This morning Winnie rambles through the grass finding sticks and other interesting items to chew. My back door is littered with all sorts of gifts. Let’s see; there are several clumps of grass, some chew toys, several pieces of bark and a few flowers that dropped from my pots.

My cousin, Brenda, gave me some advice on how to help Winnie when I need to leave her for a while. It has been quite the challenge to find ways to help our new pup enjoy her time alone. I purchased a toy that is touted as an anxiety reducer at Pet Smart in Gulfport along with a few other goodies.

Sunday rolled around, and Mike and I loaded the new toy with treats. The premise is that the chewy toy gives a treat reward after a while and helps pups to stay happy and engaged.

We had a great day at church. The sermon and worship touched my heart in a special way and challenged me to realize that mediocrity is not OK for a Christian.

We serve the master of the universe and no prayer is too big for our Father. He can always do what we can only dream of.

As in the past, Winnie met us at the back door in distress when we returned home. After a few minutes of cuddle time she calmed down. Maybe it will just take a while for her to adjust, but I’ll continue to try new things to help her.

With Sunday’s sermon fresh on my mind I have added some big prayers to my list. The wonderful thing about being in a fellowship of believers and under the preaching of God’s word is the ability to get a life check. I really needed one because I have been in a bit of a slump.

I was trying to do too much on my own and getting a little discouraged with the outcome. I needed a reminder that God can do what I can only feebly attempt. He is always there to help me move forward in a productive way.

This morning, instead of seeing problems and being bummed, I have a new perspective. I woke up with a conscious thought to start my day with thanksgiving. I have so very much to thank God for, and when I spend time in praise and thanksgiving, the negatives shrink to much more manageable proportions.

I’m praying for wisdom and new ideas on how to train Winnie properly, but I have many much larger and more private prayers.

I really was convicted Sunday that I had been putting God in a box. I had been praying prayers that were safe, because I could do a lot to accomplish them. Today, I’m praying for things that only He can accomplish in my life, my family and my country.