Anyone else craving more than the trimmings? Like me, you might be longing for a deeper, more fulfilling experience this Christmas. A way to settle into the heart of Christmas and add depth to the remembrance and celebration. I’m so excited about a new book written by my friend and writer-buddy, Dandi Daley Mackall. In Three Wise Women: 40 Devotions Celebrating Advent with Mary, Elizabeth, and Anna, Dandi invites you and I to anticipate, celebrate, and marvel at Jesus’ birth.
On any given day, the stack of hats we wear can be staggering. The list of the roles we manage 24/7 is a long one, no matter our age and stage in life. On top of that…the list of tasks and inevitable interruptions stream-live most every day. No wonder we get overwhelmed, grow claws and fangs and bark like a beast of burden. Oh, maybe that’s just me? Maybe not. There’s hope! Let’s chat about 10 Liberating Soul Care Practices.
Turns out I grew up surrounded by a treasure trove and didn’t know it. The gift of having girls and women older than me in my life. Women who, whether they knew it or not, poured into me out of their life experience and faith in God. In my 30’s and 40’s, while in the throes of momming two tween-into-teenage girls, serving a husband who had suffered a physical disability and the loss of his career, and losing my dad and walking through my fifty-six-year-old mother’s grief with her, I discovered the value of hanging out with older women who could speak life and shine light on my dizzying days.
While reading Magnolia Journal on December 29, 2021, I gazed to the page of an article, “let delight reign,” written by Joanna Gaines. That’s when I laid eyes on the right word for me. Yes, I knew at first sight my word for 2022 was delight! A word I normally associate with a child. I pictured a wide-eyed, jaw dropping reaction to something that inspired wonder and awe in a little one.
Prayer is the language that lifts us out of the mire of the mundane and connects us with the Divine. If you’re like me, knowing and remembering that truth is critical. The same is true for the kiddos in our lives. What better way to reinforce that truth than with an illustrated book with stunning visual reminders. And the book is on sale!
You had children. You have grandchildren. You teach children. You’re a favorite aunt or uncle. You know children. Children live in your neighborhood. Not really. Not at all, actually. In fact, the age break-downs are critical. And there is a feast of formats specific to children. Then there’s the challenge of marketing to agenda-driven adults while also trying to engage …
Some mornings it feels like I’m walking side by side with Jesus on dusty roads or sitting on grassy hillsides listening to His teachings. This was one of those mornings. As I read through chapter 10, I could hear the confusion and disbelief in the Pharisees’ voices. And the confident, compassionate clarity in voice of The Good Shepherd.
