Tag: thankful

Posted on in Fear, Faith, and Moving Forward book, Gratitude, Journey of Grace, Kindness, Miscellaneous, Parenting, Perseverance, Wisdom

Thanksgiving Thoughts

Tomorrow is Thanksgiving, which is one of my favorite holidays. Growing up, my family had some fun traditions. I always enjoyed taking a few moments to say what we are thankful for. We often went to the movies, and we almost always had an extra guest or two around the table.

We haven’t had a big family Thanksgiving for a few years because now we live in four different states in three time zones! So, generally, Thanksgiving and other holidays do look a little different for Lydia and me.

If you flip back to some of my 2015 and 2016 blog posts around the holidays, you would see more emotion and grief. I’m grateful to be a little further out from all that now. God has brought us through so much!

Sometimes we get invited to spend the holidays with other families, but this year, they all have different plans. We have invited friends over to our house in the past, but this year, we are on our own. And that’s okay! Traditions are good, but so is flexibility.

Lydia and I are planning to cook our favorite foods and maybe go to the movies. Or, maybe we will play games and stay in our pajamas instead. Either way, I know God’s grace surrounds us, and I am grateful for all He is and all He has done.

I’m also thankful for the gigantic Costco pumpkin pie a friend left on my doorstep! 😉

Cake, Pastry, Sweet, Sugar, Unhealthy, Food, Fat, Diet

This season, I am excited to have my book, Fear, Faith, and Moving Forward, out in the world. This is the first holiday in about seven years that I don’t have to think about writing or editing in my free time! Woohoo!!

I am already amazed to see how God is using it, too. I’ve heard stories of people wanting nothing to do with God now open to reading my book. His love never fails!

I love that people are buying extras to give as gifts. I’m grateful people trust me to speak into the lives of those they love… even before they have read the book! 🙂

I understand the holidays can be sad for many people, as it is a time to miss loved ones. I have dealt with those same complex emotions. If that’s you, know God is holding you close.

Recently, I met with a few lonely Veterans. They were each coming for help nutritionally but had other issues on their minds. I was able to listen to their stories, acknowledging their grief and other dilemmas, and in the end, I encouraged them to try something new.

One lady decided she might volunteer at a nursing home this year, choosing to be the friend she wishes she had. Perhaps you can be brave and step out of your comfort zone, too. Put yourself out there. God loves you so much, and the best is yet to come!

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God, You are so good and have good things in store for us. Help us be brave and embrace the difficult moments, knowing it can launch us to greater things. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: Do you have any special holiday plans? What are you thankful for?

Tasks: Be open-minded regarding your holiday plans. Look for all the ways God is at work around you. Perhaps, looking back, you will see this as a turning point in your life.

Posted on in Books and Movies I Like, Fear, Faith, and Moving Forward book, Finding Grace Weekly Recap, Gratitude, Journey of Grace, Life is Short, Miscellaneous, Parenting

Finding Grace #298

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

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

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

This was an amazing week! On Monday night, I had some friends over for a monthly gathering. It’s always good to hear what God is doing in their lives.

As many of you know, on Wednesday, I went live with my book! Fear, Faith, and Moving Forward is now available for purchase! It was fun to see encouraging comments and feel all the love! I have sent out three batches of books so far!

For the last few weeks, we have been planning a Peanuts-themed birthday party for Lydia. Her party was today and it was a blast! The nine girls played balloon volleyball and did a relay race with marshmallows. We did Peanuts trivia, mad libs, and BINGO, as well! The girls loved the peanuts stickers we used for prizes. We had fruit, chips, and ice cream cupcakes from Dairy Queen. Lydia received many cool gifts and enjoyed the photo booth at the end. I am grateful all these girls could celebrate with us!

Tonight, we are watching the Peanuts movie, and Lydia’s birthday is tomorrow!

This was a full week, and I stayed up late every night. I didn’t get much sleep but saw God’s grace all around me. He kept me focused and going strong. Thanks again for all your support and prayers. It really makes all the difference!

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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, Fear, Faith, and Moving Forward book, Fear/Don't Fake Brave, Gratitude, Journey of Grace, Miscellaneous, Perseverance

Fear, Faith, and Moving Forward Book!!

Surprise!! It’s finally time for my big announcement, and I am so excited!

My book, Fear, Faith, and Moving Forward, is available for purchase! The book captures a two-year period of dealing with (my late husband) Dave’s cancer and my subsequent grief. At times, I didn’t know how I would make it.

During a time filled with chemo and chaos, I nearly walked away from my faith. But, God proved Himself over and over again. Despite my doubts, He came through for us!

Yes, it is a sad story at times, but I wanted to chronicle what happened for Lydia and inspire others. We all go through rough times on this side of Heaven, and it helps knowing someone understands. All hope is not lost!

Currently, your best way to buy Fear, Faith, and Moving Forward is to order through Barnes and Noble. I spent countless hours at our local B&N bookstore writing and editing with my laptop and a cup of coffee. So, it feels incredible to see my book online!

Announcing my book TODAY is significant for several reasons.

First, Lydia’s tenth birthday is coming up, and I wanted to beat that milestone. So much happened in the first two-and-a-half years of her life, and it just seems right to keep this project contained to her first decade. That way, we can officially close that chapter and keep moving forward.

Second, we are in the beginning stages of the holidays, and I want my book to be available before all the craziness starts. For some, it may be just what they need. That said, if a friend of yours is dealing with cancer, grief, or some other trauma, perhaps get your copy first and then consider how it may affect them. The book could certainly be helpful for your friend, but I would never want to add to their emotional turmoil. In that case, maybe filter out a few nuggets of truth for them until the timing is better.

My third reason is a little more personal. Today marks twenty-five years since my dear friend, Seth, died in an accident. (Part of me feels like it was just yesterday; it doesn’t seem I should be old enough to account for twenty-five years!) So, when I saw November 17th is today, a Wednesday, it felt like God’s timing. The book does not entail Seth’s tragedy, yet in my story, I mention how that loss helped me process Dave’s death. So, in my mind, they are somewhat connected.

The fourth reason is simply that there’s no time like the present. This project was complex and took me a while to finish. I had much to learn about writing and publishing a book. Grief and being a single mom were factors, not to mention work, household duties, and various levels of motivation. But, in the end, perfect conditions don’t exist. Something always comes up, and I am just going for it!

Finally, my fifth reason is that I need to continually challenge myself! It’s risky to put myself out there, but I don’t have to be afraid. I am covered with God’s grace. He goes ahead of me and He’s right beside me simultaneously. By faith, I need to release my book and step out of the way, so He can do what He does best.

In honor of my book launch, I created a new blog PAGE! I loaded it with some key details you might want to know before ordering.

Well, that’s it. I appreciate all your ongoing support, encouragement, and prayers!

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God, thanks for all the ways You have brought me through. You are so good and faithful. Would You please use my story to help others see You at work in theirs? May this book bring You glory. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: Any guesses on when I started writing my book?! Will you order the black and white version or the deluxe color version?

Tasks: Grab your copy of Fear, Faith, and Moving Forward today! Read more details here. I’d love for you to tag me on Facebook @GraceandLemonade or on Instagram @natalator with a picture of you and my book. Also, please share this post on social media. Goal: Tell at least 15 of your friends! 😉

Posted on in Gratitude, Miscellaneous, Perseverance, Worship

Every Little Thing

Have you ever thought about how God takes care of us, even when we are unaware?

Last week my check engine light came on in my car. I’ve had my Subaru for over eight years, but thankfully, it has had very few problems. So, this was a bit unusual.

At that point, I was on my way to pick up Lydia and promptly forgot about the issue. The light turned off after I restarted my car to head home.

Soon, it happened again. I usually am prompt about oil changes, and I didn’t expect a warning about my oil being low. At first, I thought it was a fluke and I tried to ignore it.

But, I am my father’s daughter and knew I should check what was going on. Sure enough, I needed some oil! I called to make an appointment for Friday afternoon and bought a little oil to just make it until then. Whew!

Car, Front, Subaru, Bumper, Vehicle, Automobile

On Friday, I went in for the oil change, along with a routine check. They also rotated my tires, which reminded me that I tend to put air in them several times a year. The same wheel always seems to be the issue, and while I do have my own air compressor, it feels like it has been happening more frequently. I casually mentioned that to them.

Then, while my car was in the shop, I made a few phone calls, read a book, and did some planning ahead. I also had some coffee and a snack. 😉 Let’s just say it was time well spent!

The technicians don’t always find something wrong, but soon they came out to tell me I had a couple of lights out. I had no clue! I quickly agreed to replace the lights which would have been difficult to find and reach on my own. A no-brainer!

When I went to pay, the technician also explained they had found a very small hole along the rim of my tire. They smoothed out the rim and fixed the tire. I will keep an eye on things, of course, but I am so grateful. I left the dealership feeling safe, cared for, and prepared for winter.

Car, Subaru, Vehicle, Automobile, Automotive, Design

The car repairs were inexpensive and I did not feel pressured to say yes. I didn’t even know all those things needed to be fixed, but God did. He took care of it all for me!

Then, on Monday, my car would not start before work. I quickly realized Lydia had left the light on to read… and then forgot to turn it off. My car was totally dead!

I‘m glad my neighbor was still home and came over to jump the battery for me. We had to move a few things around in the garage, but it didn’t take too long. Usually, I am about five minutes early to work, and I was only four minutes late!

God cares about every detail of our lives and every decision we make. Whether it is a little tiny light, a tire, a car battery, or something much bigger, His grace covers it all.

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Heavenly Father, Your grace is sufficient for me!! Thanks for taking such good care of me. Help me to trust You in every moment with every little thing. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Question: How have you seen God at work in your life lately?

Tasks: Daily issues are normal, but look for God’s hand at work around you. He is always watching over you and eager to help. Call out to Him in your time of need!

Posted on in Finding Grace Weekly Recap, Gratitude, Miscellaneous

Finding Grace #295

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!

Wooden Bridge, Autumn, Fall, Season

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

On Monday evening we went to a friend’s house for a dinner meeting. We had a really good meal and some great conversation! I am grateful for godly friends!

Yesterday, I got my COVID booster shot at work. (I qualify because I am a healthcare worker.) I feel a little sore today and have a headache, but otherwise, I feel well. I hadn’t thought much about getting it, but I decided it was a wise idea because it’s been almost a year since I got the first shot. I am still glad I got it.

Last night, Lydia went to a “glamping” birthday party. It was so cool! A local company set it all up, with heaters, little mattresses/bedding, etc. The girls did each others’ hair, played, ate pizza, watched a movie, and slept outside in the tent. The weather was cool, but perfect for a celebration! Definitely a fun, unique experience!

Today, I did a little cleaning, cooking, and organizing while Lydia was still at the party. Then, tonight we are going to see my aunt who is nearby visiting some of her relatives. It will be great to see her!

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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, Gratitude, Kindness, Life is Short, Miscellaneous, Perseverance, Wisdom, Words

Be Bold, Be Brave

I have a friend who recently took a step back from what she was doing to go in a new direction. Society sometimes tells us what to do or not do, but I am proud of my friend for listening to her heart and following her dream.

God can do far more than we ask or imagine (Ephesians 3:20).

But still, it takes guts to go against the grain!

Lake, Mountains, Banff National Park, Islet, Bank

A blessing for her and for anyone who dares to trust God for greater things:

Be bold, be brave! Remember, God is with you and for you!

He is more than able to provide for you with the riches of His grace.

All good gifts come from God. He is the same yesterday, today, and forever.

Breakthrough is coming.

Following God’s plan is sometimes difficult… but it is always worth it.

Work as if it depends on You, and pray as if it depends on Him.

Then, receive what He has for you. He is faithful.

Breakthrough is coming.

Whatever happens, it has passed through God’s hands first.

No good thing will He withhold from those who walk uprightly.

What is for you… is for you. He will give you everything you need. Trust in Him.

Breakthrough is coming.

Don’t be afraid. Do the difficult thing.

God will help you through it and redeem any pain along the way.

Have courage and be willing to try something new.

Breakthrough is coming.

Lay aside your expectations and stand in faith, knowing God’s plan is best.

It may turn out different than you thought, but He will never let you down.

Rest in Him. Nothing is impossible for Him. He’s got this.

Breakthrough is here.

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God, You are King of our hearts and the God of breakthroughs. Nothing is impossible for You! Help us trust You for greater things. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Questions: Have you ever done something so big and life-changing that the only option was to trust God? Looking back, can you see His faithfulness?

Tasks: Print out this blessing and tape it to your mirror, or make your own!

Posted on in Finding Grace Weekly Recap, Gratitude, Journey of Grace, Life is Short, Miscellaneous, Parenting, Perseverance

Finding Grace #294

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!

Pumpkin, Leaf, Autumn, Gourd, Vegetable

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

This week went fast! I didn’t feel well on Monday, so I stayed home from work. I was on the fence because my symptoms weren’t contagious (no COVID symptoms) but rather just a variety of other things. However, my gut kept telling me to stay home, and I am glad I chose to listen! I was proud of myself for choosing to rest because like many people, I usually just push myself to go-go-go. In the end, I felt like taking one day off was going to help set me up well for the rest of the week. I’m calling it a win!!

Lydia and I met with her teacher for this semester’s school conference. I am grateful Lydia is doing so well. She always loves visiting the coinciding book fair, too. We bought a book for her classroom, and one of her classmates is already enjoying it!

Yesterday, I quickly did my errands after work and picked up Lydia early from daycare. We ran to a couple of stores and bought a few decorations for her room and some organizing supplies. It was so fun to see what she likes and spend time with her.

Today, we made a few family phone calls and did housework while listening to audiobooks. Lydia and I both spent time cleaning and organizing our bedrooms! It feels good to have a relaxing, productive Saturday at home! This organization will pay off in the coming months when things are easier to find.

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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, Prayer, Wisdom, Worship

Grace In Store

Recently, I went to a local store, which happens to be part of a national chain, to purchase some basic toiletries. I was planning to use a coupon, but I couldn’t find what I was looking for. No worries. I decided to look online instead.

I went to the online store and had everything in my cart to be shipped directly to me. But, then I had to reset my password and my phone app locked up. I was trying to do this quickly and didn’t want to log in to my computer and get distracted late at night.

So, I removed everything from the cart and went to another online big box store. Sure, I could have waited to go in person, but I was just there last week. And, it was bedtime.

Well, that didn’t work so well either! A couple of things were out of stock, and I wanted to have the order delivered rather than pick it up. Otherwise, I would have just gone inside myself!

Supermarket, Ecommerce, Expense, Market, Conad

After once again clearing my cart, I decided to buy from yet another online company… the third time’s a charm! They had slightly different versions of what I was looking for, though I was able to save a few dollars.

Those items might take a little more time to be delivered, but I don’t mind waiting. It was more about convenience and peace of mind. You know, so I don’t have to make another list!

In the end, I sure am glad God does not make us change passwords, log in, log out, and jump through a bunch of hoops before we come to Him. I am grateful He is never offline, and His grace is never out of stock.

God never sleeps nor grows weary. I can rest knowing He is watching out for me, protecting me, and delivering me. He provides for me and sets my feet on the right path. Yes, He knows exactly what I need!

Shopping, Online, E-Commerce, Fashion, Tablet, Coffee

Speaking of purchases, my parents recently bought a cute little house, painted several rooms, and moved in. They are still getting settled, but their internet was down for a couple of weeks. It was a bear to get it all up and running again!

However, Mom told me a funny story of how they bought a used washing machine and dryer. They looked online and found a deal for a front-loader set. As they slowed down to find the correct house number, a man ran out to the street to flag them down. He was very friendly and easy to work with, so they just went with it.

They went inside and the machines were a top-loader set. The man offered to help them load them into my dad’s truck, which was much appreciated. The details weren’t “quite right” but it seems they just misread the details.

Folded, Laundry, Stack, T-Shirt, Red, Clothes, Clothing

Then, after they returned home, the seller of the front-loader set contacted them asking if they were coming or not. Turns out they picked up the wrong laundry set! Later, my mom was reading online poor reviews about the machines they did NOT purchase. God really saved them the headache of getting something unreliable. He also saved them $100! 

Mom and I had a good laugh about her new-to-her laundry machines. It was a win-win for her and the seller! God found them a good deal on a used lawnmower, too! 😉

Mom reminded me that what God has for me is… for me. He orders our steps and has good things in store for us. He is not a genie at our beck and call, rather His plan and promises are sure. He is a faithful, loving Father for those who place their trust in Him!

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God, thanks for always being there for me and for providing so well for me. Help me use my resources wisely so I may be a blessing to others. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: Do you prefer online shopping or in-store shopping? What’s the craziest thing you’ve bought online?

Tasks: Next time you are shopping online, pause and praise God for His provision! Thank Him for blessing you, and ask Him if there is someone you can bless in turn.

Posted on in Finding Grace Weekly Recap, Gratitude, Miscellaneous

Finding Grace #293

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!

Sparrow, Bird, Animal, Green-Backed Sparrow, Small Bird

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

This was a solid week, full of God’s grace! I had Monday off from work (Columbus Day), and I spent it catching up around the house. Then, I had some friends from church over in the evening. It was a much-needed fun and relaxing day!

Tuesday was quite busy at work and at home. I changed my work hours slightly to accommodate a later patient. Thankfully, I was able to squeeze in a quick appointment beforehand. But, the rest of the day kept me on my toes.

After I picked up Lydia, we ran to the grocery store. Thus, we arrived home about an hour and a half later than normal. That’s when I realized I wore blue jeans instead of my usual dress pants to work! Thankfully, no one else noticed either, including my boss! (I told her and some of my coworkers the next day; we all laughed and agreed it was probably due to stress!) Whew!

My mom’s birthday was yesterday. It was a special birthday (number-wise), and I enjoyed chatting with her after work. It was great to have her all to myself! I am grateful I get off early on Fridays. 🙂

Today, I spent some time exercising in the morning and later went shopping for some new fall and winter decor! It’s fun to get new things from time to time. Lydia was invited to a friend’s house for a playdate, so it was nice to have a few hours to myself on such a beautiful, sunny autumnal day!

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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, Kindness, Life is Short, Miscellaneous

Everybody In!

I was listening to the radio on my way to pick up Lydia from work yesterday. They were doing a fundraiser and someone offered to match the amount if others called in during the next song.

Astonishingly, NO ONE called in during the song. I don’t know if the person extended the offer or not, but I was thinking… what happens when no one responds in other areas?

The radio personalities explained that if we all think someone else will step up, then there’s a chance no one will. They gave several examples, such as when someone is stuck on the side of the road, or when there’s an emergency in a crowded area, or even how we all walk by the same mess without cleaning it up.

Somebody else will take care of it, right?

Interestingly, this situation is really common. It even has a name… the bystander effect.

It’s not necessarily because we are uncaring, but perhaps we don’t think we have time or don’t think we can adequately fix the problem. So, we just keep driving and/or ignore it.

Flatfoot, Senselessly Mature, Flat Tire, Breakdown

I don’t know ALL the ways to get around it, but I can relate. I am sure you have been there, too. One thing I have learned: Usually, doing something is better than doing nothing.

The radio personalities mentioned how, during a different song, someone gave $500 and someone else gave $5. But, it all counts. We all have something to give.

We can achieve more when we work together, each of us taking part in the solution. Teamwork makes the dream work! When everybody’s in, everybody wins!

I’m not saying you need to donate money to a cause. But maybe you can change a flat tire or call for a tow truck. Maybe you can watch someone’s kids in a pinch, or bring a meal for a hungry family, or help rake someone’s yard.

If you still don’t know what to do, then maybe a gift card or an encouraging word is good enough. Don’t overthink it. Each of us will serve in our own ways, but it all counts!

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God, thanks for all the ways You love us. Help us to be willing to step up and offer whatever we have. After all, everything we have comes from You. You are the giver of all good things. Give us wisdom to know what to do and the courage to do it. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: Have you ever offered to help a total stranger? How did it make you feel afterward? Was it worth it?

Tasks: Next time you see a chance to help someone, do! To see an example, read the story of the Good Samaritan. Pray for wisdom and courage… then follow through. Let God lead and see how He moves through you!