See Ya' Later

Unlike attending a funeral before these times, within the last two months, I traveled to two funerals via cyberspace -- Facebook Live. While it’s not the same as being there in person to support and encourage those whose loved one passed on, it is a blessing to be in this technology age that affords us the opportunity to watch from the comfort of our homes.

Such was the case on Tuesday, when I, from my home in Frisco, TX and my dear 97-year-old mother-in-law in Tulsa, OK, could go all the way to Winnipeg, Manitoba Canada via Facebook Live for the funeral/memorial service of mom’s 92-year-old sister. We watched it all as my cousins and mom's nieces and nephews sang and gave beautiful remarks about their mom and grandmother. The theme throughout was Alma's love for her Lord, her knowledge of God's Word, always quoting scriptures, singing about Him with her sisters, leading her children to Him, her hospality, the best baker of sweets -- oh, those tarts -- and loving her family with all her heart. What a legacy!

Auntie Alma’s health drastically declined over the last few months. Mom, the older sister at 97, would daily call her to check in and to encourage her until she was hospitalized. Mom told me she’d say to Alma: “I’m calling to make you laugh again!” And, every time, Alma’s spirit was lifted. One such time, Mom said: “Alma, do you remember when playing Hide and Go Seek, we were all found but we couldn’t find you? We looked and looked but you were nowhere to be found. We were so worried we ran in and told Dad. He came out with his lantern, went straight to his Model T in the garage and found you on the floor board, sound asleep.” The last time mom was able to talk to Alma she told mom, “I’m just too tired to talk today.” Then, Mom starting praying that the Lord would take her home. He did.

My cousin let me know about Auntie Alma's passing on and I let Karen, my sis-in-law know. She found the best time to tell mom. When she told her, mom raised her hands to heaven and shouted: “Hallelujah!” I called then to check on her and she was in a rejoicing-state-of-mind! “I didn't shed a tear and have no sorrow. She’s where I want to be. I remember when we talked about our ten siblings already in heaven and only two seats remained at the table for Alma and me. We wondered which one of us would take the next seat. Now, there’s just one seat left and I’ll soon take it and close the door behind me.”

I love mom’s spirit. She is the last of the 12 siblings on this side of heaven. She is still so on purpose with her life. Only God knows how much longer she’ll be here, but I love her attitude. No grief. No mourning. She just keeps saying “See ya’ later” to those that go before her.

From my own firsthand experience, I know about "passing on" of my husband, parents, and all my siblings. Notice I say “Pass on – not pass away”. “Away” sounds like over and done with, but “on” is like going ON home, going ON a vacation, carrying ON. So, like Mom said “See ya’ later” to Alma – that’s the eternal perspective we can have too! Parting is just temporary!

Alma’s bags were packed. (Actually, I think Mom, mentally, has her bags packed, too). One of these days, Mom’s prayers will be answered, and she’ll walk through the door to eternity. Mom was Auntie Alma's midwife. She helped push her through that door. And here’s the best news for us. We'll walk through that door to our home sweet home one day, too. Our loved ones, there before us, will be on the sidelines cheering for us as we cross our Finish Line. In the meantime, let's give our best to God in each day while we live with eternity in our hearts. I intend to finish strong right along with you! I'll see ya' later!

Hey, It's Good to be Back Home Again!

It’s almost two weeks in Austin's super-hyper-mode. I woke up this morning thinking “Yikes – my yard hasn’t been watered in two weeks! I didn't pack enough vitamins! A stack of mail and lots of projects await me at home!" But, oh, the joy in Austin that peaked over the weekend when my family was altogether for Mother’s Day! I'm so grateful! Did this soul so much good to have all this love around me! Here are a few pics of the fun! There has been no-social-distancing amongst us all – unlike my little quiet, solitude world back home! But, I'm singing with John Denver "It's good to be back home again!"

My home represents for me....my space, my bed, my pictures, my refrigerator, my pantry, my shower, my TV, my computer where I can type my next blog with peace and quiet, my cozy chair where I spend time with the Lover of my soul -- where "in His presence is fullness of joy"!

Yes.....there really is no place like home sweet home, but, wherever I am is really home -- because where He is, I'm HOME! I’ll drive into my garage later today and these words will ring loud and true for me: "You're not alone. You're coming home to Jesus." I mean that in the most literal way. Yes, I may be alone....but I am not lonely. That said, there is an important distinction to be established. There is a world of difference between solitude and loneliness, though the two terms are often used interchangeably. Loneliness is marked by a sense of isolation. We sure know that word from our quarantine, don’t we? But, it is possible to be with people and still feel lonely.

I've chosen "solitude" -- the state of being alone without being lonely. It is a positive way of appreciating ME. I have learned that my place of being alone is often where I find myself absolutely wonderful company. But, even more so, my aloneness and solitude is so incredibly heartwarming when I know that my Savior is there with me. He doesn't demand the remote control and His clothes don’t take up too much room in my closet. He doesn't care what food I'm eating and doesn't mind if I stay up late, or turn in early. He is such a gentle and loving friend that He doesn't even mind if I don't talk to Him that much, but He sure is ready to talk when I give Him my full attention.

This place of refuge with Him is so satisfying. It replenishes my soul and weary body. If I had chosen "loneliness" 9-1/2 years ago, I would have been discontented and sad, but I chose solitude that awaits me and my Best Friend. It's been a blast and a blessing to be with my family -- and I'm thanking God so much for this sweet time, but in a few hours, I’ll open the door of my home and I know it will invite me in like an old friend. Yes, there's no place like home.

Keep On Keeping On

Of course this precious man's photo is my inspiration for today. Heaven is a wonderful place and every time I hear about someone's loved one getting to go there, it seems to get sweeter and sweeter. At least it sure does for me.

I am a team member on a Faith & Grief support group that helps those who have suffered a loss of a loved one and are struggling to move on. In fact we don’t say “move on” because moving on denotes “forgetting the past and getting over the loss”. Better stated is “keep on, keeping on.” I embrace those words because I was given an assignment by God at my birth, and it’s MY assignment until I get to “go home” to heaven.

My best friend, my husband, lover, sweetheart, and my kids' beloved father and papa went to his home in heaven this day nine years ago. I don't take his death anniversary as an opportunity to cry over that moment of departure. Instead, I celebrate his life by living mine. I live his list, my list and everything in between. I've spent the last nine years of my life, evolving and growing. It's my legacy to a man who loved and lived life in his God-given purpose on purpose. He was always KEEPING ON. Most importantly at 9 years post his graduation, I know I'm carrying on his and my legacy. If one person makes a decision to live a beautiful life because I share my journey, then my Ron lives on. That's our collective gift to this world.

I tell you to KEEP ON keeping on living with audacious and relentless faith because Ron would tell you to live like there is no tomorrow. I invite you to live because I know firsthand it's the best choice for anyone who grieves and can’t seem to keep on going. We can't bring them back, but we can honor all they were by being and doing all we can. Go live. You are still here for a reason. Take in the view. Live for others and bring them along with you to heaven. I tell you this because Ron taught me one valuable lesson throughout our forty-nine years together. He taught me to keep on keeping on – no matter the storms or circumstances, no matter the bumps or bruises -- all because of the cross of Jesus that we can keep on, keeping on.

On this day, I ponder: It’s been 9 years since I laid next to him. It’s been 9 years since I kissed him. It’s been 9 years since I've seen him hug our children and grandchildren. It’s been 9 years since I've heard him say, "I love you." Oh, but, because I keep on, keeping on, look what 9 years has done for me: It’s been 9 years of personal growth and living daily with determination and purpose. It’s been 9 years of new adventures – new places I never saw, new people I’ve come to love, and a new mission. It’s been 9 years of rediscovery of learning to love myself alone. I am enough because God is enough.

I've moved forward boldly while honoring my past. I still miss that man as much as I ever have, but that “missing” has changed and evolved as I have. He will forever have a special place in my heart and the hearts of my children and grandchildren. What I can tell you today is that nine years ago I didn’t know what my future would look like without this larger-than-life man in my life. What I didn't know is that my life didn't end. It had just begun.

Everything I am. Everything I've learned. Every part of my heart and soul is better today than it was nine years ago. His leaving was my opportunity to make ME so much better. I didn't die on November 16th, 2010, and I'm thankful that I realized I am still here for a reason. Regardless of what you are going through today, you have a purpose, and you can survive it. Take small daily baby steps, listen to your heart and remember to live. I can’t promise that the pain will ever go away, but I will promise that you are strong, brave and capable of anything. How do I know that? Because you have made it this far. The sun came up on this day so we can face this day with the goal of living and loving this life with all that is in us. Let’s face this day and keep on keeping on for everyone who no longer can.

A Big Return on our Investment

It is Sunday morning. After a month-long Tour de Texas, it’s good to be back home again – “home” home, and to my church home. I hear: “You’re back!” “Welcome home, Donna!” “We missed you, Donna!” I love those words: “Welcome home!” Can we even fathom what those words meant to the prodigal son when His dad welcomed him home? I’m in MY pew and MY seat. Well, it’s not really mine, but I get here early enough to claim my territory! Second row, first seat, middle aisle where those of us who are honored and humbled to be communion servers stand. Easy to get to my place from here.

There is no place like home with my “church family”. We are the ones who team up in volunteering, serving, sharing, loving and praying. A common goal – to let our little lights shine here and out there. Wherever I go, God goes -- so, actually, everywhere I go is home sweet home. But, I see Him loud and clear in my church family. We walk hand-in-hand in some tough times and in the over-the-top good times. We are family. We’re a part of the Family of God – we’re brothers and sisters.

As I kneel for a few minutes, I exhale all the busyness of my life and I inhale the One Who got this whole “church” thing started in the first place. He wanted us to come together in one accord. He wanted us to bear one another’s burdens. He wanted us to be Him to our world. I sense my Lord here. In this place and in my heart. I know Him intimately. He knows even more about me – even those annoying fly-away hairs that I have to keep licking my fingers to make them stay down. I express gratitude, with all this journeying I do, for getting me safe and sound back here.

I look around. I see Him in the etched glass reaching His arms out to His disciples. I get chills just thinking He’s holding His arms out to me in the same way. After all – I, too, am one of His disciples. He says: “Follow Me!” And, I follow. I see Him in the stained glass above the altar – the hand of God symbolizing the Father, the Lamb symbolizing the Son, the Dove symbolizing the Holy Spirit. I’m familiar with the Trinity: the Father, Son and Holy Spirit. I know them well – not as casual acquaintances but as MY never-failing, always-present, Holiest of Holy team.

Maybe you don’t have a church family – those who go toe-to-toe with you in good times and tough times; those who see you and come with a hearty hug for you. I have an investment in this place – my time, my talent and my treasure. The return on my investment is peace, joy, comfort, stability, hope, love and long-term (lifelong and beyond-term) pay-offs. Here’s my humble advice: If you want the best return on investment (ROI), there is nothing like investing in the Kingdom of God, investing in people. People will endure through time and eternity.

We don’t have a mission. God has a mission and has invited us to become part of His mission. We are the people to accomplish that mission. Someone said, “Keep the main thing the main thing.” The main thing is the mission of God. If you want real ROI, be a part of a team of people who make you better because their interests are beyond themselves. Their interests are Kingdom-based, people-based. Together we’re strong and stalwart with eyes on the prize. So, onward, Christian soldiers! Marching as to war, with the cross of Jesus going on before.

Made to Last Forever

Yesterday, my daughter and I attended the Celebration of Life service for Ron Haake, the precious husband of our dear cousin, Noreen. The family knew his graduation day was close at hand because his health had declined, but no matter when the time comes, we still experience the sudden jolt of separation of the one we have loved, done life with, dreamed and made memories with and served. It was an honor to attend the memorial service because we heard so much more about this wonderful man than what we had known before. The common theme throughout the service was that he was a man of wisdom, great humor, joy-giver, a mentor, patient, strong, and loved God and his family with all his heart.

There are so many emotions wrapped up in times of saying goodbye to a loved one: gladness/sadness, rejoicing/grieving, remembering/forgetting, keeping their things/giving things away, making decisions quick/slow. The words of King Solomon in Ecclesiastes 3 are so true: “There's "a time to weep and a time to laugh; a time to mourn, and a time to dance" -- and oh, so many more highs and lows.

From this widow's firsthand experience to Noreen and others, I say this: you'll have a roller coaster ride of emotions. I, too, know how much it hurts to see a loved one in so much pain. I know what it is for my loved one to "go home". I know what it is to not know what tomorrow holds. But, hold on children! Trust me when I tell you that the time comes when reality sets in and we realize "My loved one is gone. But, I'm not. I'm still here, so God isn't finished with me yet. Now it's time to run my race strong to my Finish Line!"

A resource book I've held dear to my heart is Rick Warren's "The Purpose Driven Life". My favorite chapter is the one that is entitled "Made to Last Forever". This excerpt blesses me so much: "This life is not all there is. Life on earth is just the dress rehearsal before the real production. You will spend far more time on the other side of death, in eternity, than you will here. Earth is the staging area, the preschool, the tryout for your life in eternity. It is the practice workout before the actual game; the warm-up lap before the race begins. This life is preparation for the next. The Bible says, "No mere man has ever seen, heard or even imagined what wonderful things God has ready for those who love the Lord." 1 Corinthians 2:9. For those who have a relationship with God through Jesus, we don't need to fear death. It is the door to eternity. It will be the last hour of our time on earth, but it won't be the last of us. Rather than being the end of our life, it will be our birthday into eternal life."

Ron's bags were packed. He was prepared and when his name was called, he walked through that door to eternity. As I was my sweetheart's midwife pushing him through that door, so was Noreen as she watched him go home last week. I loved how their son, Eric, concluded his talk about his dad. He said “My dad gave us another lesson for us to live by when my mom bent down to kiss him – he puckered up his lips. It was his last action on this earth and his last lesson for us to live by. I suggest that it be the rule to live by, too! Husbands and wives, pucker up more and life will be a lot sweeter.

Here's the best news of all.....we didn't say "Goodbye, Ron"; we just said, "See ya' later!" And, if we live each day as if it were our last, then we'll walk through that door to our home sweet home one day, too. The bands will be playing, the choirs will be singing and our loved ones will be on the sidelines cheering for us loud and strong as we cross our Finish Line. In the meantime, let's give our best to God in each day while we live with eternity in our hearts. I intend to finish strong right along with you!
I'll see ya' later!

God is Always Reminding Me That He’s Got the Wheel 🚗

God is Always Reminding Me That He’s Got the Wheel 🚗
On Sunday, I made my trek back home to Frisco from Austin. I thought it would be smooth sailing all the way since the traffic would be less on a weekend. I was making good time when passing through Temple, then the traffic came to a snail’s pace as we inched along for miles because of more road construction. That construction has been going on for months, but this day it seemed worse than ever. Occasionally, we were dead stopped. I must look like a race car driver (an impatient one, at that), as I change lanes often to hopefully gain at least a car’s length ahead of the next guy. That delay put me back over 30 minutes on my usual 4-hour trip. After getting back on pace for about 45 minutes to Waco, dear me, there was more stalled traffic backed-up for miles because of an automobile accident up ahead.

An hour later than expected, I made it to my home-sweet-home. As I was unpacking my car, weariness set in. Then, it occurred to me that I had only had four hours of sleep the night before. AND, I never felt any drowsiness or fatigue during that five-hour drive. I know it was the intenseness of navigating through the traffic for that hour that kept me alert and wide awake. I never thought for a minute about that lack of sleep the night before.

Thank you, God, for reminding me, once again, that You’ve Got the wheel – not just of my car, but of my life. I know that God has a plan and if we would just settle in and enjoy the ride, we’ll get to where we need to be in His perfect timing. What if we started analyzing those seemingly annoying times, as being little messages from God that He is working out some things for our good? You know the traffic, the flat tire, misplacing our car keys, left our phone at home and had to turn around, or our child forgot his baseball glove and we had to return home to get it.

How well I remember the stories of people who were delayed going to work at the Twin Towers on the 9/11 bombing that saved their lives and the ones who missed their flight and their life was saved from the airplane crash later.

Maybe today you are experiencing some delays – like a house closing or a medical report or that check-in-the-mail. What if we take a deep breath, turn the wheel over to God and TRUST that “ALL THINGS (literally, ALL THINGS – the good, the bad and the ugly things, including the traffic), are being used by God for good for those who love Him and are called according to His purposes.” (Romans 8:28). God's timing is ALWAYS perfect.

The Show Must Go On -- Here, and Up There

Today, I’m back in Tulsa where so many memories always await me. Of course, I’m with Mom (aka Mom-in-Law) and Karen, which brings a flood of memories when we’re together, but today, November 16th is exceptionally special to each of us. Mom’s boy, Karen's big bro, and my Sweetheart, gets my FB marquee placement today.

Heaven is a wonderful place and every time I hear about someone's loved one getting to go there, it seems to get sweeter and sweeter. At least it sure does for me. This beautiful man went there ahead of me...seven years ago today. His Bucket List was completed, and he received his ticket for the ride he'd waited for, earned, deserved and was awarded. On the other hand, he was always ahead of me -- leading and guiding me, and always my cheerleader. I like to think that's part of his assignment in heaven -- to keep pushing me to be the best I can be, like he did when we were teenagers and during those 44 years we were together.

What would it be like if I just sat and pined away about “the way we were” or for wanting to "go home" too? What if I didn't celebrate my life today and all the joys it holds for me on this side of heaven because I'm still here?

Growing up, I heard a lot of songs about heaven: "Won't It Be Wonderful There", "When We All Get to Heaven", "Heaven is a Wonderful Place", "In the Sweet By and By", "Shall We Gather at the River?" And I agree with those songs and many sermons about the beauty and grandeur of heaven. It will be beyond our wildest dreams and imaginations. But if we're not doing what we are supposed to be doing in the right here and now, we'll be most miserable. Why be always thinking about our past and dreaming about the future, when God has called us to pick up our assignments for right here and now, and DO THEM to the best of our ability today? There are people to love and encourage. There are young people that need mentors. There are more lessons to learn. There are widows and widowers that need to know how to continue living strong. There are prayers to pray and seeds to plant. THE SHOW MUST GO ON!

I keep remembering so many of my Sweetheart's quotes. "You can do this. Your best days are ahead. Have faith -- it's gonna' be alright. Throw your hands up in the air, and enjoy the ride. Finish strong. The show must go on." And during those times when I am challenged with life and the circumstances that sometime seem overwhelming….. like having to handle business affairs and financial challenges, home and car repairs, counseling friends and family members, and making so many life decisions on my own, and when I really would love to hear his sweet voice to tell me what to do, I compose myself and I sense the voice of my Heavenly Father saying, “Trust ME!” We have a resource that we can go to for the answers, Who gives us the strength, understanding, wisdom, and comfort we need.

Today, the 'SHOW" for me is my faith journey. And, on this faith journey, I’m always travelling on roads that take me to new places, new adventures, living large with my family, sharing God's "good news" and celebrating this “abundant life” Christ came to give us. You’ll recognize me on the road….I’ll be the one with lights blinking, horn honking and banners waving and shouting “Move out of my way…I’ve got a race to run and I’m going to finish strong!"

Happy Promotion Anniversary, Sweetheart! I love you FOREVER, and I’ll catch up with you soon! I’m not giving up – until I’m taken up! In the meantime, since you are so close to the throne of God, would you please nestle up close to Him and tell Him your adoring and loving wife could use some extra help down here? After all, THE SHOW MUST GO ON!”

On a Day Like Today......PUSH, BABY, PUSH!

On a day like today -- November 16th, 2010 -- birds singing, fish jumping in the lake and a gentle breeze blowing into our bedroom window -- the greatest of all sweet celebrations was about to begin! I don't rehash the memories for my sake -- they are forever with me. But, if one word, one phrase, one spark ignites someone's faith from my experiences, it will have been worth the journey.

What started as an idea to get our bodies moving, actually created excitement about the upcoming weekend for our whole family. We had a plan, and we were setting the plan into motion. We would all be together for an early Thanksgiving on Saturday, November 20th. We'd get as many as possible in the bedroom with Ron and enjoy our traditional Thanksgiving meal together with him. Then, when it would get dark outside, we would have the "lighting of the Christmas lights" that had been hung by a crew of family members. We knew Ron would love this night of celebration. Everything was planned to the finest of details. Strategically, beautiful lights were strung on an artificial tree just outside my Honey's bedroom window, as well as on the neighbor's fence and on all the trees at the back of our property. We knew he would love the family being together for such an intimate, sweet family time together. Then the plan was for all of us to run in the "Movement of Gratitude" aka "Run for Ron" in the Route 66 Marathon on Sunday. It was a masterful, brilliant plan!

But, God and my Honey usurped our plan and the "The Master's Plan aka The Perfect Plan" took over. As the days passed toward our big weekend, my Honey seemed to sleep more and talk and eat less. He had always given into my usual "drill sergeant" techniques to get him to eat more. I opened the windows wide and exclaimed "It's a beautiful day!" This morning was different than the days before. This day, he shook his head "no", when I tried to give him just one more bite of his favorite, oatmeal and brown sugar. His mom and sister came by for their usual daily visit. He raised his head and said, "Hi, Mom!", then closed his eyes again. After they left, I tried to give him his lunch -- another favorite -- chicken and dumplings, but this time, nothing doing.

Though I had been hustling around to get the house all ready for our arriving family that weekend, I suddenly knew that heaven was closing in on us and the house and this earth no longer mattered. Peace resonated from his being. Peace overcame me as I resigned myself to "let go, and let God" take over. With all the standing in faith for his healing on this earth before -- today, there was a sense of knowing that heaven was opening its portals for another soldier to come home. Not just his wife, but I knew it was time to be his midwife. It was as though heaven touched earth when I whispered to him, "Sweetheart, I think the 'Welcome Home' sign is up for you in heaven. Go ahead and go there. I'll be okay. I'll catch up with you later. Now, it's time to push, Baby, push! Go home! Push, Baby, Push!" Peace enveloped our room.

My Honey was not leaving home -- he was going home. I knew God loved him so much -- it was time for him to receive the grandest rewards that he so deserved. With all the love I had and have for him, how could I possibly keep him here one minute longer? He earned this. He deserved this. Within just an hour, he breathed his last breath, and ever so peacefully, I saw the most beautiful man I have ever encountered -- both outside and inside -- push through to the other side. Yes, there were tears, as with any close family member or friend who is leaving our presence for a while, yet also tears of joy, knowing pain is over and that we'll be together again one day. I gave him words that I knew the Father was saying to him right now: "Well done, good and faithful servant. Enter now into the joy of the Lord!" Matthew 25:23. How sweet it was -- all pain was gone as my dashing, beautiful husband was free at last from that weary and broken earth suit.

Did we "lose" him? No, we know where he is! He is not lost. Did we lose our fight? No, we fought the good fight of faith. As St. Paul said, "I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith, and finally a crown of righteousness awaits me (2 Timothy 4:7,8).

By the way, we still had our family Thanksgiving on Saturday, the 20th, and we celebrated this bright light that had been in our lives for so many years. We lit up our back yard and all of us watched from Honey's bedroom window -- except, not quite as planned, for Honey had graduated from that hospital bed. We like to think that he was watching from his "room with a view" from heaven itself. He did push through and now he is cheering us on and pushing us to OUR finish line -- where we'll meet up for a grand reunion some day! So, let's PUSH, BABY, PUSH to live life to its fullest, share and be a witness of God's love, and be on purpose to finish strong so that we hear those words "Well done, good and faithful servant. Enter now into the joy of the Lord!"

Home is a Heart Matter!

John Denver sang "Hey, it's good to be back home again!" And Dorothy in the Wizard of Oz, said, "There's no place like home!" Even though I sold my home and am staying in a friend's home in Tulsa, I'm still singing with Dorothy, "There's no place like home!"

"Home" has changed for me many, many times over the years (way more than most) -- home once was when my sweetheart met me at the door with a sweet kiss and hug, and home was where my kids brought their friends to for comfort and FOOD, and home was where a light was always burning when one of us would be out late. Home was where the yummy smell of chocolate chip cookies were baking. And home was where we could be ourselves -- no masks -- no pretense -- just real, authentic, truth spoken in love....and even sometimes....when the truth hurt. But still, all those things were what made home...HOME!

The meaning of home changes over time -- when we were growing up in our parents' home, then a college dorm room was home, then our first home as a married couple, and then home was where our family came "home" to after they moved out and we were empty nesters. Or sweet loved ones left us for their real HOME in heaven. "Home" has so many different meanings.

Now, in this season between living in Oklahoma and Texas, home represents for me....my space in my friend's home or my mother-in-law's home or my children's home, I've got the "gypsy" wandering vibe going. That's been at my children's urging -- "Mom, take your time on buying a new home! Trust God's timing and the place He's planned for you." I'll admit -- I have been a little antsy about that because this little bird would like a "nest" to go to that she can call her own. But, right here in my friend's home in Tulsa, I'm typing my next FB post with complete peace and sensing that God knows where I'm headed tomorrow.....so that makes this spot, right here "home".

In reality, it doesn't matter where the structure of a home is, because home is where our hearts are at the time. I've learned that home can be outdoors, in a chapel, in a comfy chair, riding in a car....or even a motorcoach -- really, just anywhere. In this season of my life, I've come to appreciate that my most precious "home" place to be is where I spend time with the Lover of My Soul -- that place of peace and comfort -- where "in His presence -- is fullness of joy"! I'm "at home" with the One Who always wraps me in His loving arms and He assures me I am home....right where He is -- is home -- any where and any time. Give me that -- and I'm home -- my quiet place -- my refuge -- my shelter -- my secret place of the Most High -- abiding under the shadow of the Almighty (Psalm 91:1).

Yes.....there really is no place like HOME SWEET HOME -- because Home is a heart matter -- not a place matter -- because any where (and that's everywhere) He is, I'm HOME!

Coming Home to Him and "Home Sweet Home"

I leave my outdoor lights on when I'm out late at night. They're welcoming to me when I return home. For over 5-1/2 years I've been pulling into my garage and head into my house, alone. Initially, when my sweetheart went to heaven (lucky/blessed guy), that was one of the harder things to get used to. No presence there welcoming me. But, I learned that feeling was a totally inaccurate.

Now, as I drive into my garage, these words ring loud and true for me...."You're not alone. You get to come home to Jesus."

In the moment, I mean that in the most literal way. I’m thinking of a the solace and sweet peace I am about to experience. Yes, I may be alone....but I am not lonely. That said, there is an important distinction to be established right off the bat. There is a world of difference between solitude and loneliness, though the two terms are often used interchangeably. Loneliness is a negative state, marked by a sense of isolation. Someone feels that something is missing. It is possible to be with people and still feel lonely—perhaps the most bitter form of loneliness.

Solitude is the state of being alone without being lonely. It is a positive way of appreciating ME. I have learned that my place of being alone is often where I find myself absolutely wonderful company. But, even more so, my aloneness and solitude is so incredibly heartwarming when I know that my Savior is there with me, watching over me, available to talk with, and He with me. He doesn't demand the remote control and His clothes take up too much room in the closet. He doesn't care what food I'm eating and doesn't mind if I stay up late, or turn in early. He is such a gentle and loving friend that He doesn't even mind if I don't talk to Him that much, but He sure is ready to talk when I give Him my full attention.

This place of refuge with Him is so peaceful and satisfying. It's something I cultivate and it replenishes my soul and weary body.

If I had chosen cultivating "loneliness" 5-1/2 years ago, it would have been a harsh punishment and I would have been so discontented and sad. I chose solitude and coming home to my best friend.

I open the door of my house and it seems to invite me in like an old friend. I remember again that I am loved, not because of what I do but because of Who I belong to. Home is where my heart is, and since I'm not at HOME in heaven yet, I’m learning this: Home is also Who’s within my heart AND my house. Yes, there's no place like home.D

Values That Make Home.....A Sweet Home

Family rules. I saw this sign in my kids' home, and I knew what I would post today. Family values. Those are their non-negotiables, and that's what makes for a family who loves, shares and cares. VALUES -- those specifics that define who we are and are the absolute non-negotiables in our lives.

When God made us, He planted within us certain things that we value deeply. They’re hardwired in our heart. Through our life experiences – from the environment we are raised in, the schools we go to, the friends we associate with, and the religious foundation we receive, God makes them clear to us. Those things are our CORE VALUES. King Solomon’s core value was wisdom, Mother Teresa’s was compassion, Nelson Mandela stood for equality and Pope Francis, his love and compassion for the poor. So the question is "What do we stand for? What are our values?"

Moses delivered God's Ten Commandments on a tablet of stone and if those commandments were followed, the Israelites would experience God's favor and blessings. Just imagine the blessings that would be on our families if we not only followed God's Ten Commandments, but also the family values (non-negotiables) that we stood for in our homes and lives.

Perhaps it's time to put a stake in the ground on behalf of our families and define those things that matter most to us and when we do, then we'll be blessed in our homes and we'll pass them on to our children and their children. Indeed it would be a HOME SWEET HOME.

Psalm 128:1 “Blessed are you who fear the Lord, who walk in His ways!”

EXCEL in 2016

 Home sweet home after 22 days in Texas and Washington over the Christmas holidays.  Precious times away, and excited now to EXCEL in 2016.  

Those incredible 22 days were topped off, yesterday, when many of our Unstoppable Summit attendees went to Elevate Life Church to worship and praise God together.  And to hear a message by Pastor Keith Craft entitled "EXCEL" only provided the icing on the delicious "cake" we'd experienced all weekend at the summit.  In 2 Corinthians 8:1-11, the Apostle Paul was speaking about the folks in the Macedonian churches and in verse 2 said " In the midst of very SEVERE TRIALS, they had OVERFLOWING JOY and their EXTREME POVERTY welled up in RICH GENEROSITY."  Did you get that?  They were experiencing severe trials, but had overflowing joy.  They lived in extreme poverty but were richly generous.

And, then in verse 7, he encourages the Corinthians by saying "Since you EXCEL in everything—in faith, in speech, in knowledge, in complete earnestness and in the love we have kindled in you—see that you also EXCEL in this grace of giving."  WOW -- did those words ever pack a punch!  God is impressed when we have overflowing joy in the middle of trials and He's even more impressed when we're generous during times of lack.  Pastor Keith said, "EXCEL means to soar -- surpass limitations".  I reached up and grabbed that word as I heard this message.  I desire to soar, surpass limitations and, as Paul mentioned, "EXCEL in everything" -- in faith, in speech, in knowledge, and above all, in the grace of giving this year.

Giving comes in so many forms:  a hug, a smile, an encouraging word, a compliment, time, treasure, and a host of other ways to EXCEL in the grace of giving.   I'm going to be "in the moment" and "on the lookout" for ways to EXCEL by being an extravagant GIVER this year.

"Powered by Relationships" has been our tag line for over three years now -- and as I think about the power we receive in our relationship with God, as well as His beautiful people like those who joined us in the summit this weekend, I expect EXCELLING to be the norm.    I loved being able to share my heart with these precious people yesterday afternoon, and they shared their love and heart right back to me.  We were EXCELLING.   Indeed we had an empowerment weekend that surely fueled us for a beautiful and blessed year to come -- a year of continual EXCELLING.  Let's EXCEL together as we truly become extravagant GIVERS this year!

It's ALL About the Journey and Getting to our Destination

Day 164 of Photo Inspirations -- It's All About the Journey AND Getting to our Destination
Whoever said "It's not about the destination -- it's about the journey" wasn't running a 26.2 mile marathon or on a 12-hour road trip, with 6 of us AND stuff crammed into a vehicle.LOL!   Yesterday, my Texas kids and I (all 6 of us) had a 12-hour "journey" (road trip) to Minneapolis for Payton's  NCFCA Speech & Debate Nationals Tournament.  We played card games, Scrabble, sang, used our technology for entertainment AND worked (in Staci's case), snacked, and stopped for yet another one of us needing a pit stop. With all that entertainment, still there were moments of sibling disagreements.  "Mom, please make her stop singing!"  "Mom, he won't move over."  "Mom, I want to watch that DVD!"  "Mom, she won't stop putting her feet on me!"  Hilarious!  For them, it WAS about the destination!

I have to smile as it brought back so many vivid memories of our own family road trips -- the only difference was, we never could use "I'll take away your technology if you all don't settle down"!  Aw.....technology -- sweet time consumer and a means for harmony and peace.  I often wonder "How did we manage raising our kids without it?"  LOL!   In our case, all my kids' daddy had to do was pull the car to a screeching halt on the side of the road....and peace and harmony resumed.  For us then, as now, it was about the destination.

We made it here to Northwestern University, got all settled in our dorm rooms.  Yes, three of us are in one dorm room and the other three are in the other.  These dorm rooms are unlike ones of the past.  These have kitchenettes AND bathrooms in them, furnished with nice beds, desks and chests and lots of closet space.   Payton and Alexia are getting to experience what it will be like to "live on campus" one day, and we are enjoying 'remembering' campus life.  The journey for us was sweet....but the destination of graduating and moving on in life was what it was about for us -- THE DESTINATION!

We made it here -- our destination.    The closer we got, the more excited Payton became.  He practiced and worked hard to be here, and he prayed and believed for it.  I loved reading HIS Instagram post yesterday:

"On my way with the family driving to Minnesota for the NCFCA Speech and Debate Nationals Tournament! (A long 12 hours!!!) I can't thank God enough for all the guidance He has given me! I know I couldn't have made it this far without Him! He sure is a great God! Jeremiah 29:11 "For I know the plans I have for you declare the Lord; plans to prosper you and not to harm you plans to give you a hope and future"!

THAT'S it!!!  Yes, God does have awesome plans for our todays.  He wants us to have a blessed journey.   Getting to Minneapolis -- our destination -- is sweet.  But getting to HEAVEN to be with our Lord and our loved ones will be AWESOME!  So we'll continue to enjoy the journey ......with ALWAYS keeping in mind that the ultimate and FINAL DESTINATION will be with Him and being HOME SWEET HOME!

Home Sweet Home

Day 121 of Photo Inspirations -- So thankful for a spectacular journey but now looking forward to the lights of America the beautiful. God bless the USA.

No place like home sweet home.

So excited to take these bags home.

 — traveling to Tulsa, Oklahoma

It's Good to be Back Home Again

John Denver sang "Hey, it's good to be back home again!" And Dorothy in the Wizard of Oz, said, "There's no place like home!" And, I'm singing and saying that today! Whether it's a day, a week or a month away from it -- there's just no place like home.

No matter where or what home is -- we've lived in an apartment, a condo, a 26 foot Winnibego, a house (big and small) -- there's just no place like it.
"Home" has changed many, many times over the years (way more than most) -- home once was when my sweetheart met me at the door with a sweet kiss and hug, and home was where my kids brought their friends to for comfort and FOOD, and home was where a light was always burning when one of us would be out late. And home was where the yummy smell of chocolate chip cookies were baking. And home was where we could be ourselves -- no masks -- no pretense -- just real, authentic, truth spoken in love....and even sometimes....when the truth hurt. But still, all those things were what made home...HOME!

But, for all of us.....the meaning of home changes over time -- when we become "empty nesters" as the children leave the nest and make their own homes. Or sweet loved ones leave us for their real HOME in heaven. Suddenly "home" takes on a whole new meaning.

Now, home represents for me....my space, my bed, my pictures, my refrigerator, my pantry, my shower, my computer where I can type my next FB posting with peace so I can hear what God wants me to say -- my treadmill so I can run with all out abandonment -- and my cozy chair -- where I spend time with the Lover of My Soul -- that place of peace and comfort -- where "in His presence -- is fullness of joy"! Give me that -- and I'm home -- my quiet place -- my refuge -- my Shelter in the time of storm!

Yes.....there really is no place like HOME SWEET HOME -- because where He is, I'm HOME!