I will write more later...
But... I had to do a whole load of laundry... so THAT SHOULD TELL YOU WHAT I DID THIS MORNING!
Daily Lovely Insight:
The LORD is always above all our circumstances... no matter how I feel!
His name is exalted.
He is GOOD!
ALL THE TIME!
Seek Him First!
Mom almost peed on the floor again... But I got her into the shower... Thank you Jesus!
Before my Bible study, I went to pick up a foldable treadmill for a friend in need! Then, I had Bible study at 10am... Psalm 139!
When the study finished, it was working on getting people to pick up bikes, plus walking a bike down for another friend in need. I also gave him a Bible!
After rushing back, I was in the car to help yet another friend in need move out of their apartment. They are heading to South Africa.
I went to Soochow as Alan and Isaiah were there waiting for the car. They drove to pick up Vikki while I rode the scooter to get Mom's medication and come home to cook and work on editing essays!
While parking the scooter, there was yet another bike down there. I have four more bikes to try to give away! Plus we have to figure out where to park the bikes we have! I might have to park my scooter outside! Can four bikes fit in one scooter parking space?
Abby was home all day as she was finishing up her last three big assignments. They are due by tomorrow! Yes, she tends to wait until the last minute! But having her home was so helpful. Mom was very calm, but I always need someone home to keep an eye on her!
This evening, Vikki was over to have dinner and play games...
I finally went for a run at 8pm. and it was still HOT!
Daily Lovely Insight:
I made the list last night and thought... it's going to be a crazy day... And yet, it wasn't... The LORD kept Mom calm and I was able to go and help people! Even though I didn't have time for a nap, I thought... Maybe tomorrow... Yes, it doesn't look it will be a crazy day tomorrow... But you never know!
Now, here is the scoop about quarantine. Unless you're coming back from one of the seven countries with the Delta strand, the quarantine hotel is self pay... and yes, two rooms for 14 days will be around 300,000NT$. There are others that might be cheaper, but no vacancy! And meals are out of pocket. A dear friend who left not knowing this is panicking... She didn't prepare to spend that much for the quarantine hotel. So, people are joking about making a stop in London, then the quarantine hotel is free!
I guess my insight for today, especially in light of our study in Psalm 139: 5-6 --
Seek Him First!
I got up too early... Before getting Mom up, I cleaned the computer table and organized all the items and cords. That felt so good...
Mom had a shower and oatmeal for breakfast... rice and pork for lunch... I did not take her out, but she was a bit more settled! Only in the afternoon did she keep asking to go to the bathroom!
I did go for a run... and we went to check about a couple of more bikes... Now, there are some nice bikes that have locks on them. Annie, any ideas as to how to break the locks?
I also started working on the 7/11 talk!
Now... today is James', my older brother, birthday! He is 64! Annie claimed that she beat me to wish him a happy birthday, but I think I was first!
Daily Lovely Insight:
From A. Paget Wilkes:
Unbelief suggests every time that circumstances and environment are stronger than Him (God), and that conditions of modern society are far too difficult for Him. It hinders every good desire, blurs every vision, dulls our zeal, cuts the sinews of all endeavor...Seek Him First!
Our complex is cleaning out bikes and people are claiming them. Some of them are really nice... Well, I got one that's red... Coca Cola, with an attached bike lock, a regenerated headlight, Shimano, 6-speed. Yes, it's only a 6-speed, but it has a basket in front. I paid 300NT$ to get a new tube and rode around to get some errands done this morning. It was so hot...
In fact, it looks like a hot week... wah!!!!!!!
The service was at another elder's house, so that made it a lot more relaxing, especially since Mom was again HYPER! She wanted to go to the bathroom again and again and again. I had to wipe every time... Yes, I put a diaper on her, but she is just not willing to comprehend that she has a diaper on. She was threatening to pee on the floor... or poop in the bed... It was just another weird day.
We had our AC on! It was very necessary!
Daily Lovely Insight:
Be wary of people who tell you that they have an 'impression' of something and saying it's from God. I was reading I Kings 13:11ff. The prophet had a message from God that he was not to eat or drink in that place. Then another prophet caught up to him and said, (I Kings 13:18)
See those last few words -- "But he lied unto him."
The result was terrible!
I Kings 13:25
25 And, behold, men passed by, and saw the carcass cast in the way, and the lion standing by the carcass: and they came and told it in the city where the old prophet dwelt.
The 'carcass' in this verse... You know whose, right?
Seek Him First!
Mom went into her 'hyper bathroom mode' today...
She ate a whole peanut butter and banana sandwich and did not say she was full. She ate porridge and shredded pork for lunch... she did have a small dinner...
Alan and I went to pick up a pair of Vibram running shoes and we biked there. Abby was kind enough to stay home. I had given Mom her second shower and told Abby -- DO NOT LET MOM GO TO THE BATHROOM until 4pm! Mom watched Little House and we were home by 6pm.
The shoes are a little tight but I'm going to try running in them on Monday!
I did go for a run and Alan and I had a bike ride! It was so hot outside.
Tonight was our Marriage Builder time...
And we have continued to watch The Queen's Gambit...
Daily Lovely Insight:
Yesterday I dropped off a book to this guy, Lukas and he gave me one of his books - the 5-Minute Gratitude Journal by Sophia Godkin, PhD. I quite like it. Here are a few questions from the book:
One reason my life is already great...
Something I got to do today that I've always wanted to do...
One b beautiful reason to be happy right now...
Her point is: Gratitude leads to a happier, more optimistic and more satisfied life! I think that's very Biblical as God's word says: Give thanks in everything!
I think when we do, we are more content with life and appreciate all that we already have!
Seek Him First!
We hadn't used our car for quite a long time, so we decided to run errands together as our "date".
We picked up the sewing machine I loaned out to Malia. I gave away two books and a sweatshirt. I picked up a bin of shampoo and conditioner. The lady even gave me a whole new box of masks!
We came home and fixed Mom her lunch. She was up early and I had given her a shower. I had to again clean up her room!
I was exhausted this afternoon and took a nice long nap. I was going to go for a run, but never did! Darn it! My stomach was not feeling well... Yet, when the rain started this evening, I was so drawn to go out and run! Just to be in that rain...
Alan cleaned the 'cast-away' bikes this afternoon while I was napping. So, we might have a few nice bikes and some other ones to give away. The complex is dealing with all the bikes that are left in B1 and B2. I like a couple of them, even though the tires will need to be fixed. We will see by next week!
We had family time this evening...
Daily Lovely Insight:
With the extension of the Level 3 'lockdown', we will have online service for July 4th and the 11th. The elder who is scheduled to share on the 11th, thought it might be best for Alan or I to share... This morning while I was praying and reading, one of the books I was reading talked about the "Paralysis of Unbelief". That really sparked me to think of that as the topic for another talk! It's true... Adam and Eve sinned because of 'unbelief. The Israelites' failure to enter into the Promiseland was due to 'unbelief'.' The way the author described 'unbelief' as capitalizing the "S" for satan and giving god a lowercase "g". I think there is much I can share about this as I look at the characters in the Bible. But that's the thought that was swimming in my mind! Alan said I should share on July 11th. I was hesitant as it has been exhausting with all the 'cleaning' related to my Mom... I must walk in BELIEF! God is able! God is faithful!
Seek Him First!
Mom is eating... two pieces of bread, a full bowl of porridge for lunch and dinner... And she is on a stronger anti diarrhea pills. I went and bought some as the gentle ones weren't doing anything! She seems to be still tired... but eating more.
I was a bit tired... so I actually took a nap at 11am! Those 30 minutes felt so nice!
I had tutoring at 4pm. Before that Abby and I went for a quick walk to drop off the guitar as it needed to be restrung.
It was cloudy all day... but a bit muggy. So, we had to turn on the AC.
Isaiah is finished with his last class today!
Abby still has assignments to turn in by the 30th. Then she is finished.
Alan just needs to get his grades done and he is finished for this school year!
Of course, the Level 3 is going to continue until July 12th. So, Abby doesn't know what she will be doing for her summer required internship. Supposedly, she will start on July 1st, but most likely online!
Daily Lovely Insight:
This is an evening prayer from John Ballie:
O Thou who art from everlasting to everlasting, I would turn my thoughts to Thee as the hours of darkness and of sleep begin. O Sun of my soul, I rejoice to know that all night I shall be under the unsleeping eye of One who dwells in eternal light.
Isn't that just beautiful?
Seek Him First!
Mom needs a lot of assistance today... She's in a diaper and only eating bread and drinking water. I will keep you posted!
Alan and I had counseling this morning... and he did counseling this evening!
At around 2pm, I went for a run. It was cooler and sprinkling!
I made chicken enchiladas... Alan and Isaiah really enjoyed them. Glad I made two pans...
I did go and buy milk and more bananas... and I got there just before they got super busy!
This evening, we watched an episode of Bull!
Daily Lovely Insight:
John Baillie said to a skeptic: Every theory has its difficulties, but you have not considered whether any other theory has less difficulties than the one you have criticized.
I never heard of John Baillie, so I googled him and found a book, A Diary of Private Prayer. I was so touch by the first morning prayer in this book:
Eternal Father of my soul, let my first thought of the day be of Thee, let my first impulse be to worship Thee, let my first speech be Thy name, let my first action be to kneel before Thee in prayer.
The prayer goes on... but I thought that was just so beautiful!
Seek Him First!
It was a busy morning... stripped the bedding and washed everything! Mom was active last night and the first thing was getting her to take a shower.
Then it was breakfast for her while the kids were online. Abby was watching the Padres' game as was Alan. Isaiah had a final test which he finished in 40 minutes.
I was exhausted after everything was cleaned...
After lunch, Mom went and rested! I went and donated blood! My blood pressure was really low -- 91/57!
Then at 3pm, the down pour started! Oh... I ran in the morning... plus, I am not to run or exercise after donating blood. So, I watched the down pour with such joy, thinking of being out there.
I had time to make dinner as Mom was resting the entire afternoon!
Daily Lovely Insight:
Harvest Conscious... That's what I read about this morning! And it's true... I need to be more harvest conscious. Jesus was conscious of the needs of others... And everyone who encountered Jesus was changed! I hope I have that effect on others!
Seek Him First!
Ok... I'm not sure if these 'activities' are side effects from the vaccine, but I was told to observe 14 days! Mom does not have a fever. Mom does not seem to have any side effects, but she has strange 'activities'. Yesterday, she was quite calm... all day. She did get up to eat dinner, which she enjoyed!
BUT, early in the morning from 3-8am, she was up and active and pushing the chairs and sitting at the dining room table. She had taken her sundowner pill, so I don't think it's that. Then this morning, I tried to wake her up, but she was not wanting to get up. I guess she was tired from being so active last night! She got up at 11am and had her breakfast and went back to bed. But then she would get up and go to the bathroom... and go back to bed... and get up again... She got up for dinner and a shower... and we will see what happens tonight!.
I did a lot today... probably too much. But with the AC on, it was very manageable. I cleaned out the back balcony and it is so much more organized. I met up with four people and gave away the amp, the telephone, the cell phone case (for an iPhone 11), and dropped off the equipment for the church online service!
I also went to buy burger buns and veggies and made cheeseburgers for dinner!
The clouds came, but it never rain! I was hoping to go for a run in the rain! It did cool down at around 5pm. Otherwise, the AC was on the entire day! Honestly, it really makes being home a lot more tolerable.
I was going to go and donate blood, but never made it since I was not sure what Mom was going to be like. I hope to go this week...
The weather looks like it will be cooler this week... I sure hope so!
Daily Lovely Insight:
The confirmed cases dropped below 100 today! Now, if we can keep that going for this week... and bring down the number of death... Level 2 might be in sight... I sure hope so... People are getting 'impatient' for things to be back to 'normal'.
And that's one positive thing: a great appreciation to seeing friends! And I hope even being able to go to work! I know I will be happy when we can gather again for church... and even to have Love Feast together!
No matter what, I want to stay true to the word of God -- Give thanks in everything for that's the will of God in Christ Jesus!
Seek Him First!
It was a more relaxing day, as Mom now has no energy! She didn't want to get up at all... She was so active for three days... and now, absolutely no energy! I think the side effects are kicking in... She doesn't seem to have a fever, but she seems to feel dizzy. Alan said just to let her sleep it off...
I went and bought things as today is my day to get into the supermarket. I also went to see what a friend was giving away. I got two books for a friend, two computer cases for Abby and Isaiah and a tie for Alan!
The service was broadcast from our home... it was a prayer walk... very unusual.
Dinner was hot dogs and grilled cheese sandwiches.
Daily Lovely Insight:
THE LORD REIGNS...
Psalm 96 was the focus of our prayer walk today. Take the time to read it... declare it... believe it...
Seek Him First!
I got up early... had time with Jesus and went out for a run... It was not early enough as my legs felt like LEAD... Not melting butter, but LEAD. They didn't want to move!
Alan wanted to go to school to take more pictures. It was so hot outside, but we obeyed. What Alan says, we all follow!
It was actually great. The pictures were fabulous... even though we were all so hot!
We then went to Shihlin and bought CoCo bubble milk tea and drinks plus lunch and came home to feast together!
Mom enjoyed the food! She is still tired, but her appetite is back! She is eating a lot slower now!
I went to pick up free boxes of Kleenex and the lady had a bunch of lilies for me!
Riding in that hot sun was so draining!
I came back and started on the game cabinet! Wow... except for a huge container of playing cards and other 'card related' items, the cabinet is organized. I just need to sort through the cards when I have time. I don't want to rubber band them together, so I think I need to find a small box to store them. I also found several excellent games to use with my younger students... when we start back to tutoring again!
At 5:30, a guy sent a message and asked to meet up as he wanted a mug and a cooler bag. So, off I went again on my scooter... Another guy will take the second amp, but we won't be meeting up until Monday afternoon. Little by little, I'm giving things away! I hope I can continue to clean and give away things next week! Oh... I had a sister who came by and picked up the coffee grinder and glass containers. She also blessed us with homemade chocolate chips cookies!
I was so tired...
For dinner, I made grilled cheese sandwiches! Everyone enjoyed them. I gave Mom veggie soup and a cookie, in addition to half a sandwich!
Daily Lovely Insight:
Excellent godly advice from the Word of God... Tomorrow is Father's Day... at least in the States!
Seek Him First!
Today was another hot, hot, hot day...
I turned on the AC and worked on sorting through the living room cabinets. I posted so many things for people.
An old amp, an old tennis bag, a recovery roller massager, books, bags... I'm waiting to see who wants this stuff. But already someone took the tennis bag, one amp and the massager... Another person wants the mug and bags... I have a stack of books which someone wants but we haven't arranged pick up time!
I am sure I have more things to give away, but it was exhausting just sorting through everything! I still have the back balcony to work on... on another day!
Isaiah went to work.
Abby was watching baseball all day...
Alan had a graduation 'speech' to record. I'm not sure how they are going to post it.
This evening was family time.
Daily Lovely Insight:
I read about G. Campbell Morgan. To prepare for his message, this is what he revealed:
After further prompting by Dr. Mitchell, Campbell disclosed, "I read a book through 40 to 50 times before I even start to study it." It was obvious that he saturated his mind with the Word of God. "I am to preach only what is revealed there," he declared. His approach was that of a reverent believer in Holy Scripture as the inspired Oracle of God. His primary concern was to discover and expound what the Bible actually said, not to fit it into any system of theology. His tremendous power was what he could do with the Word to express the truth; he was not there to impress the people (though he certainly did that).
For his first sermon, he was such a failure that he wrote only one word to his father: Rejected. But his father wrote back, "Rejected on earth -- accepted in heaven." And this man, who never had any formal Bible school or seminary, went on to write volumes of books and published sermons. He was a man God used!
Seek Him First!
I went out for my early morning run... it's the only way!
I tried to wake Mom up, but she didn't want to take a shower... but at 11am, she got up for 'breakfast'. Yes, I'm giving her lots of liquid. She went back to bed... It was too hot to do anything else. By 1pm, we turned on the AC!
I went to pick up free veggies as a dear friend sent a message. She gave me a huge melon, a huge pumpkin, carrots, corn on the cob, bamboo shoots... the list goes on! I had to share the goodies as we could not eat everything. She also gave us 10 pears! We love Asian pears. They are so expensive. We kept all those!
We are still finishing the duck from yesterday. We have plenty of good food.
Mom had soup and rice noodle and a snack. Her appetite is good!
I had tutoring... and Alan had classes all day!
The kids only had two hours of class!
This evening we watched NCIS! I also did another load of laundry!
Daily Lovely Insight:
This morning I was doing one of my Bible studies and it was talking about King Manasseh. He started out walking away from the commands of God by rebuilding the high places that his father tore down. He did all sorts of evil things. But later on in life, while imprisoned, he truly repented and turned back to following God wholeheartedly! How awesome is that! Never give up on someone who seems to be falling away... God is in the business of redeeming people! Even those we might think are "impossible".
Seek Him First!
It was a busy day... yes, Annie said I don't need to say that... she knows...
I went for a run early... so that meant I got up early...
Then I did a load of laundry and got Mom up to shower and eat her breakfast! She didn't want to go for a walk, which was ok since I knew we'd be walking in the afternoon.
I went and picked up lunch that a friend ordered from the Marriott... I thought she ordered a simple duck lunch box... but she ordered a duck meal! Wow, it was scrumptious... rice noodles, tortillas, salads, sauces, soup... Mom enjoyed it too!
I told Mom to rest... and I went and "fixed" the bike. The tires were flat, so I pushed one down, rode it up, then pushed another down and rode it up... until all three were done! It was during the heat of the day... I was sweating!
I came back, got Mom up and we were off... The hospital set up the tennis court area to do the vaccination. It was very organized. Someone checked Mom's ID and health card. Another person helped to fill out the form. We were directed to a doctor and a nurse and she got her first shot. The second one will be on 8/12.
I then went to the supermarket next door and bought bananas and bread and a snack for Mom. She was very happy. Red bean mochi!
I made sure she drank her soup and water and had some rice noodles and sent her off to bed. It was already 6pm. I am to observe her for the next few days.
I was so tired...
Isaiah came home from work and rode the bike.
Abby went out this evening and rode the bike.
I think Alan will do the same tomorrow!
Daily Lovely Insight:
God provides in amazing ways... One lady on the Buy Nothing Taipei gave me a bag of Ethiopian coffee beans. I love Ethiopian coffee, but I don't buy it because it's very expensive. I was going to take it to Carrefour to grind up. Then the day after I got the coffee beans I went to take the recycling down and saw a Cuisinart heavy duty 12 setting coffee grinder. I wiped it down and it works beautifully!
And today, the duck lunch... I love duck, but it's way too expensive and from the Marriott... That's like almost 100US$. God just keeps blessing me...
If you're going through something and wondering about God the Provider, please... He is generous and will provide. Trust me... I can testify of how He constantly provides for me! Even today... and yes, every day... He is indeed the MORE THAN ENOUGH, five loaves and two fish, God, the Provider!
Seek Him First!
I got up super early as it is getting hot as soon as the sun is out... And for several days now, the rain has not come!
After my quiet time, I went out for my run... And still I could not avoid the heat.
Then I moved the bike, put the money for the boxes, with the guard. I got Mom up and eating as I had Bible study at 10am.
When that was finished, Mom was back in bed, resting, and I took off to give away books and buy hot dog buns and correct the bill from yesterday at Costco! I was back by 2pm and it was so hot!
Mom got up for a snack. She didn't want to walk around. I didn't force her. She went back to bed. Tomorrow she will have to go and get vaccinated!
I took a nap and then woke up because the people to pick up the boxes were downstairs!
Alan and the kids had classes... Isaiah only had two hours... and the weird thing is I rarely see them do any homework! Yes, Isaiah has graduated but because of his double major, he still has two classes to finish up!
Daily Lovely Insight:
In our Bible study, we had a phrase that really resonated with all of us:
God's presence, protection, provision and peace are not based on our circumstances! He is constant. He is faithful. His name is Jehovah Repha. His name is Shalom. His name is Emmanuel. His name is Jehovah Jireh. That's why we ascribe to the LORD the glory due His name!
Seek Him First!
The government has asked people to stay put. So we are!
Alan and I drove to pick up books and drop off things for a friend.
We rushed home just in time for Alan to have class at 1pm. Yes, it's a holiday, but he asked his students to have class since they are behind. It's his speech class... and trying to do it online wasn't easy!
I went to pick up food stuff... in the heat!
Abby was home with Mom.
Isaiah went to hang out with Vikki!
It was a much busier day than I had intended. I'm so glad I went for a run early in the morning before it got super hot!
This evening, after Isaiah came home, we went together and finished packing the boxes. Some neighbors dropped off bags of clothes for donation! So, it was perfect. The boxes were absolutely 'stuffed'.
I also went to Costco this evening! Crazy! Now, I can't just send Alan or Abby to get stuff... They check your ID and you can only go on your assigned 'day'. So, I go on odd days and Abby or Alan go on even days! But Costco was very empty. And they overcharged me for an extra box of combos! I will have to go back again!
Daily Lovely Insight:
From yesterday's sermon, I have been thinking about God's lovingkindness... How is it that David would say that God's lovingkindness is better than life?
God's lovingkindness can mean His favor, His mercy and His friendship. So, that can be one reason why David, who has experienced God's lovingkindness, would say that it's better than life!
Seek Him First!
I was feeling so tired today...
It didn't rain and it was hot!
Isaiah helped me this morning to get the boxes packed! I have a bit of room left, so hopefully, I will clean and find more stuff to give away and seal the boxes tomorrow!
The service was broadcast from our house. Isaiah didn't translate the right message, so he went online 'blind'. That slowed down the service, but it was still a marvelous service. Several things went wrong, but the LORD was moving...
Mom was again more alert... She even wanted to put on lipstick at 6:30. I had to go and drop things off... and it seemed as if she was ready to 'party'...
I had made an extra pan of Mexican food, so that was what people had for dinner.
I went and bought cucumbers and apples to make a sauerkraut salad... that was what I wanted for dinner!
Daily Lovely Insight:
In all our 'wilderness' experiences, the nearness of worshipping God in the 'sanctuary' can always be a reality, because God invites us to draw near to Him, to follow closely behind Him, to hide in the shelter of His wings. So, David, in Psalm 63 can say, his soul rejoices, his soul is satisfied, even in a dry and weary land where there is no water.
Seek Him First!
It was a hot day... and quite busy...
I started cooking as Isaiah wanted Mexican food for his graduation dinner.
We sat in front of the TV to watch the ceremony online. Isaiah had a photo on the screen for three seconds as he won the Academic Excellence Award! The ceremony was exactly one hour...
When that was finished, Alan and Abby went to Costco and Carrefour. I went to get balloons. They were so expensive! Ridiculous! What you can get at the 99Cents Store cost almost 6US$. So, I only bought two!
I went to buy bananas and the lines were so long. There were also police at the traditional market, checking people's ID.
When Alan and Abby came home, I hurried to put all the groceries away. Alan, Abby and Isaiah went to pick up Vikki, while I worked to get the house ready. I also had to care for Mom. She went to take a nap and I went to school to meet up with them as we took a few pictures with Isaiah and Vikki and Alan dressed in the cap and gown outfits!
I rushed home and stopped to pick up some donation for the boxes that I'm packing!
We played games and ate dinner and had cake for a celebration. It was super fun! Abby made a card, and so did I! Annie and KR sent a card, too!
Alan and Isaiah dropped Vikki off back home... and we watched TV. Another episode of NCIS.
Daily Lovely Insight:
Unto a full grown man... The ceremony closed with the Chaplain praying for the graduates... Even though Isaiah was very disappointed with the online ceremony, I know God is going to bless this group of graduates in a very special way... It's interesting time that we live in... No one would have known that Taiwan would be at Level 3 at this time... As believers, we walk by faith... And we know, like our family verse for this year, God is gracious to us... God blesses us... God makes his face to shine upon us... Last year, our verse was Proverbs 19:21: Men may plan, but God establishes the plan...
Glory to His name!
Seek Him First!
I got up super early... I put a load in and went and spent time with Jesus.
Then I got started with breakfast prep and lunch prep...
Abby was home so Alan and I took off to Danhsui to pick up things for donations. We stayed and chatted and had bagels from 7/11. Those were so yummy!
We got back by 1pm and I got Mom's lunch ready and took off to meet up with a gal who wanted clothes that I had posted.
My boxes arrived, so I took the stuff out of the trunk and started packing one box. I then cleaned out my own clothes and shoes and thermos and other containers. I think by the time I finish, both boxes will be filled! Yes, I still have a Mega box to fill up!
Mom was more hyper today, but she didn't want to go out for a walk. I went out for a run since Alan and Abby were both home.
This evening we had family time!
Isaiah received a message that there will have an online 'ceremony' that consists of the President sharing a few comments. And since Isaiah won one of the Academic Excellence Award, they will show his picture and what he wrote during the 'ceremony'. We are planning to do something special.
Daily Lovely Insight:
I cleaned out my cruise clothes... and posted those on the FB "Buy Nothing Taipei" group and they are all gone! Yes... I am thinking... I don't think I'll be going on a cruise any time soon... why keep the stuff around? I want to work on simplifying life... I can't give away my T-shirts... or my bizarre shirts... but I am down to three skirts and three pairs of pants! But I still have way too much stuff!
Looking at all that I have, I am truly blessed!
In all circumstances, give thanks...
In everything, give thanks...
At all time, give thanks...
And so even in this Level 3, I can give thanks!
Seek Him First!
With no rain, the day got so hot!
Isaiah and I went off to run errands. Abby was home with Mom! Alan was teaching online!
We went to HSBC to figure out about opening an account! Then we went to the post office and transferred the deposit for his homestay! Things are moving along... Next, the one way ticket for his flight to Birmingham, UK!
On the way back, we stopped at Carrefour and ran into friends. They had gone to Costco, but couldn't get in as their ID last digit was incorrect for Thursday! I must remember that! Costco is going by the rule of entry by the last digit of the person's ID card!
I got home, put everything way and went to meet up with someone at the MRT station as he needed to borrow our Asus Zen Pad! I also cleaned out our shoes and I'm giving away about 10 pairs.
I tutored from 4-5pm and went for a run when the sun set. It was still hot.
Oh... yes, Mom enjoyed her meals and we went out for a walk. She refused to take a shower. And I was like, "OK... ", why fight that battle???
Daily Lovely Insight:
Soochow University won't even be having an online graduation. Alan is so bummed! Isaiah is pretty cool! And we can't even do a dinner out... We are all very proud of him... so maybe for his graduation from University of Warwick, we will all go to the UK??? Wouldn't that be spectacular???? Wouldn't that be amazingly spectacular?
So, from the ashes God will make beautiful things... God will turn this disappointment into a celebration! He always does!
Seek Him First!
It was suppose to rain, but nothing... So at 2pm, I went for a run! I pushed through 11.5k in the heat!
Isaiah went to work!
Alan was trying seal the bottom of our sliding door in the bathroom. So far, it's not working... I might have to call the plumber! In the evening, he was going to do pre-marital counseling Online, but they had to reschedule at the last minute! So, Alan ended watching some of the matches from the French Open!
Abby had only one class and she helped me get my PPT done for the June 20th talk! So professional! She's been watching a lot of Padres' stuff and Korean singers' stuff...
After the run, I decided to try to make a kiwi bread. I didn't follow a recipe... And perhaps I should have added more sugar! It came out a bit tart!
Mom was again very calm. She didn't want to go for a walk, even though it didn't rain. This evening when the sun wasn't so blaring, it cooled down...
I continue to finish up things in the fridge~
Daily Lovely Insight:
The verses that I have for this year says, The LORD is my portion. So, I read this which I wanted to share with you:
When we are able to lay hold of the fact that Jesus is "Our Portion", then do we truly possess all things, for "how shall he not with him freely give us all things?" Shall we seek to appropriate all of His matchless love and grace and hope and courage and joy and fruit and power? What more can we ask, or have?
Seek Him First!
We were all up early...
Isaiah and I went to HSBC to see about opening an account for him. We filled out the forms and will go back on Thursday! With the Level 3 situation in place, people have to make an appointment to open an account.
Mom was sleepy today.
With the heat, no one felt like doing anything!
I had my online study this evening and then went for a run! I wanted to go earlier, but it was so hot. The rain did come this evening, just not in our area! We saw the dark clouds on the other side of the river!
Daily Lovely Insight:
Abby took my ppt and upgraded it by a zillion percent! Both of my kids are so gifted in that way! They are musically gifted and they know how to make an attractive ppt! God is the Potter and He has made us so that we can use our gifts to bless one another. I read this:
Have you understood the meaning of the force that presses in upon your life today? Has it seemed only pain, only wrong and deep injustice? Back of all that seems to be, the POTTER stands, with an ideal so lofty that our highest imagination has not fully grasped it. A beauteous, transformed life, fit to sit with Him upon His throne, is in the POTTER'S mind, and He is shaping thee through that which seemed a rude experience. Shall we not learn to say today, "I am the clay, and Thou the POTTER. Shape me as Thou wilt, dear Lord." Amen.
Seek Him First!
It's unfortunate, but we thought this would happen as the number of confirmed cases has not gone down consistently. So, today, the government announced two things: Level 3 extended to June 28th; entrance to all shops will be based on the last digit of your ID number -- odd on M., W., F., Sun., even on T. Thur. Saturday. This is effective as of today.
I called the long term overnight facility. They are completely full. No free bed, and they are not taking in any new clients, not for long term and not for weekends, at least not while we are at Level 3. The lady was nice enough to tell me to call back. Things can change. But at least for the month of June, they will not take anyone in. But I guess she wants me to call again tomorrow as maybe she will put Mom's name on a waiting list. I guess she knew that the Level 3 situation would be extended. I called her this morning and in the afternoon, the government announced the extension.
Mom was up early, but so was I. And everything had to be stripped again and another load of laundry finished. I did have an epitome: for right now, especially during the lockdown, in order not to be frustrated or impatient, I just need to keep telling myself -- your day is just to take care of Mom. Don't try to cook, clean, write, tutor, prep sermons or anything else. Instead of being annoyed when I'm working and then interrupted because she needs something, I need to practice this mindset. And when I did that today, it was a great day. Very refreshing!
Daily Lovely Insight:
What a beautiful verse of encouragement!
In this trouble time, with so many uncertainties, I feel secure in the love of the Lord! His banner over me is love!
Seek Him First!
Mom was up early... Gave her a shower... and she had breakfast and went back to bed!
Abby and I went for a long walk. I had made lunch for her before I left. And yes, she got up and ate that and went back to bed. She did the same thing this evening, but all afternoon, she was restless! But it was sprinkling outside, so I couldn't take her out. In fact, it is to rain all week... So, we will see!
We had our service online, broadcasting from another elder's home. We wanted Mom to sit with us to watch it, but she didn't want to. She was restless... but not tired! This evening, I gave her a sleeping pill and her sundowner pill. We shall see if the combination works!
The speaker for the service was Pastor Winston. He focuses on being salt and light. I enjoyed the sermon, even though it was difficult to focus with Mom wandering around!
Daily Lovely Insight:
One interesting point to share from today's message is: salt is used for preservation, like rubbing it on fish to keep it from going bad. So, he mentioned that we as believers are what God is using to hold back 'lawlessness' according to II Thes. 2:7 --
We are salt and light. Let's act like it!
Seek Him First!
I was up early... and I'm glad I was... because Mom was up early! I gave her a shower... She had breakfast and went back to bed!
I went out to run errands and buy some groceries since Costco was so bare yesterday.
I got back and Isaiah said, "Mom is doing good!" That means she wasn't knocking or banging!
Isaiah took off to meet up with Vikki. Abby was home, so I took off to pick up an adaptor plug, FREE, from a friend!
I got back and Alan was home. Mom only got up twice to go to the bathroom!
I made Mom some lunch and took off for a run! It wasn't pouring, but very nice and cloudy!
I got back and Mom had finished her lunch and went back to bed!
I took a quick shower and Abby and I went and had our hair treatment! Fabulous!
We also stopped at a fruit stand and stocked up on fruit! My dining room table is filled with guavas, apples and bananas!
We got back and I made dinner and Mom was up. She didn't want to watch TV. So, I fixed dinner and she really took her time to finish it!
She was in bed early, saying she was tired!
I then finally had time to download my emails and make Denny's famous "Moon Over My Hammy" sandwiches. I didn't have Swiss cheese, so I just used cheddar cheese! Alan said they were fabulous! I made enough for tomorrow as I hope I won't need to cook. I also made a salad and Mom's breakfast as I bought oatmeal! I hope tomorrow will be like today... I hope all of next week will be like today! And... confirmed cases were up... so Level 3 might continue all the way to July!
Daily Lovely Insight:
We watched another episode of the Chosen this evening. We are enjoying this series... This episode was based on John 1: 43-51, focusing on Jesus' encounter with Philip and Nathanael! Here is a good question I found on the web site:
What do you think Jesus was referring to when he said, "I saw you under the fig tree"? And why do you think that impressed Nathanael so much that he believed in Jesus?
Seek Him First!
I can't figure it out... yesterday was great with Mom... today, she was back at it. I had to change the entire bedding and we were all again on the every five minute alert! It's like her repetitive clapping or banging. By 3pm, we all started to ignore her! I guess that's the unpredictability of dementia.
Isaiah worked from home.
Abby had her internship from home, She was going to go to the Wanhua area, but we all said NO... that's where her internship office is at. I guess everyone said NO! She was going to do a video for the organization so she just had to use pictures that she had.
Alan had discipleship on line and then went to Costco. They were out of ground beef, Kirtland Whole Milk, whipping cream and had to limit the purchase of most items. What's going on? Are people hoarding? After that, he had to go to school to pick up his students' notebooks.
I had a marvelous run in the heavy down pour and thunder and lightning. I wanted to run and run and run! But I only had time to run 12k. I love the time out there when no one is around. And when I see the lightning and hear the roar of the thunder that follows, it is just unbelievable! Yes, I came back completely soaked through. I realized that the last time I did a long run was back on May 1st. Mom was at the overnight facility and I ran around Taipei! I don't know when I'll be able to do that as the Level 3 doesn't seem to be ending soon! WAHHHHHH... I have cancelled all face to face tutoring and now have only one on line tutoring plus my editing. Of course, I'm sharing at HOP as the service is going to be broadcasted from our house for two consecutive weeks in June!
Isaiah saw on the news that the down pour was so heavy that many places in Taipei and New Taipei were flooded! YIKES!
We had family time tonight.
According to the weather forecast, there is a typhoon approaching.
Daily Lovely Insight:
I found this in two different commentaries about Psalm 63.
People regard life as natural; David regarded God’s great love as natural.
People enjoy life; David enjoyed God’s great love.
People value life; David valued God’s great love.
People will sacrifice to live; David would sacrifice for God’s great love.
People want to give life to others; David wanted to give God’s great love.
People despair without the sense of life; David despaired without the sense of God’s great love.
“May I ask a question of every professed Christian? Have you spoken with God this morning? Do you allow a day to pass without converse with God? Can it be right for us to treat the Lord with mute indifference?” (Spurgeon)
I haven't yet finished by talk... But I'm getting close to finishing and working on the ppt as well! It is indeed a powerful psalm of David, written while he was in the wilderness of Judah!
Seek Him First!
I know you are praying...
God woke me up early... and in obedience, I went to spend time with Him. When I came out, I knew why.
Mom was in the bathroom and it was barely 6:45am. I saw her go back in the room and I was relieved as we heard her up quite a bit throughout the night. I went into the study to get a book to read when I heard the shower going. What? That can't be... I rushed to her bathroom and sure enough, she had stripped herself, got into the shower, turned on the water, all by herself! And yes... you guessed it! I told Alan, my mom has just enough mind and the mobility to get in trouble! She could have slipped or something! So, I thought it was going to be another long day.
But after drinking some water and eating, Mom went back to bed. She slept for almost two hours! She got up for bathroom, drank some more water, ate fish sticks and went back to bed! What??? And she was not getting up every five minutes to bang on the bathroom door. She really was resting and she looked exhausted. I guess she must be after the last two days of "Hyper Mom".
We were all so thrilled.
I was able to do a load of laundry, work on my talk, edit for a company, make grilled cheese sandwiches and go out for a walk with Abby! It was so refreshing. All the frustration from the last few days just melted off.
MIRACULOUS!
Daily Lovely Insight:
I read Proverbs 3:5-6 -- Very encouraging! I memorized these two verses long ago... And my trust in the LORD must be with all my heart... And in ALL my ways, I need to acknowledge Him. He will lead or direct or guide my paths.
Seek Him First!
Just by the title of this post, do I need to say more?
Alan didn't have class but was working on getting some tax papers completed.
Abby only had one class and spent the rest of her day watching Korean soap operas.
Isaiah had work and his scooter didn't start again as it rained last night. So, he rode my scooter. But after the sun came out, the scooter started and I was able to use his scooter to run some errands. I went and bought cranberry pills. Maybe that will help Mom. I don't think she has any bladder infection, because if we take her out for a walk in the wheelchair, she can be out for an hour or more without asking to go to the bathroom. It's not that. It's that she's bored. She doesn't want to watch TV. She wants to go out! But we are to stay at home as much as possible. The only activity is to take her for walks and I did that three times today.
I did not have time to work on my talk. I have to think of a title... but I need concentrated time and that's not happening. I need focused time. But that's not possible with Mom in her hyper mode. Last night she didn't sleep until 10:30. She was up and about, walking, even with the sundowner pill. And by 8am, she was up and in the shower!
Daily Lovely Insight:
We've been watching the Chosen and started on Season 2. It was so creative how the producer weaved in how John had the inspiration to start the Gospel of John in this way. The idea was that Jesus took the first book of the Torah and read from it. And that reading from the lips of Jesus impressed John so much, thus when the Holy Spirit inspired John to write, he used Genesis 1:1 to begin John 1:1. I thought it was so beautifully done. I would highly recommend this series. The more you watch, the more interesting they become. When you finished Season 2, Episode 1, let me know your thoughts!
Seek Him First!
My Bible study was this morning and I asked one of the sisters to lead as I had this feeling that Mom was going to be 'hyper' again. And Mom was. We had a great study... but I had to get up every few minutes to take care of Mom. By this afternoon, we decided to ignore her. It's the same problem. We were all getting quite impatient with her. She was standing by the bathroom door every five minutes. We open the door every hour, but she really didn't need to go to the bathroom! It was a constant thing for her!
Abby had class and Isaiah only had one class as his senior classes are finished!
Alan had two classes...
I made chili and chicken. I also cleaned the closets... I was trying to see what Isaiah already had in his closet and for him to try the pants on to make sure what he still fits. After that, I went for a walk with Abby to run errands. And after getting back, I started cleaning the fridge. I needed to see what we have as we eat at home every day now. And we don't order out. I might have to send Alan to Costco again.
I did go for a run, finally, before the rain started. But while on the run, it did rain!
I got Mom her dinner... and then for three more hours, she would not sleep, insisting that she needed to go to the bathroom. We let her use the bathroom and five minutes later, she was up at the bathroom door again. It went on for three hours! Isaiah sat there in front of her bedroom door. She is still very alert. She walked over to our bedroom. She won't listen when we tell her she already went. And she's very mobile, unlike Daddy George. And that's what makes taking care of her so difficult. She is a mobile person whose mind is not all there. It's difficult with the kids as she doesn't listen to them. She can also talk back to Alan and I because she says she ranks higher than us! We are to listen to her, not the other way around. So, today, we had to ignore her!
Daily Lovely Insight:
Isaiah 12:2 was very helpful for me with what's happening, staying home all day, taking care of Mom!
Not only is God my Salvation, He is also my Strength and my Song! What a beautiful thought! I need to sing His praises when I feel frustrated or fearful!
Seek Him First!
![Daily Bible Reading Devotional [Psalm 67]-August 16, 2017 – Dust Off The Bible](https://dustoffthebible.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/Psalm-67.1-2.jpg)
