This song blessed my heart on my trek into the city this morning.
Take a listen..... *click*

I have this calendar on my mac that I never set up. It opens every time I restart my computer because I don't know how to remove it. It always says "Free Today" because I haven't entered my daily agenda. It's empty, "free". Honestly, it has irritated me every once in a while. I'm not free today, I have to work on project x & y while balancing the rest of the crazy schedule. But I just restarted my computer. I started to get a little ticked...then it hit me.

So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed. -John 8:36

I'm free today. I'm free in this day with a busy schedule and projects piling up because I know my Maker. Free because I don't have to be in control. Free because I can love and laugh and stand up for truth. Free because nothing has a hold of me except the love of Christ. Think about the life-changing effects of love...real, selfless love, well there's nothing better. Why are there so many love songs? I rest my case. Sure, life's tough. Hearts get broken. Responsibilities weigh on us. But at the end of the day, the reality is I have a free soul and I am loved and there is nothing more I could ask for.

So take on the crazy days, and remember... "if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed." -John 8:36

p.s. I just thought I'd throw in a few pen and ink drawings today.

Labels: everyday art, freedom

Cardboard Stories from The Austin Stone on Vimeo.
*You may need to press pause and give it a minute to load.

I'm sharing this morning from the peaceful setting of my back porch at home. I'm about to head into the big city, but I just couldn't resist a cup of coffee on a cool spring morning. Assignments can wait, this day is too beautiful to miss.

I took a few photos yesterday on my afternoon walk. There's something about wandering around in nature a bit that just sets my heart at ease. I think it makes me more content with being just one small part of God's creation. It relieves the pressure of having to be a 'big deal.' I know that sounds silly and a bit stuck up, but to be honest, sometimes my own ego is what gets me going on my work. It's not a fun thing to admit, but it's the truth. If I'm smart enough, I'll have good job...etc. But when I get away, get alone and remember my wonderful Maker, there is rest to be found. The work doesn't go away but the reason for doing the work shifts. I want to be fully what He created me to be. If the birds sing beautifully, the grass vibrantly paints the landscape, the light confidently illuminates the day, then I want to be a loving and faithful picture of my God too.

As for God, his way is perfect;
The word of the Lord is proven;
He is a shield to all who trust in Him.
-2 Samuel 22:31

I love you friends. Today, cease trying to be a big deal. Let God be that and He will bless your heart in immeasurable ways.

Labels: everyday art

I've been doing a little research on dementia today. I came across an accolade for blueberries and thought it was just too great not to share.

Research in animals shows that blueberries help protect the brain from oxidative stress and may reduce the effects of age-related conditions such as Alzheimer's disease or dementia. Studies also show that diets rich in blueberries significantly improved both the learning capacity and motor skills of aging rats, making them mentally equivalent to much younger rats.

So enjoy the blueberries this spring! Here's to brain health and enjoying on of God's cutest creations. Happy Sunday.