Memorize Psalm 91:9-13
Karate 3 Times,
Exercise each morning
Complete 10 Lessons in Math 87.
Finish reading Peacemaking for Families and Because He Loves Me

But you know something?  It’s been challenging at times, it’s been very hard work, especially carrying 60 year old rusty gross cast iron pipe pieces up the stairs and out the door.  But every time we walk through another one of these “hard” inconveniences I am struck by how very blessed we still are.  It is truly easy to find the gifts raining down upon us.

counting…

Youthful exuberance, Cat snuggles, Warm tea, Encouraging words, Tough nights, Auntie’s doing storytime with the littlest one, Snow sparkling in the warm sunshine, Teamwork, The late to bed Moon, Quiet drive together, Giggling ballerinas, Birthday celebration, Pink and purple balloons, Sister messages of love, Surprise time with a dear friend, A pair of 13 year old gigglers,  Couldn’t be more different, yet sweet friends, A triplet of younger actresses, each with a touch of director in her, Romans 1:22, Juicy oranges
 

Be encouraged!  In every dark place the Lover of our Souls is sending in salt and light.

Unstoppable by Nick Vujicic
Hinds Feet on High Places by Hannah Hurnard

Children’s Picture books
Rock You Tonight by Emily Roussell ~ a sweet story that seems to be written more for the Momma than the little one she may be reading to.
The Three Little Rabbits and the Bake Sale Pie by Nancy Nuce ~ a story that had Mae and I laughing hard at bedtime.  Delightful

and am reading

Because He Loves Me by Elise Fitzpatrick
The Peacemaker
Peacemaking for Families.

Earlier today while in the post office, I stood uncomfortably.  With only 2 clerks and at least a dozen people in line, a Hispanic couple stood at the counter, trying to submit an application for a U.S. application.

This couple did not appear to know any English, not enough to respond to the official oath, testifying that they are citizens, and everything on the application is true.  In frustration the clerk looked up and asked if there was anyone in the office who could interpret Spanish.

I stood there wrestling with myself.  Spanish was my major in college, but I haven’t used it in over 13 years.  I could ask about place of birth and if the things on the application were true, but I held back, disappointed in the fact that my skills were so weak.

Several things like this have happened recently, and reading the above quote has me thinking more seriously about becoming better equipped to live this purposeful life.

*Builder and I have been talking about my returning to college this summer.  I’ve taken a math placement test and determined where I need to start brushing up on skills to be able to take college Algebra.

*The Peacemaker and other books continue to be with me where ever I go, available to be read when I have the moments.

* Where does one find mentors?  How does one go about seeking mentors?  Those are questions to be pursued.

How about you?  Does the above quote challenge you to set some small goals toward becoming better prepared to lead, to serve, to expand your influence?
 

 gifts 1-14 in 2013

Grey sweaters and red sparkling scarves
Snow that keeps falling.  All around this dry thirsty area.
A grandchild who is thriving, growing rapidly, taking in all the fresh Momma Milk, grand love and auntie stories
Family to help ~ both ways
Eager students, gulping down new information
Goals within reach
FaceTime calls from a sweet daughter who just wants to know when I’ll be home.
A precious prodigal hungry for family time, soaking up, filling up after the empty years away.
Growth
A calling
Builder is home.
Sunlight to read under.
Baby breath on my cheeks.
Sweet time at the changing table when Joyness sees the origami mobile made by her youngest auntie.
Godly women, acknowledging their own brokenness, warmly welcoming the new single momma into the fold.

 

Thank you for stopping by.