1.  Anything seems funnier or truer when printed on a mug.

In a small move toward Minimalism I've begun taking pictures instead of making purchases. I call these MUG SHOTS. 

2.  They don't call it The Ritz for nothin'.

The linens are downy white and silky soft. The chocolates are dark and melt into velvety sweetness. The room service is sublime and the Coffee Maker is Italian. We spent two nights here and left thoroughly pampered and rested.

3.  The Greatest Generation earned that honorable name by rising to the challenges that faced the world then and by bravery and sacrifice secured the freedoms we enjoy now.

Several years ago on a trip to France we visited Normandy where Allied troops came ashore to drive out the German invaders and secure a lasting peace in Europe and Great Britain. My father served in the Pacific, a world away from the beaches of Normandy, but the enemy was the same ~ tyranny.

I wish every school in America could send its students to see the Word War II Museum in New Orleans. Tom Hanks narrates a wonderful short film that highlights the crucial events and battles of the war. Very moving and inspirational.

4.  Give Yourself A Visual Feast

Is there a spot in your home that bothers you?  Maybe it doesn't reflect your taste or current style. Hey, we all grow and our taste can change pretty dramatically over the years. 

I pass this spot in my home about 20 times a day. It's a Guest Bedroom at the end of the hall and next-door to my office. I had an old Tiger Eye maple dresser, a thrift store find, in there, but no matter what I did, it smelled of old powdery perfume or sachet. I washed it with white vinegar and let it sit in the sun for a week. Nope, still smelled. I used a clear coat of shellac hoping to seal in the smell. But still it gave off that 'Granny' odor. No offense to Grannys, I'm one myself, but that smell had to go!!!

One day I was dumping emails and one from Pottery Barn popped open. This beautiful Thalia dresser was there and it was love at first sight. I decided to add a lamp I've loved for a long time. It fits perfectly and the tea stained crackle finish is beautiful day and night. A houseplant, some small books and a quirky little bowl on legs all found their way there and seem to be getting along well together.

Each time I walk by I like what I see and how it makes me feel. It's a little corner filled with shapes and colors and natural light that resonate with me. It's not a big thing like a remodel, or even a whole room. Just a small spot that used to trigger a frown and now makes me smile.

5.  Emily's Podcast is a God-send!!! 

I'm probably the last to the party---again, but Emily's podcast, The Next Right Thing is so uplifting, inspiring, comforting. . . I love it. But, I was struggling to hear it as I unloaded dishes or prepped veggies for dinner. Then I saw an ad for Apple's Home Pod. I visited Best Buy to hear it and immediately ordered one.

I love asking Siri to play an episode and listening as Emily's warm wisdom floats across my kitchen and right into my heart.
And that voice! Who knew? My favorite episode so far is #32 Stop Collecting Gurus.

Wow, have you been scanning my Inbox? Reading my mind? Whatever it is, you have helped me Emily. I'm following your advice. I am confidant in the vision, the call God has made clear, but I was trying to listen to too many other voices telling me how to carry it out.

So I'm slowing down and taking it one step at a time. There's an order, a flow to the process from idea to reality. I'm praying for the daily provision of inspiration and practical help that I need for each step.

Thank you Emily.

6.  Have You Tried Essential Oils? 

I'm probably the last woman on Instagram and Pinterest to try Essential Oils. Better late than never. I'm hooked on a blend called Boost for the morning and a mixture of Eucalyptus, Lavender and Bergamot for bedtime. Do they really work or is it a placebo effect? Who cares? I feel invigorated in the morning and soothed in the evening. I love the Periodic Table look of the box labels. Better living through chemistry!

7. It's OK to Keep growing and changing.

Several years ago I bought a white hydrangea at the grocery store. After the blooms faded I trimmed it and stuck it in the yard. This year I noticed that the blooms have developed a cool variegated white and green pattern. Who knows why, but I think it reflects some difference in the plant's environment. 

That happens with us too. Stresses, illness, being transplanted, the physical and spiritual care and feeding we experience will be reflected in us visibly and in unseen ways. Some of it is out of our control, but it's important to pay attention to the things in our power to control and especially improve. 
 

Give yourself the gift of a healthy environment ~ at least as far as it's in your power. Offer yourself rest, exercise, time with family and friends and time to tend to your soul. Keep the inner fire burning bright and hold tightly to faith and truth. Ask and receive in faith, knowing that God loves you and delights to meet your needs.

. . .tomorrow's another day,

Kelly