Month: June 2016

Posted on in Miscellaneous, Wisdom

Growing Strong Roots

Over the last two weeks, I have been diligently watering my three new maple trees! They are beautiful and I want to give them a good start on building a solid root system.

new maple

While the trees should grow tall and straight long-term, right now they look a little off-kilter. It has been fairly windy and lately, they are getting blown in every direction! Each tree has lost small areas of branches and leaves, due to the wind breaking them.

Over time, the weathering process will make them resilient. Though, it’s been a harsh recovery process after being transplanted! Every day, as I faithfully water and monitor them, I pray that God will protect the trees and make them strong.

From time to time, we can all feel wind-blown by life circumstances. Maybe it’s been it is a stressful week, month, or year. Maybe the current political drama or latest tragedy in the news has you worried or frightened. Maybe a storm is coming that is out of your control.

maple tree 2

Distress. Discouragement. Discontent.

It can be tempting to give up hope when these trials come. “This isn’t fair. This isn’t what I expected!” Challenges are inevitable. Life isn’t always easy or comfortable. While we cannot control the wind (or outside circumstances), we are not left helpless!

Usually, what we see above ground does not provide a complete picture. Often, we don’t know how well we are growing until gale-force winds come. Then, we find out how strong our roots really are!

Jeremiah 17_7-8

So how do we respond when fierce winds blow?

At times, I can focus on the wind (circumstances) or my own reaction (tossing to and fro). But complaining does no good. When I notice my insecurity rising, I take it as a reminder to quickly switch my attention off my problems and back to the Lord.

Jesus is well-versed in calming the wind! Peace! Be still!

Or, maybe you feel abandoned or neglected, never having solid roots to begin with. Well, Jesus is referred to as the Root of Jesse (Isaiah 11:10). He knows how to grow strong roots!

tree drawing

Whatever we are struggling with, we cannot defeat it on our own. But we can rest with confidence in the Lord’s ability to provide exactly what we need in His timing. He is trustworthy and makes us secure.

When the wind starts to howl, stand firm. If God is for us, who can be against us?

We can thrive even in tumultuous moments. Go deep with God. Seek Him. Learn from His word, the Bible. Ask Him to show you what to do. He’ll help you develop those roots!

big tree roots

“So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live your lives in him, rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness” (Colossians 2:6-7).

Rooted. Built up. Strengthened. Overflowing with thankfulness.

Winds will change and bring new trials. New seasons also bring new opportunities. But God remains the same. Stay close to Him and He will see you through with grace!

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God, thank You for the hope and peace we have in You. Help us draw near to You in the midst of uncertainty. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: What do you do when the winds of change pick up? Do you have a strong support system? (God, friends, family, etc.?)

Posted on in Finding Grace Weekly Recap, Miscellaneous

Finding Grace #16

I love the concept of 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 in God’s love, joy, peace, blessings, mercy, power, provision, protection, and wisdom. Thank You, Jesus!

creek waterfalls

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

What to say about this week? In all honesty, I felt so overwhelmed by technology! I spent way too many hours with computer problems on Monday, as I wrote in Ctrl+Alt+Del. Yet, it gave me some perspective. Then, later it the week, I tried about a dozen times to download MS Office with a (still valid) code. I probably tried about a dozen times, taking around 45 minutes each time, but only received error messages. Grrr!

For me, daycare is a necessity each week. I try to maximize my time when Lydia is there, so I can be present when we are together. Still, it’s an internal battle because I never feel like I get everything done. And Lydia doesn’t understand if I still have “work” to do; she just wants to play and have fun! (I’m pretty sure every parent struggles with this!)

So this week, I planned to use my “daycare time” to finally read (skim) a couple short manuals for online resources I use. I haven’t put much effort into learning how they work, so that was a major goal for this week. But the computer issues sidetracked those plans.

Enter God’s grace. When filtered through the lens of grace, I was able to regain my peace. I spent a little creative time cooking in the kitchen and realized that most of my “to do” list wasn’t urgent. My goals will still be there tomorrow! As long as I make a little progress, they will eventually get done. While computer problems are frustrating and inconvenient, they are not my main thing.

I realized I can try to force my plans to go one way, when God gently redirects me on another path. Sometimes I have to ask for help, which can be difficult to do. Often, I should be more realistic on what I can actually accomplish. Occasionally, it’s good to take a break and circle back around another day. But most of all, I need to remember:

People come before projects.

Even though I was annoyed with my computer and the lack of “progress” it caused, by God’s grace, I was purposeful in the areas that really matter. Clearly, being Lydia’s mom is priority, as are my other roles. Like being a good neighbor, friend, sister and daughter (not necessarily in that order). So, I made a few phone calls to family, sent a few messages to friends, and met a few needs that presented themselves as a result.

I took some extra time with Lydia each day. We built a fort, watched a movie, read some books, and played outside. We each focused on having good attitudes, and all things considered, it was a good week! And, today, I decided to try one more time…and successfully downloaded the program with help from online support. Thank You, God!

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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)!

Where did YOU see or experience God’s grace this week?

Posted on in Fear/Don't Fake Brave, Miscellaneous

Ctrl+Alt+Del

This week, my Monday turned a little chaotic. Mostly, I tried to do too many things at one time. But a good portion of the frenzy was related to computer problems! I am good with daily computer tasks, but on Monday, I was out of my element!

computer connections

Earlier in the day, I sat at the bookstore where I had a meeting and then did some writing. I made great progress until my laptop battery died. Thankfully, I had just saved my file.

No problem!

Then, when I returned home, I plugged in the battery and turned it on. This time, it took forever to load and made strange noises. I’ve noticed it overworking the last few months, so when this happened, I panicked and pushed a million buttons.

Yeah…That only made things worse!

I tried the good ol’ three-finger salute (Ctrl+Alt+Del) in order to stop the laptop from doing lengthy updates. I rebooted it hoping that would help. Nope!

Running downstairs, I grabbed my external hard drive to back up my laptop in case it crashed. I had been meaning to do it for awhile anyway… I did what I could, but had a few questions for my brother. After a 45 minute phone conversation, we discussed a temporary fix. Still, transferring my files took several hours!

Philippians 4_6

Of course, this all happened while I was watering my new trees and making dinner! I ran back and forth outside, to the kitchen, and then to my laptop in the living room.

Think chicken…head nowhere to be found. 🙂

I kept forgetting to check the water… and left the hamburgers until they were well-done. Soon, I threw together a plate for Lydia and sat with her for a few minutes. But I had already eaten my hamburger while running around the house and yard!

After dinner, Lydia played outside. I checked on her every few minutes when running out to move the water hose. Later, I walked her across the street to play with those neighbors.

Finally, with everything else going on, I decided to skip a webinar I wanted to attend when Lydia went to bed. I realized I could catch up during a replay session later in the week.

Eventually, everything calmed down. After I put Lydia to bed, I could finally think clearly.

Then, I heard a little voice from down the hall. Normally, it says, “Mom, can I have some water?!” or “Mom, I need to tell you something!”

But, on Monday night, I heard, “Mom can you please cuddle with me?”

Given my recent parenting challenges, I’m thankful I listened. Instantly, I thought: Everything else is just chaos, but this moment with Lydia is what really matters. I spent a few minutes with her, thankful for the opportunity to connect.

Then, in the calm, I thought of a handy solution for future reference….because life and technology, challenges will always “pop up” again! (pun intended!)

ctrl alt del pic

In the midst of overwhelming chaos, think Ctrl+Alt+Del.

Usually, that combination brings up the Task Manager. In real life, this is like my schedule—everything that is going on or needs to be done.

Ctrl: What part of the mess can I actually control? What are the things only I can do? I may not be able to handle the external problem on my own, but I can control my attitude. Pray for help and breathe in God’s grace.

Alt: Is there a simple solution or a better alternative? What are the tasks someone else can do? Don’t neglect to ask for help or take a small break to get clarity.

Del: What can be delayed or deleted altogether? What are the most important priorities? Who else will benefit from making some changes? For instance, I can catch up with the webinar later, but kid moments and cuddling opportunities won’t last forever. Release self-defeating thoughts or feelings.

A few other pointers:

Back up. Consider taking a step back to see the big picture. Go back to God and ask for His perspective. Let Him handle all your frustrations. Give Him your concerns because He really cares. (1 Peter 5:7)

Reboot. Let God transform Your thinking and show you the best path. Sometimes, sleep is the best choice. Things usually look better in the morning. (Romans 12:2, Psalm 143:8)

Restore. If you let Him lead, God can restore all things. Stay present with Him and return to peace as quickly as possible. Do whatever it takes to remain there! (Philippians 4:7)

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God, thanks for Your ever-present help! Thanks for helping us prioritize what is most important. Help us remember to bring all our concerns to You. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Questions: Do you consider yourself a tech-savvy person? Do you prefer a PC or Mac?

 

Posted on in Finding Grace Weekly Recap, Miscellaneous

Finding Grace #15

I love the concept of 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 in God’s love, joy, peace, blessings, mercy, power, provision, protection, and wisdom. Thank You, Jesus!

daisies in the rain

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

  • As I reflect on this past week, I can’t help but feel like I am in the exact place I need to be. I am excited to be a part of what God is doing in my life.
  • I found a free online writing summit and of 41 speakers in ten days. I am thankful because it would be very expensive to see this many well-known authors at an actual conference. (Each interview is available for a few days, so I can pace myself.) I have been encouraged and motivated as I listen, and am content feeling like God has designed me a certain way. I have laughed many times when these authors describe many of my own habits and quirks as their own! Praise God!
  • Lydia had a big week this week. She finished her swimming lessons, and I pleased to report that she passed! I’m so proud of her! It was a time-consuming commitment, but so worth it. She also “helped” dig in the dirt and spread mulch when our three trees arrived to be planted. Otherwise, we’ve gotten along better, and Lydia has been catching herself before she loses her temper or starts whining. I am thankful for encouragement from other parents. It helps knowing we’re all in this together!
  • I met a good friend for coffee this week, when she came to Fargo. She and her family moved away last fall, but we have stayed in touch. Her two girls and Lydia always play well together. It was great to catch up with this mom, hold her precious 4-week-old baby boy, and hear what was on her heart.
  • Also, another family who moved away came to visit for a couple days. They moved away a year-and-a-half ago, but were key players in our cancer journey. Lydia spent a lot of time at their house when she was little, often at a moment’s notice. I seriously don’t know where we would be without their friendship and support! Lydia loved playing with their three boys, and I enjoyed catching up with old friends!
  • I have to water my three new trees every day for the first couple weeks. I came out to the garage this morning so Lydia could play, while I wrote today’s post and watered the trees. It looked like it might rain, but not very much. As I finished with the last tree, it started pouring! I quickly raced around the house to put down the gutters, happy because my yard needs the rain! (Lydia ran inside the neighbors’ house when the rain came.) So there I was…alone in my garage… writing this post and enjoying the soothing sounds of the thunderstorm. 🙂
  • After the storm, Lydia came home. We ate lunch before riding our bikes around the neighborhood and enjoying the sunshine…only half-trying to avoid all the puddles!

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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)!

Where did YOU see or experience God’s grace this week?

Posted on in Books and Movies I Like, Miscellaneous, Parenting, Personality, Wisdom

Tater Tots and Training Wheels

Lately, Lydia has been taking beginner swimming lessons. She already feels over-confident, yet doesn’t realize the safety belt keeps her afloat! “See, I know how to swim!” Her sense of independence has carried over to other areas, too.

Perhaps it’s part of growing up…but the last few weeks have been tough on me as a parent! On several occasions, I’ve needed an extra-large dose of God’s grace to stand firm with discipline. More than once, I’ve lost my patience and needed a parenting pep-talk!

1 Corinthians 15_58

There have been genuine—but mislead—moments of helping me with household tasks. Lydia was proud of herself but spilled water everywhere. I’m glad she’s learning…but each time she ‘helps,’ it requires a time-consuming clean-up!

There have been full-blown meltdowns too. We’ve had personality ‘power plays’ and other issues. However normal, I could do without the whining and tears!

So, I have reinforced the importance of listening and first-time obedience. We’ve talked about boundaries and respect, forgiveness and grace. It’s an hourly process at times.

I know ALL parents go through these challenges. Most kids do similar things…indeed it’s a little funny, hearing my mom’s familiar voice coming out of my own mouth:

“I love you too much to let you act that way!”

Still, we’ve had some really good moments too. I’ve given and received extra attention, hugs, and “I love you’s.” When I point out what is going well, Lydia beams.

Yes, I am thankful for my smart, healthy, spunky, and beautiful girl. I’m keenly aware some people would give anything to have children…but for some reason cannot.

Let me not take this child or this season for granted.

Old Droid X2 Phone (end Feb 2014) 631

Father’s Day is coming up. In the past, I’ve had Lydia send notes or pictures to her grandpas and uncles. Now she’s old enough to realize that her Daddy is not here to celebrate. But, we are not alone. We have a great support system, near and far.

Also, God has been with us the entire time. He loves Lydia even more than I do. What’s more, He promises to be a father to Lydia (Psalm 68:5). True to His Word, He’s graciously placed many wonderful men in our lives. Besides grandpas and uncles, we also have great friends and neighbors who influence Lydia for good.

I appreciate the men who have stomped in mud puddles, played ball, and taught Lydia new things. A few brave guys have let her paint their nails! They have read to Lydia, given her piggy back rides, and made pictures with sidewalk chalk.

I’m amused at the difference between how men and women handle kids. My “mom-friends” are amazing, but surely, I can learn a few tricks from the men!

painting toenails

Last weekend, I tried to feed Lydia dinner before going outside. She, however, was eager to play with one of the neighbor girls… “I’m not hungry, Mom.” Soon, I got a text from the little girl’s dad: “Can Lydia have some deer sausage?” He was grilling out for his family that evening. In addition to two helpings of sausage, Lydia enjoyed tater tots and a popsicle! 😀

A few days before, we visited other friends, who live across the street. Their little boy was learning to ride his bike without training wheels. He did really well, with some coaching from his dad! I have no idea how I am going to teach Lydia to do this… But after talking with my neighbors, I’m sure this dad would gladly help Lydia learn how to ride her bike too.

Tater tots and training wheels? Yes, please!

bike with training wheels

Clearly, I’m not an expert on parenting. 🙂 Thus, I need the help of those around me and the insight of those ahead of me. There is no such thing as a perfect parent. But I can be present, persistent, and praying for wisdom.

I’m always looking for good resources. Recently, I’ve been using, Praying the Scriptures for Your Children, by Jodie Berndt and Personality Plus for Parents, by Florence Littauer. Great books! Also, I found this podcast helpful!

Parenting is certainly a challenging job, but God will help us accomplish it. When difficulties come, let’s stand firm and work enthusiastically, knowing that nothing we do for the Lord is useless (1 Corinthians 15:58)!

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Heavenly Father, thank You for this precious child You’ve given me. Thanks for providing encouragement and reinforcements on this parenting journey. Please give me Your wisdom and grace every day. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Questions: What are your favorite parenting resources? For those of you with older/grown kids…Do you have any nuggets of wisdom or funny stories to share?!

Posted on in Finding Grace Weekly Recap, Miscellaneous, Parenting

Finding Grace #14

I love the concept of 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 in God’s love, joy, peace, blessings, mercy, power, provision, protection, and wisdom. Thank You, Jesus!

pool toys

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

  • This week didn’t necessarily go as planned, but it still was good. Lydia had swimming lessons in the morning, and it kind of threw off our normal routine. Thanks to some flexibility, I was able to adjust my work hours. I cut out a few other activities, altogether, as I decided to keep a more simple schedule. Thus, I didn’t accomplish many “new” things, but I did catch up on some reading and a few podcasts I like.
  • I needed an extra dose of God’s grace this week for parenting… I am still considering what could have gone better (on both sides). At any rate, I am the parent. After several rounds of prayer, discipline, and “intense discussions,” I’m glad to report we ended the week on a positive note. We enjoyed good weather, played outside, and had pizza and good conversations with several neighbors. God is good!
  • I met with a friend at a coffee shop this week, though neither of us bought any coffee! It was late afternoon, and she had a lot on her heart. For some reason, I often end up crying as I listen to this friend share her story. Note to self: Remember to bring Kleenex next time! (It’s a little embarrassing, and this generally doesn’t happen with other people. But I just couldn’t keep it together…total ugly-cry!) This friend has been through many difficult things, yet she keeps moving forward with God’s help. The best thing I could offer was a listening ear and prayer afterward. But she seemed relieved after spending a couple hours together. She said, “Whew. It’s been a long time since I really sat down and had a chance to talk about all this.” I’m thankful for the opportunity to help my friend process God’s faithfulness to her and His grace in her life.

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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)!

Where did YOU see or experience God’s grace this week?

Posted on in Food and Nutrition, Fruit, Miscellaneous, Wisdom, Words

Gardens: Growing in Grace

Do you have a garden? I was considering the pros and cons of a garden this year. Though, after buying trees last week, routine car maintenance, and a few other expenses coming up, I decided to re-evaluate next spring. I could probably still do a small container garden, but the planting season is nearly over now.

But if I had a garden, I would plant leafy greens (such as kale, spinach, or lettuce), peppers, onions, and green beans, for sure! I could also grow zucchini and use it in my spiralizer. I love fresh garden tomatoes, but I haven’t had the best of luck in recent years!

tomatoes

There are many different kinds of gardens (vegetables, fruits, herbs, flowers). Besides several flower gardens, my parents re-purposed some old tractor tires to make a raised garden for tomatoes. They also have large pots of basil, rosemary, and oregano. Like a colorful oasis, it always feels like a retreat to go back and visit!

Perhaps it’s good for me to wait a year and see what size garden is practical to maintain! In the past, I had a CSA membership… and I always enjoy visiting our local farmers’ markets. Last year, the grass in my yard needed help. This year, I’ll focus on my new trees. Maybe I just enjoy playing in the dirt, but I love how gardening connects us back to the earth!

grapes

From Eden to Gethsemane, it seems God has a special way with gardens.

He plants us in just the right “soil” environment so that we can grow. For each of us, those circumstances are different. You may be going through an exciting time of growth, or a personal trial to refine you. Whether in a lush garden or a desolate desert, stay rooted in the Lord. Don’t give up hope! Drink in the water of His Word. He is faithful.

Jesus promises if we abide in Him, we will bear much fruit. Having fruitful lives is inevitable—if we remain close to Jesus (see John 15:1-17). We cannot bear fruit on our own.

Pruning isn’t fun, but take heart. It’s a good indicator that God is indeed working! In the process, the dead is removed and new life begins. Let Him do the work He needs to do in your life. He is the Master Gardener.

Galatians 5_22-23 with peaches

As evident in the verses above, the Holy Spirit plants seeds in our lives. Though if you look again, GRACE is not listed as a fruit of the Holy Spirit. Why is that?

Could it be grace is like His warm sunshine? Like sunshine, His grace is always present. Even when we cannot see it or understand it. Spiritual fruit grows in the midst of God’s grace. Growth is not easy, but is always for our good. So, rest in Him with quiet trust.

By yielding to the Holy Spirit’s process and receiving God’s grace, we are changed from the inside out!

vegetables

If you think about it, we also plant seeds in the lives of those around us. As we work together, we help each other grow and cultivate good fruit. What a blessing!

 If we are growing in grace, people around us should notice. “I can see the joy on your face!” or “I appreciated your patience with me.” or “That was so kind of you to help me.”

Life is difficult at times—but God’s grace empowers us to live victoriously. Let’s offer His support to one another. And, hold on tight for some “miracle growth!”

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Father God, thanks for Your grace that brings growth in our lives. Holy Spirit, work in us with Your power that we may bear fruit. Help us when the growth process is challenging. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Questions: What are your favorite items to plant? Do you see increasing amounts of spiritual fruit in your life (Galatians 5:22-23)?

Let me know in the comments below!

Posted on in Finding Grace Weekly Recap, Miscellaneous

Finding Grace #13

I love the concept of 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 in God’s love, joy, peace, blessings, mercy, power, provision, protection, and wisdom. Thank You, Jesus!

maple-leaf

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

  • This week was relatively low-key, though I accomplished a lot! In the quiet moments, I read some more about my personality type. It was fun to see how this impacted my choices, thoughts, relationships, etc. Our personalities work like a filter on how we see each the world.  However, it is most important who God says we are. (Click here for a great handout; I didn’t write it, but refer to it often!)
  • After a little prompting, I did something I had been putting off for at least a couple years: I bought some trees for my backyard! I hadn’t done it yet, partially because landscaping decisions have a long-term impact..so I was hesitant to make a quick decision. (For me, that often means delaying.) 🙂 Indeed, it was challenging to figure out all the details on my own! But after discussing my options with others, I was compelled to move forward with it.
  • I am thankful for God’s help in the tree process, because I struggled to make those decisions. Yet, God went before me and gave me peace! I researched trees I liked, measured the area, and made a list of questions. I looked at two local nurseries, and the choice was clear. One nursery had fewer trees in my price range and I could not find any staff to help me. The one I chose had a wide selection of trees, with a knowledgeable staff. And for an additional fee, they are going to deliver and plant the trees for me next week! It turned out to be fairly easy once I started the process. (I had some friends volunteer to help me, but I will have them help me with another upcoming project instead.)
  • It turned out to be an expensive week! In addition to the trees, I also got an oil change and some other timely maintenance done on my car. I questioned whether or not to bother with the extra maintenance. On the other hand, I know our gracious God blessed me with the car, and so it is my responsibility to keep it in good working order. Like a good steward, I spent the money wisely, knowing God is a good Provider. He always takes such good care of me, as I rest in His grace. Finally, the dealership did some extra work I requested at no additional charge.

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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)!

Where did YOU see or experience God’s grace this week?

Posted on in Food and Nutrition, Miscellaneous, Perfectionism, Personality

In With the New

My mom and I were on the phone recently, and we had a great conversation. Always my biggest fan, I count on what she says. Mom mentioned how much I have changed these last few years. She said, “This may not be the right word, but you’re not as uptight now!”

I got a good laugh out of that…you know it’s true if you don’t even mind when someone says it! I couldn’t agree more. And, I am so glad my mom and others have noticed!

2 Corinthians 5_17

Later, after some self-reflection and prayer, I retook an online personality test.

You can take your own short test here—I’d love to know your results!

I previously took this same test a year or so before Dave died. Some results were accurate, but others left me with questions I couldn’t resolve. This time, I was able to think of specific instances for each question. Some areas scored the same as before, validating my strengths. Just as I suspected, I received a completely different score for the final area.

I’m cautious to place too much value on “results.” But God showed me so much about myself! My doubts were cleared up when I realized the new results were a much better fit.

Now I have explanations for traits I wanted to overlook. I didn’t fully understand them before and considered them weaknesses. Now I can acknowledge them and use that information more effectively. What a relief as I switched my perspective. 

Psalm 139_14

At first, I didn’t know if I should laugh with joy or cry with gratitude at the new results. I love seeing myself in a fresh way. I think I was always meant to be this way because it feels so natural! It just took me a long time to get to a place where I could appreciate it.

Looking back, I think part of the tension from over-planning and perfectionism came from pushing myself to function in ways that were never my strengths. Wow.

Over the last few years, I have planned less and ‘flowed’ more. My stress levels have decreased as I have put less pressure on myself to do things ‘just so.’ I have learned to set better boundaries, say ‘no,’ and schedule downtime to avoid burnout.

Sometimes we need a shift in our thinking. Sometimes we need to do things differently. Sometimes we need to do both!

For example, I love cooking and trying new foods. However, I can easily get stuck making the same things. Even as a dietitian, it can be challenging to regularly think of innovative food options. With fresh summer produce just around the corner, let me tell you about one of my favorite foodie finds—a spiralizer. It has brought new life to my cooking routine!

spiralizer

A spiralizer makes spiral cuts on your favorite fruits and veggies. It can make noodles or other shapes and is a lot of fun! I use this one (pictured) from Amazon. No affiliate links. I’m not earning any money off this post—I just really like my spiralizer! 🙂

I have enjoyed making new dishes since I bought mine last year. My creativity flows while cooking and I enjoy the freedom that comes with God’s grace!

My favorite items to spiralize include apples, beets, carrots and zucchini noodles.

The first time I used my spiralizer, it was early afternoon and we had not eaten lunch yet. Excitedly, I spiralized some apples. Lydia started shoving them in her mouth! Realizing she was over-hungry, I melted some peanut butter on top and Lydia devoured them.

I love beets, though I recommend using gloves when handling them. I often purchase them already cooked. After spiralizing the cooked beets, I add a balsamic vinegar reduction, goat or feta cheese, and few chopped walnuts. Yum!

Carrot Noodles

Carrots (above) are so pretty when spiralized! I’ve added Alfredo sauce to Lydia’s carrot noodles and chicken with peanut sauce to mine. I have thrown them in with other dishes to jazz up leftovers during the week, too.

Zucchini is a great all-around vegetable. It’s versatile and can be used instead of pasta noodles. Or, you can chop the “noodles” to make something else, like muffins.

If you’re interested, Ali at Inspiralized.com has a great website. She has tons of recipes and tutorials for your favorite veggies. She used the same spiralizer from Amazon until she decided to design her own. I have not tried that one, but you might check it out!

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God, You are so patient and wise. You have made us wonderfully complex! Thanks for Your grace and love as You work in our lives. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: Have you ever taken a personality test? What is your favorite kitchen gadget? Let me know in the comments section!