that's great! My kids had a similarly elaborate bedtime routine. Some of my sweetest memories are centered around bedtimes. Having kids gave me an excuse to read picture books without looking childish Efforts to get my girls to chill and go to sleep awakened my creativity. I had them close there eyes and took them to the ocean in their imaginations. We listened to waves, felt the warm sand, basked in the warmth of the sun, swam with dolphins, etc. Growing pains led to massages which led to sweet conversations. My kids asked the most intriguing questions to keep me in the room. Some questions I can't leave unanswered and they knew how to pick them

Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances? Whoa, that's a tall order! How do I rejoice always? Conviction hits me and I feel God say, "just get started I'll show you!" As I focus on what's good in life negative thoughts drop away. How do I pray continually? God prompts, "invite me into your rejoicing! When your heart can't find a way to rejoice talk to me. As you pray remember I'm with you always- rejoice in that!" How do I give thanks in all circumstances? When I look for the good God is teaching me through the bad I can be thankful. Personal Example: In my early twenties, I worked at a small preschool. There were just two teachers on duty at any given time. Regularly, I was paired up with one particular co-worker that was just plain mean for no apparent reason. I'm ashamed to say I grew to hate her. I carried that hate for over a year. Daily I'd arrive home complaining about my co-worker and all the heartless things she'd done. Somewhere along the way the Holy Spirit got my attention. I became convicted to pray for my co-worker daily. Not long after I began these daily prayers my hate transformed into compassion. Little did I know a big test was coming! One thing my co-worker hadn't yet done was yell at me. Months after I had began praying for my co-worker, she exploded into yelling directly at me in front of the children. Her reason for the outburst was very petty and could have easily been resolved with a simple conversation. Praying over those months helped me see my co-worker a little more like Jesus did. Even still, I was angry to the point my head felt it could explode. Quickly, I claimed my morning break. Walking in rage I called a family member to vent. Break time was just about over when I began walking back. Re-entering the room I genuinely apologize to my co-worker. Apologizing when I felt she was the one in the wrong was not in my nature. God helped me display His nature that day. My co-worker's once hateful attitude towards me diminished. We never became besties but that day I learned a few important lessons. 1. God gave me a soft answer and I saw how true Proverbs 15:1 is! It says, "A soft answer turns away wrath, But a harsh word stirs up anger." 2. The Lord was beginning to teach me how to show mercy, be long-suffering, and forgiving. Exodus 34:6 says, "The Lord, the Lord God, merciful and gracious, long-suffering, and abounding in goodness and truth, keeping mercy for thousands, forgiving iniquity and transgression and sin..." new commandment I give to you, that you love one another: just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another." Ephesians 4:31-32 says, "Let all bitterness and wrath and anger and clamor and slander be put away from you, along with all malice. Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you. 3. I learned that hate in my heart can be transformed to love as I bring another to God in prayer. John 13:34 says, "A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another: just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another."

As I anticipated the birth of my first grandbaby my pondering began. I became curious to see if the Bible had any instructions regarding a grandparent’s role. I found out the Bible has a lot to say about it! What I found caused me to rethink the spoiling role society often places on grandparents. I found God gives me the role of passing on a legacy of faith. Obeying God’s Word must be apart of that. So, I shouldn’t say yes to everything my grandchildren want. I should instead teach them that when God says no we listen. So… I’m the grandma that says, “listen to your mom and dad. Mommy and Daddy said no- Mimi says no too.” Got to teach them to obey their parents. Don’t get me wrong I indulge my grandchildren in many ways. We turn baby baths into water tables and the bathroom turns into an all day water play zone. My granddaughter gets to sit next to Mimi and drink out of my glass cup. I don’t stop my grandbaby when she plunges her hand in my cup to pull out a cube of ice. We giggle when she blows milk bubbles. I read her extra stories before putting her to bed. And.. I say yes to most anything that I can. One role of grandparents is discipleship. Through prayer, sharing of Scriptures , telling their testimony, and speaking of the great things they have seen the Lord do a legacy of faith is built. My role is back up support for the parents. I am blessed that my daughter and her husband follow after God and desire that for their children. If that were not the case my actions would be different. Prayer, love, and service in action would be my approach if their parents were not believers. I’d choose to honor and help my children and trust God to work on their hearts. 2 Timothy 1:5 “I am reminded of your sincere faith, which first lived in your grandmother Lois and in your mother Eunice and, I am persuaded, now lives in you also.” 2 Timothy 3:14-15 “But as for you, continue in what you have learned and have become convinced of, because you know those from whom you learned it, 15 and how from infancy you have known the Holy Scriptures, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus.” Deuteronomy 4:9 “Only be careful, and watch yourselves closely so that you do not forget the things your eyes have seen or let them fade from your heart as long as you live. Teach them to your children and to their children after them.” Psalm 78:4 “We will not hide them from their descendants; we will tell the next generation the praiseworthy deeds of the Lord, His power, and the wonders He has done.”

Politically Correct? I don't care! My daughter said when she's out without family she often forgets she has to open the door. She says she's so used to her brother always opening the door for her. That made me so happy! I want my daughter to expect more and my son to be thoughtful and step it up. Joy and I laugh cause we know we "trained him." Since he was old enough to open a door when we went somewhere we'd just stand there in front of the door. We didn't say anything. If he didn't get the hint I'd clear my throat and we’d wait.

At the age of 14, I began a new high school and church. Many of the students I had grown up with began different schools. I lost contact with former friends from school and church. I lacked social connections, struggled to concentrate in classes, and felt overwhelmed with an increased homework load. The stress triggered a mental breakdown. I fell into a deep depression followed by a manic episode. My parents were worried. They began taking me to doctors, counselors, and psychiatrists. I was only getting worse. Out of desperation, they admitted me to a mental health hospital. I stayed there about 2 weeks and was put on medication. Although, I had improved, I was still dealing with a lot of ups and downs. My parents continued taking me to a psychiatrist. For the next four years, life was a struggle full of ups and downs. Shortly, before my 18th birthday I arrived at the psychiatrist’s office totally manic. He diagnosed me with bipolar disorder that day. The good thing about having a diagnosis was that I could now get the proper treatment. My doctor prescribed Lithium immediately. During the first couple of weeks on Lithium I dealt with nausea. My body soon adapted, and nausea became much less frequent. My mood rapidly improved. Before long, I was feeling a lot better. I began remembering fuzzy details of some of the things I did while manic. PTSD set in. I avoided certain places and felt uncomfortable around specific people. In time I was able to get past the uncomfortable memories and began enjoying life again. I wouldn’t wish bi-polar on anyone, but it has taught me a lot. I don’t look down on others and am not judgmental. I’m very compassionate. I’m thankful for the people who have helped me through my journey. Overall, I stay stable these days but sometimes depression creeps up. I’ve learned what to do when I get depressed. Sometimes I just need to slow down my schedule to reduce stress. There have been times when my doctor helped me make medication adjustments to better deal with depression. Since, receiving proper treatment I was a foster parent and adopted 3 children. It’s been a blessing raising them. I also work with preschoolers at my church, used to run a family daycare home, and have worked at several preschools. I know first-hand that it’s encouraging to talk to other people who understand bi-polar. My hope is that my story dispels misconceptions and brings hope to you.

Sometimes I think we make life too complicated. My definition of success has simplified over the years. I've watched and helped guide my children in future plans. I find myself pondering what's important. The conclusions I have arrived at aren't popular with many. I don't care what my children do but rather how they do it. My deep desire is that in everything they do they extend love. There are so many preconceived ideas about acceptable next steps for young people. I'm trying to learn to change my line of questioning. I'd like to know," How do you want to impact the world? What are you gifted at? What stirs your heart? Have you considered jobs that allow you to love others with your gifts and passions? "And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him." Colossians 3:17 "Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength. The second is this: Love your neighbor as yourself. There is no commandment greater than these." Mark 12:30-31 Make sure to keep the main thing the main thing.

My Thoughts for Today: Following a recent incident at home, I began reflecting on grace. One of my children unintentionally broke a window. Knowing that a costly repair would be needed, fearfully this child fessed up to Papa. Fully expecting a stern lecture instead Papa simply said, "uh, oh, that's not good." Papa and Grammy have always been quick to forgive even our most foolish mistakes. They have given my children and I a wonderful demonstration of grace. Observing my parent's demonstrations of grace, gives me a glimpse of God's grace. God doesn't meet us with a list of grievances. The Lord offers His grace freely to anyone who asks. He invites us to come to Him with our mess. Jesus loves and welcomes us as we are. It's God's kindness that leads us to repentance. What would happen if we followed Christ's example? Jesus didn't begin His encounters with sinners by speaking Hell, fire, and brimstone over them. Countless Biblical examples show Jesus extending grace before a message. On many occasions the grace of Jesus actions was the only message shared. Believers must never forget we are merely saved sinners. As Christians we rely entirely on God's grace. We know Jesus because He loved us while we were still sinners. Christ gave His life so that we could benefit from His grace. I cannot think of a better way to share Jesus with others than to extend grace. Examples from Jesus: The Woman Caught in Adultery The story of the Woman Caught in Adultery found in the Gospel of John is a powerful example of grace in the Bible. In this account, the religious leaders bring a woman caught in adultery to Jesus, wanting to stone her according to the law. Instead of condemning her, Jesus challenges them by saying, Let him who is without sin among you be the first to throw a stone at her. This act of grace and forgiveness from Jesus highlights his compassion and willingness to forgive even those society deems unworthy. In this story, we see how grace goes beyond human judgment and societal norms. Jesus offers not only forgiveness but also a chance for redemption and transformation. The Woman Caught in Adultery serves as a reminder that no one is beyond God's grace and mercy. It challenges us to examine our attitudes towards others and reminds us of the importance of showing compassion and forgiveness to those who have fallen short. The

The older I get the more little things upset me. However, the older a get the more tiny things delight me. I used to hold off until I had time to reach out. I don't wait anymore. A simple effort often makes my day. Knowing that, if I care about someone I chance the silly, stupid, simple ways of saying, "you're remembered. you are wanted." A sweet or silly text, a hug, a short note, a compliment, checking in, a prayer.... Simple, sweet, and surprisingly significant!

Sometimes I overthink about random stuff. Today my mind is asking, what's the point of how are you? Hastily answering "I'm fine" is incredibly common. I always hope for an authentic answer. When the tables are turned why can't I answer truthfully? Many times "how are you?" is simply a polite gesture. What if that assumption was challenged? What if an uncensored answer was given? Why the hesitation to answer vulnerably? What's the worse that could happen? Possibly realizing the questioner could care less. Why care if they don't? They are not my people. My people listen and love. My people may say: 1. "Me too!." The week's "horror stories will be shared. Loneliness is dispelled and comfort is found in sharing pain. 2. A listening ear followed by encouragement. I'll notice those who don't care to hear my answer. They are not my people. I might find more caring and listening ears. My people group could grow. Now to put my thoughts to the test

It's important to me that my children know how meaningful "seeing someone” can be. People who took a minute to look outside their comfort zone to welcome me in aren't forgotten. A few weeks ago Kevin said, "mom I think friend groups are okay." I answered, " me too. I think friend groups are special." We ended up having a sweet discussion about the difference between a friend group and a clique. I've always discouraged cliques. Cliques are exclusive. Friend groups are more readily inclusive. They've heard my stories. I am a slow to warm up type. Mingling is my enemy My 3 favorite remedies: 1. Avoid large group parties and settings. 2. If you fail to avoid look for someone alone that looks as miserable as you. Befriend them and we both feel better. 3. Find a seat in a quiet corner and try to act comfortable and casual. https://www.parents.com/cliques-definition-risks-prevention-8665363

Really try it. I have heard some of the most interesting stories this way. Some people will pour their life out to you in a matter of minutes if they see you care enough to listen. I was most amazed when a lonely teenager sat next to me at a church harvest event. He had wandered in on his way home from work. He came for the free and cheap food. Table were all taken. My table must have looked safest because I was the only one at it. He sat down and proceeded to tell me his life story. I don't know how to talk to teenagers I'm a toddler person. I guess he needed to get some stuff out. Sometimes you really don't need to talk. Sometimes it's much more effective to shut up and listen. I've been privileged to hear life stories of so many people- chronically ill, homeless, people struggling with addiction, parents working to reunify with their children, missionaries, seniors, people on the verge of homelessness, those struggling with depression, lonely people who suffered so much loss. I come home and share stories with my kids. I always say, "I don't know why they told me all that." Kevin recently told me, "it's because you listen and they can tell you care." Just got me thinking... How often do we miss the gift of hearing life stories? Why? The most common excuse I hear: "That person is weird. Why would they tell all their personal business to a complete stranger?" My rebuttal: A. Maybe they don't have anyone in their life to talk to. Maybe they don't have anyone in their life that shows concern and love for them. Why question? They saw something good in you. Something that caused them to try opening up to you. B. Another thing to consider is you could be that person's last hope. They may be hanging by a thread looking for even the tiniest amount of hope. My therapist recently told me she once had a client who went to the grocery story feeling hopeless and deeply depressed. He planned to go home and kill himself. A customer in the store made a special point of greeting him with a smile and a "hello." He attributes that to saving his life that day. You never know what a simple act may do. Stories like that happen way more often than you know. C. I promise you if a stranger decides to pour their life story out to you it's important. Yes, maybe it is a little weird. However, you've been chosen. Tag you're it. Love and learn or leave and lose. If you choose to stay I promise doing so will equally bless you. Slow down and take in a story every so often. It's a gift that isn't often freely given.

Tired, hot, and thirsty I sat on the church patio. Several tables away a man was talking with friends. He approached convinced I was sad and asked if he could pray for me. Sadness had not been an emotion present in me at the time but I told him, "I can always use prayer." Undoubtedly, a prayer warrior He called the Lord to action on my behalf. In that one prayer I trust my week is secure! Reflecting, I really respect what he did. He had no way of knowing how I'd react. Although, he was off a bit on my current emotional state he took a bold act of care. How often do I overlook pain in others because of my own insecurities? Is my comfort more important than their need? What would Jesus say? Jesus might tell me, "Get over yourself!" Scripture is clear-every believer is called to care for others. Bearing Each Others' Burdens - Galatians 6:1-5 - How? Is the Holy Spirit prompting you? Putting someone on your heart? *Follow His leading. God appoints us as His ambassadors! What an honor! Keep alert to those around you Ask the Lord to show you who needs encouragement. Reach out. You might start by saying, "Hello, how is your day going? What do you need prayer for this week?" However you go about it- Care Boldly!