Before I begin, I want to note that I'm giving away a copy of A Sweethaven Homecoming on my Author Page over on Facebook. Just in case you want to enter! :)
Ok, enough of that!
The other night, Adam and I got to talking about how "off" things feel right now. This whole summer has basically been one stressful, crazy event after another, and I think because I've moved so many times I sort of forgot the very real trauma that's associated with that.
In fact, moving is one of the most stressful events in a person's life (this is not me saying this, there's some statistic out there.) And I just don't think I gave myself enough time to get settled.
People sometimes ask that question "Are you getting settled?" The answer always pops in my head, "Not even close," as I smiled and say "Well, we're getting there..."
But in the midst of the chaos, the thing that's struck me lately is that I want to do better. Mostly, as a mom. In the craziness...are they the ones getting shoved to the side?
Sometimes you have to reasses your priorities.
What helps is having friends with kids at different stages. My friend, the incredibly talented Leslie Ashe, created this amazing Sweethaven-inspired layout on the topic of motherhood...a theme that's heavy in all three books in the series...
I fell in LOVE with Leslie's layout from the second I saw it. I love the design, the texture, the way she captured this sentiment perfectly...
I love how scrapbooking helps us reflect on these moments...the heart stoppers and the every day.
Go visit Leslie's blog for tons more inspiration AND she's doing a giveaway of A Sweethaven Homecoming, Step Up Your Supplies (My e-book with Ella Publishing) AND this gorgeous collection of Echo Park goodies:
...which brings me to the third inspiration layout for the day...
I think it's interesting how the search for peace, that desire to slow down, seems to be inherent in all of us...whether we want time to slow and our kids to stop growing or we just want to get out of the rat race for a few hours (or days)...we can all relate.
Wendy Sue Anderson (click hre name to visit her inspiring blog) created this Sweethaven-inspired layout:
...which makes me feel peaceful just looking at it. I love the whole idea of having a "spot" where you can go and feel that peace, find that calm...whether it's on a mountain, near a lake or out in the woods somewhere...
Or maybe it's a place in your house where you can curl up with a good book? The older I get the more I think peace is a state of mind...but it sure helps when your surroundings help you get there, doesn't it?
My hope for you today is that you get a moment to stop and pause. To take in the peacefulness around you, even in the midst of chaos. To reevaluate priorities...because your to-do list will still be there tomorrow...but that child will be one day older.
How will you love them today?
