Having a Moment

Have you heard the phrase, "Having a moment" ? ... I've been having plenty of those lately. Lots of transitions of late. Some difficult, some good, and some just normal life stuff. You know the deal. And with the stuff I have my occasional meltdown. Sometimes quiet and tidy and sometimes noisy and messy. It happens.

But amongst my "moments" there are the bowls of honeyed strawberries with mint and almonds. And those are the moments that remind me to get a grip and appreciate the bounty in front of me.

Having any moments yourselves, these days?

Strength for Today and Bright Hope for Tomorrow

 My grandfather's service was this week. It was hard, as these things are, but so very good, as well. His was a life transformed by and devoted to Christ. What a legacy for us to inherit. What motivation to move us forward.

I spoke at his service. It was not planned ... by me, anyways. But the day before, I had a pressing from the Lord. With trepidation, I decided I was willing. Willing if the Lord did the work. If He gave me words and if it was with purpose. He did, and I believe it was.

I was very emotional, but emboldened. Never before have I spoke with such conviction and strength. I can say that, because it was the Lord at work. Truly. And it is my prayer that His truth stirs hearts towards Him. No better way to honor my grandfather.

"If you confess with your mouth Jesus as Lord, and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved; for with the heart a person believes, resulting in righteousness, and with the mouth he confesses, resulting in salvation. For the Scripture says, “ Whoever believes in Him will not be disappointed.” For there is no distinction between Jew and Greek; for the same Lord is Lord of all, abounding in riches for all who call on Him; for “ Whoever will call on the name of the Lord will be saved.”

Romans 10:9-13

A Together Opportunity

I love summer entertaining. There is an ease and casualness that appeals to me. Plus, I love to eat outside. 

Recently, we had my brother and sister-in-law over for an evening of chatting, nerf blow-dart wars (more to come on that) and excited anticipation of their baby due later this month. We had a tasty dinner of salmon, watermelon and salad, but aren't the appetizers always the best? I almost always just yank odds & ends from the cupboards. 

Pull out the wooden cutting board that Uncle Kelly made and add a couple of sharp knives, a hunk of salami, a couple of cheeses, bread and crackers, and some jam. And if it's on hand, some vino or Pellegrino. I was also pleased to use two of my hammered brass bowls I picked up at a little flea-market in France. Perfect for pistachios ... one for the nuts and one for the discarded shells.

The spread? It feels fancy, but it's really just grown-up snacking.




This next week will be full of family moments as we anticipate my grandfather's service. Perhaps not as easy or as casual as the evening with Peter and Allie, but it will be good nonetheless. And isn't it interesting that after emotional events, we like provide a chance for dear ones to sit, eat, visit.

An opportunity to slow down and participate together. 

Victory in Jesus and Muffins to Celebrate

Last night my grandfather went to be with the Lord. And this morning we celebrate the victory we have in Jesus.

It's an amazing thing, faith. In Christ we can experience both sorrow and joy all at once. I don't know that this happens outside of Him.

It's true, I have waves of aching sadness. But my grandfather's hope was in the Lord. He has waited some 60 years to meet his savior and as Jane commented, "Today he has hugged Great-Mother and is walking with God." Yes, my dear one, yes. And because of that I have joy.

This morning the children and I set-up breakfast on the outdoor picnic table. And because it's what we do, we made something tasty to eat. Oatmeal Apple Muffins. And because today is, ultimately, a celebration ... we added chocolate chips.

What a testimony it is to live a life given to the Lord. Not a perfect life. Not even a notable life. But a life of earnest love and service to our Savior. God is good.



Victory Oatmeal Apple Breakfast Muffins

Combine and let soak while getting other ingredients together:
2 c. oats
2 c. buttermilk

Add and mix well:
2 eggs
1 c. brown sugar
2 medium apples, grated
.25 c. oil or applesauce
2 c. flour (white whole-wheat works well)
2 t. baking powder
1 t. baking soda
1 t. salt
.5 t pumpkin pie spice (or just shake in some cinnamon and nutmeg)

To make them into "victory muffins" add:
.5 bag mini chocolate chips

Fill 2 trays of muffin pans three-quarters full. Bake for 400 degrees, 16-18 minutes. Cool for 5 minutes then eat with joy.