Welcome back, my friends ~
Maybe you're like me and have come to slowly accept and appreciate that perhaps this season is meant for nesting.
At home.
This truth dawns when it finally hits that you can't travel to the state you planned on going to. That the longed for vacation is simply not going to take place. When comfortably eating in a restaurant is nigh impossible or that the movie theater is still shut tight. And that with your ever-present shopping mask you find that browsing for clothes is far more trouble than it's worth.
With acceptance comes a bit more peace. And a renewed sense of purpose to move ahead and do what you CAN do instead of focusing on what has been taken away.
Maybe you've begun slowly, carefully, opening your porch door yet again to just a couple of people at a time with no thought to decor or an eye-catching centerpiece. Socially distancing, if required. Hearty conversation, celebrating your connection with big mugs of coffee and brownies from a box mix. Or perfectly grilled hamburgers and a couple of side salads. Or frosty iced tea and little white bowls filled with blueberries topped with whipped cream.
This is not entertaining.
This is friendship in action. This is what hospitality and encouragement and outreach look like.
Cultivating and nurturing our home life has taken on a more urgent identity these days. And it's one of the reasons I'm so excited about Myquillyn 'The Nester' Smith's 3rd homekeeping volume, Welcome Home: A Cozy Minimalist Guide to Decorating and Hosting All Year Round.
Chosen by Christianity Today as one of the top twenty creatives in 2016, Myquillyn shares 'engaging how-tos and inspiring photos, she guides you step by step through purposeful design decisions to cultivate a space where loved ones gather, meaningful connections are celebrated, and lasting memories are made.'
She bids farewell to endless 'bins of factory-made decor,' hours of frustration, and spending heaps of cash as she embraces the beauties of each season. In the process, she stirs our desire to open our homes and hearts to others yet again.
Myquillyn is offering a super generous bonus if you pre-order her book before September 15th ... an online Welcome Home Prep School, 12 mini-course videos that companion with the book! If ever we needed creative inspiration, it'd be right about now when it's not uncommon to feel like your four walls are closing in on you ... and you despair of ever sharing your hearth and home with others again.
The syllabus and all the details are here! See ya' in class!
Hardcover - $24.29
Kindle - $14.99
3 SUMMERTIME READS
And They Called It Camelot: A Novel of Jacqueline Bouvier Kennedy Onassis
- Stephanie Marie Thornton
engrossing . beautifully penned . historical fiction
The author writes, 'First and foremost, this is a work of fiction. While I strove to be as faithful to the historical record as possible, this is most certainly a fictionalized account of the life of Jacqueline Bouvier Kennedy Onassis ... What surprised me most as I began researching this amazing woman's story is that so much of her everyday strength and tenacity has been forgotten ... My aim in writing this novel was to shine the spotlight back on this iconic First Lady's heartaches and triumphs, especially as time moves us further away when the years when Jackie's name was consistently in the newspapers.'
Kindle - $9.99
Paperback - $14.16
You're Not Listening: What You're Missing and Why It Matters
- Kate Murphy
challenging . practical . meticulously researched
If you've been around here for any length of time, you know that one of my favorite books {and our second Book Club pick!} is Adam McHugh's The Listening Life. A game changer, a wake up call, a soul-stirrer.
Kate Murphy's writing picks up right where The Listening Life left off.
The book isn't faith based, but there's plenty of truth to be found in its pages. Of particular interest was her chapter 'Listening to Opposing Views.' In this season of political unrest, it's must reading no matter what your political persuasion. And her chapter on supporting others when they share their stories instead of constantly shifting the conversation to ourselves contains superb lessons for us all.
Kindle - $13.99
Hardcover - $16.99
Camino Winds
- John Grisham
master storyteller . intriguing characters . un-put-downable
In describing the reason for penning his latest book, Grisham writes, 'With Camino Island, my goal was to write a delightfully entertaining beach book, one with no message, no issue, no cause, no great injustice to be grappled with. It worked well enough, and I was encouraged to revisit the genre and the island.'
This is the perfect summer read. Vintage Grisham for sure. If you're a fan, his latest book will not disappoint.
Kindle - $14.99
Hardcover - $17.29
4 LINKS TO SAVOR
Elizabeth A. Harris
Ann Swindell
Rachel Kang
Courtney Carver
I can't wait to hear what volumes are in your bag or on your night table or piled on your desk!
Linda
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I'm still reading The Listening Life as one of my year-long books for my One Word Linger. I'm glad to be going so slowly in it because I truly do need to linger in it! I also loved You're Not Listening. It showed me I still have work to do in this department. :) I always love these posts, Linda. Thanks for sharing your finds.
ReplyDeleteYou're so right, Lisa ... these are linger books and ones that are worth savoring and then re-reading yet again. I'm with you, always more work to do in this department, friend.
DeleteThanks for kicking off this discussion!
Somehow I have never read Grisham. I got one of his books at a library sale but haven't opened it yet. The book about Jackie Kennedy sounds very good. I'm reading None Like Him by Jen Wilkin about the ways God is not like us. It's so good! I'm also reading Write Better: A Lifelong Editor on Craft, Art, and Spirituality by Andrew T. Le Peau. Only a couple of chapters in. It comes highly recommended by a number of people. I'm listening to an audiobook of A Gentleman in Moscow by Amor Towles that several people had reviewed positively a few years ago. Very good so far.
ReplyDeleteBarbara, hi! You always have a wide variety of books going at the same time. I love that you visit all kinds of genres.
DeleteThe book on craft, art, and spirituality sounds particularly intriguing. I'm going to see if our library system carries it. Can't wait to read your review!
Linda,
ReplyDeleteYes! Focusing on what we CAN do instead of lamenting what we can't do. I've been leaning into nesting and embracing a more simplified lifestyle. I still have a few places on my bucket list that I'd like to visit, but am thankful for my home and I appreciate your book recommendations as I've been enjoying reading a bit more than I've been used to.
Blessings,
Bev xx
Bev, yes please to focusing more on the good things and the joys we have access to instead of constantly focusing on the latest bad news and all the 'what ifs.' I told my husband that I'm tired of the negative and long to be grateful for all that God is doing, all the good and lovely and excellent and praiseworthy.
DeleteSo much to be found to give thanks for. I'm working hard on choosing that pathway. The other road is tiresome and goes nowhere.
Your simple words 'thankful for my home' are an encouragement to us all to count our blessings especially in the midst of uncertainty.
Bless you for going there with us this morning.
I love how you articulated this: “With acceptance comes a bit more peace. And a renewed sense of purpose to move ahead and do what you CAN do instead of focusing on what has been taken away.”
ReplyDeleteIt’s such an important piece of wisdom that I too have realized over the years, if not especially in this current season. And the peace that comes by walking this out is so wonderful! I’m amazed at the peace I can have now compared to other times in the past. Praise God!
You're so right, Amanda. Any kind of peace the world offers is temporary, surface, and has no rich fullness.
DeleteGod's peace certainly is a remarkable grace in our lives. I'm so thankful. Especially, like you said, in this unending season.
Bless you.
A good selection of books this time, Linda. Right now, on my desk, is my latest book "Camelot - The Alternative Legend" available on Amazon.
ReplyDeleteGod bless.
Congrats, Victor, on your new book! You are indeed a prolific writier.
DeleteREADERS - Check out Victor's Camelot!
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08FJGPZS1/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=camelot+the+alternative+legend&qid=1597411978&sr=8-1
um ... writer
Delete;-O
Many thanx, Linda.
DeleteGod bless.
I hate to disagree with such a nice blog post, but if you work, this is definitely not a "season of nesting". It is more like trying to take 3-4 months of work and it all hits at once. No one was doing much when we were quarantined but now everyone wants things done yesterday! I haven't read a book in ages and have no time to think about making my home more welcoming! I am accepting that this is my season of life right now. I like your peaceful blog - especially the pictures - but have to acknowledge that some times it is hard to relate! Your loving sister.
ReplyDeleteYep, I hear what you're saying, Mah. The people I know who are working in and outside of the home have never been busier or more stressed.
DeleteAbsolutely.
And for those who are retired or are not well, quarentined or have children underfoot, it's a challenging season, rather isolating.
The next post coming up will spring from an email I just received from a reader yesterday. I think you'll relate to her dilemma and be able to empathize where she's coming from.
'Til then, I'm thankful you and I agree on the things that are most important in life. Enjoy the peaceful pictures.
And thanks for being honest.
As Mom says, 'my girls are as different as two girls could be!'
xo
Thanks, as always, Linda, for the amazing recommendations here. I may have to hunt up The Listening Life for a good old fashioned reread in the coming weeks.
ReplyDeleteBlessings!
Sounds like a plan, Martha! I could use a good-re-read myself!
DeleteThanks for the nudge in that direction ... have a good weekend, friend.
Sounds like some wonderful choices, and I like your "nesting" analysis! Love and hugs to you today, sweet friend!
ReplyDeleteThanks! I'd venture to say that you and I are sister-nesters, yes?
Delete;-}
"With acceptance comes a bit more peace. And a renewed sense of purpose to move ahead and do what you CAN do instead of focusing on what has been taken away." Thank you for this reminder, Linda. I have found this to be so true in many situations in life. I love Ann's post about using the lens of love when telling our stories. Love and blessings to you!
ReplyDeleteTrudy, don't you just love that concept, 'using the lens of love'?! Whether telling our own stories or sitting with those who are pouring out their traumas, griefs, and pain, I know no better filter than the loving kindness of Jesus ...
DeleteFocusing on what we can do, such good advice no matter the season or time. I read the Kennedy book and the listening book. Enjoyed both.
ReplyDeleteIt's always a treat to find out that someone you don't know all that well has been reading and enjoying the same books!
DeleteTheresa, we're bonding!!
;-}
Since I have always loved being at home, I have made peace with the situation. “In all things give thanks...”. Thank you Linda, I always enjoy and look forward to your posts!
ReplyDeleteI have always loved being home, too ... but some days my skin is itching to get outside and breathe fresh air and move a bit. Maybe garden / weed or go for a walk.
DeleteToday, it's finally cool enough so I'm outta here!
Have a lovely weekend, friend ...
Home is my favorite place to be... and this sounds like a fabulous book! Thank you for sharing about it... many blessings to you dear friend!
ReplyDeleteAND READERS - do check out Marilyn's beautiful softcover, Through Love's Eyes!
DeleteStunning pictures, thoughtful words. Gentle inspiration -
https://mountaintopspice.blogspot.com/p/through-loves-eyes.html
Linda I have this naughty habit of starting a book but before I finish it I start another one and another one.
ReplyDeleteSo these are just a few of the books I started but yet to finish:
Little Women
Sense and Sensibility - Jane Austin
Sunlight Through Dusty Windows-Dorcas Smucker
Just Plain Becky- Becky McGurrin
This is how my crochet projects work too. It's a good thing I'm a beginner sewist because there would be multiple sewing projects going!
Hey Regina! If your reading / crafting plan works for you, stick to it! I love that you're revisiting some of the classics during this season when old friends are a lifeline.
DeleteThanks for sharing what's happening in your neck of the woods.
Linda, I’m looking forward to reading “Welcome Home.” “You’re not Listening” was helpful for me, and I’m going to go straight to the library website and put a hold on the Grisham book for Randy. :-) I’ve got several books going right now, including “The Book of Waking Up” by Seth Haines. I recently finished “Becoming Sage” by Michelle Van Loon and hope to post about that next week. Finally, I loved the little comment exchange between you and your sister. I’m guessing my mom would have had something similar to say about me and my three sisters. :-)
ReplyDeleteHi Lois! I hope you've had a good weekend! You'll be glad to know that my sister was here when your comment rolled in and we had a good laugh together.
DeleteThat our moms would have both said the same thing hit home!
Looking forward to reading your book reviews ...
;-}
So much to savor here, Linda. You're absolutely right -nesting is what I've been doing. Relishing my time bread baking and fluffing pillows and organizing our home so it's useful and serene - both. While life's about to change drastically for me as we return to school, I'm hopeful I can enjoy the "peace of acceptance" in that too. I also have been thinking a lot about listening and trying so consciously to be better at it. Maybe better listening comes from feeling peaceful inside of ourselves. I'll have to check out this book! Thanks as always for so much to savor!
ReplyDeleteYes, yes, Barbara, there is something so calming about going about our daily tasks, taking our time to see that everything is 'just so,' and maybe re-imagine our spaces. Often moving things around helps me appreciate what I have when seen in a new light.
DeleteAnd this right here? 'Maybe better listening comes from feeling peaceful inside of ourselves.'
Absolutely. And that 'peace that passes understanding' can ultimately come from God. I'm so grateful that He's walking, and sometimes carrying us, through this crazy world we're living in.
All will be well.
Thank you for stopping by Peabea Scribbles so then I could come visit your blog. Have a happy week.
ReplyDeleteOne of blogging's treats is discovering a new blog, a writer with a fresh perspective ... and a gracious connection back and forth.
DeleteSo good to meet you today, Peabea!
These look like some wonderful book selections. The one about journaling prompts really caught my eye and several others definitely peaked my interest!
ReplyDeleteThis is a great season for journaling, isn't it!
DeleteWhat a great selection of books. Ooh...And They Called It Camelot: A Novel of Jacqueline Bouvier Kennedy Onassis sounds like a very interesting book. I absolutely loved your penned words: "With acceptance comes a bit more peace. And a renewed sense of purpose to move ahead and do what you CAN do instead of focusing on what has been taken away". YES...I desire to move ahead and be grateful and thankful. Hugs and blessings, Cindy
ReplyDeleteNot much nesting going on here. Not sure I am into nesting by myself but I am finding myself overwhelmed with tasks all of a sudden. While in the midst of an activity or responsibility, I am thinking of the next thing to do or accomplish. So no surprise that these words from the Serenity Prayer “slapped” me across the face: LIVING ONE DAY AT A TIME, ENJOYING ONE MOMENT AT A TIME...my over sense of responsibility could be rearing its ugly head again.
ReplyDeleteThe Editor by S Rowley was a fiction story about Jackie Kennedy when she was an editor. It is written by a homosexual and main character is homosexual so may not be for everyone. It was very well written and main theme, I believe, was a son and mother’s relationship. The Alice Network by Kate Quinn was a fascinating look at women spies of WW1. A few of the characters were true to life and lived what was written.
Wuthering Heights is next book club read...sure do miss you at out gatherings.
Carol, thanks for sharing these words from the Serenity Prayer --> 'LIVING ONE DAY AT A TIME, ENJOYING ONE MOMENT AT A TIME.'
DeleteNo matter if we're nesting at home or super busy taking care of business, this should be our mantra.
And yes, buddy, I miss you guys, too ...