Saturday, May 26, 2018

Pastor Duane has been encouraging us to enter Sabbath rest, a time to tune out all the noise and focus on the LORD.  He reminds us that it looks different for each one of us, but it needs to be intentional.
Saturdays seem to work best for me and I'm trying to make Wednesday mornings a midweek break from the chaos as well. All said, it's a lot easier for someone who has raised her kids and retired from the workforce. Even so, I have to make it happen.
I have a beautiful handmade prayer journal, a gift from my dear sister-in-law; it's filled with prayer prompts: quotes from pastors and writers, prayers I've copied, some I've scratched myself.  The pockets are filled with Bible verses I'm memorizing and a running log of prayer requests.
It's such a treasure that helps me focus.
John Piper's thoughts direct my Sabbath rest. 

Consider Jesus. Know Jesus.
Learn what kind of Person it is that you say you trust and love and worship.
Soak in the shadow of Jesus.
Saturate your soul with the ways of Jesus.
Watch Him.  Listen to Him. Stand in awe of Him.
Let Him overwhelm you with the way He is.
                                                                              John Piper

What does your intentional time with God look like?
Let's encourage one another.

Friday, May 18, 2018


This photo at our favorite beach popped up on my feed the other day. It was jolting. It marks the last normal month before beginning goodbyes and finding my way without Rob.
What makes the five-year mark so unsettling? Perhaps, because we often count life in intervals of five...and milestones.
Are there milestones in grief?
Yesterday, I had to figure out my home energy plan. I struggled and desperately wanted to defer to Rob.  I'm not sure I made the best financial decision, but I decided to go with a 3-year fixed plan. 
Where will I be in three years? 
Eight years of singular stinks of permanence. Fixed...alone?
I attended my first gala post Rob last night. I entered alone, sat among strangers; it was really hard. I don't feel any stronger for doing so. 
Are there some things better put to rest?
Could I possibly be ready for some real change?





Monday, May 14, 2018

I'm a reluctant risk-taker and so when strong comments left a wound, I just wanted to crawl back into my worn journal...a safe place. But, my friend, Debbie, asked me to continue to share thoughts in this blog. I really do believe this wise woman has a direct line to God, so I'm trying to remount the saddle and give the soul bullies a run for their money.
I can't think of a better day than the Monday after Mother's Day to post this letter about my second mother.


Dear Joyce, 
You walked into my life when I was seventeen. It was not long before I felt adopted by you.
My other mother and dear friend!
You gave me your blessing when you casually mentioned that Robbie's last girlfriend was not so high-type like me.  I so wanted to fulfill your expectations; I'm still trying.
It must have been hard for you to see your first born spend so much time away from your family as our teenage relationship grew, but you were gracious to share your child with me. 
You walked by my side, supporting me when life at home was not always the best and you taught me so much about trusting Jesus with my life. 
You raised a beautiful son with great love and sacrifice; you gifted me with the best husband ever. 
You adored your grandchildren and they, too, adored you, their g-mom.
You taught me about courage as you battled your last earthly fight.
I miss you today, my precious mother-in-love. 
I'm not clear how all this heavenly stuff works, but I smile at the thought of your first born greeting you each day. 
I officially proclaim the day after, Mother-in-Love Day! You mothers entrusted us with your grown babies, thus blessing our lives beyond measure. You deserve much acclaim.
Mother Joyce, I celebrate you on your special day with much love and gratitude.
See you later...Robin