The Summer of 2016

It feels like I am on the top step of a slide, all poised and ready to go down.  Ready....Set.....Go! And in just a few seconds---it's over! To me, this is a picture of summer. We've waited.....its here.....and then it's over.

Today I was thinking of what I wanted my summer to look like. I personally dislike nothing more than being unproductive. Why do that when it feels so good to accomplish things?? So today I asked myself what I want to remember about the "Summer of 2016." Immediately I thought about the books that I wanted to read and the writing that I love to do. And then there is that exercise program. Do I want to wait until fall to restart an exercise program? No....I don't think so! It would be better to keep this one going and even pick up the pace on June 1st.  What about eating?? I decided today to have fresh fruit and vegetables in the refrigerator along with scouting for some new dip recipes.

Our church always has opportunities for outreach, so that's going on my drawing board for consideration. It's always so satisfying to live beyond oneself. Our seven grandkids are super busy during the school year, so this is the time to grab them for some fun activities. It's a great time to make some memories!! Kayaking, biking, grilling out, movie night!

I know that none of the above will happen unless I have an intentional plan. All the good ideas in the world will not have spark unless I ignite that spark. How about you? What are your plans for the summer? There are ten days left before June 1st, so I am designating this as my "Initiation Time." Let's get this party started!! And remember--you can get "there" from here!!  Where??  To a summer filled with memories, productivity and just plain fun!!

Love to hear from you,

Karol

Saturday morning.....the house is quiet, and I am wrapped up in a blanket to ward off the chill in the house. What happened to our 70-degree weather??

This is the time of the morning that I like to fill my tank for the day. I want to share a little bit of what I learned today, in hopes that it will encourage you like it did me. Here's what I wrote in my journal today:

Choose to give God praise in the midst of what you don't understand. Do it quick before your emotions (anger, confusion, jealousy, fear) spin out of control. It will change the trajectory of your situation, the trajectory of your day, and if you do it often enough, it may even change the trajectory of your life!

The other day I was thinking about the scripture in Romans 8:28. I've known this scripture for years but the word "all" jumped out at me this time. 

"And we know that God causes ALL things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose."   Romans 8:28 (NASB)

What if I really believed that? What if I believed that God would take "all" the things in my life that were wrong and He would make them right? Not only would that bring joy to me but it would also bring joy to God! He designed for things to be right and He desires to restore it to "right."

If God really means what He said in Romans 8:28, then I can be assured that He is working on my stuff. He's changing it from what it is to what it should be. I am so grateful that He cares and that He is able!

Maybe I'll sign off now so I can spend some time telling God how thankful I am!! 

Psalm 118:23-24New American Standard Bible (NASB)

23 This is the Lord’s doing;
It is marvelous in our eyes.
24 This is the day which the Lord has made;
Let us rejoice and be glad in it.

Have a blessed day everybody! I would enjoy hearing how God is working in your situations--to make all things right. Also, if you would like to be notified when I post again, please subscribe in the right-hand column. I look forward to hearing from you!