Book Review: Your Future Self Will Thank You

Personal growth is an ongoing interest of mine, and when I came across Drew Dyck's Your Future Self Will Thank You,I was intrigued. I've heard Drew Dyck several times on a podcast I enjoy, and he is funny! A book that can talk about self-control, the Bible, and brain science, all while making me chuckle is worth taking the time to investigate. 

This is not a preachy book by any means. Drew Dyck honestly writes about his fruitless efforts to complete goals, practice self-control, and learn new habits to improve his life and what research has taught him. This fact-based book makes it very trustworthy. There is evidence to prove that what he suggests works. He intersperses each chapter/topic with his own real life situations and how he did or did not succeed in his efforts, and why.

 If you’re looking for some practical tips on how to create a habit loop, how to grow (and replenish!) your willpower, and how to conquer your weaknesses, this is the book for you. There are a lot of gems in here, and it will be worth your while to learn the secrets to self-control. Who doesn’t want to be freer, happier, and more productive, as well as being more at peace?

I received this book for free from Moody Publishers in exchange for an honest review. 

~when it's best not to wait~

A few years ago, we enjoyed a wine tour with some friends.   It was one of those days you look back on with fondness.  We hopped into the Tasteful Excursions van and spent a sunny summer day winding up the highway and down little known country roads, being treated to a commentary on the history of the vineyards in our area. Great friends, inspiring views, fabulous wineries, and so much wine tasting! We frivolously picked up this special bottle of  "oak-aged port-like dessert wine" and talked about saving it for New Year's Eve and drinking it with our friends. For some reason, we didn't drink it on December 31st.  Maybe we thought we'd save it for our anniversary, who knows. So it sat in our cupboard for over a year, maybe even two, when I began having some health issues just before Christmas 2017.  Little did I know that alcohol, especially RED WINE would be off limits for me indefinitely, maybe even longer.

It took a few months before a naturopath helped to diagnose my condition, the main symptoms being facial rash and swelling (not fun!). I have what is commonly known as a histamine intolerance. Basically, for some reason, my body isn't doing a good job of ridding itself of histamine, so when I have too much, my symptoms show up. Anyway, I won't go into detail here, but if you want to know more about histamine intolerance and how to heal, check out these two highly recommended websites, Healing Histamine and FactvsFitness.com. The bottom line was to stay away from (quite a long list of) high histamine foods, of which alcohol is one of the main culprits.

Whenever I open the kitchen door to where we keep our alcohol, I see this little bottle back in the corner. And I think to myself,  Why didn't you enjoy it sooner? Why did you wait for the 'perfect' moment? 

This experience reminds me to stop waiting for the BEST time to do something. If it's a good idea in 6 days or 6 weeks, or 6 months, it could be a better idea now.  

So, I'm reminded to:

• Use the fancy dishes more than 3 times a year (even if I have to wash them by hand) because they were a gift to me and they are lovely. One day they'll be sitting in an estate sale in perfect condition and no one will be interested in them. 

• Wear that top I really love more than I normally would because one day it might be ruined or I might not fit it anymore! 

• Go outdoors regularly and get a good walk in because one day I might not be able to walk anymore. 

• Call my mom more regularly because one day she might not be able to answer anymore. 

• Spend regular time enjoying my kids because one day they might move out of town and I'll hardly ever see them. 

• Tell my friends I appreciate them, even if it's not their birthday, because they need to hear it and they're not getting any younger! ;) 

• Spend time pursuing my creative practices because one day my eyes and hands might not work as well!

What about you? What's one thing that might be a better thing to to do right now instead of waiting for the 'perfect moment'?

The Year That Was

Here we are... looking out over a vast space with no idea what is going to transpire in the next twelve months. Every year is like that.

I guess you could also say it's like being handed an unopened gift, but one that can only be examined one little bit at a time. No tearing and ripping into it.  Not until the end of the year are we able to look back and give an opinion on the year that was.

The year that was...
As I was journalling one day, I wrote an entry called Life and Death in 2017. Because it really was the year of life and death. Literally and figuratively. To sum it up,  it was a VERY HARD YEAR. And yet, it held some of the biggest joys of my life, too. Life is like that.

Truth be told, when it's hard, we really find out what we really believe and where we really put our trust and hope. We find out how important our community is. We are thankful for little things. We keep telling ourselves the truth. We take less for granted and we hold more tightly to things we value (and they're not really usually things). We know how fleeting life is. We only have today. Who knows what tomorrow brings?

My 'mantra' for 2017 was "Always, we begin again". It was so apt for me. I'm going to take that into 2018 as well, because I think it's a life saver. We can't look back and dwell on regrets or missteps. Yes, we can learn, but in the end, we begin again. Take what we've learned and move ahead. Begin again.

The steadfast love of the LORD never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness. Lamentations 3:22-23

Next post: One Word 2018

Yes and No

Looking back at the past year has caused me to ponder what I'd like 2017 to look like -- at least the parts that I can control. I know that accountability factors high in successful goals, so maybe I'm setting myself up for failure with some of these! But then I remember my mantra for the year...

I'm saying yes more often to :

• journaling- quotes, devotional/prayer, morning pages, gratitude journal, memoir (however sporadic!)
• reading hard copy books borrowed from the library
• using Overdrive to listen to audio books (free!). I've not been a huge fan of audio books, but I'm giving it another go.
• time for creativity- knitting, watercolor, cardmaking - have enjoyed them all this past year. 
• watching a few good shows on my Ipad -- my little 'zone out' pleasures -  favorites: The Voice, Dancing with the Stars, This is Us, and Nashville (if/when it appears on Netflix). 
• using my YouVersion Bible app.  I tried to get back to using my hard copy Bible, but I always seem to gravitate back to the app more often than not. 
• the Abide prayer app
• GoodReads - a great place to keep track of what I've read and to see what others are recommending. I've set a goal of 25 books this year. Life isn't all about quantity, right?
• personal growth - spiritual - through Freedom Session this year. 
• regular fitness activities, which includes intentional walking and spending time outdoors 
• continuing to go gray... I might add a few highlights to help my hair through the transition, though! This might include another purple, green, or blue streak.. you never know. 
• listening to Spotify playlists. Best $10 a month I've ever spent. 
• listening to podcasts -- all those thought provoking conversations! 
• family time - fun, dinners, and just being there to help out 
• nurturing friendships, practicing hospitality,  and being of service to others 
• eating healthy - more paleo for me and my man
• Instagramming - just because I like it. 

I'm saying no more often to:

• reading too many books at once. This is tough because every time I get a new book, I add it to my already impossibly tall pile of readings-in-progress. I think I'm a bit of a book hoarder - not so much on the shelves, but on my side table! Which leads to...
•  borrowing too many books from the library; must.set.a.limit
• reading books for review. I've realized that it just stressed me out to have to read books on a schedule, especially when I realized I wasn't enjoying them that much. I'm going to pick and choose very few this year. I still LOVE to get books in the mail! 
• doing things out of guilt 
• procrastination. This is going to be very difficult because it's my default! 
• starting too many 'free' online courses.  It just clutters up my brain. Ugh. 
• signing up for too many free online newsletters. 
• subscribing to too many podcasts. 

I see a theme running through my list.. the words 'too many' show up too many times! ;)  Balance. Simplicity. Moderation.
 Keeping my mantra for 2017 in mind, "Always, we begin again", I just may experience some success in sticking to my yes's and no's.

What are you saying yes or no to this year?

Begin Again

Happy New Year everyone!

At this time of the year, many are sharing their "One Word"  for the year. I find that very interesting. I think it's a great practice, usually because it helps us stay aware of how we are living our lives, it's a positive focus, and it helps us on the way to becoming the 'best version of ourselves' as it's commonly referred to. This, for me, means I want to continue to grow personally in my journey of being transformed through the power of God, to bring him glory, to grow in love towards myself, others, and God.

Having said all that, I'm not so great at One Words.  Sometimes I don't even remember my One Word for the year. For example, as I was reviewing my journals, I realized my word for 2016 was "listen". I guess I actually HAVE been working at being a better listener but I had forgotten that I had chosen that as my One Word. Oh well. Such is me.

This year, I have settled on a phrase instead of a word:  Always, we begin again. (St. Benedict)

If I start a fitness program, and drop off, I'll pick myself up and begin again.
If I start strong in my healthy eating goals, and then lose my resolve, I'll begin again.
If I lose my patience or hope or will, I'll pick myself up and begin again.
If I feel overwhelmed, I'll look up, and begin again.
If I start something I really want to do and peeter out, I'll begin again.
If I do things out of selfish ambition and love is not evident, I will repent, and begin again.
If I find myself mired in life-sucking activities, I'll repent, and begin again.

Yes, no matter what, I will keep on keeping on. Always, I will begin again. By the grace of God.

The Gift I See in You

The gift I see in you is....

your vulnerability, your 'this is who I am' honesty

your faith and positive outlook

your courage and tenacity

your gentle spirit

your infectious smile

your devotion to your faith, no matter what

your sense of humor

your individuality

your deep thoughts

your sensitivity

your care for others who are needy

the way you grab onto life and experience it

your calm and gentle voice

your willingness to try new things

your encouragement, continually

your amazing energy

your quiet disposition which has such a calming effect

the way you give of your time to others

your words of encouragement and honesty

your gentleness and care towards others

your hugs that say "I am so glad to see you"

your wacky sense of humour

your ability to make me laugh

your willingness to engage in difficult conversations

your unconditional acceptance of others

your simple, sweet hospitality

your wisdom and the way you share it in your writing

your friendship and care towards others

your willingness to forgive and continue on

your amazing artistry and your humility combined

your commitment to what's important

your courage to keep going when life is hard and scary

your celebration of the gift of life

how you share what you have with others

your attitude towards learning and growing

your attitude of gratitude

your tender, compassionate heart

your honest words, unfiltered

your tears

your imagination

your willingness to share the gift of who you are


I am thankful for my friends and family! Because of who you are, I have learned more about myself and I am inspired to continue becoming more fully who I was created to be.

For we are God's masterpiece (work of art). He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things he planned for us long ago. 

Ephesians 2:10 NLT

Do you see yourself as a gift?

Very Interesting

I've recently been following a blog that has quickly become one of my favourites. There are so many people out there with encouraging things to say and Joel Malm is one of them. Go check him out!

I am putting a twist on one of his recent blog posts-- hope that's okay! (I'm stealing like an artist ;)

I agree that each one of us is unique, created for a purpose, and can change the world for the better in both small and big ways. We can choose to keep our gifts or share them. No gift is too small or insignificant in God's eyes. And He is good at multiplying the little we might think we have to offer.

Signs that you are probably a very interesting individual: 

You create. I recently read Steal Like an Artist by Austin Kleon. Good stuff. How many times have you heard the comment "I'm not creative". I've said that many, many times but I know it's a lie. We are ALL creative! But our creativity might look very different from someone else's. No sense comparing. In our culture, we often default to passive entertainment, which steals our God-gifted creativity. Creativity takes time to grow.

You read. It's a great way to experience things you might not be able to see or do first hand. And it opens up your mind to how others live and think.  It's not always comfortable to step out and read others' views when yours might be pretty entrenched. But it's healthy. And it helps you  to understand where others are coming from.  It's the best way to help  figure out what you really believe and it can make for some interesting and lively discussion.

You take risks. Remember what you consider a risk might be a piece of cake to someone else. I tell myself that a lot! Do you regularly do something that 'scares' you?

You ask questions. The most fascinating people are the ones who don't have all the answers. And they aren't afraid to ask the questions. Interesting, scary, uncomfortable ones sometimes. Asking questions usually leads to finding answers. But sometimes it's good to just sit with the questions until answers come.

You learn new things. And then you share your experiences to enrich others' lives.

You listen. You look people in the eye and you focus on them. You are interested in what others believe, think, and experience. You don't have to have all the answers. You are open to learning. That makes you very attractive.

You admit mistakes. A wise person once said, "Do you want to be right or be happy?" I want to be happy. Winning an argument is never a win/win, is it? I don't enjoy being around people who are continually wanting to be right. Sometimes that person is me. Ouch. Often the most beautiful (and hardest words to say) are "I'm sorry, I was wrong, I apologize".

You need people. We are made for community. And we don't often do this well. You include people. You meet new people. You are honest. Your bravest word might be "Help".

You care for others. In your own unique way, in the small and big things, you care for God's creation - people, animals, all of creation. You do what you are able to do because it's the right thing to do. We are all in this together.

You take time for YOU. Self care is so important and it's not selfish unless it takes up all of your time and interest. Then it's self-absorption. We care for ourselves so we can care for others.

Can you add to this list? Disagree with any of these signs?

The Easy and Comfortable Life

It's at this time of the year that I can feel my stress levels start to inch up just a little, in anticipation of all the commitments coming up in the next few months. The sweet slower paced summer days will soon be over, monthly meetings reconvene, work gets into full gear again, church activities increase, ministry commitments begin, decisions on community classes of interest need to be made.. well, I'm sure you can add to this list.

It feels like the easy, comfortable life is over and REAL life begins again. And I'm not anticipating it, but rather dreading it just a little, to be honest.

This short video reminded me that the 'easy, comfortable' life is really not the goal and if I make it that, I will always be striving towards it and become dissatisfied with the everyday challenges and commitments that make up my one, precious, unique life. Do I really want everyday to be a day without something to stretch and grow me? Do I want to live in my own little selfish bubble where comfort and ease is king?

I was reminded that these challenges and commitments ahead of me, if I keep my attitude in check, are what can make for a fulfilling, passionate life.

It's in the giving that we receive.

My prayer is that I will remember this as I begin to plan and implement my goals and schedule this next season.

What did you think of this little video?

small talk by amy julia becker

small talk- learning from my children about what matters most by amy julia becker was a book I was drawn to because my own experiences have shown me that God teaches us a lot about ourselves and Himself through our children.  I was interested in the revelations Becker would share. As well, I have several nieces and nephews and friends with young families and I hope to pass this book on to one of them.

 This  book includes a lot of details about the activities and conversations the author engages in with her young children, including Penny who has Down Syndrome.  The author ponders theological truths spurred on by these interactions. She writes transparently and honestly about her relationship with her children and their relationship with each other, and in doing so, reminds parents of the very important role they play in the spiritual development of their children, simply by listening to them and engaging them in discussions, not having to be 'perfect parents'.

If you have younger children you will relate to this book. If you have adult children, you will still glean much from this book. If you have never had children, you will still benefit from reading this book. Becker's thoughts remind us all that God uses simple things to teach us truth.  Some great topics for discussion include those on prayer, disability, laughter, tragedy, and baptism. This book is written honestly and simply, is easy to read, yet full of wisdom. The descriptions of family interactions may be most appreciated by those with little ones, because they are so relatable. The theological musing, however, will certainly be of interest to all readers.

I have received a free copy of small talk from BookLookBloggers in exchange for an honest review.

Looking Ahead

Have you considered a 'One Word' for the year? The one I've decided upon, which seems to have chosen me, because I'm not really a big fan of it, is...

I was trying to think of words meaning the opposite of procrastinate, and I settled on this one. Maybe not exactly the opposite, but it seems to have grabbed me. 

Not long after this decision, my eyes landed on my little old desktop calendar/notepad of quotes I have near my computer and this what it said: Procrastination is a form of self-abuse. Whoa, that's a little harsh, isn't it? But maybe a confirmation. Anyway, so I've decided to stick with MOVE.  As in, don't just think about it... MOVE! proceed, advance, etc, How that plays out this year and if it will make a difference, we shall see. It can't hurt to focus on a word that brings positive change, right? 

I hoped to find a Bible verse I could settle on with the word 'move' in it, which would encourage me and this is the one that came to mind --Matthew 17:20. 

That's always been a somewhat perplexing verse to me, so hopefully this year it will become clearer. What does it mean to have faith the size of a mustard seed? I've got a few mountains that need to be moved. How about you?

Literary Appies, Main Courses, and Desserts

As I've been browsing through a few favorite blogs, some have been sharing favorite books of 2014. I thought I'd add a few of mine, as well. I've probably missed a few, but here goes, in no particular order. Not all were 5*'s to me, but all were definitely worth reading and some made me think, take notes, underline, and write down excerpts.

Appetizers{meant to eat a little morsel at a time and chewed slowly, rich, worth savouring; like a box of chocolates, some morsels are better than others}

Glimpses of Grace by Madeleine L'Engle
When the Heart Waits by Sue Monk Kidd
Simple Abundance by Sarah Pan Breathnach
Bittersweet: Thoughts on Change, Grace, and Learning the Hard Way by Shauna Niequist


Main Course {meaty, nutritious, filling, mostly no nonsense}

Praying for Strangers by River Jordan
The Gift of Being Yourself by David Benner
Let's All Be Brave by Annie Downs
When We Were On Fire by Addie Zierman
Jesus Feminist by Sarah Bessey
Pursue the Intentional Life by Jean Fleming
Reclaiming Eve by Suzanne Burden, Carla Sundberg, Jamie Wright
The Good and Beautiful God: Falling in Love with the God Jesus Knows by James Bryan Smith
Leaving Church: A Memoir of Faith by Barbara Brown Taylor

Dessert {sweet, can't stop eating, always room for some, best enjoyed just before bed} (all happen to be fiction)

Tuesday Night Miracles by Kris Radish
City of Tranquil Light by Bo Caldwell
The Distant Land of My Father by Bo Caldwell
A Woman's Place by Lynn Austin
All for a Song by Allison Pittman
All for a Sister by Allison Pittman
All for a Story by Allison Pittman

 So many books, so little time, so many distractions! Even so, I'm looking forward to tasting some new book treats in 2015. Aren't you?

The Spiral

Do you ever have one of those days? One where you let your imagination run wild and fears you have rise up, leaving you exhausted and discouraged?

Yeah, I had a day like that yesterday. Thankfully, I had the wisdom to leave the house after supper and check out the craft store and visit with a friend for a bit. No, I didn't even share the particulars, but I didn't have to. It was just good to get out and focus on something else. It helped.

And this morning I got up and decided a brisk walk in the cool morning air was in order. I talked to God, was reminded of some comforting Bible truths, and met up with a friend to finish up the walk.

Not everyone will understand the feelings that threaten to overwhelm at times. Not everyone goes through it! And it's not something that is easily overcome. It takes some work, in my experience.  It can be difficult to  turn those spiralling thoughts off.  

There's definitely something comforting about sharing with someone who says, "You, too? I thought I was the only one!" Two friends and I once studied Calm My Anxious Heart by Linda Dillow. I remember it being a beneficial time for all of us.

I've got  The Anxious Christian, on my radar-- heard an interview with the author  and it sounds like a great book.

Do you have any books that are 'keepers' and have helped you through your bad days?

Carry On and Keep Calm

Wow. I read over my last post and it was obvious I wrote that in the heat of the moment, or close to it.  Today I don't dislike Google Forms as much anymore. In fact, I actually figured it out and think that this app might be my friend, after all. Yes, I could have started over with another document creating program but instead I decided to work through the issues I was having.

My initial reaction to this frustration reminded me a lot of what children do when facing a challenge. Let's face it, sometimes adults act like children (yeah, me).

What happens when a child is frustrated? Voices rise. Harsh, loud words are spoken, often without forethought.  Stomping feet are heard. Doors are slammed. Withdrawal. Feeling defeated. Hopeless. Words like 'never' , 'always'  and 'stupid' are spit out once or twice.

So, what have I been reminded of from this experience? There's a better way to handle my frustration when learning new things.

1. Walk away.
2. Come back later when cooled down.
3. Take time to think. Mull over.
4. Ask for help.
5. Try, try again.
6. Baby steps.
7. Share little victories.
8. Celebrate!

 “I have not failed. I've just found 10,000 ways that won't work.” ― Thomas A. Edison

The Journal Inward

I've been enjoying an online  'Journaling for Creative Growth' course  these past few weeks. I've journaled quite a bit over the years, and for a while kept Morning Pages (which I have picked up again). These exercises were along the same line as that, but more varied and focused, with the goal of gaining personal insights. Interesting stuff! This course is just a first step into serious writing for creative growth,  but it's rekindled my interest in journaling with a purpose. And maybe even memoir writing (my daughter would be happy to hear that!)

One of the exercises we completed was The Unsent Letter. Yes, I've written letters over the years to people I was angry with, and then promptly tore the letters up. Yes, that felt good and it helped to get thoughts on paper and mind uncluttered. So it wasn't all new to me.

For this particular exercise,  we were encouraged to choose a person, an entity, an event, or even our younger selves - something that's been weighing heavy in our thoughts recently -  and to write for 20 minutes without stopping, an 'emotional download' of sorts, uncensored. I had someone in mind and had no trouble spending 20 minutes writing. This really allowed me to clean up my poor ol' brain. Sometimes thoughts are much like a tangled mess of yarn! Then, when that was done, we were encouraged to write a letter back to ourselves from the one we had written to. Now THAT was interesting. How was I to know how this person would respond to my letter? But, I set my preconceived ideas aside (as much as I could) and began writing. Interestingly, I found it helpful. I was able to see a little more clearly from their point of view.

Have you ever written an unsent letter, uncensored?

Do you journal? Do you use writing prompts to help you grow creatively? Got any book recommendations?

A few of my faves: