They Offer Hope

Matthew 6:19-21

“Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” –Jesus

I’ve been reading the book One Thousand Gifts by Ann Voskamp. A friend gave it to me with a sweet “I’m thankful for you” bookmark. Ann set a goal to write a list of one thousand things she’s thankful for so that she can live a life closer to Jesus. As I’ve followed her story, she shares through heartache, grief, joy and pain the simple things she’s grateful for. Here are a few I’d put on my list—daffodils waiting to bloom, bluebirds, celebrating a child’s birthday, my grandchild’s smile, peanut butter toast.

Should I tuck these in my heart? I think so. I strive for the simplicity of Ann’s journey, to appreciate the true treasures of life on earth. Along with the natural wonders and the beautiful moments, I want to store the words of Jesus and the blessings of God in my heart. So many times when I’ve been anxious or distressed, the Bible’s words have come to me and calmed me. They offer hope. Praise God for the true treasures of life.

Early Bloomers

I found these spring beauties at Sycamore Park. 

Wednesday Wisdom

Are You a Nature Nut?

Does anyone else see the cushion used to lean on and study?

I've decided to find at least one moment of beauty in every day. I'm convinced I'll find more. But I won't find any if I don't look. Tim and I took a walk in our neighborhood and I saw several things I consider beautiful. 

I've always been a bit of a nature nut. Dragging (not literally) my kids into the woods, through parks and fields and teaching them names of flowers and trees. So it's no surprise to me to find the lovely even in the unlovely at times. 

Love the bird nest.

I hope you enjoy a few of my nature shots.



Share the beautiful you found in today.

A Little Easter Flower

I posted a while back that I was up to my elbows in ruffles. 

Here's the finished project on my sweet little granddaughter. She'll be a beautiful little flower for Easter. I used the scraps to make a bow tie for her big brother. 

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.