Focusing on the Extraoridnary & the Ordinary

     The Extraordinary - This week has been challenging, amazing, fulfilling, sad and hopeful.  My Aunt Miriam on my dad's side of the family died on Monday.  She is the last close living relative on my dad's side.  I had served as her encourager and power of attorney for the last 12 years.  She is home with the Lord, and I know she has been wanting to go home to him for some time now.  I am sad to say goodbye, but I am glad to know she is with our Father in heavan.  It was a very interesting 12 years.  At times she would be very demanding, and other times very tender.  There were times I did not want to have to carry the responsibility for her, but after it is all said and done, I am thankful God led me through this experience with her.  I learned a lot about love, and I learned a lot about the challenges of aging.  I know that I want to live my life in such a way that I may finish this race of life strong.  I hope I can be like Moses and be strong of mind and body and sight, and simply lay down and go home to be with God!
    The Ordinary - This week I have seen a number of young adults, who grew up around me.  Some of them often played in my back yard.  You wonder what kind of impact you are having on the lives of others.  My encounters this week led to conversations where they shared stories and remembered times where they played and spent time with ouf family.  It seemed to mean a lot to them.  Playing cards in the back yard; having fun on the swings and sliding board; even going around the neighborhood collecting garbage.  I all seemed to have meaning to them.  I pray that these young folks will look for God, and that they will sense their need for Him and follow Jesus.  Also, Maria is practicing her parrallel parking as she prepares to take her driver's test.  Just an ordinary, mundane event, but in a way, very special and extraordinary.  Isn't it great seeing your children become adults and move towards independence.  It's hard to believe she turned 18 and has graduated.  Ordinary stuff that causes me to feeling extaordinary feelings!

    Update on Training - Well, I'nm in week nine.  Here are the updated figures!

                        Walking Miles           Running Miles   
Weeks 1-8             331                                 266                      
Week 9                    55                                   47                           
Total                      386                                 313     =  699             

So let the extaoridanry and the ordinary encourage you, and look for God in it all.  Let's all pray for comfort and healing for those families in Colorado that lost loved ones at the Batman movie. 

Thank you, God, that you are there in the midst of unspeakable tragedy and confusion.  We look to you for our help in times of need.