My Buddy, Hank

Well, I've been home most days for just about three weeks now. This little circumstance has disrupted the lives of the entire family. It's hard for Joe to get up and go to work if I stay in bed. It's hard for me to get up and get dressed for the day, only to stay home, while Joe goes to work. And, it is different for Hank.

Hank is a dog of routine. He gets up initially with Joe and goes outside for a quick squat and then comes running back into the house - all full of relief and enthusiasm. He then jumps on the bed or goes into our little bathroom to watch us get ready for the day - same every morning for nearly six years. But, now, it is different...

I always wondered what he did all day while we were gone. Did he sleep? Did he look out the window? Did he watch TV or play Wii Alpine Skiing? Raid the fridge? Surf the web? Did he wait patiently for us to return or did he practice playing dead and hiding from possible intruders - He's not the bravest of canines, although he does have a beautiful heart. I'm sure his spirit is willing to be brave and the rest of him just won't cooperate.

The first week I was home, he pretty much slept all day in the bedroom. I think he figured this would be over soon and he could be about his normal life. The second week, he ventured out and would check on me from time to time. And, most often, I would find him curled up in the bedroom where he sleeps. And, occasionally, I would hear him chasing cats or playing ball in his dreams.

This week is different - he has been my constant companion. He has followed me everywhere and has stayed by my side no matter where I am or what I am doing. I wonder if he can feel that I'm struggling a bit, a little sad and need some assurance that things are going to be OK, different maybe, but OK. So, throughout the day, I will feel a big, warm head on my arm to remind me he is there - or, a lick on my hand when I open the door for him to go outside; or, he will just sleep next to my feet and be still - always near me.

Some people say that animals don't have a soul. I have never understood that thought and think it is so silly. I believe our pets are God's gifts to us and teach us well about patience, trust, kindness, devotion, loyalty, friendship, sharing, forgiveness - unconditional love...

Today, I am thankful for Hank - my big, sweet, goofy and loving blessing - who has reminded me I am not alone and that things are going to be OK - different maybe, but OK.

I'm Putting a Dent in it...

Lately, I haven't said much about my "50 New Things" list; so, I wanted to bring you up-to-date:

I have created a great (and, I do mean great) recipe for Slow Cooker Pot Roast. I've made it twice now (well, actually, I'm not sure of that because a couple of weeks ago I thought I had cooked a chuck roast and it may have been pork shoulder roast, instead. I'm a little confused since I found the chuck roast I thought I had cooked in the freezer). Regardless, it has been outstanding both times - even if I do say so myself. Joe agrees with me, though. And, it is yummy with either type of meat.

I'm getting better at this blog business and am still navigating my way around the design. I'm trying to spruce it up some and playing with some photography, graphics, etc. So, stay tuned, I hope to be able to jazz it up so it is visually more interesting.

I actually went to the grocery store and bought food for a week and spent less than $100. I was so incredibly proud - I think the bill was like $ 99.48 or close - but, still...

I am applying for jobs everyday - jobs not even in my field; so, that is NEW! Now, I am waiting for replies and following up - the lack of response gets a bit frustrating AND we are faithful the right job is going to open for us.

I made the "best dip I've ever tasted" and took it to a party where I heard this phrase - "This is the best dip I've ever tasted" all night - So what if it was being spoken from my own mouth? It is excellent dip - Black Bean Raspberry Chipotle Dip  (Thanks, Megan) - excellent.

And, the big news....

... I am pretty sure there is a likely possibility I am being "called" to some kind of vocational ministry. Whatever this means, I do not know. And,  I will be talking more about this as I am trying to figure this out. Just suffice it to say I have been considering this for quite some time (for years, really - since 1982 to be exact) and I have NEVER talked about it - to anyone! It's time to explore the possibility (which may be more of a probability than I am willing to voice at the moment). It's yet another lesson in faith and, I'm sure, the reason I have felt so much peace about my job situation - there is something about a closed door and an open window (or open gate), floating around in my head, that holds promise for me. I know God has really awesome plans for Joe and me this year - Time to say Yes to all the blessings His grace provides.

"Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding, in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight ." Proverbs 3: 5-6

Today is the day...

I woke up this morning with this song running through my head complete with the little answering echo after each phrase... Today is the day (Today is the day), that the Lord has made (that the Lord has made). I will rejoice (I will rejoice), and be glad in it (and be glad in it)... I had my own little worship choir singing in my head. I guess, as ear worms go, it is much better than others I can think of (The sun will come out tomorrow - sorry). However, I have no idea how this song got into my head. I think the last time I remember singing it was in 1977 at some church youth retreat.

But, this I do know - I'm treating this as a secret love note given specifically to me. And, whatever this day brings, I will rejoice and be glad in it! Besides, the sun is shining today:)

Blessings!