Here I sit at the Chicago airport wondering when my feet will hit NY.
My travel day has been much like my travel that I experienced on Monday. The only difference is that none of my flights have been cancelled like they were on Monday.
I've experienced delays on both my flights today. The first one was 40 minutes out of Billings. My second flight to Syracuse is delayed 2.5 hours. The flight is scheduled to depart now at 9:36 PM CST, that is 10:36 PM EST. This means that I'll arrive in Syracuse at 12:36 AM EST. Being of sound mind, I called the Airport Inn in Syracuse and will be spending the night there rather than make the 2.5 hour drive to Potsdam after I land.
In all of my air travels, I have never experienced all the problems that I have encountered on this trip. Is it the airline's fault? Apparently not since the airline tells me that the delays are due to the air traffic controllers in Chicago. I guess they had bad weather here earlier in the day, which is causing mayhem with traveling. It looks pretty nice out now - sun is shining and it is looking like it will be a beautiful sunset. I guess I'll go find a window to sit by and enjoy the scenery as long as I am here.
To all my friends in NY: I'll be home soon.
Friday, June 27, 2008
Wednesday, June 25, 2008
Afternoon Adventure
I decided it was time to venture out and see some of the sites around Billings, Montana today. After all, I had spent the entire morning in my room working on my marketing course that I need to finish by next week....I deserved a break, right?
I invited a colleague to join me in my afternoon excursion. Christine and I connected around 2 PM local time and discussed various options for our adventure. We both decided that we would visit Pictograph Cave State Park.
The park was only a 10 minute drive from our hotel. It was a beautiful day and nothing could have pleased me more than to be outside enjoying the scenery and weather. Enjoy the pictures.
We found this sign at the end of our walk around the park. Upon entering the park, I informed Christine that we would need to beware of rattlesnakes. Her comment "I'll have my video camera ready when one strikes." She also informed me that she had to leave her jack knife at home since she couldn't carry it on the plane.
Nice blue skies.
We caught a rabbit sleeping. He really thought that he was hiding, but now he is a star on my blog. Silly rabbit.
I invited a colleague to join me in my afternoon excursion. Christine and I connected around 2 PM local time and discussed various options for our adventure. We both decided that we would visit Pictograph Cave State Park.
The park was only a 10 minute drive from our hotel. It was a beautiful day and nothing could have pleased me more than to be outside enjoying the scenery and weather. Enjoy the pictures.
We found this sign at the end of our walk around the park. Upon entering the park, I informed Christine that we would need to beware of rattlesnakes. Her comment "I'll have my video camera ready when one strikes." She also informed me that she had to leave her jack knife at home since she couldn't carry it on the plane.
The rock in the middle looks like a man who is guarding the canyon.
Nice blue skies.We caught a rabbit sleeping. He really thought that he was hiding, but now he is a star on my blog. Silly rabbit.
Looking out over the horizon from the canyon.
We found a nice place to dine after our trip. We shared this dessert, which was called poached pears in a port reduction sauce. It sure was yummy and semi-healthy.
Tuesday, June 24, 2008
Weary Traveler & Dead End Streets
I finally arrived at my hotel last night, or should I say this morning, at 12:00 AM. Of course, this was 2:00 AM EST. I wasn't sure that I would ever get to the hotel, though.
I picked up my rental car and proceeded to diligently follow the directions that I had printed from the hotel website. What I didn't realize was that there were two route 90's. One is the business loop and the other is an interstate. The directions just said to get on route 90. Of course, I got on the wrong one. The route did get me in the vicinity of my hotel. I could see it in the distance, but couldn't find a road that would get them there. I ended up on a dead end street so many times that I lost count. In my desperation, I called the hotel and even stopped at a Day's Inn to ask for directions. They all kept telling me to go the same way - that led me to a dead end street. I figured I was either to weary or tired to understand the directions or the people didn't really understand where I was to begin with. I was finally heading in a direction where I came across a road that looked like it would bring in the vicinity of my hotel. The road took me over Interstate 90 and then intersected the road that the hotel was on. You can imagine the excitement that boiled up within me to see the road that the hotel was on. Sure enough, I turned on this road and it took me right to the hotel.
Today was a better day for me. I rested a lot this morning and then gave my presentation this afternoon. I'm having a quiet evening in my hotel room and am looking forward to turning in early tonight.
I picked up my rental car and proceeded to diligently follow the directions that I had printed from the hotel website. What I didn't realize was that there were two route 90's. One is the business loop and the other is an interstate. The directions just said to get on route 90. Of course, I got on the wrong one. The route did get me in the vicinity of my hotel. I could see it in the distance, but couldn't find a road that would get them there. I ended up on a dead end street so many times that I lost count. In my desperation, I called the hotel and even stopped at a Day's Inn to ask for directions. They all kept telling me to go the same way - that led me to a dead end street. I figured I was either to weary or tired to understand the directions or the people didn't really understand where I was to begin with. I was finally heading in a direction where I came across a road that looked like it would bring in the vicinity of my hotel. The road took me over Interstate 90 and then intersected the road that the hotel was on. You can imagine the excitement that boiled up within me to see the road that the hotel was on. Sure enough, I turned on this road and it took me right to the hotel.
Today was a better day for me. I rested a lot this morning and then gave my presentation this afternoon. I'm having a quiet evening in my hotel room and am looking forward to turning in early tonight.
Monday, June 23, 2008
Flight Cancelations & Delays
I should be well on my way to Billings, Montana by now, but I'm still stuck at the Syracuse airport.
I promptly arrived with another co-worker this morning at 6:20 AM to discover that our first flight was cancelled. Re-booking flights to Billings was not an easy task. My co-worker was able to get on a flight that left at 7:10 AM, but I was unable to. I am scheduled to depart in 30 minutes (3:15 PM). I get to fly through Cleveland and Minneapolis. If everything goes according to plan, I will arrive in Billings at 10:40 PM MST, that is 12:40 AM EST. I am thankful that my presentation isn't until 3:15 PM tomorrow. I think that I will sleep in tomorrow morning.
What have I been doing since this morning? The hotel that I stayed last night was gracious enough to let me check back into my room. Being a seasoned traveler, I did what any traveler would do - rest and sleep. I needed this rest since I've been on the go so much for the past few weeks. I'm sure that I'll sleep on the airplanes too.
That is my travel update for now. The flight attendant just indicated that we will be boarding in 10 minutes. Need to close for now.
I promptly arrived with another co-worker this morning at 6:20 AM to discover that our first flight was cancelled. Re-booking flights to Billings was not an easy task. My co-worker was able to get on a flight that left at 7:10 AM, but I was unable to. I am scheduled to depart in 30 minutes (3:15 PM). I get to fly through Cleveland and Minneapolis. If everything goes according to plan, I will arrive in Billings at 10:40 PM MST, that is 12:40 AM EST. I am thankful that my presentation isn't until 3:15 PM tomorrow. I think that I will sleep in tomorrow morning.
What have I been doing since this morning? The hotel that I stayed last night was gracious enough to let me check back into my room. Being a seasoned traveler, I did what any traveler would do - rest and sleep. I needed this rest since I've been on the go so much for the past few weeks. I'm sure that I'll sleep on the airplanes too.
That is my travel update for now. The flight attendant just indicated that we will be boarding in 10 minutes. Need to close for now.
Wednesday, June 18, 2008
Home Adventures
Okay, I know that in my previous post today I said I like to travel. I do, but I also like being home too. When I am home, you can find me doing one of these favorite activities: kayaking, working out at the fitness center, or sitting next to the river drinking coffee.
Tonight I got to work out at the fitness center and then have coffee next to the river. To my surprise, some friends were gathered their having a great time of walking the banks and swimming. I truly enjoyed my cup of coffee with them and I even got to snap some photos of them.
Traveling Adventures
I am in a season of traveling for the next month. I actually just counted and I will only be home 9 days out of the next 28 days.
My travel plans include trips to the Albany, NY area, Billings, Montana, Dallas/Ft. Worth, and the Thousand Islands.
I have fun traveling and like to travel. There are many adventures that I can find myself participating in when I travel. The pictures below show some of the adventures of my most recent trip from this past weekend.
Reconnecting with some old friends Evelyn & Esther
A cowboy with three cowgirls
Glad to be back from the trail ride
Out on the trail
Monday, June 09, 2008
A Tribute to a Friend
Today was a special day for a friend of mine. It was Bonnie's birthday. We had a nice birthday dinner here.
Bonnie is one of my friends that sticks closer than a brother. She has the ability to bring a smile to my face even when I don't feel like smiling. She is my "go to" lady when I need prayer since I know she prays without ceasing. She brings out a part of my personality that no one else can; guess what part that is. Bonnie is also compassionate and listens with a learned ear; sometimes the wisdom that she has blows me away.
Bonnie and I have been through a lot together as friends. We've grown through the bumpy and the good times of our friendship. It doesn't matter what we've been through - we will always have the special bond between us called friendship.
Happy birthday, my dear friend. Thanks for sharing a part of your day with me. Love ya.
Sunday, June 08, 2008
Pileated Woodpecker Visit
My dad and I were drinking our morning coffee yesterday when we heard the sound of a woodpecker. I looked up and before my eyes was this Pileated Woodpecker on the nearby apple tree. I initially thought that this was a red-headed woodpecker, but further research on Google showed that it was a Pileated Woodpecker. This woodpecker was huge and was certainly enjoying the feast that the tree was offering. This was evident from the pile of bark shavings that laid below his red head.Father and Fishing
I celebrated Father's Day with my dad this weekend - I know you're probably thinking "Laura, Father's Day is next weekend." Indeed it is, but I won't be able to be with dad next weekend since I will be out of town.
I traveled to the Thousand Islands area Friday night and we went to dinner at Bonnie Castle's Crystal Dining room. This is a large dining area that is glassed in offering breathtaking views of Boldt Castle and the St. Lawrence River. The dining experience was the best: great views, soft piano music played by Austin, food absolutely delicious (Sue-carrot cake passed the father's test), and conversation never ending. We topped the night off by scrolling out in front of Bonnie Castle along the shores of the St. Lawrence taking in more of the beautiful views.
When we returned to dad's place, I gave him a picture tour of my life for the last month with the photos that I had taken of my move, the pink house, and our last WIM meeting at CFC. He truly enjoyed it. We both went to bed early because we had an important trip scheduled for the next morning - fishing.
Fishing, yes I love to fish. I grew up on the river fishing since my dad is a Thousand Island's fishing guide. I think I had a fishing pole in my hand before I could walk. Some of my fondest memories are of our times on the river fishing, swimming, water skiing, etc. etc. I go fishing with dad every chance that I can. I can't beat spending hours on the water enjoying my dad's company and taking in the peace that comes from just being on the water. It doesn't really matter if we don't catch anything, but we did catch lots of perch yesterday, just being together and enjoying the time is enough for me.
We got back to shore and dad cleaned the catch of the day. I stood by watching and taking in all that he was doing, just like I used to when I was a kid. The afternoon ended by us having lunch together and then I was off to my next adventure: dinner with friends on the shores of the Grasse River.
Before leaving my dad, I gave him a Father's Day card and a plaque. The card had a picture of a trout on it and the plaque was titled "The Ten Commandments of Fishing." He proudly hung the plaque in his fishing room where all his other fishing memorabilia is located.
Thanks dad for a wonderful time. I love you and can't wait for our next outing. Happy Father's Day.
I traveled to the Thousand Islands area Friday night and we went to dinner at Bonnie Castle's Crystal Dining room. This is a large dining area that is glassed in offering breathtaking views of Boldt Castle and the St. Lawrence River. The dining experience was the best: great views, soft piano music played by Austin, food absolutely delicious (Sue-carrot cake passed the father's test), and conversation never ending. We topped the night off by scrolling out in front of Bonnie Castle along the shores of the St. Lawrence taking in more of the beautiful views.
When we returned to dad's place, I gave him a picture tour of my life for the last month with the photos that I had taken of my move, the pink house, and our last WIM meeting at CFC. He truly enjoyed it. We both went to bed early because we had an important trip scheduled for the next morning - fishing.
Fishing, yes I love to fish. I grew up on the river fishing since my dad is a Thousand Island's fishing guide. I think I had a fishing pole in my hand before I could walk. Some of my fondest memories are of our times on the river fishing, swimming, water skiing, etc. etc. I go fishing with dad every chance that I can. I can't beat spending hours on the water enjoying my dad's company and taking in the peace that comes from just being on the water. It doesn't really matter if we don't catch anything, but we did catch lots of perch yesterday, just being together and enjoying the time is enough for me.
We got back to shore and dad cleaned the catch of the day. I stood by watching and taking in all that he was doing, just like I used to when I was a kid. The afternoon ended by us having lunch together and then I was off to my next adventure: dinner with friends on the shores of the Grasse River.
Before leaving my dad, I gave him a Father's Day card and a plaque. The card had a picture of a trout on it and the plaque was titled "The Ten Commandments of Fishing." He proudly hung the plaque in his fishing room where all his other fishing memorabilia is located.
Thanks dad for a wonderful time. I love you and can't wait for our next outing. Happy Father's Day.
Wednesday, June 04, 2008
Free to Express Praises
I had hopes that the rain would stop and blue skies would appear. Why? I needed to wet my kayak and paddle the river that is now my next door neighbor. So when the blue skies peaked through, I got my boat, paddle, life jacket, and headed for the water.
I began to paddle my way to one of my favorite spots when I noticed something different. What were those beautiful sounds that I was hearing? It was the sounds of chirping birds. They were everywhere and it sounded like they were singing praises to the Lord. I don't know much about birds, but these sounded like a well practiced choir. The sounds followed me as I continued to paddle up river.
I began to think about the sounds and how the birds seemed to freely express their chirps. They were free to sing as they pleased. Isn't this how God desires us to worship Him - to freely express our praises to Him as we seem fit to do so? I'm reminded of David even as I write this. David was free to worship the Lord and praised Him with singing, dancing, and playing instruments. David didn't care who was around or watching him. He freely praised the Lord with his whole heart.
As I paddled back to shore, I found myself chirping my own praises as an expression of my love to my Father in heaven. It was wonderful to be free as the birds to sing my own praises to the Lord.
I began to paddle my way to one of my favorite spots when I noticed something different. What were those beautiful sounds that I was hearing? It was the sounds of chirping birds. They were everywhere and it sounded like they were singing praises to the Lord. I don't know much about birds, but these sounded like a well practiced choir. The sounds followed me as I continued to paddle up river.
I began to think about the sounds and how the birds seemed to freely express their chirps. They were free to sing as they pleased. Isn't this how God desires us to worship Him - to freely express our praises to Him as we seem fit to do so? I'm reminded of David even as I write this. David was free to worship the Lord and praised Him with singing, dancing, and playing instruments. David didn't care who was around or watching him. He freely praised the Lord with his whole heart.
As I paddled back to shore, I found myself chirping my own praises as an expression of my love to my Father in heaven. It was wonderful to be free as the birds to sing my own praises to the Lord.
Thursday, May 29, 2008
Life at the Pink House
It is official - I'm living in the pink house.
I guess when you cook your first meal, do 4 loads of laundry, sweep the floors, vacuum, and do dishes, you can say that I'm officially living at the pink house.
I am getting more settled. It was a relief to get all the boxes unpacked and organize everything. I've included a few pictures. Hope you enjoy them.
View from side of porch. 
More views of porch - I like the sliding rocker.
Cooking my first meal.
Shadow and Angel at top of stairs. They need a good home for anyone who is interested.
Living room - nice and big.
Do you recognize the person standing? I think it is the pink house lady.
I guess when you cook your first meal, do 4 loads of laundry, sweep the floors, vacuum, and do dishes, you can say that I'm officially living at the pink house.
I am getting more settled. It was a relief to get all the boxes unpacked and organize everything. I've included a few pictures. Hope you enjoy them.
Front of house - porch is a great place to have afternoon coffee.
View from side of porch.More views of porch - I like the sliding rocker.
Cooking my first meal.
Getting ready to eat my first meal. Did you notice the pink candles and pink house napkins? Thanks Sarah for the special touch.
Shadow and Angel at top of stairs. They need a good home for anyone who is interested.
Kitchen - I love it.
Living room - nice and big.
Do you recognize the person standing? I think it is the pink house lady. Monday, May 26, 2008
In-Between
Have you ever experienced a season in your life where you're living "in-between" seasons? This is where I am right now.
I moved all of my belongings out of my cabin yesterday and into a 5 bedroom house that I'm renting for the months of June/July. I spent my first night there last night with my two cats, Shadow and Angel. We all are getting used to our new surroundings that we'll call home for the next few months.
This move was necessary in preparation for the next season that God is calling me to. It is one that I was not expecting and looking for. But, I am obedient to follow the leading of God as He is leading me into this new season. Don't misunderstand me...I am excited to be entering the new season that is awaiting me. I know that the new season will allow me to fulfill some life long dreams and that excites me. It is just a challenge to be in-between the season of yesterday and the season of tomorrow. I can look behind me and remember all the wonderful experiences of my life for the past 11 years, the relationships that I've formed, and what the Lord has done. I can only look ahead and dream about what God has in store for me in the future.
You see, I'm living "in-between." As one friend described it to me earlier in the week: I'm doing splits, one foot here and one foot there. The "here" has moved farther away and the "there" has not moved closer. I'm not sure how to exactly live in-between the two seasons, but I know that doing splits requires balance so as not to get stretched too far to the left or right. Balance, my favorite word. I always try to live my life in balance. I can rest in the Lord's presence and pray that He helps me remain balanced in this "in-between" season.
I moved all of my belongings out of my cabin yesterday and into a 5 bedroom house that I'm renting for the months of June/July. I spent my first night there last night with my two cats, Shadow and Angel. We all are getting used to our new surroundings that we'll call home for the next few months.
This move was necessary in preparation for the next season that God is calling me to. It is one that I was not expecting and looking for. But, I am obedient to follow the leading of God as He is leading me into this new season. Don't misunderstand me...I am excited to be entering the new season that is awaiting me. I know that the new season will allow me to fulfill some life long dreams and that excites me. It is just a challenge to be in-between the season of yesterday and the season of tomorrow. I can look behind me and remember all the wonderful experiences of my life for the past 11 years, the relationships that I've formed, and what the Lord has done. I can only look ahead and dream about what God has in store for me in the future.
You see, I'm living "in-between." As one friend described it to me earlier in the week: I'm doing splits, one foot here and one foot there. The "here" has moved farther away and the "there" has not moved closer. I'm not sure how to exactly live in-between the two seasons, but I know that doing splits requires balance so as not to get stretched too far to the left or right. Balance, my favorite word. I always try to live my life in balance. I can rest in the Lord's presence and pray that He helps me remain balanced in this "in-between" season.
Saturday, May 24, 2008
News Worth Reporting
I was scanning the news headlines when I came across this. What an amazing story of God's healing power!!
Moving Weekend
One word sums up my planned holiday weekend activities: moving. Yes, that is right. I'm moving out of my log cabin into a 5-bedroom house; I might add that the house is painted pink. I seem to be into pink these days. I have a pink coffee mug, pink wallet, and lots of pink clothing. Sorry for the bunny trail. Back to moving.
Many of you know that I sold my log cabin in February. The closing date is next Friday, May 30. I've been sorting, packing, and tossing since January. I am renting an apartment in the 5-bedroom pink house for June & July. Check back later in a few days since I'll post some pictures of my living space.
I'm glad that all of this is coming to a close since it has been a long road. I am weary from all of these activities and am looking forward to my new living arrangements where I don't have the responsibilities of being an homeowner. I'm also looking forward to spending my summer doing things that bring me the most pleasure.
This is a new season of my life that I'm entering. Although the change is exciting, it is also bittersweet at the same time. I've spent 11 years living at the log cabin and have loved it. I've grown so much in the Lord during this time and have shed many tears at this place as I allowed God to touch me and heal me. But as one prophet spoke many years ago to me: "The book on yesterday is closed....you can let the yesterdays go and begin to float upon the ocean of His grace." So as I move this weekend, I'm closing the book on yesterday and moving to float upon the ocean of His grace as I continue to walk out His plans and purposes for my life.
Many of you know that I sold my log cabin in February. The closing date is next Friday, May 30. I've been sorting, packing, and tossing since January. I am renting an apartment in the 5-bedroom pink house for June & July. Check back later in a few days since I'll post some pictures of my living space.
I'm glad that all of this is coming to a close since it has been a long road. I am weary from all of these activities and am looking forward to my new living arrangements where I don't have the responsibilities of being an homeowner. I'm also looking forward to spending my summer doing things that bring me the most pleasure.
This is a new season of my life that I'm entering. Although the change is exciting, it is also bittersweet at the same time. I've spent 11 years living at the log cabin and have loved it. I've grown so much in the Lord during this time and have shed many tears at this place as I allowed God to touch me and heal me. But as one prophet spoke many years ago to me: "The book on yesterday is closed....you can let the yesterdays go and begin to float upon the ocean of His grace." So as I move this weekend, I'm closing the book on yesterday and moving to float upon the ocean of His grace as I continue to walk out His plans and purposes for my life.
Thursday, May 15, 2008
What's In Your Driveway?
Ever imagine coming home and finding something in your driveway that you weren't expecting? This happened to me today.
I called a local hauler yesterday to schedule delivery of a roll-off bin to my house. You're probably thinking that I've really gone overboard now with my fondness of anything that relates to garbage. Don't worry, though. I truly have a need for a roll-off bin since I need to be out of my house by the end of the month. Anyways, back to my original story. The gentleman on the other end of the line indicated that they wouldn't be able to get one to my house until next week. The reason: graduation weekend at one of the local colleges. Yes, those college students are sorting, packing, and tossing out just like me. How unfortunate since I was planning on filling my bin this weekend. Upon receiving this news from the hauler, I began to rearrange my "to do list" in my head to accommodate the delivery delay. The hauler said that they would call me if they could get there earlier, but it didn't sound too promising.
"What is that big ugly green thing in my driveway?", I thought when I got home this afternoon. "Oh, yes, I recognize a roll-off bin anywhere." You guessed it, the big ugly green thing was delivered sometime today. I sometimes wonder why they have to be so ugly. After all, they just need a new coat of paint every year. I certainly would have our containers painted if we use roll-off containers at the Tribe. I have this pet peeve: just because I work in garbage doesn't mean my workers or equipment have to look like they work in garbage. We need to portray a positive and professional image.
Oh, well, I'm happy to my roll-off container in the driveway. I can now rearrange my "to do list" back to the original plan. I guess you know what I'll be doing this weekend: filling up my roll-off container of unwanted junk. How fun. If you're board, stop by and join in the fun.
I called a local hauler yesterday to schedule delivery of a roll-off bin to my house. You're probably thinking that I've really gone overboard now with my fondness of anything that relates to garbage. Don't worry, though. I truly have a need for a roll-off bin since I need to be out of my house by the end of the month. Anyways, back to my original story. The gentleman on the other end of the line indicated that they wouldn't be able to get one to my house until next week. The reason: graduation weekend at one of the local colleges. Yes, those college students are sorting, packing, and tossing out just like me. How unfortunate since I was planning on filling my bin this weekend. Upon receiving this news from the hauler, I began to rearrange my "to do list" in my head to accommodate the delivery delay. The hauler said that they would call me if they could get there earlier, but it didn't sound too promising.
"What is that big ugly green thing in my driveway?", I thought when I got home this afternoon. "Oh, yes, I recognize a roll-off bin anywhere." You guessed it, the big ugly green thing was delivered sometime today. I sometimes wonder why they have to be so ugly. After all, they just need a new coat of paint every year. I certainly would have our containers painted if we use roll-off containers at the Tribe. I have this pet peeve: just because I work in garbage doesn't mean my workers or equipment have to look like they work in garbage. We need to portray a positive and professional image.
Oh, well, I'm happy to my roll-off container in the driveway. I can now rearrange my "to do list" back to the original plan. I guess you know what I'll be doing this weekend: filling up my roll-off container of unwanted junk. How fun. If you're board, stop by and join in the fun.
Saturday, April 26, 2008
Faith Builder
This morning's devotion focused on the story of Abraham taking steps that ultimate would have led to the sacrifice of Isaac. And although Abraham may have struggled with following these steps, he did them anyways since he believed and had faith in God. In the end, God came at the last minute and provided a substitute sacrifice. What a faith builder this must have been for Abraham.
What kind of faith building experiences do you have in your own life? Are they ones where God showed up and performed an instant miracle? Or do experiences that require you to follow sequential steps and give you time to ponder the things of God build your faith more?
I've been on a journey for the past few months that has required me to follow the leading of the Holy Spirit, step by step. As I put one foot out to walk in the direction that God has been leading, I don't know what the next step will be. It doesn't matter, though, because I trust God and I don't need God's whole road map in front of me to reach His final destination. This is a huge step of faith for me because I'm a person who likes to plan every step of the journey and know exactly what is going to happen along the way. I've had to relinquish my control and trust in God on this current journey. Now that I think of it, this is what Abraham did. He didn't rely on his own understanding, but he trusted the Lord and the Lord led him (Proverbs 3:4-6). What amazes me is that God shows me the next step as I walk the previous step out, and not before. I guess this is where walking by faith and not by sight comes in.
I must admit that my faith has increased more during this current journey than times of where I've received instant miracles from the Lord. I find this interesting in the instant society in which I live. This is not the way of the Lord; He wants me to trust Him and walk by faith as He continues to unfold His plan , step by step, for my life. I've learned and am comfortable now with doing this. I'll keep walking it out, trusting the Lord to keep showing me the way as I put one foot in front of the other.
What kind of faith building experiences do you have in your own life? Are they ones where God showed up and performed an instant miracle? Or do experiences that require you to follow sequential steps and give you time to ponder the things of God build your faith more?
I've been on a journey for the past few months that has required me to follow the leading of the Holy Spirit, step by step. As I put one foot out to walk in the direction that God has been leading, I don't know what the next step will be. It doesn't matter, though, because I trust God and I don't need God's whole road map in front of me to reach His final destination. This is a huge step of faith for me because I'm a person who likes to plan every step of the journey and know exactly what is going to happen along the way. I've had to relinquish my control and trust in God on this current journey. Now that I think of it, this is what Abraham did. He didn't rely on his own understanding, but he trusted the Lord and the Lord led him (Proverbs 3:4-6). What amazes me is that God shows me the next step as I walk the previous step out, and not before. I guess this is where walking by faith and not by sight comes in.
I must admit that my faith has increased more during this current journey than times of where I've received instant miracles from the Lord. I find this interesting in the instant society in which I live. This is not the way of the Lord; He wants me to trust Him and walk by faith as He continues to unfold His plan , step by step, for my life. I've learned and am comfortable now with doing this. I'll keep walking it out, trusting the Lord to keep showing me the way as I put one foot in front of the other.
Friday, April 25, 2008
Spring Time
Spring is here and this means that it is spring cleanup time again for the Tribe. I had new employees begin work yesterday and they will be hitting the roads on Monday looking for those treasures. Give me your list if you are in need of some items that you don't want to spend money on; more than likely I can find it during our spring cleanup.
Spring time also means that I get to put my kayak in the water and paddle the local rivers. I went for the first time this year on Tuesday and it was wonderful. I scared two bull frogs into the water as I was putting my boat in. I also got to see many large fish swim away from my boat and the geese were honking up a storm. Oh, the signs of spring ... how wonderful.
Another sign of spring is the disappearance of the snow banks in the yard. They finally all vanished this week. I know it is late, but I had some tall banks due to the snow the falling off my roof.
These are just some of my spring time activities that I'm enjoying. I can't wait for summer.
Spring time also means that I get to put my kayak in the water and paddle the local rivers. I went for the first time this year on Tuesday and it was wonderful. I scared two bull frogs into the water as I was putting my boat in. I also got to see many large fish swim away from my boat and the geese were honking up a storm. Oh, the signs of spring ... how wonderful.
Another sign of spring is the disappearance of the snow banks in the yard. They finally all vanished this week. I know it is late, but I had some tall banks due to the snow the falling off my roof.
These are just some of my spring time activities that I'm enjoying. I can't wait for summer.
Tuesday, April 15, 2008
My Doings Lately
I know I haven't posted in awhile. Life sure has been busy. Other than work this week, I've been attending special meetings at my church. See Nancy's post for April 14 for a description.
Hope to post later this week.
Hope to post later this week.
Friday, March 28, 2008
Shopping
I am in Burlington, Ontario. I get to do one of my most favorite things today - shopping. You may be wondering why I came to Burlington, Ontario to shop. The company where I buy most of our garbage equipment is located in Burlington. Yes, that is right, I'm shopping for more garbage equipment. I'll be looking at transfer trailers that are capable of transporting upto 30 tons of garbage at one time. I'll also be looking at roll-off containers. It is so fun being in the garbage business and being able to look at all this cool equipment.
I had dinner here last evening. It is a cool place.
I had dinner here last evening. It is a cool place.
Sunday, March 23, 2008
Celebrating Resurrection Day
I had the pleasure of hosting three families for celebrating resurrection day, or better known to everyone as Easter.
The empty cross cake in the picture below symbolizes why we celebrate: Jesus is risen and alive today!! He isn't still nailed to the cross as many crosses show Him to be. He died for me and rose from the grave so that I could have a right relationship with God, my Father in heaven. Thank you Lord for all the pain, suffering, and anguish you bore for me. May I never forget what you have done for me.
The empty cross cake in the picture below symbolizes why we celebrate: Jesus is risen and alive today!! He isn't still nailed to the cross as many crosses show Him to be. He died for me and rose from the grave so that I could have a right relationship with God, my Father in heaven. Thank you Lord for all the pain, suffering, and anguish you bore for me. May I never forget what you have done for me.
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