Tag: relax

Posted on in Finding Grace Weekly Recap, Miscellaneous

Finding Grace #139

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 had some interesting surprises, but I saw God at work all around me!

On Sunday, Lydia went to play with the neighbor boys across the street. She ended up going inside with them for a movie and dinner! I was grateful to have that unexpected time to myself. I called my sister, worked on a project and prepped food for our week.

Monday was a good day to get ahead for the week. I ran some errands, did some housework, and finished an audiobook. It was a good day to be productive!

Wednesday was Halloween. After work, Lydia and I had JBQ at church, so it was our first year of not passing out candy to our neighbors. Even though I don’t love Halloween, I did miss seeing all of our neighbors! Thankfully, Lydia still got some candy and played games with her friends at church. It was a good day overall.

On Thursday, I received a large package in the mail. The box was from my mom and was filled with goodies. She sent me some treats, jewelry, foodie gifts, and some little foxes (house decor). It was such a fun surprise!

I had allotted time on Thursday and Friday to work on a project, but ended up having a few meetings with people instead. As a result,I had a few cool opportunities presented to me. Now I’m praying about each new thing because I want to make sure they are ‘God opportunities.’ I’m thankful for how He directs our steps.

Tonight, we turn back our clocks one hour! (Don’t forget!) I’m looking forward to the extra hour of sleep… unless I get distracted and just stay up later instead! 😉

Where did you find God’s grace?

**********

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 #138

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, I tried to go with the flow and let God direct my steps. He did a pretty good job as usual! I worked extra days this week, but my patients were really fun.

I ran several errands on Thursday. It took a long time going all over town, but I’m glad I got them all done! It helped to free up my schedule on other days. I went to the eye doctor to pick up some contacts, another appointment, Lowe’s to find a certain type of light bulbs, and Costco to get a few items. I like to stock up before the winter!

Friday ended up being busier than expected. I had a phone meeting that went long and a face-to-face meeting that was canceled. I also caught up with someone else on the phone who needed some encouragement. Then, I ended up cleaning the house, working on a project, and trying out my new coffee maker. It was time well spent! 

We had a lot of fun with our neighbors this week. They brought us some apples and homemade applesauce! Then, the two boys came over last night to hang out while their parents went to a concert. They had fun playing with Lydia and watching a movie. Then, everyone laid down to sleep until their parents picked them up.

Today, Lydia and I slept in and enjoyed a slow morning. Next, we’re going to our neighbors’ house to carve pumpkins and eat pizza! A perfect end to a grace-filled week!

Where did you find God’s grace?

**********

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 #137

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 went well and was full of God’s grace. On Monday, I ran some errands and went to the eye doctor. It was a beautiful day, and I wanted to get ahead for the rest of the busy week. Lydia and I also went to my writers group, which meets once a month.

On Tuesday, we went to parent-teacher conferences after school. I’m grateful Lydia is doing so well. She was happy to show me around her room and give me a little tour of her school! We also donated some snacks, games, and puzzles to share with her class. I’m glad to be able to encourage Lydia and her friends to learn all they can.

On Wednesday evening we went to church for JBQ. It was fun to see how much progress my little group has made. It’s so important for them to get God’s word down in their hearts, and I am grateful to be a part of that process.

On Thursday and Friday, Lydia was off from school. First, we did housework and prepared for friends to come over. To my great surprise, without being asked, Lydia started cleaning the kitchen cabinets with a little toothbrush! Then, I surprised Lydia by taking her to get her ears pierced. She was so excited because she has been requesting this for a while. It’s fun to see her growing up!

Today, we had a relaxing day at home and enjoyed the beautiful weather!

Where did you find God’s grace?

**********

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, Finding Grace Weekly Recap, Miscellaneous

Finding Grace #133

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 good week, full of fun events. On Sunday, a pastor I know from Illinois visited; he knows my parents too. He gave me a shout out from the pulpit. It was fun to connect with him after the service. It’s a small world!

On Tuesday, I left work late and missed picking up Lydia from the bus. I texted my neighbor, Melissa, who was able to take Lydia home. When I arrived a few minutes later, she asked if Lydia could stay and play. During that time, I was able to complete a few chores and my Wednesday blog post. Then, she fed us both dinner and dessert! I’m grateful for Melissa’s generosity and God’s provision! Thank you! 🙂

Lydia worked really hard, read and studied all her JBQ questions. She was able to answer all the questions correctly and moved on to the next booklet. I enjoyed leading her group and am impressed by how many kids are memorizing God’s word. What a blessing!

I had my “Facing Fear, Finding Faith” Bible study on Thursday. I’m really grateful for the opportunity to lead the group. Going through this with others helps me, too. I’m glad we don’t have to be afraid!

Today, Lydia and I went with our friend, Sara, to a local ‘junk market’ at the fairgrounds, which as you may guess has antiques, upcycled items, jewelry, specialty foods, as well as new house decor. All afternoon, we had so much fun perusing the market! It’s a fun tradition! I bought a few fun magnets for my refrigerator and a couple of pictures.

We’ve had beautiful weather this week, but, it is starting to get cooler. I’ve noticed fewer Monarch butterflies day-by-day…and the Canada geese also are starting to head south. The trees are also starting to change colors. The autumn is a short season, but it is so lovely! 🙂

Where did you find God’s grace?

**********

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 #132

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 fun week, and I am grateful for the ways God used me. I was able to catch up with several friends. I’m thankful I could listen to them and encourage them.

I also had some ladies over for Bible study. The topic is “Facing Fear, Finding Faith,” which is pertinent because everyone faces fear from time to time. I’m looking forward to connecting more with these friends and learning how to deal with fear in a godly way.

Yesterday, while Lydia was in school, I went to a local to pick some apples. I was able to enjoy a fun walk and the beautiful day. While I was there, I saw a garter snake, which was the first one I’ve seen in the eight years I’ve been in ND (and hopefully, the last!).

Today, Lydia and I have had fun together. We did some short exercises, played Jenga, read some books, talked with family on the phone, and watched a movie, I also mowed the lawn while Lydia played outside. It felt good to have a fairly relaxing day!

Where did you find God’s grace?

**********

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 #130

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 red-letter week, and I am counting every blessing! First, Lydia started school again. She had been counting down the days for about a month. She was excited to start a new routine and see her friends. On her first day, she said her favorite activities were snack, recess, lunch, and art. 🙂 Also, we’ve had good weather for walking to the bus!

Now that school is back in session, I have a little more “free” time. Generally, this equates to fewer daycare costs and more quiet time to write, do housework, or run errands. Nice, but not so glamorous. On Thursday, however, I got a massage and then caught up with a friend I hadn’t seen for a couple months! Very refreshing!

This week, I received fresh tomatoes from my uncle in Ohio! He used to send tomatoes to my aunt (his sister) each year when she lived in Colorado. Since she died, I am honored to receive them on her behalf. They were delicious!

On Friday, after Lydia got on the bus, I took a brisk 45-minute walk around the surrounding neighborhood. It felt good to get the exercise! Then, I came home and spent time writing. I also made veggie soup, did two loads of laundry, and felt so productive!

Today, Lydia went to our neighbors’ house to play, while I was able to get several things accomplished. And tonight, their kids are playing at my house with Lydia while they go out. It’s a win-win for all of us! I’m grateful to have such great neighbors and friends.

It was another joyful week. Thank You, Jesus!!

Where did you find God’s grace this week?

**********

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 Miscellaneous, Parenting, Perseverance

A Smoother Ride

Last week, Lydia and I took a short bike ride to a park in our neighborhood. Most of the time, I let her ride before me because I am faster and don’t want to leave her too far behind. Lydia set the pace, but I directed her and chose which path to take.

As we rode along, it was so peaceful. It was just me and Lydia in the evening heat. We chatted about our day and fun things we plan to do before school starts again next week. At times, we would stop and wait for cars to pass before continuing on our way.

During our ride, I decided to take Lydia to a smaller more secluded park than the one we originally planned. She hadn’t been to this park before and didn’t know the way.

So, I told her, “I’m going to come up on your left and when we get to the intersection, you follow me. We’re going to cross these two streets instead of staying on this path.”

As we got to the other side of the intersection, I stayed back in the street and let Lydia go ahead of me. She asked why I chose to do that, and I told her I was blocking her from any traffic that might come up.

I had noticed a car waiting for us at the stop sign and wanted to protect her. At least the driver could see me in the middle of the road…

Lydia did so well as she listened and followed. Our bike ride was a compelling picture of how God leads us and directs us through life. Everything goes so much better when we just trust Jesus!

That doesn’t mean it’s always an easy ride. For example, as we crossed through the intersection, Lydia had to speed up and go uphill. She had to work a bit to get where she needed to go.

Life is indeed challenging. Circumstances may turn out differently than expected and there will be some bumps along the way. But at the end of the day, it’s just me and Jesus.

He is the one constant in my life! Ultimately, He is in control. Did I stay close to Him? Did I wait for Him? Did I listen and obey Him?

Thankfully, with Jesus, all things are possible. He protects us, provides for us, and directs our path. When we follow Him, it’s a much smoother ride!

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God, thanks for all the ways You love us. Thanks for guiding us as we follow You. Help us listen and trust You more. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Question: Do you have anything left on your summer bucket list?

Task: Listen to “Control (Somehow You Want Me)” by Tenth Avenue North

Posted on in Finding Grace Weekly Recap, Miscellaneous, Travel

Finding Grace #126

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 low key, but rather exhausting though we didn’t have much planned! I didn’t get much sleep when we were enjoying time with family. Then, after we returned in the middle of the week, I kept praying that I could keep my days straight! 🙂

Lydia and I spent Wednesday unpacking, doing laundry, sorting mail, paying bills, and relaxing after spending so much time in the car on our road trip. We had a great time, but driving was physically tiring. It was good to have a day set aside to recover.

Today, I still feel like I am still getting caught up from our weeklong adventure (as much fun as it was). At work, I previously altered my schedule to accommodate my travel plans. Thus, I went to work on Thursday and Friday and had a full patient load. Mentally tired, after that, I didn’t accomplish much at home! Still, I’m thankful for the flexibility!

I have a deadline this next week for a writing project. I’m not sure I’ll meet my goal, but I am thankful it is not a BIG deal if I don’t. I’m also glad God’s grace which covers us no matter what we do (or don’t do)!

**********

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)!

Where did you find God’s grace this week?

Posted on in Life is Short, Miscellaneous, Parenting, Travel

MN/WI/MI Summer Road Trip 2018

Wow, what a week! We started off last Wednesday afternoon for Superior, WI (next door to Duluth, MN). I left work a little early, which helped make the 5+ hour trip a little better. We made a few rest stops, including Serpant Lake in Crosby, MN. We stayed overnight on Barker Island and enjoyed walking around the marina. We even saw a boat from Fargo!

On Thursday morning, we headed out to see friends in Bayfield, WI, which was on our way. We met Gary and Judy back in 2016 when we went to the Apostle Islands. We had a bite to eat with them, and went searching for fresh local fruit. Before we left we stocked up on blueberries, cherries, raspberries, and apple cider. Yum!

Our time in Bayfield wasn’t long enough [only 2 hours] so we’ll have to get back there again soon! Then, we continued the drive into Michigan… We spent the night in Marquette in the Upper Peninsula (UP). I had never been there before, but loved the gorgeous never-ending trees. We drove through SO. MANY. state and national forests this trip!

Friday was our third day of driving. That afternoon, it was raining lightly as we crossed the iconic Mackinac Bridge, which is 5 miles long! (But just before that I got pulled over by a Michigan State Policeman! He didn’t give me a ticket, though Lydia got a teddy bear!)

Due to rain and timing, we skipped a few activities and opted just to reach our final stop. We finally arrived in Cadillac, MI, for our family reunion just as other family members were showing up. Perfect timing! We saw family members from Illinois, Ohio, Tennessee, Louisiana, New Mexico, Colorado, and Greece. So much fun!

Before our trip, I had wanted to go hiking or kayaking. But when I had the opportunity, I changed my mind. The details just didn’t add up. Nonetheless, I was happy with my choices and thankful for time spent with other family members. It is good to hold our plans loosely so we don’t miss other (better) God-given opportunities!

On Monday, we started back home to Fargo. We crossed the Mackinac bridge again, but this time it was bright and sunny! I am not joking…the water was turquoise. Amazing! I would have taken a few pics of Lake Huron and Lake Michigan, but of course I was driving. 😉 Thankfully, we picked up a couple magnets and postcards along the way…

We also stopped elsewhere for a few pics of Lake Michigan before continuing the nine hour trip to see friends in Minocqua, WI. We arrived in Minocqua around dinnertime to stay with friends I’ve known since I was a teenager. Years ago, Cathie and Randy were my youth group leaders and were eager to have us visit. 

Lydia and I were able to cram in a lot of fun activities in a few short evening hours! Our friends live on the lake, so I was able to kayak after all! Lydia fished off the dock, while I tried stand-up paddle boarding (SUP) for the first time. It was awesome! We also saw bald eagles, went boating and hot tubbing, and sat around a campfire.

The next morning, after a good night’s sleep and delicious breakfast, Lydia went paddle boarding, jet skiing, and tubing with Cathie before we left. She even squeezed in another round of fishing with Randy! Lydia will be talking about this trip for quite awhile!

Our last visit was in Grantsburg, WI. We stopped to see some friends who used to be Fargo neighbors. Elissa and her three boys were swimming at the public pool, so I let Lydia jump in for a quick dip before continuing on our trip. Elissa and I caught up too! It was the perfect break for a long day of driving.

A few takeaways from this trip…

I spent 99% of the trip on back roads with no way around cars ahead of me. I had plenty of time to think of life situations where you just have to ‘follow the leader’ whether you like it or not. Takeaway #1: Life works better when you are cheerful. Perhaps God allows ‘slow cars’ and detours to refine us? You will still get where you need to go, but it sure does help having a good attitude when circumstances are out of your control!

My family helped load up our belongings before heading home. When my sister told me she even tossed my dirty laundry bag in my car, I had to laugh! Takeaway #2: We all have our quirks or negative traits, but a good family overlooks our messes or our ‘dirt.’ In fact, a loving family will help you get through it (or in this case, help keep it all contained)!

On the way home, we stopped for a quick break. Lydia pointed out a coffee cup that said “Super Mom’s Coffee.” She said, “Oooh, Mom! Make sure you get some coffee!” I’m by no means a perfect parent, so Lydia’s comment made me happy that she thinks I am worthy of that title. Takeaway #3: You might feel like you’ve totally blown this parenting gig, but your kids are resilient and forgiving. Do your best and they will be just fine!

Finally, after spending five of the last seven days in the car, we arrived home in Fargo around 9pm last night. 1776 miles with 5 of 7 days driving. Lots of memories. Little sleep. Totally worth it!

Despite plans changing a bit, God directed my path. We had an even better experience than I could have imagined. Special thanks to my friends and neighbors who mowed for me, checked my mail, and watched my house while we were gone!

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God, thanks for a wonderful road trip to see family! Thanks for protecting us and providing so well for us. All glory to You. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: Have you been through Michigan’s UP before? Do you like road trips?!

Posted on in Finding Grace Weekly Recap, Miscellaneous, Travel

Finding Grace #125

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 a little crazy at first, but I felt God’s grace and direction even more! On Sunday, Lydia and I went to a campfire/potluck with some friends from church. We enjoyed a relaxing evening and fellowship. I’m so glad we went.

Then, I hurried to clean, fold laundry, pay bills, work, and pack for a ‘little’ road trip. We went to a family reunion in Michigan and also stopped along the way to see friends! The drive through the gorgeous Upper Peninisula (UP) was fairly relaxing and for once I didn’t have every detail planned. 🙂

On our trip, we saw three of the five Great Lakes! Superior, Huron, and Michigan. We even crossed the iconic Mackinac Bridge! (It is a five mile long suspension bridge.) We mapped out a few fun events along the way, but decided to skip them due to light rain on those days and timing. We were excited to hurry and see family and friends instead!

Once again, this week’s road trip provided a gracious timeout from daily life. I’m grateful for all the time we get to spend with loved ones. Thank You, Jesus!

**********

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)!

Where did you find God’s grace this week?