Feeling so proud of all the writing I’ve accomplished this month. Here are my recent blog posts, in case you missed them: the colors of motherhood, learn how to watercolor with your children (includes a 25% off discount code), and a Gussy Sews holiday pop-up shop update.
Bookmarking this beautiful movie! We watched it over the weekend. I can’t stop thinking about the decor style of the era (London, 1946), the earthy homes, the simple beauty of it all (teacups, wild flowers, large picture windows, wallpaper), the sound of Juliette’s typewriter, her many notebooks, seeing a young woman put her heart into her writing and the culmination of flourishing relationships. Have I convinced you to watch it?
Thinking really intently on this quote, “There is no such thing as creative or non-creative people, only people who use their creativity and people who don’t,” — Brene Brown. I would really love to hear your thoughts on this. And I have to know, do you consider yourself a creative, and why do you feel this way? If you answered yes, what do you “create”? Please do share.
Noticing how many people use our neighborhood library, which is where I go every Monday to read & write for a few hours. Our library is gently “full” each time I’m here. I just love that. When I was younger, my dad would take me and my brother to the library after dinner. This was an anticipated rhythm for us when our mom worked in the evenings. It’s good to see how much enjoyment others receive from the library. I’m glad we have this in common :)
Smelling damp dirt and leaves as they begin the compost process that fall and winter bring. The smell of a season changing is one I love. It’s the smell of earth knowing it’s time for change; a reminder that change is good, important even. Yard work is one of my favorite chores, did you know this about me?
Loving the tender reminder during worship at church to surrender ourselves before the Lord, to sing with a posture that’s before the Lord, to relax my shoulders and listen with open hands. When my hands are open, I’ve noticed my ears are open to hear the Truth, my heart is open to receive the Truth, and that’s when things begin to change. The Lord has done a mighty work in me these last few years, helping me to listen way more often, to close my mouth and ask for the Holy Spirit to help me through a conversation. If I were to write down all that the Lord has done for me this would not be a short list.
Wondering how the decorations on Christmas will need to be arranged with Landon on the move ;) Although, he has learned to leave my house plants alone, and I have a lot of plants, so maybe the tree will be no different? Fingers crossed.
Enjoying the warmth a cup of tea provides in the evening. When I’m warm on the inside, the weight from cool bedsheets make falling asleep even more splendid.
Wishing a fairy would come over and fold our clean laundry. I have four baskets ready for her. Where is she??!
Reading (savoring) two books: The Call of the Wild + Free and Becoming a Woman of Influence. Also considering these books for my January and February book club meetings: Courageous Creative (a 31-day interactive devotional) and Mere Motherhood
Cooking easy meals these days. BUT! Sunday I roasted brussel sprouts and served this flank steak recipe for dinner. Five out of the six family members loved it. And spoiler, it wasn’t the baby who opposed the meal ;)
Making an effort to paint my nails weekly. Since writing this post I have done an A+ job. I’m really into this polish color right now, with a silver glitter nail on my ring finger.
Praying for more courage & clarity. More courage to dream, more clarity with transferring what I’m feeling in my heart to actionable steps in my head.
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Tell me in the comments, which movie has left a positive impression on your heart? What are you reading? (I always want to know…) How do you feel about the smell of dirt and leaves? How often do you visit your library? Do you have a favorite Bible verse?
xx, Maggie
PS. read past “thirteen thoughts” posts: February 2019, May 2018, April 2018
Keep writing!! I so enjoy reading what you write. I do consider myself a creative…that all people should be. God was so creative in making each of us, how could we not then create?
I don’t always create with yarn or sewing, but cooking some, and baking too? I am glad I am aware that we are all made to be creating! Thank you for the reminder.
Betsy! I continue to pray for my blog and the community here, as I love to write and encourage. I love hearing from other women, so thank you for leaving a comment. Would you pray for my blog too? I want to honor the Lord and offer an inspiring place with tangible, real-life prompts for women, mothers, homemakers.
Read Mere Motherhood!! I couldn’t put it down.
Hi Morgan! This is our February book club selection. I can’t wait! How did you hear about the book?
I love these posts! I go to the library about 3 times a week! Saturdays with my oldest, Wednesdays with my youngest for story time, and Thursdays for myself for an hour of quiet time. The library has saved my life :) And I LOVE The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society – both the book and the movie. I rewatched the movie on Christmas and it filled my heart.
I miss you on Instagram. I hope all is well and you’re just taking a much needed social media break! I can’t wait to see what you and your family have been up to!
Katie, you are a library extraordinaire! I love just how often you utilize your library :) so great. I should read TGLaPPPS, mmmmm yes I should.
And the social media break. Yes. Much needed. Long overdue. Calling it a personal refreshment doesn’t do it justice. It’s been, put simply, transformational for me.
Thanks for your comment and checking in. I sure appreciate you!
Thank you for writing Maggie! I always trust your wisdom and love your joy for motherhood and book suggestions. We messaged on Instagram about 6 months ago on adding a 4th baby to our family in a small house similar to yours and your encouragement meant the world to me. We are now expecting #4 in August 2020! Thank you for being a blessing to other women!
This is just… simply wonderful. Thank you for sharing your news about your precious new baby. I pray you will enjoy the journey as a larger family. Love is an envelope that covers all, and this envelope contains all that we value. What a joyous season for your family :)