Have Courage and Be Kind

Any little girl who dreams of being a princess knows the story of Cinderella. A lovely young lady who lived a golden childhood is cast into the unexpected role of servant to some cold-hearted people. Fortunately for her, her mother presented her with a piece of wisdom that would carry her through life. "Have courage and be kind."

Some of my favorite princesses joined me at the theater to see the new Cinderella movie. All girls, 8-108 will fall in love with this magical story once again. The detail is amazing, the setting perfect, the costumes gorgeous, and the characters delightful. Lily James sweetness shined through Ella's misfortune. Cate Blanchett played the evil step-mother to a tee. Holliday Grainger and Sophia McShera's rendition of the step-sisters left me laughing out loud. And the prince, Richard Madden, was certainly charming. Disney did a fantastic job bringing this timeless tale to life.

After the movie, my daughter's were talking about there favorite Disney princesses. I had to admit I'd not really picked a favorite. I like Snow White, but I believe after seeing Cinderella defy the odds with courage and kindness, I've found a new favorite princess. I'll be buying this one.

Who is your favorite princess?

The Servant's Heart

Galatians 5:13

You, my brothers and sisters, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the flesh; rather, serve one another humbly in love. 

Have you ever been involved in planning and implementing an event? At work, I’ve joined with a team to put together a retreat, author visit, or conference day. In my experience there are usually one or two people in the background who tie up loose ends, pick up pieces, make food, and make the execution of the event look seamless. If you’ve ever gone to a theater production you know someone created the backgrounds, sewed the costumes, and developed the marketing. At the end of a movie, a long list of folks who work in the background scrolls across the screen.

God loves the servant’s heart. In Galatians 5, people argued over the old laws. Paul said, “The only thing that counts is faith expressing itself through love.” He encouraged the people to stop arguing and start serving. The Lord wants his followers to meet the needs of others with a humble heart, without drawing attention to themselves, while glorifying Jesus. What a great blessing to meet needs without limelight. Praise God for freedom and grace that give opportunity to serve.

Spring has Sprung

My daughter sends me a picture of the first crocus she finds, every spring.

 I look forward to it each year. Spring has sprung!

Maggie Wickline

A Good Day

Sixty-one degrees drew me outside. I walked a path through the woods that later wound around sidewalks in our community. The sun shined from a blue sky. Birds called to one another that spring weather had arrived. Children played, rode bikes, and skateboards. As I ambled along, a book by one of my favorite authors came to mind.

A Good Day by Kevin Henkes follows the trail of things lost and found. His vibrant illustrations embody a happy feeling, much like the sunny day gave me. This is a perfect book to read to a baby or toddler. The story is sweet and filled with hope for a good day.

Real Courage

Penny Frost McGinnis

Spring Beauty

Penny Frost McGinnis

I delight in discovering beauty. Since we moved into our new home in August I had no idea what plants might pop up in the landscape. We've lived several places and each spring I'd find lovely green sprouts pushing through the soil. This place is no exception. Yesterday, once all the snow melted away, the beginnings of grape hyacinths poked their little heads up. I am excited to see the full grown flower. Hopefully they'll stretch into themselves by Easter. 

What spring flowers do you have?

Tea for Two by Trish Perry

I’d love to have a tea shop like Millie’s to visit in my town. Mille’s Tea Shop is the place where friends meet, problems get solved and scones are eaten. Perry’s delightful follow up to The Perfect Blend put a smile on my face and warmth in my heart. I enjoyed rooting for the main characters, Zach and Tina. Tea for Two is a sweet faith-filled story, but not without conflict and resolution. I loved the setting and the interesting array of characters. Perry’s humor made me laugh while I reflected on what it means to trust God.