Monday, February 29, 2016

Go ahead...make their day...

He only wanted three smoothies.  With a daughter and wife ill this weekend, my husband drove to town to get something that sounded tasty and tolerable for our weak bodies.  He ordered in the drive-thru and was asked to wait in a parking area for special orders.  There seemed to be a shortage of ingredients at the restaurant but they planned to have the problem resolved soon.  Fifteen minutes later, no one had delivered the smoothies to his vehicle.  So he patiently, yet purposefully, walked inside and asked about his order.  Much to his disappointment, the smoothies were neither made...nor available.  The cashier refunded his money and an optional order was placed.  

As my husband later watched an action movie, I couldn't help but recognize the difference in his approach with the prolonged wait for smoothies...and the lack of patience shown in the action movie.  Yet I also thought about this on another level.

Patience is something I usually handle well...unless it's a traffic jam...or rude behavior.  Then it's a definite challenge.  Yet before I allow my long fuse of patience to wear out, I need to realize a major truth.  God has been...and continues to be...very patient with me...much more than I deserve.  He knows I have fallen short of much more than three smoothies.  He has waited much longer than fifteen minutes for me to learn important lessons.  He has not destroyed me when I fail.  He hasn't called me degrading names when I make a mistake.  He loves me...forgives me...and restores me...repeatedly.

May the amazing love, grace and mercy He extends to me...be shown and shared with others on this journey. Making someone's day...is much more effective when reflecting Him than reacting impatiently.<3~thl 

Leaping blessings...

Miracles do happen. Twenty-eight years ago today...February 29, 1988...I was told that I was going to be a mother. It was a "leap day" I shall never forget. It was an answer to many prayers, dreams and conversations with God. In His timing, in His power and in His plan, our "Little Miracle" was on her way.
There are many things I do not understand on this journey. Yet I have learned to trust Him through it all. He is faithful. He hears our prayers. He is with us. Always. ♥~thl

Available and attentive...

Our precious fur babies, Boomer and Beethoven, know how to get our attention! When they are inside and want to go out, they let us know. When they are outside and want to go in, they let us know. When they want to play, they let us know. When they want to be petted and babied, they let us know.
Perhaps one of my favorite methods they use...is howling. They howl at the moon...at other animals...at coyotes...and when they want our attention...immediately!
I have noticed that as soon as we respond, they become quiet, attentive and very happy to see us. I began thinking.
How amazing that our Heavenly Father's Presence is always available. In a whisper, song, word, tear or silence, He hears me. He knows me. He loves me. He holds me. I am amazed. I am grateful. I am never alone.♥~thl

A grateful day...

It wasn't the best day. I woke up with an unexpected and unwelcome virus. I didn't get much accomplished. I was disappointed.
It wasn't the worst day. I woke up breathing, seeing, hearing, feeling, thinking and able to walk. I heard and spoke with loved ones. It was a blessed day and I am grateful.♥~thl

Thursday, February 25, 2016

Praying, thanking, pleading, trusting...

Thank You, God...
for hearing our hearts when there are no words,
for holding us when there are no answers,
for seeing what others do not recognize,
for knowing what this world doesn't realize,
for loving us when we feel like we have failed.

Please, God...
bring comfort those who are hurting,
bring assurance to those who are searching,
bring peace to those who are struggling,
bring strength to those who are weakening,
bring hope to those who are falling.

You are faithful.  I will trust You.<3 ~thl

Wednesday, February 24, 2016

Snowflakes on the face...

A few moments ago, I opened our front door, stood in the entryway and watched snow blowing across our yard. As strong winds were gusting, several snowflakes landed on my face.  Although they were cold, the warmth I enjoyed from being inside kept me from being completely chilled.

I began thinking.  Life is a beautiful and precious gift.  Yet there are moments, seasons and circumstances that are cold, unfair, painful...even brutal.  While we cannot deny the reality of such stings along life's journey, it is most helpful to remember the warmth we are also given.  Knowing there are faithful friends, dear family and the One Who loves us continually provides strength, hope and encouragement.

I am deeply grateful for the warmth in my life which guides, sustains and holds me regardless of what is happening around me or within me.  May I seize every opportunity to touch other lives as genuinely and graciously as He has touched my life through precious souls.  I am amazed.  I am grateful.  I am never alone.<3~thl  

Tuesday, February 23, 2016

Love and laundry...

Surprisingly, I enjoy doing laundry.  Perhaps it is inherited since my Grandfather owned a dry cleaning business many years ago.  Maybe it is because I cherish memories of helping my Mom wash, hang, dry and fold laundry for our large family.  Yet I also enjoy laundry days because the process of something dirty and wrinkled becoming clean and orderly gives me satisfaction.

Oh, I admit that it can be overwhelming when we return from a trip and there are more loads of laundry than I can finish in a day.  When both of our children were in college at the same time, it was normal to have ten loads of laundry to complete before they returned to their schools.  Yet it always brought me joy to see the laundry room filled with clothes because that meant they were home.

Laundry day reminds me of another special truth.  If helping with my family's laundry means that much to me, I can only imagine the deep love He has for us as He cleanses our lives, mistakes and sins on this journey.  He knew we would not live blamelessly.  He knew we would get it wrong...repeatedly.  Yet He loves us so much that He paid the ultimate price to transform stained lives into forgiven souls.

Those who knew me best know that I am adamant about keeping ample laundry supplies available.  As soon as something is low, it is written on the shopping list so we will never be without what is needed.  What a tremendous joy to know that His love for me is unending, unconditional and merciful. although I will always need His grace, mercy and forgiveness.  I am amazed.  I am grateful.  I am never alone.<3~thl

Monday, February 22, 2016

Waiting by the Light...

Meteorologists are presently predicting a "wild" week of winter weather.  I don't like the sound of that.  There are potential thunderstorms, rain, wind, cooler temperatures and snow.  When I was a child, I wasn't as concerned about the weather.  Somehow I just knew that whether storms, snow, sleet or loss of electricity occurred, my parents had a plan.  They would take care of us.  In fact, one of my favorite childhood memories includes sitting around the warm, bright fireplace as we waited for the electric company to restore our power.
 
As I reflect on this life journey, I remember countless, unexpected "wild" twists and turns over the years.  Storms of uncertainty, loss, disappointment and misdirection were inevitable.  Yet as the years progress, I have learned that I never faced any situation alone.  No matter how major the messes seem to be, He has a plan...a way of refining us through it all.  He will take care of me.  Waiting for the next steps of this journey, I must remember to pause, pray and listen.   Through His warmth and light surrounding me, He restores my soul and renews my strength.

What a joy to know that His loving Presence brings lasting peace.  I am amazed.  I am grateful.  I am never alone.<3~thl

Happy Birthday, Grandma Genny!

There are precious lives on our journey who touch our hearts forever. Even after they have passed, they are still a daily part of us. Their love, their wisdom, their words, the precious memories remain deeply intertwined and influential in all we do.
Today is our beloved Grandma Genny's birthday. She is missed tremendously by all who knew and loved her. Yet, she is lovingly and beautifully remembered every single day. Grandma didn't just tell us she loved us daily. She showed her love for us continually.
Happy Birthday in Heaven, Grandma! Thank you for loving us so unconditionally, generously and graciously. You loved us with all your heart. We love you and we can hardly wait to see you again. Have a wonderful birthday in Heaven. I have no doubt you are singing and playing piano with the angels. I love you, honey, and I will see you soon.♥~thl

Little yet loving...

It's little acts of kindness that touch our hearts so sweetly. It's unexpected thoughtfulness that makes our day so bright. It's people helping people, that sincerely make a difference. It's caring about each other that makes the journey blessed.♥~thl

Friday, February 19, 2016

Golden moments...

It's the weekend...a very needed and anticipated time after an interesting week.  There's much to do but the opportunity to slow down, rest and soak in silence will be wonderful. 

It's a beautiful and interesting journey...but there are very needed and anticipated times to pause and reflect.  There's always much to do but those golden opportunities to slow down, rest in His arms and listen to Him are essential.  

May the golden moments always remind us of Who...and what...matter most.<3~thl

Thursday, February 18, 2016

Love vs. Mud...

Returning home recently, I noticed our sweet fur babies, Boomer and Beethoven, were enjoying time outside.  Born in Canada, they love snow and cooler temperatures but their play time has been limited due to messy weather conditions.  On this sunny day, however, they were pleased to enjoy fresh air, barking at traffic, guarding our "home on the hill" and sitting in the sunshine.  I also noticed that they had been in mud puddles but that didn't stop their enthusiastic response.  As I climbed out of our vehicle, they began barking and wanting me to play with them.  I could not refuse such a warm, loving welcome.  

Those who know me best know that my favorite color is white and it just so happened that I had on a white jacket.  But "our boys" were jumping, running and standing on back legs to celebrate my return so I did what any fur baby loving lady would do.  I played with them, hugged them, let them kiss my face and put their sweet, muddy paws on me...including my very white jacket.  It was an easy decision.  Love versus mud.  Love won.  

I began thinking.  My life has certainly had its share of mud, too. I may not wear mud on my face or clothes publicly...but my life is imperfect, inconsistent and a continuous learning experience. Just like my white jacket after that warm welcome, I have been covered with mud from life's journey.  

Thankfully, Someone sees me through the eyes of love and also wants to welcome me Home.  He recognizes my obvious stains but He has made a way to cleanse them.  Pulling my white jacket out of the washer, I breathed a sigh of relief when I realized all the muddy stains were gone.  My heart is touched when I realize that He washes away my stains, too.  When it comes to Love versus mud, Love wins...again.

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

Wednesday, February 17, 2016

Loving Song...forever...

There are some days that tug on our hearts more than others.  Some days are unforgettable, irreplaceable and so deeply engraved into the core of our existence that we are changed forever.  February 18 will always be a bittersweet day for me.  It is the birthday of a precious little girl we will always love.  Always.  

Song was born in China and although there were clothes in her closet, books to be read, a crib for her to sleep in, a high chair for her to eat in, a family who longed to bring her home and call her their own...it didn't happen.  I will never understand the obvious call to adopt her yet the heartbreak that the six year journey brought...ending with empty arms, shattered dreams and a family that mourns her absence every day.  We would celebrate her sixth birthday if she were home with us now.  Yet there will be no birthday cake, no pink balloons, no friends sleeping over and no squeals of laughter filling our house on this day.  

Although Song never made it into our arms, she will always live in our hearts.  Nothing will ever remove her place in our hearts, lives, prayers and family.  She taught us so much about trusting God when there are no answers, no excuses, no reasons and no healing of the hole in our lives.  The pain will always be present...because our love for her will always remain.  So as my heart aches, throbs and seems to tear into countless pieces on this day, I am grateful.  I am grateful for the opportunity to love her, to see her precious face in pictures, to know her name, to know her birthday and so many details about her first two years of life.  My arms never held her but my heart will always embrace her...and celebrate her life.  I will never be the same because of that precious little girl who never came home but touched our lives forever.  
I am grateful that God knows all about her and holds her in His loving arms.  I am grateful that He watches over her each moment.  I am grateful that He taught me how much He loves me.  He lost a child once, too.  It is because of His love and compassion that I believe He always knows what is best, even when we don't understand.  He has taught me how to love...unconditionally and eternally.  He has taught me about true faith, relentless hope and trusting Him...completely.

Happy Birthday, Song.  You are loved so very much and you will always be remembered.  Always.  Thank you for the joy you brought us...and the love we will always hold in our hearts for you. <3~thl

“If some lives form a perfect circle, other take shape in ways we cannot predict or always understand. Loss has been part of my journey. But it has also shown me what is precious. So has love for which I can only be grateful.” 
― Nicholas SparksMessage in a Bottle

Tuesday, February 16, 2016

Simple list...

Some want to travel the world.  
I just want to touch the world wherever I go.

Some want to own everything they can.  
I just want to belong and be all I can for Him.

Some people want their name in bright lights.  
I just want His light to somehow shine in my life.

Some want to know the "important" people.
I just want people to know they are important to Him.

Some want to accomplish all they can for glory. 
I just want my simple life...to glorify Him.

Some seem to believe they have life in their hands.
I believe my life is lost without living in His hands.

Some seem to have a perfect, amazing life.
My life remains imperfect led by an amazing God.

Some see life differently than I do each day.
I just want to love Him and love them in a very simple way.<3~thl

Monday, February 15, 2016

Wishing..Knowing...Seeing...

This week is not beginning like I wish it would.  We had snow yesterday, rain today and more snow is expected tomorrow morning.  Winter's brutal grip seems relentless and destructive.  Yet as I look around, I realize we have a warm home, enough food, supplies and uninterrupted electricity.   Better weather will also arrive within a few days.  I began thinking.

Life is not always the way I wish, either.  Disappointment, illness, loss, pain, unexplained circumstances and heartbreaking situation abound.  The brutalities of life seem to surround us. Yet as I look around, I realize we have a loving Father, faithful friends, dear family and hope. A Day will arrive when this journey is complete and a beautiful place awaits His children.

Things may not be the way I prefer them now.  Yet seasons come and go.  Holding onto Him and walking this journey with His peace, promises and power bring a very different perspective.  This is not all there is in life. I will focus on Him...His love...His joy and His strength.  It may be winter but spring will come.  Life may be challenging...but He is with us. Always.

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

Snow day supper...

What does a warm weather gal do when a winter storm hits? Well, I cook, of course! As the snow fell, we enjoyed venison veggie soup, garlic/parsley rolls and peanut butter no bake cookies. We tried to make the most of the situation. However, over two gallons of soup may last all week!♥~thl

Winter weather prayer...

My prayer is for everyone traveling this morning to be safe, take your time and watch out for each other. It is very cold and our streets are not treated yet. So please take care, everyone. Please also pray for the folks who are out working on the roads and other first responders involved in these challenging weather conditions. May we help each other today...and every day. ♥~thl

Valentine prayer...

For those whose hearts ache on Valentine's Day....
For those who feel loss or left out in some way...
For those who wonder if they really matter at all...
For those who wish things were different than they are...
For those whose sweetheart is no longer near...
For those who wonder if their love will ever appear...
For those who struggle with unknown pain...
For those who want to love and feel alive again...
For each heart that beats on this day and all others...
Please know that you are loved, you have purpose and your life matters.
Some One cares and He won't walk away.
May we all reach out and love each other...now and every day! ♥~thl

Friday, February 12, 2016

Cacophony or Symphony...

Music has always been one of my greatest passions. From singing and playing piano as a young child, I cannot remember life without music.  Whether hearing my parents sing, my grandmothers playing piano, community musicians playing various instruments or our church family singing together, music has been a constant part of my life.  

Yet there's a part of music that we don't always consider.  We think about lyrics, notes, dynamics, rhythm and the key in which music is written.  We think about various genres of music.  We easily identify our preferences.  Music surrounds us in the majority of places we go.  Yet if someone asks us what we like best about music, I doubt anyone would mention a necessary element...silence.  An important part of music, rests continually intertwine with the score in order for music to be ultimately expressed.  We've often felt pauses or the anticipation of the remainder of the song.  Yet if all notes were played on every beat with no rests or silence, we would experience an overwhelming cacophony instead of a beautiful symphony.  Whether there is complete pause of all notes or the silence of many notes as others are delivered, some degree of silence is always essential.  

I began thinking.  From morning's first sounds of alarms, coffee pots, traffic and talking to the end of our day, life doesn't include many moments of silence. We find ourselves wondering why we feel overwhelmed, exhausted and desperately seeking rest.  We long for the quiet of the mountains or the soothing rhythms of the beach.  Silence refreshes and refuels us.

Although I find ultimate renewal and redirection when I spend quiet time with the One Who waits for my full attention, I somehow forget the most important part of my life is listening to Him.  Silently. Totally.  Unhurriedly.  It is when I have soaked in His Presence, love, hope and strength that my life seems most peaceful.  I believe that He writes my life song on this journey.  May I surrender my cacophony for His symphony by resting in Him...continually, consistently and completely.<3~thl  

Thursday, February 11, 2016

Little things...big difference...

It truly is the small things that make a major difference.  As I prepared to leave home last night, I placed the keys and music by my purse. As long as everything was together, I would hopefully get out the door without forgetting something.  When the time came to leave, however, I noticed that everything remained together...except my keys.

Our son soon walked inside and I realized what had happened.  I asked if he had seen my keys and he had.  Not only had Micah seen them, he had taken them outside to start the van and get it ready for me to leave.  Gratefully, my steps from our warm home to a warm vehicle were few...and greatly appreciated.

I began thinking.  Micah didn't have to spend those moments getting the van ready...but it made a tremendous difference for me.  Knowing that he thoughtfully, kindly and willingly made a decision to do something that would help me touched my heart greatly.  Perhaps he wasn't aware that my day had been quite challenging.  Perhaps he didn't know how much I dreaded going out in cold weather after such a day. Perhaps he didn't know all that was on my heart and mind as I prepared to leave.  Yet what may have seemed small to him was very meaningful to me.  I shall not forget his kindness and how it made me feel.  

I often wonder what a difference it would make if we would extend kindness daily.  Perhaps calling to check on someone...or texting a friend to say hello...or sending a card to someone who needs to know we care...or maybe just helping someone reach something in the store...would take a moment of our time to make another person's day.  Life is hectic but may we never be so busy that we forget to show that we care about each other.  Go ahead.  Make someone's day.  It's the little things...that make a big difference.<3~thl

Wednesday, February 10, 2016

Beautiful blooms...

It is no secret that I love working with plants, flowers and trees.  One of my goals is to eventually build my own greenhouse simply because I love "dirt therapy."  Until then, however, I enjoy decorating our home, deck and yard with the beauty of nature.

Since we live in a cold, winter climate, it is necessary to move most of our deck plants inside until spring arrives.  That means we have citrus trees, ferns and other plants in a room where they will be protected as well as provided the nourishment they need.  

A few days ago, I noticed something about one of the plants we have inside.  As I walked into our "plant room," I was surprised to see two beautiful, pink blooms. It was a much needed and wonderful reminder of hope and assurance. I began thinking.

Although the plant had been taken out of its "comfort zone," it somehow found a way to not only survive...but thrive in its present environment.  Although we provide the sunny room, water and a viable temperature, that plant unexpectedly found a way to bloom in the middle of winter.  

Perhaps some of us feel like we are out of our comfort zones.  Maybe we long to live closer to family and friends.  Maybe we long to reside where we could be more involved, included or accessible to reach other goals. Yet we are in this place...at this time...for some reason.  

I believe that even when I do not understand reasons, answers, locations or purposes on this journey, Someone does.  He knows why I am where I am....how long I will be here...what I am supposed to learn and do while I am here...and how His plan will unfold accordingly.  All I need to know is Who I trust, Who supplies every need, Who protects me and Who matters most.  It is my hope, my prayer and my goal to bloom where He has placed me...in each season...every day.  May His faithfulness, beauty, hope and assurance be reflected in our lives...wherever He plants us.

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

Tuesday, February 9, 2016

Questioning queen...

It's true.  I have always been inquisitive.  My parents constantly heard me ask "why"...why the sky is blue, why a car engine looked that way, why bread has to rise, why I was the only girl in the middle of four boys, why there are mountains in some places and not in others, why water is clear, why people do the things they do. To this day, I find constant reasons to ask why.  

However, I ask even more questions than "why."  I do more than my share of asking God "why" but I also ask Him countless "when"..."where"...and even "how."  I know He hears every question.  Yet sometimes I must be reminded that it is much more important for me to listen to Him...than for Him to answer me.  

He is with me.  He holds me.  He knows what is best in my life...why it is best...when it is best...where it will be best...and how He will direct my path.  I will wait.  I will trust.  I will believe.  I will follow His plan instead of my own.  

I am amazed.  I am grateful. I am never alone...even when I ask too many questions.<3~thl

Weather together...

This week may be long with snow and brutally cold temperatures predicted. Please be aware of others as we go through this winter weather. Deeds of kindness and concern may touch...and even save...lives. Be safe, everyone. Each life matters. ♥~thl

Still morning...

In the stillness, 
in the calm, 
in the shadows before daylight appears, 
in the newness of the day,
I am aware, grateful and amazed by His Presence and peace. 
I am never alone.♥~thl

Saturday, February 6, 2016

Music and more...

It began years ago.  One of my childhood responsibilities was washing dishes after each meal.  That doesn't mean I loaded them in the dishwasher.  That means that I cleaned food off the plates, emptied glasses, loaded the sink with hot water and dish detergent, scrubbed dishes, glasses, silverware, pots, pans followed by rinsing, stacking, drying and putting them away.  Mom also taught me that kitchen work was never complete until the table, stove, refrigerator and counter tops were wiped clean.  That may sound relatively simple and routine but for a family of seven, it was never a brief process.  

To make that job more enjoyable, I did what any music-loving daughter did.  I turned up the music and sang along until my kitchen responsibilities were complete.  What could have been a sometimes overwhelming task became an opportunity to learn, grow and celebrate music.  

As I cleaned my kitchen tonight, I naturally played music.  Surprisingly, the station was playing songs from the 70s and 80s.  I didn't realize it was a Saturday evening ritual but I enjoyed the familiar tunes.  Then it happened.  A song began that I had not heard since 1973.  It had two versions and the extended version plays for around ten minutes.  Tonight the extended version was presented and I sang each verse and chorus just like I did while washing dishes forty-three years ago.  I was surprised that I still remembered it word for word.  By the time the song was over, my kitchen work was done and memories were vividly returning of that eventful time in my life.

I began thinking.  Life's journey is filled with many experiences and events.  Some are exciting.  Some are routine.  Some are enduring.  Some are refreshing. Whatever we encounter, it makes all the difference to find purpose, joy and beauty in each moment.  Even in overwhelming times, there is One Who holds us and helps us recognize opportunities to learn grow and celebrate His loving Presence and peace.  He has promised that He is always with us and will never forsake us.  I may remember song lyrics from over forty years ago.  Yet I hope to hold His words, His promises, His love and His power even closer in my heart and mind as my journey continues.  I sincerely appreciate music's tremendous influence in my life.  But I am most grateful for Him...and the song He places on my heart every step of the way.  

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

Friday, February 5, 2016

Walking with wonder...

During a very busy, challenging and interesting week, I have become increasingly aware of the value of a listening friend, a kind heart and an encouraging word.  What a beautiful journey we share when we help, hold, listen and lead each other along the way!  Knowing we never walk alone makes all the difference. 

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

Thursday, February 4, 2016

While waiting...

We wait...
for the weekend,
for evening's rest,
for family time,
for alone time,
for improved weather,
for dreams,
for goals,
for results,
for healing,
for guidance,
for purpose,
for Him.

I am thankful that as I wait in seasons of life, He waits for me to to lean on Him...and trust Him...more.
I am amazed.  I am grateful.  I am never alone.<3~thl  

"But those who wait on the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles.  They shall run and not be weary.  They shall walk and not faint."  Isaiah 40:31 

Wednesday, February 3, 2016

Some and One...

The battle continues...
some may think I'm too old,
some may think I'm too plain,
some may think I'm too much,
some may think I'm too quiet,
some may think I'm too weak,
some may think I'm too strong,
some may think I'm too simple.
some may think I'm too complicated.
some may think I'm not enough,
some may think I don't matter.

The battle is won...
He made me.
He holds me.
He renews me.
He restores me.
He forgives me.
He leads me.
He strengthens me.
He loves me.
He calls me His child.
I am valuable...to Him.<3~thl

Tuesday, February 2, 2016

His tapestry...

It wasn't pretty.  A family member recently asked me to mend an item of clothing.  It looked simple enough for my very limited sewing skills.  I began the project.  Two hours later, the project was complete.  Yet my heart sank when I looked at the repairs.  It was the worst mending job I had ever done.  Let's just say that it looked like weeds were growing out of the stitches.

I had a choice. I could either leave the weed garden appearance in the garment and regret it continually.  Or I could take a deep breath, remove my work...and try again. Those who know me best realize that I am not a seamstress but they also realize something else.  I do not give up easily.  Ever.

Tonight, I tore all my previous stitches out and went to work.  It only took an hour to redo the repairs using a different stitch and the finished project is acceptable.  It isn't perfect but the weed garden is gone!  I began thinking.

Life isn't a perfect project, either.  We fall.  We bruise.  We bleed.  We break. We all need healing on this journey.  Sometimes wounds are visible.  Sometimes deeper wounds remain unseen.  I am grateful that the One Who knows me...my messes, my wounds, .my scars and my life most...still loves me enough to heal me.  I often wonder what He thinks when He sees yet another "repair" project in my life. He undoubtedly sees every weed...mistakes, regrets, detours and defiance...yet He lovingly picks me up, removes my stains and tells me He will not give up on me, either.

Although life brings countless repairs, He is able to transform all the knots, stitches and repairs into a beautiful tapestry of love, grace, mercy and hope. I am amazed.  I am grateful.  I am never alone.<3~thl

Monday, February 1, 2016

Middle moments...

In the middle of storms, we learn what matters.
In the middle of pain, we learn who cares. 
In the middle of waiting, we learn true hope.
In the middle of life's journey, we find His peace.

In each step, each moment and each breath, 
I am amazed.  I am grateful.  I am never alone.<3~thl 

New...and valued...

It's a new month, a new week and a new day. My goals are many but it seems most important to treat each life with value. He values our lives. May we value each other, too. ♥~thl

Incomplete plans, unexpected gifts...

The day did not go as planned. Errands remain undone. Yet I am grateful for His love, protection and provision. I trust His way more than my own. The unexpected moments today...were definitely gifts from Him.
I am amazed. I am grateful. I am never alone.♥~thl