Changes Abound in 2018

2018 is going to be a year of changes for my family.

With a beloved member diagnosed with Dementia last year, we are looking to make things more manageable until long-term care is needed.  This will include some minor fixes to a home that has been lived in for 40 years, sorting through items collected over 40+ years and purchasing a residence with minimal stairs; quite possible a duplex or a single family dwelling with a ‘mother-in-law’ set-up.  A younger family member will be selling their current home to be the other duplex dweller or living in the mother-in-law set-up.  There was no coercion or guilt applied to the younger member – it was a love-decision.

There have been many family meetings and the conversations have been open and loving.  This is a huge change for all involved; however, everyone is on board to make the transitions happen as smoothly as possible.

I am praying for the entire family – the three members in the middle and those supporting them.  I know my daughter is praying, as well.

Of course, life continues to move forward and I know that there will be many life-moments this year that have nothing to do with the above noted change.

Jeremiah 29:11 For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.

Snow

It is a winter wonderland here in the Inland Northwest.  I love the cleansing of the snow over the rough and dirty roads.  The whispery silence in the early morning with the snow gently falling.

Living in an area with four seasons is a blessing.  To be able to enjoy the variety of God’s creation is not taken for granted.  His mercy and grace abound.

It's a New Year

Looking back at 2017 – it was a rough year for our family.  There was a diagnosis of dementia and the death of a loved one.  There were also family reunions and get togethers to celebrate life.

Looking ahead to 2018 – I am hoping for balance in my life and deeper relationship with the One who is full of grace and mercy.  God, family, friends – these are at the top of my list.

Life on this earth is fleeting; however, it is just the beginning of our lives as children of God.  While here we are to share the gospel with those in need.  I can’t say I’ve led anyone to Christ – my words are weak.  I pray my actions are Christ-like and that He continues to work in me and grow my ‘evangelistic’ skills.

Last year, I posted once.  This year, I hope to post numerous times.

An anonymous quote from my perpetual calendar:

                Joy is not happiness so much as gladness; it is the ecstasy of eternity

                in a soul that has made peace with God.

Reboot

The snow is melting and life is waking up and beginning again.  This has been a winter of snow and ice. Illness has run rampant throughout the community.

I am so thankful for the Lord. He is merciful and gracious. He carries us through the rough times and celebrates the good times with us. He is everlasting!

Reboot with me this spring - praise the Lord tenfold ;)

Autumn

Finch Arboretum in Fall

Autumn has come to the Pacific Northwest.  This is my favorite time of year ~ cool mornings and sunny (mostly) days ~ leaves of vibrant colors.  God’s handiwork for all to see.

My grandmother has moved to a small assisted living facility and has settled in nicely.  We have set her room up with pictures, curtains, knick-knacks…it is truly homey ;)

Oregon Trip

Mt. Hood with Mt. Jefferson in the background

I just got back from a mini-vacation.  It was peaceful and relaxing.  I always enjoy rebooting at my dad’s home.  From the front room window, I enjoy a beautiful view of Mt. Hood (weather permitting) or watching the hummingbirds and finches in the fountain turned bird bath.  They are in the Willamette Valley on a couple of acres of land.  Jeanine does a beautiful job of caring for the lawn, pasture, garden and home.

On occasion I think about moving down there but then realize that it wouldn’t be the same.  I’d have to find a job since I don’t have a husband to care for me.  Knowing that I would not have the same freedom to enjoy their home and fellowship in the same way that I am able to do when I visit.

I am blessed to have family that lives in a place of peace and beauty AND a job that has great benefits including vacation time.

Gram Update -- REVISED 7/18/16

Enjoying a chocolate chip cookie courtesy of friend Daniela

Update on my beautiful grandmother:

We are finishing up week 6 of my night-sitting and she is doing great.  I am really only there for moral support as she is doing everything on her own.  We are shooting for me to ‘return home’ next week sometime.

She has been sharing stories from her past.  I am learning some interesting facts and tidbits I didn’t know before.

This has been a blessing of time with my grandmother and will be a memory I won’t forget.

7/18/16:  Well, I guess we were counting our chickens before they were hatched...Gram re-injured herself -- the rib area started bothering her again Friday morning and it is painful.  Not sure how this will play out; praying for stabilized health for my grandmother.