My blogsite will be under a new name starting Monday at:

40-dayturnaround.blogspot.com

I'm finally getting a few things done I've wanted to do for some time. I makes it hard when knowledge of computer-use is on a two-year old's level! My eyes glaze over when I listen to any kind of instruction!

I hope this change won't be problem.

What a nice weekend. It was quiet, yet busy enough to get a few things done--both business and pleasure!

The weather has been so nice. I hope I take the time to enjoy some of it. Our garden is waning but still producing a little. I made a big batch of salsa this weekend using tomatoes, jalapenos, green peppers and onions from the garden. I added fresh cilantro, fresh lime juice and banana peppers (from a friend's garden!) to it as well. Of course, to give it "the heat", I added seasonings. It came out pretty good--but not as good as Chapala's!

It was a good weekend.

This week is flying by; I'm glad!

It's not that I don't want to enjoy each day. It's that I have so much to do, and I need the weekend to get it all done. It's so hard to work full time and have any extra time leftover for anything else. (I do not know how these young mothers do it.) I try to take each day and not look too far ahead--but there are times when I fail desperately.

My focus needs to daily be brought back to what really matters--a time-schedule, or people?

It's obvious there are many things I've been neglecting--I've spread myself too thin.

I'm having to do some back-pedaling and tie up more loose ends of my course work. That was discouraging to discover (not to mention the emotional impact of dragging out all the materials again). I have also neglected my good eating habits. Each new week I begin anew.

I know things will all level out, but right now........

I didn't realize it has been so long between posts.

My life seems to be in a state of being "between." I'm not really anywhere. I did finish my finals but haven't sent it in yet--still proofing it. I did talk to my boss but gave no definite time of quitting--only my desire to. I did talk to God about the sale of our daughter's house but want His timing--my trust is fully in Him.

So, my life is hovering in the "between." I will, though, continue to "keep on" in the meantime.

My eyes are not opening very well this morning--I started my finals last night!

It's very hard and tedious. I have at my disposal all resources (I can find) to help me; but if you do not know what the "doctor" is saying (because of a hundred and one staged interferences), many hours can be spent listening to one word over and over, trying to hear anything (consonant/vowel) that will give you a clue. I finally wised up and went to bed after so many hours of it!

But, today is a new day. I will stand firm--and move forward.

I am heading toward a cross-walk in my life.

I am excited, but I'm trying to stay level-headed and not get full of expectation. I do not know God's timetable for my life; He has a plan for me and knows when my direction should turn. I am to stand fast, not allowing the flesh to sway me. I know disappointment cracks the door to the flesh, and that's when my stand will weaken.

I'm thankful for God's Word, ever-filling my mind with His promise, "I am with you always."

It's hard to believe it is August 1.

In three days, I will be "celebrating" my second year of employment. The celebration will be that I am entitled to another two weeks paid vacation! I have my request form already filled out and ready to hand to my boss on Monday. I don't want it to go back-to-back with my two weeks notice so want to put as much space between them as possible.

Of course, the timing of the notice is not in my hands; I'm just lining my ducks up!

I'm almost looking completion of my course in the face. It's a great joy!

I don't know what the future holds (from all of this), but getting this part of the venture done is a huge weight lifted from me. I will, hopefully, begin taking my finals this weekend. It will be a long, lengthy ordeal; but it will be "the end!"

I'm glad I didn't know how arduous this would be. God keeps some things from us for good reason!

I've abandoned my post for awhile! I'm busily working on my course and am forgetting about the rest of my life!

It's been a busy weekend, but this week at work will be more relaxing than usual. My boss is on vacation, for one thing. That always brings the temperature down a few degrees. I also have a helper for part of the week--what a difference that makes!

I'm thankful for my job; I really need it. I am looking forward to the day I can give my two-week's notice, though. Only God knows when that will be, and He never makes mistakes.

I have a new picture, and I have a new name for my blog--I just need time to get it all orchestrated!

I have pulled one iron from the fire--completing my three-year term on the School Board--and will soon be pulling another big one out when I complete my medical transcriptionist course-work. Of course, the biggest iron will be when I can quit my forty-hour a week job! (A note of praise is I found out I have two more weeks paid vacation coming!)

Time is precious; I'm seeing that (very) clearly.

It's nice to be heading into the weekend and having a break from (the grind of) work.

I accept this is all in God's hands (how long I work outside the home), and I see how God is using this to better-equip me for the next "assignment" He has for me. I have learned so much in the two years I've spent as salad/dessert cook. If there is much more for me to learn, then that's where I want to be.

I love the peace the Spirit provides during this time of waiting.

What a busy summer! Time has really gotten away from me.

Six months ago I had lofty goals--and I was sure I would be on the other side of them by now. I'm still trudging toward them, none of them completed. It's hard when God "only" gives us twenty-four hours, (and the need to rest part of those hours). What parts of my day can I do differently?

Choices. The ball is in my court.

Getting back on target after vacation is not done overnight. Oh, for the zeal I had in the beginning!

It's time to dig in and "refind" what has been lost. God loves to see response to His enablements. Taking that second helping (or large portion) is not a way to experience His ever-present provision.

I need a renewing of my mind and notice all that God desires for me.

Finally, vacations are over. I've done much damage.

It is good to re-enter the real world where the ebb and flow has a schedule. Returning to work is challenging, though. To recapture the rhythm in getting the salads and desserts done on time will be interesting! The summer menus are full of fresh fruits and vegetables--all very time-consuming.

So, with mixed feelings, I'm back.

My first day back to work was full of blessings!

All I asked for was strength to get it all done; God gave me more! He provided me with another set of hands most of the day, so my workload was cut in half. Today and tomorrow I have that same set of helping-hands, too.

I marvel at the attention God gives to something as insignificant as "my day at the office."

It's back to work I go. It's been a great two weeks!

While on vacation, I had time to dig deeper into my desire for a healthier lifestyle. I did more reading and have a clearer vision of God's desire for each of us to be careful with what we allow to sway us. Oh, how quickly good intentions can be forgotten when the door is cracked to wrong influences.

In this renewed awareness, I know I need to stay away from taking that first bite.

It's good to be home! It was a wonderful vacation.

This time of relaxation was such a blessing. We all needed it. Leaving the hustle and bustle behind for a few days is essential for strengthening mind, soul and spirit. I think that was all done--an overall reboot. I feel ready again to fly into action!

God graciously provided (as the ten of us) had a memorable stay in the Sunshine State.

Another speedy weekend is behind me. I have three busy days ahead of me, then...

I'm on vacation for two weeks! I'm looking forward to that. I have a lot to accomplish, though, before I can leave. Sadly, I was scammed last week, so I have extra work to do so the bank can move ahead to do their next step to File a Dispute against the company. (I found out the hard way--nothing is free!)

Life is certainly a classroom, and I still have much to learn!

I'm so happy it's finally Friday--and payday!

The weekend is fairly busy, unfortunately. It takes some of the fun out of Saturday. I'm looking forward to Tuesday, though--my last day of work for a couple weeks, plus I will get paid! I've never had that before and am so thankful for a two-week paid vacation.

God has directed me down different paths (these past two years), but I constantly see His hand through it all.

I've been getting up at 5:15 (instead of 6:15) and really enjoy the extra time I have in the morning before going to work.

Something is always going to take your best energy, and that's what my job does. By the time I get home, I'm spent--especially the two days I have exercise class right after work. I feel God's challenge to get the most out of each day; and knowing I will be held accountable for my daily time decisions, I'm taking what I do more seriously.

Some things are out of my control--but many things are not.

Have you ever felt your cup "full to overflowing?"

God has shown Himself to me in such ways that overwhelm me. Everyday He shows me new ways to be a winner. Even though I'm not using all He has already given me, He is giving more. He wants my body, soul and spirit to be healthy and remain pure--

He wants me to succeed.

Monday is here already. I think the day has come for three-day weekends!

I'm getting back on target today; the weekend was lived somewhat sloppily. Sugar is now a daily battle. I love sweets---but they are doing such harm. To have the health I want, I need to go back to eating only fresh fruits as my desserts. I was very content, until I took that first bite!

Sound familiar?

This is a wonderful day. It is not only Friday; it is my husband's birthday!

Our youngest is going to lunch with him, then we are going out for lunch tomorrow. We will fully celebrate this grand event on Sunday with a grill-out. It will be spent in his favorite way--surrounded by his kids and grandkids, and me!

I am blessed to have a husband who has grown to become my best friend.

It's wonderful to be filled with renewed hope!

I know God has many situations come into our lives to allow us to become stronger and to grow in Him. In this past year, I've experienced several life-changing circumstances and soared through some--and struggled through others. I more readily notice the opportunities God puts before me.

It is a blessed reminder, "He will never leave me or forsake me."

I woke up with the new name for my blog in my head--Forty Day Breakthrough. (I don't know how long it will take to get it official, though!)

It's a joy to start a new day when the old day was walked in obedience. I feel on track again, and there is no better feeling. My head is clear, and my stomach is euphoric! I was showing little regard to God's desire for me to have wonderful health by treating my body carelessly (by overeating).

Maybe I just had a breakthrough!

It's a wonderful feeling to wake up with a clear head and a calm stomach. I haven't felt this way in some time.

It's always enjoyable to reap when the time of sowing was done correctly. This morning is an encouragement--letting me know there are big benefits in making right choices that are not fun at the moment, but have tremendous returns a little later.

Where is my focus going to be?

I'm a little out of order in writing my new post. Usually it is the last thing I do before leaving the house for work. (I had someone heavy on my heart this morning so felt the need to send a word of encouragement. As long as I was at the computer, writing my post for the day seemed the next thing to do.)

My daughter and I recommitted ourselves to eating only in ways that give opportunity for our bodies to thrive and reach optimum health. Though these special events in life will always be with us (open houses, weddings, etc.), they cannot be allowed to alter our path. We are reminded to stay the course......

......and finish well.

Here it is already Friday.

It's a special day for us--our grandson's birthday. We will be going to our other grandson's T-ball game after work, then will meet up with everyone for a birthday supper for Tyler. It will be a little rushed but still a blessing to all be together.

I'm so thankful God has given us these precious moments to spend with our busy family.

This has been a very good week at work, for which I'm very thankful.

I trained someone yesterday in my job; it was nice to have an extra pair of hands! She will be back Monday for more training, so that will make my weekend feel extended! God gives these little wisps of fresh air at such timely moments.

I know God has a plan for my (prolonged) position as "employee" and fully trust His purpose for my life.

"Press forward" is what is ringing in my ears this morning.

I am becoming overwhelmed by all that is on my plate. For a moment, I felt the need to surrender (and quit). It is such an effort to keeping moving forward, and the (physical and mental) energy is waning.

I am thankful for the whispers of God, for His loving care that strengthens me.

I got up extra early this morning. It gave me freedom from the non-negotiable clock!

I have been partying too much with all the social events of the season and am now feeling remorseful. I know that that always happens, yet I allow myself to fall into the same trap over and over. I continue to overeat in spite of all my knowledge of its consequences.

I am reminded daily I am a work in progress (far from finished).

What a beautiful Memorial Day!

I'm so thankful for all of those who fought in the wars for the sake of our precious freedom. They are the heroes; they are the ones who deserve our remembrance on this holiday. I am wearing a patriotic shirt to work today in their honor, in the honor of my father who willing fought in WW ll pledging his allegiance to his God and his country.

Thank you, Father, for a country that can still say, "In God we trust."

This week flew by--yea!!!!

With graduation and all the open houses (plus throw in a birthday and a farewell!), we will be on the run all weekend. Of course, open houses are traps for over eating--too much hard-to-pass-up food choices! I will try hard not to over-do in the sugar department, my biggest glitch! (That is why it's best that I stay away from it all together.)

God has shown Himself to me in many ways this week; He so faithfully carries me.

What a busy time of year! Everything (and everyone) seems to be screaming for more attention.

I went to bed late (12:30) and got up early (5:30), so I know I will have to curtail my duties tonight. Knowing I will be finished with two (and may be three) major time-takers is a real boost and is carrying me through this "in-over-my-head" time.

God is letting me learn from my mistakes; I hope I don't have to repeat the class!

I'm afraid I've taken on too much.

If I work my myself backwards and let go of the last thing I committed to, it would be the Wednesday night Bible study. I find myself doing nothing well, just squeaking by. I think in order to finish my course work up (while working full time), I need to have some nights at home to work on it. (I know God expects me to use my head once in a while!)

So, I think I will have to (for now) work on my Bible study alone on Sunday afternoons.

I managed to slice my finger at work yesterday (to the bone) so typing is a bit of a challenge!

I have this wonderful homeopathic solution, though, and been soaking my pinky in it. I am going to try to go to weight class after work, which I thought would be impossible last night. I am taking the solution with me to work so I can soak my finger several more times before class.

I know God wants me to slow down; I love how He gets my attention!

What a weekend! It was one that was too fast and too busy.

My flesh got well-fed, and my spirit got very little. I was really convicted of this in my reading this morning in 2 Corinthians. How quickly I fall by the wayside and act like a small child who has been given too much freedom in a candy store. The choices I made were all bad ones--choices that will ultimately lead me back down that bumpy old road of sickness and disease.

So, with my head aching and my stomach hurting, I begin a new week reaping the rewards of the flesh.

I'm so thankful for feeling better. I woke up this morning and realized I slept through the night without "up and down" to the bathroom!

I wanted to crash after work yesterday but had a garage sale to think about. I spent the evening organizing my stuff--thank goodness for daughters who shoulder most of the work, though. I did very little compared to them.

I went to bed later than I wanted, but God took care of me.

I'm a little under the weather today. I had a horrible day at work yesterday and think it is a carry-over from that.

I started praying at 4:00 this morning (while in bed) for God to touch my body and help me through the next two work days. After taking some aspirin and doing some deep breathing, I started to feel better. (I don't know if I will be up to going to the gym after work but am taking my workout clothes just in case.)

I have so much to be thankful for, and that will be my focus (instead of having a "poor me" mind-set).

God shows His presence in so many (everyday) ways.

At work yesterday I needed a commercial size can of crushed pineapple for a salad, so I went to the can rack and found none, only tidbits--which meant I had to puree them into crushed. I took the can and started walking away only to hear a crash to the floor. I turned to see what had fallen off the rack--a can of crushed pineapple! I forgot that I put two cans of crushed pineapple behind some tidbits last week. In the (almost) two years I've worked there, no can has ever fallen from the rack.

It's wonderful to have an omnipotent God watching over me!

My new blog name is coming together, but not quite.

I have so much in my head (and heart), but it takes consecrated time to make sense of it all. I seem to only have pieces of time, not enough to get on the other side. But God keeps moving me forward on His timetable, letting me know He needs to be in control. For so long I have made a mess of my life--so I do not fight His ways but embrace them.

What a wonderful Father we have!

This is Mother's Day weekend. It's a day I cherish, ever so thankful I have a mother to honor on that day.

It's good to come to the end of the work week. I'm usually depleted by Friday and ready for a break from the hustle and bustle of salad and dessert making for the noon and evening meals. (I'm thankful today is a fairly easy day; a great way to end the week!)

My mind is mostly on the salads and desserts I will be preparing for our celebration of mothers on Sunday! God bless you all.

Work was my classroom yesterday.

I was making Jello molds (something I do all the time); and for a minuscule second, I took my eye off the liquid in the mold (when carrying it to the cooler) and tipped it ever so slightly. I could not believe the mess I had all over the floor just from that tiny tip. The same is true about the flesh. A tiny tip in that direction can cause "a mess all over the floor."

I immediately saw an area in my life that needs attention--my tiny pauses from staying focused on the Lord.

This week is flying by and each day excitement is building as I surrender more of my "old ways" and embrace what is true.

I am thinking of a name change for my blog--it will have something to do with "forty days." There is so much in Scripture about forty days and is considered a number of total and complete transformation. Of course, life will always be a process, progressing in human baby steps toward God (as He takes giant ones toward us).

If I can change weak areas in my life by allowing God forty days to show me His ways, imagine the outcome of a continual renewal of such a challenge.

I'm getting up earlier but still running out of time. (I'm still looking for the balance!)

I'm reading a book, Body by God, that is teaching me how to get more done in my 24-hour day. He said to draw boundary lines around segments of the day, not letting other things interfere with what is at hand. I am making changes to hopefully see daily, weekly, monthly, and even yearly accomplishments.

I keep striving for God's best.

My mind is full of energy this morning--a typical Monday!

I made some life-altering commitments this weekend--to keep the t.v. and computer turned off most of the time. All weekend I heard the same message, from several sources, to let less of the world nibble away at my 24-hour day. To keep a strong focus on the Lord, I need to guard against these easy distractions.

God keeps moving me closer to Himself, closer to His ways and His thinking. There is no better place to be.

I'm so thankful it is Friday!

God took away the plans I did have--being a part of a Bible study in May. I thought the sessions were on Saturday mornings. (They are on Friday mornings instead, and I work.) I was going to teach a cooking class next week; and two weeks later, teach a class on loving your husband. (Every two weeks for twelve weeks a class on cooking and a Bible class are taught by two women, each woman having an hour to teach.)

God has other plans, and I trust Him for that.

I'm working hard on getting my (sixty year old body!) to respond to good mangement.

I have made so many mistakes (most of my life) in this area. It's amazing that my body is even responding to this late-in-life stimuli called exercise--but it is. God has given us an incredible "machine" called a body. You work out--it builds muscle. You work out--it creates more capillaries. You work out--body, soul and spirit are nourished.

I embrace each day as an opportunity to end the race well.

A busy morning awaits me at work (which will be full of deadlines).

I try to live a balanced life in spite of all the extra activity that seems to be screaming for my attention. I know I am to live in peace, and I know the Source of that peace. That helps to slow my anxiety down. I am carrying a lot on my plate right now, but some of it is temporary and soon to be behind me.

Life goes on, busy or not. Each day is a gift; open it with joy!

What a wonderful weekend. It was long and slow.

This is a busy week, but I hope to put "eating right" on the front burner. I gave in a couple times this weekend to a sweet I should not have had--of course, I now regret it. If only I could have the regret before I enjoyed the sweet treat!

Life continues on--and I am thankful.

This has been a "speedy" week with many (God-appointed) opportunities for me to grow.

I see how God is using all stations of my life to move me deeper into His presence, showing me the pursuit for happiness is found in my pursuit for holiness. My crazy days at work teach me this, right along with the wonderful books He brings my way, my friends, and what He teaches me through His Word.

I see how He is availing to me everything I need to "finish well."

I had computer glitches yesterday--oh, the joy of our modern day!

My body aches all over from its workout yesterday. I know on my own I would not push myself to have that level of a workout. When I think I can do no more, the wise instructor says, "Now, do eight more!"

Too often we give up too soon; we miss the fruit about to be produced.

What a wonderful day!

I am so enjoying reading Body by God. It is helping me put it all together--to live in such a way that every part of my life is pleasing to God. Throw yesterday away and start living today! I love the freedom that comes from a positive outlook.

God continues to teach me (praise God!) as I surrender my mind to Him.

(We're having computer problems again. It's a nuisance.)

The week is flying by but not in a rushed sort of way. Thankfully, the meetings have slowed down (and much fruit is taking its place). There has been so much uncertainty these past few months (years!) and seeing God work us through each step (of this seemingly endless journey) is such a blessing.

I praise God for the privilege of choice we have in this country, our beloved America.

It's amazing what a difference a day can make!

I felt empowered by my food choices yesterday, a feeling I haven't felt in some time. On all levels it strengthens the commitment when doing what is right. It's still a day at a time; there's no guarantee I will be this serious about my health-walk "from this day forward."

But, this I know: Each good day sets a stronger foundation for the days that follow.

I have really been eating sloppy--and feeling it!

Today is a new day. I made a wrap with raw veggies and avocado for my lunch and will stay away from the cooked food at work. I have been doing that too much--not packing my own food. So, I am looking at a new beginning.

That's what I love about God's twenty-four hour time increments--new beginnings are always available!

I feel half-awake--another late meeting.

It will be good when my life has some "normalcy" again. This is my last year to serve on the Board, and it's time to pass the baton. It's been an exciting three years to watch the Lord work, taking that which was (humanly) impossible and making it possible.

He is still doing a work that only He can do--uniting hearts. There have been many hurts as we humanly fumbled our way through this.

What a weekend! I don't know if I could go through another one like it.

Saturday was busy getting ready for Sunday. Sunday was about more than I could handle--on many levels. I drove to church in sleet and drove home in a blizzard (well, not quite a blizzard; but since it is April, I will call it a blizzard) and slid toward ditches twice with my car going sideways. Then I waited (while serving many family members a meal celebrating our grandson's fourth birthday) for "the call." Will the vote be "yes" or "no" to keep our school open next year.

Praise God we will continue to have a Christian school!

Fridays have become very important days to me. It is my last hurdle before a change of pace.

I have a busy weekend ahead of me as I prepare for Sunday. Not only is it an important day for church family (as we make a life-changing decision), but also an important day for our family. Our youngest grandchild turns four. We will have a house full of family well-wishers enjoying Taco Casserole--and lots of cake and ice cream!

God desires His best for each of us.

It's been an interesting couple months.

In November, when I started taking classes, my focus was only on completing the course. However, God put before me committee work (which I usually shun) that has put my impending "career" on hold. Last night I saw the fruit of the marathon meetings our committee endured. To see God at work in the lives and hearts of a room full of questioning people (parents and students) was an experience like no other.

I was a witness to "all things are possible with God."

My life consists of (school) meetings, it seems. I have another one tonight so will miss my exercise class.

I see God's hand in all of this, though, and don't want to miss an opportunity to have God touch my heart to allow me to see more clearly (through His eyes). People are what matter. God is so clear in His Word how we are to treat others.

I pray my life is a bridge.

It's funny how being at sixty, the pretwilight period of my life, I feel my life has (finally) just begun. Oh, how I urge people to stay the course (and not make quick decisions) when times get hard and the ups and downs come during those middle years--their beginning of life might be missed.

God designs each happening for a specific maturing in the Lord. (Only God knows how many times I wanted to throw the towel in the first thirty-five years of our marriage telling God it isn't working.) God, in His faithfulness, kept me from giving in to my many "better ways."

What does it cost to live, to rest, to abide in God's peace? It's free.

I woke up feeling bloated and fat.

I eat too much, and the way I feel this morning is its consequence. I feel God's nudge in all of this to keep moving forward and to not return to bad (eating) habits. My flesh is so strong in this area and does all it can to stay in control.

Allowing the Spirit to take over is an act of my free will, a powerful gift God has given each of us.

I am really lagging behind on my course work. That seems to be true about most areas of my life right now.

I guess I'm waiting for an energy surge to enter my body and move me into a productive speed. For one thing, my full time job is sucking the life out of me. I'm not trying to find excuses for my lack of drive but do know when one is depleted on all levels, it is hard to push through the weariness.

God grants us twenty-four hours each day. Though I think I can't fit it all in, that's all I need.

This is a special Monday; it's our (second) daughter's birthday.

She lost her job to downsizing a couple weeks ago and has a (second) interview this morning with a small company in the medical field, the field she has been in for over ten years. It's not an easy (or enjoyable) task to look for a new job.

What brings shalom-like comfort, though, is knowing Who is in control. How wonderful it is to rest in His omniscience.

Well, we made it through the winter--it's spring!!

The weekend looks busy (but not with meetings, at least). We will be celebrating a daughter's birthday, so that will be the main focus. Of course, there are many other things that need to be done as well; and that's what makes the weekend "busy." It's hard to fit so much into two days; I now have a true appreciation for anyone working full time out of the home. It's a difficult pair of shoes to be in.

I love knowing God is in control, though. I just have to do what is right, and He will do the rest. That's a praise!

Spring is fast-approaching, and I think we are all ready for it! God, in all His wonder, is bringing signs of life back in the surrounding nature.

My course-work has been on the back burner for a couple weeks (since sleep has to be a part of my day), but I'm ready to start working on it again. What I had hoped to accomplish this month--becoming certified--will have to wait until next month. It will be a happy day when that happens!

Until then, God is preparing my heart for what lies ahead beyond the still closed door.

What a busy weekend! We enjoyed having the pastoral staff and families over, then celebrated our granddaughter's sixteenth birthday. (Can she really be sixteen already?)

My husband and I are trying to get a better balance in our lives and work on making time for people. We walk around feeling consumed and depleted all week; that needs to get turned around. Life is too short to not put people ahead of work and schedules.

It's not an easy task, as something will always be urgent--so, we will carefully sift through the "urgent" to find the "important" and work at keeping people our main focus.

Meetings are on the front burner right now. We (the committee) are working on a project that needs to be finalized by Thursday and are meeting every night to meet the deadline.

It makes the rest of my life completely out of balance; but, thankfully, it is temporary. I am doing the best I can to stay caught up on the home-front. We are having the pastors and families over on Saturday for an early supper (a taco bar), and I really need to put some focus on that, too. (And, of course, there's my full time job--and my exercise classes and course-work.)

It will be a busy week!

I'm beginning to feel it is crunch time (with many of my commitments), and I'm a little apprehensive of what's on the other side.

It seems my whole life consists of loose ends (but close to being tied up). I need to take some giant steps in these areas and put a period. (I'm ALMOST done with my course, I'm ALMOST where I should be with my weight, I'm ALMOST ready to begin my widow's ministry, I'm ALMOST to the end of committee obligations, etc., etc., etc.)

I have so much going on in my head (and heart); only God can take all of this and make it beautiful (in His time).

I woke up this morning with a prayer in my heart for my daughter--she lost her job yesterday.

Those unexpected things happen throughout life, things that are out of our control. I love how God (perfectly) keeps our lives balanced with life-experiences---opportunities to (keep our hearts tender and) draw closer to Him.

Knowing God is in control gives a peace that sings, "It is well with my soul."

This has been a harried morning. I overslept!

I have another easy day at work (thank you, Lord), so I should be able to work at a sane pace. Tonight is a workout night, so I will leave work and go straight to the gym. It's nice to go from one to the other, then go home to stay.

Home is my haven, that's for sure.

Welcome to the month of spring! (What a wonderful feeling that is.)

The weekend was a blur. I know I had one; I just can't visualize it. Between meetings and studies, my life is pretty nonexistent. The good thing is both of these (meetings and studies) are temporary and should have long-lasting fruit. There will be a marathon of meetings this week and next, and my studies will go on through the end of the month.

Then, the search for a job begins. What a comfort it is to have an all-knowing God.

It's Friday--at last!!

I'm so excited about the weekend. Not that anything special is planned, but that Saturday will be the last day of February and Sunday, the first day of March. That may sound silly, but I've looked forward to those two days all month--winter will soon be phased out!

It's the little things that keep us going sometimes!

Food is something I've always enjoyed.

I not only enjoy eating it, I enjoy getting the groceries (for it) and preparing it. I enjoy arranging the grocery items categorically in the pantry and keeping it as full as possible. One could easily say it is a passion of mine. Of course, something with that kind of hold on my life is what can also get me into trouble.

Life is a constant "loosening the grip" on the things we "love" and seeing them for what they are--temporal, with no eternal value.

I am sore all over--but it's wonderful!

I didn't think I would ever be one who got excited about exercise, but I am. (That's another thing that was in God's perfect timing--the open house that led me to this class.) It is not the typical exercise (that my limited knowledge on the subject thought of), but a stretching of each muscle giving strength and mobility--which I'm already feeling the benefits of.

My only advice: Don't wait; begin today.

February has been a fast month--hopefully March will be swift, too (only to get on the other side of winter)!

I have a great need to continually give my all to God (because of my tendency to be a micro-planner and project myself too far into the future). My prayer is, "Take my course-work, Father; take my job, Father; take my hopeful ministry, Father; take all of this swimming in my head, Father, and do with it what pleases You." It's so easy for my to get so entangled in myself that I lose sight of God in all of this.

God's ways never change. That is my solid anchor.

I'm planning a small birthday party for my daughter-in-law Saturday.

Daughters-in-law are special. Though I love having "real" daughters, a daughter-in-law is someone who has enough disconnect to the family to give a true pulse on the things we might miss. For instance, she felt my mother was getting lost in the shuffle at one of our gatherings; and she we right. We were too busy interacting to notice.

She fills in the little gaps we unknowingly keep open.

This is what working people call "over the hump" day. I know I'm always glad to be on the other side of it!

I have been restless lately in the (seemingly) slow pace the "musts" in my life are happening. I know God has a time (a perfect time) for everything, but what I know in my head and feel in my heart are sometimes at conflict with each other. This happens when I project too far into the future, too far past "the day at hand."

I'm thankful for God's tender pull back to center where I can rest (once again) in His plan and all-knowing arms.

And the cycle of a new work-week continues.

It's interesting how slow some people are in processing things. I have gone from a size 24 to a size 16 (since May 5), yet I was asked after church last night if I had lost weight. I thought she might be joking; but by the queried look on her face, I knew she had to be sincere. Imagine her shock when I said, "Yes, sixty pounds."

Thank you, Lord, for this reminder of how far You have brought me.

What a blessing to be able to say, "It's Friday!"

Words cannot express how truly blessed I feel. God has put many life-changing opportunities in my path, and I'm (finally) giving response to them. Of course, the latest is adding exercise to my weekly routine--and I'm loving it! (Who would ever believe that would be coming from my mouth!)

My muscles are sore, and that is God's way of saying, "Thank you for trusting Me."

It's an exciting time of the year. The days are getting longer, and spring is coming!

I know this weather, more than likely, will not last (since we're still knee-deep into winter!) but what a blessing each warm day is. I have a renewed exuberance each morning when I see signs of spring (melting snow!) instead of the harsh blows of winter.

Through each Iowa climate change, I is see God's hand of order--as one season slips into another.

It's a beautiful day, though the wind is blowing with great gusts. To think that in early February we have a temperature of 41 degrees (at 5:30 a.m.)!

I feel energized and ready to take on the many tasks of the day. After work I have my second class in weight lifting to get my muscles in working order, so they can operate in the way God had intended. (I don't lift dumbbells but the individual hand-held ones in ways that all the muscles are worked.) It takes about four months for someone like me (who is on the bottom rung of the ladder!) to see satisfying results. I am encouraged.

God keeps opening new doors; He is my Guide and my Strength.

I've had an enjoyable weekend, but I'm still not ready to start a new work week. (Part of it is because of the time-consuming menu I have to work with this week.)

Working outside the home is certainly not for me. I've only had a year and a half of it, and I'm already burned out. I had a lofty idea of working ten years, but I now realize how out of my element I am living in such a structured forty hours (every week). How do people do it?

It's good to see doors open and close; God uses all doors to instruct and prepare us for His purposed plan.

I am so thankful it is Friday. I am depleted.

For now I have many "front-burner obligations" on my plate. Seeing God's hand in this keeps me going. When I look back over the past nine months, I can only say, "To God be the glory, great things He hath done." What has been impossible is now possible-- none of this could I have accomplished.

That's the song in my heart as I move closer to His all-knowing plan.

What I said yesterday about making the day longer didn't work today--I overslept!

Well, today I am sixty. My dear daughter said (in her card) that sixty is the new thirty. That makes me younger than three-fourths of my children! I know what she meant, though, and appreciate her loving expression. I feel good about entering this new decade. In the twilight of my fifties I had some amazing things happen, and I want to use that as my springboard to begin this fresh start.

I know God will continue showing me His program and aiding me in my quest to live a life in complete balance.

I am finding out the only way to make the day longer is to get up earlier!

My blog has suffered from lack of time (and mental strength). I see some light coming through this long, (seemingly) never-ending tunnel, though--the long tunnel of my home-study courses. It will be a rewarding day when "Certified" is stamped over my name!

God keeps making His way known to me. I rest in that wonderful peace.

I am looking forward to a new lifestyle. I don't want to live in "tomorrow" but making plans is always in my head.

It makes the work of today enjoyable. It helps to see at least a bit of the big picture to keep the (positive) momentum up. I know God has His hand on my life, and I want to be ready when He says, "Now!"

It is a wonderful thing to know He is in control-- and I just have to remain faithful.

The weekend was unusal; and, of course, not long enough. My nose was in the books most of the time, and I still have so much to do. The good thing is I will be on the other side of this eventually--it's not a forever!

I keep praying for patience as God works out His perfect plan. There are things He wants to teach me on this new journey (my course studies), and I need to surrender my timing of wanting this tied up neatly before winter's end. Life right now is spinning again, and I need to slow down my wishes before I lose all semblance of well being.

Again, Father, I give my life to You.

I am feeling so much better; rest is a wonderful thing!

The scale hasn't moved in weeks. The last thirty pounds will not want to leave their happy home (of many years!) without a battle. I am in no hurry, other than wanting to bring my blood pressure lower and my cholesterol lower. My doctor thinks I need some help in those areas, but I still want to give my body a year to adjust, which means May 5.

I see all the positive things God has shown me; I know He will continue leading me.

I'm having a hard time juggling all my morning activities, thus no post for some time.
I started one two mornings ago but lost it somehow in the "save now" department. Yesterday I ended up in the doctor's office before work, so no post. What a time!

I've been having to wear a corn pad about six months over my little left toe, and it really flared up over the last few days. I had to have it lanced (a big OUCH!!!) yesterday to release the bloody pressure, and the doctor also dug out the seed causing the corn pain. I may be suffering with gout. The blood work will tell for sure.

I am thanking God for His constant watch over me.

It's been an interesting week; I don't know how God is going to use it.

How much longer I am going to work is in God's hands. My focus is not on an agenda that is tangible. (That only brings frustration.) The inclination that comes natural is to arrange the ducks in a nice, straight line----

but God is teaching me a better way!

It's already Thursday. Time does not allow for dawdling.

What I was to do last night, I didn't. I went to bed at a normal time last night and should be able finish the test tonight. I'm trying not to get caught up in the frenzy of my over-stacked plate but just steadily move forward at what is before me. When done the right way, there is still the indwelling peace.

I will be doing something with every twenty-four hours, so why be overwhelmed?

Trying to keep all the plates up and spinning is quite a feat! Of course, something is going to suffer.

The last few weeks it has been slothful eating habits. I've grabbed what I could at work, which is very little raw. Yesterday for lunch, though, I made a nice veggie wrap with goat cheese. I felt very good about it. (Alas, supper was a "grab and go.") Today my focus is back to good health; that cannot slip away.

I'm thankful God only lets me drift so far--He never fails.

As I was sitting before my books last night (wondering where to start), God gave me a gift. It was as if He spoke to me.

I was turning the pages forward, looking at new information, when the thought came to me to go back, not ahead. So, I spent the evening reviewing and now feel more confident in entering the next chapter. Another life-lesson taught--take small bites, not large ones.

My confidence is not in myself, but in a God who "will never leave me or forsake me."

My posts have become somewhat spotty. My life has shifted into a higher gear, one I need to adjust to.

Looking ahead is daunting, so I try not to focus there--instead, on what is in front of me. I'm in a hurry to get to "point B" in my life, but it is causing much anxiety--and I know that is not from God. So, with a deep breath, I place this all in my Father's hands and concentrate on excellence, not on swiftness.

How wonderful it is to have such a caring, loving God.

What a wonderful opportunity to welcome in a new year.

The slate is clean; it is the first day of "new beginnings." I like that. It's a feeling of "the sky's the limit." (There will be more stretching times, of course, but that is the refining times.)

God's plan will be further revealed, another piece put into place.