Journaling

I have always loved writing down my thoughts...from documenting family vacations to writing short stories, I have small journals full of everything in-between. However, it wasn't until a small group Christmas party that I really started journaling.

My sweet friend Shelbi, who is one of the most grounded role models I know, gave me the best Christmas gift I could have asked for. She had this journal that I commented on more times than I can count. She took it everywhere with her and I watched the pages fill up throughout the year. I admired from afar, but had never even thought about getting my own. When I unwrapped my secret Santa gift, my heart filled with joy as I saw the familiar green cover under the wrapping.

She had written a genuine and heartfelt note about why she journals and I still go back and read that to this day. She encouraged me to pick up a pen and give my burdens to God, and wow has that drastically changed my life.

"You will be amazed at the blessings that will come out of this small tool."

Seven years later...I have a stack full of journals and pages filled with sweet truth, unashamed tears, countless prayers, heartfelt worries, heavy burdens, monumental milestones, and incredible praises glorifying our ever-sovereign and faithful God. Years of life, dozens of pages, and one God who never ceases to stop listening. Journaling has become one of the sweetest parts of my walk with the Lord and I am forever grateful for the days I can go back and read the journey He has taken me on and continue walking, and writing, page-by-page, my day-to-day struggles, joy-filled moments, and the continued unknowns of this grace-filled life we live.

Spring Fever in February

A blue sky, sunny day in February makes you feel like you can conquer the world. With sun beams everywhere you turn and the smell of the fresh air inviting you to spend the entire day outside, it was the epitome of a 'perfect day.'

After being cooped up all winter, a Saturday full of sunshine was the perfect day to grab a good book, put on some summer shoes and enjoy the blue sky background and sun on your face.

Stayed until the sun set and the day was coming to a close...spring fever is in full swing a little early this year...can't wait for this next beautiful season to be here to stay. 

Sunset of Summer 2012

God's beauty is ever-present. Sunsets are one of my favorite things in the world to watch. After a beautiful day of sun shining and blue skies, the tone changes as the sky begins to change colors and the sun beings to disappear beyond the horizon.

You can look back on the day and reflect on all the things that were accomplished and all the things that are still to do. And yet somehow, you can't help but smile while looking at the vibrant colors.

I look back on this summer as a wonderful sunset. As it is quickly coming to a close, I love reminiscing on all the fun adventures, new experiences, and dear time spent with my family. And as I look ahead to what the next few weeks hold, I can easily get overwhelmed, but I have to smile knowing the last three months have held more of the Lord's blessings than I can count.

As this chapter is ending, the sun is setting, and there is a smile on my face from the colors and treasured memories of summer 2012.

Posted with Blogsy