Tuesday, February 1, 2022

What's Saving My Wintertime Life

Hey you guys!

How do you put your creative energies to work to defeat the blues, the news, the isolation, the disappointment that so easily combine to intrude and re-define how we see ourselves?

And what's God inviting you to in the process?









Here's a sampling of what's feeding, calming, and nurturing body, mind, and soul this winter ...

SCRIPTURE

RHYTHMS
Creating, puttering, writing, arranging, tending, and keeping the home fires burning.  Opening the windows for a few minutes, heading out for a walk, sitting fireside with a friend, simmering a pot of soup. 

Indulging in an afternoon nap. 

There's a satisfying delight in the dailyness of tasks and activities that come with homekeeping, ministry, relationship building, and nurturing online community.


MUGS
A great big mug of hot tea with plenty of honey.  Maybe some mulled cider with a cinnamon stick.  Grabbing a cup of steaming hot chocolate before heading over to the beach to wave-watch.  

MEDITATION
This free app for Christ-centered, prayerful meditation is worth its weight in gold.

PUZZLES 
Let's hear it for less surfing, scrolling, and clicking ... and more relaxing jigsaw puzzles.  I'm not interested in head-scratching challenges, only in assembling beautiful pictures that make me smile!  






BOOKS
Snuggled under a fuzzy throw by the fire ... or curled up in bed under a quilt or two.  Ever since I was little, there've been few days where I haven't immersed myself in gently turned pages.  I've found comfort in ... 
&
&

MUSIC
24 hours of gentle, de-stressing melody.  Yes, please.

So ... what's saving YOUR deep-mid-winter life?  I can't wait to read what's working for you ... or hear what God might be inviting you to!
Linda
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sharing wintertime with 
  Anne &  Jeanne/Lisa J 
Richella  &  Lisa

mug image

scripture image

64 comments:

  1. Those are the coolest Crocs I've ever seen!

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    1. Aren't they fun? I just added the link right under the picture - they're 36% off at Amazon!

      It's a treat to look down at your feet and smile, isn't it 😊.

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  2. The hot chocolate looks good! And it's funny that you mention Soulspace. I literally just discovered it today. I've only had a quick look so far but it looks like it will be really helpful.
    It's been pretty busy here, but some good books and home-made soup are some of the things that have been bringing me comfort.

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    1. I'd love to hear how Soulspace works for you, Lesley. Gazing at the Lord brings us back to who He is and assures us of His deep love for us. I can't recommend this highly enough.

      This free app is a gift indeed and it's become a soothing addition to my devotions.

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  3. One nore thing, I am enjoying feeling so much better since I got the stint out of bladder. I have energy since I am not fighting a UTI all the time. God has granted me some renewed health to enjoy all the snow piled up and making a quilt. Had I still felt as bad as I did about three weeks ago I would never have started a new project. Thanking Him daily.

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    1. There's nothing like renewed health and energy after a long bout of suffering. I'm grateful with you today, friend. Enjoy every minute of creating that quilt ... and welcome back!

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  4. I love that cozy room! It has been a long winter already. Doing something with my hands (I got a Cricut Maker for Christmas) helps to keep me happy through the cold days. And getting outside on the warmer ones!

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    1. I must admit that I had no idea what a Cricut Maker is ... so I just googled it. Wow! I can't wait to hear what you're creating, Lynn. Do tell ✂️!

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  5. I love that scripture from Philippians. Recorded it myself last month in my morning journal. I think what's keeping me most sane is taking each day as it arrives ... sometimes full of surprises, or new worries, or celebrations .. and yes, naps! Love crossword puzzles too!

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    1. I'm with you, Barbara. One day at a time. One situation at a time. One task at a time. Just 1️⃣!

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  6. Such a heartwarming post! My go-tos to find solace in all seasons is the dear Bible, of course, and picking up my guitar and singing. That always lifts me out of whatever valley I am in. After a long siege of sickness, I missed it so much. I was finally able to take my guitar out and sing and record some last night, and I was SO grateful. There is nothing like singing to brighten things up in my world, and I cannot thank God enough for the gift of song. There's a reason the singers were put at the front of the battle in the Old Testament. It still works today! Sending much love to you today, sweet friend, for this wonderful blog, for the blessing you are to all of us, and for being you!

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    1. I'm so happy to hear that you're feeling better and have that guitar out and busy again, Cheryl. That's a fascinating thought about the singers being at the front of battle. I'll have to sit and ponder this a bit 🎸!

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  7. My deep mid-winter life? Emerging with fresh, untainted breaths into the promise of God's grace and healing! Let us step outside of ourselves and listen to what our Father has to say, to offer us in becoming new creations in Him. Even when the world rests and sleeps, He awakens us to the spring of a new day in Him, if only we accept and submit to the way He has shown us is better.
    Blessings, Linda, and enjoy the cozy, the warm, the known, that makes you want to embrace God's unknown with abandon.
    Blessings!

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    1. Trusting that God is renewing your strength and healing your body after a tough siege. So thankful with you how He is restoring your soul and giving you new life and hope, friend!

      I sense it in your writing ✏️!

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  8. My idea of a deep winter's life involves going to the Y for my physical exercise or riding my bicycle on an indoor trainer. I love to read. I love doing jigsaw puzzles although with our daughter having to move in with us due to her heart attack, I have no room to do any. (I do have some I will be willing to give away if someone wants to pay postage). Normally the winter gives me time to slow down. Except for this one. *shrugs shoulders*

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    1. A jigsaw puzzle room would be nice, wouldn't it! I've got a card table crammed into our little eating area and up until last night you had to gently push all the pieces to the side of the table to eat a bowl of soup 🤦🏻‍♂️.

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  9. Yeah, it's guns and poetry
    that make midwinter shine;
    though it's a strange dichotomy,
    it isn't solely mine,
    for I was born an Asian man,
    and deep within my genes
    I see the outline of a plan
    and fathom what it means,
    that reaping follows time to sow,
    and that there's war and peace,
    and my soul has come to know
    that changes never cease,
    and thus the cherry blossoms' beauty
    must co-exist with martial duty.

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    1. 'my soul has come to know
      that changes never cease'

      For sure, Andrew. That's one of many lessons we're all continuing to learn 🍒.

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  10. Is the twinkle light room part of your house? Enchanting!

    Writing from a 4th grade classroom today where I drilled the poor darlings on long division most of the morning.

    More snow coming Friday!

    * subscriber email

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    1. I wish I had twinkle lights ... but no, that's the Cozy Retreat puzzle!

      Bless you teaching math these days, friend. You must be a genius.

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  11. Look the pink/green room with the lights! Is that someone you know or off the internet? I thought it was fun. You talk about the blues, isolation, the news and the disappointment. Somehow I don't feel those often. When I feel the blues, I allow myself a good cry and then realize things could be worse and have been and I carry on. I'm also busy but I do find time mid-morning for a cup of hot tea in a fun mug!

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    1. That's one of my favorite puzzles!

      You're so fortunate that you're not experiencing the impact of all that stuff. So many people are suffering from depression and anxiety and all that goes with it. And so we keep talking about it'round here.

      Can't wait to join you in a cup of tea ☕️ ☕️!

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  12. My photography class leader has been using that verse from Philippians for the past year. It's always an encouragement when she shares it in a group that isn't "religious". It's also a reminder of how I need to practice those principles every day.

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    1. Oh, I'd love to see some of what you're creating around these verses, Debby 📸!

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  13. I am trying to get some projects done, keep up with blogging, reading and reviewing. I am trying to treasure the moments, focusing on the positives and good, and letting go of the negative things.

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    1. You're motivating me a bit with your mention of projects, Cindy. There are definitely things that need to be done. But I keep heading back to a good book instead.

      Maybe in the spring 🤷‍♀️?!

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  14. Oh my mercy Linda. I am loving that room. Looks like something out of a magazine. That hot chocolate looks sooooo good too! I am sitting here drinking a healthy tea I made to give me a little boost of go-go juice today. I am still sorta waiting for that kick in. LOL! But, today has been quiet for me and much needed. Sometimes quiet for me equals comfort. I will check out that app you are talking about too. Thanks for the info. Hugs and blessings, Cindy

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    1. I know! Everyone's thinking it's a room, but it's the Cozy Retreat puzzle 😊!

      I absolutely hear what you're saying about quiet = comfort. Agreed.

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  15. My first thought was I wonder what filter she is using to make her room look like a puzzle, lol. Some scenes are so inviting, aren't they! I can see why it's a favorite puzzle of yours. I just wrote a post about the "habits" we build into our lives to keep us going through difficult seasons - habits that point us back to Him. Your post was a gentle whisper of affirmation. Blessings on your mid-winter, Linda! (oh, and thanks for the Soulspace info - I look forward to checking it out!)

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    1. 'what filter she is using to make her room look like a puzzle, lol.'

      😊

      I'm intrigued by the habits post ... I'll be heading over to read soon. Anything that pulls us closer to the Lord. Yes, yes.

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  16. Hi Linda,
    Thanks for sharing your wintertime calming, cozy habits.  The music is so peaceful and relaxing, which is exactly what I need right now with a recent health challenge.

    Keep up your wonderful work and uplifting messages!

    Stay well, my friend! 🥰

    *subscriber email

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    1. Thanks so much for clicking that REPLY button today! I'm so glad that you're here and so grateful that the music hit home for you.

      Thinking of you and praying that your health challenge isn't too severe. Please keep me posted 💜.

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  17. Is that your home with those twinkly lights? It's so darned cute! I'm reading, will soon be painting again, blogging, tidying, decorating and un-decorating, baking, doctoring and getting ready to start a new puzzle. Life is good -- I'm pretty darned content, although I miss some face-to-face contact, but I can work with that.

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    1. Sounds like we're tracking on many of the same rhythms, Jeanie. I hope the doctoring isn't anything too serious 🩹.

      And I love hearing when someone's content. That's where we want to be, yes. There is so much to be thankful for .

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  18. WonderWord puzzles, coloring on my iPad, reading,reading and reading, and a hot cup of anything. Glad someone else likes lots of honey in their tea. And of course, cuddling with my fur baby, Fynn, who never leaves my side. Fynn is his name but cuteness is his game.

    you and I tend to like the same type of jigsaw puzzles but I don’t find them relaxing. My neighbors 8 yr old son used to come over and I really liked doing them with him but he moved. Fynn is not good with puzzles, he eats them.

    Keep warm

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    1. I miss you! Thinking about all the winter days we spent doing some thing or another together. You got me started on those WonderWord puzzles ...

      We were with the sweet granddog this past weekend. She spent time gnawing on things like a paintbrush, a paper towel, and a fresh patch on a wall that had been spackled and painted. What a surprise to see the plastic mesh patch laying across the room.

      And that was before she decided to help herself to a few chomps of pasta from a bowl on the table 🍝. I love her to bits. I miss her already!

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    2. Not sure why but I can't get this reply to go through on your blog. When I hit publish it brings me to Google sign in page....duh? Never did that before

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      Noooooo you got me into Wonderword.

      I seem to remember you urging me to "buy it" on our shopping outings except Ollie's is where I watched you buy. Yes I miss those frivolous, serendipitous get togethers, big time. Chatting with you, laughing, eating as we did different things was special to me.

      How is Tim with granddog? Grand dog sounds like a great script for a Beethoven movie. Did you ever watch those movies?

      * subscriber email

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    3. Sorry about Google, friend. But thanks so much for hunting me down.

      And yes, I love shopping and helping people spend their money! I should have been a professional personal shopper 🛒. And I wonder if Ollies is still there. I do love a good discount store.

      Tim tolerates Rosie. But she KNOWS I adore her!

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  19. I got a milk frother for Christmas, so I've been enjoying making tea lattes and tea-infused hot chocolates!

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    1. Tea-infused hot chocolate ☕️! That sounds yummy and intriguing all in one sip.

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  20. When I have a day at home alone, I have a comfortable rhythm that I love to settle into, with a candle burning, working on a jigsaw puzzle, reading books. So I love what you share here, Linda! :)

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    1. Jigsaw puzzle. Candle. Books. Friends.

      📝 Sounds like a perfect winter day to me, Lisa!

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  21. Reading is my go-to, especially in winter. Music is part of my everyday life, it refreshes and restores. Chocolate never hurts 🥰

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  22. Sounds so cozy. Praying many content and cozy days for you.

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    1. Cozy seems to comfort and soothe on those days when everything seems to be going wrong, doesn't it, Lauren.
      😉

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  23. I love your photos! They seem to be soothing to my soul.
    Blessings!

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    1. Oh I'm so glad, Lulu. Thanks! It soothes my soul to create them 📸.

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  24. Such a beautiful verse to contemplate. Thank you for sharing.

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    1. So thankful with you, Debbie, for God's precious Word.
      📖

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  25. Winter is long in Wisconsin! What have I been doing to pass the time? I re-did my laundry room, I'm finishing a quilt I started years ago, "spring cleaning", visiting friends, Bible study, and I will be taking a trip to visit my grand babies soon. Then hopefully by the we will be closer to the end of winter. ha ha

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    1. Oh, a re-done laundry room sounds so good, Amy! Think of all the hours we spend each week in front of those 2 machines 👕 🧦 🩳. Happy for you!

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  26. Watching the many birds in my backyard, fingerless gloves and scarves, flannel sheets, cozy blankets, other people, warm showers, writing, reading, crafting, cooking, and laughing.

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    1. Yes, yes, and more yeses to your list, Theresa. Unfortunately, while cooking is near the bottom of my list, eating delicious food is near the top 😉!

      * sigh *

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  27. I enjoy hearing what other are doing to pass the wintertime. I've been doing some rearranging and redecorating, spending more time in my sewing studio, sitting quietly with the Lord, a cup of coffee, and watching the birds and squirrels play in the snow.

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    1. Don't you just love rearranging, Jodee 😇?! One of my favorite things to do. It gives me a fresh appreciation for what we own ... and opens the way for getting rid of what we don't love or need or use. And that's been a very good thing.

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  28. I love the toile lampshade, Linda. And what a blessing to live near water and be able to leave your house and wave watch! I've been baking a bit more, and also working through a pile of writing, trying to get some sort of sense of where it's all going. It might not sound life-saving, but the bit of progress I've made lately is spurring me on. :-)

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    1. I'd love to hear more about your process of 'working through a pile of writing,' Lois. Sounds fascinating 📝!

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  29. Just scrolling through your pictures had a calming affect on me this morning.

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