First Bloom

Daily Gratitude Year 14-Day 181: Today, I am grateful for the first bloom. 

Yes! From seed to bloom, it has finally happened. With the cooler weather in early spring, I feel like the zinnias are taking a little longer this year. Perhaps, it is my human impatience. It is in the backyard and not in the front where I always expect the seeds to bloom first. 

It is pink! A wonderful reminder of all of the color that is to follow. From dead things like seeds can come new life. Just add the right amounts of water and sun. 

I harvested the first tomato last night, too. The wonder of it all is never lost on me. A little yellow flower becomes the fruit that we treat as a vegetable in so many of our meals. The cherry tomatoes are coming soon. 

"The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands." -Psalm 19:1

Today, I am grateful for the first bloom. 

Food Art

 

Daily Gratitude Year 14-Day 180: Today, I am grateful for food art. 

I enjoy the Pinterest boards that show food art. It is amazing what can be made with fruits, vegetables and meat. As the charcuterie craze has grown in the USA, the opportunity for food art is born. This iguana is too pretty to eat. 

When Chase and Walker were little, the Leanders were always with us. Ryan and Blake were like bonus cousins. Jill and I swapped childcare one day a week. There was a short season when Chase and Ryan were in school Walker was a baby, and Blake was my primary lunch guest. 

Blake had a limited diet of approved foods. He did eat peanut butter. Peanut butter has to be Jiff in our house. I believe it was in Jill's, too. One day she called to question me about Blake eating peanut butter. I assured her he did for me. The conversation went like this:

Jill: "Blake eats peanut butter sandwiches at your house, right?"
Valerie: "Yes."
Jill: "He won't eat them here." 
Valerie: "Is it Jiff peanut butter?"
Jill: "Yes." 
Valerie: "Do you slice it diagonally and flip the triangles to make a butterfly out of the sandwich?"
Jill: "No."
Valerie: "Try that." 

A traditional American snack is peanut butter in celery with raisins. It is called "ants on a log." Nutritional and cute. We once had a turkey veggie tray brought to our Big Bess Thanksgiving. It took time for the creator, but brought great delight at meal time. 

This passage reminds us to give thanks for the food before us. 

“Give us this day our daily bread.” – Matthew 6:11

Honestly, there is some guilt in the knowledge that we have such abundance that we can be creative and literally "play with our food." The very thing we were told not to do as children has become culinary art. 

Today, I am grateful for food art. 

Examples of Patience

Daily Gratitude Year 14-Day 179: Today, I am grateful for examples of patience. 

Nature does not rush. It reflects the beauty of God's design. The older we get, the more aware we are of how swiftly time passes. We have the same 24 hours in a day, but the sands of time seem to be falling faster in the hourglass. 

Hurry and worry steal so much joy from our days. To intentionally pause and take in the beauty around us brings richness to any day. Look for the uniqueness in ordinary things. Seashells, turtle shells, and flower blooms are not all the same. The wonder of it all can easily be lost because we do not take the time to observe the ordinary. I am 100% guilty of this! 

I am reminded of God's patience with us. His mercy and grace fall like rain on us daily. Do we extend the same to those around us? Do pause to testify of the goodness He brings to our ordinary days? 

"The Lord is not slow to fulfill his promise as some count slowness, but is patient toward you, not wishing that any should perish, but that all should reach repentance." -2 Peter 3:9

Today, I am grateful for examples of patience. 

Recipe Memories

Daily Gratitude Year 14-Day 178: Today, I am grateful for recipe memories.

I saw this image for strawberry pretzel salad and smiled. This was Jill's go-to recipe for gatherings. It is so good. I have never made it, because she always did. I think it might have originally come from Donna Eigsti Roth. I am not 100% sure but it is delicious. (It is best the same day; there are rarely leftovers.)

Summer family gatherings and potlucks bring out our best recipes. The kaleidoscope of colors on the table is appealing. The lines move swiftly and the plates are always full. There is always plenty of laughter and conversation. The recipe exchange is part of the fellowship. 

The recipes from loved ones who are no longer with us are true treasures. Pride of Iowa will always make me think of Grandma Opal Maxine. Mama had a pineapple pie recipe that Uncle Lee loved. She never missed an opportunity to treat her brother. I need to look for it in her recipe box. I do not believe I have made it. 

My Turtle Brownies are a recipe I am often asked to bring. Turtle Brownies are expected at big family gatherings. What's not to love about a dark chocolate cake mix, butter, caramel, evaporated milk, chocolate chips, and pecans? Uncle Bob, Cousin Jim, niece in our hearts Kinga, and our dear friend, Gerald look for them. I am grateful that Jennifer has pans big enough for double batches and a double oven. 

Writing this post is making me smile. It is more about the love that goes into the food, more than any one recipe. And, it is about the way it is received with joy and anticipation. 

This scripture reminds me of God's desire to feed, protect, and bless his children: 

"You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; you anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows." -Psalm 23:5

Today, I am grateful for recipe memories.

Discernment

Daily Gratitude Year 14-Day 177: Today, I am grateful for discernment. 

This image is from a social media bulletin board. I sparked many thoughts this morning. Discernment is not something we talk about enough in a world full of deception. 

In an era dominated by AI, discernment has become both rarer and more critical. Algorithmically fueled division spreads without restraint, making it easy to forget that the truth rarely occupies the extremes. A wise perspective holds that "there are two sides to every story, and the truth lies somewhere in the middle." But this raises a deeper paradox: can something be truthful, yet still inaccurate? Absolutely. And it is precisely in that nuance where true discernment lives.

"The truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth" is associated with the oath taken before testifying in a courtroom, historically with a hand on the Bible. It is a bold statement. Not just before the judge and jury, but God. A Bible is not required, but it makes a statement. Commandment number nine states, "You shall not bear false witness against your neighbor" (Exodus 20:16).

"Deception is present and discernment is required at every click of the remote control or turn of the radio knob. It reminds me of the old Paul Harvey broadcast that warned against the potential danger of bringing televisions into our homes. Imagine what he would think of our world today. Every answer—or at least an engineered answer—is at our fingertips.

'And no wonder, for even Satan disguises himself as an angel of light' (2 Corinthians 11:14).

I love to learn. I love discovering new things. Knowledge itself is not evil; it is how we use it. But when knowledge takes God's place in our lives and in our hearts, it becomes the altar where we worship. This thirst for knowledge is not new. It began in a garden where the temptation was to know what God knew… to be God's equal. They had only known the good, until their eyes were opened and they were introduced to evil. As Proverbs 16:18 reminds us, pride goes before a fall. The battleground hasn't changed; it has just moved to our screens."

Today, I am grateful for discernment. 

Traveling Light

 

Daily Gratitude Year 14-Day 176: Today, I am grateful for the challenge of traveling light. 

First born and "just in case" are in my genetics. It makes traveling light a challenge. It is so hard for me to keep it simple and basic when we travel. Randy has learned great patience over the past 42 years as a couple. 

This quote reminded me of the value in traveling light, although it is not referring to luggage. 

"Bring love wherever you go. Shine light wherever it's dark. Leave blessings wherever you've been. Be kind wherever you are." - Mary Davis

It is great advice and an excellent way to travel through life. We can make a splash or we can make a difference. A few can do both. 

Love, light , blessings, and kindness weigh little to nothing, but they have the power to change a home, a community, and a culture. 

"Carry no moneybag, no knapsack, no sandals, and greet no one on the road." -Luke 10:4

The instruction was to travel light to keep the purpose in focus. "Greet no one" was to stay mission focused, not an instruction to be unfriendly. Traveling light allowed freedom to be truly present in sharing the good news of Christ. 

Obviously, in our culture today we need money, a bag, and shoes to travel. How can we travel light, be the light, and lighten the load of others as we share the heart of Jesus? 

Today, I am grateful for the challenge of traveling light. 

Modern Miracles

Daily Gratitude Year 14-Day 175: Today, I am grateful for modern miracles. 

It is a day for medicine and miracles. 

If you have heard me go on and on about "The Longbranch" restaurant back home in L'Erable , IL, I will make no apology. It is worth the 2 hour drive and I am blessed it is not far from Matt and Jennifer's house. They catered Ciara and Kenzie's weddings. It is our favorite place to eat when we are home. "Nick and Lindsay" are a part of many conversations, from the magic they make in the kitchen to a "Cheers" like welcome when you walk in the door of the restaurant. It is the epitome of what is great about living in small towns an hour from Chicago. 

A year ago, Nick got sick. Honestly, I do not think I've met Nick. Lindsay is the one out front when we are there with family and friends. Ultimately, it was kidney disease and it was stage 5. 

Kidney disease is a part of our Bess-Watson (St. John) family story. Grandma Opal Maxine died of kidney disease. Many have prayed with us for my cousin Tara Jo in recent years. Tara Jo has been blessed with the miracle of two kidneys. 

My Bess side of the family is big and the cousins are many. I was in college when they were born in their toddler/childhood years. In the pack, a group of three cousins formed a fierce closeness. They had no sisters. Tara-Jo (a brother), Crystal (an only child), and Molly (one oldest brother and four more... she was the only girl in the middle of identical twin boys). When Tara-Jo needed a kidney, Molly was tested but not even the same blood type. She promised herself that if she could ever give the gift of life... she would. 

Who would have ever dreamed that Molly would match Nick? Seriously, you can't make up that kind of miracle. And, they did not know each other, even being in neighboring towns. It feels like hope and a God-wink. 

In a few hours, the team at Rush will begin the work of harvesting Molly's gift and placing her kidney in Nick. I believe Crystal and Tara Jo are with her, if they can be. Her husband, Brian, loves her deeply and will be her rock as she heals. Her girls have witnessed how "loving your neighbor" looks in a big and beautiful way. Who knew it would be literally... a community neighbor? God did! 

"The Lord sustains him on his sickbed; in his illness you restore him to full health." -Psalm 41:3

Today, I am grateful for modern miracles. 

Undying Hope

 

Daily Gratitude Year 14-Day 174: Today, I am grateful for undying hope.

This image sparked joy in my soul today. It talks about a decision we make every day, but adds a little whimsy to the final thought. 

"I've decided to carry some undying hope with me every day. As a treat."

Every single day we make choices about what we carry around with us. How we frame the day matters. Undying hope keeps us going. We know who set the stars in place and calls them out by name. The earth and other planets remain in their orbit, which is for us... the perfect distance from the sun. 

An astronaut's life was recently changed when seeing it from space brought him to a place of understanding that no accident brought us to this time and place. 

Sunrise comes each morning to wake the day. Sunset reminds us to rest. They come each day in such a way that we often miss the wonder and magic of it all. (Tip... add a beach and an ocean and the wonder is increased.) We put our hope in nature's rhythm and rules and forget to worship the One who created it all so perfectly. 

Evil is present in this world. Bad things happen, but God's goodness is with us now and forever.   

"Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen." -Hebrews 11:1

Whatever the day brings, we can choose to carry a pocket full of undying hope every day. 

Today, I am grateful for undying hope.

Keeping Watch

Daily Gratitude Year 14-Day 173: Today, I am grateful for the watchkeepers. 

Those who keep watch keep us safe. Keeping watch has a long history with sailing vessels, but the idea has drifted into other military divisions and safety realms. Those who keep watch keep us safe. They look for fires, system failures, and security breaches. They are the ones to first see a problem that needs to be managed. Watchkeepers often save lives and save the day. 

We have a four-legged watchkeeper who is always on guard for suspicious people in the neighborhood. It is funny. If people are familiar, she is not as bothered. She recognizes strangers and strange dogs she does not know and goes on high alert. She alerts us to the comings and the goings in the neighborhood. 

A friend handed me this scripture once. I keep it close at my desk:

"the Lord will watch over your coming and going both now and forevermore." -Psalm 121:8

I am grateful that our Lord is steadfast in keeping watch. He does not need rest or sleep. What a comfort it is to know that our God watches over our comings and our goings! 

Nothing is unknown to Him. Evil is still present in the world, but we have a watchkeeper. We have those "trust your gut" moments when we make choices or we ignore the feeling. When we recognize "something is not right," we can investigate and respond appropriately. 

Situational awareness is key for those who keep watch. 

Today, I am grateful for the watchkeepers. 

Shelter

Daily Gratitude Year 14-Day 172: Today, I am grateful for shelter.

It is Father's Day in the USA. It is a day of mixed feelings as we celebrate the fathers and grandfathers around us. It can be mixed with sadness when we are the "oldest" generation in our family. Matt and I talk about Dad often. There is much to remember. He was one of a kind. We miss him. 

I think about the fathers we chose in marriage... our partners in parenting. I am grateful for mine. He would do anything for the kids and for me... and he often does. Love is in the little things. 

I think about the "Father Figures" beyond those given to us by birth. John Story comes quickly to mind. If you knew him... you know. My Uncle Larry was a second Dad... who loved us and disciplined us like his own. Uncle Mel taught me how much a parent's heart aches over their children's struggles... even when they don't express it to their children. Herb Roth spent 40 years as a father and grandfather figure in our lives. Monte Carl Willis Smith - a brother in love and uncle- but more like a grandpa to our kids. Denny Holm cannot be left out. He was one of a kind, too. I am sure I have forgotten someone... know it is not intentional. 

These men provided us with unconditional love, shelter, wisdom, and so much more. Father's provide shelter in such a way that we can rest when we are with them. Safe and sound. 

I love Joseph! I refuse to buy Christmas stamps that show Mary and Jesus if there is no Joseph. He chose to go through with the marriage knowing they would be laughed at, talked about, and disbelieved. He had some strong urging, but ultimately... he had to be willing. Joseph trusted God and fled with Jesus and Mary to Egypt until it was safe to return home, when Herod would have had the baby killed. Fathers protect their children. 

We can dwell and abide in the shadow of our Heavenly Father who covers us with His hand. 

"He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will abide in the shadow of the Almighty." -Psalm 91:1

Today, I am grateful for shelter.

Dress With Intention

 

Daily Gratitude Year 14-Day 171: Today, I am grateful for a reminder to dress with intention. 

"Dress like you have a brunch reservation, even if you're just going to Target." 

The thought is a little old school. In college, we had to dress for the day. Jeans were after 5 p.m.  I am not that old, but my university stuck with that standard long past when others did. My classmates at other schools could wear sweats to class. 

I never minded, except in the dead of winter, with the lake effect winds up our skirts. For the most part, it taught us how to feel comfortable in professional clothing. I think it gave us an advantage in interviews when we graduated. I know that I am in the small minority with my opinion, but that is fine with me. I've always preferred skirts and dresses to dress pants or jeans. 

Now, I love comfy, cozy clothes that look dressed up and professional. Don't get me wrong. I've never liked clothes that are too tight. I guess it is why I love the gypsy, bohemian look with plenty of rings, bangles, and accessories or... in absolute contrast ... a simple sheath dress. My idea of jeans is a jean skirt. My two shoe seasons are sandals and boots. 

We don't dress fabulous every day, but dressing up to show up matters. For the guys, dressing up might mean switching from a t-shirt to a collared shirt. We do not have to be "fancy" to create clothes that make us feel good. Thrift and second hand stores have great treasures that you do not have to feel guilty wearing once or twice or ignoring the care labels. Upcycle, Recycle. Our clothes do not make us, but the do impact how we feel. 

Mama always said a little blush, lipstick, and mascara go a long way. They change how we feel, even if others do not notice the difference. I'm allergic to most blush, so I focus on dressing my eyes instead. Mama's words run through my head often. 

"Therefore encourage one another and build one another up, just as you are doing." -1 Thessalonians 5:11

A kind word can fall at just the right time. If you see someone sparkle, encourage them. They may need a word of affirmation more than you now. 

Today, I am grateful for a reminder to dress with intention.

Keep On Keeping On

Daily Gratitude Year 14-Day 170: Today, I am grateful for the beauty in "keep on keeping on." 

Poetry has always been beautiful to me. This poem from Walt Whitman brought to mind the value and importance of "keep on keeping on." 

"The earth is rude, silent, incomprehensible at first; 
Be not discouraged - keep on-
there are divine things will envelop'd; 
I swear to you there are divine things more beautiful than words can tell."

It reminds me of the days of waiting for the ground to warm enough to sprout the seeds sleeping in a blanket of dirt. Just when you are about to give up, new life begins. Spring green is full of warmth. Beauty is all around us if we pause to take in the wonder. 

The enemy of our souls speaks lies and discouragement. It is easy to forget that divine and beautiful things appear in God's time, not ours. Our job is to keep on keeping on. Pops of beauty appear in unexpected places. We often miss them in our hurry to "get through" this day. Even in the "keep on keeping on" seasons, there is wonder to be enjoyed. 

"Do not grow weary in doing good; at the right time, you will reap a harvest if you do not give up." -Galatians 6:9

Today, I am grateful for the beauty in "keep on keeping on." 

Healing Things

Daily Gratitude Year 14-Day 169: Today, I am grateful for healing things. 

"We can't heal the world today, but we can begin with a voice of compassion, a heart of love, and an act of kindness." -Mary Davis

Mama Ina Mae always reminded us that healing takes time and patience. "Leave it alone" was often heard when we would mess with the typical wounds that happen when living wild and free. Scrapes, falls, and other small injuries occur when you are working or just having fun. 

100% aloe was her favorite wound care choice. From burns to growing new skin after Grandpa Harry lost a part of his foot under the lawnmower... aloe vera was her wound care solution. It always worked... to the surprise of the health care workers. Twice daily we dressed that foot. Matt remembers going with Dad to get the best brand of aloe vera... I think at the health food store. Grandma's aloe vera plants could not support the volume needed for twice daily care, but that is where we started. 

I am grateful for the lessons learned when we helped care for my grandparents, especially during those days when Grandma had Alzheimer's and Grandpa was recovering from that accident. I was caring for Grandma when Matt came in with Grandpa, his boot and foot partly missing. Matt was a kid and I was a teen. We had to problem-solve fast. There were no cell phones. No 911. Just quick thinking. And, although our hearts were racing, everyone tried to stay calm. Calm, gentleness, and compassion go a long way in a crisis and in the healing process. 

I recently used aloe vera for a burn from some boiling water. It still is a game changer. It is one of my favorite "healing things" to have on hand with the Watkins salve. I smile and think of Mama when I use them. 

The world is a mess. Aloe vera cannot heal all of the brokenness. It goes much deeper. Wounded souls take time to heal. A voice of compassion, a heart full of love, and acts of kindness can be like aloe vera on a wound. Healing sometimes requires that we do something different or "leave it alone" instead of picking at the wound. 

I am grateful for the Great Physician who gave us the "leaves of the trees for healing." He is the one who can restore our souls.

"He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds." -Psalm 147:3

Today, I am grateful for healing things. 

Quiet Blessings

Daily Gratitude Year 14-Day 168: Today, I am grateful for quiet blessings. 

There is nothing quite as peaceful as a favorite cup of a warm morning beverage accompanied by wildlife playing in the yard. Birds, squirrels, and bunnies abound on summer mornings. It is mostly quiet and definitely good for the soul. 

"Not every blessing is loud. Some arrive quietly, like birds at the feeder and peace settling into your soul."

Quiet blessings are the ones we forget to count. Our favorite people and fur babies around us add to the contentment. For those who are on summer break, there is an unhurriedness that is restorative. 

Other quiet blessings that come to mind are my large print Bibles and zooms on our screens and phones. Simple but game changers when we need them to be. 

Every day has moments that are simple, quiet, and very good. We are preparing for another round of storms here in "Heart of Illinois." It makes me more appreciative of the quiet blessings that surround us at the break of day. 

"The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; His mercies never come to an end;  they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness." -Lamentations 3:22-23

Take in the calm before the storm, figuratively and literally. 

Today, I am grateful for quiet blessings. 

A Second Look

 

Daily Gratitude Year 14-Day 167: Today, I am grateful for a second look. 

This owl picture caught my eye. He is adorable. It reminded me of the power in perspective. Perspective is very much a part of daily life, including our faith journeys. 

This little owl reminds us that there are different ways to change what we see. Sometimes, it is as easy as changing the level from which we are taking in the view. Photography uses perspective all of the time, often achieving it by a twist of the camera. 

It is so easy to see things only from the spot that is familiar, comfortable, and easy. There are times we need to take another look. There is wisdom in looking from different angles and taking in different points of view. 

"If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him." -James 1:5

A second look from a different viewpoint can fill in the holes in understanding. It might mean refocusing. I could mean finding clarity. It might cause us to pause and be prayerful, asking God for wisdom, which is always a good idea. 

Today, I am grateful for a second look. 

From To Dos into Ta-Das

 

Daily Gratitude Year 14-Day 166: Today, I am grateful for when "to dos" turn into "ta-das."

Don't you love Monday morning ambitions? A great list of things you want to accomplish is good, but a done list is better. Some things take more time than others. Simple acts can be gratifying. Big ones take time and energy, but are worth taking to completion. 

Some things are never "done" for long like cleaning the house, but they are still good in the moment and for the few days the house feels truly clean. 

Savor the small moment of success and celebrate the big ones. 

"Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the inheritance as your reward. You are serving the Lord Christ." Colossians 3:23-24

You've got this! 

Today, I am grateful for when "to dos" turn into "ta-das."

Seers

 

Daily Gratitude Year 14-Day 165: Today, I am grateful for seers. 

"The man who has been taught by the Holy Spirit will be a seer rather than a scholar. The difference is that the scholar sees and the seer sees through; and that is a mighty difference indeed. " -A.W. Tozer

Knowledge and wisdom are two very different things. Wisdom does not come from knowing God's word, it comes from being in it. To read it and absorb it is different from simply knowing the words. Being filled with His Spirit so that we feel the tug when we veer off the ancient way. 

Setting our eye on Him helps us to set our "true North" making it harder to get lost. 

"Thus says the LORD: “Stand by the roads, and look, and ask for the ancient paths, where the good way is; and walk in it, and find rest for your souls. But they said, ‘We will not walk in it.’" -Jeremiah 6:16

Disobedience is a decision that impacts every decision after it. The enemy of our souls longs to create a sea of shame with waves of regret that swallow us up. His grace is deep; His love is as wide as the East is from the West. 

Seek and you will find. You are seen and known. 

Today, I am grateful for seers. 

So Much More..

Daily Gratitude Year 14-Day 164: Today, I am grateful for so much more.

This quote grabbed my heart today:

"If you are going to be used by God, He will take you through a number of experiences that are not meant for you personally at all. They are designed to make you useful in His hands, and to enable you to understand what takes place in the lives of others" -Oswald Chambers

Even when life is hard, our God is still good. I see it at every twist and turn that comes our way. We live a part of His much bigger story. No piece of a puzzle is insignificant. Some days you might feel like another "blue" piece in a puzzle full of water or sky, but each one is still unique. Each one is important or something is missing. 

Our struggles may be key in someone else's story. We have all been moved by the actions or testimonies of others who stay firm in trials and troubles. Our God is still moving the pieces. Our stories are not over... even after we are gone. 

Then this was my verse of the day: 

"If you then, who are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will the heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to those who ask him!” -Luke 11:13

It is always good to be reminded of the goodness of God. He is so much more than we ever imagine Him to be. 

Today, I am grateful for so much more.

Protection in the Storm

 

Daily Gratitude Year 14-Day 163: Today, I am grateful for protection in the storm.

Walker and Amber were hit the hardest with roof and gutter damage, but never lost power. Chase and Emma lost power, but no known damage. Our little pocket of the neighborhood lost branches an small trees in places, but the worst missed us.

Our dear friend (who has been like family for 35 years) was caught in the mess on 74. She sheltered at the Goodfield, IL, gas station by Busy Corner, but felt winds she had never felt. She was heading West, so she saw the massive semi truck and trailer accident on 74E. Good Samaritans were trying to help those in the trucks. She and many others were praying for those inside awaiting rescue workers who were struggling to get there in the storm.

The Crandalls lost nearly all of their trees but God spared the house and cars. Seriously, it was as if angels put the trees down safely so the house and cars were spared.

Todd and Sarah had some fence damage. The Leanders are good. Ryan headed out to help a friend whose home was hit.

The huge trees uprooted are in Idlewood park where we spend many Thursdays in the summer enjoying concerts. Tonight was obviously cancelled. (Some of the trees pictured are there.)

I am sure we will hear more today, but we are grateful for protection in the storm. We will hear more today about their declared status. The best status of all is safe.

Today, I am grateful for protection in the storm.

Things We Can Count On

Daily Gratitude Year 14-Day 162: Today, I am grateful for things we can count on. 

Sunrise. Sunset. We can count on them. We can precisely predict them because we have a great God who weaves order into time by His design. 

There is still a unique beauty in these daily events that keep us coming back for more. We know they will happen and they still take our breath away. 

My daily verse was another life verse I have clung to at every sunrise and sunset. 

“Be still, and know that I am God. I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth!” -Psalm 46:10

"Be still" is a command followed by a comma indicating a pause. 
"And know" means without the shadow of a doubt. 
"That I am" reminds me of God telling Moses "I AM" sent  you. 
"God" ... we are not to misuse his name. 
"I will" ... there is no question.
"Be exalted" ... there is no denying His majesty.
"Among the nations." indicates all of the people of the earth.
" I will" ... now and in the future.
"Be exalted" ... meaning He will be lifted up, praised, and worshiped.
"In the earth."  including the breadth and depth of nature. 

Let there be no doubt! Add it to the list of things we can count on. 

Today, I am grateful for things we can count on. 

Grace in Forgetfulness

 

Daily Gratitude Year 14-Day 161: Today, I am grateful for grace in forgetfulness. 

This sums up some days in a nutshell:

"I had a thought... and then I had another thought. They bounced off each other and now I can't find either one." 

There are days that thoughts seem to pop in and out without really landing. Moving from one thing to the next, but never really getting to finish anything because of a missing piece can make for long days. Then, you forget what you started out to do. 

Forgetfulness comes with being human and increases with age. It teaches us to be intentional with the things we want to remember. Memorizing scripture is a good exercise for our brains. It was easier when we were young, but it is a good practice at any age. It writes His Word on our hearts so it is always with us.  

"Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits,"-Psalm 130:2 

We are constantly bombarded with messages from an increasing number of sources. I am grateful for those who grant me grace in the moments of forgetfulness, and I need to remember to do the same for those around me. 

Today, I am grateful for grace in forgetfulness. 

Simple Reminders

Daily Gratitude Year 14-Day 160: Today, I am grateful for simple reminders. 

I love reminders. I do not see them as nagging. I set many alarms throughout the week so that I remember important things from appointments to plugging in devices to recharge that I only use once a month. Reminders help us avoid embarrassment and negative outcomes. I have documents that are nothing but reminders. 

Post-it notes offer visual reminders. I put them on my phone, on my computer monitors, and in my lunch bag. There are days I hang my lunch bag on my door handle as a simple reminder to take it home. 

The kids gave me a jar of color-coded scriptures that are simple reminders from His Word when I need it most. I keep that little jar close at hand. It is full of simple reminders. 

A simple reminder can be a game changer. 

My daily verse is a simple reminder about a big picture. This was today's:

“Enter by the narrow gate. For the gate is wide and the way is easy that leads to destruction, and those who enter by it are many. For the gate is narrow and the way is hard that leads to life, and those who find it are few." -Matthew 7:13-14

It reminds me that we do not serve Santa Claus. We serve a mighty, just, and holy God. His ways are not always easy, but they are good. The world is full of illness, loss, and seasons that are discouraging and hard. On occasion, an old familiar passage hits me in a new way. Today is one of those days. 

"For the gate is narrow"  ... narrow but not "too" narrow. Narrow enough to give clear guidance, but not too wide so we get lost. 

"and the way is hard" ... hard, but not "too hard." We can do it. The Holy Spirit guides us. Jesus is our advocate before the Father. The Father longs to comfort, shield, and protect the ones He loves. Sometimes, we are our own worst enemies. We need simple reminders. 

Today, I am grateful for simple reminders. 

Sure Footing

 

Daily Gratitude Year 14-Day 159: Today, I am grateful for sure footing. 

To stumble is not only embarrassing, it can lead to falls. What is humbling in youth can be dangerous to us as we age. 

Sure footing allows us to be confident at any age, from toddlers learning to walk to those who rely on a cane. The terrain does not have to be perfect to be "safe" if we have the right shoes or support. 

Falls happen when precautions are neglected or forgotten. Wise shoe choices make a difference, too. 

"God, the Lord, is my strength; he makes my feet like the deer's; he makes me tread on my high places." -Habakkuk 3:19

When our steps are unsteady or unsure, we can lean into His strength. In fact, we do not have to wait until we are in trouble. It is preferable to let Him lead and not wait until we find ourselves in trouble or losing our balance. Our human nature is prone to fight for control of things that are truly out of our hands. We can choose the right shoes. 

His strength. His lead. His path. We can not be sure of the future, but we can be sure of His faithfulness on the journey. 

Today, I am grateful for sure footing. 

His Majesty

Daily Gratitude Year 14-Day 158: Today, I am grateful for reminders of His majesty. 

The miracle and wonder of creation are recognized in this passage:

"Before the mountains were born, before you gave birth to the earth and the world, from beginning to end, you are God." -Psalm 90:2

We are so easily caught up in the chaos of our busy days that it is easy to forget the miracle of it all. God's design is perfect. The placement of the Earth in her orbit around the sun is perfect. Just the right distance to sustain life as we know it. 

Our air was designed for our lungs... and our lungs for this air. We breathe in and breathe out effortlessly without giving it a second thought on most days. There are abundant blessings on the most ordinary days. 

The nests are bursting with new life. The squirrels are chattering up a storm. Bees are buzzing. Seedlings are sprouting. My zinnias are getting a little bigger. We have one green tomato on the vine. We had a little bit of rain and possibly more to come. His majestic design is good.  

Take it in. Take a picture. Savor the small delights. 

Today, I am grateful for reminders of His majesty. 

Tips On Loving Well

 

Daily Gratitude Year 14-Day 157: Today, I am grateful for tips on loving well. 

June is a popular month for weddings. After Memorial Day weekend is history, June provides popular wedding date options. 

I saw this image on Pinterest and thought it was a beautiful capture of ways to love well. The fact that they are rooted in scripture is perfect. 

Love has moments that sparkle and shine, but it endures in the daily decisions that say, "I choose you." on repeat... every single day. 

When I opened my "Scripture of the Day" it was the  perfect scripture to sum it all up. When we allow Christ to make His home in our hearts, it changes everything. 

"Then Christ will make his home in your hearts as you trust in him. Your roots will grow down into God’s love and keep you strong. And may you have the power to understand, as all God’s people should, how wide, how long, how high, and how deep his love is. May you experience the love of Christ, though it is too great to understand fully. Then you will be made complete with all the fullness of life and power that comes from God." -Ephesians 3:17-19

Let your love be deeply rooted. 

Today, I am grateful for tips on loving well. 

The Power of Encouragement

Daily Gratitude Year 14-Day 155: Today, I am grateful for the power of encouragement. 

"Encouragement is oxygen for the soul." -John C. Maxwell

What a great quote. It holds a simple but deep truth about the power of encouragement. When someone wants to give up or quit, encouragement can recharge someone's emotional battery so they can press on and into the challenge.  

Encouragement must be sincere to make an impact. A good friend often says, "Muscle only grows in the presence of resistance." It can be exhausting and painful, but it is true. The push back can lead to re-evaluation and the "how might I do that better?" It is a good way to grow. 

The gardener evaluates the soil, the fertilizer, and the amount of watering when looking for the best harvest. Not every a plant has the same needs. My Sister-in-Love, Jennifer, always jokes about being plant hospice. There is only one to go but up in that scenario. The best success starts small and builds. 

The world is full of books on "self-talk." The problem with self-talk is that it is easy to lie to ourselves. An encouraging word from someone else is a game changer. We do not go from failure to success in a heartbeat. There is work in-between. Encouragers point out the growth in progress and celebrate the increments. It is honest.

Coaches do it when building winning teams. Talent is great, but growing together is where the magic happens. Seeing ways to build each other up instead of looking for a "superstar" makes a deep bench. 

 "So encourage each other and build each other up, just as you are already doing." -1 Thessalonians 5:11

Be honest. Be real. Don't miss an opportunity to build each other up. It will, in return, be oxygen for your own soul. 

Today, I am grateful for the power of encouragement. 

Summer Festivals

Daily Gratitude Year 14-Day 155: Today, I am grateful for summer festivals. 

There is one nearly every weekend. The Tremont Turkey Festival (June 11th -14th) is only a week away.

 Tremont, IL, reminds me of the community I grew up in. Small but mighty. Families are deeply rooted in the community. People come and stay. They festival is known for the turkey and the strawberry shortcake.  We always see friends working at the event. It has a craft/vendor fair, bed races, lemon shake-ups, and music. 

One of the best things is seeking the rich sense of community that abounds. In small towns, many are related. Others have generations of roots and memories. The summer festivals are a part of the heartbeat of the communities who come together every year to embrace summer. 

Turkeys, Strawberries (Elmwood this weekend), Hot Air Balloons (new in Pekin this year), and Washington, IL,  has already celebrated Good Neighbor Days. There is something for everyone. 

It is not a "festival" but Friday Night kicks off the "Groove in the Garden" Concert series at our Morton Public Library. One of our favorite bands is first up this year, "Cousin Eddie." It feels like a party every Friday at 6:30 P.M.. There is usually dancing and food trucks for dinner. 

The need to pause and celebrate is a part of being human. It is good for the soul. 

"So the people went away to eat and drink at a festive meal, to share gifts of food, and to celebrate with great joy because they had heard God’s words and understood them." -Nehemiah 8:12

Love the place where you live. Love your neighbors. Experience the joys of summer festivals. 

Today, I am grateful for community festivals. 

Summer Potato Salads

Daily Gratitude Year 14-Day 154: Today, I am grateful for summer potato salads. 

Summer picnics, church, and family gatherings are a showcase for potato salads. Everyone has a twist to the family recipe. Potatoes are inexpensive and a big batch does not break the grocery budget. Leftovers are welcome, but rare. (These recipes were posted on Pinterest.) The Spicy Potato Salad looks good to me. 

The recipe I long for is the one from the landmark Hofbrau House in Peoria, which is now closed. It was an authentic warm German Potato Salad. It was likely a recipe handed down through the generations. It was somehow light with vinegar, bacon, and green onion.

There is a special delight that comes from setting a table with ample choices, a variety of flavors and plenty to share. It is a rich part of our USA summer celebrations. Feeding our families, neighbors, and friends builds community. 

There was much hunger in the early days of this country. The land provided new challenges. Weather has always been a challenge to those who need to grow food. Any season of abundance was a blessing, but many times there was barely enough. Hunger was not a stranger. Learning to make a little into much was a challenge in many kitchens, but there was joy when it was accomplished. 

"Blessed are those who are generous, because they feed the poor." -Proverbs 22:9

 Today, I am grateful for summer potato salads.