No Run Tuesday!

Yes, I'm still in recovery... but I'm feeling so much better... I'd love to go for a run tomorrow, especially as the forecast says RAIN! I'm so glad as you can't believe how hot it has been and it's only the end of April!

The weather was too hot... but I did go out for a simple walk.

I had the Bible study at 10am and then when that was over and things were cleaned up and put away, I took a short nap. I wanted to go to Costco again as I didn't get the vinegar since I was too loaded up with all the goodies yesterday! I went today and they had romaine lettuce and block cheese on sale! YIPPY!

I was home by 3:15 and tutoring started at 3:30!

While tutoring, the rain started, which really cooled down the day... 

Alan came home from night class and Isaiah had basketball! I thought it was a holiday tomorrow, but I found out that the Day Care Center will still have their program! YEAH! This is fantastic as I can go meet up with a friend and drop off the luggage for another friend and then in the evening, Mom will have dinner with James and Emma!

Daily Lovely Insight:

Seek Him First!

A Perfect Day of Rest!

I needed today... and the LORD knew!

I booked a massage at 9:30 and then went to Costco!

I was home by 12:45 and after putting everything away, I had a light lunch, cooked some chicken, and took a nap!

I thought maybe an hour... but I had a full two hours!

Amazing! I was so sound asleep... 

By the time I got up, I had only 90 minutes before Mom was home... but I did have a free evening. The day was so hot, so when it cooled down, I walked down to buy soy bean milk!

I'm going to book another massage this week... and Wednesday is a holiday! James and Emma are here, so we will have dinner together! I will only have tutoring on Tuesday as well as my Bible study in the morning!

God provided this week for recovery! He is so good to be... 

Daily Lovely Insight:

The Retreat Focus: Matthew 11:28-30 --

Seek Him First!

TIRED!

Well... this has been a long day... 

I wanted to go back to bed, but instead, I did a load of laundry and helped the complex as we had no janitorial service today! The recycling area gets very pilled up with boxes and trash! I got the guard to go down to help me!

I then got busy with Mom Care!

Church was at 2:30 but praise the Lord as I didn't have to translate! AMAZING! Isaiah did a great job!

Angel is here... and another friend came... This new friend I invited talks so loud... she was blowing out my ear drums! Or maybe I was just tired... 

We helped with clean up and then was home by 7:30. All I wanted to do was to go to bed, but I had to take care of Mom... 

I did call and will go for a massage tomorrow! Isaiah said it's the lactic acid that's building up!

James and Emma will be arriving in Taipei. Another family will be here by Tuesday. We are having lots of visitors in the month of April and May!

Daily Lovely Insight:

The theme in today's testimonies seemed to be: don't limit God! 

Isaiah 55:8-9

Seek Him First!

The Lord Did It!

I arrived in Taitung on Friday around 4pm and we dropped off our bags and caught the shuttle to the Challenge Village where we signed in and got our bib and package! Wow... those who join Triathlon have money. That's what I've come to think as the bikes that these people have can cost up to 30,000US$! So, security for the bike area is really stringent.  

Erik, the biker, finally arrived. He was on a business trip in Guangzhou and flew into Kaohsiung where his wife and daughter met up with him. They then drove down to Taitung! So, the Team Relay went to run a few errands together and then we went out to dinner, while the rest of the gang hung out. The hotel we're at had an hour of buffet snacks and the food was so delicious!

We all went to our room by 10pm and unpacked. I didn't sleep until quite late and I was up at 3:15am. So, I had about four hours of sleep. I went down to the lobby and because of the Challenge, they had a small breakfast buffet set up. I got two hard boiled eggs, a banana and made my own coffee and sat and had my time with God... delightful! When that finished, the people were coming into the lobby. We left at 4:45 as the swim started at 6am, but we had to drop off things before 5:30. 

I've never joined one of these and the organization of these kinds of events is just astounding! 

After our swimmer went in, we walked to the relay tent. Isaiah Go was out in an hour... 3rd! Erik took off! He was planning to finish in 5:30 hours, biking 180km. Astounding! 

We headed back to the hotel and I rested for an hour. I didn't feel like eating... 

We were out again at 11am. The weather looked so perfect... I was praying!

Erik was back by 1:15 and we transition. I took off... I trotted off... I had set a few goals... I reached one: to finish and still be able to walk! The rest of my goals, I did not! It got hot and the sun came out. Earlier, the forecast said thunder showers... but nothing! So, I had wanted to run 21 without walking into aid stations. But I only sustained that up to the 18th kilometer! From then on, every other aid station I walked and got cold water or juice or Coca Cola! I won't give you the blow by blow description, but I finished in 4:41:00! We as a team came in 6th for the Mixed Category and 11th overall for the 226th! Astounding! Thank you for praying!

We are the 2-4-6 HOP Team. Can you guess why?

We got our towel and our shirt and our medal and our backpack and the snacks... and we took pictures and then John and Kathryn brought me back to the hotel while they went out to dinner! I had to take a shower, pack things up and walk about 300meters to the train station! I had the eight o'clock train to catch to head back up to Taipei.

I was home by 1:15! And then I worked to get the house back in order and put my stuff away. I walked in and the house smelled like diapers because the helper didn't wrap them up in a plastic bag before tossing them into the trash can!

I finally went to bed at 2:35 and was up by 5:31am!

Church today... And I will blog more later!

Daily Lovely Insight:

The Lord is indeed my strength and my shield! 

Throughout the run, I prayed and I talked to people and I thanked all the volunteers. When my legs were feeling weak, I trusted God to carry me and He did!

Seek Him First!

I Call the Sabbath A Delight!

I was up early... and yes, it was raining... I love the smell of that rain!

I went out for a short 5k. I will do the same tomorrow!

Then it was Mom care... After she left, I read and finished a book. I set the iRobots to roam... and I just sat with my coffee. I'd get up from time to time to get a snack or check my cell phone... several things needed my immediate attention... I answered them and went back to reading!

I had a nice salad for lunch and then at 2pm, I turned on the WiFi and checked my emails and changed the wallpaper on my lap top to a picture of Heidelberg! SO NICE!

Last night, we went to bed late after Family Time and Prayer Time because Alan finally got it finished! We booked Abby's ticket to Taipei... June 13th she leaves and arrives on June 15th! She departs on July 4th and arrives back by July 6th! She will have 19 days here! I think I will have to start looking for coupons if she wants her hair done... or we want to eat out... and I will need to get a helper to watch Mom while we go off on day trips. I'm sure she will want to get together with her friends... so we will see. She's already scheduled to share at HOP on June 30th for part of the sermon time! It's Outreach Sunday, so that worked out perfectly! 

I went for a walk down to the convenience store to pay two bills and cooked so that Mom's meals are ready for Friday night and Saturday all day!

I probably won't be blogging tomorrow... but I will blog on Saturday, April 27th! 

Daily Lovely Insight: 

I just listened to this song from the Salvation Army, I'll Go In the Strength of the Lord. Here's the lyrics:

1 I'll go in the strength of the Lord,
in paths he has marked for my feet:
I'll follow the light of his word,
nor shrink from the dangers I meet.
His presence my steps shall attend,
his fullness my wants shall supply;
on him, till my journey shall end,
my unwavering faith will rely.

Refrain:
I'll go, I'll go, I'll go in the strength,
I'll go in the strength of the Lord.
I'll go, I'll go, I'll go in the strength,
I'll go in the strength of the Lord.

2 I'll go in the strength of the Lord,
to work he appoints me to do;
in joy which his smile doth afford
my soul shall its vigor renew.
His wisdom shall guard me from harm,
his power my sufficiency prove;
I'll trust his omnipotent arm,
and prove his unchangeable love. [Refrain]

3 I'll go in the strength of the Lord,
to conflicts which faith will require;
his grace, as my shield and reward,
my courage and zeal shall inspire.
Since he gives the word of command
to meet and encounter the foe,
with his sword of truth in my hand
to suffer and triumph I'll go. [Refrain]

I'll go in the strength of the Lord.

A great song for this weekend!

Seek Him First!

Rainy Day... I Love It!

Yes, the sound of the down pour was music to my ears. I got Mom off and again helped with the recycling truck!

When that was finished, I was home to prep for my Soochow Bible study. I wanted to review the past three lessons as we were off for Midterm Week. 

I didn't have to tutor! YEAH! The student had a field trip! That gave me time to run in the afternoon when I got home from my Bible study!

I ran 8k again... 

The helper picked up Mom and heated up her dinner which gave me time to take a shower. I trimmed my hair! I think I missed a spot, so I will have to fix it tomorrow!

I had Family Time at 8pm and Prayer Time at 9:30.

Alan has been working on booking Abby's flight! I hope to have news tomorrow!

Daily Lovely Insight:

Seek Him First!

Another Productive Day!

I was up early and the sound of the down pour just cheered my heart. I went out for 8k!

Then it was Mom Care and after she took off, I did some housework before going to the old house to drop things off!

Our complex has a new janitor. Praise Jesus! This guy is older, but he actually is doing the cleaning and not just talking about it! I gave him some bleach and showed him where the brushes, etc. are located!

I had a nice lunch and took a nap! I could have napped the whole afternoon, but there were things to get done. I put in a load of laundry. I set the iRobot to roam. I had tutoring at 3:30! The day seemed to have gone by way too fast.

Tonight I had my evening Bible study!

Daily Lovely Insight:

Here are the discussion questions related to my talk last Sunday. Pick one and write your answer in the comment section!

April 21, 2024

Acts of the Holy Spirit - The Gifts

I Cor. 12:8-10

Romans 12:3-8

Ephesians 4:11-13

1: Since this past Sunday, have you experienced the Holy Spirit, and how did this affect you, your family and friends? 

2: What are the spiritual gifts? How do you see the different spiritual gifts functioning/being used in our church?

3: How can you encourage spiritual growth and maturity in our church based on Ephesians 4:11-13?

4: What practical steps can we take to ensure that everyone in our church feels valued and significant?

5: How can we foster a greater sense of interdependence within our Christian communities?

If time permits, read 1 Cor. 12:6, & 13-14, I Cor. 13:4-8, Ephesians  4:8, and 1 Peter 4:9.  How do these verses add to your understanding of the acts of the Holy Spirit?

Seek Him First!

A More Relaxing Monday!

I didn't have to tutor this afternoon and my training is under an hour! 

I did do a load of Mom's laundry. I did clean up the house. I did cook! I did work on my talk for May 26th. But overall, it was a more relaxing Monday! 

I had prayer time at 4pm and then Mom was back.

This evening, we again went to the old house to drop off a mini oven and some other stuff! Isaiah had basketball, so we couldn't have Family Time. Hopefully, we will do that on Wednesday evening at 7:30, Taiwan time. We are still looking at getting Abby's ticket for June. Annie was very kind to offer her points, but the flight would route through the US and it would take just as long! So, we're going to just buy a round trip ticket from Vitoria to Taipei! I found one with British Airway and Eva Air... 2300US$! 

Daily Lovely Insight:

In preparing for May 26th, I am looking at how the Spirit helps us through interceding for us with groaning... And one article I read was quite encouraging... God is not far off, but He helps us. He knows us and He takes on our burdens. And He intercedes according to the will of God. That's a promise you can count on!

Seek Him First!

Interesting Sunday

I was up early and then went out for a walk to the park as there was a race going on and the Brooks Running Shoes had a booth. I picked trash on the way there!

I bought another pair of shoes for 200NT$ less. 2680! I went to WGE after dropping the shoes off for Alan to bring home. He and Isaiah had a tennis tournament and they won first place. They got eight cans of tennis balls... ha, ha, ha... 

I was home for Mom care and they didn't get back until after 12noon.

We left at 2:30 for church. I was sharing on the Gifts of the Holy Spirit.

We had Love Feast and came home after helping to clean up!

This week looks busy... and I have the BIG event on Saturday... training this week will be minimal... but I will have to get everything ready for Mom Care!

Daily Lovely Insight:

Ephesians 4:12

The purpose of our spiritual gifts... how are you using yours?

Seek Him First!

Productive Saturday!

I was up super early... but did not go for a run... I can't remember why?!?!? I went after Isaiah left for his early morning Bible study group! 

I ran 12 to make 63.3 for this week... and I average 6.29/kilometer! YIPPY! I'm one week away. PRAY!

I was home and decided NOT to go to WGE as there were things to get done before I woke up my Mom! I had all my tutoring games to sort through. I had things to put away. And I wanted to crack open the combination lock of my friend's luggage! I watched a YouTube video and figured it out! 

Mom is having soft stool... and a lot of it... I had to immediately toss the dirty diaper down in our community trash bins! The smell was overwhelming!

Isaiah and Alan came back from playing tennis and Alan was talking to Annie about flight possibilities... for Abby! Now that she has her preliminary visa, I think we can start looking at dates.

Tonight we had Marriage Builders! How fun! Isaiah played 3-on-3 basketball. He was home by 6:30pm. we didn't get home until 8:30. 

Daily Lovely Insight:

Tonight we shared a verse of encouragement to our spouse! Here are some of the verses:

Isaiah 40:31

Joshua 1:8

Isaiah 43:2-3

Psalm 37:8

Look them up!

Seek Him First!

What A Date!

I was up early but way too tired to go out... Instead after my time with Jesus and prayer with Alan, I went back to bed. He had his Men's Group!

I was up and caring for Mom. After she left, I went for my 9k. Then it was back to help with the complex! Alan and I left at 10:25 to pick up two gals and we headed to Danhsui. We picked up another car load of stuff! We will ship to the Philippines! Really nice Disney stuff... bowls, plates, cups, forks, spoons, pillowcases! WOW!

Alan had found a nice restaurant and we went there for lunch! It overlooked the Danhsui Fisherman Wharf! It was a Cantonese Restaurant. We had a delightful lunch!

We had to head back because we never know about the traffic and I had made an appointment to get my Pap smear and mammogram done! We first stopped to drop off all the stuff that will be shipped. We then went to our old house to drop off the trashcans that I had washed for them. I also gave them two new trashcans! Finally, Alan dropped me off at the temporary clinic (Health Mobiles at the Donghu MRT Station, which was right across from Isaiah and Abby's old high school!). I was in and out... and I biked home on an UBike for 10NT$! What fun! It even started to sprinkle! I was able to stop on the way to withdraw money to pay for the boxes to the Philippines!

The helper got Mom, so that was super helpful. I found out that I will most likely have enough funds from the government to subsidize this for the second half of the year! YIPPY! That will be especially helpful when Alan is in the States. I can still tutor on Wednesday afternoon! And I can even go to the MOE as they need me to sub a couple of times.

Another good news... we are looking at buying the ticket for Abby to come back for two weeks. She is getting her volunteer visa for Brazil. It should be completed by the middle of June. We will then take our Family Portraits! YIPPY!

And I had a free night... I watched an episode of Poirot, from BBC, an old TV series based on Agatha Christie's books!

Daily Lovely Insight:

I just love how this psalm begins: I love you, O LORD, my strength! I think that's the way I feel each morning!

Seek Him First!

God Answered My Prayers!

That's related to weather... the thunder storms started early this morning... and it dropped the temperature. Even at 3:30pm, it was cloudy and cool... That's when I went for my 9k run! After the run, I trimmed my hair. I love how it looks. I don't think Alan will notice. That's how good of a job I did!

It was my Sabbath. And I rejoice for this gift of rest!

I intentionally slowed down. Yes, I baked for tonight's complex meeting. I put away things that were scattered around. I read. I completed my Bible studies... but all with the focus of slowing down and listening... It was delightful... with the added plus of a cool day!

This evening... it was the COMPLEX MEETING! I'm counting down until December!

Daily Lovely Insight:

Restore unto me the joy of my salvation...

David's prayer after being confronted... Read all of Psalm 51!

Seek Him First!

It Was Busy...

I was up early and I ran my 9k. Then it was home to get Mom up and out!

And yes, I had to help with the complex recycling as the main security guard was out sick and the sub had no idea what to do... the cleaning lady always take Wednesday off! I will have to ask them to change her schedule! So, I helped to sort and pack things up... then I was out to WGE as I wanted to do a training run on the treadmill... only 5k! I will do that two times this week.

After a shower, I was home to meet up with Alan.

We had things to drop off at the old house and it was time for me to go and clean again! Yes... it needed the cleaning. I only had a little more than one hour as I had to scooter down to pick up some free stuff from this lady... 

I also had to tune up my scooter!

I was home by 5:35 and the helper was here. Perfect!

I put everything away! I had mentioned that I had splurged for a pair of shoes... and they came... 

Isaiah also went to get his scooter tuned up and right next to the place is a stinky tofu stall. He brought some home for us... YUMMY... with pickled cabbage... Alan stayed far away from the stuff!

Daily Lovely Insight:

Here's a great question related to this past Sunday's message:

What “emptiness/ regrets” do you have in your heart?  What past memories do you keep looking at that prevent you from having the correct focus?

John 20:11-18

Seek Him First!

Almost Missed It!

I was up early and went out for my 9k... unfortunately, it was already 24 degrees... and it just got hotter and hotter.

I came back and took a quick shower and put everything in the crock pot on high! Chunks of meat, four tomatoes, two potatoes, one onion, and four carrots, plus salt and black pepper! It turned out so good!

Yes, I had Bible study at 10am and we had eight ladies! What a great time!

After they left at 1:30, I worked on writing up the new study and doing the next Core Lesson. I usually do that so that I'm prepared! Our next study will be on April 30th. At 2:30, I downloaded my emails and saw that my student had sent his essay. I thought we weren't going to have class at 3:30... but he wanted to, since he's been gone for two weeks! 

Class went well... we will meet again next week!

Mom was home, promptly at 5:15! I had dinner ready.

After she went to bed, I went to WGE. I was going to in the afternoon, but I had tutoring... which I almost missed!

Daily Lovely Insight:

Here is a conversation I had with Alan today:

Me: It's getting so hot, honey. I feel like cutting my hair shorter! Don't worry. I won't shave my head. But how about cutting my hair like yours?

Alan: That's too short!

Me: How about like Isaiah?

Alan: That's also too short!

Me: So, what is not too short? What about my current hairstyle? Is that already too short?

Alan: Well... 

Me: (Loud laughter) So... you don't want me to cut my hair!

Alan: Silence!

What's my insight from this conversation?

What do you think?

Seek Him First!

Quite A Packed Day!

I was up early and did not think I'd have such a busy day... 

After my time with Jesus, I put in a load of laundry and went out for a 9k run... yes, only 9k because I wanted to finish in an hour... I will still try to get in 63.3k this week... but only 9k each time! I might have to run on a treadmill because the weather is getting super hot! SO SOON!

I was home and hanging up the clothes after taking a very quick shower.

Alan and Isaiah went off to work and I had Mom care!

When Mom left, I got the iRobot started on the floor and cleaned Mom's room.

And I called to see if Ms. Hsieh had time... Yes... so I went over for a 90 minute massage! My left side was feeling wonky!

I stopped to get veggies on the way back home.

Then it was prep time for tutoring. I left early to transfer money for the upcoming retreat. The hour of tutoring went by so quickly.

I went home to drop off everything and then went to WGE, stopping to get soybean milk!

I decided to take a shower as my morning shower was so fast that I didn't have time to wash my hair! I was home in time for Mom...

This evening was Family Time.

Oh... I did SPLURGE! I bought one and maybe will buy TWO pairs of running shoes... 

Daily Lovely Insight:

Seek Him First!

Sunday!

I was up early... and went to pick trash and work out at WGE.

Isaiah and Alan went and played tennis.

I also had to go down to B1 to organize the recycling a bit! Our night security guard had to be taken to the ER with stomach problems. Poor guy! 

Then it was Mom care. 

Today, for church, I did not have to translate. I just set up Love Cafe and helped with cleaning up!

We were home by 7pm and I got Mom to bed by 8pm.

I used the evening to read!

Daily Lovely Insight:

Today's text was about Mary from John 20: 11-23! 

Do we cling to God for comfort, thus neglecting the mission and purpose that God has given us?

Because why did Jesus tell Mary: stop clinging to me?

Seek Him First!

A Not-So-Busy-Day

Yes, I was up early... Alan was leaving at 6am to catch the bus to Yilan for a judging competition. Isaiah had his new men's Bible study group at 7am. After he left, I headed out for my 11km, to finish the week above 63km total!

Then after getting home, I grabbed my WGE stuff and headed out for another quick workout before coming home for Mom duty! That's the usual on the weekends!

Isaiah went off to play tennis after the study then he came home for a nap! I had one too... YIPPY! While Mom enjoyed her breakfast, I napped! She also enjoyed her lunch. I didn't give her an afternoon snack!

Isaiah met up with friends for sushi at 3:30 and then this evening instead of going to the church young adult event, he went to play 3-on-3 with his co-workers.

Alan came back by around 6pm and I had made grilled cheese sandwiches! 

I set all the iRobots to work, sweeping and mopping! YEAH!

Daily Lovely Insight:

Here are the discussion questions for the Children's Day Service on April 7th that Alan led:

1. Mark 10:16 says, “Truly I say to you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God like a child will not enter it at all.” How can we, as grown-ups, maintain our belief in God like a child?

馬可福音10:16說：“我實在告訴你們，凡不像小孩子一樣接受神的國，斷不能進去。”身為成年人，我們怎樣才能像孩子一樣保持對神的信仰呢？

2. In Mark 10: 13-16, Jesus laid His hand on the children. What is the significance of this?

在馬可福音 10:13-16 中，耶穌按手在孩子身上。這有什麼意義呢？

3. Why did the disciples not allow the children to come to Jesus?

為什麼門徒不讓孩子到耶穌那裡去？

4. What are some of the ways to help a not-yet believer to know Jesus?

有哪些方法可以幫助尚未信徒認識耶穌？

5. How can you show love for Jesus in your daily life?

您如何在日常生活中表達對耶穌的愛？

If time permits, look at John 3:16-17 and I Cor. 13:4-7, how have you grown in your love for God and others? What actions can you take this week to show the love described to those around you?

如果時間允許，請參考約翰福音 3:16-17 和哥林多前書 3:16-17。 13:4-7，您對神和他人的愛有怎樣的增長？本週您可以採取哪些行動來向周遭的人表達您所描述的愛？

Seek Him First!

Anniversary Celebration!

I was up super early... AGAIN! But today was special. We had to head out to the church by 5:20am. We had an appointment with the judge in Monterey Park to do the formal adult adoption procedure! The appointment was at 5:30, Taiwan time, 2:30 on the 11th in the States, and 6:30pm in Brazil! Alan had his Men's Group, which was why Isaiah and I all had to go with him to church! The judge asked us a series of questions and one of the questions was: why do we wish to adopt our children? And the kids were asked: How do you feel about being a part of this family? I wanted to talk and talk and talk and give glory to God for how He put this family together! What a blessing to be Mom to these two wonderful adults! I am truly blessed beyond words! So, it's done! The judge signed our petition right then and there and showed us the certificate that we will be receiving. Those will be mailed to Annie's address. And the formal birth certificate will take six to seven months as Sacramento Department of Public Records is very back logged with paperwork! When those come, we will be formally listed as the parents of our kids! WOW! And the date of this completion: April 11th, 2024! CAN YOU BELIEVE THAT??? That's how amazing God is!

I ran home and Isaiah rode his scooter back. He went back to bed. I did 11km. The weather was still cool!

Alan came back at 7:30 and got his tennis gears and went to play a bit of tennis. I did a load of laundry and went to WGE and ran a couple of errands. Of course, I got Mom up and showered and fed and into the van! 

Alan and I headed out at 10:30 for a buffet lunch! It was so perfect. The place was unknown to most people, so there were only about 30 guests. The food was great. They had Cantonese sausages and Peking duck! We feasted!

We did not leave until 3pm. The next item on our agenda was to look at two possible apartments. We just wanted to see the area. The first one was an apartment with no elevator. Alan didn't like that. The second one was for sale by auction as someone killed himself inside the apartment. Most people here stay away from those places because of the 'unusual' circumstances. Alan and I don't mind. We have to call the auction agent and ask some questions. Alan liked the complex. 

I had a helper come for Mom so that we can stay out for an extra hour! YEAH!

I had a free night! So, after I got Mom to bed, I sat and read! Alan went to bed early as he has an all day debate judging event in Yilan!

Daily Lovely Insight:

How brilliantly true this is for me!

Seek Him First!

It's the BIG 37!

 

Yes, it's our wedding anniversary... Alan had to work and then in the evening he played basketball. 

Today is my Sabbath... 

I was up early and after Mom Care, I made white rice and then congee for Mom's dinner. I had the iRobot going and blog for HOP! I also took the time to look for these Christmas ornaments... they symbolize Alan and I...

I finally went for my run during the heat of the day, which is good training since at the end of this month, I will be running at around 1:30! And I don't do well in the heat! It was difficult. I was drenched in sweat. I came back and took a quick shower and headed out for my hair wash and facial. I bought a coupon (13US$ for the 50 minute treatment!) and I was going to do it last Wednesday, but the earthquake hit! After I finish, since it was right next door to the Christian Bookstore, I went in and bought things for my Soochow Bible Study kids. I usually give them gifts at our last study, which will be on May 22nd!

On the way home, I stopped at this shop that sells fried goods. I had a coupon and paid only 10NT$ for three portions of my favorite fried taro! I also went to WGE... yes, a very short workout as I had to get home for Mom Care!

At 6:30, I was praying for Hope as Phil and Corenne were meeting up with the Mayor!

After Mom went to bed,  I  took the time to rest... that's what my Sabbath is all about!

Daily Lovely Insight:

This was from an article I read today:

PRACTICE the sabbath day of rest consistently. To build the muscles in our body, we need to work out consistently. If we do not work out consistently, the muscles weaken, but the more we work out the stronger we become. So it is with rest, it has to be consistently integrated as part of our life. If it is not scheduled, if it is not expected, it will lose its place in our life. We need to learn to walk away for at least 24 hours for that appointed time of rest and remain consistent with it. The more consistent we are, the stronger it will be rooted as part of our lives.

I don't currently have 24hours... but with the 7 hours I do have... it has made my 'muscles' stronger!

Seek Him First!

Back-to-Back Busy Day

I was up early... as I wanted to check on the stew and start the bread pudding after my time with Jesus!

The stew came out great... and so did the bread pudding for my Bible study kids.

I couldn't go for my run until after I helped the complex with the recycling. The new guy is still 'new'. And he didn't know how to fix the etag gate... The simple fix was to turn it on and off and it will reset. I showed him where the switch was! So, I finally left at 9:10 and did just 10k. It was still cool... 

I got home and ate lunch and prepped for my study and my tutoring!

Alan came home as he has a project based class at the Medical College.

I left for my study and it was a great time with nine students! And they loved the bread pudding!

I had about 20 minutes so I went to WGE.

Tutoring went well and I was home by 6:15, after stopping to pay for our cell phone bill.

The helper was here and Mom was eating slowly. He left after I signed the paper.

I got Mom to bed and then there was prayer time at 9pm.

What a day!

Daily Lovely Insight:

We talked about Nicodemus in our study today. And I shared John 19:39:

Nicodemus gave more than enough for Jesus' burial. He came doubting in John 3, but by John 19, he came to acknowledge Jesus as King!

How generous are you with Jesus in giving to Jesus your all?

Seek Him First!

Cooler Tuesday! I Love It!

I was up early... but after my time with Jesus, I went back to bed... no run until 10am, after Mom took off.

Mom was doing better... I now use Chinese Herbal Massage Lotion for her legs, before bed and in the morning after her shower! I am also looking into a regular leg massage place... and maybe I will reserve for one this Saturday!

I came back from my run and went to WGE for my shower and quick speedy workout. In fact, I didn't have much time for a workout because I had made an appointment for 12:30 for a massage at Ms. Hsieh! it was so great!

I bought veggies to make stew and also soy bean milk before heading home for an online counseling session with a friend who needed some career advice!

By the time we finished, it was already 4pm! I had lots to do before Mom's return. I bought coupons for our Anniversary Celebration. I called to make reservation and the place was fully booked for Friday. So, I went on line and bought coupons for another place. We will celebrate this Friday and again in May!

I also posted our prayer requests for HOP as well as check my emails. I found one massage place that has a parking lot right next to the building, but it's located on the second floor... with no elevator! I'll keep searching. 

Mom was home... and after she went to bed, I headed out to my Bible study.

Isaiah had basketball practice after work and Alan had evening class! I had dinner ready in the fridge for them!

Daily Lovely Insight:

People take, motivated by lust and selfishness.

God gives, motivated by love and sacrifice.

Consider how we as believers should live as Christ lives in us!

Seek Him First!

A Task-filled Day!

I was up early and went out for my usual 10k. Last week was my training week... this is just going to be my normal week... 

Then it was Mom care... So, I now have a catch 22 situation... and it's so difficult with elderly care to find the right balance. The doctor said that the daily pain killer pills gave her ulcers. I stopped! So... it's been almost three weeks and sure enough, her knees are starting to hurt and she can't walk properly. If she can't have full mobility, she can't go to the day care center. I have started with massage cream and we shall see. I'm looking into a weekly massage appointment for her... I wonder if I can get someone to come to the house... Or I will have to drive her to the place, find parking, and stay there! I guess I can get a leg massage?!?!?! I will keep you posted.

After she took off, I cleaned and then went to pick up the puzzles that were left at church and dropped everything that was left in my car to Margaret's as she will pack the boxes for me this time. Bless her heart! I also dropped off the money to pay for the boxes.

Off I went to Costco and it was busier than I thought as it was only 10am! I had a list and went through it and got home at 11:15. After putting everything away, I was to talk to Abby, but she was sleeping in the living room with a couple of the girls... She had to cancel... 

I went and had lunch and a nap instead! I also made crock pot curry chicken for Alan and Isaiah's dinner. The stuff I ordered from Carrefour (diapers and bed pads) arrived! Yippy! I went down and picked them up and redid Mom's room to fit everything!

This afternoon, Elaine came over for prayer and share time... of course, promptly at 5:10, the phone rang!

This evening, we were to have Family Time, but Abby went to the waterfall with people as it's a holiday there in Brazil! Unfortunately, we don't have any other weeknight to have family time... Tuesday night, Isaiah has basketball and I have my Bible study. Wednesday night, Alan has his overseers meeting. Thursday night is basketball for Alan and dinner for Isaiah. I guess that brings us to Friday evening! We shall see... 

Daily Lovely Insight:

Prayer should be our first response, not our last resort. 

I read that quote and thought I'd share it with you... Take the time to pray, always about everything... Our Heavenly Father invites us into His presence... and remember: it's a two way conversation, so make sure to let Him talk in answer to your prayer!

Seek Him First!

Children's Sunday!

I was up super early because Nic was running in his first full marathon in Canberra that started at 6:15. There is a two hours difference.

I had my quiet time and started following, to cheer him on. He finished in 4:26:59! YEAH.

I then headed out for a walk and bought things at the supermarket.

It was nice and cool... my perfect running weather... I did not run!

Time for Mom care... She was not eating fast... in fact, I had to keep tapping her to finish her breakfast!

We left early for church as Alan was in charge of the program and Isaiah was the worship leader! Mom had lots of snacks, which she enjoyed. I even gave her some black coffee!

The program was great! The love feast was fabulous!

We were home by 7pm and I got Mom to bed as I had my Bible study that started at 8pm.

The long weekend is over... thank you Jesus!

Daily Lovely Insight:

Mark 10: 13-16

Why do you think the kingdom of God belongs to such as these (little children)?

Seek Him First!

It's Saturday!

It actually sprinkled a bit this morning.

But by the time I went out for my last 17k, the sprinkling has stopped and the clouds cleared. I just pushed to finish my 17k, which was under 2 hours!

I got my stuff and went to WGE, before coming home for Mom care. She's still eating slower than usual!

It was a quiet afternoon as Alan and Isaiah took a nap and I sorted through some electronics! I found a nice Apple key board and a mouse and they both work!

At 5pm, the helper came. I had scheduled Isaiah for a massage as we went to babysit so that this couple, who is struggling in their communication, can go out for a date! 

Daily Lovely Insight:

I read Judges 19-21 in my devotional today and this is what I found as an excellent summary:

Judges 19–21 is a warning to those of faith, that when hearts have lost focus, and people do what is good in their own eyes, all that is good and precious will be lost. The warning must work to direct hearts and eyes back to the servant King who saves the weak and the mighty and restores a world where women and men serve together as respected equals.

Seek Him First!

Tomb Sweeping Day!

I was up early again... but because the weather was much cooler, I didn't have to rush out until 7am! And I ran 17.8k without dying under the hot sun! YIPPY!

I came home and cut my hair. After a quick shower, I went to WGE. One of the gals I know there helped to check the back of my hair for me! She was amazed that I cut my own hair! 

I was home and Mom Care... She was eating slower than usual!

The afternoon flew by... I had things to do with the complex, took down the clothes, and cleaned Mom's room.

We also went to drop things off at church for the Children's Day Service!

Isaiah met up with an old classmate from Soochow.

Alan and I just hung out at home after Mom went to bed.

Daily Lovely Insight:

Every week we write reflection questions related to the Sunday message. Here are the questions from Easter Sunday:

The Burial and Resurrection of Jesus

John 19: 38 - 20: 10

1:  Why did Nicodemus and Joseph treat the body of Jesus like he was a king? 

2: What motivated Nicodemus to be so extravagant and generous? 

3: Have you ever made changes in your life because of the passing of someone close to you? 

4: Mary of Magdalena went to “visit” Jesus at the tomb. She went while it was still dark. What was the purpose of her visit?

5: Why do you think John included the details about Jesus’ head linen rolled up in a place by itself?

If time permits, look at John 11:25 - ”Jesus said to her, “I am the resurrection and the life; the one who believes in Me will live, even if he dies,“ What does this verse mean to you in light of the message from John 19: 38-20:10? 

How marvelous to know that there is no tomb to sweep for Jesus!

Seek Him First!

Children's Day!

It's a holiday... I was up super early... and I got 17km in! But it got hot very quickly...

I was home and went to WGE with a quick stop at Carrefour for soybean milk.

Today I cut Mom's hair. 

At 1:10, I left for afternoon tea with a friend while Alan stayed with Mom. Isaiah had a lunch date with a friend from Warwick. Alan and Isaiah played tennis this morning.

In the afternoon, the rain started and the temperature went down! Maybe tomorrow won't be so hot! I'm going to go for another long run! Hopefully another 17km!

Daily Lovely Insight:

I'm listening to music from River Valley Worship... I've never heard of this group, but I love their songs. Here is one for you to enjoy:

watch

Let me know if you can access this song, entitled REST with Me... 

Seek Him First!

Quite A Shaking!

I was up and went out for 13k, not as long as I wanted, but that's better than just going for 8km.

Before getting Mom up and out, I went down to B1 with Isaiah as he had a charging cord to give me... and that's when the shaking started. At first I thought it was my legs being wobbly, then Isaiah yelled, EARTHQUAKE. It was shaking for quite a bit! 

We are all fine! But at the epic center, several building collapsed. It was a 7.4!

Today was my Sabbath day... and again, there were unexpected things. Because of the earthquake, the hair salon had to cancel my appointment. I was going to get a scalp treatment. And then the complex needed my assistance! But overall, it was a great day of rest. I set the iRobots to work. I put in a load of laundry in the washing machine. I made this great potato concoction. I did my Bible studies. But most importantly, I read and rested!

I had a helper come this evening! I checked my emails and blogged. Earlier in the day, I went to WGE and I also paid a few bills!

After Mom went to bed, we went out to dinner and we had Family Time!

Tomorrow is the start of the four day weekend!

Daily Lovely Insight:

I was reminded that God is the one who watches over us... He cares for us and His love endures forever. I find REST in His hands!

Seek Him First!

What A Date!

Today, I only went for an 8k run in the morning... I'm so sad... the weather was so hot... so so hot... I cannot run in the heat. I'm going to die for the marathon at the end of April. It's hot in Taitung and I run in the afternoon when the biker comes in... I'm the last leg of the relay!

Anyhow, I was home for Mom care... And when she took off, the heat was blaring, so I stayed home and made dinner. Alan came home and we left promptly at 10:30 to Danhsui as a friend has an apartment filled with things to give away. We took all the stuff animals and puzzles. Our car was packed so full that Alan could not see! We went to a local steakhouse and Alan was starving. We had also stopped at Coco!

We came home and it was 4pm and started packing everything up. With the two of us working, we were almost done by the time Mom came home at 5:15. Alan went to get Mom while I finished. I had to put some of the stuff animals in the wash since they were dirty. The boxes are to be picked up tomorrow!

I was so exhausted. I wanted to take a nap, but I had to take care of Mom... I need to supervise her eating as she is constantly removing her false teeth and popping them back in her mouth. This is her new dementia habit. So, finally, I just asked her to remove the false teeth and she ate just fine without them! I think I will have to do that from now. I am also not worrying about saving a diaper for the sake of creating less trash. I am just going to double layer her diaper every night! I am also so glad that I bought those new underwear. I don't have to wash clothes as often. She has plenty of tight-fitting underwear! So, these small things are helping to ease the stress of caring for someone with dementia!

Maybe I will get up super early tomorrow to get a long run in... 

Tonight I had prayer time with two sisters!

Daily Lovely Insight:

Seek Him First!