Tag: relax

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

Finding Grace #478

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

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

Free Purple Leaf Plum Flowers photo and picture

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

This was a peaceful and restful week!

Lydia left before dawn on Sunday for her CloseUp trip to Washington, DC. She had a great time and made some good memories. She returned home late Thursday and was in bed just before midnight. Lydia was exhausted but excited!

On Sunday, I came home and got ready for church. After the service, I also went to another church for my neighbor’s confirmation. After that, we enjoyed a little celebration at her house. It was fun, and I was glad to be invited. I spoke with several of their friends and family, and many of them had gone to Washington with the same program as Lydia when they were young. It eased my mind that they were going to keep her in prayer. What a blessing!

While Lydia was gone, I spent the week doing my own thing after work. Work was fairly calm for once, so it was easy to transition into a relaxing evening. I did some chores, nothing too strenuous. I made some good food, read a book, spent time with God, and watched a few shows. I appreciated the time alone since it doesn’t happen often!

I used up my last ‘time off award’ from work on Friday. I planned for the day off, knowing Lydia would be tired and need to rest. I let her stay home from school, and she didn’t wake up until Noon! In the meantime, I went to an appointment, enjoyed some coffee, and finished my Galatians journible, until Lydia was up!

Today, Lydia unpacked and did a little homework. I did a few Saturday things and also mowed for the first time this season. The weather is beautiful today, in the seventies!

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These are only a few examples, but God’s grace never runs out!

There’s grace in every situation—we just need to look for it. God promises if we seek Him, we will find Him (see Jeremiah 29:13)!

Posted on in Gratitude, Life is Short, Miscellaneous, Parenting, Personality, Worship

A Little Bit of This and That

Ah, this week has been pretty chill so far! Work has been busy but good, mostly straightforward and manageable. I’ve had good patients and fun with my coworkers—we had lunch together yesterday while doing some competencies and training.

Lydia is in Washington, D.C. (doing well). It is a good chance for both of us to grow. I’m loving that my evenings are fairly free! As such, I can pursue a little rest and relaxation. 

I thought about taking a little trip of my own, but then some work obligations popped up, and I decided to stay put. I’m glad I did because I am enjoying my time with no real plan, just doing a little bit of this and that! In short, it’s been great!!

Free Human Child photo and picture

As a single mom, I don’t get much time alone or without overt responsibility. On Monday, I made some treats for my coworkers, exercised, worked on some paperwork, and did other random things. Last night, I went on a walk, did some writing (hello!), watched a show, and got lost in some online reading. Tonight, I might do something around town—whatever I feel like!

I am also using this time to connect with God and listen. Time with Him is such a gift. It’s wonderful to wake up early and go at a slower pace, exercising a little, praying, and reading my Bible. It is a bonus that the mornings are getting brighter earlier!

Well, I think I’ll keep this short and sweet. Sometimes, I have a lot to say, but right now, I have some other things calling my name. 🙂 There is a lot of grace in just taking a break. Maybe I’ll meander a bit and see what happens after work. I encourage you to do the same! 

God is always up to something good. We need to spend time with Him to discern how He is leading us. With that, let’s go see what He has in store for us today!

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Heavenly Father, thanks for giving us peace and rest. Thanks for Your abundant grace that covers us. As we walk with You, help us to draw near and listen. Help us grow in wisdom. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: When was the last time you enjoyed a little solitude? Do you get bored and lonely, or do you relish time alone?

Tasks: Set aside some time to spend with God today. It may be a few minutes or several hours. Make it a priority because He longs to meet with you!

Posted on in Being Gracious, Gratitude, Journey of Grace, Life is Short, Miscellaneous, Parenting, Perseverance, Prayer, Travel, Wisdom, Worship

Trusting When We Cannot See

This season is full of opportunities to trust God. Often, we have to make a decision when we don’t know the full picture of what He is doing. It seems God asks us to trust Him at a new level every so often (if not daily). Yet, we don’t have to lay aside our questions or logic. Trusting God does not mean ‘blind faith.’ We may not fully see what He is doing, but we can see that He has a good track record!

We can trust everything He does. Even when we can’t quite see the full picture in our own lives, we can trace His faithfulness through Scripture. The main thing is not to get stuck on our questions or logic… in order to trust, we still have to take action!

Free Building Porch photo and picture

“When you can’t see God’s hand, trust His heart.” — Emily P. Freeman

I came across this quote again recently, and it struck me a little differently than before. Previously, I focused on the word hand in terms of a physical body part. This time, however, I thought of a deck of cards, where hands are dealt. Depending on the game played, we may not see all the cards at once! God does not play games with our hearts, and we can trust His. 

God also doesn’t ask us to trust Him for no reason. He loves us and has the best things in store for us. As we see in Ephesians 2:10 (NIV), “…we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.” We just have to walk them out. 

God continually shows me His faithfulness. Yesterday marked two months since my mom finished her race and entered Heaven. It has been difficult, but I am grateful that people are still encouraging us, especially my dad. Thank you!!

Free Door Building photo and picture

Lydia is going on a school trip to Washington, DC, next week, and although it was my idea to send her, I need to trust God for her safety, health, provision, etc. I know she will have a great time and will make many memories as she spreads her wings. Thankfully, she already has experience traveling and being apart from me, thanks to summer camp the last few years.

I am also trusting God with summer plans and some opportunities in the fall. Remember, I am a planner and like to get my ducks in a row! But, sometimes, I just have to wait and have faith. In time, I will know more details. God always provides them on time, though in my humanity, I like to know early! 🙂

This season, I am reminded of how God cares for all His birds. I have woken up to the robins, sparrows, purple house finches, and others singing their songs of praise. I have seen a Northern Flicker grace my yard for a few minutes, too. If they can trust God to provide for them amid the uncertain rain, wind, and various temperatures, then I can too!

While waiting for God, I can worship and keep praying for wisdom and discernment. I can take the first step without worrying about making a mistake. I can rest knowing He will redirect me as needed. I can even “borrow faith” from someone else’s journey until mine strengthens!

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God, thanks for all Your loving care and provision. You are so good to me. Help me trust You more, even in uncertain times. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: Where are you in your faith journey? How can you trust God and keep moving forward?

Task: Listen to the song, “Sparrows,” by Cory Asbury. Think about how much God loves you and takes care of you!

Posted on in Finding Grace Weekly Recap, Gratitude, Miscellaneous

Finding Grace #475

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

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

Free Bird Female Northern Cardinal photo and picture

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

This was a pretty good week.

Work was busy as usual. On my lunch break, I was able to take a couple of walks and enjoy the nice weather. I also had a couple of patients who each knew Jesus. I could tell by their clothing and the sweet atmosphere. At the end of our appointment, we talked about faith, family, and God’s provision. It was nice for them to ask me questions and listen to me tell them (briefly) about my mom and Dave.

The weather this week grew nicer day by day. There are lots of birds chirping even before sunrise, and the grass is starting to turn green. I stopped by Trefoil Park one day after work to see the river. Nature can be so peaceful!

I went to the movie theater for the third week in a row. Yesterday, I watched The Chosen, Season 5, Episodes 6, 7, and 8. It was so good. It was humorous at times, but also poignant. I appreciated seeing Scripture play out, and I am still thinking about it all. Go see it if you can!

Lydia attended week two of her rifle class. She’s doing so well, and really could be a natural… like her Mom. 😉 She is tightening up her groupings and is right on target.

This morning, we got out the door early for haircuts and a little shopping. For lunch, we used an old gift card for Olive Garden and took home some leftovers. The rest of the day has been spent catching up on Saturday things. I’m grateful for the slower pace!

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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, Gratitude, Miscellaneous, Prayer

Finding Grace #474

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

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

Free Birds Branch photo and picture

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

This week flew by!

Work was fairly busy but good. I had a lot of nice patients and was able to help them. I also got to demonstrate a helpful program to help my coworkers chart faster and find information easier. It was fun to show them all the tips and tricks!

We had more snow over a few days this week. It was very thick and wet. I shoveled the sidewalks, but thankfully,  my snow service is still under contract for a couple more weeks!

Yesterday after work, I went to the movie theater to see The Chosen, Season 5, Episodes 3, 4, and 5. I loved the portrayal of how Jesus treated His female followers. It brought tears to my eyes—so good. The rest was full of confusion, emotion, intrigue, and politics. It really helped me understand all the events of Holy Week!

Lydia started a rifle class this week at a local marksmanship facility, where she took the air pistol class a few years ago. She enjoyed it and is looking forward to the rest of the classes this month!

We had a lovely little serenade from some robins and finches this morning. Then, we got some groceries and came home to make some muffins and an egg bake. Lydia did a little cleaning for me while I am doing some paperwork.

Today also happens to be my parents’ fiftieth wedding anniversary. It stings a little since they came so close (6 weeks short), and now my mom is not here to celebrate it. But, we are trusting God’s wisdom, mercy and grace. I am grateful for some church friends who invited my dad to join them for some fun today. It is tough, but I am glad he does not have to be alone. Thanks for your ongoing prayers!

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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, Gratitude, Miscellaneous

Finding Grace #467

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

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

Free Mountains Forest photo and picture

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

This week, I had a short work week since Lydia and I had special plans.

I worked Monday through Wednesday and tried to stay on top of things. I thought I would get behind since I had a lot of patients. But, then a few people canceled last minute. I enjoy seeing people, but in this case, it was helpful! 🙂

 One highlight was starting a book club with some of my coworkers. I asked them to read Atomic Habits, and we met on Tuesday to discuss it. It is a good book so far, with applications for many of our patients!

It was very cold again this week. Nothing unusual with that. LOL

Thankfully, Lydia and I are spending time with loved ones in warmer weather for the long holiday weekend. It has been good to be together!

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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, Gratitude, Miscellaneous

Finding Grace #464

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

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

Free Road Trees photo and picture

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

This was a good week! I love January because it is quiet and there are fewer activities. I don’t enjoy being busy-busy-busy. Even so, I relied on God’s grace to get me through.

I had a full work week, though it was only four days long! I had friendly patients and attended some good trainings and meetings.

The weather was beautiful overall. The temperature varied quite a bit, and we got a little snow, mostly flurries. I shoveled a bit but did not have too much trouble. I enjoyed watching the snow, and the traffic was not too bad. Florida got more snow than we did! 😉

I enjoyed looking at the stars and planets this week. I used the SkyView app and was able to see several parts of our galaxy from my living room and bedroom (different sides of the house). It was so cold that I didn’t want to go outside!

Today, I caught up around the house and made some phone calls. Lydia and I did some reading and made some cookies. It was a peaceful time together!

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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 Being Gracious, Finding Grace Weekly Recap, Gratitude, Kindness, Miscellaneous

Finding Grace #461

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

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

Free Mountains Nature photo and picture

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

This was a good week with a mixture of work and relaxation!

Work was busy, but it was nice to have Wednesday off for New Year’s Day. Monday and Tuesday were busy, and then Thursday and Friday were calmer. I was able to stay on top of things, but I also got ahead on some projects for the next few weeks.

On Wednesday, I enjoyed cooking, exercising, and starting my new Bible plan for the year. I watched a show and mostly relaxed. I could get used to having a day off in the middle of the week! 😉

The weather was closer to normal, but we still don’t have much snow! I’m sure we will get more soon, but I am grateful!

My internet went out this week, and I spent three hours working on it. My brothers were great at helping me via text, but I still needed to call the company to send a service person. He came the next day after work and still spent an hour figuring it out! Thankfully, it’s all good now. I still don’t quite know what the problem was, lol!

I spent about four hours on the phone this week at various points. I enjoyed catching up with family and friends. I feel blessed to have good connections with people who care about me (and vice versa)!!

Today, Lydia and I did a little cleaning but mostly relaxed. Tonight, we’re watching “Your Friend, Nate Bargatze” on Netflix. He’s quite funny, and I appreciate the clean comedy!

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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 #460

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

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

Free Winter Snow photo and picture

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

This was a relaxing week! I went to work on Monday and had off most of the week after that!

Tuesday was Christmas Eve. It was declared a federal holiday (just this year), and I appreciated having an extra day off. Our church’s Christmas Eve service was so good, and I am glad we got to attend!

Christmas Day was peaceful and relaxed. We enjoyed opening gifts, reading, playing games, baking bread, and just hanging out. It was good to connect with family remotely, too.

On Thursday, Lydia and I ran a couple of errands. Then, she had an eye doctor’s appointment, and we went to see the movie Mufasa. It was good!

The weather was pretty mild this week. It almost feels like spring! We still have snow, but I see a fair amount of grass, too!

We happily stayed home again on Friday, and I spent a fair amount of time working on my budget for the next year. I also finished some other end-of-year projects and put away the Christmas decorations. Usually, I leave them up longer, but this year, I wanted to clear the space and start the year off with a clean house!

Today, I had the opportunity to work in the VA kitchen again! This time, I worked a full day, mostly on my feet running around. There was not much downtime, and I got about 12,000 steps while I was there. Later, another dietitian also came to help, so that was fun. The other staff were grateful, and I’ve appreciated getting to know them better!

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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 Being Gracious, Gratitude, Life is Short, Miscellaneous, Wisdom, Worship

The Heart of Christmas

MERRY CHRISTMAS!!

The last time Christmas was on a Wednesday was in 2013, our first without Dave. I was not blogging then, but we spent the holiday visiting family in Ohio. Staying in Fargo was just too difficult that year. 

But God is so faithful and good. He has seen us through each twist, turn, and holiday, providing whatever we need in the moment. I know He has special plans for us… and for you.

Today, I am sending love to you and your family. I hope you have a wonderful day celebrating God’s love and His gift to us…Jesus!! He is the best gift we could ever receive!

Lydia tends to give me handmade cards and gifts. This year, she surprised me and made fudgy chocolate cookies! They are amazing, so I’m sharing the recipe she used! Enjoy!

We have had a great Christmas season. We loved the Concordia Christmas Concert early on and The Charlie Brown Christmas play last weekend. Lydia also had some holiday events for school. We have made some yummy treats and watched most of the holiday movies. But, overall, we have enjoyed a less frantic pace!

Yesterday was declared a federal holiday (just this year), and I was extra grateful because I would’ve missed our church’s Christmas Eve service if I was still at work. It would have started and been mostly over before I could pick up Lydia at home.

I recently watched a movie about the poem “Christmas Day” by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow. It was written in 1863 during the Civil War and discusses tragic loss, death, and even hate encompassed with enduring hope in God. The poem was not on my radar until I saw the movie, but now I can’t get it out of my head.

The bells refer to church bells ringing out the love, joy, and hope of Jesus. Longfellow’s wife died after an accident, yet she had always loved the bells and their sound, imagining them to be like little voices singing out God’s truth.

After she died, Longfellow refused to write or do much of anything. Grief is so heavy sometimes! But, by God’s grace, he had a breakthrough on Christmas Day, 1863. His poem was later set to music and sung as a Christmas carol, “I Heard the Bells on Christmas Day.”

Free Bells Church photo and picture

So, to recap, there is a poem, a song, and a movie. I’d recommend them all! You can learn more about the history and details here. All three are connected in one link.

Besides the joyful bells, one thing that stands out to me is the theme of listening. We must quiet ourselves before the Lord in order to hear Him and receive his love, peace, and joy. I feel like Lydia and I have been able to do that this year. I hope you can also find time and space to connect with God today.

Another line I like states, “God is not dead, nor doth He sleep…” When I heard that, I was reminded of 2 Peter 3:9 (NIV), which says, “The Lord is not slow in keeping His promise, as some understand slowness. Instead, He is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance.” I’m so grateful for God’s constant attentiveness and provision. He gave us Jesus and so much more!

I am grateful for each opportunity God gives us to draw close to Him. Without Jesus, that would not have been possible. He is the heart of Christmas! Love, joy, peace, mercy, grace, reconciliation, eternal life, and so much more. May we keep Him at the center as we celebrate!

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Heavenly Father, thanks for sending Jesus as a baby King for our redemption. May all we think, say, and do bring You glory. May we walk worthy of Jesus’ sacrifice. In His Name, Amen

Question: How can you keep Jesus at the center and or honor Him today?

Task: After you check out the other links above, listen to Casting Crowns’ rendition of “I Heard the Bells on Christmas Day.” It is my favorite! Merry Christmas!!