Sunday, February 21

A Beautiful Memorial Service

My mother-in-law looked very nice and so at peace. It was a beautiful service.

The pastor was blessing. We all really liked him. He read numerous scriptures and he and his wife sang "The Old Rugged Cross", one of Mom's favorites.

The flowers were lovely and many people came to pay their respects. It was nice to see many relatives we haven't seen in years.

I was touched by the grandkids (Michelle's four children). The oldest, Nathan, really took care of his brother and sisters. They were all huddled together with his long arms around them and wept for the grandma they miss so much.

After the service we went to the Roadhouse for a meal. A covered pool table was loaded with food. I talked to quite a few relatives about the family tree I'm working on. Got lots of good information.

Later the kids came to the hotel to swim in the pool. Steve was sick (probably from the cigarette smoke at the Roadhouse) and stayed in our room. I enjoyed visiting with my sister-in-laws and all the kids.

Friday, February 19

Wisconsin

We made it to Wisconsin today for the memorial service on Saturday.

It was an 1100 mile trip! We planned to stop for the night but changed our minds when snow was forecast. So we took turns driving while the other slept. It was rough but better than getting caught in a snow storm.

We arrived around 8 am and were so blessed when the hotel let us check in early. We stayed at Barkers Inn on Barkers Island in the Lake Superior Bay. It was fun looking at the frozen lake and seeing the "shacks" used for ice fishing.

The room is decent and I really enjoyed the bathtub! :) (We only have a shower at home.)

More tomorrow!

Tuesday, February 16

Audrey Christenson (Jul 27, 1936 - Feb 16, 2010)

My mother-in-law passed away last night. After being sick for years, it is a blessing for her to be at peace. But her family is grieving and really misses her!

I met her in November of 1977 when I was dating her son. Though many mother-in-laws and daughter-in-laws don't get along, we sure did.

She was a caring mother and friend to many. She always had a compassionate heart toward others.

We miss you Mom and look forward to seeing you some day in heaven!

Sunday, January 24

Relationships

Relationships. We all have them. Some that bring great joy and some that cause great pain.

Our pastor talked today about “the refining fire of relationships”.

John 13:20 “He was troubled in spirit over a relationship”? Jesus is speaking of His relationship with Judas Iscariot. (how have I never seen this scripture before???)

I’ve been in a few relationships that have troubled my spirit and caused extreme pain. And I’ve wondered why God allowed it. Though I’ve forgiven, the memories are still there.

Pastor Matt asked us to ponder this question. “How can God use the hurt/rejection/betrayal for His purposes in my life?”

This is my question to ponder this week.

Saturday, January 23

FBD Progress

Down 5 pounds and back into my black size 8 jeans.....Woo hoo!

Friday, January 22

Making the Most of Every Opportunity

For several years I’ve chosen a theme for the new year. The word or phrase becomes my “mantra” to help me focus on my attitude, actions and decisions. So far I’ve used gratitude and consistency.

This year I chose the phrase “Make the Most of Every Opportunity”. I look back and see how I’ve let wonderful opportunities slip by. When I pray and ask for God’s guidance I know He answers and provides for me. This year I want to take full advantage of each and every opportunity He lays before me.

How will I “unpack” this phrase in real day-to-day terms? The five things that came to me this morning:

1. Pray each morning and ask for God’s wisdom and guidance for the day.
2. Stay current on events that I am interested in such as writing and genealogy to be aware of opportunities.
3. Spend quality time with my family, including extended family.
4. Simplify my life and have more time to do the things I really enjoy.
5. Step out in faith. When I stop making excuses, God will give me more opportunities.

I am ready to make the most of every opportunity!

Wednesday, January 20

Writers Critique Group

One of my goals this year is to join a writers critique group. I’ve actually wanted to do this for a long time because I need the accountability and the honest feedback from other writers.

Last Saturday I attended the first meeting of a new critique group in my area. It was a pleasure to sit with other writers and read their work. Though I was nervous at first, I relished the honest and helpful feedback they gave me on my submission.

I’m so grateful to the two ladies that started this group. They actually have been in a critique group together for over 7 years and have helped either other immensely. Their goal is to teach us to critique and form several new groups.

It is an exciting journey and I’m looking forward to the future!