LAY IT DOWN

What is it within me that always seeks its own?  The ego, the sin nature, the "I"?

Even though my heart and intent is to seek God, it is almost never that pure.

There is this other layer of what's in it for me.  I hate that.

I want You, Holy Spirit, to get rid of it, overcome it, kill it.

Wait, I have to kill it, don't I?  This can be only my choice.

That's harder.

That involves my will, making a choice, making a choice every moment

of every day to die to myself.  Help me!

That is exactly what I am here to do.  No, better than that.  Instead of helping you I am here to replace you.  You lay aside yourself and I take over.  Instead of struggling to conquer self, just lay it aside.  It may still be screaming in protest and full of its own agenda, but lay it down.  There is no need to be stronger.  You need to be weak, too weak to hold on to your own way.  Lay it down and let My life and peace invade your heart, ease your mind, soothe and heal your hurts.

This will be a constant, active surrender.  There is no autopilot setting.  When you identify that whisper of self-seeking within, you will have to make a deliberate choice to walk away from it. 

That whisper is always within the realm of possibility on this side of eternity.  You live in a fallen world and are not yet fully redeemed like you will be when I bring you home.  You do not, however, need to live at the mercy of that whisper that becomes louder and more insistent.  When you listen to the whisper it gains strength and power until you no longer remember how it feels to live in quiet obedience and surrender.  The sooner you lay it aside and send it packing, the easier it will be to live above the chaos and confusion that mixed motives create. 

There is no need for shame.  I remember your frailty and humanity, but because of the blood of My Son, I see you clothed in His righteousness and covered with His glory.  His sacrifice and resurrection has carried away all that was held to your account by nailing it to His cross.  You stand before Me free and whole, a vessel for My life and glory.  Lay aside all that does not come into agreement with Me and My truth.  I, alone, am worthy of defining your value.

Romans 5:8-9; Ephesians 4:20-32; Colossians 3:1-17; Colossians 2:13-14;

Jude v.24-25

Who's Hungry??

I love baking cookies.  Oatmeal chocolate chip to be exact.  It's a recipe from my Aunt Rhoda and has been a food group all its own in our family.  Once when my nephew was a little boy and at our house I asked him if he wanted a cookie.

He replied, "What kind of cookie?"

"Chocolate chip!" I answered, since that is the only kind of cookie there really is.

"What kind of chocolate chip?" was his immediate comeback.  He was already wise beyond his years.  He knew there was only one kind of chocolate chip cookie really worth eating.  And I'm happy to say I did not disappoint!

I know this recipe by heart, but occasionally I have messed it up, especially when there are other people around and I get distracted.  There are two different ingredients that I have left out at different times...vanilla and salt.  Now when I think of cookies I don't think of them as salty, but it seems to me that vanilla would be a vitally necessary ingredient!  So, so wrong!  When I have left out vanilla the taste is altered very little, and no one would ever know I messed up.  However, only one time have I ever left out the salt!  The entire batch had to be thrown out.  They were completely horrible!!

I was so surprised because, again, when I think of ingredients that go into cookies, vanilla goes along with the others much more than salt.  That reminds me that God calls us the salt of the world.  Do we fit in?  Not really.  Are we on the most popular list of what makes this world interesting or exciting?  Not so much.

However, God sees us as absolutely essential to the world even now in its fallen state.  The world will never recognize our worth, but God knows that we offer a flavor without which the world would be an intolerable place.

I don't know about you, but that really encourages me.  The world doesn't have to understand our worth or realize what we offer.  We make a real difference just by being in the mix as we love and pursue God letting His life flow through ours!

TWINS!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Yep, that's what I said!  Megan and Greg are expecting twins in March!  It all seems quite unreal, and everyone in the family is very excited.  There is quite the debate between Bria and Emmy and Tre and Tru as to whether they will be boys or girls or one of each!  They all want to be in the majority between boys and girls when the final count is in.  Oskar is quite pleased that there are two babies in Mommy's belly and has learned their temporary names very well.  Not sure if I have permission to share those, however.  :)  At this point he quite sure they are boys...we shall see!

As for Jon and I, we are just thrilled and delighted whatever the combination, of course.  We are praying often for healthy babies and mommy, and we appreciate your prayers as well!  Also, we would love to hear your best tips if you're experienced in twins because this is all new to all of us. Hopefully, we can be a help and not just be in the way.  I'd appreciate tips on how to do that well, also.

Today football season started for the Melby household.  First games were in Arlington, NE and we rode out there on the motorcycle.  It was beautiful day, and both the boys won their game!  All the fresh air makes me feel like I could sleep for a week, but I don't suppose that can happen...:)

School started this week for both the Holthe's and the Melby's, and everyone seems to be off to a great start.  Emmy especially is excited with how things have started out!  The only hiccup so far is commemorated with a bruise on Bria's hip, but she's a tough kid...she can handle it!  :)

Stay tuned for further updates and check out the Devotions 1-10 page when you have time. Blessings to all!

A New Page

There's a new page listed above the posts named Devotions 1-10.  These are the first ten devotions in my book "Fringes of His Ways".  I plan on eventually getting all the devotions on my blog posting ten per page.  I hope they can help you in your search for the God who loves you so much. Many blessings....

Yancey

We've decided that we have an alpaca.  Why, you ask?  Why not?  He's smaller than a llama, and really pretty cute.  His name is Yancey.  If you'd like to see him, you may wait a long time...he's very shy.  Our kids haven't seen him yet, so they're considering having us committed.  Of course, they'll have to catch us first, and I don't think Yancey will let them take us without a fight.  He is very fond of us.  From now on anything that goes wrong (especially in the back yard) is Yancey's fault, but he's worth it.  After all, who else do you know who has an alpaca?

LIVING ON PURPOSE

I need to be more deliberate, Lord, in the use of my time.

So much can be wasted away on things that may seem important

at the time, but in the end they are meaningless.

Purpose.

I need to have purpose in the time that I call my own,

especially at this stage of my life when I have

more free time and soon, much more free time.

I need a plan.

Living life on purpose, that is the ideal you seek.  It is a worthy goal.  The pace of life today makes it nearly impossible for you, for anyone, to feel like they are in control of their time and activities.  There is a constant demand for your involvement everywhere you turn.  Add to that the onslaught of media, noise, technology, and entertainment, and there is almost no space left in your life and heart for that which brings peace and helps you know purpose.  I understand.

Even though many of these demands are unique to this era, I am still the same God who reigns over all and I have not changed.  It is still My plan for you to walk with Me in a powerful, life-changing relationship that bears fruit and spills over into rivers of living water for others.  All of this requires a heart that truly desires this relationship and a mind that is disciplined to stay focused.  This is a relationship that lives and breathes and is constantly nourished by My Spirit.  You, My child, will have to actively choose to listen and be sensitive to My voice while tuning out the countless distractions clamoring for your attention. 

As you walk by My Spirit moment by moment you will see purpose  and kingdom living unfold before you.  This life does not promote itself or vie for the attention of the masses.  It quietly invades your day and helps you see with new eyes, hear with new ears, and carry My life into the tailor-made spaces that you inhabit.  The purpose becomes a path of discovery that leads you to see My grace everywhere you look.  You begin to see people the way I see them and love them with My love.  You see My gifts in the everyday moments that fill your day, and in the giving of thanks your heart is raised to the heavenly places where you are truly seated with Me.

Your vantage point changes everything.  You must remember that you are placed in Me, secure, safe, protected, kept, and loved.  The only true vision you have is through My eyes; the only wisdom or understanding you can possess is from My heart; the only way you can hear the cries of the world around you is through My ears.  It is from here that you can pray with power and effectiveness.  It is from here only that you can evaluate whether you are living life well or being consumed by the culture around you.

Sit here with Me.  Be still.  And know that only I am the God who changes everything and everyone I touch. Live life on purpose with Me.

Hebrews 13:8; John 7:38; John 15:26; Galatians 5:22-26;

Ephesians 2:4-10; Psalm 46:10

SOMETHING OLD, SOMETHING NEW

I've been struggling, Lord, to live as You would live.

I have been unable to get a grip on the reality of Your life in me

as my righteousness.

I've been living at the mercy of my feelings, and they can be relentless.

I know better in my head, but still wait for revelation from You

as to the reality of my life in the here and now.

You, My child, have been confused and that has led you to walk in ways that were never meant for you.  I established a covenant with Israel of old that promised them blessings abundant, primarily the blessing that I would be their God.  The condition of receiving these blessings was their obedience.  They were to listen to My voice and obey My commands.  Their faithfulness guaranteed that My blessing would follow, for, of course, I would be faithful to keep My part of the covenant.  They failed.  Miserably.  And every person ever born will also fail to hear My voice and give Me obedience.  Mankind is a fallen race and can never relate to Me in the way I created them to.  Yet that is still My heart's desire...an intimate relationship and communion with them.  Sin made that impossible.

Therefore, I sent My Son to die for all your sins and pay the penalty, clearing the way for a new covenant.  As a born again child of Mine you are a participant and beneficiary of that covenant.  It is My covenant not only with all believers, but with you personally.  Look at My word in Deuteronomy.

  "Therefore, you shall keep the commandments of the Lord your God, to walk in His ways and to fear Him." 

 Compare that to Jeremiah and Ezekiel.

 "I will put My law within them and on their heart I will write it; and I will be their God, and they shall be My people."  "And I will put My Spirit within you and cause you to walk in My statutes, and you will be careful to observe My ordinances."

Do you see the difference?  In the old covenant man was to keep My commandments and thereby walk with Me and fear Me.  In the new covenant I, Myself, move into man writing My ways on a new heart and thereby causing him to obey.  The old way hinges on man's effort and ability to work up enough motivation and discipline to obey Me.  The new way rests on My Spirit giving man a new heart that longs to please Me and love Me and providing My very own power to follow through into obedience.

You, however, must choose which way you will live.  If you try hard enough I can guarantee that you will fail.  Every time.  If you relinquish your own efforts, knowing that they are futile, and choose instead to place all your faith in My promise to work all things I desire in you, I can guarantee a life lived, really lived, in the Spirit.  It will be a life of peace, victory over sin, comfort in all circumstances, wholeness, and holiness.  You will live the life you have dreamed of, humbly dependent and laying down your life in order to know Me.  And it will be effortless and full of joy...both yours and Mine.

This is the crowning jewel of My redemption, the mystery hidden from all the ages of time.  Not just that sins are forgiven and heaven awaits, but that I would live in you and through you even in this life and show Myself to the world as you live in it.  I wait for you.  Trust Me.

Deuteronomy 8:6; Jeremiah 31:33; Ezekiel 36:27



Freedom

It's Memorial Day, a day when we are all reminded of how expensive our freedom is.  It has cost the lives of millions of men and women over the centuries, and it continues to be costly today.

In terms of our salvation we know that freedom for us meant Christ's death on the cross...the ultimate price paid by the sinless Son of God.  There is another level of freedom we are meant to enjoy as God's beloved children.  We should be living lives that are free from the entangling grip of sin tripping us up in our daily lives.  We know how we should live, so we redouble our efforts and try harder.  We hopefully come to learn that our own efforts are worthless and we need to depend on Christ's life in us to live as we should. 

There is an example in the history of Israel of this kind of daily challenge to trust the Lord.  As the people were being led to their new promised land they were fully aware of the promises that God had set before them of a land of freedom and provision far greater than they had ever known.  Yet as soon as they experienced hardships of needing water and craving familiar foods, they're first reaction was to say, "Why did you bring us out of Egypt?"  They actually preferred to return to lives of slavery and bondage rather than adapt to changes in their appetites and comforts.

Are we so different?  We like what we like, and we want what we want.    We proclaim that we will follow Christ as He leads us into freedom, but when we are made uncomfortable we have a real decision to make.  It requires a strong faith that God's way is higher than ours and true surrender of our own agendas to follow Christ into all He has purchased for us.  We will only be able to lay ourselves aside moment by moment if we remember how great His love for us really is.

Now Available--Email subscription

I hope you've all had a nice Memorial Day weekend!  Ours has been fun...seeing family, friends, and sleeping in, too!  There is a box on the right hand side of this home page where you can enter your email address to receive email notifications whenever I've posted something new here.  I hope that will be convenient for you; I know it's hard to keep up without reminders. 

Blessings on all!

To Move or Not to Move

Do you like to know the plan?  Are you uncomfortable with uncertainty and not knowing what to expect from day to day?  Me too.  Part of my reading this morning was Numbers 9 where the Bible tells about the tabernacle, when completed, was filled with God's glory.  By day the tabernacle was covered by the cloud, and by night by the appearance of fire.

 As long as the cloud and fire remained over the tabernacle, the camp stayed in place.  If, when morning came, the cloud had lifted, they broke camp and moved where the cloud led them.  That sounds very nice and all, but can you imagine living this way?  They never knew how long they would stay in one place...overnight, a few days, months, or a year or more.  Not much room for planning ahead or putting down roots.  You wouldn't be getting too attached to your surroundings. 

I'm not saying that we need to live that radical a lifestyle, but can we aspire to be open to God's leading day by day, moment by moment?  Can we begin to agree with Him not to move ahead without His direction, and to not hesitate when He shows the way?  Let's seek His heart and mind about how He would have us live every day, every hour, every minute.  He has had lots of practice and will be faithful to lead.

Arise, Shine

One of the passages I read this morning was Isaiah 60, and it starts with this verse..."Arise, shine; for your light has come, and the glory of the Lord has risen upon you."  The words that grab my attention are arise and shine.

Arise...get up, stand firm, meet the situation, open your eyes, open your ears, take stock of your resources, determine your position. 
Shine...praise Him, trust Him, leave all your cares with Him, depend fully on His life, give freely, give fully, rejoice, give thanks, pray always, love others, bless others, reach out.

This is how we are to live.  We are to arise and shine.  Every day.  All day.  In every circumstance.  In every joy.  In every pain.  In every trial.  In every temptation.  In every sorrow.  In every blessing.  In every victory.  In every answered prayer.  In every uncertainty.  In every disappointment.  In every dream.

How easy it is to live in the pit of our own making.  We forget how blessed we are and wallow in self-pity or despair while the Lord waits for us to step into the life He has provided in His Son.  In Him we can indeed arise and shine in every situation we face.  Trust all that God has provided and rely upon Him.

I'm Back!

It's been a long time since I published a post, and I think the time has come for me to pick this back up.  I hope that these posts will be helpful and encourage you to seek the Lord more fully, and I hope that your input here will help me as well. 

We, all of us who love the Lord, are family.  We share His life, His Spirit, and His heart for the world around us.  I tend to forget sometimes that we are supposed to depend on and help each other, and I go day to day making it on my own.  Isolation is one of Satan's more effective weapons.  It's my hope that we can come together here in this small way and support and help each other as we live the lives He has called us to.

Check in from time to time and share encouragement, insight, and hopefully some laughter, too.  Here's wishing you a great start to a great week!  Many blessings!

MY LIFE OR YOURS

How do I know, Lord?  What are You saying?  How can I hear You more clearly?  Why do I ask the same things over and over?

 

You hear My voice, and then go your way.  You know My presence, and then fail to stay and partake fully of My life.  I am not just the lyric of a song or a satisfying thought you enjoy in the quiet moment.  I AM the only source of life to your soul.  I AM the next breath you take.  I AM the manna which is your only nourishment.  To be distracted from Me is to fall back on your own short resources and find them completely depleted within minutes.  The next temptation is all that is necessary to throw you headlong into chaos and defeat. 

Without Me you can do nothing.  Sounds familiar, does it not???  You know these truths, yet you rush ahead into your day and interaction thinking that knowing is enough.  Knowing truth in itself only creates arrogance and judgment.  Living in truth, practicing truth is what brings humility, dependence, and healing to your heart.  Only then are you a vessel that I can use to work outwardly into the lives of others.  The road you and I take together may be filled with people and activity, or it may be quiet and solitary.  That choice is Mine.  Whether many or few are ever influenced or touched is My sovereign choice, so give that absolutely no thought.

Live your life with the desire to please Me alone, and I will make provision for anything beyond that.  Love those in your small circle with fervent sacrifice and unwavering loyalty that always points them to Me so that they will be able to show My love to the world they encounter.  Let Me be forever the spring of every peace, comfort, gladness, and hope that grows in your heart.  Be fully assured of My unwavering purpose to have a living, vibrant relationship with you.  Exchange your self-life and all it entails for My life which abides in you by My Holy Spirit.  My life is the only life worth living, and I AM fully available to you at all times.

Purpose, vision, and creativity are found in Me.  I authored all that exists, and I am eternally unchanging, sustaining and creating forever wonders beyond your discovery or imagination.  Allow Me time and space and My life will always create beauty in everything I touch.  That is especially true of My dwelling place, your heart and life.  New life, living waters, streams of refreshing, beauty, peace, order, creativity, hope, gladness, rest, light, grace, mercy, pardon, and every good and wonderful thing you can think of come from Me and can be poured out through you, changing both you and the world around you in the process.

How will you respond?  How will you choose to relate to those around you and the world you inhabit?  Will you do your best, or will you let Me do My best?  I can do no less.

Acts 17:28a; John 15:4-6; 1 Corinthians 8:1-2; 1 Peter 1:22-23;

1 Corinthians 4:5-10; Hebrews 6:10-12; 2 Timothy 1:14; 1 Timothy 4:14-16;

Psalm 27:4; James 1:16-27

Little Things

I've been thinking a lot about obedience, Lord. It's the little things that You bring to my attention. I mean LITTLE things. Things that I can't begin to imagine make a difference, and yet You point them out to me and ask, "What are you going to do about that?" The only answer I can give You is that I will obey, but what troubles me is how much am I missing? I get so usesd to living my life and thinking my thoughts that I wonder if I'm listening to Your voice. How many little tings am I missing? I don't want to miss any, but I can be so blind and deaf that I probably run right over You, Holy Spirit, as you speak softly to my heart. Open my ears, clear my vision, make my heart tender to Your EVERY word.



I am so glad you heard Me. And I am so glad you obeyed. You are feeling the effects of obedience. It brings the blessings of tenderness and awareness to another level. You long more for intimacy and nearness, and you realize how very much I care about the way you live. You are excited to know that I will speak to you, and you can know what I am directing you to do. Hearing My voice often requires obedience in some very small thing. When I lay before you the choice to obey or to please yourself, there is much more at stake than the immediate options before you. If you choose to please yourself (or be true to yourself, as you might describe it), you diminish your ability to hear My voice. You have quenched Me, the Holy Spirit. The more you persist in this path, the fainter My voice will seem and the less you will sense My presence, power, and peace. This is all by design. Feeling far from Me is intended to bring you running to find where you have gone wrong. When you honestly seek Me I may again put a choice before you. On and on it goes.

The cycle breaks, however, when you recognize My voice and choose to obey. Then you hear Me more clearly and know My presence better as a real, active force within you. I do care about the many LITTLE things that you face every day, and if you will listen and obey moment by moment My voice will be clearer and stronger. Our intimacy will deepen, and your prayers will have more power because they will be according to My will for you and the world around you.

If you are walking in obedience you do not need to fear that you will not hear My heart. I will make My ways known to you and direct your path. You may not see far ahead, but you will have light step by step with your hand in Mine. Do not look for the bigger arena to practice obedience. Listen for My quiet voice in the moment where you stand and obey THAT. I will determine the impact and scope of your life as you stay quietly and firmly near My heart and walk with Me. It will be a life far beyond all that you can think or dream because it will be My life in you.

Psalm 119:1-3; 1 Peter 1:22; Ephesians 4:25-32; Jeremiah 29:13; Romans 6:12-13;
John 14:21, 23-26; John 15:7-11

We had a very nice Easter weekend with our family here on Saturday. We colored eggs, cooked food, hunted for eggs, and just enjoyed each other. I hope yours was wonderful, also. We've had cooler weather this last week, but some much needed rain and still very nice. We planted a lilac bush tonight and put out a pot of flowers by the front door. We have some smaller pots to fill another day. Thought for the day Spring. It brings new life, new growth, the miracle of resurrection recreated each year before our eyes. My heart is stirred fresh to seek the Lord in a way that allows Him to do new things in me. I feel the longing; I bring it to Him; I want Him to have His way. I have felt this before, but I lack direction. I don't seem to come away with a plan. Perhaps that is because plan is not what Jesus is after; He wants relationship. With me. I need Him. Fresh. New. Resurrection. What will it lead to? I have no idea, but it will be awesome. Give Him full access and let Him lead the way knowing that He does all things well. He will fulfill His purpose for my good and His glory. Thank You, Jesus!!!

Communion and Grace

We're getting new carpet tomorrow! When we started the building project a year and a half ago, Jon told me when we were done we could get new carpet OR wait till Logan died. Since both have happened, it's now time. We will finish clearing the room today, and can't help thinking of Logan...what a great dog she was!! Lots of great memories.
We took communion at church this morning and while we were encouraged to be completely silent and reflective, which is fine, I kept thinking of His words "do this in remembrance of Me". You know when we gather for a funeral or visitation, there is a lot of remembering going on. What would it be like to remember Jesus after He was "gone" with others who knew Him firsthand? Can you imagine the stories? The joy He brought? The laughter of shared friendships? The overwhelming desire to love and treasure each other the way He had loved and treasured them? We need fresh eyes to see Him present and alive and the source of all.

Thought for the day

My attention has been arrested lately by God's answer when Moses asked, "Who shall I say has sent me?" God answers, "Say, 'I Am has sent me. I Am is His name.'" What a powerful name! He is eternal, forever past, forever future, all-powerful, all-knowing, creator of heavens and earth and life. He holds all of creation and time in His hand, yet when asked His name, He says simply, "I Am". Right here. Right now. In this moment and in this place. In the realization of every need, every joy, every heartache, every pain, every tear, every gift...."I Am". How can we feel alone? How can we feel abandoned? How can He not be everything we could ever need? It's been a kind of adventure to just pick an ordinary moment, stop, and realize "I Am" really is present. It is amazing. All is wonder. All is grace.

What Was I Thinking

How long have I been blind? How could I not see this sooner? I've wasted years thinking that I need to find what You want me to do and be...the bigger plan for my life. I'm finding that You've been doing Your work all along without my awareness, and, unfortunately, without my enjoyment.

It is good to have you here. I have always been working in your life, bringing you to the life I have for you. Now it is time that you know it and cooperate with Me. Your life is no longer yours. It has belonged to Me for quite some time now, and that is why there are things that seem to go against your grain. You have failed to apply the truth that you have been crucified with Me and your life is no longer your own. You no longer have a right to your own preferences, plans, or personality. Your place is to be an empty vessel for Me to form, fill, and flow through.
Every moment comes to you from Me and is a gift, a grace of My love. Open your eyes to see the gift and your hands to receive the life and grace moment by moment. It is when you enter the moment, see My hand, receive My gift with thanksgiving and the miracle of My life in yours becomes a reality that bears fruit and results in joy. Learn to let everything I bring into your daily grind be an opportunity to see Me, thank Me, and commune with Me. Trust that each moment is the best of My sovereign plan and purpose for your life and My glory. Trust. Me.
Let go of your grip. I hold it all in My hand. Everything is grace and life as you receive it from Me. Let Me fill your life with Mine and just give thanks and rejoice. When things are hard, hold My hand, feel the nail prints, and see your name inscribed on My palm. Enter My rest and trust My love.

This Book, That Book

Hmmm. I've been rolling this around for a while now. Let's see if I can put it into words. If you know me well, you know that I love to read. And that I love to read books that challenge me, stretch me, lead me to God, and make me think.
What I've been thinking lately is that pursuing that sort of reading is a two-edged sword. I have been greatly encouraged and helped by SO many wonderful authors and books, but something is becoming more clear to me. God speaks to different people along different lines. If you are William Wilberforce or Abraham Lincoln the highest expression of your faith is to abolish slavery. A Dawson Trotman finds memorizing Scripture to be the bedrock of sustaining a walk with God. Mother Teresa finds God closest in giving herself away to the neediest she can find. The faith of Smith Wigglesworth finds expression in being an instrument of healing, while Joni Eareckson Tada extols the value of suffering with joy. Andrew Murray's works are often based on the truth of living in union with Christ. Ann Voskamp writes that giving thanks is the secret that undergirds all prayer and joy in this life. Hannah Whitall Smith sums up the happy Christian life in two words, surrender and trust. There are others whose entire focus is on worship and music as the gateway to His presence. Some minister to many through their powerful call to serious discipleship, while others use humor to show the face of God. E.M. Bounds brings all of life under the canopy of prayer at all times for all people. John Eldredge tells us to follow our heart in order to find our life, while others tell us we must lay our own plans and agendas aside in order to follow and obey God. Evangelism, tithing, fasting, church participation, and the list of topics and seeming contradictions goes on and on.
The truth is none of them are wrong, and each view has its followers. God has wired us each differently, making us each a unique individual. He, alone, knows our heart and how to reach it. He has made us each in His image, but how large and multi-faceted is His image? We will never know Him from every side, and He always has more of Himself to share with us. So, while reading all these things may be helpful and eye-opening, it can also pull us off track.
I am more convinced than ever that what is best is to focus simply on the Word of God and on Him, Himself. Spending time in His Word and in prayer with Him will open the "secret" that our own heart needs to see to fulfill His purpose in our lives. We may think that what we find is the key for everyone, but it probably isn't. It may well be helpful to some, but not one of us can stand in the place of God in someone else's life and tell them "here's what you need to do". That's His job, and if we will take time with Him He will be faithful to do it.
Because God is so multi-faceted it takes all of us to even begin to show the world Who He is. They will see in each of us only a small piece and part of the whole, but let us be true to Him in the way that He has led us. And let us allow each other to follow Christ as He has revealed Himself to us. There is much to learn while still living authentically as God's child and handiwork.

P.S. If I have given you a book to read, I still want you to read it. If it doesn't resonate with you, put it down till another time. God has much to show you.

Father, Caregiver, Babysitter

Babysitting!! So much fun! Greg and Megan were gone Friday morning till Saturday evening to Kansas City for her work, and we went to babysit with Oskar. It went really well. We all had a good time, and it was hard to tell who was more tired this morning, Oskar or us. He was happy to see his mommy and daddy last night, but had never fussed for us a bit. I just needed to get his food to him quickly enough when he got into his high chair :)

Just a couple of weeks ago we got to stay with Bria and Emmy while Kelli and Jon were in Iowa City for her surgery. Also a wonderful experience, though completely different. We got them to and from school, to a library activity, and Grandpa Jon and Daddy Jon took Bria to her very first art showing in a gallery in Davenport! How exciting for her!!!

It's soon time to have Tre and Tru overnight again...it's been a while. They were here last Saturday and just hung out, played computer, and played with the remote control truck while Jon, Tabbi, and I reorganized the basement. It's always fun to have them here!

It's hard to imagine sometimes that our "little girls" are now mommies, but it is SUCH a blessing to watch. We are so thankful to be a part of all three girls' lives. Megan just had a birthday and we have several others coming soon, so we're hoping to get everyone together for a meal maybe in Des Moines....still in the works.

Thought for the day

God is my Father (Caregiver, Babysitter), and He is the best. Trust me, He has His hands full. What I am most keenly aware of is that His mercies are new every morning. I am awed by His grace, provision, protection, and presence in our lives. We could go day to day, week to week, year to year without realizing how He has had His hand in our lives. I never want to do that. I don't know that I ever go on even a short road trip without realizing and appreciating that I returned home safely and that it could have been very different. It's the same with the kids and with Jon at work. Every time they arrive safely I remember that God's hand was in it. It's not something I've trained myself to do, it is just there. I am so grateful. I want that to spread to every area of my life. I want to never take anything for granted, but receive EVERYTHING, moment by moment, from His hand of mercy and grace. You are my Father and the Caregiver in every aspect of my life, and I want to realize that more and more each day. Give me that kind of heart, Lord, in all things.

One Week To Go

Christmas is one week away. We are getting closer to being ready. Tabbi took over pretzel detail, and today I wrapped most of the gifts...waiting for one more mail delivery to finish up. I've gotten the peanut blossoms and cinnamon rolls done, so most of everything else will have to wait.

It's been a little tougher getting ready this year. We are still trying to recover our energy since Mom's funeral. The fatigue didn't hit me till about a week later, and now I'm starting to function better again. We've had a few other bumps in the road to deal with the last week. One night just as we were getting ready to go to bed we discovered the floor in the middle room of the basement was wet, and there was water coming in the window of the computer room, as well. Our new roof, the 45-year one, was leaking less than a year after being completed. We still don't know the measures taken solved the problem...we won't know till we have another rain or melting snow on the roof. Two nights later we found that our furnace had stopped working. Fortunately, that was fixed the next morning...needed a new ignitor. Tonight Jon's dad was taken to the ER with a TIA and severe bladder infection.

In better news, Oskar had tubes put in his ears on Tuesday and got along great. It seems he already feels and hears better. So thankful for that.


Thought for the day

Life is fragile. We've become keenly aware how quickly and drastically life can change. We value those we love highly, and want them each to know it. We want to never miss an opportunity to tell them and show them that we love them. At the same time, we place them in God's hands for His purposes and will to be worked out in them for their good and His glory. Jesus, we trust You and love you above all.

My Mom

My mom passed into her next life almost two weeks ago on Monday, December 5. Her condition changed very quickly and she mercifully went home in just a few days. We were each able to say goodbye in our own ways, and it is a blessing to know that she is with Dad and Jesus. If they celebrate Christmas there, that would be the place to be!!
So Merry Christmas, Dad and Mom, we love you!

Getting Ready

I've been getting ready for Thanksgiving. We won't be having it until next Saturday so I will be able to get lots of the food ready on Thursday. I've done the major cleaning, baked rolls, baked cinnamon rolls, and gotten the bulk of the groceries. I'm still debating whether to use the china or the Chinet I bought. The jury is still out. My back is holding up well so far so I'm hoping for a good run. Tonight there was a potluck at church for Thanksgiving and that was fun. Worked in the kitchen and brought home a little extra pie.
Tomorrow night we are going to Bible study at Mike and Colleen's house. They are studying books by Andrew Murray!!! YAY!!! I'm so excited to maybe have a group to be part of again.

Keep Asking

Harvest is basically over here. We're still getting some corn in day by day, but not so fast and furious. Being gone on Friday put me behind and hoping to get caught up by tomorrow. Today Harlan played Decorah at the dome in football semifinals and got beat 35-14. That also meant there weren't many people at work today, so it was a little crazy.

Thought for the day

So how do we navigate the line between accepting whatever comes as God's will from God's hand and trusting God for healing? I asked Doc and Nancy this question yesterday and they gave wonderful insight with an emphasis on reality. People tend to want instant healing, and it is usually a process. They suggested I keep on asking and asking until I get an answer one way or another about my back. Doc said, "Make God tell you no." In the meantime, get closer, listen harder, trust more.

Redneck Shopping

The Honda needed a visit to the shop for a recall issue, so we drove to Omaha today with both vehicles. After dropping off the van we did some shopping. I found a memory box for my mom's baby dress that I want to display. We met Doc and Nancy at Village Inn for lunch and had a wonderful visit. Love those two to pieces!!
After that our shopping took a redneck turn and I realized after getting home that we spent the bigger portion of our money today on a big flat screen for guy TV and ammo. And we called it Christmas. Pretty scary, I know!!

Thought for the day

It was such a blessing to be with Murdoch's today. I wish I could put it all in a bottle and get it out to replay over and over. They are a wealth of wisdom, insight, and encouragement. It would be amazing to someday be that kind of influence and encouragement to other people. A couple of gems to remember..."I have put you in a dry place, but I will nourish you from within." "Make God tell you no."

Jon Turns....

In other birthday news....today is Jon's! He was born in 52...you do the math. He is the best and I'm SO lucky to be married to him!!!

Oskar Turns One!!!!

We had a wonderful weekend! Oskar turned one on Sunday, and we went to his house to celebrate! On Friday night Rich and Julie came to our house and stayed the weekend. They had to go to a wedding in Omaha on Saturday, but we had a great visit with them. They drove with us to Des Moines on their way home and stopped in to crash the party and see all our girls. They couldn't stay long, but it was a special treat.

I'm very aware today how blessed we all were through the weekend having safe travel. There was a fatal accident just south of town today...3 people killed. I am just so grateful... Praying for the families...

The Master's Indwelling

Well, here I am again. It's been a really busy week. I've been helping Tabbi with some craft projects. She's got some really great stuff...it will all be a big hit!

I'll be busy the next couple of nights getting house ready for some company. Rich and Julie will be arriving Friday night and will be here till Sunday morning with some time out for a wedding on Saturday. We are so excited to have them here!!

Thought for the day

I finished "The Master's Indwelling" by Andrew Murray last week and decided to reread it immediately, so I'm a couple of chapters in. So much truth and clarity...makes it seem crazy that we allow the distractions we do that pull us down to a lower level of living. I'm really wanting to do this better than I ever have, yet the key to doing that is becoming less and less and abiding in the death of Christ.

Check It Out

Check out the new look!!! They have some new layouts at blogger, and they are really fun to play with! I want to get started again with more blogging and I thought a new layout would help me get started. Will you come along for the ride???

Holiness and Wholeness

Lord, I’m learning to trust You
in a new way. I’m realizing that
the salvation You provided is not
only for my soul, but for my body.
I’m seeing the results of Your
redemption in being free of several
health challenges I was facing. So
far, however, some remain. I trust
You for this process and growth in
faith. My greatest concern is to
please You and let You have Your
perfect will in being made not only
well, but holy.

I am so pleased that you are seeking Me. You do well to seek not only My benefits, but My purifying presence. It is always My plan to make My people holy. I spoke of it many times, and it is a major part of My total purpose in the cross and resurrection. Forgiveness is yours, of course, but sanctification is higher and brings you closer to My heart. It requires intimate communion for you to be purified and made whole. The intimacy that results from your search is as great a prize as the result of wholeness in body and soul.
It is so important that you seek spiritual wholeness even more than physical health. I died to provide both for you and am glorified as each is made evident in your life. Do not hide what I do. Do not be afraid to both declare what I have done and be honest about the process you are still experiencing. My reputation is My responsibility, not yours.
Let Me have My way with your time and interests. Hold every moment that you may spend in My presence as precious. Listen to My voice. I am with you always, but you must be aware of Me to commune with Me. Allow no mindless distraction to steal the very treasure that I died for…fellowship with you. You must engage your mind in your work and daily living, but I am to be the home of your in-between moments, your down time, your spare time, your free time, and all those minutes and hours you think belong to you. They are Mine. You lose so much when you waste them and let them slip away.
Following My lead will bring us a level of intimacy that will result in a holy life lived moment by moment drawing on Me for that holiness, wholeness, strength, and health that will glorify Me. You are Mine, and I am yours. We are woven together in a way that cannot be undone, but can be strengthened and made ever deeper throughout life and eternity as you believe the words I have spoken to you. I keep every one of My promises as you lean hard on Me. Learn what I have said and dare to trust that I am true to My word.

Memorial Day Weekend

Jon is taking some extra days off over this Memorial Day weekend, and I'm taking off Tuesday as well. So far this weekend I worked on Saturday morning, we worked at my mom's house Saturday afternoon, and we kept Tre and Tru overnight Saturday night. Tabbi came over today for church then they all went home later this afternoon. I've done some cleaning, laundry, and saw my mom for a little while. Tomorrow we'll take off as soon as Jon as willing to go to see Greg, Megan, and Oz for a while then head over to see Jon, Kelli, Bria, and Emmy overnight. We'll spend Tuesday there so we can go to Bria's softball game in the afternoon and head home that night. Busy, busy, busy!!! Jon's working away in the garage tonight.

Thought for the day

I'm still wrestling with health and wholeness issues. My acid reflux is gone entirely, and I'm doing just fine without any Singulair. I need some blood work anyway, so I'll get my blood pressure and thyroid checked as well. However, I'm still not sure how I'm going to get along without an nsaid. One day well, next day not, next day in between. Lord, teach me. Help my unbelief. I trust You.

A Challenge

Thought for the day

I've been challenged lately along a particular line of thinking. I was reading a book entitled "Divine Healing" and Andrew Murray points out that the salvation Christ offers us is not for our souls only, but for our bodies as well. It makes me think about all the things that we commonly consider as benefits of our salvation...peace, comfort, wisdom, strength, healing, joy, right standing with God, and so on. But what exactly was God's intent and purpose in saving us?? The Bible teaches that we are to become the righteousness of God in Christ. We are to be holy as He is holy. Now I'm not advocating a performance theology, but the question is put to me... Do I want what Jesus died to provide for me? That's easy to answer in terms of joy, peace, wholeness, comfort, forgiveness, and so on...sign me up!!!
But if He died and rose again that I may be holy, is that what I want? Do I want Him to have His way and put His finger on ANY and ALL areas of my life? Or do I only want holiness up to the level of my comfort and I'll settle for forgiveness for the rest??? Do I have the right to dictate what parts of Christ's salvation I want and will accept and submit to? Do I want only the parts that feel good and make me comfortable, or do I want Him to have His way (which, of course, will be the most blessed state for me as well)?
I'm certainly in no way pointing fingers at anyone, but I think we could all benefit from asking ourselves these questions. What parts and pieces of our personality, temperament, and preferences do we hang on to and feel we have a right to? Those are likely the very things that Christ would free us from in order to make us holy. Are we willing?

End of the World???

It's Saturday, May 21 and, according to someone the rapture is supposed to happen today. Which, of course, means that it won't. However, it was the last day for Logan. She ran off a couple of times last Monday, and we think she may have been hit on the road. She came back stiff as usual, but has gotten worse all week. Poor girl couldn't even get up from lying on the floor by herself and stay on her feet. It was impossible for her to get up or down steps by herself and even turning a corner meant stopping to adjust or falling down. She was panting hard constantly which also is an indication of being in pain. She's been too good a dog to let that continue. So we said goodbye...that was a tough one. We all have only great memories of her which is as it should be.

Easter Weekend

We had a very nice weekend. It started early when Kelli, Bria, and Emmy arrived around 12:30 a.m. on Friday. After a short night's sleep they left for Muscatine on Friday leaving North Dakota behind for the last time! They are staying in Jon's apartment there till their truck arrives with their furniture next week.
Friday evening Megan, Greg, and Oz were here by suppertime and stayed until early afternoon on Sunday. On Saturday Megan's, Tabbi and boys, Connie's, Alan, Shawn's, Loren, and Kent's all met at Mom's house and we spent the day going through her things and dividing things up. It was really a special time. Everyone was glad to get things, eager to know the history and meaning of what they were taking home. We all enjoyed each other's company and the memories we shared.
On Sunday we went to Easter services along with Megan, Greg, and Oz. Jon was called out after waffles with strawberries briefly, but was back to see them off. Connie and I went to see Mom late in the afternoon and told her what we had done on Saturday. I think she was relieved...a little hard to tell.
Today it's back to everyday life. Not so bad either....

Thought for the day

I'm really loving reading through the book of Romans in The Message. Today I was reading chapter 9. A few pickings....
"Israelite identity was never racially determined by descent, but it was God-determined by promise."
"God told Moses, 'I'm in charge of mercy. I'm in charge of compassion.' Compassion doesn't originate in our bleeding hearts or moral sweat, but in God's mercy."
"Salvation comes by personal selection. God doesn't count us; he calls us by name. Arithmetic is not His focus."
"All those people who didn't seem interested in what God was doing actually embraced what God was doing as He straightened out their lives. And Israel, who seemed so interested in reading and talking about what God was doing, missed it. How? Because instead of trusting God, they took over. They were so absorbed in their 'God projects' that they didn't notice God right in front of them, like a huge rock in the middle of the road."

Experiment

So what's up with my blog??? Last time I posted it wouldn't let me make paragraphs or leave blank lines between sections. I hope this experimental post will work the way it's supposed to.

Thought for the day

Again, I hope this works.

Good Times!

Good times! This morning Jon went turkey hunting with Loren and Trever. I went to the movie "Rio" with Tabbi and the boys. Then we were together for lunch with Tom, Joanne, Erika, Shelby, Ben, and Scott. They are in Iowa for a few days and were able to fit us into a FULL schedule of visits. We got to spend a few hours with them, and it was great. It was SO good to see them all. They look great, and the kids are getting so big!! Of course, I forgot to take any pictures....grrr. We will see them again on Monday night, so maybe I can remember to take them then, but don't count on it!! This next week Kelli has movers coming to pack and load, and she and the girls will be coming down here on Thursday sometime before heading to Muscatine on Friday. They are so excited! And SO ARE WE!!!!!! Thought for the day "Sin speaks a dead language that means nothing to you; God speaks your mother tongue, and you hang on every word. You are dead to sin and alive to God. That's what Jesus did. That means you must not give sin a vote in the way you conduct your lives. Don't give it the time of day. Don't even run little errands that are connected with that old way of life. Throw yourselves wholeheartedly and full-time---remember, you've been raised from the dead"---into God's way of doing things. Sin can't tell you how to live. After all, you're not living under that old tyranny any longer. You're living in the freedom of God." This is Romans 6:11-14 in The Message. There is such powerful truth in this passage. Is there ever a time when we grasp it fully and live in its blessings? I'm so impressed by the instruction do not give sin a vote in the way you conduct your lives. It's so easy to excuse sin as being just personality, temperament, or circumstances. It is freeing to realize that I have a choice. I can choose to not allow sin to have its way, but let God live His life using me as a channel.

Saying Goodbye...Sort Of

Today we celebrated Pat's life. She was a very kind woman and will be greatly missed. This was the kind of "goodbye" that was easier to say, because we were only truly saying "see you later". Pat leaves big shoes to fill, and I'm not sure anyone is up to the task. She was definitely one-of-a-kind. It makes me realize that we each bring something unique to life and relationships and each of us deserves to be valued and cherished. I need to do better at appreciating the people around me. God, give me Your heart and eyes for them...

Tru's Special 7th Birthday

What a wonderful weekend we had!!! Kelli and the girls arrived Thursday afternoon, Tabbi and the boys came over Thursday evening, and Jon came from Muscatine later Thursday night. We spent Friday together celebrating Tru's 7TH BIRTHDAY!!!! The kids had a great time playing together, and we took them to the pool for a couple of hours. Tabbi and the boys went home Friday evening. Much of the weekend was taken up with phone calls, emails, and lots of discussion because Jon and Kelli got an offer on their house Thursday!!!! There was a counter offer and an agreement made. YAY!!!! Then just to top it off they turned around and bought a house in Muscatine on Saturday!! DOUBLE YAY!!!!! We're praying for smooth sale processes and are SO happy for them!!!! And for us!!!! As of now Kelli and the girls are safely back at home and getting ready for a move! AND Jon got a lot of work done around here...the west wall of the garage is drywalled and taped. Tonight he primered the bathroom and he's basically like Superman! All that said, I'll get back to where I started...."HAPPY BIRTHDAY, TRU!!!"

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.