Embracing Spring: A Season of Renewal and Change

Spring in the PNW has finally arrived. Along with the expected rainy days I see the tulips and daffodils starting to bloom, and the trees near our house are turning a beautiful pink color I can see evidence that a new season has really begun.

I heard a term this week called “Lifequake.” Have you heard of it? The definition is, “a major transformative life event, whether planned or unplanned, positive or negative, that causes significant upheaval and necessitates major changes and a period of transition.” Our family has certainly weathered quite a few “Lifequakes” in the last several years; two children went through divorces, another experienced several pregnancy losses, and then Mike was diagnosed with throat cancer. But now, things are looking brighter…

My oldest son’s wedding in Vegas last month was delightful and he’s working his last day on the Boulder Fusion Academy campus as he prepares to move to Franklin, Tennessee next week to join his new wife.

(Yes, they’ve kind of been apart the last several weeks.) Somehow Mitch also fit in a flight last weekend to Los Angeles so he could run his fourth marathon.

In early March we got to celebrate our California daughter and son-in-law’s baby boy who is expected to arrive in late May. We held an evening shower and it was so special to gather with family and friends to acknowledge this much-prayed-for little one. 

Sweet baby Dori is going to have quite a change at her house in a couple months when she becomes a big sister! We can’t believe we’ll have five grandchildren by Summertime!

One of the most noticeable changes around here is Mike’s health.. His energy is coming back. He’s doing some workouts at the YMCA, and working in his home office each day for Pro Nexis and Wingman. We get to go to church together, and even had a couple date nights. He’s now my designated driver since wine tastes terrible to him.

As I write this, Mike is getting his port and feeding tube out. I remember that day back in August when the port was put in. It was my birthday and it was a day full of fear. Seven months have gone by and he soon will return to playing in the hot tub with our granddaughter Gracie. The feeding tube was put in during October. I’m so proud of him relearning how to eat/get nutrition without the shakes in his feeding tube. It’s frustrating that his taste buds have changed SO much and things just don’t taste the same. (Sort of like long Covid?) 

We are trying to be patient and looking forward to a trip to Arizona we have planned next month.

We are so thankful that Jesus has been our firm foundation and we are experiencing a Spring full of joy!

Check out the song and lyrics Firm Foundation (He Won’t.)

In His Grip,

Jane

Holding On

 

Throughout the last four months as my husband has endured cancer treatment and ALL the side effects, I’ve been learning to hold onto my plans and expectations loosely. A couple weeks after treatment ended we thought he would be ready to begin eating. Thanksgiving was not a feast for him. We hoped he could nibble something by Christmas. Nope. I really had hoped he would be able to attend Christmas Eve service with me. He was feeling extra crummy that day and I ended up going with my kids to their church. It was the first time since 1988 when our 2nd baby (Allie) was baptized that I haven’t been sitting next to my beloved on Christmas Eve.

When I haven’t felt capable of holding tightly to God due to disappointments, He still has been holding me tightly in His grip.

My 13 month old granddaughter is an example of holding on. She can totally cruise the furniture, walls, and cabinets (walking sideways) but refuses to take steps forward without hanging on to a finger of a loved one. There are moments in all our lives that force us to reach out or accept a hand. The lyrics in the JJ Heller song, “Your Hands” really resonates with me. “When my world is shaking Heaven stands. When my heart is breaking I never leave your hands.”

On the morning Mike had his scan, I witnessed the kindness of nurses and volunteers, and the compassion of caregivers who were gently assisting their family members. Lots of people are in the midst of a hard season and we’re slowly climbing out of ours. The report showed the cancer had been eradicated! Day by day we hope he will feel better and be able to enjoy food again.

2025 is starting off with much to celebrate in our family. In addition to two grand-babies coming in May and June, our oldest son found new love this year and an engagement ring was given and accepted with joy! They have impressive planning skills and a wedding will take place in mid-February. We are thrilled to have Lyndsey join the Carver clan.

We're praising God for healing (even if it’s SLOW), provision and our growing family. 

Cheers to a Very Happy New Year, friends!

In His Grip, Jane

Two Years With Thor!

Two years ago, we adopted our feisty orange kitty named Thor. He's our first pet to not need a middle name. Our "little man" grown! He was rescued off the side of the road in Spokane and driven over by my son. He nicknamed him "Captain" since he road the five hours sitting on his shoulder. Here's a look back at life with Thor over the past two years:

He learned to get along with his sister-dog, Sydney. They fight a bit more now...

We knew he had talents from an early age. Now he spends his days outside hunting. Last week he caught/murdered two moles, a mouse, and at least one bird. I'm not sure if I should be proud?

All that hunting makes him hungry and tired.

Thor's world has been changed a bit since the newlyweds and their two kitties moved into our lower level. "The girls" not only miss their parents who are still on their honeymoon, but they have to deal with Thor stalking them through the window and patio door!

My friends wondered how I put up with him during his days of accidents in the house. Just like any parenting, it took time, love and patience, but I can't imagine life without this guy. In honor of his birthday/adoption weekend, I allowed him to sleep on my head last night. 

I hope you enjoy your weekend, and have some furry family members to keep your life interesting!

In His Grip, 

xo Jane

P.S. Thor wanted to participate in this blog post...

We Gather, Prepare and Pray~And Eat Too Much on "Fat Tuesday!"

Even though I know God is in control, I admit I still battle fear and anxiety. I learned that one of my favorite bloggers, Maria Furlough, was writing a book about her experience overcoming fear.  I was thrilled to be chosen as part of her Launch team for the book Breaking the Fear Cycle, which is releasing on March 6th and is available for presale. I received my copy early this week and will have much more to share about it soon. I'm almost finished reading it!

Like many people all over the World, we've been hunkered down in front of the TV watching the Olympics. The grit and drive the athletes exhibit is so impressive. The fear they overcome in order to compete and represent their countries is awe-inspiring. Even with all the mental and physical preparation, sometimes the outcome isn't a medal, but an unexpected moment that changes their dream in a split-second.

In the last week, two friends have received news that changed their world in a split-second and fear is involved. No one wants to hear the word; CANCER. Whether it's a routine exam that detects it or advanced tests that confirm it has returned and spread, it is NOT the news that is expected or hoped for. I am not a stranger to hearing that diagnosis.

When you get hard news, what do you do? Well, gathering around the table for lunch and prayer is always a good idea, so yesterday, that's why I hosted a luncheon for my sweet prayer group. Of the five of us, one is a Breast Cancer survivor, one is five treatments away from finishing radiation, and one just got diagnosed and has the battle in front of her. We gathered, prayed, and prepared for the "battle" ahead. Rather than focus on the fear, we are choosing to focus on God's goodness and faithfulness.

Lent begins tomorrow, and it is the goal of my husband and me to use the next 40 days leading up to Easter to focus more on gratitude and less on circumstances.

"Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." Phil. 4:4-7

My sweet friend with chickens (and ducks!) brought me a dozen beautiful and unique eggs. Looking at the various sizes and colors was a reminder that although we are all different, with different-sized problems (health issues, job loss, infertility, marriage trouble, etc.) we ALL matter to God and He desires to bring us peace in the midst of our circumstances.

Whatever you're currently facing, I hope you feel peace. Thank you for stopping by "See Jane Learn," and I wish you a very HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY. Let's go spread love and joy!
Easter is coming...

In His Grip,
xo Jane

P.S.
In case you'd forgotten, today is Mardi Gras. "Fat Tuesday" isn't just happening in New Orleans, it's also happening at my house! I enjoyed a plethora of carb-loaded treats at bible study and came home with an extra cookie, scone, and apple fritter. We will attempt to return to healthy eating tomorrow, although it is Valentine's Day. As is our tradition, we made Jambalaya for dinner.

On Fat Tuesday a few years ago I concocted Hurricane cocktails, made Jambalaya and then discovered I had my "night before Lent" Mardi Gras dates mixed up and I was celebrating a week early! I wrote about that here.

5 Favorites on Friday

photo source:http://www.usatipps.de/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/indianapolis-speedway.jpg

Happy Friday Friends!

Here is my list of favorites for the week:

1. Have you seen the Happy Chewbacca on You Tube? Oh the joy of simple pleasures! She's adorable! We all need to learn how to be entertained by silly things and laugh at ourselves...

   Photo source:https://comicbook.com/popculturenow/2016/05/25/megan-fox-wants-to-play-kitana-in-a-mortal-kombat-movie/

2. I really like these shirts : I'm excited that I stumbled upon a sale this weekend for a cute baseball-style t-shirt. They are all cute but I chose the green yoga pants one. The blog, The Handmade Home is always good!
       

3. This fun coloring book by one of my favorite bloggers is available on Amazon for pre-sale. If I was going to purchase myself an adult coloring book, this would be the one... It's on my wish list!

photo source: http://theinspiredroom.net/2016/05/26/home-decorating-coloring-book/

4. My favorite spot to hang out in Spokane is the Davenport Tower Lobby. It's so fun to sit in front of the fireplace sipping a Starbucks or a cocktail. My dreamy "home" away from home. Added bonus...my sneakers match the Jungle decor!

5. My Tuesday morning bible study life group is the BEST! I love the women who have become like family; we are sisters in Christ! It's been such a great year of study, prayer, laughter, challenging each other, and friendship. 

Not pictured: Jean

Besides the favorites mentioned above, my favorite MOMENT  last week was watching my baby girl graduate from Whitworth University. She went through a lot to finish her degree and she persevered and did it! We also had a blast eating pizza, toasting with Champagne, and playing board games afterwards at her very own apartment. 

Mike and I are so thankful God provided a way for all four of our children to receive an education from a wonderful Christian University. Three teachers and one soon-to-be counselor making an impact in the World!

Do you have any fun plans for your 3-day Memorial Weekend? Since I'm a born and raised Hoosier, I'll have to tune into the Indianapolis 500 mile race on Sunday. If I feel better, I'm headed to a Mops end-of-year celebration tonight. I am excited to have my youngest coming home tomorrow for a short visit and possibly bringing her kitty (Mimosa, the Grandkitty I haven't met yet.)

(If you hear barking and toenails scraping wood floors coming from Carver Cottage, you'll know Sydney isn't adjusting well to the furry visitor.) Fingers crossed...

Don't forget to honor and remember all our service men and women who have lost their lives to protect our freedom! GOD Bless America!

What are your favorite things lately?

In His Grip,

Jane

Thank You Whitworth!

"I always pray with joy...being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus." Phil. 1:4,6

The Carver family Era at Whitworth University has been eleven years and is about to end. We are headed over to Spokane this weekend to celebrate our youngest child's college graduation. All four of our children have attended the same college. Crazy, right? I am obviously the school's and my children's biggest fan, as evidenced by my collection of Whitworth apparel and items. (Not shown are the Pirate Mom and Dad license plates on my car...) Twice I've been given the opportunity to act as a Pirate Mom and speak to incoming freshman and their parents about why Whitworth is such a great school.

This family adventure began back in 2005 when our oldest son Mitch started college and chose a small private school we'd learned about from our Pastor, Mark Toone. (He was and is currently on the Board of Education.) Back then, it was still a College, but in 2007, when our daughter Allie started as a freshman, it became a University.

The graduations began...

(Mitch-class of 2009/English Major)

(Allie-class of 2011/Elem. Ed.)

Keeping with tradition, T.J. also wanted to attend Whitworth and he attended 2010-2014. He's just completed his first year of graduate school in a new WU counseling program. Last, but not least,  Sarah started her Whitworth adventure in 2012. Although she spent her Sophomore year here at Tacoma Community College, she returned to complete her Art Education degree and will graduate this Sunday!

(Tim-class of 2014/Theology major)

(Sarah-class of 2016/Art Ed.)

Four times of moving excited kids into the BJ (Baldwin/Jenkins) freshman dorm... Different off-campus homes to set-up, and LOTS of wonderful friends to meet and become like family... Oh if only we'd known all four would end up in Spokane at the same University we might have bought a little rental home they all could have lived in!!

Lots of long road trips over to Spokane to attend Family weekends... Hanging out in the "Hub"... Stock-up shopping trips to Fred Meyer and Costco. Coffee dates at La Petit Chat Bakery and dinners out at The Elk, Twigs, and The Flying Goat... So many fun memories were made over the years!

Greenbluff in October

In the "Loop"

We are Pirates!

The gang at The Elk

The tradition of a steak dinner at Wolf Lodge in Coeur d' Alene, Idaho will continue this Saturday night. We make the trip when they start college and when they graduate. It's fun to see our name in the guest book in years past... This will be our 8th trip or maybe 9th!

Four Pirate graduates. Thirty-two expensive tuition checks written and parent and student loans to be paid. There have been several years when we've had more than one child on campus at the same time. Four times (plus Mitch's Master's) of sitting in the Spokane Arena for hours to hear our child's name read so we can cheer as they walk across the stage. (My tip; bring a book or Kindle to read.)

(Mitch earned Masters~2010)

Prayers shot up for finals and relationships... The blessing of both our sons meeting their amazing wives while at Whitworth...

(Daughter-in-laws Amy and Katie)

And so, our baby girl will be walking across the stage for her hard-earned diploma this Sunday. We'll be there to cheer for our fourth and final Pirate. 

Adorable photo taken by Olivia Strohm Photography

We're so proud of you Sarah! You are lovely and talented inside and out and loved by SO many! You will be the best and most compassionate High School Art Teacher ever!

We're so grateful for the blessing that Whitworth has been to our children and our family! Thanks to their friends and the nurture of Professors, each of our kids has become an improved version of themselves. Besides the fabulous education of their chosen field of study, they've gained confidence and the ability to connect with adults of all ages. Theology has been learned and tested, they became mission and outward focused, and above all caring and loving adults. 

The school motto is "Education of Mind and Heart" and I believe all eight of our family members have received that! Thank you Whitworth! 

This Sunday afternoon, I'll be the Mama holding a hankie, possibly wearing sunglasses to hide the tears and cheering loudly for my beautiful daughter, Sarah Michelle.

In His Grip, 
Jane

We will return for TJ's graduate ceremony next May, so I guess it's not actually our FINAL Whitworth weekend!

What I Learned in October

I'm looking back on the month of October, and here are five things I learned: 

1. Shoes do matter sometimes.

In an attempt to save money, I decided to wear the same sling-back shoes I wore to my oldest son's wedding five years ago, to my younger son's wedding that occurred the first weekend of October. My decision seemed fine until the rehearsal. I realized I'd be walking down a grass aisle and my "kitten" heels would sink in... The only store near our hotel was Nordstrom, but I dashed in to see if they had anything affordable. NOT! The salesperson suggested heel protectors. (They do not work. They do not stay on. Do NOT buy them!) I survived the sinking and my shoes did not spoil the day. I do remember throwing my shoes to the side during the mother-son dance... I can't wait to see those pictures!

 

2. Do not assume that your cell phone app is giving good directions.

When my two sisters were in town for my son's wedding we did a day trip up to Seattle. We had a fun time on Bainbridge Island, a ferry ride to the city, shopping, lunch and a walk in the sunshine. All was perfect until it was time to drive home. As my sister looked at her phone and read off which way to turn, I realized something was amiss. We were headed straight toward water, not the highway. No, we did NOT want another ferry ride which would add two extra hours to our trip home... Thankfully we figured it out but I have learned to double-check Mapquest's "steps." I hope the next car I purchase will have a built-in GPS system!

3. "Call the Midwife" makes me want to be a more helpful person.

Do not EVEN get me started on how much I love the PBS series "Call the Midwife" that I binge-watched on Netflix! I love the characters, the voice of the narrator, the health topics, the early 1950's timeframe, the way the nurses and nuns helped their poor community in London, the clothes, and then of course there were always babies... Have you watched it? It can be a bit graphic at times, but it is SO good! The focus was always on caring for others and I want to be more intentional about helping those around me. Perhaps I'll even ride my bike next summer!

photo source:http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/p0118t80

4. All major moments contain love, tears and Jesus.

My son got married on October 3rd on a beautiful sunny fall day in Spokane. Oh what a day of joy our family shared!  I'm a bit bias, but the day was perfect and I can't remember being that happy! We laughed, we cried, we danced, we prayed, we toasted, we ate, and we knew Jesus was with us.

Another major moment happened last week. One of my dear friends from my couples small group suddenly passed away unexpectedly as she recovered from surgery. It has been a week of sorrow as it sinks in that I'll never see my friend Malinda again until I join her someday in Heaven.  Her Memorial on Friday was full of love, lots of tears, and was such a testimony of a life well lived. If people didn't know Jesus before that day, surely they do now. 

5. Friends are a precious gift and sometimes words aren't necessary. 
Malinda's passing has reminded me not to take time with friends for granted.  I've been spending lots of time with friends and I hope I've told them all how much I love them. Sometimes we've just sat by each other and words weren't spoken. That's OK. It's just being together that matters.
Even two year olds know that...

Sweet little BFF's at Charlie Barnes.

What did you learn in October?
I'm linking up with Emily Freeman at Chatting at the Sky.

                                                                              

In His Grip,

Jane

Thank you for reading "See Jane Learn."

Someone is Turning Five!

Today is the birthday of our rescue dog Sydney! We adopted her three years ago right after she turned two years old. As a former Kindergarten teacher, I have a soft spot for five year olds. 

The celebration is pretty low-key. Party attendants; birthday girl, Tigger and me. I attempted to pose her for a photo like I saw on Pinterest, but the execution was a failure... 

She received a new collar, yummy bone and stuffed toy squirrel.

Sydney has taught me a lot...

• Get out there and walk every day even if the weather is cruddy.

• Stay close to your loved ones.
• Only bark when necessary.
• Enjoy quiet time in front of the fireplace, no matter what the season.

• Protect your “people” from strangers.
• Chase after your passion. (In Sydney’s case, that’s squirrels.)
• Forgive.

• Share if possible.

• Be grateful for freedom. (She runs like a crazy girl when off her leash.)

• Wait in expectation.

• Most importantly...love unconditionally.

Thank you Sydney for being great company since all my human children aren't here and the nest gets lonely when your pet-daddy travels for work.

Cheers to a wonderful dog even if we can't take her to 7 Seas anymore since she doesn't get along well with other doggies. We love you Sydney Lou Carver! Happy 5th Birthday!

In His Grip, 

Jane

Sydney would like to take this opportunity to thank her favorite human friends who stop by to let her out or take care of her when we're out of town. Thanks Maddie, Debbie, Sue and Theresa!