Month: September 2023

Posted in Faith, Life, Love

Making Every Day/ Date Count: Building a Stronger Connection with Your Spouse

Posted on by ChronicallyGratefulDeb

As I sit down to write this, I’m reminded of the countless moments my spouse and I have spent together, talking about our relationship and strengthening our bond. Our journey has been filled with laughter, shared dreams, pain, illness, success, and many meaningful conversations. And today, I want to invite you to do the same, to make time to head outdoors,and enjoy some quality time with your partner.

It doesn’t matter if you choose a quick stroll around the block or a leisurely walk through a leaf-strewn trail in the woods. What truly matters is that you’re spending time in each other’s company, building a connection that is not just enduring but also evolving. To help you in this endeavor, I’ve compiled a list of questions to ask your spouse weekly, ensuring that your conversations are always meaningful and affirming.

1. Emotional Well-being

  • How are you feeling emotionally?

2. Family Dynamics

  • How are things going between you and the family?

3. Friendships

  • How are things going between you and your friends?

4. Spiritual Growth

  • What is one thing God has been teaching you lately?
  • How are you handling things at your workplace this week?

Teamwork

  • What are some famous teams you admire, and what makes them work well together?
  • What positive goals can we set for our marriage over the next six months or year?
  • Is there a specific area where we can work as a team to improve our marriage?
  • What practical steps can we take to ensure we’re always working as a team?

Hobbies

  • What were some of your favorite hobbies as a child?
  • Have any of those hobbies retained your interest as an adult?
  • How can I show you that I’m interested in you and want to know you better?

Spirituality and Grace

  • How would you share your testimony with me if I were a new acquaintance?
  • What person has been most influential in shaping your view of God?
  • How can we pray for each other and continue to grow spiritually?
  • How do you define grace, and why is it important to you?
  • How can we extend grace to each other and in our relationships?

Laughter

  • What makes you laugh?
  • Are there quirks about me that you find irresistibly funny?
  • Do you have happy childhood memories?
  • How can we incorporate more laughter into our lives?
Let’s reminisce about … the early days

• What are some favorite things we used to do as a couple in the early days of our marriage?

• Can we start doing some of those things again, even with the realities of our busier lifestyle?

• Name two special memories you cherish about our early days that have
nothing to do with the big events of our relationship. Why are those memories so special to you?

These questions serve as a starting point for meaningful conversations, fostering understanding and intimacy in your relationship. Remember, the goal is not to criticize but to affirm and grow together. Keep these conversations uplifting, positive, encouraging, and affirming.

In addition to these weekly questions, consider asking some at the end of each date night to reflect on your time together. By making every date count, you can continue to build a stronger connection with your spouse, ensuring that your relationship remains a source of love, joy, and support throughout your journey together. So, go ahead, start getting to know your spouse even better, one meaningful conversation at a time.

Dear Heavenly Father,

We come before you today as a couple, seeking your guidance and blessings on our journey together. We recognize that in our union, we find strength and love, and we also acknowledge that our connection with you, O Lord, is at the core of our relationship.

We pray for the grace to draw closer to each other and to you, our Heavenly Father. Help us to deepen our bond of love, understanding, and compassion as we navigate the joys and challenges of life together. May our love for one another be a reflection of your boundless love for us.

Lord, we ask for your wisdom and guidance in our daily lives. Give us the strength to communicate openly and honestly, to listen with empathy, and to always seek to understand each other’s hearts. Grant us the patience to work through difficulties and the humility to forgive when we fall short.

We also pray for our spiritual journey as a couple. May we grow together in faith, finding solace and strength in your presence. Help us to support each other in our individual walks with you, and may our shared belief in your love and grace be a source of unity and inspiration.

Lord, we ask for your protection over our relationship. Shield us from temptations and distractions that may pull us apart. Instead, draw us closer to you and to each other. May our home be a place of peace, love, and spiritual growth.

We pray for the grace to extend your love and grace to one another. May we be quick to forgive, slow to anger, and always ready to extend a helping hand. Let our relationship be a testimony to your love and mercy.

As we seek to draw closer to each other and to you, O Lord, we place our trust in your divine plan for our lives. Guide us, bless us, and may our love continue to flourish, deepening our connection not only with each other but also with you.

In Jesus’ name, we pray.

Amen.

Posted in Grateful, Grudges, joyful-echoes, Uncategorized

“Embracing Life’s Blessings: The Power of Kindness and Humility”

Posted on by ChronicallyGratefulDeb

Hello, dear readers,

Today, I want to share a story close to my heart—one that reminds us that blessings come in diverse and unexpected ways. Life has an uncanny knack for teaching us lessons when we least expect it, and these lessons often revolve around the importance of kindness, humility, and the art of recognizing the blessings that surround us.

Recently, I found myself in the midst of a life-changing adventure—an interstate move across the country. As you might imagine, it was no small feat. Long hours on the road, aching joints, and the sheer physical toll of loading and unloading a U-Haul truck made for a challenging journey. At times, it felt like I needed a ladder just to climb into the truck’s cabin!

A family member recently offered to help us move to be closer to them, which was a chance of a lifetime, and after discussion my husband and I decided to take the journey from Ohio to Florida, and then we would be staying in a nice home.

And because of the long journey instead of me, being grateful I was ticked off just because I was in pain I was exhausted I was hungry. I was tired and it was wrong. I had no business being so mean.

But life has a way of delivering its lessons in pairs. As I traveled, my aching joints became a constant companion. Joint pain can be an unwelcome and persistent visitor, making even the simplest tasks seem monumental. I mean the Uhaul truck was a chore getting in and out of.

It was during this time that I realized the value of hiring someone to high-dust my new home, sparing me the discomfort of ascending a ladder. In this moment, a blessing took shape in the form of a service that lightened my load, both literally and figuratively.

However, life isn’t just about receiving blessings; it’s also about recognizing our own moments of imperfection. As I dealt with the physical and emotional toll of the move, I found myself succumbing to frustration and moodiness. There was a moment when I looked in the mirror and realized that I was far from the kind and patient person I aspired to be. In fact, I was acting quite the opposite—a “rotten human being,” as I put it. This self-awareness became the catalyst for another vital lesson.

I recognized that I was becoming a hypocrite—preaching kindness while failing to embody it myself. I had allowed the stress and discomfort of the situation to impact my behavior negatively. It was then that I understood the importance of acknowledging our own shortcomings and seeking forgiveness when we fall short of our own ideals.

So, here’s the takeaway: blessings can come in many forms, from the helping hand of a friend to the relief provided by a hired service. But these blessings are often intertwined with the lessons we learn along the way. We must be mindful not to take advantage of others, or be short with others especially during times of frustration or discomfort. We must remember that kindness should be our guiding principle, even when life doesn’t go exactly as planned.

As I continue on this journey, I’m making a conscious effort to practice kindness, not just in my actions but also in my words and thoughts.

I don’t usually go off the deep end like that.

Let’s remember that we’re all works in progress, and while life may test our patience, it also offers us the chance to grow. So, dear readers, may you all have a blessed day, filled with opportunities to embrace life’s blessings and to practice kindness and humility in all that you do.

Posted in Faith

“Tuning Out the Noise: Embracing Divine Guidance”

Posted on by ChronicallyGratefulDeb


Good morning! Today, let’s embark on a journey of spiritual reflection and inspiration. In a world filled with constant noise and distractions, it’s essential to pause and listen to the still, small voice of Jesus. He has a unique message just for you, a divine strategy that can illuminate your path. Today, we explore the power of faith, forgiveness, and the unwavering support of Jesus, drawing wisdom from two powerful Bible verses and one uplifting Thursday quote.

Bible Verse 1: Proverbs 3:5-6 (NIV)
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.”

This verse from the Book of Proverbs reminds us of the importance of trusting in God’s divine plan. In a noisy world, we often try to rely on our own understanding and abilities. However, God invites us to trust Him completely, lean into His wisdom, and surrender to His guidance. When we do this, our paths become straightened by His divine hand.

Bible Verse 2: Isaiah 41:10 (NIV)
“So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”

Isaiah 41:10 offers comfort and reassurance. It reminds us that we need not fear the future or be swayed by the opinions of others. Jesus is with us, offering unwavering support and strength. His presence is our source of courage, and His righteous right hand upholds us through life’s storms.

Positive Thursday Quote:
“Optimism is a happiness magnet. If you stay positive, good things and good people will be drawn to you.” – Mary Lou Retton

This quote by Mary Lou Retton serves as a reminder that a positive outlook on life can attract positivity. When we tune out the negativity and focus on the message of hope and faith, we become beacons of light, drawing good things and good people into our lives.


As you navigate through this Thursday and beyond, remember the powerful messages from the Bible verses and the uplifting quote. Trust in the Lord, lean on His wisdom, and fear not, for He is with you. Your story matters to Him, and He offers peace that surpasses understanding and strength in your weakness. Embrace the power of faith, forgiveness, and positivity, for with Jesus by your side, you serve the One true God, mighty to save. Have a blessed and purposeful day!

Posted in Uncategorized

Navigating Relocation with Joint Pain and Arthritis: A Personal Journey from Ohio to Florida

Posted on by ChronicallyGratefulDeb

Navigating Relocation with Joint Pain and Arthritis: A Personal Journey from Ohio to Florida
Relocating to a different state is never an easy feat. It involves a myriad of challenges, from the logistics of packing and finding a new place to live, to the physical demands of loading and unloading a large U-Haul truck. For those living with joint pain and arthritis, these challenges can become even more daunting. In this blog post, we’ll explore the painful realities of moving, share some personal experiences, and offer a dose of positivity to brighten your day.

The Painful Realities of Relocating:
Moving to a new state is a major life change, and it often comes with a whirlwind of stress and exhaustion. Here are some of the painful realities that many face during this transition:

  1. Physical Demands: The physical labor involved in packing, lifting, and moving boxes can take a toll on anyone. However, for individuals with joint pain and arthritis, it becomes an even greater challenge.
  2. Long Hours: Moving typically requires long hours of driving, sometimes across multiple days. Sitting for extended periods can exacerbate joint pain.
  3. Climate Adjustment: Going from Ohio to Florida means adjusting to a new climate. While the warm Florida weather can be inviting, it may also affect individuals with arthritis differently.

Coping with Joint Pain and Arthritis:
Living with joint pain and arthritis means being resilient in the face of challenges. Here are some strategies to help make the relocation process more manageable:

  1. Plan Ahead: Start planning well in advance. This allows you to pace yourself, breaking tasks into manageable portions.
  2. Ask for Help: Don’t hesitate to seek assistance from friends, family, or professional movers. Sharing the load can reduce physical strain.
  3. Take Breaks: During the journey, make sure to take regular breaks to stretch and relieve stiffness.
  4. Stay Hydrated: Proper hydration is essential for joint health. Drink plenty of water throughout the move.

A Positive Outlook:
While relocation can be physically and emotionally taxing, maintaining a positive attitude can make a world of difference. Remember that this challenging period is temporary, and you’re embarking on a new chapter of your life. As you navigate this journey, consider this positive quote:

“Every day may not be good, but there’s something good in every day.”


Relocating from Ohio to Florida or any long-distance move is undoubtedly a challenging endeavor, especially when living with joint pain and arthritis. However, with careful planning, support from loved ones, and a positive mindset, you can overcome these obstacles and look forward to a brighter future in your new home. Wishing you a great day filled with optimism and strength as you embark on this journey.

Posted in Uncategorized

Nurturing Faith: Trusting God Even When It’s Tough

Posted on by ChronicallyGratefulDeb


In the journey of life, faith can be a steady guiding light that illuminates our path, offering solace and hope during both clear and stormy days. But there are moments when our faith is tested, when we find ourselves repeating the words, “I trust God… and some days I have to remind myself that I trust God…” This sentiment resonates with many, and it’s during those times of uncertainty and doubt that our trust in God becomes most vital.

The Complexity of Trust:
Trust is a complex emotion, often shaped by our experiences, beliefs, and the challenges we face. When life flows smoothly, trust can seem effortless, like a gentle stream carrying us along. However, it’s precisely when the waters grow turbulent that our trust in God is truly put to the test.

  1. Trust in the Face of Unanswered Questions:
    Life often presents us with situations where we lack clarity, where the “whys” and “hows” remain elusive. It’s in these moments that our trust in God must become unwavering. Trusting God doesn’t mean we’ll always understand His plans, but it does mean we believe that His wisdom surpasses our comprehension.
  2. Trusting God in Adversity:
    Adversity has a way of shaking the foundations of our faith. Whether it’s health challenges, financial difficulties, or personal setbacks, trusting God during these times can be a profound act of courage. Our faith is a source of strength, enabling us to persevere even when the odds seem insurmountable.
  3. The Role of Prayer and Reflection:
    Prayer and self-reflection can be powerful tools in nurturing trust during difficult days. It’s through prayer that we can pour out our doubts and fears, seeking guidance and solace from a higher power. Self-reflection allows us to examine our own role in the challenges we face and find opportunities for growth and resilience.
  4. Community and Support:
    Trusting God doesn’t mean we have to face life’s trials alone. Building a supportive community of like-minded individuals can provide comfort and encouragement during tough times. Sharing experiences and insights can strengthen our faith and remind us that we’re not alone in our struggles.


Trusting God, especially when we don’t fully understand why or how, is a testament to the depth of our faith. It’s a journey that requires patience, resilience, and a willingness to let go of control. In those moments when doubt creeps in, remember that you are not alone in your struggle to trust God. Reach out to your community, seek solace in prayer and reflection, and remember that even in the darkest of days, your faith can be a guiding light, leading you towards hope and renewal.

Posted in community, Timing

The Joy of Giving: A Busy but Fulfilling Week Ahead

Posted on by ChronicallyGratefulDeb

Happy marvelous Monday morning, everyone! As the sun rises on the beginning of another week, I can’t help but feel a sense of anticipation for the days ahead. This week promises to be a busy one for us, filled with a special purpose that warms the heart.

One of the highlights of this past week is my partnership with Habitat for Humanity. They were scheduled last week to come and pick up a variety of items that we’ve decided to donate. From a bedroom set to chrome and glass tables, chairs, and even a dining room set, it’s a collection of belongings that has served us well but is ready for a new home.

Now, I must admit, the logistics of preparing these items for donation can be quite the task. You see I am disabled, I have lived with bone and joint issues 30 years and every 6-8 years I get a new diagnoses We’ve had to move furniture out of our home, arrange it neatly outside in our garage , and patiently wait for the Habitat for Humanity team to arrive for collection. It’s backbreaking work, to say the least, but I’m not complaining. In fact, I’m filled with gratitude that we have the opportunity to make a difference. As well as we lightened our moving load.

The knowledge that our donations will benefit those in need is a powerful motivator. It’s a reminder that sometimes, the act of giving can be as fulfilling for the giver as it is for the receiver. While we may be parting with some material possessions, we’re gaining the satisfaction of knowing that these items will find new life and purpose in the homes of others.

In an ideal world, perhaps Habitat for Humanity could simply come into our place and collect these items, sparing us the physical strain. But sometimes, the act of giving requires a little extra effort. It’s a small price to pay for the impact it can have on the lives of those less fortunate.

So, as we dive into this busy week, I encourage you all to find your own ways to give back, whether through donations, acts of kindness, or simply by being there for someone who needs you. And as the days

Posted in Uncategorized

Prioritize How Your Life Feels Over How It Looks: Embrace the Art of Authentic Living

Posted on by ChronicallyGratefulDeb

In a world filled with the constant pressure to keep up appearances, it’s easy to lose sight of what truly matters – how your life feels. We often find ourselves caught in the whirlwind of striving for more, trying to match the lifestyles of our neighbors, coworkers, and friends. The pursuit of success and material wealth becomes a relentless race, and in this race, we sometimes forget to pause and appreciate what we already have.

Authentic Living: The Key to True Happiness

In our fast-paced society, it’s not uncommon to see people putting on fake smiles while dealing with the overwhelming stress of trying to keep up with others, especially those who seem to have more money, possessions, or success. We constantly compare ourselves to others, measuring our worth by external standards. But is this the path to a fulfilling life?

Authentic living encourages us to take a step back and reevaluate our priorities. It prompts us to ask ourselves: “Am I living a life that truly resonates with me, or am I merely chasing an image of success?”

The Pursuit of True Happiness

When we prioritize how our life feels, we begin to realize that genuine happiness doesn’t necessarily come from accumulating more things or outdoing our peers in a never-ending race. It’s about experiencing contentment, gratitude, and inner peace in our daily lives. It’s about savoring the simple moments, finding joy in the ordinary, and nurturing meaningful relationships.

Consider this: What good is a big house, a fancy car, or a prestigious job title if they only serve to keep us stressed and chained to a never-ending cycle of work to pay for them? We should aspire to live a life we can truly enjoy, free from the constant worry about appearances and the rat race of chasing materialistic goals.

Practical Steps to Embrace Authentic Living

  1. Count Your Blessings: Take time each day to reflect on what you’re grateful for. Appreciating the small things can bring immense joy.
  2. Set Meaningful Goals: Instead of chasing someone else’s definition of success, set your own meaningful goals that align with your values and passions.
  3. Practice Mindfulness: Be present in the moment, savoring the experiences and connections that make life beautiful.
  4. Invest in Relationships: Cultivate and nurture genuine relationships with people who uplift and support you.
  5. Financial Responsibility: Be mindful of your financial choices. Live within your means and prioritize experiences over material possessions.
  6. Self-Care: Prioritize self-care and mental well-being. Taking care of yourself is not selfish; it’s essential for a fulfilling life.

Its time to shift our focus from how our lives look to how they feel. Authentic living is not about keeping up with the Joneses; it’s about finding contentment and happiness in the life you create for yourself. Embrace the journey of self-discovery, and remember that the path to a fulfilling life is paved with genuine experiences, meaningful connections, and a deep appreciation for what you have. Start living authentically today, and you’ll find that true happiness is within your reach.

Posted in Uncategorized

Happy Friday!!

Posted on by ChronicallyGratefulDeb

Happy Friday, everyone! We made it through another week, and for that, we are truly grateful. Thank God for His unwavering presence and the hope that carries us through each day.

As we reflect on our journey in faith, it’s essential to remember that having consistent and transformational encounters with God while on earth is at the core of the Christian life. Our faith is not built on mere rituals but on a living relationship with a loving God. Through the sacrificial love of Jesus, we have been filled with the Holy Spirit – a divine presence that continually draws us closer to the heart of our heavenly Father.

In this fast-paced world, it’s easy to feel isolated or overwhelmed, but we must always remember that we are never alone. The God who created the universe walks with us every step of the way. There is no place we can flee from His presence, and His love for us is unwavering.

Let this week be a reminder of our purpose – to seek God’s face and experience His transformational love. Through daily encounters with the living God, we discover the depths of His grace, the vastness of His wisdom, and the richness of His love. It is in seeking His face that we find our true selves, for He is the One who formed us, knows us intimately, and loves us unconditionally.

As we enter into this weekend, let us take a moment to reflect on the words of Psalm 100:4, which says, “Enter his gates with thanksgiving, and his courts with praise! Give thanks to him; bless his name!” In our gratitude and worship, we open ourselves to God’s presence, allowing Him to transform our hearts and fill us with His peace.

So, as we bid farewell to another week, may our hearts be filled with gratitude, and may we eagerly anticipate the transformational encounters with our loving God that await us in the days to come. Have a blessed and joy-filled weekend!

Scripture:“Enter his gates with thanksgiving, and his courts with praise! Give thanks to him; bless his name!”

Psalm 100:4

Posted in Loading the U-Haul

Navigating the Journey of Love and Moving: Challenges and Blessings

Posted on by ChronicallyGratefulDeb

Hello everyone,

I hope you’re all doing well. Today, I find myself amidst the whirlwind of packing and moving, and it’s got me reflecting on something profound – nothing challenges and tests a marriage or relationship more than moving, especially when it’s a long-distance move. It would be a different story if we were independently wealthy, able to whisk everything away and simply replace it at our destination. But like most average people, we face the daunting task of sifting through our possessions, deciding what’s truly valuable, and what can be left behind. This debate has been an interesting journey in itself. You see, moving isn’t just about packing boxes; it’s about time limits, mileage restrictions, and unexpected expenses. It’s about finding common ground in what we value.

The truth is, what I find valuable may not hold the same significance for my partner, and vice versa. It’s a challenge we all must confront. But in the midst of this chaos, there’s something we must never forget – our love for each other and the belief that this journey is part of God’s plan for us. Material things can always be replaced, but some items, like old photos and cherished memories, are irreplaceable. They remind us of who we are and where we’ve been.

Someday, we’ll look back on this chaotic moving adventure, and we’ll not only be grateful but also share hearty laughs over the craziness of it all. While some memories can reside in our minds, other things must take precedence, and since we’re all unique individuals, we need to respect each other’s boundaries and appreciate what we want to bring with us realistically.

As we wrap up our break and return to the task of loading the truck, I wish you all a wonderful Thursday evening, a fantastic Friday, and a truly blessed weekend. If I can, I’ll pop in to provide an update; if not, I’ll catch up with you once we arrive in Florida.

I’m immensely grateful that I have my Bible on my phone because, tonight, amidst the hustle and bustle, I’ll need a good 15-minute read to recenter myself and find peace.

Positive Quote for the Day: Life is a journey, enjoy the trip. Aim for the sky, but move slowly, enjoying every step along the way. It is all those little steps that make the journey complete. The journey is a reward.

Bible Verse: “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.” – Proverbs 3:5-6

Posted in Uncategorized

Almost Time to Get the Moving Truck !!

Posted on by ChronicallyGratefulDeb

Good morning, everyone! I hope you’re having an amazing week so far. It’s almost Friday, and that’s a reason to celebrate. Today, I want to talk about “Thankful Thursday.” Tonight, we’re picking up our trailer, and tomorrow, we’re going to start loading it up on “Fantastic Friday.” The we have to go back yo U-Haul Saturday and load our car hauler, unless it comes in sooner. They have it set up for Friday afternoon so fingers crossed it arrives on time.

Hopefully, by then, we’ll have everything together so we can hit the road sometime on Start New Saturday.” This marks the beginning of a brand new journey for Tom and I, and it’s going to be nothing short of amazing. We’re moving closer to our granddaughter, daughter, and friends scattered throughout Florida.

We’ve made a decision for this move – since we’re taking a U-Haul, a car hauler, and quite a substantial load, we’re not going to rush anything. Hauling such a load, especially through mountains and traffic, can be challenging. My husband is experienced with this, but we know the importance of taking our time. We won’t push ourselves to drive to exhaustion. When we’re tired, we’ll stop, eat, stretch, and in the evening, decide if we want to keep going or stop for the night.

So, if I don’t pop on here in a day or two, rest assured, I’ll be back with an update. I wish you all an amazing rest of the week and hope you make it a great weekend. Peace.

Now, let’s find inspiration in two positive quotes:

  1. “Relocation is not just about changing your home. It’s about changing your dreams, your hopes, and your life.” – Unknown
  2. “Starting anew in a different state is like opening a new chapter in the book of life, filled with blank pages ready to be written with your adventures and stories.” – Author Unknown

And let’s also draw strength from two Bible verses:

  1. “For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope.” – Jeremiah 29:11 (ESV)
  2. “The Lord is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in him, and he helps me. My heart leaps for joy, and with my song I praise him.” – Psalm 28:7 (NIV)