devotional

Life lately

Hi there! Time for another life lately post. I love writing these and looking back on what I was doing at different times in my life. Here’s what’s going on in my life lately.

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I’ve been pet sitting, as per usual! I spent some time with one of my favorite clients this week and it left me feeling so happy. I truly enjoy how every animal I take care of has a completely different personality.

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I’ve been diligently working on the devotional I’m giving at my church this month. It’s on the lessons we can learn from the book of Esther. I have always loved the story of Esther, and working on this project has led me to a deeper understanding of the culture during that time period. It’s one thing to read the Bible, but studying it takes everything to a whole new level. Loving it!

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I just recently started listening to podcasts again, and I’m totally obsessed. My top two favorites are The Birth Hour, which is a podcast where women share their birth stories, and Daily Hope With Rick Warren. Daily Hope is a Christian devotional podcast full of encouragement and hope.

Edited to add I don’t fully agree with Rick Warren’s view on salvation because he doesn’t seem to believe baptism is necessary for salvation. I also don’t believe a preacher should be called a pastor. If you want to read about my faith and how it lines up with the Bible, please visit this page!

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I’m still chugging along with my book! Jimmy took this picture of me writing on the couch one night with Lola snuggled up beside me.

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The windowsill herb garden is growing with gusto! So far I’ve only used the cilantro (it’s in the container on the right) and it was absolutely delicious.

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Last but not least, I had to share this sweet picture! My mom just sent it to me as I was typing up this post and I was like “I need to add this to my blog post!” haha. My parents’ dogs are just too cute.

What has been going on in your life lately?

Currently

I haven’t done a “currently” survey since April 2015, so I think I’m due to fill one out again! I always enjoy looking back on what books I was reading, what I was feeling blessed about, which TV shows I was into, etc. in the past. Here’s a link to one from 2015 and one from 2013.

All pictures in the post are from a recent photography walk I took around Pittsburgh!

All pictures in the post are from a recent photography walk I took around Pittsburgh!

Current book(s) Attachments by Rainbow Rowell (thanks for the recommendation, Amy!), Leaving by Karen Kingsbury, The Bible, and I just finished Then Came You by Jennifer Weiner.

Current music – I pretty much listen to audio books, but if I have the radio on in my truck, I enjoy listening to K-Love because it’s so encouraging and positive.

Current guilty pleasure – Long, hot showers. As I mentioned in my last post, winter has arrived in Pittsburgh. Taking a burning-hot shower has never felt so good!

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Current nail color – Just a clear coat! I’d love to get a manicure sometime, though.

Current drink – Eight O’Clock coffee.

Current food – Runny egg sandwiches on an English muffin. I’m totally hooked.

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Current television show(s) Alaskan Bush People and Gold Rush. I guess I’m a big Discovery Channel fan?! Alaskan Bush People is just so interesting to me because the way the Brown family lives is very different from typical American life. Gold Rush has been a favorite show of mine for years now as well. I never expected to be enamored by gold mining, but it’s pretty neat!

Current wish list – Hmmm. I don’t think I have anything I’m wishing for or wanting. I have more than I could dream of or ask for in life. I am so grateful.

Current needs – Yarn! My mother-in-law and sister-in-law are going to teach me how to crochet this week and I need to get some yarn. Can’t wait :).

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Current indulgence – Daydreaming. About places I’d like to visit, things I want to do, books I want to read, and on and on. Just letting my mind wander to fun places is an indulgence while I’m working or doing household chores. Sometimes my mind gets stuck on the work-work-work track, and taking time to slow down and be creative is wonderful.

Current blessing – My husband and church family. Jimmy is so solid. Sometimes I feel like my emotions are all over the place, and knowing I can talk to him about anything and have his care, calmness, attention, and understanding means the world to me. My church family is a blessing because it’s incredible to live life surrounded by people who have the same beliefs and goals in life and are supportive and loving. One of the best things about being a part of a church is the deep connection and love I get to experience. There’s nothing like it!

Current excitement – I was asked to give a devotional during a ladies’ event at my church this spring. I said yes, and now I’m in the planning stages. So pumped! If you have any topic ideas, feel free to send them my way!

That’s all I have for today. I hope everyone is having a great week so far!

Tell me your current excitement, blessing, etc.!