More on Coloring

Words cannot express how much I enjoy my newest coloring book- Whatever is Lovely. The combination of Scripture and other words of encouragement throughout the book keeps things interesting while still being great for reflection and worship

It starts with this great image. Simple for those just starting, but still engaging. 

took a pause because I ran out of greens

I've been using both markers- Papermate Flair or Crayola- and colored pencils, which gives me a wide range of color and texture for my coloring. The paper quality of this book is great, and works well with markers, something that can sometimes be hard to find with all the coloring books that have been released over the past year or so. 

My favorite colors, and a great reminder!

I would highly recommend this book, especially if you are into adult coloring books. Meditating on one Scripture passage or something equally inspiration while coloring is very soothing.

Still Here!

Over the past month or so, I've found myself on my laptop less and less. A new phone for my birthday and my borrowing of Fiance's tablet, both of which are way more portable, means I don't often sit in front of a screen with a proper keyboard. All of these things means less blogging.

But I'm still around. I'm checking out Yarn-Along, WIPW,  and FOF. I'm seeking a happy meduim, and hopefully I'll find it.

So for now, even if I'm not posting, I'm still around. Weddign preparations are getting even more busy than I had guessed, and with that comes moving and job searching. I just have to remember:

"For I know the plans I have for you, says the LORD, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future."

Jeremiah 29:11

Words of Wisdom.

I've had some stressful days these past two weeks or so, and some days I get really discouraged. But even through all that, I have found some unexpected sources of wisdom.

First was E. A couple things he said to me this week had really struck a chord, and I've been trying to take his words to heart. Those things that he said were also reinforced by a quick browse through the book I just got in the mail, as recommended by Ginny @ Small Things: Style, Sex and Substance: 10 Catholic Women Consider the Things that Really Matter. One was a comment on being a friend and having friends- don't stare at your phone waiting for someone to call-- it's ok to be the one to reach out, especially when you want company. The other was a thought on the deceptive works of Satan-- negative, despairing thoughts are from him, and can be defeated by a prayer. I just love when there is double reinforcement on words like that- it's always a sign that I have things that need work.

Another bit of wisdom came from my mother: God often puts us in situations so we can improve. Even if a situation seems like it will be tough, it's probably because God wants us to learn.

From my boss: If you are waiting for the right time (to get married, have kids, etc), it will never happen. The 'stars' will never be perfectly aligned,  and things will never be exactly the way you want them to be. (basically her thoughts on me & E waiting for the best time to get married)

The daily thought from St. Margaret Mary: Notwithstanding my weakness, I am no longer afraid; I have placed my confidence in God who can do all things, and from whom I hope all things, for I rely not on myself.

Hopefully I'll be able to get back into the swing of blogging my WIPWs and FOFs as school's nearly done for the semester.

"Show no partiality"

James 2:1
I love when what I'm learning in school actually relates to my faith life. I was reading the daily Mass reading from James 2 this morning, and said to myself, hey, this applies to my teaching as well! God doesn't want us to judge other believers based on race/social status/etc, and that's the same thing they're teaching me about my future students. I was thrilled to be able to relate the two, even in such a small way.

A Lenten thought, as Ash Wednesday is next week:
Fasting is not about deprieving yourself of something and being sad, it is about rejoicing in the freedom when that thing is not a concern. We are purifying ourselves so that the Lord can live in us in a deeper way.

Lord, grant that through your grace, we may become a dwelling pleasing to you.