Tag: Rest

Posted on in Gratitude, Miscellaneous, Parenting

Quality Time With My Girl

“Lydia, what should I blog about for this week?”

“Well, we’re spending time together. You could write about that.”

It’s interesting that spending time together was at the forefront of Lydia’s mind. 

Recently, she took a quiz about the five love languages at school. It was a modified version the school counselor gave them around Valentine’s day. It was so insightful!

I am familiar with the idea, but I hadn’t thought of it for Lydia. Apparently, quality time is her highest-ranked love language, followed by words of affirmation. (Mine too!)

So, perhaps that’s why she has asked to play games together, watch movies together, read together, and so on lately. Somewhat par for the course, but I’ll take it!

Sometimes, Lydia is my little shadow, but I don’t mind. These moments will not last forever, so I am soaking up the quality time with my girl. 

So, last night, Lydia requested we have a movie night together. Truthfully, I didn’t want to watch another movie, our second this week.

I was focused on this blog, though I hadn’t started writing it yet. I had several other things to do, too. But, Lydia requested “Mom’s Night Out” which was downstairs in our basement.

I stalled as I was making dinner, and I couldn’t recall if it was kid-friendly or not (rated PG). I didn’t really want to take time to figure it all out, but Lydia went ahead and set it up anyway.

In the end, we had fun laughing about the movie, which essentially is a massive misunderstanding. Hilarious! I paused it now and then to explain things, but I didn’t feel it was inappropriate. In fact, I had forgotten how painfully funny it is.

The laughter and messages were just what I needed.

At one point, Lydia sat on my lap (causing me to take a break from writing). Her hug turned into compliments and tickles. It was perfect.

Sometimes, it feels like I have a million things to do. It’s easy to rush and forget about what’s most important. That might change from day to day, but I am grateful for simple moments with Lydia. God is so good to me!

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God, thanks for all you do for me and have given me. Thanks for leading me and reminding me of what’s important, to take time with those I love. May I soak up Your love and be a blessing to others. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: Do you know your love language(s)? Do you know the love languages of those around you?

Tasks: When unexpected situations arise, trust God and just roll with them. You don’t have to do it all perfectly. You might be surprised to discover it’s just what you needed!

Posted on in Finding Grace Weekly Recap, Gratitude, Miscellaneous

Finding Grace #259

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 pretty quiet and went smoothly. It started off quite chilly (below zero), but is currently around 25F as I write this. A huge difference, and it feels so warm!

Work was busy, but good! I really enjoyed teaching my students more about medical nutrition therapy for diabetes. I shared various handouts with them that I have collected over the years. We reviewed portion sizes and carbohydrate counting. We discussed common myths about diabetes and trends I see in my patients (personal details are confidential, of course). This is a very important topic and it was fun to see them making practical connections to everyday life.

I noticed the days growing brighter and longer this week. Spring feels like it is just around the corner, and the time change will be coming up in a couple weeks. The subtle change is nice and it does seem to improve everyone’s moods! 🙂

This week, I was asked to pray for some big things in other people’s lives. I’m so glad God blessed them by saying YES! It is great to partner with God in prayer!

Today, Lydia had fun “camping” downstairs in a pop-up tent. She read and relaxed. She might even sleep down there tonight!

Tonight, some friends are coming over for Bible study. We always enjoy catching up! We are reading through the NLT Chronological Bible together this year, and it has been fun to discuss all that is going on. Currently we are in Leviticus! 😉

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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, Journey of Grace, Miscellaneous, Perseverance, Wisdom, Worship

Coming or Going

Lydia and I are coming off a three-day weekend, thanks to Presidents Day on Monday. 

We had considered traveling to Arizona to see family over the weekend, but a few weeks ago, I changed my mind. I had already adjusted my work schedule and traded on-call dates, so that wasn’t the issue. Also, I could have taught my class online, if needed. Basically, I was starting to prepare but didn’t have peace.

Yes, I really wanted to go, but there were several things holding me back. Some reasons were practical, like Lydia missing three days of school, not wanting to fly during COVID, or possibly having to quarantine.

Driving wasn’t really an option this time either. Arizona would be a twenty-five hour trip, one way, with me doing all the driving!

Certainly, Arizona would have been fun, but I still had a sense of hesitation. I could not place my finger on it (besides potential weather issues or having to plan ahead while already feeling time-crunched). In the end, I made the decision to stay home and was glad.

Turns out, maybe God just wanted me to rest!

As it was, Lydia and I had a really relaxing and restorative weekend. Sure, we did a little cleaning and laundry and projects, but we also slept in, worked on a puzzle, watched movies, played Monopoly, cooked some delicious food, and more.

It was just what we needed! I know Arizona would have been worth it, too, and I was bummed to say no. But, with so many variables up in the air, it seemed wise to hold off.

Most people would love to head South at this time of year. Especially in the Midwest right now! Other states are having historic cold snaps, but the brutal temperatures are just our normal winter weather in Fargo. If anything, we’ve had an easy winter… perhaps one reason why I don’t feel the need to escape!

Ironically, two other friends flew to Arizona and loved relaxing in the heat! From their beautiful pictures, it was just what they needed, too!

I’m grateful God leads each of us differently. He may tell some to stay and some to go. He may ask others to speak up and others to stay quiet. The Lord gives and takes away. He loves us in equal measure but will use our unique traits as He sees fit.

We don’t have to feel bad or feel afraid of missing out on life. As long as we are paying attention to Jesus and doing what He says, we will end up where we need to be.

Whether we are coming or going, we can trust Him! He knows exactly what we need!

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God, thanks for leading us and providing for us. Thanks for bringing us restoration and peace as You watch over us. May we bring You glory whether we are coming or going! In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: Do you enjoy the blustery winter weather? Do you have any upcoming travel plans? How do you see God blessing you today?

Tasks: Conserve your energy. Instead of feeding negativity, look for what’s going well. Trust that God has you where He wants you!

Posted on in Finding Grace Weekly Recap, Gratitude, Miscellaneous

Finding Grace #258

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 but good! The temperature stayed below zero for most of the week, but really, it wasn’t too bad. I just dressed in layers and went about my day. Thankfully, I ran most all of my errands when it was (relatively) warmer last week!

Otherwise, I enjoyed being productive at work and home! I definitely felt God leading me and keeping me safe. The roads were a little slippery one morning and a car cut across three lanes of traffic. Another person hit their brakes and started to slide. I don’t think their were any collisions but it was very close!

I worked on my book a little more this week. It is very close to being done! Thanks for your patience. I can’t wait to share it with you!

Yesterday, Lydia was so excited for her Valentine’s party at school. She offered to share some of her candy with me, which was cute. After I picked her up, she noticed a bald eagle soaring in circles above us. She said it was the best day ever!

Then, today, we cleaned up a bit, worked on some projects, talked with family on the phone, and put together a puzzle. It should be a great, relaxing three day weekend!

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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, Finding Grace Weekly Recap, Gratitude, Journey of Grace, Miscellaneous, Perseverance, Wisdom

Bring Your Tough Questions to Jesus

Yesterday, I watched a Bible Project video about “emet,” that is, God’s faithfulness and trustworthiness. I love these videos! Interestingly, the next video in the series says that Exodus 34:6-7 is the most repeated and re-quoted text by Biblical authors. Wow!!

I also heard a teacher from Read through the Word say, “If you can’t quite see God’s faithfulness in your own life, look for His faithfulness in the lives of others… both in the Bible and people you know.”

So, naturally, God’s faithfulness is on my mind this week! That said, it can sometimes be difficult to see faithfulness when you are in the midst of trials or emotional upheaval. But keep looking… It’s there!

Also, earlier this week, I was texting with two different ladies at the same time. One is very close to me and the other I have never met (a friend of a friend). They are both going through the early stages of severe grief, though their losses are different. Neither felt up to talking on the phone, so texting was their preferred option.

I wish I could take away the pain these ladies are feeling, but I cannot. It will take a fair amount of time and effort to process their intense grief. I’m available to help and listen, but I cannot heal their hearts on my own. However, I can point them toward God’s faithfulness. If they draw close to Him, He will be there strength and everything they need.

After my late-husband, Dave, died in 2013, I certainly had a lot of questions with few answers. I chose not to be mad at God, but still I wondered what our relationship was supposed to look like. I was understandably confused and disappointed.

Back then, another friend simply encouraged me to keep bringing those questions to God Himself. She validated my feelings and challenged me to not give up. Her words resonated with me as she reminded me that God could handle all my emotions. All I had to do was keep coming to Him. It was a breath of fresh air!

My daughter, Lydia, is quite resilient, but even so, she does tend to go through periods of mourning for her dad. Her grief is different than mine, and I cannot always shield her from pain and loss. Though, I can to create a safe space to discuss what’s on her heart.

Recently, Lydia showed me a paper from church where the children were asked to write down questions they would ask God. I don’t know what the lesson was about, but on the top of her list was this question: How is my dad doing?

While I hate that she has to bear such loss, I am glad she feels good about asking God tough questions. (She also asked what God’s favorite color and food were, so I don’t think she was too upset on that day.)

Bottom line: Our doubts and fears can yield a deeper faith as long as we bring all of those questions to Jesus, instead of turning away and trying to cope on our own.

Whether we come to God in anger, confusion, sadness, disappointment—or even with joy and gratitude—we are changed in the presence of Jesus.

He can handle our deepest concerns because His grace knows no bounds. It may be slow progress, but eventually, we will be on level ground again.

Don’t give up when you don’t get the answers you want. Just keep asking and trusting. God will make everything right in due time.

I’m grateful He knows our hearts better than we do!

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God, thanks that we can bring all our tough questions directly to You. Thanks for Your unmatched grace and faithfulness. Please speak words of comfort and healing; Lord, give us Your peace. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: Do you find yourself weeping with those who weep? Or are you trying to bring surface (quick and superficial) solutions to deep and lasting grief?

Tasks: If you don’t know what to say to someone who is grieving, perhaps don’t say anything. Instead, show up for them. Be available even just to sit and listen, or help with difficult task. Finally, listen to this song, “God Help Me,” by Plumb.

Posted on in Finding Grace Weekly Recap, Food and Nutrition, Gratitude, Life is Short, Miscellaneous

Finding Grace #257

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 bittersweet. On Sunday, my cousin’s twelve-year-old son was killed in a tragic snowmobile accident. Death and grief are difficult under any circumstances, but the loss of a child are unimaginable. Thanks for keeping my family in prayer.

Work went well at the VA and I worked all five days, as opposed to my usual four days. I recently had additional hours permanently approved, so that started this week. I am grateful for God’s provision, and I am happy to go in on Fridays for a part-day now. 

I did not go to Concordia this week, due to some other college scheduling. But, I still worked on some upcoming lessons, graded assignments, and answered emails, etc. It was strange not to be on campus, though!

Today, Lydia and I relaxed somewhat amid all our Saturday chores. I roasted a variety of vegetables and made a mushroom stroganoff that was so delicious! I also made a simple onion bagel with veggie cream cheese, cucumbers, and seasoning. It was a good day to stay inside, and I love being creative in the kitchen!

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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, Food and Nutrition, Gratitude, Life is Short, Miscellaneous

Finding Grace #256

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 busy but exciting week! All the usual things went…well, as usual. I enjoyed Zoom on Sunday and work on the other days! 🙂 Lydia also went to school in-person all five days, which was a first for her school year! She had a great week, too!

I got my second COVID vaccine shot on Monday. This time, my arm was far less sore, but I was a little more achy than last time. Perhaps this was because my muscles were already sore and recovering from shoveling and snow blowing the weekend before! Thankfully, after a day or two, I felt much better. I am grateful to have received both shots!

This week, I saw God redirecting my steps. I am thankful He knows better than I do! He had me work ahead on my Wednesday blog post, which is good because on Tuesday evening, I was able to go to bed earlier and rest (see above paragraph!).

On Wednesday evening, Lydia’s friend came over again. We had a brief Bible lesson about Ruth and Naomi (loyal love) and then we had fun with spin art. We had three colors of paint and did lots of experimenting! It was fun to see what we created together!

Today, Lydia and I did several art projects together. Well, we started them, at least! She received an arts & crafts subscription for her birthday, but we just now are getting to the projects. Some of them required multiple steps which will take a little longer. But, it was fun to spend a lot of time together.

In terms of self-care this week, I went to bed earlier a couple of nights. I also did a little exercise and finished a small, intricate puzzle (pictured above). It was cut out of wood and has all sorts of unique shapes. I enjoyed the little figures hidden throughout. I even found a duplicate piece that threw me off more than once! 😉 Then today, I listened to an audiobook while I chopped and baked loads of vegetables for the coming week! Rest feels 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, Gratitude, Miscellaneous, Parenting

Finding Grace #255

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! On Sunday, we had a lot of fun on family Zoom. We laughed and enjoyed seeing my baby nephew. He’s growing so much!

Work went well and I enjoyed both the VA and Concordia. It is a challenge at times to balance everything, but I am grateful for all I am able to do right now.

I enjoyed seeing all the Bernie Sanders memes this week after the Inauguration. Ironically, it seems he is more popular now than he has ever been! Some would say his policies are questionable (at best), but hey, we are all “united” over those funny memes. Winning!

On Wednesday evening, Lydia had a friend from church over to play last minute. Since we didn’t make it to Wednesday night church, we had a short Bible lesson at home. We had fun reading in Acts 16 about the woman named Lydia, the first Christian convert in Philippi. Then, we discussed a short devotion about her. The girls loved it!

I picked up Lydia early from daycare on Friday. We had a fun evening together!

We got a little more snow this week. One day, my snow removal service came, so that was really helpful. They saved me time during a busy work week. Tonight, Lydia and I are going to shovel a little bit as well! She has been good to help me around the house lately. Thankfully, most of the time she is cheerful!

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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 #254

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 great week, though pretty low key.

At the VA, it felt like a party atmosphere as Veterans were able to receive the COVID vaccine! They had to sit for about fifteen minutes outside my office afterward (to monitor for any negative reactions), and all the Veterans were so happy. They were chatting and laughing with each other as they shared various stories. One man was showing off his “Call to Arms” shirt, highlighting the fact he had to take his other shirt off to get the vaccine.

I met with my students on Friday, so that was fun. We had a good discussion about the new 2020-2025 Dietary Guidelines for Americans, as well as the impact obesity can have on various illnesses. It is easy to take our health for granted sometimes!

Today, a dear friend came to visit. We caught up over several hours this afternoon, since March was the last time we have seen each other. We both laughed when we gave each other essentially the same gift (different colors, etc.)! A small journal! 

Tonight, I am meeting with some more friends. It’s been a few months since we have seen each other. So, I am looking forward to that, too!

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

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

Posted on in Books and Movies I Like, Finding Grace Weekly Recap, Gratitude, Journey of Grace, Miscellaneous, Perseverance

Finding Grace #253

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 great week, starting with our family Zoom call on Sunday! Lydia had a blast asking everyone for nouns, verbs, and adjectives for her new Peanuts Mad Libs book she received in celebration of Dave’s Heavenly birthday a few weeks ago. (I always give her a gift to make it a positive day, not a sad day of focusing on our loss.) We were all cracking up!

Work at the VA was busy, but straightforward. I got to talk with several grateful Veterans and had some good conversations with my coworkers. I really enjoy working there!

This week, I diligently worked on my syllabus for the next semester at Concordia. I had fun coordinating some assignments with the other professors (collaboration between graduate and undergraduate students). I have a feeling this semester will fly by!

On Thursday,  I celebrated my 13th wedding anniversary. Even though Dave and I were only married 5+ years, it is still special to commemorate our fun cruise ship wedding. Thanks for all your continued support and encouragement!

On Friday, I met with my students over Zoom (due to current COVID protocols). We will meet in-person in a couple weeks, but we had a good discussion anyway. Thankfully, they are all on-top of things when it comes to technology. They make my job easy…well, easier! 😉

This week, my proof copy of my book came in the mail! I have a few smallish changes to make and then it will be available. It has been a labor of love and perseverance. I am excited to share it with you all!

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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)!