Warning Signals and Yield Signs

I am always amazed at the workings and ways of God (as I should be).  He often puts reminders in my life right when I need them-- too bad I don't always heed them.  I like to think of them as warning signals and yield signs for impending experiences.

For more than a week now, I have read over and over in various places (secular and spiritual), about the danger of jumping to conclusions about and internalizing what others say to me or things they do that impact me.  Honestly, I feel pretty self-centered when I do this, but I believe it happens as a result of a lack of confidence or faith in God and His intentions for me, not a feeling of over-importance.  (Help me, Lord!)

Lo and behold, just three days ago a job for which I was scheduled was cancelled, and I jumped to the wrong conclusion.  Although a voice was telling me that it probably had nothing to do with me, I grabbed onto the lie that the enemy dangled before me.  Well, I hope that will teach me!  I learned just yesterday that the cancellation had absolutely nothing to do with me or my abilities or perceived lack of abilities.

How often do we struggle and lose our focus on God's love and providence for us?  How often do we lean on our own (mis)understanding and  rely on our own abilities to orchestrate our lives?  What do we miss when we do?  I am so grateful that God is faithful even when my faith in Him and His plan for me falters!

" 'For I know the plans I have for you,' declares the Lord, 'plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you a hope and a future.' "  Jeremiah 29:11

Oh, and I was requested for a job that replaced the cancelled one.  And it was better!

I Heart You! I really do.

I am about to make a revelation that may be a bit surprising, considering the overall romantic look of my blog:

 Yeah, uh, I've never really thought a whole lot about making a big deal out of Valentine's Day.

Don't get me wrong, I do a little something sweet for my husband and kids each year, but we don't make a big deal out of it.  This morning I began pondering why I have this low-key response to this LOVE-ly day.  Perhaps it goes back to my childhood.  I don't recall it ever being a special celebration in our home.  Although my parents have been married nearly 45 years, I remember only occasional gifts or flowers being given.  Maybe my parents were too busy working, maybe they were too practical (money spent on flowers that last a week is a waste?),  maybe they didn't buy the commercial hype of the day, or maybe they figured everyday was filled with love.  I have never asked.  That really doesn't explain why I never really have adopted a new way of thinking about Valentine's Day.  I think I would like it to be a bit more special for us, though.

Having said that, I have to make another confession:  I am still not completely feeling it today.  I know why.  My sweetheart is in Texas working! So today, I have been daydreaming of how I would like to treat my husband for the day~ breakfast in bed while watching a soccer match on TV and, later, a surf and turf dinner in a nice restaurant.  I am hoping that the thought really does count, and he will feel my love across the miles.  I do have goodies for our kids, and I am the lucky one.  I get to be with them today!

What about you?  Tell us how you share the love on Valentine's Day.  Is it a big day in your home?  Do you have any traditions or fun ideas that might inspire those of us who are a little lackluster in the art of Cupid?

XOXO!

Mary

Finding my (blog) Voice

I have pondered creating this blog for quite some time now.  I even made a couple of false starts.  I have so enjoyed reading the lovely blogs of some beautiful ladies~ sometimes laughing, sometimes crying, always inspired.  (The ones I love are listed at the right, if you would like to see for yourself.)  I have wondered if I would be able to share of myself and inspire in a likewise manner~ not as a copy, but as a true reflection of myself, the woman God is working in me to be.  More than once I have hesitated because doubt has crept in, making me question if my writing would be good enough and if the thoughts I would share would matter.  I have decided to step out on this path despite my fears.


My hope is that this blog will serve at least three purposes.  First, that it would be an honest journey and testimony.  Secondly, that it might remind me daily of my focus to strive to live out one of (what I perceive is) God's purposes for my life: to share faith, grace, and beauty with others.  And lastly, if possible, that I may encourage someone else to follow a passion, write, or do something; even though she may feel inadequate or unprepared.


I hope we can support, inspire, and encourage one another along our way.  


Love and blessings!