~Savour~

 Another Five Minute Friday entry. Set the timer for  minutes and freewrite from a single word prompt. You are welcome to join in :) 

My definition of savour: To enjoy in a calm, non pressured environment. 

 Savoring the experience, living in the moment, is what I've been practicing a lot lately. Because.... we are moving! 

We've lived in this house for almost 30 years. In that time, I've had toddlers, preschoolers, young children, tweens, teens, and young adults living in this house! Our family has pretty well grown up here. And that's a lot of memories! And I have a lot of emotions to go along with all those memories.  

How am I savoring this time as I go through all of our belongings, deciding  which to keep, which to give away, and which to sell? 

I am pondering these two questions: 

1. What am I going to miss when we move away from this house? 

2. What am I NOT going to miss when we move away from this house? 

Hopefully within 3 months, we will have listed and sold this house and moved into our new abode. Still in the same city, for those of you wondering! 

One of the special moments I'm savoring these days is the view from our dining table. It sits in the corner of our kitchen with big windows on two sides,  meeting at the corner.  While sitting there, I can enjoy the bird feeder, only feet away,  hanging off the edge of our deck roof. Watching and identifying the birds with my grandson has been such a special activity lately (He's almost 4!).  He loves birds and is soaking up the names and characteristics of them.  Pine siskins, yellow finches, and chickadees have all enjoyed our hulled sunflower seeds at the feeder.  Just beyond the feeder is a huge pine tree that towers over our house. It's close enough so that we can see the birds jumping from branch to branch, flying in, and zipping out, seemingly playing hide and go seek with each other. That tree was about 7 feet tall when we moved here! Beyond the backyard are meadows, hills (some are hills of sand where trees have been removed over the years), and mountains. So many people have mentioned what a beautiful view we have from our deck. It does have its own beauty, for sure, especially in midsummer and midwinter. I have never tired of that view, and will miss it. Good thing I've taken about 1000 photos of it ;) 

You know the saying "You don't know what you've got till it's gone?" In this case, I know what I've got. 

Five Minute Friday :: Time

 Lately I've been looking through a few family photo albums of past years. That's one way to be reminded that time is ticking on! Snuggling with my grandchildren, I am reminded that the weeks and months move on oh so quickly. From the day I first met my eldest grandchild, to his present age of 3 1/2, I can only say... whaaaat? Where did the time go?

How long is one breath? Breathe in, breathe out.  In God's economy, we are 'but a breath'. But that breath is so valuable! Though our years may be short, compared to the time that the world has been in existence, each of our breaths is so important. God is the One who has breathed His breath into us, and we became living souls. 

Our days are numbered.  Each minute is important.  I have more years behind me than ahead of me, even if I die of old age. That gives me pause. The grains of sand are falling, as time passes.  I am now in my sixth decade, and still I have been feeling that there is so much more I want to do, to be, to experience, to learn! 

May I be grateful in the good times, and trusting in the difficult ones. May I make the most of the time given to me. 

One day at a time. 

Photo by NeONBRAND on Unsplash   

This post is part of the weekly Five Minute Friday link-up! Write for 5 minutes on a selected topic, and share it with others. Feel free to join in!

Five Minute Friday :: Cancel

A few days ago, your future days on earth were cancelled, the candle of your life snuffed out too soon, it seems to me. My friend of almost forty years, husband to my childhood friend. Your smile, your twinkling eyes, your voice that was always warm and friendly towards me, I will miss these all. Never mind that you were suffering from the effects of cancer medications that were so hard on your body, yet kept you alive for many more years than you would have had. You never dwelled on your own pain when we visited as couples. The four of us visited in each others’ homes, camped together, talked about our kids and grandkids, laughed and reminisced. Remember years ago when cancer hadn’t reared its ugly head yet, we laughed our way through an intense tennis match? I may have wanted to win more badly than you (I think you won ;) That is such a sweet memory. Bob E, I will never forget you and the gift your life was to me, even though we lived a province apart and only really visited once or twice a year in the last 30 years. Rest in peace,dear friend, where sickness and pain have been cancelled forever. . . . This post is part of the Five Minute Friday link-up and you are welcome to join!

P is for Present

How does one stay present in the moment these days?

It seems much easier to get distracted these days than when my children were young, back in the 80's and 90s. Then I might be distracted by my own thoughts, by chores, or perhaps a long phone call (phone attached to the wall!) .

I once posted a phrase on my fridge with the words "BE THERE" on it, to remind myself to give my kids 100% attention when I was engaging with them. I tended to multitask a lot, with homeschooling four children. How much harder is it these days

Photo by Oliur on Unsplash

to "BE THERE" with cell phone addiction thrown into the mix?

 These days cell phones are so ubiquitous. We see them in the hands of parents at parks, at restaurants, in living rooms, at the table,  and more. Parents may be physically present to their children, but I think it's much more difficult these days for them to truly give their children all of their attention. Cell phones are so very attractive!

 It hasn't taken any time at all for our little grandson to be enamored with cell phones. Why wouldn't he be? They are sooo interesting! Everyone seems to be constantly looking at their screens.  When he hears a notification sound, little C stops what he's doing and looks at us as if to say "Are you going to check what that is?"

 If we are honest, most of us would say we struggle with spending too much time on our phones, and are even battling a level of addiction to them. *hand raised*

Most of us could use a reminder to set our phones down and be present to those who are looking to us for attention or guidance.

My grandson is that reminder to me.

My young teacher

"The older I am, the younger are my teachers"  

I read this today on Instagram this morning, and  I've been ruminating on it ever since.  I know that I have been reminded to appreciate the little things, to be present in the moment, and to celebrate victories, large and small!  All this from my almost-two-year-old grandson.

Truth!

Thursday 13 - How do I love thee?

I spent the morning child minding my little 20 month old grandson, the light of my life! So, I thought, why not list the ways to show love to my little sweet pea?

1. give him a home baked oatmeal scone
2. read a book, especially one where he has to lift the flaps or find objects!
3. chase him around
4. teach him how to play hide and seek
5. twirl him around in a swivel chair, first one way, then the other
6. turn on the music and dance with him
7. snuggle with him
8. have a sleepover
9. smother him with kisses
10. carry him around and  let him touch the trinkets and decor around your home
11. let your hand puppet talk to him
12. let him throw doggie toys for Enzo the chi to retrieve
13. tickle him

The Advent-ure begins

Advent has begun!

Years ago, my advent activities focused mainly on what was meaningful to my young children -- doing intentional activities which would bring us to the big day -- Christmas! These were simple calendar activities, including (cheap!) chocolates behind the doors as a way of counting down. We'd also read special books, make paper chains with Bible verses on them and remove one each day. We performed kind deeds,sometimes secretly, which meant we could add a piece of  "straw" (yarn) to Jesus' (posicle stick) manger. I guess it was my way of encouraging the children to be nice to each other!  We also had an interactive type homemade calendar where pregnant Mary on the donkey, led by Joseph,  would be moved one day closer to the manger (Dec. 25) each day.  I look back with fondness on our pre-Christmas activities. But I don't think I really appreciated or taught the real significance of advent.  I didn't really think about it beyond anticipating Jesus' birthday. In recent years, it has started to become more meaningful to me.

I think we miss a lot when we don't stop and ponder what was going on in the minds of people long ago, as they were waiting for the fulfillment of prophecy.. freedom from tyranny. A king was coming to save the people. But when? How long? Was this ever going to happen? It was about waiting. We don't seem to sing a lot of songs in church about waiting and longing, do we? I miss that.

 We may not be ruled by a tyrant where we live, but if we're honest, we probably all sometimes feel that the world and perhaps even our own little world has become unmanageable, out of control, perhaps disappointing,  and we're in a long season of waiting.  We lose sight of the hope we have. To me, that's what Advent is about. Remembering the promises of God.. promises made long ago and fulfilled (in very unexpected ways-- through a BABY born in a stable), promises for us today. It reminds us to wait with anticipation because the promises are being and will continue to be fulfilled.

This year I've decided to read Through the Advent Door-Entering a Contemplative Christmas by Jan Richardson. There are 24 "doors" to "walk" through. We'll see how many I enter! I am a realist, after all!

As well, I found a great Spotify playlist called Simple Advent,  beautiful music which focuses on longing and waiting. On December 25th, the celebratory music really starts!  If you're new to adventing (I made up that word!), check out The Art of Simple for some excellent free ideas and resources! If you are adventing, what are you doing this year?

 "Wherever you are, whatever is present in your life, may you welcome the Christ who welcomes you this day".  Jan Richardson

The books are coming!

I've been on a sort of book binge lately. I received a generous Amazon gift card from my previous employer when I moved on to other adventures at the end of June. To me Amazon equates books, even though I could order so many other items,  and so I began loading up my cart, looking for both new and used good reads. I finally clicked on 'checkout' and now I'm happily awaiting the mail carrier each day to see if there's another package to open.

Here is one I received this past week. The Power of a Praying Grandparent by Stormie Omartian is  a book of encouragement and prayers to remind me to pray consistently for my grandchildren (one dear little boy and one on the way so far!). It reminds me to focus on encouraging my son and his wife as they start out their parenting adventure. I remember how exhausting it can be with little ones and it's such a huge responsibility (and a privilege) to raise children. These days there are so many more waters to navigate with our ever changing times, including the explosion of the internet. It seems we had an easier time in some ways.

Becoming a grandparent was one of the happiest days of my entire life, and I want to be the best I can be and a force for good in my grandchildren's lives. My mom has been a great role model, of which I am so thankful!

We are promised that our prayers won't return void. God is always working, even though we may not see it or feel it. And so I will continue to pray!

"Having a grandchild is to forever have your heart walk around outside your body" 

Listen

Attention is the rarest and purest form of generosity.
Simone Weil

I've been part of a study group for several weeks now where we are sharing our stories with each other. The rules are to sit, listen, and let each other share what we want to or need to. No judgments, no fixing, no advice, no interrupting. Then we thank each other for sharing the hard parts of our lives.

I wish I could transfer the way I pay attention in this group, to how I listen to my own family and other friends. It seems hard to simply listen. More often than not, I'm partly listening (it might LOOK like I am fully listening) and partly formulating my response to what I'm hearing. But what would it be like to really listen and then pause before I replied?  What would it be like to make it my goal to value the other's words and need to be heard more than valuing my need to be heard, to have my opinions validated, advice accepted, and my needs met?

I messed up again today. I caught myself and did my best to listen and validate.
 "It must be really hard", I said.
"Yes", she replied, "very hard".
I may not have agreed with how she was handling this difficult situation, but if she wasn't asking for advice, it was better for me to simply listen. To be generous by saying nothing.

Not so simple. But so important.

The Blur of Summer Activities

This past month and a half have been a blur of activity. It seems we've hardly been home. I think I'll have to call this 'The Summer of the Great Grand (extended) Family' because we sure did see a LOT of each other! No complaining here. I still think it wasn't long enough.

Mid July - participated in our annual (I think it's been going on 5 years now.. ) Family Campout-- all campers related in some way. Pretty cool.  This year, we even ordered camp shirts, the logo designed by our personal graphic artist (my son).   Little E was gifted a onesie but wasn't too impressed so he only wore it for pictures. ;)

laughing on cue ;) 

Early August - our annual trip to Cortes Island to visit with my hubby's family. At one point there were 19 people camping on the property for a few days. A 98 year old aunt came to check out 'the resting tree' where several beloved extended family members' ashes have already been scattered over the years. Hope that isn't too morbid to mention.

August 13 we celebrated my parents' 60th Anniversary in Alberta, a day's drive away.  (I had blogged about it here, wondering if my dad would live to see this day. Thank you Lord, for this gift of time! ) Original plans were to meet in Jasper, a more central location, but plans changed due to Dad's health. The big party took place at my brother's acreage, with over 70 family members present!  That's what happens when you come from a family of 7 children and those children have children, and so on..  ;) We were only missing 4 people (and we did miss them)!  It was a full day of eating, chatting, laughing, hugging babies, laughing at the antics of children at play, biking (for some) and a day long bocce tournament for many competitive souls.

We Are Fa-mi- Ly!

 If you asked my parents, they would tell you over and over how special this day was for them. And that was the main thing. They loved the relaxed atmosphere and comforts of being at my brother's home. Our dad really amazed us all with his energy! We are thankful for every day we have with him, and it was so good to see him smiling pretty well all day long (with a few hours long nap break, of course). Mom couldn't get enough of the socializing. She made a point of talking to every single person there. Pretty amazing.

I am glad to be home once again and to stay put for a few days. A few more short excursions are planned before I settle back into my work again come late August. I must make every day count!

Hope you have been able to make some happy memories this summer, too.

Book Review: Breaking Busy

Author, speaker, blogger, wife,  mom of five boys, and the executive director of Propel Women,  Alli Worthington probably has something to say about breaking busy--how to find peace & purpose in a world of crazy!

My list of 'how I spend my time' is nothing like hers, but still I figured I could  glean some helpful hints here. Even in my relatively quiet life, I could learn a thing or two about peace and purpose.
Breaking Busy contains practical advice on how to get one's life back under control, how to find out what really gives you purpose, help with decision making, how to determine best ways to communicate with others (there are so many options these days!), how to fight the tyranny of the urgent, and much more.

The section on determining time wasters was one of my favorite parts of this book. Social media alone can sap hours of your day, leaving you asking 'what did I really accomplish? ' Do you really know how many hours of your day are frittered away without you even realizing it? Worthington suggests keeping a time diary. She offers several free downloadable resources at her website. Once you have that information, follow her advice to make some changes, if necessary.

I'm not a huge social media person, but I was a little shocked at how much time I spend looking at my phone or being distracted on my computer. Ouch.

There is really nothing earth shattering here in this book, but it's honest, upbeat, positive, encouraging, and will even make you chuckle. It will encourage you to pursue God's best in a world that sends other messages! And it's a quick read. Recommended to share with someone who might need a little balance and direction in her life.

Thanks to BookLookBloggers for this free book sent to me in exchange for an honest review.

Book Review: Farewell Four Waters

Kidnapping was Marie's worst fear. She didn't know treachery was more deadly.

Book recommendation coming up. Farewell Four Waters by Kate McCord (a protective pseudonym), is full of intrigue and emotion. Although security prohibits the telling of her exact story, this novel is drawn from events gathered across Afghanistan over several years.

Marie is an aid worker living in a small town in Afghanistan. Her mission is to set up literacy classes for women.  This riveting story begins with Day 14 and then counts down the days leading to this brave woman's necessary escape from Afghanistan, a place she deeply loved and considered home.

This story is full of many details and excellent descriptions of life in this country  - for both Christian aid workers in NGOs and for the Afghan people. I felt as if I were there every step of the way. Marie, a believer in the "Honorable Jesus Messiah", has a passion for bettering the lives of women in Afghanistan, and with deep respect for their customs and beliefs, she befriends them through loving deeds and conversations.

I especially appreciated her honest struggles related to the events and circumstances she experienced. She incorporated conversation with God through journaling and prayers, not hiding her frustrations and how hard it was to make sense of things at times. Where was Jesus in the middle of all of it?  I also loved learning about this land and culture and what life is like for foreign aid workers.

This book drew me in and it never let up until I finished the last page. It is well worth the read!

I'm really looking forward to reading Kate McCord's first book In the Land of the Blue Burquas. Another book to request at the library!

Thanks to Moody Publishers who sent me this book for free in exchange for an honest review.

When Two Conversations Collide

It's all about the timing when it comes to text messaging!

Since son was coming to this side of town to play ball hockey last night, I had invited him and his wife for sup, so I sent a message to let hubby know. Here's the conversation thread, and what was going through my head:

me:  P&N are coming for sup

(I also remembered another request I had for him-- he works at a radio station, so often can score some free tickets for concerts)

me:  any chance of getting some Johnny Reid tickets? 

him: probably not unless there is a late draw

him: guess you don't want to invite another guest (I'm assuming he means a guest for the concert, since he isn't interested in going)

me: yes, I could (I'm already thinking of girlfriends who may possibly want to attend with me)

him: what time would you need us home (Wha..???? WHO is 'us'???!)

him: Scott accepted our offer (oh no! Scott is an out of town businessman who Dave was working with this week)

me: I thought you were talking about tickets!!!!! (he wasn't. He was talking about a dinner guest!)

(at this point I called him on the phone and we both nervously laughed about what had just happened)

him: I'll try to get home by 6

me:  ..... (silence)

So, as you can see, a simple text message can have unexpected outcomes if one isn't careful!

Why this could have gone very badly: 

I was trying out a NEW recipe.

I wasn't 'prepared mentally' for company I had never met.

Having unexpected company is not in my 'comfort zone'.

Why this went well:

I had just finished cleaning my house (!)

With more people at the dinner table, the conversation went well. My daughter in law is a great conversationalist! :)

The maple chicken dish turned out better than I anticipated. It's definitely not going to be a favorite of mine, though. My fear was that it was bland and overcooked.(Overcooked chicken = yuk)

We had some meaningful, honest, unanticipated conversation over coffee.

Scott was a gracious guest and kept thanking us for the invitation, the dinner, and the conversation.

I just felt this whole evening was a 'God thing'. And I felt encouraged that God works in small ways, and it's exciting and faith building!

 “We can do no great things; only small things with great love.”

St. Therese of Lisieux

The Advent--ure begins

Today is the first day of Advent. I purchased a wonderful book last year called Taste & See - Experiencing the Stories of Advent and Christmas by Jan Johnson. She encourages the use of our God given imaginations to place ourselves in the story as we do our daily readings. This book is written for small groups, but easily adaptable to an individual devotional time.

The daily advent opening prayer:

I will release the cares of the day, and open my eyes to the wonder of God,With an attitude of empathy to people of another time, I will open my heart and mind to God. I will prepare to experience God's Word to methrough the presence of the Holy Spirit. 

 If I recall correctly, my plans to read it daily last year didn't exactly materialize. Thankfully, the author wrote these wise words in the introduction, and I took them to heart:

Do the meditations as you can, not as you can't. 

I figure any advent readings, meditations, and journalling I do this year will be better than not starting at all.

This morning my church was decorated beautifully with lights and greenery and the advent candles were in place. I could feel myself beginning to anticipate Christmas, slowly but surely. I was disappointed that we didn't light the candles or sing even one Christmas-focused song, though. There are so many beautiful renditions of carols these days, both traditional and updated. Hopefully we will be singing those together more than just on one Sunday!

Thankfully, I have a wealth of Christmas CD's (I usually purchase one new album a year), and I will be playing them to my heart's content at home and in the car.  Come Dec 1st,  that is. That's when my celebrations officially begin--the tree goes up (undecorated for a few days) and the Christmas playlist begins. And on the first Saturday of December, we have our annual family brunch, tree decorating (girls), and outdoor light stringing (guys). I'm looking forward to that, although I will really miss two of my children this year who are too far away to make it. It won't be the same without them. *sniff*

Advent helps to bring me back to reflect on what really matters. Even if it's just a few minutes at a time, it is my way of being sure I do 'listen' to hear what God is saying to me this Advent season.

Hope your season of anticipating Christmas is meaningful to you!

When Life is a Roller Coaster

Life might be a highway, but it's definitely not a straight stretch of ribbon! It's sometimes more like a roller coaster moving through the dark--sometimes slow, sometimes fast, sometimes high, sometimes low -  don't you think?

One day you wake up with a big smile on your face. Life. Is. Good.

Little, simple things bring you joy.

You received the news you had been waiting for.

You feel good. You have purpose.

All is well in your little world.

In fact, you feel on top of the world.

God is good! you say.

Then you hear that bit of disappointing or confusing news.

Or you read something tragic and scary in your news feed or in your local newspaper.

Or you wonder if your life is making a difference, because it sure doesn't feel like it.

Or your physical health isn't optimum, and productivity is a thing of the past.

Is God still good? you wonder

Or you just seem to be coming up against the same struggles and nothing ever seems to change, even though you have hope and faith.

And you start thinking about the future. Tomorrow and the hundreds upon hundreds of tomorrows which may follow and what they are going to look like. How uncontrollable the future really is.

You read more about horrible events in the world with no quick solutions in sight.

And you worry.

Is God still good? you ponder

Then you receive a hopeful word.

You have the most encouraging time with friends.

Their prayers are being answered!
Your prayers are being answered!

Changes are happening.

And the sun is shining again.

And all seems well with the world.

Isn't God good! you say

And then your heart breaks for your friend, who just shared something hard with you.

And there are no easy fixes.

It's complicated.

Tragedy strikes.

And  personal dreams shatter.

Is God still good? you ask yourself

And there aren't any wise little sayings or pithy quotes that are going to really make a difference.

All you can do is trust, wait and learn to see in the dark.

And believe,

simply (but often not easily)

believe

that

God is always good.

Oh, Lord, I do believe. Help my unbelief. 

I don't mean to sound grinchy, but

It's too early to even think about Christmas festivities.

 Let me continue on my merry way until December 1st and then I'll bring out the Christmasy mugs, seasonal music, we'll set up the tree and decorate a few days after that. But please, not till December! 

The more Christmases I've experienced, the less excited I am about all the hoopla. All I really want is to do some small but meaningful activities to celebrate and focus on the true reason for Christmas. And that gets me to thinking. It's really a 365-days-a-year celebration, isn't it?

I read a great  post this morning from Susie Davis's blog. An excerpt: 

There are 365 days in a year to remember people in thoughtful, inexpensive and free ways. A call, a text, a funny photo shared. An old fashion letter or a handmade loaf of bread. A hug, a smile, an unexpected visit. There's so many ways we can love one another... and so many days to choose from (my emphasis). 

My thoughts exactly. Don't get me wrong. I do love giving gifts to people, but I don't enjoy the time pressure for determining 'what to give' and the rules for 'when to give'. 

Thankfully, my immediate family are all on the same page when it comes to simple. We choose names and keep the spending limit to a minimum. We have a few traditions that we enjoy each year, and that's it. And we are understanding when we can't have everyone around the Christmas Day dinner table. With married children and those who are far from home, it's impossible to expect that every year.

Still, even with simple plans, it gets busy.  

I hope I can set aside some hours to create a few handmade items, but time is limited in November/December due to work deadlines (and all the extra social outings at this time of year). I should have started last January. But usually the gifts I make early are already given away by the time December rolls around!

I am trying to determine how to keep it simple, yet special. With little stress. Time with family, friends, meaningful giving, laughter and celebration, and remembering those in need.  

To begin with, I hope to stay far from shopping malls for the next month or so! 

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?

The NIV Bible for Women - a review

How does one write  a review of the Bible? In this case, I am going to focus on what makes this recently published hardcover copy of NIV Bible For Women unique.

First of all, the cover. It's very attractive in both the color and the print style. I'd call it a robin's egg blue - soft, clean, and peaceful - which makes it a great color for a Bible jacket.

The subtitle for this version is "Fresh Insights For Thriving in Today's World', and it includes 260 relevant devotionals (one for each weekday)  tied to particular passages throughout the Bible. Each comes with a reflection and prayer.

 As well, there are 52 "Myths" that our culture  might have us believe is true, and these are described, explored, and exposed. All stories are actual events that have taken place in the writers' lives, and they are honest and relatable, especially for women. Quotes by well know authors are also included. These topics would be great conversation starters over a cup of coffee with girlfriends, too!

 If you read Christian women's blogs or are an avid reader of Christian nonfiction, you might be familiar with some of the writers featured in this Bible- Annie F. Downs, Shauna Niequist, Katie Davis, Laura Ortberg Turner, Tsh Oxenreider, and Margaret Feinberg, and Sarah Bessey, and many more (all with biographies at the back of the Bible). Topics range from social justice, social media addiction, economic inequality to  prayer, relationships, faith & doubt,  career, calling, and so much more. Definitely something for women in their 20's and up.

A few little quibbles with the NIV Bible For Women would be the font size. It's a little small for aging eyes! And not very dark. As well, the pages are thin, but then, I think most Bibles are printed on thin paper. I also might have preferred the Myths as an appendix, so they'd be easier to skim through. They have been strategically placed, along with the devotionals, throughout the Bible, with directions to the 'next' one.

If you are looking for a new updated copy of your New International Version Bible, or you are looking for a readable version of the Bible, this one would be great! It's full of encouragement to dig into the Bible to hear God's voice and grow deeper in your relationship with Him, and the extras remind us how relevant the Bible really is for us today!

I received this free Bible in exchange for an honest review. Thanks,   BookLookBloggers!

Life...a Beautiful Choice

Today, I joined a friend to be a part of the Life Chain, a national event one Sunday a year where those who believe in the sanctity of life and the value and humanity of every unborn child, line a busy street, standing quietly and prayerfully, holding signs that remind the community of this truth.

Take my hand, not my life.

We are Voices for Life

Life.. A Beautiful Choice

.. and others, but those are the ones I remember right now.

When our children were school age, we used to participate as a family every year. But I haven't participated for several years. I decided to follow my heart and attend this year.

Sadly, I think I was the only participant from my church of probably 350 people. Maybe no one else knew about it. But, the truth is, even when it's been advertised in the bulletin, very few actually show up. Disappointing. It isn't something that people jump to do. I understand that. Even some Christians feel it does no good and causes divisions. I think if it's peaceful, positive, and prayerful, it's a good thing. It keeps the issue alive and forces people to think about it, even for 30 seconds, as they drive by. Maybe it starts a conversation that wouldn't have happened otherwise. We ARE talking about life and death of an unborn child and a violent solution to a hurting woman's crisis. There HAS to be a better way for a civilized society to help women and children, doesn't there?

I hate confrontation and I don't go out of my way to make a scene. This was definitely NOT in my comfort zone. And I'm not alone in that sentiment. But I'm glad I went anyway.

I had a great conversation with the guy standing beside me. He wasn't exactly excited about standing on the sidewalk holding up a poster, either, but said he felt it was the least he could do, and compared to what happens to other Jesus followers around the world who stand up for what they believe, this is not too 'risky'. And we both agreed we were glad we did decide to come. There is something about standing unified with other people from various churches (He is Catholic, I am Protestant). How often do we actually do that... join together as Christians.. across denominations?

Apparently last year there were a few angry hecklers who confronted several participants.  But, thankfully, this year was a peaceful hour, with lots of positive thumbs ups  and honks from drivers passing by. Maybe one or two who showed their disagreement by yelling or flipping the bird. But that was minor.

I do believe there is value in this 'demonstration' but it definitely shouldn't and doesn't stop there. Thankfully, I have met many people who give of their time and money towards helping women in distress, and providing comfort and practical solutions. That is what we are called to do. 

The Life Chain was a good choice for me this year. 

Target Practice

Yesterday my husband and I played disc golf for the first time. I'm not sure why we haven't tried out that sport sooner, because it sure was a lot of fun!

Enzo guarding the discs. Note how obscured the targets are..they are in there somewhere!

Preparing to throw. Note the heavenly rays of blessing streaming down ;)  

Enjoying the surprises along the way -
a carving of a bear, a beehive, and an eagle, from a tree stump

The big picture

Stopping to enjoy the view

 At first it took us some time to determine where each target was located. A lot of trees and brush obscured our vision at times. If we didn't keep a good eye on where our discs landed, we could have easily lost them. It took us a lot more throws than the 'par' suggested. And it probably took us more time than we figured it would.  But, ultimately, we did find each disc and we hit every one of our targets, with persistence, dialogue, and the help of  a few friendly young disc golfers who were happy to share technique and point us in the right direction.  

Our adventures in life are a little like disc golfing, don't you think? It's not a solo adventure and sometimes it seems we might be way off course. But with our goals on the prize, and with a healthy community around us who can walk with us and point us in the right direction, we are able to succeed. It just might sometimes take longer than we had initially anticipated! And it can be frustrating, especially when we compare ourselves to others or we only see the mistakes we seem to be making. 

Let us trust the One who has set the course and walks with us each step of the way. He is faithful to finish the work He has begun in us. 

God is with us all the way, and cheering us on.