Straight Arrow Planning or the Arrow Dance?

Proverbs 16:9
In their hearts humans plan their course,

    but the Lord establishes their steps.

Have you seen the picture of the black arrow shooting across the white page, from point A to point B, that represents what we think life's path should be. Next to that is a white background with a black lined arrow that curves and squiggles as it crosses back and forth over itself. The second one with all the twists and turns represents living life as it happens.

As more of a point A to point B person, I like to know what's coming and when. That's probably due to my anxiety. But guess what. God has been working on me for years, teaching me the best laid plans may not be the straightest.

I know God lays desires on my heart. He gives me ideas to plan my course, but the path I take is seldom straight as an arrow. Most of the time, I go over and around the mountain to get to where I'm going. And sometimes, I shoot past where I'm headed, only to land where God intended.

As a teenager, he placed a desire on my heart to pursue a bachelors degree. To me, that meant going four years to college, right after high school graduation. Straight arrow planning! But the plan played out much differently that I dreamed. When I finally received that diploma, I was 48 years old. God knew the big picture. He understood what I needed and when.

I'm considering retirement now. I don't know when, but I'm gathering information. Although I don't know the details, I trust that God does. He sees the big picture of the arrow dance. He understands every step of the curvy route we live. In prayer, I'm seeking God's wisdom to guide me. I'm trusting him to show me the way.

Fiction Review: The Fashion Designer by Nancy Moser

Book Description:

The American Dream thrives in 1912 New York City

Annie Wood, the housemaid-turned-pattern designer in The Pattern Artist, jumps at the chance to design her own clothing line when a wealthy New York couple offers to finance her endeavor. Joining the project is Annie’s new husband, Sean Culver, her best friend at Butterick, Maude Nascato, and a mother figure, Edna Holmquist.

Annie and her colleagues give up their careers, risking everything to follow a shared passion: clothes that are both fashionable and functional for modern, busy women in 1912.

Personal and financial setbacks test old relationships and new romances while threatening to keep the business from ever selling a single dress. No one said it would be easy. But the promise of the American Dream holds a deep hope for those who work hard, trust God, and never give up.

My Review:
I was delighted to read, The Fashion Designer, the follow-up story to Annie's journey into the world of design. Nancy Moser sews her research of the fashion industry in the early twentieth century into a perfect pattern of hope and determination. I loved the camaraderie of the entrepreneurial ladies and their desire to grow a business. There are many ups and downs in the story, but regardless of the situation the characters faith shines in the face of controversy. This is a book filled with excitement for women at the turn of the century, love among the wonderful characters, and hope for family and friends. I highly recommend this beautiful story. If you haven't read book one of the series, The Pattern Artist, check it out too. I received this book for free with no expectation of a good or bad review. This book is available July 1, 2018. Pre-order on Amazon.

He Will Give You Rest

Matthew 11:28-30
 “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.”

I've spoken to a lot of women lately who say the same thing. "I'm so tired." Me included. Whether they are running after pre-schoolers, staying up late waiting for their teenager to come home, working long hours, volunteering, or just tired of the chaos of living. We're all tired. Whether 21 or 91, we live in a world where we're worn out too much of the time. I'm sure men feel the same way. Living life on this earth is exhausting. Whether physical labor or emotional exhaustion, life takes the gumption right out of us.

And Jesus knew this would happen. That's why in all of his wisdom, he offers us relief. The only rest that removes burdens and allows us to sleep at night, comes from Jesus. His arms are wide open to receive our anxieties, worries, and burdens. Jesus offers to carry our cares. He asks that we give them to him. Through prayer, release the weight of life and let him take your load. He's willing and able.

The Lord replied, “My Presence will go with you, and I will give you rest.” Exodus 33:14

Children's Book Review: Nighty Night and Good Night by Michael W. Smith and Mike Nawrocki

Book Description:

Nighty Night and Good Night is the first book in a series of bedtime books by multiple Grammy and Dove Award-winning recording artist Michael W. Smith and VeggieTales co-creator Mike Nawrocki. In Nighty Night and Good Night, the stuffed animal band the Nighty Nights are called upon to help their friend Ben try to fall to sleep. This cute and sleepy adventure leads Lamby, Bear, and Sleepy Puppy to discover that a classic lullaby might just do the trick.

This book includes a link that allows readers to listen to Michael W. Smith sing the same lullaby that helps put Ben to sleep.

My Review:
Young children will enjoy this sweet bedtime story. And once they listen to the lullaby, they'll want to sing it before they go to bed. That would be a great nightly routine to help get children to sleep. The story is simple and aimed at giving comfort to the child as they doze off. The cute illustrations will bring a smile to little faces. I received this book for free from Zonderkidz with no expectation of a good or bad review.

How about a God Hug?

Psalm 91:1-2
Whoever dwells in the shelter of the Most High
    will rest in the shadow of the Almighty.
I will say of the Lord, “He is my refuge and my fortress,
    my God, in whom I trust.”

I have a friend who talks about "God kisses." Those moments when life works out. Maybe your path runs across that of a friend you haven't seen in a while, or an unexpected opportunity opens. For me, even the sight of my lavender tulips felt like a God kiss, a tiny joy of spring. But then there are those times when I need more. I may feel a little lost in my path. Sadness affects my life, anxiety gets me down. During those times, a God kiss is sweet, but I need a "God hug." A big old, God pulls me into him, hug.

Yes, an embrace from God. Many times those come to me on Sunday morning, while I'm standing in church singing worship music. I close my eyes and picture myself walking into the most comforting hug I can imagine. That's how it works for me, but God reaches out to us in so many ways. Maybe as you walk along your favorite trail, or drive down the road in your car (just don't close your eyes) you feel his arms around you. Perhaps while you rock a newborn, or sit quietly reading the Bible. God offers his open arms whenever we want to step into them. He's our comfort and safe place.

I'm grateful for a God who offers me shelter and his shadow for rest.

Fiction Review: Dancing in the Rain by Eileen Rife & Jennifer Slattery

Description:

On the verge of college graduation, Loni Parker seeks employment as a music teacher, but no one will hire her since she’s blind. Or so she thinks. To take her mind off her troubles,

her roommate invites her to spring retreat at Camp Hope in the gorgeous North Carolina mountains. Unbeknown to Loni, Michael Ackerman, the director, is an ex-con responsible for the accident that caused her blindness. When Loni warms up to camp and to Michael, and wants to return as a summer counselor, Michael opposes the idea, which only makes Loni want to prove herself all the more.

Camp director Michael Ackerman recognizes Loni instantly and wants to avoid her at all costs. Yet, despite the guilt pushing him from her, a growing attraction draws him to the determined woman. She sees more with her heart than the average person does with his eyes. But her presence also dredges up a long-buried anger toward his alcoholic father that he’d just as soon keep hidden. When circumstances spin out of control, Michael is forced to face a past that may destroy his present.

My Review:
Dancing in the Rain is a beautifully written story of changed hearts and forgiveness. Eileen and Jennifer did an excellent job with Loni's point of view as someone who is blind. The description they gave of what Loni hears, tastes, touches and smells had to be a challenge. Yet, they did this with beauty and grace. As I read, I had a better understanding of Loni's trials and a great appreciation for her ability to stand on her own and face her challenges with confidence. I loved the camp setting. The author's description reminded me of all the times I attended camp. I can't write a good review without mentioning my favorite character, Loni's guide dog, John Thomson. He's an exquisite creature she trusts with her life. Michael's story is also one to be appreciated. I love this story's unique perspective. I received this book for free, with no expectation of a good or bad review. This book will be available on Amazon in late May.

Prayers Reach Heaven

2 Chronicles 30:27
The priests and the Levites stood to bless the people, and God heard them, for their prayer reached heaven, his holy dwelling place.

I love to witness our grandchildren's prayers. Their sweet "Charlie Brown" voices resound with sincerity. No traces of doubt color their words. They know God listens to them as they bless the food, or ask God to make their friend or family feel better. Children trust God to listen. So why is it, as adults, doubts niggle in to our prayers. We dismiss talking to God as childish or pointless. Belief slips and fear takes over.

Maybe in life, no one listens. Days are too noisy with social media, television, negativity, or defeat to reach out. Then there are the busy days. Too much to do, not enough time. Or, maybe we think God doesn't want to hear from us anyway. How could he? I'm a sinner, why would he listen to me? But I have amazing news! The creator of the universe, God himself, loves you and me. He considers us his children. And he wants to hear our words. Whether we pray out loud or think our prayers, every single word we breath toward him is precious to him.

"He turned his ear to me." Yes he leans toward us, with his ear in our direction, ready to listen. I love the picture 2 Chronicles paints of prayers rising to heaven. Because that's what happens—prayers rise and God leans down to listen. That's just beautiful!

Psalm 116:2 Because he turned his ear to me, I will call on him as long as I live.