God Had A Surprise Planned 10/24/2026

 Good Morning,

I am goose hunting this morning and my insulated bottle is filled with Door County Irish Creme Coffee and here's hoping for the hunt to be safe and productive.

Roman 8:28 And we know that in all things God works for the good for those who love Him, who have been called to His purpose.

I want to talk about yesterday. I have been putting some time in as a poll worker in my city for an upcoming election. The early voting has begun and we have been quite busy. 

I have been praying daily for an old friend who I have known for a long time but haven't seen for just as long. Facebook allowed for our paths to meet up. 

Today we were pretty busy and when I looked up from what I was doing, this lady was in front of me. She was smiling and grinning and said "Marty it's me:::::. "We were both in shock to meet up in a public area during an election. We hugged and as tough as I think I am, my eyes sprung a leak or two. She has been on my mind for a few days and I have been praying for her since we chatted on instant messenger.

God knew that this meeting was needed and He showed that He is constantly working behind the scenes for His children. But yesterday, He showed us what He was thinking and He in my mind provided a small miracle.  

I am looking forward to see what He will do for my friend. It doesn't sound like much, but today in the town hall heaven moved a little.

Have a great day!!!

Marty

Enjoying A Mild Night 10/23?2026

 Good Morning. 

I am enjoying a very hot cup of Door County Pumpkin Spice Coffee and I will be taking some with me today as a have some work to do. Nothing like some hot coffee when you are taking a break. 

Philippians 1:3-4 NIV I thank my God every time I remember you. 4. In all of my prayers for all of you. I always pray with joy. 

Last evening found me outside in the spotlight of a bright moon doing some dog training with our two English Springer Spaniels, Gibbs and Leo. It was a good night to be outside and the boys got a good workout. Leo is still in his prime and Gibbs is very old and deaf. Last night he was running with purpose, chasing the bumpers I threw for him. I was recalling some of the nights spent in our yard training both of them when they were young puppies. 

We live close to a set of train tracks and many a night while training I can hear a train sounding the crossing horn as it approached the road crossing just East of us. I especially like to hear the sound of th horn in the dead of winter as it starts blowing 3/4 of a mile South of us. 

For some reason the horn seems peaceful on a cold winter's night. On the cold cold nights it reminds me to be thankful for a warm, populated home that is truly a gift from God. It reminds me to load my arms with more firewood for the night. It's funny how the sound of a train is peaceful to me. 

What reminds you to be thankful and pray? For me. It is a train, a backyard, and a dog at work/play. I am so grateful for that time and for the One whom I am thanking for the blessings bestowed on me. You never know. That train call to prayer might have me praying for you. 

Food for thought!

Marty

Pulling Their Own Weight 10/21/2026

 Good Morning,

My mug was just filled with Door County Irish Cream Coffee and itis time to write. For the past couple of days I have been working with a team of poll workers hired by our city to assist with a big election.

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

I have observed a team of people who all carry their own weight and more at times. They come to work and work they do. Their parents raised some kids with epic work ethics. I would bet a few dollars that they come from a family that believed in working hard and setting an example of how to do it without complaining. 

They don't hoard knowledge and set a great example of teamwork.

Here's a question with a challenge. What work example have you set for your children and grandchildren? Are their ethics reflective of what you have taught them to do? Now remember the flip side. Are their work ethics full of sloth and inability to work without supervision?

Spiritually do they follow the gold standard of serving God and living a life worthy of being called children of God? Or are they the type that shows up late, leaves early and really can't be counted on to be used by God.  

Children are very often a product of their environment. Food for thought!

Marty

The Hand Changed.10/21/2026

 Good Morning,

I woke up to the aroma of Door County Maple Coffee brewing in the kitchen. It is time to write. 

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

Yesterday I made the statement that if someone is in need of a helping hand, that hand might be attached to your arm. I am not retracting the statement, but applying it in a different way. You might be in a position to help others. 

Ecclesiastes 9:10 Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with all your might. 

I believe in helping folks when they are in need of a hand. But in some instances, people become dependant on others for help and never really walk on their own. In these instances some folks need to look at end of their own arm for a helping hand. Help is not to be a substitute for hard work and determination. 

When accepting some help, always be grateful, and start developing a plan to drop being dependant on others. If at all possible  be the one who breaks the chain on dependency. 

Be sure to add prayer to your plan and share your plan to be victorious with someone who will hold you accountable for achieving success.  

There is nothing like the feeling of setting a goal and then achieving that goal on your own. 

God is your biggest cheerleader and it is His pleasure to see you succeed. 

Food for thought!

Marty

The Voting Begins 10/20/2026

 Good Morning,

My insulated bottle was just filled with Door County Spiced Apple Pie Coffee and in a few minutes I will be heading out to perform a small job I have taken on for the next two weeks. 

I was hired to serve as a poll worker for the city I live in for national, state and local elections. It gives me a paycheck for my time worked and allows me to serve my country, state, community and the voters. 

Proverbs 11:25 Whoever brings blessing will be enriched  and one who waters will himself be watered.

The folks I have been working with over the past two years are all top notch folks with a desire to serve others. Our leader is passionate to get the voting done on time and correctly. As it should be. 

My thought for the day is this. There are a lot of small jobs that can be done in your community, neighborhood, church, and schools. In some instances they are looking fo very part time workers. 

For instance we have been advised to keep the tree leaves out of the storm sewers in our city. What does it take to sweep off the top and bag the refuse? Not much effort at all or do you wait for someone else to do it? My wife Rene and a few folks at church save aluminum cans for recycling. The money earned goes to a cause of their choice. Right now it is being given to a young couple with needs. They volunteer their time collecting, crushing and then redeeming them for cash. 

Food for thought. The helping hand some city or individual needs might be attached to your arm. 

God bless, 

Marty 

Looking Forward And Not Looking Back 10/19/2026

 Good Morning. 

I am enjoying a hot cup of Door County Spiced Apple Pie Coffee and it is really tasting very good this morning.

2 Corinthians 4:18 ESV as we look to not to the things that are seen but to things that are unseen. For the things that are seen are transient, but things that are unseen are eternal. 

Bacon Wrapped Turkey covered in maple syrup.

As humans we spend a lot of time reminiscing the past. We look at photos of people, places and things that had an impact on us so much that we capture the photo so we can look back at it and recall the person, place or event that is special to us. This is a nice way to appreciate the moment or the person. 

Unfortunately in some instances the memory vault holds painful memories, hurts and sorrows. I am like every other person in having a spot in the memory vault that is a place I don't like to go, yet it is still a part of my life. I really don't have a cure for the memories that hurt. We won't really be able to blot them out completely and maybe we shouldn't. It's sometimes good to remember where you came from in life. 

The one recommendation I do have and I follow is to look forward at the next good event and enjoy the planning of it. Then take part in it. Afterwards take the good memory and catalogue it in your memory vault. Add a photo or two or fifty to your collection. But remember the planning can be sometimes just as nice as the event itself. 

We have been included in the plans for a great Thanksgiving with family and friends. I have taken this event to prayer so as to protect the day from not happening. 

Look ahead my friends. Don't let the past anchor you in mud. Don't dwell too long on those who have gone on but live for the living. 

Food for thought!

Marty

Some Things Can't Wait 10/18/2026

 Good Morning,

I woke up this morning to our two dogs wanting to be fed and then let outside. After I finish writing I will make a pot of Door County Maple Coffee. It is time to write. 

Matthew 6:33 Seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness and all these things will be added to you.

This world moves so fast these days and I am just as busy as if I were working full time, even though I am retired. If I could take things as they come it would be extremely difficult to keep up with the pace of things needing to be done. Unfortunately, even at my age I have to sit down now and then to prioritize what needs to be next and what can wait. 

Somethings can't wait and even those items of urgency need to take a number and wait. For instance automobile maintenance is important but quite often it can wait a few days or in some instances a little longer. But when the engine light comes on or the brakes feel spongy, it is more of an immediate thing and shouldn't wait. 

I can't give you a list of priorities, that would be up to you to do. But a life that just takes what is next and does not prioritize will be hectic to say the least. 

For me, my list has a top three that do not change. And actually it helps me to stay focused  for the rest of my to do list.

#1 Is God and He needs to stay number one at all times.

#2 My family is next and as long as God is number one they are more secure. 

#3 Is me. I need to stay healthy spiritually, emotionally and physically to the best of my abilities. 

Everything else can still be prioritized and should be. It makes life less hectic and confusing. 

Food for thought. 

Marty

I Thought I Was Right 10/17/2026

 Good Morning, 

I am moving slow today and the Door County Wisconsin Harvest Blend Coffee is waking me up a little. 

Have you ever thought that something was true and you were willing to die in that ditch thinking you were right? But then someone proved to you that you were wrong. Do you humbly proceed to admit you were wrong ? Or do you stick to your thoughts out of stubborness and let people see that you are hard to work with. They see that you are unwilling to admit you were wrong and any further exchanges already have you labeled as  "No Team Player."

As Christians we are held to the belief that we are to admit our wrongs in order to keep the house of the Lord clean and moving in the right direction. .

Proverbs 16:8 I have set the Lord constantly before me. For he is at my right hand. I shall not be shaken. 

It is assured when we argue a point wrongly all further actions by us will always be scrutinized more than usual. Thus fighting for a cause that has been proved wrong lowers the standards of further discussions. 

Food for thought. Be proper, honest and in prayer. Avoid arguments when you have to make a guess. Admit when you are wrong. Make things right before the sun goes down.

Marty

Capture The Elusive Dreams 10/16/2026

 Good Morning,

It is time to write. My mug is filled with Door County Irish Creme Coffee and it is tasting mighty fine. 

I day dream what I would say is a very small portion of each day for me. I hear a song or read something and then my mind wanders off chasing that dream the song or words stirred up. 

I learned a long long time ago that it is far more productive to ignore dreams than chasing after dreams that are most times created in my own mind. If I look at the dreams with the glasses of reality I usually don't pursue them.

It's ok to dream and desire things that are wholesome for us and attainable. An ice skater chases the dream of winning a medal in the Olympics. With a lot of hard work that dream is attainable. But if that skater is 70 years old and crippled up from life, in reality that medal won't be coming home with the aged olympian. 

Ecclesiastes 5:7 ESV For when dreams increase and words grow many, there is vanity. But God is the one you must fear. 

Your dreams are yours and can be a source of confusion or of comfort. It's the importance you place on the dreams and my advice is to accept reality and fix what you can fix, accept what is real, and if you set a dream as important, work extra hard to achieve the goal. 

Before you go down chasing dreams, stop and ask God if this is what He wants for you.

Food for thought.

Marty

Taking In The View 10/15/2026

 Good Morning,

My morning is slow to develop today so my cup of  Door County Pumpkin Spice Coffee is working hard to make that happen

Yesterday my wife Rene and I made a day trip to Door County . This wasn't our usual fall trip of three days but any day relaxing and taking in some fresh air is better than none at all. Both dogs went for the road trip as well

As we traveled and shopped to pick up a few things from the area we were in awe of the trees and their fall display of color. On the back roads there was hardly any traffic, so we took our time munching on apples and commenting on the colors

My wife remarked how she wished we could stay for at least two days. Due to commitments and appointments we could only do a long day trip. I replied "1 day is better than none."

We both agreed and set our sights on the colors surrounding us

We were in an area that God knew we would be and the display He put on was  tremendous.

I felt short changed when we had to head for home but that soon dissipated and turned to gratefulness. Rene, remarked that while traveling down that old road, we were in the presence of God. I agreed and then shared this Scripture with her

Psalm 84:10 NIV 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

We came home tired but fulfilled. We spent the day together and our stomachs were full of some Door County specialties. God put on a display of His majesty and power for sure.

One day is better than none

Marty

 

Let's Help Those Kids Out 10/14/2026

 Good Morning,

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

I was reminiscing about my teen years. I just attended the funeral visitation for one of my childhood friends last Saturday. She was the younger sister to one one of my buddies. There were four of us back in the day who hung around together. We played a lot of sports and worked on our old cars which kept us pretty busy. We were always doing something together.

Romans 15:7 ESV Therefore welcome one another as Christ has welcomed you, for the glory of God. 

Occasionally we would meet some girls now and then take them to a movie, Big Boys after the movie.And if we could get some wine "Boones Farm"was always a very good year! We might have imbibed a little. The flirting would begin long before we even picked them up for a date. One of my dates worked at the neighborhood pharmacy and emporium of soft drinks and gum. Do you have any idea how much gum I purchased, jut to get a smile? 

I won't rant about the need for chaperoned activities. Kids now days are surrounded by security, cell phones ("the ultimate kid tracker") . 

But plan some family outings and if possible allow them to bring a friend. Even if that friend is of the opposite gender. Set the rules but invite them along.   Kids aren't fussy and just about everyone of them eats pizza. But wouldn't want them along with you then having them on their cell phone with all the friends they left behind? 

I recall our daughter signing up to man crisis hotlines . There were five of these kids.  The shift started at 11:PM and ended at 4:AM. They needed an adult chaperone and of course a ride home. We stopped at an all night greasy spoon for eggs and toast at the end of the shift. If I could or had to, I would spend those sleepless hours all over again. 

As teens think, at their age, their friends are most important. Let them see that you love them and their friends are important to you as well. You will be the winner.

Food for thought!

Marty

Popsicles For A Hot Day 10/13/2026

 Good Morning,

The Door County Chocolate Cherry Coffee is still brewing, but I am ready to write. I will enjoy theI'm coffee later.

Revelation 3:15-16 I know your works, that you are neither cold nor hot. I could wish that you were cold or hot. 16. So then, because you are lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot I will vomit you out of my mouth.

 

                                                    Photo Credit Face Book

It was a little warmer outside than normal for this time of year yesterday. It's wasn't terrible, but a cold drink sounded like a good idea to quench my bout with the heat. As I went to the freezer for some ice cubes, I recalled that we had a box of Popsicles in there and they have been there all summer. It was time to unleash the cold treat. It did the trick so I ate two. 

My point for the day is this. We need to quench ourselves as to not overheat while working outside. Fortunately for me, I was home and the freezer made the cool down easy to do. 

On the other side of the spectrum some things are better warm than cold. All too often we put our faith in a position that it is cold , not hot. Our spiritual temperature if not maintained through prayer, study, and service to God cools down and we find ourselves useless to God and others.

Our laziness puts out the fire of faith that once was on fire for the Lord like a candle on a windy night. Ignoring our faith causes us to have hearts that are cold toward God and others.

Food for thought??

Marty 

Chicken Soup, The Ultimate Comfort Food 10/12/2026

 Good Morning,

I just poured myself a hot cup of Door County Peanut Butter Crunch Coffee and it is time to write. 

Psalm 107:9 For He satisfies the longing soul, and the hungry soul He fills with good things. 

I have a little celebration taking place at my desk this morning. Today's blog is the 5000th time I have written since the conception of this daily effort. It's a quiet celebration with our two dogs, me and a cup of coffee to toast this achievement. 

Yesterday we worked a little on helping a friend overcome a nasty, nasty cold. It's early in the fall and our friend already was battling an illness. So we broke out the  soup kettle and produced a pot full of what I believe is a recipe sent from above. I was able to deliver the soup to our dear friend yesterday morning. I used the kettle we purchased at a flea market for a dollar back in 1994. We spare no expense when it comes to decorating the kitchen. Ha! I have no idea how many pots of soup have been simmered in the "family heirloom". 

Funny thing though. I came back home and made another pot for us. We dined on the soup last night and rested contently. I love the fall and winter weather and to me there is nothing like a hot mug of chicken soup, a fire in the fireplace, and the Good Book to warm the soul and body. 

I always say. "God made you. God made chicken soup. So go ahead and treat yourself good as well.

Have a great day. 

Marty

Watch Out For Sabotage 10/11/2026

 Good Morning,

Today has my cup filled with Door County Jamaican Me Crazy Coffee and it is time to write.

I love to hear success stories from those in life who started at rock bottom and climbed the ladder of success. It could be a businessman who started producing a product in his garage and turned it into a million dollar  enterprise. Or the athlete who just won a Gold medal and then tells the story of how his family or her family had to sacrifice to pay for time on the ice and how much they spent on ice skates for 18 years. How about someone who was saved from death in an accident and now is a movie star? The world is full of success stories.

Satan does not like to hear about success stories especially when the successful give all of the glory to God. In some ways Satan will try to sabotage the success with an attack of amnesia. The successful forget Who granted them the skills they possess. In other words they forget where they came from. Success alone can be sabotage of the memory

James 1:17 NIV Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows.

Just a little food for thought. Don't forget your Creator on the way up in this world. What goes up, might just come down

God bless

Marty

Show Us You Dear God 10/10/2026

 Good Morning,

I just sat down to a hot cup of Door County Maple Coffee and it is tasting mighty fine. It is time to write.

To seek God's Glory

Is to pray, Let your nature spill forth. 

God show us God

Maz Lucado

A couple years ago m wife Rene and I took a self guided tour of the Mountains and parks of the Western United States. To say the least, these two Wisconsinites were in awe of God's Mountain Displays including the wild life. 

Each turn in the roads offered another view of His glory. We drove through the scenery and stopped when we wanted to take more in. It is a trip I will never forget. 

Back in the day of Moses. After the incident with the Golden Calf, Moses requested to see God's glory. My interpretation of this request was that Moses was seeking a deeper and more intimate relationship with God. Moses was making sure that God in His anger did not abandon the people of Israel. 

Exodus 33:18 NIV Then Moses said, "show me Your Glory.

Back to our trip. I recall stopping along a cliff laden road to watch the mountain goats climb the side of a mountain. Once again I was in awe of God's display of glory, power and majesty.

While resting from hiking a little, I sat and prayed a prayer of thanks. Thanks for a safe trip, thanks for friends we visited and to God for putting Himself on display through His creation.

Point for the day is this. Open our eyes Lord we want to see your beauty, love and grace. Thank you God for the sunrise I just witnessed. The sun, the moon and the stars are all yours and you share them with us. 

Food for thought. God loves you enough to show you a glimpse of Him through His creations. If at all possible take in as much as you can. And stop to pray.

Marty

It Is Not About Me 10/9/2026

 Good Afternoon!

My cup of Door County Pumpkin Spice Coffee was finished about 8 hours ago. This blog is way overdue so let's have at it.

The phrase "It's not about me should be written on our hands as a reminder that although you are important and I am as well, the world dies not spin just for us. If we allow it, we can become self centered and it happens in a way that creeps up on us. 

The first sign of being self centered is when invitations to do things with old friends become less and less. You might be self centered if in a discussion your opinion is not asked for, but you give it anyway.  Another way to be aware of being self centered is that you get your way by just pestering people to do things your way. You wear them down with annoyance. 

Another trait of being self centered is you receive an invitation but then start to change the event that isn't your to change. 

This verse Philippians 2:4-8 if taken seriously can help self centered folks come back to the reality of "It's Not All About You."

Philippians 2. Not looking at your own interests but each of you to the interests of others. 

5. In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset, as Christ Jesus 

6. Who being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be used  to his own advantage.

7. rather he made himself nothing by taking the very nature of a servant being made in human likeness.

8. And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself, by being obedient to death, even on a cross. 

There are two ways to read this next statement. When you arrive on the scene and someone whispers but you can still hear them say. "Oh God, (he or she ) is here." I am here to say that they are not calling you God. 

God bless 

Marty

The Only World I Know 10/8/2026

 Good Morning from our kitchen table today.

I am writing in the kitchen today and enjoying  large, hot cup of Door County Pumpkin Spice Coffee. 

1 Timothy 6:6-8 But Godliness with contentment is great gain. 7. For we brought nothing into the world, and we can take nothing out of it. 8. But if we have food and clothing we will be content. 

I have been taught by my parents to appreciate the good things in life and to avoid the bad. I listened to one main lesson they taught me. "Be content with what you have. wanting more is not worth losing your family."

I guess you could say that my world is the only one I know and I haven't strayed too far from the family thoughts on life, love and God. If you are content, malcontent, rich, poor, busy, too busy, one who's mind wanders constantly, we all have something in common. We all die and are buried in the same size hole in the ground. You might have an ornate tombstone, compared to others. But we all end up in the same size hole.

Food for thought. You can choose to be content or not content.

Marty

 

Every Life Has A Little Rain Fall Into It. 10/7/2026

 Good Morning,

I am sipping on some hot Door County Pumpkin Spice Coffee and it is time to write. 

A good friend of mine used to always say "Into every life a little rain must fall" 

Psalm 121:3 NIV He will not let your foot slip, He who watches over you will not slumber. 

My wife Rene and I and our two dogs were supposed to take a day trip to Door County Wisconsin  just to get away and spend some time looking at the fall colors and stock up our pantry with goodies. 

Last night on the way home from a meeting the low air pressure warning light came on in my truck. I stopped to put some air into it, but by the time I had driven home the light was back on, indicating we had a "problem". 

I tried several ways to think about how we could salvage this much needed trip.#1 was to just take Rene's car. That idea would have had the dogs very uncomfortable by the end of the day. #2 Was to put the spare tire on and then travel without an operational spare in case of another tire issue.That idea was scratched right away. #3 idea! was to just accept that we weren't going to make the trip. I will take the truck in for a tire repair or a new tire. We also looked on the bright side. We were alerted of a problem before we hit the road with two dogs in the truck. 

We chose to bite the bullet and stay home, get the tire issue resolved and say that God protected us from a greater calamity. 

So wish me well as I air up and head to the tire emporium! Praising God for the warning!

Marty

Grief Share And The Guys 10/6/2026

 Good Morning,

I am enjoying a hot cup of Door County Wisconsin Harvest Blend Coffee and it was a much needed one. It is time to write. 

Ecclesiastes 3:4 There is a time to weep, and a time to laugh. 

There is a time to mourn and a time to dance. 

I have been attending a group session at our church for several months now. It is called Grief Share. The meetings are designed to help folks who have suffered a loss through the death of someone they were close to. Some of the guys attending lost their wives recently, one lost their mother, or a child and I lost a grandchild. 

The group meets faithfully on Monday nights, and watches a video, then discusses and answers questions from a study guide book. Last night we gathered at our home to celebrate the completion of the book. Of course lasagna and garlic bread was on the menu.

I am being completely honest when I say that I needed this class  to help me along the way of mourning the loss of our grandson. 

My point for the day is this. Life moves so quickly and during the grieving process, there seems to be a time set in our  minds as to how long one should grieve and what type of grief might deserve more time. How to grieve can only be answered by you. Each experience has a different answer for each different person. 

I am here to say that sharing experiences, and showing the reality of our hearts, open and honestly was a new approach for me, but it worked.  My wife Rene helped me serve the food up and she sat with all the guys and listened. She chimed right in which is unusual for her. Later she said, I felt good being in the company of the fellas and being the only woman. It was good to hear them chat and tell some stories about their loved ones. Ths stories reminded me of times we had with our grandson. Last night I was reminded just how much our grandson like garlic bread nd ho he helpd me produce it for bigger family dinners. 

Rene is not too talkative. And she doesn't share her feelings much either. But I watched her last Christmas rushing through a box of Christmas tree ornaments to put the one up with Dominick's picture on it. She also asks me about the sessions I have been attending, when I get home on Monday nights. 

Here is the point. Everyone grieves differently and the time of grieving cannot have a calendar tied to it. Your job to help someone in the grieving process is to "Be there". To the one who is grieving, don't be too proud to obtain some help and lean on a friend or two. You should have seen the smiles on the faces of the guys when they chatted last night about some of the things they did in the past with their loved ones. 

Food for thought. 

Marty

The Folly Of The Light Bulb 10/5/2026

 Good Morning. 

It's time for a hot cup of Door County Maple Coffee to start off this day.

Little by little I have replaced all of our household lighting with LED lighting. The light bulb package brags that the life expectancy of these LED lights should be 13.7 years. So far I have outlived several of the LED bulbs . I tried returning the light bulbs from where I purchased them and they don't really do too much in the way of warranty work. You must call the manufacturer and the time wasted waiting on the other end of the telephone is not worth what it costs to pursue bulb replacements or obtain a refund. 

My point for the day is this. There isn't much you can count on anymore to be true. Many businesses have no conscience and they count on people not wanting to go to extreme measures to obtain warranty work. 

Once again money and greed win out over people and their purchases. But, here is the reminder that we need to heed. Regardless of how crookedly we are cheated we are in return to be honest and walk upright. We are not to lose our tempers. In the long run those who are wicked and dishonest will suffer God's punishment. We leave it up to Him.

Psalm 37:7-8 Rest in the Lord and wait patiently for Him; Do not fret because of him who prospers in his way. Because of the man who brings wicked schemes to pass. Cease from anger and forsake wrath, it only causes harm. 

Food for thought!

Marty

Willing To Go The Distance 10/4/2026

 Good Morning,

I have an early appointment to keep this morning so I will drink my cup of Door County Maple Coffee on the run.

Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 Two are better than one , because they have a good return for their labor. 10. If either one of them falls down, one can help the other up. But pity anyone who falls and has no one to pull them up.

My wife and I recently celebrated our wedding anniversary. I was thinking about marriage the other day and just how much of each year is filled with the unknown. You never know what each year will be bring to the couple who swear to be there through thick or thin till death do they part. The vow to love God and each other despite what the world throws at them is what is for the long distance. 

When that I do is said during thew wedding ceremony the launch to the finish is started. My friends contemplating marriage, remember your vow is to go the distance and that vow needs to be kept at all cost. 

If during your dating and engagement period there are arguments and break ups, even just temporary ask this question. "Are you a "go the distance" type of person? Is your potential partner willing to break up because of an argument and this happens repeatedly maybe he or she is not a "go the distance type." You yourself could be the weak link in the relationship. 

The go the distance type of person faces hard times and gives strength to their partner. They face hard times without whining or complaining. They never quit. 

Food for thought!

Marty

Waking Up The Dogs 10/3/2026

 There is a very hot cup of Door County Pumpkin Spice Coffee in my future and it is time to write. 

Last night sleep seemed to escape from me and I am not sure why. I was up late prepping for my Saturday activities. So my mind was working a little overtime so maybe that was the reason for a lack of sleep. 

I used the time awake to read some scripture and pray. I prayed for some sleep, but that never came about. 

The one bad thing about it was the fact that I dropped a plastic water glass in the sink around 2:00 AM . It was empty and made of hard plastic. But once that water glass hit the sink it bounced about and had our two dogs startled and they let loose barking. I am here to say that the ruckus did not wake up my wife. 

My point for today is this. When going without sleep, at least turn the light on so as to not startle humans or the canine cops when they look for what made the unusual noise at 2:AM 

I am however very glad that the dogs sleep lightly and guard the house/ They are not lazy at all. But you still need to do your part. Take good care of your animals and they will care for you. Lock your doors. Leave a light on. Keep pathways clear in your home. Be vigilant.

Isaiah 56:10 NLT For the leaders of my people, the Lord's watchmen, his shepherds are blind and ignorant. They are like silent watchdogs that give no warning when trouble comes.. They love to lie around, sleeping and dreaming.

So we have our home security set. But spiritually, what do we allow to come into the house via the internet, television or book form? Do we sound an alarm when greed takes over our home and attitudes? Do we wander the path of infidelity and not see it as wrong or dangerous? Is this enough to cause the dogs of God to bark?

Turn on the light and walk the correct path of righteousness.

Marty

It Looks Nice/ But It Is A Fake 10/2/2026

 Good Morning,

It is a fine day to be drinking some Door County Wisconsin Harvest Blend Coffee. It is time to write. 

Proverbs 14:5 The plans of the diligent lead to profit as surely as waste leads to poverty. 

Last Sunday Afternoon, my wife Rene and I  went to purchase a couple pumpkins to decorate our front porch for the fall. We went to a local pumpkin farm where they cater to the public with a great display promoting the fall season. 

To make their little pumpkin fair more attractive and spectacular they have a lot of props, which includes a very large inflatable pumpkin.

One little girl who was with her family to purchase some pumpkins was really impressed with the colossal pumpkin. I heard her tell her dad that the "Big big big one", was the one she wanted. Dad just laughed and asked her "How would we get it home? Her reply. "We will need a big truck/ 

So my point for the day is this. We all are at times mesmerized by the world and what they have to offer to the point that we can't spot a fake product or one that does not live up to it's promises. We as well, want things that just aren't good for us, yet they attract us like a moth to a light in the dark. 

So my friends "Buyer Beware" . Do the research and learn to spot a fake before you spend your money. In other words be patient and buy safely. Don't let your desires rule your thought process. It might look nice but the large pumpkin was just there for entertainment. 

God bless,

Marty 

Just A Word Or A Sound 10/1/2026

 Good Morning,

I raise my mug of Door County Wisconsin Harvest Blend Coffee in a salute to mornings and how every day starts anew. 

Romans 1:9 NKJV For God is my witness,whom I serve with my spirit in the gospel of His Son, that without ceasing I make mention of  you always in my prayers. 

We live pretty close to a railroad crossing and we hear the train horn before it reaches the crossing. I actually like the sound of the horn, especially on a below zero night in January when I am outside for a few minutes with our dogs. I believe the Holy Spirit uses that horn to remind me to pray for someone and the name of the person pops into my head and I pray. 

My prayer life is not confined to just evenings. This morning the train went by and I was reminded to pray for a group of people who we trained our dogs together last night. I am praising God this morning for answering the prayers of many for a little one year old boy who has been going through a bone marrow transplant. 

Some of you reading this today were prayed for and you will never know it. Prayer is just a moment in time when you can call upon God for yourself or others and bring Him on to the scene for their good or yours. I find that my prayer will include a time to be thankful as well. 

There is always time for prayer and I find that the sweetest prayer is to answer when the Holy Spirit knocks on the door of your heart and I pray immediately.

What , when, and where doesn't matter if your heart is a house of prayer. You will pray anywhere at anytime. It is the good life!

God bless,

Marty

Marty 

God Made The Apples 9/30/2026

 Good Morning,

My cup of Door County Pumpkin Spice Coffee is almost finished now and it is more than time to write!

Fall is settling in a day at a time and the cool air feels good after a summer with some very extreme heat. I have started drying apples for my hunting trips and for a healthy snack. The food dryer serves three purposes when it is drying fruit. 1. It provides a tasty snack for cold mornings in the duck blind. 2. While drying the fruit, the heat that radiates from the dryer  heats up the house a little. With that heat also comes a sweet aroma which also permeates the house and it also puts a smile on my face. 

Genesis 1:12 KJV And the earth brought forth grass, and herb and yielding seed after his kind, and the tree yielding fruit, whose seed was in itself, after his kind.: and God saw that it was good. 

I looked at an apple that I intend to dry out and I can see that when God made the apples He knew just what the apple could be used for. My wife Rene and I chop up bits of apple to put into our pancake batter. Apples are a good when they smother baked pork chops. We make our own juice from the apples now and then. And who doesn't like a hot slice of apple pie?

And last but not least how about a fresh apple with a salt shaker while you sit outside taking a rest from raking leaves? Oh! don't forget applesauce  

Yes indeed when God makes something He does it right, which includes you. You are the apple of his eye and He has so many uses for you and things for you two see. The options are endless. So the next time you polish and apple on your shirt while in the orchard, remember this. God made that apple and knew that one day you would have it in your hand ready to eat. He made that one apple just for you.

Time to stop now and eat my breakfast of apple slices, covered with peanut butter.

God bless,

Marty 

The Black Board Of Your Heart 9/29/2026

 Good Morning,

I am sitting at my desk this morning with a hot cup of Door County Pumpkin Spice Coffee. My eyes are open wide and it is time to write. 

1 Peter 5:7 NKJV Casting all your cares upon Him, for He cares for you.

When I was in grade school the teachers relied heavily on blackboard and chalk to make presentations to the class. I believe the infamous wall to wall board was designed to also embarrass children who struggled with getting up in front of their peers and then solve some stupid math problem. I just dreaded having to go up in front of the class for anything. In high school times changed and all you had to do was sit at your desk and answer a question or two now and then. 

                                                              Photo Credit Stock Cake 

Every day someone needed to clean the blackboards and erasers so they were fresh for the next day. If the teacher left something on the blackboard they would instruct the person doing the cleaning for the day to leave it on the board or erase it. I do recall one day when I totally botched dividing out some fractions and it did not get erased and was still visible the next morning. My mistake lived for another day and totally ruined my day for sure. 

My point for the day is that now and then we all are out on the stage of life and the experience of that day is embarrassing or painful. Or as much as we love another person, they don't love us as much or in the same way. You have the I Love You for them written on the blackboard of your heart. It is hard to erase a memory from that blackboard. 

I have only one solution for the hurts of the heart. And that is to take your heart to the Big Eraser. God is the only one that can really help to mend a heart and erase some bad memories. 

But, you have to want the board to be cleaned. You have to ask for it to be erased, washed and cleaned up. It is never too late to clean the slate. 

Have a great day/ God bless,

Marty

Guard Your Heart And Your Mind. They Make You Vulnerable 9/28/2026

 Good Morning,

My mug did overflow a little bit this morning and some of my Door County Wisconsin Harvest Blend Coffee spilled out. I might have 1 Springer Spaniel with a caffeine high. It is time to write. 

Titus 1:15-16 NKJV 15. To the pure all things are pure, but to those who are defiled and unbelieving nothing is pure, but even their mind and conscience are defiled.16 They profess to know God but in works they deny Him, being abominable, disobedient, and disqualified for every good work. 

Tough subject for an early Monday morning. But we live in a world that goes to great lengths to discourage believers in Jesus Christ. People will claim to know Him and even call him Lord. But after 15 minutes you can easily tell what they believe. 

They see your acts of service to Christ and His church as folly and not worth all the time you put in. They don't see your efforts as pure faith coming from a pure heart. Sooner than later their mouth will get ahead of their brain and they will poke fun at believers . Anything they don't understand and would not do themselves becomes fodder only fit for late night talk show hosts, making a dollar at the expense of others. 

There is a time when you become fully aware of the attack on your spirit and heart. God is faithful to point you in the right direction and exposes those who want to hide their sinful lives by putting Christianity down. 

So today, pray that you walk with your eyes wide open and guard your hearts from the defiled world.

Food for thought.

Marty

Another Year Babe. 9/27/2026

 Good Morning,

My writing is taking  place in our kitchen this morning instead of our desk. My Door County Wisconsin Harvest Blend Coffee is very hot on this beautiful cool morning. 

Song of Solomon 8:6b-7  Set me as a seal upon your heart, as a seal upon your arm for love is strong as death. Many waters cannot quench love. Neither can floods drown it.

Forty years ago I was a single man in the morning and I was married in the afternoon. I believe that my wife is a gift from God for two reasons. I believe God gifted me the wife that I needed. She gets the credit for keeping me grounded and steady. She and I make decisions together after prayer. We have mourned together and have rejoiced together. We have seen dreams come true and dreams that passed us by due to one circumstance or another. 

Rene and I plan on celebrating our anniversary with a meal at one of our preferred restaurants tonight and then get back to our normal routine tomorrow. 

I have no specific point to make except to add all of the readers into our celebration and ask for your prayers as we start this new year of marriage. 

Have a great day. Your spouse might be snoring yet this morning, but he or she is a gift from God. Cherish the time. It goes too fast.

God bless, 

Marty

No One Said It Would Be Easy 9/26/2026

 Good Morning,

I am happy and blessed to be able to pour a mug of hot cup of Door County Autumn Spice Coffee and dine on sme cornbread for breakfast. It is time to write. 

In July of 1981 I placed my faith in Jesus Christ My Lord and Savior on a night filled with agony and despair. Attending church and studying the Bible became the norm for me. Reading the Bible also reminded me from where I came from and now what was expected of me. I remember struggling with all of the church meetings  and how it interfered with the things I do. 

Shortly after conceding that a Godly life was in my best interest and that some things needed to go anyhow, my thoughts were changed. 

One of the passages that I read in August of 1981 was Titus 2:11-13 It was simple to read and understand. Nothing was being forced down my throat. It was a passage that I chose to follow.

Titus 2:11-13 NKJV For the Grace of God that brings salvation has appeared to all men, 12. teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly in the present age, looking for the blessed hope and glorious appearing of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ. 

I don't know about you. But I often don't concede with one warning or directions. The day after I read Titus 2:11-13 I read another passage. Micah 6:8 landed the blow that blew me away. Two passages in two days let me know that God wasn't kidding with me and surrender was in order. 

Micah 6:8 NKJV He has shown you, O man, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you.  But to do justly, To love mercy and walk humbly with your God. 

I have never regretted making the decision to follow God. I regret how many years that went by before I found the Way.

Food for thought!!

Marty

4983 Times 9/25/2026

 Good Morning,

Yesterday I was unable to put a pen to my thoughts because of personal reasons and a spirit that was in plain rebellion to just about everything and anything. 

Micah 6:8 NIV He has shown you, O, mortal what is good.

And what does the Lord require of you?

To act justly and love mercy.

and to walk humbly with your God. 

As I set up to write my blog this morning I was notified that this morning I would be publishing number 4983. I started writing in 2012 So roughly speaking this labor of love is 14 years old. 

I have invited the readers to share  in my choices of coffee, my heart and mind as well as the food menu in our home. I have shared times of joy and times of sorrow. Times of anger and depression  have been shared as well. You know the names of our dogs and what I am hunting for. I have taken the readers with me on vacation. 

Today I am enjoying a hot cup of Door County Wisconsin Blend Coffee. You might ask me as to why I started writing in the first place.  Our church admin assistant had the idea that we could have a daily devotional written each day by our pastors and elders.She was politely ignored due to a myriad of reasons, some good and some not so good. I didn't want to hurt her feelings so I took a shot at it and have been writing ever since. I stayed with this call and some day I will receive the call from God to rest up and drink my coffee alone.

I have never taken the time to thank you readers for your comments, good or bad. I have never said thank you for reading and some of you read this daily.  Thank you. It is your faithfulness and God's call to write that keeps me at my desk and wanting to serve Him.

Again thank you. And God bless you all. I will be back and focused tomorrow. 

Marty

When You Can't Be There Send Prayer And Good Thoughts. 9/23/2026

Good Morning,

I just finished my last cup of Door County Chocolate Cherry Coffee and it is time to write. 

Before writing this morning I had a small chore of love to do. I have been marinating two pork loins in the refrigerator for two days. I have two of my nephews headed out to opening day of duck season in the Northern part of our state this Saturday. They will be leaving for the hunting hot spot on Thursday. I was invited to go, but due to an upcoming anniversary and a few other solid commitments I need to stay home. 

Colossians 3:14 ESV And above all these put on love, which binds everything together in perfect harmony. 

It bothered me that I can't go and I would have enjoyed a weekend of solid hunting, but I need to stay back. So this uncle will send the guys off with prayer and pork to warm up and eat after the hunt or during the hunt. That part is all up to them. They have two friends joining them and there is enough meat for all of them. A bottle of barbecue sauce will be sent along to accompany and compliment the pork. So the pork is now slow roasting in the kitchen and won't be done until late this afternoon. 

My point is this. I know the guys will be cold and warm food will be welcomed at their campsite. I can't be there but my love for those guys will be sent and that makes me feel like part of the team but just absent at roll call. 

If you can't be there send your love and prayers to your family today. It's not like being there, but they will know your heart. Make the call. 

Have a great day!!!

Marty

A Handshake Makes It A Deal for Me 9/22/2026

 Good Morning,

I have at my side a hot cup of Door County Chocolate Cherry Coffee and I am ready to write. 

Matthew 5:37 NKJV But let your Yes be Yes and your No, No. Whatever is more than these is from the evil one. 

I know  the world turns on contracts and legalities' for business. I prefer the old days when your word was your word and you could look another man or woman in the eye, shake hands and the deal was done. And your word was solid. 

I am here to say that even with all the contracts one can sign it still takes an honest heart and and good word to seal a deal. And the deal is not done until the work is completed to satisfaction.I found out the hard way over the last few months that business etiquette  is no longer followed by everyone and a man's word and a hand shake  doesn't mean snot to a lot of people. 

My wife Rene and I learned that even with a 15 page contract for service your chance of hiring someone with integrity  is quite slim. We needed some repairs and upgrades to our home and it took a year to get them done. Through that we were subject to shoddy work, schedules that were never met and excuses after excuses. Not all service was poor, but some companies will not be recommended or used again. I found that a man's word even with a contract is not taken seriously. Sales from large big box supply stores is impossible to claim a warranty without pulling teeth. 

Our roof was recently replaced and we have used this company once before, many years ago. The owner meets with you. He shakes your hand and looks you in the eye and promises that we will be satisfied. He has a short contract with a spot for two signatures, his and mine. Everything and more that he promised came on time and true. His crew was on time and worked for the hours allotted for the day. He will be recommended with high praises and if needed used again. 

How good is your word? Can those you contract with count on you? Beware of the long; long contracts and subcontracting. Ask plenty of questions and of course pray for wisdom before you sign and spend your money. 

Food for thought!

Marty