things that bring joy - day 9

Raising Alex in a way that is pleasing to the Lord brings me joy. That's why I'm so excited to begin a new study with the girls in my bible study group – Shepherding a Child's Heart. This book teaches the importance of looking beyond behavior and moving deeper, into heart issues, when disciplining your child.

I'm the first to admit that I don't have much scripture committed to memory. I'm trying to remedy that. One thing that stood out to me in the first chapter is that "you cannot teach that which you have not learned." Fair enough.

And so I'm working on a new exercise to accompany this book. I'm trying to write down as many "heart issues" as I can think of – lying, disobedience, anger, unforgiveness, stealing, unpleasing words, etc. – and finding scripture that teaches what God's word says about those things. I also want to do the same thing for the positive, too – friendship, love, pleasing words, hard work, honesty, etc. I figure this is as good a place as any to begin committing more scripture to memory. And hopefully I'll be able to impart some wisdom and knowledge to my Little Man in the process. =)

things that bring joy - day 8

Oh how this camera lens brings me joy. This lens was my Mother's Day gift from Jerry and Alex. It took me a while to get used to it, but now that I have, I love it. It takes such crisp photos - way better than the standard lens my camera came with. I have much fun shooting all my "joys" with it.

things that bring joy - day 7

A tall white non-fat mocha with whipped cream brings me joy. I don't buy them often - which is what makes them even more of a treat - but I do love one on a cool day. Warms up my insides all nice and cozy-like.

things that bring joy - day 6

Mirabelle brings me joy. Especially with her new "face lift." All of the woodwork on her trim has been replaced. The gutters are fixed. She has a new sidewalk. Her porch steps are freshly painted. Azaleas and hostas have replaced the old cedar trees that once lived in the flower beds. Her porch has been swept, her windows washed. She's ready for fall. And a few mums - coming this week.

If you missed the post last fall about how Mirabelle's exterior has evolved since we bought her, you can click here to see more.

things that bring joy - day 5

A special batch of flowers for a special friend - hoping they bring her joy today. She could use a little bit of sunshine. If you're reading this, would you take a moment to lift her up in prayer today - for peace, for wisdom, for her faith to remain strong, and for her to feel God's continual presence? I know she would appreciate it.