Monday Musings

Out in my yard today... a cloudy day with an expected high in the low-40s.  The ground is littered with several tree branches courtesy of some really windy days last week.

The forsythia is beginning to bud and the grass is starting to green up a bit.  Each day brings us that much closer to spring!!!!!!

I'm grateful for... sinuses that are starting to clear, my husband's determination in dealing with a huge challenge, and the love and support of a precious friend who always gives me a safe place to land.

One of my favorite things...

is this precious heart inscribed with the phrase "Love never grows old." I smile every time I see it!

This week I'm reading... Morning's Refrain by Tracie Peterson.  This is the sequel to Dawn's Prelude and book two in the Song of Alaska series. 

I just finished our book club pick for this month- Save the Date by Jenny B. Jones.  This was a fun, light read and fresh approach to Christian Young Adult fiction.  I'll be passing this along to my girls.

I'm looking forward to... the Magic Valley Youth Orchestra concert this Saturday afternoon.  My daughter Brianna will be playing her cello and she has a solo!  I love to watch her on stage.  Such a shining star with a kind and generous heart!

Simple life tip for the week... "To find the universal elements enough; to find the air and the water exhilarating; to be refreshed by a morning walk or an evening saunter... to be thrilled by the stars at night; to be elated over a bird's nest or a wildflower in spring - these are some of the rewards of the simple life." ~John Burroughs   Take note of some of the simple rewards in your life this week.

Word-filled Wednesday

 That is why the LORD says,
“Turn to me now, while there is time.
Give me your hearts.
Come with fasting, weeping, and mourning.
  Don’t tear your clothing in your grief,
but tear your hearts instead.”
Return to the LORD your God,
for he is merciful and compassionate,
slow to get angry and filled with unfailing love.
He is eager to relent and not punish.

Joel 2:12-13

Monday Musings

Out in my yard today...  sunny and 42 degrees.  I'm not at all upset with the groundhog's prediction.  If we are to have six more weeks of winter weather like we've had so far, then bring it on! 

These little guys were under my birdfeeder enjoying the seed that the bigger birds dropped.

Baxter diligently secures the perimeter every time he goes outside.

This heart hangs outside right next to my front door.

I'm grateful for... a huge mug of green tea with coconut, ginger, and vanilla, a clean kitchen, a smart husband, and mercy that is fresh each morning!

One of my favorite things... is listening to solo piano music.  George Winston, David Nevue... so relaxing and inspiring. 

This week I'm reading... Dawn's Prelude by Tracie Peterson.

This was January's book club selection that I am just now really getting into.  I'm also doing a ton of reading to prepare for my Bible study each week, so I don't have as much time for leisure reading right now.

I'm looking forward to...  the premiere of the new show "Smash" tonight.  A show about making a Broadway musical?  Absolutely brilliant!

Simple life tip for the week...   "There's a way to do work that lasts forever.  Just do everything with love."~ Ann Voskamp   What could be more simple than that?!