Who doesn't love a sale?

 For those who know, I have an Etsy shop. In it, I keep digital items that can be printed or used on a digital medium. 

Currently, I am featuring some planner pages. They are cute and functional to go along with a notebook or to print out and put on the fridge. There is a monthly page and a weekly page. They are very functional. I would love feedback though.

So, it's the new year. We are all starting new habits and focusing on goals. 

I am running a sale!

*10% of the minimum purchase of $5 is required.

Obligatory Happy New Year Post :D

Happy New Year!

I want to wish everyone a Happy New Year. I pray that each and every one of you find peace and joy. That you learn the truth and follow it passionately. May the way be bright and obvious.

2023 was a year of transition that left many projects on the back burner that doesn't really stay more than lukewarm. ;) 

2024 is a year that I desire to be intentional. I want to set goals and meet them. I want to complete that which I set out to do. I think we all feel that at some point. :)

So... after walking a 5k on Thanksgiving morning I decided I was going to do another one in May and do better. Unfortunately, I got out of the habit of daily exercise. So my first goal is to get back in the habit of consistent exercise.

In the last couple of months, I have felt creative, or artistic, again. I have done a couple
paintings and am still working on a mural sketch that I want to paint. My second goal is to complete one artistic project a quarter.

I miss writing regularly. I have had a terrible block. I have decided I will start journaling daily. Doing that and feeding my soul with consistent exercise should be a plus. The key here is simple to write. It can be diary entries, bible study, poetry, short stories, world-building, whatever... JUST. WRITE.

How are you planning on entering the new year? Do you set goals or resolutions? Does the new year mean anything or is it just another day?

I feel having goals is healthy for me. I have discovered that there has to be something I am working toward in order to push. 

• 5k walk/run - motivates me to work on my health, both activity level and the way I eat.
• Being creative - motivates me to sit down and take a minute to create and be artistic. I often find myself busy being busy.
• Writing - this one is a big one for me. The simple fact of writing every day requires me to use my mind. As long as I am writing, I am able to process thoughts and emotions. Plus I have several notebooks that need to be used. LOL.

One way to help with this is by having a planner. Get one. I highly recommend getting a planner. Find one that works with your brain and have at it.

  

I Can Do All Things ...

 Ahhh... yes. 

Have you ever found yourself in that thought pattern? You know the "I can do ALL the things" or even "the Bible says I can do all things so I can do this".

Both of these scenarios can set you up for failure.

The perception that you can do ALL the things just is not very feasible. I do know a few people that think they can and it usually results in manic episodes where they attempt to do all the things and then they are utterly blasted for some time. It is just not healthy. Balance is needed in order to be consistent, thus in order to do ALL the things. 

The assumption that we have the ability to do all things simply because the bible says so is short-sighted. Let's actually look at scripture.

I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. - Philippians 4:13 (NKJV)

As the verse states, I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. This indicates that we must rely on the strength that comes from Christ himself. One could also make the assumption that I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me that brings him glory. Our purpose as Christ's followers is not only to bring in others to the fold but also to reflect the Father. 

Yes, God will give us strength to overcome challenges that will in turn shine back on Him. 

• Had a horrible car wreck in 2011 but EVERYBODY survived. Miraculously, the impact the vehicles had was horrendous, if the impact had shifted mere inches we all could have been killed. Instead, we survived and we give glory to God for His physical strength for maneuvering the vehicle and the mental/emotional strength to handle the aftermath.
• Raising a child with congenital heart defects along with other chronic conditions. Christ's strength is fluid and freely given to face daily challenges.
• the list can continue on and on.

I am not chastizing anybody for having a go-get-them attitude. Hey, sometimes that is the only thing that can get you out of bed in the morning. Just be honest with yourself.