Jun 19

Jun 19 Don't Waste Your Time Worrying

During my initial three weeks of training with my guide dog, Jackson, we had a lot of new, exciting, and sometimes scary experiences.

One that I remember most is when we were introduced to obstacles.

The trainers set up various objects along the sidewalk that were meant to block our path. Then, as a team, Jackson and I had to figure out how to work around them.

This exercise was meant to mimic a real-life scenario in which our route may become unexpectedly blocked and we would have to decide how to navigate the situation.

As Jackson and I walked along, I did not know exactly what the obstacles were or what the outcome would be, I just knew they were coming.

Jun 15

Jun 15 How to Turn Your Worries Over to God

Sara Claudia Ministries

FAITH

During my initial three weeks of training with my guide dog, Jackson, we had a lot of new, exciting, and sometimes scary experiences.

One that I remember most is when we were introduced to obstacles.

The trainers set up various objects along the sidewalk that were meant to block our path. Then, as a team, Jackson and I had to figure out how to work around them.

This exercise was meant to mimic a real-life scenario in which our route may become unexpectedly blocked and we would have to decide how to navigate the situation.

As Jackson and I walked along, I did not know exactly what the obstacles were or what the outcome would be, I just knew they were coming.

Jan 19

Jan 19 Dinner with Me

Sara Claudia Ministries

FAITH

Before I lost my sight, I was one of those strange individuals who enjoyed eating at restaurants alone.

Sure, I also loved to grab a bite with a group of friends or my family, but there was always something about the peace and relaxing atmosphere of a meal spent in solitude that appealed to me.

It’s been almost 7 years since I strolled into a restaurant by myself, was shown to a table, and enjoyed a meal independently.

Well folks, I am happy to say that this streak has finally come to an end.

Nov 17

Nov 17 How Do We Work as a Team with God?

Sara Claudia Ministries

FAITH

During my training with my guide dog, Jackson, one of the first things we learned how to do was to work around obstacles.

The trainers would set up traffic cones, large solid barriers, and other objects on the sidewalk to block our path.

The dogs are trained to stop in front of the obstacle, and then as a team, the dog and handler are to decide the best way to work around the object.

The first few times Jackson and I worked on this task; it was pretty much a disaster. I would give him the wrong command and completely confuse him. Or he would take matters into his own paws, guiding me on his own “creative” path around the obstacle.

It took a lot of practice, trust, and teamwork for us to finally become comfortable working together around these unexpected barriers.

Sep 22

Sep 22 How to Become More Connected with Christ

Sara Claudia Ministries

FAITH

In the fall of 2020, I began the process of applying for a guide dog from Leader Dogs for the Blind.

I know what you’re probably thinking because I’ve heard it many times before… “You have to apply? Shouldn’t anyone who is blind automatically be qualified for a guide dog?”

Actually, this is far from the truth because there is a lot more that goes into using a dog as a mobility tool than simply grabbing hold of the harness handle and being led everywhere you want to go.

As the dog’s handler, it is your responsibility to give your dog directions such as where to go and when to cross the street. The dog’s only responsibility is to follow your directions and guide you there safely.

As a result, the application process ensures that you have an adequate level of orientation and mobility skills to work with your dog as a team and that you can properly care for and provide for your new furry companion.

Mar 31

Mar 31 Can I Win the Waiting Game?

Sara Claudia Ministries

FAITH

They say, “Good things come to those who wait!”…but waiting can be so hard!

Whether you are striving for an end to a difficult season or are anticipating an exciting event, feeling like a player in the “waiting game” can be a struggle.

In my own life, I have been stuck in a “waiting season” for a few months.

I have some pretty exciting events that I am anticipating, and the sense of impatience is very real!

Mar 12

Mar 12 New Season: Exciting Life Update!

Sara Claudia Ministries

FAITH

Spring is quickly approaching, and with it will come the changes and promises of a new season.

Flowers bloom, the weather gets warmer, and we can finally start to venture out of our cozy winter cocoon of blankets and fleece!

The weather is not the only thing that has been changing for me recently.

My life has been undergoing a season of change that has brought sad goodbyes, exciting new endeavors, and a whirlwind of emotions.

I wanted to let you in on what God has been teaching me through it all.

Hi there!

During my initial three weeks of training with my guide dog, Jackson, we had a lot of new, exciting, and sometimes scary experiences.

During my initial three weeks of training with my guide dog, Jackson, we had a lot of new, exciting, and sometimes scary experiences.

Before I lost my sight, I was one of those strange individuals who enjoyed eating at restaurants alone.

During my training with my guide dog, Jackson, one of the first things we learned how to do was to work around obstacles.

In the fall of 2020, I began the process of applying for a guide dog from Leader Dogs for the Blind.

They say, “Good things come to those who wait!”…but waiting can be so hard!

Spring is quickly approaching, and with it will come the changes and promises of a new season.