Breathe

At the beginning of this new year I ponder. New seasons are always exciting and nerve wracking. The delight of something new versus the fear of the unknown. Unlike the seasons in nature which have a natural flow, sometimes life doesn't flow as smoothly. Just as we think progress is being made, there can be a knock back. It can feel like two steps forward and one step back.

I have friends in my life who are going through some big things at the moment, taking two steps forward and one step back. I find them constantly jumping into my mind. As soon as the thought of them brushes through my mind, I take the opportunity to check in on them - even if it is a quick  message. I greatly admire these strong and very brave women in my life.... whom life seems to have thrown a bit of a speed bump to. I pray for them often, and hope that in the reality of what they are going through.... that they can find a moment to stop and breathe.

No matter what is happening for you, have you ever stepped outside on a beautiful day, just closed your eyes and BREATHED? Taken the time to just be in the moment?

For me, it is in these moments.... in the pause....that I can stop, breathe, and think. In that moment I am still and my heart is listening. These are the moments I need to take the time to be in. These simple moments make our journey.... and are handed to us as a gift.

Take time today to be still. Be in the moment.

Danielle.

Surrender your agenda.

Recently I attended a MOPS training day. The three stand out words for the day: 

Surrender your agenda. 

These three words hit me on the forehead. 

Hello. Yes! It does feel like you are talking to me. 

I realised and questioned and quiered myself. 

Do I make time to just be at home with my family?

Or am I too busy with being busy? 

Who suffers when we are too busy? We all do!

Am I prioritising correctly?

What needs to change?

Am I over committed? Are WE over committed?

Last week there was a day when the girls and I were at home. I decided to surrender my agenda. We went outside and played playdough in the winter sun. It was calm. It was lovely. It was fun. It was peaceful. it was quality time. Everyone was happier for the time spent together. 

The pink cup

Picture this:

 

It is bedtime at our house. 

"Eva would you like some milk?" I ask.

"Mmm-hmmm." comes the reply. 

So I pour Eva (aged three) some milk in a purple cup and place it on the table.

Eva crosses her arms, pouts her lips and says "No. I want the pink cup."

How many times have we done this to God. He says "Here... I have this for you."

And I fold my arms, pout my lips and say "Awwww God. I wanted the pink cup instead!"

Hello.... anyone there?

I am so guilty of this. Whether I realise it or not. 

So here are some reminders:

God knows you. He made you. He loves you.

He has the best for you.

He knows that the purple cup is best for you.

He knows what lies ahead of you.

He knows what you are going through.

He WILL carry you.

He WILL sustain you.

He WILL guide you.

He WILL strengthen you.

His strength is made perfect in your weakness.

Be encouraged friend.

Danielle.

Rainy days

Last week our state experienced Tropical Cyclone Marcia. 

For us where we live, it meant a lot of rain.... For about three or four days. 

After a few days of being cooped up, we had to break out. Head outside. Splash our feet. 

A marvellous time was had by all. 

Pure delight. 

Such joy.......

It was marvellous.