weighed, and sealed packets of food. One packet, when rehydrated, will serve up to 6 people for one meal. One box has 36 meal packets (vitamin blend, dehydrated vegetables, texturized soy protein, and rice).

During our two-hour shift, 1,272 volunteers filled 1,367 boxes. (49,212 packets or 295,272 meals) That will feed 809 kids for a year!

As a dietitian, nutrition and hunger issues are near to my heart. Yet on any given day, thanks in part to social media, I am reminded of so many other areas of great concern. Abortion, racism, national security, rising healthcare costs, the economy, and environmental issues are some that come to mind.

Generally speaking, all of these issues are outside the scope of this blog. I don’t like the arguing that political drama often produces. But that does not mean I am doing nothing.

Prayer is the greatest thing we can do because that invites God’s presence and power into the situation. So we definitely need to start there. Seek God first!

But often, Christians are tempted to stop with prayer. We say, “I’ll pray for you!” and then we go on our merry way. But, Jesus didn’t just pray, He reached out. He healed, helped, comforted, challenged, defended, and forgave. He was practical.

In terms of prayer, we have access to Jesus at any time… but the world doesn’t. They are still separated from God’s love and mercy. So it seems, they need to see “proof” that Jesus cares for them before they trust Him.

As Christians, we are God’s ambassadors. People who don’t know Jesus are watching those of us who do. So, right or wrong, everything we do is subject to scrutiny.

Often, we want to be ‘nice’ to everyone… but niceness is not enough.

One day, each of us will have to give an account for how we used the gifts God has given us. I want to hear, “Well done, my good and faithful servant.” Let’s offer our best!

At other times, we feel everyone needs to be put in their place. There are times when we do need to address truth and morality, yes. But we can handle it graciously. Jesus was filled with grace and truth (John 1:17).

Instead of complaining about issues or judging people, we should be willing to help. Loving others may look different for each of us, and that’s okay. Let’s be the Jesus the world needs to see.

Here are some practical ways we can reach out to others (in no particular order).

  • Donate money to a cause or organization you believe in. Do research it and make sure it is legitimate. You can also fundraise by running a race, selling homemade items, etc. Check out Save the Storks and Redemption Road Ministries.
  • Donate supplies and deliver them locally where needed. This could include clothes, school supplies, toiletries, or furniture. Call ahead and see what is needed most. Consider homeless shelters, recovery centers, or crisis pregnancy centers. Used items may be acceptable, but also consider purchasing new.
  • Your time is also a wonderful gift. Churches, animal shelters, nursing homes and hospitals all need help (in addition to the places in #2). If you have a special skill, be creative in how you use it! Another option is Habitat for Humanity.
  • Mentor someone. You don’t have to have it all figured out already. Just step up and lend a hand or encouraging word. Share your experiences… and be consistent.
  • Sponsor someone. It could be a child in an international program like Compassion International or World Vision. Locally, you may look into Big Brother/Sister program. Or, help out a public school teacher or a college student far from home.
  • Call or send a card to someone. An encouraging word is always welcome! Tell someone they are doing a good job. Even if it is a frazzled parent in the grocery aisle.
  • Offer practical hands-on support. This may include babysitting, raking leaves, mowing, painting, or house cleaning. Pick up garbage or recycling. Wash a car.
  • Consider opening your home to someone in need. I had a (trusted) friend stay with me for 6 months while she got her life back in order. Maybe God is calling you to foster or adopt a child? (No pressure… be wise and pray!)

  • Have a conversation with people who are different than you (race, beliefs, food habits, goals, etc). Better yet, share a meal with them. Really get to know them.
  • Write a letter to advocate for a cause. Instead of protesting, use your words to persuade. Raise awareness. Also, don’t forget to contact those in Congress… and vote!!
  • Learn more about the issues at hand. Put yourself in someone else’s shoes and see it from their perspective. Chances are, you will have a more rounded view.
  • Talk to your kids about important issues. As a parent, you are their first teacher. Have honest conversations about pros/cons. Role play and model the behavior you want them to learn. Get them involved serving with you!
  • Make generosity a daily habit. Be kind to the cashiers at the grocery store. Help your neighbors clear snow. Make or buy treats for your coworkers.
  • Help a single mom (or any mom!). She may need a ride, dinner, or a break. Offer to watch her kids during an appointment or help with home maintenance. Take her family out for a movie…or ice cream! Check out Jeremiah Program and consider making a donation to help a single mom get ahead.
  • Celebrate a friend’s successes. Doing this over coffee or lunch is a bonus! Listen to their ups and downs without offering advice (unless they ask for it).
  • Smile while you serve. A smile is understood in every language. It doesn’t cost anything but can mean so much. It can cross all kinds of barriers! Let Jesus’ love shine on your face with joy!

There are so many ways to be a servant. That will look different for each of us. I used to get stuck in my perfectionism, but I was recently reminded that no gift is too small or silly. Something is better than nothing in this case.

We don’t need to compare what we give or do for others… in fact most of us don’t want any recognition at all! It may be easy to give…or it may require sacrifice. It doesn’t have to be extreme, but if we serve with a good attitude, we honor Jesus.

As we pray AND serve others, God’s grace overflows in us and through us!

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Jesus, You are the Servant King, full of grace and truth. Thanks for loving us and giving everything for us. Help us lay down our lives for Your glory. Open our eyes and hearts to the needs around us. Let us share Your love with those around us. In Your Name, Amen

Question: What are your favorite ways to serve? (I’d love to add to my list!!)

Tasks: Pray for wisdom and look for people and places to serve. Make a list and choose to do at least one act of kindness every day.

Posted on in Finding Grace Weekly Recap, Miscellaneous

Finding Grace #151

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 week was cold and snowy, but still really good. It was rather lowkey, which was fine by me! Lydia was off for MLK day, and so we stayed home and relaxed. I enjoyed reading MLK, Jr. quotes and stories, and Lydia told me what she had learned at school.

Tuesday and Wednesday were work and school days. On Tuesday, my neighbor used my recently fixed snow blower and helped clear both our driveways. We also helped a couple other neighbors. On Wednesday evening, I was grateful ‘blizzard conditions’ held off until after our evening activities at church.

On Thursday, school started 2 hours late. Lydia was glad to sleep in! Thankfully, I wasn’t scheduled to work that day so didn’t miss anything important. It took me much longer to clear snow that day, because I had to inch through major drifts. Still, I was grateful for my snow blower and that I didn’t have to shovel afterall!

I spent a lot of time praying this week, for friends near and far. Some needed prayer for jobs, sick children, and other medical issues. I also spent a lot of time praying about the recent abortion law(s) that were passed. I want to be sensitive to differing views than my own. At the same time, I’ve been considering what to do to help. Lord, have mercy on us all.

On Friday my schedule opened up so I made a little progress on a project. Later, a friend came over to hang out and watch Netflix. This evening, we are having a girls night with Netflix and Chinese food. My friend also asked me to give her hair a trim (about 3″)! 🙂

I’m grateful for how God always directs our path and blesses us. He is so good!

**********

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, Parenting, Perseverance, Wisdom

Well-Prepared

Good news! Over the weekend, my snow blower was returned. It has a brand new carburetor, which helps fuel and air get into the engine. It was perfect timing because yesterday morning I needed it!

On Monday evening, I shoveled my driveway because it was fairly late. I didn’t want the noise to wake up anyone. I also hoped I wouldn’t need to clear snow on Tuesday.

I was wrong. Overnight, we received about 4 inches of powder!

Of course, I didn’t realize this until right before I took Lydia to the bus stop. So, I quickly tried to shovel at least enough to get my car out (without leaving tracks). I planned to finish the rest later that morning before I left for work.

While I was shoveling, I greeted my neighbor who was doing the same. I mentioned my snowblower, but how I was short on time. A few minutes later, we agreed it was worth snow blowing. He used my machine for both of our driveways while I drove to the bus.

At the bus stop, Lydia and I discussed the weather and our plans for the day. She was excited to play on the mountain of snow at school. I reminded her to be careful because there was ice under the fresh snow.

Nonetheless, Lydia felt she was ready with all her snow gear.

Her hat, gloves, coat, snow pants, and boots were all she needed to play outside. She looked forward to the challenge ahead!

Lydia didn’t consider how much she had grown this year and that ALL of her outdoor gear needed to be upgraded this season. She just knew she was well-prepared!

As her mom, I knew what she needed and provided it beforehand. Gladly!

On the way back home, I thought about God’s timing and provision.

Without my snow blower for the last 2 weeks, I had prayed that we wouldn’t get much snow until it was fixed. Like a good Father, He listened and helped me.

While God is by no means required to give in to my requests, He loves me and gave me exactly what I needed. Before I was aware of my need!

When I returned home, my neighbor and I teamed up to help a couple other neighbors as well. It felt good to accomplish so much before 8 a.m.!

Before I go much further, I do know what it feels like when it seems God isn’t listening and/or doesn’t care. I also know that my feelings are not reliable and that God is always with me. That’s a promise!

Sure, Life is not without its challenges—in fact, Jesus himself said we would have trouble. That’s the nature of this fallen world. Yet, with Him, we are more than conquerors.

When we face challenges, we don’t have to be afraid. God can move any mountain in our way or help us climb it as we lean on Him! Either way, we have Victory!

In your difficulty, remember: Nothing is too difficult or too big for Jesus. He can handle it and empower you to bear it. He loves us more than we can understand and takes it upon Himself to care for us. Draw close to Jesus.

God has not left us on our own. He does not send bad things upon us, but uses them for our good and His glory. No matter what happens—good or bad—we are covered by His grace.

Let’s see our circumstances from Jesus’ point-of-view. There are no surprises to Him, and He sees to it that we are well-prepared for anything we face.

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Heavenly Father, thanks for taking such good care of me. When I am overwhelmed, help me turn to You. Remind me of Your love and grace. Help me see what is happening through Your eyes. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: In whatever circumstances you are facing—good or bad—can you see God’s hand at work? How has He prepared you for such a time as this? Can you trust Him more?

Task: Read this post—“Father Knows Best”—it was one of my first on Grace and Lemonade!

Posted on in Finding Grace Weekly Recap, Food and Nutrition, Miscellaneous

Finding Grace #150

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 week flew by, but went well. Recently, I recorded a video about my story and grief for church. Lydia and I were there when the video was shown Monday evening. Now she thinks I’m famous (haha!). I love her current age and stage!

Tuesday and Wednesday were fairly normal. It’s been chilly all week, but it hasn’t snowed. I’m really glad I haven’t had to shovel or blow away snow lately!

This week, I caught up with people in four different states. On Thursday, I caught up with a dear friend, who moved away this summer. Then, on Friday, I talked with three other people!! I also invited a friend over for an impromtu dinner. It made me feel so good. What a blessing!

Today, Lydia and I hung out at home. Our neighbor boys came over to play for a few hours. We played, ate snacks, and watched the new Carmen Sandiego show on Netflix. I also made up a game called ‘Apple Zombie Tickle Monster’ which was a hit! Basically, it was me chasing and tickling all the kids much to their delight. 😉 Creativity for the win!

This evening, Lydia and I also caught up with my parents, and discussed tomorrow’s lunar eclipse (in addition to the super blood wolf moon)! We also ate leftover veggie enchilada bake and some cherry cobbler I made yesterday. A grand finale to an awesome week!

I’m grateful for how God always directs our path and blesses us. He is so good!

**********

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)!