Day 276

"Blessed is the man whose sin the Lord will never count against him." Romans 4:8

Working solo again today. Happy New Years night everyone.

Day 275

““I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” John 16:33

I am working solo today. The hardest part is knowing which order to pick the dogs up in...

Day 274

Now after John was arrested, Jesus came to Galilee, proclaiming the good news of God, and saying, “The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God has come near;repent, and believe in the good news.” Mark 1:14-15


Going back to work after a four day weekend is hard. (Well, going to work is easy, getting up is a little harder...)

Day 273

"For he must reign until he has put all his enemies under his feet." 1 Corinthians 15:25

This kind of goes in hand with the verse from yesterday. Why is there so much war? because God still has so many enemies. Satan can be very persuasive (especially in this day and age, with the technology that we have)

Day 272

“Of David. Praise the LORD, my soul; all my inmost being, praise his holy name. Praise the LORD, my soul, and forget not all his benefits—” Psalm 103:1-2

I think a lot of people look at the world, and see only the punishment. They do not see the benefits.

Day 272

"Simeon took him in his arms and praised God, saying: “Sovereign Lord, as you have promised, you may now dismiss your servant in peace. For my eyes have seen your salvation, which you have prepared in the sight of all nations: a light for revelation to the Gentiles, and the glory of your people Israel.” Luke 2:28-32

Anna, Yvi, Kristel and I are off boxing day shopping. (Anna and I need bedframes, and we figure we should try a boxing day sale...)

Day 270

"And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified." Luke 2:8-9

At the moment I am watching three dogs. Thankfully they are all well behaved and quiet. There is Morgan (the old black lab) Copper (the young havanese) and now Jordi (an older husky cross) Cooper and Jordi are coming to work with me, but Morgan has a torn ACL, so he has to stay at home.
Merry Christmas Eve

Day 269

"and she gave birth to her firstborn, a son. She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger, because there was no guest room available for them." Luke 2:7

Day 268

"He went there to register with Mary, who was pledged to be married to him and was expecting a child. 6 While they were there, the time came for the baby to be born," Luke 2:5-6

Work went well. I have been offered a benefits immediately (January 1) if I sign a one year contract (I can see myself doing it for a year...) God is putting the puzzle pieces together.

Day 267

"And everyone went to their own town to register. So Joseph also went up from the town of Nazareth in Galilee to Judea, to Bethlehem the town of David, because he belonged to the house and line of David." Luke 2:3-4

Off to work today...

Pictures

Here they are... the long awaited photos... The kitchen and lounge are one big room, the hallway is pretty long, the room with cream carpet is Anna's and the burgandyish carpet is mine.

Day 266

"In those days Caesar Augustus issued a decree that a census should be taken of the entire Roman world. (This was the first census that took place while Quirinius was governor of Syria.) And everyone went to their own town to register." Luke 2:1-3

I have decided that I shall do the Christmas story leading up to Christmas day. We are getting internet installed today, so look for pictures later today/tomorrow.

We bought a rice cooker, swiffer, garbage can and heater yesterday (our lounge/kitchen is a huge room with ceramic tiles (and no furniture yet) so it is hard to heat the whole room with the baseboard heaters.

Day 265

“‘If anyone sins because they do not speak up when they hear a public charge to testify regarding something they have seen or learned about, they will be held responsible." Leviticus 5:1

Went to Costco and Wal-Mart yesterday. Spent $280 at Costco, and $208 at WalMart. But now we have enough stuff (not food) to last us about 6 months, maybe longer. We just need a bookshelf, a swiffer, a coat stand, a rice cooker (which I think we are getting today) a welcome mat, picture hooks, and a baking tray.

Off to church, then getting a new dog, then hot tub at the gym, then pizza night with the girls.

Day 264

"Listen to what the LORD says “Stand up, plead my case before the mountains; let the hills hear what you have to say." Micah 6:1

I am officially done as a n Au-Pair. I start dog walking full time on Tuesday. We are off to Costco today to get some bulk stuff. Will post pics later.

Day 263

"Therefore, although in Christ I could be bold and order you to do what you ought to do, yet I prefer to appeal to you on the basis of love. It is as none other than Paul—an old man and now also a prisoner of Christ Jesus— that I appeal to you for my son Onesimus, who became my son while I was in chains. Formerly he was useless to you, but now he has become useful both to you and to me." Philemon 8-11

We are moved in! All we need is bookshelves, coat rack, bath mat, and cleaning supplies. I found a dresser at a thrift store for $49.99, we shall try there for bookshelves next. We need to wash all the dishes, and put them away. We did a initial shop last night, and we spent $230. That was less than I thought we would. We still need to buy toilet paper, meat and cleaning supplies though...I will put up pics of the new place, probably on Monday or Tuesday (after everything is all cleaned and we have our internet installed.)

Today I am off to watch Coco for the last time, then clean the room that used to be mine. Then I will come back here and clean here...

Day 262 and MOVING DAY!!!

"On the third day Esther put on her royal robes and stood in the inner court of the palace, in front of the king’s hall. The king was sitting on his royal throne in the hall, facing the entrance. When he saw Queen Esther standing in the court, he was pleased with her and held out to her the gold scepter that was in his hand. So Esther approached and touched the tip of the scepter." Esther 5:1-2

A lot of people do not know how much Esther risked going to the king. Back then, if you went uninvited to see the king, you were killed immediately, By putting out his scepter, he saved her life. A lot of people in this day and age do not have that kind of courage. Would you risk death to save a people? (A good movie to watch is "One night with the King")

Today is moving day. I drop Coco off at school, go to the bank and get the rest of the rent money, go pay the rent/get the keys, come back, meet Yvi, take the first load over. Take a load or two in my car, wait for Anna to be done work, she takes a load over, we go pick up the big van, take the table/matresses over. Then we go shopping, wash all the dishes (no dishwasher) and set up the house. So excited!. We still need a kettle and a dresser. If everyone could pray that we find those.

Day 261

"The mountains melt beneath him and the valleys split apart, like wax before the fire, like water rushing down a slope." Micah 1:4

Hmm, this sounds a lot like what people are calling "Global Warming". It's in the Bible?! Hmm, maybe the scientists should look in the Bible instead of their own understanding.

One more day till the move!

Day 260

This, then, is the family line of Perez: Perez was the father of Hezron, "Hezron the father of Ram, Ram the father of Amminadab, Amminadab the father of Nahshon, Nahshon the father of Salmon,Salmon the father of Boaz, Boaz the father of Obed, Obed the father of Jesse, and Jesse the father of David." Rut 4:18-22

The reason I chose Ruth so close to Christmas. She was very important in the line leading up to Jesus.

2 MORE DAYS!!!! I'm getting very excite about the move! I started packing yesterday. Today is finish Christmas presets, hike, Coco has a playdate, then go see "The Tourist" with The North Shore Nanny Network (we made up that name..."

Day 259

"Then Naomi took the child in her arms and cared for him. The women living there said, “Naomi has a son!” And they named him Obed. He was the father of Jesse, the father of David." Ruth 4:16-17

Three more days!!!

Day 258

"Then they cried to the LORD in their trouble, and he saved them from their distress." Psalm 107:13

I will go back to Ruth tomorrow, but this verse was part of my devotions yesterday. It really hit home, as the night before last, I was laying awake, worrying that I would not have job, I had just signed a one year lease, Joined a gym... I was freaking out, and crying to the Lord. The next day, He answered me and saved me from the distress. God waits until we come to Him, and stop relying on ourselves. He wants us to admit we need Him, and that we cannot do it on our own. As soon as we do that...our Prayers are answered!

Birthday

Today was a great birthday!!!!First, Anna and I went to two garage sales, and a "house sale". We got a ton of kitchen stuff at the first sale, nothing at the second, and then at the house sale, we hit the jackpot. We got a microwave, two night tables, two small lamps, a full set of bowls, plates, mugs, glasses, gravy boat, mirrors, and I'm sure I left something out. All we need now is one dresser, and a kettle. (And pillows)

After that we went to the gym, where I then got a text from Alysha (my dog walking boss). Chris ( a guy at work) is resigning because he has been offered a job where he can have a career. So now I have a full time job starting January 3. Until then I am doing training.

Staples also called and offered me a part time, so I have to call them back and say I could work evenings if that works for them.

Nora got me an ice cream cake for my birthday, so Yvi and Anna came over for cake. Then we call internet places to arrange getting internet in our new place.

Its a good day...

And yes mom, it was Connor. No prize, too far to send it...

Day 257

"The women said to Naomi: “Praise be to the LORD, who this day has not left you without a guardian-redeemer. May he become famous throughout Israel! He will renew your life and sustain you in your old age. For your daughter-in-law, who loves you and who is better to you than seven sons, has given him birth.” Ruth 4:14-15

Contest of the day... Who woke me up with a text this morning saying happy birthday, and asked if I was having fun garage saling, and replied cool, when I said still in bed, its 6:40 am?

Today's schedule...9-12 garage sales, 12-2 gym, sometime after that cake, job searching, and cleaning my room.

Day 256

"Through the offspring the LORD gives you by this young woman, may your family be like that of Perez, whom Tamar bore to Judah." So Boaz took Ruth and she became his wife. When he made love to her, the LORD enabled her to conceive, and she gave birth to a son." Ruth 4:12-13

Last night we got a kitchen table, five chairs, a crock pot, pots, bowls, a mixer, a coffee table, glasses, pitchers, vases...all for $140

Day 255

"Then the elders and all the people at the gate said, “We are witnesses. May the LORD make the woman who is coming into your home like Rachel and Leah, who together built up the family of Israel. May you have standing in Ephrathah and be famous in Bethlehem." Ruth 4:11

Day 254

"Then Boaz announced to the elders and all the people, “Today you are witnesses that I have bought from Naomi all the property of Elimelek, Kilion and Mahlon. I have also acquired Ruth the Moabite, Mahlon’s widow, as my wife, in order to maintain the name of the dead with his property, so that his name will not disappear from among his family or from his hometown. Today you are witnesses!” Ruth 4:9-10

Funny, when I read the story, I have no idea who Maholon is unless they mention it... Boaz is the name remembered.

Second interview with Staples on Thursday... still hoping for a better paying job to pop up though...

Went to a "Christmas Market" German themed. We had Bratwurst, Cheesecake, Marzipan, hot chocolate, hot mulled wine mixed with rum (I only had a small sip of that), Strudel, Crepes...

Day 253

"Now in earlier times in Israel, for the redemption and transfer of property to become final, one party took off his sandal and gave it to the other. This was the method of legalizing transactions in Israel.)So the guardian-redeemer said to Boaz, “Buy it yourself.” And he removed his sandal." Ruth 4:7-8


The interview at Staples went well. I need to have a second one before I can be hired. The only problem is the pay is only $9.10 and hour, and I calculated that I need to make $12 and hour to be able to pay all my bills, and have some spending money. I am still looking, but if they offer me a job, I will take it cause with dog sitting, I can make do...

Day 252

"At this, the guardian-redeemer said, “Then I cannot redeem it because I might endanger my own estate. You redeem it yourself. I cannot do it.” Ruth 4:6

I have a job interview at Staples today. It is about an eight minute walk from my new house, and is right beside my gym.

Day 251

"Then Boaz said, “On the day you buy the land from Naomi, you also acquire Ruth the Moabite, the dead man’s widow, in order to maintain the name of the dead with his property.” Ruth 4:5

See how he subtly threw that in there? He wanted Ruth, so he threw that in after letting the other guy know about the good stuff.

Off to church, then my "birthday party" Anna, Kristel, Yvi and I are going to "Mink" a chocolate place for fondue and smores as an early birthday as Kristel will be in Chicago for my actual birthday. (going to the gym as well...)

Day 250

"Boaz took ten of the elders of the town and said, “Sit here,” and they did so. Then he said to the guardian-redeemer, “Naomi, who has come back from Moab, is selling the piece of land that belonged to our relative Elimelek. I thought I should bring the matter to your attention and suggest that you buy it in the presence of these seated here and in the presence of the elders of my people. If you will redeem it, do so. But if you will not, tell me, so I will know. For no one has the right to do it except you, and I am next in line.” Ruth 4:2-4

Went to the hockey game last night. Vancouver giants vs. Calgary Hitmen. It was pretty fun, but we lost... (Vancouver)
Hiking, then gym, then job search today...

Day 249

"Meanwhile Boaz went up to the town gate and sat down there just as the guardian-redeemer he had mentioned came along. Boaz said, “Come over here, my friend, and sit down.” So he went over and sat down." Ruth 4:1

I am dog sitting the most adorable 7 month old chocolate lab puppy. He is well behaved and cute, and trained. Off to a hockey game tonight, and more job searching on the weekend.

Day 248

"and added, “He gave me these six measures of barley, saying, ‘Don’t go back to your mother-in-law empty-handed.’”Then Naomi said, “Wait, my daughter, until you find out what happens. For the man will not rest until the matter is settled today.” Ruth 3:17-18

Day 247

"When Ruth came to her mother-in-law, Naomi asked, “How did it go, my daughter?” Then she told her everything Boaz had done for her" Ruth 3:16

I like this verse because Ruth has a confidant. Everyone needs someone they can talk to.

Saw "127 Hours" last night. It was good, but I have no idea why they were saying that people fainted and threw up. I have seen more gore/blood in Rambo movies.

Suite

I was pretty sure of this last night, but did not want to blog until all the paperwork was done. Anna and I now have a place to move into December 16!! It is a two bedroom 1400 square feet suite. It has a huge entry/kitchen/living area. The rooms are monster sizes! It is in our budget, and it is still in the North Shore...close to our gym, close to Anna's job, close to our friends... They will allow pets as long as they are quiet. It is close to all my potential jobs (have a new potential, a vet clinic on Lonsdale is hiring, so I applied and I am kind of hoping to get this one, not the dog grooming, but whichever offers...)
Now we need to get furniture...beds, dressers, couches, table...

Who will be the first to comment?

Day 246

"He also said, “Bring me the shawl you are wearing and hold it out.” When she did so, he poured into it six measures of barley and placed the bundle on her. Then he[a] went back to town." Ruth 3:15

Will have another post today...stay tuned!

Day 245

"So she lay at his feet until morning, but got up before anyone could be recognized; and he said, “No one must know that a woman came to the threshing floor.” Ruth 3:14

None of the apartments yesterday were really good. May be looking at one today...

Day 244 and Aaron Pritchett

"Stay here for the night, and in the morning if he wants to do his duty as your guardian-redeemer, good; let him redeem you. But if he is not willing, as surely as the LORD lives I will do it. Lie here until morning.” Ruth 3:13

I got to meet Aaron Prtichett!!He was so nice. I got a picture and an autograph. He asked me if I was from North Vancouver, where I was originally from, and what brought me out here. Surprisingly there was no line up to see him. I thought it would have been lined up out the door. He is playing at the Roxy tonight, but I think that is sold out.

Day 243

"And now, my daughter, don’t be afraid. I will do for you all you ask. All the people of my town know that you are a woman of noble character. Although it is true that I am a guardian-redeemer of our family, there is another who is more closely related than I." Ruth 3:11-12


Dog grooming trial today!! Praying it goes well. Nora found another Au-Pair that can start Dec 19, so heres praying we find an apartment for the 15.
Took Coco to see "Tangled" last night. It was good. I think I might have to buy it when it comes out.

Aaron Pritchett is in North Vancouver today to do a book signing. I may have to stop by and see if I can get a book and pic with him... might be a long lineup though...

Day 242

“Who are you?” he asked. “I am your servant Ruth,” she said. “Spread the corner of your garment over me, since you are a guardian-redeemer[a] of our family.” “The LORD bless you, my daughter,” he replied. “This kindness is greater than that which you showed earlier: You have not run after the younger men, whether rich or poor." Ruth 3:9-10

Day 241

"When Boaz had finished eating and drinking and was in good spirits, he went over to lie down at the far end of the grain pile. Ruth approached quietly, uncovered his feet and lay down. In the middle of the night something startled the man; he turned—and there was a woman lying at his feet!" Ruth 3:7-8

Can't really say much here, as mom kind of did it in her comment a few days ago. More snow here. How weird for Vancouver. Its supposed to rain soon though, I heard. (and warm up) after 14 months of living in a warmer climate -9 is cold. ( I still don't like weather over 20/25 (too hot) but now my cold tolerance seems to be depleting)

Day 240

“I will do whatever you say,” Ruth answered. 6 So she went down to the threshing floor and did everything her mother-in-law told her to do." Ruth 3:5-6

We found the perfect place on Sunday! We absolutely loved it. The only thing is he wanted someone in Dec 15 at the latest, so we had to talk about seeing if we could afford to move in that early. We call him back to say yes, and by then someone else had napped it. The house is a duplex though, he has two on the top that are ready now, and two on the bottom that will be ready by January. We may go look at the the bottom suites, but they wont be as perfect as the top was... The top is ours if for any reason the top ones fall through for the people renting them...Pray that we would get the right place...

Day 239

"Wash, put on perfume, and get dressed in your best clothes. Then go down to the threshing floor, but don’t let him know you are there until he has finished eating and drinking. When he lies down, note the place where he is lying. Then go and uncover his feet and lie down. He will tell you what to do.” Ruth 3:3-4

I understand all of this verse except the uncover his feet part. Why would you do that to anyone who is sleeping?

Day 238

"One day Ruth’s mother-in-law Naomi said to her, “My daughter, I must find a home for you, where you will be well provided for. Now Boaz, with whose women you have worked, is a relative of ours. Tonight he will be winnowing barley on the threshing floor." Ruth 3:1-2

Aww isn't that nice? The mother in law wants to make sure her daughter in law is provided for.

The house we looked at yesterday was a dump. We are looking at another suite tonight, and have two or three we are maybe interested in.

Day 237

"So Ruth stayed close to the women of Boaz to glean until the barley and wheat harvests were finished. And she lived with her mother-in-law." Ruth 2:23

Doesn't this make you feel happy. God was taking care of her, and introducing her to her future. Sometimes we make big leaps, not sure if we will be caught, but God will always catch us.

Anna and I are looking at a 3 bedroom house in east van/burnaby. Please pray that it is the right one for us, and that we can get it.

Day 236 SNOW!!!

"Then Ruth the Moabite said, “He even said to me, ‘Stay with my workers until they finish harvesting all my grain. Naomi said to Ruth her daughter-in-law, “It will be good for you, my daughter, to go with the women who work for him, because in someone else’s field you might be harmed.” Ruth 2:21-22


There is snow..in Vancouver...
Crazy weekend again
Sat-9-pick up Bailey
10-1 kids
1:30-hike
4-consultation at the gym
6-? kids

Sun-9-walk/hike with Bailey
11-1 church
4-? apartment searching

Day 235

“The LORD bless him!” Naomi said to her daughter-in-law. “He has not stopped showing his kindness to the living and the dead.” She added, “That man is our close relative; he is one of our guardian-redeemers." Ruth 2:20

Anyone have an opinion on this verse?

Day 234

"Her mother-in-law asked her, “Where did you glean today? Where did you work? Blessed be the man who took notice of you!” Then Ruth told her mother-in-law about the one at whose place she had been working. “The name of the man I worked with today is Boaz,” she said." Ruth 2:19

No explanation for this verse, it is pretty straight forward.

In other news, I have unofficially given my notice as an au-pair. We are both on the lookout now for other things (Nora is looking for another au-pair and I am looking for a full time job that will either take me part time now, and full time later, or that will wait for me... Jan would be best for both of us of, but if I get an opportunity too good to pass up I don't want to loose it, and will give two weeks notice... If you guys could pray that I get the right job/apartment that would be great.

Day 233

"so Ruth gleaned in the field until evening. Then she threshed the barley she had gathered, and it amounted to about an ephah. She carried it back to town, and her mother-in-law saw how much she had gathered. Ruth also brought out and gave her what she had left over after she had eaten enough." Ruth 2:17-18

What? Ruth ate first? Without giving it to Naomi? I never noticed that before...I guess it is good to read a line at a time sometimes.

Day 232

"As she got up to glean, Boaz gave orders to his men, “Let her gather among the sheaves and don’t reprimand her. Even pull out some stalks for her from the bundles and leave them for her to pick up, and don’t rebuke her.” Ruth 2:16-16

I don't know about you, but Boaz is the kind of guy I would marry...kind, leaves extra food for the needy...
Joined Steve Nash fitness world with Anna yesterday (we have a groupon for a month)the gym is huge! We got lost... Really nice facility, hoping a month of great exercise will be good...

Day 231

"At mealtime Boaz said to her, “Come over here. Have some bread and dip it in the wine vinegar.”

When she sat down with the harvesters, he offered her some roasted grain. She ate all she wanted and had some left over." Ruth 2:14

This verse reminded me of when I worked at BellBrae animal hospital, how we would get Pizza for lunch on Saturday's. How many employers give free food?

Busy weekend is over, now to clean my room, the house and my car...

Day 230

“May I continue to find favor in your eyes, my lord,” she said. “You have put me at ease by speaking kindly to your servant—though I do not have the standing of one of your servants.” Ruth 2:13

Isn't that nice? She was put at ease by a nice guy...maybe we can all learn to be a little nicer...

Was out babysitting until 2am, got to bed at 2:30, got up at 6:30 to walk the dogs before church... I will be glad when this weekend is over.

Day 229

"May the LORD repay you for what you have done. May you be richly rewarded by the LORD, the God of Israel, under whose wings you have come to take refuge.” Ruth 2:12


Wow, this verse has so many great points that it would take to long to point them out. Repay? rewarded? I like the part about taking refuge under God's wings. It is a great place to rest and be restored. This is going to be a crazy weekend for me...

Day 228

"Boaz replied, “I’ve been told all about what you have done for your mother-in-law since the death of your husband—how you left your father and mother and your homeland and came to live with a people you did not know before." Ruth 2:11

I think this verse is pretty much self explanatory...

Day 227 and Remembrance Day

"At this, she bowed down with her face to the ground. She asked him, “Why have I found such favor in your eyes that you notice me—a foreigner?” Ruth 2:10

I think a lot of us would ask this question, but I also think that in today's day and age we would have just accepted his gift with a mumbled thanks, for fear that if we said anything, he would change his mind.

As today is November 11, I hope that all of you are wearing poppies, and that all of you will take a moment of silence at 11:00. Please remember the soldiers that have already lost their lives, and pray for the ones who are fighting now. You may not support the wars, but please support the men and women that are risking their lives.

In Flanders fields the poppies blow
Between the crosses, row on row,
That mark our place; and in the sky
The larks, still bravely singing, fly
Scarce heard amid the guns below.

We are the Dead. Short days ago
We lived, felt dawn, saw sunset glow,
Loved and were loved, and now we lie,
In Flanders fields.

Take up our quarrel with the foe:
To you from failing hands we throw
The torch; be yours to hold it high.
If ye break faith with us who die
We shall not sleep, though poppies grow
In Flanders fields.
John McCrae

Day 226

"Watch the field where the men are harvesting, and follow along after the women. I have told the men not to lay a hand on you. And whenever you are thirsty, go and get a drink from the water jars the men have filled.” Ruth 2:9

I am pretty certain that giving this much protection to a woman he did not know would have raised a few eyebrows. Can you imagine if a farmer (think of the biggest farm you can) in today's time said to someone that was coming onto their land and gathering the crops that were missed, said this? It would not happen. In today's time Ruth would have been arrested for trespassing and stealing.... maybe we can all lean a little from this story. There have been many studies done on Esther, Job, Revelations...maybe its time to study Ruth.

Here are some pics (we did a pic swap last night

Day 225

"So Boaz said to Ruth, “My daughter, listen to me. Don’t go and glean in another field and don’t go away from here. Stay here with the women who work for me." Ruth 2:8

I think someone had a crush starting... Isn't this an interesting story?

Day 224 and The States

"The overseer replied, “She is the Moabite who came back from Moab with Naomi. She said, ‘Please let me glean and gather among the sheaves behind the harvesters.’ She came into the field and has remained here from morning till now, except for a short rest in the shelter.” Ruth 2:6-7

I like this because it does not just say who she is, but why she is there. A lot of times in this day and age, we have to ask multiple questions to get the answer we are really looking for.

Our trip to the States was awesome! We are planning a trip back there, mainly to Seattle. We did a Duck tour, which as I said before was part on land and part in the water... the guide was really funny. He had a different hat for each phase of the tour, told jokes, had us wave our hands in the air, scream, sing... we saw the floating house from "sleepless in Seattle" saw a lot of house boats and a business that was actually a boat. We went shopping (i bought the least with only boots, a mug and a true love waits ring) We went out for dinner, saw the market, I saw a huge Anatolian shepherd. The first night at the cabin, we did a face mask and watched "Apocalypse Now" it was more boring than I remembered. The second day, we actually drove to Seattle, toured, shopped, drove back and went to bed. Then on Sunday we went to the Seattle Outlet mall in Everett, then drove home. On the way to the States, the border crossing was really funny cause we had an Australian, a German, a New Zealander and a Canadian. We had to get out an go in to the building so they could get ESTA's. Coming back was easy.

Thats about all I can think of, any questions? More pics will be on facebook later.

Day 223

“Boaz asked the overseer of his harvesters, “Who does that young woman belong to?” Ruth 2:5

A lot of you may be thinking “belong” we don't belong to anyone. I guess it is a primitive way of thinking but I know I belong to God, and would love to belong in a way to man/family. That probably does not make sense but it does to me...

Having a ton of fun in the States. Will write more when I am back in Canada, this computer is really slow... Went to Seattle yesterday, wished we had another day there to do the Sci Fi museum...Anna and I will be coming back at a later time for that. Did a Duck tour (part on land, part on water...)

Day 222

“Just then Boaz arrived from Bethlehem and greeted the harvesters, “The LORD be with you!” “The LORD bless you!” they answered.” Ruth 2:4

I believe I have said this before, but wouldn't it be great for everyone to greet each other with that? Wouldn't it be great to have a boss that says The Lord Bless you when he comes into work instead of...clean that spot...why aren't you clocked in...why did you leave early...why were you late...why is it raining...

Day 221

“So she went out, entered a field and began to glean behind the harvesters. As it turned out, she was working in a field belonging to Boaz, who was from the clan of Elimelek.” Ruth 2:3


Can you imagine while you are out searching for food for your elderly mother in law, running into a man that just happens to be related to your mother in law? That is not coincidence.

Gone to Seattle for the weekend. :)

Day 220

"And Ruth the Moabite said to Naomi, “Let me go to the fields and pick up the leftover grain behind anyone in whose eyes I find favor.” Naomi said to her, “Go ahead, my daughter.” Ruth 2:2

Can you imagine being so poor that for food you have to trail along behind someone in a field and grab what falls?

I have a job interview at a pet store today! Please pray that it goes well, and that I find out the outcome before I go to the states. Thanks so much.

Day 219

"So Naomi returned from Moab accompanied by Ruth the Moabite, her daughter-in-law, arriving in Bethlehem as the barley harvest was beginning." Ruth 1:22

Can you imagine going to a town just as the harvest was beginning? It would have been a crazy town, and Ruth should have been overwhelmed, Was she? Find out tomorrow...

I am applying for a part time position at COBS bread. Please pray that I get it...

Day 218

"I went away full, but the LORD has brought me back empty. Why call me Naomi? The LORD has afflicted me; the Almighty has brought misfortune upon me.” Ruth 1:21

Sometimes we may feel like this, we feel like we were full, and God drained us. But as in this story, there was a greater purpose to why Naomi's family died, and why they had to return to that land, and we need to trust that God has a better plan in store for us than what we could plan for ourselves.

Day 217

“Don’t call me Naomi,” she told them. “Call me Mara,because the Almighty has made my life very bitter." Ruth 1:20

I find it very interesting that her name, Naomi, means Pleasure. And that she wanted to be called the exact opposite. (Mara means bitter).

Had a busy weekend, the Roxy, hiking both days, church, went trick or treating with the kids Kristel watches (i just walked, Anna and Kristel went to a few doors cause it is their first Halloween and they were very excited, and loved dressing up\seeing costumes\getting candy...
Baden will be going home around 1 this aft, so then I will clean my room and my car.
Then on Friday we are going to the states..

Day 216

"So the two women went on until they came to Bethlehem. When they arrived in Bethlehem, the whole town was stirred because of them, and the women exclaimed, "Can this be Naomi?" Ruth 1:18

can you imagine being away for so long that people have to ask if it is you?

Yesterday was crazy. Had four dogs in my car for a walk. Took an hour to drive around picking them up, and hour for the hike and an hour to drop them off... four big dogs in my little car!
Then I went to the prayer meeting at the church. It was really good, could feel God's presence. Then went out with Anna, Kristel and Yvonne to the Roxy downtown, can anyone guess what my costume was? Then got home at 2am. Now off to church at 11, hiking at 1:30, and going with Kristel and the family she works for and Anna to walk around while the kids trick or treat.

Day 215

"When Naomi realized that Ruth was determined to go with her, she stopped urging her." Ruth 1:18

I think this is a good point, because a lot of us never stop "urging" or arguing, or insisting. Naomi knew that she could not change Ruth's mind, and accepted that.

Those of you that follow this blog,that are religious, I am in need of some prayer, can't day why on here just yet, but it will be a big change to my life. If you want to know more, you can email me or talk to my mom. Thanks

Day 214

"Where you die I will die, and there I will be buried. May the LORD deal with me, be it ever so severely, if anything but death separates you and me." Ruth 1:17

Can you imagine knowing that you are going to a foreign land for the rest of your life, and knowing that you will be buried there? Ruth did not have the same religion that Naomi did, yet here she is already saying may the Lord...

Coco is home from school again today...
Dog sitting a dog that looks like Sabrina...

Day 213

"But Ruth replied, "Don't urge me to leave you or to turn back from you. Where you go I will go, and where you stay I will stay. Your people will be my people and your God my God." Ruth 1:16

Ruth had so much faith, and so much love for Naomi that she could not bear to be parted form her, and would give up everything and change her whole life just to stay with her. What id the children of today had that kind of love for their own parents, not even their parents in law, like in this story?

Day 212

"Look," said Naomi, "your sister-in-law is going back to her people and her gods. Go back with her." Ruth 1:15

This verse could be seen two ways. The first is that she is a grumpy old lady, who does not want companionship, especially someone that will remind her of her son. The other way is that she knows that it will be a hard life, she knows that it will not be easy for Ruth to change all her ways, her eating habits, her religion, her house...

Which way do you see it?

Day 211

"At this they wept aloud again. Then Orpah kissed her mother in law goodbye, but Ruth clung to her." Ruth 1:14

I have decided to do a few verses in a row from the story of Ruth. I choose this one to start at, because not many people would choose to cling to their mother in law. From what I have heard, most people do all they can to get away from their mother in laws...

Did squats, lunges, crunches, planks...yesterday. Not sure what I am doing today. It is girls movie night, might go out, but there is not much on, the others want to see "Hereafter" which does not look that great to me, but might go cause it is $6 and gets me out of the house.

Might have an opportunity two to three times a week to babysit a two year old. It is someone that Kristel knows, and they need someone 9-12 a few days a week... Kristel is giving her my number, so I might hear from her soon.

Not much else to say...

Day 210

"Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good." Romans 12:21

Last day of the Romans 12 chapter.

This last week was crazy busy... this week will probably be as well... will update later

Day 209

"On the contrary "If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink. In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head." Romans 12:20

One more day of Romans 12 left.

Day 208

"Do not take revenge, my friends, but leave room for God's wrath, for it is written: "It is mine to avenge; I will repay,"[a]says the Lord." Romans 12:19

Once again, this is something we should be doing. Can you imagine the difference in the world, if even just the Christians followed this?

Day 207

"If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone." Romans 12:18

Can you imagine if everyone tried to be at peace? It would be a peaceful world. We all need to try a little harder to be at peace with others.

No school today, so I am making Coco bacon and eggs for breakfast. Then she is having two friends over, we are doing crafts, then if it is nice we are going to Maplewood farms, if it is not nice, then we are going to Go Bannana's or the Gator Pit (indoor play areas) Nora is out, so I will be working till 7 (was gonna be later but I was invited out to dinner, so I told Adrian I would put Julian to bed if he could do Coco)
Was gonna be dog sitting this weekend, but that has changed, just have four dogs to walk on the weekend. Dog sitting next weekend for sure.

Did interval training yesterday, then went swimming, then sauna and hot tub.

Day 206

"Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everybody." Romans 12:17

This is what is wrong with the world, everyone tries to get back at everyone and wars are started, continued...

Day 205

"Live in harmony with one another. Do not be proud, but be willing to associate with people of low position.Do not be conceited." Romans 12:16


I think a lot of people should learn not to be so conceited, and a lot of people should learn to mingle with everyone, not just their "class" of people.

Did squats, lunges, pushups, crunches yesterday, went to see RED, awesome movie, went to $1 night at the pool and soaked in a hot tub. Woke up sore all over...great but awful...

Day 204

"Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn." Romans 12:15

I think that this is a good verse. If we are happy when someone is sad, or sad when someone is happy, that can mess the person up, and ourselves (if this makes any sense... I am really tired right now)

Did intervals with Anna (I said, hey Anna lets go jogging, but I have not done it in a while, plus just getting back into using my ankle... she said okay we will do intervals...so hard...so fast...) then I went swimming at 9pm. Today is just as crazy. Cleaning the house, cleaning my room, doing strength training with Anna (squats, lunges...) then hiking, then Coco has drama, then Anna, Kristel and I are going to a movie... Tomorrow I am doing intervals, hiking,skating and maybe swimming. This is a crazy week. Will be dogsitting a dog named Morgan this weekend, plus I have two additional dogs to walk on Saturday, and Two on Sunday...

Once again, I trusted God by giving and He is repaying me...is anyone else noticing this?

Day 203

"Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse." Romans 12:14

I like this verse because we should not treat our enemies the way they treat us. If we treat them nice, maybe they will come to be nice to us, and see God shining through us, Even if they don;t, it still confuses them...

I am getting Bailey for another night! He is such a nice old dog. Went for a two hour hike yesterday...Going jogging with Anna today.


Edit: Was I not talking about giving money to God yesterday? And how we know He will take care of us? I gave him all I had (at the moment) and now I am getting an extra dog sitting night...How can people not see the miracle He performs?

Day 202

"Share with God's people who are in need. Practice hospitality" Romans 12:13

I find it funny that today, in continuing with my Romans chapter 12, that this was todays verse. My morning devotions were also about giving. Today is the day that I am giving my cheque to church. I was a little worried because at the moment there is not a lot in my bank, I am to be paid later by Nora, and at the end of the month by dog walking. I had decided to give what I needed to on faith, and then I read these verses and it was just like God saying, thank you for doing what I have asked you to. I would have felt guilty if I had made the other decision (to wait) and then read these verses, but instead I am filled with peace, knowing that I am making the right decision. I give because He gave me everything. Without Him, I have nothing, so I give to Him to thank Him, and to give Him what is rightfully His.

Going on a hike with the two dogs I am watching, Anna and her dog, and Kristel and her dog. (after church)

Day 201

"Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer." Romans 12:12

Continuing with Romans 12...

Not much else to say..

Day 200

"Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord." Romans 12:11

Yay day 200, I know I forget the half way mark, but the half way mark is a .5 so its hard to say day 182.5..

Went to bible study last night, and the topic was surrendering. I have always thought that I surrender everything to God, but reading this book, the author spoke of needing to surrender basketball to God, and it hit me that I need to do the same with horses. I do not think I would be happy in a world without horses, but I need to be willing to give that up, in order to fully surrender to God, and in order to fully be committed to Him, and to be giving everything to Him.

Dog sitting again this weekend! An 11 year old German short haired pointer.

Day 199

"Be devoted to one another in brotherly love. Honor one another above yourselves." Romans 12:10

You know why....

Coco was home yesterday because she had a dentist appt to get a cavity filled (again) She was better behaved than she was last time. When the numbness wore off, we went skating. I went swimming with Anna (which made my ankle sore at the time but it is starting to feel better than it has since i injured it) I will try to go swimming at least once a week now. (and skating once a week as well)

Day 198

"Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good." Romans 12:9

Doing the Romans 12 thing....

Not much new, went and saw "Secretariat" It was awesome!! It opened with a bible verse from Job, and the main "theme" song was "O happy day" the race scenes were amazing, made me miss riding so much, made me miss putting my head against a horses head, made me miss the smell of a horse, the feel...

Day 197

"if it is encouraging, let him encourage; if it is contributing to the needs of others, let him give generously; if it is leadership, let him govern diligently; if it is showing mercy, let him do it cheerfully." Romans 12:8

Continuing with Romans 12...
Yesterday went well, went for a hike, returned Parker, had a dinner with Anna and Kristel and Nora and the kids. The pie was good. We played a little game of charades after.

I went to bed around ten, and at ten to eleven, I got a text that woke me up, it was Adrian saying that he would be home by quarter after eleven, and since the pilot light had gone out, he was going to relight it when he got home...since he had not met Kruger yet, I had to stay awake and hold Kruger while Adrian came down to light it. I was really mad last night, I had just fallen asleep and he had to wake me up, then came me up for twenty five more minutes!! It was not that cold, and every one was already in bed, under their blankets, so it could have waited till morning!!!

Day 196

"If it is serving, let him serve; if it is teaching, let him teach;" Romans 12:7

You know why by now...

Saw an eagle yesterday while hiking... he was about ten feet away from us when he flew. It was amazing. Thanksgiving dinner today, Nora said I could invite my friends so Anna and Kristel are coming!

Day 195

"We have different gifts, according to the grace given us. If a man's gift is prophesying, let him use it in proportion to his faith." Romans 12:6

More Romans 12

Kruger is a really good dog, just lays down when I am doing something else, walks when I walk, ignores the kids, eats when told...

Parker on the other hand, is always moving, never wants to lay down, would rather be with me and Kruger than eat (have not had him near the kids yet, no chance has come up)

Day 194

"Just as each of us has one body with many members, and these members do not all have the same function, 5so in Christ we who are many form one body, and each member belongs to all the others." Romans 12:4-5

Continuing with Romans 12...

Dog sitting Kruger (a Rhodesian Ridgeback) Friday, Saturday, Sunday, Monday. Will be getting Parker (a collie shepherd cross) today and watching him till Monday morning.

Day 193

"For by the grace given me I say to every one of you: Do not think of yourself more highly than you ought, but rather think of yourself with sober judgment, in accordance with the measure of faith God has given you." Romans 12:3


Continuing with the Romans chapter 12....

Day 192

"Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will." Romans 12:2

I chose this verse because it is the second one in Romans 12, and I am doing all of Romans 12.

Donated blood yesterday with Anna. It took them longer to find my vein than it did to collect a bag full... Once they found my vein it was fast flowing. Dog walking and bible study today.

Day 192

"Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will." Romans 12:2

I chose this verse because it is the second one in Romans 12, and I am doing all of Romans 12.

Donated blood yesterday with Anna. It took them longer to find my vein than it did to collect a bag full... Once they found my vein it was fast flowing. Dog walking and bible study today.

Day 191

"Therefore, I urge you, brothers, in view of God's mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God—this is your spiritual[a] act of worship." Romans 12:1

I chose this verse because in church and bible study we are starting a new study called becoming an R12 Christian. It is about how to have true spirituality according to Jesus, and uses Romans 12 as the guide. I am going to do a verse from Romans 12 for the next 21 days, until I have done all of Romans 12.

Yesterday I went to Ikea with Anna, and she said she wished there was a cake decorating section, so I introduced her to Michaels...then we went to a cafe called Tommy's for lunch. Today I have Coco for most of the day, cause she is getting a cavity filled, so I have her till 1045, then again at 1230. Might go for a hike in the morning with her, then just chill and watch TV after cause she will be out of it (they are giving her some Nitrous)

Day 190

"There is no one like you, O LORD, and there is no God but you, as we have heard with our own ears." 1 Chronicles 17:20

I chose this one because I love praising God, and this verse does that so well.

I am dog sitting a Rhodesian Ridgeback this weekend...His name is Kruger, he is 8, and good with kids.

Day 189

“Do not boast about tomorrow, for you do not know what a day may bring forth.” Proverbs 27:1

I chose this verse because I don't know what will happen. I can make all the plans I want to, but if they are not God's plans, then they will not happen.

Day 188

"Love the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength." Deuteronomy 6:5

I chose this verse because love is so important. The reason we can lover other humans is that God loved us, and Jesus showed us what true love is. We need to show a little more love instead if just talking about it. Get up early to drive a friend, stay late to help a coworker, give a donation to the food bank, hug a crying child, talk to the person no one wants to talk to. Show the world that Christians live by/with love.

Had an amazing picnic yesterday. I made pasta salad and cube salad. Kristel made mini quiche, Anna made Key Lime pie, We had Cheese and crackers for snacks, watched the boats, the scuba divers, the sun glistening on the water... It was a nice day, sunny and around 20, here is a few pics.

Day 187

"Fear of man will prove to be a snare, but whoever trusts in the LORD is kept safe." Proverbs 29:25

I just see the truth in this verse.

Going on a picnic with Anna and Kristel to Whytecliff park. I made cube salad and pasta salad

Day 186

"The LORD will guide you always; he will satisfy your needs in a sun-scorched land and will strengthen your frame. You will be like a well-watered garden,like a spring whose waters never fail." Isaiah 58:11

I chose this verse because I like knowing that my needs will be satisfied no matter where I am. My needs, not my wants or likes or desires, but what I need!

Hiking today...

Day 185

"For Ezra had devoted himself to the study and observance of the Law of the LORD, and to teaching its decrees and laws in Israel." Ezra 7:10

I chose this verse because it was part of my morning devotions, and it got me thinking, what if more people would study the Bible, and actually followed what was written in it. Then I remembered, people used to do that, and crime rates were down, divorce rates were down...

Did two hikes yesterday, got one today and one tomorrow. Bought new contacts (between the contacts and the cream for the rash, I am on a spending halt.

I have a second job interview with Blockbuster on Sunday. The one I had yesterday went well, was with the assistant manager who used to work at an AW so we chatted about the sillyness of it for a little. The interview is on Sunday, so heres hoping and praying that they can offer me weekends and a few evenings.


Thats about all I can think of at the moment.

Day 184

"Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go." Joshua 1:9

I chose this verse because I like the idea of not being scared. I get scared a little too much, as I am sure a lot of us do. But God is with us, and He will keep us from harm.

Here is a picture of a squirrel on my lap from the day I went to Whytecliff park.

Day 183

"Moreover, no man knows when his hour will come: As fish are caught in a cruel net, or birds are taken in a snare, so men are trapped by evil times that fall unexpectedly upon them" Ecclesiastes 9:12

I like this verse because no one plans to have something bad happen to them.

Day 182

"But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well." Matthew 6:33

I chose this verse because it has to do with what will be given to us if we are faithful.

Today I saw a coyote downtown Vancouver. I dropped a friend off at the Vancouver filming studios, and on the way back there was a coyote on the side of the road.

Went to Whytecliff park yesterday, lovely view, saw a few seals, but not well enough to take pictures.

Day 181

"Though I am free and belong to no man, I make myself a slave to everyone, to win as many as possible. To the Jews I became like a Jew, to win the Jews. To those under the law I became like one under the law (though I myself am not under the law), so as to win those under the law. To those not having the law I became like one not having the law (though I am not free from God's law but am under Christ's law), so as to win those not having the law." 1 Corinthians 9:19-21

I chose this verse so we could learn that instead of judging those different from us, we should live with them in peace so as to be better witnesses.

I got a prescription for the rash, and $60 later, the rash is finally going away.

Going to Whyteclff park today to see seals (it is raining at the moment, so I hope it stops)

Day 180

“My dear children, I write this to you so that you will not sin. But if anybody does sin, we have one who speaks to the Father in our defense—Jesus Christ, the Righteous One.” 1 John 2:1

I chose this verse because once again, it is about the hope we have. I can just picture us in court, with the judge glaring at us, and then Jesus walks in , and the weight is lifted...

Off the to the walk in clinic for my rash. It has been a little over two weeks and has started getting better, then got worse...

Day 179

“So do not throw away your confidence; it will be richly rewarded. You need to persevere so that when you have done the will of God, you will receive what he has promised.” Hebrews 10:35-36

I chose this one because confidence is always a good thing to have. The pain and suffering, and hate, and confusion will all end when we go home to God. He has promised us that

Day 178

"May God be gracious to us and bless us and make his face shine upon us,that your ways may be known on earth, your salvation among all nations." Psalm 67:1-2

I chose this verse because it was part of my morning devotions, and it struck a place inside.. It is the type of verse that gives hope, and makes you happy.

Today I am going to Horseshoe bay to walk a Toller named Holly.
Then I have to clean my room, and the whole house. I did it on Monday, but they can mess it up real fast. Nora is coming home from London tomorrow, so I want the house to be clean.

I applied for a part time job at blockbuster, hopefully they can offer me weekends...I don't really need the money, I make enough with nannying to pay my bills, and dog walking to have a little extra, but it would be nice to be able to save some, and maybe be able to afford to travel, or buy a new mouthguard for when I sleep.

Day 177

"Accept one another, then, just as Christ accepted you, in order to bring praise to God." Romans 15:7

I chose this verse because there are too few of us who accept others.

Day 176

"I am the vine; you are the branches. If a man remains in me and I in him, he will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing." John 15:5

I chose this verse because, even though it is one of the better known verses, is it one of the more studied? Do we truly understand what it means?

Day 175

"Yet, what we suffer now is nothing compared to the glory He will give us later." Romans 8:18

I chose this verse because yesterday I heard about a friend that was suffering, and had been suffering for a while. After praying for them, I did my devotions, and they were about a man named Edward Payson. He was a minister in the 1700's. He had Tuberculosis, migraines, partial paralysis due to a fall from a horse, and died young. A month before he died, he wrote a letter about the glory of God, and when earthly pains cease when we all meet again in heaven.

It was not coincidence that this verse and this story of suffering showed up right after I learned of my friend. God is bigger than any earthly problems we may face. God does not exempt us from problems, as Edward Payson's story shows, but He can help us to look past them, and help us to see the Glory that lies ahead.

Day 174

"Ask me and I will tell you remarkable secrets you do not know about things to come." Jeremiah 33:3

I chose this verse because I like the idea that God will share secrets with us about the future if we ask. But the future is not ours to know. I do not want to know where I will be in ten years....

Alpha and Omega was pretty good, it seemed really short, and you could not tell that it was "Jasper" but overall it was a good movie.

Day 173

"Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves." Philippians 2:3

I chose this one because it seems today that everyone is concerned with their own ambitions, and they all believe that they are better than everyone else. What a world it would be if we actually acted on this verse.

I am taking Coco to see "Alpha and Omega" today. It is a new kids movie about two wolves that are captured in Jasper Park and are released in the States. The movie is about them getting back to Jasper. It will probably make me sad to not be in Jasper.

Day 172

“Be imitators of God, therefore, as dearly loved children” Ephesians 5:1

I chose this verse because it reminds me of how children often imitate their parents, or another loved one. Why can't we imitate the one who made us all?

Day 171

"Who is wise and understanding among you? Let him show it by his good life, by deeds done in the humility that comes from wisdom.” James 3:13

I chose this verse because wisdom is not always shown in how smart someone is, but by their compassion, their love, and their ability to forgive, and to not want to be the greatest, or the most important.

Day 170

“And so we know and rely on the love God has for us. God is love. Whoever lives in love lives in God, and God in him.” 1 John 4:16

I chose this verse because I have said it before, and will say it again, God is love. He loves us so much more than we can fathom.

Here is a quick list of all the bad things that have happened in the last few days
-got a cold cause the furnace filter was not changed
-have a weird rash on my armpit, now it is on the other one as well
-someone I know had lice, so I had to use lice shampoo to be safe (there is no one to check my hair)
-had my period
-the guy on eharmony that I signed up for (actually paid so I could reply to him) has not responded in over two weeks, but has viewed my profile since then
-fell in love with a TV show "The Young Riders" bought the first season, only to find out that the second and third season were never released

Thats all I can think of at the moment. MY nose is still stuffed and my throat sore from still not having a new filter

Day 169

"The fruit of righteousness will be peace; the effect of righteousness will be quietness and confidence forever." Isaiah 32:17

I chose this verse because who does not want peace?

Day 168

"Let those who love the LORD hate evil, for he guards the lives of his faithful ones and delivers them from the hand of the wicked." Psalm 97:10

I chose this verse because it was in my devotions this morning, and I like it.

I have recently started watching a show called The Young Riders. It is from 1989, and really good. It is about a group of Pony express riders.

Day 167

"Live as free men, but do not use your freedom as a cover-up for evil; live as servants of God." 1 Peter 2:16

I chose this verse because there are many Christians who use being baptized as the only thing they need to do to get to Heaven. They believe, I am baptized, I am free, then keep on living in sin, and being a Christian in name only.

Today is Coco's party (15 kids at laser dome...)

Day 166

"Do not seek revenge or bear a grudge against one of your people, but love your neighbor as yourself." Leviticus 19:18

I chose this verse because there are a lot of people that do not like their neighbors, or have "feuds" with them over silly things.n I know this verse is meant to be taken as neighbors, as in everyone, but I think it can be used to mean the person next to you as well.

I have a sore throat now...I guess my body is telling me that I have been too busy.

Busy

So on top of the busy weekend that I had (kids, dogs, AW) I found out the my friend from college, Sarah, was coming to visit. School started on Tuesday, and was only for forty five minutes. Then I took Coco to Go Bananas (a play place in the mall for kids). What started as me inviting two other kids turned into half the class. Then Wednesday was Coco's Birthday.

Sarah and her husband Trevor got here Wednesday night, we went out to the Quay for dinner, then watched a movie. We got to bed pretty late (after 12 I think). On Thursday I was up at 0630, had the kids till 0900. Then we had eggs and bacon. Then we went to Lynn Valley canyon, did the hike. Then we caught the bus to Stanley park, spent about three hours at the aquarium, then walked downtown to the cupcake store, had a cupcake, then walked to the Seabus, caught the seabus, then a bus home. Then we went to Horseshoe bay for dinner, then used Tori's snap pop things in the street and alley, then watched another movie, then went to bed.
Got up this morning, had the kids till 0900, then Sarah and Trevor packed up, then I went to AW (for my last shift) and now I am going to get Coco and a friend who is having a playdate with Coco. I don't have any pics at this moment, might put some up later.

Tomorrow I have Julian from 2-6 but other than that, it can actually be almost a real weekend.
Did not get the dog grooming job, they hired someone who could do the trial sooner than I could.

Day 165

“Even to your old age and gray hairs I am he, I am he who will sustain you. I have made you and I will carry you; I will sustain you and I will rescue you.” Isaiah 46:4

I chose this verse cause I like it.

This has been a crazy busy week. Will blog more later.

Day 164

"The Lord Almighty has sworn, surely as I have planned it, so it will happen." Isaiah 14:24

I chose this verse because whenever God plans something, He does it. He is not like us humans who plan but do not carry through.

Sarah and Trevor are here. We went to the Quay last night, had dinner at East Side Mario's. Today we will do suspension bridge and Stanley Park.

Day 163

“Teach me to do your will, for you are my God; may your good Spirit lead me on level ground.” Psalm 143:10

I chose this verse because I have been learning a lot about doing God's will, and not mine lately.

Sarah from college and her new husband are coming to visit!!! So excited.
Two more shifts at AW!!

"Then he called his disciples and said to them, "Truly I tell you, this poor widow has put in more than all those who are contributing to the treasury." Mark 12:43

I chose this verse because the story has always been a favorite of mine.

So last week was a little crazy...
I handed in my resignation, got called in for two job interviews, had to go get sample contacts.

On Friday, Lucy (the dog I was watching for the weekend) came over. On Saturday, I walked Lucy for an hour in the morning, an hour in the afternoon and fifteen minutes at night. I had to work at AW from 12-3, then I had a friends birthday party from 6-8, so I walked her in between all those things going on.

On Sunday, a friend of a friend brought their Bulldog puppy over for me to watch overnight, as they were going to a wedding. So I had two dogs. Thankfully they got along great, and played in the backyard for part of it. I also went to church (before the puppy arrived) so I left Lucy in her cage from 845 to 11, and had taken her on an hour long walk before that. Then a friend and I went to the Cleavland Dam with Lucy. We saw a Heli landing about fifty feet away. Lucy saw some kids playing with a ball, and wanted to play with them. Then we came home, got the puppy, and chilled for a while. Then I put puppy in his crate and took Lucy for a hour long walk (too long for a thirteen week old puppy, especially a bulldog puppy. Then we all went to bed. On Monday, Brett came and got Gus (the puppy) I watched the kids and Lucy from 11-230, then put Lucy in her cage, and went to Park Royal (a big mall), with the kids till 430, then we played with Lucy in the back for half a hour, made dinner, put Lucy in the car, and returned her. Now off for the start of school...

Sorry if there are any spelling mistakes I am in a hurry

Day 161

"If it pleases the king," replied Esther, "let the king, together with Haman, come today to a banquet I have prepared for him." Esther 5:4

I chose this verse because even great people in history sometimes could not say what they wanted to the first time.

This is a busy weekend, will blog about it tomorrow

Day 160

"Every day of my life was recorded in your book. Every moment was laid out before a single day had passed." Psalm 139:16

I chose this one because a lot of people find it weird that I do not fear death. This verse here is a perfect example of one of the reasons. The time and place I will die has already been planned, and fearing it will not change it.

Day 159

"Bless the Lord o my soul and forget not all His benefits." Psalm 103:2

I chose this verse because I always notice the little things that God gives me.. Sometimes it takes me a while to notice it, but when I do...

I have my internet stick back
I am dogsitting, she is great with the kids, Coco loves having her, but she does not like the dad, so we are banished to the basement.
Going to have breakfast, then walk her.

Day 158

"We do not know what we do, but we are looking to you for help." 2 Chronicles 20:12

I chose this on because I never know what I am doing... I payed the wrong bill, so for the next few weeks till my bank can get it back I am short $121.

To answer Jane's question to yesterday's blog, might work four jobs if the dollar store will hire me for only one or two days a week, will see how everything goes.

Day 157

"Enjoy what you have rather than desiring what you dont't have. Dreaming about nice things is meaningless, like chasing the wind." Ecclesiastes 6:9

I put off quitting at AW for a long time simply because I wanted the extra money. I wanted to be able to afford all the things I don't have. But I realized that I could not last there any longer, so on Tuesday I handed in my resignation. On Wednesday morning, I saw an add in the paper for a dog grooming business, they are looking for an assistan bather for eight hours on saturday's only. I went and dropped off a resume, had an interview, and they want me to come in sometime for a few hours to see if it will work out. I was thinking "God is great!" then Wednesday night, I got a call from a dollar store where I had applied over a month ago. They want me to come in for an interview! As soon as I stopped "chasing the wind" God gave me more. He was just waiting for me to accept what I have.

Sorry if their are any spelling mistakes, had to type all this on my iPhone, still no Internet stick

Day 156

"What we suffer now is nothing compared to the glory He will reveal to us later." Romans 8:18

Day 155

"When I discovered your words, I devoured them. They are my joy and my heart's delight." Jeremiah 15:16

I chose this one because I love reading to bible.

I am going to hand in my two weeks notice tomorrow (well it will be twelve days notice cause I want to end at the end of a pay period) I just can't stay at AW anymore. We taxed in a bad manager for an over zealous one, and I never liked it there to start with. I still have nanny and dog walking which will be enough.

Day 154

"As dead flies give perfume a bad smell, so a little folly outweighs wisdom and honor" Ecclesiastes 10:1


No reason, just picked it

Day 153

"You can make many plans, but the Lord's purpose will prevail." Proverbs 19:21

I chose this verse because it reminds me of the saying... If you want to hear God laugh, tell Him your plans. I make many plans, but they only work if God wants it to.

Ankle

Here is a few pics of my ankle from start of sprain to now. Apparently it loaded the first pic at the end, so scroll down, then up

Day 152

"You will keep in perfect peace him whose mind is steadfast, because he trusts in you." Isaiah 26:3

I chose this verse because I felt this peace come over me as I gave everything to God the other day. I have been wanting a boyfriend for a while (since everyone I know is getting married, it really makes me notice how alone I am) I signed up for eharmony because a friend encouraged me to. I got a "communication" from a guy, so I signed up to actually pay for it so I could communicate with him. Then I saw another guys profile that would match me better, and I sent a communication, and was impatient while waiting for him to respond(still has not). I was feeling kind of depressed, then I read my diary, and there were so many spots where I just gave everything to God, and put all my trust in Him. I decided to do that again, and said if it was His will, not mine, and just surrendered. I felt a peace come over me that I have never felt before. I saw this verse this morning, and it was just right.

Day 151

"For lack of discipline they will die, led astray by their own great folly.". Proverbs 5:23

I chose this verse because I have seen what can happen with no discipline. Without it, we do things that make us look dumb, endanger ourselves and others, and bring ourselves down.

Still no Internet stick..mid next week they said

Day 150

"Turn from evil and do good; seek peace and pursue it." Psalm 34:14


Once again it is a short one, Internet stick not working.

Day 149

"Go and sin no more" John 8:11

I chose this one because it is short, as I have to use my iPhone (my Internet stick is having issues)

Day 148

"I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well." Psalm 139:14

I was thinking the other day, while getting X-ray's, how complex we are. We have so many bones, and if even one is our of place or injured our whole system is either out of whack, or fights to be able to make do. That does not just randomly happen. Don't have the results of the X-ray yet...prob just a really bad sprain.

Day 147

"Choose my instruction instead of silver, knowledge rather than choice gold,for wisdom is more precious than rubies, and nothing you desire can compare with her." Proverbs 8:10-11

I chose this verse because I seem to be on a rant about rich people...I swear it is not intentional. It is better to have brains than money.

Might be going for the X-ray, need to see if they can fit me in after 1 (cause I work at AW till 12:30

The swelling is starting to go up, but I think that is cause I have not been wearing any support for it except when I am working...

Day 146

"For whoever wants to save their life will lose it, but whoever loses their life for me will save it. What good is it for you to gain the whole world, and yet lose or forfeit your very self?" Luke 9:24-25

I chose this verse because if you look at the wealthiest people in the world, the majority of them are not truly happy, and have lost a part of themselves to get to where they are.

I went to the doctor. He said that he was 90% sure it was a sprain, but was sending me for X-rays just to be sure that I did not crack or chip it. He said that even if it is just a sprain, the swelling can stay for six months.

Day 145

"Blessed are those who haven't seen me, and believe anyway." John 20:29

I chose this one because we were talking about faith without proof, and the movie "the Body" in Bible study the other day, and then I opened up my devotion book, and this was the verse.

Today I am taking Coco to see Nanny Mcphee 2. Then I am debating going to the walk in clinic about my ankle. It only hurts when I move it in a certain direction, but it has been more than a week and there is still some swelling. Anyone have any ideas? Should I go, or give it more time..Comment by 2:30 my time (5:30 Ontario time)

Day 144

"The LORD is my shepherd, I shall not be in want. He makes me lie down in green pastures,He leads me beside quiet waters" Psalm 23:1-2

I chose this verse because I like the idea of being in green pastures, beside quiet waters. With three jobs, sometimes I get too busy to "stop and smell the roses" and sometimes God makes sure we do that. My sprained ankle has been His way of making me rest.

Nora is going away tonight,so I am taking Coco to the movies tomorrow, then I pretty much have the kids all week (other than day camp and day care)

Day 143

"When I called you answered me, you greatly emboldened me." Psalm 138:3

I chose this verse because whenever I am scared or shy, or just need help, I call on God (when I am scared I usually sing God is bigger than the boogy man) and I usually feel a peace come over me, knowing that whatever happens, God is there with me.

I only have the kids for work today...I think I will clean the house, clean my room, work on Cassidy (I have not done anything on it for a while) maybe have a nap...I will be free from 8:30 to 4:00...

Day 142

"Fathers do not aggravate your children or they will become discouraged." Colossians 3:21

I chose this verse because everyone always uses the "children obey your parents" verse, but no one ever stresses the verses about how parents are to act towards their children.

I have a five hour shift at AW today, which is good, but I don't know if I can stand for that long on my ankle. it is mostly better, but.... I think I will have to take frequent breaks. I have a shorter shift on Friday, and it would have been better if I could have the shorter shift today. Hopefully i will be allowed a break every hour or so to ice it.

Day 141

"He then gave an order: "Cut the living child in two and give half to one and half to the other." The woman whose son was alive was filled with compassion for her son and said to the king, "Please, my lord, give her the living baby! Don't kill him!" But the other said, "Neither I nor you shall have him. Cut him in two!" 1 Kings 3:25-26

I chose this verse because it shows the difference of a good and a bad mother. it also shows a wise king.

My ankle is starting to do better, I can almost walk normal again, it is is starting to have bruising, and the swelling is starting to go down. I was debating going to the hospital today to double check that it was just a sprain, but I don't think that is necessary cause it is feeling better, and now looks like all the pics of sprains I found. I will be spending another day in bed with my foot up, icing it and watching The Beverly Hillbillies

Day 140

" But the LORD said, "You have been concerned about this vine, though you did not tend it or make it grow. It sprang up overnight and died overnight. But Nineveh has more than a hundred and twenty thousand people who cannot tell their right hand from their left, and many cattle as well. Should I not be concerned about that great city?"

I chose this verse because you never find out what happens to Jonah after he saves the city of Nineveh. He did not want the people to be saved, he wanted them to be destroyed, and in the end that could have destroyed his soul.

Day 139

"Then Peter came to Jesus and asked, "Lord, how many times shall I forgive my brother when he sins against me? Up to seven times?" Matthew 18:22

I chose this verse because I was thinking of few of us will forgive someone even one time. We need to start forgiving, as we have already been forgiven all of our sins.

I saw "The Expendables" Last night. Went to the theater by myself. It was good. Like Rambo meets The A Team.

This morning I was woken up by DDDDDDD Dora. I hate having no soundproofing and loud TV's I can hear both the TV's as if they were in my room...

Day 138

"Come, let us return to the LORD. He has torn us to pieces but he will heal us; he has injured us but he will bind up our wounds" Hosea 6:1


I chose this verse because I opened the bible to this page, and found once again, that God always finds the right verse for us...I sprained my ankle yesterday, and the verse I find today is about Him heeling us...

Day137

"Then you will call upon me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. 13 You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart." Jeremiah 29:12-13


I chose this verse just because I like it, and can feel the truth in it.

Happy Birthday Connor

Day 136

"Daughters of Jerusalem, I charge you: Do not arouse or awaken love until it so desires." Song of Songs 8:4

I picked this one for several reasons. First, Song of Songs is not usually quotes because most of it is about making love...Second, I have been feeling for a while that I need a boyfriend (I think it is because everyone I know is having kids, or getting engaged) and this verse really speaks to me, and tells me to be patient.

Today I am working at AW (an hour shorter of a shift than was first supposed to) We not only have a new manager, but we actually have a supervisor now (I guess they decided not to make me one after all... something about not closing enough)I think I have lost my Sunday shift (used to be my big shift) but I think they are giving it to the supervisor so she can do the bank deposits...I need the next Sunday off anyway, as Nora is away, but I will not be happy if I loose my big shift. On the bright side, I may be getting more dog walking hours as one of the girls left...

Day 135

"We hear all these people speaking about God's wonders in our own languages!" Acts 2:11

I chose this verse because it was in my devotions last night, and something about it spoke to me. As English speaking Christians, we have always expected others to learn our language to read the bible. Instead of making thousands learn our language, why not have 1 learn theirs so they can praise in their own language? I hope this makes as much sense here as it does in my head.

Day 134

"Those who sow in tears will reap with songs of joy." Psalm 126:5


I chose this verse because I feel that there are many out there who are "sowing" and they feel pain, aggravation, it feels like nothing will come of what they are doing, but we will see the end result one day, and then it will all be worth it.

I was watching Flicka 2 last night, and it made me miss horses, and galloping across a mountain area. I miss riding and horses, and animals so much, I don't know how much longer I can last here, even though I do love it here in some ways, horses are in my blood, I need them to live.