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Monday, October 27, 2014

Our Helper and Guide


Life is filled with surprises, and unexpected turns. And at times, we find ourselves overwhelmed, not knowing which way to go. 

Such was the case for us a week ago. We had just returned from an amazing week in Colorado Springs - a great conference where we were refreshed by our connections with other Cru staff, and also by a few extra days of vacation together after the conference, just my hubby and me.

We were completely taken off guard by what awaited us back home ... my 93 year-old father was in great need, and mixed in with our Cru work and responsibilities at home after a week away, we spent our week caring for my father. 

And as we look back on the intense week of caring for my father's needs, we are very aware that we were not alone. That somehow, things were happening in the order that they should, to bring about the care that was needed.   

So very thankful ...
  • that the crisis did not come until we returned from our trip
  • that because of my father's regular doctor being gone last week, we were introduced to another one - one who was able to communicate very clearly to him about what needs to be done
  • for the specialist that this new doctor referred us to, and that we were able to get in for an appointment the very next day
  • for admittance to the hospital a few hours after the appointment with the specialist
  • for wisdom of doctors and nurses as a plan was made
  • for my father's complete cooperation with this plan, a miracle
  • moving my father to the skilled nursing center (for a period of treatment) in the retirement facility where he has an independent living apartment - and for his complete cooperation and welcoming of all help


Thank You, Lord, for carrying us through each step of this past week - it was so very emotionally and physically intense - for my father, and for my hubby and me (along with other family). Thank You for the miracle that our father is welcoming all the care, and is cooperating fully with his caregivers. Thank You for peace that You are giving him in the midst of the trauma of the week.

Life is full of unknowns, and heart-breaking situations. And we honestly do not know what is around the next corner. What even today will bring. But I am so thankful and I am reminded that with each step, we have a Helper, and a Guide who shows us where to go.

I will instruct you 
and teach you
in the way you should go;
I will counsel you
and watch over you.
(Psalm 32:8 NIV)


Colorado Springs Trip (Part 2)

After a recent Cru regional conference that we went to in Colorado Springs, we stayed on for a few extra days of vacation together. Something we often do at this season of life that we are in - retirement age, but not retired. It was absolutely gorgeous weather the week of Oct. 12-18 ... perfect for our three days at the conference at Cheyenne Mountain Resort, and perfect for two extra days of relaxing and enjoying the sights of the area. So very thankful for our time together there ...





(Digital Scrapbooking supplies - Page Template: Jessica Sprague - Creativity by Design Template 01; Papers: Digital Scrapper Premier 2012 11 Autumn Days.)

Monday, October 20, 2014

Colorado Springs Trip (Part 1)

It's been quiet here on my blog for about ten days. The reason is that my hubby and I have been gone on a little trip. Road trips are one of our favorite things to do together, and so when we were asked to represent Cru High at a regional conference in Colorado Springs, we were happy! So very thankful for our time with other Cru staff at the conference, and also for a free afternoon when we had the treat of visiting cousins in the area. 





(Credit for digital scrapbook supplies - Page Template: Scrap Girls JSM_dD-pageGrids; Paper: kcroninbarrow-grace.)

Then, as we often do during the season of life that we are in now (retirement age, but not retired), we stayed on for two vacation days after the conference ... relaxing, enjoying the beauty of God's creation, and being refreshed. Such a gift to spend time together in Colorado Springs. 

Click here for Part 2 of our time in Colorado Springs.

Thursday, October 9, 2014

A Longing and a Listening


I have found that it is not enough just to read God's Words. To go through the motions of reading and to mark something off the daily list does not necessarily mean that something is accomplished.

There needs to be a thirst, in order for the soul to be nourished. And as I think through the things of most importance in life (which I am doing during this new season I am entering - click here), I am reminded that listening and longing are of high priority.

Like newborn babies,
you must crave pure spiritual milk ...
(I Peter 2:1)

To come to Him with a longing to be fed, a desperate longing - like our life, our day, depends on hearing from Him. "He wants us to rely as desperately on Him as an infant for its mother." (She Reads Truth)

And just as an infant receives nourishment and life, so we will receive food for our souls, and we will receive life. But we must come with ears and hearts tuned to listen, and to receive.

Pay close attention to what you hear.
The closer you listen,
the more understanding you will be given -
and you will receive even more.
(Mark 4:24)

As the years go by, and the numbers increase in my age, I am finding myself even thirstier, in more of a need to be nourished by what is living. Longing for Him, in desperate need. Of Him.

Why do you spend your money
for that which is not bread,
and your labor
for that which does not satisfy?
Listen diligently to Me
and eat what is good,
and delight yourselves in rich food.
Incline your ear, and come to Me;
hear, that your soul may live.
(Isaiah 55:2-3a)


Loving Lord, may we come to you with desperate longing, with ears tuned in to hear You above all the noise around us, waiting to receive nourishment, food, and water that satisfy our needy souls. And give us life.

For more posts on things of highest importance:
HEART FOCUS

Monday, October 6, 2014

Our Getaway Trip to KC

We don't usually celebrate my birthday with a little trip, but this year we did. It was the perfect time to drive down to Kansas City for a three-night stay at a VRBO rental that we spotted online. We always love to look for these rentals, as they provide so much more for the same price as a motel room. So very grateful for the beautiful, restful carriage house we stayed at in a historic district of Kansas City - complete with our own balcony, garage, and yard.










(Credit for digital supplies: Page Templates: Digital Scrapper Premier Sept. 2014 by Carol Gilmour, Scrap Girls - JSM_dD-pageGrids; Paper - Scrap Girls ABR BOY, Cottage Arts - Quiet of My Heart; Embellishments: Cottage Arts - Quiet of My Heart.)