Glad To Be Here With You 7/31/2024

 Good Morning,

This day began with prayer and a hot cup of Door County Inn Keepers Blend Coffee and it is time to write. 

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

My journey through life has always been sweeter when I share moments of happiness, joy and sorrow with someone. My wife Rene and I were able to take some time away in June to experience some of the beauty in the Western United States. What I saw was better because I experienced it with my wife. I have experienced many sunrises on the water while duck hunting and everyone of them was always better when I was with my closest friends and relatives. 

There also is a quiet time when you have your breath taken away by something God said to you in prayer or Scripture and you just want to share it. 

Matthew 18:20 ESV For where  two or three are gathered in my name, there I am among them. 

There is that moment when you crack open the insulated bottle of coffee on a frigid morning in the goose blind and you can share it with close friends. 

There is that moment when you get to see your grandbaby for the first time. It makes you go back to that day when his mother was born. 

A moment when you are asked to pull the car over so your wife can take in one last look of the mountains she has wanted to see for years. The smile on her face was worth the long drive that day. You share the same view of God's splendor.

That one moment when you are watching someone you love and you know that soon they will be walking into heaven. You look around at the sorrowful faces and you are breathless to say anything. But you share that rough moment with others and you are glad they are there with you. 

What goes a long way is to let those who share these moments with you, by telling them  that you are happy you were able to share that moment with them. Tell them that you are glad they are there with you. 

Food for thought. 

Marty

Sometimes You Just Need A Laugh 7/30/2024

 Good Morning,

I sure am ready for my first cup of Door County Heroes Blend Coffee and it is time to write. 

Job 8:21 ESV He will yet fill your mouth with laughter and your lips with shouting. 

I like where we live and we have some very nice neighbors. I believe good neighbors are a blessing from God. Life has been what I call a little "Heavy" these days. It has been tough at times to be positive and encouraging. On Sunday our neighbor to the South  invited the two of us and one other neighbor over for a cook out and swimming if we desired. This neighbor, "Donna" extended the invitation to join her and some members of her family in a friendly get together. Our neighbor to the North joined us as well. The four of us attend church together weekly. It is not unusual for the four of us to be heard laughing about something. Now and then Donna will help us by letting our dogs outside when we are tied up with something. We in turn do the same for her. 

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

Donna takes care of her two dogs and is so faithful in doing so. Her dogs as well as our two could have the description of "spoiled" added to their names. 

Donna has a beautiful back yard with a very nice pool. During my time of eating some excellent smoked beef brisket, I happened to look up and see her dog Patches floating in the pool, relaxing on an inflated raft. I found myself chuckling about that scene as I went to bed last night. That dog just knows how to relax and not care what anyone else was doing. Patches knew how to enjoy the day God gave us. 

I hope the Lord blesses us with many more years of comradery, friendship and laughter. We have weathered through tough times together and are supportive when one of us four are down. But it is days filled with brisket, buns and dogs afloat that will always be cherished. "Good Neighbors" are a gift from God. 

God bless,

Mary

Guns And Cancer 7/29/2024

 Good Morning,

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

Last Saturday I attended and participated in a fund raiser that supports cancer research and patient needs. A wonderful sportsman's club "Wern Valley" sponsors the event with the use of their pristine land, equipment and buildings.  The event is well attended and funds are raised by the fee for shooting different courses of sporting clays, raffle tickets, donations, music, and the sale of food and beverages. I stalled to write about the event as I waited for the tabulation of the proceeds. I am proud to say that the event raised  $57, 762 toward a worthy cause. 

1 Timothy 1:5 ESV The aim of our charge is love that issues from a pure heart and a good conscience and a sincere faith.  

All too often we read or hear the side of guns that destroy lives and are used in crime. One could also say that the money spent on ammunition, registration fees, food and beverages could be just donated instead of the gun use.  I hear that point but do not support it. A large crowd of people young, old, male and female took part in this worthy cause. For me and my family and friends, this outing has become a tradition of comradery, fun and serious support for the fight against cancer. 

In addition it proves that a large group can gather with who knows how many guns and not one shot was fired in anger at a human, no drive by shootings were recorded. This event was attended by responsible people who take gun ownership and safety seriously. They also take the disease of cancer seriously. 

I am proud to say that I was there with people I love and respect. Guns and Cancer, who would have thought?

Marty

$57,762!! $ 5$57,762!! 7,762!! 

The Peace Of Quiet 7/28/2024

 Good Morning,

The mug next to me is filled with Door County Dark Voyage Coffee and it is very strong to say the least.

As I look out of the window of our second story den I see a cloudy morning and the air is heavy. I have a window open and even the birds who are normally singing or squawking are silent. Traffic on the road is non existent at this time. There is a silence this morning that if it were any quieter I believe I could hear my heart beat.

Numbers 6:24-26 NKJV "The Lord bless you and keep you; 25. The Lord make His face shine upon you, And be gracious to you; 26. The Lord lift up His countenance upon you,  And give you peace. "

So for this short time I will enjoy the silence and write without the interference of noise. It is a blessing to be able to gather my thoughts and pray without any noise at all. 

My prayer for this morning is that all who read this will find peace and quiet in their hearts today. I will keep this short and to the point. It is not very often that this total silence overtakes my part of the world. So I will make the most of it and pray that you all can do the same. Have a wonderful day and may God bless you. 

Marty

Remembering My Sister And Cancer 7/27/2024

 Good Morning,

I am ready to drink a hot cup of Door County Dark Voyage Coffee and then to the truck I will go,

I will be joining a few hundred others today raising money for the battle with Cancer. It is called Great Cancer Shoot Out. All the money raised from raffle tickets, sporting clays, and some side bets goes toward the cancer battle. 

Romans 12:12 Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer. 

Today as I shoot and purchase some raffle tickets, I will have my sister on my mind. I have lost a few relatives and friends to the disease Cancer. No one ever wants to hear that word and I never thought I would be burying my sister before I would pass on from this world. 

 If you know someone fighting the cancer battle, not only are they fighting the sickness, but they also are fighting the word "Cancer". That word in a persons diagnosis is cold, scary, and paralyzing all in one. 

So as you think of those you know who are in the fight of their life, pray for them. Pray for them to be cured and that the treatments aren't too awful. Pray that some day, a cure will be found for the "Word".

God bless,

Marty

Watching For The Master 7/26/2024

 Good Morning,

It is still quite dark outside and the sun is starting to rise in the East, right on time. I have a hot cup of Door County Chocolate Raspberry Truffle Coffee at the desk with me and it is time to write.

1 Thessalonians 4:13-18 ESV But we do not want you to be uninformed, brothers, about those who are asleep, that you may not grieve as others do who have no hope. 14. For since we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so, through Jesus God will bring Him those who have fallen asleep. 15. For this we declare to you by a word from the Lord, that we who are alive, who are left until the coming of the Lord, will not precede those who have fallen asleep. 16. For the Lord Himself will descend from heaven with a cry of command, with a voice of an archangel and with a sound of the trumpet of God. 17. Then we who are alive, who are left, will be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air, so we will always be with the Lord. 18. Therefore encourage one another with these words.

Yesterday we had the privilege of  having our nephew's dog Waylon stay with us the night before. We did this to allow Waylon to go for some extra training as he works to become a great hunting dog. So our home which normally has two dogs became a three ring circus. When Waylon comes for a visit he fits right in and is part of the family. 

Our home is laid out differently from where he normally lives. Our front door has a side window to it and allows for the dogs to see out. The back patio door is full glass and offers a different view for the dogs to look at. Waylon does not have a window that affords gazing outside. They are all off of the ground. 

We have noticed that when his master, Nick drops him off and things settle in, the puppy sits at the front door watching the world go by. He sleeps there on a welcome mat at night. I believe that he likes to just look out the window. But he also knows that this is the door Nick will come through to pick him up and take him home. That little guy just wants to be with his master. You can see the dedication and love they have for each other. 

Friends, here is my thought for today. Someday Jesus will return and take the believers home. We won't know the day or the time. But when it happens we will be raptured into glory. As much as Waylon has fun with our two stooges and he really does run and play while here, he can't wait to go home. He is always looking out of the window in anticipation of Nick's return. 

Do we look for the return of Jesus? Do we long to go home with Him? Are we ready to go? When Nick comes to pick up his dog, he finds him behaving and ready to go. If Jesus were to return today what would He find you doing? Would you be living a life that would not be shameful and living like you expect Jesus to return?

Food for thought.

Marty

Easier Said Than Done 7/25/2024

 Good Morning,

I have been looking forward to this day all week long. I will be traveling a little bit and then I will be working in a group setting for dog training. I have with me our dog Leo and our nephew's dog Waylon. Despite the warm weather this morning I will enjoy working with other dog enthusiasts and I will be sure to enjoy my Thermos bottle full of Door County Chocolate Raspberry Truffle Coffee. 

I have been on the receiving end of this statement while I was fighting a spiritual battle or two. People mean well when they say "Hang in there. Be full of courage or be courageous." I actually have found myself handing that same advice to others. 

We need to remember that while you are fighting a spiritual battle one after another or the world just seems to have made you it's punching bag. It is hard to be courageous. 

Usually lack of courage is supported by a heavy dose of fear. I just had someone tell me that it's hard to be courageous when you fear the next beat down from the world around you. 

I gave him some spiritual ammo that I found myself praying now and then. "Lord let my hope be only in you. Remind me of your loving care and compassion that covers all the details of my life . 

Psalm 31:24 Be strong and take heart all you who hope in the Lord. 

It's easier said than done sometimes to be courageous. It's at that time when those around others who might need a helping hand or prayer need to jump in and carry those who are struggling for a little bit.

Food for thought. 

Marty

The Death Bed Statement 7/24/2024

 Good Morning,

The day began already and I am not seeing a whole lot of the sun just yet. I just poured a hot cup of Door County Jamaican Blue Mountain Blend Coffee and it is time to write.

1 John 2:15 Do not love the world or anything in the world. If anyone loves the world , love for the Father is not in them. 

Next week it will be two whole months that I have been retired and I am saying to myself "where did that time go"? I have been busier than ever even though I officially don't punch in anymore. 

One thing that is different is my sleep patterns. I have lots on my mind yet to this day, but nothing that keeps me awake planning and then going over my plans while I am trying to sleep. Most all of those sleepless nights were work related. I at times would be balancing two to three projects at the same time and it took it's toll on my sleep and well being. I enjoyed my jobs but I never ever thought that I could see myself on my death bed saying, "I wish I had spent more time at work".  

Friends, we all will work in our lives, but when we look back at the things we missed out on, or neglected due to striving to reach the corporate top rung and stay there, will we say we wished we had worked more hours as our final statement on this earth?  I doubt it. 

People talk about a good work/life balance, although they never really achieve it. Be sure to keep things in their proper places. 

1. God comes first.

2. Family is second.

3.  I am third. This includes where our careers reside.

We all need to work to eat and have shelter, but how much shelter is really necessary? How many diplomas in your field are enough? How many times are you late for a little league game? How many promises do you have to break to have an extra 500 or a thousand square feet more on your home? 

I was there friends and I look back now and say to myself "where did that time go?

Food for thought.

Marty

Marty

Potpourri I Think? 7/23/2024

 Good Morning,

This day began with prayer and a large mug of Door County Jamaican Blue Mountain Blend Coffee (extra strong).

Psalm 127:1 Unless, the Lord builds the house those who build it labor in vain. 

Sometimes I just have these very random thoughts that I blurt out to my wife Rene. They come from out of the blue and sometimes are said just to get a response from her. Last night as I was studying and enjoy some sweet peach iced tea I looked around the house and said this to her.

When we built this house back in 1994 we were looking to the house to carry a country theme. She agreed to that thought. As I surveyed the my surroundings I said to her. "This really isn't country, it's more like a museum of antiques, and our personalities all mixed in together. We have a potpourri house!" 

Rene laughed and told me to go and rest. She said that she felt like my brain needed a rest and that I must have really taxed it during the day. Later she agreed that I was right and that we have a home without a steady decoration plan. But here it comes. " We are more than a home that has a visual plan to it. It does change with the seasons, and it reflects our interests and our history together. We are surrounded my mementos and moments of our lives individually and together. There is so much about both of us and there are so many dimensions to our lives that some people will never see or know. "

She went on. "What I hope people do see is this. Our potpourri lives are knit together by God and love. And the mementos and moments are a reflection of that. When I see the fire place lit in the fall I also see the man behind the axe that split the wood and how God provides us always with free wood. Others see the books on the mantel. Give me potpourri styling any day!"

My thought for the day is this. If it makes sense to you, it is decorated perfectly. If the house is filled with love and is welcoming to others than the scent of your life is a special potpourri. It is called "Blessed"

Marty 

Sometimes You Just Need A Buddy 7/22/2024

 Good Morning,

A hot cup of Door County Inn Keepers Blend Coffee is waiting for me after I finish writing. It is time to write.

Titus 2:7 ESV Show yourself on all respects to be a model of good works and in your teaching, show integrity and dignity. 

Yesterday I went to watch my nephew Nick and his Springer Spaniel Waylon  being tested as to Waylon's capabilities in retrieving a bird on the land and the water. Waylon was great during the first half and in the second half he missed the mark on the water. I knew my nephew was disappointed, but I have to tell you that I believe a dog knows when they screw up. The little spaniel had his tail between his legs and was looking a little sad. 

My friends, life is one big competition and whether we want to or not, we are all asked to perform our tasks at a champions level. We go into each day expecting to do well in the battle of life and at the end of the day, we find that our helmet has been kicked, our ears are sore from the chewing out we took, and our shield has dents in it from fighting off the blows life gives us. 

Every now and then, we need for a friend, buddy, relative or mentor to come along, place our helmet back on top of our head and slap us on the back and say, Next time buddy! Let's go for a burger. I was pulling for that nephew of mine and my furry buddy. As much as they both were disappointed I can honestly say that those two can hunt with me anytime. Some dog owners and dogs dream of doing what they did yesterday. Those two can say, they did it. It's easy to tear someone down. It's even easier to build someone up by just being there, caring and encouraging them to keep going. 

Have a great day. Be an encourager and win a few battles today.

Marty

A New Friend. 7-21-2024

 

Good Morning,

I can't even really describe how good my cup of Door County Inn Keepers Blend Coffee smells this morning and just how good it tastes. 

Proverbs 18:24 NKJV  A man who has friends, must himself be friendly.

Last night I was able to stop by my nephew's home for an annual party that he and his wife host. They do a great job as hosts. I always leave impressed with how hard they work at this get together. There is a mixture of younger folks and us old "Gomers". 

I had the privilege of chatting with a nice young lady from Washington D C. She is a good friend of my niece in law. As far as age goes, I believe we have at least a century between us. I know for sure that I have bruises older than her. But it was very nice chatting and laughing with her.. We do have differences in ideals and life in general. But to be honest we have more in common than we have in differences. One thing in common for sure is that we both like to laugh. This gal is a bowl full of chuckles and she can dish it out as well as take some jabs. We discussed many topics and in some instances we did not agree, but what I found between the pages of our ages, is that we both observe and extend respect to others and we considered each other's opinions as valuable. My new friend is considering and  making a major decision in her life and as of this morning I have started to pray for her to have peace, and wisdom in her decision. 

Friends, in a world that is divided on many issues, just to sit down with a different generation now and then broadens your knowledge, perspectives, and your respect for others. It gives you the opportunity to extend friendship and be friendly. You get to own your own differences, and they should not interfere with kindness, respect and friendships. 

As July winds down and the "Christmas In July" thing will be over. I was reminded last night that my wife's annual display of snowmen is only a few months away. That is one of our differences that I have to work at. She loves them and I don't. But I will save my whining until November. 

Food for thought. Have a blessed day!

Marty

Lunch With The Boys 7/20/2024

 Good Morning,

I am off to the "races" this morning and my cup of Door County Inn Keepers Blend Coffee it tasting mighty fine. 

Hebrews 13:16 Do not neglect to do good and share what you have, for such sacrifices are pleasing to God. 

On Thursday I was treated to lunch by two of my old coworkers. We worked at the same company for some time and after I retired the plan was made to get together for a lunch date. It was sure nice to see those two fellas and reminisce over many topics. 

I have always said that it's isn't the company or the job that makes a person stay at one place for awhile. It is the people they encounter. We serviced many clients and over time they became like friends to me as well. I had a manager who always said thank you and was a lot of fun to work for. The people I worked directly with are missed as I venture out in to retirement.  Retirement fits me pretty well. 

But back to the folks I worked with and worked for. I enjoyed being around those folks. They made some tough days easier. They probably won't be reading this. But if I were to choose some folks to work with and for the coworkers would be the same. My boss would be my choice once more and the clients would be the same also. I can honestly say this about every one of the jobs I held over the years. 

They came to work and had the attitude of how can we make each day easier and enjoyable. They cared about each other and often went above and beyond to show it. 

My advice to the young folks in the work arena. Go to work and earn your pay. Make your work team know that you care for them. Treat your clients or customers the way you would want to be treated. Thank God for the opportunity to work, any job is a blessing from Him. Work as if you needed to be hired newly each day. Be that worker who makes a difference. 

God bless,

Marty

It's Hard To Be Fussy, When It Is Beautiful 7/19/2024

 Good Morning, 

My day began with prayer and a hot cup of Door County Jamaican Me Crazy Coffee. 

Song Of Songs 2:11-13 NIRV  Look!  The winter is past. The rains are over and gone. 12. Flowers are appearing on the earth. The season for singing has come. The cooing of doves is heard in our land. 13. The fig trees are producing their early fruit. The flowers on the vines are giving off their sweet smell. 

Very early in the spring I planted some flower bulbs to surprise my wife. I did not tell her where and what I planted. I just told her to expect a surprise. The package of bulbs that I purchased were supposed to be lavender and blue in color. These bulbs took for ever to pop through the ground and then they were slow to grow. Once they did start to grow, they grew tall and did not show the possibility to ever produce flowers. Just within the last two days they have started to bloom and to my surprise not one of them so far is even close to lavender or blue in color. 

Now even this grumpy old man enjoys a cup of coffee in the garden while the morning is yet fully established. I can appreciate the hard work my wife Rene puts into her flowers. I can also appreciate and be thankful for the beauty in another of God's creations. It's hard to be fussy about beauty. We should be thankful for the way God uses creation to paint a picture for our day. I also appreciate the sunrise with a little thin ice on the water and my duck decoys bobbing, floating, and working to attract some game to my spread. 

My point is this. It isn't too difficult to find something beautiful to set the table of your mind and establish your thoughts for the day. Even in the midst of turmoil, the sun rises and sets and paints the sky. My prayer is that if you are reading this and your life is full of sadness and turmoil, you can find something beautiful to see, and observe. Let God etch the picture He created in your mind. 

Have a peaceful day. God Bless,

Marty. 

A Cavern To Live In? 7/18/2024

 Good Morning,

My mug was graced with the presence of some hot Door County Sunrise Roast Coffee and it is time to write.

Proverbs 4:23 ESV Keep your heart with a vigilance, for from it flow the springs of life. 

Our nation has been in the grip of some very hot weather. Records have been broken in many states. We also had some hotter than normal area where we live. People were taking day trips to the lakes and swimming pools to cool off. Last night the humidity and heat broke in our area and once more windows were opened and the AC turned off. It was a great feeling to feel a cool, slight breeze coming through the windows.

A couple of years ago we spent some vacation time in the state of Virginia. During our stay we toured the caverns of Virginia in the Shenandoah Valley. What a surprise to go from the hot air upside of the caverns to the cool damp atmosphere inside. The caverns really never see daylight and the temperatures don't really rise that much with the seasons. Cool and damp they are and that way they shall stay. 

My point for today is this. Who would want to live in a cavern, away from people where it is always cool and damp? Not me. I then ask this, who would want to have a heart that never changes emotions and is cool, dark, and damp toward others? 

When we have a soft heart, warm intentions, and are gracious to others, it brings with it happiness and a spirit of peace. 

If you are lonely, miserable and see nothing beyond the cold damp walls of your heart, it is time to bring some sun into your heart. A heart that stays inside a cavern made up of stone really never beats. A heart that beats for others beats best. When your heart beats for others it makes you want to get out and visit a life that is bright, warm and caring. 

Food for thought.

Marty

Sometimes You Have To Drop The Bible To Live It 7/17/2024

 Good Morning,

The word early does not describe my day. I just poured a hot cup of Door County Sunrise Coffee and it is time to write.

Matthew 18:10 See that you do not despise one of these little ones. For I tell you that in heaven, their angels always see the face of my Father who is in heaven.

No one will ever say that I am the greatest at being around children. I always have an unapproachable look on my face and I really don't know what to say to little kids. 

Let's go back to yesterday. It was a long day that included some dental/mouth work in the morning. I left the dentist's office after she took care of the small emergency I was experiencing. Needles to say that my jaw was quite tender and sore after that. My wife Rene was getting some warranty work done on her car and when my phone rang and it was her I knew things were not going to go my way. The repairs was going to take longer than she expected. Rene had an appointment to drive a lady from our church to a few of her appointments. I realized right then and there my day was expendable. I met her at the dealership and stayed in their comfortable lobby with the plan on reading my Bible for a couple of hours, waiting on the repairs to be finished  and then going home. Rene took my truck and went about her tasks for the day. It started out to be that way and my eyes were getting heavy with sleep. I was the only one in the waiting area and the chairs were comfortable. At that time my mouth was still numb but the anesthetic was wearing off. 

I woke up when I heard two little children asking their mother for some snacks. My peaceful retreat had been invaded by a two year old, a four year old and a fresh baby of about 6 months. The waiting area became the play room and the peace and quiet was gone. Out came the toys, juice boxes and chips. I continued to read my Bible but did remember my manners and I said good morning to the young mother. She was having a hard time with the 6 month old who wanted to cry, eat and poop at the same time. The four year old was trying to play quietly and her two year old brother was not leaving her alone. Mom would have to remind the two to behave and be quiet. All of a sudden a small but soft imitation basketball hit me right in the Bible and then my glasses. Junior's eyes bulged with terror as he knew he might have crossed a line of no return. Mom apologized in about 5 different languages and junior was really quiet. It was time for this old dude to spring into action. A man can read a Bible all day and unless you put action to the verses it's pretty much useless effort. 

So now you are wondering if I scolded the little boy or threatened to spank him. No! Mr, Unapproachable remembered what it was like to be a boy. He did not want to color in a book, or read choo choo train books. He wanted to stack the tables on each other and touch the ceiling. I took the ball and we played catch for a few minutes. I am not sure who's attention span was shorter his or mine. Mom treated me to a juice box and I taught the little dude how to drink through his nose. Mom rolled her eyes in disgust but was happy for the quiet. Next we used grapes for me to try and throw into his mouth. Oh my, what a circus we had. Mom and I exchanged pleasantries and were on a first name basis by the end of the day. Little sister and the baby both took a nap. One napped on mom and the other fell asleep in her chair. Not the "Little Rascal" We eventually did read the little train book. But we read it while both of us were making train noises. Mom motioned to me to look at Junior and he was sound asleep on a strangers lap. It wasn't too long before both of our vehicles were repaired and I helped her carry the two sleepy older ones to their van. She chuckled about me not getting too much reading in from my Bible. 

"You didn't get to read your Bible much." I replied "no Mam ,but better yet, I lived it". I asked if I could pray for her and the family and she said yes to that. I said a simple prayer for provisions and health. We parted and went in two different directions. 

What's more important, how many verses you can memorize, or how many times you read the entire Bible? Or how many times you live out the verses found within.  Trust me, I did not want to be bothered yesterday, especially by noisy kids. But how many times do you get to help someone that really needs it? Unfortunately we miss the mark many times. I actually thought about walking to a hardware store and a few other shops in the area to have peace of mind and atmosphere. I am glad I decided to stay.  The peace of mind I had last night before going to bed was priceless.

Don't just read it. Try to live it.  

Marty

No Pain Relief For Him 7/16/2024

 Good Morning,

Last night a few storms came through our part of the world and the thunder and lightning made it interesting for an hour or so. I am enjoying my cup of Door County Jamaican Blue Mountain Blend Coffee and it is time to write. 

Philippians 2:5-8 Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours in Christ Jesus, 6. who, though He was in the form of God, did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped,7. But emptied Himself, by taking the form of a servant , being born in the likeness of men. 8. And being found in human form, he humbled Himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even on a cross. 

We were given plenty of warnings informing us that storms would be reaching us and what time we could expect them to arrive. The weather meteorologists  were spot on last night. The forecast allowed for me to get outside yesterday and mow our lawn and clean up the yard. 

While performing the yard chores I had to maneuver the tractor around a bush that has very long and pointed thorns. In doing so I managed to get stuck by one of the thorns in my right hand. That thing was sharp and it gave me a long poke. Now I was not mortally wounded, but the incident did make me think for a few minutes. If one of these things felt like that, I can't imagine what the crown of thorns felt like that Jesus experienced. Later last night I reached for something and I winced a little. After examining my hand I found that a small piece of the thorn remained in my hand and had already started to fester. 

After a little prodding with a sterile needle the piece of thorn was removed, the puncture hole cleaned, and some antiseptic was sprayed on the site, there was no longer any pain and this morning you can barely tell where the little hole was. 

Once again this made me think as to how a crown of thorns had to feel. I wondered if some of them broke off in the skin of Jesus. There wasn't any pain relief given to Him and the blood loss from the head wounds had to be plain old terrible. 

I continued my thoughts on the crown of thorns and how humiliating they had to be, as well as what a symbol of love they are. For the King left heaven and exchanged His royal crown for a crown of thorns, pain, and blood. 

It's funny how a chore, one thorn, a little blood, and a little pain can teach me a lesson that I will not soon forget.  Many years ago that crown of thorns was placed on the head of the One who loved us enough to let that crown pierce His head. 

It is humbling what a chore can teach you. 

Marty

Ideally You Fall In Love Again Day After Day 7/15/2024

 Good Morning,

The Door County Jamaican Blue Mountain Blend Coffee just finished brewing and I have a hot cup next to me as I write. 

Proverbs 5:18 Let your fountain be blessed and rejoice in the wife of your youth. 

I made the coffee a wee bit stronger today as possessing solid sleep has been escaping me for a couple of weeks. But no need to whine about it. This too shall pass. 

My wife and I have been married for over a thousand years according to her and I have finally discovered what marriage is all about. 

Go back to the days when you found each other and at first there was infatuation . Each date or encounter with each other, you learned something new about one another. I for one was always looking forward to that next date. For me, falling in love was easy. 

Throughout the years we have mile markers of when we enjoyed a vacation, built a home, celebrated holidays welcomed a grandson in to the family. There are so many good times and happy smiles. Then there are the markers of love that you also have. The loss of parents, siblings, loss of jobs, personal health issues, putting a dog or two down to be kind and loving. You have markers of good times and bad times. 

But then you realize that the bad times were made easier because you weathered them together and took on the challenges they brought with a partnership of love. And then the body begins to change, the hair turns silver or worse yet you can't find it anymore. 

We are in a heat wave right now. I hope the photo makes you feel cooler. 

The point to my message is this for today. Each day spent with someone you love allows you to still date and look forward to new life markers. But better yet, you can fall in love and have that same feeling of anticipation and excitement each day. When you look across the breakfast table you can greet the day with that person who made your heart happier and gave you a reason to want to share the rest of your life with them. Treat each day as an opportunity to fall in love all over again. It is a gift from God.

Have a great day!

Marty

When The Shots Rang Out 7/14/2024

 Good Morning,

My day started with prayer and a hot cup of Door County Candy Cane Coffee. It is time to write. 

1Peter 3:8-12  Finally, all of you have unity of mind, sympathy, brotherly love, a tender heart, and a humble mind. 9. Do not repay evil for evil or reviling for reviling, but on the contrary, bless, for to this you were called. 10. For whoever desires to to love life and see good days, let him keep his tongue from evil and his lips from speaking deceit; 11. Let him turn away from evil and do good.  let him seek peace and pursue it. 12. For the eyes of the Lord are on the righteous and his ears are open to their prayer. But the face of the Lord is against those who do evil.

Yesterday the dark cloud of violence once again clouded the political scene of America. Some will cheer the violence of an attempted assassination just like there were those who condoned the violence of January 6th 2021. Innocent lives were lost in both situations. I have the freedom to vote in this country and I cherish that freedom. I vote with a pen not with a gun. In both instances anger voted and the only losers were those died and left behind families that had their lives altered forever. 

That's enough of an editorial for this sad morning. My time is better spent in prayer for my country, it's leaders and the people of   the United States. My thoughts and prayers are with those who lost a loved one in 2021 and those who lost someone yesterday. 

God bless,

Marty

What You Remember Is Up To You. 7/13/2024

 Good Morning,

The sun isn't quite up all the way yet and my Door County Candy Cane Coffee is now fully brewed and it is time to write.

Philippians 4:8 NKLV Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy, meditate on these things. 

What we store in our brain as far as memories go is entirely up to us. When we are angry with someone, it is amazing as to how many memories of their other infractions against us can be brought forth from the memory vault within us. 

I tested my theory on this just the other day. My wife Rene was sharing with me that while she was back in her home town she ran into someone she knew from before she met me. I was listening to her and she said "Don't you remember him from our wedding? He was there with some of my other friends." I believe the blank look on my face gave me away. I did not recall the fella and to be honest, except for a few things about that day I don't recall much as to specifics. Oh and I can remember the top of the cake, because I made it. 

But ask me about our first disagreement after we were married and I can give you fact after fact. 

Now getting back to our wedding day, my mind stored the important things like we were married that day, I was happy, it was hot outside, Rene looked beautiful, many of our loved ones were there and I was hungry after the reception and bought a can of cashews from a 24 hour Walgreens. 

I am ashamed to say that I have two memory vaults when it comes to people and events. I see them and for some reason I often think about the worst encounter I had with them before I go to the memory of the best times. 

Today I am choosing to try to block the bad thoughts and memories from my head and concentrate on the good, beautiful, and happy times as they opportunity arises.  It's funny how we choose to remember  the bad and the ugly over the good. 

Just food for thought. Break out those old pictures of happy days and moments and refresh your mind. 

Marty

Some Things Are More Than A Good Thing 7/12/2024

 Good Morning,

My day has begun with a hot cup of Door County Candy Cane Coffee and some prayer. I have a small project ahead of me and the sooner I start it, the sooner it will be finished.

1 Corinthians 13:4-7 Love is patient, and kind, love does not envy or boast, it is not arrogant 5. or rude. It does not insist on its own way, is not irritable or resentful; 6. It does not rejoice at wrong doing, but rejoices with the truth. 7. Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things. 

A long long time ago I learned the lesson of "You get what you pay for". If you desire quality you might have to pay more for whatever you are purchasing. I learned that lesson from my grandfather. He always said that most jobs require some foot work and others have you on your feet for the entire day. "Since you will be walking a lot and standing on your feet, always, always purchase good footwear." 

The second step in buying a good work boot or hunting boot was to take care of them. As I write I am wearing a leather work boot that was purchased twelve years ago. They are worn but still usable. And I might add that they are comfortable. 

The third step in taking care of your expensive purchase is to use a leather treatment, oil that is recommended and works well to preserve the leather and waterproof the boots. I use the same brand that grandpa used all the time. My earliest memory of it was around 1964. I have never used anything else. It works well and I am faithful to those who have served me well and still purchase that brand.

The container has changed through the years but the contents are the same. My point for the day is this. When I oil up my boots, my mind wanders to the back entry of my grandparents home. In the entry room there was all kinds of things hanging on the wall, used for cooking, or ridding the back yard of an occasional varmint. On a shelf was an old rag, an old tooth brush and a can of boot oil. The rag and tooth brush were essential in sealing your boots. One day when it was time for me to clean and apply some sealant, Grandpa handed me a pail and told me to go out back and pick a bowl of raspberries. I asked what we were going to do with them. He said, "Grandma likes those berries. And as important as it is to seal your boots, it is also important to preserve relationships with a little sweetness . Remember that Sonny and go pick grandma some berries."

I agree, now and then you just have to apply the sealant of love and sweetness to your relationship with your spouse, children and others. A lesson learned from the back shed! A bowl of kindness goes a long way!

Marty

Let It Begin With Me 7/11/2024

 Good Morning,

I just poured a hot cup of Door County Chocolate Raspberry Truffle Coffee and the aroma has filled the house. It is time to write. 

Those who say that they are Bible believing Christians are sometimes put to the test to exercise that faith by actions of sacrifice. Those who are walking truly by faith will have eyes that see and ears that hear a call from God for action. Once a faith action is seen or heard the test for the Christian is how will they react and will they be obedient to God's

God does test the hearts of men, and sometimes He does just to show you your own heart. He shows you if you are ready and willing to join in His work for the hour, day or longer. 

Jeremiah 17:10 "I the Lord, search the heart and test the mind, to give every man according to his ways and deeds.

God already knows your answer, but is testing, for you to see what your answer is and examine your own heart.

Let your answer always be yes!

Marty

Love Comes In An Aluminum Can 7/10/1024

 Good Morning. 

This day began with a some prodding to get out of bed. I have some things to take care of today and they can't wait. So I just poured myself a hot cup of Door County Peanut Butter Crunch Coffee and it is time to write. 

John 13:34-35 A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another 

Love comes in all different styles and forms. I am truly convinced that God can take anything and turn it into good, if the heart is in the right place. 

We attend church with a family and have known them for a long time. Their oldest daughter has a brain tumor and is fighting it with everything she has. What a fighter!

My wife Rene has been helping the Men's Ministry and our Saturday night worship members, collect aluminum cans for a long time,  They bring the cans to church and Rene takes them home, removes the pull tabs to be redeemed with another charity and then crushes them. Her  reason for crushing them is that they do not take up excess garage space until she cashes them in. The money has at times supported mission trips for teenagers, food for families, water for the people of the Ukraine and other good causes. 

Once we heard that this young lady was fighting off that tumor and how expensive treatment and other items were for the family it was decided to help them out with the money from the cans. Several people keep Rene crushing cans on a regular basis. Some folks have handed her cash and told her to add it to the can money. Two fellas from our church load bags of cans into my truck almost weekly. The money taken in from the aluminum isn't a fortune, but it comes straight from the hearts of all those who save a can, pick one up on the ground, or ask others to save theirs for our fighting friend. 

Someone recently told me that he just doesn't see people helping others anymore. I think he should open his eyes, because I see plenty of people extending kindness to others.

If I ever want to see love in action, I walk out to the garage and hear the crunch of the aluminum in the can crusher. I hear my wife singing along with her IPOD and to me the music is heavenly. Off key as it is, it is still beautiful to see so many get behind Crusher Rene and her band of collectors. One other benefit from the crushing of cans is Rene's left hook from her can crushing gun of an arm. When she says "we are going to the recycling center. " I reply "Yes Mam"

God bless.

Marty

A Lot In Common 7-8-2024

 Good Morning.

I am seated at the kitchen table today with a hot mug of Door County Chocolate Raspberry Truffle Coffee and it is time to write

Romans 10:13 NKJV No temptation has overtaken you except such as is common to man; but God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will also make the way of escape, that you may be able to bear it.

How reassuring this verse is to those who are fighting off temptation. Just knowing that God always shows us a way out of conceding to temptation gives me great peace. When we are tempted, slow down and pray to hear or see what God sends our way as to be able to withstand and defeat the temptation

God knows our limits and does not allow us to be tempted beyond what we can withstand

So stand tall and know that as you walk through this day there isn’t a temptation that can defeat you unless you allow it to do so

In reality before it comes your way, the temptation is already destroyed

Food for thought

Marty 

A Team Is Needed 7/8/2024

 Good Morning,

Monday it is and I will be on the road very soon with a hot cup of Jingle Bell Java in my truck. I have plenty of chores to do today to keep this old boy busy. 

I received a call yesterday letting me know that one of the guys in our church was enlisted to help out one of the ladies who also attends our church. His chore is to assemble a garden green house for her. He sent me the 21 pages of blueprints  and on the second page it was said that this monstrosity is best assembled with two -three people. 

Right then and there I stopped in my tracks and said "we need a team of guys if we are to have any hope of completing this task." I for one looked at the prints and truly believe that who ever designed this thing is on drugs and overdoses all the time. I prayed for qualified help and God provided.

Jeremiah 33:3 Call out to me and I will answer you and show you great and mighty things that you do not know. 

So I made a couple of calls and did not promise a team of guys, but assured the Good Samaritan that I was in for helping him out. I did not want to have this man "stand alone". I took the liberty of calling a couple of other guys who agreed to lend a hand. There is one other guy who I might reach out to. He is the king of Legos, even at his ripe age. This crazy green house assembly reminds me of an intense Lego diagram. We know that any six year old can assemble a Lego challenge. But we are not six years old. 

Don't go thinking "what a nice bunch of guys." They are nice, but the greenhouse for this lady had one great guy agree to help her. He made a call and our ultimate goal is to make sure this fella knows he has brothers who will help him out. Not that we don't do nice things for people at our church, but our goal is to rescue this fella if possible, from the green house abyss.  He is more important to us than a basket of tomatoes and cucumbers. A team is needed and God provided one. 

Stay tuned to see how this turns out.

Have a great day, 

Marty

In Beautiful Rest 7/7/2024

 Good Morning,

The day has started and the sun is rising just over the horizon. I am sitting at my desk with a hot cup of Door County Jingle Bell Java Coffee next to me.

Have you ever given any thought to the fact that while we are sleeping God is watching over us. He has designed us to need sleep, and  when we fall asleep we are following what God intended for us to do. Physically we need a recharge and God wired us to become tired and take time to rest. 

Proverbs 3;24 If you lie down, you will not be afraid; if you lie down your sleep will be sweet. 

Isaiah 40:28 Have you not known? Have you not heard? The Lord is the Everlasting God, the Creator of the ends of the earth . He does not faint or grow weary; his understanding is un searchable. 

Our bodies are wonderfully made and we can only burn the candle on both ends so long before lack of sleep catches up to us. So listen to the message your body sends you. While driving down the road and the check engine light comes on in your car, most people do something and heed the warning. When we are very tired and we need sleep, it is God's way of telling us to heed the warning and rest. We listen to our cars, but yet avoid the warnings God sends us. 

Rest when you are supposed to.  Take time to pray yourself to sleep.

Have a great day!

God bless,

Marty

Pulling The Weeds 7/6/2024

 Good Morning,

It is already shaping up to be a nice day as far as the weather goes. I salute this day with a hot mug of Door County Mistletoe Mocha Coffee and it is time to write. 

Our flower gardens are in full bloom right now except for some late summer perennials. And with every successful garden there is a lot of work that goes into it. My wife Rene keeps the flower beds hydrated and tilled through the spring summer and fall. She enjoys the gardening except for weed control. Rene is not one to use commercial weed preventer although I am convinced it is easier than pulling out the weeds. It is hard work removing the weeds before they get too deep with their roots. 

Last night as I was refinishing some wood projects in the garage. Rene came in with a strange look on her face. I asked her if she was ok and she replied, "yes I am just hot and tired. This weather has been good for plant growth and the weeds aren't really shy about showing up". I could see that she was tired and was ready to try the weed preventer in the garden. I was very happy to help her out and I had that stuff applied in a short time. I think the best way to be rid of weeds is to never allow them to even start. 

You can apply this thought also to life. The best way to not give into temptation is to kill it before it takes root and causes a ruckus in your life. I believe in Scripture memorization as a repellent to temptation and a fall from grace. Scripture is a gun to the head of temptation and sin. When tempted, you pull out that spiritual gun and kill it. 

Psalm 119:11 I have hidden your word in my heart, so that I might not sin against me. 

An example could be a person who struggles with anger issues and needs to stay calm. One verse that I would recommend to memorize would be, Psalm 37:8 Cease from anger and forsake wrath, it only causes harm.

The memorized verse would remind you that your anger is going to take you into trouble or harm. Bringing the Scripture in, sets the tone to defeat the situation. God's word never returns without accomplishing what He sent it out to do.  Isaiah 55:11 It does not come back voided. 

Hebrews 4:12 For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than a double edged sword, it penetrates even to divide soul and spirit, joints and marrow, it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart. 

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

You wouldn't use a squirt gun to battle a raging fire. Don't play around with temptation. Kill it before it does damage to you and those around you. 

Marty

The Fishing Hole And The Kids 7/5/2024

 Good Morning,

My cup of Door County Mistletoe Mocha Coffee is very hot and is much needed today. The weather is damp and rainy so the coffee is meeting the challenge of the weather just perfectly.

Ecclesiastes 7:10 Say not, "Why were the former days better than these'? For it is not from wisdom that you ask this.

In a dense part of the forest in Upper Michigan lies a little lake that is very close to my heart. My parents lived very close to that lake. My dad would take us and our kids there to have the fishing experience of a life time. You could catch one fish after another and the action was fast and fun. I watched our daughter, my nephews, and my grandson, enjoy those outings and I can just hear them laughing and then counting how many fish had come into the boat. They would keep count as to what they caught to see who had the bragging rights for the day. 

We would pair up and have a little competition on Fathers Day to see who was the top team for the year. I still believe one nephew of mine tried to sabotage his brother and me. Someone unpacked our tackle boxes from the truck and left us with two lures and two hooks and about four night crawlers and said,    "Too bad for you guys, I guess we know who wins this year." Big surprise! We out fished that little crapper, his dad and my dad and we rubbed it in all weekend and we still do!

My point is this. We haven't been back there since my dad passed away. And the last time I tried the old trails to the lake were grown over and almost impossible to get through. It would be a chore and a half to walk in. My dad used to keep the trails open for us. Without any attention they just grew wild and pretty much useless. 

It's like our hearts and God. Without daily attention by reading His word and a good time spent in prayer, our hearts grow cluttered with other things and soon we have a heart that doesn't beat for others as it should. We find the pathway to our Bibles cluttered with life's obstacles. 

I know my two nephews and my brother will be reading this. I know that their minds will wander back to those days at the fishing hole. I hope my nephew feels bad that his brother and I are still the champs! 

Friends, don't stay away from that Bible and prayer so long that it is hard to find your way back to it. Don't say "those were the good old days". Keep the trail to your heart open and functional.

God bless, and take those kids fishing. 

Marty

Freedom Should Be Cherished 7/4/2024

 Good Morning,

My coffee this morning is Door County Jingle Bell Java. It is good and hot, just the way I like it.  It is time to write. 

In the United States we are observing our Independence Day . There will be parades in many cities and towns to celebrate July 4th 1776. Some folks might have a picnic meal with others and then wait for the fireworks displays later tonight. So as we celebrate freedom let us take time away from the holiday to remember those who are still engulfed in wars today. There are two major wars going on right now as I write. There is more than civil unrest taking place as evil now controls the country of Haiti. 

Take time to remember those who are on your list of prayers who are not free from cancer. Their battle rages on. Take time to remember those who are in family distress. They are not free from their woes as they watch their family being torn up by a divorce. 

Isaiah 40:29 He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak. 

I enjoy the freedom of speech as I write today, some others are not that blessed to do so. Their thoughts are censored and not easily shared without repercussion. I am allowed to worship my God freely in the church of my choice. 

Don't take freedom for granted my friends. Cherish it if you have it to enjoy. Pray for those who don't. 

God bless all who read this today. May your day be free!

Marty

It's Ok To Be Silly Now And Then 7/3/2024

 Good Morning,

I have next to me two wet Springer Spaniels and a hot cup of Door County Jingle Bell Java Coffee to enjoy as I write.

Proverbs 15;15 All the days of the afflicted are evil, but the cheerful of heart has a continual feast. 

Proverbs 17:22 A joyful heart is good medicine. But a crushed spirit dries up the bones. 

Our two dogs are wet from the rain that that is still soaking our are of the world. They went outside to do their morning dog business and then did not want to come back inside. So I had to dry them off after they were finished chasing rabbits and squirrels. Good start to the day!

Once that was done I could brew a pot of coffee. Notice I am drinking a Christmas flavor in July. My wife Rene observes Christmas in July by watching Christmas movies on her favorite television channel. The Hallmark Channel has this quirky observance every year. It gets under her skin a little when I brew the Christmas java just to chide her a little bit. To be honest, Rene would have Christmas decorations out on display if she had her way. She told me that she has one out somewhere in the house and I can put it away if I can find it. 

My point for the day is this. Things are not always serious in this home. We both enjoy a good joke, and we like to laugh at ourselves and each other now and then. Life is too short to be dead serious all the time and walk in a cloud of silence. 

There are so many things that make our house a home, but one of the main ingredients is laughter. Laughter is good for the soul and usually brings a smile to your face. It's ok to be silly now and then and life does not have to be a constant state of seriousness. Laugh while you can and enjoy it. 

As I close this blog for the day I want to wish you all a "Merry Christmas" in July.

Marty

Pondering The Day 7/2/2024

 Good Morning,

I just poured a hot cup of Door County Hawaiian Hazelnut Coffee and it is time to write.

As I look out from the window in our den I see a rainy day and the forecast is for it to last all day. This is good for the lawn, flowers and the vegetables in our garden. But it will interfere with the outdoor work I had in mind for today. 

So I will switch gears and move to a couple small projects inside the house and reschedule my outdoor work for another day. 

My point for the day is this. In order to not drive myself crazy and as much as I have power over I will make the best use of this day by just being flexible. There isn't a thing I can do about the weather, but the one thing I can do is to not let it impact my mood. In every day we need to trust that God has a purpose for us to achieve and He has placed it in an order that might not agree with us. I was going to be on the road by now. Maybe God saved me from a car accident in the fog. I will never know, but if I just trust in Him and can remain flexible I will be on His pathway, not mine. 

Proverbs 3:5-6 NIV Trust in the lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; 6. In all your ways submit to Him, and He will make your paths straight.

Have a great day!

Marty

The Front Porch Needs Some Work 7/1/2024

 Good Morning,

I am too content to be sitting at my desk with a hot cup of Door County Hawaiian Hazelnut Coffee next to me steaming as I write.  

Psalm 139:23-24 Search me, O God, and know my heart; try me, and know my thoughts:

24. And see if there be any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.

We have been in our home for 30 years now. We built it in 1994 and have enjoyed calling it home for a long time. In surveying some projects that need to be done we decided that the front porch needed some repairs and this would be one of the projects that I can not do. I like to do a lot of my own work and this is just one of those chores that is better left to an expert. Today we are commencing that project and are using a father and son team who come highly recommended. I have seen some of their work and the price was right so they were awarded the work. 

We new have a list of projects that will get attention this year and into the next year for sure. The reason the porch was chosen first is that it looked terrible and after a few attempts at fixing it myself it was decided that we would hire it out and get it done right.  I will post pictures tomorrow or the next day.

As you approach our front door the worn concrete was sending the wrong message to those coming to our home for a visit or business. My wife Rene would decorate the porch to match the seasons yet that worn out concrete still left a bad impression. It was not very welcoming. 

I liken a front porch to the hearts that live inside the home. We like for people to visit us, or deliver things to the house with an approach that says "welcome". That first impression should say "please approach and feel safe to be here and your visit is most welcome." Once arrived to the door, then the heart takes over and every visitor should be welcomed with a smile and made to feel that they are in a place of refuge, warmth in the winter and a cool respite in the summer. 

So as the porch is being made new again. So every now and then we need to sweep out our hearts and clean them up so they are approachable and welcoming. 

Food for thought. What does the porch of your heart say to others as the approach you?

Have a great day!

Marty