More favorites

I was reading a story the other day and a line from it jumped at me. "We often focus on the one or two negative things instead of thanking God for the many good things." Wow, that is so true, even to someone that is optimistic like myself. Every day I hear on the news, see on the tv, and talk to people about bad things. The reality is that there are many wonderful things to enjoy - everyday.

I think this is why I am enjoying the simple things more. My awareness at what is good in life needs to grow. For instance, when we are concerned about our children making wise choices, we need to remind ourselves that they have in the past. We should enjoy their smiles, their questions, and their complex lives.

When we wonder about our schedule and can we get it all done, remember you probably have in the past. When we have concerns about life, health, and finances we need to remember that we have made it this far with God's grace. God can make a way.

What I am saying is that we often over complicate life. At least I do. Let's enjoy the simple things, let's trust God, and enjoy ourselves. Grab some coffee, watch the leaves fall, and remember that you are loved by God. You are His son or daughter. He has a plan for us.

Here are some more favorites, like finding that 20 left in your pocket. Or when you get a card of appreciation. Being surprised by laughter from a colleague. I love when Christa and I share with each other, and we both have the same thought.

I like the challenge of stopping the gas pump on an even number. It moves so fast these days- it's tough. I love sleeping to the sound of a soft rain. I hate getting up from it though.

There really is lots to love, lots to like, lots for us to enjoy in life. Let's be realistic, we are a blessed people. That is not optimisim, that is a fact. Keep on keeping on and blessings to you all as we approach the holiday season.

Jay

More things to love or really like at least

Hey everyone

I took the kids to the Leeland and Casting Crowns concert last night. You know how sometimes a band doesn't sound good live.? Well, not in this case. Wow, the sound was just awesome. Great mix, great night, and a really impressive live performance.

Two of the band members in Leeland are friends of me and the family. Christa and I were there youth pastors back in the day. It was really great to see them in action. I am proud of their accomplishments, but more proud of their sincerity concerning Christ and His mission.

I love to see my kids enjoying themselves, I love to catch them smiling and genuinely pleased about life. It is so hard to keep that everything is all right with the world kind of feeling in our souls, especially when everything isn't alright. As adults peace becomes a treasure that is rarely found.

I love looking at my littlest one Chloe, and watch her complete and disinterest at slow music. You could ask her what her favorite song was last night, she doesn't know. What she does know is her least favorite one - the Table song as she called it.

I love the fact that their is activity on the church ground - at last. Yeah, baby, Yeah. (I know many of you will think I am lame for using that yeah baby thing.) Check the Time to Build logo on the website for the latest updates as we will be using that to keep everyone posted.

I love the earlier than ever commercials for Christmas are here. Those seem to come earlier every year. The Christmas movie that was reserved for December showing, now shows up on the second week of November. Yes, we are entering the Christmas and Holiday season. We all love that don't we.

Blessings to all

J

Simple things - Passion

I was just wondering to myself what am I passionate about. I know that there are certain times of year, events, and sports teams that I just love and can't wait for. ON a personal note, the older I get the more I enjoy some of the simple things.

I enjoy a cup of coffee on a cool morning, watching the wind blow and the leaves change. I love the crisp evenings, fall festival's. I love a short line for a great ride. I love the smell of bacon. I love the feeling of fresh knit sheets on the bed. I love to watch my kids getting along. I love the weekend of falling back, who doesn't like that extra hour to sleep. I love a good movie, a good laugh, good conversation, and good friends. I love playing Disney Scene it with the kids.

The list could go on, but I do not want to rant. Instead I want to ask you the question? What are you passion about? What puts a smile on your face? What makes you just passionate about life?

I was awakened this morning to the sound of garbage being picked up at 5:45. I did not get immediately up, but laid in bed, praying and pondering this idea of passion. Let us make sure that we are passionate about the right things, eternal things, the Jesus things. I am not passionate about getting up at 5:45am. I am passionate about passion though.

Have a great day. You make the difference in someones life everyday.

J