Nowhere You Can Hide 9/30/2023

 Good Morning,

My cup was just filled with Door County Maple Coffee and it is time to write.

My wife Rene and I took a couple of days away from home to celebrate our wedding anniversary. We had a very nice time in Door County Wisconsin. We arrived back home later yesterday and once again I am at my desk. The old desk where I sit is at times a source of comfort. Our getaway was planned a few months ago and it felt good to have no responsibilities nor did we need to rush anywhere. We took some time to basically hide out and rest. 

I thought about the fact that we kind of hid from everything, yet we never left the watchful eye God has over us. It was a secure fact and feeling. 

Psalm 139:7-12 7. Where can I go from your Spirit? Where can I flee from your presence? 8. If I go up to the heavens, you are there; if I make my bed in the depths, you are there. 9. If I rise on the wings of dawn, if I settle on the far side of the sea, 10. Even there your hand will guide me, your right hand will hold me fast. 11. If I say, "Surely the darkness will hide me and the light become night around me," 12. even the darkness will not be dark to you; the night will shine like day, for darkness is as light to you. 

We can run from the world. We Can take some time to rest. But, no matter our circumstances, we are never absent from the presence of God. What a nice thought for this day!

God bless,

Marty

A Happy Thought For Friday 9/29/2023

 Good Morning,

I find myself in Door County Wisconsin this morning. I am sipping on a hot cup of Door County German Chocolate Cake Coffee and it is time to write. 

The end of the week has arrived and I am enjoying a day with my wife looking at the trees which are changing colors with the seasons. We have enjoyed a short road trip together and as with all things it has come to an end. As we were traveling to our destination yesterday, we were also planning our Christmas holiday and seeing our daughter. We are praying that if God wills, our Christmas holiday will be blessed by having us be together. 

My thought for today is this. If at all possible, try to plan ahead and make the Christmas holidays a special time. You probably are saying "it is not even Thanksgiving yet. I can't start planning Christmas now!" I will tell you this. Planning for a vacation is half of the fun and gives us both something to look forward to. 

Philippians 4:8 Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise,  think on these things. 

I keep myself happy also by looking forward to heaven some day. Now and then I just like to imagine what it will be like when I make that journey some day. It is a one way trip and can't be canceled, or disrupted by weather. 

So for today, concentrate on happy thoughts and not ones of rotten circumstances. 

Have a great day.

Marty

Hello Darkness 9/28/2023

 Good Morning,

Door County Pumpkin Spice Coffee decorated my cup this morning and it is time to write. 

Photo Credit. Nick Schutte Sunrise On Wind Lake

In 1964 Simon and Garfunkel sang the song Sounds Of Silence,. Part of the lyrics written makes the statement Hello darkness, my old friend. Although explained to be a humorous expression of despair. I find it far from that. 

I will make an attempt to express my thoughts on darkness. I have had some of my deepest times of sorrow, despair, loss of will, and bouts of depression accompanied by hiding out in the dark of my room or my home. Daylight or any light at all was just not welcome. I became disconnected with God during those times. I now realize that my soul, and my heart were craving the Light of The World.

Psalm 18:28 For it is you who light my lamp. The Lord my God lightens my darkness. 

We all can get into a funk of a mood now and then, and to foster and grow exasperation adding darkness to our surroundings doesn't help. 

If this note finds you in a sad situation seek out God first and talk it over with Him

Surrender your problems to Him. Change your surroundings and get outside during the day. Turn on some lights or light some candles. But set the mood for light and not darkness. 

John 18:12 Jesus spoke to them saying, " I am the Light of the World. Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life. 

Praying for you!

Marty

Hey Hon Another Year 9/27/2023

 Good Morning,

I just finished a large cup of Door County Peanut Butter Crunch Coffee and it is time to write. 

Today my wife and I celebrate our wedding anniversary. We met a long time ago. Both of us worked at the same hospital. I was loaned out to the X-ray department for a time and Rene and I met while she was teaching me to develop films. Yes, we met in a dark room with a red light. Nothing was digital back then and you actually had to process films to give the doctor x-rays to be read. We did not start dating until a year later. We were married two years after that. 

I will go on the record saying that "I married Up". Rene and I both bring out the best in each other and we enjoy being married. I can't imagine not being married. 

So today my advice is to those who will be getting married and to those who are married.    ENJOY THE PROCESS. WORK HARD AT MAINTANING YOUR RELATIONSHIP. PROTECT EACH OTHER. 

Song of Solomon 8:6-7 Place me like a seal over your heart, like a seal on your arm; for love is as strong as death, its jealousy unyielding at the grave. It burns like blazing fire, like a mighty flame. Many waters cannot quench love; rivers cannot sweep it away. If one were to give all the wealth of one's house for love, it would be utterly scorned. 

When we were first married I never pictured the day when we would be old and in the Fall of our lives. Aging creeps up ever so silently and then it is there. I won't say our best days are behind us, not as long as we are still here. I believe they are with us each day.

God bless,

Marty

A Shower Helps 9/26/2023

 Good Morning,

I just poured a hot cup of Door County Peanut Butter Crunch Coffee and it is time to write. 

I took a shower a few minutes ago to help start the new day and this day will run long. We are blessed to have clean, hot water to shower in. Even though we have a great supply of water, I do not waste it. I allow 5minutes at the most for my shower. 

Isaiah 1:16 Wash yourselves, make yourselves clean, remove the evil of your deeds from before my eyes. Cease to do evil. 

Here is a little secret. You can tell that a person is depressed when they let their appearance slack off. A person who is usually dressed nice and neat, who now looks like they just got out of bed and smells, is a person battling with depression. 

We have to look beyond the immediate appearance and ask why would someone falter so far. Something out of their control, or within their control happened and they begin to live like there is no hope. They let their inner soul be shown on the outside and it cries of depression and lack of hope. Whatever they have done or whatever has been done to them has them weighted down. 

We then, have to make a choice as to whether or not we want to help. It is a difficult decision to make and one that is best to have God tell you what to do. Bringing someone out of depression is best left to heaven, and we should be part of the cast. God knows what is bothering them and He knows why. That is when we pray for God to expose the truth and show you if and how you can help. 

Food for thought. 

Marty

Chase The Rats Away 9/25/2023

 Good Morning,

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

Proverbs 23:32 In the end it bites like a serpent and stings like an adder. 

I have seen some rats in my life and I always go in the opposite direction if possible. 

Many years ago while at work I encountered a rat that had one purpose in mind and that was to defend his space. I was working in the plumbing industry at the time and was loading my truck with supplies. I was reaching for something on a warehouse shelf and encountered a rat which jumped on to my arm and then in the struggle to get him off of my arm, the rat bit me. It wasn't a huge gash, just a solid bite. The company I worked for set several rat traps and by the next day and the rats were tested for rabies. One rat came up positive and I then had to receive the vaccine for the next 14 days. This all occurred very quickly after my doctor and the health department agreed to what needed to be done. I could not identify the rat that bit me and with rabies, you don't gamble. 

Now that I ruined your breakfast, let me tell you where I am headed with this.

My employer worked quickly to remove the rodents from the property and then kept up a plan to avoid infestation in the future. They acted immediately. One bad accident caused them to be extremely vigilant. The vaccine of 14 days in the abdomen caused some reactions to my body and for several days I was pretty ill. 

Friends we all have the potential to invite rats into our lives. I am not talking about the animal type. I am speaking about spiritual rats. These could be anything that causes you not to walk on the path God has for us. This could be pornography, alcoholism, drug abuse, anger, greed, laziness, cheating on a spouse, and the list goes on. Rabies left untreated is fatal. Failure to acknowledge the spiritual rats in our lives can always deliver crippling blows to our lives and others. I give you one example today. Drug abuse left unchecked could cause loss of a job. Without any money coming in and the addiction growing and growing, it often leads to a life of crime through desperation. This is a rat which now lives within you.

John 10:10 The thief comes to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have life and have it abundantly. 

James 4:7 Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil and he will flee from you. 

Not going to church and making excuses for not being there that are bogus, is allowing the rats of laziness to gain ground and begin to attack your life and other actions. Most people work hard to rid their homes or property of rats when needed. Or they run far enough away. But they act on the physical threat. We need to act on the spiritual rats when we encounter them immediately. Left unchecked the rats only multiply. 

Food for thought. 

Marty

Silence Is Golden 9/24/2023

 Good Morning,

I have a large cup of Door County Caramel Apple Coffee next to me. I have two Springer Spaniels on the floor by my feet and it is time to write.

131:2 But I have calmed and quieted myself. I am like a weaned child with its mother, like a weaned child I am content. 

I was already outside for a few minutes this morning. It was extremely quiet while I was out there. Nothing was stirring. I actually noticed the quiet. It seemed like I was the only one on the planet. I swear I could feel my heart beat. I stood out  there and actually absorbed the silence. 

I think I missed a golden opportunity to pray while standing in the dark without any interruptions, or background noise.  Later this morning, the noise started up. The coffee was brewing, the birds started chirping, a dog or two barked a little. The total quiet vanished. 

Friends, avoid the temptation of adding noise to your life when God gives you total quiet. Does the radio need to be blaring? Does the television become necessary? Soon after the noise comes in the competition begins for your attention. Cherish the peace and quiet enough to save it from interference. Use that time to pray and be thankful. 

God bless,

Marty

It's A Golden Rule For Sure. 9/23/2023

 Good Morning,

This day started awhile ago and I finally sat down to write with a cup of Door County Wisconsin Harvest Blend Coffee on my desk next to me. 

Matthew 7:12 NKJV Therefore whatever you want men to do to you, do also to them, for this is the law and the prophets. 

When I was a young child my mother would often quote this verse to me, especially if I was being mean or saying bad things about someone else. She called it the golden rule. My wife Rene and I have a measuring stick attached to our garage. The ruler has this verse quoted on it. It has hung on our garage for many, many years. 

I would like to take a minute to say that being kind to others and loving our neighbors as ourselves is a great way to to live. This should be the governing force on our hearts. We treat others as we would want to be treated. I also want to say that Galatians 6:7 goes hand in hand with do unto others.

Galatians 6:7 NKJV Do not be deceived, God is not mocked, for whatever a man sows, that he will  also reap. 

This is a simple rule and there is no reason that anyone should not comprehend the meaning of it. When we are mean minded and filled with hatred and we act out our true heart, we can assume that the same treatment will return to us. Having a tongue that is condescending at best, invites for us to be treated the same way. Your actions toward others that stir up strife and lack of harmony in your relationships is a basic way of saying you want to be treated the same way. 

At times we foster our own misery by our own actions. So my friends, a good way to have peace and harmony is to do unto others what you would have them do unto you.

I truly believe that this golden rule should be taught and practiced within every home and school.

It might be very basic but it is a solid foundation for life.

Marty

Choose How Your Day Goes 9/22/2023

 Good Morning,

Friday it is and I just poured a cup of Door County Highlander Grog Coffee and now it is time to write.

Photo Credit Bob Bennett

1 Peter 5:6-7 AMP Therefore humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, so that He may exalt you ( to a place of honor in His service) at the appropriate time. 7.Casting all of your anxieties, worries and all your concerns once and for all on Him. For He cares for you with deepest affection and watches over you very carefully. 

Each day starts with the morning. And each day when we wake up we make a choice as to how we will spend the day. It could be that you are experiencing some troubles right now and today will bring some more. It could be that you just aren't happy with your life. That wake up today has you snarly and growling at everyone who as to deal with you. Thus I know for a fact that sometimes when we growl at others it doesn't make them want to be around us and now we have placed ourselves in "Lonely Land" and now we feel abandoned. 

It doesn't have to be that way. We choose our response to the day and our responses to others. It's like being a drowning man and then asking for a drink of water. No man in their right mind would ask for more water while drowning. Misery does like company, but company is hard to find when we choose to be on the attack and growly. A bad day can be made a lot worse when we decide to make ourselves more miserable, and to include those around us in our misery. We lose sight of the blessing bestowed on us and cannot find peace, happiness and contentment. 

At times we are our own worst enemies. Make a change today as to how you approach it. Be grateful for one more day. Look around you and see that God has painted the sky again today. Turn even this day and tomorrow over to God. He cares for you. Acknowledge your bad attitude, meanness, and inappropriate ways you interact with others. Greet others as you would like to be greeted. You will see that kindness returns back to you when you have the right attitude toward the day and toward others. 

God bless.

Marty

The Dogs Win . 9/21/2023

 Good Morning,

I just poured a cup of Door County Highlander Grog Coffee and it is time to write. 

Job 33:4 The Spirit Of God has made me. And the breath of the Almighty has given me life. 

Last night our oldest dog was not happy at all about not going outside to play as much as he wanted to. He sat at the back door and began to whine a little. I let him outside and he just stood there. What he really wanted was for me to come outside and do some bird dog training which he believes is play time. 

I haven't felt all that well lately and the whining was more than I could bear. So I went outside and ran the dogs until they were tired and ready for some rest. They wore me down and actually the cool air felt good. I came inside ready to shower and get some sleep.

Now did the dogs win or did I win? I believe I really needed some fresh air and the dogs pushed me to get up and get some air. So I will call this a tie and say that we all benefited from the time spent outside together. 

Good ideas come in many forms and now and then you just have to listen to your dog!

Have a great day!

Marty

Looking For Approval 9/20/2023

 Good Morning,

I just poured a warm cup of Door County Highlander Grog Coffee and now it is time to write. 

Proverbs 13:10 By insolence comes nothing but strife, but those who take advice is wisdom. 

Now and then I have been asked to share an opinion on something or another. It is usually to give my thoughts on a decision a person wants to make. I have this unique gift of knowing when they are looking for my approval and to be honest whether or not I agree with their plan, they have already planned on going ahead. When this occurs I usually just stay relatively quiet and don't say much and avoid the subject. I just stay pretty quiet and listen. I don't give a yes or a no, because it is just breath that is wasted. If they are sincere and have a desire to really place value on my opinion, I will share my thoughts. 

I won't link myself to a plan that I feel is going to fail and I won't work hard to change anyone's mind when they are already full steam ahead. I do believe we need to be there to pick up the pieces if and when it fails, but I don't think we should shoulder the responsibility for a plan that had failure written on it from the start. 

Be careful on advice you give. Sometimes it is best not to give any at all!

Marty

Making The Best Of A Bad Situation. 9/19/2023

 Good Morning,

I will be skipping the Door County Coffee for a couple of days. So it is time to write.

James 1:17 Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights., who does not change like shifting shadows. 

Some of you know that I had some surgery on my mouth yesterday and I am avoiding hot liquids for a couple of days. So far, everything seems to be going well. My wife has been a blessing like she always is and has anticipated all my needs. 

We all know that there are days of woes in all of our lives and sometimes you have to just make the best of a rough time. I found a silver lining within not being able to chew or drink hot liquids. I can't take credit for the idea. I give full credit to my wife Rene for planning ahead and having some cold custard in the freezer from my favorite place. 

When I think about the wife and the blessing of the custard, I must give credit to God for giving me a compassionate partner.  I will keep this short, but I will say." Make the best bad situations if possible." Be grateful for those God sends your way. Make sure they know they are appreciated. 

Have a great day!

Marty

Wishing You A Peaceful Week. 9/18/2023

 Good Morning,

I won't be drinking any coffee today. A day I was dreading is here and I will be headed for some mouth surgery today. So nothing to eat or drink for me this morning. 

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

As we start this week I thought it would be nice if I prayed for all who are reading this now and in the future. I prayed for your week to be peaceful and that God meets you at every turn in your walk. I pray that you are greeted with some smiles and your burdens are light. If healing is needed either physically, mentally, emotionally, or spiritually I pray that today is the start of the healing process. 

I hope for all of you that your day begins with prayer and you are greeted by fairness, and righteousness this week and I pray it begins today. 

Lastly, I want to thank those who read this blog and I want you to know that you are appreciated. 

Have a great week.

Marty

Navigating Without Help 9/17/2023

 Good Morning,

This day began for me about 20 minutes ago with prayer and a hot cup of Door County Highlander Grog Coffee, It is time to write. 

Psalm 119:105 Thy word is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path. 

A sure fire way to have a boating accident is to keep moving in a heavy fog without navigational equipment. Add some speed to the mix and you have a sure fire way to a collision and great calamity. On my recent fishing trip we encountered very thick fog one morning. Our guide was traveling at a snails pace, using his navigational equipment and running lights to keep us safe and still moving. It took us longer to reach our destination but we were safe and sound.

This world runs at a very fast pace and at times we rush to decisions and actions that were not prayed out and at times are not in line with God's Word. We should base all decisions and actions according to Biblical principals. Having God's Word to lead us through life is using His GPS directions. I call it a GPS. God's Positioning Device. It helps us to be on course and avoid big mistakes. It is 100% infallible and never needs a new battery. It runs on the power of the Holy Spirit.

Are you running through life in the fog, not knowing what to do or where to go? Before you crash and sink, open God's Word for His directions through life. 

Have a great day!

Marty

Time With Friends 9/16/2023

 Good Morning,

The aroma of Door County Highlander Grog Coffee is permeating the house this morning. It is a familiar pleasantry for me and now it is time to write. 

Proverbs 27:17 For one man sharpens another.

Ecclesiastes 4:9:12-10 Two are better than one , because they have a good return for their labor. If either of them falls down, one can help the other up. But pity the anyone who falls and has no one to pick them up. 

Last night I returned home from a week of fishing in Minnesota. I spent some time with old friends and the time spent was worth every penny to do so. We ate like kings during the week and we fished hard. The weather was rough at times, but we were all prepared for it. 

One day we pulled over to the shore and our guide prepared a shore lunch for us. It consisted of fried walleye, fried potatoes, beans, bread, and some cookies. I can still smell the fish and potatoes cooking on the shore. The banter between the men was 24/7 and I did go to bed a couple of nights with sore ribs from laughing too hard. 

There weren't but a couple of things that needed to be done each day. We had to pack a cooler with beverages, make our coffee and clean up our dishes from the many snacks we ate once back on shore. All of our meals were provided by the resort and everyone of them were top notch. The minimal work was done by all of us. It was great team work and even packing the vehicles to go home, only took minutes. 

We saw many photo worthy things while out on the water and pictures were shared with each other. A couple trophy fish were landed, by the guys. I wasn't one who caught a big fish, but I caught enough fish each day to be able to bring a few home and some to eat while there. I was thrilled for the guys who landed a few whoppers.

Plans are already being made for the group to reassemble in two years. We will skip a year and return to fishing the year after that. This goal is contingent on world events, our health and abilities to do so. I like the fact that a goal has already been established and we have something to look forward to. You can bet for sure that I will be praying for these guys and myself to stay healthy and able to return. 

My goal today as I write is this. Keep in touch with friends and do your best to remember to pray for those dear to you. Make a list of things that worked and a list of things that did not work during your last time together,  Adjust your trip or outing as necessary and by all means make sure to have enough tartar sauce for your meal. (Inside Joke). Seriously keep your friends in prayer and be thankful that you have friends. 

God bless,

Marty

A Friday Thought 9/15/2023

 Good Morning.

I just sat down to a cup of Door County Black And Tan Coffee and it is time to write.

Proverbs 24:3 By wisdom a house is built. Through understanding it is established. 

I have a ten hour road trip ahead of me today. I have been with good friends all week fishing in Minnesota. The lake we are on is shared with Canada.

It has been a very nice getaway. The fishing was good. The scenery was a refreshing and the weather cooperated.

I could not have asked of anything better. 

I just have one thought for today. I ran across the photo of one of my favorite places to have breakfast when I travel South of our home. It is a silly one but gets my point across. 

When I get home I will show the photos from my trip to my wife. I will tell her about the trip and share with her my thoughts on it.

She will tell me about her week and what went on at home while I was gone. She also has had some trips away with friends and family. But both of us always say it is great to be home. Our house is a house. It is the two people within that make it a home. 

So later today I will arrive to our residence. It becomes a home when I see my wife. 

My thought is this. Concentrate on making your residence a home this weekend. 

God bless,

Marty

Suck It Up Butter Cup. 9/14/2023

 Good Morning,

I had a hot cup of Door County Black And Tan Coffee very early today and it is time to write. 

Proverbs 19:9 Whoever is slack in his work, is a brother to him who destroys. 

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

Now and then I just plain old run out of sympathy for some people. I know that sounds terrible but I have a hard time with people who are incessant whiners, authors of procrastination, and unable or refuse to do anything for themselves. 

Now I have all kinds of sympathy for the forlorn who by no choice of their own are suffering from something terrible and need help. I will be the first of many to show up for you. 

But then there are those who whine and complain and play helpless with every breathe they take. They write the book of excuses. One of my favorite expressions and I have it on a shirt is "Suck It Up Buttercup" . I don't hold back on letting those who are abusers, of the time others spend to help them, know just what I think. 

So today if you are abusing the time, effort, and are full of excuses and procrastination, shame on you. Suck it up and get going. You will be better just for sincerely trying than for not having tried at all. 

Have a great day. 

Marty

Don't Get Lured In 9/13/2023

 Good Morning, 

Another fine day of fishing and relaxing. I drank a hot cup of Door County  Jamaican Blue Mountain Blend   Coffee and I am ready to write. 

Today my thoughts turn to all of us and I have a little advice for the day. When fishing we always try to use the bait or a lure that is attractive to the fish so they take a bite at it and get hooked. Today some of you will be lured into a spat or disagreement by an attractive lure. That lure is your own ego and pride. Someone will say or do something that just rubs you the wrong way. It actually irritates you not to respond to something best left alone and forgotten, but pride kicks in and you respond. This takes a minor situation and turns it into flaming anger and is blown way out of proportion.  

Psalm 37:8 Cease from anger and forsake wrath. It only causes harm. 

Today's advice. Leave the tackle box of pride, anger, and ego on the dock and don't open it. It only causes harm.

Marty

Fishing And Relaxing 9/12/2023

 

Good Morning,

I drank a hot cup of Door County Jamaican Blue Mountain Bllend         Coffee and now it is time to write. 

I am still in Minnesota fishing with some of my friends. I have kept in touch with my wife a little, just enough to know what is going on and to let her know I am ok. 

Psalm 118:24 This is the day the Lord has made, We will rejoice and be glad in it. 

Any day fishing is always a bonus in life. To be able to be on the water, with friends and all the jocularity that goes on is priceless. I think it is the banter that in many instances makes the day that much better. I have a hunch today, that if the water stays calm I might close my eyes and check my eyelids for cracks. ( I feel a nap coming on.) 

So as for me, I will rejoice in this day for the time given to me to renew friendships and appreciate what God has given us.

Be well,

Marty

We Remember 9/11/2023

 Good Morning,

I began my day with a hot cup of Door County Jamaican Blue Mountain Blend  Coffee and prayer. It is time to write. 

22 years ago on 9-11 the United States suffered a terrorist attack in New York. That day many lives were lost and  many are passing away now because of the toxic environment from the attack. Not only did the attack impact the United States, but the impact was felt world wide. Airport practices changed, war preparations were under way. I can easily say that the world was never the same when evil launched the attack. It never will be the same. 

Ephesians 6:11 Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil.

My heart goes out to those who lost loved ones in the attack and to those who are ill now from breathing the violence. 

This day is one where not much that I could write soothes the heart and soul. But I can be silent, pray and remember 9/11 of 22 years ago. 

God bless,

Marty

Road Trip With The Guys 9/10/2023

 Good Morning,

I started today with  a quick cup of Door County Highlander Grog Coffee and prayer.

The day began very early and I am ready to launch into it with gusto. I am headed out with some old friends for a week of fishing in Minnesota. The drive is about 10 hours long. I am blessed to have a wife who supports me going away now and then, either for work, mission trips or hunting and fishing. Truth be known I think she considers it a blessing to have me out of her hair for a week or two. 

One of the things I am looking forward to this week is eating a fish fry lunch on the shore of the lake. There is something about eating what you caught. Fish always taste better when fried by the lake they were caught in. The best part though, is dining with your buddies and no work or worries for the week. 

John 21:9 When they got out on land, they saw a charcoal fire in place, with fish laid out on it and bread. 

Have a peaceful day!

marty

Sitting On Top Of The World.

 Good Morning,

I am sitting at my desk with a hot cup of Door County Highlander Grog Coffee and it is time to write. 

Later this morning I will fry up some Neuskes Cherry Smoked Bacon, add a couple of eggs and a fresh bun and my day will be set in motion. 

Philippians 4:11-13 I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do all this through Him who gives me strength.

I am not a rich man, but I am comfortable. I am not a young man, but I am experienced. I don't have a lot of children or grand children . I love the ones I have. The garage isn't filled with expensive cars, but they are trustworthy and get us where we want to go. We don't eat steak or lobster every day, but we have a freezer that is full, a pantry that is stocked and allows us to share with others. 

Yet, I feel like I am sitting on top of the world. I have learned to be content and happy comes with being content. I know my God and my God knows me. He blessed me with a wonderful wife and we share a lot in common. She can dress up all fancy and dine in the finest of places. The next day she is content with blue jeans and a hot dog from a corner stand. I don't have a "contentious wife" that the Bible warns us of. 

So from my view of my part of the world, I sit on top. My friends, as you go through today, look around you and count your blessings instead of what you don't have. Learn to be content, and strive if you so desire to make improvements, but don't miss out on life while doing so.

Have a great day!

Marty

Kicking Off The Weekend 9/8/2023

 Good Morning,

Friday is here and I have a short work day. I just poured a hot cup of Door County Highlander Grog Coffee and it is time to write. 

Hebrews 10:25 Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as is the manners of some, but exhorting one another, and so much more as you see the Day approaching.

Well my friends, it is no small fact that Friday is the precursor to Saturday and Sunday. I actually consider Friday to be part of the weekend. Many plans are conceived earlier in the week and are hatched on Friday. I hope your plans include spending time with God and visiting a church. 

You might be at a point in your life that makes you wonder how you got where you are these days. It could be that the one thing missing in your life was actual church attendance. attending church is more than just showing up on Sundays. Once regular attendance becomes a good habit, you might find a way to serve a God who died for you. 

Life, missing out on a relationship with God that is growing is just a relationship with no future. It tends to be a one way relationship of prayers and wants, yet no real skin in the relationship on our part. God is always waiting for the relationship to grow and grow. Yet He never forces the issue. 

I have said this before. A heart beats best when it beats for others and the others start with God. 

Food for thought. Find your way to church and more this weekend. 

Marty

Still Crocheting After All These Years 9/7/2023

 Good Morning,

The day began with a hot cup of Door County Peanut Butter Crunch Coffee and some prayer. 

Today I want to brag a little about my mother in law. She turned 96 years old in July and still does crochet work as a hobby. For many years now she has entered her needle work in competitions held by the Walworth County Fair. She has accumulated many prize ribbons for placing highly in the competition. She doesn't enter as many items as she used to, but what she enters is of good quality. This year was no exception. She came home with another 7 ribbons for her work. 

I hope if I live that long that I can still do quality work on something like she does. She is already planning what she might crochet for next year. I hope she does crochet work for as long as she can and still enjoy it. 

My point for the day is this. Just because you might be aging, it doesn't mean you are ready for the scrap pile. Do what you can do as long as you can do it and enjoy yourself. Make this world a better place each day by participating in the day. Make a difference for as long as you can, and count each day as a bonus.

Isaiah 46:4 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 rescue you. 

Have a great day!!!

Marty

Photo Reminder Of God's Presence. 9/6/2023

 Good Morning,

I am sitting at my desk as usual and I am finding that my Door County Creme Coffee is tasting exceptionally good this morning. 

Psalm 19:1 The heavens declare the glory of God. And the firmament shows His handiwork. 

A friend of mine sent the photo shown today. He was hiking and while doing so he caught this beautiful shot in the sky. Later when he got home he noticed that a military jet was in the photo mix and it created a cross. 

You can't help but to see God in nature and his timing is always perfect. I challenge all of you to get outside today and look to see what God has given you to view. It might be a tomato on the vine. But who has it growing? The original tomato came from God and He continues to give them to us to eat, and for the seeds next year. It could be a bird in your bushes. Who made the bird? Who fills the rivers and lakes with water? Who makes the waves? Who gave us the wisdom to build jet planes?

Let's stop for a moment and see the beauty God created and creates every day. It is still a beautiful world. Then take a minute and just say hi to the Creator. 

Marty

Some Fine Day 9/5/2023

 Good Morning, 

My day is beginning to take shape quickly. We are in a bit of a heat wave and as it early as it is , the temperature is already pretty hot. I just sat down with my cup of Door County Creme Coffee and it is time to write. 

Jeremiah 29:11 For I know the thoughts I thing toward you, says the Lord, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope. 

Have you ever desired to do something that was a goal of yours for a long time? Something nice for yourself? And then you say to yourself some fine day I am going to do that. As the years pile up on me and the Mrs. we need to act on some of those dreams. We made one dream come true a a few years ago by visiting Hawaii. It was a week long trip, but just getting off of the plane and seeing the beauty we dreamed of, was "One Fine Day" 

So we are setting the wheels in motion and next year we will (God willing) set out on another adventure. It will be another fine day when that happens. In order for this to happen there at first has to be a desire and goal to achieve making a dream come true. 

I pity the person who does not have any goals or dreams to pursue. But know this, the clock keeps running and soon the dreams cannot become reality. So share your goals with God and ask Him to set you in motion. Make sure your goals align with God's own principles and set forth on your journey. If aligned with God's blessing, imagine how much more he adds to the journey of your goals?

Go for it!

Marty

Labor Day A Day To Remember

 Good Morning,

I have just poured a hot cup of Door County Peanut Butter Crunch Coffee and it is time to write. 

Today in America we celebrate a holiday known as Labor Day. It is a day to  celebrate the social and economic achievements of the American worker. Most workers have not working today and receive a paid day off. But there are many who will still be working today, because their profession calls for service 24/7. 

Luke 10:7 And remain in the same house, eating and drinking such things as they give. for the laborer is worthy of his wages. Do not go from house to house. 

I entered the work force with a my first real job other than lawn mowing or snow removal at the age of 14.  I am 66 years now and am semi-retired. I will be working tomorrow. I learned a long time ago that nothing comes easy and you are responsible for you. Later in life you might be responsible for a family also. 

So for today, if you are a worker who gets a paycheck, learn to be thankful for your job. Pray for your employer. Show up on time and get to work. You should earn a wage for the time you put in. Give to your employer the time you are paid for and what you have agreed to. Be a worker worthy of your hire.

Try to save some money if at all possible and spend wisely. And today as we are thankful for work, know that whatever you do as a vocation is appreciated. Be well my friends and keep the faith.

Marty

Being A Team Player 9/3/2023

 Good Morning,

The day began with a hot cup of Door County Peanut Butter Crunch Coffee and some prayer. 

Psalm 133:1 Behold how good and pleasant it is when brothers dwell in unity.

I want to make a point today about being a team player , First let me point out that a team is always made up of more than one person or more than one animal. A team can be made up of people and animals. Now that we made that clear we can define the expectations of being a team member.

1. Know your role and what it takes to perform it.

2. Give 100% to your role as a team member and strive to go beyond expectations. 

3. A great team member makes sacrifices for the team and puts the team goals ahead of any personal goals. 

4. When receiving personal accolades, pass on the credit to all the members of the team. Strive for the team success and to help others look good when possible. 

5. Don't ask others to do something you wouldn't do.

Being a team player can be an attribute to family life also. A solid team of people or a couple always puts the others on the team first. Being a good family team member requires sacrifices and dedication to see the others in the family succeed,.

This requires Godly unity and prayer. Without the unity, prayer and hard work, many families fail because of selfish desires,

Food for thought!

Marty

Here We Go Again 9/1/2023

 Good Morning, 

The Door County Creme Coffee just finished brewing and it is time to write. 

I therefore, a prisoner of the Lord, urge you to walk in a manner worthy of the calling to which you have been called. 

Photo Credit Nick Schutte WAYLON

This morning I am leaving early and headed North for about an hour and a half. I will be supporting our youngest dog Leo as he pursues his Master Hunter Title . It should be a fun couple of days and a little nerve wrecking at the same time. 

Yesterday I had the privilege to also play around with my nephew's Springer Spaniel puppy. His name is Waylon and watching him made me recall those puppy days with all of our dogs, present and past. I learned a lot from training the puppies in our life. 

1. The number one rule is consistency. You need to do the same thing, the same way and do it every time. You can't be erratic in your training and approach. You can apply this to children and other relationships. You can't be wishy washy. You need to be consistent and not bring 15 different personalities into the relationship. This can be applied to praise, correction and teaching. 

2. There are times when a behavior needs to change and be corrected. Sometimes you have to be stern, but never be abusive or over the top with corrections. No one learns while cowering in fear. 

3. Some times the training is difficult and failures occur. But you always let it rest and try again the next day. Never should we break the spirit of a dog or a child or a spouse. 

4. Each dog is different and so are humans. Learn to understand the makeup of the one you are training. You can't train or teach someone anything if you don't know them well and understand how they operate or how they learn. Some need more praise and assurance than others. 

So spend some time listening and watching those God has given you to live with , or work with. Bring out the best in them and you will find that you will want more and more to give them your best.

Marty

The Good News Is ??? You Are Loved!! 9/1/2023

 Good Morning, 

I just poured a hot cup of Door County Peanut Butter Crunch Coffee and I am ready to get this Friday rolling. Calling out to everyone! Happy Friday!!!

Now and then I believe we all crave to hear some good news. The television and radio news is usually not filled with too much as far as good news. I for one don't believe the mail has enough good news in it either. I receive bills in the mail and I know I need to pay them and I do, but a bill in the mail isn't good news either. The telephone is a 50/50 chance of the call being good news. 

So today I will share some Biblical Good News that never changes. 

John 3:16 "For God so loved the world, that he gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him, should not perish, but have everlasting life."

Now do this experiment. Make John 3:16 personal. For God so loved (Your Name), that He gave His only begotten Son Jesus that when (Your Name) believed in Jesus, (Your Name) wouldn't go to hell, but (Your Name) will have everlasting life in heaven. 

That is the good news for Friday,

God bless, 

Marty