“More than we are known for our accomplishments, may we be known for the way we love.”
Morgan Harper Nichols
*This post may contain some affiliate links which means I may earn a tiny commission when you purchase something I linked. You may read more about that here.
Hello there! This is my first post of 2021, so Happy New Year to you! The holidays seemed to fly by, didn’t they? Celebrations looked different than usual, but I’m thankful for them nonetheless. Today you’ll read about new beginnings, fitness, books, and some new favorites. If you received my monthly newsletter, you saw that I’m doing a book giveaway!!!! Did you see it?
Each month, I send out a much longer version of links and loves which always includes recipes, and recommendations for random things like clothes, skincare, makeup, books, and such. It’s much more personal and is the place where I share more private topics with my readers. If you would like to receive that, you may sign up here. At the end of each month, you’ll find it waiting for you in your inbox It’s typically loaded full of good stuff!
I thought this blessing would be a perfect way to begin the year:
“For a New Beginning” by John O’Donohue
“In out-of-the-way places, where your thoughts never think to wander, This beginning has been quietly forming, Waiting until you were ready to emerge.
For a long time, it has watched your desire, Feeling the emptiness growing inside you, Noticing how you willed yourself on, Still unable to leave what you had outgrown.
It watched you play with the seduction of safety, And the gray promises that sameness whispered, Heard the waves of turmoil rise and relent, Wondered would you always live like this.
Then the delight, when your courage kindled, And out you stepped onto new ground, Your eyes young again with energy and dream, A path of plentitude opening before you.
Though your destination is not yet clear, You can trust the promise of this opening, Unfurl yourself into the grace of beginning, That is at one with your life’s desire.
Awaken your spirit to adventure; Hold nothing back, learn to find ease in risk; soon you will be home in a new rhythm, For your soul sense the world that awaits you. from To Bless the Space Between Us: A Book of Blessings
GOOD READS FOR YOUR WEEKEND
- 13 books to read before they hit the screen this year-I’ve read half of them but added a few to my TBR list.
- For people intimidated by the fitness culture, How the Japanese Stay Fit for Life
- I enjoyed this~ a photographer shows what childhood looks like in 30 different places around the world
- Do you agree with this list? 20 Basic Life Skills Your Teenager Should Have
MARRIAGE/FAMILY TIPS
- One of the Very Best Goals for Every Parent by Mark Batterson
FAITH ENCOURAGEMENT
- 20 Amazing Worship Songs That Will Give You Hope by Brendt Blanks
************************************************************************
THESE ARE A FEW OF MY FAVORITE THINGS:
- We love homemade popcorn! I received a new Whirley Pop for Christmas after my old one broke.
- This cool-mist humidifier works like a charm to keep my dry skin and allergies at bay
- This affordable Vitamin C serum
- My silk pillowcase– it’s great for my skin and hair
What is making your “favorites’ list these days? I would love to know. Do you have any recommendations for books, shows, recipes, or gadgets? Please share in the comments below. I love trying new things!
Wishing you joy in all your new beginnings!
Love, Natalie
*******************************************************
Leave a Reply