Phalaenopsis Orchid

Thou art thy mother's glass, and she in thee

Calls back the lovely April of her prime. ~ William Shakespeare

Today's Joy: Discovering Your Mother.

Had an epiphany today, Reader. After spending a lovely afternoon at the Farmer's Market and then picking up two new garden planters for Mom's front porch, we had lunch and got to talking about the past. She related to me a story of her younger married life and the struggles she went through that I'd never heard before, and suddenly I saw my mother from an entirely new perspective. The young woman she had been became clear to me in a way I'd never considered before and tears welled up in my eyes when I thought about all that she overcame in those years. I suddenly felt ashamed for the times I didn't make things easier on her. It was a big moment for both of us.

I look forward now to getting to know even more of this elusive woman and to a closer relationship than we've ever had. Thank you, God, for this opportunity to better understand my mother and to show her how much I appreciate all she's sacrificed for us. I pray that you will bring continued peace and joy into her life and bless us with her warm presence for many, many years to come.

Quote courtesy of The Quote Garden.

Verigated Leaves

Today's Joy: Hard Work Paying Off.

Well, Reader. Today marks the end of Week 2 of my No Grumbling, No Complaining Challenge. In some ways it was harder than Week 1. But I'm grateful for the test of my resolve. The more of a habit it becomes, the easier it will be to stay aware of how my words and actions impact others. I already feel so much more positive and proud of myself for finding opportunities to lift others up, rather than lament the things that aren't perfect in my life.

Today was also my last day of farm-sitting. My cat will be very glad to see I'm actually sleeping at home tonight. It will also be nice to sleep in my own bed. That being said, I really came to enjoy doing chores every day. Taking care of the critters and cleaning stalls became a familiar rhythm. It even turned into time spent with God, once I found the barn radio and got it tuned in to K-Love.

I love infusing God into little moments during the day. After all, He wants a living relationship with us. That means going beyond attending Sunday service and prayers before bedtime. It means sharing our thoughts and concerns, joys and disappointments with Him as we go about our day. It means being focused on that love throughout the day--and how we can demonstrate it. What a difference it makes when all of your actions originate from a place of peace and fulfillment. Makes life a lot less frustrating too. Give it a try, Reader. See how an attitude of loving compassion changes your interactions with people this week. You might be surprised...

Chunk, pooped.

Today's Joy: Peace & Quiet.

Reader, I am exhausted! After 4 days of non-stop horse activites and photography, I am all in but the shoe strings. Don't get me wrong, it was a FABULOUS weekend. But after all the fun and sun and running around and house guests, I need a nap. Hope your Memorial Day weekend is full of joy, Reader. And that you too will get a chance to sit down today and put your feet up. Even if it's just for a few minutes.

Today's Joy: #2
Hmm. Turns out I have two joys for today, Reader. While job hunting online yesterday, I emailed my resume on a lark and received an interview request less than an hour later.

Truth be told, I've stopped getting excited about going on interviews. The last several haven't panned out and winding up disappointed does a number on my daily positivity. So, I figured from now on, I'll go with low expectations, do my best and then let it go--God will take care of it. Nowadays, hiring contacts don't even acknowledge receipt of your resume anyway. So, a quick response was a pleasant surprise. Still, I wasn't going to get worked up over it.

But from the time I woke up this morning, I've felt God with me all day. I even came across these two bible passages while getting dressed:

Be confident in this one thing that God who has begun a good work in you will complete it!
~ Philippians 1:6

For it is God working in you, giving you the will and the power to achieve His purposes.
~ Philippians 2:13

Okay. So maybe there's something more going on here. I went to the interview and it went beautifully. I really liked the look of the company and the opportunity. I connected well with my interviewer. She gave me a timed accuracy exercise and I was the only applicant to finish it! I left there knowing I'd put my best foot forward--a wonderful sensation. After all, who can stand against you when He stands with you?