{beauty & joy} lately

Change is in the air. With just a glimpse outside I am reminded of nature's marvelous annual celebration of "newness". But as I turn inward, I cringe. Other than the stunning Spring wonders taking place, I am not a fan of change. Never have been.

Change pushes me far beyond my comfort limits and reveals my true character; my heart, my inner-thoughts, my impatience, my faith (or lack thereof) and my pride. Unfortunately, it isn't pretty. I am reminded I cannot do life on my own. I need my Savior.

The past couple of months have been hurried and brimming with change. I'm weary and a little scared. Where will this change lead me and my family?

Yet, with all the uncertainty that surrounds me, I sense the absolute, never-tiring, never-failing presence of God.

"By day the Lord commands His steadfast love, and at night His song is with me, a prayer to the God of my life." Psalm 42:8

And so, after many deep breaths of prayer, my heart is calmed and, through God, I find the strength to say, Lead me, Lord. I will follow.

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

I love that, after forcing myself to stop focusing on my difficulties, I can always find many things to be thankful for... Yes, blessings surround me.

Sweet, sweet solitude - a time to ponder the leaves

Grandpa pushing Wesley on the swing... "Higher, Grandpa! Higher!"

The boys clamoring up the ladder so they can race down the slides - over and over again.

What joyous laughter!

Shhh... I need to take this call.

No caption needed. :)

"He gives strength to the weary..." Isaiah 50:29

a time for change {new blog name}

Welcome to Choosing Gratitude!

After a year of careful thought, wise council and prayer, I have decided to change the name of the blog from Red Letter Living to Choosing Gratitude. The blog and all of its content will stay the same. You can expect the same focus and tone of writing (and pictures) as I continue on this path God has chosen for me and my family - discovering the beauty and joy in our journey.

It is simply a name change.

The reason behind the change has a long explanation, but, simply put, I want to dispel any concerns that I am affiliated with the Red Letter Christian movement. I believe the whole Bible is God-breathed (2 Timothy 3:16).

Thank you to all who follow my blog and thank you  for your patience during this time of transition.

I am so very grateful. :)

If you wish, you can continue to follow the blog by clicking one of the subscription buttons (with updated links) at the top right portion of your screen, sign up to receive blog posts via e-mail or like the new Choosing Gratitude Facebook page!