Trying Something New 6/30/2025

 Good Morning,

There is a hot cup of Door County Old Fashioned Coffee sitting in front of me and very soon I plan on that cup being empty.

Matthew 24:35 Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will never pass away. 

I am one of those people who say. "If it's not broken don't fix it" If I find something that works for me, I am okay with not trying something new. I am loyal to vendors and will travel in order to support those who take great care of me. I don't have a garage filled with the latest and greatest tools. I usually purchase new ones only after the old tool becomes useless or it breaks. Then I move on to purchasing a new tool. As a matter of fact I still use the same oil for leather boots that I used 60 years ago. My Bible is barely held together with duct tape. I have others, but the old one is filled with notes, sweat and tears. I like my coffee hot, not on ice. I like my tea sweet and on ice, and there is no room in my life to try energy drinks. I like salad that does not have tofu even near it. It just looks like weeds to me. I drive my trucks and cars until they need to be on the junk pile. I believe a hand shake seals a deal. I would rather be warm than fashionable. Yes should be yes and no should be no. Police should be supported, not shot at. The terms mam and sir are terms of respect, not meant to offend anyone. Men should wear belts and keep their drawers to themselves. I could keep writing this list for a long time. Some of the new ways the world runs, might be new and trendy, but as for me, If it isn't broke, don't fix it. 

But we must remain open to others who want to try new things. If it works for them and is morally accepted by God and His word, it is fine with me, not necessarily for me.  

The one thing that no one can change and shouldn't even try is the Word of God. It never was broken and it is always the same. It is the one constant that I enjoy and has never done me wrong. 

Proverbs 30:5 Every word of God is flawless, He is a shield to those who take refuge in him. 

Now people could say that I am old fashioned, unable to change, not adventurous, set in my ways, or stubborn, and I would say that they are correct.  I think I will have a bowl of oat meal today. No dye in that one!

God bless you in all that you do.

Marty

Titanic Or The Moon 6/29/2025

 Good Morning, 

The Door County Irish Crème Coffee is hot and tasty on this fine morning. After I am done writing I need to focus on getting out the patio furniture for my wife. Ha, no lazy day for me.

A few times in my life I have been asked this question. If you could choose a trip and the two offers were to visit the Titanic  at the bottom of the sea or fly to the moon and walk on it. What would I choose?

That is not a simple question and when I was sked the mind bender I chose to visit the Titanic. The next probing question they asked was "why did you choose the Titanic trip"? My answer to that is from a simple mind. "I have seen the moon many, many times. But I can't see the Titanic. So I guess I would take the submarine ride to the bottom of the Atlantic ocean.

Both choices would be spectacular and they both contain an element of danger. I believe that I could do both and although my location from Earth would drastically change for either trip, I would still be traveling with God. He would be with me in the dark waters. He would be with me on the moon as well as on Earth.

From time to time when I need to be reassured of God's awesome power and presence I read Psalm 139. I am reminded that He is always with me.

Psalm 139:7-12 Where can I go from your Spirit? Where can I flee from your presence?

8. If I go to the heavens you are there. If I make my bed in the depths, you are there.

9. If I rise on the wings of the dawn, if I would settle on the far side of the sea,

10.Even there your hand will guide me, your right hand will hold me fast.

11. If I say "Surely the darkness will hide me and the light become night around me"

12. Even the darkness will not be dark to you. The night will shine like the day, for darkness is as light to you. 

I read that passage and it comforts a wounded or frightened soul. 

Then I  turn to Romans 8:31-39  

What shall we say about such wonderful things as these. If God is for us, who can be against us.

32. Since he did not spare even his own Son but gave him up for us all, won't he also give us everything else?

33. Who dares accuse us whom God has chosen for His own? No one----for God himself has given us right standing with himself.

34. Who will then condemn us? No one---- for Christ Jesus died for us and was raised to life for us, and he is sitting in the place of honor at God's right hand pleading for us.

35. Can anything ever separate us from Christ's love? Does it mean he no longer loves us if we have trouble or calamity, or are persecuted, or hungry, or destitute or in danger, or threatened with death?

36. (As the Scriptures say, "for your sake we are killed every day, we are being slaughtered like sheep.") 

37. No, despite all these things, overwhelming victory is ours through Christ who loved us.

38. And I am convinced that nothing can ever separate us from God's love. Neither death nor life, neither angels or demons, neither our fears for today nor our worries about tomorrow, not even the powers of hell can separate us from God's love.

39. No power in the sky above or in the earth below----indeed nothing in all creation will ever be able to separate us from the love of God that is revealed in Christ Jesus our Lord.

My message was quite lengthy today, but it is a message I use for myself when I have doubts and fears. Bookmark it and save it for one of those days when God seems as far away as the moon or the Titanic. Remember, He is right next to you! And Nothing can separate us from His love. 

Have a great day!

Marty

Marty

A Little More Fruit In Your Diet. 6/28/2025

 Good Morning,

I am barely awake this morning. I think that my daytime activities caught up to me and a nap is already needed. I just poured a stiff cup of Door County Irish Crème Coffee and it is time to write. 

                    

Photo Credit catering.dorothylane.com

I visited with my doctor last week and she recommended a little more fruit in my weekly diet. She said it would be good for my digestive system and overall health. 

I thought about that for a few minutes as I drove home and decided that she had a good point and that I would try the old "eating an apple a day, keeps the doctor away." 

On the way home I also contemplated my personal disposition as of late and realized that my life was missing some spiritual fruit. 

Galatians 5:22 5:24-25 NKJV But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control. Against such there is no law. 24. And those who are Christ's have crucified the flesh with it's passions and desires. 25. If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit. 

I have been depressed a little, angry a little, and impatient with others a little. I am sure what they see in my life is far from the actual fruit of the Spirit. 

I know the answer and it is simple, I need to pray more, and listen to the Word of God. My prayer needs to ask God to show me the way out of this funk. I need to buckle down and take in my "GOSPILS" .

I intend to do that later today and again tonight. I have to make an adjustment to my Spiritual diet. How about you? Are you getting your daily dose of Spiritual Fruit? Is the walk of your life producing good fruit? Maybe it is time for a diet change!

Food for thought!

Marty

Keeping Promises 6/27/2025

 Good Morning, 

My mug was just filled with hot Door County Breakfast Blend Coffee. It is time to write. 

A few weeks ago I was talking with a friend and as usual we talked about anything and everything. He brought up his belief that in this day and age, more people make promises to others and they know deep down inside that they have no intention of keeping their promise. I had to agree with him as I believe that to be the normal way some people think. As they are making a promise, I believe that within that promise, a lot of people have escape clauses. Marriage prenuptials are a pretty good example of planning for a promise to be broken. People default on loans and never consider it to be a promise you made to pay back the money lent. 

When folks continually break workplace rules, it is a broken promise that said these are the behaviors expected but yet people choose to not keep their employment rules and regulations. The promise of being a great employee was broken. People will come up with all kinds of justifications for breaking promises. 

We tell our children "later I will play with you, know that the child will be sleeping before we get to playing with them. 

God on the other hand keeps His promises. In addition He expects us to keep ours.

Numbers 23:19 God is not man, that He should lie, Nor a son of man that He should repent. Has he said, and will He not do? Or has he spoken , and will He not make it good? 

God warns us not to break promises or vows. He is very plain in His explanation and expectations. 

Deuteronomy 23:21-23 If you make a vow to the Lord your God, you shall not delay fulfilling it., for the Lord your God will surely require it of you, and you will be guilty of sin, 22. But if you refrain from vowing, you will not be guilty of sin. 23. Yo shall be careful to do what has passed your lips, for you have voluntarily vowed to the Lord your God what you have promised with your mouth.

James 5:12But above all, my brothers, do not swear, even by heaven or earth or by any other oath, but let your "yes" be yes and your "no" be no, so that you may not fall under condemnation. 

Some heavy thoughts for  a Friday. Have a great day! Keep your promises. 

Marty

Always Enough Time 6/26/2025

 Good Morning,

I am waiting on a hot cup of Door County Breakfast Blend Coffee to finish brewing and then it is an extra large mug for me!

Hebrews 13:16 Do not neglect to do good and to share what you have, for this pleases the Lord.

I ran into someone I used to work with a few years ago while I was picking up some groceries yesterday. It seems that she and her husband will be visiting Alaska at the same time we are going to be there. What a coincidence that is. Hopefully we can pull it off to be able to sit down and have a cup of coffee. 

This summer is already half over and we are just now pulling out our patio set and will be celebrating the Fourth of July with friends and family. For one reason or another that never happened at all last year. Why? I don't know for sure. It wasn't that we were all that busy, we just chose to hermitize our activities last year. We have no excuse and it was our loss for not hosting a get together or two. There should always be some time available to be hospitable and enjoy the company of others. 

We are as hospitable as we choose to be. We are as busy as we choose to be. We are as lonely as we choose to be. Add up the sum of the last three statements and "We are as happy as we choose to be." Share yourself with others and enjoy the summer before the winter does make you stay inside or away from people.

Take in a parade and give the candy you catch to the kids around you. Sugar them up and send them to grandmas house! Get yourself out there!

God bless,

Marty

Happy Anniversary Mom And Dad 6/25/2025

 Good Morning,

I have to wait to drink some Door County Black and Tan Coffee until later this morning. My annual visit to the doctor doesn't allow me to drink anything but water for a few more hours. Not drinking my usual cup of coffee while I write has me  little cranky. 

Genesis 2:24 Therefore a man shall leave his father and his mother and hold fast to his wife and they shall become one. 

Today if my parents were still alive they would be celebrating their 70th wedding anniversary. I am not sure if at their age there would be much of a celebration. So I guess I will celebrate for them with that cup of coffee I am waiting on. 

My thought for today is this. We all have markers in our lives. There are special days that we hold dear to us. The date on the calendar causes us to take action even if it is just to remember the event for a moment and raise your coffee cup to toast two people who aren't even here anymore. It is good to celebrate the memories of the heart and enjoy a moment or two allowing yourself to exercise some happy emotions. 

You owe it to yourself to observe the markers in your life and still make room for new ones.

God bless,

Marty

Headed Home Blessed 6-24-2025.

 Good Morning.

I will be drinking some gasoline station coffee this morning as we travel back to Wisconsin. It's going to be a long trip.

Romans 15:2 Let each of us please his neighbor for his good, to build him up.

My wife Rene and I will have lots to talk about during our drive home. Every day had one or more blessings and God took care of everything we needed.

Yesterday we took the last day to unwind before driving back. It was slow and easy. We were able to visit a little with our daughter's neighbors Bill and Donna. Kristy, Bill, and Donna are good neighbors and friends. They watch out for each other. 

Living so far away from Kristy, it is comforting to know that she has Godly friends in her life.

So in a nutshell. Post Reunion. We were blessed many times over. I am at peace. I look forward to more reunions. But all in all, there is no place like home.

God bless.

Marty

The Party Is Over. 6-23-2025

 Good Morning.

It is rough waiting for the Hazelnut Crème Coffee to finish brewing this morning.

Hebrews 13:16 MSG Make sure, you don't take things for granted and go slack in working for the common good, share what you have with others. 

We enjoyed our family reunion and Rene and I have one last day in Georgia to enjoy some time with our daughter. She has to work today but we will squeeze in a family dinner tonight.. Tomorrow will be the marathon drive home for us. 

Preliminary plans were discussed for our next get together in two years. Nothing was cut in stone but we discussed our possibilities. 

My point for the day is this.Only God knows the future and what changes will take place in the family dynamics over two years. We will indeed need to be diligent to gather for the smaller occasions as much as possible. Don't take gatherings for granted. You never know if the last one is the "last". 

Family is as important as you make it to be. If any of the family are reading this. Just want to say thank you for sharing your time with all of us. God bless you all. 

Marty.

The Monkey On Your Back 6-22-2025.

 Good Morning.

I find myself in need of my hot cup of Door County Highlander Grog Coffee

Jeremiah 29:11 For I know the plans I have for you, plans to prosper you, and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.

Today I just want to take a minute or two to talk about times when you just need a break from the world. The times when you really just feel like you are the door mat that everyone wipes their feet on. 

This one's for you. God is there for you. He has a plan for you like He has for everyone else. The fact is, we all are important to God. So smile and get that thought of being inferior to others off of your back. God has a plan for you.

Marty

Let's Plan To Meet Again 6-20-2025

 Good Morning,

I am sitting in the quiet of a large cabin filled with relatives. I haven't really been able to keep up with these young folks. They seem to have cornered the market on energy. I remember those days long ago when I could run tirelessly from one activity to the next

Proverbs 15:22 Without counsel, plans fail. With many advisors, they succeed.

When did old age catch up to me? Some folks say that we should never retire. I am not sure if that is the right path either. 

 We have decided to reunite every other year as a family. I think that was a wise choice. It tired me out just thinking about when and where. 

So as I close today my point is this. Some of the best memories start with the beginning and planning. Then they end up in some picture frames. The memories will all flood your soul with warmth. The beginning and the end are filled in with the sweetness of living the experience. Enjoy the beginning and the end as well as the middle. The ending lasts the longest.

God bless.

Marty

Prayer For Safety 6-20-25

 Good Morning.

I have a hot cup of Door County Cinnamon Hazelnut Coffee in front of me and it is time to write.

Nahum 1:7 The Lord is good, a stronghold in the day of trouble; He knows those who take refuge in Him.

A little news from our family reunion this week. Everyone arrived on time and safely. People gathered in Tennessee from different parts of the country to be with family.

Day one was filled with travel and a meal from the grill. The cooking and the clean up were team efforts.

The blessing I am grateful for was  travel safety for everyone. God is interested in all the details of our lives. 

Nothing is too trivial to be prayed about. Going somewhere? Pray and let God do the driving.

Have a great day.

Marty

A Dogs Life 6-19-2025

 Good Morning.

Although I am traveling I still can have a hot cup of Door County Raspberry Almond Coffee. I filled an insulated bottle with my choice yesterday and  believe it or not the brew is still warm. I can finish the reheat in a microwave.

John 15:11 "These things I have spoken to you that my joy may be in you, and that your joy may be full.

Most dog owners treat their furry family members so well that you could say the dogs are spoiled. 

I know that our two follow me around so closely that when I grab my truck keys they head for the door, wanting to go wherever I am going. I have been known to just take them along to purchase some gasoline about a mile away.

My point for the day is this. You are important not only to your pets, but you are also important to your family, pets, friends and coworkers. So now and then pamper yourself with good things. Take a rest on a mattress and float on some water. Have an extra Oreo, one more cup of coffee and stay up a little later to watch an old movie. Indulge yourself with some Bible reading time. If someone wants to treat you to breakfast or lunch, don't decline. Go and enjoy yourself. I haven't met a dog yet that will turn down a treat of some sorts. 

It is a blessing to give and to receive.

Marty

Memories In The Vault Of My Mind 6-18-2025

Good Morning,

My wife and I are on the road this morning and my mug is filled with Door County Highlander Grog Coffee. I will enjoy this brew and make sure it lasts for a hundred miles or so.

I mentioned earlier this week that I will be attending a family reunion on my father's side of the family. The family is small in numbers and we only have a dozen with us for the festivity. Now if we were to have a reunion on my mother's side it would still be pretty large although many have passed on and left this world. 

My point for the day is this. Our minds have the capacity to store a lot of memories. For the next few days I know for sure that I will open the vault of my mind and enjoy a trip through history. I also intend on storing up some new memories and  work my way back home. Some new photos will be made into a Christmas ornament or two. This winter I will be sure to take a travel now and then with my new memories as I warm up in front of the fireplace. 

Philippians 4:8 ESV Finally, Brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise,. think on these things. 

God bless,

Marty

                                                                                   

                                                                                    

                                                                                    

                                                                                   

A Time For A Reunion 6/17/2025

 Good Morning,

I am going to be busy all day and have several appointments to keep. So my Door County Peanut Butter Cup Coffee will be on the move with me. 

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

Later today after the appointments are finished I will be going home and loading my truck for a trip to Tennessee. Our small family on my dad's side are meeting up for a reunion. We will be spending three days in Pigeon Forge together. I will assume that some banter on days past will occur and some new memories will be made. My prayer today is for all of us as we travel near and far for travel mercies.

I will do my best to remember those who could not be with us and those who are no longer alive. I could get caught up in missing those who are gone now and it is okay to pause and honor them, but I want to live for the moment, in the moment, with those who are alive. I want to celebrate them and their lives as much as possible. 

Think about that for a minute. Today, are you celebrating those around you and making new memories? When you greet someone, is your smile contagious? Does your smile let them know that for the moment they are the most important person in your eyes? You can celebrate in a big way, with just a smile and by saying good morning with gusto. 

Have a great day. Celebrate with the next person you greet and keep the party going!

Marty

Sweet Hour Of Prayer 6/16/2025

 Good Morning,

The coffee pot delivered one hot mug of Door County Peanut Butter Cup Coffee today and it is kicking me awake. 

Yesterday I spent a little longer in prayer than what is normal for me. I don't really track the time spent in prayer. Some days are just in need of praying longer and now and then I am hurried for some reason or another. 

For me, a day without prayer is worse than skipping breakfast. The day just seems to be out of balance and difficult without my prayer time. I don't want to be that guy who asks for blessings and help and then forgets to pray and listen for communication with God. Prayer is the most intimate form of communication with God, not just a list of needs, desires and wants. 

As for me, a little longer spent in prayer will never hurt me and can only be good for me and those around me. 

Jeremiah 29:12 NKJV Then you will call upon Me and go pray to Me, and i will listen to you.

Imagine that! An open invitation to communicate with God anytime, anywhere, and for as long as you desire.

Have a great day!!

Marty

I Don't Remember Saying It Was Okay 6/15/2025

 Good Morning,

I started my day with a stiff cup of Door County Heroes Blend Coffee, and some prayer. It is time to write.

Proverbs 20:29 The glory of young men is their strength, gray hair the splendor of the old. 

I want to extend a virtual hand shake to all the dads on this Fathers Day 2025. May your day be peaceful and find you rested. 

If I could go back in time today I would stop it and there would be a small fishing boat, some cigars and two men and a boy. I would be fishing with my dad and my grandfather on a small lake in Northern Michigan. Most of the conversation for the day would take place in the car on the way to the lake. Those were the guys who for me had all the answers, and handed out advice whether you wanted it or not. My grandfather was one who would extend a handshake that was firm and reassuring, place his big hand on your shoulder and let you know that you were loved. I watched those two work together to launch the small boat, then light those cigars (supposedly the smoke kept the mosquitoes at bay) . Together they were poetry in motion. For the longest time, they were there and always available for advice. They shared the duties on the "Men in the family". Then one of them was gone and my world was different. I only had one set of ears that would listen and only one willing to hand out advice. Then one day there was none. And on that day I became the Dad, Uncle, Grandpa and husband who was supposed to be the strong one and have all the answers. 

I don't recall accepting the new job as the oldest man in the family. It did not seem to be an option to not take over the position. This past year has had plenty of twists, turns, surprises good and bad. And there were times that I wished I could turn the world around the other way. These past few months have found me missing those two more than ever. What I wouldn't do to have that hand on my shoulder this morning. I would even be happy to run up the hill back to the car to grab the night crawlers they forgot! 

My point for the day is this. Men, you were being groomed a long time ago, to take on a job that you might not want. That hand on your shoulder and one stinky cigar was your graduation day. You did not know that you were waiting in the wings to be their replacement. I know I never said "I am ready, let's go". So embrace your family today and every day. Step up to the plate and if needed suck it up buttercup.  Never let them know that the man wished he was still a boy and would go running back to that fishing hole if he could. 

Pray for your family daily and remember this. Let them know how much they are loved and don't give a twelve year old a cigar.  

God bless,

Marty

Children Behave. A Train Out Of Control.6/14/2025

 Good Morning,

I am enjoying a hot cup of Door County Heroes Blend Coffee as I begin to write this morning. 

I have written about this once before back in the day and it seems as if I need to vent a little today. 

Proverbs 22:6 Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old , he will not depart from it. 

Yesterday I had to make a couple of trips to the local grocery store and I know it won't be the last time I enter into the grocery arena in this life time, but I hope my experience will be different. 

                                     

During an excursion to the store a person could interact with many people and mostly have a decent experience with pleasantries being exchanged and kind behaviors observed. This was not the case yesterday. Now, before you tune me out and judge this old guy as one who doesn't like children, understand that this really isn't the case. I like kids and most of the time they like me as well.

Yesterday was an exception to this. In aisle 4 of the store I encountered a mother and her four children. Three of them were roaming outside of the cart and the youngest baby rode in a cart. The baby inside the cart will was asleep. How that could happen I will never know. The other three ranged in ages of 3-6 years old would be my guess. 

Friends I have seen better behavior at riots. These three were running up and down the aisles, well out of the eyesight of their mother. They had created one mess already with a jar of jam. They were yelling and not listening to their overwhelmed mother at all. There could be a million reasons as to why the kids were out of control and raising a ruckus. So before I judged and went off at the oldest one for driving the cart and just missing my knees (another story for another time) . I dodged the out of control cart and child like a pro football half back. I am sitting here actually proud of those moves. I feel like I also saved the baby from a crash with the shelving. 

I took a deep breath and asked "Mom" if it would be easier for her if she gave me a list of things she needed. I would go and fetch them all and she could have a seat in an area with some chairs. I even offered to pay for some sugar free ice cream bars for her and the kids while I shopped for her. There was no way those kids were getting any sugar from me. 

Mom, refused my offer and a couple of other folks shook their heads and went on with their business. Mom was not polite and let me know that her kids needed to unwind a little and their behavior was acceptable to her. Again I don't know their circumstances so it is not fair of me to judge. I am not advocating for spanking kids, but when children interact with others, the expectation is that they shouldn't be a danger. Unwinding is meant for a park, or back yard not in a place of business, yelling and screaming and running wild. 

So I moved quickly to the other side of the store and finished my business and exited. This morning I find myself praying for this young lady and her children. I know what would have happened to me if my siblings and I had behaved like that "back in the day" somehow I believe Dad would have been involved later as well. 

Their behavior seemed not to bother mom at all. Trust me when I say "out of control". As I left the store a manager was chatting with the young lady telling her the list of complaints she received from a few folks about her children's behavior and since this hasn't been the first time she was talked to, she should not bring her children into the store. The answer from the young lady was sharp and to the point. She stated and I quote. " Look I pay a lot of money to shop here and I will take my business elsewhere." I did not hear an apology or an excuse. 

So again I am wondering what is going on in their lives and I am trying not to judge as to why she tolerated that type of behavior. 

Children will be children and not always on their best behavior. We should try and expect good behavior from them, and keep them from damaging property, and endangering others. It was said that it takes a village to train up a child. I believe that to be true. But most behaviors are formed in the home. This villager tried but failed. 

Enough said.

Marty

Lasagna For Nancy 6/13/2025

 Good Morning,

The Door County Brandy Alexander Coffee is tasting good and is also warming me up. It is a little bit on the cold side this morning. 

Philippians 2:3-4 Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit , but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. 4. Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others. 

I will be working on a little project today. I will be making some pans of lasagna to take to our church tomorrow morning. It is customary at our church, when a church member passes away, the church as a whole produces some type of luncheon after the funeral service, especially if the service is held at the church. 

One of our friends passed away last week and her celebration of life takes place tomorrow. I visited with her and her husband before she passed away and she asked that in her honor, would we make lasagna for the mourners to eat and to use her recipe? To me, it was a simple request and after she passed we confirmed her request with her husband and after one phone call we had a team assembling to produce a large amount of lasagna, garlic bread, and salad. 

Nancy will never see the lasagna, but her family will. One of her last requests was to have them fed with her recipe in remembrance of her. But it just shows a heart that right up to the end placed her family first. In her death I saw her heart and it was not a selfish heart and as a wife and mother she taught her family one last time to love one another. 

I wonder if that could be said about us? Does our family come first? Do we count others as more important than us? Would one of our last thoughts be to comfort our family on our passing? 

Food for thought. And pass the lasagna. 

God bless, Marty

A Common Or Uncommon Life? 6/12/2025

 Good Morning,

I really am enjoying this hot cup of Door Count Brandy Alexander Coffee sitting in front of me and I am ready to write.

Matthew 5;8 Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God.

From world's eyes if they could watch and see me every day, most people would say he lives a common life. He never found a cure for cancer, or raised the Titanic. And I would agree with them in assessing my life as pretty much "common". But!

I know of a man who had been addicted to drugs and alcohol  most of his adult years and after attending an event hosted by an evangelist he walked away from his addictions and has been free from them for 20 years. You see we measure commonality the wrong way. We measure successes and failures and then decide that we live a common life, where in reality we are not commoners at all in the eyes of God. 

Someone who has faith enough to withstand trials and rejoice in the Lord daily is not a commoner, but a child of God. If you are living a life that others can see Jesus in you, you are living a victorious, and uncommon life. When I close my eyes and fold my hands to pray, there is nothing mundane about conversing with God. It is a walk on holy ground and only possible by a life that was resurrected from failure, shame, anger and a host of other things. There is nothing common about that.

Live an uncommon life by following God and placing your faith in Him and then look at your world through His eyes.

Marty

Here's To Those Guys 6/11/2025

 Good Morning,

A hot cup of Door County Raspberry Almond Coffee is steaming next to me, I am awake and it is time to write.

This morning I would like to take some time to recognize the men wo tackle home improvements on their own and always strive to be able to say "That is a job well done." You know the guys I am talking abut. They are the ones who rise up early, head to the local building supply company without a list, because "they will remember" everything they need. They are also the ones who aren't ashamed to have to go back to the builders supply two to three times before the project is finished. They are smart enough to build in time for extra trips back for a different screw type or a different pipe fitting. They are the ones who don't rest until the project is done. They can produce extra money to overcome any snag in the project and seem to know the CFO of the house very well. They always have contingency money for "their projects."

They live to have their spouse look at the job and say "Job Well Done" The kids have been well trained not to offer an opinion but just to agree with their mother is their only purpose in life when the project is christened and ready to use. 

I salute those guys and can actually say I joined their ranks many years ago. 

I also look forward to the day when I might hear the same type of praise from God. 

Matthew 25:21 His master said to him, "Well done good and faithful servant . You have been over a little. I will set you over much. Enter into the joy of your master.

Guys, if God has given you a family, do your best to raise them. If God has given you a vocation, represent Him well with your employer and coworkers. Be the neighbor who's light is always on. If God has given you a position within your church, do it like there is not tomorrow. 

Any job, big or small, do it right or not at all!

God bless,

Marty

Table For Three Today? 6/10/2025

 Good Morning,

I just sat down at the desk with a hot cup of Door County Raspberry Almond Coffee and it is time to write.

Matthew 18:20 KJV For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them. 

I am enjoying my cup of coffee as I usually do and later this morning I will visit with a friend and eat some breakfast with him. 

My point for today is this, learn to keep things simple and not too loaded down with details which really aren't that important. A cup of coffee in the morning and visiting an old buddy is a pretty easy thing to do. My friend is 98 years old, a World War Two veteran and a member of our church. 

We will have a good time without any added frills or complicating details. Just two old guys enjoying the blessing of being part of another day. We will give thanks for this day and chat about just anything. At the end of our excursion we will both go home satisfied with the meal, the chat, and our ability to enjoy our morning. 

I look forward to these outings and I know that times like this morning are a blessing granted by God. And we should always remember to enjoy our friendships and remember that God is also going along with us. Even the most simple outing has God going along. I feel like asking for a table for three!

God bless,

Marty

God Put Them In Your Path. 6/9/2025

 Good Morning,

I am drinking some very hot Door County Peanut Butter Crunch Coffee and it is time to write.

Titus 2:7 In everything set them an example by doing what is good. In your teaching show integrity and seriousness. 

I opened my eyes and it was Monday morning and it is the start of a busy week. I never thought that in retirement I would be this busy. I do however have an appointment for breakfast today with two dear friends that I used to work with "back in the day". I cherished the time I spent working with those two. It's funny how three very different personalities could mange to get along, work hard, and appreciate each other so much that after we retired it was a no brainer when we said "Let's get together annually." It is my job to place a marker in my calendar tomorrow. Then a few weeks before we meet I contact them to see what day, time, and location will work for all three of us. I will admit that one day in February I scrolled ahead to see if I remembered to place a reminder to contact the other two. I was already looking forward to today.

I have worked with a lot of people throughout my career and there are only a very few, who if I don't see now and then I won't miss. That number is very few. Then there are those who I run into and it is nice seeing them. Then there are the few, that you just miss working with, addressing problems together, and celebrating victories with. You have common memories like pop up blizzards and driving off of the road after we discussed driving carefully. "You had to be there to appreciate it." 

So friends, work careers come and coworkers can number plenty. But there are those who impress you, and eventually touch your heart strings. These two friends abound in integrity and good works. They found a place in my heart.

Give God the credit as to who He placed in your life to work with. Then look up and smile when you think of those that if they called and needed anything, you would move mountains for them and you know you can count on them to be there for you. 

Thank you Lord for the two I will be meeting with today!

Marty

Sometimes You Just Need Some Fun. Who Let The Dog Out? 6/8/2025

 Good Morning,

I chose to brew some Door County Vanilla Almond Kringle Coffee this morning to start my day. It is time to write. 

Ecclesiastes 3:1 To everything there is a season. A time for every purpose under heaven.

4. A time to weep and a time to laugh. A time to mourn and a time to dance.

Many of you know that I hunt for ducks, geese and pheasants and a few other things during the year. To really enjoy hunting those critters owning a bird dog is almost a necessity. Many of you also know that my wife and I have two Springer Spaniels one of which is retired from hunting and he just is along for the ride right now. He has earned his spot in front of the fireplace. The younger one who is full of himself leads the charge into the field or swamp with a lot of gusto. His name is Leo. One of our friends from church follows the life of Leo and his adventures. She always asks me how he is doing and is interested in seeing pictures of him in action. I would have to say that except for Leo himself being his own biggest fan, June would be his number two fan. 

I was informed that ( this little lady) June had her 29th birthday coming up and was asked to remember it and sing happy birthday as a closing song for our Saturday night church service. June has never met Leo in person and it was time for that to happen. We purchased some small flowers and attached them to a training dummy. We hid Leo in church and at the right time we had Leo come out and bring his biggest fan the flowers. It made for a lot of laughter and I do believe our little lady was surprised to no end. 

My point for the day is this. That Saturday night group is always serious about their time in church. They are known for shaking the gates of heaven in prayer. They walk the talk and love the Lord. But just every now and then you just need some fun and step away for a moment from the seriousness and enjoy a laugh. This week they will celebrate the life of the wife of our Saturday night sound man who passed away Friday. There will be a dinner after her life celebration and they are already working on it. Back to the business of church life. But they won't forget the night that their preacher brought the dog to church.

Take time to enjoy your church, your walk with God, and your friends! Take the bark out of your speech and sing at the top of your lungs. 

God bless,

Marty

After The Smoke Cleared 6/7/2025

 Good Morning,

My hot cup of Door County Peanut Butter Crunch Coffee is working to smooth out the morning in my bones today. 

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

Yesterday we held our annual Men's Steak Feed at our church and it was very well attended. In general I would concede to the fact that men like big steaks, baked potatoes, root beer, and smoke. Throw in some beans, corn and hot peppers for the potatoes and you have a recipe for victory. This event is produced by a small band of men. The clean up was also managed by the men and two of their wives. Once that smoked cleared from the grilling and the last steak was eaten, the clean up team went into overdrive. I am very proud to say that those two gals worked like their lives depended on it. They set the pace for all of us we and were able to go home at a reasonable hour. 

My point for the day is this. I will keep it short. God was given all the glory for the 25 years of steak dinners. We celebrated His blessing us with good weather every year and assembling teams of men and women who care enough about others to give a day and a half of their time to serve others. The event has never run in the red and amazing deals on supplies have just become the norm. 

God's work, done in His way never lacks His support.

Marty

D Day A Day To Remember 6/6/2025

 Good Morning,

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

Tonight I will be partaking in an event at our church. We annually hold a steak dinner for the men of our church, their sons, and their friends. It is usually well attended. We always take time to honor our veterans who are attending.  We started this steak tradition 25 years ago we had four World War Two veterans that we knew of attend and eat steak with us. 

Romans 12:18 ESV If possible, so far as it depends, live peaceably with all.

Today we commemorate D-Day June 6, 1944, The name D-Day  was given to this date to remember the invasion of the beaches at Normandy in northern France by troops of the United States, Canada, The United Kingdom and other countries during World War Two. France at the time was occupied by armies of Nazi Germany, and the amphibious assault  codenamed Operation Overlord landed some 156,000 Allied soldiers on the beaches of Normandy, by the end of the day.

Despite their success, some 4000 Allied troops were killed by German soldiers defending the beaches. At the time, the D-Day invasion was the largest naval, air, and land operation in history, and within a few days about 326,000 troops, 50,000 vehicles, and some 100 tons of equipment had landed. By August 1944, all of northern France had been liberated, and in spring of 1945  the Allies had defeated the Germans. Historians often refer to D-Day as the beginning of the end of World War Two.

My point for today is this, before a small disagreement becomes a raging war inside the home of any couple, work setting, or church, count the consequences of what it takes to wage war on each other and seek peace within the family. A major D-day type battle will only make things worse. And it is something you will never forget nor will the rest of those involved.

Marty

I Wouldn't Want To Be A Juror 6/5/2025

 Good Morning,

I just poured a hot cup of Door County Peanut Butter Cup Coffee and it is tasting pretty good. 

For about a little bit more than a year I have been watching the nightly news and some of the coverage on jury trials nationally and locally. I have to be honest and say that I listen to the news coverage of the crime, the news accounts of the trial, verdicts and the sentence. I find that after listening to to all the information available I could never be an impartial juror. I would be confused with using common sense or the actual evidence or lack of evidence. 

Why am I writing about this today? Just to make my point about arguments. When a dispute comes your way, it is always best to listen until all the facts are presented from all sides involved. Do not judge what you heard immediately and don't judge anything you did not hear. Don't let opinions dispute hard cold facts. Common sense can't rule out facts either. 

Be careful. If you are called to jury duty, rest the night before. Pray for good listening skills and do your best to be impartial and to avoid feelings. Just stick to the facts.

God bless,

Marty.

It Could Have Been Worse 6/4/2025

 Good Morning,

I am very late in writing today and so my cup of Door County Peanut Butter Cup coffee also arrived late to the day. I had some important computer work to do and I used my morning to get it finished. Yesterday we had some thunder storms roaming our are of the world creating some havoc here and there. Our home was part of the havoc. A straight wind came through and tore off some of our siding on our garage. The house will need to be resided and maybe a new roof. No injuries or real major damage occurred. I was outside when it happened with our dogs. I watched the whole thing happen. It only lasted about 45 seconds or so. The only danger was entering the garage with the siding hanging down and flapping around. The dogs wanted inside the house and their path way was too dangerous. That wind had them really confused. 

Habakkuk 3:17-18  NKJV Though the fig tree may not blossom,

Nor fruit be on the vines ;

Though the labor of the olive may fail,

Though the flock may be cut off from the fold ,

And there will be no herd in the stalls.

18. Yet I will rejoice in the Lord

I will joy in the God of my salvation. 

Once the house was made safe and my wife Rene and I were picking up some flower pots that had been blown around we finally said those words we all dread but at the same time need to be said. "It could have been worse." We counted our blessings. No one was injured. The house can be fixed. We have insurance coverage. And anything else was just not that important. We prayed together thanking God for His intervention yesterday. Our oldest dog almost got clipped by the sharp siding. But almost is all it was. We had a lot to be grateful for. 

God bless, Marty

Save The History 6/3/2025

 Good Morning,

I am sitting at my desk and I am drinking a hot cup of Door County Blackberry Shortcake Coffee and it is time to write. 

Psalm 78:4 ESV We will not hide them from their children, but tell to the coming generation the glorious deeds of the Lord and His might and wonders He has done. 

The drawers were finished a couple weeks later. This is the desk with the history of others and me. 

My desk is helping to provide this blog this morning and it might be one of my longer ones. Going back quite a few years. My wife Rene and I were shopping for antiques in Door County Wisconsin. She had her eye on a desk and I could tell that there was a purchase coming. I looked at the monstrosity and saw little hope for refinishing it. But she went through with the purchase. It took me a couple of days to store up enough ambition to start in on the refinishing of the desk. I cranked up my sander and really had only started with the first swipe when my wife pulled the cord on the power and hollered STOP.

Now guys I can't read minds, especially my wife's.  And that would be a whole other subject some day. Rene went on to explain that she wanted the desk to shine and be coated with a bar top lacquer finish. But she did not wan the desk to be as smooth as new. "Please leave every gouge, scratch, ink mark and dent in the wood. Just go over it and preserve the history." 

The old desk used to be part of a post office and probably dates back to World War 1. We have had lots of offers to sell the old relic. The drawers on the desk took a month alone to refinish. They needed extensive repairs, and my first picture of the old desk, is shown without the drawers. But they too did not get sanded down or chemically stripped. 

Where am I headed with this today? Our own lives are filled with our personal history and our walk through life. Some day when we breath our last bit of air, the history stops. You can't erase or grind off the impact you had on others while you were here. The impact could be for good or bad. But it is yours and no one can change it. What does your personal space, desk, books, ledgers, or journals say about you? I often wonder what made the marks on my desk. Especially the couple that look liked something hot was placed on the desk. The lacquer is hard and protective, but lets all of the imperfections and hours of work spent by someone at this desk show clearly. 

Remember to share your story with those younger than you and let it be said that you spoke the truth about your life. And before you are gone, let your former actions be written down. Don't make people wonder about you. Let your life be known. I hope when I am gone someone reads my Bible and sees all the notes that guided me for many years. 

Marty

The Smoke Is Back 6/2/2025

 Good Morning,

I can't help but to enjoy this hot cup of Door County Blackberry Shortcake Coffee that is sitting at my desk with me, It is time to write. 

2 Chronicles 7:14 ESV If my people who are called by my name 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. 

Some wild fires have broken out in Canada. When the wind is just right or maybe I will call it just wrong, the smoke from the fires travels through Wisconsin and other parts of the United States . Unless some heavy rains come and extinguish these fires, it will be a long summer of haze and odor. 

But the inconvenience of the smoke burden is nothing compared to being close to the fire, losing property, homes, belongings, lives and having to evacuate from where you live. That would be much worse and could be called terrible. So the news and weather forecasts in the United States have air quality hazard warnings and how to make inhaling the "Northern Smoke Fog." safer. 

What I haven't seen or heard is a national call to prayer by either country nor from their leaders. If I missed it shame on me, Two great countries are being humbled by a natural disaster that even if resources were pooled can't put out these wildfires. 

I am asking for everyone who reads this regardless if this has an impact on you or not, to pray for an extinguishing rain. God can send the rain strong enough and long enough to do the job. We need to humble ourselves as nations and unite in prayer. 

That is my editorial for today. 

God bless,

Marty

Now To Enjoy It. 6/1/2025

 This day began with prayer and a hot cup of Door County S'Mores Coffee. The weather looks to be great and what could I possibly complain about?

Philippians 2:14 Do all things without grumbling or complaining. 

Complaining about things big, small, hot, or cold, cheap or expensive seems to be the character traits  of many people. I believe they would complain about being hung with a new rope. It is one constant complaint. It seems as if nothing satisfies some people.

I for one look at it this way. I brought nothing to this earth at my birth and I will leave everything I possess to this earth when I die. "I can't take it with me." So my point for today is this. Complaining never really gets any results and complainers, just to be honest are often viewed as a pain in the back side. They miss out on seeing the blessings bestowed on them and appreciating them. They often find that by complaining enough they are soon left behind and forgotten. 

Our yard took a beating last winter and I have been working with my wife to restore it. It is coming along and I just remarked that it "isn't the best I have ever seen it", but it is time to start using it and enjoy the blessing of having it. We should be happy that we even have green grass, sun, shade, and some chairs with a fire pit.  We need to stop complaining about how bad the yard looks, wait on the rain and sunshine to do their job and enjoy what we have been blessed with and not complain about a blessing. 

I am issuing a challenge. When you start to complain about something this week  or today, offset the complaint with a praise for a blessing you have received. See if confronting your own complaint with a statement of blessing doesn't help your hard complaining heart.

God bless, I think I will make some sweet sun tea this morning! I will appreciate it later tonight!

Marty