#1 resonated with me. I work in academia as support staff and concur that having a fancy degree does not equate to intelligence (or even common sense). LOL.
Ain't that the truth, Margie. Some of the most brilliant people I've met have little emotional intelligence or maturity. And some of the wisest and kindest have had little if any schooling. Go figure.
Back in the day I used to let my tree up all year. A seasonal tree I would say. And I love the ambiance of the lights. Lol. Your photos are soothing. I quit watching the news. I read about it hear and there though.
Thanks so very much for sharing your wise soothing words with Sweet Tea & Friends this month sweet friend.
I hear ya, Paula. I prefer reading to listening, too. Much easier to filter out the snark, attitude, and body language. Ain't nobody got time for that. Just give us the facts ... most of us can decifer where to go after that.
I so agree with you on the news, it's all so biased and many times untruthful. We don't have a free press anymore. And by the low ratings, most Americans agree. I love your chickens!
Oh Linda, I love visiting on the porch. I come away refreshed and inspired. Thank you for sharing your special moments in pictures! The things saving your life are precious, number 4 is my absolute life giver!!!
Sorry for the delay Linda. I have been home a lot this week with the junk going around in these parts. I have no one to blame but myself. Burning the candle at both ends made me a prime suspect for it. I started losing my voice Sunday at the second service and it went downhill from there. I never lost my voice but it got raspy and I have slept more in the last 3 days than in the last 3 weeks. Anyway, I love your list, especially #1, #2, and #5. I am not a perfectionist so that does not apply. And if I had done #3 I might not have gotten down this week. Anyway, thanks for the words of encouragement. Again, sorry for taking so long in writing.
You're never late around here, Bill. I'm not going anywhere, Lord willing. Although when I say, 'come quickly, Lord Jesus,' you know I mean it! Anyway, give yourself plenty of grace and space to recover well. Hard for a pastor to hear and to do, but I'm sure Jo will keep you in line. Rest well.
I always enjoy your photos, Linda. Years ago, I discovered there was such freedom in saying, "I don't know." It opened up new opportunities to research and learn. It was a wonderful feeling of relief that I did not need to have all the answers. It also meant that I was deferring to the One who alone held all the answers :)
as usual love the photos and I must certainly agree with all you list as saving your life - I am living those same things. More and more comfortable with uncertainty, unknowns and knowing deeply God is in control!
What’s currently saving my life is my stand-up desk. My hips have endured years of abuse (running, childbirth, living) and I can’t tolerate a chair for too long. Now if I can just get my shoulders down from my ears.
I'm wondering if next year I dare leave up the Christmas tree a bit longer after January 6, following your example! I could just use the less-Christmasy ornaments--maybe have our granddaughters make us a few more to fill the empty spaces. The extra glow would certainly help cast away the gloom! (We do leave the fairy lights on top of the hutch till spring--that helps some.) As we drive here and there through the city I still see the occasional tree peeking through a window. Looks like others have the same idea! / As for long/short quiet times, In one of her books Anne Graham Lotz admits that some days it's impossible to linger in her Bible and pray. She just makes up for it on a less hectic day. You're in good company, Linda!
This is the first year ithat I don't want to be done with the tree. Because it's slim, it's not taking up any extra space and those lights are just enough to keep me smiling. I love the idea of having the grandkids make stuff for the tree. Wish I had thought of that when they were little.
And yes, let's hear it for refusing to pressure ourselves when it comes to devotions. Seeing these pockets of time as invitations from God is so much more compelling and joyful.
Linda, your reflections always bring a sense of calm and wisdom. I resonate deeply with your embrace of uncertainty and the freedom that comes with admitting we don't have all the answers. Your insights on aligning with God's will and the importance of listening to our bodies are refreshing reminders. The snapshots you've shared are delightful, especially the beach-themed Christmas tree! Thank you for your openness and the beautiful way you navigate life's journey.
Well, I can't say my navigation is beautiful but Jesus sure is. Where would we be without His gentle yet firm guidance, the whispering of His Spirit in our lives. What lovingkindness!
I want to grab a cup of coffee or tea when I sit to read your writing. It makes me feel I'm not alone with some of my thoughts or pondering. Thank you.
Love this!! Yes, I am finding too, that I prefer to have my schedule to do as I please, LOL! I am much happier working at home than out of the home. Have a great weekend, Linda!
I love being able to take breaks as needed between classes. I currently have 2 jobs, the one outside the house is a nanny position for a 19 month toddler-it's 8-5 at their house on M/T, and they have a dog, their own schedule etc. Not much down time or breaks.
#1 resonated with me. I work in academia as support staff and concur that having a fancy degree does not equate to intelligence (or even common sense). LOL.
Ain't that the truth, Margie. Some of the most brilliant people I've met have little emotional intelligence or maturity. And some of the wisest and kindest have had little if any schooling. Go figure.
Back in the day I used to let my tree up all year. A seasonal tree I would say. And I love the ambiance of the lights. Lol. Your photos are soothing. I quit watching the news. I read about it hear and there though.
Thanks so very much for sharing your wise soothing words with Sweet Tea & Friends this month sweet friend.
I hear ya, Paula. I prefer reading to listening, too. Much easier to filter out the snark, attitude, and body language. Ain't nobody got time for that. Just give us the facts ... most of us can decifer where to go after that.
I so agree with you on the news, it's all so biased and many times untruthful. We don't have a free press anymore. And by the low ratings, most Americans agree. I love your chickens!
My daughter lives 3 hours away so I don't see the girls often. But I'm back in CT this weekend and loving it!
Oh Linda, I love visiting on the porch. I come away refreshed and inspired. Thank you for sharing your special moments in pictures! The things saving your life are precious, number 4 is my absolute life giver!!!
Such a breath of fresh air to take all that self-imposed pressure off ourselves, isn't it! Let's do that this weekend, friend.
Sorry for the delay Linda. I have been home a lot this week with the junk going around in these parts. I have no one to blame but myself. Burning the candle at both ends made me a prime suspect for it. I started losing my voice Sunday at the second service and it went downhill from there. I never lost my voice but it got raspy and I have slept more in the last 3 days than in the last 3 weeks. Anyway, I love your list, especially #1, #2, and #5. I am not a perfectionist so that does not apply. And if I had done #3 I might not have gotten down this week. Anyway, thanks for the words of encouragement. Again, sorry for taking so long in writing.
You're never late around here, Bill. I'm not going anywhere, Lord willing. Although when I say, 'come quickly, Lord Jesus,' you know I mean it! Anyway, give yourself plenty of grace and space to recover well. Hard for a pastor to hear and to do, but I'm sure Jo will keep you in line. Rest well.
I always enjoy your photos, Linda. Years ago, I discovered there was such freedom in saying, "I don't know." It opened up new opportunities to research and learn. It was a wonderful feeling of relief that I did not need to have all the answers. It also meant that I was deferring to the One who alone held all the answers :)
I know, right? Whoever thought we'd feel so free and light not having to figure out the problems of the world. He's got this. Thank You, Lord.
as usual love the photos and I must certainly agree with all you list as saving your life - I am living those same things. More and more comfortable with uncertainty, unknowns and knowing deeply God is in control!
I know, right? The more we release, the greater the comfort we receive from Him.
Point #5 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻 yes and amen!
What’s currently saving my life is my stand-up desk. My hips have endured years of abuse (running, childbirth, living) and I can’t tolerate a chair for too long. Now if I can just get my shoulders down from my ears.
Yeah. The shoulders down from the ears is never a good look ... and terribly uncomfortable.
Wonderful lifesaving tips! Love the photos too.
Debbie, thanks! I hope you'll have a wonderful week ...
I'm wondering if next year I dare leave up the Christmas tree a bit longer after January 6, following your example! I could just use the less-Christmasy ornaments--maybe have our granddaughters make us a few more to fill the empty spaces. The extra glow would certainly help cast away the gloom! (We do leave the fairy lights on top of the hutch till spring--that helps some.) As we drive here and there through the city I still see the occasional tree peeking through a window. Looks like others have the same idea! / As for long/short quiet times, In one of her books Anne Graham Lotz admits that some days it's impossible to linger in her Bible and pray. She just makes up for it on a less hectic day. You're in good company, Linda!
This is the first year ithat I don't want to be done with the tree. Because it's slim, it's not taking up any extra space and those lights are just enough to keep me smiling. I love the idea of having the grandkids make stuff for the tree. Wish I had thought of that when they were little.
And yes, let's hear it for refusing to pressure ourselves when it comes to devotions. Seeing these pockets of time as invitations from God is so much more compelling and joyful.
Oh, sweet friend! I couldn't agree more with every single word! I say amen, and amen, and amen again!
You encourager, you! All praise to Him.
Linda, your reflections always bring a sense of calm and wisdom. I resonate deeply with your embrace of uncertainty and the freedom that comes with admitting we don't have all the answers. Your insights on aligning with God's will and the importance of listening to our bodies are refreshing reminders. The snapshots you've shared are delightful, especially the beach-themed Christmas tree! Thank you for your openness and the beautiful way you navigate life's journey.
Well, I can't say my navigation is beautiful but Jesus sure is. Where would we be without His gentle yet firm guidance, the whispering of His Spirit in our lives. What lovingkindness!
Yes, not listening to news is so freeing! I like your beach themed Christmas tree, Linda!!! I always enjoy stopping by your porch! :)
And I'm glad you're here. I hope you've had a restful weekend ...
I want to grab a cup of coffee or tea when I sit to read your writing. It makes me feel I'm not alone with some of my thoughts or pondering. Thank you.
Your words warm my heart ... and I can assure you that you're in good company around here.
Yes! And, will tell them you said, Hi."
Love this!! Yes, I am finding too, that I prefer to have my schedule to do as I please, LOL! I am much happier working at home than out of the home. Have a great weekend, Linda!
What do you like best about working from home?
I love being able to take breaks as needed between classes. I currently have 2 jobs, the one outside the house is a nanny position for a 19 month toddler-it's 8-5 at their house on M/T, and they have a dog, their own schedule etc. Not much down time or breaks.
Your life IS busy, friend. Praise God for those needed breaks between classes. True lifesavers indeed!