AC Units -- Cleaned and Repaired!

Yes, it's been an extremely hot summer, but we have survived without the use of our AC units. Annie offered to pay for them to be replaced. We have four inside units and three outside 'motors'. We've lived here for 18 years and this is the first time to get them all cleaned. I had called a guy about seven years ago. He went and looked and just told me the screws are too rusted and left! But that wasn't true! These guys didn't have any problem removing the covers! They discovered one fan needed to be replaced and another part blew out! Plus they all needed freon! With this major cleaning, the units will last another two to three years. The cost -- 700US$ for their labor, parts and repair, and the freon! It took them the entire afternoon!

Alan had class, and so did Abby! Then I helped Abby fill out an application for YWAM! We will see what happens. We are going to wait and pray before we hit 'submit'.

Mom was back promptly at 5:13. And last night, she figured out how to remove her waist belt! She was up three times. That means her back is feeling better. The belt has really helped! I am still going to put the belt on tonight. She has a diaper on, so she doesn't need to get up. I try to tell her to stay in bed, but she doesn't want to! At least she's not peeing in bed!

Isaiah sent a message: he joined the Christian Union Welcome Week Activity and learned to play Spike Ball! Very interesting 'sport'... I think we should buy one and play here... but it would be best to play on a grassy area!

Daily Lovely Insight:

Sometimes we look around and we think, "This world has gone crazy!" But there is a mysterious, traceable hand that orders everything around us, even when we don't seem to see it. We need to believe it!

Seek Him First!

Mailed 2kg to UK... Can't Mail to Mongolia!

Today was a busy day... 

I just had a lot on my 'to-do' list.

I dropped off the donations which will be packed and shipped to the Philippines! Then Abby and I tried to mail things to Mongolia. I had 27 kilos of winter clothes, all ready to go! But the post office aren't accepting parcels to Mongolia. We did get the small package sent to the UK... but it was extremely expensive! Oh well... 

Then, it was running around for the banking things... withdrawing money to pay bills, transferring money, etc. I also went and bought apples and the insert for our datebooks. Yes, Alan and I are old fashion!

I was so happy to be home as it was hot outside. I needed a nap, but... I had to get dinner started!

Alan and Abby went and played tennis this morning. Abby is getting really good!

I did go for a run... it was hot, but at least there was a slight breeze. 

Tonight, we had counseling on line!

Daily Lovely Insight:

Fall to your knees and grow there! 

What a beautiful description of prayer!

Here is the full quote:

Seek Him First!

Happy Teacher's Day!

Because Abby and Alan didn't have class today, we decided to go out for a fun day. First, Alan drove and picked up 7 bags of winter clothes, which will be going to Mongolia. They have been hard hit by Covid and so many people are in need of winter clothing! He also drove to another place and picked up three boxes of things for the Philippines! I hope people in Taiwan know how blessed we are! Such an abundance of things to give to others! The curtains and pots and pans will be packed on Thursday and mailed on Friday.

We then went out near Nanhu Senior High School for a pasta lunch... and then to ShengKeng for a hike! It was hot, but it sure was fun. We again failed to find the waterfall! Oh... did I mention the last time we went searching for a waterfall? There was a sign, sealing off the place because people were attacked by hornets. I'm sad to report -- one hiker died and the other is in the ICU. 

We again had to rush back to pick Mom up!

And immediately stepping back home, I got a message -- please check your email and revert back today. Yes, I had editing to finish up!

Mom enjoyed her dinner and complained about her leg pain. But I gave her the pain killers and wrapped the waist belt on her. Let's pray that she will not try to take it off tonight. Last night, I caught her walking towards the bathroom, attempting to rip off the belt. She almost succeeded! She is very smart! 

We heard from Isaiah! He is enjoying this week of activities and meeting people! The weather has been extremely nice, especially since he has been riding the bike to school and run errands!

Daily Lovely Insight:

I read this today:

Our mission is to walk onto the stage of the world to reveal to all that the music of our life lies not in our circumstances or external things, but in the Christ Spirit that lives within and flows through us!

Psalm 109:4

Seek Him First!

Catching Up...

Mom was off to the Center! 

And another morning when I didn't have to strip the bedding... the secret... I wrap her in a waist band. It helps her back and keeps the diaper on! She's not wiggling at night trying to take it off! Fantastic!

With Mom at the Center, I was able to do a bit of catching up. I had editing to do... Clothes to put away... and I had to bake for my evening class, plus cook dinner!

I did call the AC guy and hopefully he will come this week to clean and check, maybe all of them just need freon! That would be a praise! But the weather is getting cooler... a lot more bearable. 

I did go for a run... and then dropped off things that will be shipped to the Philippines!

This evening, I had class from 7-9pm. And I will be starting my Wednesday afternoon Bible study at Soochow on the 13th of October!

We heard from Isaiah! He attended the 'Welcome Week Events'. I hope he gets a lot of free stuff!

Daily Lovely Insight:

I've started to ask God for my personal verse of focus for 2022. I usually set the verse in the middle of November. God is showing me different ideas... The passage He gave me last year has been a great source of comfort for me throughout this year. 

I'll share it again here:

Lamentations 3:21-25 (Verse 21 is not highlighted, but that is part of my passage for 2021.) 

God has constantly helped me to call to mind... and to have hope... 

Indeed: GREAT IS HIS FAITHFULNESS!

Seek Him First!

Cooler Weather... At Least At Night!

With Mom moving slower, it's actually nicer as she's not wandering around... And today was a first! I didn't have to wash the bedding! YIPPY!

That made my morning a lot easier! After breakfast, I strapped her into the wheelchair and she was content to look out the windows. 

We had to attend Abby's 'event' so we went there at 11:30 and Mom ate shaved ice and rice noodles. Then it was straight to church! While at the event, I walked her around the park so that she can get some sun! At church, I brought snacks. She was happy!!!!!!!! She didn't even say in the middle of the service that she wanted to go home. 

Dinner was tofu with soup... And then she was ready for bed. It was a long day... But I'm thrilled that I didn't have to do a load!

Daily Lovely Insight:

I finished reading Ezra and started Nehemiah and God brought me to notice this phrase, "the good hand of my God... or the hand of my God..." and in both books, God's hand brought favor. One verse even said, "The hand of our God is favorably disposed to all those who seek Him." What a beautiful thought! I prayed that for Isaiah! May he experience the favorable hand of God upon him during this year and grow more in love with God!

Seek Him First!

It's A "Repeat"!

Well... sort of... 

Yes, another load of laundry!

Yes, Mom took off her diaper and peed in bed!

I took her to the doctor which took an entire morning... But the hospital had parking... It was PACKED! We had to wait to get into the parking lot. There were tons of people getting their PCR test before leaving the country! Then Mom had to get her x-ray done... pelvic, back, etc. The results were fast. We had to go back to see the doctor after the x-ray. Yes, bone spurs along the spin. Plus serious constipation! You can see it all in the x-ray! I had to pay and get her medication and we got back by 12:45! 

The helper was here, but Mom was in no mood to interact. She ate and rested. It was nice to have the helper SUPERVISE! Several times, Mom tried to pull off her diaper to pee! The helper took her out in her wheelchair! I took a nap! I was so sound asleep!

Then I made dinner and the helper left. 

Mom went to bed after dinner and I gave her the pain killer. We will see what happens tonight!

We got to talk to Isaiah! YIPPY. Videochatted with him.

Abby had tutoring until 9pm. I decided to go for a quick run!

I also found a cuisinart grinder and thermal coffee brewer. Cleaned it up and will test to make sure all functions work. Nice! I can now have it set to make fresh coffee each morning! Wish Isaiah was here!

Daily Lovely Insight:

Spurgeon mentioned that there are times when life feels like 'winter of discontent'... but during those times, remember GOD WILL NOT FAIL! I'm trusting God... 

Seek Him First!

Trouble With Mom... As Usual!

Yes, another load of laundry... She just won't keep her diaper on... And I called the Day Care Center. She does not do this when she's there. And she's been there with a diaper on and she never tries to take it off at inappropriate places. Well... please pray that she will be able to go back to the Center on Monday!

Abby went to Leofoo Village which is an amusement park. All the rides were opened and not a lot of people! Afterwards, they went to the night market!

Alan got to talk to Mom Bea! She has a toothache! 

I was home with Mom... I did go out for an early run before I got Mom up and showered and eating her breakfast!

It rained later on in the afternoon, but I couldn't go out! I made an appointment for Mom to see the doctor tomorrow morning. I have to find out exactly why she is complaining of leg pain!

We are in touch with Isaiah. His agenda for today is to go and get his health card. His second shot will be on 11/16. He is probably going to ride the bike to school. The weather looks nice! What a praise!

Daily Lovely Insight:

George Matheson:

"serve by doing nothing, by standing and staying still or by waiting..."

What an amazing insight!

Seek Him First!

Settling In Coventry at the Chesils

Yes, Isaiah is at the Chesils, his home away from home for this next year. We have sent messages back and forth. He got his room organized. He went and got vaccinated after he did his second day arrival PCR test. Then the aunty took him to Costco. Yes, there is a Costco in Coventry just 3.7 miles from where he is at. I told him to go get a bike lock and ride around tomorrow. He will need to go to school and pick up the health card. There is a thrift store just 0.7 miles from where he is staying. He will also go and open a bank account! So, those are the things on his 'to do' list!

I had another busy day... Mom did not go to the Center. She peed in bed again! So, yes, another load of laundry!

After her shower, Mom had breakfast and we tried to get her to walk. She didn't want to. At around 1pm, she went back to bed! I went and ran errands. 

Abby and I had a massage at 3:30. So nice! But when that was finished, I checked my phone and I had a message: Something needed editing!

I was going to go and tune up my "Little Blue", the one that Isaiah was riding, but no time. We came home as Alan had basketball at Soochow! Abby went to do a workout. I had ran in the morning, in the heat! Not fun, but I got it done! After Alan came home, I took off and got the scooter tuned up! I had to... I didn't want to delay getting that done!

Daily Lovely Insight:

This evening after Mom went to bed and the house was quiet, I went on YouTube and found George Winston's Autumn paino music... Just to think about the fall... just to listen to something so familiar and repetitive was quite relaxing... Yes, I'm looking forward to the Fall weather... God gives us things to look forward to... Like the thought of going to visit Isaiah... or perhaps he can come back to Taiwan during his Christmas holiday... 

What are you looking forward to? For tomorrow? For this coming week? For the rest of this year?

Seek Him First!

Safe Arrival in London!

Mom didn't go to the Center and complained about her sore back. After having her breakfast and shower, she wanted to go back to bed. So, I got her back in bed. 

Alan and Abby went and played tennis, then headed to Costco after a quick shower. Abby had a meeting at 1pm. 

We heard from Isaiah! He arrived safely. It sure was a long flight! And the meals were good. He watched two and a half movies and slept a bit! 

When it was time to go for Mom's second shot, I discovered that she peed in the room and on the floor. I was taking a quick nap and did not hear her. I don't know how she could do that with all her complaints about her back and leg hurting. It was a mess. I had just changed and washed her sheet from last night's mess. That was taken out the dryer and went on her bed. I will do another load tomorrow. Not today!

We got to the vaccination site and it was fast and easy. Then Alan and Mom went for a two hour massage. I came home to clean! 

Abby had tutoring at 5pm.

I went back and pick Alan and Mom up at 5:30. I don't know if Mom will be able to go to the Center tomorrow. Please pray! Supposedly the side effects should not be that bad after the second shot!

I had time to chat with Isaiah on line... that was so nice!

Daily Lovely Insight:

I read this verse and it is a good reminder: Administer justice. Show mercy and compassion to one another. Do not plot evil against each other! I think there are people who actually work on plotting evil... I have been praying for Isaiah that the Presence of the LORD surround him. He has a bus ride from the airport to Victoria Coach Station and then from there to Coventry! Maybe I should have paid more and bought the direct bus to Coventry??? Please pray!

Seek Him First!

So Difficult... So Sad...

Today we sent Isaiah off... 

A sweet Filipino gal came to stay with my mom while we all headed to the airport. We all got up fairly early to make sure he had everything.

God made the way. We had not packed the luggage to 40kilos and he had a carry on that was about 7kilos. His backpack was also about 7 kilos. We had heard that they were super strict. When we got there, because the luggage was 35, the lady asked that we repack and put the items into the carry on and allowed us to check in two pieces. One piece weighed 32kgs. and the other about 8.9. Total was 40.9! So, Isaiah only had his backpack which was 7.7kilos! PERFECT!

We prayed together and walked to the immigration where we had to say goodbye. Hugging him I didn't want to let go! Looking at him, knowing that it might be a year before I see him again face to face, I just wanted to burst into tears and wail! Where did the time go? How is it that he is off to grad school? I wanted to go with him. My greatest comfort is knowing that God is with him... 

We stayed until we couldn't see him anymore and went back to the car. My mind flooded with memories... The car seemed so empty. Sitting at the teppanyaki place, where is Isaiah? Oh he would love this... Walking into the house... I can't tell you how difficult it was. Even now... I think tears will flow for quite a while!

He is on his way to Singapore... after a short layover, he will be heading to London, arriving at 5:55, Wednesday, which will be 12:55, Taiwan time! He has a bus ticket booked for 11:35 from London Terminal 2 to Coventry, where Emily, the homestay "aunty", will pick him up at Pool Meadow Bus Station. On Friday, he will be finished with the self quarantine and go get his health card and vaccine and open a bank account. 

The weekend and next week will be filled with welcome events. Class selection on October 1st and on October 4th, he will have the tennis try-out at around noon! School doesn't official start until October 5th. Semester break starts on December 11th! He will have one month of holiday!

Writing this helps... Time will go by, quickly???

We came home and Amy had done a marvelous job taking care of Mom and cleaning our house. 

I waited to hear from Isaiah and went for a run... I just needed to be out there, running and crying... 

Daily Lovely Insight:

I just like the British flag!

Seek Him First!

Keep Praying!

Mom was feeling better and up at 4am, pushing the chair and the gate and saying she wanted to take a shower. It was 4am because Alan and Isaiah were up watching the Chargers' game. They lost! Mom walked around for about 4 hours. When I tried to get her up, she said, "My legs are hurting!" I'm like - no kidding! You were walking around for 4 hours!

Anyhow, we got her up and out the door as we had a fun day planned! We wanted to go out to the beach! We picked Vikki up and drove over the mountain to the beach. We had the wheelchair, so we just pushed Mom around. It was getting hot, so we went to a 7/11 while Alan, Isaiah and Vikki went down to the beach!

We had to rush back by 4pm to get Isaiah's Covid report! Then we bought dinner and drinks and came home and feasted! Then it was gifts for Isaiah! What a fun evening!

Daily Lovely Insight:

Throughout the Bible, people have walked with God in surrender and this is a phrase that spoke to me:

I do not understand... but I trust you. I believe and I want to see your glory!

I wrote a letter and made a card for Isaiah... and I uttered this phrase in light of Isaiah's departure tomorrow! I wanted to go with him, but I will not be going... I walk in trust that God is with Him and I can rest in that Truth!

I will miss him immensely!

J. R. Miller: 

A true home is one of the most sacred of places. It is a sanctuary into which men flee from the world's perils and alarms. It is a resting-place to which at close of day the weary retire to gather new strength for the battle and toils of tomorrow. It is the place where love learns its lessons, where life is schooled into discipline and strength, where character is molded. 

That's what I pray our home has been for Isaiah.

Seek Him First!

Mom & Massage!

I got Mom a massage and it really helped. Annie also told me to give her ibuprofen and that's what I did at 3pm. That also really helped!

The day sped by... No run on Sunday but there is always plenty to do.

This morning Isaiah and I went to Yang Ming Hospital so that he can get his PCR pre-departure covid test. 3500NT$! Crazy. The swab took 30 seconds but it took 90 minutes waiting for us to get 'registered' and receive the test kit. 

We then came home and Mom got to talk to James, Eddie and Annie.

By the time that finished, Mom and Isaiah were heading out for the massage. I dropped them off and went and got gas! 

I was home and did a load of laundry! And soon it was time to head out to church. We picked up Mom and Isaiah, and I went to buy the Ibuprofen. Isaiah drummed and it was his 'last' time before taking off... I was very emotional. 

After the service, we had dinner with two other families! Our treat! It was fun and Mom ate a lot!

We ended the evening with Family Time... I was very tired... but we wanted to fit this in plus taking the LORD'S SUPPER before Isaiah took off!

Daily Lovely Insight:

Seek Him First!

Getting Things Ready!

We were all up fairly early. The kids and Alan went to play tennis. I put a load of laundry in and went for a run. I ran only four times this week, but I was able to get in 48.40km. YEAH!

Mom was up even though she was complaining that her legs hurt. After breakfast, she went back to bed to rest. I went and bought milk and 'bug' traps. These little cockroaches are so pesty! I can't put sugar with boric acid as I'm afraid of attracting ants! We have been trying to kill them, but they just seem to be multiplying. 

After lunch, the 'helper' came, which gave me time to finish Isaiah's packing. I also wiped down the cabinets and set up the traps. I will keep you posted.

Isaiah went to visit with Vikki. The family went out to Keelung for lunch at a family friend's seafood restaurant!

Daily Lovely Insight:

I've never heard of Helmet Thielick, but I surely do like the way he thinks!

Seek Him First!

A Day at the Zoo!

Mom did go to the Center. I begged the Center and put a diaper on her. I wanted to clarify that because Mom's mobility isn't that stable the Center doesn't usually take a person if mobility is hampered. But Mom looked like she was doing better!

The kids, Alan and I had planned another fun day. So, we went to Hsientien, but nothing was open due to Covid. But we did go to Ikea and look around and I helped someone give away more furniture. We then went back into Taipei to have lunch. By 1:30, we were at the zoo. The thunder shower came and it made the afternoon so much cooler. We walked and walked and walked.

We had to keep our eyes on the time as we had to be back to pick up Mom. We made it just in time. For dinner, we bought pot stickers and water dumplings.

We are trying to have fun with Isaiah... I can't believe he is leaving so soon.

Daily Lovely Insight:

If you're too busy to pray, you're too busy. W. E. Sangster

Here is another one:

Seek Him First!

A "Free" Day?

I thought I'd get a free day... 

I had to do another load of laundry and change the bedding and throw away a pillow. Mom had put the pillow under her and peed! And yes, she took off her diaper!

But she complained about her knee hurting. I got her off to the Center and wondered if she would perk up. But at 10:30, they messaged me. Mom wasn't walking well. I had to go and pick her up and take her to a nearby clinic! Alan rode a scooter with the wheelchair and I rode my scooter. He went off to school to get Isaiah a copy of his transcript. I took Mom to the clinic. It took forever! I bought her a sandwich and she ate it up. Yes, her appetite is totally fine!

After the clinic, I pushed the wheelchair and we got home. She went to rest. Abby took me on her scooter so that I can pick up my scooter and go to the bank. And yes, that's finally finished. I was able to transfer the money for Isaiah's homestay in Coventry!

I scootered back and cooked and finished the laundry!

I had made Mom's bed in the morning... She was up, according to Abby. She went to the bathroom twice! Unassisted! So, she is feeling better.

Isaiah had a party this evening, which involved drinking, so Alan dropped him off at the MRT station and went to pick him up.

In the evening when Mom was back in bed, and the weather was cooler, I went for a quick run. YEAH!

So, it was sort of a 'free day'. 

I hope Mom is well enough to go to the Center tomorrow as we had planned another fun day out!

Daily Lovely Insight: 

To go through the day with strength, we need to be hidden with Christ. I read that it is a special place where we dwell with Him. That's the secret to life in Christ!

Seek Him First!

A "Free Day"!

I'm so glad that I had set today and tomorrow as 'free day' as I knew there would be many errands to run for Isaiah before the four day weekend and then he will be taking off!

So, let me explain about yesterday's blog!

These past few days have been laborious, as I have to clean Mom's room on a DAILY BASIS! That means changing the bedding and washing her clothes. I triple layer her bed, and between each layer, I put these huge plastic pads. I did it once just on top and she took it off! Don't ask what she was thinking. And yes, my back has not been that great, but the LORD is my healer. He again healed me! So, I just move much slower now. I keep telling myself -- DO NOT RUSH!

So, yesterday, before getting Mom up, I went through the packing with Isaiah. He weighed it -- only 28kgs. We will have to repack to fit more stuff in!

Then, I got Mom up and smelled the urine! After getting her in the van, I was cleaning. I wanted to fit in a run, so when the stuff was in the washer, I took off! The run helps to energize me. I was in the shower and out the door to the bank. I was trying to transfer the rent and after 30 minutes, did NOT get it done. There were too many numbers and I didn't have everything. I rushed back home and got into the car and drove to my friend's house. We loaded up the car and I was back home! But our B2 parking was being fixed, so I had to find parking outside. My friend bought me a pizza! Yeah... Tutoring started at 3:30 to 5pm and then from 5:30 to 6:40. Bible study was at 7pm. When that finished, I had three files to edit. EMERGENCY! I was so exhausted. But I had to push through and email the files back to them. I went to bed at 12midnight! So happy to close my eyes! 

Today, my free day... and indeed, after a day like yesterday, today was relatively 'free'. 

Mom had her diaper on, but she peed through. So everything was stripped again and thrown into the washer. She took off and I continued the cleaning. Alan helped me unload all the books and I sorted through everything. 

I was again at the bank! And yes, it is still not done. I am still missing one more set of numbers! I dropped off the donations to three different people and my car is emptied. I had to go to three banks before I found one that sells British Pounds. I wanted to get some cash for Isaiah. He can also open a bank account and deposit the money. I wish I was going with him, but he will have to take care of all these details on his own! I also went to get more head shots printed out, just in case he needs them in the UK. They don't have photo booths so readily available. 

I came home and made dinner!

Tonight -- no tutoring... no counseling... FREE!

Daily Lovely Insight:

Let me not waste my day puttering around the house. Drive me to the place of prayer where I may wrestle with principalities and powers and the rulers of darkness of this world. 

Myrrh is used in death. It represents a sweetness that comes to the heart after it has died to self will, pride and sin. 

I read these and felt so drawn to what they were trying to express. I have also been reading from the book of Daniel. We worship the same God today as the days of Daniel. May I never forget that!

Seek Him First!

So Exhausted! Too Exhausted!

This day could not be any longer... It just kept going.

I will write more tomorrow.

Daily Lovely Insight:

God is my strength!

Seek Him First!

Cooler Days, Soon?

It was another blaring hot day.

Isaiah and I went through his dressy items and put those on the pile to pack. He went off to his internship and I got Mom up. I don't know why she does, what she does! There is no logic and I just have to keep saying that to myself! Yes, another load! I cut her hair and got her on the van!

Then it was time to clean! Do you want to know what she did? I don't think she slept much as she looked really tired. She went and striped the sheet I had just changed on her bed. Took off her diaper and her PJ bottom, peed in bed and put on a clean underwear! The good news is: I had put three layers of sheet plus paddings. So, the mattress was fine! She had folded everything up nicely at the end of her bed! Everything included her blanket, the soiled sheet, the pants and the diaper!

After cleaning everything, I went for a longer run... in the heat! I had things to edit and barely finished when Elaine came over at 3pm. It's always nice to see her!

Abby had dinner plans and so did Isaiah. 

Mom was home promptly at 5:13 and talked to James, then had dinner! Elaine left at 6pm.

Mom went to bed, and I continued to edit!

Daily Lovely Insight:

Joseph Parker: 

Successful is the day when the first victory is won in prayer.

Here is another one of his quotes that spoke to my heart:

God is peace.

God gives peace.

God gives rest!

Seek Him First!

A Typhoon Day!

The typhoon was supposedly going to be major, but NOTHING! But as of last night, everything was cancelled so we had to go online for our service! That actually worked out well.

I got up and had to do another load of laundry and change all of Mom's bedding. She was weird last night! I tried putting a diaper on her, but she thinks she knows better!

After getting everything cleaned up, she had her shower and ate and went back to bed. I had to rush to get the bed ready. I was so careful, as I didn't want to whack my back. But it's difficult not to rush. I had to be at two places at the same time. 

Abby and I went to Carrefour and bought milk and other items. I also got gas in the car as we were down to E!

I rested before our service! That was such a blessing. One of my tutees needed help! So, I was on line to help her out. She forgot she had an assignment due tomorrow! But I didn't want to be riding out to meet up with her. It wasn't raining, but still... 

This evening we had Family Time!

Daily Lovely Insight:

Woodrow Kroll, the man who was the president and Bible teacher of Back to the Bible, has some great quotes. Here are three:

Seek Him First!

LaLa Mountain & Bon Voyage Dinner

We had such a fun day... So tremendously fun! Our only 'regret' was having to rush home to care for Mom. But thankfully, our dear neighbor came over to help. So, let me back up... 

We had planned to do a family fun day as Mom was at the Center.

As soon as the van came to pick her up, we were all downstairs and ready to get into our car. We had packed snacks and towels and swimsuits and water... 

The drive was two hours and 45 minutes... that's the problem. And it was all mountain road. I wanted to go hike first, but Alan and the kids wanted to go to the hot springs and waterfalls. THOSE WERE ALL CLOSED. So by the time we got to the hiking part, it was already 1:30! We barely had time to walk for an hour and we had to be back in the car! And I immediately lined our neighbor. Can she go and be at the gate to pick up my Mom at 5:13? She said YES! At first, I was trying to get the Center to keep Mom there until 6pm. But no one wanted to stay late! I understand. It's a Saturday! I had arranged Mom's dinner already. That was a wise decision this morning! So, our neighbor heated everything up and stayed with Mom. We didn't get home until 6:05!

Alan took a 30 minute nap. The kids took a shower and I supervised Mom. 

They were all out the door for the Church Bon Voyage dinner party! I had to stay home. I used the time to put everything away and do two loads of clothes. At around 8:15 when Mom was for sure sound asleep, I walked down and joined them!

They had planned a party with questions and fun activities. This is the Worship Team from our House of Praise group! Such an amazing thing. One of the Worship Leaders made a card for him! And of course, another sister had treated both kids to get their hair done.

We got home at around 9:30 and a typhoon is going to be blowing through!

I don't run on Sunday... Or else, I would love to go out in that typhoon. Of course, there are warnings -- this is supposedly one of the strongest in the past five years! School and work might be cancelled on Monday. We will see. I will keep you all posted.

Daily Lovely Insight:

I read this which I wanted to pass on to you:

Abraham's life condemns a spirit of hastiness, admonishes those who complain, commends those who are patient and encourages quiet submission to God's will and way.

Seek Him First!

Graduation and Birthday Celebration at the Grand Hotel!

We finally had a meal out at a fancy restaurant!

This morning started early. Alan has discipleship at 6am, so we are up by 5:30. 

The kids and Alan went to play tennis and I got Mom up and out to the Center. Then it was pulling out the appliances and things... I have these pesty little cockroaches. I had to scrub the toaster... that's where they were breeding! I then went to the containers cabinet and took everything out. The kids and Alan were home before I finished.

We all got ready and headed out to the Grand Hotel. They can't have buffets, but the salad, desserts, drinks, soup, side dishes -- ALL YOU CAN EAT. But you only get one main entree. The food was fabulous. They even had all you can drink of alcohol! Isaiah had some red wine! Abby had a glass of white wine. 

After that we headed out to Linkou as the kids were getting their hair done! Alan and I went and dropped off a box of clothes for the YWAM missionaries. Heading back to Taipei, we stopped at the Lock & Lock store. I had to find replacement parts. I will have to go back there again.

We got home and I barely had time to finish the morning cleaning and Mom was home!

I had her dinner ready! And she talked to James. That's always a short conversation. 

The kids were finished with their hair by 5:30 and they took the bus back. I went for a run after Mom went to bed! Tomorrow there is the Elderly Program! YEAH! So, we are going to LaLa Mountain!

Daily Lovely Insight:

I read this and just love the imagery... I was running last night and thunder was flashing across the sky. And I can imagine the voice of God, like the sound of many waters and how the earth must have shone with His glory. That's why we won't need the sun in the New Earth! He will be brighter than the noon day sun!

Seek Him First!

9/9

It was another blaring hot day... I didn't make it out this morning, so I ran this evening.

I had a lot to do... Called about boxes to be picked up. Sorted through Isaiah's stuff and we had gone through the shoes, so I reorganized our outside shoe shelves. Very nice! I then had a suitcase to give away, as Isaiah will use one of our other ones. It's bigger. We have it to 20kgs so far! There are still other items that we have not yet packed. Now we need to figure out which carry on! I then called the hospital about his PCR test. Yes, he can pick up the next day with the regular 120US$ one. No need to expedite. The top of the piano and the side table are all sorted and things are put away. Wow... My living room is coming back! There is only one corner with the luggage that we're working on for Isaiah.

I had time to check email and work on editing. Yes, another press release and more essays. No tutoring tonight! YEAH!

The LORD worked as a sister from one of my prayer groups is getting married and needed a house full of furniture. So, she will take almost every piece from my friend. I still have three beds with mattress and headboard to give away.

Daily Lovely Insight:

J.H. Jowett

Seek Him First!

An Esther Day, Sort Of!

I was hoping for an "Esther Day" to relax... 

In the morning before getting Mom up, Isaiah and I went through his stuff and I did a load of laundry. I also called about the boxes which were delivered to the wrong place. After a 20 minute phone call, I thought things were corrected. I got Mom up, ready and off.

It was already blaring, but I had to go for my run as I hadn't ran in three days. I brought water, but not enough. And none of the bike rental places has water anymore, due to Covid. I did a walk/run but covered quite a bit of distance.

I rushed home and started Mom's dinner as I wasn't sure if I'd be back by 5:13. I quickly hopped into the shower and then Abby and I were off to Flora Spa. I had bought massage coupons. We arrived at 12:25 and my phone started to BING! 

As we're signing in, the volunteers to pack the boxes were ready, but no boxes came. They wanted to know what happened. Then the next message was from the editing company. Can I finish the press release by 1:30? Then another friend sent a message. She has a house full of furniture to give away. I laid down and started typing messages. Hence, the 'sort of' for my Esther Day.

The boxes were sorted out. Someone drove to my house and picked them up. I edited the press release while the sweet lady worked on my legs. I didn't get it finished by 1:30 but by 2:15. The massage was really comfortable, so I splurged and bought more coupons.

We then rushed to get our hair done. Yes, I bought coupons. Abby had a scalp treatment, a wash and a cut. I just had a wash and cut. 

When that was finished, we went to the nearby night market and bought bubble milk tea. Off we went to Decathlon and Carrefour. Oh... they had lots of goodies at Carrefour. On the way home, I had to stop at the pharmacy to get Mom's medication.

When I got home, the house needed tidying up. When I'm not home for an entire afternoon, there are things to do when I get back. Isaiah had to reserve the PCR pre-boarding covid test. What a headache! Then we had to check on bus tickets and Singapore Airlines sent another update! Please pray that Taiwan stays in the green! There is panic here because a pilot who had the delta strand broke quarantine and got his son infected which then infected others. People are afraid of another outbreak and we will then be forced to go back up to Level 3 and things will shut down again! 

Oh... with the start of school and the Mid-Autumn Festival coming up, people are not happy. In fact, Alan received an email announcement: Online classes from 9/22 to 10/5! SO INSANE!

Daily Lovely Insight:

"God has enlarged you through your present suffering. For our present hardships have wings of flight into the heart and soul of humanity." George Matheson

Seek Him First!

A Packed Tuesday!

Isaiah and I worked on sorting through his suitcase. We have set out summer and winter clothes plus some toiletries. We still need to pack shoes, underwear and socks. We are doing a 'dry-run' to see if we can fit everything under 40kgs. 

Isaiah left and I got Mom up and off to the Center.

I then had to pull out the bunk bed to rig something so that Mom doesn't bang on the wall. It was a lot of work, but I draped a thick blanket over the rail for the bunk beds and secured everything. I hope it works. Even though my back wasn't completely healed, the LORD helped me to get it done! 

Abby had gone to watch another movie with a friend from school. Alan was out playing tennis.

I had Bible study and when that was finished, I went and met Abby at Carrefour. They had lots on Manager's Special!

We came home and it was so blaring hot. Alan turned on two units and they worked! The one in Abby's room worked super well and the one in the living room wasn't coming out with hot air! A Miracle!!!!!!

I didn't go out for a run. The heat was too intense, plus I had tutoring at 4pm.

When that was finished, I had made an appointment for Abby to see the eye doctor. So, after setting Mom's food out and hooking up for her to talk to James and Eddie, Abby and I took off on our bikes. I haven't been running because of my back. We rode the bikes instead.

Daily Lovely Insight:

A good phrase: Make a difference daily as God's anointed! I think that would change the way we make decisions if we see ourselves as God's anointed! He has commissioned us to live for Him, so in all that we do, we should reflect His glory!

Seek Him First!

A Restful Monday!

We were all up early... 

After Mom took off, I took the clothes down and folded and put away everything. Then Alan and I took off to pick up shoes for Isaiah. We were going to drop by Costco, but the lines were like Disneyland outside of the entrance. I guess it's the end of the "Ghost Month" and people were eager to shop for things to appease the 'ghosts' who were now returning to their underworld domain. We decided to stop at Carrefour to pick up milk and romaine lettuce. Yes, a bit more in cost, but less hassle.

Then, it was to the post office. I mailed off a box of donation to Tainan -- only 150NT$ and it weighed 18kilos! Still no packages over 2 kilos to the UK. I will try again next week!

We had lunch at home and I took a nap! YIPPY!

Abby went to the movies with a church friend, Valerie. She has season tickets. Her family bought a package so that she and a friend can go watch a movie each week! 

I edited as the rain never came, so I decided to hold off the run until this evening, when it should cool down. I also had to tutor at 5pm. Alan took care of Mom!

Daily Lovely Insight:

I was tremendously encouraged by this verse. One version said that I Myself will make them rest! God indeed is my Shepherd and He has made me REST! He is strengthening my weak back and proceeding to heal me. I'm not completely healed, yet. Today, I just went for a walk. The rain came, but I was on my way to tutor. It didn't last long and the weather was still hot and muggy. As I looked at the weather for this week, it looks hot... I will have to be up and out of the house at 3am, if I want to run in temperature in the high 70's, 79 to be exact! I will see how the back feels tomorrow.

Seek Him First!