Timely Pursuit

Time is such a precious commodity
in my daily life. When I plan out
what I need to accomplish in a day,
there never seems to be enough.
Yet I find myself frittering away what
seems to be vast amounts of it anyway.
And it seems that the things I care
about the most get sacrificed in the
face of either the urgent, the routine,
or the completely useless pursuits
that I practice. I must choose differently.


All your life is a choice. There is not a detail, no matter how insignificant it may seem that is not affected by the choices you make. Your investment of time, energy, or awareness regarding some facet of your life will determine your course, so you must choose well.

The time you spend with Me always bears fruit even when you don't see the direct results yourself. Your prayers for your family, friends, church, community, and world are investments that cannot be measured. It is good to sit alone and quietly turn your heart to Me in fellowship and petition and to hear My voice speak to you through My word. The advantage of quiet is there are fewer distractions. In your daily life there is so much noise. However, I am no less present in the busiest parts of your day. You forget that I am with you, and a part of you can come to Me in the midst of all other activities. While I would want you to continue in active pursuit of Me, I would not have you make an idol of your devotion or spiritual habits.

Because so much clamors for your attention, you have to be very deliberate to turn your mind and heart to Me. Mastering this ability is less a feat accomplished by your power and more an active work of My Holy Spirit within you. Instead of a battle it is a relinquishment. You must surrender your ideas, plans, agendas, and focus. You are not the center of your world. Your family is not the center of your world. Your work is not the center of your world. Your health is not the center of your world. Your leisure is not the center of your world. That place is reserved for Me. I purchased it with My blood and you have already given up ownership. So stop coming back and trying to force your way into a place that doesn't belong to you anymore. I know what I'm doing. I will do all things well.

Abandon the trivial and mindless things that steal your time and energy. Turn it off. Walk away. Flee if need be. Let your mind be filled with living thoughts, thoughts that are worthy of My participation. It is necessary for your mind to focus on your task, but still possible for you to be aware of My presence at any time. I am the life force behind all that you undertake, and as I fill you with My Spirit that life flows over through all that you set your hand to do.

Pursue Me above all else, but don't think only in terms of time spent and forms practiced. Think in terms of dependence, humility, surrender, trust, obedience, virtue, hope, patience, kindness, honor, love, joy, and peace. I will fill all the days and times of your life with value, purpose, strength, and vision.

Psalm 90:12; Psalm 46:10; Matthew 6:6-8; Matthew 6:25; Philippians 4:4-9;

Psalm 90:17; John 4:14

Bad News

It's been over a week since the earthquake in Japan. Yesterday we started air strikes in Libya. This week our friend Pat received bad news about her health. Yesterday a young man in line school fell from the top of a 35' pole and died. He left behind an expecting wife and two children. So much bad news. The sermon we heard this morning was about God's providence. That was good timing because I needed to be reminded that God is in control. He really is. In spite of our failures and weaknesses He holds and directs our lives, and He's not caught off guard by anything that happens.

Sidewalk Prophets--You Love Me Anyway

I heard this song for the first time today, and it really hit me. Hope you like it!

I'm thinking about taking down my website and just posting anything new on here. Any input?? It's not expensive to keep the website, but it's not free either. I hesitate because I will lose the rights to www.fringesofhisways.com Just like that being mine; but if it's inactive, it's inactive. I know I can do whatever I want, I'm just looking for suggestions.

My least favorite subject is school was always math. So...what am I doing all day? Math. And I mean all day. Things are much more time-consuming with billing the feed at work now. Plus there is an extra project that's landed on my desk that may be the end of me yet. Way too many numbers.

Senior Discount

It's great to be 55!!! I went to Hy-Vee yesterday and got 15% senior discount on my entire purchase (every Wednesday). Then today I was at Pamida and asked the checker if they didn't have a certain day that they gave a senior discount. She said, "Yes, on Thursday. But it's every other Thursday, and today is it." Another 15% off!!! YAY!!!
Plus I learned how to buff my nails...they're so shiny!!! It's the little things.....
Today Kelli and the girls went to Muscatine and were very excited to see Jon and spend a few days with him. It was good to see them even though for a very short time.

Thought for the day

It will be a week tomorrow since the 9.0 earthquake off the coast of Japan followed by the tsunami. Now they're dealing with nuclear reactors in jeopardy. It's so horrible to see the devastation and the complete loss they are facing. It's so hard to understand how these things are in God's plan. And yet, He is in control no matter how it seems. We pray that God's love and mercy will be poured out on the Japanese people and they will be won to the Lord.

Productivity

It's been a productive weekend. Friday night I went to Tre and Tru's school carnival to hang out with them while they played the games and had fun. Saturday we were home most of the day working around here. Jon got the entryway all painted and the lights up and working in the entry and outside. Today he and Brad finished taping the ceiling of the garage, and I baked cookies and did laundry. We've ordered flooring for the entryway, and Bruce will (?) be coming tomorrow to start on the bathroom. I'm covering most of the living room with sheets to hopefully avoid some of the mess.

I'm really excited to see Kelli and the girls come through here later in the week. It's been too long since we've seen them!!!!

Saturday I had way more pain than I have had in a while, but, thankfully, today was better. I'm never sure why it can be so different sometimes, but I'm beginning to think that being on my feed for longer periods of time without a break is a factor. I'm hoping standing doesn't become the kind of issue it was before my last surgery. Also, I had MUCH more stress at work this week which may have unleashed its effects on Saturday. I hope this week is better, but I'm not sure why it would be.

We got a couple of pics from Megan on our phones this weekend, and Oz is loving standing up with help. He's sleeping without his sleep sack and exploring every corner of his crib while sleeping. Plus he's getting up on his knees and scooting himself forward...just hasn't figured out how to use his arms to navigate. It won't be long till he's crawling everywhere!!

Thought for the day

It was a "productive" weekend, and that felt good but I'm very grateful that God doesn't value me according to what I produce. He cares about my heart; He cares about my relationship with Him. He doesn't want my efforts or my productivity...He wants me. He wants you.

Psalm 77

Our entryway is textured and will soon be painted. Bruce will come back on Monday to start on the bathroom. Feels SO good to see some progress. I have a big change at work...our biggest account was bought out by another company. Working with them requires a lot more data entry than it did before. I can feel it in my back and neck tonight...just stressful. The most relaxing part of my day was a trip to the dentist...yikes!

Thought for the day

When in trouble we can begin to think "Just my luck. The High God goes out of business just the moment I need Him." But that is just our grief speaking. We have to make a choice at that time. We must once again go over what God has done, lay out on the table the ancient wonders; ponder what He's accomplished, and give a long, loving look at His acts. He IS good. And He's done amazing things for each of us, many of which we aren't even aware of. But take time to remember what you know of Him and trust that He loves you and is fully aware of your need.
Psalm 77

Babysitting

Our contractor came Friday and the plan is to start our bathroom remodel around Thursday. Lots of stuff to clear out by then. On Saturday we went to Megan and Greg's and got to babysit with Oz for the evening. We hung out there today till around 5:00. Jon did some electrical work, and we enjoyed some quality Grandpa and Grandma time! Will download some pics and post later this week (I hope :))
We're both finally feeling mostly better and just in time. Lots of work to do this week!
In other good news....Kelli had another open house today and it was the most well-attended one yet. The people are coming out of their winter hibernation and starting to look at houses again! YAY!!!
Hope you all have a great week!!!

Sinuses

We can now see our garage doors! That's the only change on the outside, but there is progress inside. The entryway is drywalled and still being mudded. We've also started dismantling the bathroom, and Bruce will be back to do that job when we're ready. Now both Jon and I are on antibiotics for sinus infection. Feeling worse today, but hoping that means that tomorrow will be better. Oz, Greg, and Megan are taking antibiotics, too, so it's everywhere! I'm tired...hope to sleep well tonight.

Thought for the day

"When you help someone out, don't think about how it looks. Just do it quietly and unobtrusively. That is the way your God, who conceived you in love, working behind the scenes, helps you out." Matthew 6:3-4 The Message

Sunday

I got inspired by the construction today and did some work in my cupboards...one of my favorite things :) I bought some racks and first stacked some of the stuff under my sink. Then I used a rack to reorganize my china and used a couple more to reorganize my corner cupboard. I cleared an area on the top of my counter which always makes me happy. This afternoon we went to Tre's last basketball game for the season and he had a good game. Jon's been working in the garage the rest of the day.
We had a really good sermon in church today that was a lesson on the history of modern Israel and a look at God's covenant and conditions. It was a refreshing change to sit in a baptist church and hear the truth about covenant theology rather than dispensationalism.
It's been a nice weekend...work done, a game, and some free time, too. Looking forward to babysitting with Oz during next weekend!!!

Thought for the day

Nope...my brain must be taking the day off.

Progress

Finally, we are moving again on the construction!!! Today Brad and Jon are taping the drywall in the entryway. I'm not sure if they'll be hanging sheeting in the garage or not...Jon's been working on that some the last day or so also. Bruce says he'll come on Monday to hang the door between the entryway and garage. Feels so good to see some progress again!!!
I will soon have to dismantle the bathroom and hallway closet so we can do that remodeling. Where do I put everything???? That part will be messier, but it really shouldn't take very long to complete. Then we'll have a nice shower upstairs and a new top and sink on the lavatory. It's been a long time coming...
We've had a little snow the last 24 hours...just enough so you have to watch your walking and driving again. Still falling just a little, so I'm not sure if we're about done or not.

Thought for the day

Don't ruin today by thinking too much about the future. It will be fine...it will look great... Our new mantra applies well to many uncertainties. Better yet, I'm learning to put things in God's hands and forget about them for today (or for this moment). At least I'm trying to learn.... Tabbi may say I have a long way to go after hanging out with me today. Still learning...

Zephaniah 3

I gotta say...I love my new background for my blog. It is just so darn cute!! So glad you all agree (thanks, Kelli) :)



Thought for the day



"Don"t be afraid....don't despair. Your God is present among you, a strong Warrior there to save you. Happy to have you back He'll calm you with His love and delight you with His songs. The accumulated sorrows of your exile will dissipate. I, your God, will get rid of them for you...I'll heal the maimed; I'll bring home the homeless. In the very countries where they were hated they will be venerated. On Judgment Day I'll bring you back home---a great family gathering! You'll be famous and honored all over the world. You'll see it with your own eyes--all those painful partings turned into reunions!" Zephaniah 3:16-20 The Message

What else can I say?? He will take care of it all in His time.

Doing Today

Yesterday we went to mentor training for the day. It went well, but I don't know where it will go from here, so we'll wait and see. Today after church I met Tabbi and the boys and we went to Tre's game. We stopped at Sam's before coming back. Jon is gone for the day looking at tools with Brad...this could be expensive :)
Hopefully this week the guys will get the entryway drywalled. Then I'm sure they'll be starting on the garage walls. Getting really anxious to get this all done. It feels like it will still be a long time, there's a lot to do yet.

Thought for the day

I can only do one day at a time. Whatever I believe the future may hold, today I can only do today. So I can enjoy what this day holds without clouding it over with doom and gloom and whens and what-ifs.

Mentoring

Got my new medication to start using today. Hopefully that will be helpful. Tomorrow we go to a training class for mentoring marriages. What marriage has never needed a listening ear? I know we've had people in our lives that helped and encouraged us...some just set a good example, others had actual input. I think we can benefit from the training whether we get involved in the "program" or not. Anyway, we'll see what it is.
I hope all of you have a great weekend. Stay safe!!

The Good News....

The good news is I won't be having surgery. The not so good news is that will probably change in the future. But I'll take the good news for now. Should I need surgery in the future it will probably mean a rod anchored to my pelvis and all the way through the lower curve of my spine if not further. Those discs are all shot. The words were, "Everyone's spine turns to dirt eventually; yours is just ahead of schedule." Not so comforting, but no urgency either. Going on some anti-inflammatory for now to see how much that helps. I am very thankful that we got clear direction from the doctor. He charted a course and didn't leave me hanging to decide myself whether I should have surgery at this time.

Thought for the day

I leave all these pieces and things in Your hands, Lord. You know the days of my life and all that they will entail. You hold me and keep me. As my days, so will my strength be. That's Your promise. I will trust You to make that true in my experience.

Weekend

It's been a busy weekend, and that's been a good thing. Megan and Oz came on Saturday and stayed till this afternoon. I rode with them to Tre's basketball game at Lewis Central before they went home. Tabbi and the boys also came over on Saturday and hung out to see their newest cousin again.
I think it's been good for me to have the activity and distraction. I'm doing better than I was...trusting better, and waiting to see what's what...
In good news, Jon and Kelli had a very good open house today, and we're all praying for a sale very soon!!!!!

No Fun

Got some not so great news today. I've been having lots of hip pain and also some foot pain, so I went to the doctor today and had some xrays. The good news is my foot is fine. My hip is fine. The pain is coming from my lower back where I have another vertebra shifting. Will be setting up an appointment with my back doc and praying really hard that it's not as bad as my doctor today thinks. She was pretty vehement about getting it treated and not falling down.

Thought for the day

Please, Lord,......not again....

A Day Off

Tomorrow I get a day off!!!!!! I'm so happy about that! It seems like a long time since I've taken a day off. We're planning on going to Omaha to a supply place to pick out a tub/shower unit. I hope we can find what we're looking for. We don't have much else that we have to do, so looking forward to bumming around for a while. We have a gift card for Old Chicago so that will take care of lunch...YAY!!!

Super Storm

Snow...snow...snow...We're getting only the 3-5" instead of the 6-8" originally forecasted. At least that's what the weathermen say. It's blowing like crazy and I'm not so sure they have the right amounts, but we'll see. They're calling this the storm of the century...something like 2100 square miles are to get 12" or more, or was it a stretch 2100 miles long. I don't know...need to get my facts straight. Jon over in Muscatine is expecting 16-20 inches with high winds. Downtown Chicago to get 2 feet with high winds. Crazy.
Anyway, I'm thankful for a warm house and electricity. Very grateful to know that everyone in my family is safely tucked away tonight.

Thought for the day

"But He's already made it plain how to live, what to do, what God is looking for in men and women. It's quite simple: do what is fair and just to your neighbor, be compassionate and loyal in your love. And don't take yourself too seriously--take God seriously." Micah 6:8
God really is not so complicated. I mean He's not so complicated in what He asks of us. He's beyond understanding and all that we can imagine, but in His dealings with us He keeps it pretty simple. That's a good thing since He compares us to sheep more than to any other thing. Sheep are pretty dumb...they follow each other, over a cliff, if that's where they're led. They are notorious for being stupid. So God keeps it simple...do what is fair, be compassionate and loyal, take God seriously, don't take yourself seriously. You better learn to laugh at yourself...it makes it much easier.

1 Timothy 2

It seems like this should be Friday. It just doesn't feel possible that I have to get up and go to work again tomorrow. At least today was and tomorrow will be warmer. We're supposed to get insulation in the garage and entryway either tomorrow or Saturday. That would mean we can start hanging more drywall and OSB on the walls. Of course, by "we" I mean Jon and others...I might watch and can take pictures.

Thought for the day

1 Timothy 2 has some strong encouragement to pray. Here's a spattering..."The first thing I want you to do is pray. Pray every way you know how, for everyone you know. Pray especially for rulers and their governments to rule well so we can be quietly about our business of living simply, in humble contemplation. This is the way our Savior God wants us to live. Since prayer is at the bottom of all this, what I want mostly is for men to pray--not shaking angry fists at enemies but raising holy hands to God. And I want women to get in there with the men in humility before God, not primping before a mirror or chasing the latest fashions but doing something beautiful for God and becoming beautiful doing it."
Pretty tall order, pray for everyone you know. I think we should make big signs "...pray--not shaking angry fists at enemies but raising holy hands to God." and put them everywhere in an election year. And we become beautiful by our service, not by our looks. Good stuff.

Fresh Heart

It's been much nicer outside today....sunny and up to 34...things thawing for a while today. But I'm still cold in my own house tonight. It's nice that I have this wonderful blanket that Kelli made for me...thanks, Kelli!!!
Found out today that I've doubled up on NSAIDS. I asked a nurse on the phone if I could take naproxen that I have in the house even though I'm taking an antiflammatory already. When she asked and called me back she said that was fine. Apparently she didn't check my chart, or got the info wrong. Today when I called to get some more naproxen the nurse was looking at my chart and said, "You're already taking dicolfenac...you can't take both." Told her about the earlier conversation so she checked for sure and, yes, they are both nsaids, and, no, I mustn't take both. I looked it up online (probably a bad idea) and diclofenac is also the "most deadly" of nsaids while naproxen is the safest. I think I'll ask to stay on the naproxen instead since they said I could choose between the two. I love when I have to be my own doctor and do my own research on my meds... :( Mistakes happen...

Thought for the day

"So, friends, take a firm stand, feet on the ground and head high. Keep a tight grip on what you were taught, whether in personal conversation or by our letter. May Jesus Himself and God our Father, who reached out in love and surprised you with gifts of unending help and confidence, put a fresh heart in you, invigorate your work, enliven your speech." 2 Thessalonians 2:16
There's lots of good advice here...we may be reminded of positive thinking material. However, this is not a bunch of positive mumbo-jumbo, this is the living, breathing word of God. It is God who says take a firm stand, head high, hang on. And He is promising to be the source in our lives that will give us a fresh heart and put life into our work and words. We need to see the power of these words for our daily lives. We have every reason to have confidence and hope for our daily lives, not because of any strength that lies in us, but because God promises to supply all power that we need.

Seasons of Life

My mom fell a while back. She went to the ER and got xrays that showed no breaks. However, a new xray now shows a hairline fracture in her pelvis. She won't be returning to her assisted living room. She will stay in the nursing section, and, thankfully, she's content with that. The plan is to move her stuff out on Saturday if we can work it out. Then we'll have to start on the house....ugh. I wish that part was all over.

Thought for the day

The seasons of life come and go. And I can't stop them. My life is in God's hands, and time will march on. Even as my posterity increases and grows, my own life will eventually grow smaller and my circle of involvement will decrease. How can I remain vital when my life becomes smaller? 1 Thessalonians 4 offers some insight...keep pleasing God in a living, spirited dance. God wants you to live a pure life. Don't run roughshod over others' concerns. Have a holy, beautiful life. Love one another. Stay calm; mind your own business; do your own job. Live in a way that commands respect.
It seems that we can continue to live well through all the seasons of life. I want to press on to be and do all that God would want in everything that lies ahead.

Mammogram, Tantrum, and 1 Peter

Today I had my annual mammogram--this one was digital. I must say it was the MOST comfortable one I've ever had. It was a very pleasant surprise! So then I went to work feeling pretty good about the whole thing. But then I found out I had a major problem with some paperwork which is going to make me go back and recalculate several days of records. A couple of other things were not going so well, and before long I was fully annoyed.
About that time, I flipped my daily calendar to find this verse "Let your adornment be the hidden person of the heart, with the imperishable quality of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is precious in the sight of God." 1 Peter 3:4 Talk about squelching a perfectly good workup to a tantrum....don't you hate/love it when He does that?

Thought for the day

How does God know what I need to hear? How does He pull it out of thin air? How did He know that (at least) one year on January 19 I would be on the verge of losing my temper and need to be reminded of what He sees as precious? The same thing happens so often with daily devotionals...the perfect word on the perfect day. Or I'm reading along in different sections of the Bible on a given day and He pulls the same message from several different passages in entirely different parts of the Word. Sometimes it's a word of encouragement or comfort. Other times, like today, it's a kick in the pants...one that I really needed.

Christian Culture

We had a mix of weather today...light rain, temps in low 30's, then a little warmer, and messy thawing. The rest of the week it's supposed to be COLD. Jon has been in the house tonight since 7:30 instead of in the garage. We're just about ready for the rest of the insulation, and then we'll be pretty close to being able to use the garage at least enough to get in and out of the house. We can't wait, but we will.

Thought for the day

I've been thinking about the way Christian culture has become so commercialized. The vast majority of us are supposed to be normal, everyday folks...working with our hands and minding our own business. We're given spiritual gifts to be used in the service of others and the body as a whole. There should of course be some in full-time Christian work of many kinds, but I wonder if we have created a culture where the gift is turned into a marketable asset. I believe that Scripture indicates that our spiritual gift(s), given by God, are simply Jesus living through us. While He may certainly work primarily in one or two particular ways in a person's life, He can and may work in any way He chooses at any time. So God may give an anointing for a thought or prayer perhaps put to music or turned into a book, but what does human nature do? It tries to turn it into a livelihood by marketing it. How many times have you bought a cd and one or two songs on it were powerful and the rest were fillers. A group takes center stage for a while, then fades just as quickly into obscurity. A writer puts out a book that helps many people, then is obliged to put out a book every year whether it's good or not. I'm not throwing stones, I just wonder if we're looking at things backwards. Maybe it's just me....

More Construction

For all of you who drive by my house on a regular basis...yes, something is going on. The outside of our building project hasn't changed in a while, but good things are happening inside this week. Soffit vents were installed, and today sheetrock is being put up in the ceiling of the garage/shop area. Insulation was blown in above the entryway today, and sheetrock may be hung on that ceiling, too. It's really starting to look like a "space" out there, and there is hope again that we may start using it before TOO long. YAY!!!
We had good help today from Brad and Trever which was MUCH appreciated!!! Tomorrow I plan to go to Tre's basketball game, but Jon is on call and will have to miss it. We got a considerable layer of snow this morning which I wasn't really expecting so everything outside is white again.
This morning I sorted and reorganized in the computer room. Mostly, I tossed...lots of garbage for our next pick up. I'm doing laundry this afternoon and hopefully work on a couple of other projects. Better get back to it!!!

A Few of My Favorite Things

Logan hasn't run away for over 48 hours!!! Of course every time she goes outside she bumps her nose into that gate to see if it will open. I guess she's not entirely stupid...just very persistent. We'll see if we can hold up our end. That sounds bad at our age.....

Moving on, I had a chance to rearrange and reorganize my space at work today...shouldn't have that much fun at work. I know, I'm weird. I can't help it. I'm not quite inspired enough to rearrange my cupboards yet, but I may get there!

Thought for the day

"My counsel for you is simple and straightforward: Just go ahead with what you've been given. You received Christ Jesus, the Master; now live Him. You're deeply rooted in Him. You're well constructed upon Him. You know your way around the faith. Now do what you've been taught. School's out; quit studying the subject and start living it! And let your living spill over into thanksgiving." That is Colossians 2:6-7 from The Message.
I think these are words that a person would do well to review daily. What a start to your day...do what you know. You are already equipped, begin to take steps. If you're like me, it's easy to learn. I love to learn. I can go on a long time just soaking up things about the Lord, about prayer, about living the Christian life. But am I living it? Where does my faith hit the road and become the vibrant source of all that I say and do?
One of the sweetest things in life is to recognize that at the present moment I can let God have His way. I can practice in my attitude what I know from my study. I can set aside my irritation and treat that person with the grace that God has shown me. The Word that I read this morning applies to this very moment. When I obey, things change. I can see God work right before my eyes. These are a "few of my favorite things".
Of course, even sweeter are my grandchildren..... :)

Dan and Logan

We're watching "Dan in Real Life" again....laugh, laugh, laugh out loud!!! Ruthie Pigface Draper. Jon can't sleep in his chair because I'm laughing too loud. This little piggy...Ruthie Pigface Draper. TOO MUCH FUN!!!

Logan is insane. She ran away again this morning. Was caught by our neighbor as she was walking down Chatburn Ave pretty as you please in the traffic, because apparently the snow had become too deep for her to drag her fat belly through it.

"You are a murderer of love!!!!" Too busy laughing to do this...

Wonder Dog

Logan is an adventurer. She doesn't look like one. She doesn't act like one. But if she sees a rabbit she TRANSFORMS into Wonder Dog. We think she saw a rabbit Tuesday afternoon while she was enjoying the sunny afternoon. When Jon got home after work the gates looked closed but there was no Logan. It seems that she pushed open the temporary gate between the house and the garage and she was off and running. She's never been gone for more than 8 hours before, and when she didn't return overnight in spite of cold temperatures we thought she was a goner. We still left the back gate open, just in case. Then last evening between 5:30 and 6:00 Jon looked outside and there she was hanging out by the back gate. She was moving REALLY slowly and seemed to be hurting quite a bit, but was clean and dry and no blood. Today she has improved all day and is moving better. She still gets really stiff after lying still for a while. One thing for sure, she doesn't want to talk about where she was or what she did! No matter what questions we ask, we get the same blank look and we know she's not interested in sharing her experience. We're glad she's back. I guess we'll have to let her keep her secrets.

Thought for the day

"Trust in the Lord and do good. Dwell in the land and cultivate faithfulness. Delight yourself in the Lord, and He will give you the desires of your heart. Commit your way to the Lord, trust also in Him, and He will do it." Psalm 37:3-5
I love these verses. Trust, dwell, cultivate, commit. All good words. All words that are anchors to the soul. They are words that help us lay aside the trivial and identify what is real and lasting in our lives. There are so many distractions and extras that are truly unnecessary even though we think we can't function without them. It used to just be TV, but now we have technology that we take with us into every area of our lives, and we actually believe it's all necessary. I have no ax to grind with the use of technology, but we must be careful to keep space in our lives for peace, for quiet, for reflection, for talking to God, for hearing from God. Constant noise, music, and visual input rob our inner peace, and while we think we are entertained we are, in fact, left in turmoil and unrest. Purposely make a choice to turn something off each day, even just for a while, and make a deliberate connection with God for even just a short time. In Him you will find peace and calm for your heart.

It's a Wonderful Life

The classic movie is a Christmas favorite, and after this Christmas I have an idea how George Bailey must have felt. I received four wonderful photo books from the kids and a grandma sweatshirt that make me feel like my life has counted by contributing to some pretty awesome people...namely the best husband, three beautiful daughters, three great sons-in-law, and five amazing grandkids. What could possibly be better than to be a part of their lives? I have been truly blessed.
Now it's back to the daily grind, which is fine. We will have more family time this next weekend over New Years...looking forward to it!!

Thought for the day

"The counsel of the Lord stands forever, the plans of His heart from generation to generation." Psalm 33:11 NASB "Watch this: God's eye is on those who respect Him, the ones who are looking for His love." Psalm 33:18 The Message
God has plans for me and for my family, and those plans stand from generation to generation. I'm counting on it. And in the meantime I want to walk with Him, honor and respect Him, and look everywhere for evidences of His love. His eye is on me, and the plans and counsel of His heart stand forever. I plan to focus on the people God has already put in my life, do my best there and watch Him keep His word.

Doors and Window

More done...wrapping is done (except for one I can't finish), made caramel corn and cheese ball tonight. Tomorrow Kelli will be on the road, and I'll make oyster cracker snack tomorrow night. I need to go get more groceries tomorrow, too. I work on Thursday, but have Friday off. That is the day I'll make soup, salad, birthday cake, and maybe rice pudding so I have it ready ahead of time.
We're looking at some weather moving through on Thursday, so hopefully will be done by Friday when more people will be on the road.
Good news at the house today...we got three doors and the big window in the entryway. It looks so nice. We can begin to see what the end will look like even though we have a LONG way to go!

Thought for the day

"What are you waiting for? Return to your God! Commit yourself in love, in justice! Wait for your God, and don't give up on Him--ever!" Hosea 12:6 The Message
...ever...ever...ever...ever...not just till it seems too long...ever...ever...ever...not just till you can't stand to wait any longer...ever...ever...ever

More Getting Ready

After going out for supper on Friday night, I did a lot of work getting ready for Christmas this weekend. Besides the usual laundry and cleaning, I baked cinnamon rolls, dinner buns, made chocolate bark, wrapped more gifts, got a ton of groceries, went to church, went to a visitation, went to 2 basketball games, and supper at Village Inn. Now we're just sitting around...perhaps comatose (while doing more laundry).
Plans are coming together for the weekend...Kelli and girls coming on Wednesday, Jon getting in on Friday. Saturday Culver's and Melby's will come for the whole day. Culver's staying till sometime Sunday. Holthe's going to another Christmas on Sunday then returning before going east for a few days. I'm excited to have everyone together...always the best part.
I hope your Christmas will be as wonderful...and I hope that you find some perfect moments to turn your heart to Christ and worship Him.

Blizzard

Okay, I'm here again. This weekend was supposed to be really busy. We were going to go to Tre's basketball game on Saturday morning and to my work Christmas party that evening. We were also planning to drive to Muscatine on Sunday. With only two weeks till Christmas I REALLY had a lot to get done. A blizzard all day Saturday and high winds through the night till Sunday morning cancelled all those plans, so I put up the tree, wrote and addressed the Christmas letters, made pretzels, made peanut blossoms, and put up a few other decorations. I went to see my mom for a short visit today, but that was my only venture outside except for breakfast on Saturday morning before the snow started. So I've been able to listen to some Christmas music, watch "It's a Wonderful Life", and generally get ready. Not so many decorations this year since I'm not sure whether construction will begin to invade before the day comes.

Bruce got almost all the shingles on Friday before the storm and wrapped all the north side with tyvek...it was a very good thing. All our doors are in the garage now and I got to peak at them today...can't wait to see it all come together!

Still praying for the sale of Jon and Kelli's house and the purchase of a new one. We know that God has the best plan, but He also tells us to ask, so ASK WE DO!!!! Emmy had a rough couple of weeks at school, but is thankfully doing much better. We keep praying for her, as well. Megan had a bout of infection, but is doing well now, too.

So many things going on...so many things to pray for...Thank You, Jesus, that You hold all things in Your hand. We trust You.

Cutest Grandkids

I have the cutest grandkids!!! No arguments allowed!!! We had a wonderful Thanksgiving...all the kids were here for supper Thursday night and we had a great time. The Holthe's, Culver's and Tre and Tru stayed overnight. Holthe's and Culver's left on Friday morning, and the boys stayed till Tabbi got back from black Friday shopping. Construction was resumed on Friday on our entryway. They've worked all day today (Saturday) and plan to work some tomorrow, too.

Jon starts his new job in Muscatine on Monday and it is a wonderful opportunity for their whole family. Kelli and girls are coming here tonight before heading home in the morning. Thank You, Jesus, for this move!! We are so grateful that they will be so much closer!

Thought for the day

There is much to be learned by watching the lives around us. Some display courage, faith, and a growing walk with the Lord. Others seem to demonstrate what happens when faith is a set of doctrines believed more than a relationship deepened over time. This life carries its challenges, and we must let them stretch us and grow us. If we do not, we will not finish well...guaranteed. We must already have our life and walk firmly established on the bedrock of trust and intimacy with God when older age comes because our hearts and minds will revert to their most ingrained habits. If depending on God has been our pattern, we have good ground to work from. However, if we have only ascribed to a doctrinal set of truths, we will not have a living faith that can sustain us and carry us to a good finish. Let the unimportant things fall away and focus on that which will last.

Happy Thanksgiving

What are you thankful for???? We have much to celebrate this year. We have our new grandson, Oz, Jon's new job in Muscatine which will bring Kelli's family back to Iowa very soon, a started building project, health, provision, and lots of growing pains this year. It seems to have been a year of learning about having NO control over things that we may desperately want to control. We've been challenged with hard questions about God's sovereignty in the face of tragedy. We've stood beside the suffering knowing that only God can truly comfort. We've learned that we have limitations we had not acknowledged previously. And in all these things we have found God faithful. He is sovereign. He does reign. He does comfort and come alongside us in our need. For all these things and many more thank You, God, for this past year with all its challenges and blessings!!!
Happy Thanksgiving to all of you and take a little time to really thank the Lord for some very specific things!!

Thanksgiving Preparations

Now my back is tired. We slept in a little bit today, then went to Hy-Vee for breakfast and ran a couple of errands. Found boxes of Christmas cards at Bomgaar's 25 for $1.99--YAY! We came back home and I cleaned the oven, did laundry, cleaned house, mixed up dinner rolls, went to see my mom, then baked the rolls. I still need to give Logan a bath this weekend if Jon doesn't get to it. I was hoping to make cinnamon rolls this weekend, too, but we'll see. I sure hope I can pull off the full meal with desserts and all the rest. I feel a little overwhelmed by it all right now. I think I may have a stress fracture in my left foot. It's bothered me a long time, but seem worse now than it has been. Rats. Okay, so this doesn't seem very inspiring....moving on.

Thought for the day

"We seem to consider that divine love is hard and self-seeking and distant, concerned about its own glory, and indifferent to the fate of others...But divine love is tender and self-sacrificing and devoted, and glad to bear and forbear and suffer, and eager to lavish its best of gifts and blessings upon the objects of its love...The slightest barrier between your soul and Christ may cause you to dwindle and fade as a plant in a cellar or under a bushel. Keep the sky clear. Open wide every avenue of your being to receive the blessed influences your divine husbandman may bring to bear upon you. Bask in the sunshine of His love. Drink of the waters of His goodness. Keep your face upturned to Him as the flower do to the sun. Look, and your soul shall live and grow."
"He is able to turn any soil into the soil of grace the moment we put our growing into His hands. He does not need to transplant us into a different field, but right where we are, with just the circumstances that surround us, He makes His sun to shine and His dew to fall upon us and transforms the very things that were before our greatest hindrances into the chiefest and most blessed means of growth. I care not what the circumstances may be, His wonder-working power can accomplish this; and we must trust Him with it all."
From "The Christian's Secret of a Happy Life" by Hannah Whitall Smith

Okay, so I accept with joy all that I face in this moment....better now! :)

Catch Up News

Wow, where have I been? These last weeks (or months?) have been crazy. I got to spend a week at Megan and Greg's when Greg went back to work. I helped around the house and ran a couple of errands, and GREATLY enjoyed my time there! I think the last time I spent Monday thru Friday daytime with just Megan was probably the spring before she started kindergarten. That was a crazy thought! So glad we still get along! Oz is such a good little baby, and Greg and Megan are doing a GREAT job!
Our garage has walls and a roof with a partial tie in to our old roof. Still no entryway and I can't tell you how tired I am of parking at the church and hauling everything back and forth. I think I'm done with my morning swims until I have dry ground out back and maybe a garage I can get to. I'm thinking it could be a while....
I other completely AWESOME news, Kelli, Jon, and the girls are MOVING BACK TO IOWA!!!! We are SO excited! They'll be living in Muscatine where Jon will be working as head of the trust department at Central State Bank. He's worked very hard to get to this point, and we're very happy for him. Of course, we may be even happier for us!!! So looking forward to being able to see them any weekend we want...and with Megan and Greg in the middle the possibilities are multiplied!
Well it was early when I started, but it's late now...going to bed!!

Oskar Henry Culver

HE'S HERE!!!! His name is Oskar Henry Culver, or Oz. His parents are Greg and Megan Culver, and he was born on Saturday October 23, 2010 at 6:48 p.m. He was 7 lbs 10 oz and 20 1/2 inches long. He has lots of dark hair, beautiful skin, and, so far, dark blue eyes. We've all been excitedly waiting his arrival. It was time and, apparently, he thought so, too. His timing was perfect. Jon, Kelli, and the girls were here from Thursday till Sunday morning. Jon and Kelli went to eastern Iowa overnight and had supper with Greg and Megan on Friday evening. Oskar must have heard aunt Kelli saying they had to leave Sunday morning and he made sure to arrive in time to see them all. They, along with Tabbi and her boys were all at the hospital just before he arrived. Jon and I and Alex and Corriene were there all afternoon waiting patiently...sort of. Within a couple of hours of entering the world he had met all his grandparents, two aunts, and four cousins! Very cool, indeed!!!! They went home from the hospital on Monday, and Greg is home from work this week. Next week I will go and help her since Greg will be going back to work.
Jon is off work this week and next so he's catching up around here...getting our new computer running the way we want, grinding dies, odds and ends, but NO CRADLE WORK since it is complete and occupied by a sweet little man.
We're just so glad Oskar and Megan are healthy and well. God has been so gracious...again...

Thought for the day

Guess what I started reading again today..."The Christian's Secret of a Happy Life" Can't help it, it's a wonderful book. On fb today one of my friends had a quote by Hannah Whitall Smith..."It is of vital importance for us to understand that the Bible is a statement, not of theories, but of actual facts. Things are not true because they are in the Bible, but they are in the Bible only because they are true." One of my favorites!

Joy

I'm making progress on my cat in the hat cross-stitch for Soybean. I'm about half done with the tie then all I have left is the hat (which is really tall).

Thought for the day

I've been thinking a lot lately about joy. It has seemed elusive lately. I think that's due, in part, to all the tough news we've had this summer. What is it that brings joy? What is joy, really? I believe joy is different from happiness. Happiness may be more the result of circumstances while joy comes from a deeper place. Joy can abide and survive in spite of circumstances, but it may require some action on our part. I heard (or read) that in order to have joy we may have to rejoice. Being thankful, renewing the mind in the truth, and offering a sacrifice of praise are actions that we have to choose. So we need to actively rejoice in the face of our troubles. It is not only the right path to follow, it is a powerful weapon against the enemy who seeks to steal, kill, and destroy. He is completely overthrown and left powerless when we rejoice and trust the Lord.

Perry the Peacock

I miss my garage. And my driveway. And access to my vehicle. It's only been a few days and I'm whining, I know. It will be great...eventually. By the time we get it done, I will REALLY appreciate it...almost as much as Jon!
Tabbi and I took the boys to the zoo on Sunday. The weather was completely perfect. It wasn't very crowded. We saw some of the animals we didn't see when we went last time. It was a great day. It think it seemed especially good just because I needed it. There have been so many sad and hard things this summer that it was time for fun. The most memorable moment may have been Tru's outburst while chasing a peacock..."Curse you, Perry the peacock!!!" Hysterical!!

Thought for the day

"When you attempt to live by your own religious plans and projects, you are cut off from Christ, you fall out of grace. Meanwhile we expectantly wait for a satisfying relationship with the Spirit. For in Christ, neither our most conscientious religion nor disregard of religion amounts to anything. What matters is something far more interior: faith expressed in love." Galatians 5:4-6 The Message
And I love this list of the fruit of the Spirit from Galatians 5:22-23. In NASB it reads "The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness. faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law." In The Message it reads..."He brings gifts into our lives, much the same way that fruit appears in an orchard--things like affection for others, exuberance about life, serenity. We develop a willingness to stick with things, a sense of compassion in the heart, and a conviction that a basic holiness permeates things and people. We find ourselves involved in loyal commitments, not needing to force our way in life, able to marshal and direct our energies wisely."

Hope

"Chuck" came back last night, and tonight I got to see the new "NCIS" and "Parenthood". Such fun!! Really have to get to bed earlier, though. Skipped swimming this morning...just could NOT get up.

Thought for the day

Thinking a lot about hope these last few days. As humans we have a great need for hope. We NEED to believe that the good is coming. And, truth is, we have legitimate cause to have hope. We belong to the creator and sustainer of the universe, and He loves us with a love that is so much greater than any we can imagine. He is on our side. How's that for hope???

Full Week

Okay, three funerals in one week is a little over the top. We did have the chance to be with Jon's family who we hadn't seen in a long time, and that was wonderful. We also got a chance to celebrate some lives that have been lived in the light of God's grace, and it was good.

In better news, our builder is planning on starting demo work on our concrete tomorrow. Hopefully, the weather will cooperate.

Wishing you all a great week...I'm going to try to stay in touch better...

The Need to be Thankful

We are planning on traveling to Jennifer's funeral next week. My feelings are a mixture of sadness and excitement. It will be so good to see everyone, but such a sad time. Tabbi is planning on riding with us...almost like old times. I'm sure we'll need to be aware of all the possible pit stops along the way :)


Thought for the day

We have so many friends who are going through such hard things right now...Dan's family, Marcus and Crissy, Erika, and all the Lukes. All we can do for them is pray. It reminds me that I have SO MUCH to be thankful for. And so do you. There is a quote in one of my devotionals that I like..."If your cup is sweet, drink it with grace." Don't look for trouble; don't worry about what if; don't flaunt your blessings. Receive what the Lord gives you thankfully, humbly, and with a hand that holds all things loosely. All we have is His; it is simply put into our hands for a little while to be used for His glory. It is His to do with as He sees best. Lord, have Your way, do Your will, and rule and reign in all things.

Jennifer

It seems I was just starting to get to know her. I knew Jennifer when she was a child, but never got to spend much time with her. She became a woman, a wife, and a mother while I was busy with my own family. Thanks to facebook, I was getting the opportunity to connect with her in little ways again...a note, some pictures, fun news about the family. I wish I'd made a greater effort. She was a bright, energetic woman with a wonderful smile. And though our lives were not intersecting much at all, I will miss knowing that she is there raising her twin girls and enjoying her life. She will be missed by so many... We will offer comfort and a listening ear to her family, but that won't fill the emptiness. Only Jesus. Lord, hold them close and make Yourself known to them in ways that touch them deeply and profoundly. Hold us all...that You may receive the glory in every situation.

Garage

We are really going to build a garage! Jon is pretty darn excited! I'll keep you up on the progress with pictures. I hope we don't get too overwhelmed! :) More to come.....

Basement Bathroom

Those of you who know...know that our basement bathroom was in need of some TLC. A major pipe leak proved to be the agent of change. The old floor and cabinet were torn out to do repair and never to return! These are some pictures of what we ended up with.

The floor is actually a much better color in person...grays, blues, and tans. Anyway, Jon's been working very hard and did an awesome job. Thanks, honey!!!

My Last Shower

My last shower was Saturday. Don't worry, I will still smell great. It was the last time there was a shower for one of my daughters...Megan's baby shower. Lots of people were out of town, but we had a really nice group of ladies and Megan, Greg, and Soybean got many wonderful gifts. Showers are really a great idea...such a nice way to help people get started with the new chapter of life. They also make us smell better :)

Thought for the day

There are so many things in life that make no sense to us. I was talking with Joanne Monday evening...Scott's death is one of those things. And yet...but God... We talked a long time about God. Her faith is an inspiration and so brutally honest and uncompromising. In Christian circles today so much is explained away by the view that we live in a fallen world and there are consequences. This view says the very best we can hope for is that somehow God will bring good out of the senselessness. But brutally honest faith says more. It stands in the midst of its pain and tears wanting with all its heart to undo what has happened and says, "My God is in control. Nothing happens outside of His control. No matter what has come my way, my God who loves me has allowed it. He saw it coming and did not stop it. It passed through Him before it touched me, therefore, it will be for my good." Courageous faith does not deny the pain or grief, but refuses to credit God with anything less than complete control of the situation.

Big Weekend Coming

Big weekend ahead! All the Holthe's, some Melby's, and one Culver (with extras) are coming for Megan's baby shower on Saturday. Greg will be home recovering, Trever working, and Jon and Jon will go visit Ron in the hospital. But we girls and children will be partying! Short but sweet...will be quiet again on Sunday.

July 2010

Culver's new house

A family reunion

A trip to the zoo

Megan at her shower

July was a VERY busy month. I haven't posted since early in the month and now it's August. These are some pictures of some of the things that kept us busy last month. Not pictured is a major repair job in our basement that is still in the process of getting finished off. Jon is working on the walls while we wait for the new vanity, cupboard, and floor. I will post pics when we are done.

August is looking just as busy, but I'll try to keep up better! Hopefully, you haven't given up on me and will still check in!!

Bless you all!!!!

Watching "Independence Day"

Yes, I'm watching "Independence Day" again. I can't help it, some movies just have to be watched when they are on. Can you really afford to miss the inspirational speech by the president before the fighters all take off?

Poor Jon has been in the basement for about 7 hours breaking up cement in our bathroom floor so the plumber can lay new pipe hopefully tomorrow. He's just now at 9:00 located a jackhammer, so hopefully the rest will go faster. It will be nice to have my kitchen plumbing back! Just sorry it has taken so much hard work for Jon.

There was a little improvement in an update on Marcus Upton today...the pressure had dropped a little. I hope that's good news. We'll keep praying for a full recovery. Just feel so bad for them all. We really do need each other, don't we???

Thought for the day

Today, I'm really glad that I'm the wife and not the husband!

Wild Summer

It seems like our summer has become kind of a whirlwind. We don't travel much, but in June we went to both Grand Forks and Keyport. It has been a little crazy with trying to finish up the decision process on whether we are building a garage now or not. We're waiting for our last bid to be completed...the estimate looked a little more promising. We still don't know if we're moving ahead with that project or not.

Next Saturday we will be helping Greg and Megan with some moving, and the following Saturday we will be helping move my mom into her new "apartment". In addition, there will be a reunion and Megan's first baby shower still in July. Jon may still be helping with Trever with a his roofing job at some point, and needs to get more work done on a cradle.

On Sunday Tabbi and I took Tre and Tru to the zoo for a few hours. We had a good time, and Tre still wants to be a zoo-keeper when he grows up.

Thought for the day

I'm still reading the E.M. Bounds book on prayer, and it really is an encouragement to pray and keep praying. A quote...
"A ministry may be a very thoughtful ministry without prayer, the preacher may secure fame and popularity without prayer, the whole machinery of the preacher's life and work may be run without the oil of prayer or with scarcely enough to grease one cog; but no ministry can be a spiritual one, securing holiness in the preacher and in his people without prayer being made an evident and controlling force."

4th of July

Tomorrow is the 4th of July!! It doesn't seem it should be here already because our last couple of weeks have been a blur. Our summer has had a lot of travel already, which is unusual for us. One trip to Grand Forks, one trip to Keyport, and multiple baseball games. All that behind us now, I think things will slow down a bit. It's been hard for Jon to even keep the grass mowed with so much running around. We still have a wedding, an anniversary, and a shower coming up soon...then in August a MOST IMPORTANT baby shower!!!!

We had an unpleasant surprise after coming home from NJ. We had a little water seepage in the basement again, and today we discovered that we have a fairly major plumbing issue down there that will require a pro. Yuck. Hopefully, by next weekend everything will be put back in working order. The good news is that only our kitchen sink and dishwasher are out of commission...I can handle that! We're eating on plastic now!!

Tomorrow Greg and Megan will be coming in the morning and staying until Monday morning. Tabbi and the boys will be over part of the day, as well. Trever has been working hard this week trying to reroof their house, so we're praying the rain will stay away and let him keep going!! Jon is on call this week, so who knows how busy he may be! So far, it's been completely quiet, but that can change.

I need to get back to work...more cleaning and some food items to get ready. Wishing you all a safe and fun 4th of July!!!!!!

Thought for the day

There are no answers for some things this side of heaven. That doesn't stop us from asking the questions, however. How, why, why not???? When the only explanation we can see puts God in an uncaring light, we can be sure that we don't see the whole picture. But knowing that doesn't take away the pain and uncertainty. How do we grapple with the big question that no one wants to ask...the question of how can we go on trusting God when the unthinkable has happened? How do we not be afraid of Him? I don't have the answer, and I'm thinking that the only ones that actually can answer are the ones who've faced, experienced, and walked through a great tragedy. I am humbled in the presence of that kind of suffering and courage. God's grace on each of you.

Plans Are Made

Plans are made! We'll be leaving for NJ on Thursday morning and returning Monday night, and the Greve's are going with. I'll let you know more when I know more. We are looking forward to getting there and giving hugs...long overdue.

In the meantime, we have haircuts, a ball game, a vet appointment, mowing, laundry, packing...etc., etc., etc. Maybe we can sleep on the plane :)

Thought for the day

I'm so grateful that God is faithful. I'm glad He isn't moved by my moods, my questions, or my doubts. He loves us and is devoted to us. He doesn't hold us responsible to explain what we can never understand. Somehow, we need to simply trust Him...and keep trusting Him.

Sadness

Happy Father's Day tomorrow to all you dads out there...especially my husband and Jon, Trever, and Greg (in process). It's a good day to appreciate all that you do and are!

It's been a week of sadness and helplessness as we watch friends suffer and are too far away to really be there for them. We hope to go soon, but our presence certainly can never put anything right. We pray, we cry, we hurt, but we cannot fix. Lord, hold them very close.

Sadness makes me stupid. I begin to forget who God is and how much He loves us. I fail to perceive the blessings and beauty around me. I stop praying well. I can't seem to comprehend what I read. So if all I can do is put my head down and cry, then let me cry in Your arms and raise me up again to see Your face.

POOP. There it is. - Vibrant Nation

Okay...I stole this from an email from Joy....but it's very funny! Somehow I can relate!


POOP. There it is. - Vibrant Nation

Logan

Logan's breathing has sounded funny for about a week now...really bad on Sunday. I got her into the vet today, and she has bronchitis. We're not big on spending big bucks on old dogs, but this should be treatable with a little time, some meds, and some tlc. She's going to a kennel over the weekend where they will take good care of her. That will probably be better for her than playing hard with Bailey all weekend!

It's been a pretty good day otherwise...I hope it was for you, too!

Thought for the day

From my journal today...
"...Let Me move through (your life) like a mighty wind blowing away the dust and residue of old habits, fears, worries, and death. Let me settle, live, dwell, and abide in all those places replacing the old life with Myself. You will find these areas clean, fresh, and full of light. Do not allow the wisdom of man, pride, or the lies of the enemy to gain any foothold of darkness. Live before Me simply, as a child, receiving My gifts and trusting My love..."

Fun Times

It was a fun weekend. Friday night we went to Tre's baseball game and saw him do really well...even was part of a double play! Then on Saturday afternoon Greg and Megan came over. We went to Tony's BBQ Bistro in Walnut for supper then they went to her 10th class reunion. Man, we're old. On Sunday Tabbi and the boys came as well and we all went to church then had a big brunch. The rest of the day we played, got motorcycle rides, watched movies, and took care of Logan. I don't think our dog feels good. I think I need to get her to the vet this week.

This week we have some things to get done around here and get ready to travel. We're looking forward to our time at the Holthe's!!! See you soon, guys!!

Good Discussion

This week seems to be going fast...that's probably good! We had great storms move through the area last night...lots of thunder and a good rain with only a little wind. In other places it was crazier. Jon was out on call till after 1 A.M.

We had a really good discussion tonight at my ladies's group. We talked about how easily we get sucked into thinking about negative things. We worry about the people that don't like us. We imagine and perceive insults, wrongs, and motives. None of these things are any of our business. Another person's thought process, motives, and temperament are issues between him or her and God. Our part is to live before Him, obey Him, love others, forgive wrongs, and rejoice. If this or that person has complaints against us, it may be simply not our problem. We may or may not need to understand their motivation; but we do need to forgive any offense in order to live freely before God.

36th Anniversary

Jon and I got married 36 years ago today. That sounds like a really long time. It's weird, because in some ways I feel no different, yet in other ways very different. We started dating when I was 14, so most of the time it seems like we've never not been together. I thought we were all grown up when we got married, but now when I look at pictures we look SO young. And when I see people that age I can hardly believe they're old enough to drive! We've had our ups and downs, our betters and worsers, richers and poorers (though the gap between was pretty small :)), and a little sickness and mostly health. We're not done with those roads yet, but we have a pretty good track record so far!

If you are among our friends, thanks for being part of the journey. If you are our family, we love you SO MUCH!!! Blessings on all of you!!

Habit of Praying

I'm reading "The Complete Works of E.M. Bounds on Prayer". It's eight books together in one volume. It's a great encouragement to pray and to keep praying. This a quote I read yesterday.

"The habit of praying is a good habit, and should be early and strongly formed; but to pray by habit merely is to destroy the life of prayer and allow it to degenerate into a hollow and sham-producing form. Habit may form the bank for the river of prayer, but there must be a strong, deep, pure current, crystal and life-giving, flowing between these two banks."

I really like that. Prayer must stay fresh and living rather than becoming form and rote. Better to pray "poorly" than not pray at all. Prayer is an occupation that is definitely on the job training. We learn by doing, and the more we do, the more we learn. Always be open to learning and growing in prayer. The Bible is full of amazing promises about prayer, and we must begin to believe that God is telling the truth. As we begin to trust God's promises we grow in confidence and pray larger and deeper. Don't be afraid to launch into deeper waters and pray for greater things. Don't worry about the "what ifs", just press on to know Him better. He will be faithful to lead you on.

Warm Week

It's supposed to be in the 80's every day this week. Better than the 90's! Tonight there was a potluck for Roger and Jodie Manning. Sunday will be his last day here then he goes to a church in Council Bluffs.

Not much exciting happening here this week. We did get the second part of the first bid on the addition today. One more step....

I may go over to Tre's first baseball game on Friday even if Jon can't find someone to cover calls for him. Otherwise we don't ave any real plans for the weekend since Jon is on call.

We're still tinkering with plans to go north...nothing definite yet.

Good Weekend

We had a fun weekend. We kept Tre and Tru overnight Friday night and spent some time with Tabbi here on Saturday then went to Brandon's graduation party Saturday night. Today we went to church and I cleaned house and did laundry while Jon finished a wiring job. Then we went to Elizabeth's then Rob's graduation parties. It's been very warm and VERY windy all weekend, but the wind has died down a little bit tonight.

Tomorrow we start another work week and will get a second bid from the first contractor and, hopefully, one from the second in a day or two. The BIG news for tomorrow is season finales of both "Chuck" and "24"! I can't wait. Both are two hours at the same time, so we will be doing some taping and staying up late! The plan is to tape "Chuck" so don't give away anything before we can watch it!

We're trying to make some plans to get to North Dakota...stuff is in the works...we shall see. :)

Hope you all have a wonderful week, and God bless you all!

He Is Faithful

God trains us to trust Him, to trust His character and His word whether circumstances are agreeable or not. Listen and see if you hear His voice:

"The promises that are given in My word are not coupons to be cashed in at your next shopping trip to the throne of My grace. They are, however, glimpses into My heart and My great love for you. The relationship I desire with you is full of life, vitality, and communication. I want you to bring your needs to Me because you love and trust Me. I want you to count on My promises because you have found Me trustworthy, not because you are looking for a way to manipulate Me.

Faith is not a matter of superstition or holding the upper hand; it is a relationship of trust between friends. In this case only one friend has proved to be completely unfailing; that one would be Me. The other friend, which would be you, is incapable of honoring the trust placed in him. What I have provided is the substitution of My faithfulness for yours. My payment at Calvary pays your debt and provides for the completion of our covenant. My faithfulness replaces your unfaithfulness.

My love and care can be counted on because I can not be anything less than faithful. Nothing touches your life apart from Me. Therefore, all that you encounter will work for your good and My glory as you trust Me. Will you trust Me in spite of the seeming difficulties that may argue against My goodness? This life is a shadow, and you can trust Me to carry you safely both through and beyond it. I love you and will never let you go."

Recital

Bria had an awesome recital and you can see it on Kelli's blog. She's doing SO WELL!!! Yesterday we went to look at some houses with Greg and Megan. They have a couple of great options to pick from, and they are SO ready to get back to a house instead of an apartment. We went to Joe's graduation yesterday afternoon and will go to Luke's later today. It's that time of year again...
Check out Bria's recital...she's doing so great!

No Regrets

Regrets are so useless. We start today. It makes no difference whether our circumstances are the result of obedience or of disobedience. We wake up this morning and start fresh right where we are. Our past is behind us and dictates nothing-no part-of this day or the next. We can obey today in any circumstance and be completely in God's will one day at a time. Don't get me wrong. I'm not talking about repentance. Repentance is absolutely necessary. We must call sin sin and turn our backs on it. We must agree with what God says is true about us and our thoughts and actions. What I'm talking about is, having already forsaken sin, continuing to beat ourselves up and filling our days with regrets, if onlys, and what ifs. When we have repented we are cleansed by the blood of Jesus...powerful stuff. "Forgetting what lies behind and reaching forward to what lies ahead, I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus." Forsake then forget the past sin, then start fresh every day. His mercies are new every morning.

Hodge Podge

It was warmer today and WINDY again. My windchimes are really getting a work out! I sure do like them...it just makes me happy to hear them!!! I'm not sure what to read next, but I'm still soaking up the goody from the last one I read. I hope I haven't bored you silly with the quotes. On Sunday we went to see Greg and Megan and were so excited to see her cute little bump. :) She is feeling good and in about 3 weeks we should know if they're having a boy or girl!! YAY!!! So glad they'll be sharing that information!
So what's new with you???????????

Thought for the day

"I hear men praying everywhere for more faith, but when I listen to them carefully, and get at the real heart of their prayer, very often it is not more faith at all that they are wanting, but a change from faith to sight. Faith says not, 'I see that it is good for me so God must have sent it,' but, 'God sent it, and so it must be good for me.' Faith, walking in the dark with God, only prays Him to clasp its hand more closely." Phillips Brooks

WWII Book!

It's a beautiful weekend here! Around 70 degrees, sunny, pretty sky, a little windy. Very nice. Yesterday I got a special shipment from FedEx. The book Kelli made with the pictures my dad took in WWII while in England and France arrived! It is great, and my mom was really happy to get her copy. THANKS, KELLI!!!!!
Today Tabbi and the boys came over for a while because she couldn't wait to get her copy of the book :) Tomorrow we're going to see Greg and Megan (and take her book to her :)). I suppose I should clean the house sometime....:) maybe.....:)
Thanks again, Kelli for all your work!!

What Are You Looking At?

I finished reading "The God of All Comfort" today. It was a very worthwhile read, and I will be rereading it now and then for many years. Another section:

"I feel as if I could not repeat this evident truism too often, for somehow people seem to lay aside their common sense when they come to the subject of religion, and seem to expect to see things upon which they have deliberately kept their backs turned. They cry out, 'O Lord, reveal Thyself'; but instead of looking at Him they look at themselves, and keep their gaze steadily fixed on their own inward feelings, and then wonder at the 'mysterious dealings' of God in hiding His face from their fervent prayers. But how can they see what they do not look at?

It is never God who hides His face from us, but it is always we who hide our face from Him, by 'turning to Him the back and not the face.' The prophet reproaches the children of Israel with this, and adds that they 'set up their abominations in the house which is called by God's name.' When Christians spend their time examining their own condition, raking up all their sins, and bemoaning their shortcomings, what is this but to set up the pedestal in their hearts, and to make it the center of their whole religious life, and of all their care and efforts. They gaze at this great, big, miserable self until it fills their whole horizon, and they 'turn their back' on the Lord, until He is lost sight of altogether.

We are never anywhere commanded to behold our emotions, nor our experiences, nor even our sins, but we are commanded to turn our backs upon all these, and to behold the Lamb of God who taketh away our sins."

More Hannah Whitall Smith

More quotes from "The God of All Comfort"

"If God is our Father, the only thing we can do with doubts, and fears, and anxious thoughts is to cast them behind our backs forever, and have nothing more to do with them ever again. We can do this. We can pledge against doubting. And if once we see that our doubts are an actual sin against God, and imply a question of His trustworthiness, we will be eager to do it. We may have cherished our doubts heretofore because perhaps we have thought they were a part of our religion, and a becoming attitude of soul in one so unworthy; but if we now see that God is in very truth our Father, we will reject every doubt with horror, as being a libel on our Father's love and our Father's care."
"The Bible tells us that Christ is our peace, and consequently, whether I feel as if I had peace or not, peace is really mine in Christ, and I must take possession of it by faith. Faith is simply to believe and assert the thing that God says. If He says there is peace, faith asserts that there is, and enters into the enjoyment of it. If He has proclaimed peace in the Bible, I must proclaim it in my own heart, let the seemings be what they may."
"'Be careful for nothing; but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.' The steps here are very plain, and they are only two. First, give up all anxiety; and second, hand over your cares to God; and then stand steadfastly here; peace must come. It simply must, for there is no room for anything else."

Moving Soybean!

It's a happy day!!! Megan called to say she is feeling the baby move!!! We are SO EXCITED for them...she was completely amazed and pumped!! THANK YOU, JESUS!!!!!!

Weekend

Jon is on call this week, but has been call-free all weekend. We had no big plans, and that worked out well. Saturday I did some cleaning, baked cookies, did a little laundry. Today Tabbi and the boys came over for church and groceries, and I finished cleaning this afternoon. Jon spent a couple of hours working on the cradle today, too. I'm shot and need to get ready for bed...just don't feel right tonight. Hopefully will sleep better that last night....'Night all!!!!

The God of All Comfort

I have a new book. "The God of All Comfort" by Hannah Whitall Smith. As you know, she is one of my favorite authors, and this book meets all expectations.
"It is of vital importance for us to understand that the Bible is a statement, not of theories, but of actual facts; and that things are not true because they are in the Bible, but they are only in the Bible because they are true."
"But is this all His name implies, simply 'I am'? I am what?--we ask. What does this 'I am' include? I believe it includes everything the human heart longs for and needs. This unfinished name of God seems to me like a blank check signed by a rich friend given to us to be filled in with whatever sum we may desire. The whole Bible tells us what it means.
Every attribute of God, every revelation of His character, every proof of His undying love, every declaration of His watchful care, every assertion of His purposes of tender mercy, every manifestation of His loving kindness---all are the filling out of this unfinished 'I am.'
'I am,' He says, 'all that my people need; I am their strength; I am their wisdom; I am their righteousness; I am their peace; I am their salvation; I am their life; I am their all in all.
I am rest for the weary; I am peace for the storm-tossed; I am strength for the strengthless; I am wisdom for the foolish; I am righteousness for the sinful; I am all that the neediest soul on earth can want; I am exceeding abundantly, beyond all you can ask or think, of blessing, and help, and care."

See why I like it?????

The Driver's Seat

"Anyone who intends to come with Me has to let Me lead. You're not in the driver's seat; I am. Don't run from suffering; embrace it. Follow Me and I'll show you how. Self-help is no help at all. Self-sacrifice is the way, My way, to saving yourself, your true self. What good would it do to get everything you want and lose you, the real you? What could you ever trade your soul for?" Mark 8:34-35 The Message

I like to read different translations from time to time, and I've been reading The Message a lot lately. It helps me get a fresh perspective on how to apply what God says to my everyday life. Embrace suffering. Don't help yourself; sacrifice yourself. Let Him lead. Let Him drive. Follow Him and learn from Him. Remember that your true self is the precious gem that God holds and forms in His hand, working all things for your ultimate good in bringing your heart close to His own.

New Foreman

It's been a quiet weekend. Breakfast at Hy-Vee on Saturday, then ran some errands and worked around home while Jon was working at the farm. Today we went to church , then Jon went to change oil in the bike while I cleaned windows. We went for a motorcycle ride late in the afternoon, then frozen pizza for supper. It's all about simple when I've been cleaning windows :)

In other good news...Jon officially returns to full duty and becomes foreman of his own crew at work this week!!! He has Monday off and will be hard at it on Tuesday! He may also be working five 10-hour days instead of four. Some of the guys have been doing 12-hour days...could get a little crazy!

He's talking to a contractor tomorrow to start getting ideas about how and whether to build our garage. Pray that God will give us wisdom and bring things to a clear decision for us.

Hope you all have a great week! Stay in touch!

Streams in the Desert...April 15

From Streams in the Desert...April 15
"I trust in Thy word" Psalm 119:42

Just in proportion in which we believe that God will do just what He has said, is our faith strong or weak. Faith has nothing to do with feelings, or with impressions, with improbabilities, or with outward appearances. If we desire to couple them with faith, then we are no longer resting on the Word of God because faith needs nothing of the kind. Faith rests on the naked Word of God. When we take Him at His Word the heart is at peace.

God delights to exercise faith, first for blessing in our own souls, then for blessing in the church at large, and also for those without. But this exercise we shrink from instead of welcoming. When trials come, we should say: "My Heavenly Father puts this cup of trial into my hands, that I may have something sweet afterwards." Trials are the food of faith. Oh, let us leave ourselves in the hands of our Heavenly Father! It is the joy of His heart to do good to all His children.

But trials and difficulties are not the only means by which faith is exercised and thereby increased. There is the reading of the Scriptures, that we may by them acquaint ourselves with God as He has revealed Himself in His Word.

Are you able to say, from the acquaintance you have made with God, that He is a lovely Being? If not, let me affectionately entreat you to ask God to bring you to this, that you may admire His gentleness and kindness, that you may be able to say how good He is, and what a delight it is to the heart of God to do good to His children.

Now the nearer we come to this in our inmost souls, the more ready we are to leave ourselves in His hands, satisfied with all His dealings with us. And when trial comes, we shall say: "I will wait and see what good God will do to me by it, assured He will do it." Thus we shall bear an honorable testimony before the world, and thus we shall strengthen the hands of others.

George Mueller (The guy who fed hundreds of orphans by taking his needs to only God day by day)

Psalm 103

I'm reading Psalm 103 this morning in the Message...a few highlights....

He forgives your sins--every one.
He heals your diseases--every one.
He redeems you from hell--saves your life!
He crowns you with love and mercy--a paradise crown.
He wraps you in goodness--beauty eternal.
He renews your youth--you're always young in His presence.
God makes everything come out right; He puts victims back on their feet.
God is sheer mercy and grace; not easily angered, He's rich in love.
He doesn't endlessly nag and scold, nor hold grudges forever.
He doesn't treat us as our sins deserve, nor pay us back in full for our wrongs.
As high as heaven is over the earth, so strong is His love to those who fear Him.
And as far as sunrise is from sunset, He has separated us from our sins.
As parents feel for their children, God feels for those who fear Him.
He knows us inside and out, keeps in mind that we're made of mud.
God's love, though, is ever and always, eternally present to all who fear Him, making everything
right for them and their children as they follow His covenant ways and remember to do whatever He said.

So what do you think? Can we trust Him? Can we ask for His help when we've messed up? He is always and ever seeking our hearts. If we've made a mess of something we have a choice to make. We can try hard to clean it up ourselves knowing that we were responsible, or we can come to Him still taking responsibility (that's called confession), changing direction (that's called repentance), and ask for His help and provision (that's called trust). We must know who God is see that we can trust Him with EVERYTHING. ALL His promises and provision are available to us, but He generally waits until we ASK...right out loud. Yes, He could sweep in and fix the whatever. But He wants our hearts. So He waits. Waits to be asked...not just a one-time "please", but a persistent knock on the door that will not give up trusting in Him to answer. Waits until we bring our heart to Him in confession and repentance, trusting Him to love and care for us. He will let us wallow in our own mess until we bring it to Him. Take all of it to Him and keep taking it to Him. As you get to know Him better and better you will trust Him more and more. It is pride to set our faces and determine to fix things ourselves...it is faith to know that we can't do anything apart from Him and ask Him to step in. His process may look different than we expect, but He CAN be trusted. And in knowing and trusting Him we can walk in peace, even as we continue to ask and pray. Ask, seek, knock; and continue to ask, seek, knock. You have the assurance of a God who loves you and cannot lie that you will receive.

Easter Pix

These are some pictures from Easter weekend...we had some pretty serious Easter egg hunters, as you can see! Sunday we went to Omaha and went out to eat with Murdoch's and Greve's. Our table was pretty rowdy in the restaurant with all the laughing at Doc's jokes...what a guy!

I'm enjoying seeing the pictures from my mom that Kelli is scanning. We looked through a lot of them here that weekend, and I was really intrigued by the pictures that my dad took while stationed in France during WWII. It was pretty amazing to realize that he was THERE and took the pictures himself...made the Eiffel Tower look much more impressive...even in black and white.

Thought for the day

"Temptation often comes upon a man with its strongest power when he is nearest to God...If a man has much of the Spirit of God, he will have great conflicts with the tempter. God permits temptation because it does for us what the storms do for the oaks--it roots us; and what the fire does for the paintings on the porcelain--it makes them permanent...You never know that you have a grip on Christ, or that He has a grip on you, as well as when the devil is using all his force to attract you from Him; then you feel the pull of Christ's right hand." From Streams in the Desert...April 12.

Wind Chimes and Birthdays

These are the beautiful wind chimes that our kids gave me for my birthday. I just got them at Easter and I'm really enjoying them. They have a wonderful tone, and, as you can see, they are very nice to look at, too! Thanks, everyone!!!

Speaking of birthdays.....today is Kelli's birthday!!!!! It was great to celebrate with you, honey!!

We had a very nice weekend with kids coming and going. The cousins had a great time playing together, coloring eggs, celebrating Tre's and Kelli's birthdays, going to church, hunting for eggs, and eating. Wow, no wonder I'm tired! I don't know how they keep going and going, or how their moms begin to keep up with all the demands of keeping up with them and working as well! It makes me realize how old I am!! It sure is fun to be a part of the craziness, though! Thanks to all of you for sharing your lives with us!!!!!

Tomorrow Jon goes back to four 10-hour days each week. In fact, some days may be closer to 12 hours. That means we'll be getting up at 5:00 so he can be at work at 6:00. He's already in bed, and I'm hoping to be there in about a half hour.