encouragement, Inspiration and Motivation

What brings you joy?

What brings you joy? What brings you happiness? Wait. Aren’t they the same thing? Joy is something deep inside me, despite circumstances; it is a contentment and inner peace. Happiness is an outward expression; you can see it on my face. It’s a smile, a laugh. I have been finding little ways to experience joy in my personal… Read More What brings you joy?

encouragement, personal musings, Uncategorized

What Would You Do if You Weren’t Afraid

“What you are afraid of is never as bad as what you imagine. The fear you let build up in your mind is worse than the situation that actually exists.” – Spencer Johnson So true. For me, fear causes anxiety and agitation. It brings about an overwhelm sometimes to the point of immobility. It is… Read More What Would You Do if You Weren’t Afraid

personal musings, Uncategorized

5 Things I Have Learned About Myself

Life has hit me hard, folks, and these last twelve months were so difficult for me. Would you have known? I keep smiling. I keep being positive. I keep my “cheerleader” disposition, as my mom would say. But, yes, it has been rough. I experienced deaths, a divorce, a move, (ongoing) home renovation … all… Read More 5 Things I Have Learned About Myself

encouragement, Summertime

A Humble Harvest

Garden harvest season is nearly over here in NEPA. Can I tell you something? It drove me absolutely batty not to have a big productive garden this summer. And thank you, Facebook memories, for reminding me of all the yummy, colorful eggplants, beans, peaches, cucumbers, peppers, apples and more that I didn’t harvest this year.… Read More A Humble Harvest

encouragement, Inspiration and Motivation, personal musings

Finding Grace and Feeling Thankful

Maybe you’ve heard the phrase, “God won’t give you more than you can handle.” I have heard those words many times. And I used to believe they were true. But … I’m not so sure, anymore. A Google search on this topic will turn up various philosophical perspectives, and even Biblical references and research. But,… Read More Finding Grace and Feeling Thankful

buy handmade, draw that pig, local business, Pillowcases

Let’s Talk Pillows … Specifically, Pillowcases! The Perfect Gift

My bestie and I drove to Philadelphia last week to see a concert (James Taylor and the Eagles – amazing!). Driving two-plus hours down and back up the Turnpike gave us plenty of time for girl talk. There are many topics of discussion which we have in common. We spent our childhood together. Our kids… Read More Let’s Talk Pillows … Specifically, Pillowcases! The Perfect Gift

draw that pig, Giveaways, Sneak Peek, Summertime

I’m in Need of a New Beach Bag — Are You? ***GIVEAWAY***

Summer is HERE! I’m not gonna lie. Absolutely one of THE BEST things about working in a school is having summers off! I don’t often sleep in, but is IS nice not to be a slave to my alarm most mornings. Summer is my time for a to-do list that is a mile long. You… Read More I’m in Need of a New Beach Bag — Are You? ***GIVEAWAY***

encouragement, Inspiration and Motivation, personal musings, Spring

There is always hope … {and a quote that speaks to me}

I adore daffodils. They’re so fresh, and vibrant. One of the first signs of spring — the time of rebirth, and new starts. I love the way daffodils smell. They so strongly bring back poignant memories. Not necessarily sad, but yet, sometimes sad. Daffodils remind me of my childhood, my backyard, and Easter. I remember… Read More There is always hope … {and a quote that speaks to me}