Firstmate Mom's Musings

Content In My Weaknesses?

2012-02-05T18:40:00.000-08:00

But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me. For the sake of Christ, then, I am content with weaknesses, insults, hardships, persecutions, and calamities. For when I am weak, then I am strong.
(2 Corinthians 12:9-10 ESV)

No, I'm not content with my weight - the "thorn in the flesh" I have wrestled with all of my life. It is the weakness that continues to humble me, daily. I AM working to be content in the journey as I struggle on, in His strength. Any success I achieve is only by His grace and ALL the glory is His alone - that is worth boasting about!

Strengthening exercises - The Journey through the Chronological Bible:
It's been encouraging to read through the lives of the patriarchs of our faith. Their lives were filled with trials, failures, and unanswered questions. They were faced with decisions that required they step out in faith without much detail. I've read it before, but this time around, it is more real to me. I am identifying. It's helping me put my life into perspective and strengthens my trust in God's plan for me and my family.

Jumping out at me...the sins and mistakes repeated in successive generations. It's challenging me as a parent. How am I living my life before my children. Do my choices honor God? How about my attitudes. So much more is caught than taught.

Lord, I want to be a light reflecting you to the world, but even more, I want to leave Godly footprints for my children to follow.

5 Weeks In - I'm NOT Quitting!

2012-02-05T15:12:00.000-08:00

I've put in over 60 miles on the treadmill, and more on the road, but the results are so slow in showing up. I'm still showing up - I'm not quitting!

Memory Verse Monday:

It is in vain that you rise up early
and go late to rest,
eating the bread of anxious toil;
for he gives to his beloved sleep.
(Psalm 127:2 ESV)

I haven't slept all that well these past two weeks; there is so much on my mind for my work. Then there's things going on with family and friends. I came upon this verse and it gripped me. My sleep has improved this week as I've worked on memorizing it, applied what I'm learning in my Bible Study - to rest in the TRUTH of His Word -

and PRACTICED Philippians 4:6-7.

Training Tuesday: I've been "run/walking" a 5K every other day. I've taken 2 minutes off my time for my favorite close to home run. YAY! Progress. Alternating running through a song then walking through a song has really helped. Oh, and one more thing - I figured out that my treadmill was starting on an incline. My assembler decided that since I didn't need to store it away, he would not finish assembling the storage leg. It turns out that there were 4.5 inch feet that also needed to attach to the end of the belt-bed, raising the back by 4.5 inches. If you do the geometry, I was starting at a 3.6 degree incline! No wonder it seemed so hard. LOL!

Weight Watch Wednesday - I've done well with points, but the numbers on my scale don't seem to want to fall...it's a battle of wills! I'm stubborn and I'm on this!

Thankful Thursday:
1) I'm thankful for Craig's encouragement in my efforts. He reminded me that even if the weight doesn't come off, I'm still helping my heart and lungs. Thanks, honey!
2) I'm thankful for the flexibility of my job. Most days, I am able to take the time to work out and juice my vegetables before I go to work.
3) I'm thankful that both my husband and I are low maintenance. Leftovers two days during the week is fine - even appreciated.
4) I'm thankful neither of us like to go out to eat. It makes eating healthy so much easier!
5) I'm thankful that both of my kids initiate calls home - not for anything in particular - just to chat. I love talking to them. I am thankful for the people God is growing them into.

Fun Friday: We spent an evening with two couples from our first "Home Group". The plan was to get pizza and watch "Courageous" together. When we arrived, we found the menu had changed to an elaborate pasta meal around the dining room table and we never made it to the movie. It was a delightful evening full of catching up conversation with very good friends.

Songspiration Saturday/Sunday: Several people I know are going through rough times. It's really been a year filled with trials. The truths that I've been focusing on have helped me come to a place of peace. I heard this song for the first time this week, and it ministered to me.

I'm in this great adventure with you, Lord...help me travel the long way home.

Catching Up

2012-01-21T10:46:00.000-08:00

It's been quite busy these past couple of weeks. I'll try to summarize:

I've been working hard at keeping first things first...doing what's important; focusing on what really matters.

I started reading through the Bible in a year using "The Chronological Bible" with Cristin. It always amazes me how "new" things catch my attention every time I read the Scriptures. Even though we don't regularly talk about our reading, it's just fun to know we're on this journey together.

Memory Verse Monday...Our Ladies' LIFE Group started a new study, "Loving God with All Your Mind" by Elizabeth George. From the start, I can tell it's what I need. Our first Scripture memory is Philippians 4:8. I wrote it out in 5 translations and am working diligently to think about - no - dwell on whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable, excellent, or worthy of praise.

One of my coworkers said he is in a series about getting "unstuck". I like that. I need to get "unstuck" this year, starting with my thought life. Thankful for my "brothers and sisters" in Christ at my workplace. They are a source of joy.

Training Tuesdays...well, I've kept up with my exercise. I've only missed 5 days of working out, and some days I actually get two workouts in. I am finding that I prefer to walk/run outside, but in these brutal temperatures, I'm thankful for the treadmill. My colleagues and I even met by 6 a.m. to work out before our full days of meetings and tours in San Antonio. It was great to have that peer pressure and accountability.

Weight Watch Wednesdays...I am down one whole pound. Focusing on the positive - it's the right direction. I try not to feel discouraged about the progress with all the working out and watching what I eat. I re-joined Weight Watchers Online. This is another thing that takes up my time, but my friend, Kelly encouraged me that keeping track of everything that goes in the mouth was the only thing that helped her. It is really eye-opening and is giving me a new awareness of how much I really eat. Thankful for wisdom from other warriors fighting the same battles.

Thankful Thursdays...Thankful for a productive business trip and safe travels last week and a very encouraging performance review and group meetings with my boss this week. I have a new appreciation for his leadership. I'm also thankful for the means to take a vacation - 2 of them planned this week; one to Arizona to visit Nonna, Gramps, Aunt Rita, and Uncle Randy and the other to Charleston for Cristin's graduation in May. Six round trip plane tickets for a grand total of $105 (I ran out of frequent flier miles - temporarily). Now to start planning those trips: sightseeing trips, hotels, parties...

Fun Fridays...This still needs some work! I started playing Scrabble with Chad on Facebook. Does that count? Craig and I enjoyed a "date" on Sunday. Perhaps that should count! I was supposed to go out with a girlfriend last night, but with the threat of snowstorm we postponed our fun to this afternoon. I'm looking forward to meeting up with her at GLC.

Busy...but good. Finding joy in the journey this year.

God Sightings This Week

2012-01-13T21:00:00.000-08:00

1) We're getting ready to start a new Ladies' LIFE Group Study, "Loving God with All Your Mind" and were praying the order would arrive in Saturday's mail so the gals could get their copy Monday night while I am away on business. When I checked FedEx tracking on Saturday around 11 a.m. it said it had arrived at the post office at 10 a.m. and not to expect delivery for 1-2 days...My mail lady delivered it to my doorstep at 1PM - 2 hours later! YAY God!

Thankful Thursday

2012-01-05T16:52:00.001-08:00

On the way to work this morning, there was news of a horrific accident on I-696 involving a pedestrian. It turns out that a man was hit during rush hour traffic as he tried to change his flat tire...

Life is a vapor...everything we know can change in a tragic instant. It's good to take time every day to acknowledge all that is good:

Having both "kids" home for the last three weeks, and safe travels for them back to their school and jobs.

A very good job that I (mostly) enjoy, which abundantly provides to overflowing.

Health to be able to work out on my treadmill.

Beautiful weather for January in Michigan. - blue skies and sunshine to make me smile.

Spending the day at work and in meetings alongside my hubby.

An hour walk with my hubby in the brisk winter afternoon after work.

Hubby helping me clean up Christmas.

A "thank you" appreciation call from Cristin for her repaired power steering and new tire.

A "happy birthday" call to Gramps and hearing laughter and gladness in his voice.

So thankful for my wonderful family - God has truly blessed me.

Weight Watch Wednesday - The Embarrassing Start

2012-01-04T14:51:00.000-08:00

So, this is the humiliating start of my long road to health and fitness. It's hard to believe that just two years ago I had completed a mini sprint triathlon, and several 5Ks.

The first 10 days of working out and making good food choices were discouraging. It seemed that the harder I worked and more diligent I was, the worse the results. The scale kept climbing each day. I wanted to "throw in the towel". I've heard it all before: "you're building muscle which weighs more than fat" & "it takes consistency over time to get your metabolism working right" ...blah, blah, blah.

:-P

I am sticking with it, regardless.

After 10 days of working this plan, I am down 3 pounds - just 57 more to go. :-(

Training Tuesday - 50th Year Goals

2012-01-03T01:46:00.000-08:00

During this year-long adventure, my ultimate goal would be to complete a half marathon representing my half century mark. Right now, that is unrealistic at best, and probably dangerous. Since my mini-sprint-triathlon and a few 5K's over two years ago, I haven't done any training. Regular exercise has been unknown to me since I started full time work back at GM in December 2009, and I have put on 20 extra pounds. Needless to say this is going to be a long, hard road.

For incentive, I have committed to the following benchmarks along the way. Here are the first two:

Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure in Detroit, May 26th, 2012 - My goal is to run the entire 5K. I'm not trying to win any races, my goal is to finish without having to walk. That means one foot is always off the ground!

The Ann Arbor Marathon June 17th with my MMB "Big Sis", Jan "Z" Karnes and other MMB families. No, I don't have any grand "delusions" of running the Marathon or even the half marathon (unless - a miracle?), but to run the 5K and improve my time from the Susan G. Komen.

My current state: not much more than a 3 mph pace for 3.2 miles at various elevations every day for the past 8 days. I have a long way to go.

"I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me!"

Memory Verse #1 - Running to Obtain the Prize

2012-01-02T07:52:00.000-08:00

To hear, "Well done, my good and faithful servant" is the only prize I desire. Lord, help me to run the race accordingly.

The Race of My Life

2012-01-01T06:39:00.000-08:00

"Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one receives the prize? So run that you may obtain it. Every athlete exercises self-control in all things. They do it to receive a perishable wreath, but we an imperishable. So I do not run aimlessly; I do not box as one beating the air. But I discipline my body and keep it under control, lest after preaching to others I myself should be disqualified." (1 Corinthians 9:24-27 ESV)

As I take time to contemplate 2011, I am overwhelmed by the "prizes" I have received: God's goodness and blessing poured out for me and my family. I am also acutely aware of how I stray from the path of His best for me.

In 2012, my desire is to run the race He has planned for me - for His glory:

Run that I may obtain the prize; "Well done, good and faithful servant."
Exercise self-control in ALL things; eating and speaking are my troublesome areas.
NOT run aimlessly, but with purpose; the harvest is plentiful.
Discipline my body and keep it under control; "Or do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit within you, whom you have from God? You are not your own, for you were bought with a price. So glorify God in your body."

This is my "50th Year Great Adventure with God" :

Memory Verse Monday - Scripture Memory Verse of the week

Training Tuesday - Training progress for health and fitness - 5Ks, 10Ks, Triathlon?, half marathon, marathon? (OK, now that's a stretch!)

Weight-Watch Wednesday - Weight loss progress

Thankful Thursday - "God Sightings" as Pastor Ty labeled it. Where and how God showed up during the week.

Fun Times Friday - Making a priority to have fun with friends, family, co-workers, colleagues, neighbors.

SongSpiration Saturday/Sunday - Music that inspired me during the week.

Lord,
Work a new thing in me this new year.

Wrapping Up the Old and Ringing in the New

2011-12-31T04:59:00.000-08:00

Today, I spent time putting the house, computer...my life in order.

There are things I am tossing out,
deleting,
rearranging to get ready for the new year:

New things,
new activities,
new opportunities to live for Him!

"Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come." (2 Corinthians 5:17 ESV)

"Out" with my old nightshirt I've worn just about every night since May 1994 - I finally splurged on a new one! :)

It is so comfy, but you can see through it and holes have appeared. I hate togive it up, but there's really no sense in wearing it in this condition. ;-)

"In" with the new nightshirt!

"Out" with keeping up shallow Facebook cyber relationships, and "In" with developing deep, life impacting face-to face, relationships. I don't plan to be on very much, so call, text (on my new phone), or stop by for coffee to catch me up on your life.

"Out" with trying to get what I don't have and "In" with being content with all that God has blessed me with: the people He has brought into my life for such a time as this, the opportunities He's given me, the provision he's made for me.

"Out" with the out of shape I'm in and "In" with health and fitness.

I'm excited about all the possibilities and HOPE 2012 holds.

While You Were Sleeping-LFC January 2008

2011-12-04T12:20:00.000-08:00

Who's Help?

2011-12-03T03:57:00.000-08:00

This is an old joke that keeps coming to mind as I think about my life, and as I pray for so many people in hard situations.

A storm descends on a small town, and the downpour soon turns into a flood. As the waters rise, the local preacher kneels in prayer on the church porch, surrounded by water. By and by, one of the townsfolk comes up the street in a canoe.
"Better get in, Preacher. The waters are rising fast."
"No," says the preacher. "I have faith the Lord. He will save me."
Still the waters rise. Now the preacher is up on the balcony, wringing his hands in supplication, when another guy zips up in a motorboat.
"Come on, Preacher. We need to get you out of here. The levee's gonna break any minute."
Once again, the preacher is unmoved. "I shall remain. The Lord will see me through."

After a while the levee breaks, and the flood rushes over the church until only the steeple remains above water. The preacher is up there, clinging to the cross, when a helicopter descends out of the clouds, and a state trooper calls down to him through a megaphone.

"Grab the ladder, Preacher. This is your last chance."
Once again, the preacher insists the Lord will deliver him.
And, predictably, he drowns.
A pious man, the preacher goes to heaven. After a while he gets an interview with God, and he asks the Almighty, "Lord, I had unwavering faith in you. Why didn't you deliver me from that flood?"
God shakes his head. "What did you want from me? I sent you two boats and a helicopter."

This is a lesson I am continually being reminded of as I pray for people - as I seek my own "help"; God often answers in ways I never imagined. I often miss His answers because I'm so focused on MY ways, I don't recognize His ways.

"For my thoughts are not your thoughts,
neither are your ways my ways, declares the LORD."
(Isaiah 55:8 ESV)

Lord,
Open my eyes to see how you are at work - help me to recognize you rescuing, redeeming, restoring, relieving, renewing, redirecting, and removing through circumstances and through people you place in lives.

Simple, Not Easy

2011-11-21T22:00:00.000-08:00

I long to return to a simpler life. Don't think for a minute that translates to "easier" life. Simple living is time consuming, physically hard and exhausting, but it is also very fulfilling. I do get a "taste" of that life now and then...

Today, I am thankful or the past several weeks during which I've enjoyed the simple life by:

     Spending hours outdoors with my man,
          tracking deer,
               using my senses fully,
                    appreciating the beautiful handiwork of God
                         in the sparkling starry skies,
                              feeling the crisp autumn air against my warm
                              cheeks,
                                   listening to the sound of dry leaves still
                                   rustling on the trees
                                        and the crunch of them under my
                                        boots.

I'm thankful that my husband's hobbies bring him enjoyment and relaxation
     and also provide food for our family;
for his skill with his weapons whether a fishing rod and reel,
          bow and arrows or a muzzleloader;
               for his knowledge of the hunt - scouting, preparing,
               patiently waiting, harvesting,
                    for all the hours and care he puts into cleaning and
                    packaging the meat.

I am thankful for friends who share God's bountiful provision through the toil of their hands in their land.
   My hands gratefully receive their overflow, and after many hours
     of post harvest work
          their offerings are now providing vegetables
            for our winter meals:
               green beans, zucchini, peppers and tomatoes.

This longing for the simpler life reminded me of this song by 4Him:

“And if you faithfully obey the voice of the LORD your God ... And all these blessings shall come upon you and overtake you, if you obey the voice of the LORD your God. Blessed shall you be in the city, and blessed shall you be in the field. Blessed shall be the fruit of your womb and the fruit of your ground and the fruit of your cattle, the increase of your herds and the young of your flock. Blessed shall be your basket and your kneading bowl. Blessed shall you be when you come in, and blessed shall you be when you go out." (Deuteronomy 28:1a..2-6 ESV)

I have been overtaken by blessings.
A grateful, thankful heart.
Blessed beyond measure this Thanksgiving.

Packing Up Suitcases and Moving On

2011-11-14T13:07:00.000-08:00

I've been in a "funk" for quite some time. I can't even remember when it started. It has something to do with life changes and resisting where God has me at this point in my life. I know - you've heard this before, but it seems it's a process. One moment, I think I've overcome the "slump", but then something creeps up and pulls me down.

Over the last couple days, God has been gracious to reveal some things to me regarding my clinging ways. There really isn't anything left to grasp. It's time for me to stop looking back, longing for what was. It's time to pack up those suitcases and move on. Like a wonderful vacation, it was great and I have lots of precious memories, but I can't stay. Life goes on. It's tough moving forward when I'm carrying suitcases full of burdens. I'm packing up those cares, concerns, worries and dropping them off at the foot of the cross. I'm ready to run, to dance again, to laugh, and to sing with my Lord!

"...I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content..." (Philippians 4:11 ESV)

It's a new day, and I have a new attitude. Lord, help me to make it last.

Many Paths Lead to the Same Destination

2011-11-01T14:42:00.000-07:00

No, I've not gone liberal on you. There is only one way to God, by grace through faith in His Son, Jesus Christ. This post is about the path we take as we follow His call in our lives, accomplishing His purpose and plan.

How did I get where I am today? I have been asking that question a lot during the past year. This is definitely not the plan I had for my life, but it is God's plan for me and my life...much better than my own, and what an adventure it has been! I would have never dreamed that I would be back at GM, as an engineer after 20 years "retirement" fulfilling my dream of being a "stay at home" mom.

*FLASHBACK*

When I was a little girl, I loved school (yeah, weird, huh?) When I got home from school, I would "play" school. I was always the teacher, and when I couldn't pull my sister away from her Barbie dolls, or fort building, I lined up my dolls and stuffed animals. They were the perfect students. You see, my mom was a teacher, and I admired my mom. I wanted to be like my mom. That was my dream...I wanted to be a teacher when I grew up.

But God had other plans for me. My favorite high school teachers (Ms. Rem - Calculus and Mr. Wellever - Chemistry and Physics) along with both of my parents talked me out of teaching. My teachers and my engineer dad encouraged me along the engineering path since I did so well in math and science, and as a woman, I could pretty much go anywhere with such a degree. Dad wanted me to be independent, able to support myself. Even my mom explained that teaching wasn't what it used to be. There are so many other social issues to deal with, these days.

Since I was a compliant child, I followed the advice of these influential adults in my life and pursued an engineering degree at UofM, graduated, and landed a job at General Motors...

So much happened in the 26 years since...I married an amazing man, raised to wonderful children who make me a proud mama, and through it all, God actually gave me the desires of my heart - to be a teacher, after all:

*subbing at the kids' private school...which led me to homeschool from 3rd grade through high school.
*as a Sunday school and children's church teacher
*training teachers and volunteers
*leading Bible Studies for children, youth and women.

And now, I'm able to be my husband's helpmate in new ways - yes, different than my ideas, once again.

I had my ideas of what I wanted to do with my life, but God had other plans.

"The heart of man plans his way, but the LORD establishes his steps." (Proverbs 16:9 ESV)

God knows the deepest desires of our hearts and sometimes he fulfills those desires in ways completely different than we could ever imagine.

Always an adventure, so hold on, keep your eyes and ears wide open and attentive so you don't miss what He is doing.

Be Happy!

2011-09-28T02:33:00.000-07:00

Working on "The Happiness Project"

I liked this quote:

"As put forth by the Second Splendid Truth:

One of the best ways to make yourself happy is to make other people happy;

One of the best ways to make other people happy is to be happy yourself."

The Happiness Project by Gretchen Rubin

It's true.
Being around happy people makes me happy.
Making other people happy makes me happy.
I need to be happy to be happy - LOL!

Sounds a lot like circular reasoning, but I'm working on it! :)

I tend to be a worrier, but have improved over the years. For whatever reason, this song came to mind yesterday. It made me happy! ;-)

Happiness is:

Hearing your son's happy voice over the phone.
Seeing your daughter's happy smile every Monday.
Spending time with your happy sister while taking a break on the job.
Getting an e-mail from your happy parents' ipod while on their River Cruise Vacation
IMing sweet nothings to your silly happy husband at work...how many people get to do that?

Thank you for taking care of all my needs. Lord, because of who you are and what you've done, I don't worry and can be happy.

“Therefore I tell you, do not be anxious about your life, what you will eat or what you will drink, nor about your body, what you will put on. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothing? Look at the birds of the air: they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not of more value than they? And which of you by being anxious can add a single hour to his span of life? And why are you anxious about clothing? Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow: they neither toil nor spin, yet I tell you, even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these. But if God so clothes the grass of the field, which today is alive and tomorrow is thrown into the oven, will he not much more clothe you, O you of little faith? Therefore do not be anxious, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ For the Gentiles seek after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them all. But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.
“Therefore do not be anxious about tomorrow, for tomorrow will be anxious for itself. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble.
(Matthew 6:25-34 ESV)

Work is a Gift

2011-09-07T04:00:00.000-07:00

"Behold what I have seen to be good and fitting is to eat and drink and find enjoyment in all the toil with which one toils under the sun the few days of his life that God has given him, for this is his lot. Everyone also to whom God has given wealth and possessions and power to enjoy them and to accept his lot and rejoice in his toil - this is the gift of God." Ecclesiastes 5:18-19

How fitting that I was in Ecclesiastes through the Labor Day weekend. Though I've studied the book before, I read it this weekend with a different attitude and gained much insight by reading it straight through. There is so much wisdom from Solomon about so many things relevant in my life: about striving, about priorities, about trusting His timing, about wealth, about things I cannot control...

I pouted a bit because I was not able to "fellowship" and camp-out with my church family. This was truly a family LABOR Day weekend filled with Labor and I wish I could say that I rejoiced in it. God is still working on me. :) I did enjoy having Cristin around for the first time in four years. *sigh* :

Cristin worked with Dad to clear brush and set tree stands for hunting season.

Craig was irritated because he couldn't find the keys to the right vehicle. The engineer in me: Encounter a problem, find a solution and fix the problem!

I labeled the key holders AND each set of keys! (My OBC Friends - remember this VBS craft?)

We moved Great Grandma O'Briens piano from Grandpa O'Briens garage where it has rested for the past 10 years - summers, winters, falls, and springs. It's amazingly in great shape and still quite tuned. INCREDIBLE!

Grandpa's antler collection laid out for pics to post on Craig's list/amazon/ebay. (I have Craig's set to take care of as well!)

I washed the old van inside and out.

She looks pretty darn good for 13 years and 197K miles!

The shrubbery got a "haircut".

We did take time out to play in the evenings...

I organized my knitting projects and started on my goal of finishing projects...

Lord,

Thank you for ALL the work you've given me - at home, at GM, in my marriage. Help me work as if working for you!

No Pain - No Gain

2011-09-04T03:11:00.000-07:00

Growing up, I was my dad's buddy. He taught me how to ride a bike, windmill a softball pitch, shoot a basketball, and swing a hammer like the guys. He was my trainer in the off-season, and during every training season I would often grumble and complain. Of course, I was just echoing what my muscles were screaming at me. There were times, I just thought the pain and discomfort was too much to bear. I wanted to quit; I didn't think the pain was worth going through. Dad's cheer would always be..."No pain, no gain!" and I would grit my teeth, set my jaw and push on. "You're building character!' He would say.

Dad never made me do more than I could handle; amazingly, I never broke; I survived. Through the pain of training, I grew stronger. I never realized that Dad was really giving me an object lesson from Scripture...

More than that, we rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance, and endurance produces character, and character produces hope, and hope does not put us to shame, because God's love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit who has been given to us." Romans 5:3-5 (See also 1Peter 1:6 and James 1:2-4)

"...Rather train yourself for godliness; for while bodily training is of some value, godliness is of value in every way, as it holds promise for the present life and also for the life to come. The saying is trustworthy and deserving of full acceptance. For to this end we toil and strive, because we have our hope set on the living God, who is the Savior of all people, especially of those who believe." 1 Timothy 4:7b-10

Dad also would encourage me with "Train don't strain." I know the Lord, who is allowing these trials to train me, will only allow enough training to make me into the woman He desires for the work He has prepared.

So I press on to the goal...

"But one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead, I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus." Philippians 3:13b-14

When Right Keep Going Wrong - MOVE!

2011-09-02T15:03:00.000-07:00

Craig and I have been feeling like we're living under a dark cloud, and haven't been able to shake the gloominess, for whatever reason. This week, I've been reading through Job, which has really put our life into perspective.

This song has helped me to get a right attitude on every morning and look to the Hope He promises.

This is for all of my friends who are going through hard times; I am praying for you:

you who have lost loved ones -
a spouse
a child,
a niece,
a nephew,
a father,
a mother,
a grandparent;

you who have lost your health,
been given a devastating diagnosis;

you who have suffered shattered marriages,
broken relationships,
severed friendships;

you who have lost a job,
a home,
dreams...

Whatever trial you are facing, don't lose hope...look forward to brighter days!

'"My tears have been my food

day and night,

while they say to me all the day long,

“Where is your God?”...

...Why are you cast down, O my soul,

and why are you in turmoil within me?

Hope in God; for I shall again praise him,

my salvation and my God.' Psalm 42:3, 5

Empty Nest - Bitter Sweet

2011-08-26T19:24:00.000-07:00

Having an empty nest is bitter sweet...

It is so sweet to see the eaglets soaring on their own, climbing to new heights with new opportunities and challenges. It's tough being the mama eagle who nudged them out of her nest. All I can do is watch, pray and be there to swoop in, if needed. Sometimes I want to swoop in before I'm really needed - just a little turbulence, they make a slight adjustment and are flying steady in no time.

The bitter part is that their soaring often takes them far from the nest, with return flights waning in frequency. They need me less and less. I need retraining for a new job description. Can I negotiate this?

Both of my "kids" were home for a brief time this summer. God has done an amazing work - without me - imagine that! They have matured in so many ways and were a huge help to me. Some things cannot be captured by a camera, but here is a glimpse of the blessings they poured out...

Chad decided that our deck railing needed replacing and a paint job was in order. (I have to admit - it was rotted.) He purchased the materials, tore down the old and replaced it with brand new - with a little help from Dad. :)

Cristin decided it was time to clean and organize the basement. I wish I had "before" and "after" pictures; Extreme Home Makeover, for sure! It's amazing how quickly you can find things when everything is in its place!

I'm so proud you have found your wings ...

and am continuing to pray for you, as you dare to do great things, following God as He leads. <3 U!

Love God, Love People - Which People?

2011-08-26T03:30:00.000-07:00

"Love God, Love People" is a slogan that is popular in evangelical circles these days, and we usually immediately think of Jesus's Parable about the Good Samaritan in Luke Chapter 10. From this parable, we are taught that if we truly love God we will also love people who are very different than us, even our enemies. Samaritans were outcast of the Jews, and the Jews would avoid a Samaritan at all cost. Jesus commanded us to cross cultural barriers, socio-economic barriers, ethnic barriers to take the Gospel - the Good News of Salvation through Jesus Christ to everyone - the whole world.

But is that all?

We in the "church" get fired up and excited during special outreach events, local charities, and short term mission trips about "loving" people that we have never met. We feel good about all the "good" we are doing to help the hurting people in our world in a tangible way so that we can have an opportunity to tell them about Jesus. It is one way God opens opportunities for His people to share the Good News of Jesus.

But what about...

"A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another: just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another. By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another." John 13:34-35

Jesus commands us to love "the brothers and sisters" of the faith. As we love one another, the world is drawn to us and wants what we have. It gives us another opportunity to share the gospel while living it before men on a daily basis.

This is the hard kind of love - loving people even after you REALLY get to know them, "warts" and all! As we study together, share our lives, pray for one another, make poor choices, hurt and fail one another it becomes more difficult to "love" and "be loved". In our culture, when people don't live up to our expectations it is easier to just walk away...from marriages, friendships, family, church, jobs...and plug into a new one.

I recently had a conversation with someone who no longer attends church. She has a lot of brokenness in her life that was out of her control, and her comment was something like this: "Every time I go to a church, people get mad at something, they leave and the church splits. I have enough brokenness in my life. It hurts too much to invest in people, when there's a high probability they will walk away." (my paraphrase) I appreciate her honesty; it made me sad.

As people who have been washed in His love by forgiveness, mercy, and grace, we too should be freely extending forgiveness, mercy, and grace.

"So then, as we have opportunity, let us do good to everyone, and especially to those who are of the household of faith." Galatians 6:10

I know there are times that God definitely moves people in their relationships. He has in my own life. It still hurts. Yet, we need to keep our arms extended with a willingness and readiness to forgive, extend mercy and grace.

I was humbled by the outpouring of love, care and concern from some of my brothers and sisters of former churches who recently reached out in my time of need when Craig was hospitalized. I was reminded that "Friends are friends forever, if the Lord is the Lord of them..."

Read Friends Are Friends Forever lyrics here.

Blessings to my friends who have stuck with me through the good and bad, who love me when I am unlovable, who challenge me, who have left the door open...

Do Everything

2011-08-12T18:10:00.000-07:00

Questions I've been wrestling with...
Complaining I've been doing...
Self evaluations I've been making...
Guilt I've been fighting...
Searching and researching...
And all the pleading I've done over the past year and a half...

in the daily conversations

with My Lord

He repeatedly confirms,

and I am confident...

I'm right where He wants me,

doing the work He has prepared

- in advance - for ME

with the gifts and talents He created ME to have

along with the knowledge and experience He's given ME

as I have walked in obedience

and the lessons I've learned when I strayed, stumbled, and fell;

The work He's prepared for me is NOT the work He has for you.

Whether

a stay-at-home wife & mother or automotive engineer

setting a table or setting up meetings

pushing a grocery cart or pulling a briefcase

running ministries or running tests

in t-shirt and shorts or business casual

serving on a church committee or serving on a corporate board

living on a limited budget or earning overflow to bless others

wherever, whatever, whenever, to whomever

I want to

"do EVERYTHING in the name of the Lord Jesus.

giving thanks to God the Father through him."

What I Did On My Summer Vacation - Golf

2011-07-09T07:58:00.000-07:00

"What I Did On My Summer Vacation" - Week 1, Day 1

It all started Friday afternoon at Mystic Creek Golf Club at Camp Dearborn in Milford, MI. The Powertrain Material Labs from Milford, Pontiac, and Warren meet for an afternoon of "team building" and fun with lunch and a golf scramble. Craig and I were the anchor to our team (like a dead weight)!

My clubs were hand-me-down when I started golfing 26 years ago. The guys laugh so hard when they see them - and if I was easily embarrassed, taking these clubs to a fancy Golf Club might be a problem. My irons, a 5 and 9, are so rusted it's hard to read the number on them. I have a 1 wood and 3 wood along with an assortment of 5 putters to choose from. LOL!

Eric was our coach and cheerleader, always ready with some positive comments and encouragement. ... and when needed, he gave firm direction like harrassing Craig into using his 1 wood instead of the 3 iron when we needed his drive on the last hole. PERFECT!!!! - best shot Craig had all day! :)

Fred was our easy going, positive, fun, always smiling, have a good time teammate. So good to have his laid back attitude set the tone for our day!

Eric asked this question at every putt: "Who wants to put it in?" and since everyone else is being so "gentlemanly", I step up...and actually make a few good putts!

We ended in first place at 2 under. GO TEAM BERYLLIUM!!! :)

It was a perfect day and a perfect start to Week 1 of Summer Vacation!

The House of the GREAT Divide

2011-06-08T07:23:00.000-07:00

For the past week, I have been living in a home of “The GREAT Divide”. Craig and I are on polar opposites of an issue and have engaged in numerous “passionate discussions” about this issue. Honestly, there has been many times that I have not “felt the love”…

BUT

I am thankful, yes THANKFUL for this trial we are going through within our relationship and within our church body. Craig and I both AGREE that God is testing us. We believe He wants us to learn some things about ourselves, our family, our church, and ultimately about Him. I love to learn, I just don’t want to be stretched so much that I am uncomfortable. I especially dislike pain, which is what we are feeling in this trial – the pain of stretched relationships.

I am thankful for the opportunity to be able to understand what’s going on in our Elder Board, Pastoral Search Committee, and Church body through a microcosm of the controversy in our home.

In working through this at home, Craig and I have some advantages:

1. Craig is an elder responsible for leading the congregation and affecting the body by his decisions. I, as part of the search team, have sought God’s will for our body through countless hours of prayer, time and energy in this process. I am acutely aware of everything that has been done to get us to the point of where we are today.

2. I know Craig’s heart better than anyone (besides God, of course). He earnestly desires to please God and do what is right in His eyes for the body of LFC. Craig knows me better than anyone on this earth and that my heart and passion is to obey the Lord and His Word above anything else.

3. We know we can be real and completely honest with one another, and even if we never come to an agreement, we know we still love and respect each other, and will continue to live our lives for God. We leave it up to Him to correct our understanding in His time. Neither of us will be walking away from the other at the end of this discussion.

In working through this, I’ve come to the conclusion (again) that there are two sides to every issue and we rarely have all the information; there’s usually more than meets the eye (or ears).

Those who hold to the constitution have been called “Pharisees”, holding to the letter of the law (minimum 90%). From their perspective it’s a matter of faith and trusting God’s sovereign power. He could have moved people in a way to achieve the minimum. Nothing is impossible for God. He is in control of all things, including this vote. He (as well as everyone involved) knew we needed 90%, and was not surprised by the shortfall. He has a plan in it, and he works all things together for the good of those who love him and are called according to His purpose. We need to just trust and wait on Him.

Those who hold to the position that we should have rounded up, contend that the spirit of the law (constitution) was fulfilled by 89.665%. Jesus was always challenging the law and breaking it when it was in the best interest of people. They contend, to round up would have been what Jesus would have done, choosing to love people over abiding by the law. These people have been judged as trying to manipulate the outcome their way. They have been accused of playing “god” because they didn’t agree with the decision. Their faith has been questioned and they have been judged as “less spiritual” than those who say that God sovereignly allowed the vote to fall short as his will to not call the candidate.

These are godly men and women on both sides of this issue whom I have discussed this with – at length. Many of them feel passionately about their position. I respect and love them all. I can see their perspective. There is Biblical support for both sides; I can accept both.

My heart aches. Something that was instituted to ensure unity of the body behind a new leader has become something to divide the body. This should not be! I pray the devil doesn’t win, because surely, he would love to see us fight among ourselves and tear this body apart.

I am thankful for the trials because through them, we are being built up into the people God needs us to be. (James 1 and 1 Peter 1 – read them!) He is doing a work – will we let Him complete it?

I am thankful we have leadership who passionately desire to do God’s will above their own.

I am thankful for leadership willing to admit their weakness and failures, publicly.

I am thankful for leadership willing to evaluate their action and seek to correct a wrong, if so determined.

I am thankful for leadership willing to humble themselves before God and the body they serve to seek forgiveness and restoration.

I am thankful that leadership is responsible and will answer to God for the decisions they make. Their decisions both good and bad will have consequences that affect me and the rest of the body, but God’s Word tells me to submit to the leaders He has placed over me. (Hebrews 13:17) I will accept their decision and serve together with them with JOY to advance His kingdom!

Praying for our Elders, praying for the Search Team, praying for our body…Loving God and Loving People!

1Thessalonians 5:12-28

Obedience Would Be Easy...

2011-05-04T14:14:00.000-07:00

...if only God would speak to me like He did in Bible times."

I had plans for Saturday. I was very excited about our Mission Conference. It was going to be all about using the internet to share Christ with people.

...God had other plans...

When I got up Saturday morning, I asked how I could help Craig. He said he could use my help at Dad's, fixing the plumbing and getting the place ready to sell.

But, but, but...I thought we were going to the Mission Conference...:-(

My first response was,

"I'll go, but I'll drive separately so I can make it to the conference if you don't get done by 12:30."

"See you up there," he said with a hint of disappointment in his voice.

My heart was pricked immediately and my thoughts flipped back to that little pink book (A Woman After God's Own Heart) and all that I learned:

God is my first priority,

then my husband,

then my children,

THEN ministry.

I am my husband's helper (Genesis 2:18) and God has commanded me to submit to my own husband (Ephesians 5, Colossians 3 and 1 Peter 3) in everything (as long as it's not immoral or illegal) and clearly, helping with plumbing and cleaning is neither.

I ran after him, and jumped in the truck beside him. *sigh* We worked until 4:30, missed the conference, and were physically and emotionally exhausted, but...on the drive home I got a rare and precious gift: "Thank you for all your help today. I really appreciated it - it meant a lot to me."

God DOES speak to us today.We can only hear as we read, study and apply His Word...

I am basking in blessings of obedience in the midst of life that honestly, is not a lot of fun right now. Sometimes, you just have to "CHOOSE JOY!" :)

The Floodgates Open

2011-04-28T18:16:00.000-07:00

Not only have the floodgates of heaven opened pouring forth rain on the earth, but the floodgates of heaven have also been pouring God's blessings into my life. I can barely breathe - I feel like I am drowning at times...

My friends know that this transition back into full time engineering at General Motors after 20 years of "retirement" have been difficult. I have felt like I've lost my identity and purpose. I have been focusing on all that has been taken away from me - the ministry I thought was to do, the people I wanted to reach, the sacrifices I chose to make - instead of focusing on what God was doing in my life. I lost track of the fact that this life I live isn't about ME, it's all about Jesus!

I wish I could share all that God is doing...I can't, but here are a few glimpses:

1) The opportunity to allow Craig to serve me in an area that I have served him pretty exclusively for the last 20 years. We've come full circle, back to sharing in household cooking, cleaning, laundry, shopping etc., as I do my part in bringing home the "bacon". I never dreamed it would be so hard to give up! :)

2) Working together throughout the week, enjoying talking "shop" around the dinner table and understanding each other's successes and struggles...

3) Receiving encouraging IMs throughout the day. ;-) He lifts me up when I am down and prods me on when I feel like giving up. It feels like when we were first dating. (We met at GM 27 years ago!) I keep looking for "perennial" flowers in a beaker on my desk. ;-) Or a helium balloon with a smiley tied to my chair. Unfortunately, my desk is in Pontiac and his is in Warren. :-(

4) Grateful to see his reduced stress over financial matters.

5) The AMAZING work God did in placing a ministry burden on Craig and me independently, then drawing us together in the offering ...Don't know if, when, or how the offering will be used, but I have been blessed beyond words with the fact that we are in unity and stepped out in faith together in obedience with open hands - my faith has grown to have experienced God in this way!

There is so much more...

I want to live with open hands and a grateful heart! :)

Dance Your Shoes Off - He's ALIVE!

2011-04-24T04:50:00.000-07:00

Made me want to join in. Who wouldn't want to be a part of this energy and excitement for Jesus?! Loved all the sizes, shapes, ages, coordination levels involved. Angie - watch to the end...thought you would appreciate this! :)

Young Models of Godliness

2011-04-07T18:34:00.000-07:00

"Let no one despise you for your youth, but set the believers an example in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith, in purity." 1 Timothy 4:12

I am thankful for the "young adults" in my life who, by their actions and "words" are living, walking models of faithful sojourners in this life. I've been convicted, challenged, and encouraged by their desire to be faithful to God above all and everyone else.

1.) Making a hard decision without complete understanding to obey God's small still voice, when it hurt, went against hopes, dreams and desires, and brought criticism from family and friends.
2.) Responding with grace, understanding and kind words...
3.) Stopping a conversation in mid thought, realizing that to continue would be to gossip.

I'm tired, I'm weary, and falling so short of who I desire to be and need to be. I can't do this on my own. Thank you that you are strong enough for both of us...

I can do All things through Christ who strengthens me, knowing that He who began a good work in me will complete it. Thank you, Lord!

WAIT!

2011-03-29T18:58:00.000-07:00

There seems to be a recurring theme I have been hearing, and I'm certain it is the Lord trying to get my attention!

Recently I watched (numerous times in the last three weeks) the movie, "The Lake House". It's about two people separated by time who are required to WAIT to avoid tragedy and to ultimately be together. I watched, feeling their frustration as they tried desperately to be a part of each other's life, living in the same place but separated by 2 years in time. They were able to communicate and build a friendship through letters. They were so close, yet so impossibly far apart. In the end, because they WAITED...

Two of my favorite gals have shared that the Lord has clearly told them to WAIT in their circumstances. They don't understand it, nevertheless it is very clear. Delayed gratification isn't popular in our culture and I ache with them and for them to realize the desires of their hearts in God's time.

During my study in the Psalms last week, the application I chose for my life was to WAIT on the Lord demonstrating my TRUST in Him, His sovereignty, and His faithfulness. As we looked ahead to next week's study in Psalm 40, I had to laugh as I glanced at the 1st verse:

"I waited patiently for the Lord"

Isn't God AWESOME?! The Creator of the universe loves me and cares enough for me to speak to me personally!
.....
As I filled my bird feeders tonight, I saw tender purple petals peeking through the icy ground. "WAIT!" I cried.

Waiting on you, Lord...patiently! :)

Sleeplessness, Scriptures and My Savior

2011-03-27T19:00:00.000-07:00

"Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, Rejoice...do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." Philippians 4:4, 6

I spent another sleepless night, last night. Instead of trying to force sleep, I slipped out of my bed, grabbed my Bible and journal and started sharing with Jesus all the thoughts racing through my mind. Scriptures that I had hidden deep in my heart flooded my mind and brought me comfort as I scrawled all that He was saying to me through His Word. I read, wrote, and prayed until I couldn't keep my eyes open and was finally able to slip back into bed for a few hours of sleep.

This morning, I picked up my current read - "The Christian Atheist" by Craig Groeschel and continued where I left off - Chapter 8 "When You Believe in God but Still Worry". OUCH! Nothing like having everything God spoke to me in the middle of the night confirmed by the light of day! He even used ALL of the same scriptures I had read through!

Lord,
Help me to let go of the need to control so much in my life. I ask for the peace that passes all understanding to guard my heart and my mind in Christ Jesus. I'm all yours, Cheryl

What Faith Can Do

2011-03-26T04:19:00.000-07:00

If you know me at all, you know that music ministers to my soul. Lately, life has been really hard for me, my family, and my friends. Strained marriages, insecurities in parenting the very young and the young adults in our lives, financial struggles, health issues, job stress - whether it's a current job or looking for one; there's tragedies happening all around us - some hitting very close to our hearts and homes, and everywhere I look, I see feelings of failure, discouragement, despair and hopelessness.

In our sufferings, in our failures, in our discouragement there is hope - hope that is sure.

Thank you, Jesus for being the hope that does not disappoint. Give me the faith that moves mountains, hope that never ends.

What Faith Can Do Lyrics at elw

Adjustments

2011-02-27T15:55:00.000-08:00

"Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things. What you have learned and received and heard and seen ... practice these things, and the God of peace will be with you." Philippians 4:8-9

I've been struggling with adjusting to all the changes in my life, especially in the last year. I've loved my job of being a "stay at home" wife and mom and all that's allowed me to do these past 20 years: homeschool, volunteer, and serve.

With both "kids' out of the house, declining economic climate and rising tuition/college expenses, I've been "thrust" back into the corporate workforce. To put it mildly, I'm still adjusting and have found myself grumbling...a lot...too much! I've been selfish and self-centered.

Philippians 4:8 has been a verse that I've memorized and prayed for the past several years, through some very tough trials, but I have overlooked verse 9 - PRACTICE these things. This is the hard part.

So here goes...I'm dwelling on the positive.This is where it has to start:

Lord,

Who am I, that you are mindful of me; that You hear me when I call?

Is it true that You are thinking of me? How you love ME!

Thank you for what is:

True - I have a vehicle that gets me where I need to go. It may be falling apart, unsightly, noisy, and need regular maintenance, but I have a husband who has the knowledge and inclination to keep our vehicles running.

Honorable - I have husband who is rigid about finances, keeping us out of debt.

Just & Pure - I have a husband who holds me accountable to glorify God with my words, attitude and action on a daily basis, reminding me (rebuking, if necessary) to have an attitude of gratitude.

Lovely & Commendable - My kids are working hard and doing well in their studies, displaying increasing personal responsibility.

Praiseworthy - Because of God's abundant provision through my job, we are able to help our children finance their college education, relieving them of the additional stress of starting out their independence with the burden of debt.

Thank you, Lord!

Let the words of my mouth and the meditations of my heart be pleasing to you Lord, my Rock and my Redeemer!

Gifts at Genesys

2011-01-17T04:47:00.000-08:00

I realized I hadn't posted this. It was before Christmas...

********************************************************

There have been so many people - family members, friends, and church family - who I have been in prayer for this past week. The needs include physical healing, financial provision, relationships restored, and guidance.

How appropriate that my study this week focused on the Peace that we have through Jesus Christ.

455. A life-size nativity outside the entrance to Genesys Medical Center.

456. A poem by Peter Marshall, Chaplain to the US Senate posted inside the Genesys Medical Center elevator pointing to Jesus who is "the way, the truth, and the life."

457. Being with friends through the bad times as well as the good.

458. Advent reading for today focused on Jesus, our peace.

459. and finally, on the way to worship this morning, the first song we heard was, "Hold Me Jesus"

It's a Battle - It's a Choice

2011-01-02T12:45:00.000-08:00

It's a new year and I'm battling with the same struggles - all related to my mouth.

This morning's Scripture reading came from Genesis 4:6-7

"...'Why are you angry, and why has your face fallen? If you do well, will you not be accepted? And if you do not do well, sin is crouching at the door. Its desire is for you, but you must rule over it.'"

Then again from this morning's message taken from Romans 6:12,

"Let not sin therefore reign in your mortal body, to make you obey its passions."

Who am I obeying? The deceiver whispers in my ear, "You'll never win this battle. You're a failure. You should have this mastered, by now. You are weak. You are useless."

Thankfully, I KNOW my God and my God is the God of second, and third, and fourth...chances. By His grace I will overcome, for it is:

"...Not by might, nor by power, but by my Spirit, says the Lord of hosts." Zechariah 4:6

If I believe my God is mighty to save, how can I NOT believe that He is mighty to overcome my weaknesses?

My Jesus, My Savior,

You have accepted me as I am - all my fears and failures. I ask that you move the mountain in my life. You conquered the grave, help me conquer the enemy (often myself) in this daily battle I fight. You never fail! May your mercy fall on me. I surrender; I give my life to follow that your light might shine through me for the glory of the risen King!

BonVoyage 2010 - The 4-C's

2011-01-01T10:30:00.000-08:00

Reflecting on the events of the past year, the 4-C’s will remember 2010 as a year of changes and challenges, but also overflowing with God’s blessings!

Cristin is in her senior year at Charleston Southern University. She thoroughly enjoys her studies and her extra-curricular activities such as Lyric Theater for which she was the stage manager. This spring, she won the first undergraduate research award for the Southeastern Region of the American Music Therapy Association for her research about the effect of music on children with Autism. In June, she had the unexpected opportunity to go to Italy with her choir. She enjoyed her second summer at Spring Hill Camp as a Wrangler-Counselor-Coach and is planning to return for a third summer. Cristin is also busy investigating internship possibilities starting next fall – a six month internship is a requirement for graduation.

Chad did not come home this summer as he was able to obtain a summer job at the University of Alabama Huntsville; we only saw him twice between January and December. The summer job led to a position as an RA in the freshman residence hall, which he has enjoyed. Chad planned a road trip and weekend away to visit Cristin in Charleston for Thanksgiving. He excels in his academics and is excited about an engineering internship with American Axle & Manufacturing this coming summer.

In March, Craig’s dad lost his battle with kidney cancer. We were thankful that he made it home from Florida in time to spend his last few days with the family. Dad’s passing has left quite a void in our lives. Craig still works as a chemist for GM. This year, his job has taken him to Florida, Mexico, and Delaware. Between taking care of Dad’s Estate, serving our church as an elder, and keeping our vehicles operational, there was no spare time to attend on his favorite hobby, and the boat was left dry docked for the second summer in a row. He did get to do some salmon fishing, thanks to the generosity of good friends.

The most amazing news is that Cheryl was hired by GM as a Fluids & Lubricants Materials Engineer after working 8 months contract in the Chemistry lab under the same manager. While she loved her work in the lab, the engineering job provides many new opportunities, challenges, and benefits. She never dreamed she’d be back to work as an engineer after 20 years of retirement. It has been a challenge to balance home and career – definitely a work in progress.

Craig and Cheryl also celebrated their 25^th wedding anniversary in September, fishing out of Ludington with our good friends, the Allens and Ludwigs.

Finally, with all of our lives changing and realizing it will not get simpler with careers and independence, Cheryl had to do something drastic to get the family together for our first family vacation since early 2006. She “imprisoned” the 4-C’s on a ship for a 4 night cruise from Port Canaveral to the Bahamas. We thoroughly enjoyed our time together. The main highlight was that Craig “forced” the kids to parasail over Coco Cay. Chad entered the paper airplane and table tennis competition onboard, while Cristin surprised us by her rock wall climbing prowess. Other activities included a Pirates and Fort Tour in Nassau, reading, playing cards, and just hanging out, relaxing together.

We concluded the year hanging out with our family – we had a70th birthday celebration for Gramps; Craig and Chad fished on Barnes Lake; Cristin and Cheryl enjoyed skiing and snowmobiling at Knable’s Kottage with Nonna & Gramps and Julie & her boys.

As we say Bon Voyage to 2010, we anticipate the exciting adventure God has for us in 2011! Happy New Year!

Gifts From My Children

2010-12-05T03:05:00.000-08:00

In the last week and a half, I received many gifts from my children. Every call, e-mail, and IM makes me smile - well, most every one!

449. Hearing that Chad wants to go fishing with Dad on break, and Cristin wants to go hunting on the property. This surprised their dad and I'm sure blessed his socks off ! :)

450. Getting a "safe arrival" call twice during the week. The thought of my kids looking forward to just hanging out together and willing to spend 8-10 hours in the crazy holiday traffic each way to do it is a gift.

451. Getting a call that a phone interview for a summer internship IN MICHIGAN went well. The thought of both kids being within day visit produces anticipation and joy that is difficult to contain.

452. Getting a message stating he got the internship at American Axle and Manufacturing - YAY God! It looks like Chad will be home for the summer.

453. "New Bible" topping the Christmas list for both kids.

454. A humorous e-mail from Cristin that made both Craig and I laugh. The Lord knows, we need to laugh more.

"Behold, children are a heritage from the LORD,
        the fruit of the womb a reward.
    Like arrows in the hand of a warrior
        are the children of one's youth.
    Blessed is the man
        who fills his quiver with them!
    He shall not be put to shame
        when he speaks with his enemies in the gate."
(Psalm 127:3-5 ESV)

Thank you, Lord, for my children. They are a precious gift from you!

Scrapbooking Until it Hurts

2010-11-27T17:14:00.000-08:00

Today, I stayed home and scrapbooked to my heart's content - or rather, until my hands hurt, my eyes started blurring, and I ran out of tape - amazing how it all happened at the same time. :)

448. I am thankful to have had a day, pretty much to myself, without anywhere to go, no one to see, and nothing else to do. OK, I really should have cleaned house, but I played "hooky" instead! I looked through pictures, tried to remember names of people from six years ago (my memory is not so good, these days), and tried to come up with creative ways to display them in my scrapbook. Did I say I "played" today? I take it all back...This creating thing is hard WORK!

I am exhausted, and ready to relax on the couch with a good movie or a good book. Or, maybe I'll just enjoy watching the backs of my eyelids. =D

What a great day! I am blessed...

A REALLY old picture of me doing the limbo on a cruise we took BEFORE kids. I better start practicing...leaving in 3 weeks. YAHOO!

A Different Thanksgiving and Black Friday

2010-11-26T16:35:00.000-08:00

This year, Craig and I spent Thanksgiving at the home of friends and with their extended family. We were not the only "orphaned" family they took in this Thanksgiving.

My character and thankful attitude was challenged on several occasions - yet, I still praise His name!

440. Failed pie crusts are just a cup of flour an a little shortening - thankful it's easy to start again, and thankful for the www. to figure out what went wrong! (I've made dozens of pies, so I was stumped!) Could it be the old, old flour?

441. Pumpkin pie mix spewing out of the base of my blender splattering everything within a square foot area. I had checked the seal but failed to see the huge crack through the plastic blade mount. *sigh* I guess it served me well for the last 25 years. I'm thankful it's easy and inexpensive to replace, and I now have something on my Christmas list. :)

442. "Helping" Craig carry in our food, only to spill turkey juice down the front of me before we got to the house. Thankful that a little water and rag got it out, though it was a little sticky when it dried.

443. Being unbelievably embarrassed in front of a roomful of people I had just met by something I had no control over. Nothing like a BIG dose of humility and being thankful to be an adult and not a teenager. Some day I'll get over it and may even be able to laugh about it. :-/

444. Thankful for gracious hosts and the opportunity to meet and get to know some new people.

445. Thankful for phones and phone calls from my kids. And thankful they miss being with me- almost as much as I miss being with them.

446. Calling our very best neighbors ever and having a long conversation to catch up. We'll never forget them even though they live across the country. It's still fun talking to them and we're so thankful for the impact they had on our young family.

447. Spending the day scrapbooking and visiting with my sister, thankful I was not out navigating the crowded streets, parking lots, and stores. Just being with her is the BEST! (But I actually accomplished something, too.)

Sometimes, you don't appreciate things until you don't have them, anymore. I have always been thankful for my family, but never so aware of the void they fill as this Thanksgiving when we weren't able to be together.

This may shape future Thanksgivings...

With Thanksgiving

2010-11-25T03:22:00.000-08:00

Giving Thanks with a Grateful Heart for:

421. My God and Savior, Jesus Christ, without whom I'd have no hope in this world or for the next.

422. My one and only husband of 25 years...and they said it would never last! Thankful for the adventure we're in.

423. My "kids" excited to spend a few days together; excited to cook, and bake.

424. Seeing my children grow up and what they are becoming. It's a blessing to see that them making some of our values their own.

425. Seeing my children flourish where God has placed them and knowing that even though they are so far away, they are right where God wants them and trusting Him to care for them.

426. My Dad recovering from a mild stroke.

427. The love and support of my family and extended family.
428. Many happy memories of large family Thanksgiving gatherings.

429. People who look out for my kids while they are so far from home.

430. Blessed to have been able to stay at home and raise my children - the memories are precious, irreplaceable, and forever.

431. Sitting under the teaching of a godly pastor for the last 4 1/2 years.

432. Old vehicles that are paid for and still get me to where I need to go. (And a husband that can figure out how to keep them running!)

433. Learning to be content in all circumstances.

My new job at the NEW GM - Who could ever imagine that I could get back into a career after 20 years of retirement AND back with that same company I started with 25 years ago?! 434. Unbelievable in human terms, but predictably a "God thing".

435. Awesome, helpful co-workers!(Thanks Jess and Joan for all the "training".)

436. Financial provision to be able to help our kids pay for college so they won't graduate with a load of debt.

437. Seeing people grow in their faith as they read, study, and "do-do" the Word. :)

438. Mentors and mentees who challenge me to live out my faith loudly, and encourage me in word and deed.

439. Friends who open their homes and hearts to others.

Have a Blessed Thanksgiving!

Sending Dad "Butterfly Kisses"

2010-11-18T02:59:00.000-08:00

420. Yesterday, Dad (Gramps) gave us a scare. I am thankful for my dad and so thankful we are a family that expresses it often and in many ways. We don't just wait for holidays or Hallmark Days to say, "I love you, Dad." or "I've been blessed to have you for my dad."

I remember the flood of tears that flowed the first time I heard this song - it reminded me of my relationship with my dad:

You did lots of things right - I LOVE YOU, DAD!

Silver and Gold Friends

2010-11-16T16:18:00.000-08:00

"Make new friends,
but keep the old.
One is silver,
the other is gold..."

Today, I'm thankful for the gifts of my Forever Friends, and for the Spirit that binds us!

These are the gifts I received yesterday:

416. A Facebook message from a "golden" friend introducing me to another song with the same title as the one I posted.

417. A visit with a "golden friend", my "Bible study mentor. We can pick up just where we left off, a year and a half ago, we speak the same language, I love her heart. I am moved by her passion. I left with a knitted hearts dishcloth and a scrumptuous recipe I can't wait to try - Cupcake Bites - simply sinful! They are like chocolate truffles...Maybe I'll share the reciple. ;-)

418. Walked four miles while talking with a silver friend. It was a beautiful fall day to enjoy together.

419 Spent the evening with a circle of silver friends. These are precious women I meet with every week to share what God is teaching each of us, to hold each other accountable to live according to His Word, to encourage each other to "hang in there", and keep the focus on the One who is able to do abundantly more than we could ever ask or imagine!

Why Go to Church?

2010-11-15T04:02:00.000-08:00

"And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near." (Hebrews 10:24-25 ESV)

These are a few of the blessings I received because I was in "church" yesterday-not in any particular order:

410. Getting to hear a young man share his gift of music as he shared a piano solo during corporate worship. It is a huge encouragement to see families involved in worship, serving the Lord and His people together; their love for the Lord radiates and invigorates!

411. Talking to a young gal who would like to learn to knit. (She is desperate, if she's asking me, but I would LOVE to spend time teaching her the little that I know.) :)

412. Encouraging others and being encouraged to "fight the good fight, finish the race, keep the faith".

413. Catching up with friends who have been traveling or recovering.

414. Getting lots of hugs. (We need 4 hugs a day for survival, 8 hugs a day for maintenance, and 12 hugs a day for growth. ~ Virginia Satir)

415. The blessing of being led in worship through the gift of song:

Amen!

Led with Stong Hands

2010-11-14T12:18:00.000-08:00

409. This week I was blessed to listen to my husband's end of a difficult telephone conversation. I came away praising God for the work He has done in my husband because I observed a godly (not perfect) man who has been transformed by the grace of God, speaking with great patience and restraint, love, and wisdom - Biblical wisdom.

There is nothing more appealing to me, a woman who loves the Lord, than to see my husband walking with Him, growing in Him, and leading under His authority.

"Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come." (2 Corinthians 5:17 ESV)

Lord,
I am in awe and forever grateful for your grace and mercy to us, who are lost and without hope in this world. Thank you for the change you've made in my life and in those most precious and dear to me. Lead me in your way, everlasting! Amen!

Sometimes It's the SimpleThings

2010-11-07T11:10:00.000-08:00

These seemingly simple things are treasured gifts in the busyness of this life I now live.

399. Getting a full 8 hours of sound sleep - two nights in a row!
400. Being able to finally leave work on time.
401. The excitement of receiving vacation details and confirmation packets in the mail.
402. Relaxing, face to face (well, foot to foot) and talking with my hubby under the cozy cover of one of our wedding afghans, without any other distractions-no t.v., radio, projects...
403. An invitation to join another family's Thanksgiving dinner and celebration.
404. Washing floors and doing household chores while listening to an exciting Michigan Football game on the radio. Brought back lots of memories of my high school Saturdays on "the farm" in Fenton.
405. Working in the kitchen side by side with my mom, baking an apple pie from scratch as we caught up on life.
406. Watching my dad and hubby having some side-by-side time, sighting in firearms off the deck, and the look of pride on my dad's face as his first shot was reported a bullseye!
407. Enjoying leftovers with company - more like enjoying company while eating leftovers. No need to get fancy after a busy day of chores.
408. Corporate worship and the confirmation of the Lord's Word to me all week through song:

My Scripture memory for this week:
"Jesus said to her, 'Everyone who drinks of this water will be thirsty again, but whoever drinks of the water that I will give him will never be thirsty again. The water that I will give him will become in him a spring of water welling up to eternal life.'"(John 4:13-14 ESV)

Lord, I know you are more than enough - help me live like you are more than enough!

The Gift of Freedom

2010-11-02T16:46:00.000-07:00

Blessings I'm counting today...

391. Having the freedom to work out of my home.
392. Getting a paid "Holiday" from work just to vote!
393. Living in a country where I have the freedom, the right, the responsibility, and indeed the privilege to vote - to have my opinion count in the selection of the leadership of the greatest country in the world!
394. Getting a tip from a friend about how to get coupons for Restaurant Deals and Discounts!
395. Enjoying a leisurely lunch with a friend.
396. An amazing dessert that isn't even chocolate! (And enough to feed four easily! A take home treasure.)
397. A brisk walk in the brisk fall afternoon with a dear friend and her dog. I miss my Lucky. :-(
398. Three calls from my daughter friend just to catch up on life. :) <3

I had to go to my archives to find this song, but it's been on my mind all day:

"Let every person be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and those that exist have been instituted by God." (Romans 13:1 ESV)

Masks - What Are We Afraid Of?

2010-10-31T12:37:00.000-07:00

The lesson for today's family worship was about wearing masks - the premise is that we all do it. We heard about three types of masks - reasons we wear masks:

1) To try to emulate others to be what WE WANT to be,

2) To "fit in" to our society and what other people want us to be,

3) To look more spiritual than we are...

The challenge was to think of which mask I am wearing, and get rid of it this week; be who GOD wants me to be - who He created me to be, because God doesn't make junk! He designed me perfectly and has a plan for my life. That plan and purpose doesn't necessarily come without pain and discomfort as he sculpts me perfectly for the work He has prepared just for me!

God’s Chisel « Videos « The Skit Guys

Gifts received today -

386. Family Worship Service at Life Fellowship Chapel.

387 God's chisel at work in me - He loves me and cares enough for me to change me.

388. Removing masks today at home...life is just plain hard, right now, but it's ok. We have each other and Jesus walks with us.

389. Ladies' LIFE Monday night - new study, Living Free by Beth Moore. No coincidence that what we get in worship complements what we study in LIFE Group.

390. A relaxing afternoon at home.

"Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect." Romans 12:2

God's Plan NOT My Plan

2010-10-30T16:20:00.000-07:00

Well, life is quite different these days, since I started back to work full time, as a permanent employee for the NEW General Motors. This wasn't in my plan - it wasn't in my wildest dreams - to be back to work as a Materials Engineer for a large company after 20 years as a stay-at-home mom. No, it wasn't my plan, it was God's plan, and I am beginning to see some of the work He has prepared for me;
     it's scary,
it's exciting,
               it's exhausting,
        it's humbling,
                         it's challenging,
                              it's overwhelming
                                   it's in HIS hands!

"Many are the plans in the mind of a man, but it is the purpose of the Lord that will stand." Proverbs 19:21

I can't begin to relate all the blessings I've experienced these past few months, but here are a few...

386. All expense paid travel to places I've never been.
387. Experiencing restaurants I would never step in on my own - the price tag would keep me at a distance.
388. A dinner cruise around Manhattan.
389. The awe of seeing the Statue of Liberty for the first time...and then again all lit up at night.
390. The beauty of the New York Skyline lit up at night, understanding how it got it's nickname, "the city that never sleeps" (and being Glad that I don't live there!).
391. Meeting fun people from all over the world - everyone say, "We're GLOBAL!"
392. Feeling those "professional" skills starting to come back.
393. Confidence building.
394. Helpful suppliers.
395. Coming home to dinner on the table. (Role reversal!)
396. Awed anew by blazing fall colors against a clear blue sky.
397. Coming home from a long week away on business to find a cozy fire, dinner cooking, and open arms waiting for me!
398. Having an opportunity to get to know my co-worker who comes from a very different culture and has very different beliefs than me.
399. "Knowing that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose." Romans 8:28

Letting Go and Loving Life

2010-08-28T14:52:00.000-07:00

"I’m letting go...it feels like I’m falling and that’s what it’s like to believe...Trusting and trying to embrace The fear of the unknown, Beyond my comfort zone...Knowing You are holding me, I’m not afraid..."

And because I'm not afraid, I'm free to live and love life:

372. Catching up with co-workers - they're all awesome!
373. Garden goodies from friends - yummy!
374. Cooking dinner with my mom
375. Gramps' Funny Faces - I laughed so hard! He looks(and acts) more and more like Papa every day!
376. Friendly "feuding" family card games
377. Gazing at my husband across the table as he grins, smiles, and laughs
378. Laughing the night away with my parents and my love
379. Sunshine, blue skies, and cooler weather
380. Leisurely shopping
381. People Watching: Elderly couples shopping side by side as they steadied themselves by the cart, a dad carrying his son, a granddaughter, walking hand in hand with her grandpa, a mother and daughter who looked like best friends, a family of four all dressed up for something special
382. Seeing people you know in unexpected places
383. Being able to wish someone "Happy Birthday" in person after being clued in by Facebook :)
384. Installing new technology and having it work! YAY!
385. Being "helpmate" to a wonderful man

"The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases;
his mercies never come to an end;
they are new every morning;
great is your faithfulness.
“The Lord is my portion,” says my soul,
“therefore I will hope in him.”

Finding Wings

2010-08-24T16:37:00.000-07:00

As a parent, my goal was to raise my children to be responsible, independent adults who love God with all their heart and live to serve Him and His people. As the time came to nudge them out of the nest, my protective nature took over, and it became clear this "letting go" was going to be much more difficult than I had anticipated. This weekend, God allowed me to witness the strength of their wings and the wind beneath them. He also gave me peace to unfold my own wings, which will allow me to soar to the new heights and new adventures He has been preparing for me.

Today, I'm thanking Him for these gifts:

362. Seeing my kids maturing and flourishing as they spread their wings and begin to fly; Thankful for the opportunities God is providing for each one of them.

363. An uneventful college road trip and caravan to Alabama (UAH) and South Carolina (CSU).

364. A gracious and helpful Holiday Inn Express Hotel manager who remedied my booking mistake with a smile.

365. Spending a couple hours with both “kids” and listening to the familiar “banter” between them.

366. Aunt Carol’s gracious hospitality offering a drop in room for the night with a goody bag of healthy fruit and muffins for the road.

367. The gift of a loaf of fresh home(dorm)-baked bread from Chad as we said goodbyes for another 3 months.

368. Hanging out with Cristin’s roommates in their awesome Super Senior Suite while they unpacked and shared stories of summer.

369. Safe, uneventful flights to a wonderful husband waiting to whisk me home.

370. An understanding boss.

371. The flexibility of working online and off-site.

It's time to move on to the new adventures God has planned for all of us. I'm finally ready!

“Remember not the former things,
nor consider the things of old.
Behold, I am doing a new thing;
now it springs forth, do you not perceive it?
I will make a way in the wilderness
and rivers in the desert." Isaiah 43:18-19

Riding the Roller Coaster of Life

2010-08-01T17:08:00.000-07:00

Since Friday morning, I have been riding a roller coaster of emotions. The highs are exhilarating; the lows...not so much. But still, I look to find whatever..."whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things." Philippians 4:8

352. News that Chad got the RA job for next year at UAH. Lots of other encouraging talk.

353. Picked up my NEW GM EMPLOYEE ID! It worked - YAY! Looking forward to beginning a new chapter in my life, back to work as a Materials Engineer at General Motors on Monday.

354. Got a flat tire as we were merging onto I-75 during Friday morning rush hour. Thankfully, no one was hurt.

355. Was rear-ended by a semi-truck while stopped for a red light after replacing all tires. So discouraged that our "best" vehicle (though it is a '98 with 150,000 miles) has a buckled trunk, bumper, and broken taillights. Very thankful that it was still driveable for our weekend getaway.

356. Sad to pack up my Warren office - I'll miss my awesome Materials Lab co-workers! Thankful I will have many opportunities to continue to work with them as their "customer".

357. Connected with Craig's college friends and their family, then with my college roommate and her husband who hosted us at their Bed & Breakfast.

Melanie & Tony Barnard

358. An opportunity to catch a couple of salmon on Lake Michigan. Yummy!

359. Waking to a rainy Saturday - perfect weather for Craig to enjoy.

360. More vehicle issues - Thankfully, Dad arrived to the rescue, just in time to fix the brakes.

We had the WHOLE cabin to ourselves!

360. Hanging out with Cristin and getting a private trail ride to the outback. Getting to play euchre with Cristin and her friend. (AND got beat!)

Cristin leads with Dexter

Cristin gets Dad situated on Rowdy while Mom and Red watch.

Waiting to worship.

361. Coming home to find my faithful friend, Lucky dog, rapidly deteriorating healthwise...not looking forward to what the next couple days will require. :-(

I'm focusing on the great memories of my faithful shadow - a great dog!

....Still I will PRAISE Him!

Precious Memories

2010-07-08T11:39:00.000-07:00

Memories - reliving old and making new - are opportunities to thank God. These are just a few of the blessings this week.:

335. Our summer vacation beginning at the Knable Kottage with Nonna and Gramps.

336. Two of my very favorite men (Hubby and Gramps) working together most of the day Friday troubleshooting the trailer wiring, repairing the problem, and cleaning up. Thankful for the wisdom we glean from working with an older generation.

337. Nonna and I having the "chore" of "snail hunting" along the lakeshore and soaking in lots of vitamin D! It was a gorgeous day at Bear Lake and I always enjoy our conversations while we "work".

338. A Friday morning bike ride with Gramps, joining him during the second half of his ride. Time spent with my family is so precious to me, and I thank God for the relationship I have with mine.

339. A leisurely drive up and over the Mackinac Bridge. It was so neat to see the roadside packed with parked cars and the sandy Lake Huron beaches scattered with families enjoying the sunny day together. Thanking Him for families and fun times together!

340. Arriving safely on Drummond Island after hauling a 30' trailer behind a truck with a 14' boat on top.

341. More "older generation" wisdom and advice from Uncle Carl as we continued to learn new things about RV camping. :)

342. Thankful to be able to "catch up" with good friends, Annette and Lynn.

343. Thankful for the USA, and the show of patriotism at the parade.

344. Spectacular fireworks! It gave me a new understanding to, "the rockets red glare, the bombs bursting in air"!

345. Reliving precious memories of days past with Grandma Julie and Grandpa Dale.

346. Spotting an eagle and watching it soar.

347. Getting up close to an eagle, and a family of loons. Oh, they were so pretty, but I wasn't able to capture them on my camera.

348. Catching the first fish of vacation! We spent two hours scouting for fish, avoiding the floatilla of fisherman, until we finally gave in and joined them. I no sooner had my line down, and was receiving instruction, when I interjected, "Like that?!" - my bobber disappeared from view and my line was taking off away from me! We were all laughing so hard as I worked to get the first one in the boat. YAY! We had to stop 3 short of our limit of 48 herring/whitefish because there was a smoker full that needed to get checked.

349. Fun with friends and a good laugh.

350. Health to bike around the island and a beautiful evening to do it.

351. Appreciating God's beautiful handiwork in creation - flora and fauna. I startled a deer as I passed her on the side of the road and she startled me!

352. Playing "Pied Piper" to the campground labs...They were just like little children playing in the sand and water.

353. Enjoying the chatter of my friend's 2 1/2 year old granddaughter, Sarah - so precious!

354. A boat ride with Craig and Lucky - It was another beautiful evening.

355. Playing cards until midnight and laughing with friends. :-D

O Lord My God, You Are Very Great!

Growing in Grace and Knowledge

2010-06-05T06:29:00.000-07:00

"But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To him be the glory both now and to the day of eternity. Amen." 2Peter 3:18

Over the last several months, I worked through Chuck Swindoll's book and study, "The Grace Awakening" with my Ladies' LIFE group. As I walked through these lessons, I was convicted that I too, have been the rigid, critical, self-righteous, judgmental "grace killer" that Chuck describes, and it grieved me. In the past year, I, and several people I care about, have been "attacked" by "grace killers". It has been a stretching, growing, and sometimes painful year of discipleship, struggling with moving myself and others to grow in righteousness and holiness, while always speaking and acting with overwhelming grace flowing from the grace poured into me by my Savior, Jesus Christ.

I followed the study by reading Beth Moore's, "When Godly People Do Ungodly Things". It reinforced being a grace receiver and grace giver. We have an adversary who wants to destroy us, the church, and the work of God. Much grace is needed, not only in reaching out to those who need God's redeeming grace, but also to help restore our fallen "brothers" and "sisters". I am often reminded of the saying, "But by the grace of God, there go I." In the name of God and His righteousness, we beat up the brethren when they fail to meet our expectations, whether they are valid or not. We judge their hearts and intentions, best left for God since He alone knows the heart. *sigh* I have been on both sides of this, as well.

I am forever changed by the Truth I learned as I stumbled through these two books.There are so many broken people in the world. I am so thankful that God is full of grace and mercy for all who cry out to him. I am forever grateful to my God for rescuing me, and His patience as He is faithful to complete the work He began in me.

While I have been singing so many "Hallelujahs!" to God, lately, this song has really touched me, knowing that "The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit; a broken and contrite heart, O God, you will not despise."

Sometimes, there are things better than a "Hallelujah!"

Lord,

Help me to continually, day by day, grow in the grace and knowledge of you, and allow that grace and knowledge to flow freely and extravagantly onto those I come into contact with.

Having the Right Perspective on Getting Older

2010-05-06T07:11:00.000-07:00

Thanks to my friend, Dawn for sending me this!

******************************************************************************

I would never trade my amazing friends, my wonderful life, my loving family for less gray hair or a flatter belly. As I've aged, I've become kinder to myself, and less critical of myself. I've become my own friend. I don't chide myself for eating that extra cookie, or for not making my bed, or for buying that silly cement gecko that I didn't need, but looks so avante garde on my patio. I am entitled to a treat, to be messy, to be extravagant.

I have seen too many dear friends leave this world too soon; before they understood the great freedom that comes with aging.

Whose business is it if I choose to read or play on the computer until 4 AM and sleep until noon? I will dance with myself to those wonderful tunes of the 60 &70's, and if I, at the same time, wish to weep over a lost love .... I will.

I will walk the beach in a swim suit that is stretched over a bulging body, and will dive into the waves with abandon if I choose to, despite the pitying glances from the jet set. They, too, will get old.

I know I am sometimes forgetful. But there again, some of life is just as well forgotten. And I eventually remember the important things.

Sure, over the years my heart has been broken. How can your heart not break when you lose a loved one, or when a child suffers, or even when somebody's beloved pet gets hit by a car? But broken hearts are what give us strength and understanding and compassion. A heart never broken is pristine and sterile and will never know the joy of being imperfect.

I am so blessed to have lived long enough to have my hair turning gray, and to have my youthful laughs be forever etched into deep grooves on my face.

So many have never laughed, and so many have died before their hair could turn silver.

As you get older, it is easier to be positive. You care less about what other people think. I don't question myself anymore. I've even earned the right to be wrong.

So, to answer your question, I like being old. It has set me free. I like the person I have become. I am not going to live forever, but while I am still here, I will not waste time lamenting what could have been, or worrying about what will be. And I shall eat dessert every single day (if I feel like it).

MAY OUR FRIENDSHIP NEVER COME APART, ESPECIALLY WHEN IT'S STRAIGHT FROM THE HEART!

Chick Flick Night

2010-01-31T06:46:00.000-08:00

Last night we held our Ladies' LIFE Group reunion - a "Chick Flick" Night. I was looking for a movie about women's relationships and was trying to steer clear of romantic type movies, since most of us are married. I originally picked "Steel Magnolias", but after fielding some objections raised by a scathing moral review, I decided to choose a different movie so that no one would be offended. Have you ever tried to find a movie that is acceptable to a group of women from varying backrounds and at different life stages? I watched more movies in the last two weeks, than in the last two years combined. Here are some of the titles I reviewed:

Miracle in the Woods
Hidden Places
Love Comes Softly
Sense and Sensibility
The Ultimate Gift
Come What May

They were good movies, but not what I was looking for in a "Chick Flick". The movie that was most recommended as a good "Chick Flick" from outsiders, and even by some of the ladies in the group, was "Pride and Prejudice" with Kiera Knightly. That is what I settled on. It is definitely a chick flick - Craig would have very little interest in sitting through it.

I have not had much interest in historical fiction because I am not a big history fan, and I can't really relate. I did enjoy the movie, and realized as the movie played on, I had actually seen it before! My favorite parts of the movie - the balls, where there was formal dancing. I would have loved them! The end where Elizabeth is talking to her father about her love for Mr. Darcy. It was very much like my conversation with my father.

Of the two Jane Austin titles, I actually liked "Sense and Sensibility" better. I think I will watch it again. :)

The best part of the night was visiting with my friends before and after the film. It was great to catch up with the ladies in the other group and ladies who can no longer attend due to current circumstances. The evening fufilled it's purpose and that is to maintain our connection and friendships as women.

Adding to my list of gifts:

331. Women friends - to laugh, cry, pray, and rejoice with.

332. A friend recognizing that I needed prayer, stopping everything to pray for my immediate need. Thank you! Your prayer made a difference.

333. A special young man willing to "babysit" three active boys so that a young mom was able to fellowship with the ladies. What a blessing you are!

And this morning,

334. Finding a reasonable plane fare to FL for my sister-in-law with departure within the week.

Lord,

Keep me humble under your mighty hand. Help me to cast all my anxieties on you, because I know that you care for me. Help me to be sober-minded and watchful. My adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour. Help me to resist him, firm in the faith, knowing that the same kinds of suffering are being experienced by my "brothers" throughout the world. I trust that you, the God of all grace, who has called me to eternal glory in Christ, will restore, confirm, strengthen, and establish me.

With all my heart,

Cheryl

His Grace is Enough

2010-01-23T04:04:00.000-08:00

It's been a tough couple of weeks for both me and my hubby. I am thankful for my savior Jesus Christ, God of mercy and grace, and for His people of grace. I am living by grace, today! Here are some gifts of grace I've received -

316. Familiar WMUZ Christian music from the car bay as I walked by, first thing in the morning.

317. A supervisor who encourages me regularly.

318. Co-workers patient through my mistakes.

319. Receiving help and instruction from my co-worker, husband.

320. Hanging out with the work group eating chili and talking.

321. Open participation at a planning meeting.

322. Women humbly and honestly sharing their thoughts and opinions.

323. A long winter walk with my hubby.

324. Needed grocery items on sale at Meijer.

325. Sisters in Christ who are gracious and support me, even when I use poor judgment in leadership.

326. Friends who call me just to say they understand, and to encourage me.

327. Amazing, wonderful parents whom I can call and get support and encouragement from even when they are thousands of miles away.

328. Pastors with great wisdom, who ALWAYS make time for me, as if I were the only sheep in their flock.

329. Co-workers who encourage me with their stories of "fail" when I feel like a big "FAIL"!

330. A boss who "wants" us to make mistakes...though I don't think he is talking about the ones I made this week. But he does understand, and openly acknowledges that I am on a huge learning curve, right now. He uses encouraging words, often. (Words of affirmation is near the top of my "Love Language" list.)

His Grace is enough...

"But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me." 2 Corinthians 12:9

Help me to be a grace giver.

A Quiet House & "ME" Management

2010-01-10T16:11:00.000-08:00

It's week two of 2010. I've been trying to manage my time better...*NEWSFLASH*... from this morning: Time cannot be managed, it's actually ME that needs managing. I really knew that. That's why it's so hard. I have to change.

Right now, it would be easier to focus on the negative that seems to surround me, but this is the place where I share the positive, the "Gifts" I have received from God.

307. Drinking coffee and knitting with my neighbor and good friend.

308. Listening, for a change, instead of doing all the talking. *I need to do more of this. Make a note...

309. The guys (our nephew and three friends) accepting Craig's invitation to attend a "Wild Game Dinner" at a local church.

310. Quiet time at home, alone with the dog.

311. Mia snuggling up behind me while I work on the computer.

312. A walk in the sunshine with my hubby and dog on a cold, snowy day.

313. Getting to the halfway mark in my knitting project - that's an accomplishment!

314. Hugs from lots of women at church.

315. A call from Mom, who is vacationing in Hawaii.

I confess that I stumbled a bit today, having a little "pity party" over what I have "given up". It is nothing compared to what I have gained in You, Lord! Thank you for helping me to re-focus on the principles of this morning's message: "God's schedule never distracts, destroys, discourages, disappoints, or defeats." Lord, help me to live this out loud!

"I have been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me. And the life I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me." Galatians 2:20

Sweet Beginnings

2010-01-08T17:34:00.000-08:00

This week I began my "Great New Adventure" in the Chemistry Lab with Craig. It was also the end of our time with the kids - bittersweet. My list of gifts continues.

292. Shoulder-to-shoulder time for 1 1/2 hours with my hubby, 5 days a week and not having to talk to enjoy being together.

293. Dinner prepared and served by each of our children when we got home from work each day.

294. Playing and laughing together as a family during our last evening together for the next four months.

295. Enjoying learning my new job.

296. Helpful co-workers.

297. Working together as a family to be able to send venison jerky with the kids.

298. Safe travel home from work on treacherous, snowy roads.

299. Helpful phone airline agents.

300. On-line Flight Check-In.

301. Boarding passes printed at home so all the kids had to do was go through security and walk to the gate.

302. Airlines agents doing their job, and getting Cristin on an alternate flight when they canceled her booked flight - again.

303. Friends who are willing to pick up Cristin and Chad from the airport.

304. Post-Christmas Photo Greeting Card and note from my college roommate and sorority sister.

305. Receiving a forwarded photo greeting card and annual newsletter of a high school/college friend. His son looks just like him!

306. Seeing "fruit" of God's work in my family.

2010 Goals - Not Resolutions!

2010-01-05T03:20:00.000-08:00

“Without goals, and plans to reach them, you are like a ship that has set sail with no destination.” ~ Fitzhugh Dodson

Goals give me direction and achieving them, motivates me. It gives me something to focus on and those of you who know me well, know that I LOVE to check things off of a list. I also believe in "never give up or give in", and "if at first you don't succeed, try, try again"!

So here goes...my goals for 2010:

1. Read through the Bible. (Using the reading plan, Every Day in The Word )

2. Memorize one Scripture verse each week. (I post one every Monday)

3. Lose 25 pounds. I really need to lose 50, but we'll start reasonable. (I am working on a plan and looking for an accountability partner to work with me - praying that my hubby will join me.)

4. Complete a full sprint triathlon. (Start training, Monday, indoors)

5. Complete a 10K run - the Crim? (Run at least 3 times/week)

6. Finish the knitting projects I've begun. (Knit 1 hour, 3 nights/week)

7. Use up my yarn on new projects.

8. Complete the photo albums I've started. (One day each week)

9. Clean each room in the house thoroughly. (Schedule weekend time)

10. Finish repairing the hall wall, and re-hang the coat rack.

"The plans of the heart belong to man, but the answer of the tongue is from the Lord...Commit your work to the Lord, and your plans will be established...The heart of man plans his way, but the Lord establishes his steps...Many are the plans in the mind of a man, but it is the purpose of the Lord that will stand." Proverbs 16:1,3,9, & 19:21

Lord,

Most of all, my heart's desire is to please you and accomplish Your purpose in my life in 2010.

Wondering...

2010-01-03T11:14:00.000-08:00

...what the new year will bring. There is my new job...Chad is applying for summer co-ops and internships... and Cristin is already thinking about her summer job, away. We are not promised tomorrow on this earth, much less another day with any of our loved ones. I am learning to treasure each moment we have together, to overlook offenses, and to seek out the positive in every situation, because life is short and very fragile. Note - I said "learning".

Here is a continuation of my list of "1000 Gifts" from the past couple of days:

282. Bargain buys at the NEW Salvation Army Thrift Store in Oxford. Eight shirts to wear to my NEW job in the chem lab for $15 and name brands like Liz Claiborne, Croft & Barrow, Old Navy,...

283. Visiting a long time friend, catching up on each other's lives for over three hours! Good friendships never die, they just grow old with you.

284. An e-mail from an elementary school friend I haven't talked to in a while. I cherish friends who make you feel like you've never lost contact; you pick up where you left off...

285. An evening of fun with my family, sister, and nephews - eating tacos and playing games: WIZARD, Catch Phrase, and Apples to Apples - Bible Edition

286. Laughing so hard I could barely breathe

287. Having adult conversations and laughing with all the "young" adults in our family. They are all grown up, talking about college, their futures, and much more.

288. Playing pinnochle with the family until bed time. It is a gift to have the family around the kitchen table, again.

289. Cuddling between my gal and my hubby during worship - being able to squeeze a hand or a shoulder, and knowing what each other is thinking without saying a word.

290. Coffee time between services to connect with some new friends.

291. Happy for my gal being able to spend the day with "That Boy" and his family. :)

Lord,

I thank you for the gifts of family and friends; relationships that last a lifetime, stand the tests of the trials of life, grow through the good and the bad times - they are gifts from you and just a glimpse of the love and faithfulness you show me every day of my life.

Committed to you for life,

Cheryl

Parting Gifts of 2009

2010-01-02T05:56:00.000-08:00

271. Coffee and catching up at Starbuck's with the gals.

272. Going to the theater as a family, and looking silly together in 3D glasses.

273. Learning a new card game - Wizard.

274. Playing games with my kids AND my parents. Three generations around our table.

275. Making a fancy breakfast - Eggs Benedict - for my family, even though no one was impressed.

276. Getting the house ready for a party.

277. Watching my "kids" interact with other adults.

278. A house full of people.

279. Lots of loud laughter.

280. Lots of yummy food.

281. Family bringing in the New Year, together.

Lord, I am thankful for your goodness to me and my family throughout 2009, and am looking forward to all that you will do in and through us in 2010.

The 2009 Highlights of the 4-C’s

2009-12-31T03:24:00.000-08:00

What an amazing year 2009 has been for the O’Briens. God has poured out His blessings to overflowing!

This spring, Craig and Cheryl traveled to Israel for a “once in a lifetime” trip. It was an awe-inspiring, two week “Prophecy Seminar” with Baptists for Israel Institute. They spent a week in the northern part of Israel - the Galilee - and a week in the southern end - Judea, spending two days in Jerusalem. Their teachers opened the Scriptures in a new way and have caused the Bible to “come alive” for them.

The highlight of Cristin’s year was her summer at Spring Hill Camp as a “New Frontiers Wrangler Counselor Coach” for 6th-9th grade girls. She was overwhelmed that God would use her to impact these young women for Christ. She is now in her junior year at Charleston Southern University, working in Residence Life on an upper-class women’s residence hall, and loves her studies in Music Therapy.

In June, Chad graduated from Oxford High School with Highest Honors. He spent the summer working at Meijer and saving before embarking on his next great adventure studying Aerospace Engineering at the University of Alabama in Huntsville. The highlights of his first semester include the coolest roommates, spending fall break and Thanksgiving with the Alabama Knable Klan, a visit from Nonna & Gramps Knable, and a road-trip visit from Cristin for a long weekend during her fall break.

Cheryl is looking forward to ending 2009 by spending two full weeks together as a family, before embarking on her next “Great Adventure”, a six month contract working in the Chemistry Lab at GM with Craig. We’ve come full circle, and are enjoying life as “empty nesters”.

May you and your family find the Peace that comes from God through His son, Yeshua Ha'Mashiach.

Shalom,

Craig, Cheryl, Cristin, & Chad O’Brien

Bowling and Bargaining

2009-12-29T04:30:00.000-08:00

Can you see the smile on my face? Well, I'll tell you it goes from ear to ear. I am having a GREAT time with my family. Today's gifts include:

267. Bowling - guys against the girls, then changing the teams to Chad and Mom vs. Dad and Cristin to even out the teams. Wouldn't you know, Cristin's game got better with her dad, and Chad's declined with Mom as his teammate. Dad was the big winner and Mom the big loser, but I felt like the champion laughing and playing with my family.

269. "LIFE IS SHORT. EAT BETTER PIZZA" - $20 JET'S for lunch, and three additional meals left over!

268. Finishing one Monopoly game, then playing another complete game...It's funny how our disposition changes with our circumstances. *raises eyebrows* Lots of laughs and digs...:-)

270. A determined, problem solving husband...disassembled my old vacuum, and with $50 in new parts, reassembled it to work like new! I got another Christmas gift - a "new" vacuum! (You should have heard me giggle and squeal as I used it for the "first" time. It works sooo well; just like new!)

The simple things in life are fun right now. They are gifts of everyday.

Enjoying Family Time

2009-12-28T04:58:00.000-08:00

...is always a gift to me. I'm so thankful that we have had plenty of "together" time during this break.

258. A winter walk in the sunshine with my hubby.

259. A quick shopping trip to Meijer for "After Christmas Sales" with BOTH my kids.

260. Walking arm in arm singing Christmas songs with my music major daughter as we leave Meijer - not caring who hears or what they think! ;-)

261. Playing Monopoly with my kids.

262. Putting the house back in order.

263. Sitting with my family in church -well, minus Chad who was scheduled to work. :-(

264. BBQ Venison Ribs and homemade sweet potato chips for dinner

265. Watching "Lord of the Rings" with Cristin, like the "old" days.

266. Knitting for hours, and seeing progress in a project.

I am blessed!

Merry Christmas, Dear - From Craig

2009-12-26T16:16:00.000-08:00

I will try my best at being a Poet

If it brings a tear to your eye, I will know it!

May our love be forever more

Even as we get old and sore!

I have but one gift for you to open

But my Love for you is a greater token!

As we celebrate the birth of Christ this season

May our life's focus always be the reason.

With heartfelt love I may turn this into a song!

Please don't laugh hysterically all day long!

Merry Christmas,

Your Pseudo Poet!

*We all laughed hysterically as I read it. :) Gotta LOVE that man! <3

Celebrating Christmas

2009-12-26T05:19:00.000-08:00

243. Having a relaxed day at home with hubby, Christmas Eve.

244. Candlelight service with my church family.

245. Well-behaved, unattended children.

246. Watching "It's a Wonderful Life" with my family and parents on Christmas Eve; it's an annual tradition.

247. Daddy Craig making the traditional O'Brien Christmas breakfast/brunch: Omelets, hash browns, sausage, toasted English muffins, fresh pineapple, and our orange juice & Vernors.

248. Reading "Owner's Manuals" from gifts received.

249. Big family gatherings.

250. The nephews eager to show me things.

251. Couples Euchre - with sister, Julie and B-I-L, Mike.

252. Playing games with the "teens".

253. Getting a "Mad Gab" plus 3 bonus points!

254. Washing dinner dishes with the gals, just like generations before.

255. Fond memories of family Christmas gatherings past.

256. Winding down with the family at the end of a long, fun day.

257. Knowing it's not all about "Christmas" as we've made it, today, but about Jesus, the Christ - who was born as a baby so that, eventually he could provide the way for a sinful humanity to spend eternity with their creator in Heaven.

"Thanks be to God for his indescribable gift!" 2 Corinthians 9:15 (NIV)

Making Memories

2009-12-24T05:38:00.000-08:00

It is a gift to be able to make memories with my mom and dad. This may be the last year they make the trip back to Michigan for the holidays. Our lives and our children's lives are so busy. Between jobs and other important people wanting a piece of our limited time together, it gets more difficult to be able to plan time to make those memories. Simple gifts I cherish include:

237. Making a pancake breakfast for my family and having everyone around the table, to eat it.

238. Baking cookies with my mom - those time consuming, special, once a year Christmas cookies, Butter Kiffels and Pecan Tassies.

239. Cristin making a special Polynesian dish, Lumpia(?) for our lunch. She even searched and made sweet and sour sauce from scratch!

240. Listening to Gramps and Chad play ping pong.

241. Gramps and Chad going on a long walk together.

242. Receiving unexpected photo greeting cards in the mail. People are so creative!

The Secret of Christmas

2009-12-23T03:28:00.000-08:00

Years ago, we eliminated much of our gift giving so we wouldn't be so distracted and stressed out during this very special time of the year. Just this year, while still away at college, Chad said, "Let's just get together with people and hang out." These last couple of days, I have treasured our "hang out" times.

225. Listening to my kids hanging out in each other's room, talking, laughing, and planning.

226. Cristin and Chad going on a "Brother-Sister" date.

227. The girls beating the guys in family euchre.

228. A day of "shopping" with three generations of "Knable" girls; Nonna, Cheryl & Julie, and Cristin.

229. Getting my "Christmas Letter" in the mail, finally! (Well, most of them, anyway...)

230. Our traditional "Christmas Shopping Lunch Out". Soup and Salad at Olive Garden was perfect. Loved their new Chicken and Gnocchi soup. We reminisced of lunches past at "J.L. Hudson" ...and the "Children ONLY Shop", and....

231. Conversations about college and other adult things with the nephews - they are all grown up, too.

232. Watching "Anastasia" with Cristin and listening to her sing through the soundtrack.

233. Wrapping gifts and filling stockings.

234. Giving Craig a good haircut.

235. A second evening playing cards with the family around the kitchen table. (The guys won this round.)

236. My hubby smiling, joking, and laughing...it's what drew me to him that first day I met him in the lab.

Weekend Wonders

2009-12-22T04:38:00.000-08:00

There are big gifts and little gifts and I hope I catch every one. I may not remember to record them, here, but each and every one is precious to me. You can probably deduce, family is so important to me. These are wonderful gifts of this weekend:

207. The airline booking Cristin on a DIRECT flight home after canceling her connecting flight into Newark.

208. The rescheduled direct flight arriving 4 hours earlier than the flight I booked for Cristin!

209. Nonna and Gramps (my parents) arriving into DTW from AZ an hour before Cristin.

210. Nonna and Gramps bringing Cristin home for us.

211. An unplanned dinner party.

212. Chad giving up his room and his double bed for his grandparents. (He slept on the hide-a-bed in the basement. What a guy!)

213. Toddler twin brothers loving on their newborn sister.

214. Toddler boys carrying around a baby doll and treating her with love and care as if she were their baby sister.

215. Giggles from under a blanket while playing "Peek-a-boo".

216. Young families with their little ones all dressed up for church and special events. (Sometimes, I wish I could still dress them up.)

217. A table that seats 13 for dinner.

218. Having to add an extra place setting at the last minute.

219. The pleasure of being around polite and well-mannered young people.

220. Families enjoying time with other families.

221. Dinner for 13 turning out, and only forgetting "beverages". :)

222. Playing "Apples to Apples - Bible Edition".

223. The silly comments and gigles of my gal.

224. A house full of people, laughter, and noise.

Lovin' my family and lovin' my life! Thank you, Lord!

Where Do I Begin?

2009-12-17T17:36:00.000-08:00

Wow! It's been a whole week and I haven't had an opportunity to add to my "Grateful" list these last several days. I feel so unworthy of God's goodness to me and my family. I am overwhelmed and grateful for:

187. My guys "ganging" up to pick on me. :-)

188. Completing a second 5K race.

189. Holding a brand new baby girl.

190. Seeing two new baby girls in their momma's arms - standing side by side.

191. Special Christmas Cantatas.

192. Decorating a Christmas Tree fresh cut from the family's property.

193. Reminiscing over each ornament before finding the perfect spot to hang it.

194. Watching classic Christmas movies - they just don't make them like they used to!

195. Spending the whole day preparing dinner for 12.

196. A table set with linen, fine china and crystal.

197. Sharing "God Stories" with tears.

198. Chad offering to clean up my "dinner party" so I could get to sleep early for my first day at my new job.

199. Starting a new job. WOOHOO!

200. Getting to work with some "old" friends.

201. Calling my co-worker, "Hon"!

202. Office Christmas parties 2 days in a row!

203. Not having to fix dinner during my first week back to work.

204. Help with household chores from Chad - without me asking.

205. Enjoying my new job.

206. The smell of venison jerky "cooking".

I feel like David who said,

“Who am I, O Lord God, and what is my house, that you have brought me thus far?" 2 Samuel 7:18

Thank you, Lord, for your abundant blessings. I pray that you, alone, receive all the glory!

I'll Be Home For Christmas

2009-12-10T11:33:00.000-08:00

Continuing to DAILY list the precious gifts I'm given...

176. Standing by 700 miles away, as my son negotiates an alternative flight home. He's all grown up!

177. Defensive driving lessons from my dad so many years ago always pay off on Michigan winter roads.

178. Words "preached" by my hubby - "A driver's one and ONLY job while on the road is to drive, paying attention to EVERYTHING around him." I sat up straighter, held the wheel tighter, watched more observantly.

179 ABS (Anti-lock Braking Systems) I used them ALOT, last night!

180. Prayer - the privilege of praying without ceasing, and the power of answered prayer.

181. Safe travel to DTW and home.

182. Hugging my son for the first time in about 4 months before falling into my warm, comfy bed.

183. The sound of my husband snoring softly and peacefully as I slipped in.

184. Fresh snow covered landscapes.

185. Cell phones on snowy days and for retrieving very important people! :-)

186. A call from Sarah this morning, announcing that Baby Snickers - now appropriately named Elizabeth Arwen - had arrived.

Bountiful Back to Work Blessings!

2009-12-09T04:56:00.000-08:00

Since Friday, I have been busy talking with a manager and a contract house about a short term contract. It's been very humbling - and at the same time, exciting - to wonder as God continues to pour out His blessings on me and my family, and I continue to number them, here:

165. Holding a degree that is still marketable after almost 20 years of "retirement".

166. Parents who were able to support my college endeavors - financially, emotionally, and professionally.

167. My elders' (parents and high school teachers - Mr. Wellever and Ms. "Rem") wise counsel about my career choice, and that I accepted much of their advice along the way. [Sometimes begrudgingly ;-)]

168. Being "highly recommended" by former co-workers, bosses, and my faithful, adoring husband! A "good name" is of great value!

169. Being reminded of the importance of being a valuable worker.

170. Being asked if I could start work on Monday...yes, in like 3 DAYS!!! That means being able to train with the worker I am replacing, and two extra weeks of income. (Well - even the wheels of the "NEW" GM don't work that quickly! Next Monday is the projected start date.)

171. Passing two tests I never studied for...LOL! (Excel and Word)

172. Having a "free" day to spend getting work documents all in order.

173. Having necessary former GM EIDs and EINs - my God given gift of administration.

174. Being able to help Cristin and Chad with college expenses.

175. E-mails from an excited hubby all through the day. (I'm grinning even as I type, wishing I could see his face.)

The Perfect Tree

2009-12-08T05:40:00.000-08:00

Searching for "THE PERFECT TREE" has been a family tradition I've enjoyed, back to when I was a little girl. We would go to Sanford's Farm and tromp through the "100 acre wood", sizing up each pine for it's perfect qualities. All four of us had to agree, then Dad would cut it down and we girls would help drag it back to the car...Fast forward about 30 years... Craig and I continued the tradition with our children. My treasured gifts from yesterday:

160. Memories of our "Charlie Brown" tree.

161. Looking at the two trees in our yard we cut down the first two years we lived in this house - 8 years ago. They are now taller than the shed (probably 20-30 ft. tall!) and both have double trunks!

162. Memories of letting the kids do all the work, and following them as they dragged the tree across our yard to the deck for Dad to mount.

163. The LFC "Giving Tree" being bare. :-)

and totally unrelated...164. Trusting God, who is the Lord of the "lots", and His choice.

Purposeful Plodding

2009-12-06T06:01:00.000-08:00

Saturday was an easy day just enjoying the season. No hustle and bustle, here, just purposeful plodding as I reflect on life and what is important. Truly it's all about loving God and loving people...God loved us in an amazing way, sending His only Son - the King of kings and Lord of lords - to be born as a baby...Truly a "strange way to save the world".

153. Decorating my Christmas "tea" cookies all morning while chatting with my sister on the phone.

154. Attending a Ladies' function at church and not being responsible for a single thing - except what every other "guest" was responsible for - bringing a dozen cookies.

155. Sitting and visiting with ladies I don't know very well.

156. Meeting several ladies for the first time.

157. Enjoying singing Christmas Carols from the hymnal.

158. Appreciating soloists - known talent, and new talent!

159. ENJOYING my evening 5K run up and down my driveway in 27*F weather. Lucky gets his exercise while I get mine, and I don't have to worry about traffic at twilight.

The Gift of Family and Family Memories

2009-12-05T04:31:00.000-08:00

147. Staying home all day.

148. Baking our favorite Christmas cookies: Chocolate Cherry Cookies, Lemon Cheese Logs, and Pecan Tassies.

148. Thinking of my three best friends, Mom, Julie(sister), and Cristin(daughter) as I baked.

149. Listening to Christmas music all day.

150. The sparkle and excitement in my husband's eyes when he arrived home from work, and the "bear" hug I received.

151. The feel of my warm, comfy waterbed after standing in the kitchen for almost 12 hours of baking and washing dishes.

152. A song that makes me cry every time I hear it. It reminds me of how blessed I am with health, a loving family, and most of all, the hope I have because Jesus came as a baby...It's what I celebrate at Christmas.

Spontaneity and Surpirses

2009-12-04T04:43:00.000-08:00

141. "HELP" available when I locked my keys in my van...(Thanks Pastor Jim!)

142. Dropping in on a "forever" friend and finding another friend there, too. I love 2 for 1 surprises!

143. A husband who is so easy to please, and flexible. I usually try to have dinner ready and waiting for him, but I got caught too far from home, too late in the day. He settled for a simple meal he whipped up and had ready with a smile on his face when I got home. How nice is that?

144. Coming home from a long day away to find a phone message and an e-mail asking if I would be interested in a job that just opened up. Would I?!!!

145. Waking up to a dusting of snow.

146. Classic Christmas movies.

Waiting to see what Surprises God has in store for me, today. Every day is a new adventure.

Purpose, Plan, and Promise Procures Prize :-D

2009-12-03T04:02:00.000-08:00

I have struggled with food and weight issues most of my life, and it continues today. The gifts from yesterday are mostly from the power of His Word. These are my memory verses for the week. I couldn't stop at just one, because they have all been working together to give me victory in the war even if there are battles lost along the way!

135. My purpose, strength, and energy:

"...'My food is to do the will of him who sent me and to accomplish his work.'" John 4:34

136. My plan:

"...'Pray that you may not enter into temptation.'” Luke 22:40

137: My promise:

"No temptation has overtaken you that is not common to man. God is faithful, and he will not let you be tempted beyond your ability, but with the temptation he will also provide the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it." 1 Corinthians 10:13

138. Getting out and completing the three mile run with an additional mile power walk when I didn't feel like doing anything.

139. An e-mail of encouragement from my "Big Sister", Jan about her battles and victories in the same areas.

140. Getting up after I stumble and fall...

Thank you, Lord, for your Mercy and Grace. May I extend that same mercy and grace to others who have stumbled and fallen, extending a hand to help them up.

Calls From Yonder

2009-12-02T03:44:00.000-08:00

It's one thing when my daughter calls me - it's always a delight, she is one of my three VERY BESTEST friends. But when my son calls, it's a gift.

132. Receiving a call from Chad thanking me for the package and it's contents.

133. Standing in Meijer listening to an AWESOME letter of recommendation from a professor. It ministers to my heart to hear the positive qualities other adults appreciate in my children.

134. Finally picking up the cell, knowing it was Chad (we ignored the rings on the home phone during dinner). Hearing the excitement in his voice after receiving word on his final grade in Physics, a class he struggled with last year. I think there's a high school teacher in Oxford who will be receiving a call today from a former student. :-)

Thank you for the relationship we have with our children. I pray that it continues to grow with us as we all move into new stages of life.

"Behold, children are a heritage from the Lord,
the fruit of the womb a reward." Pslam 127:3

LIFE on Monday

2009-12-01T15:29:00.000-08:00

I look forward to spending my Monday evenings with a group of about 12-14 ladies whom I love dearly. They are precious gifts from the Lord to me. Some of the blessings I received yesterday:

127. All my LIFE group ladies arriving before their leaders! (And I was EARLY!) What an encouragement to me that these ladies value our time together every Monday night. They are eager to meet, fellowship, open the Word, and share what God is teaching them through the study.

128. A quiet voice speaks up...Oh what a joy to have one of the quieter members "jump" right in and say (with a huge smile on her face and a sparkle in her eyes) "Before we get started, I have something I want to say..." 'twas music to my ears.

129. The ladies following up last week's study by bringing more information. They are learning that we don't accept, "Somewhere in the Bible it says..." The excitement that comes from actually finding it "in the Bible" and being able to share it with everyone else is precious.

130. Apprentices who make the meeting interesting, adding their style and personality by bringing in new ideas, and implementing new ways of doing the same old thing.

131. Knowing how much time each woman is putting in to her study at home during the week, and loving it! We're in the middle of an inductive study that requires anywhere from a half hour to an hour each day for 6 days a week. They come prepared and are telling me they want MORE...another study like this!

How can I not be excited? It is my passion to help people KNOW Jesus, His Word, and help them to apply it so that they grow in His likeness. Thank you, Lord, for Mondays!

"And so, from the day we heard, we have not ceased to pray for you, asking that you may be filled with the knowledge of his will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding, so as to walk in a manner worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing to him, bearing fruit in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God. May you be strengthened with all power, according to his glorious might, for all endurance and patience with joy, giving thanks to the Father, who has qualified you to share in the inheritance of the saints in light. He has delivered us from the domain of darkness and transferred us to the kingdom of his beloved Son, in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins." Colossians 1:9-14

Getting into the Spirit of the Season

2009-11-30T03:21:00.000-08:00

It's been a wonderful, activity filled week, yet also relaxing, in many ways. Yesterday began the new week, with more to be thankful for, and much to look forward to.

121. "Family" service at LFC - it happens once a quarter (every 5th Sunday). Our pastors work hard to make it a fun, learning experience for all ages, and it's great to see the kids get involved.

122. Blessing a complete stranger at Bed, Bath, and Beyond with (4)-20% off coupons to use.The surprised, grateful looks on their faces was precious, and was probably the highlight of my day.

123. Spending hours in Family Christian Store, my favorite, and walking out with some great deals! I've been waiting, planning, and saving for this day.

124. Not allowing the rain to annoy me, even singing as I got "drenched".

125. Watching one of my favorite classic Christmas movies, "Miracle on 34th Street", while starting the decorating process at my house. It's my tradition.

126. Winding down the evening by listening to Christmas music playing softly in the background as I waited for the return of my guy.

It's beginning to look and feel a lot like Christmas! I'm counting down the days until my family is back together, under one roof.

It's the Little Things

2009-11-29T12:26:00.000-08:00

that brought me joy and blessing yesterday, and I record them, now in my "1000 Gifts".

111. A phone call and long conversation with Chad, who sounds so good.

112. Hearing that he is looking forward to coming home.

113. Hearing that he has made plans to work at Meijer while on break for the month.

114. Hearing that he's been enjoyed and appreciated by my Alabama family. I am so glad for the family's support while he is so far from home.

115. Dad O'Brien being in good spirits and looking well at the large family "Christmas" gathering.

116. A fun gift exchange game.

117. Getting to know new family members and others a little bit better - since we only see them once or twice a year.

118. Driving through my old stomping grounds, past the Fenton United Methodist Church where we were married 24 years ago, past Jan (Phillips) Johnson's childhood home, up Denton Hill...a walk down memory lane.

119. Hearing Cristin landed some holiday work for spending money.

120. Finalizing Christmas plans with the family! YAY!

Humbled

2009-11-28T03:19:00.000-08:00

The last couple of weeks in our Luke study, there has been a constant theme of humility...

"Finally, all of you, have unity of mind, sympathy, brotherly love, a tender heart, and a humble mind." 1 Peter 3:8

It's been humbling, and gratifying to hear:

105. Both children, (well, they are young adults now) come to the realization that they don't need anything, nor do they want anything for Christmas, this year.

106. How much parental support for college has been (and is) appreciated.

107. Dad insisting on gift giving, this Christmas. "It's in the budget, we're going to spend it!" =)

108. A nearby gunshot, closely followed by footsteps of a grinning camouflaged hubby on the front porch... means there's meat in the freezer.

109. High pitched alarms going off all throughout our home upon our return from tracking, telling us the smoke detectors work fine. (We left glowing embers in the fireplace and must have had a downdraft while we were out.)

110. "I love you, sweetie," before I close my eyes at night after a relaxing, yet productive day.

May our hearts always be tender to You, Lord, and to those we meet along the way in this life. Give us eyes to see, ears to hear, words to share, hands to help, and feet that go the distance.

Abundance

2009-11-27T13:42:00.000-08:00

I'm overwhelmed by the goodness I have experienced this week. "I am RICH!"

93. Spending a day with my sister, just the two of us, working together, setting a table, baking and preparing for my feast while talking, encouraging, and sharing with one another. With the busyness of our lives and families, and the distance between our homes, these times are few and far between.

94. Driving through rain, at some points a downpour, and praying all the way to Detroit...God is good: Crisp, clear, and even sunny weather for the "Stuffing Strut" 5K in Downtown Detroit from 7:30-9:30a.m.

95. Parking acquired fairly quickly and easily, although more expensive than hoped...I was prepared!

96. Running the entire 5K without stopping and finishing under my goal of 40 minutes - 37 minutes by my stopwatch.

98. Capturing a one of three remaining items of a SUPER SPECIAL Thursday ONLY Deal, 4 1/2 hours after it started and saving 40%!

99. Enjoying cooking and preparing the Thanksgiving Feast for my in-laws, and NOT being stressed out, actually ENJOYING every minute!

100. Trying new recipes and liking them! "Garlicky Green Beans" from Weight Watchers.

101. Making the old favorites, like "Herbed Pumpkin Rosette Rolls" and "Apple-Raisen Stuffing"

100. Enjoying a relaxing afternoon and evening of conversation with family.

101. Playing Pinnochle and WINNING several games - guys against the gals! :-D

102. Receiving phone calls from both Cristin and Chad.

103. Family taking care of Chad, far from home.

104. Friends adopting Cristin.

I am blessed beyond measure! Thank you, Lord, for your goodness to me and my family!

So Much to be Thankful for...

2009-11-25T03:55:00.000-08:00

I have been lamenting the fact that we can't be with either of our kids this year. I'm sure it is the first of many more to come, which makes me sad. What happened to the days of big extended family gatherings? I miss them. We will be hosting the O'Brien family on Thanksgiving Day - it will be a gathering of 5. My mom sent me this video, which puts my feelings of loss and loneliness into the proper perspective:

83. I am thankful for all our service men and women and am praying for them and their families this Thanksgiving.

84. Starting my Thanksgiving Feast two days early. It feels so good to be organized, have a plan, and work the plan. After I had done all I could last night, I sat at the table trying to figure out what I was missing...things are just too smooth!

85. Spending the entire evening in the kitchen with my favorite music playing in the background, and no TV on. Ahhh, 'tis bliss!

86. Mia, Cristin's cat following me around like my puppy dog. She jumped up on the chair behind me and started purring every time I sat down. She is so cuddly and sweet - unlike any other cat I've had.

87. Finishing a tough training session. I took Monday off after 4 days of 3.2 mile runs. I think it was a mistake. Yesterday was hard. I guess it didn't help that I picked the wrong album to listen to and finally stopped after the first mile to change it.

88. Hubby having success working on the vehicles. He's like a super sleuth when home and vehicles go awry. He doesn't ever stop trying to figure it out and fix it. I admire his tenacity.

89. Daily long walks (accompanied by long talks) with my good friend. We're in similar situations and it's so nice to have a listening ear, encouraging words, and sometimes soft, loving correction that goes both ways.

90. Getting a new haircut. Well, not so much a new style, but refreshed. It was long overdue. My last cut was the first of August.

91.Wearing earrings for the first time in about 19 years. A friend told me how she keeps from getting infections, so I bought a new pair at a jewelry show, and tried them out. How fun!

92. Receiving TWO Thanksgiving cards via "snail" mail!

Lord,

Thank you for all your blessings. Help me to be a blessing to You and to those I meet each day.

With all my heart,

Cheryl