What You Take Away 8/31/2025

 Good Morning,

I brewed a fresh, hot pot of Door County Heroes Blend Coffee and my plan is to share some today with my Nephew Nick. 

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

Proverbs 25:11 NKJV A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in settings of sliver. 

I have a reader who asked my what would be good birthday gift for his wife. He contacted me privately and before I started spewing out ideas I asked him this question. If your wife were to grade your marriage 10 being great and 1 being lousy what would your grade be? He replied quickly that his smart mouth gets him in her dog house. His quick answers are not always flattering or nice. I asked him why the score of one could be given. He replied that his answers were often laced with vulgarity or meanness. 

I asked him if he loved his wife and he replied "definitely". I asked him if he would consider taking something away for her birthday. He said that my idea was crazy. I went on to explain that he could wrap a note  like a birthday present. On the note he would promise to take away the smart hurtful answerers and seek help with being accountable to someone for the success of keeping a promise. 

I am happy to say that he joined a group to get some help with his mouth and it's foul answers. He said and I quote. " The best gift I ever gave was something I took away."

Ladies and gentlemen. Here's a thought . Maybe you have something you could take away. Maybe that something could improve your marital relationships.

Food for thought. 

Marty

Senseless Killing 8/30/2025

 Good Morning,

I am on the go already and I place great value on my traveling companion Door County Breakfast Blend Coffee and some good truck music. But before I leave in a hurry I want to comment on the senseless killing that took place in Minnesota this last week.

My heart breaks for those who experienced this crime. It is plain evil and sin combined to hurt and kill innocent children and adults. I won't even entertain any politics on this page. I condemn the actions of one sick, pathetic person. This is not a time to soap box opinions and preferences. It is a time to help with healing, and allow people as much time as they need to mourn.  We live in a fallen world and we suffer the circumstances of said fallen world. 

I will have the suffering hearts on my heart and in my mind for a long time. If you live close by to the incident, you are in a spot to assist with anything they need. My prayers are for those who have lost, and those who are trying to help in any way possible. Helpers, you are my heroes. Thank you. 

Ephesians 2:10 NKJV For we are His workmanship, created in Christ for good works, which God prepared beforehand  that we should walk with them. 

God bless,

Marty

 

Give It Some Thought And Prayer 8/29/2025

 Good Morning,

A little change in my day. I was gifted a box of assorted coffees by two friends  who live in Georgia.  Yes , I do have friends. My original plan was to take these coffees on a hunting trip later this year and share the experience with my hunting buddies. That coffee was staring at me this morning so I decided to open one and treat myself to a pot and I have to say this Alma Essence Expresso packs a delicious punch. Thank you Bill and Donna. 

Now that you are over the thought of me actually having friends, it is time to write. 

This time of year has everyone going back to school and at the college level and maybe even high school, pathways for the future have been chosen. Schooling more than ever now has the future tied to it. When choosing classes now means a vocation has pretty much been chosen. A not so wise choice of taking classes just to be with friends doesn't cut it anymore. Thought, research, and prayer should now be part of all decisions. Once you incur the cost of higher education, and unless you were born with money in your diaper, schooling needs to be thought through. It is a time when you have to choose wisely. Not all people can afford to start school, then abandon the plan and start over. Career changes are expensive and could be avoided if at first, prayer, and plenty of wise counsel is sought out. 

Not many folks consider asking God this question. "Lord, what do you want me to do?" Yes there are times that after a few years into a career, God will change your direction. But is it from God? New opportunities will arise, but not all are from God. My advice is to check all opportunities against Scripture. Ask, is the timing right ? What impact does this have on the family? Friends, have you taught your children to wait on God and ask Him for the plan? Do their future plans honor God.

Proverbs 14:15 NKJV The simple believes every word. But the prudent considers well his steps.

Isaiah  55:8-9 NKJV  8. "For My thoughts are not your thoughts. Nor are your ways My ways," says the Lord. 9. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, So are My ways higher than your ways, And my thoughts than your thoughts."

A plan that does not include God is just a plan. A plan that incudes God, is a direction to follow. 

Have a great day!

Marty

A Chill In The Air 8/28/2025

 Good Morning,

My cup of Door County Black And Tan Coffee is steaming away right next to me. It is a treat for this weary writer. I am still battling Covid and anything hot seems to taste better than anything cold. 

Just a couple weeks ago we were fighting off the extreme heat  and now we have a slight chill in the air to contend with. It feels good to have a natural cool down, not one produced by air conditioning. 

I find one type of cool down not to my liking. It's that silence and cold reception that I can get from my wife when were are in a time of disagreement. That cold shoulder is not comfortable. I would be a farce if I were to say that we always get along. Both of us have faults and we don't always agree. We both are stubborn folks and that tends to add fuel to any disagreement. Worse yet, we tend to hold the disagreement  inside, having the other party wondering about what they did or did not do. So once that cold reception goes on for too long it becomes difficult to even remember what started the disagreement. It becomes like a dust mop that goes after a dust bunny and once it is slid across the floor, it picks up dust that just sticks to the mop. Pretty soon the mop is dust covered. A time of silence between a couple that extends itself now takes on more dust and what was a small disagreement is now a mop laden with issues, that really aren't worth arguing about or even sorting out. 

Think about this,  At anytime one or the other could stroke out or have a heart attack. A car accident could silence a life.  How would you feel if your last words to your spouse were no words at all? The "I'm sorry" that never gets said leaves a hurtful void and a person wondering if the other party knew how much they were loved. Satan takes our silence and twists it within our minds and sends the living party into a guilt trip that lasts forever. 

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

Ephesians 4:26-27 NKJV "Be angry and do not sin": do not let the sun go down on your wrath, nor give place to the devil. 

Food for thought. Don't wait to make up. You never know what the morning will bring or not  bring. 

Marty 

Annoying Bugs 8/27/2025

 Good Morning, 

A hot cup of Door County Black And Tan Coffee is soothing my whole body this morning. There is just something about that first cup of coffee that seems to just smooth out life for a minute or two. 

Our area of the world flooded a few weeks ago and besides some very green grass, the torrent provided for one nasty crop of mosquitoes. After a few minutes outside you are just bombarded by the flying irritants.

I know that certain birds and other things feed on mosquitoes. I just don't believe they have a hearty appetite  right now. They are overfed slackers. 

I was complaining about the bugs to my wife and she reminded me that many others are still cleaning up water damage and we were blessed not to have any. I bowed my head in shame. Rene said she would rather swat mosquitoes than having to replace a furnace, water heater and other items in the basement. "We were blessed", was her statement of scolding for me. I believe I must be the only one to complain in the middle of blessings. 

1Timothy 6:6 :But Godliness with contentment is great gain. 

Ephesians 5:20 " Always giving thanks to God the Father for everything, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ. 

I think it is time to pray, and read my Bible. This guy needs an attitude adjustment. 

Marty

Taking Aim And Shoot For Perfection 8/26/2025

 Good Morning,

The Door County Highlander Grog Coffee is steaming hot and ready to be tasted. It is time to write.

A few years ago the men from our church and other churches would compete against each other in a shooting contest. Each church would assemble a team or two and compete at shooting sporting clays. For those of you who don't know what sporting clays are, they are basically trap shooting but with targets that resemble waterfowl or upland birds in flight. The shooting needs to be fast and at times two targets launch at the same time. Each team member's score counts. 

1 Corinthians 9:24 Do you know that in a race all the runners run, but only one receives the prize? So run that you may obtain it. 

Well, for many years we lost and had to take the chiding with a smile. But finally after many trips to the practice range our band of misfits pulled it off. We actually won! It was one that I will never forget. 

My point for the day is this. Anything worth striving for takes time and practice and maybe some coaching or lessons. 

My friends this includes all things in life. If you want to be a great husband or father, you have to practice at it. There are plenty of Biblical self help books on being a husband, or father. Ladies there is the same opportunity out there for you as well. Maybe you want to be recognized as a hard worker. You then need to show up at work and become the model employee you desire to be. It takes practice and dedication. Imitate the good practices of others and then strive to do them better. 

I for one believe that accountability partners are a a good tool to keep yourself living your goals. A good accountability partner tells you what you need to hear, not always what you want to hear. 

So my friends, set a goal for yourself and aim for perfection. Accept some training and coaching and by all means pray for your accountability partner. They need to be as serious or more serious than you are for your success.

Have a great day.

Sometimes Love Hurts 8/25/2025

 Good Morning,

This old boy is sipping from a hot cup of Door County Highlander Grog Coffee and it seems to be the right flavor choice for this morning. 

Matthew 16:24-27  Then Jesus told his disciples, "If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me. 25. For whoever would save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for my sake will find it. 26. For what will it profit a man if he gains the world   and forfeits his soul? Or what shall a man give in return for his soul? For the Son of Man is going to come with His angels in the glory of his Father, and then he will repay each person for what he has done. "

My wife Rene and I worked together in youth ministry for over twenty years. We headed up the program for a long, long time.  If I could go back in time, I would do it all over again. That time spent with the teenagers and other leaders was a gift from God, one that I will never forget. Every now and then we will run into one of the former teenagers and their families and it will bring back some fond memories. We at one time had some of the best groups of  leaders working with us. We could not have done all that we did without them. 

I assure you that it wasn't all puppy dogs and unicorns. There were times that tried my patience to no end when you could just see that we were not getting through to the kids or their families. There were plenty of times that were puppy dogs and unicorns all wrapped up with a lot of Jesus on top. But then there were those times that you could almost tell the future and it wasn't pretty. You could foresee the what was ahead, one of jail, addictions, families torn up by the rebellion of one or more of their teens and heartaches too many to number. 

When I see the later versions of what has become of some, it hurts to see how life is turning out for them. Some of them will never know that they are still prayed for by Rene and myself and their former leaders. Then there are the victories you see in lives that love and serve the Lord and their families. 

My point for the day is this. Ministry at any level has to be bathed in Godly love and dedication. But know this. Sometimes the love hurts when you visit that hospital with an overdosed adult who just would not listen as a teen. It hurts when the jail door slams shut on a life that went astray. But for every loss there is plenty of good  that comes about when you are willing to heed the call. 

So if you are at the point of  heeding the call into child or youth ministry, go for it! Follow God's leadership in your own life. And then, don't quit. But remember this, true love hurts now and then. 

Marty

Not A Nice Surprise 8/24/2025

 Good Morning,

The Door County Peanut Butter Crunch Coffee is going down easy this morning. It is a good source of comfort.

If you are a steady reader of my blog, you know that my wife Rene and I were on vacation for the last week and a half. Our trip took us to Canada and Alaska. We really enjoyed our time and appreciate all who helped with dog sitting, grass mowing, travel arrangements, watering the plants,  shuttle service,and prayer for us. 

What we did not count on was to come home and have contracted Covid as a final surprise of the trip. I broke down two days ago and Rene followed suit yesterday. We are both down and out and I guess the trip hasn't ended. 

I find myself once again being challenged with a "Practice What You Preach" scenario. We are doing everything the doctors have told us to do and resting as much as we can. 

If I were advising someone else who was going through a mess like this, I would pray for them and remind them to pray also. "Eat some soup, and drink plenty of fluids, but most of all pray." Praying is exactly what I am doing.

1 Peter 5:7 NIV Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.

Have a great day. 

Marty

Something So Little 8/23/2025

 Good Morning,

I started today with a hot cup of Door County Chocolate Cherry Coffee and some prayer. 

We made it home from our extended vacation. It was a spectacular time and I can say I am still exhausted. 

While I was preparing to go on our trip my wife Rene reminded me several times not to take my pocket knife with me. Her fear was that I would forget to pack it into my checked baggage and end up losing the knife or have it taken away from me at the border. I carry mine with me all the time. She reminded me that I would not need my car keys either. 

I don't know how many times I touched my pants pockets looking for my knife and my keys. I would panic a little and search for keys that weren't there. I can think of at least 6 times when my trusty knife would have come in handy, during a luggage repair. It's a very sharp, small knife and has become a part of my daily living. 

My point for today is this. There are good habits and then there are some bad ones. Anything that can aid you in life and is Biblical is a good habit. Anything that is bad and violates moral codes is wrong. 

Galatians 6:9 And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap if we do not give up. 

Keep your good habits and throw away any of the ones that might clutter your life. 

Marty

8-22-25 Blog will be down for a couple of days

Sorry for the inconvenience See you next week

Marty

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Just Something Simple 8-20-2025

 Good Morning,

After a week of fine dining something simple was all that my wife and I were interested in eating last night. The hotel where we are staying at also has fine dining. The hotel is attached to the Vancouver Airport. So we decided to go to one of the food courts within the airport and grab something simple for dinner. Options were plentiful.

We both agreed that a sandwhich from Subway was just what we were looking for. After our simple dinner we walked around outside for about 30 minutes.. Then we sat outside for another 30 minutes. 

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

Today we will tour Vancouver and then ready ourselves to fly home tomorrow.

What's my point for today?This has been a great vacation. But sooner or later all vacations end. This one will be over when we hit our driveway at home on Thursday. We enjoyed ourselves immensely. But even though we are retired we still have responsibilities that need tending to. They are ours and we own them. What responsibilities are you glossing over today?

Food for thought!

Marty

We Might Not Be Home But 8-19-2025

 Good Morning,

Well this morning finds us in a hotel in Vancouver waiting for our flight home on Thursday. We declare this a day of rest.

We received notice that our neice in law's sister delivered her baby that we all have been awaiting. It was anticipated that little Jo Jo would need heart surgery and after resting a day she went through surgery. During the surgery another issue was found, so the little one went round two of surgery.

We might not be home, but we can pray from anywhere. And that is what we are doing.

Hebrews 4:16  Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need.

Friends, we all will hear and see opportunities to pray for others in need. You don't need to be in a church or a chapel to pray. Once you bow your head or look up to pray you are as close to heaven as you can be while here on this earth. 

So spend a little time at the throne today and enjoy some time with the Lord.

Marty

What Will Be Will Be 8-18-2025

 Good Morning,

I had a quick cup of cruise ship coffee and now it is time to write. 

We are in Vancouver this morning and our cruise ship is in the process of docking. Then it will be a trip through immigration services and then to our hotel.

We were supposed to fly home on Tuesday. A labor strike canceled our flight and we will be staying in Canada until Thursday. 

We are blessed to have folks back home taking care of our two dogs and our house. Additionaly our neighbor was one call away and she went to work arranging a new flight for us. I was striking out every time I tried booking a different flight. We owe her big time.

I consider all of them back home to be a blessing from above.

God knows we are stuck. I do not know the reason why. But He does and we will see why in the next few days. My trust is in Him.

Psalm 37:4-5 Delight yourself in the Lord and he will give you the desires of your heart. 5. Commit your way to the Lord, trust in him and he will act. 

So for now we will see what this day brings.

God bless.

Marty

 

Headed Home Soon 8/17/2025

 Good Morning,

The end of a great trip is near. One more full day  and night at sea has us closer to home. The Disney folks know how to make you feel welcome and important. 

This has been an experience that will not be forgotten. We will be packing our things today and saying goodbye to the people we met this last week. 

Although this has been nicer than nice, it is not  home. It also reminds me that even our home isn't our true final destination in life.

1John 2:17 And the world is passing away and the lust of it. But he who does the will of God abides forever.

This world, is really not our home.We are all just passing through. So the thought for today is this. Make every effort to share, love, and represent your Heavenly Father in all you do. Let others see Christ Jesus in you. Make haste to do so. Remember, you are just passing through.

God bless.

Marty

No Reason At All 8-16-2025

 Good morning,

Cruise ship  coffee for me once more. Although I am having  great time cruising in Alaska, I still miss my Door County Coffee. 

Psalm 28:4 Give to them according to their work and according to the evil of their deeds; give to them  according to the work of their hands; render them their due reward

Yesterday I took time out

from cruise activities to pray and then watch the news for the results of the meeting between the presidents of Russia and the United States.

For some reason I thought there just might be some movement toward peace between Ukraine and Russia. I was totally wrong.  I did  not see any morsel of contriteness on the part of the Russian president. 

So my friends I will do what I can for peace by praying specifically for that area and the leaders involved.

Food for thought. I saw a heart as cold as ice. I visited a glacier that was warmer.

Marty.

The Bears Were In Hiding 8/15/2025

 Good morning

Still drinking cruise ship coffee and it is time to write. 

Proverbs 28:11 A fool gives full vent to his spirit, but a wise man quietly holds it back.

Yesterday my wife Rene and I went ashore to Hoonan Alaska. We took a tram ride and saw the beautiful scenery from high up..

Later we took an excursion to walk through a forest with a guide to spot some bears. It was a good hike with some very nice people. Our group was ten strong. Now I don't know much about guiding for brown bears. But my guess would be that ten people walking through the woods laughing and talking loud might chase the bears away. 

My point for the day is this. There are times when being quiet should be practiced.

Some people just have to hear themselves talk. This behavior isn't always appreciated. Silence can be golden. You guessed it. We never saw a bear until we got back to the ship.

Have a great day.

Marty

How Majestic! 8/14/2025

 Good morning.

I just sat down with a cup of cruise ship coffee and it is time to write. 

Psalm 19:1 The heavens declare the glory of God. The skies proclaim the work of His hands.

Yesterday my wife Rene and I had the privilege, treat, or blessing to travel in Alaska by ship. Another smaller boat took us to see the glaciers. It was a three hour tour. Some Gilligan's Island fans might chuckle about that one..

As the smaller boat approached the glacier, Rene was very quiet. Then as the boat turned, it afforded Rene an even better view. Then she spoke. "God sure knows how to create a beautiful world."

I agreed with her totally. Then I said, "too bad that man was  left to tend what He graciously and wonderfully made"

We both agreed to enjoy the beauty we were allowed to see and be thankful for God's blessings.

Through three hours God amazed us with His works of majesty and splendor.

When was the last time you had God take your breath away?

Look at the hands of a new born baby. See the sunrise and watch the tides move.

It's a beautiful world with a wonderful God.

God bless,

Marty

A Little Embarrased.8/13/2025

 Good Morning.

It's cruise ship coffee for me this morning and a little breakfast.

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

Yesterday morning I let my wife Rene sleep in a little longer. I went for coffee and some breakfast. The biscuits and gravy were calling my name.

After eating I went AFT and found a nice spot to sit and read. I took along a book to read on the trip. I had just gotten into it for about 8 pages and my eyes got heavy. The breeze was so comfortable and the chair matched the breeze. My view was perfect. I set the book down on the table in front of me.

I nodded off for a few minutes and the next thing I knew, someone was shaking me and saying, "Sir are you ok?" I was ok. She was worried because she saw the book I was reading and assumed the worst. I apologized and put the book under my sweatshirt.

I never thought that reading about heaven and hell could cause trouble.

All in all  it shows that people still care about others. Lesson learned. Don't sleep while sitting on a chair at the back of the boat. Own your own crazy.

God bless.

Marty

You Can Make It A Small World 8/12/2025

 Good Morning,

We woke up to the smell of the ocean today. We are at sea headed to Alaska and so far we have had an easy trip. 

Psalm 46:1 God, You are my strength an ever present help in trouble. Therefore, I will not fear, though the earth give away. 

The ship has 2005 guests and 900 staff members. While we were being shuttled from our hotel to the ship we exchanged greetings with a couple from Iowa. They shared with us that they were hoping to be sailing with their daughter and her family. There was a but to this story. Her daughter and family missed a connection and actually slept in the airport. There was still doubt as to whether or not the family would make it to the ship on time. It just seemed like it was time to pray for them and with them. We did just that. 

I always believe that nothing is ever a coincidence. So with that belief I also believe that one should pray in the moment. Too many people say "We are praying for you and never really pray or wait until bed time to call on heaven.

I asked if we could pray right then and there in the dock terminal. We prayed and then spent some time together and ate some lunch. We exchanged contact information and went our separate ways. They let us know a little later that their family had just made it on time! It was a very close call. 

My point for the day is this. My prayer was nothing special. A few others were praying as well. 

But what my praying with them did was to shrink the world a little bit. Four people met by chance. A need was shared and we took it to heaven right away. 

They actually only live about 8 hours away from us. But that short time banging on heaven's door made it seem like we were old friends or neighbors.

Never pass up a chance to pray with and for others. During a rough time of fear and doubt you can make this big scary world seem a lot smaller

God bless.

Marty

We Are Not In Milwaukee Hon 8/11/2025

 Good Morning, 

We woke up in a foreign country. Although Canada is our neighbor to the North. We find ourselves in Vancouver waiting to board the Disney ship Wonder, which will be our floating hotel for a week. No Door County Coffee for me for a few days. So when traveling I will be  satisfied with what is available or offered.  

Philippians 4:11-13 ESV Not that I am speaking of being in need, for I have learned, in whatever situation I am to be content. 12. I know how to be brought low, and I know how to abound. In any and every circumstance, I have learned the secret of facing plenty and hunger, abundance and need.  13. I can do all things through him who strengthens me,

Speaking of being content is something that I had to learn over my 68 years of life. It was at some time while in high school I realized that the sun did not shine exclusively on my rear end. Learning to be content actually served to help me during times of less and hardship Being content and taking full advantage of God's blessings had me driving a small car that got great mileage and helped me save some money and put that money down on a house. 

Being content comes with many lessons that can be applied to life. Now that does not mean it is not good to be ambitious, but contentment keeps you real. I took advantage of the tuition reimbursement my employer provided. I received the promotion I wanted without any school debt. 

So being content also keeps our eyes from wandering or lusting. My friends, if I were asked what the top ten things I have learned over 68 years, being content would be in the top five. 

Food for thought!

Marty

Thankful And We Should Be 8/10/2025

 Good Morning,

Luke 12:29-31 Do not seek what you are to eat and what you are to drink, nor be worried.  30. For all the nations of the world seek after these things and your father knows that you need them. 31 Instead seek His kingdom first and all these things will be added to you. 

I just downed a hot cup of Door County Cinnamon Hazelnut Coffee  quickly and we have to get going out of the door soon.  It will be the last Door County Coffee for me over the next week. It will be hotel and ship coffee as we travel. We are so grateful for my brother who is dog and house sitting. We have a wonderful neighbor watering the plants and we will be shuttled to the airport by our nephew. Thank you to our neighbor who put this all together for us. We thank God for keeping us healthy so we can explore some more of His world.

So just a quick thought for today. Be thankful in all things big or small. Be ready to pray in the moment. Make sure to forgive quickly. And Most of all put God first in all you do, say, or think.

God bless. 

Marty

The Littlest Singer 8/9/2025

 Good Morning,

I have just poured a hot cup of Door County Heavenly Caramel Coffee and it is time to write. 

Matthew 19:14 Jesus said. "Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these." 

I do most of the preaching at our Saturday night church services. Given that we are mostly older in age we don't offer child care for those who might arrive with babies or toddlers. I for one don't mind the children being in church at all. Most of the time the kids are content with eating snacks and playing with a small toy. It does not bother me at all. A year or so ago a toddler came up to me while I was speaking. I picked him up and he stayed in my arms as I preached. I will never forget that night. I think I found my replacement. 

For the last few weeks we have been blessed with two of our dear friends who were babysitting for their daughter. They brought their grand daughter with them to church. This little lady has been one of the best behaved kids I have seen in church, in years. Not like that little guy in today's photo. 

We did notice that she likes to sing in church even though she does not know the words. She sits between her grand parents and when praise and worship starts she is belting out the tunes. I have been asking the music folks to play and sing a song at the end of the service. I have purposely asked for the tune to be a little more lively. You should see the face on this little one when the music has that upbeat tempo and the song leader can be heard all the way to heaven. 

Friends, don't hesitate to take your children to church. Bring them in with the adults. Let them see you praying, listening, and singing praises. You set the example. You never know. You might learn something from them. And don't forget to bring the Cheerios and some cookies.

God bless,

Marty 

Everyone Means Everyone 8/8/2025

 Good Morning,

I am sipping some Door County Peanut Butter Crunch Coffee from one of my favorite mugs and it is time to write. 

Psalm 8:2 You have taught the little children to praise you perfectly. May their example shame and silence your enemies. 

I am always looking for something to write about and many times it just falls into my lap. Today is one of those days. 

I was leaving the bakery the other day and my arms were full of items that I had purchased. As I paid for my sweet treats the cashier said to me, "I see that you are entitled to a free loaf of bread today." I really did not want to take the bread as we are overloaded with groceries at this time. There was a little boy about 4-5 years old standing behind me with his mother. The little boy remarked as he heard me say that I really did not want the bread. "You could give it to someone mister." His mother shushed him up and she apologized for what he said. I disagreed with her just a little. "Mam, he is totally right" was my reply. By now this kid had me intrigued with what might come out of his mouth. I was not surprised with anything he said. He did not let me down. 

I asked the little boy if he would like a loaf of rosemary/garlic bread. He replied "No thank you, we have plenty. Anyway mom says this place just makes her butt bigger." Oh my!!! I lost it and could barely hold back my laughter. He then went on a little more. "Sir, Don't you have any friends?" I replied that I did have a friend or two. "You could give them the bread." I agreed and knew which friends of mine appreciate a good loaf of bread. I did deliver the bread to my friends. later. Yet I could not get over just how honest he was and how he was willing to carry on a conversation with an old man and try to solve a problem while considering others. 

I thanked him for straightening me out. His mom was still red in the face. I wish more kids were like this and his mom should be proud of what she was teaching him. He had been taught to share. As a matter of fact, everyone should act if they see something that can be fixed.  A loaf of bread and a chuckle made a difference for others.

I immediately told my wife about that experience at the bakery. She started laughing and didn't stop for awhile. I guess a loaf of bread goes a long way. 

God bless,

Marty 

Being A Little Silly Never Hurts 8/7/2025

 Good Morning, 

I am happy to be drinking a hot cup of Door County Chocolate Cherry Coffee and munching on some toast. It is time to write. 

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

Later this week, we will be traveling to Alaska on a cruise ship for a week. This is a bucket list trip and we both are looking forward to it. Besides the ship travel we are taking advantage of the stops along the way and we have booked a few adventures at the stops. My goal is to see all that I can see and come home tired. I want to see God's glory in some more of nature as well as being pampered for a few days. All has fallen into place very well. Our travel arrangements were made by our neighbor who has a travel business. She has done this for us before and every detail has been perfect. My brother saved the day again and is watching our dogs and house for us. 

I took some time last week and found an antique cup and saucer. I added cast figures, Scrabble letters and then some chocolate kisses. Sappy isn't it. Long before we even signed the papers for this trip I started to pray for good sailing, and of course I prayed for safety. This trip has become a team event including the packing. "No Hon we don't need a harpoon for whale safety. Just stay in the boat and you will be fine." Guess which one of us wanted to bring the harpoon? 

If at all possible we plan on having prayer time together out on the deck every morning surrounded by views we have never seen before. God needs to be part of this trip. The little Bon Voyage gift I made for my wife Rene is to take her mind off of the worrying about any thing and every thing. Now you can guess what cruise line we are using. 

Counting down the days until. 

Marty

Wild Fires 8/6/2025

 Good Morning,

I am at my desk with a hot cup of Door County Brandy Alexander Coffee and some prayers on my mind. 

Mark 12:30-31 Love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength. 31 The second is this: Love your neighbor as yourself. There is no commandment greater than these. 

Some of my activities have been limited due to the raging wild fires in Canada. With the wind blowing down from Canada we have been experiencing a fog type smoke in the air. There have been plenty of warnings as to the actions we should take to have less impact on our bodies, this included animals as well. I knew sooner or later there would be some bickering as to how the fire from one country impacts another country. "You should, we would have, why not? Do something". But no where in the verbal exchanges did I hear Let's Do This Together.

I am not sure how the fires started but two powerful nations are missing out on the opportunity to help one another in collaboration of resources. I for one have also been guilty of forgetting to pray for some rain, enough to put out the fires. 

I always preferred to be a member of a great team more than being alone to solve a problem. Two are always better than one, especially when you bring God into it as well. Work together, not harder!

Food for thought. 

Marty

Better Is One Day 8/5/2025

 Good Morning,

I am taking advantage of my hot cup of Door County Chocolate Cherry Coffee and now it is time to write. 

Psalm 84:10 Better is one day in your courts than a thousand elsewhere; I would rather be a doorkeeper in the house of my God, than dwell in the tents of the wicked. 

I haven't had this verse come across my desk in a long time. I used to use it to inspire teens and adults when they experienced some tough days on short term mission trips. I would remind them that they were only gone for a few days and that they would be home soon enough. But while they were on the mission field, they should be closer than close to God while working in His arena. Now and then my mind wanders back to some of those trips and as age has crept up on me, I don't think sleeping on a roof  in excessive heat fits the bill for this guy any longer. 

I would however say this. Isn't God everywhere? Myself and a few other guys just completed sealing a lot of wooden picnic tables against wet weather. I enjoyed working with those fellas and reminded myself that for a few hours I stepped back into God's arena of service. It was a sweaty, sticky job, but I for one thought "better is one day in His court, than a thousand elsewhere."

Food for thought. Are you steeping up and stepping out for a few hours of serving others? 

Have a great day!

Marty

It Might Just Come Back To You 8/4/2025

 Good Morning, 

I just finished drinking a hot cup of Door County Churro Coffee and I am overdue to write this morning. 

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

I am running late on everything I have to do today. I took some extra time to gather some thoughts and pray. So something had to give to make room for my slow start to this day.

Over this last week, I have been trying to be a little more polite with my interactions with strangers. I have tried to be more conscious of my surroundings. Such as waiting a little longer than normal to hold a door open while entering or leaving the bakery. Then adding a "good morning" to the exchange of space. Or when leaving and holding the door open saying, "have a nice day". With each interaction I tried my best to smile and show my dental implants that cost me a fortune. 

Over 90%of the time I received a smile right back at me and a thank you to top it off. That success made me think about how easy it is to make someone smile. I believe in this world of constant calamity and political differences people are searching for some niceties and good feeling moments.  

The comments of please, thank you, you're welcome, have a nice day, are actually keys. When you extend yourself in friendliness it often is returned right back to you. Your effort unlocks the door of just a little nicer of a day for yourself. Think about this, in addition to street behavior. How do you answer your telephone. Is it answered with a "smile attitude"? 

Something to chew on for today? 

Marty

Good Morning. Happy Sunday 8/3/2025

 Good Morning,

I am sitting at my desk, sipping on a hot cup of Door County Churro Coffee, praying and gathering some thoughts. 

My head is swimming with different thoughts for today and I have settled in on being thankful for Sundays. Our Heavenly Father saw fit to establish one day for our rest and for us to keep holy. This declaration of love was first mentioned in the book of Genesis in the account of the creation of the world.

Genesis 2:2-3 By the seventh day, God finished the work He had been doing, so on the seventh day He rested from all His work. 3 Then God blessed the seventh day and made it holy, because on it he rested from all the work of creating that he had done. 

Mark 2:27-28 And He said to them, "The Sabbath was made for man, not man for the Sabbath 28. Therefore the Son of Man is also Lord of the Sabbath.

God gave to us this day of rest. Many people attend church on the Sabbath. God declared the 7th day as a day of rest at which time we have some free time to draw closer to Him. God gave us some time for us to relax, spend time with our families, cook some burgers or chicken on the grill and have some extra time to refocus our walk with Him.

I can still recall walking to church with my parents and then coming home and Mom being at the stove making something just a little more special for us to eat. Sunday dinners were always just a little nicer.

If Sunday has become a little less special to you over the years, ask yourself why that is so. If you search your heart and mind for a few minutes, you will see what has taken over your holy day. I can still smell that fried chicken and mashed potatoes calling on me just like it was yesterday. 

Food for thought. Have a great day and keep it holy.

Marty

Don't Waste Their Time. 8/2/2025

 Good Morning,

I am enjoying a hot cup of Door County Blueberry Cobbler Coffee as I sit here gathering my thoughts. It is time to write. 

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

It is very true that healthcare professionals are in real demand and the supply is short. When you go to make an appointment with a specialist you might have to wait several months before you can be seen.

Once you are in the office and then the exam room, you are given a certain amount of time with your provider and then they must move on to the next patient. If and when you are seen, you receive instructions for testing to be done, or a prescription to assist with healing or for your comfort. You all know the routine. Last but not least, you receive a bill for the service. It might be fully covered by insurance or not. There is a cost for your visit. 

Next, you have to decide and dedicate yourself to the path of healing or not. You might not like the healing process or you were hoping for a quick healing, not a long process. This is where people decide to play doctor and change the instructions or not follow them at all. The time you have wasted and then not fully utilized could have been taken up by someone behind you waiting for care. When we ignore the advice we sought out we hurt those who are waiting for their time with a doctor. We waste the providers time as well. We waste monetary resources.

This is a selfish attitude and which can usually be seen not only in your health, but in other places when we purchase other services. We make appointments and don't keep them which are not always easy to obtain to begin with. For instance a car repair. Mechanics are also in short supply. Show up, on time. 

Many folks want to be counseled during critical times in their lives, yet don't follow the advice of the counselor. Why seek advice and then not follow it. I receive many prayer requests and  at times the prayer is for healing or crisis management. We pray for the answer to a situation which is usually clear cut. But then the person who asked for prayer does exactly the opposite of what is Biblical. I used to receive Many prayer requests from teenagers to help them at exam time for school. Later they would be crying to my wife or myself that "they failed" the test. I asked them if they truly studied for the exam. Many times I heard "not really". They wanted a quick fix to their issue but really did not want to learn anything. 

Point for the day is this. Be serious about what you say you need and then do what you need to follow through. Don't waste the time of others, even if you are paying for it. 

Food for thought.

Marty

Losing Yourself At The Fair 8/1/2025

 Good Morning,

My Door County Blueberry Cobbler Coffee it tempting me to have more than one cup this morning. I feel temptation kicking in. 

Proverbs 20:11 Even a child makes himself known by his acts, by whether his conduct is pure and upright. 

We live near the city where our state fair is held each year at this time. I have always had a soft spot for the state fair or a good county fair. Once I am through the entry gate, I have a routine and it starts with an Italian sausage covered with peppers and onions and some brown mustard. I tour each aisle of the fair and take in one amusement ride. (Tilt A Whirl). Basically I lose myself in the fair atmosphere for a couple hours. I might or might not take in the Monster Truck show. It all depends on my mood. I eat some Chinese tempura, drink a lemonade, listen to the barkers selling knives that are guaranteed to last 100 years. I might recall a night or two back in my high school days when I could swing a sledge hammer and ring the bell which won me a big teddy bear that I could give to the girl of my choice.

But for a couple hours there is a care free attitude and the need for a Tums. 

My point for today, is that just every now and them you have to just check out and let your mind have a rest. Go and do something that makes you happy. I might take a ride on the Ferris wheel with my wife and sneak in a smooch or two when our basket reaches the top. 

I will go home, pray before I sleep, and think about going to the fair next year if God is willing. Sometimes it's nice to feel like a kid again.

God bless.

Marty