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Welcome

I'm a redeemed child of God and the momma to four vivacious daughters. I'm passionate about finding hidden blessings in the trials of life, living it out in an honest and open way, while encouraging those around me to believe in better.

24 May

the growly books: begin

This little bear has had quite the impact on me!

My girls love adventures, explorations, and all things mysteriously exciting! Admittedly, those words haven’t been on our to-do lists lately. In fact, the girls were watching some of our old YouTube videos last night — our past adventures — and told me how much they miss our adventures.

Ahhh, my mommy heart!

But reading about this little bear, C.J., and his vividly beautiful adventures, has sparked something in this weary momma’s heart! Watch out girls … I feel an adventure coming on!!

Here’s a bit of what author’s Phil and Erin Urlich, have to say about their own adventure:

“It’s been a long journey, and what The Growly Books have become is much different than what we imagined starting out. Through the process of waiting, we feel like we have captured something that really comes from our hearts. It has become a much richer story than where we began.”

About the Book:

For centuries the bears of Haven have lived quiet lives, high in the mountains at the edge of the great Precipice. That all changes for a young cub named Growly when he receives a mysterious message. With just his backpack and glider, Growly sets out on a desperate journey to find his grandfather’s long lost friend . . . and to find a way back home. Begin is the first book in The Growly Books series. Written for the 8-12 year old reading level, Begin is also a captivating read aloud for younger children and will appeal to anyone who appreciates stories of adventure and friendship.

How To Get A Copy:

The print book is available on Amazon or the Growly Books website. If you purchase from the Growly website, there are some fun freebies included in your purchase!

The Kindle Edition is available on Amazon.

A special package including the book and a signed print by illustrator Annie Barnett is also be available from the Growly Books website.

Be Small Studios has prints available in their shop as well.


Posted in resources, review


23 May

to walk or stay :: book club – week 6

I’ve already mentioned how Lara’s book, To Walk or Stay has had a huge impact on me {like everyone should read it!}, and today I’m honored to host this week’s book club discussion!

I started writing out a post for today, when I felt God lay it on my heart to speak directly to you through video. It’s a longie … but I pray you’ll take time to hear my heart.

And after you watch the video, I’d love to further our discussion in the comments! Discussion questions listed below.

{if you’re reading in an RSS feed, click here to view video}

“Leaving would mean I miss a blessing.”

Tell us in the comments, how do these thoughts on divorce challenge and/or encourage you?

As I mentioned in the video, I’m choosing to be obedient to God’s calling for me in my marriage. What choices can you personally make to reflect God’s design in your own marriage?

It’s all about love! Marriage — even in the most difficult seasons — is about choosing to love. I am a walking testimony to God’s love overflowing through me, allowing me to love someone who hurt me. Which aspect of love reveals your place of greatest challenge, and why?

If you haven’t read To Walk or Stay and this post has peaked your curiosity … hop over and grab a copy now!

Weekly discussion hosts!

April 18 – Chapter 1 :: Lara Williams at “To Overflowing

April 25Chapter 2 :: Crystal Stine

May 2Chapter 3 :: Katie Orr at “Hello Mornings

May 9Chapter 4 :: Kayse Pratt

May 16Chapter 5 :: Michele-Lyn Ault at “A Life Surrendered

May 23Chapter 6 :: Tracie Stier-Johnson

May 30Chapter 7 :: Francie Winslow at “Up, In, and Out

June 6Chapter 8 :: Joyce Moy

June 13Chapter 9 :: Erika Dawson

June 20Chapter 10 :: Stacey Thacker at “29 Lincoln Avenue


Posted in marriage, resources, series


14 May

bundle of the week :: beauty & fashion

BundleoftheWeek.com, 5 eBooks for $7.40!

This bundle is the perfect way to follow up Mother’s day!

Beauty is more than skin deep, and this week’s bundle is designed to help you feel beautiful from the inside out! Discover the secrets to jump starting your energy,  inspiration to get your weight under control, and beauty and fashion tips to help you prioritize yourself even as you juggle your busy life — all for 75% off, this week only!

Embracing Beauty by Trina Holden
The No Brainer Wardrobe by Hayley Morgan
Energy Explosion by Arabah Joy
From Frumps to Pumps by Sarah Mae
100 Pound Loser by Jessica Heights

The Beauty & Fashion bundle is only available through 8am EST on Monday, 5/20. Get yours today:

* affiliate link included


Posted in resources


9 May

to walk or stay :: book club – week 4

Do you think I’m pretty?

Whoa! This week’s chapter hits deep! I think if we’re honest, most of us would admit we come into marriage with insecurities. And we look to our spouse’s to fill our insecurity need.

We need — want — to be reassured and told we’re pretty, beautiful, special, valued, and there’s no other he could possibly desire.

Sadly, it doesn’t always work that way.

Our husbands don’t — can’t — fill our insecurity need. And sometimes — it hurts to write this — we find out we’re not the only one he desires.

Ahhh … but our Gracious Lord. He’s made it clear to us we shouldn’t be looking to another human to find our worth. Our worth, our identity is in Christ … in Him alone.

In chapter four, Do You Think I’m Pretty?, Lara gently guides us through the truths of God’s Word and His desire for us … “He designed you to reflect Him, to know Him, to be consumed with Him — to glorify Him. And when we do, we are beauty.”

True beauty arises from a quiet spirit that finds rest in the character and promises of God. Page 56

This week Kayse shares her thoughts on this chapter and is hosting the study on her blog. I hope you’ll join in … I have no doubt you’ll be blessed!

And if you haven’t read or purchased To Walk or Stay, you can find it right here. Annndddd … if you have read it, maybe you’ll consider gifting it to a friend?

Weekly discussion hosts!

April 18 – Chapter 1 :: Lara Williams at “To Overflowing

April 25Chapter 2 :: Crystal Stine

May 2Chapter 3 :: Katie Orr at “Hello Mornings

May 9Chapter 4 :: Kayse Pratt

May 16Chapter 5 :: Michele-Lyn Ault at “A Life Surrendered

May 23Chapter 6 :: Tracie Stier-Johnson

May 30Chapter 7 :: Francie Winslow at “Up, In, and Out

June 6Chapter 8 :: Joyce Moy

June 13Chapter 9 :: Erika Dawson

June 20Chapter 10 :: Stacey Thacker at “29 Lincoln Avenue


Posted in marriage, resources, series


2 May

to walk or stay :: book club – week 3

Today, the lovely Katie Orr is hosting our discussion over on her blog, Hello Mornings.

I’m pretty sure you don’t want to miss out on this:

  • There’s a great discussion happening in the comments!
  • Lara’s put together another great video!
  • And Katie talks about some other crazy-incredible resources!

If you haven’t picked up your copy of To Walk or Stay, you can find it right here.

Weekly discussion hosts!

April 18 – Chapter 1 :: Lara Williams at “To Overflowing

April 25Chapter 2 :: Crystal Stine

May 2Chapter 3 :: Katie Orr at “Hello Mornings

May 9Chapter 4 :: Kayse Pratt

May 16Chapter 5 :: Michele-Lyn Ault at “A Life Surrendered

May 23Chapter 6 :: Tracie Stier-Johnson

May 30Chapter 7 :: Francie Winslow at “Up, In, and Out

June 6Chapter 8 :: Joyce Moy

June 13Chapter 9 :: Erika Dawson

June 20Chapter 10 :: Stacey Thacker at “29 Lincoln Avenue


Posted in marriage, resources, series