We just spent a few days at my daughter Susan’s celebrating our granddaughter Addy’s first birthday. Addy’s brother Levi is in the middle of potty training. One evening he showed a willingness to go potty. Seizing the opportunity, Susan set him on the potty. Yes, he had an audience and the TV was on, but he decided to “try.” He sat for a while and finally said, “I’m trying to focus.” We burst into laughter.

What a lesson! I was reminded of my audience—the people in my life who I interact with –family, friends, strangers in supermarkets and clerks at the Motor Vehicle office. Expectations may not be realized; people are out of sorts and I let that be my focus. Not a good idea! I also thought about my distractions: a sarcastic remark said to a group, but really intended for me; circumstances which are an inconvenience; a disappointing unraveling of an experience. These things can get the best of me unless, like Levi, I focus.

Today’s scripture tells us where to place our focus. What happens when I do? What happens when I move away from focusing on my audience or my circumstances and “look to the Lord”?

I can have confidence as I remember what He has done for me in the past. He never changes and will meet all of my needs.

I can be encouraged when I remember His promises. He always keeps His promises.

I know He loves me. His love never stops.

I can call on His name because it represents His character. His character will not disappoint me.

I am reminded that with Him, I can get through today. He never leaves me and is next to me ready to guide and lead.

I’m working on my focus and Levi is still working on his potty training. I am sure that the next time I see him, Levi will be in big boy pants. Yes, success comes when we focus. I hope he sees me as a Nonni who focuses in the right place too.

Reflection: Where are you today? We know who we should focus on, but what aspect do you need to take hold of today -- God’s faithfulness, promises, love, character, grace? Find a scripture that will help you focus. Write it on an index card as a help to you. E-mail me if you would like some direction in this task.

Sunshine Cake

Make this cake a focus by placing it on a pedestal cake plate. It is bound to be the focus of conversation after your guests’ first bite.

1 yellow cake mix

½ cup oil

4 eggs

1 small can mandarin oranges (do not drain—this takes the place of the water)

Spray 3 round layer cake pans with cooking spray. Combine above ingredients and pour into cake pans. Bake at 325 degrees for 15-20 minutes until cake tests done. Cool and turn on to racks.

Prepare filling and topping:

1 12 oz contained non-dairy whipped topping

1 large pkg vanilla instant pudding

1 8 oz container sour cream

1 20 oz. can crushed pineapple with juice

Mix thoroughly. Assemble cake by spreading filling between layers and on top layer. Refrigerate. Garnish edge of cake plate and edge of top layer with coconut before serving if desired.