Tag: relax

Posted on in Finding Grace Weekly Recap, Miscellaneous, Parenting

Finding Grace #162

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 interesting week! Sunday and Monday were gorgeous. Lydia played with the neighbors while I visited a friend, put out my deck furniture, and finally took down my Christmas lights. It was good to see friends and neighbors too!

Then, on Thursday and Friday, we had a spring blizzard! Lydia had an early dismissal followed by another snow day. It was nice to have extra time together!

It was a little odd to have both a flood warning and winter snow storm warning at the same time. This week, I noticed my tulips were starting to sprout with the warmer weather. Now they are covered by a two-foot-high snow drift (see the picture above). Thankfully, the snow won’t last… and hopefully, my flowers will still bloom like normal.

Yesterday evening, I volunteered to help with a ladies event at church. One of my friends offered to let Lydia come over and play. We ended up having Lydia spend the night. It was one of her first sleepovers and both girls were so excited. Lydia said she couldn’t stop smiling. I heard they stayed up quite late talking and giggling! Then, Lydia came home and took a two-hour nap on my lap! She told me she wasn’t tired, lol!

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 Fear/Don't Fake Brave, Fruit, Journey of Grace, Miscellaneous, Perfectionism, Wisdom, Worship

Peace Be Still

John 14:27 says, “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.”

He said this after he had already healed the lame, blind and sick; fed the 5,000 people (not including women and children); calmed the storm; and raised the dead. He had a pretty good record, but as I wrote last week, His disciples still did not believe.

I’m grateful for the peace Jesus gives. For me, it often means a sense of quiet and calm. Externally, peace can include having growing, healthy relationships and no schedule conflicts. Peace can mean “free” time and flexibility without rushing. For me, living in peace often comes at a slower pace. But that may look different for you!

Internally, I find peace means freedom from fear, anxiety, or worry. I can reject the idea that I have to make quick decisions or be someone I am not. I don’t have to please or impress anyone. Thank God, Jesus set me free!

When everything in my little world is tranquil, though, it can become unsettling if I fail to see it from God’s perspective. Sometimes, I take pride in what I have achieved…and other times, I am waiting for the next storm or catastrophe. But with Jesus’ peace, I can expect good things because He is good and He is with me and for me.

We weren’t meant to live in turmoil. Even in the midst of chaos, holy peace is the sense that everything will be okay because Jesus will make all things right someday.

This begs the question—how does the world give peace?

The world cannot give peace, because real peace comes from Jesus alone. Only Jesus can be our refuge and defense. To refocus on Him, sometimes it can be helpful to pause and unplug from the news, social media, or even extra activities.

As amazing as this world can be, all we see is only temporary. We were meant for more!

Without Jesus, whatever we seem to gain is at risk. If we put all our hope in what the world offers, we will only end up with empty promises. Any sense of peace we do have won’t last. Yet everything we have in Jesus is safe and secure.

Jesus’ peace comes with His presence. In fact, Jesus promised the Holy Spirit, our Advocate, in the verse preceding this one. He never leaves us on the path alone. Sometimes, He clears a peaceful path and sometimes, He enables us to walk it as it comes.

Growing in the fruit of peace is a sign of God moving in our lives.

Jesus’ peace brings new purpose, despite any pain or hardships we may endure. He brings real progress, but never expects perfection. Our fulfillment comes from Him alone.

In addition to His peace, Jesus also protects us and provides for us. His promises are sure and His love is strong. As such, we can rest in His mercy, grace, and forgiveness.

I’m grateful we don’t have to perform or earn this free gift of peace. The world often expects something in return and leaves us disappointed. But only Jesus gives to us freely… Praise God!

Don’t go another minute without true peace. Trust Jesus and rest in His love!

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God, thanks for the free gift of salvation which brings us peace. Thanks for righting our wrongs and forgiving us. Help us extend grace and peace to others as we point them to you. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Question: What does God’s peace mean to you?

Task: Prayerfully listen to this song, “Peace Be Still.”

Posted on in Finding Grace Weekly Recap, Miscellaneous, Parenting, Prayer, Worship

Finding Grace #158

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 exciting week! On Sunday, I backed into a snow bank, but on Monday evening, I prayed and God helped me remove the dent from my fender! I appreciated the input of my friends, too. They advised that I heat up the area with a hair dryer, which worked really well! Thank You, Jesus!

Work went well this week. I enjoyed being shadowed by some dietetic interns. It is fun to see their excitement for our field and to teach them about various diseases and conditions. I appreciate being able to influence these students and give back.

This week, we were due for yet another winter storm (aka ‘bomb cyclone’). Our evening activities were canceled and so was school on Thursday. We did get some rain (ice) and snow, but thankfully not as much as predicted. Other areas around us did get hit, however, so it was better to be safe than sorry. We enjoyed another relaxing day at home.

Yesterday, Lydia had a planned day off of school. I took her to my tax appointment, and then we had the whole day to ourselves! We had fun reading at the bookstore, eating at Chick-Fil-A, and going to the dollar store. Later we ran some other errands and did some spring cleaning at home! It was a productive day!

Today, Lydia and I went with a friend to see ‘Mary Poppins Returns’ in Moorhead. We really enjoyed it! The singing and dancing were original yet reminiscent of the first movie. I am glad we saw it in the theater!

It has finally started to be warm enough to start melting. We had about 63 days of below freezing temperatures, so even 33-degrees (F) feels sublime! I’m looking forward to the Spring thaw, but also praying we don’t have a severe flood. Slow and steady wins the race…

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, 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!

**********

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 Finding Grace Weekly Recap, Miscellaneous

Finding Grace #153

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 fairly quiet! We had more cold and snowy weather, which is normal for winter in Fargo. I read an article about how it feels like we’ve had a long winter, but that the snow we’ve had this year does not even rank in the top ten!

This week, I was thankful for my flexible work schedule. I didn’t have to miss any work when Lydia was home for another snow day due to a blizzard. We had a fun and relaxing time together. We canceled our evening plans and just took it all in stride.

With all the blowing snow, I had 34″ snow drifts in my driveway! The snow went above the shaft of my snowblower, making it impossible to clear. Thankfully, my neighbors were great to help! We’re at that point in the season where it is becoming more difficult to find places to put all the snow! 🙂

Since this is good weather to stay inside, I have been trying new recipes. I’ve made a warm soup with lots of vegetables. I’ve also made steel cut oats, pancakes, veggie burgers, and some tasty salads. Of course, I often freeze extra portions for later!

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, Life is Short, Miscellaneous, Perseverance

Polar Vortex!!

It’s only Wednesday, but I’ve already seen God’s grace in action! For much of the Midwest, it has been super cold and snowy this week! That may be an understatement…

Thanks, Polar Vortex! 🙂

Our local schools were canceled yesterday and today, due to the extreme cold. Our wind chills are expected to be near 60 below and our actual temperatures could be around 25 below (-35 F overnight!). Many of the cities around us are shutting down temporarily. Even mail delivery for us is canceled today due to the cold.

Thankfully, my friends and family in and around Chicago (and everywhere between) are also staying in. Several places in the Midwest could break records!

(Not quite as cold as Fargo, but yes, still chilly!) 😉

My neighbors were a big help to me yesterday when I needed to work. Lydia went to their house most of the day to hang out. I was even able to work a little longer yesterday, so I could take today off! Thanks, Melissa!

Last night, Lydia and I watched a movie and enjoyed our time together. I’m sure we will do something fun today. I foresee some baking, games, puzzles, science experiments, learning about snowflakes, and more movies in our near future! It’s like a free day!

Instead of complaining about the cold, I’m being grateful for all God has done for me. To start, He has given me extra time with Lydia, a warm house and outdoor gear, my snowblower and shovels, all-wheel drive, remote start, and a day off work! Woohoo!

School rarely gets canceled in Fargo, and we have two built-in makeup days in March and April. I know God will take care of us then, too, but for now, I’m relishing the beauty of today… weather and all.

When He redirects us, it is always for our good.

Lydia and I slept in today, and I woke up to messages from friends and family around the world… well wishes and reminders to be safe. That is a wonderful feeling to know we are so loved! Thank you!!

Maybe you’d rather hibernate and/or skip out on the cold weather. Or maybe you really enjoy it. I’m rooting for “Team Polar Bear” this week, as I am in awe that God actually designed them for these conditions. Amazing!

You know, God never sleeps nor slumbers… and He never takes a ‘snow day’ either! Yet, He graciously knows we need them on occasion! He loves us so much and knows exactly what we need. He has us covered!

Unlike snow days, we don’t have to make up or pay back God’s grace (as if we could!). It is free and available to us every day. Thank You, Jesus!

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God, thanks for keeping us warm and safe. Thanks for leading us and directing our path. Help us make wise choices and be generous to others. Help us be a blessing! In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: What are your favorite ‘snow day’ activities? Have you ever tried snow ‘ice cream’ or blowing bubbles and watching them freeze midair?!

Tasks: If you do have to be out and about, dress warm and be prepared! Stay safe and don’t take big risks. And most certainly, thank God for your blessings!