What Do You Expect When You Pray?

 Good Morning,

I have in front of me a hot mug of Door County Highlander Grog Coffee and it is time to write.

Quite often I am asked to pray for people who have a specific request and it is usually for them but also very often it is a request made on behalf of others. The request might be health related, jobe related, financial, or problems in the home. You name it and I have prayed for it.

This morning I am not bragging as to who or what I pray for. But the point is simple. No matter what I pray for I can always call on God to answer this way. Yes, No, or Wait. 

But! There have been times when I am praying for myself or others that His answer to their prayers is this. God places a call on their lives in His answer, which might just not be the answer you wanted, but despite your needs God has a plan for your life. Most of these calls on your life require action. The best thing you can do is to respond affirmatively.

Never are we to answer wait Lord or play let's make a deal with God. Our answer should be yes. Not "I will do what You ask if you answer my prayer the way I want it to be answered."

1st Samuel 3:9 Therefore Eli said to Samuel. "Go lie down and it shall be, if He calls you, that you must say. 'Speak Lord, Your servant hears.So Samuel went a lay down in his place. 

We don't usually expect God to answer our prayers with a command to go and serve. 

But our thoughts are not His. Just remember the right answer is Here I am send me!

God bless, Marty

Not Really A Guest Anymore. 8/3/2026

 Good Morning,

My mug is still steaming after being filled with Door County Turtles In A Cup Coffee and it is time to write. 

This morning I have three English Springer Spaniels nudging me for attention, our two Gibbs and Leo. In addition we are watching our nephew's dog Waylon while he is working in another country for awhile. 

1 Timothy 5:8 NKJV But if anyone does not provide for his own, especially  those of his household, he has denied the faith and is worse than an unbeliever. 

We do this now and then whenever we can help out. In the beginning when Waylon was just a pup he was very skittish around our two dogs and would often sit away from all of us. He would get homesick within a few hours. Waylon would stare out of the patio door window or the front door window. I believe he was looking for our nephew to come and pick him up. 

Well things have changed now and Waylon figured out that he is part of our family and what goes for our two dogs applies to him also. He has his own bed here and lines up for chow with Leo and Gibbs. He understands that Gibbs is ancient and both younger dogs treat him with dignity and respect. They watch out for him and Waylon accepts that duty like they were brothers. 

He knows he can count on Old Uncle Marty and Aunty Rene to keep the dish full and hand out treats like any uncle and aunt should. He finds this old dude on the floor for some affection and play time and the Springer wrestling begins. 

My point for the day is this. Those who come into your home for a visit or extended stay should feel like they are family and welcome at any time. They should be able to count on being loved and cared for. Do the neighborhood kids know that in an emergency your home should be considered a shelter? Do your neighbors know that they are important and are family members also? 

Food for thought.! We will leave the light on.

God bless, Marty

Vacation Bible School And The Will Of God 8/2/2026

 Good Morning, There is a hot mug of Door County Toffee Pretzel Coffee next to me on this rainy Sunday morning and it is time to write. 

This week our church will be hosting Vacation Bible School and the last I heard there was over 80 children signed up to attend. I am proud to say that our church has a strong children's ministry. Many volunteers are giving their time to the cause. 

There will be Bible lessons taught and games played. The fruit of the  event might not be seen in the children for a few years. But who knows how even one child can be impacted for Jesus and avoid mayhem later in life. 

The volunteers might not ever see the fruit of their labors. But yet they have answered the call to serve the Lord. I pray for good weather, great attendance and hearts to be touched. 

John 4:34 NKJV Jesus said to them. "My food is to do the will of Him who sent me and to finish His work."

My point for today is this. Give of your time at your church. Volunteer to help in endeavors like Vacation Bible School. You just never know who it will impact.

God Bless,

Marty

A Steady Guide 8/1/2026

 Good Morning,

My ug was just filled with Door County Toffee Pretzel Coffee and now it is time to write. 

I am listening to a much needed rain hit our roof and the sound is soothing to the soul. 

Psalm 23:3 He guides me in the paths of righteousness.

One thing you can count on in life is that God will never lead you astray. When we submit to His leadership, He is there to help us navigate our days here on Earth. He lights the way with His word. His leadership keeps us from the pitfalls of life. 

A lot of our personal disasters are products of us making the wrong choices. We trust in ourselves and the advice of others before we go to God and ask for guidance. 

God is gracious and even after not consulting Him He will guide us through the consequences of our choices. He does not always eliminate the consequences. We learn a lesson or two from the consequences. And sometimes the consequences of a bad choice hurt deeply But a good guide is a teacher as well as a guide. 

My grandfather was very good at teaching me the "Whys and the Why Nots of life. He took the simple days of life and used the choices needed to be made as teaching moments. There are still things that he taught me that I observe to this day. 

So the point for the day is this. What is God warning you about? Are you listening? Will you follow the Guide or follow your own thoughts? 

Have a great day! God bless,

Marty

Waiting And Watching For the Day To Be Unlocked7/31/2026

 God Morning,

I started this day with a hot mug of Door County Breakfast Blend Coffee and prayer. It is time to write. 

There are some rare times in my life when I look at the day over my first cup of  coffee, open my calendar to see what I have planned and there is nothing that needs to be done. Not very often can I just sit back, have another cup of coffee and then pick out something that I can do that is positive or restful. 

On those rare occasions I look over the top of my coffee mug after prayer and just wait for the day to unlock and unfold.. 

Psalm 5:3 In the morning,OLord. You will hear my voice: In the morning I will order my prayer to You and eagerly watch. 

After some prayer time I start out by feeding the birds that inhabit our front yard and then I wait to see what God  has in store for me. I say in my prayers, "Lord this is your day. I will praise You and see what You have planned for me today. Show me what to do."

It's too bad that we can't have more of these days of waiting and watching.  Have a great Friday and may God bless and direct your day!

Marty

Here's To You. 7/30/2026

 Good Morning,

Another cup of Door County Jamaican Me Crazy Coffee and I will be headed off to work at the voting polls in our city. It is time to write.

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

We celebrate many things, weddings, births, promotions, graduations, athletic accomplishments, and the list could get bigger. 

But today I want to remind you to celebrate you. You make the world a better place just by being you. I know there are those who might not feel all that special because of past failures. But every day is new and you have the opportunity to turn a failed life around. God is the God of second chances. 

Lamentations 3:21-23ESV But this I call to mind and therefore I have hope. 22.The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; His mercies never come to an end; 23. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.

So take some time to celebrate you. God knows who you are and He is always there to get behind a soul and turn failure into triumph. He gave you unlimited potential. Use it!

Have a great day. God Bless.

Marty

It Is Okay To Protect Yourself 7/29/2026

 Good Morning,

It is going to be a long day so I will be bringing an insulated bottle with me for later, filled with Door County Jamaican Me Crazy Coffee. It is time to write. 

Psalm 7:12 He has bent His bow and made it ready. 

I believe in self defense. I believe you have the right to protect yourself and your family. That goes without saying. I respect the police and would not want their jobs. When given a command by an authority calls for you to obey and cooperate, then do so.  

I don't drive around looking for a cause to support by blocking traffic. You have a right to demonstrate and others have the right to travel down the road. You don't have the right to touch my vehicle or throw something at it. 

So there is a time and a place for everything. This is a time to be smart, obey the law and don't force nice people to protect themselves. 

Pray for this world. It's running a little backwards right now. 

Marty

When You Wake Up The Morning 7/28/2026

 Good Morning, 

My mug is filled with Door County German Chocolate Cake Coffee and it is going down just fine. It is time to write. 

When you think about it, your day doesn't really start off until you release it from resting/ You actually wake up your whole day when you start to move about and kick off your routine. 

Waterfowl hunting season is just around the corner. I have enjoyed this sport for at least 40 years now. One of the things I enjoy most about waterfowling is to be the only one out there and watching the sun come up on the water. 

God has the sun rise and I have the job of starting my hunt. You could say "I wake up my morning". 

Psalm 57:8 I will awaken the dawn.

I have the responsibility of setting my frame of mind and heart as to how I will greet the day. Will I be thankful? Will I be prayerful? Will I be kind? Will I be approachable? Will I be a blessing to others? Will I fear? Or will I be brave? Will I be ready to embrace the day with gusto?

Friends, turn up the lighting. Enjoy a hot cup of coffee and wake up your day!

God bless,

Marty 

Waiting On A Storm 7/27/2026

 Good Morning,

There is a hot mug of Door County German Chocolate Cake at my side and it is time to write. 

Proverbs 27:1 Don not boast about tomorrow. For you do not know what a day may bring forth.

The weather forecasters are predicting some heavy storms to hit our area today. I for one will welcome the rain which is much needed. The storms I can do without. I do appreciate the technology that helps to keep us safe. Reacting quickly to an advancing storm has probably spared many a life.

My point for today is this. We go through seasons of storms in our own lives. I am not talking about the rain, hail, and wind type. I am not talking about a snow storm that that buries our home. I am talking about the inevitable storms of reality that arrive when someone you love passes away. I will be attending the funeral of a friend today and I did so the other day as well. Both of these families had advance warning as to when their loved one would pass away. 

The funeral I attended the other day was also one where the family was prepared and there was of course some sorrow and mourning, but yet there was peace. They had taken time to prepare their hearts for the loss. 

Here is it is folks. Death will come to all of us, with at times a predictable time. Then there are the times that are not expected and are a total shock  to the family and friends. 

So obtain favorite recipes now. At all times, visit while you can. Don't pass up the chance for one more outing with your families and friends. Say what needs to be said now. Don't wait to make someone else smile. Death always comes, and is not always predictable.

Marty

Beat Up In My Own Back Yard 7/26/2026

 Good Morning,

Door County German Chocolate Cake Coffee filled my mug with gusto this morning. 

Yesterday I noticed a small hornet fly into a container I use to house small pieces of wood to burn in our fire pit out on the patio. When I got closer to the box of wood I saw about 5-6 hornets come out to let me know that I was not welcome near the box. 

2nd Corinthians 11:14 ESV And no wonder, for even Satan disguises himself as an angel of light. 

I retreated with my two furry Springer Spaniels into the house without getting stung. Hoorah for me. I waited a half an hour and returned to the battle ground with a can of spray touted to be the best for fighting with wasps, hornets and yellow jackets. I sprayed right into the wood container. 

The fight was on! Soon I found myself surrounded by these terrorists and it did not take too long (30 seconds) to see that I was almost out of ammunition (spray) and they were not playing defense, they were on the offense! My right arm was the first casualty in this war. A retreat was in order. What at first was 5-6 hornets, turned into a cloud of the crazed attackers.

After a trip to the battle implement emporium I was re-armed with plenty of spray and a high pressure hose. Both weapons were needed and as of this morning I believe  I won the war for control of our back yard.  My arm still stings but a little more Benadryl will assist with the first aid. 

My point for the day is this. Sooner or later our two dogs would have ended up sticking their noses into that box of wood and they would have ben hornet fodder. Or my unsuspecting wife while, watering her plants might have been attacked. This had all the warning signs of being a danger to my family or visitors. So the danger was eliminated and I replaced the box with one that has a snap on cover and now I will watch closer to see if the flying terrorists come back. 

But what other dangers do we bring into our homes that are disguised as good, yet when over done become a battle for control in your home. Too much unneeded debt can sting when the bill is due. One two many nights drunk and inebriated allows for other bad choices to come into the home, like wandering eyes, uncontrolled anger and lack of respect for your family. 

Food for thought. Are you willing to fight for your family and home or do you allow invaders to run rampant?

Have a great day!

Marty

A Little Thing Called Doubt 7/25/2026

 Good Morning,

May your coffee be hot and your day be blessed. 

  "He is faithful—even when you’re not feeling it."
2 Timothy 2:13 – “If we are faithless, He remains faithful…”

This morning I would like to talk about when we begin to doubt in God.  First of all when doubt begins to creep in and you begin to doubt in God and His word DON'T TRUST YOUR FEELINGS! 

Feelings are often misleading and lead to decreasing faith. I don't always feel like writing,but somehow, someway God led me to write daily and every day He supplies me with something to write. 

Keep a prayer journal and go back and read when God provided in your life and how He supplied your needs each and every time you needed help. 

And even when our faith is weak, God is still faithful and has no intention of letting you fail.

Food for a Saturday thought.

Marty

Is There An Artist In The House ?7/24/2026

 Good Morning,

My hot mug of Door County Heavenly Caramel Coffee is just what I needed this morning. 

If you are this type of person or you live with one or more who show immense patience and choose to be kind at all times. You have an artist in your home.They choose to color the day day with peace, love grace, and joy. Their paint brush colors their world in a way that makes you feel good just by being around them. They leave many situations painted with hope, where there was none. Their work is a beautiful thing that  brings music to the soul where there was none. They change the dark colors of life into brighter amd joyous colors.

If you know someone like this you will find their color palette has all the colors of someone who loves God and has a close relationship with Jesus Christ. They paint with peace, not anger or vengeance. 

Romans 12:12 NIV Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.

Maybe today we can put away all forms of evil and malice and concentrate on painting our world with all the colors of love, peace, joy and happiness.  Food for thought!

Have a great day. God Bless.

Marty

Star Gazing 7/23/2026

 Good Morning,

I am sitting upright and enjoying a hot mug of Door County Heavenly Caramel Coffee and it's time to write. 

Photo Credit Dominick Doyle. 

Last night before I went to bed I let both of our dogs outside for a few minutes to roam around and do what dogs need to do. 

For the first time in weeks it was actually cool outside and the lack of smoke from wildfires to our North enabled  me to see a few stars. I spent some time out there just looking at the stars. It was a good show and the price of admission was free. While being quiet and watching the stars my ears were more in tune with the evening as well. The owl who now resides in one of our bigger trees was hooting and making his presence known. 

When my soul is troubled or I am emotionally drained I tend to gravitate to spending a little more time outside. I see the stars at times. I can hear an owl. I can feel the rain. I can listen to thunder and experience a lightning flash. Or I can just sit and listen to my own heartbeat. 

Genesis 15:5 And the lOrd brought Abraham outside  his tent into the night and said "Look now toward the heavens and count the stars, if you are able to count them.". 

I believe that when we devote time to prayer and reading God's word we experience God and He brings out the family miracles and reminds us just how awesome and powerful He is.

So maybe tonight, if the skies are clear , get out there with a cup of hot chocolate and enjoy a  little bit of quiet time with God and His miracles. 

Have  great day! 

Marty

Change Your View. 7/22/2026

 Good Morning,

The desk chair seems a little stiff today as I write and sip on some Door County Irish Cream Coffee. 

If you look at the world, you'll be distressed. If you look within you'll be depressed. But if you look at Christ, you'll be at rest. Corrie Ten Boom

It doesn't take long for me to listen to the news and then walk away depressed and distressed these days. Wars, natural disasters, and hatred abound. It just makes you want to be a recluse and build yourself a shelter and only come out if it is absolutely needed.

But there is one constant that we can count on and that is Jesus Christ. He told us we would see days like this and we should find comfort and safety for our souls in him.. The more time I spend in prayer with Jesus, the less the world seems to depress and distress me. 

Matthew 6:33 ESV But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness and all these things will be added to you. 

The lesson today is this. God first and when we look to Him  we cannot see through Him, around Him, over Him or under Him . His awesomeness blocks out the view of hatred, anger , lack of harmony,, lack of peace and offers hope for hope for tomorrow. But we must seek Him first.

Food for thought!

Marty 

Everything Tastes Better In A Mug 7/21/2026

 Good Morning,

My day began with prayer and a hot mug of Door County Irish Cream Coffee. It is time to write. 

Today I just want to share my thoughts on favorites. I have said it before and I am sticking to my statement.  I prefer spring, fall and winter. Summer is just something to fill the gap between spring and fall.  

Ecclesiastes 3:11 He has made everything beautiful in it's time.

A few cookouts in the summer and I had my fill of sausages, burgers and chicken on the grill. I have been known to grill out even in the dead of winter. So summer just occupies calendar space for me. I have had enough attacks from over populated mosquitoes. 

We tend to eat more cold food in the summer on chilled plates. But for my money give me a serving of hot soup, chili. stew, oven roasted beef roast and oatmeal for breakfast. 

We have all kinds of dishes to eat from for any season. But to me everything tastes better in a large mug. A mug tends to old the heat longer and has a handle. 

So right about now you are asking yourself, "What is wrong with this clown this morning?" No, I did not bang my head or anything like that. I haven't suffered a heat stroke. I know that this is the day the Lord has made and I am to rejoice over it. But if I had my choice it would be colder as far as the climate goes. I would be wearing flannel and have both hands on my mug of coffee for warmth. 

Here's my point for the day. We can do nothing to control the weather. We get what we get and we need to make the best of it. Fall will be here soon and then winter. The mugs in our home as well as the crock pots will be getting a workout. Some of you will be saying, "why doesn't he move to a colder climate?" 

Well we can't have everything our way and a move is out of the question now. And then I would not have anything to whine about. So for now. Everything tastes better in a mug!

Know this. You were just prayed for and are loved. So enjoy that mug of coffee and have a blessed day.

Marty

I Run For Help 7/20/2026

 Good Morning,

I just poured a hot cup of Door County Irish Cream Coffee and I am now ready to write. 

Psalm 46:1 NKJV God is our refuge and strength, A very present help in trouble.

New born babies cry out  wen they are hungry and for a short time in life they cry out when they need to be cuddled by one of their parents. Or just when something has changed in the order of what life has been for them. 

A toddler who is running and falls and scrapes a knee will immediately look for Mom or Dad to ease the sting of their wound. They trust that mom or dad will know how to comfort them.

I learned a long time ago, that our parents are here to be the comfort you can actually see and touch. But then the toddler grows up and when there is trouble in life such as pain, sorrow,or loss we are to run to God and He supplies the comfort and support we so need desperately.

Good parents are there in the moment to comfort their child. As adults, God is there to supply needs, physical and spiritual. He is ever present with the first aid station open 24/7.

Friends, don't go through tough times alone. Don't let your pride keep you from calling on the ever present God. 

Food for thought. In reality I guess we never grow up! I am thankful for that!

Marty

Looking Through The Eyes Of Others 7/9/2026

 Good Morning,

A quick cup of Door County of  Cherry Creme Coffee is helping me to get underway this morning. 

1 Corinthians 13:4-5 Love is patient and kind; love does not envy or boast, it is not arrogant. 5. or rude. It does not insist on it's own way; it is not irritable or resentful. 

At times two people can look at a problem and see two opposite ways to approach and solve the problem. It is not until we know all of the facts about the situation and the circumstances for the person who thinks differently, for reasons unknown will we be able to uniformly solve anything.

I once chaired a small work group with a very diverse make up. We had an issue to solve and could not agree as to how long we should be spending on the solution. One of the members of the group wanted to stay super late for the next two days and finish the problem early. He was adamant as to finishing before Friday. The rest of us were content to be finished by Friday afternoon. The one person who was becoming a pain to work with finally confided in me. "I can't work Friday. "I promised my spouse that I would be home for three days straight and then  we would take a mini vacation with us and the kids.

Once he told me what the rush was, and to be honest, vacations were few and far between for all of us at that time.  We saw his plight and we understood by looking through his eyes and knowing how we all needed some time off, we dedicated ourselves for him and we had the job finished and he went on vacation early!

Is an unruly child a product of bad parenting? Or is that parent single, and working two jobs just to pay the rent? 

It's easy to become unglued at people who don't share our same vision. But if we listen and ask about their reason for driving everyone else batty we then begin to see things through their eyes. 

Food for thought. To enlist help from others we need to see why they can't give over 100%

Don't believe people walk around aimlessly looking how to help you. And they have nothing better to do. Food for thought. Look at each other in a work group and be honest. Listen as to what slow downs might arise as to block their ability to conform to your ideals.

Form opinions on facts only aad look at their productivity through their eyes. Show patience and love . Some day, it might be you who needs a little grace.

Food for thought.

Marty

Married And The Plan Is To Stay That Way 7/18/2026

 Good Morning,

My cup is close to running over with my Door County Country Morning Blend Coffee and it is time to write.

Later today I will be officiating a wedding vow renewal ceremony. Two friends of ours are celebrating 40 years of marriage and today is also their anniversary. It is an awesome privilege to be doing this on a hot Saturday in July. 

So for today I will be short in the mouth for the blog. I want to just say a word about vows in general.

Ecclesiastes 5:4-5 ESV  when you vow a vow to God , do not delay in paying it, for He has np pleasure in fool. Pay what you vow. 5. It is better that you should not vow, then that you should vow and not pay.

Everything we vow is said before the Lord. Our word should be good whether it is made to God or others. God requires us to keep all vows we have made. It is better not to vow at all than to break a promise.

Today's lesson is to remind us to all think before we speak. You are only as good as your word is blameless.

Food for thought!

Marty

Does Forgiving Make Sense? 7/17/2026

 Good Morning,

I will be stopping for a Door County Coffee to go in a few minutes, I will be grabbing a cup to go from the home of Door County Coffee. I am not sure what flavor or specialty I will order just yet. I will let you all know tomorrow. 

In a perfect world, filled with peace and harmony a person would not forgive another person or group because no one in a perfect world would hurt anyone else. 

We don't live in a perfect world and people will be wronged by others or by one person. The natural response to a hurt is to hurt back. Turning the other cheek or ignoring the hurt just does not make sense in the real world. Once hurt, we want revenge or we want to slap back to even the score. 

God is specific as to how we are to treat injustice in our life and how we are to react to emotional hurt, physical pain and unwarranted suffering.

WE are to forgive without keeping score. We are not to take revenge, We are to forgive as we have been forgiven.

Romans 12:17-19 ESV Repay no one evil for evil, but give thought to do what is honorable in the sight of all. 18. If possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all. 19. Beloved , never avenge yourselves , but leave it to the wrath of God, for it is written, Vengeance is mine. I will repay, says the Lord.

Matthew 18:21-22 NKJV  Then Peter came to Him and said,"Lord how often shall my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? Up to seven times? 22. I do not say to you seven times, but seventy times seven.

We are to forgive freely as God forgives us. I know it does not make sense but God gives us very clear and emphatic instructions.

If we are forgiving in love, We don't keep score. We don't rejoice when our foe stumbles. We don't have evil thoughts toward them. Love is not easily angered. Love protects us and our enemies. Love does not seek evil. But rejoices in good. 

The prodigal son came home broken and worn. His father threw him a party and rejoiced that he was lost and now was found. When was the last time that someone wronged you, saw the light, and you rejoiced in front of others and threw him or her a party?

Food for thought, Christianity does not always make sense, but the last time I checked God still calls the shots and not us. We are to follow directions.

Have a great day. Take a mini vacation away from the extra jobs you have appointed for yourself. It is tiring playing God, judge, and jury. 

Marty

Staying In Shape 7/16/2026

 Good Morning,

I just sat down at my desk with a very hot cup of Door County Jingle Bell Java Coffee. It is the last of my Christmas flavors so I guess Christmas in July is over for me. 

Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful , for building others up according to their needs , that it may benefit those who listen .

People spend a lot of money on gymnasium memberships and exercise equipment to stay healthy and in shape. The real serious people attend classes designed to keep us fit. One lady told me that she has a personal trainer who gives her inspiration to run. I think this is all good and if it works for some that is even better. 

One tool we could use to stay in shape is to run like we run off at the mouth.

If you ran like your mouth does, you would be in great shape. Author Unknown.

I am touching on the subject of gossip this fine Thursday morning. A gossiper is someone who has or believes they have private or privileged information about someone or a situation and reveals that information to others. Maybe you have been the subject of gossip or you have talked about someone else, the fruit of slanderous words results in broken trust, hurt feelings and sometimes even disastrous consequences.

So if you tend to listen to gossip or spread it like a disease  ( diarrhea of the mouth) note. You are participating in sin and like any fault we should run from it and the impact it has on us and others.

 Food for thought. When in doubt, as to if something is gossip just take a big drink of shut up juice. and you will be safe.

God bless, Marty

Marty

Born To Hunt And Love Dogs 7/15/2026

 Good Morning,

I started this day early with a hot cup of Door County Naughty or Nice Grog. I am still observing Christmas in July until my Christmas Flavors run out. 

Proverbs 22:6 NKJV Train uo a child in the way he should go. And when he is old he shall not depart from it. 

Just a shout out to my nephew Nick today. Happy Birthday Nick. 

Nick started hunting with me back when he was five years old. Most of the pictures I have of my dogs were taken by Nick. I recall Nick and his mother packing a lunch for us for an afternoon duck hunt. (Nick wasn't much of an early riser at first.) So an afternoon in the marsh was as good as it got back then. Nick wasn't very big when we started hunting together and a 15 minute walk was "Mom we walked 50 miles today." I won't mention that he peed on my duck calls that day. Now when we hunt and he starts to call in geese or ducks I just go back in time and chuckle to myself. 

In return I learned to eat Sour Gummy worms and lunchables for our dinner. You could say I had a little bit of influence over Nick and later in life when he waits for this old man to keep up with him in the marsh, in return he has had an influence on me. He has graduated to steak and eggs now. 

Nick has always had a love for dogs. He has taken my last two dogs on several hunting outings without me and I know if they are with Nick, they are in good hands. 

My point for today is this. Invest time into the kids God has allowed into your life. Don't be afraid to put yourself out there. Teach them to love old people, old dogs and to be kind to children, and to work hard and in your old age it will come back to you.

Have a great day and count your blessings. Even when they come wrapped in camo clothing eating Gummy worms. 

Marty

The Story Isn't Finished Yet 7/14/2026

 Good Morning,

There is a hot cup of Door County Chocolate Cherry Coffee in front of me and now it is time to write. 

Hebrews 12:2 NKJV Looking unto Jesus, the Author and Finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. 

Our life has a beginning and an end. If you are reading this, obviously you haven't experienced the end. Our life is not a mystery and we are not the author but we have an important part in writing our story.You control how it ends for eternity.

Hebrews 4:11 Nor is there salvation in any other, for there is no other name given among men by which we must be saved. 

You choose the ending of your story. By placing your faith in Jesus Christ you assure yourself of living eternity in heaven with all the other believers and God. Or you choose to ignore the call of Jesus  and to accept His forgiveness and then spend eternity in hell with satan and the rest of all evil. 

Today's message is straight foward and is simple. You choose where you sit for eternity.

Not choosing is not an option. It is one or the other.

Food for thought. Where will you reside for eternity?

God bless,

Marty

What Impatient People We Have Become 7/13/2026

 Good Morning,

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

"Everyone knows that the length of a minute depends on what side of the bathroom door you're on:  Quote Credit Tales from the Outhouse.

I am old enough to remember life without microwaves. For instance pre microwaves you either boiled a hot dog, or if you cooked by gas, you stuck your hot dog with a fork and burned it at the stove using the gas flame.

Romans 5:4 ESV And endurance produces character and character produces hope. 

Imagine having to wait for your hair to dry after rubbing your head with a towel. Or hanging your freshly washed sheets outside to dry or hanging them in the basement and finally getting to use them the next day. Oh let's not forget that walking was never a quick way to get to the library. We now have scooters parked about cities ready to rent just to get to the library instead of taking a hike. Why even have libraries at all when within seconds we have all the information we need via the internet? 

If things weren't fast enough already we complain when the computer we use is a little slow. We cuss out the microwave because it took 45 seconds to warm up the coffee. Too slow!!!!

We really have become impatient people who when needing to wait on something we get irritated and lose our temper. I am guilty of being agitated when things don't move fast enough.

My point for the day is this. Stop the rush. Roast a hot dog on the patio using wood or charcoal. Sip your coffee and enjoy some quiet while reading. No need for audio books today. Dry your sheets outside and discover what clothespins are for.  

Maybe the good old days really were the good old days. 

God bless,

Marty

Nature Is The Art Of God 7/12/2026

 Good Morning,

It is time to refill my cup with some Door County Old Fashioned Coffee. And it is time to write.

Hebrews 1:10 In the beginning, Lord, you established the earth, and the heavens are the work of your hands.

Earlier this morning as I took a moment to gaze out from our kitchen window I saw two cardinals munching on breakfast from bird seed that fell to the ground yesterday. I couldn't capture a photo quick enough, so the picture will just have to be my memory.

I spend a fair amount of time outside and I am often afforded the luxury to see nature at work.

Nature Is The Art Of God

Dante

I feel blessed to see all that God in nature has made and shared the splendor with all of us. 

No one advocates for church attendance more than I do. Besides just attending a local church you can find a place to serve the Lord and make a difference in the lives of others there.

But I also look forward to God's display of His art work when I am outside breathing air that hasn't been breathed before and where the scenery can change within minutes or even seconds. 

Point for the day. God has a picture He wants to show you. Get outside and visit the cathedral of God.

Love to all,

Marty

 

Some things Just Go Together 7/11/2026

 Good Morning,

My day was planned out for me and it is going to be a busy one. I just sat down at my desk with a very hot cup of Door County Old Fashioned Coffee. It is time to write 

"A positive attitude and a sense of humor go together like biscuits and gravy"Dolly Parton 

Marriages, as well as other relationships are often lacking in harmony. We all too often take ourselves too seriously  and then add some negativity to the mix and you have nothing but problems. 

 Ecclesiastes 4:9. Two are better than one. 

A "can do" attitude brought to the table each day is always welcome around me. It is nice to know the risks and longevity of any project in life. But add a negative attitude to the situation and the task seems unattainable. 

A sense of humor added to a positive attitude should some day be bottled and sold. Being able to grin and maybe even laugh at yourself during a relationship is priceless. 

One day late in November when I was a teenager my cousin and I became lost in the woods and we were really lost. We decided that walking through the dark was not going to be a good idea. We stopped just before it turned too dark and took stock of what supplies we had for the night. I recall both of us saying at least there are two of us in this mess together. We had some candy bars we could eat. Matches to make a fire and a deadfall tree with plenty of accessible fire wood  right where we stopped.  The sense of humor came in when we both said "I have toilet paper"   Her tears were turned to laughter and we knew that someone would be looking for us and the worst case scenario is that it would have to wait until morning. 

Short answer. We were found about an hour later by two guys who were out looking for us. We were in a warm truck headed back to our dads. My cousin was the one with a great sense of humor. She said just before we were dropped off to our families. "I never thought I would look forward to being chewed out" Yes, we were chewed out, but we were headed to a warm house and a turkey dinner served with some humble pie.

We still catch a little flack now and then when we get together for a family funeral. But our positive attitude and sense of humor  helped us to have a full heart of "we can do this"  

My point for the day is this. Try to surround yourself with people who can see the positive in any moment. Add someone with a positive sense of humor and you most likely joined a  winning team.

Have a great day!! God Bless.

Marty

One Good Reason 7/10/2026

 Good Morning,

I am awake and ready to write. My cup of Door County Country Morning Blend Coffee is plenty hot.

The blog is running way late this morning and I am not happy with that fact. My alarm did not sound off at 5:00AM as it should have.I am usually up and awake before the alarm sounds the wake up call.But not today. I need to look at what happened later today.

I was out to the hardware store yesterday and placing a bag of bird seed in my truck. The tail gate was open and there was a man parked next to me. As he approached the back of our two vehicles He saw that I had some equipment in the back of the truck and he asked me if it was for dog training? I relied "yes it is." I was rearranging some items in the back and just happened to also have my Old Bible with me. I had been reading it at the dog training grounds the other day while waiting for friends. 

The man was about my age and he asked where I trained and we began to talk about where and what kind of dog I had. But his eyes wandered to my old beat up Bible several times. He then said to me. Do you believe in the Bible and if  you do give me one good reason why you do. 

I explained that I believe in the Bible and all 66 books within it to be God's inspired Word. But most of all It saved my life one night and gave me hope for tomorrow. 

I quoted the verse. Matthew 11:28-29 NKJV Come to Me, all you who labor and heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart. , and you will find rest for your soul.

The man thanked me and said this. "You do well speaking your faith and a I see the Bible is well worn. Keep the faith sir. Keep the faith." Then he left.

I am not sure if that was a test from some angel or just a man making conversation. I guess I will never know. 

Hebrews 13:2 NKJV Do not forget to entertain strangers, for by doing some have unwittingly entertained angels. 

Point of the day. You just never know when or where you might have to justify your faith in God. Be prepared to give an answer, even at the hardware store.

God bless.

Marty

Beware Of Beauty That Can Sting You. 7/9/2026

 Good Morning,

I just warmed up my cup of Door County Breakfast Blend Coffee and it is time to write. 

This morning I would like to spend a moment delivering  a message that is good for both genders and all ages. 

                                                    Photo Credit Ray and June Puls

At one time or another in life our eyes have seen something desirable to us and our minds wander toward obtaining the object despite the dangers of possessing it. 

Men, God has created woman to tbe please to our eyes. But those married or in a committed relationship, wandering eyes can lead to hurt, sorrow or at times even danger. This goes for the ladies as well. The stud on the Hallmark channel never seems to burp or fart nor do they smell from mowing the lawn. Wandering eyes and then acting upon those thoughts of "Life could be better if I had that one next to me," has ruined many many relationships. 

That purse which costs a months rent and the matching shoes can deplete a monthly budget in a fast minute. The truck which you own and is paid for, doesn't look that great anymore, but is faithful to start and works just fine, doesn't need a loan or a monthly payment.

All things might look good and are enticing to the eye, mind or heart , but they have hidden circumstances /costs that come with looking first and then acting upon your lust and desires. But like the beautiful flower in the photo above there are hidden thorns and a sore thumb is the first step in being warned of the danger in pursuing your desires and lust. 

Colossians 3:5 Put to death, therefore whatever belongs to your earthly nature: sexual immorality, impurity, lust, evil desires, and greed,which is idolatry.  

Colossians 5:16 So I say,"walk by the Spirit and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh. 

Debt, lust, anger, and greed often come wrapped in attractive packages but buyer beware, there is always a cost to your desires. 

God bless. 
Marty

Advice Given. Advice Not Taken 7/8/2026

 Good Morning,

I am having drinking some of the last of my Door County Christmas flavors . It won't be too long before I run out of the Christmas brews.  So today I salute Christmas in July with a hot cup of Door County Naughty Or Nice Grog.

Proverbs 18:2 ESV A fool takes no pleasure in understanding, but only in expressing his opinion. 

Galatians 2:10 ESV Only, they asked us to remember the poor, the very thing I was eager to do. 

One thing that gets me irritated is people who just pounce at any opportunity to hand out advice. Now advice is a good thing, but at times it is not solicited for. There are people who pass by and hear part of a conversation and then feel that they should jump in with their opinion and their solution to your issue. It doesn't even really need to be an issue. They throw in an opinion to any situation you are in. They are those folks who, start in the conversation, with "You could do this. You should have done this. Did you try that? Or why not do it this way.?

These are the folks that surgeons can't wait for the patient to be asleep because they don't need advice from the patient and his or her peanut gallery.

These same folks are never seen actually in the mud with a shovel, but they have a plan on how you can remove it. Or you can't take them seriously because they are habitually late, but yet they have an answer and a comment before they are even greeted.. This is what I call "All hat and no cattle." Or another one. "All skirt and no knickers."

My good friend and buddy shared a quote with me from an unknown author.

"Why would I take criticism from someone who I would not take advice from?"

During a murky situation a wise person offers help by saying. "Is there anything I can do to help.?"It's hard to take them serious when all they offer is criticism and unsolicited advice".

Food for thought today. Are you a helper or a yelper? If you just can't resist criticizing another person's efforts make sure your own grass is dog poop free.

Have a great day. 

Marty

Time For A Self Examination 7/7/2026

 Good Morning,

My Door County Christmas Coffee is tasting mighty fine today. Nothing like a hot coffee and a fire to start your day. It is time to write. 

In today's medicine you can check your own blood sugar levels with a small meter. You can monitor your blood pressure also with a small meter. Your body temperatures are very easy to take now. There are a lot of things you can do to monitor your own health. This information helps your physician to adjust medications if needed. It also let's you know if your body is functioning properly. It is amazing what you can do for yourself in managing your health care. 

Our hearts are the main muscle that keeps blood flowing and is vital to many facets of our physical health. Our heart is also our emotional gauge. 

One other thing that we should monitor now and then is how our heart loves others. There is a self test we can perform to see how our heart is functioning and treating others. 

1 Corinthians 13:4-8 Love suffers long and is kind; love does not envy. love does not parade itself, is not puffed up; 5. does not behave rudely, does not seek it's own, is not provoked, thinks no evil. 6.does not rejoice in iniquity; but rejoices in the truth; 7. bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things.

If you take this passage and look at each love category within the Scripture and score yourself honestly on a scale of 1-10, 10 being the high score and 1 being the lowest score, you will have done a "Love examination"

If there are areas where you need improvement you can ask God Our Great Physician to show you your issues and also show you how to improve.

Psalm 139:23-24 Search me and know my heart; Try me and know my anxieties: 24 And see if there is  any wicked way in me. And lead me in the way everlasting. 

Food for thought. Are you brave enough, and tough enough to let your spouse or family score you on their clipboard of your heart?

Have a great day! Gos bless.

Marty 

You Are A Rose To Someone!7/6/2026

 Good Morning, 

I am running late today. I was up earlier and sat down to pray and read my Bible before writing. And guess what? I fell asleep while reading. The chair I was sitting in was too comfortable. I don't think I will make that mistake again. I just poured a hot cup of Door County Candy Cane Coffee and it is time to write. 

Isaiah 35:1-2 NKJV The wilderness and the wasteland shall be glad for them, And the desert shall rejoice and blossom as the rose. 2. It shall blossom abundantly and rejoice, even with singing. 

Yesterday Rene and I hosted a small cook out with my side of the family. It is kind of easy to do. Our family is small, so it does not take much of an effort to host a meal. The weather cooperated and everyone made it to the meal. An announcement was made to let us all know that there will be a wedding next June. We talked and planned for Thanksgiving

We have experienced tough times together as a family and a few times I wondered if we would survive as a group. But like a rose that can be found in a desert, somehow God brings us back as a group. 

Point for the day. You might feel like no one cares and you are in a barren dry land. But remember you are a rose to someone who does care. You are a bright spot to others.

Have a great day! God Bless,

Marty

If If If But But But7/5/2026

 Good Morning, 

Nothing like a hot cup of Door County Naughty Or Nice Grog Coffee to start the day. I am ready to write. 

Ecclesiastes 5:3 For a dream comes with much business, and a fools voice with many words. 

I do believe that as humans we often allow ourselves to play the If game. This game has us speculating on what could have happened , should have happened, and the actual what happened. "If they had only done this, things would be better."  Whatever has taken place is now a part if history and you can't change it.You can correct the future by learning from a mistake made and applying that knowledge to the future. 

Once we have second guessed our every step, we advance to the line of But But But. This is the game of excuses. We sound like a cheap old outboard motor starting up on an icy cold November day. Once we start applying "But" to the circumstances or failure it becomes a quick emotional bandage for our egos. 

People like to apply both words into a situation. "If they or  you had done this differently, but if it fails we we can correct it "If"  It is a vicious circle of continual correcting mistakes without rally correcting anything. A dream is not a fact. It is a dream. 

Today, try not using the words If and But. We spend too much time changing things in our minds without making changes. We spend too much time and effort justifying a bad choice. 

Have a blessed day. 

Marty

A Tragedy Marks The 4th Of July 7/4/2026

 Good Morning,

I am still observing Christmas in July. Therefore I am drinking a hot cup of Door County Naughty Or Nice Grog. It is time to write.

Psalm 33:12 ESV Blessed is the nation, whose God is the Lord. The people who He has chose as His heritage

Yesterday severe storms ran through a portion of our state. Warnings were being sounded and it was time to watch the sky. The storms did not cut through our property. So no tragedy here. 

Just an hour away from us the story is not so nice. A family was boating on one of our large inland lakes. I am not going to second guess what happened at all. The terrible news was that 3 children died when their boat capsized.  No matter how it happened this tragedy is ugly and my heart goes out to those who survived the high winds and large waves. Yesterday was a day they will never forget. I have been in prayer for the families who lost a child or children. 

I am asking those who read this to stop, look up and pray with me for these families impacted. Pray for the first responders who will take this memory with them also. We often forget the impact tragedy has on those who have to say. "He or she died. We did our best to save the victim." They pass by those waiting for a miracle and they don't have the words to make the situation better. They carry their hurt with them silently. 

Today in America we celebrate our Independence day. I know this. 250 years ago we declared our independence and joined 13 colonies together and formed one great nation. I will celebrate like everyone else. Our flag flies nicely over our home and I am proud to be an American. I will recall my history lessons and know that our independence did not come easy . On July 4th 1776 someone heard those words. "We could not save him."

Celebrate America and hold on to the freedom we enjoy and cherish.

Marty