I am not one to sit still. Anyone who steps into my shadow for a day needs to rise early and lace up their most comfortable running shoes. From the moment my feet hit the floor, my to-do list begins cycling in my head. I would be the first to admit that I like filling my shoes with capable and self-sufficient. But what I've experienced is that my strengths can quickly become my downfall. Simply put, I struggle with being still long enough to let God work. I wrestle with not taking things into my own hands, especially when it comes to matters of the heart. As I write this, the struggle continues. In my core, I know I shouldn't take back what I've surrendered at least 100 times. But in my head, it plays out differently, and harnessing those thoughts chomping at the bit to take Continue Reading
A Hope-Filled Reminder: You Are Chosen
I love this time of year - pumpkins, bonfires, crisp air, cinnamon and nutmeg...too many soul-refreshers for just one to be chosen. All around us, the world just seems fresher, more alive and vibrant. The best of what can happen seems more possible. And life is filled with reminders of God's love sprinkled through each and every refreshing moment. For me, these love reminders begin with the choosing of a pumpkin...or two. I don’t rush the process because finding the perfect pumpkin takes time. And perfect for me doesn’t mean free of blemishes or uniform in shape and size. I’m looking for the kind that’s going to remind me all season long of one simple, refreshing truth. I’m looking for the kind with scars and bumps and dents. With deep ribs and visible character marks that Continue Reading
15 Splashes of Adventure to Awaken Courage
I am a firm believer that summer should never pass without taking an adventure and doing something brave. Why? Because it just feels good! It's empowering, refreshing and totally uplifting...even in the midst of uncomfortable, intimidating and unnerving. We are capable of so much more than we think we are, and there is an adventure out there for every level of brave. Sometimes the first adventure is reminding ourselves of where we've been. The moments we've chosen to step out of our comfort zone and try something new. The adventures we've said yes to without knowing what awaited us on the other side. Or the times we've believed in something enough to take a heart-pumping leap because to not would be to cease living and breathing. When we think about the brave things we've done Continue Reading
10 Splashes of Spontaneity to Energize Your Soul
How comfortable are you with spontaneity? If I answer this question truthfully, I would have to admit that although I'm not usually uncomfortable with being spontaneous, I don't make it a priority. Instead, my tendency is to plan out my day and remain flexible in how I get things done. I love having fun, trying new things, exploring and adventures. But I'm not good at making space for spontaneity. So, summer has always represented a perfect block of time to step back, let go and embrace things as they come. And I'm feeling the call to dive into as many spontaneous moments as possible this summer. To invite impulse. To welcome diversions. To wander down a different path. How about you? I know it's not always easy, especially when life doesn't slow down and timelines are looming Continue Reading