Inspiration – Page 2 – Sherida Stewart

A double #teatime review! HER SON’S FAITHFUL COMPANION by Jill Weatherholt and CLOVER COVERED CORPSE by Jackie Layton, plus my mini-writing retreat!

But as it is written, Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him.

~~1 Corinthians 2:9 (KJV)

Today I’m delighted to review a couple of books by two of my favorite authors….an inspirational romance and a cozy mystery. Plus I’ll include some photos of a recent solo writing retreat where a great deal of editing was accomplished. Yay! I’m serving some always popular brownies for a tea treat and your choice of coffee or tea (with honey)….iced or hot.

HER SON’S FAITHFUL COMPANION by Jill Weatherholt

Her son needs love and friendship

Now she’s found the answer to their prayers……

Former barrel racer Caitlyn Calloway wants her epileptic son to have everything—even if it means selling her family home. Problem is, the place is in disrepair. Her former crush, service dog trainer Logan Beckett, offers to help. But letting Logan and his dogs into their lives makes the past almost impossible to leave behind…especially when it opens the door to love.

MY REVIEW

I loved this second chance romance!⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

This book touches so many emotions! It tugs at heartstrings on almost every page! A strong mother who strives to do the best for her adopted son. Adorable dogs who greet everyone with wagging tails. A misplaced duck with a unique personality. A handsome, compassionate cowboy who has suffered a tragic loss. And a small town community filled with warmth and neighborly spirit. I simply loved it!

Caitlyn Calloway reluctantly returns to her hometown to sell her childhood home. She hopes the sale will cover the enormous medical bills she faces from her son’s epilepsy diagnosis. She is surprised to discover service dog trainer Logan Beckett, a man she knew during her rodeo competition days, lives on a ranch nearby.

The characters in this story definitely found their way into my heart. I admire Caitlyn as she strives to provide a good life for her son, Henry. Even though Logan has experienced heartbreak, he wants to help others. He is especially kind and understanding toward young Henry. As the tender romance develops between Caitlyn and Logan, my reader heart was touched by the warmth of their relationship. The family bonds, the reliance on faith and the selflessness of the community of Bluebell, Colorado are all components of this great story. I read with tears and smiles as twists and turns revealed a perfect ending.

If you want to read an engaging story filled with the ups and downs of life, you’ll want to read Jill Weatherholt’s sweet and memorable romance! Highly, highly recommended!

Favorite quotes:

But time spent with Logan and experiencing small-town living had made her realize what was truly important. The love of family and friends mattered most.

Sometimes the unexpected events in life made the greatest memories.

*I was given a copy of this book by the author and publisher with no requirement to write a review. This is my honest opinion.

To learn more about Jill Weatherholt and her books, visit her website: www.jillweatherholt.com

And the second book…..CLOVER COVERED CORPSE by Jackie Layton

Emma Justice never imagines working at the farmers market on a normal Saturday morning will lead to her second murder investigation. Revenge, greed, and hatred are some of the motives Emma must sift through to catch the killer.

MY REVIEW

Definitely an engaging cozy mystery! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Author Jackie Layton knows how to write cozy mysteries which keep the reader guessing! There are many different suspects who have all sorts of motives. I enjoyed scrutinizing the suspicious folks and letting my mind swirl with the possibilities. However, I never could decide who did it. Great fun to read this intriguing mystery!

Emma Justice is a flower farmer in Lutz, Texas and recently solved a murder in the small community. When a local restaurateur is found dead and a couple of friends are implicated, Emma is asked to help solve the crime.

I enjoyed the details of investigating all the possible suspects and their motives. This small town is filled with many interesting characters. The simmering relationship between Emma and Jake Hunter, a contractor, is a sweet addition. I look forward to more Jackie Layton books featuring these characters!

If you are a cozy mystery reader, I think you’ll find Clover Covered Corpse will grab your attention as you try to solve the crime. Isn’t that what makes reading cozies a great experience?

*I was given a copy of this book by the author with no requirement to write a positive review. This is my honest opinion.

To learn more about Jackie Layton and her books, visit her website: www.jackielaytoncozyauthor.com

IN WRITING NEWS

As I’ve mentioned before, I am my husband’s Trail Angel as he section hikes the Continental Divide Trail.

I drop him off at a trail head and pick him up after he finishes a section. This time he backpacked for two nights, so I stayed at Abiquiu Inn, a delightful, peace-filled sanctuary.

During this quiet time, I was able to focus on my manuscript, making the changes my editor/beta reader suggested, as I relaxed with the view from the window in my room.

During editing breaks, I could enjoy the many beautiful garden spots.

The picturesque kiva fireplace warmed my room up nicely and made for a perfect photo op for my published short story.

At the end of the trip…..and after the completion of almost all the edits….I celebrated by visiting Ghost Ranch, the area where New Mexican artist Georgia O’Keeffe found much of her inspiration. (Since there is a photography policy at the complex, I’m only posting photos I took off property.) I’m sharing photos of the nearby colorful cliffs which delighted the accomplished artist. After walking around Ghost Ranch, I understand why this area inspired her artwork. I highly recommend a stay at this refreshing retreat center.

I’ll leave you with a #bookstagram photo taken on a recent camping trip in the forest….my kind of reading place!

Thank you for joining me for my teatime reviews and news of my personal writing retreat. Do you have a special place where you go to read or write….or just to sit quietly? I hope your summer is filled with intriguing books and peaceful retreats.

With prayers and blessings, Sherida

*To leave a comment, click below on the date of this post, then scroll down to find the reply form. Comments are appreciated and will appear after moderation. I apologize for delays in posting. Thank you!

You’re invited to my #teatime review of A TASTE FOR CRIME by Ellery Adams and Tina Radcliffe!

For by grace ye are saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God:

~~Ephesians 2:8 (KJV)

ABOUT THE BOOK

Welcome back to Hope Street Church, where friendships are formed, fresh starts are encouraged, and mysteries are solved . . .

When a scathing review by a prominent food critic threatens to ruin the career of local celebrity chef Anton Parsley, he turns to Cooper and her Bible study group for help. Cooper’s boyfriend was once mentored by the beloved chef, and Cooper will do anything she can to support his struggling restaurant. But before she can figure out how to restore the chef’s good reputation, the food critic is found murdered in his restaurant. Suddenly, Cooper and the gang must go from propping up the chef to tracking down a killer.

It’s well known that the food critic had built a lucrative career with her bombastic reviews, but as Cooper and her friends look into her background, they discover that she may not have been who she appeared to be. Suspecting that secrets from her past will lead them to whoever wanted her dead, the Bible study group cook up a scheme to trap the culprit. The risks are high and may just get them burned, but they’re dead-set on catching the killer before the chef’s career is toast . . .

Includes heavenly recipes from Magnolia Lee’s kitchen!

MY REVIEW

A fun who-done-it mystery! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

The Hope Street Church Mysteries series is quite enjoyable. Each book can be read as a stand alone, so you can jump in anytime. Cooper Lee is the main character in each story, along with her friends in the Sunrise Bible Study group. This newest addition to the collection finds the sleuthing members of the group determined to help absolve a local chef of the murder of a food critic. The victim was found in the chef’s restaurant….and the chef is the uncle/mentor of Cooper’s boyfriend.

As always, their plans for investigating the crime are interesting to delve into. The characters are all intriguing. I appreciate the reliance on their faith as they go about the work to solve the crime. Plus there are some featured treats from Magnolia’s Marvels….definitely a good thing for those of us who are reader foodies.

If you like to read cozy mysteries written by award-winning authors, you will be glad you picked up A Taste for Crime. Be sure to check out the recipes at the end!

Favorite quotes:
“Ephesians 2:8 tells us we have been saved through faith. Faith is a gift from God. Trust is simply the confidence in that faith even when the world tells you otherwise.”

“When we acknowledge that something is missing in our lives, we’re taking the first step toward meeting God.”

*I received this book from @NetGalley and publisher @Beyondthepagepub with no requirement to write a positive review. All opinions are my own.

ABOUT THE AUTHORS

USA Today and New York Times bestselling author Ellery Adams lives in Chapel Hill, North Carolina, with her husband, two children, and three cats. She’s written multiple series including the Supper Club Mysteries, the Book Retreat Mysteries, the Secret, Book, and Scone Society Mysteries, and more.

A freelance writer for over twenty years, Tina Radcliffe is an RWA Honor Roll member, a two-time RWA Golden Heart finalist, four-time ACFW Carol Award finalist, and a 2014 ACFW Carol Award winner. She currently resides in Arizona, where she writes fun, heartwarming romance. Visit Tina Radcliffe via her website: https://www.TinaRadcliffe.com

TEATIME TREATS

In the Hope Street Church Mystery series, Cooper Lee’s mother sells Magnolia’s Marvels…..delectable homemade goodies. One of the recipes included at the end of A Taste for Crime is for Apple Cake. Today I’m serving this sweet dessert, topped with confectioners sugar drizzle and sprinkled with sparkling sugar….a perfect teatime delight!

Thank you for joining me for tea treats and a book review. Do you enjoy reading books which highlight food items? What cozy mysteries have you read lately? I pray your springtime is filled with fun activities, inspiring stories and just the right amount of special treats!

With blessings,

Sherida

*To leave a comment, click on the date below, then scroll down to find the reply form. Comments are appreciated and will appear after moderation, I apologize for delays in posting. Thank you!

A #TEATIME review of THE COWBOY’S SECRET PAST by Tina Radcliffe…plus Double Chocolate White Chip Cookies and recent views from the trail!

As far as the east is from the west, so far hath he removed our transgressions from us.
Psalm 103:12

Welcome to teatime and my review of The Cowboy’s Secret Past written by Tina Radcliffe, one of my favorite authors! I’m delighted to introduce you to the third Lazy M Ranch book. I’m serving yummy chocolate cookies with your choice of beverage. Please enjoy!

ABOUT THE BOOK

He’s not the same man he was—

But maybe now he’s ready to be a father.

Since leaving his wild rodeo days behind, rancher Trevor Morgan has sobered up and built a faith-filled life. So he’s shocked when the woman caring for his grandfather intrudes on that solitude. Nurse Hope Burke has hidden motives for coming to the Lazy M Ranch—she believes Trevor is the father of her orphaned nephew. Can a loving aunt and a wary cowboy change a little boy’s life forever?

MY REVIEW

An endearing and entertaining story of grace! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

I love a book which shows an example of God’s unwavering grace….and this is such a book! The Cowboy’s Secret Past is an enjoyable (LOL at times) story. Author Tina Radcliffe’s writing always touches my heart with a challenging dilemma, then comforting hope as the situation resolves through faith and forgiveness. Her trademark humor and endearing characters give me smiles throughout the pages.

The Morgan brothers of the Lazy M Ranch have enchanted my heart with their compassionate and selfless personalities. Trevor, the cowboy in this third book, has made some mistakes. Reformed and faithful, he now must face past issues. And Hope Burke, his grandfather’s new no-nonsense nurse, is the woman who comes along to make him confront his errors….including recognizing the need to be vulnerable and to be open to love again. And can Trevor convince Hope she and her young nephew belong in Homestead Pass, Oklahoma?

Along with this memorable story, I especially liked the additional characters. Bess Lowder, ranch housekeeper and cook extraordinaire (cinnamon rolls, anyone?) adds charm and humor to the story. Gramps, the Morgan patriarch Gus, is grumpy, but in a funny way, and lovingly offers wisdom to his family. Patch, the puppy, is adorable. And young Cole touches our emotions as he deals with his losses and enthusiastically embraces hard work on the ranch. Cameo appearances by the other Morgan brothers adds to the warmth of real life family ties.

If you like meaningful stories of strong family bonds with engaging characters living their faith every day plus tender happily-ever-after endings, this is the book for you. I highly recommend The Cowboy’s Secret Past …or all the books….by author Tina Radcliffe.

Favorite quotes:

“We’ve all got history.” Hope shrugged. “It’s about how that history makes us or breaks us and dictates our tomorrows.”

“The most important thing is that I’m doing what the Lord put in my heart….. All you have to do is trust that He will equip you for the job He called you to do.”

*I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy from the publisher. All opinions are my own.

Buy The cowboy’s secret past on amazon

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Tina Radcliffe is a Publishers Weekly bestselling author of contemporary romance. She is an ACFW and Romance Writers of America Honor Roll member and a four-time ACFW Carol Award finalist. Tina is the author of twenty inspirational romances for Harlequin HarperCollins, and has co-authored four cozy mysteries.

For more information, social media links and to sign up for a fun newsletter, visit her webpage: https://www.tinaradcliffe.com. The recipe for the featured Double Chocolate White Chip Cookies is found under the blog page and the post “Recipes from The Cowboy’s Secret Past” plus there are other recipes included.

VIEWS FROM THE TRAIL

As many of my readers know, my husband and I are hikers. We just completed a 100-mile trail challenge ending in February. While on our Arizona treks, we saw many of God’s amazing desert creations and enjoyed the stunning landscapes of our region. Below are some of my photos from our recent hikes. I’m sure you can guess why the last one is my favorite!

ROCK MESSAGE-“I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” ~~John 16:33 (NIV)

Thank you for visiting today. Please enjoy another cookie before you go. May you be filled with peace and contentment.
With prayers and blessings, Sherida

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A #teatime #Christmas celebration of the LIGHT!

Then spake Jesus again to the people, he said, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.”
John 8:12 (KJV)

Don’t we all love the various lights of Christmas…the sparkling tree, the Advent wreath, our outside decorations, sitting by the fireside, candlelight church services? All are reminders of THE LIGHT Christmas brought into our lives. May we bring this loving glow to others during this season of celebration….and always!

And who doesn’t love holiday baking? Well, at least eating the treats is enjoyed by most. I like to bring out the festive recipes to celebrate. Today I’m serving Cherry Christmas Cookies with tea in front of a Santa my mother painted. The nativity was made by my father….both treasured decorations.

I pray you walk in the LIGHT as we celebrate Christmas, taking time to treasure moments with family and friends this holiday season….and maybe sample a couple more cookies!

With blessings,

Sherida

What makes your heart grateful during this season of thanksgiving? (Plus story recommendations you may enjoy.)

Moose! I’m grateful for God’s glorious creation and the ability to visit special places!

O give thanks unto the Lord; for he is good; for his mercy endureth for ever.
1 Chronicles 16:34 (KJV)

I have so many thoughts of gratefulness right now. Some are tiny whispers of peace, and some are so enormous that my heart is overflowing with joy. During November and looking forward to the celebration of our Savior’s birth, I tend to reflect on the past year, and fortunately, I feel completely blessed. Family, friends, fellowship….all close to my heart.

One adventure I’m grateful to have experienced during this past year is a backpacking trip with my husband to Lake Hessie in the High Unitas Wilderness of Utah. Over 50 years ago, this location was one of my first backpacking experiences. While we lived in Wyoming many years ago, we hiked back to the lake a few times.

But our recent August return was after an absence of nearly twenty-five years. We noted a few changes. Much larger trailhead parking lot. Many more hikers on the trail. And other groups were camping at the quiet lake. We did remembered the trail fairly well as it followed a rushing river, then climbed a long uphill section before arriving at our camping spot. The lake is still beautiful. And we saw moose….as we always do at this memorable place.

I hope these few photos of our adventure give you a moment of peaceful enjoyment viewing His majesty.

After a storm came through right after arriving at our campsite, it was lovely to see beautiful Lake Hessie sparkling in the sun.

We made it! Lake Hessie, High Unitas Wilderness, Utah

Thankful to see the blue sky after a storm of rain and sleet on our hike back to the trailhead.

November book recommendations

CHRISTMAS FOREST AMBUSH by Kerry Johnson

And speaking of hiking in the mountains, if you enjoy romantic suspense, author Kerry Johnson’s newest book, Christmas Forest Ambush, should be on your Santa wish list. With a thrilling escape through the wilderness, ranger Noah Holt and social worker Lucy Taylor face many challenges as they strive to protect the child in her care. This action-on-every-page story offers examples of perseverance, forgiveness and trust.

Check out the author’s webpage for more information. “Romance that’s worth the risk.” https://www.kerryjohnsonbooks.com

HOLIDAY MENACE : a novella collection by ten popular inspirational authors

Holiday Menace-a collection of romantic suspense novellas

If you’d like a selection of romantic suspense novellas, Holiday Menace may be just what you’re looking for. Ten popular Christian authors each write different stories of inspiration with holiday themes. I found the variety of characters and settings provided good seasonal reading.

For more information, go to author Terri Weldon’s webpage. https://terriweldon.com

LIGHTS, CAMERA, CHRISTMAS TOWN! A sweet novella collection by eight romance authors

This novella collection is on top of my soon-to-be-read list. I’m sure another visit to Christmas Town will be delightful, full of sparkle and holiday joy. If you like sweet, uplifting contemporary romance, I hope you find this surprise on your Kindle or Kindle app before Christmas morning.

For more information about this collection, go to author Tanya Agler’s website….plus check out her recent release which is another great book for the holiday season, Snowbound with the Rodeo Star. https://tanyaagler.com

Thank you for stopping by my blog. May we all be thankful for our many blessings as we prepare for the celebration of our Savior’s birth. I pray your season is filled with love, joy and peace.

Sherida

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CLICK TO BUY TURQUOISE REMEMBRANCE

If worries overcome us, how do we find peace? #Teatime reflections to calm our hearts.

And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things. Those things, which ye have both learned, and received, and heard, and seen in me, do: and the God of peace shall be with you.
Philippians 4:7-9 (KJV)

When we’re faced with difficulties and stressful circumstances, it is good to remember our Lord is with us. We find comfort and peace by reading His word. In Philippians, Paul reminds us to think about positive things, then our hearts and minds will be calmed.

My husband and I hike to enjoy God’s creation. We feel His peace when we are outside, surrounded by nature. We recently did a short one-night backpacking trip in Arizona where we felt the calming presence of our Lord.

Seeing the flowers and critters always brings me joy.

Awesome sunrises and sunsets begin and end our outdoor camping days, reminding us of His glorious creation plan.

OCTOBER BOOK RECOMMENDATIONS

Reading inspirational books helps encourage our walk. When we read stories about perseverance, forgiveness, trust and hope, we understand our challenges and can empathize with others. This month I have some romantic suspense suggestions.

FAIR HAVEN by Laura Conner Kestner

The characters in this contemporary romance captured my heart. Right from the beginning, I was drawn into the action-packed suspense. Author Laura Conner Kestner skillfully hints at the circumstances surrounding famous musical performer Leah Dean and lawman/rancher Joshua Calhoun. My favorite quote: “I understand that God doesn’t promise we won’t have trouble in life. He does promise He’ll be with us as we face those troubles.”

Check out the author’s website for more information. http://www.lauraconnerkestner.com

HOLIDAY MENACE : a novella collection by several authors

I’m currently reading this novella collection of ten romantic suspense stories written by popular Christian authors. All unique and fascinating! “Will Christmas be merry and bright?”

Check out this collection by visiting author Terri Weldon’s website. Navigate to the section labeled “Books” to get more information. http://www.terriweldon.com

Thank you for visiting my blog. Before you go, please sample a Cherry Oatmeal cookie. I recently took these treats to church for our fellowship time.
Please mention any prayer requests you have in the comments. May we always bring concerns to our Lord. He hears our requests.

With blessings, Sherida

Click to purchase TURQUOISE Remembrance

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What a cancer diagnosis taught me about my faith in 2022.

At the closing of this year, don’t we all reflect on the past? My thoughts turned to a challenging time I faced during 2022…..and the grace and love of our Lord….who gave me strength and comfort.

Before leaving on a long awaited trip to Washington state during the summer, I made an appointment to evaluate a dark spot I’d noticed on my scalp. My dermatologist said, “I don’t like the look of this.” She did a biopsy and said the results would take a week. Knowing my worrier tendencies, waiting that long would be hard for me. However, my husband and I decided to go ahead with our planned roadtrip, joining our family for a backpacking trek in North Cascades National Park.

Along the five-day drive, I had plenty of time to consider the possible outcomes of the biopsy. Was there really anything to be concerned about? Could the spot just be frozen off? What if it was indeed melanoma?
Before this, I wasn’t quite aware of the seriousness of melanoma cancer. Online research led me down a dark path. Scalp melanomas are the most deadly form of this cancer. Because the mole’s location is obscured by hair and perhaps not visible to an individual, diagnosis is often delayed. Additionally, cancer cells in the head area can spread rapidly. From diagnosis to death can be a short two months.

At first I was quite distraught. Surprisingly to me, it was not because of the possibility of dying. As a Christian, Jesus, my Savior, gave me the gift of eternal life.

For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God. ~~ Ephesians 2:8 KJV

However, I was greatly concerned for my loved ones. How would my husband of fifty-one years handle my being gone? Would my grandchildren miss me? Would I even be able to hold my newest grandson who was to be born in a couple of months? I prayed. I prayed continually for the first two days as we drove past the desert landscape of Nevada.

The next day and for the rest of the journey through the mountains of Oregon and Washington, I was filled with peace. (But truthfully, not really joy.) With hope, I would trust His will would be done. Just as the Bible says,

Now the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that ye may abound in hope, through the power of the Holy Ghost. ~~Romans 15:13 KJV

Right before we arrived to camp with our family, I received a call with the biopsy results. “Good news and bad news,” my doctor said. The bad news: I did have melanoma. The good news: it was very early stage. Since melanomas can be “tricky”, the doctor advised cutting our trip short to have the cancer surgery as soon as possible. Fitting into the surgeon’s schedule, we did a quick backpacking adventure, then headed directly home.

Have I not commanded thee? Be strong and of good courage; be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed: for the Lord thy God is with thee whithersoever thou goest. ~~Joshua 1:9 KJV

My cancer surgery and later skin graft procedures went well. God gave me the patience to wait calmly until the post surgery test results indicated the tumor was completely removed and no further treatments would be necessary. Our Lord gave me strength through the weeks of healing. My husband took good care of me, while our family and friends supported us both. And with God, we are never alone.

Fortunately, my melanoma was caught early. I’ll adjust to the bald patch and depression on the top of my head and the skin graft scar. I praise God my outcome was a good one. Going forward, I will need to be vigilant to watch for any reoccurrence with complete checks every three months. Since I regularly use sun protection and always wear a hat, I didn’t expect to get a cancer diagnosis. Yes, this can happen to anyone!

NOW FOR MY PUBLIC SERVICE ANNOUNCEMENT: If you notice any spot that looks unusual, I encourage you to have a skin cancer check…immediately. Please make this a New Year’s resolution!

If…or when….I face more challenges in the future, I pray I remember these important truths:

1. Because of our faith, we don’t need to fear death. Jesus’ sacrifice paid for our eternal life.

2. Prayer gives us peace during difficult trials.

3. God is always with us….with strength, compassion and love.

May your New Year be filled with God-given peace and joy…..even during challenging times! Have a fantastic, fun and faith-filled 2023!

With prayers and blessings,

Sherida

*Comments are appreciated and will appear after moderation. I apologize for delays in posting.

What is this? With a WAIT, I found out.

I saw this on the outside wall of our house toward the end of last year. I had a suspicion, but I needed to WAIT to see if I was correct. When a bird attempted to peck that very spot, I believed I was right. To protect it from harm, we covered the area with paper, hoping this would hide it from attracting more inquisitive visitors.

After our months-long WAIT, we saw this.

Do you see it?

Here’s a closer view.

After we waited patiently, this little nymph appeared, followed by a few more over a span of a couple of weeks.

Yes, a praying mantis baby!

Several months earlier, I’d watched an adult praying mantis climbing along the exterior of our house. A few days later, I noticed the odd thing stuck to the wall. I guessed it was an egg sack, but needed to WAIT for the reveal…..in God’s perfect timing.

The WAIT seemed appropriate for 2022 since WAIT is my 2022 One Word. I needed a reminder of His timing, His plan and His miracles.

But if we hope for that we see not, then do we with patience wait for it. ~~Romans 8:25 (KJV)

There still remain things I’m waiting on this year, but these seeing these tiny creatures finally emerge provide encouragement for all things I’m waiting for in 2022. With the instruction to faithfully “trust in the Lord” because His plans for believers are good, we have the promise of hopeful outcomes in our situations.

I do admit I need reminders to keep my trust in God during the uncertainty and challenges facing us all…..leaving worry and fear behind. Are you waiting for something? I pray you are comforted by the promise He will reveal His perfect plan for you……at just the right time.

With blessings,

Sherida

*Comments are appreciated and will post after moderation. I apologize for the delay.

Are you blessed by reminders of God’s love? #ThursdayThoughts

“Consider how the wild flowers grow. They do not labor or spin. Yet I tell you, not even Solomon in all his splendor was dressed like one of these.” ~~ Luke 12:27 (NIV)

While gazing at a scenic view, how can one not be amazed at the wonderful world God has created?

The wildflowers in the San Juan Mountains of Colorado were glorious this summer. Snowfall was plentiful during the past winter, so the vegetation received enough moisture for abundant wildflowers. My husband and I are blessed to live close enough to visit this forest often and to be able to hike in these mountains.

While we trek along the trails through meadows and forests, the bright colors of the flower blossoms catch our attention. Each bloom is a reminder of the intricate detail God included in His creations. And He designed His world to have an infinite variety.

As we are restored with the refreshing power of nature, I’m reminded of God’s love for us. If He planned the amazing majesty of all these flowers, doesn’t He have an even greater plan for us, His beloved children?

“Consider how the wild flowers grow. They do not labor or spin. Yet I tell you, not even Solomon in all his splendor was dressed like one of these.” ~~ Luke 12:27 (NIV)

Just look at these perfect flowers I photographed while hiking the San Juan Mountains this summer, each one colorful and unique. Enjoy their beauty and know that you are loved by God!

Blue Flax
Rocky Mountain Iris
Purple Geranium
Yarrow
Leafy Jacob’s Ladder
Sunflower
Harebell (Blue Bells of Scotland)
Goldeneye
Sticky Geranium
Colorado Columbine
Colorado Columbine
Indian Paintbrush

Dear Heavenly Father,

We thank You for loving us, for providing for our needs, and letting us refresh in Your glorious creation. Please help us remember to release our fears and know You have the ultimate plan for our good. Like the flowers You have adorned, we trust in You to take care of us.

In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Thank you for joining me for #ThursdayThoughts. We know proof of God’s love surrounds us…everywhere we look. Where do you find reminders of our Heavenly Father’s love?

With blessings and prayers always,

Sherida

*Comments are appreciated and will appear after moderation. I apologize for delays in posting.

Are you blessed by waiting for the LIGHT? April Easter devotional

Then spake Jesus again unto them, saying, I am the light of the world; he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but have the light of life. ~~John 8:12 (KJV)

As we wait for the glorious celebration of our Savior’s supreme act of love, do you have a special memory of anticipating Easter? Maybe you joined with family for church, looking forward to a feast at Grandma’s house afterward. Maybe as a child you eagerly awaited the search to find surprise eggs for your Easter basket. Maybe on an Easter morning you admired a peaceful scenic view while waiting to hear His voice during a private worship time. I have all those special memories, but one experience stands above all the others.

Many years ago in the predawn darkness, my husband-to-be and I joined a hushed crowd gathered along a favorite East coast beach. All were silent. No one spoke as we stood quietly in the sand, the scents of the ocean drifting on a light breeze. The only sounds came from the waves lapping along the shoreline. We were reverent, filled with expectation. We all knew why we were there. Heads bowed in prayer, we waited. The sky gradually lightened with colors of pink and orange. Then the sun rose over the horizon, filling the day with glorious light. Our joyful hymns of praise filled the air for the Easter sunrise service. The wait was over. The tomb was empty. Our Savior had risen.

As Christians, we celebrate this moment, this proof of the promise…the tomb is empty! After the agonizing days of remembering Jesus’ suffering, God’s plan is revealed in the blazing glory of the morning light. He is risen that we might be saved. We are forgiven and offered eternal life.

The angel answered and said unto the women, Fear not ye: for I know that ye seek Jesus, which was crucified. He is not here; for he is risen.
Matthew 28:5-6 (KJV)

PRAYER

Dear God,

Thank you for the sacrifice of Your beloved Son, the LIGHT of the world, who offers us the ultimate gift of eternal life. As we wait for the Easter celebration to begin, help us BE THE LIGHT….to bring Your message of forgiveness to others, to give encouragement to those needing hope, and to walk more closely with You as Christian examples of love.

In Jesus’ name, Amen

Thank you for joining me for this Easter devotional. What are your treasured memories of Easter? As you celebrate our risen Lord, may you walk in His LIGHT….forever reflecting His love and grace.

Blessings and prayers always,

Sherida

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