Makes Me Smile

I’m so thankful for good memories, ones that warm my heart and remind me that God has been good to me. These pictures bring a smile to my face so thought I’d share them with you.

Tomatoes, green beans, bell peppers, and cucumbers from my productive backyard garden.

This one reminds me of all the work and love that I put into my garden. I love spending time getting my hands dirty, planting the new seedlings, and watching it grow. I look forward every spring to doing it all over again and seeing the fruit of my labor.

Late summer picture of sidewalk at home in Michigan.

This one reminds me of summers gone by, over 12 years ago, when the boys were young and I still carried my youngest around on my hip. Those days were busy, trying to keep two little boys out of trouble, but they were precious years too.

Joy, Peace, and Hope

May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.

Romans 15:13

What does it look like to be filled with all joy and peace? Or to overflow with hope?

Well, that’s what I wish for you this new year. I think you’ll agree with me when I say, we could all use a little more joy, peace, and hope in our lives!

Directs His Steps

A man’s heart plans his way, But the LORD directs his steps.

Proverbs 16:9-HCSB

Life never turns out quite the way we thought it would. It’s comforting to know that He is the one who, as other translations put it, “decides where we will go“, “guides each step“, or “directs his steps and makes them sure“. If God is the one directing each step I take, then I can more fully enjoy today, knowing that I’m right where He wants me.