Jehu Hernandez

Well, not really, but it'll be here before we know it. Since you already know Christmas will be here in five months, why wouldn't you start saving now for Christmas presents? That makes more sense than going into debt to buy Christmas gifts. Determine today: "I will not go into debt to buy Christmas presents. I will save my money starting today and use only cash to buy gifts this Christmas!" Have a Merry Christmas--start saving today.

My brother, Benjy, was in a scary accident Friday afternoon. His suburban was hit by another vehicle, causing it to spin and flip over before finally ending up upside down. Miraculously, Benjy escaped with no serious injuries. He has several cuts and bruises, and he'll be in pain for several days, according to the doctor, but there is no doubt that God protected him from serious injury, and even death. To God be the glory!

My day today wasn't quite as productive as I had planned, but it was a good day. Why? Because I had four conversations. My first conversation was with the Terminix guy. We sat and talked for about 30 minutes about finances, traveling, family, schools. Then we got around to business. Then I had a conversation with a person who always wants to talk, but I never seem to have the time. She understands how busy I am, so she doesn't press the issue. Today, when I saw her, I started to give her a quick greeting, but then decided to sit and talk with her for awhile. It was somewhat of a one-sided conversation, but I enjoyed listening. Immediately after that, I saw someone I hadn't seen in a while and had a 20 minute work-related conversation. Fifteen minutes later, I was deep into my third conversation with another person I always enjoyed talking to about her grandchildren and places to go camping. I've come to realize that life isn't always about to-do lists. Sometimes, yo...

Ryan was feeling creative yesterday, and put together this video.

I've been jogging for many years, now. I do most of my jogging in the summer and into the fall. Since I don't jog year round, I have to start from scratch every summer in terms of getting into shape. These past couple of years, it's taken longer than usual to get in shape. This summer, especially, it's been slow going. So I decided to change my routine. I"ve started using a training schedule that is very different from the one I've used in the past. Boy, it's really made a difference as far as infusing new energy and accelerating my conditioning. Sometimes, you just have to change the routine. I've had this happen before in the area of spiritual disciplines. There have been times that I've gotten into a rut with my quiet time. I've learned to change my routine every once in a while. Maybe it means having my quiet time at night instead of the morning. It could be that I change the room where I have my quiet time. Other times, I've changed to ...

My mom found this picture of Kelli when she was about 18 months old. Who knew she would be taking care of newborn babies as a young adult.