"Just Needs A Little Bit Of Work" 5/31/2025

 Good Morning, 

I have a hot cup of Door County S'mores Coffee babysitting my morning and working it's way to being a second cup of the brew. 

My wife Rene likes to shop for antiques. She really enjoys touring the emporiums of aged items, shopping for something we can use or display. In a few instances when I thought there wasn't any hope for reviving her purchase into something useful again, I make the mistake of complaining. Rene, forever being the "Great Encourager" says and I repeat it. "It just needs a little bit of work." 

I have to tell you that some of the items I restored took hours, days and months to get them presentable. A little bit of work in her eyes and mine is not the same. 

I worked on a desk and a dining room table for days, weeks and months. Quite a different view from my eyes to hers. 

God looks at us the same way Rene looks at restoration projects. ("Just a little bit of work") He doesn't see the work of restoring or maturing us as a big project. To be honest, He never really stops. We are a work in progress and He keeps at it. There is no whining about how tough we are to bring us around to being usable. Even when we think He is done, He continues to polish our lives with directions from His word. He adds coats of maturity, and leadership upon us like a restored table needs several coats of lacquer and dusting for a life time.

Philippians 1:6 NLT And I am certain that God, who began the good work within you, will continue His work until it is finally finished on the day when Christ returns. 

Have a great day. God isn't finished with you yet.

Marty

Speak Softly 5/30/2025

 Good Morning,

A hot cup of Door County Cherry Crème Coffee is greeting me this morning. It is a faithful old friend to me. It is time to write.

I was once asked by a young couple what advice I could give them regarding marriage. We were attending their wedding reception and all of us attendees were given a sheet of paper so we could write down some advice. I actually did as I was asked and it was a challenge to keep it simple and swift.

I wrote that God should always be first in each of their lives and they should then place each other second. I thought that it was an answer that was perfect. Later that year I found out that my answer was the same as the majority of the answers shared. 

What I haven't said was this. I wrote just a little more on to their sheet and they sought me out to elaborate a few weeks later. 

I explained my comment. Once God is first in your personal life and then combined with the other life in your marriage, learn to get along despite emotions, urges to argue, and just in general when the other person in this relationship poked the bear, or got on to your last nerve.

My challenge or advice was this. "Speak softly and listen carefully." 

Proverbs 15:1 A soft answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up wrath. 

Colossians 4:6 Let your speech always be gracious, seasoned with salt, so you may know  how you ought to answer each person. 

James 1:19 Know this my beloved brothers, let every person be quick to hear, slow to speak, and slow to anger. 

My point for today is this. Everyone has a desire and a need to be heard. We show how much we love others by how we listen to them and how we speak. Your mouth and ears are a gauge as to what is in your hearts. We show how much we value having them in our lives, just by how we speak and listen. 

Have a great day.  Listen more and speak less.

Marty

4502 But Who Is Counting? 5/29/2025

 Good Morning.

My cup of Door County Country Morning Blend Coffee is cooling off quickly this morning. It is a little chilly this morning, but life goes on.

Ephesians 5:8-10 For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Walk as children of the light. 9. For the fruit of the Spirit is in all goodness. righteousness and truth, finding out what is acceptable to the Lord.  First verse from my first blog in 2012.

I am taking a little time to celebrate the fact that this week I have written my daily blog 4500  times. Readers come and reader go. There have only been a few times where I missed a day writing to my friends, relatives, and the rest of the world who somehow finds their way to my page. 

This all started with Nicole our former church administrative assistant. This was all her idea and was supposed to have different writers every day or at least once a week. As the story goes only one other person logged anything in. What started as a chore to me, developed into what I celebrate today. 

I recall the first time I wrote in 2012 and the panic I was in, because I just didn't know what to write. So I mentioned the coffee I was drinking, and thus it has been the handle that starts my blog every day. I learned quickly to pray before I write and ask God for the topic. Over the years you have heard about dogs, hunting, fishing, Christmas, Easter, the passing of my loved ones, work, retirement, marriage, some politics, hope, chastisements, challenges, love, peace, war, prayer, God's glory and garden photos. We lived through a pandemic, wars, natural disasters, computer outages, we celebrated holidays together, and often shared a meal by photographs of some great food. You have mourned with me as I have mourned with some of you. Not every day starts at the my desk. I have written by phone from the duck blind, hotels, occasionally from a small row boat. I have written from home in the United States and from other countries. 

I am not sure how much longer God will keep me at the computer each day, but as for now, I commit to writing daily and share a cup of coffee with you. Only He knows what the passing of time will bring. I give God all the credit and glory for anything that was accomplished and written via this blog. I serve a great God.

If you are reading this today, thank you. I have just prayed for the readers which has reached many countries. Nicole, thanks for sharing your idea many years ago and setting me up with a blog page. 

Marty  

Pass On The Tradition 5/28/2025

 Good Morning,

I am sitting with a hot cup of Door County Inn Keepers Blend Coffee and it is time to write. 

Job 12:7-10 But ask the beasts, and they will teach you; the birds of heaven, and they will tell you; 8. or the bushes of the earth, and they will teach you; and the fish of the sea will declare to you,. 9. Who among all these does not know that the hand of the Lord has done this? 10. In His hand is the life of every living thing and the breath of all mankind. 

Yesterday an old friend of mine challenged his readers to be involved with kids and take/ teach them to hunt or fish. I can totally agree with him on this subject. Some of the greatest times I have experienced is to watch my nephews, their friends, my grandson, or the relatives of my friends, experience a hunt, time in the marsh, or woods, or time on a lake. For an hour or so you can see the anticipation of having a successful hunt as they scan the sky for fowl on the fly. They learn to appreciate the work of a great dog and how to clean and cook game or fish. They are taught patience. 

Each year the technology somewhat gets better and even head lamps are capable of lighting up a runway now. Insulated bottles keep their contents hot for a day. Their are remote controlled duck and turkey decoys and I can keep my hands warmer than ever now. Clothing has become trendy. 

What hasn't changed is the fact that the youngster still needs to learn respect for gun safety. They also have to shoot their own game. Breakfast and lunch are still important. Hot sauce for the eggs is a must and sooner or later you will have to pee and the waders have to be pulled down. And it is best to make sure they are stowed away from your rear end when doing your business. I know they have waders with zippers, but who really trusts zippers in waist high water? They also learn that eating chili the night before has some weird experiences the next morning. Lots to learn. Lots to experience, and lots to love. Their first fish, deer, duck, pheasant, or anything they were blessed to bag and then eat, is priceless to be a part of. 

An appreciation of God's creations can't help but to happen. They see more sunrises and sunsets than the non hunter or fisherman. They will have a collection of pictures of both, sunrises and a sunsets. This tells you that the hunt was not plentiful, so they occupied their time taking photos. Soon they learn that a mallard quacking is not just a sign that they are in your area, but it becomes a symphony of music to their ears. 

Starting them early on praying for safety, and their families who are asleep while they venture out, becomes a habit that is used for a lifetime. You might learn that not all folks appreciate being on the water at 4 am. They would prefer shopping. That's ok. They will enjoy waiting in line helping you to buy new waders on Black Friday!!!

If you can understand this publication today, you are blessed. If you can't understand this, spend an hour with a hunter and you will hear some banter, some great stories, their appreciation of God's creation and how much they love their families and their dogs. 

Marty

Someone Took The Time To Help Me Get My Feet On The Ground. 5/27/2025

 Good Morning.

I just poured myself a hot cup of Door County Brandy Alexander Coffee on this fine morning. 

Back in 1981 I found myself in a unique situation. I entered a Southern Baptist church for the first time. This was a place where everyone seemed to know their Bible inside out and I had just purchased my first one. By the way, I still have it. It is very dear to me.

I recall my first night attending Bible study with the men on a Wednesday. The leader of the study called on me to read. I could barley tell you one book in the bible at that time, let alone a passage from Zephaniah 3:17  I was so embarrassed by my lack of what everyone else seemed have memorized. I wanted to leave and never come back. 

There were two other guys sitting, one on each side of me. One of them reached over and flipped my Bible open to Zephaniah and the third chapter. I can read with the best of them, so once I had the address of the passage, I could function. 

After Bible study was finished they both sat me down in private and said they would make sure that until I was comfortable with my Bible, no one would spot me out again. Then they came up with a plan for me to meet with one of the men weekly for some tutoring. The other one would call randomly a couple times a week to make sure I was working on a Bible study given to all new Christians in the church. He would quiz me on the passages I was supposed to have read, and if possible memorize them.

Psalm 119:11 I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against Thee.  Ha! That was the first verse I ever memorized. Both men asked me if they could pray with me and for me each time we met or they called. They did this for an entire year. One has passed on to glory now and I miss him dearly. I still see the other one a time or two throughout the year. I see his son on a weekly basis. He still keeps tabs on me through his son. 

My point for the day is this. Who do you share a bond, or a link with? Are you there to mentor, love, and help others that cross your path?  Is a year of meetings too much of a burden for you. Do you actually take count of the burden or can the new guy or gal, count on you to flip a page for them? Do you take a spiritual accountability from God to get involved with a new believer or one who has fallen away? 

Zephaniah 3:17 The Lord your God is with you, The Mighty Warrior who saves. He will take great delight in you.; in His love He will no longer rebuke you, but will rejoice over you with singing.

I truly believe that without those two guys in my life, you would never be reading this today. Thankful for Vern and Harlan,

God bless,

Marty

A Piece Of Pie 5/26/2025

 Good Morning,

The old mug was filled with hot Door County Mocha Mint Coffee and it is tasting mighty fine this morning. 

Things sometimes don't go as planned and they become a big bump in your road. The bump seems to be a mountain that you can't climb. But let me remind you, you have been climbing mountains for years and you are more than a capable climber. You actually have a climbing team. 

First off the One who can help you to soar over and beyond this obstacle, also keeps you looking up, and anchored on the right path. That would be "God" 

Isaiah 40:31 But they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; they shall walk and not faint. 

The second members of your team are your family and friends. You have access to more help than you actually think you have. They are their waiting for you to tell them that your mountain isn't going to hold you back. They actually will get down and dirty to assist in the climb and carry you if needed. 

The there is the last members of your climbing team. They are the ones that lose sleep for you and lift you up in prayer, are the coaches, and enthusiasts who push the gates of heaven to open.

So no matter the obstacle, you have a team. Why did I title this "A Piece Of Pie"? Sometimes you just have to take a moment and rest during your climb. I find that when I need that time, I dine on God's Word. And that is always a sweet spiritual piece of pie and gives me the strength to tackle what is in front of me. 

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

So my dear friends, big or small, is your obstacle. GET Climbing!

God bless,

Marty

Life Is A Game of Chance 5/25/2025

Good Morning,

 Door County Mocha Mint Coffee filled my insulated bottle about 30 minutes ago and I am ready to write.

Yesterday I attended a Hunt Test for hunting dogs not too far from where we live. I have retired from running my dogs in these events, but I have several friends and a nephew who have been training for their dogs to compete in the test and advance toward a Master Hunter Title.

A few of the dogs were disqualified for something they did our did not do. To say the least when this happens the owner can get quite discouraged. They have the opportunity to try again today. I pray for different results for them.

If I were to write something to encourage them it would be to count their blessings. 

At the end of the day even though their furry buddy had a bad day, they still went home with you. They just want you to be there in the morning to greet the day with you. You are their whole world and they love you even when YOU have a bad day. The four legged companion was your choice to buy or inherit. But in reality Rover was a gift from God.  If you made the mistake instead of them making one they would have forgotten it many hours ago. They would never keep a record of your wrongs. 

Ephesians 4:32 ESV Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, ads God in Christ forgave you. 

How does this lesson apply to everyone else who reads this? Things happen and sometimes you are let down by those who love you most. They did not mean to, but stuff happens. Learn to be like a dog and forgive immediately and remember life needs to go on. 

Wag your tail and get on with forgiving, and then enjoying some life. 

God bless,

Marty

If It Works, Don't Fix It 5/24/2025

 Good Morning,

I have a full day ahead of me and it will run into the evening. So I have packed a lunch and a hot Thermos of Door County Heroes Blend Coffee. 

1 Peter 4:10 As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God's varied grace.

Some people look at my wife Rene and I and shake their heads. For instance yesterday, we tackled some yard work together and Rene was riding the tractor, mowing the lawn and I was doing some trimming, thinking about what I would  cook for dinner. I do 99% of all that gets cooked in our home. People find the fat that I cook for us as somewhat odd. It might be a little odd, but it works for us and Rene does most of the grass cutting, and other chores. 

For us, this arrangement works, so we don't mess with it. What this tells me is that if it isn't born in sin, and it causes no harm, if the way you function isn't broke, don't fix it. Use each person's talents to the betterment of the family. Short message today, but full of meaning. 

Have a great day!

Marty

No Big Deal 5/23/2025

 Good Morning,

The Door County Jamaican Blue Mountain Blend Coffee isn't quite hot enough this morning. But it won't take but as few seconds in the microwave to fix that. 

Proverbs 19:11 NLT sensible people earn respect by overlooking wrongs. 

As I get older and even when I was younger I struggled to remember people and their names. And now after a lifetime of work and church service I will run into someone and they will remember me but in all honesty I have had to fake my way through some encounters. The same has happened to me on the reverse side. 

Life is full of little offenses that come our way and the word little is just that. The only way they become a big issue is if we let ourselves go down the path of making them a big deal. Life is too short to get our undies in a bundle over minor infractions. All too often we are, or desire others to be crucified over something they did or we did that in all reality is no big deal. Once we elevate something from no big deal, to the status, of being rude, unkind, not fair, or "you did it again" we choose to make someone else and ourselves miserable.

Walk in a way that forgives, forgets, and doesn't turn you into a score keeper, and accountant of wrongs. What you sow you will reap. And you will always be feeling you were slighted, abused, and cheated. Life is so much more than that. Keep things on the minor. Use your forgetful brain to help you to let things slide. I don't know about you, but my brain is usually on overload and to make a big deal out of nothing, will just pop the circuit breaker in my head and cause me some type of harm.

Food for thought.

Marty

Your Biggest Cheerleader 5/22/2025

 Good Morning, 

I am surely enjoying a hot cup of Door County Jamaican Blue Mountain Blend Coffee and it seems that the rain ended with a two day event and won't be three. 

Now and then we all need a cheerleader in our life. A person who can look at the score and see you are losing by a large amount, but still they cheer you on and are blind to reality. Someone who loves you enough to stand by you at all times and hopes only the best for you. 

Proverbs 12:18 There is one whose rash words are like sword thrusts, but the tongue of the wise brings healing. 

Proverbs 16:24 Gracious words are like a honeycomb, sweetness to the soul and health to the body. 

Friends I am convinced that we are never too old to be an encourager or a receiver of encouragement. Sometimes all a person needs is to hear "Hey I am thinking about you" . Or "You can do this". As a youngster, I was asked to perform all of the snow removal for one neighbor throughout  the winter season. I agreed that I would accept whatever she thought it was worth as payment. This lady was always more than generous. It was a no brainer as to whether or not to accept the job. 

All was going as planned. The neighbor was happy and my wallet was healthy. Until February hit, and I was really ill on a Thursday. The snow started falling and it fell though that night. It took a break on Friday morning but resumed the snow storm Friday night. Her porch, driveway and steps were snow covered. I would actually say "Buried". I had made a commitment to keep her shoveled out and I meant to keep my word. I shoveled her out two times before 10:30PM. The plows came through then and buried her sidewalk and driveway. I grabbed my hat, coat, gloves, and shovel and went next door to clean her snow away. My goal was to then transfer my energy to our own snow removal, once I was finished with hers. Snow removal was the family chore assigned to me.  I was shoveling and took a rest, leaning on the shovel. I was really tired and worn out. I felt a hand on my shoulder. It was my Dad and he said. "Come on. You can get this done" as he started shoveling next to me. All of a sudden there wasn't just me. My biggest cheerleader was right next to me, encouraging me and assisting so I would not fail my commitment.

Someone needs you to be their cheerleader today. It might mean you have to put some skin into the game, but an encouraging word costs nothing! Be the person someone needs and the person God intended you to be. 

God bless,

Marty

 

Name The Time And I will Be There 5/21/2025

 Good Morning,

Door County German Chocolate Cake Coffee filled my cup this morning and it is time to write.

One of the character traits my dad owned is the one where you are always on time and if you weren't ten minutes early for your appointment  with him "You were late".

Ephesians 5:15-16 NIV Be very careful, then, how you live, not as unwise but wise. 16. Making the most of every opportunity , because the days are evil. 

He planned being on time and it started the day before. His clothing to be worn was laid out the day before. The alarm clock was always set to give him ample time to shower, drink coffee. eat a little breakfast  and travel if necessary. He would arrive on time every time. Unless he was ill, he was always the first one to rise up from the bed and most always the first to lay down for the night. He always said, "a man who shows up late without a good excuse, is a man who just showed you how he feels about you. A person feels more important when he sees just how much you respect his time,"

That character trait rubbed off on me and being late bugs me to no end and waiting for others to show up on time irritates me like you can't imagine. 

Mother taught us to be polite and some how she incorporated being prompt into her lessons on manners. "We are to respect others and treat them the way we want to be treated. Being on time shows respect for others and sets the tone for a relationship built on "good manners".

Food for thought!

Marty

Planning Ahead, Do You Have A Will ?5/20/2025

 Good Morning,

A fresh pot of Door County German Chocolate Cake Coffee greeted me when  I approached the kitchen. It is a good way to start this day. It is cold and the wind is howling this morning. A second cup is in order. 

Galatians 3:15 NKJV Brethren I speak in the manner of men: Though it is only a man's covenant , yet it is confirmed, no one annuls or adds to it. 

Later this morning, my wife Rene and I will be enlisting the help of an attorney to make changes to our will. Some things need adjusting to accommodate changes in the family dynamics. It is our goal to have everything laid out and easy for our daughter to handle when the time comes when Rene and I are not around. Our personal belongings of any value all have been listed as to where they go. 

I highly recommend having a will in place to avoid lawsuits and stress over money. I especially challenge all young people to have in writing where the placement of their children go in the event both parents leave this earth at the same time. Who raises the kids for you? Do you have it in writing? Don't assume anything. Uncle Joe might be a great guy, but will he be able to take on the responsibility of raising the kids.  As fun as Joe is, does he have a drinking problem? Family might want the children, but are your friends better qualified? This needs to be prayed out, communicated fully and agreed on before something happens. Will the chosen people raise your children in a Godly manner seeing that they attend church? Do those folks you chose already have a walk of faith in God? Make sure to have all of this spelled out so no one can deny your final wishes, nor to have the government decide where the kids reside. The last thing a family needs is a feud and lawsuits after they lose you. 

Food for thought,

Marty

Technical Difficulties Argh 5/19/2025

 Good Morning,

Earlier this morning I poured myself a hot cup of Door County Raspberry Almond Coffee and it tasted pretty good. I went to write and due to a glitch in my computer, I could not write. A few hours later and after some prayer and patience. I am able to write.

Matthew 24:35 Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will not pass away. 

Isaiah 40:8 The grass withers, the flower fades, but the word of God will stand forever.  

Life has become more and more technically advanced, which makes things more technically difficult at times. Just the other night I decided to follow along in a class without my paper copy Bible. I was relying on my telephone to provide the Bible verses that were being used. Then for some reason or another, the website I was using could not be found. I had left my old trusty paper Bible in my truck so I was basically left blind to the Scripture I needed.

I am not slamming technology and in many ways the improvements make life easier. But some technology just isn't as good as the old fashioned way of obtaining the desired outcomes. 

I cannot provide a number as to how many cell phones are lost each year, dropped into water, dropped only to be smashed, stolen, or just wear out. Yet my old paper Bible with all kinds of notes has been with me since 1982. The pages are worn and the covering is beat, but yet it is still usable. The notes on the side of the pages show the paths God has directed me to. They are notes of comfort, wisdom and chastising. There are pages where you can see the stains of tear drops, my own and the tears of others. No technology can ever replace the moments recorded in my notes , intertwined within the 66 books of my Bible. 

Just throwing this out there, just because I can. Have a great day. Enjoy some of the great technology available to you. But don't forget to pray and turn some pages. And record your notes. 

Marty

Flowers On The Run 5/18/2025

 Good Morning,

Today I find myself drinking a hot cup of Door County Raspberry Almond Coffee and chasing some arthritis away. Time to write!

Ephesians 5:15-17 Look carefully then how you walk not as unwise but as wise. 16. making the best use of the time, because the days are evil. 17. Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the will of the Lord is.

My wife Rene, has started planting the annual flowers around our home and for some reason or another the process is going slowly. By now, we are usually 90% complete and we are not even close to that. Yesterday, I looked back on my calendar and can see why the yard is not in full bloom. I have been busier than normal doing other things that seem to take my attention away from helping my wife in adding color to the yard. 

I don't see things slowing down very soon either. So it will be " Flowers On The Run" this year. Even the wild flowers that come up every year are not showing up yet. I am puzzled by that one. 

My point for the day is this. Sometimes you can't control your schedule and your schedule controls you. So do your best to arrange things in a way, to reduce tasks, or trim them completely. Take charge of your schedule and make sense of what you have to do, what you want to do, or don't need to do, and make sure to take time to love God, love on your family, and rest. 

You will find yourself saying "I can't trim anything". Don't let busyness become an idol in your life. If you were to get sick and not be able to burn the candle at both ends, a few less flowers wouldn't really matter. So take some time to slow down and trim that calendar, before it trims you.

God bless,

Marty

Hitting The Wood Pile With A Conscience 5/17/2025

 Good Morning,

The den seems way too quiet this morning as I write and sip on a hot cup of Door County Chocolate Raspberry Truffle Coffee. I have added some soft music for background sound and it is nice. 

A few weeks ago we were given firewood for free. I always say "Free goes with everything I own". The logs just need to be shortened a little and then split. I started the process of cutting the logs and splitting them this week and I see the pile going down in size. I was also given some apple wood that I intend to share with a neighbor. We both like to smoke meat and dine like kings.

My wife Rene doesn't say too much about things in general, but she asked me a question about the firewood. I found it odd and I guess she has a point. "You were given this wood and you brought it home for us to burn this fall and you and our neighbor will cook some mighty fine meat. I am sure you thanked the fellas who donated wood to our cause. But in our prayer time together you never thanked God for the wood He created and blessed us with, nor did you thank God for someone who cared enough to give us wood from their property. don't you think we should be grateful to God?"

I had to do a quick memory search and I am sorry to say that she is correct. God knew many years ago that some of those trees that sprouted up, would one day warm the Schutte home. I now stand with a clear conscience and heart. I now also see the pile more of a blessing and not a chore to complain about. 

One of the benefits of marriage is that you inherit a second conscience. I sit here and am also thankful to God for a wife who keeps me running on the straight and narrow. 

Today my food for thought has me eating crow.

God bless,

Marty

A Journey For You To Take 5/16/2025

 Good Morning,

Friday arrived right on time. I just poured a hot cup of Door County Chocolate Raspberry Truffle Coffee and it is time to write.

I want to challenge all of us today to take a journey into your memory vault. It is a journey only you can do. You can share it if you would like to. This journey is a moment in your life that when you recall it always makes you smile and happy. 

First off, let's give God the credit for this memory. Whatever it was that makes you smile was given to you by God.

James 1:17 NKJV Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above and comes down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shadow of turning. 

I had difficulty with choosing just one item. Once I started in on searching my memory vault, so many blessings flooded my brain that it was too difficult to choose just one moment. Which one should I highlight?  

I decided to showcase for myself a more recent memory and then I wanted to change it with a different one. Before I knew it I had recalled over a dozen or two memories to share and the list is still growing. 

My conclusion was this. God is good! Have a great day! 

Marty

The Day Will Come For All Of Us. 5/15/2025

 Good Morning,

I just sat down at my desk with a hot cup of Door County Mocha Mint Coffee in the cup next to me and it is time to get this day started. 

We have been warned of an impending storm headed our way today. It is supposed to be all kinds of nasty.  Even with the advanced warnings we get now that the weather science is state of the art, people ignore warnings and go about as if they haven't heard them. We just seem to ignore all kinds of warnings. Our cars are now equipped with warning lights telling us to have them serviced. People still run out of gas after being warned as to how many miles are left in the gas tank. Warnings, warnings and more warnings come to us  and we choose which ones we want to take seriously.

The most important warning we receive and all too often disregard it, is the fact that one day Jesus will return  for each of us. That day we won't be packing anything to take with us. The full coffee cup will eventually mold over and dry up and the computer will be left on. There will be mail left unread. Your laundry will be left hanging on the line. We all figure that some day we will prepare for this event, but we never get to it. We just keep on ignoring the warnings. 

John 14:2-6 2.In my Father's house are many mansions. ; If it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. 3. And if I go to prepare a place for you, I will come again and receive you to Myself; that where I am, there you will be also. 4 And where I go you know and the way you know. 

5. Thomas said to Him. "Lord we do not know where you are going, and how can we know the way?" 

6. Jesus said to Him, " I am the way the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father accept through me." 

The warning is clear for all of us. Our clock will stop and we can't change anything anymore. We can't go back to yesterday and get a do over. What was left unsaid will stay that way. What was unforgiven will be left unforgiven. What could have been won't be. So take stock of what needs to be done today and don't wait for tomorrow. You might not be here tomorrow. 

Heed the warnings. 

Marty

Spending Time With Mister Quiet 5/14/2025

 Good Morning,

I just sat down at the desk and next to me is a hot cup of Door County Mocha Mint Coffee. It is time to write. 

Psalm 46:10. Be still and know that I am God. 

Now and then even  being retired can get too busy and I find myself being in constant GO mode. I find myself being pulled in many directions and the world just seems to get loud. I find that I need to spend some time with a dear friend of mine called "Quiet". It is nice to be needed. It is special to be included with others. It is a good feeling to be useful. But when the world becomes the only thing you can truly hear it is time to take a trip with my friend, Mr. Quiet.

Later this morning I will be packing up my truck and going to work on hunting techniques with our youngest dog Leo. Group training is valuable, but sometimes a guy just needs to spend time with his dog and train alone. If I weren't training with my dog, I would be doing something else that doesn't require interaction with the world. I am always happy to spend time with me wife. But today finds her needing to spend time with her mom. That leaves me some time to think, pray, and enjoy being with my friend "Quiet" and be outdoors. 

1 Thessalonians 4:11 Aspire to live quietly, and to mind your own affairs, and to work with your hands as we have instructed you. 

May God bless, your time with Mr. Quiet.

Marty

Is God In The House?5/13/2025

 Good morning.

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

Many homes have places of religion on the wall, a table or a shelf. Some display a Bible verse or a Godly quote. The inhabitants of the home attend church, yet their personal lives are not reflective of a personal walk with God. 

They lack integrity when the religious displays are nothing but shelf fillers.

They quietly wonder when the house will actually become a home where God is worshipped and followed.

The walls are painted in the home. Guests see evidence of you having a knowledge of God but in reality because of pride that keeps the sins you like readily available, your home lacks the presence of God.

The key to a home where God is more than a wall covering, is humility, and living with a humble and honest heart.

2 Chronicles 7: 14 "If my people who are called by My name will humble themselves, and pray and seek My face, and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and heal their land.

15.Now my eyes will be open and My ears attentive to prayer made in this place. 

Is your home occupied by God? Or does He get a small place on the shelf?

Think this one through.

Marty

A Tight Squeeze 5/12/2025

 Good Morning,

I am sitting outside this morning enjoying a hot cup of Door County Breakfast Blend Coffee. What makes it even nicer is that we are actually in Door County today. My wife and I are enjoying a little holiday time for a few days. 

Proverbs 12:13 The wicked is ensnared by the transgression of his lips. But the righteous will come through trouble.

Have you ever found yourself between a rock and a hard place? A moment of "danged if you do and danged if you don't". You are presented with a no win situation. Either choice is going to hurt.

I have experienced a few times like that and an easy solution or less painful one, would be to omitt some part of the truth and hope to gloss over the problem and hope it goes away. Avoidance or ommissions are just a lie in disguise and at best just a way to buy some time. The cloud of being found out hangs on your lifeline forever. Some things just need to be hit head on and remember that the pain is the beginning of the healing process.

Food for thought??

God bless.

Marty

Run To Mom 5/11/2025

 Good Morning,

I just poured myself a hot cup of Door County Heroes Blend Coffee and it is time to write. 

I want to take time to say Happy Mother's Day to all the moms, grandmothers, and step moms from young to old. 

Proverbs 31:25-26 She is clothed with strength and dignity; She can laugh at the days to come. 26 She speaks with wisdom and faithful instruction is on her tongue. 

My wife Rene and I will be on the road soon and on our way to Door County for three days of relaxation and pampering. I am grateful for my brother "Uncle Jimmer" for volunteering to house sit and spoil our two dogs. Today I see the trees in our yard blossoming once again as I write.

This year there has had a couple of days that just made me want to cry and run to my mother for her soothing thoughts and words of encouragement. Imagine that. A grown man wanting to just sit and talk with his mother. Mom went on to heaven some years back and as I think about the pain and sorrow of 2025 and if I could have talked with her I actually know what she would say. 

" God is all you need. Rely on Him. You are the oldest and I raised you to be stronger than what I see today. I love you and I am praying for you. This family needs you to hang tough right now. I only heard her say the following phrase three times in my life. "Suck it up Butter Cup." I believe I would have heard it the fourth time this year. 

So my thought for today is this. Mom taught you many things in your life. Honor her by following the good instructions and forget any of the bad. Honor her by remembering only the good. And don't eat mustard while wearing a white shirt.

Have a great day!

Marty

Before You Even Ask 5/10/2025

 Good Morning,

The house is filled with the aroma of Door County Brandy Alexander Coffee. I must say that this is one of the most aromatic flavors they have produced in a long time. Time to write.

I never thought that I would live in the age of instant everything. I have witnessed the arrival of instant pudding, microwave oatmeal, and micro waves in general. Then came instant information on the internet, and instant communication. I can see who I am talking to a world away. Pretty amazing stuff for a boy who used to roast hot dogs with a fork over the flame on the gas stove. This AI thing has a few clunkers to it and from time to time it automatically makes changes to my writings. It has generated some mistakes. 

One thing that amazes me more than any of the 'life improvements' is the fact that God never sleeps. He is available to me 24/7/ He knows me inside and out. He knew the day I would be born and the day I will leave this world. 

Matthew 6:8 "Therefore do not be like them. For your Father knows the things you have need of before you ask Him."

Psalm 139:1-2 O Lord you have searched me and known me ! 2. You know when I sit down and when I rise up; you discern my thoughts from afar. 

I place my faith in the One who made the universe, and knows me like none other can. I rest better knowing He is really in charge of it all. He doesn't make mistakes. 

Have a great day!

Marty

Being Fussy Has Limits 5/9/2025

 Good Morning, 

A hot cup of Door County Vanilla Almond Kringle Coffee was needed to take the chill out of me this morning.

1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 Rejoice always, 17. Pray continually, 18. Give thanks in all circumstances , for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus. 

I brew fresh coffee every morning. I use a coffee maker which needs ground coffee, water and a little electricity. I also have a coffee pot that can brew coffee with an open flame, indoors or outdoors. That's what I prefer. I have however at times been served coffee in a restaurant, hotel or while visiting others in their home. They serve coffee in a variety of ways, and brew it differently. Some folks have the single cup style that is brewed with a machine and uses a small cup of syrup that mixes with a cup of water. There are many ways to make and serve a cup of coffee. 

My quick point for a Friday is this. In your home make and serve the coffee the way you like it. When traveling you might just have to drink something different from the brand or flavor you are used to. With all things don't be fussy when someone offers you something to eat or drink. Be grateful for what they serve you.  Drink what is in your cup, or eat what is on the plate. Don't offend a cheerful giver. 

It is ok to decline politely, but if it lands in your cup, or is served on your plate, do your best to eat and drink without offending and being too fussy.

Simple message for a simple day. One to teach the children or grandchildren.

Marty

Never Say Never 5/8/2025

 Good Morning,

I just filled a cup with very hot Door County Vanilla Almond Kringle Coffee and it is time for me to write. 

Psalm 25:15 My eyes are ever toward the Lord, for he will pluck my feet out of the net.

Today has me doing a little dog training with friends as they start preparing for hunt tests and field trials. I will be bringing our dog Leo along to train. He will not be participating in any trials and tests this year. I am training now for duck and goose season. I will also be bringing my Nephew Nick's dog for training. Waylon the Super Springer has a long summer of events ahead of him so he is training to the maximum,

It was just a year ago when I did not think Waylon would ever hunt and especially not compete. Then one day it all clicked on for him, and he became trainable. For the longest time he just did not seem interested. I could tell that this was really eating at Nick and he was very disappointed. I remember saying to Nick "He might not ever hunt."

But the little Spaniel fooled all of us and made me eat my words. I am happy for him and my nephew. He can hunt with me anytime. He and Leo make a duo of fear for pheasants and ducks. 

My point for the day is this. "Never say never". A lot of work and prayer went into Waylon and if we had quit on him he would probably be a good lap dog at best. 

Here it is. Never give up until you know for sure God doesn't have a victory right around the corner for you. Notice I said work and prayer. I prayed quite often for Waylon and Nick and just when I thought we were defeated, we weren't. 

My friends, victory might be one more prayer away, never say never, and never give up as long as there is a prayer in your heart.

God bless,

Marty

A Heart That Doesn't Care . 5/7/2025

 Good Morning,

This day has me sitting at my desk sipping a hot cup of Door County Vanilla Almond Kringle Coffee and I must say it tastes very good.

Photo credit Mike De Sisti / Milwaukee Journal Sentinel

For quite a few months there has been an abandoned boat stuck on a beach in Milwaukee Wisconsin. Several attempts were made to try and free up the boat and get it off of the popular beach area. All efforts to release the boat failed. The owner of the eyesore just left it there and now the county had to deal with it. Yesterday however, another try was taken at removing the boat  from the shore. Yes, it worked! The wreck is now resting in a lot, away from the beach awaiting it's final resting place.

My point for today is this. The unattended boat became the target of folks who with their spray cans of graffiti made an already bad situation an ugly one. 

Our hearts and minds left unattended and influenced continually by the world can become ugly and stuck in a mire of stagnancy. Once a heart that was vibrant and beating for righteousness and joy, then becomes a spiritual eyesore to our families, friends and God.  We can become shipwrecks spiritually when we abandon good habits for bad ones. 

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

Psalm 119:9 How can a man keep his way pure? By guarding it according to your word.

An abandoned heart left to the world, void of God's Word will eventually run aground or sink completely. Food for thought!

Marty

A Change Of Heart 5/6/2025

 Good Morning,

I am up early and on my way to hunt for a turkey one last day until next year. This turkey hunting takes a lot of patience and a lot of Door County Peanut Butter Cup Coffee to keep me awake and alert. 

Psalm 51:10 Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a right spirit within me. 

Now in my 68th year on this beautiful earth I have encountered times when I had to have a change of heart. Most of the time when needing that change of heart, it was after I judged someone without knowing all the facts, never having walked in their shoes, or raised by different parents. Your upbringing helps you to form the same opinions as those who raised you. This can be good or bad. 

But there is also a time when you have a change of heart and up until then, you might have actually been mean or used your conclusions to justify doing wrong. When the light bulb shines and you have a change of heart, it may be that you also need to do your best to fix the wrong doings your ignorance dealt out to others. You might have to stand up and re-educate others.

We own the damages of our previous heart condition. But we put our nose in the air and are content with jumping to conclusions or passing judgement and not owning the consequences. 

Think before you judge others. Make right your wrong ideals and own your own crazy.

Food for thought.

Marty

Off Of The Grid 5/5/2025

 Good Morning,

I will be off of the grid today for awhile hunting for turkeys. I plan on taking a Thermos bottle of hot Jamaican Blue Mountain Blend Coffee with me and a few munchies to carry me through the day. My phone will be shut off and after I launch my bog today I really don't plan on interacting with too many people if any. 

Luke 5:16 But Jesus often withdrew to lonely places to pray. 

I plan on not using any search engines or purchasing anything from the internet for the whole day. My communications for the day will be by choice and I will return most phone calls on Tuesday. I am going to quiet my mind and my heart for 24 hours. I will see if I like it that way and if I do, I might be tempted to make a few lifestyle changes and limit my computer time to "as needed". 

Why? I am not really sure, but my heart needs to be quiet and my thoughts unclouded. And I need a getaway. 

May God bless your day and keep you in His arms.

Marty

I Can Run Pretty Fast When I Have To 5/4/2025

 Good Morning,

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

Psalm 32:7 You are a hiding place for me; you preserve me from trouble; you surround me with shouts of deliverance. 

The desk chair doesn't seem too comfortable this morning. This chair was built in 1929 and sold by the Milwaukee Chair Company. I guess it was built to last and not to be too easy on your backside. 

When I was working and in charge on many things, inevitably now and then something would start to go wrong. It started out slow and manageable, but then just turned into a train wreck. I learned a long time ago that part of the team I needed wasn't on the payroll. It was a small group of men and women that I trusted to pray for my troubles when I asked. I could spot a potential flub or disaster and it didn't take this man long at all to run right to God and seek his comfort, guidance and wisdom. Being retired I am really not in charge of anything right now, but it doesn't mean that I still don't have an occasion or two now and then, that there is nothing I can do, but run to God with it and get under His wing of protection. 

Friends, when it comes to taking on a disaster or an issue I can run pretty fast to the Lord. Spiritually I posses Olympic sprinter speed. I can pole vault over anything that would keep me from getting to God for answers and peace. This warrior is a child and now and then I need to call on the Commander, Coach, and Father of us all to make sense of the mess that has found me or I found. 

Feeling overwhelmed, put on your prayer cleats, and run to the Father with your woes, concerns, and fears.  Run like the wind. There is no shame in regrouping and waiting on the Lord for support and directions. Call on others who pray to pray for you.

Know this. If you are reading this you were prayed for.

Marty

This Day Filled With Gusto 5/3/2025

 Good Morning,

I have in front of me a hot cup of Door County Blueberry Cobbler Coffee and I have three Springer Spaniels at my feet. Yes I have three, not the customary two. Our nephew's dog Waylon is crashing at our place for a few days. He has made himself right at home and our two dogs have another source of  fun.

                1 Corinthians 10:24 Let no one seek his own good, but the good of his neighbor. 

Today I will be assisting with the building of a shed at the home of dear friends. I charged my battery equipment last night and except for writing this morning I could easily be working on that project right now. I know for sure that my buddy would have enough lighting for us to be able to work. It is still rather dark to be out there right now. The main reason we are waiting is the fact that he has neighbors and making a lot of noise prior to 8:00 AM would be very inconsiderate . Being considerate is somewhat losing traction in the world we live in today. 

Small acts of kindness are starting to be rare. Holding doors open for others to pass through is still done, but more and more I encounter those who wouldn't hold a door open for anyone. Some folks have automobiles with loud exhaust systems and instead of moving through a neighborhood that is asleep at a slow speed they gun their engines and it is loud enough to wake the dead. 

I believe that the time it takes for someone to lose their patience and reach for the horn at a traffic stop is really shortening daily. They can't drive one day without signaling someone to "Move quicker" by laying on their horn. Road rage incidents are in the news daily. 

My point is this. Before you start anything or do anything, think it through and consider the collateral impact your actions may have on everyone else. Waiting two seconds longer at a stop light might be annoying, but just maybe the person who is slow to move, might have a good reason for doing so. Or they just got caught day dreaming. We have all been there. 

So get on with this day and attack it with gusto. But be kind and considerate in the process.

Marty

Feeding Them Forever 5/2/2025

 Good Morning,

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

Proverbs 15:29 ESV The Lord is far from the wicked but He hears the prayers of the righteous. 

I was just reflecting on time spent with my brother's two sons. Not sure how much less mischief they would have been in if I weren't around. I think it would be a lot less! I was browsing through some old photos and recalled fishing with them. When they were little boys there was so much to learn and to be taught about fishing. Like remembering to pack your tackle box or not tip it over. Hooks are meant to be kept in the water. When in a small boat, be aware of the other guy and his ability to hook your hat or your head.  Mosquitoes are not your friend. There are no toilets in the woods. Catching fish is fun. Cleaning them might not be, but it is the road best traveled to a fish fry. They also were taught the importance of praying before you hunt or fish. That was my biggest accomplishment with those two.

Now they are grown men and know their way around a fishing pole pretty well. So in my mind they also learned how to eat forever. 

My point for the day is this. Spend time with a youngster and maybe some of the good you teach them will last forever and they can pass on what they learned to some other kid. 

Fish on my friends!

Marty

What Is One Important Ingredient To Be A Family? 5/1/2025

 Good Morning,

I am headed back out to the woods and field to see if I can bring home a big turkey. I packed some Door County Black and Tan Coffee. I think the coffee is going to be needed on this cold rainy day. Sorry to say I was rained out. Maybe this afternoon. 

Philippians 2:4 Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others.

When I ask people what is the main ingredient in making a family. Most always I hear. God is to be number one in the making of a family. This is true. A relationship with God should be the main goal of all family members. The next answer I receive is "Love" which is also very important. Now if those two attributes are present, the third attribute of a good family is "Sacrifice" A good relationship with God, and sincere love for Him and the other family members makes it easy to make sacrifices for each other.  

Sacrifices blessed by God, done in love, never expect anything in return. True sacrifice doesn't keep score or an account to be settled. When I think about all the white shirts my wife Rene ironed while I was working it signals love to me and a woman who has a great relationship with God. Not one shirt ever hit the ironing board before the tightness of the buttons were checked and a close eye was put on any stains that might not have been removed in the wash. My shirts were always bright and well pressed. Every button worked. Not once did Rene complain about the shirt load or the ink on a pocket. 

Sacrifice my friend. Sacrifice. 

Marty