Tag: school

Posted on in Being Gracious, Finding Grace Weekly Recap, Miscellaneous, Parenting, Wisdom

Finding Grace #216

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 fairly relaxing week! Lydia and I continued to go to work and daycare. She kept up with distance learning and I made progress on a few personal projects.

This week felt like spring… finally! It was a little cooler at the beginning of the week, but each afternoon was nice. Lydia and I noticed the Red River is retreating a little at a time.

Yesterday was the most beautiful and warm day of all! We did a few inside activities early on and then spent the afternoon outside! I swept the garage and put out all the deck furniture (a small table with two chairs and two benches). Lydia and I also raked a bit, and I took down the Christmas lights. Later, we noticed the grass is turning green while played a game of croquet. After that, we ate a picnic dinner and played some fun water games.

Today, I had an online video chat with some friends from church. We discussed a book on personal growth, and I enjoyed hearing everyone’s different perspectives!

After that, Lydia and I started a three-month online cooking class, which began with us cleaning out the refrigerator and reorganizing our pantry! She was so excited! Hopefully, the pictures and explanation we posted earn us a good grade. 🙂 It should be a fun class!

Otherwise, we are enjoying our time at home. We are doing our best to social distance, but have been checking in with friends and family. We also are minimizing our errands and wearing masks. We did make it to Costco this week, and I am thankful we were able to get what we needed without too many stops. Thank You, Jesus!

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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, Miscellaneous, Perseverance, Prayer, Wisdom

On Compromise

Hello! How are you holding up this week?!

So far, Lydia and I are doing well. We had a peaceful holiday weekend and then hit the ground running on Monday. Suddenly, I had about fourteen emails, calls, texts, and social media requests to attend to (after work, homework, an online meeting, a hangry meltdown, dinner, and an impromptu phone call).

Every day can be so different. A global pandemic doesn’t help! Whether you are staying home every day, or are able to still go to work, we each have complex circumstances.

Let’s extend each other an extra measure of grace.

In many ways, I have had to let go of what other people think and attend to what’s in front of me. Some things are more relaxed, but as always, I still have a lot to do. So do you! 🙂

Of course, anything worth having or doing takes intention. I look forward to warmer weather and hopefully, the ability to reconnect with people in person. Until then, I have been keeping in touch via texts, calls, and video chats. I’m grateful for technology!

And, I know it is important to pick my battles. Crisis or not.

One key to coping well is learning to adapt. For example, I’ve had to change my route to work about four times in the last six weeks. I have reframed my (now longer) morning drive, and I am choosing to view it as taking the scenic route.

Another key to successful coping is compromise. That may include setting aside certain projects or tasks in order to focus on your family’s needs. Compromise may mean preserving your sanity by taking a break from social media or even the news. It may include setting boundaries in relationships or taking time to regroup. Or, maybe it’s serving others and going all in. There is give and take, and that looks different for each of us.

One important note, however: We cannot compromise regarding what God is calling us to do. We cannot compromise our values or integrity. We cannot compromise faith or obedience. We cannot give up holy ground.

I am NOT talking about our rights as citizens or church-goers. We absolutely need to follow the law and health recommendations. This is not the time to push an agenda.

During this time, we all should lay down our own goals, plans, and desires for the good of all. Stay home. Wash your hands. Wear a mask. Keep social distance. Yes.

What I am talking about how it is easy to let important matters slide under stress. It is easy to give up or make excuses when times get rough. I have heard of many people making decisions lately, without thinking about the long-term consequences.

People have been cutting their bangs, taking money from retirement accounts, turning to bad habits, and accepting less than they deserve. The long-term impacts could be financial, relational, or yet unseen.

I don’t know all these people personally, or the various factors and circumstances they are facing. I am merely using these points as examples. But I do know that God understands each person’s situation. He cares deeply and is ready to help!

Sure, desperate times call for desperate measures. Maybe you are totally confident cutting your bangs. Or, maybe you have a specific plan for using your retirement money. Awesome!

But, let’s not forget Who is fighting for us. We do not HAVE to be afraid or make fear-based choices. Trust Jesus!

We are not left on our own to fend for ourselves. God is on our side. He is for us and promises to provide for us! When we bring him our weaknesses, He will give us His strength.

In times of distress or despair, pause and consider what is at stake. We cannot afford to just get by! Instead, we need to stand firm and seek God’s input.

We can’t see the future, yet He knows the end from the beginning. He’s already there!

We can trust God fully. Crisis or not, He never compromises. He does lead us with mercy and grace. And if we let Him, He will get us where we need to be. No doubt.

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Father God, thanks for Your peace and provision. Thanks that we don’t have to live in fear. You are so good to us. Help us trust You with our decisions, our finances, our health, and our relationships. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: Do you find it easy or challenging to trust God? Is there one area that is more difficult than another?

Tasks: Bring all your concerns to Jesus. Before making a big decision, check-in with Him first. He may give you the green light to go ahead, or He may surprise you with a different (better) answer. He loves to bless us!

Posted on in Finding Grace Weekly Recap, Miscellaneous, Perseverance

Finding Grace #213

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 I sensed God’s grace all around me. I have continually praised Him for my stable job and for Lydia’s daycare. So many people are facing financial uncertainty (due to layoffs and/or daycare issues, etc.). I am not immune to this, but I can see how God led me to this position and daycare over seven months ago. I could never have foreseen this global pandemic, but I am grateful He had me covered.

On Wednesday, Lydia started online schooling through her school district. So far, it has been pretty manageable. She could do some of it at daycare, but we have just been doing after we get home in the afternoon.

We had beautiful weather early in the week! Lydia and I took some walks in our neighborhood after work and daycare. It felt great to get fresh air and enjoy the spring sun! It was also fun to see much of the snow gone!

Then, on Thursday, we had a spring blizzard! It was a little weird since we haven’t had snow in several weeks. Nonetheless, it was quite pretty and I’m grateful we could stay home for the rest of the weekend. (I don’t work on Fridays.)

I was able to call or video chat with several people again this week. Last night, one of my dearest friends and I video chatted for over two hours. It was so much fun. I casually rode over 26 miles (yes, a marathon!) on my exercise bike during some of our chat!

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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, Fear/Don't Fake Brave, Life is Short, Miscellaneous, Perseverance, Wisdom

Strong, Resilient, and Capable

Happy April Fools Day!! Can you believe it’s April already?

This day can be fun for many people, as they play hilarious pranks on their friends.

But maybe today feels like a cruel joke. Social distancing has a way of making us feel isolated and alone. I’m sure we’ve all had moments of doubt and questioning lately.

What is going to happen? What if someone I love gets sick? Will we be okay? 

Much of what we are collectively feeling is grief. Lydia and I talk about grief often, so we are fairly familiar with the concept of loss. It’s not a far stretch for us… But, that doesn’t mean it is easy or comfortable.

Perhaps you have feelings of loss or missing out. Not to mention sadness, uncertainty, and possible despair. Grief is not just about death. It’s about learning to make adjustments. 

This sense of grief is totally normal, but now is the perfect time to make lemonade.

Earlier this week, I read some words of encouragement from someone at work. These words stood out to me: IMPROVISE. ADAPT. OVERCOME.

We have a choice to make: We can try to make it on our own, or we can ask God to help.

The truth is, only Jesus can give us the fortitude to make the best of the situation. Only He can bring something good from overwhelming evil and pain. He alone is the source of all wisdom. His Name is Power!

Only He can teach us how to improvise, adapt, and overcome.

If you are alive today, you come from a long line of survivors. Our ancestors had their own share of problems. Most recently, they dealt with the Spanish Flu, the Great Depression, and two World Wars. Sure, maybe they were afraid, but they pushed through, made sacrifices, and did what was needed. And so, here we are.

Strong. Resilient. Capable.

Overall, Lydia and I are adjusting well. I am still working and sending Lydia to daycare. We are saving some time each day by not running errands or driving to activities, but we are still involved remotely. Oddly enough, we really haven’t had much downtime!

Lydia starts online school today. There will be some challenges, but I know she will do well. I’m grateful for her teacher, our school district, and all those working behind the scenes!

I feel our personal grief experiences have served us well over the years. Here are a few takeaways I have learned that may help you.

First, lean on the Lord as if your life depends on it. Give yourself credit for what is going well. Celebrate wins, no matter what size. And, finally, this will not last forever.

Be strong. Be courageous. Remember God is with you and for you!

Grief looks different for everyone. Sure, there may be similarities or patterns, but each of us copes in unique ways. There is no right way to get through something painful.

Yet, as long as we don’t give up, we will get through it together! Let’s cheer each other on! God’s got this. With Him, nothing is impossible! 

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Father God, thanks for being our refuge and hiding place. Thanks for giving us Your strength! Please protect us and help us trust You more. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: How has social distancing affected you? Has it been difficult or are you glad for the ‘break’? How can you encourage your family, friends, neighbors, and community?

Task: Fear is a normal reaction, but we don’t have to let it run our lives. When you feel afraid, challenge those thoughts and feelings with God’s Word!

 

Posted on in Being Gracious, Finding Grace Weekly Recap, Miscellaneous, Perseverance

Finding Grace #212

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 felt smoother than last week! This week, I received some solid answers about Lydia’s child care, in that they will continue offering services. I am really thankful for their efforts to provide continuity of care. I am also grateful for God’s provision while I work.

The week started off with gray skies but turned out sunny and bright. With Jesus, we are never without HOPE!! Lydia and I saw several birds this week, including a robin, a sparrow, and several geese. Thank You, Lord!

On Thursday night, I was also able to video chat with some ladies in my small group from church. It was fun to see parts of everyone’s houses and hear how they are coping. I’m grateful we can support each other through prayer and encouragement.

One afternoon, Lydia and I saw our neighbors outside enjoying the relatively warm weather. It has been a while since we connected, so we took the opportunity to catch up with them (from ~6 feet away!). It was fun and felt at least a little more like normal!

Because we canceled plans to visit family in Illinois, we switched gears and decided to meet virtually. Last night, we met with everyone online via Zoom! Although we were in four states and two timezones, we had a fun time laughing and visiting for ~two hours!

This week, Lydia was able to do some practice school work online. Her actual coursework will resume online next week. It will be an adjustment, perhaps, but I am glad for this option. Really, it adds another layer of resiliency for our school district! We will get through this together, and I bet many of the kids will remember this as a positive time!

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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, Life is Short, Miscellaneous, Perseverance, Wisdom

The Sun Will Come Out

I hope you are doing well during this time of social distancing!

Not too long ago, Lydia wanted to watch the movie, Annie. We haven’t gotten around to it just yet, but it is a classic. Then, yesterday, I woke up to foggy, gray skies, and the song, “Tomorrow,” came to mind and filled me with hope.

When I’m stuck a with day
That’s gray, and lonely,
I just stick out my chin
And Grin, and say,
Oh

The sun’ll come out
Tomorrow
So ya gotta hang on
‘Til tomorrow
Come what may
Tomorrow, tomorrow
I love ya tomorrow
You’re always a day away

Our present trials (however drastic) are temporary. Although it can feel inconvenient and scary at times, there are many positive things about this quarantine situation.

In fact, a friend of mine likened it to a Sabbath opportunity. Instead of “we have to” we can say “we get to” stay home and enjoy time with family. This forced rest period can be a blessing if we choose to see it that way.

We can grow through adversity, and this situation is still better than most. For example, we are being asked to stay in the comforts of our own homes. Netflix and chill.

Sure, we’ll miss out on our plans, and need to make some sacrifices and adjustments. Yes, it may feel extreme and uncomfortable, but we can do this. After all, this is not war.

Working with Veterans, I see the after-effects of war every week. Quarantine is far better. I’m thankful we can do our part with relative ease.

My grandparents were all part of the Greatest Generation. My grandfathers fought in World War II, and my English grandmother was a war bride. Growing up in Co. Durham, in Northern England, she always said it was a ‘good day’ if they didn’t get bombed. There was the constant threat. Not to mention rations and soldiers going off to war.

Perspective.

Of course, no one knows how long this need for social distancing and quarantine will last. It is hard to see how much difference is made by staying home. In fact, if the coronavirus is contained, it will feel like nothing is happening.

At times, doing the right thing is somewhat boring. But, if “nothing happens,” that’s good! In these uncertain times, a little common sense and a cheerful heart go a long way.

What good can we find in all of this? I have seen resilience and unity and kindness. Hearts in windows, strangers smiling and helping each other. Kids staying calm.

Of course, we are not left on our own. God is right here with us, enabling us to handle these unusual circumstances with grace. We can count on Him!

Stand firm. Stay strong. Don’t give up!

Lydia and I heard the first of many songbirds chirping this week. We have also seen some geese and a spider. I even saw some green grass peeking out from under the snow. 🙂 If we were rushing around like usual, we would have missed these sure signs of spring.

Yes, despite some challenges ahead, we have so much to be thankful for.

We don’t have to be afraid. God is still on His throne. The sun will come out again. After all, God always brings the spring. And, He brings the summer too!

Indeed, we can look forward to greater things. The best is yet to come!

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Heavenly Father, thanks for taking such good care of us. Please give us wisdom, direction, and peace during this time. Help us rely on Your grace and extend it to others. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: Are you coping well or do you find social distancing more challenging than expected? How can you make it easier on yourself and others?

Tasks: Social distancing does not mean emotional distance or the end of relationships. Use this time to connect with others via online platforms and video chats! Reach out to your neighbors; perhaps you can help them in creative ways!

Posted on in Finding Grace Weekly Recap, Miscellaneous, Parenting

Finding Grace #205

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 fun and full! Although, Lydia started off not feeling well and stayed home from school on Monday. Of course, by lunchtime, she was feeling better! We enjoyed a quiet day of rest, and I am grateful for an understanding manager at work.

This week, several friends came over at different times and were able to catch up or hang out. One helped with maintenance, another stayed for dinner. One friend stopped by briefly to pick something up and chat for a few minutes. And, still another friend came for Bible study and awesome discussion. I appreciate each person who God puts in my life!

Lydia’s school had a family dance on Friday evening. She didn’t dance much but mainly wanted to go see all her friends. I really enjoyed catching up with some of her friends’ parents. I’m happy Lydia has a solid group of school friends at this age. I still coach and supervise her, but it is fun to see her interact with these girls and boys. I pray she will continue having a positive experience, but also know it is good to stay involved, even if behind the scenes.

It snowed a little today, and it looked like a snow globe! I also watched a little rabbit outside my window. I was only a foot or so away, with the windowsill in between us. The rabbit seemed to enjoy itself while it was eating snow. 🙂 I was reminded of how God takes care of each of us by providing for and protecting us.

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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, Perseverance

Finding Grace #188

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 found myself extra grateful this week!

On Tuesday, I enjoyed some extra special moments with the Lord. I’m so glad we can have a personal relationship with Jesus. He is our refuge and strength!

I also bought a new transitional coat for the fall; it is longer than my other ones. I already put it to good use for our first ‘winter’ storm! I’ll save my heavy-duty coat for later!

On Friday, Lydia had a snow day from school. Thankfully, the Y program was still open, though I needed to drop Lydia off at an alternate site. She had a really fun time playing games, making art, and making new friends. I had a fun and productive day at work!

I received some beautiful flowers and chocolates from three girlfriends for completing part of a big project recently. I’m grateful they have been cheering me on. Thank you!

Today, Lydia attended a birthday party for a classmate. The party was at an art studio downtown Fargo so it was a cool opportunity for Lydia. I cleared the snow earlier in the day, so I could drop her off… No winter storm was going to keep her home! 😉

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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 Journey of Grace, Miscellaneous, Perseverance, Prayer, Worship

All Good Things

The last few weeks have been exciting and intense, fun and challenging. It’s been quite a ride, and I am loving it! But with so many changes, I need to focus on the little things.

I have only been able to accomplish a few things each evening after work. Sometimes we have evening activities or other obligations, so I’m keeping it simple at home.

We’ve had a lot of leftovers, which really isn’t too far from our normal! 😉

Ironically, even though we are busier than usual, I am not super stressed.

I have been giving myself a lot of grace, which often means only doing what really needs to be done for the next day. That includes meal prep, reviewing Lydia’s school day, etc.

I have cut back on frivolous timewasters (ex. social media). I’ve changed my blog writing days and have saved certain chores for the weekend. Even so, I am confident God has a purpose in this season. I know I am covered by His grace!

Ephesians 2:10 says, ” For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.”

As soon as I heard about my new job, I sensed it was God’s plan for me. Similarly, Lydia’s teacher and the YMCA after-school program were specifically laid out for her this year.

God made plans for me, just as I made plans for Lydia. Yes, we’ve both had to adjust and ‘make room’ for these gifts of God’s grace, but they are worth it!

I have heard all good things about my new place of work, Lydia’s teacher, and the YMCA program. I am not naive to think everything will be perfect, and there certainly are some challenges and learning curves. But I know God has all good things in store for us. 

We just have to ‘walk out’ the plans He has made. So when my dishes sit in the sink or I wait another day (or two or three) to mow… I can still keep my joy because I am covered by God’s grace. That brings me a special peace because I am right where God wants me!

He has made a special planned provision for us during this time, so I am not going to worry about all I can’t or won’t accomplish. Which is a lot! 😉

That doesn’t mean life is easy or trials won’t come. But, I know God will be with me in those times, too. He loves me so much and will help and empower me then, as well.

I know, with God’s help, eventually, the important things will still get done. He will work it all out at the end (Romans 8:28). I am going to praise Him for all good things!

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Heavenly Father, thanks for giving us all good things! You are the Master Planner and have such good plans for us. Give us wisdom and discernment as we walk this path. Draw us close to You. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: What does this season bring for you? Are you keeping the status quo or looking forward to new things?

Tasks: Praise God for all good things!

 

 

Posted on in Finding Grace Weekly Recap, Journey of Grace, Miscellaneous, Parenting, Prayer, Words

Finding Grace #183

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 really good week!

My parents were safe and dry as Hurricane Dorian passed by the Florida coast. It had major impact elsewhere, however. Thanks for your prayers and support!

Work went well, and I felt like I accomplished a lot. I still have a lot to learn, but it has already been very fulfilling. I can see why God placed me in my role. One morning, I walked in during the ‘honor guard’ for a veteran who just died. It was a touching moment as “Taps” was played in the hallway and everyone stood at attention.

Lydia seems to be adjusting to school and the daycare program! Thanks so much for your prayers. We are both being stretched this year, but I am excited for what God has in store. Lydia doesn’t quite understand how this is good for her just yet. I pray she grows and learns important lessons this year. It may be challenging, but I know it is for the best!

This week, I had lots of important conversations and received several well-timed compliments. At different times, I caught up with five different ladies, building them up and cheering them on. I also heard I was doing a good job at work, was doing well as a mother, and also heard quite a few good things about Lydia at school. We can’t live for praise, but the kind words were just what I needed. They were confirmations that we are on the right path. God has us right where He wants us, and I am so grateful!

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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)!