The Gift of the Sabbath!

I love having a weekly Sabbath!

The weather was raining and cloudy early this morning... but I decided to run later. I took the clothes down and put things away!

I got Mom up and out.

Then I sat and read and I took a nap! It was a delightful nap! When I finally opened my eyes, it was almost 11am!

I had to get my run in and I wanted to run the hills.

After I finished, I grabbed my stuff and went to try to get Alan's scooter and car insurance information updated. I could not get it done. We will have to go to a Cathay Bank that has an insurance agent, but I can do it in January, before Alan takes off! I went to WGE and took a shower. The trainer had a client, so we didn't have time to talk. I then went to the new Carrefour and got several items. The store is very nice! I'll go again, definitely!

I got home at 4pm and found all these great things in the recycling bin! And I packed two bags of things to give away. They were picked up this evening! And I put up lights for Alan. He has always wanted Christmas lights, so I finally got some and hung them in the living room! They look very nice, very festive, very Christmas-like!

I had Bible study at 9pm after I got Mom to bed.

Sabbath goes by so quickly and I so enjoy the day... I can hardly wait until next Thursday!

Daily Lovely Insight:

Seek Him First!

Feeling Tired!

I went to bed late since it was Abby's birthday and we were chatting on line!

So... I ran after Mom left... 12km. I will do the hills tomorrow! 

Then I was prepping for the game for 12/10, the talk for 12/24 and the workshop for 12/16!

After a quick lunch, I laid down and in 20 minutes was up and out the door.

I always enjoy the Soochow Bible study! 

I went to WGE and then to tutor! The hour went by quickly.

After getting home, I misplaced the bag on the couch and my glass pan went crashing to the floor in pieces! Alan happened to be sweeping... so it got cleaned up fairly quickly. 

I was in a rush as I had things to do and I also had to get Mom to bed... I mopped the floor and went down and threw out the bag of broken glass and then got Mom off to bed.

Nothing tonight... I'm so glad... and tomorrow is my SABBATH!

Isaiah went to play basketball after work!

Alan had a nice day at home! Tonight he had a Sunday School Committee Meeting!

Daily Lovely Insight:

Seek Him First!

Happy Birthday, Abby... And... Running at the Park... No Hills Today! My Legs Are Boycotting Hills...

Here's Abby's Recap/Newsletter:

    As you know, I started DTS in Freiburg in September of 2022. And as part of DTS, there is an outreach phase. So, in January and Feburary I was in Chile and Argentina with a team of 7. We traveled to 7-8 locations, doing children and youth activities, home visitations, plus lots of worship, prayer walks, and preaching in neighborhoods and churches. Everywhere we went, we were listening to the guidance of the Holy Spirit. I believe we blessed many lives and encouraged many believers to stay strong in this walk with God. Many pastors and leaders of the church really welcomed us. I even got to preach for the first time during this trip. God used us in many wonderful ways.

    In March, I graduated from our DTS with my fellow classmates. I felt that God wasn’t saying to go back to Taiwan so I started to pray for where I should go. God led me to Hope Mountain in Brazil. I didn’t understand why was it Brazil since they speak Portuguese. In my head, my dream was to be a missionary in South America, preferably a Spanish speaking country. But God always surprises us, right? Hope Mountain has been my home since March of 2023. In my limited abilities and God’s unlimited power, I’ve built blessed relationships with people from different churches, as well as the staff and the boys who liveat Hope Mountain. Over these past few months, even though some boys come and go, but overall, they are like my brothers and family to me. 

    The biggest lesson God taught me is that I am NOT in control. I must rely on God. The transition from YWAM, Germany to Hope Mountain, Brazil wasn’t easy, just like moving from Taiwan to Germany. Just when I thought I was settling in, I moved to a different place. I was getting along really well with Calvary Chapel, Freiburg, Germany. But then I had to say my goodbyes. People welcomed me in Brazil. Everyone thinks I’m Japanese. Learning Portuguese has been one of the most difficult things to overcome. Another thing has been loneliness as it’s pretty isolated where I live. God continues to be gracious with me through Aunt Corenne and many people here who take good care of me. Sometimes, the situations speaks louder than the Holy Spirit. But God waits for me to calm down and He speaks, comforts, and guides me under His wings once more. That’s my recap. It’s already mid-November, but I know lots will happen before the end of 2023. God is NOT done yet! I’ll be going to a Taylor Swift concert, not to mention Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year! All glory and honor belong to the One who made the heavens and earth.

 

Personal Verse for 2024:

But we are the children of the day; let us be vigilant in our minds and put on the breastplate of faith and of love and let us take the helmet of the hope of Life.

I Thessalonians 5:8

 

Two things that I’m looking forward to in 2024:

After getting my visa to stay in Brazil (I'm speaking in faith!), I can then take a trip to Taipei! I looking forward to improveing my Portuguese so that I can better communicate with others.

 

Prayer Requests for 2024:

1.          Get my Volunteering Visa so that I can stay in Brazil.

2.         Have more wisdom to guide Bella in her studies. 

3.         Start serving in different ministries at church!

4.         Start driving in Brazil!

5.         Start fundraising and write my newsletters again. 

6.         Abide in Christ always.

7.    Continue to lose weight.

As for me, I was up several times... as I did go to bed by 9pm!

I had my time with Jesus... I just love that early morning hour.

I started with the housework that I didn't get to last night, such as doing a load of laundry and cooking and baking!

Before I could finish, it was time to get Mom up and ready and out to catch the van!

After she left, I was out for my riverside park run! Yes, no hills today! I did 15k, an easy run, just to get my legs moving!

I was back and no messages from the Day Care Center, no surprise phone calls! 

I had a nice late lunch and a short nap, then prep for my tutoring session. 

I hadn't been at WGE for two days, so off I went. And again I saw the trainer/manager and he promised to be at church on Sunday! Please pray for him. The company sets a very high monthly quota for him. But he is not feeling stressed... Praise the Lord!

I was back at home and took out the gifts that need to be wrapped for Saturday's White Elephant Party.

Tutoring started at 3:30 and I went just a bit late... So, I had to rush to get Mom's dinner ready as the van is always so on time!

Family Time tonight! And it was Abby's birthday! The box I sent arrived, but she has to go pay a fee to get it out! And the Taylor Swift Concert was absolutely spectacular... and Aunty Corenne lavished her with so many gifts and memorabilia! 

Daily Lovely Insight:

Seek Him First!

Training Continues...

I was up early and after Mom went off (and yes, she was well enough to go to the Day Care Center!), I ate a nice breakfast and left at 9:30 for my 3-hr hill training workout! I brought water and gel packs! It was not easy but I completed 25k (my set goal) and burned over 1000 calories! 

I was going to go to WGE but the day care people messaged me... Mom had another huge mucus cough up while eating her lunch. I knew that was going to happen! She was talking, talking, talking last night. And when she is hyper and talking non-stop, the mucus spit-up will be A LOT!

While messaging the Center, our tenant called. She couldn't open the door! She had the key, but the lock seemed to be jammed. I had to scooter over with WD40 after a very speedy shower. I got there and got the door open. Of course, I had planned on going over there this Friday to clean the hall closet and the kitchen sink and floor. So, I just did that today! It took TWO HOURS! It wasn't as bad as last time, but still... the kitchen floor was GRIMY!

I had to rush as I wanted to get Mom's prescription filled and pick up a library book and look for colored contacts for Abby and be home by 4pm as I had prayer time with a sister! It was a rush, but I made it! I didn't go to the newly opened Carrefour. I didn't get to WGE.

As we were finishing our prayer time, the phone rang! Mom was back!

Tonight was tap dancing, but I was a bit too tired... so I didn't go... I went to bed super early!

Daily Lovely Insight:

Seek Him First!

A Different Sunday!

I was up early and had planned to go to the Shekinah Church as I couldn't attend our HOP afternoon service.

The service was fantastic... First, the speaker was the founder of the Day Care Center of the Church's Social Outreach Ministry. What a testimony! Then they sang a song that I wanted to share at the wedding this afternoon. When they started singing it, I felt the goodness of God flooding over me!

I came home and got Mom up and she seemed fine... She bounced back... She ate breakfast, but I didn't give her much. Then at around lunch time, I gave her another box of Supra Sports Drink and a piece of bread. No problem!

I had to leave and Alan was in charge. 

I went to catch the train to JiaoXi and along the two hour train ride, I message Alan. Mom was back to her hyper self!

I arrived and found the hotel. I was to read the Scriptures and give a word of encouragement! The place was packed... and the banquet had even more people. I had to leave at 8pm as my train was at 8:14. I rushed back to the train station and caught the train. I 'napped' all the way back, messaging Alan and Isaiah from time to time!

I found my scooter and rode home by 11pm!

When I got home, there were things to clean up... and of course, I blogged and downloaded the emails.

Thank you Jesus... You always carry me through!

Daily Lovely Insight:

Take the time to read Psalm 84... What a beauty! What a song of thanksgiving!

Seek Him First!

Happy Birthday, Isaiah! Happy Thanksgiving!

Yes, here is the next "Reflection Newsletter" from Isaiah! And it's his birthday! We went out to celebrate as I had arranged a helper to be here. But Mom was not her normal self... She had diarrhea and she had a huge bowel movement! So, I had no idea what was going on. We didn't go out too far... We had lunch at a steakhouse... it was ok... nothing fancy. Then we went bowling. That was fun! We didn't go to this huge bowling alley that was out in Chungli. We went to our old favorite in Shihlin... The YUANSHAN BOWLING ALLEY! Then we played a few games of basketball and darts! We were home early... and Mom was back in bed, resting! She didn't want to talk or eat or drink anything! Isaiah thinks that if she rests, she will bounced back tomorrow... as she has done many many times before!

Isaiah

2023 Recap:

I started my Taiwan mandatory Military Service on 12/29/2023 and then after boot camp, I was appointed to the Taoyuan Artillery Base. When that finished in April, I continued my application process and sent out nine applications to various local Management Associate Programs with different Financial Institutions. I was called back for several interviews, but was finally offered a position with one of the major insurance companies in Taiwan, NanShan Corp. 

Since I got a full-time job, I decided to use some of my savings to buy a new scooter, which I’ve named Indigo! Before starting my job on July 3^rd, (Tough Grandpa’s birthday), Mom and I went for a quick trip to the States. It was great to see my cousins and my aunts and uncles and my Grandma Bea, and their new house in El Cajon! Because of Covid, I have not traveled to the States for the past three years, so it was especially wonderful (and I’m not sure when I’ll be able to have another three-week holiday once my full-time job has started!). There are 14 others who have started with me. We have become close friends and enjoy working together. These past few months have been busy with presentations, classes, exams, and reports to prepare.

Bible Passage for 2024:

Psalm 121:1-4

1  I lift up my eyes to the hills. From where does my help come? 

2  My help comes from the Lord, who made heaven and earth. 

3  He will not let your foot be moved; he who keeps you will not slumber. 

4  Behold, he who keeps Israel will neither slumber nor sleep.

 

Prayer requests for 2024 and what I am looking forward to in the New Year!

1. In January, we will be assigned a certain job rotation. Who will be at the same department with me and what will my supervisor be like? What will be my new responsibilities?

2. Dad and Mom are thinking about helping me with a down payment for a property in Taipei as an investment. I would pay the monthly mortgage payment and that will be a wonderful way to help me to put my salary in something that will have a good return. Where should we invest? And who will we rent it to?

3. Since I’ve started working full time, I have eaten out with my colleagues quite a bit and we have monthly parties. I also don’t exercise as much, so I think I need to lose a bit of weight in 2024 and get down to maybe 73kgs. 

4. I think I should start dating again. Of course, Mom and Dad would like for me to date someone who is a believer. I don’t see anyone at HOP and the gals I work with are all not yet believers.

5. Currently, I serve on the Worship Team and also help to translate. I am considering how to be more involved at House of Praise in 2024.

6. What am I looking forward to? I don’t think I will have too many days off, but perhaps I can plan a trip overseas, if I combine all my days off. I’d love to catch a TWICE concert, although that seems quite impossible. The tickets are outrageous and I would have to take a trip to Korea. I can always HOPE!

7. Dad and I have started on a Navigator Discipleship video study and will continue in 2024. 

 

Daily Lovely Insight:

I love all the verses about giving thanks... 

Seek Him First!

Not the Usual Date!

I was up early and did not go for my run until after Mom left! The weather was cool... so it was perfect. In fact, the weather report changed drastically. It was going to be a warm day, but the wind and the slight drizzle brought the temperature down!

Alan wanted to Skype Mom Bea... and then he had a building's meeting. 

I decided to do the 'errand' for Abby's visa. Unfortunately, she did not give me the right information. I needed her chop. The Office has a long lunch break, so I could not make it back by 12noon.

Off I went to RT Mart to see what they had for Black Friday. Nothing. Then I went to Costco... not a super discount, but I got sliced cheese and romaine lettuce. Oh, at RT Mart, they had eggs on sale and Korean snacks!

I met Alan back at the police station. He brought the chop and we were finished in five minutes! Off we went to the Notary Public and even though we didn't have an appointment, they did it for us. Unfortunately, they could only do the criminal record. Pastor James' letter won't be done until Wednesday as he has to prove that he signed it!

We bought a milk tea and sat down for a bit... We were just rushing around all day.

Alan dropped me off at WGE as that's where my scooter was. I dropped off the baked pumpkin dessert for Tai and a fast workout. I made it home before 5pm -- MOM DUTY!

After Mom went to bed, Alan and I watched NCIS together. Isaiah had a conference for work and then went out to celebrate. He said he wouldn't be back until 3am, so we did not wait up for him.

Daily Lovely Insight:

I am forever grateful for God's gift of my two kids... Both of them were born in November and right around Thanksgiving... They are indeed a constant reminder of God's perfection and sovereignty! 

Seek Him First!

Thanksgiving Sabbath!

I started blogging back in 2009... It's been 14 years. Thank you for reading and commenting. 

Today, I'm posting Alan's "Reflection Newsletter". For many years, I'd post the "Reflection Newsletters" on consecutive days just before Christmas. This year, I thought it would be best to spread them out! I'll be posting the newsletters all the way until Christmas, ending with our Annual Family Newsletter!

Alan’s Highlights for 2023:

January -- Going to the US for four weeks to see my mom, having the opportunity to see two SDSU basketball games 

March-- Hiking Elephant Mountain Trail with Lovely and seeing the city of Taipei, our home for the past 36 years, from a mountain top perspective

April – Hosting the “Night Is Still Young” Event sponsored by the men of HOP.

May -- Having the ICEE week without Covid issues for the first time since we started this weeklong event in the English Department of SCU.  

June -- Having various retirement celebrations with SCU friends and teammates as well as seeing the Brantinghams in Taiwan, taking care of my mother-in-law for two weeks, while Lovely was in the States, (I overexerted her, ending up with her having heat stroke and being dehydrated.)

July-- Teaching a summer school class at SCU

August -- Participating in HOP Summer Mission Trip to the Philippines

September-- Beginning SCU teaching as a part-time teacher

October-- Participating in the HOP Leadership Retreat and leading the HOP Children’s Service

It has been a year of “changes and transitions”. I’ve been asked why I had to retire. That’s a rule here in Taiwan. You cannot teach full-time after the age of 65. I still teach six classes for a total of 12 hours, but I’m only getting paid hourly, versus with a salary. That means I’m getting half of what I received from being a full-time teacher! I am not required to attend meetings and I do not receive a Chinese New Year Bonus! Even though I don’t have meetings at SC, I have plenty of meetings at HOP. As a church, we are also in transition. I must also mention that turning 65 has a few advantages. I received my Senior Citizen Card! It gives me 485 points on a monthly basis, so I can go to the Sports Centers for free. I also can travel on the public transportation system, deducting points from the card! 

I’m looking forward to going to the States in 2024, during the Chinese New Year Holiday. I will also take a trip down to Brazil and see Abby! HOP will be moving to a new place in 2024! And I have no firm plans for the summer of 2024!

Personal Verse of Focus:

Psa 71:5-9  For You are my hope; O Lord GOD, You are my confidence from my youth. By You I have been sustained from my birth; You are He who took me from my mother's womb; My praise is continually of You. I have become a marvel to many, For You are my strong refuge. My mouth is filled with Your praise And with Your glory all day long. Do not cast me off in the time of old age; Do not forsake me when my strength fails. 

Prayer Requests for 2024:

Travel safety during CNY as well as opportunities to support and minister during my time with Abigail in Brazil. Plans for HOP's move to the new facility. Ministry at HOP. Summer plans.

Daily Lovely Insight:

I had a delightful Sabbath... Ran in the morning for 13k after Mom left. Went to WGE and talked to Tai. I had brought a thanksgiving muffin for him! I made my own favorite kimchi tofu lunch and then sat on the sofa and read for the rest of the afternoon. I would get up and do a chore, such as putting a load of laundry in the washing machine, or sorting through the food pantry. Mom was home all too soon... Alan and Isaiah were out playing basketball, so I spent the rest of the evening, READING, after I got Mom off to bed! THANK YOU, JESUS!

Seek Him First!

The Usual Wednesday!

I was up early... and went out for the hill run... 12km. I wanted to get it done as it was going to be a warm day.

I was home and after a quick shower, I was on "duty", Mom Care!

She got picked up and I was back at home, putting the dessert into the oven and looking over questions and games for the Bible study at Soochow. I also planned for my tutoring.

I decided to have turkey meat for breakfast and a sandwich for lunch... Delightful!

Alan came home and after a shower, he was off for the Soochow Thanksgiving Event. I got out all the tools and containers. He helps carve the turkey!

I was out as I had Bible study at Soochow.

We had one new kid... and the dessert that I made was absolutely perfect! They loved it!

I went to WGE and again, saw the manager, so we talked. I had to leave to get gas and ride up to the kid's house!

Tutoring went well... and I was home by 6:30!

Tonight, I had prayer time with a sister... and I was so ready to go to bed!

Daily Lovely Insight:

Seek Him First!

 

Happy Thanksgiving Week!

I will write that every day... I love this season. One of my Bible study gals gave us turkey meat! What a wonderful surprise!

OK... let me back track... 

I was up early and doing prep for my Bible study tomorrow as I wanted to make a special dessert. Then I got everything out for the meal for the Bible study this morning.

After getting Mom in the van, I was out the door for a 10k hill run. That's all the time I had! I was home by 9:50 and finished my shower as the gals arrived!

One gal brought banana blueberry muffins. Another gal brought guava slices. Another gal brought sliced Asian pears. And of course, I had a salad and ham and cheese sandwiches ready! We had a delightful study. There were six of us!

When they left at 12:45, I cleaned up and then read over my student's entry to email it back to him. I was out the door by 2:45 to pick up two more things I ordered and then do a quick workout at WGE. I saw Tai and encouraged him to stay close to Jesus. So, I didn't really do a workout!

Tutoring was at 3:30 and we finished a bit late... I put Mom's dinner in the microwave and got my dinner ready (salad with turkey meat) and the phone rang!

While Mom ate, I blogged and then after Mom went to bed, I left for my Bible study.

Daily Lovely Insight:

Seek Him First!

What A Monday!

I was looking forward to this day as I didn't have to tutor and I had no afternoon appointments. So, about three weeks ago, I called and made a dentist appointment to get my teeth cleaned. I also called and made an appointment to get my hair trimmed! I was getting so impatient and wanted to get the shears myself!

Anyhow, I was up early because the boys were up early for the Chargers' Game. (Spoiler Alert: The Chargers lost by THREE points!) The game started at 2am! Alan was up at 1:48am!

I went back to sleep after having my time with Jesus! And then it was Mom Care! The van was again late!

But I was hitting the hills by 9am and it was a bit warm! Today was my two hours hill workout! Up and down and up and down!

I rushed home and grabbed my gears and went to WGE for a shower. Then it was to the hair salon! The gal is from Pingtung, a believer, but has not been attending church. So, when we finished, I prayed with her and a customer walked in! Yeah!

I then went back to WGE to do a workout and talk to Tai, the manager. He also has skipped church for two weeks. But he promised to come to HOP on 12/3.

I went and got my teeth cleaned and Mom can go and get her teeth cleaned too. I will make an appointment! November and December are just too packed, so maybe January... Alan and Isaiah can also go... 

I was finished and went to Taiwan Cellular to ask about our cell phone contracts. I can renew now, but I will wait until December to see if they have any better deals. Alan and Abby's contracts won't be until April of 2024.

Then I stopped at Carrefour and they had my exercise gel packs on sale! WHAT? The expiration date is for 12/12... A gift from God. So I bought all that they had! I also got oranges and tangerines!

I was home by 4:10 and rushed to put things away and get Mom's dinner ready. Tomorrow's Bible study meal is taken care of too!

Mom was home right on time... 

While she ate, I blogged. Tap dancing tonight after she went to bed and then Family Time at 8:30.

What a Monday!

Daily Lovely Insight:

For some reason, I was reminded of Fall in Heidelberg... and the song, How Great Thou Art!

Seek Him First!

Fulfilling Sunday!

I was up early and then after my quiet time, I went back and rested!

Then I was out at WGE and Carrefour!

I was home and it was Mom Care!

Alan and Isaiah had a tennis tournament, so they didn't get back until 12noon.

We were out of the house by 2:15 as Alan and I had counseling at 2:30. We were a bit late as the couple was late too. That gave me time to set up the Love Cafe. I usually bring snacks and make the coffee. 

I had to translate for Andrew, our speaker. He spoke from II Kings 5:1-14, the Power of Obedience!

Daily Lovely Insight:

Here are some of the main points from the sermon today:

1. Be willing to listen to those who you might deem to be younger and lower than you.

2. Be aware of armor you put on to hide your defects. The longer you try to hide things, the more serious the problems become.

3. Be sensitive of 'leprosy', things in your life that eat at you.

4. Be obedient to God's instructions for the results will be most unexpected.

Seek Him First!

Cold Saturday!

The temperature dropped to 11!

I went for a run before getting Mom up! It was nice and chilly!

Isaiah came back late last night, so he did not join Alan for tennis!

I ran the hills: my last time for this week. And I ran faster! I just 'attacked' the hills! 

Mom enjoyed her food... and is eating fast again! I had a nice long talk with Abby! YIPPY! We were talking about goal setting!

When Alan came home, I went to buy more stuff. Then he went and made copies of our study for tonight! He also bought broccoli as we made broccoli cream soup as part of the dinner!

The helper came at 5pm and we all took off!

Isaiah helped us set up and joined us for dinner. He then went and had an acupressure massage for two hours!

The evening went by fairly fast with four other couples joining us! But I was feeling so tired... I think when I run, I need more sleep!

Daily Lovely Insight:

I just love this season with all the fall colors! I know it's not really Thanksgiving until Thursday, but I'm already thinking of what to make for my Soochow Bible study kids! I have a can of pumpkin puree and sweet and condensed milk. Costco is not selling pumpkin pies this year... so I will bake something special. There are lots of verses about giving thanks... Look for them this week. Here is one to get you started!

Seek Him First!

Goal Setting Date!

Yes, it's the middle of November when we set our goals!

I didn't go for a run at 5:45am, instead I did a load of laundry!

Then it was Mom care and the driver was late... again! I went for my 12k at 8:50 and got back in time to shower as Alan and I were set to meet at 10:30.

We went to lunch at a delicious Teppanyaki place and then sat in the food court to go over goals. We did not finish.

We were off to B&Q to buy screen replacement kits. I also went to PXMart to buy bread for our Marriage Builders' Dinner tomorrow night. In addition, we stopped at Costco to get milk and chips, and picked up Alan's candy canes! We were home by 3:30 and started on the screen!

Unfortunately, we were not finished by 5:10 when Mom was home! Darn it!

I had dinner ready for Mom. 

Isaiah went out with his co-workers. 

Alan and I were pretty full from our lunch, so we just had a salad!

This evening after getting Mom to bed, I went to WGE for a quick workout!

Daily Lovely Insight:

We choose Isaiah 40:31 as our Couple Verse for 2024:

Seek Him First!

Yippy For Sabbath!

I can't tell you how much I look forward to my regular Sabbath! It takes planning... but it is totally worth it!

I was up and then went out for a flat 12k. 

I got Mom up and out and after tidying up everything, I settled on the sofa with a mug of coffee and two books!

The day was spent reading and resting!

At 1:30, I went out to pick up an oven for one of my students. YWAM people picked it up for me and we met at Miramar! I had two more things to give to them!

I was home by 2pm and made dinner. Then out I went again... this time, it's to the HILLS -- 12k! Yes, I am in training. It is SEVEN weeks before the 'run'. I have to get my legs ready. So, I ran the hills yesterday and I ran the hills today. I will run the hills one more time on Saturday. My next step is to run the hills TWICE, consecutively. This week was to run the hills two days in a row with a flat 12k in between. So, I am building distance and hills. And I did the hills faster today!

I was home and after a quick shower, I heated up Mom's dinner and the phone rang!

I had a free evening, so I worked on my Bible study materials and my December talk: God is the God of the Unexpected! The focus is on the meaning of Christmas. Please pray! I will share on Christmas Eve. And I also have three weddings to attend: 11/26, 12/3 and 12/30. One will be in Yilan and the other two in Taipei. The White Elephant Party is on 12/2. An engagement luncheon which I am hosting on 12/10. Marriage Builders this Saturday and another one in December. This is along with my training schedule as the run in on January 6th! So... in my earlier post, Can it get any busier? You now know the answer to that question!

Daily Lovely Insight:

Jude is a wonderful book... That's the study I was working on... 

Seek Him First!

Ran the Hills & More...

I was up early and got a few things accomplished before I got Mom up and out!

Then I went out for my hills run... I did it faster this time!

I was home and after a quick lunch and prepped for tutoring and Bible study, I took a nap! I had to! I was feeling so tired!

I asked Alan to run two errands -- pick up the pillow and buy the parts for the dehumidifier that I found in the recycling area. I had watched a few YouTube how to fix it reels and found the parts needed. I called and the Hitachi place is out in XinChuang. So, I sent Alan over there!

I went to Soochow and had another great Bible study! Eight students. One student popped his head in but had to go to an interview. Three others came in to get some dessert, but couldn't stay!

After the study, I went for a quick workout and then headed over to my student's home for tutoring! The hour flew by. By the time I came out, it was dark and windy!

I was home by 6:15! With the parts that Alan got, I fixed the dehumidifier (RD-200J)! It's a 400US$, 12 function dehumidifier and it cost only 7US$ for the parts! Sure, I had to take the time to watch the videos. I had to take the time to find the place where the parts are sold and Alan had to take the time to go over there. But I sure do like to tinker and fix things!

I had to get Mom to bed and no appointment tonight! I had plenty to do.

Isaiah had a meeting and decided not to go play basketball tonight!

We watched one episode of NCIS and then I headed to bed! I need to go to bed earlier as I still want to wake up before dawn or earlier... 

Daily Lovely Insight:

This was one of Alan's suggestions:

Seek Him First!

Can It Get Any Busier?

I barely had time to squeeze in my usual run! 

I was up early and then before getting Mom up, I baked and cooked!

Then Mom care... she was out the door and I was cleaning the kitchen. At 9:30, I had to go or I would not have the time for a run!

I was back and in the shower and out the door again. First, I had to pick up a few things that I had ordered on 11/11. Then it was to a friend's house because she needed my help to talk to the bank. I can ask the right questions to help her better understand her present mortgage payment.

After that was finished, I went to the bank to withdraw some cash as I needed to put down a deposit for the 12/10 luncheon reservation! They are setting aside 37 seats and I want to pre-order the food. I will do that at a later date!

I scootered home to drop off the things that I had picked up and then was out again. This time to WGE for 15 minutes and then to meet up with the gal who is getting married. They needed help to eliminate pictures. They had paid for 45 pictures and the photographer took over 250 pictures. Then there was the decision as to which picture goes to which kind of frame or size or picture books. We also had to choose new dresses for the wedding banquet. We were not finished by 5pm, but I had to head back for Mom Care. I was trying to NOT ride fast as it was sprinkling and the ground was wet. 

I got back just as the van was pulling into our alley! I asked him to wait so that I can park my scooter in the garage!

I had dinner in the microwave, so that was easy!

Bible study canceled... that was from God. I was able to be home to work on things for tomorrow's Bible study and tutoring!

Daily Lovely Insight:

We have selected our 2024 passage: Romans 5:3-5!

Seek Him First!

No Time to Nap~

Today spanned way too fast!

I was up early, but could not head out as I needed to gather all the stuff to give away. They changed the time from coming tomorrow to coming this morning! I then brought everything down to the first floor. 

Isaiah and Alan were up watching the game. Chargers lost by a field goal!

I got Mom up and ready, but we had a new driver. He didn't come until 8:55!

So... I finished up with tidying up Mom's room and finally left for my run at 9:30. My plan was to run the hills. And that took 90 minutes -- 12k.

I was heading back and saw the van leaving and soon, saw Alan taking off!

It was 11 when I got home. I didn't have time to take a shower as I started organizing the back so that things would be more accessible!

I had tutoring at 2pm. I went long and didn't get back until 3:50! A friend came over at 4pm for prayer time! 

Mom was back at 5:10 and I had her dinner ready!

Alan and Isaiah were back by 6:15 and my friend left at 6:30!

I did not go to tap dancing because I was just too exhausted. But I still had to care for Mom. All I wanted to do was to lay down and close my eyes!

Family Time tonight at 8:30... I could hardly keep my eyes opened. But we decided on our Family Verse! I will share in my next post!

I have a lot all week... YIKES!

Daily Lovely Insight:

What are the other suggestions? Here is one from Abby:

II Cor. 3:18

Seek Him First!

Sunday!

I got up and my legs were feeling a lot better... Wow!

But no running on Sunday... I went out and picked trash and did. quick workout at WGE. There was a race going on and I had seen the km markings when I ran through the park this week... The weather was nice... but I know these people looked tired!

I was home with Mom duty!

Isaiah had a wedding to attend, so he took on his scooter.

Alan and I went to church at 2:15 and helped with setting up. I was the speaking. 

The Beauty of Giving Thanks, I Thes. 5:18!

We came home and I did not go for a walk with the sister as I will see her on Tuesday to figure our her finances. We are going to crunch some numbers and make some phone calls. 

It was nice to be home after Mom went to bed... 

Daily Lovely Insight:

Seek Him First!

11/11 -- Taiwan Online Shopping Day!

I was up early, but I had planned to go for a three hour run... and since the weather looked cooler, I stayed home to get things done!

I took down the clothes and put everything away. I got out more blankets, so the pile to give away is getting higher!

I had Mom up and eating breakfast, while I worked. What was I working on?

Online Shopping... bit discount and free shipping!

I spent about 250US$ -- I bought three pairs of running shoes, snacks, gel packets (I had no idea that they were so expensive!) and looked at other things... 

At 12noon, I went out for my long run! It was windy and drizzling, but I got the job done! Three hours, 26k! I was glad to be home. Alan and Isaiah were here, so Mom was fine!

We all did not have any appointments this evening. It was so nice to be home!

So, after Mom went to bed, I watched another episode of NCIS! Isaiah helped me to get it for free! 

Daily Lovely Insight:

This is Isaiah's suggestion for our 2024 Family Biblical Focus:

Seek Him First!

Date!

I was up and out and ran 14k... It wasn't cool, but bearable that early!

Then I had a quick shower and Mom care!

When she left, I started getting out all the sheet and pillowcases... YWAM has two teams coming to Taiwan. They need blankets, pillows and beddings! I got together 15 sets of beddings and will give them about 4 pillows and 4 blankets and loan them three more blankets. I have a few at the old house, so I will have to go over and get them! They will come up on Tuesday to pick up everything. I'm also giving them some small appliances!

Then I headed out to pay another bill (Mom's Day Care bill), get gas for my scooter and had a quick workout at WGE.

I was home by 10:33! Alan and I had our date. First, lunch at Campus Cafe. The food was delicious. It was a splurge... two of us about 30US$!

Then we went to Costco as it's the birthday celebration at church on Sunday. I wanted to buy some desserts. And we needed milk and romaine lettuce! We also got some boneless chicken, which I popped into the air fryer when I got home! I unloaded everything and then we were out again!

We went to the Miramar arcade and used up the last of our tokens! YEAH! I also bought a few luxury items from the B1 supermarket! It's a high end supermarket, but they sure have nice things. A lady was giving sample of sausages... and we started chatting... she needed some encouragement! Just talking to her, she said she was getting goosebumps and wanted to cry! I didn't pray with her. Please remember her: the lady at the B1 supermarket. She has a Christian friend who has invited her to attend church, but she hasn't gone! I pray that this Sunday she will go!

We were back just before 5pm. I had made an appointment for Alan to get a massage as his left side felt weird... very stiff! And of course, I had to be home for Mom Care.

Isaiah had two dinner appointments with Soochow students who are in the English Department's Basketball Team. The freshmen invited Isaiah and so did the upper classmen. So he will go to both!

The weather cooled down as it's going to rain this weekend!

Daily Lovely Insight:

We, as a family, are in the process of selecting our verse for 2024! As we look back, it has been interesting as the verse or passage has really been the focus of that year! We started back in 2004 and this next year, would be our 20th year!

Here is one of the suggestions:

Voting will take place at our next Family Time on Monday, 11/13!

Seek Him First!

Sabbath!

I always look forward to my Sabbath Thursday... these precious seven hours!

I went out and ran 10k and came back. I did not have time to take a shower... It was straight to Mom Care. After she left, I had to do a load and change her bedding!

Then, I rested... I literally napped all day... 

I read and napped. I had a nice leisurely breakfast and lunch... The heat was extreme. I was hoping to go out for a second 10k, but could not do it until the sun set and Mom was in bed!

At 4pm, I went and paid bills, bought a battery and worked out at WGE. I had Mom's dinner set before leaving! I made it back just in time!

Alan had school, just two hours, but he stays there as there is basketball in the evening. Isaiah had work and then joined Alan for basketball!

Daily Lovely Insight:

Seek Him First!

Wednesday!

 I always have a lot to do and I know why -- I'm always trying to help someone... YWAM needs bunk beds and furniture and appliances... Another friend is asking about how to refinance... Another friend has a person coming to serve plus a team from Korea during the month of December... 

Well... the day started early. I was out and ran... and came back for Mom Care! I was going to do two runs, but had to forfeit that as I had to scooter down to get the electric water dispenser fixed. Isaiah gave me the location and number. I called and they didn't have the part, but invited me to go and let the technician have a look.

So... before going, I had to send off my ppt after I decided not to change anything. Then Alan and I have been working on the Bible study for our upcoming Marriage Builders study. I also send out the list of our Family Verses as we will be deciding on the verse for 2024 at our next Family Time. Each person will also be sending me their updates, looking at the highlights of last year and the prayer requests for next year, not to mention our individual verse of focus!

Well... I finally headed out at 12noon as I couldn't wait any longer. The technician was very nice. I told him the problem and asked him just to open it up and I will pray. Even though he doesn't have the parts, maybe it's an easy fix. AND IT WAS! He put some oil in the motor and it works fine! And NO CHARGE!

I was heading back in less than 30 minutes! I stopped at WGE and bought soy bean milk at Carrefour! YEAH!

I finished editing the study and got things ready for my tutoring at 4:30. I also put all the potatoes in the crock pot which will be go with the rest of the curry! 

I was a bit late as the traffic was quite congested! But tutoring went well and I was home by 6:15. I didn't have my Soochow Study today because it's midterms week!

Tonight, I had a phone call to a friend who needed help and then prayer time with a sister in Christ! I was in bed by 10pm!

Daily Lovely Insight:

Seek Him First!