Last Day Of April A Little Humor 4/30/2025

 Good Morning,

I pray that this day finds all of you who read this blessed and content. I just filled a cup with some Door County Black and Tan Coffee and I am ready to write. 

James 4;6 But He gives more grace. Therefore it says. "God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble. 

I have been working on some small projects with the intent of giving them away as gifts. Some of the detail work needs to be glued to another part. I purchased a a vial of an instant glue which lived up to it's name and if you comment and ask I can tell you which glue I used. This stuff was excellent at bonding two pieces immediately with a short drying time. I then could move on and continue working on the project. 

When using an instant type glue, one does need to be careful not to drip any of it on anything but the project. Who would think that an index finger could become attached to a small piece of wood so quickly and stick so well ? For a few moments I looked less like a technician and more like a stooge in a glue factory. 

The project did turn out very well, even though it provided a short laughing spell from my wife. And I will admit I had to join in.  So my point for the day is this. Don't take yourself so seriously that you can't laugh at yourself and join others laughing with you.  It was quite a comical moment in our house and one I will never forget.

God bless.

Marty

A Little Time Spent Outdoors 4/29/2025

 Good Morning,

I am enjoying a hot cup of Door County Heavenly Caramel Coffee and it is time to write.

Today I will spend some time preparing to hunt for a turkey tomorrow. I am pretty much always ready to hunt, but the truck will need to be packed with the my equipment and I will go over my list of things to make sure I don't leave something behind that I will need. Nothing worse than forgetting the shotgun or the key to the trigger lock. 

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

My breakfast and lunch are pieces of art in itself. My sandwich of choice is guess what? Roasted turkey on a hard roll. I have made arrangements for several people to know where I am and I will keep my wife as worry free as can be.

My point for today is this. Enjoy the outdoors, but take every precaution to have with you what you might need and communicate your location. Someone cares for you and it is not fair to them if they have to worry while you are gallivanting all over. 

Secondly, respect nature. Carry out all your trash and leave the land as good as when you showed up, if not better. No littering. 

Psalm 145:5 On the glorious splendor of your majesty and on your wondrous works, I will meditate. 

Lastly do all things with prayer and never start your adventure without praying.

Philippians 4:6 Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving, make your requests be known to God.  

God bless,

Marty

Don't Believe The Lies 4/28/2025

 Good Morning,

I chose this morning to brew a hot pot of Door County Heavenly Caramel Coffee and it is doing a great job of stirring some life into my old self. 

John 3;16 For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish, but have eternal life. 

Matthew 10:31 Fear not, therefore; you are of more value than many sparrows.

Psalm 139:14 I praise you for I am fearfully and wonderfully made. Wonderful are your works , my soul knows it very well. 

Zephaniah 3:17 The Lord your God is in your midst, a mighty one who will save; He will rejoice over you with gladness; He will quiet you by His love, He will exult over you with loud singing. 

Many people will go through life not knowing just how much they are loved, appreciated, and needed. The old devil works hard to discourage a lot of people, convincing them that they don't measure up to the standards of this world. You can usually tell who they are by how long they stay at a gathering or fellowship. Soon after the event has started they quietly disappear. They don't invite you to sit with them nor do they ask if they can sit with you. Thoughts like, "they wouldn't want to sit with me" go through their minds and once again Satan won the battle of discouragement. 

If they only could grasp the truth that they are loved so much that someone died for them and with pain,  paid their way to eternal life. 

Don't believe the lies that tell you that you are not of value or important. You are! Step out and join in on life. Don't let the thought that you are inadequate lie to you anymore. Claim the victory over the lies and smile. 

Have a great day. You are needed, wanted, and loved. 

Marty

Small Group Big Prayers 4/27/2025

 Good Morning, 

I have a hot cup of Door County Peanut Butter Cup Coffee sitting in front of me and it is time to write. 

Jeremiah 33:3 Call out to Me and I will answer you and show you great and mighty things which you have not known. 

Last night after our Saturday evening church service our monthly prayer service was also held. There were only six people there for prayer. The prayer requests that came from the group were humble and more for others than themselves. If I were able to see inside of the prayer warriors heart, I don't think I would find any selfishness within.

They spent their night interceding for others and it did me good to be there. They don't hesitate to pray and they go right to the throne of God with  their requests and intersessions. Most people will never know that they were prayed for.

My point for today is this. If you know of a group who meets to pray, consider joining them. You might be a part of  prayers that change lives or whatever God has decided to let you witness and be a part of.

Pray for this world. It needs it.

Marty

What Else Could Be Needed To Cut Firewood? 4/26/2025

 Good Morning,

Door County Jamaican Blue Mountain Blend Coffee was just brewed and poured into my cup. It is time to write. 

Philippians 4:19 Amy my God will supply every need of yours according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus. 

Philippians 4:13 I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.

Today I will be meeting up with a few other guys to cut some trees down at our nephew's home. Last night I packed the truck with good intentions and everything I thought I might need today. I did not have to pack a lunch or beverages except for my coffee. I can't cut wood without coffee. 

All of the stuff in the truck is important and also within my truck is a first aid kit. Hopefully we won't need it. I am convinced though, that no matter the quality of the equipment, the amount of good intentions, and safety precautions it will all be in jeopardy if we miss the one important ingredient to this work plan.

My goal is to before even one saw is started, one axe is swung, or one gas tank is refilled we are going to pray and ask God to bless us with safety and smooth working conditions. Prayer is the cotter pin in keeping the wheels on a decent sized project like this. 

Headed into a project this weekend? Don't forget to get it blessed by the Big Boss. 

God bless,

Marty 

Waste Not Want Not 4/25/2025

 Good Morning,

My day began a little bit ago and It started with a big cup of Door County Peanut Butter Cup Coffee.

John 6:12 ESV And when they had eaten their fill , he told his disciples, "gather up the leftover fragments , that nothing may be lost." 

My grandparents lived through the Great Depression of 1929 and as kid I heard them refer back to it many times. My grandmother would refer to it when she made a soup she called a "Depression Special". Every thing in that soup came from her vegetable garden. And believe me when I say it was a great tasting broth. To make it have some consistency she added noodles which were made by hand. They never wasted a thing. They weren't hoarders, but anything they owned had a purpose and was used. 

I think they rubbed off on me because I married a frugal gal, and we make use of things and repurpose stuff if we can. If it can be used, it is used or made into a useable conversation piece. 

Recently I found a handle to an antique faucet. I also had an antique fork from Grandmas kitchen. The handle was ruined with age. Apart from each other they were totally useless. But together they made a great fork and definitely a conversation piece. 

My point for the day is not to clutter your home with antiques like a certain couple we know does. But being frugal means the leftovers get eaten, not tossed. A small leftover chunk of  beef roast can be eaten in a salad. Left over potatoes get fried with some eggs for breakfast. 

Waste not want not. 

Have a great day!

Marty

Solid And Steady 4/24/2025

 Good Morning,

I am enjoying a hot cup of Door County Peanut Butter Cup Coffee on this fine Thursday morning and it is time to write. 

I have watched the stock market climb and fall as of late and besides the stock market not much seems to be reliable or a steady commodity. There doesn't seem to be much if anything that is fool proof or trust worthy.

Yet one thing for sure, that will last forever is the Word of God. It will never change nor disappear. 

Isaiah 40:8 The word of our God endures forever.

What God spoke in the Old testament stands yet today in the New Testament. We might have to buy a new car because it did not last. But we will never find a time when God's word will fail us or be too old. Looking for security? Look on the shelf and dust off that old Bible. God's word has survived all these years and it will be there in the end!

Have a great day!

Marty

The World We Created 4/23/2025

 Good Morning,

A hot mug of Door County Churro Coffee is in it's place at my desk and it is time to write. 

When I think of the world being created I have to give full credit to God for His work at framing earth and the universes. The splendor and majesty of the mountain ranges as well as the oceans and the depths of things not even explored as of yet belong to God. God has amazed me with the sound of a new born baby crying  and the grizzly bear who shares a stream with men. My list of God's creations could go on and on. 

Revelation 4:11 "Worthy are you, our Lord and God, to receive glory and honor and power, for You created all things and by Your will they existed and were created." 

But, and I do say but. We too have taken part in the creation of our portion of the world. No no no. We have never actually made anything nor created anything that God didn't give to us first. 

We can take credit for the greed in our lives. The dishonesty we practice belongs to us. The laziness we tout as ours was not made by God. The anger and hatred that runs through our heart wasn't there when we took our first breath. When we are unfaithful to our spouses, we own the mess that ensues. The person who takes a grudge to the grave, leaves a  broken heart behind and possibly a load of guilt that someone carries in their portion of their world!

We have the ability to control our "creations" or put and end to them. God never made a mistake when He created the world we see before us. But a lot of the anger, sadness, and frustration we endure, we created for ourselves. 

Take time out today and survey the world you created and if it would be better off without something, take it to the trash bin of life, delete the spam, and recreate your world!

Food for thought.

Marty

My Sympathy Extended 4/22/2025

 Good Morning,

I am running late today and my hot cup of Door County Churro Coffee is working hard to jump start this body. Writing time has long passed by, but here it goes anyway. 

Matthew 5:44 KJV But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, and do good to them who hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you.  

John 16:34 KJV A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another. 

The world lost a leader yesterday. The leader of the Catholic church passed away from health complications. I want to extend my deepest sympathy to my Catholic friends near and far. I am praying for you and will continue as your leaders pray and search for the next pope. 

Not being Catholic myself I did however watch the life of Pope Francis from afar. I believe the attribute of loving all people stood out and if I were to emulate anything of his life style, that would be the one of the places in my life where I need to improve. 

I struggle with loving all people especially my enemies. I work at it, but fall short many, many times. I need to do better at being able to disagree with others and still love and respect them. Now I don't go out and beat others to a pulp, or kill anyone, but my heart at times does turn to stone and I can ignore people who I don't agree with or who don't care for me. I need to learn to love all people despite our differences. I am openly admitting that I try to live the correct way, but I fail and need to seek forgiveness from our Lord. I pray for wisdom, strength, and change. Without a doubt I believe that when I fail and then repent, God sends someone to get on my every and last nerve to test me and keep me working at my failure tendencies . 

So if you are imperfect like me, I will pray for you and you pray for me. Let's console our friends as they mourn the loss of their Pastor. 

God bless,

Marty

Fun With Grandma 4/21/2025

 Good Morning,

There is a sweet aroma in the house this morning and it originated in the kitchen from the Door County Jamaican Blue Mountain Blend Coffee brewing a little earlier. 

Hebrews 10:25 Not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another and all the more as you see the day approaching. 

 

Yesterday we celebrated Easter combining some of my family and some of my wife's family. Despite the combination of families it still was still only six of us. My mother in law will be 98 years old in July and yesterday she ate well and added to the conversations and the jocularity that goes along with a group just talking and having fun. I haven't seen her laugh that much in a long time. 

I told my mother in law that I would have a surprise for her on Easter. I explained that the Easter Bunny had left her something. The table was set and ready for us all to eat when the last dish was done baking. Mother walked around the house and saw the table all set with plates and silverware. She saw her surprise. I had constructed a little rack of  block  letters from a Scrabble game. I found a large bowl of them in an antique shop. Also on her plate were some canvas miniature carrots and an Easter Bunny figurine. She had a chuckle and you could also see the wheels churning as to how she would do something like that back at me. 

Mother has always been pretty good at pranking me for many years. And she enjoys seeing the look on my face when she gives me a jab. 

At her age of 98, we really can't take for granted one more anything with her. My point for the day is this. If you celebrated Easter with others recall in your mind who was there. Lord willing that same group can be there next year. But don't take it for granted. Don't wait to gather for a year. Take advantage of every opportunity to assemble and enjoy one another. Life literally changes in a heart beat.

Take advantage of time before it takes advantage of you.

God bless,

Marty

I Believe 4/20/2025

 Good Morning,

I just sat down to write with a hot cup of Door County Sunrise Roast Coffee and it is soothing right down to the marrow of my bones. 

Acts 2:32 God has raised this Jesus to life and we are all witnesses of it. 

Today the Christians of this world celebrate Easter, the resurrection of Jesus Christ from His tomb. He was crucified on a cross and absorbed the punishment for our sins. Three days later He was raised by Father God and went about a short ministry time visiting and serving others once again. God showed the power He has to change the dead back to the living. He restores souls that once were without purpose, music within, and hope. One of the hardest things for people to believe is that the tomb of Christ is empty and He now sits at the right hand of the Father.

I am trying to keep this short. I  believe! Jesus is still changing lives, and resurrecting souls that once were dark, hurting, without purpose, hope, and in danger of spending eternity in hell. Why do I believe? Because I once was lost and now I am found. Only a powerful God could change this life from what it was to what it is and what it will be. 

Happy Easter and blessing to all. 

Marty

Guarding The Tomb 4/19/2025

 Good Morning,

My old desk is occupied with an old man drinking Door County Sunrise Roast Coffee this morning, and it is time to write. 

John 4:34 Jesus said to them, 'My food is to do the will of Him who sent Me and to finish His work." 

Last night I had the great honor to be part of an Easter drama. My wife Rene and I used to attend the sponsoring church many years ago. The outdoor drama depicts the crucifixion of Jesus, His death, burial, and the resurrection. It lasts three days and the tomb of Christ is guarded by people dressed as Roman soldiers. I have been blessed to be a part of this for many years. The guards are there around the clock and the shift changes every three hours. The tomb is always guarded. They battle with the wind, rain and sometimes snow. Last night it was raining so hard I had to step away for a quick cup of coffee. That was a first for me. 

The drama takes place on the church grounds, and people come from all over to see the display. The cars stop on the road and pull over to observe the live drama. The guards will send one or two people to the road to invite the occupants of the car to the resurrection, Easter breakfast and the church service. The guards will pray with many people on their shift and evangelize a little with the occupants of the cars. 

I will say this, it was a busy night for prayer. I thoroughly enjoyed the 3 hours last night despite some nasty weather. It is amazing how many people desire someone to pray for them or with them. 

My point for the day is this. Don't make prayer for people an annual outing. Be ready at all times to pray with folks in need of prayer or if they desire to be prayed with. I know heaven smiled down on that site last night, and I know lives were impacted by a three hour shift. Lives will be impacted all weekend. 

God bless,

Marty

A Man Was Saved Today 4/18/2025

 Good Morning,

I am happy to say that the Door County Country Morning Blend Coffee has finished brewing and I am ready to write. 

Today, Christians around the world observe "Good Friday" the day Jesus Christ was crucified and died. Jesus spoke 7 times that were recorded from the cross. As a young boy I recall a year that on Good Friday the weather was just beautiful. It was unusually warm outside and the lilacs and one rose bush in our yard had blossomed out. I recall this because I had been sent outside to cut just a few lilacs off of the bush for my mother. The lilacs were very fragrant. If I close my eyes right now, I can still see the roses and the lilacs. I can still find the beautiful fragrance catalogued in my memory vault. 

I recall my mother listening to Billy Graham on the radio the day before and Reverend Graham spoke about the thieves hung the cross next to Jesus. That message stirred the heart of a young boy in the third grade. 

Luke 23:39-43     39. Then one of the one of the criminals who were hanged blasphemed Him saying, "If you are the Christ, save Yourself and us." 

40. But the other, answering, rebuked him, saying. "Do you not even fear God, seeing you are under the same condemnation? And we indeed justly, for we receive the due reward of our deeds, but this Man has done nothing wrong. 42. Then He said to Jesus. "Lord remember  me when You come into your kingdom."

43. And Jesus said to him. "Assuredly, I say to you, today you will be with Me in Paradise".

My spiritual journey in life began that day and it was a long time before I found Jesus Christ as my Lord and Savior, but prior to that night this "jerk and rebel" never forgot the day the yellow roses and lilacs bloomed early. Each Easter I would remember that day and the lesson of Christ's compassion to one man, despite being in tortuous pain Himself. 

I used to wonder if that message could even apply to a sinner and scoundrel such as I. But finally, in 1981 I did find our Lord and Savior and my heart claimed Him for redemption. God still isn't finished honing me into the man I ought to be, I am not what I will be yet, but thankful I am not what I used to be. It all started with a radio, roses, lilacs and a pocket knife. I will never forget that day for as long as I live. 

The roses were a "wild variety, that spread along the back fence in our yard. In 1986 Rene and I  purchased my parents home and the roses and lilacs were still there when we moved 1994 But I never recall them blooming early like that again. 

Marty

Out Come The Decorations 4/16/2025

 Good Morning, 

A hot mug of Door County Jamaican Blue Mountain Blend Coffee s doing it's best to warm me up and wake me up. It is time to write. 

I never say much when my wife Rene decorates the house for a season or a holiday. Making small changes to the indoor scenery is something she enjoys as she works hard to make the seasons and holidays nice for others and herself. 

Isaiah 25:8 He will swallow up death forever. The Sovereign Lord will wipe away the tears from all faces; He will remove his people's disgrace from all the earth. The Lord has spoken.  

The reason for Easter is not lost on her at all. She loves her Lord and Savior. She says Easter is a time of reflection, but Easter Sunday should be celebrated in a grand way. She makes Easter baskets for shut ins and gives me directions as to what she might want constructed. Pictures of my latest endeavor will be posted on Monday. "Jesus died for me, and God the Father raised Jesus up from the grave to save us all and show the power He has over death. She says," Just knowing that we are loved that much is a reason to celebrate." 

Some folks might feel that her decorations are a wee bit much and she might be a little soft in the head. But Rene has a soft heart and it shows with the work she puts into a basket or a gift. She works hard to celebrate a the gift of freedom from sin and a future that holds heaven. 

Have a great day! Bring out the decorations!

Marty

Jesus Walks With Us 4/16/2025

 Good Morning,

I am enjoying a hot cup of Door County Jamaican Blue Mountain Blend Coffee and it is time to write.

Today I am writing from the heart for a loved one. We all at one time or another have something occur in our lives that takes away even our breath. I have experienced this a few times and I have felt devastated to say the least. I found myself living in the Word of God a little more than usual. I recall reading this passage while wondering if I would survive my anguish. 

John 5:8 Jesus said to him "Get up, take up your bed, and walk."  Shortly after that, I read Joshua 1:9 Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go. 

God never said to me "Get up and run". He said to get up and walk. I am to keep walking with Him and I am never alone is what he said. He gave me time to rest and eventually He led me back to being part of His work. He then showed me the plans He had for me. 

I pray for all of those who are hurting now and cannot see the light leading them on.

I love you all.

Marty

Good For At Least One Business 4/15/2025

 Good Morning,

I have the spell check turned on and a hot cup of Door County German Chocolate Cake Coffee in front of me and it is time to write.

I have a friend who manages a custard restaurant. It's a place where you can get a tasty cold treat and it also serves some good food if you choose to have a meal before you imbibe on a frozen delight. 

My wife Rene and I stopped into his emporium of treats not long ago and my friend was there and had some time to talk. I asked him how his business was doing. I was thinking that the stock market swings and unsteadiness in the world might be hurting his volumes. He informed me that when the stock market swings low the amount of frozen custard he sells goes up. "People drown their misery in sweet things". That certainly amazed me to hear that the stock market and it's woes are good for a least one business. 

Now, I am not so sure that custard sales are a barometer for your personal financial moves but I know this. People look for comfort in trying times. I find that for me, the trip for an ice cream cone is always better on a Tuesday night after studying my Bible with guys at church. This study time also includes some intense prayer time. Of course I go home and bring my wife along and it is basically a short date night.

My point for the day is this. Yes the cold sweetness of a dish of chocolate custard is always nice and tasty, but add in some prayer and the Word of God and it ends up being soothing for the soul as well. 

Matthew 4:4 But he answered and said. "It is written, 'Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceeds from the mouth of God."

Have a great day and don't let the custard drip on to your shirt!

Marty

For Your Own Good 4/14/2025

 Good Morning,

I am sitting at my desk with a hot cup of Door County German Chocolate  Cake in front of me and it is time to write. 

Proverbs 18:24 A man of many companions may come to ruin, but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother. 

Later this morning I need to take our two dogs Leo and Gibbs for a grooming session. Neither one of them embraces the idea of having their hair cut. As the owner of these two fur balls it is my duty to do the right thing for them despite their wishes. 

Hopefully you have a friend or a relative who watches over you. A friend who loves you enough to tell you what you need to hear, not just what you want to hear. A true friend speaks, acts and leads you to the right thing and good outcomes, even when you get a little riled up at them. 

Many years ago, I was told that it would be in my best interest to have colon cancer screening performed every five years as cancer runs in my family. I used every excuse in the book to avoid experiencing the "Longest Yard". My last attempt at staving off the inevitable was to say that I did not want Rene to take off from work and drive me to and from the appointment. A good friend who was included in the conversation piped up and said. "I can adjust my schedule so I can drop you off ". Rene on the other hand worked a shift that would allow her to be able to drive me home. Once my friend basically robbed me of all my excuses and he knew I wasn't happy about going for this exam, I had to book an appointment. 

Later he called me and said, "think about it. You owe it to your family to stay healthy. They would miss you if you died from something that could have been detected and treated in the early stages." He was right and did not care if I was angry,. He acted for my best interest despite me not wanting it. He told me what I needed to hear and not what I wanted to hear. 

A good friend is there in the good and the bad times. A good friend is not afraid to tell you what you don't want to hear. On the other hand, can you be a friend to someone at all times and lead others to what is best, despite the flack they give you? 

Food for thought.

Marty

Hanging A Picture 4/13/2025

 Good Morning,

I am setting out on a busy day so my cup of Door County German Chocolate Cake Coffee will need to travel with me. 

Proverbs 18:9 ESV Whoever is slack in his work is a brother to him who destroys.

Not long ago, my wife Rene and I decided to move some artwork around and remove a couple of old wild life scenes from our walls. I do not possess a flair for hanging anything without a bubble level, tape measure, and patience. My eyes are good enough to shoot birds out of the air, but not quite good enough to just eyeball a picture to be hung straight, and inline with other objects on a wall. I cannot guess at distances between objects without measuring. Every time  I have decided that I had it pinned to the right spot without checking myself by using the right tools, my venture hangs crooked or not in proportion to the others already on the wall. That is where patience comes in!!! Don't rush a good work! In the photo shown I was in a hurry and the the print on the right ended up not aligned closely with the others. 

I looked for the author of this quote. There doesn't seem to be a clear line to credit the author "Any job, big or small, do it right, or not at all." While looking up this quote I stumbled on another quote from Mr. Quincy Jones.

"Imagine what a harmonious world it could be if every single person, both young and old shared a little of what he is good at doing." Quincy Jones

My point for today is this. God has given us skills, and knowledge. We are to utilize our gifts to not do just an adequate job of anything but to do it and give it our best. And if at all possible we are to help others who do not posses the skill or knowledge . Food for thought. 

God Bless. 
Marty

Practice Makes Perfect. 4/12/2025

 Good Morning,

My mug was just filled with some very hot Door County Jamaican Blue Mountain Blend Coffee and it is time to write. 

The discretion of a man makes him slow to anger, and his glory is to overlook a transgression. 

Sometimes serving in church isn't always easy. Our small Saturday evening flock is usually very easy to please and are supportive of the speaker. But every now and then I will say or preach something that gets under the skin of someone and they become irritated. They will stew over it for a day or so and then I get the "dreaded email". I asked one of our Pastor's if he ever had to deal with the aftermath of a sermon. He replied with a laugh and said "yes sir". He went on and said that once he receives a message from the Holy Spirit He delivers it and it goes out and it is on the recipients to deal with the message. "Not all people are easy to please and you can't begin to please everyone." 

He and I both agreed that email is a cheap shot just waiting to happen and should never be a form of communicating something that bothers you about the person or something they said. Face to face is the best way to settle questions or differences. 

In general it is good advice for us all to not be easily offended or to get our undies in a bundle. He also told me that it is a good idea to pray for the congregation or flock so that they arrive on time ( My personal biggest peeve) ready to listen, with their hearts, and to realize that not every thing is about them. We too need to not be easily hurt or offended. 

In this life we can choose not to be easily offended and especially over little things that should just be overlooked. Life is a lot easier that way! I need to practice what I preach.

Marty

A Day To Reflect 4/11/2025

 Good Morning,

I am awake and ready to write this morning. I have a hot mug of Door County Turtles In A Cup Coffee in front of me and all is well.

Proverbs 31:26-27 She opens her mouth with wisdom, and teaching of kindness is on her tongue. She looks well to the ways of her household and does not eat the bread of idleness. 

Today would have been my mother's birthday. She went home to be with the Lord several years ago and today causes me to reflect on a few things she taught me. Yesterday as I was training my dog with some others,  I recalled something my mother said now and then. "Watch a person and how they treat their dogs and you will see someone who loves their families as well." During a short break in the training I could not help but see how each person there took special care with their dogs. I believe Mom was right. 

I took off from training when hunting season started last September. Yesterday was my first time back for training since then. It was a common goal of all of ours to train our dogs and help each other as needed. I have to say that the group who was present yesterday are genuinely nice people and I look forward to a some more training with them. I told some of them that I would write about them today!

My point for the day is this. Mothers teach their kids many things. I can't remember half of what Mom taught me. Do your best to take the good things Mom taught and write them down. Two things I recall are the lesson about dogs and how to make bread rolls. 

Oh, I plan on going outside today. I will lace up my boots. Guess who taught me how to tie my shoes?

Have a great day and live the way your mother taught you. 

Marty

Crazier Than A???? 4/10/2025

 Good Morning,

The Door County Turtles In A Cup Coffee finished brewing and I will stop writing for a minute so I can fill my mug with the hot java. 

Proverbs 23:33 Your eyes will see strange things and you heart utter perverse things. 

We just finished an election for a judge in our state and I have to say, I am glad it is done. No incessant calls and political commercials at least for a little while! Although we are free to vote for who we desire to be elected, some of the adds on television were shown during prime time and actually inappropriate for young eyes and ears. There seems to be no cap on how far these adds can go. 

The new trend also for people who disagree with your choice of a candidate feel the need to drop you as a friend. The immaturity of some people shows. I guess they missed kindergarten the week they were teaching respect, accepting differences, in each other, and disagreeing with dignity and grace. Do unto others!

I have to say this. I heard a new quote and to me and it rings true for how I feel about election behaviors in this age. "Some people are crazier than a soup sandwich." It's time to work together and it's time that the common folks require civility, respect, and cooperation from their elected parties as well as the same from the other side. The example we tolerated this year and what was seen by our children, should make us ashamed. If we continue to tolerate this behavior we are crazier than?????

 Ask yourself this question, If your house was on fire would you want the person you unfriended to call the fire department or just ignore the blaze?

Have a great day. 

Marty 

Surrounded In A Good Way 4/9/2025

 Good Morning,

I am enjoying a hot cup of Door County Peanut Butter Cup Coffee as I write this morning. 

Ezekiel 22:30 And I sought for a man among them who should build up the wall and stand in the breach before me for the land, that I should not destroy it, but I found none. 

Last night I attended our Men's Bible study at church. One of the key pillars of our ideals for the group is that what is said there stays there. Your personal issues if discussed never leave that room. I was all prepared to study last night, but we side tracked right into prayer and that is where we stayed for the entire night. Not one man objected to some serious prayer time and I for one felt the time spent surrounded by men of prayer, lifting up requests to heaven, was time well spent. Those prayer requests and discussions will never see this page and will remain anonymous forever, as they should. 

Friends, prayer should never be allowed to turn into fodder for gossip and a group who meets like these men do is a place to draw on the strength of others without fear or worry. When one man requests prayer for whatever, it is protected by these men who truly understand being brothers in the Lord. If I were on the outside of this group, looking in I would wonder why more men do not participate. I believe God has assembled a group of prayer warriors and if I need to be surrounded I would want to be surrounded by these guys. 

Men, join a Bible study and learn together, but most of all be a man of prayer.

Marty

Sweet Aroma 4/8/2025

 Good Morning,

The alarm went off and the Door County Peanut Butter Cup Coffee also started brewing at the same time. I have poured a hot cup for myself and it is time to write. 

My mother in law lives in an assisted living complex and her room actually has a small kitchen with a refrigerator . Mother likes to keep egg salad on hand for an evening snack. She likes to spread some on a cracker or two for her evening treat. So when my wife Rene goes to visit or I go, we always make sure to bring some egg salad to her. Mother always compliments me "you make the best egg salad". There is nothing special about the egg salad accept for the little bit of spice that gets added to the standard egg salad. Our daughter tends to give me different seasonings and rubs for gifts and I surely use them. The egg salad spice is a dill blend and it has a sweet aroma and makes the egg salad a little tastier. 

I looked up dill in the Bible and found that dill was a valued commodity and often used in paying tithes. It has been used as a seasoning for many many years and also was a treatment for ailments of the gut. 

Matthew 23:23 "Woe to you scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you tithe mint, and dill and cumin, and have neglected the weightier matters of the law: justice and faithfulness and mercy. These you ought to have done, without neglecting the others. 

My point for the day is this. Whatever we do with the right attitude toward others never lacks God's blessing. And it only takes a little more effort to send a better tasting egg salad instead of sending the plain old standard. So when doing for others, give it your best shot.

Marty

Leave It At The Door 4/7/2025

 Good Morning,

Here comes Monday and it is moving in quickly. I just poured a hot cup of Door County Heroes Blend Coffee and it is time to write. 

Acts 2:46 Every day they continued to meet in the temple courts. They broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts. 

On April 20th we will observe Easter Sunday. For my wife Rene and I, we have always observed Easter as a celebration of the resurrection of Jesus. Usually we celebrate with a nice dinner which is a little nicer than usual. Rene's mom and brother will be joining us this year and I look forward to that time. 

One thing I have learned about dinners, fancy or plain, they are meant to be enjoyed and dinners are a gift from God. One of the best ways to enjoy a family meal is to leave the world at the door. For an hour or so, leave politics, family troubles, finances, and differences at the door. Close the door on sadness and strife. In the first few years of our marriage Rene, our daughter and I used to work at making and serving Easter breakfast at church. The process started the day before and it was a blessing to serve others. Maybe your dinner might be an egg sandwich eaten in a hurry as you serve dinner to the homeless.  But close the door on the World and allow God to bless you at your meals during Easter and throughout the year. 

Many people will have a table dressed to impress and then ruin it by allowing the world problems, or grudges to be present during dinner. 

It's your dinner, why not enjoy it? 

Marty

Nice People Come In Many Sizes and Ages 4/6/2025

 Good Morning,

The mug in front of me s a little bit larger than normal. I took time and effort to preheat the mug before I filled it with Door County Heroes Blend Coffee. I guess you could say that this morning's java was a process, but well worth it. Some of you are thinking, why doesn't he just run to Starbucks? There is just something about having a delicious, hot, cup of coffee in your own home. 

For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans of welfare, and not for evil to give you a future and a hope. 

Last week I worked the polls at one of our voting stations in the city where we live. At 5:45 am several people who are on the election poll worker team for that site showed up to "Man the polls" and make sure that all those who entered the site, were at the correct site for their address, check their identity, solve issues, listen to complaints about the process, and if needed register people to vote. Most all of the  ( not all) workers are retired folks looking to keep busy, serve their community and pick up some compensation for their work. 

The workers were needed for a very long day and eventually left around 9:20 PM. One thing that stood out on a very busy day was that even during a few times when lines started to get longer and the folks on the other side of the table were occasionally a little surly I did not here one complaint about anything from the election workers. These workers were dedicated to the process, the community, and their coworkers. The workers are led by people who say thank you, and make you feel needed. Each of my coworkers watched out for each other. 

This is the first year that I tried this type of work and I do have the time to do so. I committed to showing up next year just because the workers and leaders are people who just make you want to work with them.  That says a lot. I am pretty fussy about where I work and who I work with. I tip my hat to those ladies and gentlemen who filled those roles and convinced me that our voting process works. I look forward "God willing" to working again for the elections somewhere in our city next year. We will see what next year brings. 

God bless,

Marty

Our Tree. Make Markers Of Your Life 4/5/2025

 Good Morning,

A hot cup of Door County Blueberry Cobbler Coffee is helping me to start this day off in a good fashion. 

Ecclesiastes 9:9 Enjoy life with the wife whom you love all the days of your vain life that He has given you under the sun, because that it your portion in life and in your toil at which you toil under the sun. 

My wife Rene likes to watch movies shown on the Hallmark Channel and the GAC Family Channel. It just so happened that one day I sat down to watch one of the movies she was engrossed in. The movie was 75% finished when I took a break from whatever I was doing. Of course an estranged couple who had been apart, somehow found their way back to each other and it so happened that they renewed their love to each other by the tree where they carved their initials in many years ago. Being retired I am in and out of the house and a lot of times Rene has the television on and she isn't even watching it. But for a couple weeks I saw as I was being like an annoying 6 year going in and out of the house a couple of instances where they showed the initials in the tree scenes. 

I asked Rene how many movies has she watched where there are initials carved in a tree or into an old bench seat or painted on a rock. She thought about it for a minute and replied, "I am not sure, but I think it would be a fair amount of scenes like that." Then I said, "You and I have been married for 1000 years now and we don't have a tree with our initials in it. Rene looked at me wit her usual stare of "Only you would think of that." I continued my thought process as I went back outside and it went like this. "I love her and she loves me, but yet we have no tree".

Being at home and we have a few trees, I was able to stretch out a cord and plug in a wood burning tip, and engrave my "sappy" (Pun intended. The sap oozed from the tree as I burned my message of love into it.) marker on a tree in our front yard. I did not tell Rene about it and just waited to see when she would notice it. She actually saw it the same day and was all smiles when she said "We have our own tree. When did you do that?"

M point for today is this. You are never too old to celebrate the markers of your life. It could be a photo or a Christmas ornament, or a tree with your initials in it. Some people measure their children each year and mark the wall with their height changes. Whatever  you choose to celebrate and remember, should be important to you and shared with each other. 

Have a great day and make memories to cherish.

Marty

An Easter Expectation Thought 4/4/2025

 Good Morning,

Sitting to my right at my old desk is a hot cup of Door County Blueberry Cobbler Coffee and it is helping to make this day start with gusto.

Jesus paid the ultimate price for our wrong doings and He did so with grace as He suffered one terrible beating and then was crucified. He was silent before His accusers. He was hung on the cross before His mother. I can't imagine that experience at all. I would have been fighting, complaining and cursing my captors all the way to my death. But even in pain and in agony, Jesus was concerned for others. He made arrangements for His mother to be taken care of after His death. He pardoned a thief who was next to him on Golgotha as He was dying. He asked the Father to forgive those who tortured Him and nailed him to the rough wood. He cut them some slack saying "They know not what they do". 

Jesus set the example of love for all of us. Paul wrote in the book of Romans an expectation, which I believe is good guidance to a successful Easter for each and every one of us. 

Romans 12:16 ESV Live in harmony with one another. Do not be haughty , but associate with the lowly. Never be wise in your own sight. 

Food for thought. 

Marty

Easter Journey 4/3/2025

 Good Morning,

I am enjoying a hot cup of Door County Sunrise Roast Coffee and it is doing a mighty fine job of removing the chill in my body this morning. 

As we journey to Easter Sunday let me remind us all that it is a journey of faith, which is of the utmost importance to the beliefs of every Christian. As we head toward Easter we must remember the incredible sacrifice Jesus Christ made for us. 

Romans 5:8 "But God demonstrates his own love for us in this; While we were still sinners Jesus died for us."

We see His love for us in the death, burial and resurrection of Jesus Christ. This is the ultimate sacrifice and should be remembered in preparing our heart for every day, especially Easter.

His sacrifice compels us to live each day in manner that honors Him and His sacrifice for us. 

More tomorrow. 

Marty 

If Looks Could??? 4/2/2025

 Good Morning,

I am really enjoying a hot cup of Door County Sunrise Roast Coffee this morning. It is time for me to write. 

Proverbs 21:4 ESV Haughty eyes and a proud heart, the lamp of the wicked, are sin. 

Yesterday I had the privilege of  working at one of the election poll sites in our town. A statewide election was held yesterday and the turnout of voters was amazing. People took their right to vote yesterday seriously, and showed up to make their voices heard. It made me proud to be an American.

During this long day as I served in a few different roles on the team I made some observations. In general and it isn't anything new, people do not like standing in lines. Our team worked very hard and swiftly to keep the waiting to ten minutes or under. I would have to say we were successful in doing so. But even a five minute wait showed up on some faces with frowns and at time some crossed eyes. The other observation was the reaction to a question that those who are setting the stage for others to be able to vote was almost humorous, yet got under my skin a little. Now being a civil servant does not allow for me to voice what I was thinking and express myself except with a smile and politeness. Anyone who really knows me can tell you that putting up with nonsense is just not my style. Those complaining eyes and quiet comments really had me saying in my mind "Suck It Up Buttercup" . My friends would be proud of me for smiling during the process and thanking people for coming to vote.

Here is the complaint. During the process of voting the voter is asked to produce a photo identification. Then the poll worker asks them to recite their full name as listed on the card and their address. This is a step to eliminate any voter fraud and has been part of the process for a long time now. So when the poll workers are holding your identification card, you are reciting what is on it. The worker is also checking to see if the picture on the card matches your face. This really irritates some folks up to actually making a verbal comment. "Just read it. It is in front of you" was the comment I heard just a  time or two , but in general the worst was a rolling of the eyes and a huff from their lungs. Most people were polite, patient, knew the process and came prepared. Many expressed thanks toward the poll workers. 

My point for the day is this.  Mom always said "If you can't say something nice, don't say anything at all." That won't work when you have questions to answer. But when things are not exactly to your liking, what do your eyes say? You can leave an impression by breathing loudly and just rolling your eyes. In that moment, you without saying a word can let your true feelings be known and they give you away. You, just without saying anything can insult someone's abilities, intent, and goals. 

Do your eyes give you away.? How many fiery darts will you throw today with your haughty eyes? 

Food for thought.

Marty

Opening Day 4/1/2025

 Good Morning,

I am working the election polls today and although I agreed to do it, my heart isn't all that fired up over it. I will definitely need a Thermos bottle of Door County Cherry Crème Coffee to help with the long day. 

Colossians 3;14 And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity. 

Yesterday was opening day for our local Major League Baseball team. The weather was cold. Yet a lot of people attended and made a full day of it, tailgating and taking in the baseball game. 

There was a time when, if I could get my hands on opening day tickets and get off from work, my wife and I would celebrate a new season with the best of them. There is something about the grills, and a festive atmosphere that makes you want to attend. 

What is my point for today? Well, nothing too serious. My wife and I will take in a couple of baseball games this year and I am sure we will talk about past games and friends we were with as well as some snowy weather for the opener. We will relive some memories on a warmer night and wish we were younger while sitting on some aged chairs. But here is the point for sure. Men, make sure to date your wife now and then and thank them for all the outings they went on with you over the years. Wear the hat she purchased for you that is faded with age and cook those sausages just the way she likes them.  Take a jacket for when the weather cools off and she needs your coat. You know how she never needs a jacket until she needs one. So men, "Batter Up."

Marty