Reflections
Hey Love,
February 2020 Reflections
Hey Love,
We are closing out February in a few days. This month went at just the right pace for me; and with an extra day it hasn't felt long at all. I was able to take a little trip to Atlanta, spend an afternoon reading on the beach, made time for evening walks, dates with friends, listen to a few audiobooks, and my favorite, journaling. This month in retrospect has been a leisurely retreat, relatively speaking.
What I Am Grateful For
- My mom had surgery early in the month and has been recovering well. She getting a lot of much needed rest
- Making time to do what I love. This should be a no brainer, but of course it's not. It's difficult to make space, and respect that space, for the little things that bring us joy. This month I made an effort and it was worth it. An evening on the beach just sitting in my chair listening to Toni Morrison read to me. That was absolutely blissful.
- My job. I really like where I work, but more than that, I love who I work with. I have an amazing group of women around me who have become friends. That's an amazing gift that makes my job that much better.
What I Read
Mere Christianity – Well, I'm not quite done with the book, it was definitely drier than I thought it would be; however, I felt it an important book to read regarding the Christian faith. Just about half way through and it's finally getting good; so I'm confident I'll complete it. I'll update on my IG
What I Listened To
Gift to the Sea- I've been trying to read this book for years. I decided to give it a listen instead and I understand why I could never really get into it. It's another slow listen with a topic that I thought would be more interesting. Instead I was a bit disappointed, but at least now I have greater trust in my instincts about books I should or shouldn't bother reading.
Guns Germs and Steel – a book on history that really questions the factors that made it possible for one society to "develop" over another. As an audiobook I was surprised I was able to keep my attention on the author. A solid read.
The Bluest Eyes- okay, I'm going to keep this very brief. This book has changed my life. There's so much to say and I don't have the words. I plan on reading it some time this year. This was my first time reading/listening to this book and it won't be the last.
A Knock at Midnight- I listened to one sermon and I think I want to incorporate these audios to my monthly routine. Dr. King's speeches are so packed with amazing wisdom that we all should be exposed to from time to time.
What I Created
A Balcony Sanctuary- I cleared up all the junk on my balcony and once again, it's a little outdoor haven to sit, sip, and read. Added a few more plants and I'm absolutely loving it.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank you for this space to share your goodness in my life. Lord, thank you for February and all the joys it brought. As a new month approaches, I pray that the lessons I learned this month are not forgotten and that I continue to trust you with each new day. In Jesus name. Amen
Faithfully,
Marie
Travel
A Day Trip to Atlanta
About two weeks ago, on a burst of spontaneity, I booked a flight to Atlanta. Just for the day. The catalyst for the trip was an author I followed was hosting a book release and I simply wanted to attend and just knew I'd have an amazing time. A friend had recently convinced me of the wonders of one day flights to and back and I'd never done it, so here was my chance. I gladly booked and was beyond excited. Coming into the year, I had no travel plans, which is unusual for me; instead I would travel organically, taking trips whenever opportunities presented themselves. Once booked I began to plan the cutest little day in Atlanta.
Devotions
The day after New Year's I met a new friend over coffee. She and I have been following each other for some time on Instagram and it was wonderful to connect in person. We talked for a few hours and it was something she said that’s been with me every single day this year.
Trusting ONLY what You See
The day after New Year's I met a new friend over coffee. She and I have been following each other for some time on Instagram and it was wonderful to connect in person. We talked for a few hours and it was something she said that’s been with me every single day this year.
Simple Living
Hello Loves,
What I'm Doing February 2020
Hello Loves,
Well, we've made it to February and I for one feel like we'll have a better more beautiful month. We have one extra day to make the most of this leap year and I'm praying that I'm as productive as I were in January sans the stress. There's many things I'm looking forward to this month, but most of all I'm hoping to follow through with the plans I've set for the month. I'm great at setting goals, but I find myself procrastinating over the things that are most important. Over the weekend I took the time to reflect in writing what worked and didn't work in January. A practice I strongly recommend. A common theme was a lack of follow-through. I get easily distracted by my phone, TV, or lack of sleep. I hope this month I can have more discipline. It's really about taking it one day at a time. This month here's where I'm putting my energy:
Reading
Mere Christianity
The Bluest Eyes
Listening
Gift to the Sea
A Knock at Midnight
Creating
A Balcony Sanctuary
Letter
Prayer
Holy Spirit, Lord, bless this month of February with abundant love. Love for ourselves, for our family, friends, community, and this country. Thank you for the blessings you've planned for us this month. Amen.
Faithfully,
Marie
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)