Walk With Him Wednesdays

So, this is another idea from Ann Voskamp that I'm hoping to use. I realized this morning as I tried to think of those spiritual disciplines that I cultivate in my life that there just aren't that many. I wonder why my spiritual life seems dry, but the fact is that I'm not watering it very much. It's not that there is nothing that I do to deepen my relationship with God. It just seems to be that I do as little as possible. I'm like Katie trying to do just enough to not get into trouble. But we've both missed the spirit and the intention of family, of relationship.
I'm hoping that by beginning this intentional gratitude exercise my heart will begin to be tuned in the direction of focusing on the God who so wants to be a part of my life. More than that, to be my life. I'm excited to post next Monday's thanksgiving list already, so I can't wait to see what will happen even further down the road. Pray for me, and for yourself, that God would begin to stir our hearts to be close or closer to Him.

A Fresh Leaf

About every two weeks I determine to turn over a new leaf. There is always something in my life that I've decided is time to bring back under control. Usually, my control. I have been encouraged lately to stop trying to be in control. Last night, as I shared with the three delightful young women who meet with me to study God's Word, I asked them to find things to be thankful for in an effort to keep our hearts from the insidiousness of discontent. Today on Ann Voskamp's blog I discovered the Gratitude Community and the idea of looking for one thousand blessings. I want to join this community, and to start with, this blog will be a record of the many blessings in my life.

I would love to hear from anyone about how God is blessing them, also, but mainly this is a record - an altar, if you will - for myself. A place to lay down control of my life. And be thankful.

1. Emma's curls
2. Peaceful piano music
3. Good books
4. My husband's hard work
5. Ian's smiles
6. Dance parties in the kitchen
7. Our more-than-enough home
8. Neighbours who send (or leave on our table) goodies, just because
9. Chances to start over
10. A touch of the melancholy that spurs me to action