Then and now...

In youth, it seemed important to express myself through music, opinions, questions and independence. I wanted an answer for every question.  I wanted to learn how to handle my life best.

In this middle-age season, it is much more important to listen, learn and depend on Him as my Guide.  I now know that He is the answer, even when questions abound.  There is no doubt that He handles my life best.

If only I had realized then what I have learned now. Yet He still loves me...anyway.

I am amazed.  I am grateful.  I am never alone.<3~thl

Another fur baby favorite...

I'll admit.  I was not a major dog person until the last two years.  It wasn't that I disliked dogs.  My parents had a beautiful Irish Setter and I loved him very much.  He would stand on his hind legs and place his front paws on me as we carried out our own play routine.  It broke my heart when he passed away.  Yet I always have...and always will...love horses.  However, I absolutely love being "Mom" to our two-year-old fur babies, Boomer and Beethoven. They are "my boys" and are a precious part of our family.

One of our favorite times is before they go inside each night. When they see Tim, Micah or me making nightly preparations, they begin barking, running and jumping.  I love when they lean down, place their heads on their front paws and invite us to play.  They are delighted to spend time with us, even at the end of the day.

I began thinking.  If our precious fur babies show such faithful, enthusiastic and unconditional love for us morning, noon and night, I wonder how much gratitude, consistency and love we show for our Heavenly Father at all times.  Do we show joy for His Presence?  Do we make moments with Him a faithful priority?  Do we invite Him into our lives continually?  Is our love for Him always obvious?

Boomer and Beethoven make me feel loved and wanted every time I am with them.  May I remember to treat my Master with such love and loyalty in my life, too.<3~thl

Son light...

For a brief time this afternoon, the sunlight was brilliantly shining through the windows.  The house was brighter.  The neighborhood was brighter.  It was so bright that I was actually squinting.  We have become so used to the cloudy, dreary and rainy weather recently, that the sunlight was overwhelming.  

I began thinking.  Our life journey is a true gift.  Yet it is often challenging.  Sometimes we become so accustomed to the responsibilities, routines and challenges, that we forget about the Son's light.  May we remember to pause, pray and praise Him for the beauty, strength, hope, peace and love He brings into our lives each day.  He holds us.  He heals us.  He guides us.  He restores us.  He lights our way each moment.  

I am amazed.  I am grateful.  I am never alone.<3~thl 

One fall night...

Rain is falling and so are the leaves.
The air is cool as fall covers our land.
Another season is gone and a new one begins.
Blustery winds move with whistling songs.
Heat make our home comfortable and warm.

Yet I know this is a season of beauty and hope.
Rain brings life and leaves will appear again.
This season, too, shall leave while another begins.
Winter winds will eventually bow to spring's new birth.
His hope, peace, love and joy make each season a gift.

May we embrace His beauty, purpose and plan
In each season of life's path we trod.
For He knows what is best and His promises remain.
His is with us.  He cares and He holds us each day.
We are never alone in the loving hands of God.<3~thl

Faithful friends...

I am thankful for faithful friends who are there... 

when I can use a hug along this journey,

when I need prayers along the way,

when I want to share something exciting,

when I have occasional blonde moments,

when I mess up,

when I have questions,

when I just want to share life with a friend,

when I am laughing,

when I am crying,

when I can't cry,

when I am extremely quiet,

when I ask tough questions,

when I need a reminder of His love.

I am thankful for true friends who truly care.

May I never forget the value of true friends.<3~thl

Thankful...

Thank You, God...
For Your strength that holds me,
For Your power that carries me,
For Your words that speak to me,
For Your grace that restores me,
For Your hope that renews me,
For Your love that changes me.
I am amazed. I am grateful.
I am never alone.♥~thl

May it be.....

May each moment that I live,
May each breath that I breathe,
May each word that I speak,
May each step that I take,
May each life that I meet,
May each deed that I do,
May it all be with love,
May it all be for You. ♥~thl

Penciled in...

It seemed strange.  While working on some music recently, I found it necessary to use a pencil.  It has been a long time since I placed such an old-fashioned, wooden instrument in my hand.  Yet at the moment, it was helpful to use something that wasn't permanent as I selected notations and chords.  Eventually, I was using the eraser part to make changes, as I suspected would happen.   I began thinking.  

While God is writing our story, we often make choices that need modified, too.  Sometimes, new beginnings are needed...and God lovingly erases the messes we make with His patience, forgiveness, mercy and grace.  

I am deeply grateful that my life has not been written in ink.  I am amazed that He loves me so much that He is willing to hold me, help me and heal me.  Though I am very imperfect, I am deeply moved that God allows new beginnings, erased mistakes and a fresh start on my journey. What a joy to know that although He forgives my mistakes, He still loves me...anyway.<3~thl

I believe...

I believe....
that life is a gift to be celebrated and cherished,
that kindness never goes out of style...never,
that hope influences this life journey,
that compassion touches lives deeply,
that listening is a precious gift from the heart,
that thinking before speaking prevents hurting,
that true friends never walk away,
that real love is precious and powerful,
that as long as I am breathing, He has a purpose for me,
that His Presence makes all the difference,
I am amazed.  I am grateful.  I am never alone.<3~thl

May it be for Him...

Dear God,
May Your strength sustain me.
May Your voice speak through me.
May Your light guide me.
May Your Presence transform me.
May Your peace calm me.
May Your love shine through me.
May Your hands restore me.
May You be honored...by me.<3~thl

Seasons of Presence....

We did it.  It was time.  Our bed is now ready for cooler weather with warmer sheets, an electric blanket and a heavy comforter.  As I began washing, folding and storing the lighter linens, I couldn't help but feel a bit sad that it's time for cold weather...again.  Yet as I climbed into bed last night and felt the warmth of the blanket, I felt much gratitude.  What a joy it is to know that as cold winds blow, as temperatures fall and as more challenging seasons arrive, I can anticipate a warm and comfortable bed at the end of the day.

I began thinking. Seasons of life change, too.  Some seasons are easier and enjoyable.  Some seasons are peaceful and beautiful.  Some seasons are not quite as comfortable as others.  Some seasons are brutal.  Yet what an incredible joy it is to know that Someone is with me through each season.  He brightens life with new beginnings.  He sings through the songs of birds and dancing of raindrops.  He transforms seasons with vibrant colors and blankets of frost. He miraculously covers and calms surroundings with fresh, white snow.

At the end of the day, I know that whatever season my life faces, He is with me.  His love warms my heart.  His peace soothes my soul.  His hope brightens my journey.  His compassion eases my burdens. His Presence assures me of His faithfulness.  Knowing His arms await me, hold me, heal me and help me makes this journey so beautiful and purposeful.  Whatever season I face, He embraces me.  I am amazed.  I am grateful.  I am never alone.<3~thl

"That driver..."

It was "that driver."  At the worst possible time, I followed a line of traffic being led by "one of those" drivers.  We all know the type.  They drive between fifteen and thirty miles per hour.  Brakes are used on every...single...turn.  Of course, this was a road of many...many...turns.  I was on a schedule.  I was certain that other drivers were heading to work and preferred to arrive on time.  "That driver" needed to either move faster or get off the road, according to my calculations.  I felt ashamed when the slow driver finally pulled over with a map in his hand.  He was obviously lost.  My impatience had not been kind.

I began thinking.  Although I am usually a very patient person, careless or inconsiderate drivers are one of my pet peeves.  Before I pull out a very undeserved halo, I also realize another truth.  I'm not always understanding of "lost traffic" on this journey of life, either.  Oh, I am passionate about the hearts and lives of others...most of the time.  But what about "that person" who doesn't live life responsibly?  Or the one who is harsh and hurtful?  What about the person who stabs me in the back with critical...and false...accusations?  What about that person who has the audacity to hurt someone I love?

Obviously, I am not condoning destructive and abusive behavior.  Yet I realize that before I make a false accusation of my own, I need to accept that I have experienced frequent lost moments on my own journey.  It wasn't the impatient travelers, critical backstabbers or finger-pointers that helped redirect me.  No, it was the kind, patient, loving and genuine heart that touched my heart, held my hand and proved that they cared...really cared..

I am deeply grateful that when I am lost, Someone loves me enough to hold me, heal me and help me find my way.  May I remember the One Who patiently listens and leads me as I travel this journey...even when...especially when...I encounter..."that driver.<3~thl

Restful peace...

It's been a long weekend. I truly need to be still...listen...and rest in His loving care...completely. Thank You, God, for still loving me.♥~thl

Presence of peace...

Peace...He holds me. 
Hope...He assures me.
Love...He surrounds me.
Compassion...He understands me.
Grace...He forgives me.
Strength...He sustains me.
Presence...He is with me.
I am amazed. I am grateful.
I am never alone. ♥~thl

Peaceful gratitude...

Tonight I am thankful for...
God's amazing protection,
Faithful friends,
Compassionate hearts, 
Hugs and laughter, 
Beautiful music,
Hot tea with honey,
Much needed sleep
And peace.
He holds me each moment.
I am amazed. I am grateful.
I am never alone. ♥~thl

Evening gratitude...

In this moment, I am very thankful for...
each amazing breath I take,
genuine, caring hearts,
God's wonderful provision,
smiles that light up the day,
music that soothes my soul...
and...my favorite pillow.
Thank You, God, for precious, amazing and simple gifts.
I am amazed.  I am grateful.  I am never alone.<3~thl

Fall and frost...

It was confirmed on the news again tonight.  We can expect frost this weekend!  Part of me is looking very forward to the absence of weeds and pollen!  Yet another part of me is sad that it is time to bring in my citrus trees, ferns and other plants.  Obviously, there is a good...and not so good...part of this season.

I began thinking.  Isn't life like that?  Whatever season we experience, there are reasons to be grateful.  If it is a season of celebration, we have many reasons to rejoice.  If  the season is more challenging, we may still choose an attitude of gratitude and acknowledge blessings we wouldn't ordinarily notice.  

I confess.  I am not a cold weather person...at all.  Yet I am determined to find reasons to rejoice in the middle of this fall season.  I am grateful for the beautiful leaves that turn colors, as if God uses a special paint brush to remind us of His Presence.  I am grateful for our two fur babies, Boomer and Beethoven, who love to chase the falling leaves.  I am grateful for soft sweaters that keep me warm when sundresses and sandals are no longer effective.  I am grateful for hot tea that soothes me on a chilly evening. I am grateful that as fall arrives, I know spring will eventually return.  

Most of all, I am grateful that His love covers me as beautifully and faithfully in cool weather as it does in warm weather.  He is with me through every season.  I am amazed.  I am grateful.  I am never alone.<3~thl

Open arms...

It seems like yesterday.  I was in seventh grade.  We were completing the state required physical education tests.  Since our small school didn't have a running track, we had to run on the main highway...Route 42.  Not only was it a public highway, it had a very large, sloped turn in the middle of our designated distance.

Frankly, I was never a great athlete.  Running and tennis were my only decent attempts.  I wasn't the fastest runner.  Nor was I the slowest.  Other tests proved my lack of athletic talent, but I took running very seriously.

The day came.  The highway distance was measured.  The whistle blew.  All of the gals in my class began running.  It didn't take long to hear our panting and the constant thud of shoes hitting the pavement.  Thankfully, I wasn't asthmatic yet.  So I ran...freely.  I was never in front.  Yet on this day, I felt strong.  I knew I may finish well...maybe just behind those wonderful, athletic gals in our class.  I was excited.

Then it happened.  I had to pass another classmate.  We realized we would pass and be passed by others.  As I came around her side, she extended her arms...and kept them there.  No one was going to pass her ...no matter how slowly she ran.  I remember wondering how close her arm was to my throat.  I knew I had to run faster and move away from her or I would fall.   She fought me...not with speed but with determination to hold me back. In fact, she had tripped me in previous races.  I was afraid but I had to keep running.  Somehow, I managed to get around her and I finished the race.  My heart hurt for how she made me feel.  I also hurt for what she felt inside as she struggled to keep us behind her.

I began thinking. Sadly, there are too many "races" on this journey that include some people trying to hold back...or trip...others.  Instead of encouraging others to do their best, use their gifts and abilities, pursue their goals or feel part of a community, the opposite happens.  People are excluded, isolated and unwelcome.  Hearts "hit the pavement" by rejection.  Lives are disconnected from community because arms are extended to keep them at a distance.  What could be a beautiful tapestry of lives joining together becomes a torn, painful, senseless tragedy.

I thank God for holding me close...lifting me up...and encouraging me each step of this journey.  I am thankful for open arms of others' hearts that truly reflect His.  May we run this race for Him and toward Him.  May we encourage each other more as we see the Day approaching.  May we live lifting others up...to Him.<3~thl

In this moment...

In this moment...
I see the dark night sky.
I hear the stillness.
I feel the crisp, chilly air.
I breathe in and out steadily.
I know the rhythm of my heart.
I am alive and amazed by His Presence, power and peace.
His purpose and plan remain.
I am grateful. I am loved.
I am never, ever alone. ♥~thl

To live...love...and cherish...

To be thankful on this journey, 

to know that each step is a gift, 

to realize that each moment is an opportunity,

to cherish what is beautiful,

to grow from what is challenging,

to love and be loved,

to breathe the air,

to speak kind words,

to share life with others,

to encourage with hope,

to listen with compassion,

to sing and play music,

to teach and learn,

to hold and let go,

to open my eyes for another day,

to close my eyes and rest each night,

to celebrate and appreciate,

to give of myself to help someone else,

to walk, talk, see and hear,

to feel His Presence without a doubt,

that is what makes life worth living and love worth giving.

May I never lose sight of His love, hope, peace and joy.

I am amazed.  I am grateful.  I am never alone.<3~thl

Whispered strength...

While working on my education major in college, a wise professor said that if you want to capture someone's attention...whisper.  He explained that whispering requires greater focus of others' attention than shouting.  Of course, this does not mean that teachers should whisper continually.  We realize that whether teaching, speaking or singing, our voices frequently require more than whispering.  Yet as my professor discussed, a whisper frequently carries greater emphasis than other options.  We are naturally drawn to trying to hear someone speaking softly while we tend to distance ourselves from someone who is loud. I have found this to be true in many aspects of my life.

I began thinking. While seeking His direction in my life, I have consistently found that God's Presence is most obvious to me in still, quiet and peaceful moments.  Of course, He could capture my attention by using thunder, lightning, wind, crashing waves or other loud alternatives.  Moments sometimes arise when parents must respond strongly, quickly and audibly.  But I seem to learn the most when I am drawn to Him in stillness...in His whispers...and in His tender, loving embrace.

May I draw closer to Him daily.  May I notice His Presence more intentionally.  May His love be reflected in my life...peacefully, quietly, compassionately and consistently.  For His love is everlasting and His truth endures forever.  I am amazed.  I am grateful.  I am never alone.<3~thl

Before me...around me...with me

During an unexpected opportunity today, I sat down at the piano, opened up my newest book and began playing a new song.  I was using it as a "warm up" before working on another new song from a favorite CD. Both songs are enjoyable yet very different styles.  One I was learning by reading the music in front of me. The other I was learning by listening and playing on my own.  At the end of the day, I learned new music in different ways.  I began thinking.

Each step of this journey provides lessons in life.  Some lessons are learned by what we see right before us.  Other lessons are learned by listening closely.  Some lessons are obvious.  Some are found by focusing more intentionally.  Much like music, learning about life is a continual process.  There's always more to learn, more to improve, more to apply and more to enjoy. 

Much too often, I rush through the day so fiercely that I miss the beauty and value of each moment.  Whether in front of me or surrounding me, I hurriedly lose opportunities to learn what He wants to teach me.  May I slow down...see what is before me...notice what is around me...and remember that He is always with me.  I am amazed.  I am grateful.  I am never alone.<3~thl 

Bold living...

I have been hearing the word...BOLD...more often recently.  Naturally, the first thing I did was open one of my favorite books, the dictionary, to confirm the definition I remembered.  BOLD was defined with words such as fearless, daring, confident and adventurous. I remembered correctly.  Then I began thinking.

Not everyone has a bold personality.  Frankly, bold personalities are often considered rude, arrogant and proud.  We've met them before.  They say anything...to anyone...at anytime...in any manner...and have a habit of not listening to others or considering others' feelings.  That's not the kind of bold I desire to be...or be around.  I kept thinking.

We can live boldly without being rude or insensitive.  We can be bold in love...never afraid to consistently care about others.  We can be bold in hope...confident in His sovereignty, strength and truth.  We can be bold in compassion...reaching out to others who are hurting, grieving, searching and wondering if anyone cares.  We can be bold in faith...knowing that He is who He says He is and He will do what He says He will do.  We can be bold in gratitude...living with a thankful heart for each breath, each day, each opportunity, each loved one each gift we have been given.

Today I want to begin focusing on being more bold in my life.  May I love living and live loving.  May I become more grateful, hopeful, faith-filled and loving.  Though my life may be quiet, I pray He will be reflected BOLDLY in how I love...and live...each moment.<3~thl  

Little things...special things...

It's the little things....that really are the special things. 

...heart to heart chats with faithful friends,

...moments to celebrate life and love,

...unexpected opportunities,

...a sweet card arriving in the mail,

...laughter with loved ones,

...hugs,

...good news in difficult times,

...kindness that touches lives,

...hearing an old song and singing along,

...knowing someone cares,

...realizing He is always with me.

I am amazed.  I am grateful.  I am never alone.<3~thl 

Twenty-seven years ago...

At this exact time twenty-seven years ago, I was sitting in a (week long!) revival at Germantown Christian Church, where my husband ministered at the time. I had to sit in the back of the room beside one of our members, who was an RN, because I was having major contractions. I handled them quietly (well, maybe some frequent silent screams and holding onto the chair with blue knuckles! LOL) and didn't disrupt the service...but I definitely missed the next night's service. smile emoticon For this was the night before our precious Rachel Victoria Lorenz's birth! We arrived at CBH the next morning around 7:30 and Rachel was born at 10:01 am on October 6, 1988. I knew that this would be the last night before I became a mother....and life has never been the same! Thank You, God, for the highest calling I was ever given....being the Mom of Rachel and Micah Lorenz. I am forever grateful...and blessed.♥~thl

A true gift...

Each moment is a true gift. Even the difficult moments are a gift for He faithfully and continually holds us. Then there are unexpected moments that take my breath away and remind me that He is amazing, powerful and sovereign. May I remember that each moment is precious with reason to celebrate. I am amazed. I am grateful. I am never alone.♥~thl

As I wait...

As I wait, I listen. As I wait, I trust. As I wait, I hope. As I wait, I believe. As I wait, I rest...in Your loving arms. I know that You know what is best. Show me...in Your time...as I wait. ♥~thl

Messy moments...

There we were...standing in rain and mud.  It was time for "our boys," Boomer and Beethoven, to go outside.  It could not be delayed.  So out we went.  Once we were back inside, I dried them off with a towel, loved on them and told them it was time to go "night, night."  They went to sleep almost immediately.

As I settled in for the evening, I happened to look in the mirror.  The rain had made my hair wild and wavy.  My makeup was non-existent.  My clothes looked like I had, of course, been standing out in the rain.  I had to chuckle...and count my blessings.

We all have those friends...including our precious fur babies...who love us just as we are.  We may have muddy hands, messy hair, wet clothes and bare faces...but they still love us.  I am also reminded of the One Who loves me in the middle of messy moments, rainy days and stormy seasons.  He is faithful and genuine.  He claims me as His child and never walks away.  He even loves me enough to hold me, cleanse me and carry me each step of this journey.  I am amazed.  I am grateful.  I am never alone.<3~thl

Definite detours...

It's a challenge...and an important lesson.  Our small town is keeping us alert and aware.  For what seems like a couple months, our route into town has been experiencing construction, which includes temporarily stop lights to alternate one lane traffic areas. Last week, a bridge was closed for repairs on a road beside a busy shopping area.  This week, the bridge on South Main street is closed for much needed repairs.  Today, one of the alternate routes into town was closed due to a tractor trailer accident.  Future changes are ahead as major road construction will take place near our hospital. These are exciting times in our town.

Recent trips into town are becoming quite "scenic" as our family adjusts to the changes. Wherever we need to go for work, Church, shopping or otherwise, our usual way is much different.  Yet when I consider the long term results, I realize that these temporary alternatives serve great purpose.  Safer bridges are essential.  Improved water lines are very beneficial.  Reducing dangerous traffic around the hospital is extremely important. Patience isn't always easy but definitely worthwhile.

I began thinking.  Life has its share of detours, alternate routes and patience building.  We may have definite goals, desires, strategies and plans...but they don't always happen as we anticipated.  Sometimes it is frustrating, confusing. discouraging and disappointing.  Sometimes it is absolutely heartbreaking.  Yet sometimes, detours bring delight, joy, protection, hope and unexpected blessings.

I'm not sure when detours will subside in our town but I will be grateful when our journey is more safe and simple.  Yet I may actually miss some of the scenes I have enjoyed recently as I drive on roads I don't usually travel.  I'm not sure if, or when, life's detours will be resolved.  Yet it is my prayer that wherever this journey takes me, I never lose sight of the One Who loves me, guides me and knows the best route for my life.  He holds, heals and has a much better plan for my life than I realize.  I am amazed.  I am grateful.  I am never alone...even on the scenic route.<3~thl