Tag: love

Posted on in Miscellaneous, Parenting, Wisdom

Bath Bomb Bonanza

On a recent Saturday, I was working on my laptop. I was focused on a big project and didn’t want to be interrupted. There was a deadline involved, and I was crunched for time.

I asked Lydia to read a book or find something quiet to do. Instead, she asked me if we could do a science project, using a kit she received for Christmas. She wanted to make bath bombs. It was more than I wanted to do, and I tried to redirect her.

Maybe she could color or read or do a puzzle…

A few minutes later, I heard Lydia rummaging around in the kitchen. She was only about ten feet away from me, and I sat with my back to her.

As I heard a cookie tray clanging in the cupboard, I walked over to check on her. In the past, I’ve let Lydia use a tray to contain everything from LEGO projects, marbles, beads, and more. But that day, Miss Independent had started making her own bath bombs!

In my best mom voice I said, “Lydia, I didn’t tell you that you could make bath bombs!”

With no delay in her response, Lydia replied, “Well, you didn’t tell me I couldn’t!”

True… but I thought it had been implied.

Nonetheless, Lydia was actually doing a good job reading the directions and putting the ingredients together. She had made a small mess but was trying her best to be clean.

So, in this one case, I let her continue.

On the one hand, I admire how Lydia jumps in to try new things. However, that day, I explained that I was not pleased she took matters in her own hands. I reinforced my role and set up some consequences.

As I coached her, it made me think of the times I do that too. I often ask God for help or for something specific, but how often do I then try to complete it on my own?

Sure, when it all falls apart, I’ll ask for help cleaning it up. But Jesus is not my fix-it guy.

Lydia loves to prove herself to me. As soon as she learns a skill, she thinks she is good-to-go in that area. She doesn’t realize there are different levels of learning before mastery.

She feels confident with any art project, especially if it uses paint, markers, scissors, tape, and/or glue. 🙂 She likes making simple meals. She also likes to “surprise” me by cleaning… sometimes without asking and usually on her own terms.

Lydia is not a defiant child. Generally, she tries to be helpful. A couple days ago, she even tried to take a bath all on her own and got upset when I said I was going to supervise. Safety first!

I’m grateful for a child who is so willing and able to do things on her own. But as a parent, I can see that we can accomplish so much more together when Lydia asks for help and listens. We can have more fun if she waits for me and follows my leading.

I’m also glad God’s love for me does not depend on my own merit. Thankfully, He loves me despite my messes and mistakes! Still, His boundaries are there for my protection.

This bath bomb experience was a good reminder for both of us!

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Heavenly Father, thanks for the lessons You teach me through parenting. Give me grace and wisdom each day. Give me strength to be both firm and loving. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: Have you done any fun science experiments lately? Have you tried to do life on your own terms? How did that work out?

Tasks: Check in with Jesus before starting your next big project. Invite Him to be involved. See what His plans are first… He only wants the best for you!

Posted on in Fear/Don't Fake Brave, Life is Short, Miscellaneous, Perseverance, Wisdom, Worship

Heartbeat of Heaven

Recently, Lydia and I talking in the car on our way to an evening activity. At some point, Lydia wondered out loud, “Mom, can you imagine how BIG God’s heart must be?!”

She then excitedly exclaimed that God’s heart is bigger than our car, bigger than the apartment we drove by, bigger than any mountain or ocean, and even bigger than the MOON!

We had a good laugh at all the possibilities, and it prompted more conversation about God’s love. I love her perspective.

Sometimes, as adults, we have a hard time remembering or understanding God’s love for us. Somewhere along the way, we may lose our childlike excitement for Jesus or find it hard to believe.

Little doubts creep in telling us that we are not good enough or that there’s no way God could love us for how we’ve behaved.

Or perhaps in the busyness of life, we just put Him on the shelf and forget He is there. We occasionally dust off that relationship out of guilt, but then put it back until next time.

But if we really understood how big God’s heart is we would run to Him… we would accept His forgiveness and grace with gratitude and joy.

We would also understand the depth of His love.

Lately, I have seen God’s heart in new opportunities. I have seen Him direct me in new ways and I have taken some steps of faith.

I am excited to see what He has in store for me!

I’ve also seen God’s heart in answers to prayer. Sometimes the answers take a while to come and sometimes they are seen right away.

But when we understand God’s heart for us, we are content to go at His pace.

We can trust His timing!

God’s heart is for us and not against us. He’s always there, even when we don’t “feel” His presence. He wants to be invited into our day so He can share all that is on His heart.

Come, Lord, Jesus!

It’s great if you can find a quiet place to linger with Jesus, but if not, just talk to Him wherever you are. He loves you so much. His heart beats strong for you!

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Heavenly Father, thank You for loving us so much. Help us seek your sweet and refreshing grace. May we understand Your heart for us and others. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: Have you ever considered how big God is…or how big His heart must be?! How does that realization make you feel?

Tasks: Make a list of all the ways God loves you and blesses you. Praise Him! Listen to this song: “Nobody Loves Me Like You Do” sung by Chris Tomlin.

Posted on in Being Gracious, Miscellaneous, Prayer, Worship

Niceness Is Not Enough

Last Friday night, Lydia and I volunteered with Feed My Starving Children, an organization which works to alleviate hunger and poverty around the world. FMSC operates entirely on donations and volunteers to purchase and pack the foods.

Then, they partner with a network of other organizations to distribute food to those in need. They don’t “just give handouts” but focus on sustainability too.

It’s been a while since I’ve worn a hair net… but that night was worth it! It was good for Lydia to realize how privileged she is… and a great reminder for me as well.

Lydia and I rotated through several positions. We opened, filled, weighed, and sealed packets of food. One packet, when rehydrated, will serve up to 6 people for one meal. One box has 36 meal packets (vitamin blend, dehydrated vegetables, texturized soy protein, and rice).

During our two-hour shift, 1,272 volunteers filled 1,367 boxes. (49,212 packets or 295,272 meals) That will feed 809 kids for a year!

As a dietitian, nutrition and hunger issues are near to my heart. Yet on any given day, thanks in part to social media, I am reminded of so many other areas of great concern. Abortion, racism, national security, rising healthcare costs, the economy, and environmental issues are some that come to mind.

Generally speaking, all of these issues are outside the scope of this blog. I don’t like the arguing that political drama often produces. But that does not mean I am doing nothing.

Prayer is the greatest thing we can do because that invites God’s presence and power into the situation. So we definitely need to start there. Seek God first!

But often, Christians are tempted to stop with prayer. We say, “I’ll pray for you!” and then we go on our merry way. But, Jesus didn’t just pray, He reached out. He healed, helped, comforted, challenged, defended, and forgave. He was practical.

In terms of prayer, we have access to Jesus at any time… but the world doesn’t. They are still separated from God’s love and mercy. So it seems, they need to see “proof” that Jesus cares for them before they trust Him.

As Christians, we are God’s ambassadors. People who don’t know Jesus are watching those of us who do. So, right or wrong, everything we do is subject to scrutiny.

Often, we want to be ‘nice’ to everyone… but niceness is not enough.

One day, each of us will have to give an account for how we used the gifts God has given us. I want to hear, “Well done, my good and faithful servant.” Let’s offer our best!

At other times, we feel everyone needs to be put in their place. There are times when we do need to address truth and morality, yes. But we can handle it graciously. Jesus was filled with grace and truth (John 1:17).

Instead of complaining about issues or judging people, we should be willing to help. Loving others may look different for each of us, and that’s okay. Let’s be the Jesus the world needs to see.

Here are some practical ways we can reach out to others (in no particular order).

  • Donate money to a cause or organization you believe in. Do research it and make sure it is legitimate. You can also fundraise by running a race, selling homemade items, etc. Check out Save the Storks and Redemption Road Ministries.
  • Donate supplies and deliver them locally where needed. This could include clothes, school supplies, toiletries, or furniture. Call ahead and see what is needed most. Consider homeless shelters, recovery centers, or crisis pregnancy centers. Used items may be acceptable, but also consider purchasing new.
  • Your time is also a wonderful gift. Churches, animal shelters, nursing homes and hospitals all need help (in addition to the places in #2). If you have a special skill, be creative in how you use it! Another option is Habitat for Humanity.
  • Mentor someone. You don’t have to have it all figured out already. Just step up and lend a hand or encouraging word. Share your experiences… and be consistent.
  • Sponsor someone. It could be a child in an international program like Compassion International or World Vision. Locally, you may look into Big Brother/Sister program. Or, help out a public school teacher or a college student far from home.
  • Call or send a card to someone. An encouraging word is always welcome! Tell someone they are doing a good job. Even if it is a frazzled parent in the grocery aisle.
  • Offer practical hands-on support. This may include babysitting, raking leaves, mowing, painting, or house cleaning. Pick up garbage or recycling. Wash a car.
  • Consider opening your home to someone in need. I had a (trusted) friend stay with me for 6 months while she got her life back in order. Maybe God is calling you to foster or adopt a child? (No pressure… be wise and pray!)

  • Have a conversation with people who are different than you (race, beliefs, food habits, goals, etc). Better yet, share a meal with them. Really get to know them.
  • Write a letter to advocate for a cause. Instead of protesting, use your words to persuade. Raise awareness. Also, don’t forget to contact those in Congress… and vote!!
  • Learn more about the issues at hand. Put yourself in someone else’s shoes and see it from their perspective. Chances are, you will have a more rounded view.
  • Talk to your kids about important issues. As a parent, you are their first teacher. Have honest conversations about pros/cons. Role play and model the behavior you want them to learn. Get them involved serving with you!
  • Make generosity a daily habit. Be kind to the cashiers at the grocery store. Help your neighbors clear snow. Make or buy treats for your coworkers.
  • Help a single mom (or any mom!). She may need a ride, dinner, or a break. Offer to watch her kids during an appointment or help with home maintenance. Take her family out for a movie…or ice cream! Check out Jeremiah Program and consider making a donation to help a single mom get ahead.
  • Celebrate a friend’s successes. Doing this over coffee or lunch is a bonus! Listen to their ups and downs without offering advice (unless they ask for it).
  • Smile while you serve. A smile is understood in every language. It doesn’t cost anything but can mean so much. It can cross all kinds of barriers! Let Jesus’ love shine on your face with joy!

There are so many ways to be a servant. That will look different for each of us. I used to get stuck in my perfectionism, but I was recently reminded that no gift is too small or silly. Something is better than nothing in this case.

We don’t need to compare what we give or do for others… in fact most of us don’t want any recognition at all! It may be easy to give…or it may require sacrifice. It doesn’t have to be extreme, but if we serve with a good attitude, we honor Jesus.

As we pray AND serve others, God’s grace overflows in us and through us!

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Jesus, You are the Servant King, full of grace and truth. Thanks for loving us and giving everything for us. Help us lay down our lives for Your glory. Open our eyes and hearts to the needs around us. Let us share Your love with those around us. In Your Name, Amen

Question: What are your favorite ways to serve? (I’d love to add to my list!!)

Tasks: Pray for wisdom and look for people and places to serve. Make a list and choose to do at least one act of kindness every day.

Posted on in Finding Grace Weekly Recap, Miscellaneous

Finding Grace #152

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 week an unusual week, due to the extreme cold! Most of the Midwest was affected by the Polar Vortex, which meant school closings, delays, and businesses shutting early. We made the best of having a break in the middle of the week. Read more here!

In some ways, the extreme weather has forced me to slow down and spend more time with the Lord. Indeed, Monday felt like a spiritual retreat day. I accomplished quite a lot while Lydia was at school, even though I didn’t have anything pressing in my schedule. I simply sat with God for a while (reading and praying) and kept Him close as I went about my day. I felt Him lead me as I did chores and prepared for the week. Somehow, He helped me be more productive than usual, even though I spent “extra” time with Him! 🙂

Because I was more in-tune with Jesus, I also was able to face some fears and took several steps of faith. I’ve been working on a project for quite awhile and am entering a new phase. It’s good but a little scary. All month, I stalled and made little progress—but on Monday, with God’s strength, I pushed forward. And, I had several encouraging conversations as a result!

On Thursday, my friends came over for Bible study. We enjoyed our conversation and discussed several pertinent mom issues. I’m grateful for godly friends!

Friday evening was spent volunteering with an organization called, Feed My Starving Children. We opened, filled, weighed, and sealed small bags of food. It was cool because Lydia was able to help and see the direct result of her effort. The event put our own eating habits into perspective, too.

I’m grateful for how God always directs our path and blesses us. He is so good!

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

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

Posted on in Finding Grace Weekly Recap, Miscellaneous, Procrastination, Wisdom

Finding Grace #147

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 one of my favorite weeks of the year! We celebrated Christmas and then have been relaxing ever since! Most of the time, we are going-going-going so I really value the “free time” this week provided. I relish unstructured days, and often not being productive is actually the best way to ‘get things done.’

From Wednesday until Friday morning, we had a blizzard. Thankfully, we didn’t have too many plans. We were happy to stay home; we played games, watched movies, and made some extra treats! We did cancel a playdate on Thursday, but that can be rescheduled.

On Friday, I went to clear snow, but my snowblower wasn’t working. I’m not sure what’s wrong, but my neighbor cleared my driveway instead! He did about 5 driveways, not including his own. What a blessing!

On Friday, Lydia and I went to my two-week follow-up appointment. It was bitter cold outside, but my eyes look good after Lasik surgery! I still have some healing to do, but I am grateful for the outcome so far. Technology is amazing!

Today, we did a few chores which included taking the Christmas ornaments off the tree and putting away some decorations. The tree and other wintery items will stay out a while longer. The cold will last a few more months, at least!

I’m grateful for how God always directs our path and blesses us. He is so good!

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

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

Posted on in Being Gracious, Journey of Grace, Miscellaneous, Personality, Wisdom

Ten Things For Which I Am Thankful

Confession: Over the last few days, I have noticed myself reacting to various issues in not-so-helpful ways. Some issues are mere annoyances…and most are out of my control. I could tell you how I have lost my temper, felt sorry for myself, or have said words I regret. Maybe that can wait for another day… in the meantime, I will focus on adjusting my attitude. 😉

We all have bad days or moments from time to time, and we all need the Lord’s forgiveness and refining. Nonetheless, instead of seeing all that is ‘wrong,’ I want to look for what is going well.

So today, I am challenging myself to find ten things for which I am thankful. It doesn’t solve all my problems but gratitude does put them into perspective. We all have so much goodness in our lives…

In no particular order, I am thankful for…

Sleep. If I am over-tired, I am more likely to lose my cool. Sometimes a nap is a perfect way to reset. I’m also grateful for a new FitBit that has better sleep information than my old one. I have been tracking my sleep habits and trying to be more consistent overall.

Nature. Sometimes, I just need to get away and decompress. I have taken some awesome nature walks lately which has been refreshing. (I probably should do that more often!)When I see the beautiful blue sky, cool animals, green leaves, and flowers in a rainbow of colors, I am reminded of how much God cares about all the details of my life too.

Good listeners. I have some wonderful people in my life who let me talk openly and get things off my chest when needed. I don’t do this all the time, thankfully, but I do appreciate the feedback provided. Sometimes I need someone to agree with me and sometimes I need a kick in the pants. I’m glad to have family and friends who can offer kindness and/or provide some tough love! I’m also thankful when they pray for me!

My lawnmower. Mowing the lawn is not my favorite thing to do, but I am always proud of myself after it is done. It reminds me that I can indeed do difficult things with God’s help. 🙂

Stability. I have a lovely house and a good job, and God provides so well for me. I have no lack. All of my basic needs are met, which reminds me that ‘godliness with contentment is great gain.’ Thank You, Jesus!

Walkie-talkies. This might sound odd, but Lydia and I use walkie-talkies when she is playing at a neighbor’s house so I don’t have to yell like a madwoman to get her attention. This provides a little independence for Lydia and some reassurance for me. It also makes it possible to get a few quick chores done inside when all she wants to do is play outside.

Access to healthy food, healthcare, etc. In America, we have so many resources that we often take them for granted. Just in terms of food, there are probably ten-thousand options at one grocery store… and I have perhaps ten grocery stores within ten minutes of where I live. (No more complaining here!)

Hugs from Lydia. She is quick to sense when I need a hug, which always ‘fills my cup.’ I’m so thankful for her and my life is much more rich with her in it.

Music. Music has a special way expressing our feelings without words. I like several kinds of music, but lately, I have appreciated birds singing on my deck and worship music. Both help me pause and reconnect with the Lord.

Opportunities to serve. This is especially important to get our eyes off ourselves. When I can use my gifts to help someone, that changes everything.

Wow, I feel better already! I’m thankful God loves us ‘too much’ to let us stay focused on ourselves. His love is overwhelming and reckless! (So that makes eleven things! Bonus!)

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God, thanks for loving me so much. Please forgive me when I have a bad attitude. Give me new eyes to see the needs around me and help me be thankful. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Question: Can you name ten things for which you are thankful?

Tasks: Start each day with gratitude. Write some thank you notes! Also, listen to the song, ‘Reckless Love’ by Cory Asbury.

Posted on in Fear/Don't Fake Brave, Journey of Grace, Life is Short, Miscellaneous, Parenting, Perseverance, Wisdom

The Difference Between Moving On and Moving Forward

Yesterday, we reached a big milestone in our grace journey. It was five years since Dave died…and five years of walking it out step-by-step.

Each moment has been drenched in God’s grace.

Five years ago, it felt like this milestone would never arrive. I had no plan and no clue what to do. (And for a planner, that’s kind of a big deal!) Suffice it to say, we faced a lot of challenges.

Yesterday felt noteworthy—yet at the same time felt just like any other day. The normalcy of it made me even more aware of God’s thorough healing. While it hasn’t been easy, I’m grateful.

I want Lydia to associate this day with goodness—instead of pain or sorrow—and identify the overwhelming Victory we have in Christ. So, each year I’ve given her a small token to mark the occasion.

Needless to say, Lydia was excited about yesterday. She woke up with such anticipation, “This is going to be a great day!” I loved her cheerful attitude; she loved the little cat ring I gave her before school.

So yesterday, we celebrated Dave’s memory and that he is safe and secure… By God’s grace, we are still standing strong! Thank You, Jesus. Every Victory is found in You!

Often, we pray for God to do big things, and then want to tell Him how to accomplish all our ideas. But His ways are bigger than our ways. Our small minds cannot comprehend all the good He has in store for us.

 As He promised in Romans 8:28, God has used this horrible tragedy for my good and His glory…so I can, in turn, help others and bless them. My goal is to then point people back to see God’s goodness in their own lives.

Honestly, I don’t need to understand the “why factor.” I am just grateful that God knows exactly what we need. His grace covers me and I can move forward in Victory.

Victory starts with Jesus at the Cross and His Resurrection but then carries over into everyday life. Each day brings opportunities to live victoriously. We have the choice to stand firm or move forward.

For me, standing firm means NOT running away from all the pain and sorrow—which is the exact opposite of what I sometimes want to do. Standing firm means not giving up even an inch of that holy ground. Moving forward is taking that first step and then another and another.

Some Victories are large and some are small. Some come easy and some are a struggle. Either way, slow and steady progress is still good.

It is strange to think that many of my friends now, never even met Dave… These days, I don’t share as much about him because sometimes the timing or mood isn’t right. Still, I appreciate anyone who will listen when I really need it. Thank you!!

After a big life change, people often get a ‘grace period’ to adjust. Though, after five years, perhaps some people would say it is time to move on. (I get it. Life goes on.) But, there is a difference between moving on and moving forward. And really, you can’t do both!

Moving on implies that we need to cut our losses and forget the past. Just get over it already! Moving on feels like an either/or option. You can either stay stuck or leave everything behind.

Moving forward, on the other hand, acknowledges the pain, grief, loss, or other wound but chooses to see beyond it. It is inclusive of one’s past and current experiences but allows for new options in the future. Moving forward may seem agonizing at first but is worth it in the long-run.

Moving on is the gut reaction—handling it on your own. Keep your head down and work hard to push through the pain. The problem is that approach is not sustainable. It uses up our energy so we have nothing left to give.

Moving forward, then, is the grace response—letting Jesus do the heavy work. Keep your head high—focused on Jesus—honor the past, and be brave. Surprisingly, we find more energy and power because the Holy Spirit covers our weakness and renews us with His strength.

Each person’s journey looks different. There is no one-size-fits-all ‘right’ way to deal with life’s pain and trials. But, for me, the greater Victory is found in moving forward with Jesus. He is faithful and can do far more than we could ever ask or imagine!

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Heavenly Father, thanks for all Your grace and goodness toward us. All glory and praise to You, Lord. Help us continue to move forward in Victory as you bring freedom and wholeness. In Jesus’ Mighty Name, Amen.

Questions: What are your thoughts on standing firm, moving forward, and moving on? Do you feel like you are living in Victory—or still struggling?

Tasks: Praising God is one way to keep moving forward and refocus on Jesus. Listen to this song: “Surrender” (Fight My Battles) by Michael W. Smith

Posted on in Books and Movies I Like, Journey of Grace, Life is Short, Miscellaneous, Perseverance

Book Review: When Breath Becomes Air

This week I finished a book that has been in my queue for quite some time. The book, When Breath Becomes Air, was published in 2016, but in all honesty, I wasn’t ready for it back then.

Several friends recommended the book, but I didn’t know if I could handle the intensity at the time. I didn’t want to get sucked into another cycle of grief!

Now, however, I am in a much different place. I decided to listen to the audio version, but I do have a copy of the physical book as well. I highly recommend this book!

The book was written by Paul Kalanithi, a neurosurgeon diagnosed with lung cancer in 2013 at the age of 36. He died in March 2015 just before his 38th birthday, and this book tracks his journey from physician to patient.

The story is quite compelling on its own, but even more so because of our own experience with cancer. I was struck by the similarities between this story and ours.

Mr. Kalanithi was on the verge of reaching his career goals—yet was sidetracked with sickness. Like my late husband, Dave, he did his best at work—regardless of how he felt physically. Both men loved their jobs!

The book also discusses how terminal illness can make a marriage and other relationships stronger. That happened to us too. Mr. Kalanithi sought to secure a good future for his wife, Lucy, and infant daughter, who was born while he was sick. He was always thinking about them.

As his death grew nearer, time seemed to slow down for the author. All of his accolades and accomplishments did not matter. He just wanted to soak up time with his wife, little daughter, and other loved ones.

Mr. Kalanithi was particularly close to his family, and I appreciated the fact that they were so supportive. I, too, am grateful for all the support we have received from family and friends!

For much of the book, it was as if I was hearing Dave tell his side of the story. I found it comforting to perhaps understand a little more about how Dave might’ve felt.

The book was different enough from my experiences that I didn’t have a hard time listening. Yet, the last few chapters were quite compelling because the author’s thoughts, feelings, and physical limitations paralleled what I went through with Dave.

Despite the heartbreak, it was reassuring to hear the same types of questions we dealt with regarding chemo, palliative care, and end of life decisions.

I was encouraged to hear Mr. Kalanithi talk about his faith and hope. He knew the risks and statistics about lung cancer but was never hopeless. He wanted to live his life to the fullest and sought purpose and meaning each day.

Both Mr. Kalanithi and Dave were in their mid-thirties when they were diagnosed and died. Mr. Kalanithi had lung cancer and Dave had colon cancer, but both are not as common in younger people. (Though, that may be changing now.)

Both men had young daughters too little to remember their fathers. Cady Kalanthi was 8 months old when her daddy died; Lydia was 17 months old when Dave died. I’m thankful for the legacies these men left behind.

Neither the author nor my late husband spent much time feeling sorry for themselves. They didn’t complain, but were brave and set an example for others!

If you haven’t already read this book, please consider it! It was helpful to remember that my story is not all that unique. Instead of focusing on all I have lost, I can cherish what I do have: Lydia and precious memories.

Praise God, I also have hope and a good future ahead of me (Jeremiah 29:11)! Yes, Life has turned out differently than expected, but Jesus has been so faithful all these years.

He is so good to us!

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Dear God, thanks for taking such good care of me. Thanks for Your protection and provision through life’s ups and downs. Thank You for your grace! I trust You for a good future. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: Have you read any good books lately? Do prefer physical books or audiobooks or ebooks?

Tasks: Check out this book! Let me know what you think!

Posted on in Journey of Grace, Miscellaneous, Parenting, Wisdom

Valentine’s Victories

A couple weeks ago, I was discouraged when I received some not-so-great feedback on a writing project. My writing coach thought I could do a better job. I was rather disheartened until a friend popped into my office unexpectedly and encouraged me.

So imagine my relief on Monday of this week when I received positive feedback instead! I had revised the same material from before and my writing coach was pleased with the improvements.

As we talked, I explained how frustrated I was previously and how difficult this task had been for me. We discussed how our most challenging work often happens to be the most important.

Sometimes the ‘edits’ are easy—like grammar and punctuation—and don’t affect the overall content. But other times, the edits are tough. Content revisions are more important structurally, and in my case, lay the foundation for the next round.

There will be a bigger payoff later if I do the hard work now.

As I realized the significance of the work I had done, I was excited. I had pushed through this perceived setback, and to me, it felt like a breakthrough.

The victory made we want to celebrate! Soo, on a whim, I decided to go to the movies!

On my way to the theater, I praised God for the writing victory and thanked Him for the movie, too. It almost felt like a Valentine’s date because God blessed me so much that day.

I used a gift certificate to buy my ticket and also bought a kid-sized popcorn (not wanting to over-do it!). I even shared some “snack cash” coupons with the couple in front of me.

I watched ‘The Greatest Showman’ and I’m so glad I did!

The movie was fabulous and I highly recommend it! The music (soundtrack) was also so inspiring. Without giving too much away, I loved the overall message about being yourself and appreciating each other’s differences. It makes you consider what is really important.

Most—if not all—of us have felt like we don’t belong at times. There are days when we struggle with feeling like we don’t measure up. Or, maybe we have been rejected and treated poorly… Sometimes, it’s totally unfair!

Some people feel down on Valentine’s Day if they don’t have a ‘special someone.’ I can understand that perspective. But, don’t be discouraged. Turn those feelings around and make someone else feel special.

Sometimes, we overlook how powerful it is to love people and show kindness every day. Even just a little note or phone call can have great impact.

Remember, whether or not you have Valentine’s plans is not a determination of your worth. You are so very loved!

In Christ, we have infinite value. If we have that perspective, we see that with Jesus, we can thrive. When we keep our eyes on Him, we see His grace and blessings—not our lack.

In Jesus, we have Victory! We are MORE THAN CONQUERORS!

 My little girl, Lydia, reminded me of this Victorious perspective in a recent drawing.

I asked her to explain the picture, which to me, looked a little like four people at a disco party… 😉 Lydia explained, “This is a picture of my family. The first person is my daddy, then you and me, and then God.”

Lydia is starting to understand the difference between immediate and extended family…

I loved that she drew what was in her heart, including both her daddy, Dave, and her Heavenly Father, God. And, the disco figures made me smile. 

I see Lydia’s confidence in God’s love for her as a huge Victory!

Nothing can compare to God’s love for us! He is soo good!

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Heavenly Father, thanks for taking such good care of me. Thank you for leading me to Victory. Help me stay close to You and keep the right perspective. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: Have you had a personal breakthrough recently? Have you seen any good movies lately? How can you show God’s love to others today?

Tasks: Write down your victories in a journal so you can remember them. Celebrate your successes and thank God for all He has done.

Posted on in Being Gracious, Journey of Grace, Miscellaneous

Filled with Joy

This week, in addition to Thanksgiving, we are celebrating Lydia’s birthday! Regarding gifts, Lydia only requested one thing: a little toy bird. Of course, I bought it and kept it as a surprise. Actually, I bought her two because I couldn’t decide between them…

Then, a couple weeks ago, we were discussing her birthday. On a whim, I jokingly asked, “Well, what if I don’t get you a gift? Would that be okay?”

To my surprise, Lydia didn’t even blink. Immediately, she cheerfully replied, “That’s okay, Mom! You could just draw me a picture instead.” She went on to explain, “That’s what I do for you since I can’t go and buy you gifts when it’s your birthday or Christmas.”

While I was touched by her response, Lydia probably figured she would get gifts from other people… So perhaps she wasn’t concerned with missing out on a gift from me.

In the past, Lydia has gotten cards or presents from friends and family in several states. A good Father, God always makes sure she is taken care of. She is well-loved!

On her birthday, Lydia took popcorn for a snack at school. Then, at lunchtime, I joined her class for their meal. I also saw most of our little neighborhood friends. It was a fun experience! The kids were so excited to have a visitor.

 Overjoyed, the kids wiggled as they stood in the lunch line. They each wanted to sit next to me, show me a trick, or tell me an interesting story. The principal read a special Thanksgiving story, and I enjoyed talking with Lydia and her classmates.

After school, we went to Cherry Berry for frozen yogurt. Then, we came home to open presents. Lydia was happy with my gifts—a puzzle and two little birds that sing and can repeat what you say. (I may be regretting that soon!) She also received gifts from friends and family. Thank you!

Over the years, I have learned so much while watching Lydia learn and grow. She loves to read and do math! It is amazing to see her become who God intended. Indeed, she has many of Dave’s best qualities. I know he would also be so proud of her.

This season (and birthday) is our fifth time celebrating without Dave. Sometimes it can still be a little bittersweet. Each year has been so different, yet the Lord has been so kind and generous to us. The joy of the Lord is my strength!

Nothing can replace Dave, yet while we miss him, we keep moving forward. God loves watching His children grow through trials and walk in Victory. We can always celebrate His goodness and grace because God’s love never fails.

These days, I don’t often cry because of grief. Instead, if I am teary-eyed, it is usually because I am so thankful for all the Lord has done for us!

This week—and through this season—we will celebrate our many gifts, new milestones, and our dear friends and family… This year, our hearts are filled with joy.

Thanks to all who continue to encourage us and check in on us from time to time. Thanks for all your prayers and support! It means so much to us. We are truly blessed.

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Father God, You are so good and gracious. Thanks for taking such great care of us. Help us remember just how much You love us. Let us share Your love with those around us, especially during this holiday season. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: What are you thankful for? How have you grown this year?

Tasks: Call a friend who needs some encouragement during this season. Take them a meal or invite them over to visit. Be a blessing to them!