LOVE, LIVE, TRAVEL - OUR DREAM OF TRAVELING

 

Wow!! I've shared so much about my mom and how blessed I am to have had such a close relationship with her. She passed away on June 26th, 2023. She will always be remembered as a strong, kind, and loving mom to me, Ken, and Tyler. As we go on in our lives, as we must do, we will always take our memories of mom with us.

Back in 2019, I started a Facebook page to keep track of all the wonderful memories with mom, as well as our own personal memories and travel adventures, which we have loved going on. In every adventure, every activity, every new move, our memories of mom's love have gone with us and will continue to go with us!! That made me think that I really should rename that FB page... from "Love Through My Mother's Eyes" to

"Love, Live, Travel (Just like mama did)!"

For many years, we have enjoyed taking short trips all over the U.S. in our RV. Once we retired, we took longer trips and went on greater adventures. Once mom got ill, we took shorter trips again, but vowed to go back to enjoying travel and find our safe haven, possibly somewhere new once our time of caring for mom was over.

Well, that day has come!!

Yep!! And we are SO excited.

I will be sharing some of our adventures on our newly named Facebook page and here on my blog. I will not be sharing as much personal info on my regular FB page, as we feel like we need some privacy in sharing with anyone our activities.

Feel free to follow along!

"You’ll travel safely, you’ll neither tire nor trip. You’ll take afternoon naps without a worry,

you’ll enjoy a good night’s sleep.

No need to panic over alarms or surprises, or predictions

that doomsday’s just around the corner,

Because God will be right there with you;
he’ll keep you safe and sound."

Proverbs 3:23-26 (MSG)

THE JOYS(AND SORROWS) OF GROWING OLDER!!!

Some people, when they start to get older, 

don't want to celebrate 

or even recognize their birthday. 

I'm definitely not one to party all day and night, but I never was one

to do that anyway.

I do believe that at least once a year we need to all consider all the 

blessings God has bestowed on us, as well as be reminded of the 

love we have by those closest to us. Whether it be old friends 

from our youth, or new friends we've made through the years. Or 

even family that have stayed close, whether they are blood 

relatives or like family to us. When we are reminded of those who

care deeply and want to continue having a connection with us,

even as we age, that is priceless!!!!

Aging can quickly creep up on each of us, 

and none of us will keep from getting old, 

if we live long enough to experience it. 

That can mean a lot of things to lots of people.

Some people want to age with grace....

What does that mean? Here are some definitions -

• Attitude: Aging with grace is not just about physical appearance, but about one’s attitude towards aging. It’s about embracing the process, being accepting, and adapting to changes. It's knowing we will have good days and bad days, and being realistic about life's hardships. But, making every effort to stay as positive as possible.
• Flexibility: It involves being flexible and open to new experiences, social circles, and activities that meet emotional needs and maintain a sense of self-esteem and belonging.
• Cognitive acceptance: Aging with grace also means acknowledging and accepting the natural decline in cognitive abilities, such as memory loss, and being kind to oneself when mistakes happen.
• Embracing change: It’s about recognizing that certain physical changes, like declining physical abilities, are a natural part of aging and prioritizing safety and well-being over trying to maintain a youthful image. It means getting enough rest to have energy and realizing we just can't do what we did in our 20s, 30s, and 40's.
• Spiritual growth: Some interpretations suggest that aging with grace is linked to spiritual growth, where one’s spirit becomes stronger and more resilient as they age.
• Personal milestones: Setting and achieving personal milestones, no matter how small, can contribute to a sense of purpose and fulfillment, which is an important aspect of aging with grace.

Some say this is the best way to grow older.

I would like to add to this by saying I hope to age not only with grace, 

but to Age with Energetic Purpose!!!

To me, that means -

• Embracing Self-Acceptance: Letting go of societal expectations and embracing who you are, regardless of your age. You’re not bound by traditional norms or stereotypes.
• Finding Balance: Striving for equilibrium between work, play, time alone, and time with loved ones. This balance allows you to maintain purpose and resilience.
• Refusing Stereotypes: Defying expectations and refusing to be limited by age-related assumptions. You’re free to pursue your passions and interests without apology.
• Staying Purposeful: Continuing to live life with intention, pursuing your values, and making choices that reflect your true self.
• Maintaining a Growth Mindset: Embracing lifelong learning, adapting to change, and staying open to new experiences and opportunities.

Basically, it means aging with grace while refusing to let it stop me from embracing my true self, finding balance, and staying purposeful. It's not denying the aches and pains of a body that's wearing down, but refusing to let it turn me into someone with little or no worth because of it. 

How I plan on aging with grace and energetic purpose:

• Maintaining a balanced diet: Focus on whole, nutrient-rich foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Avoid sugary and refined foods that can drain energy.
• Staying physically active: Engage in regular exercise that brings joy, such as walking, stretching, and weight training. Also, trying physical hobbies, like water sports, hiking, and bicycling. This can help maintain physical health and mental well-being.
• Practicing mental fitness: Cultivate a positive mindset through gratitude, forgiveness, curiosity, optimism, and especially humor. Staying engaged with life and learning new things to keep my mind active. ie: Reading, learning guitar, writing, creating art.
• Surrounding myself with love and connection: Nurturing relationships with loved ones and prioritizing social connections. This can help combat feelings of isolation and loneliness.
• Finding purpose and meaning: Pursuing Christ-like activities and hobbies that bring joy and fulfillment. Helping those in need through different programs/organizations. This can help give life direction and purpose.
• Traveling: Seeing new places and people. Getting out in nature has key benefits: - It reduces stress levels, improves mood, and increases feelings of awe and wonder; keeps our minds active and engaged and encourages a sense of adventure;  can boost creativity; and offers opportunities for mindfulness and self-care. It also promotes social connection, which is essential for maintaining a youthful spirit, as it provides opportunities for shared experiences, laughter, and personal growth.

I personally don't think birthdays, for any age person, should ever be downplayed, ignored or forgotten!! It is the day God gave us our first breath and that alone is something to celebrate!!!

I have SO much to be thankful for!!

QUICKEN ME, LORD!

 

elcome back to my blog, dear friends. It has been another couple of years since I've posted. In one sense, it feels likes a blink of an eye. In another, it feels like it's been eons. Again, so much has happened -  and so much is still happening, and yet things are standing still. Let me explain...

To catch you all up quickly....if that is possible...my mother passed away one year ago on June 24, 2023. She suffered so much at the end of her life, so it was truly merciful for the the Lord to take her, even though my life was torn to pieces and the loss I have felt ever since then has been immense. She was and always will be my best friend on this earth. 

Since then, my life has been in what I would call a stronghold of waiting and trying to move ahead all at the same time. I have felt like a box that has been in a vice, wanting to be set free. I can see the possibilities of where things could and should be going, but can not reach them, no matter how much I try to move ahead. Painful trials come and go, but I continue to be in this stronghold, something most days feel insufferable, while on others are tolerable. I did not pick a new word/verse for 2024, but if I had, I think it would have been

 QUICKEN

What does quicken mean in the Bible?

The word quicken is used in the King James Version of the Bible, and it means “revive or make alive.” If something is living, it is “quick”; to “quicken” something is to bring it to life or restore it to a former flourishing condition. The phrase the quick and the dead contrasts the word dead with the word quick—they are antonyms.

I pray every day for the Lord to "quicken" me....to restore to me the flourishing condition I had once felt and been in. I'm not sure why the Lord has chosen not to let this happen or if I am still needing to learn how to "wait on Him" to renew me. I only know that He has not done so yet.

“Often, we endure trials seeking God’s deliverance from them. Suffering is painful for us to endure or to see those we love endure. While our instinct is to flee trials, remember that even in the midst of suffering, God’s will is being done.”  Paul Chappell

♱♱♱

A few verses that also come to mind, as I've continued to seek what the Lord is trying to teach me during this time of endurance and suffering...

2 Timothy 2:12

"If we endure, we will also reign with him; if we deny him, he also will deny us."

2 Timothy 4:18

"The Lord will rescue me from every evil deed and bring me safely into his heavenly kingdom. To him be the glory forever and ever. Amen."

Revelation 14:12

"Here is a call for the endurance of the saints, those who keep the commandments of God and their faith in Jesus."

Revelation 2:10

"Do not fear what you are about to suffer. Behold, the devil is about to throw some of you into prison, that you may be tested, and for ten days you will have tribulation. Be faithful unto death, and I will give you the crown of life."

Revelation 3:10

“Because you have kept my word about patient endurance, I will keep you from the hour of trial that is coming on the whole world, to try those who dwell on the earth.”

Revelation 3:11

“I am coming soon. Hold fast what you have, so that no one may seize your crown.”

My prayer: “Dear Lord, I come to you in humility, acknowledging my spiritual dryness and lack of vitality. I ask that you would quicken me, revive my spirit, and restore my soul. Guide me and show me what I need to do in every decision here on earth. Give me strength when it is time to move ahead, but heavenly patience and peace, when I need to wait for the next step in my life.

Psalm 6:2 Have mercy on me, LORD, for I am faint; heal me, LORD, for my bones are in agony.

In all things, may Your will be done. In Jesus' great and holy name, amen.

SOURCES:

https://sermons.faithlife.com/sermons/294821-the-quickening-of-the-spirit

https://www.wordsoflife.co.uk/bible-studies/study-7-the-quickening-power-of-the-word/

https://www.gotquestions.org/quicken-in-the-Bible.html

2023: New Year. New WORDS, New Theme

 Hello all! Is it really 2023??? 

Well, COVID is at least unofficially over!! Praise God!! The past 2 years seemed to creep by, with the world fully engaged in the pandemic. My mom has continued to go downhill mentally and physically, but she is still with us. Over the past few years there have been some physical and emotional illnesses that continue to plague family members. There have been joyous occasions...like the birth of our great grandson! We have done some traveling, but not as much as I would have liked.

But, probably the most difficult part of that time for me has been, even after things started to open back up, that I was still doing a lot of things the same, day in and day out. Still visiting mom on a regular basis, making sure her health needs were met (still always a work in progress, as staff shortages continue in the nursing homes). Also, trying to know how to address some of the health issues at home. Praying continuously for healing over those who are suffering! But not seeing much change. Waiting patiently for years, but also trying endlessly to make the changes that are needed, when possible!(Which seemed rare to me) Many days, I have felt at the end of my rope, exhausted, and ready to give up! Of course, I am still here, so I always have found even the smallest bit of strength(only through the Lord!) to keep going.

With all that being said, I want to have a more positive outlook in 2023! So, I have once again been motivated to have a word to get me going....actually, I have prayed and felt that there are 3 words that have come to mind. 

CHANGE

                         MOVE 

                                                  MIRACLE

                                                                                                  

With my chosen words of the year I also seek God for a verse to go along with it. 

With them all pulled together, I feel like God is saying, He is going to do something great in my life the coming year. Isaiah 43:19 really seemed the most appropriate!

 "See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland."

This year, I also have found a quote that really hit home for me...

As we continue into the year, I will be posting different ways that I feel God wants me to use these words, verse, and quote. I will be sharing some goals and hopes for the year. I also will look for ways that God provides and opens the doors to allow for change, moves, and miracles in my life.

Stay tuned for those posts....I promise I will be working harder at posting more often!!!! 

Blessings to you all in 2023!!!

TIME STOOD STILL - ONE AND A HALF YEARS LATER(I'M STILL HERE)

 

WOW!! Has it really been one and a half years since I've posted here on my blog page? 

I guess I do have a pretty good excuse for not posting, though. Uhhhh, right....COVID, the state of our country and our world, mom taking a turn for the worse with her dementia, selling mom's house, family issues. In reality, they ARE excuses, but I think they are good ones. Don't you?

Anyways, I'm back.(For now)

Don't ask how I decided to come back...well, you can, but I won't go into detail. Basically, I was looking back on some past posts and realized that life has a way of grabbing you by the b&##$ and not letting go. 

Life is such a contradiction of time, a polarity of feelings and experiences! 

I feel like the past year and a half just stood still, I have no clue where it went. So much has changed...and yet, it hasn't. Sometimes, I SO WANT it to change. Other times, I don't.

I am acutely aware of how fast time has passed – how fast it is passing – and as much as I look forward to moving on, I am intentionally breathing in the moments I have with my mom and my son. I realize that when things do change(and they eventually will), those things will most definitely NOT be what I would like to change. Mom will pass on someday. Tyler will move on in his life, as well.(He is still currently living at home and working...saving money to travel the country on his own, like we have done.)  It feels like I'm in a straight jacket and heading down a rabbit hole all at the same time. 

Talk about conflict!!

Me and my hubby's(mostly me) dream of traveling the country in our RV have been put on hold over the past 18 months. Not that we haven't done anything. We've taken a few 1-2 weeks trips, which have been awesome. But, nothing like our first trip after Ken retired. And, don't get me wrong. He's on board with traveling, too. He's just more "content" with sticking around home than I am. 

I am also reminded that time is always passing, always changing us, always changing those we love even when it seems like it has stopped.  Even when it feels like we are in a holding pattern,  the reality is that time is always passing.  Holding patterns don’t exist.  Every moment has purpose and is fleeting.  Time may seem to stand still, but it is moving. Always moving.

I need to remind myself to breathe it in! To enjoy these days(even the rough ones), as they will come to an end. And, even though it may not seem like it now, I'll move on to the next journey in my life. The next step...the next move. This moment, these stressful times, will be history. 

I am working at being grateful for these times. I also look forward to the changes that will come, in their own time. I am trying to do both at the same time, which can be a balance act....not taking one or the other too seriously. Not trying to HOLD ONTO one or RUSH the other. 

The Lord has it all in HIS plan and timing. I need to allow Him to direct me each and every day. I need to keep reading His word and praying for direction. I need to lean into Him when things get difficult. I need to wait on Him to close the doors that will need to be closed and open new ones when it is time to open them. I think this theme blends so well into what I wrote in my last post from 2020...(you can read it HERE). As the old saying goes, 

"Yesterday is gone. Tomorrow is not here yet. We have only TODAY!!"

I also had decided again NOT to have chosen a word for 2021(or any year to come). My last word was for 2019, which was "fearless". Boy, did that one kick me in the butt!! I carried it over to 2020, but it never was a word I cherished. I think I've come to believe that God keeps changing what things He wants us to work on  throughout every single year of our lives. It's a continual journey. 

Anyways, I AM still here. Hopefully I'll check back in more often with new posts. I do want to remember these days that seem to currently "stand still". One day, they will be just a memory.

"There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens."(Ecclesiastes 3:1)

Blessings to you all, my friends!!!

Burn The Ships

The beginning of a New Year often has us looking back and seeing how God has walked with us in the past and contemplating the year ahead. 

We tend to want to hold on to the familiar, the easier path, the old ways....but these often become unhealthy, and even dangerous for us to continue down some paths/have relationships with some people in our lives. When we become aware of these different paths/people in our lives that can hinder/harm us, we may need to "rise from the dust and walk away". 

"Burning the Ships" can be SO difficult(maybe even excruciating.) 

I don't know about you, but FEAR often has kept me from burning the ships and moving ahead. Fear of rejection, fear of what others will think, fear of being alone, fear of not knowing the future. But, God reminds us that He will never leave us, nor forsake us. He is our source of strength. And He holds the future and will take care of us!!

“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” ~ Joshua 1:9

This song came to my mind, as I've been thinking about some past relationships/choices(mainly family) that I have held onto, but have come to understand, have not been healthy,

Burning the Ships also means giving God control of things I don't have control of. The song below, also came to mind.

I pray, Lord, let me know when something/someone is pulling me down/away from Your will and plan for my life. Let me have the strength and courage to give it to You and know that if it's Your will to re-connect, You will open those doors again. If not, let me walk away, 'Step into a New Day', and know that You have purposed this for me and You have my back!! Let me surrender to You everything that I have no control over.

 I love You above all else, Lord!! Amen

"Brothers, I do not consider that I have made it my own. But one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead, I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus." 

Philippians 3:13-14

Fearless in the New Year

A REVIEW OF 2019:

January - Celebrating mom's 82nd birthday

February - Catching up with an old high school friend!!

March/April -Traveling South and West U.S.
 Meeting my online Texas friends!!

Biking around the rim of the Grand Canyon 

Canyonlands, Utah

May - Spending Quality Time With Mom
Taking mom out for our weekly meal!

Taking mom fishing

June - Walk for Alzheimer's Awareness/Fundraiser

Danny Gokey/Tenth Ave North concert

July - Family kayak outing

August - Lazy lake days

Bonfires by the lake

Days of endless fishing

September - Camping in Colorado

Many fun-filled days with mom

October - Dressing doggies up and Trick-or-Treating downtown

November - Thanksgiving meal with mom

December - Playing games; Celebrating the Holiday together

Attending a Christmas Program 

Christmas Dinner

My word for 2018 was CHANGE and there definitely was lots of change this past year. Change in our family relationships, change in our plans for the future, change in our responsibilities, and more than anything, change in my self-confidence and how I deal with difficult circumstances!  

A new year, a new decade, is now in front of me! How much more will God be teaching me, guiding me, growing me? Honestly, I know, no matter what, God walks with me, so I have nothing to fear! As I continue to learn what it means to be fearless, I pray I can look to the Word of God for the answer!!

Quotes from Fearless Living in Troubled Times: Finding Hope in the Promise of Christ's Return by Michael Youssef

"Satan wants to distract us from the task at hand. He wants us to focus our attention on the past—on past hurts, past failures, past regrets—because he knows that if we are focused on the past, we will be immobilized in the here and now. Or he wants us to focus our attention on the future—on worries and fears that may never come to pass, or on wishful thinking that never accomplishes anything."   

"In times of persecution and oppression, hope endures. Hope perseveres. Hope brings us peace in the midst of trouble. The serene and confident expectation of the return of Jesus Christ, whether his return takes place in the next instant or ten thousand years from now, fills us with a peace that no persecutor can take away."  

"Only in the Cross of Christ will we receive power when we are powerless. We will find strength when we are weak. We will experience hope when our situation is hopeless. Only in the Cross is there peace for our troubled hearts."

Things to remember: