Tag: family

Posted on in Finding Grace Weekly Recap, Miscellaneous

Finding Grace #53

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!

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

This was a slower-paced week compared to the last few! Lydia was on spring break so we had one less commitment this week. On Monday and Wednesday, I went to work and felt productive. On Tuesday, I worked on personal projects and housework while a friend generously watched Lydia for me. 

On Thursday, my mother-in-law came from Illinois to visit! We’ve had a great time so far. She and Lydia have read books, played games, put together a new LEGO set, and made a special dessert. We also watched a movie and ran to Costco! 🙂 When Lydia went to a neighbor’s birthday party today, my MIL and I went to a specialty tea shop and out to lunch! We always enjoy when she visits…I’m thankful for the encouragement she brings!

Otherwise, not much new to report. The weather here was windy and cold most of the week. Now, it is still chilly but the wind has died down. It’s always good to see the bright sun and blue, blue skies! With the time change, we will be enjoying more and more beautiful spring weather!

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

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

Posted on in Finding Grace Weekly Recap, Miscellaneous

Finding Grace #48

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!

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

Overall, this was a good week! The weather turned chilly again, in the teens and twenties. But, overall, it was bright and sunny. Praise God!

I had several one-on-one meetings week with a variety of people. I was glad to talk with these friends to help them process life events and decisions. Often, by listening to others, I also gain valuable insight into my own life. I still have some pending decisions to make, but I’m giving my concerns to the Lord. Indeed, I’ve been praying for each of these decisions on-and-off for 2+ years! I know God’s got me got me covered!

I’m extra grateful for God’s grace and comfort during loss. Sadly, this week we had a death in our extended family. My dad’s youngest sister died quite unexpectedly. She was fairly young and so it was a shock. She was a beautiful soul and will be sorely missed. Still, it was good to talk with so many of our family members this week. I’m thankful for the love we share, even if we don’t see each other often due to living in several different states!

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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, Parenting, Wisdom, Worship

Finding Grace #46

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!

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

This week felt like a blur! Lydia and I had a full week, with our normal activities, but also had some extra events too. This week, I needed some wise counsel before making some decisions. I had the sense these decisions would dictate other important choices and events this year. (Don’t you love all the unknowns in Life’s adventures?!) Praise God, everything went well! Thank You, Lord for wisdom, peace, and clarity as I make decisions and plans!

By Friday night, I was mentally drained from a week of meetings, deciding, and planning. I was exhausted as I drove to a women’s event at church. But since I invited a friend, I knew I needed to go. I’m so glad I did, because I was refreshed as I sang praises to God with so many wonderful ladies. I was encouraged as I listened to three ladies share their stories of God’s faithfulness. I was energized by connecting with old and new friends. It was just what I needed. What grace!

This week I’m extra thankful for Lydia. Everyday, she has used her manners before I reminded her. She has done well entertaining herself without prompting. We’ve had less whining and more cheerfulness. And like her Daddy, she is a great little organizer. Thank You, Jesus! As I decluttered two bathroom drawers, Lydia tossed old items and sorted like-items. I’m proud that she came up with several good ideas on her own!

Today, Lydia and I Skyped with family in Illinois. They were gathered for a belated Christmas party. We didn’t make it home, but are thankful for technology so we could check in! As I hung up, I thought to myself, “I have the best family! Thanks, Lord!”

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

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

Posted on in Finding Grace Weekly Recap, Miscellaneous

Finding Grace #38

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!

trees-in-autumn

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

  • We’ve had the best week celebrating Lydia’s birthday and Thanksgiving! In fact, this has been memorable in many ways, since my parents visited us this week. They have not been to North Dakota for Thanksgiving since the week Lydia was born! My mom and dad brought Lydia lots of small gifts and we celebrated her birthday again… We had a yummy cake and played several rounds of Go Fish!
  • My dad was able to help me out with several little house projects this week. I have friends who help with other tasks, on occasion, but some of the little ones add up. Dad fixed several drawers in three dressers, so now we can open them all the way! He also hung up my bike and a hose, and made us all breakfast on a couple mornings.
  • My mom, Lydia and I went thrift shopping one afternoon. We didn’t need any Black Friday items, but we got some really good deals and had a relaxing time together. Other than that, we’ve had fun touring the Fargo area, reading a multitude of books to Lydia, and decorating for Christmas!
  • We’ve been watching ‘The Crown’ on Netflix. It’s been fascinating to watch and a good history refresher (with creative licensing, of course). We didn’t watch the new Gilmore Girls show, ahem, but perhaps I will do that another time. 😉
  • God is always so good to us. Psalm 68:5 always comes to mind, where it says God is “a father to the fatherless, a defender of widows.” This week, celebrating Lydia’s birthday and Thanksgiving with my parents was just what we needed!

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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 Fruit, Life is Short, Miscellaneous

A Birthday Bash Rehash!

This past weekend, Lydia and I flew to Illinois for my mom’s 60th birthday. My sister and I threw her a party, but since I live twelve hours away, planning was a team effort!

My mom worked over thirty years as a florist, arranging flowers for weddings, holidays, and funerals. She was always saddened by the fact people typically only send flowers after someone has died. So, Mom wanted this party to be a celebration of her life while she’s still here to enjoy it.

Why wait until someone dies to show your love?

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It seemed fitting that people came to honor my mom this weekend! She loves to encourage others, and gives accordingly. Many people have benefited from Mom’s kindness and generosity over the years. Indeed, she inspires me to use my own gifts to serve others!

The party was an open house, and Mom requested no gifts. Instead, she asked for donations of canned items to the local food bank. (See the last picture below!)

Even on her birthday, my mom was thinking of others!

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I knew we would have a good time, because my family knows how to have fun! But, the party was even better than I could have expected. Everything turned out perfectly.

It was a good reminder for me to just let God take care of our ‘plans.’ He always does an excellent job of providing just what we need!

As I looked around the party room, I could see evidence of God’s grace. The food was plentiful and delicious. But really, the atmosphere was key. The mood was warm and welcoming, inviting everyone to sit and stay awhile.

The relationships were what made the party special!

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In our small farming community, we knew some people wouldn’t make it because of the Harvest. Even so, we were so glad a few farmers left their fields early to come to the party. (That rarely happens because time is so precious!)

It’s a busy time of year, and some people couldn’t make it due to previously scheduled trips or other events. That’s understandable! Still, we still had a steady stream of people throughout the night. In fact, one couple postponed their special anniversary trip because they “wouldn’t miss it for anything.” 😀

I enjoyed seeing people at the party that I haven’t seen in quite awhile. It was exciting to catch up with dear family and friends. (Since I moved away six years ago, I don’t always stay in the loop.) I also loved meeting newer friends and introducing them to Lydia!

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On Saturday night, we had a wide variety of backgrounds present. It was another instance of God’s grace bringing so many people together for a common purpose. Praise God!

I even saw people sitting together that never would have done so previously. People were laughing to the point of tears, overflowing with gratitude. Only God could have restored those relationships—and what an awesome job He has done!

Throughout the evening, I heard comments, such as, “We haven’t been to a party in forever!” or “What a great reason to get together and celebrate!” Sometimes, we can focus on surviving the daily grind or acquiring more stuff, instead of what’s really important.

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It’s also tempting to focus on what is ‘wrong’ in our lives…what is not going well, who slighted us, or how we will make ends meet. But none of us are guaranteed tomorrow.

My mom’s birthday party was so much fun! She has spent years encouraging others, and so many people showed up in her honor. It was amazing to see!

As the evening came to a close, my very wise mother said, “People are our treasures—the only gifts that will last. We can always get more stuff, but people cannot be replaced.”

Let’s remember to celebrate one another more often!

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God, thanks for the relationships You have given us. Please help us to be an encouragement to others and use our gifts as a blessing to others. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Questions: How can you use your gifts and talents to be an encourager?

Task: Write a thank you note to someone—or call them just to catch up!

 

Posted on in Finding Grace Weekly Recap, Miscellaneous

Finding Grace #32

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!

sunset-sky

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

  • This week was another restful week. Actually, it was quite busy…but I just took each thing as it came instead of spinning my wheels to get ahead. That really helped me not feel overwhelmed. By God’s grace, I decided if something didn’t get done, it was not a big deal. Thankfully, the most important tasks got finished!
  • I had many things to do because…Lydia and I flew to see family and friends in Illinois! We went to celebrate my mom’s birthday and host a party for her. My mom loves a good party (she’s an excellent host!), but it has been years since we had one in her honor! Perhaps I will write more on this later!
  • Lydia’s nearly a pro at flying, having been on approximately 25 flights in the last few years. No, we have NOT traveled to that many places…but rather we have at least two connecting flights each time we fly! It’s fun, and for this trip, the time-savings quickly outweighed the cost-savings of driving twelve hours. And, Lydia loves all the sight-seeing and people watching in each airport!
  • Depending on the day, the weather might be similar in Fargo and my hometown in Illinois. Fargo is often cooler, of course! But I have grown used to Fargo’s weather and actually enjoy it. Heading South is a warm welcome, but it can still be difficult to know what to pack. Still, I’m proud of myself for fitting all of my clothes and toiletries with Lydia’s in one suitcase!

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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 Being Gracious, Journey of Grace, Miscellaneous, Parenting

A Friend Loves at All Times

We have some really cute and funny kids in our neighborhood. For the most part, they all play really well together. And since many of them come over to my house to play, I have a prime opportunity to observe their social interactions.

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In general, Lydia appears to be an extrovert and thrives on being around others. She loves knocking on doors (with permission) to ask if friends can come out to play. Lydia talks about and misses her friends when they are unavailable. Even so, when several of these kids get together, it’s possible someone could feel left out.

Although most parents try to teach their kids to share, use their manners, and be kind, most of us understand how it feels on the other side. We’ve all had those moments.

I like to look out for underdogs and wallflowers and want Lydia to do the same. To help her understand what I mean, she’s had to apologize on occasion for hurting someone’s feelings. I make her ‘take a break’ from playing with friends when tensions arise…because I don’t want her to take them for granted.

I wish it was always that simple!

We also role play different scenarios, where Lydia is ‘left out’ or where she stands up for someone who is. I regularly challenge Lydia to be on the lookout for someone who needs a friend. It doesn’t always work out as I hope. But when someone is left out, everyone else also misses out… on what that person has to offer.

As I talk with the other parents, we compare notes. It’s good to be on the same page!

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I suppose the concept of ‘being a friend’ hits home for me because I have relied so much on my friends these last few years. Lydia does not realize this just yet…but we would’ve never made it without God’s grace and all the loving support we received, from people near and far.

When Dave was sick, friends and family around the world—in England, Greece, Singapore, Spain, Sweden, not to mention all over the United States—prayed for us and helped us. Almost every week, we received something encouraging in the mail: Cards, gifts, handmade items, food deliveries, books, and more.

Many of the Fargo friends who played such an important role in our cancer journey have moved away for various reasons. But from my limited perspective, I like to think that perhaps God had them in Fargo because they had a special part to play in our story.

It is fascinating to think of how God orchestrated all these peoples’ lives to intersect them with ours when we needed it most. Only He could set up such perfect timing!

They stood with us during our roughest moments. And when our faith faltered, these friends pointed us to Jesus. When we had no strength of our own, they carried us to Him.

Friends mowed our lawn each week, watched Lydia at a moment’s notice (and kept her overnight), or took our dog, Britain, for weeks at a time. Yes, these friends were the hands and feet of Jesus in ways we had never seen before!

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Thank you. I am still in awe.

Of course, this does not diminish the significant role our own families played… but indeed, many of those friends and neighbors became like family! Without a doubt, Lydia and I are doing well because of ALL the loving sacrifices made on our behalf!

I hope Lydia understands: When you’re at your worst, a true friend is still loyal.

Like a golden retriever! 🙂

It has come full circle for me lately. In many cases, I am now praying for and encouraging dear friends all over the world in their own trials. It is such an honor to return the favor!

Sooo…This week Lydia and I are reviewing Proverbs 17:17 (above) and parts of 1 Corinthians 13. These verses have been good reminders for me too! And though some friends have moved away, God has also given me many new friendships. He is so, so good to me!

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Gracious God, thanks for dear friends and family. Thanks for the encouragement You provide through them. Help us love one another! In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Questions: What does friendship mean to you? When was the last time you told your friends and family that you love and appreciate them?

Posted on in Finding Grace Weekly Recap, Journey of Grace, Miscellaneous

Finding Grace #23

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!

pink sedum plant

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

  • This week was loaded with God’s goodness and grace! Earlier in the week, as I worked on Wednesday’s post, I was overwhelmed by God’s goodness over the years. It took me awhile to craft just what I wanted to say…my heart was bursting with gratitude for all that the Lord has done for me!

  • I took full advantage of my birthday week, which also coincided with the Olympics. I stayed up late each night watching swimming, gymnastics and other activities. I slept in late most of the mornings too. It felt like a mini vacation!
  •  Over the last few weeks or so, I’ve been selling some old house items and replacing them as I go. I sold my dining room table and chairs a couple weeks ago, but hadn’t found anything I liked until this week. We have been using a smaller table in the meanwhile. I probably looked at a dozen different stores (online and in-person). On Wednesday, I looked at an online sale and then went to the store to see a table in-person. The table was not on sale in-store, but they honored the online price anyway! I was glad to save money and was thankful God worked on my behalf.
  • Also on Wednesday, my neighbor and her mom were dividing a sedum plant and shared two of the sections with me. I was able to fill in a couple gaps in my flower bed. With a little help, I was able to envision a couple changes for this fall to make the flower bed look better. I was thankful for their generosity!
  • Yesterday (Friday) was my birthday and it was a wonderful day. Lydia actually acknowledged my birthday, instead of forgetting it or thinking it was HER special day. 🙂 We talked with several friends and family; had lunch with a friend; opened a few gifts that were sent in the mail; and enjoyed a local minor league baseball game. It was so much fun seeing Lydia’s excitement during the game! She followed along and enjoyed cheering. She had her first cotton candy experience and loved the fireworks at the end.

  • I also received many birthday wishes, cards, texts, emails this week. This was in addition to kind comments on social media and my blog this week. It is always so cool to see how many people we still have encouraging and supporting us, both near and far. Thank you!

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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!

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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.

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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!

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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

Finding Grace #11

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!

orchids

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

  • This week has been awesome. We’ve had visitors all week! First, my mom, aunt, and sister came for a few days. After they left, a dear friend from college came to visit for a long weekend. We all had a blast laughing, sharing our stories, shopping, and eating delicious food. It was a fun and fairly restful week, even though we all stayed up way too late enjoying ourselves! We had gorgeous weather, and I also enjoyed catching up with my neighbors outside.
  • My sister and brother-in-law gave me a beautiful orchid this week in remembrance of Dave. There are many different types of orchids—what variety! But I like the purplish/fuschia ones the best. (My sister didn’t know it, yet that’s the one she gave me!) I think they are so pretty! I am amazed at how delicate they are, yet their blooms last for longer than many other plants.
  • Yesterday (Friday), my friend and I went to a ‘junk market’ where we perused vintage, antique, and up-cycled items. We saw many interesting objects, and I found a couple small heart magnets for the fridge. Lydia got some hair clips from someone who also has an online Etsy shop. I also bought some locally made raspberry and strawberry jam! As we walked around, I thought about how God remakes us to be more like Him. We are His masterpiece. We each have a unique, God-given purpose—He doesn’t make mistakes. He restores us and makes all things new! (see Ephesians 2:10 and 2 Corinthians 5:17)

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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?