Marvelous Day! Chinese New Year Eve!

Even though I could have stayed in bed, I wanted to spend time with the LORD and go for a quick run before breakfast! The run was only 7.5 km but it was fun! The weather was cooler and my legs felt so good! Run! Run! Run!

I got back early and took a quick shower and we went off to breakfast! 

We took off at around 10:30 and headed to the Caves of the Waterfall Veil. It was absolutely fun! We had to hike about 2.1 km through 7 tunnels and then into this one tunnel that had waterfalls... The water was cold and unless you had an umbrella or a rain coat, you got totally soaking wet. It felt like going through Hezekiah Tunnel in Israel! 

After that, we tried to find another area with some great waterfalls, but the trail was closed. We did find two suspension bridges and by the time we got back to town, most restaurants and stores were closing up. It's Chinese New Year Eve! So, we ended up eating at McDonald's! Hilarious! The place was packed!

We got back to our hotel by 8pm and watched TV and ate desserts that we had brought from home!

Daily Lovely Insight:

I'm reading about how the Tabernacle was being built and how people brought in more than enough and had to be restrained from bringing more. I'm praying that the LORD will provide as I have seen a great property that can be used as a place of refuge for those who are being abused... 

God knows... Like the lady I talked to last night at the Market, there are people who are wounded and in need to knowing Jesus!

Seek Him First!

Spa Time... Vacation Time!

 I'm writing this while soaking my feet in a hot tub... with Chinese medicinal packets... Luxury... No dinner to prepare... No laundry to do... No organizing, cleaning... NOTHING! I do have editing to finish up... Hence, I brought my lap top computer.

We left the house at 8am and dropped Mom off. It was hard... but I had to walk away... And I have to keep telling myself, this is better for everyone... I know that Daoshen is great. The people are wonderful and Mom will enjoy talking with other elderly people. I will feel better and she will have a great time! I do hope that they can keep her until 2/21! I will have to pay about 1,000US$ for the two extra weeks, but Alan got his New Year Bonus... and Isaiah got a 5,000US$ Scholarship from Franklin. It was a total surprise miracle! God knew we needed a new washer... God knew about the possibility of having Mom stay longer... 

We were on the road by 9am and the drive to Hualien was so smooth. It was great to start the vacation now... here are several reasons: Daoshen can't accept any visitors or 'new clients' as Taiwan raised it's Covid level to 2.5. If I didn't check Mom in today, it would not have happened. Coming down to Hualien, we went to Taroko Gorge. By 2/2, they would close the park to private automobiles. All individuals have to take the shuttle bus service provided by the National Park Service and it would be so crowded. We were able to drive and walk around... and very few people! We had such a blast! Alan drove and dropped us off and went to the next point. We walked! The weather was splendid!

We brought along snacks which we enjoyed during the drive.

By 4pm, we reached our hotel! NICE! I booked a 4-person room... with buffet breakfast and a large tub! This is a hot spring area, so the tub has a therapeutic health benefit. Alan took a nap while I soaked. Tonight we're going to the DonMeng Night Market and then to the Lantern Festival, which started on 1/24!

Tomorrow morning, I'm planning to have my quiet time in the lobby area, go for a run, and breakfast will go from 7-10am! We have nothing planned... just go with the flow!

Daily Lovely Insight:

It took about an hour or more before I started feeling relaxed! It was such a relief as we were hiking and walking around, thinking... I can't take my Mom along... it would have been a nightmare! And the longer the drive, the weight of the care of my Mom just lifted off my shoulders... I know God is with her and she is going to be fine... I am trusting that the Nursing Home will have a bed... maybe just for 14 more days... maybe for long term... if long term, then we can start to firm up our summer plans and book the flights. Either way, I know God has everything well taken care of... 

Seek Him First!

Test Result Picked Up!!!!!!!! Celebrating Mom's Birthday!!!!!!!!!!!!

Yes, Mom is going to be 91 tomorrow... but we are taking off, and most restaurants will be closed tomorrow. We celebrated today... very nice!

After having breakfast, we started cleaning again and tried to keep Mom occupied and out of the way!

For lunch, we went out to a noodle shop... Japanese ramen! Delicious!

When we got home, Mom had a short rest and we were off again at 4:22 to pick up the test and Mom does not have Covid! She is so healthy... except for her mental capacity... of course, her hearing and eyesight are both pretty bad! We went out for dinner! We had the Shihlin Giant Chicken plus milk tea!!!!!!!!!

Mom went off to bed and we continued with the cleaning and the sorting and the packing! Alan worked on the back, while I worked on the things inside to sort and group things together in a more organized way. It's going to be a major job after we return. But someone from the Buy Nothing Group wants the washing machine. She's going to wait and order the part... YIPPY! I just can't imagine throwing the machine away! That part is less than 40US$ to replace! But I can't wait three months!

People are going to come tomorrow afternoon to pick up more things. I left the stuff with the guard! 

No time for a run... but lots of good eating!

Daily Lovely Insight:

Can God lie? 

No, He cannot!

So, every promise and every revelation are TRUE!

I want to live like they are true!

Seek Him First!

 

Alan Had Too Much Free Time...

The washer is not going to come until after Chinese New Year, but Alan decided to pull everything out now! Don't ask me why??? So our living room, dining room and kitchen look like a disaster zone! Now, I will have to go through and see what we can give away, as well as trying to pack and get ready for the trip! I can't stand seeing this mess! If Mom was not living with us, we could have used her room. So, I'm going to pray that she can be at the nursing home for an additional two weeks. Then we can get the new washer and the house back in order!

This morning I took Mom for her PCR test! What an ordeal! Getting into the wrong line, even though I asked specifically... And having to run around while getting Mom to sit at one place. The test was less than 30 seconds but to get all the paperwork done took 45 minutes!

I did get to fit in a run.

I did have to tutor for two hours.

We had a free evening... but not really free as I couldn't just sit and enjoy doing nothings. I got started to organize and de-own what we had! I gave away our old pressure stove top cooking pot! And I'm sure we will have more to give away! I found I had three dish racks and lots of parts for fans, such as fan blades! I also found three helmet shields. I should get my shield replaced! I will be so happy when my house is back to normal!

Daily Lovely Insight:

A Hfe of victory and power hinges on three 
things: an Act, a Purpose, and a Habit; an 
initial act, a rock-rooted purpose, and a daily 
habit; the act of surrender to Jesus as Master 
of one's person and life, the simple, steady 
purpose in everything to do as he would wish, 
the daily hahit of getting a bit of time every 
day off alone with the Master, with door shut, 
the Book open, the knee bent, and the will bent afresh.

A devotional book mentioned, The Bent-Knee Time. And I found the book online by S. D. Gordon, copyrighted in 1918.

You can download it for free... I did!

Seek Him First!

Cleaning, Cleaning, and More Cleaning...

Yes, I helped my friend and we are FINISHED! I just need to get a flat bed truck and move the last few items that she doesn't want. I will be so happy when that's done! I won't be able to get to that until after Chinese New Year. She is giving away a few nice containers, which I will use for the back balcony! So, it will work out perfectly!

I was pretty exhausted. I had to come home and clear up a bag of stuff that I had brought from her place!

Then Mom was home. I had made dinner before leaving... YEAH!

The evening was spent editing and preparing for my SAT student tomorrow afternoon.

I did go for a short run this morning! 

Daily Lovely Insight:

When God described the Tabernacle to Moses, He was going from the inside to the outside... like it was from His vintage point. And it has such intricate details because that's where He made His presence known. I just thought that's so awesome!

Seek Him First!

No News About Washer... A Busy Day...

The day just goes by so quickly... always so much to do.

After Mom took off, I went and ran a few errands and dropped off a bike for a friend!

I came back and got the SAT papers together and went to get those copied!

The weather was quite warm, so I decided not to go for a run. Instead, I read essays as part of my editing job.

My tutee came at 1:30 and we went long... until 3:50!

Alan stayed home to take care of Mom while I went for a quick run. The usual 11km.

I had already made dinner, so that was great. Curry chicken with dinner rolls!

Daily Lovely Insight:

This verse just really impressed me today!

Seek Him First!

I Had To...

I spent the whole morning calling... trying to arrange someone to come fix the washer... 

Come to find out... no part in Taiwan. To order one from the States will take three months or MORE! I almost fainted!

I tried calling my second hand store... He is a great guy! Well... nothing! I needed a front loading machine.

I then edited an essay while waiting... 

Finally, I checked on line... Costco has one. 34,799UT$! That's almost 1200US$! I consulted with Alan. And Costco can't deliver for 5-7 days... which will be after Chinese New Year! So... we will have to go and do our laundry at the local Laundromat!

After that was done, I went for a run! 11km and it was hot!

I got Mom's dinner ready and tutored from 4-5pm. Bible study from 7-10pm.

I also sealed up the box which they will pick up tomorrow.

I have tons to work on for my tutoring!

Alan was home and trying to figure out how to reorganize the back balcony. 

Abby watched Korean soap opera and then tutored from 3-6!

Daily Lovely Insight:

God gifted me with this verse for today!

Seek Him First!

Helping Others

No word for the Whirlpool repairman... at least all the laundry is somewhat finished... whatever is in the basket, I spray with a fragrant spray! Supposedly, the repairman will call in two days and if they have the part, we should be able to do a load by Thursday!

I went for a run while Alan and Abby went to school to apply for Abby's scholarship! She got a GPA of 88.6! She only had 7 units... I hope she will do well next semester as well!

After a quick shower, I went and picked up a car load of donation. The evening was spent sorting through everything and packing up a mega box to ship to the Philippines!

I also proofread more essays... 

Daily Lovely Insight:

Just a question: 

What is your definition of 'sanctuary'? Is it a building? Is your body the sanctuary where the Holy Spirit dwell? Is sanctuary wherever God is? I'm having a discussion with a brother on this topic. I totally do not agree with his thoughts about 'sanctuary'!!!! To him, sanctuary is limited to a building!

Seek Him First!

A Sabbath of a Sunday!

Mom was up early... and so was I!

Then I get to nap in the afternoon for an hour, before church!

I went and updated all our bank books and bought almost expired breads! I always stock up!

Because we were informed on Saturday that eating at church has again been banned, we brought lots of containers so that people can bring the feast that I ordered home to enjoy!

The service was fantastic... and the food was great! I thought I had bought a lot, but there was very little leftover!

After Mom went to bed, I went out for a little bit of a walk to hit 12, 000 steps and then we had Family Time at 10pm.

Daily Lovely Insight:

The sermon highlights from today:

II Tim. 3:16-17

1. Always good and purposeful to follow the Word of God.
2. The Word of God perfects us and is the light upon our path. Psalm 119: 105
3. If you hate someone, you have killed him/her.
4. God gives us His standard, His love, and we need His wisdom to apply to our every circumstances.
5. Our motive drives our actions, but beware of how we use the Scripture to support our wrong motives.
6. Paul preached to those in Athens about Christ through the sensitivity of their desire to search for the Unknown God.
7. Heb. 12:14 summarizes the ethics of Christians: to follow peace and holiness, without which no man shall see the Lord. Holiness is to listen, obey, and follow God.

Seek Him First!

A Work Day in Taiwan!

Mom had her day care program as it was a work day!

After she left, I rushed to make phone calls to ask about tire rotation and balancing at Costco. Then I went for a longer run. Absolutely delightful... 15.18 kilometers! Bringing my weekly total to 43.10. I didn't hit 44, but I came close! I was very happy!

I took a quick shower and did a load. Half way through the load while I was drying my hair, I heard what sounded like rain in the back balcony! YIKES! The water from the washer was all over the floor. I quickly hit STOP... the water drained, I opened the door and found that the plastic ring around the door was cracked. Such a small crack and caused such 'damage'. I threw down a towel, got all the clothes out, and scrambled to find the phone number to call for repair. I hope they come on Monday!

Abby, Alan and I went out for a delicious afternoon tea... right near our house. We had such a feast!

We got back and Abby helped to pick Mom up. I had dinner ready for Mom! SHE ATE EVERYTHING!

We then get a message: starting on 1/22, Taiwan government announced that eating indoors for all places of religious activities are now forbidden! We had ordered such delicious food for our Love Feast tomorrow night! We can't cancel... that's not good for the business who is catering the food. So, we had to send a message, asking people to bring their own lunch box containers and take the food home to enjoy! This government is fueled by fear!

After Mom went to bed, Abby stayed home, while Alan and I drove to put the clothes into a washer and dryer at the laundromat, drop off a gift for Vikki, drop off sample SAT for one of my students, and go to Costco for the tires. 

Daily Lovely Insight:

Reading Ecc. 5:1-7 was very convicting this morning!

Seek Him First!

Lunch Out... and Errands...

I wanted to go for a run this morning before lunch... BUT... I got a phone call from the Long Term Care Facility... they were informed that all elderly who are going to 'check-in' for a stay MUST have a PCR test within 48 hours of the check-in time! INSANE! I had to scramble to get on line to find one... to book it... and to make sure I can pick up the test on 1/29 as Mom is going to be dropped off on 1/30! We had planned on a birthday dinner on 1/29! So, the test is on Friday before 9:30. Pick up on Saturday before 4pm.

By the time I had that arranged, it was already 10:30. We left at 11 for an early lunch as we wanted to go and walk around, even though it was raining plus we had a few errands to run. Our friend took our car in for a tune up, but the CD player and reverse camera aren't working properly. The mechanic said, "Can't fix that before Chinese New Year!" I thought that would be their answer... Tomorrow we are going to Costco to get the tires rotated and checked. Things really shut down during Chinese New Year, so everyone is rushing around to get these jobs done. Alan needed to change the battery on his phone. So, we dropped that off! We also had a space heater that the cord has shredded. So that was dropped off!

We got back by 4pm and I got dinner ready for Mom and Abby went off to tutor.

After Mom went to bed, I went for a long walk... just to get my steps in... I will go for a run tomorrow! I HOPE!

Daily Lovely Insight:

Psalm 23:3

When we want to walk in the path of righteousness, we can count on our Shepherd to be there, guiding us every step of the way -- FOR HIS NAME SAKE!

I thought to be profound... Like Matthew 5:16, our light shines to bring Him glory. God desires to walk in the path of Righteousness for His Glory... for His Name Sake. 

God answers prayer in Jesus name... that the Father is glorified. 

Seek Him First!

Busy and yet Relaxing!

After Mom left, I made dinner as I knew I'd be gone all day!

I left at 10am to help clean a friend's house... we need at least two more four hour sessions!

We ended at 2:30 as I had made a massage appointment. I wish Mom Bea can be transported to Taiwan to get a series of massage from these wonderful ladies. They helped an older lady with bone spur to be so pain-free that she's doing ballroom dancing again! The lady is 91 years old! Very sharp mentally, but was physically in pain. Couldn't sleep... could barely walk! The bone spurs are still there, but she's relaxed enough that she can walk and sleep and dance!

I had to rush home to take care of Mom. I realized that I hadn't eaten all day. The dinner that I cooked was absolutely delicious. I had two bowls before helping Mom with her bedtime routine.

Abby had a get-together with her basketball team -- KTV and beer house dinner!

Alan had basketball, but he decided not to go to play. He just went after I got home to get his 'ring'. Yes, they made NBA-like ring for the players! They've been the champions for 10 times! And Alan has played in every one of those tournaments! 300US$ for the ring!

Daily Lovely Insight:

God prepares the way before us... I made this appointment for a massage before I knew my back would have a slipped disc or two... or before I knew I'd helping someone out on Thursday, to clean out their house... So, it was such a splendid treat to have two hours... Absolutely blessed... 

Seek Him First!

Healing Continues...

I am feeling better... but not completely back to normal... but getting there!

I took another nap!

And even though there is laundry to do, I decided just to leave it... 

I did go for a run... 

And I made dinner and Mom enjoyed it tremendously!

Alan was at school all day... He is trying to finish up all the grades and he had a meeting about the ICEE Week for next semester!

Daily Lovely Insight:

I love reading the book of Exodus. Each time I read it, I'm so floored by how God shows up and introduces Himself! 

I need to be more aware of how He continues to do that today... 

God has appeared to people in a cloud, in a burning bush, through dreams, in the fire... 

There is actually a word for it -- Theophany!

Seek Him First!

 

A Day of Tutoring...

After Mom took off, I started to prepare for my Bible study group. The food was in the crock pot and it smelled absolutely delightful! Before people showed up, I walked down to the Hi-Life Convenience Store and picked up a package that Isaiah ordered for Vikki.

Abby was meeting up with one of her classmates to do a 'baking' session. It was not cheap! 

We studied Psalm 91 and were so encouraged that God surely is with us through all our difficulties. That's what Ps 91 is all about!

When they took off, I prepared for my tutoring sessions. At 4pm, my student asked if we can postpone to 5pm. So, we went from 5-6 and my next student showed up early! The second student went from 6 to almost 11pm. We had a lot to get done.

Isaiah called to say hello!

Abby finished her correcting and found out that she was still missing two units! Please pray that she will choose a class that she will enjoy!

Daily Lovely Insight:

Seek Him First!

A Restful Day...

Mom actually did sleep!

And after she went off to the Day Care Center, I did not do a load of laundry. I tidied up her room and went back to bed! I slept for three hours! DELIGHTFUL!

I did not cook as we had leftover dinner boxes!

I did go for a run with the back brace. When I walk or run, it actually feels less tight. I have not ran for four days... so it was good to be out there IN THE RAIN! (which is one of my favorite kind of running weather!)

Abby went to be a statistician for some basketball competition and I told her to ask someone else to do the afternoon as she had an exam to finish up! She reluctantly agreed! She went out partying with her friends in the evening as they are finished with all the tests!

Alan was at school all day... trying to get things done, plus he wanted to watch the game and I didn't want the WiFi on... ha, ha, ha... 

Daily Lovely Insight:

My back has always been a reminder from God to stop... to slow down... God is good... He is my Shepherd. I was getting so frustrated with the daily changing of the bedding and having to 'assist' my Mom in cleaning out her bathroom situation! From April of 2021 to now has been difficult... When Taiwan became more serious with Covid and things were locked down, and Mom's declining mental capacity plus her irregular sleep patterns, all made for a very stressful eight months. Then in these past two months, the daily loads of laundry and changing sheet really took a toll on my back. So, I rejoice... these last three days of very limited mobility were used by God... In all circumstances, GIVE THANKS!

Seek Him First!

Hyper Mom... Light & Salt of the World!

Yes, we were woken up by Mom talking loudly, asking us to do things... and yes, it was again in the middle of the night. She kept up the bantering and never went back to sleep. Amazing... We thought for sure she'd get tired! In fact, she remained hyper all day... We had to all take turn to keep an eye on her.

The helper didn't come, so Alan and Abby took off. I rode the scooter and locked the baby gate. After I finished translating, I rode back! I got back just in time as she was holding the gate and doing knee squats! It was absolutely bizarre... I don't know what is happening. Another phase of her dementia???

The service went well... Alan made the announcement about the move to the new place! I don't think it was the best decision... oh well... 

Alan and Abby came back and we had Family Time this evening!

Daily Lovely Insight: 

We are to be light and salt... and as light and salt we function to influence those around us... for better!

Seek Him First!

Doing Things Slowly...

Well, the discs on my back slipped... I have had this happen before... so I know the pain... I am doing things very slowly... So, changing the bedding took a lot longer. Getting the laundry done took a lot longer. I put a back brace on. That helped a lot! I'm trying not to take a pain killer... 

Mom was hyper last night, but with my back whacked, I couldn't get up. Abby got up to get her back into bed... several times.

At 2pm, a friend asked me to go look at an apartment with her. Alan was home with Mom. Abby was tutoring!

When I got back after a short stop at Carrefour, Abby and Alan took off for a massage! I'm glad they could enjoy it.

I edited and helped a student with his essays. Mom was wandering around the house, constantly wanting to go to the bathroom. So, I finally locked it.

After dinner, she went to bed! RELIEF!

Abby and Alan were back. We had a quiet evening. No Family Time until Sunday night!

Daily Lovely Insight:

It's taking time to get the discs back in place... I know it's God's gentle reminder -- REST! I can't even go for a run... and I guess that's a God-thing! Even walking is difficult... 

I know God will carry me through... He always has and He always will... 

Seek Him First!

Waiting at the Hospital... Mongolian BBQ... Garmin Watch...

Today was a two load of laundry kind of morning... 

After calling to make sure the nursing home is all set, I headed out to Yang Ming Hospital. I didn't know that I didn't have to wait. I could have just given the nurse my mom's health card as I was only there to pick up her meds. I waited for almost 90 minutes... So, I had to ask Alan and Abby to come and pick me up at the hospital! And we headed out to the Mongolian BBQ Restaurant. For 11US$ per person, we had such a delightful feast!

Then I had to go and get my Garmin watch checked out... It's working now... miraculously!

Alan dropped me off at the hospital and I rode the bike home. I had ridden the bike there... as my back is a bit tweaked from daily making of Mom's bed! That's a killer on a person's back! I never realized it... 

Abby had tutoring.

Alan was home early for Mom duty until I got back.

I had editing to do tonight! And my back feels as if it slipped... Not good!

Daily Lovely Insight:

I read a thought provoking question:

What is the best that you can imagine in your present circumstance?

Seek Him First!

More Cleaning... Helping Others Out...

So, after Mom took off, I actually went back to bed and slept for 45 more minutes... Oh... I could have stayed in bed... but I had to go and help out the sister... sort and clean some more!

We started at 11:30 and finished at 3:40 and I got messages from the company. They needed me to edit three articles! I rushed home and got started. Thankfully, the Center messaged me... they will be bringing Mom home as the last person versus the first person! What a praise! I had time to finish the editing and get Mom's dinner ready! Those 15 extra minutes were so precious!

As for the sister's apartment... We will definitely need two more four-hour sessions! We have started to post things to give away. That's going well! Someone came and picked up six containers. Another person came to pick up two laundry baskets. I gave away six extension cords and five blankets. The gal sorted through three bags of custom jewelry and shredded three more boxes of paper. At least everything out of the cupboard. We will just need to sort and shred and donate and give away more stuff. I then have to repack what she is planning to keep. Those piles are presently too much... I will have to force her to give more away. We will see... 

Abby went to play basketball and Alan stayed at school to play with Soochow Faculty and Staff.

I stayed home. I was going to go for a run, but I was just literally spent!

The food I put in the crock pot before leaving turned out to be absolutely fabulous!

Daily Lovely Insight:

Keller says, Jesus is the Ultimate Joseph. And I was reading the narrative about Joseph from the Bible today. And the point is that God brings GLORY through SUFFERING... there are just as many people who blame God for suffering as those who are drawn closer to God through suffering. It's a matter of trust. 

It's how you view God... That a loving God has a purpose or that a loving God would eliminate all suffering? 

Seek Him First!

 

Chilly Weather...

It was a two load of laundry day!

But after the cleaning was done, I cooked and took a nap! Delightful!

I then went for a run... so nice and chilly!

Alan was home to care for my Mom as I didn't get back until 5:20.

After a quick shower, my tutee arrived. We had a long session as there were several papers to look at. I also had editing to do for my 'other' job!

Daily Lovely Insight:

In our study last night, the connection was made that wisdom was in the beginning... and in John 1:1, we know that the Word became flesh was also in the beginning. So, to have wisdom is to have Christ. 

Seek Him First!

Productive Day!

Yes, a load this morning... and sent Mom off... 

Cleaned the room and sorted through my desk. Finalized the plans for our trip and edited my student's work. Abby registered for class and realized that she must have nine credits! She has 'senioritis' and didn't want to take that many classes. I suggested German, but unfortunately, it's a one year class. She finally found two classes that she liked! 

I went out for a run and she went to play basketball.

I rushed home, put the dinner in the rice cooker and took a shower.

Tutoring started at 4pm.

At 5:13, Mom was back. 

After I got her settled in bed, I took off for my Tuesday evening Bible study.

Daily Lovely Insight:

Seek Him First!

One Thing After Another... God Strengthened Me...

It was another big load of laundry this morning... 

After sending Mom off, I went for a run!

Then it was a rush to get ready as I was meeting friends for lunch! I then went and dropped off small household appliances for friends who needed them fixed. Came home and Elaine came over. We've been meeting on the second Monday of every month to share and pray together. Her company bought a splendid property! And a book that her company is working on is getting close to being finished!

Mom was back and I had dinner ready. Elaine and I prayed together and she took off. I got Mom ready for bed... Checked email and cleaned up the house, putting away the clothes and washing the dishes, etc.

The kids and Alan were watching the Chargers game this morning... They are all very sad... Chargers lost. In OT. To the Raiders. One field goal!

And we got all our lodging booked... Taidong at friends' house... Ilan at friends' house... Hualien... NICE HOTEL!

Daily Lovely Insight:

Ezekiel 34:26

Seek Him First!

A Good Sunday... 'sort of'...

Yes, I hope you all know what I mean by 'sort of'... 

I woke up and smelled it... and I couldn't even go and have my quiet time first as it was just so bad! 

I had my time with Jesus after I cleaned everything and Mom went back to bed... It was not what I had wanted to do as I long to  commit my first waking hour to Jesus... 

But then after I came out of the Quiet Time, she did it again! I was so mad!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! She had another shower! And the first load of laundry was in the dryer, so I couldn't run a second load!

I walked down to the MRT Station to meet up with someone who wanted an item that I had listed on Buy Nothing... Abby was home and we locked the bathroom door!

At 2:30, Amy, the helper, came over. She did the floor in Mom's room again because she said she could smell poop! "I know..." I responded! And explained to her what happened!

We went off to church and I was the translator! 

We came home... The house was smelling so much better and Mom was in bed asleep!

A blessed ending to a horrible start! God turned things around!

Daily Lovely Insight:

The speaker shared three points from Ephesians 2:8-10:

1. We should know our limit and admit our weaknesses.

2. We need to rely on the strength of Christ.

3. We do good works as an overflow of our relationship with Christ.

We must live differently than those from the world! And through that difference, people will be drawn to Christ.

Seek Him First!

A Good Saturday... 'sort of'...

It was an early day... and lots of cleaning... as usual... Actually, more than usual... I won't go into the details!

Mom didn't have any program and after breakfast, she kept walking in and out... we had to watch her like a hawk. Finally, we locked the bathroom door!

Alan had to rush off to a funeral service.

When he got back, Alan Skyped with Mom Bea and Annie got to talk to Mom.

Abby had tutoring at 1pm and after lunch, I went for a quick run as Alan and Abby had the massage appointment at 3pm. I had to get a shower in before Alan took off!

Mom then talked to James and when they hung up, I tried to call Eddie... No answer. So, I took Mom in her wheelchair out for a walk. She didn't walk much... I pushed her in the wheelchair! The return trip was a workout as I had some groceries from Carrefour. She had her dinner -- rice, veggies and chicken!

After she went to bed, Alan, Abby and I watched TV! Then Family Time at 9pm.

Daily Lovely Insight:

It was a frustrating day of cleaning and more cleaning... Mom was 'out of control', doing her nasty habit! I realized that we cannot act on our feelings, but we need to live by truth! And I am again reminded how much I need to live under the shelter of the Almighty and trust Him! He will carry me through... and He knows when a bed will be opening up! 

Seek Him First!

A Fun Day!

After the rush of getting Mom up and out and cleaning her room... I went for a quick run as we had planned a day out... and Vikki was set to join us!

We left at 11am and picked up the diapers that I ordered... Yes, we go through those quite quickly! And headed out, picking up Vikki and driving to this area for lunch. It was a delicious and on the expensive side lunch and walked to the Minion Exhibition. It was cheesy, but fun!

Abby had tutoring and Vikki had online class, so we headed back by 3:15 and Vikki barely made it!

I got dinner ready... and Mom was home.

This evening, Abby went to an orchestra performance at school. After Mom went to bed, Alan and I went to Costco! He wanted cinnamon rolls!

Daily Lovely Insight:

God is making miracles happen for our trip. As I was calling and looking on line, I remember that one of Alan's Soochow basketball buddies has connections in Ilan and Hualien. We lined him and he will get us hooked up to nice resort hotels. I'm not sure how much yet... but it was a wonderful thought that at least we will get rooms... 

The situation with covid-19 is getting crazy again... but I am at rest. God led us thus far... He will give us this vacation... I write this because there is one case of Omnicron and the rumor about shutting things down for Chinese New Year... 

I am still very confident that we will be able to travel during those 7 days!

I pray that you will also have such assurance and confidence... not in yourself, not in anything or anyone other than Jesus!

Seek Him First!

A More Relaxing Day!

I use my morning after Mom is off to the Center to clean and do chores! EVERY MORNING! That's the routine now. I try to get everything done FAST so that I can be doing other things! Today I went and paid the Day Care Center bill... and came home! I ate a scrumptious early lunch and went for a run! The weather was fabulous... 

I got back and after a shower, started checking for lodging... It's going to be a miracle to reserve some places for the trip!

No tutoring tonight... what a relief!

Alan had basketball and Abby went to hang out with her friends! She didn't have practice as it's the week before finals!

Daily Lovely Insight:

Sometimes I struggle with spending money to send boxes to other countries, especially since the prices went up... and I got a call that the expensive box to Mongolia is held up by the Chinese government at the border! And the guy in charge of shipping won't do anything as he already got his money!

So, I started asking these questions: Would they find the items useful? Would they appreciate the effort? Would this way of spending my time and money bring glory to God?

Today, one of the people I mail to sent a video of their Christmas outreach! And it was exactly what I needed!

I got my answer: Yes, I need to continue this ministry!

Seek Him First!

A Very Tiring Day!

I didn't sleep well last night and I had an extremely long day!

After Mom went to the Center, I went for a quick run after stripping the bed and doing a load of laundry. Then I was off to help someone sort through 30 years of accumulated goods... from her mother and her grandmother... She just never had time! So, we worked for four hours and we are making a big difference! I brought the shredder and she sat and shredded paper while I would open a box and go through it, asking for her input! Next week, we will do the same! I will post things that will be given away! And I will probably be shipping some nice stuff to the Philippines which she said she will donate! She got boxes and boxes of new stuff... things from her credit card company or gifts from friends. We also found some really nice old bottles of wine and cognac in some fancy designer bottles that were bought overseas!

I came home and got a message from the editing job! I downloaded my emails, finished the job, got Mom's dinner ready, and the phone rang! Mom was home. Alan went downstairs, as I just wanted time to go to the bathroom!

While getting Mom settled, a new student arrived! This kid is from church and needs help with essay writing! We worked for three hours straight!

When he left, I was on the computer to read over Isaiah's essay. We chatted as he will send it in today!

Daily Lovely Insight:

While helping the gal clean, we found five Cross pens. She said, "You can have them!" I love Cross pens... I will test them and see if they need refills... but what a gift... What a total surprise... and the Lord sustained me with His strength... And He gave me wisdom to help! I don't know when we will be finished, but I hope before Chinese New Year!

Just like the miracle of Mom having a bed for the Chinese New Year break so that Alan, Abby and I can travel a bit... and rest! What a gift! What a total surprise!

I see God, constantly surprising me... constantly holding my hands... 

Even as I finish this blog, feeling so exhausted... I have to say -- It has been a blessed day!

Seek Him First!

Back to Tutoring!

Yes, my students are finished with their vacation... But Chinese New Year vacation is right around the corner.

I also had my morning Bible study... We are on Psalm 91! What a beautiful psalm to dispel fear!

The day flew by... I cooked a meatloaf dish and had a huge salad for our Bible study gal, so there was plenty of leftover for dinner.

Abby had no class.

Alan was busy at school as he has started his exams. Yes, the semester is coming to an end SOON!

The Long Term Care Facility called! They will make a bed for my mom for 8 days during Chinese New Year. So, we are going to plan a trip! Drive down to Taitong... Drive to Kenting... I'm going to let Abby arranged the trip. Now, it's going to be another miracle to find lodging, since people can't go abroad, domestic travel is so packed! If God made a way with the bed space at Daoshen (that's the long term facility that I like. The director is so kind. She has put Mom as #1 on the waiting list!), then He will make a way for our lodging! The director did say: It is only for 8 days. We don't have space for long term care. The space is available because some of the families will be bringing their elderly individual home for the holiday! I will find out what I need to do... Pay for another physical exam! YIKES! I'll find out in the next few days!

Daily Lovely Insight:

His truth, or His word, shall be our shield and buckler! 

That reminded me of Eph. 6:10-18, the whole armor of God!

Seek Him First!

Yes, the Chargers Won!

Alan and Abby were up early to watch the game. Isaiah was also watching from Coventry. And after reading Mom Bea's Blog, she and Alden were also watching the game. I guess the Chargers must win next week to be in the playoff to go to the Super Bowl... They will be playing the Las Vegas Raiders! 

I cleaned the house and then went for a run... I also started cooking for my Bible study group. I had a nice hair wash in the afternoon and went and bought some veggies. I couldn't believe how expensive bananas have gotten! 

I got back and started working... and Mom was home. But I had no tutoring tonight, so I was able to finish my work after Mom went to bed!

Daily Lovely Insight:

It just felt so good to enjoy a hair wash this afternoon! Sometimes we all need to just need time to rest in this way... I felt so blessed!

It was a gift... a refreshing gift! 

Seek Him First!

First Sunday, First Prayer Walk of 2022

We were all feeling tired, but not Mom... 

She was up early and kept going to the door to go out... 

We had to finally lock our front door. I fell asleep on the couch... Abby and Alan both went for a short nap.

We had a great service. Two visitors from Indonesia and it was our first prayer walk.

I shared!

Daily Lovely Insight:

Here are my three points:

In Jesus' name

In holy reverence

In constant obedience

John 14:13-14

Seek Him First!