Who Guides Me?

National Puppy Day

I heard today is National Puppy Day. I'm not sure who made up the day, but I bet they love their dogs as much as we love ours.

When we got Tater as a puppy, he was a sweet furry bundle of joy. He laid in my lap when I was sick and followed us faithfully from room to room. He's been a blessing. He's about eight years old now, seventy-five pounds and still a joy.

Olive came to us as an adult. She's a rescue dog found with eight puppies. Poor thing had physical problems from her previous life. She's been a bit of challenge, yet a soothing little dog.

Do you have dogs who are part of your family?

Ash & Eish

www.facebook.com/ashandeish

I love living near a small town. The other day as I drove home, I noticed a new business had popped up. Ash & Eish Boutique, at 120 North Market Street in Batavia is a cute little shop filled with unique clothing and accessories for women and girls. The ladies who own the shop specialize in refreshing used clothing. Tucked in one corner hang patchwork items. In another, colorful accessories. Stop in and visit Ash & Eish. 





While you're out, a couple other new businesses sprouted over the winter. An antique shop on Kilgore Avenue and a shop on Main Street with prom dresses and artwork. I'm hoping this is the beginning of some great shops in Batavia.

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.