I’m nothing if I’m not about the warm fuzzys. You know I love to live in my own bubble, shielded and oblivious to the world’s harsh and cruel realities. And if you’re honest, I think you are too. Who wants evil to happen? Who wants pain to happen? Who wants betrayal to happen? Who wants corruption to happen? Or natural disasters? Or sickness? Or poverty? But there it is. And I think most of us have a propensity to guard ourselves against these things. I mean bad things do happen to good people. That’s the way of it.
I personally do not think there is any harm in trying to find beauty and blessing amidst all this. I like to focus on the good, the pure, the noble, the lovely… in fact, God tells us to think on things that are true, honorable, just, pure, lovely, commendable, and excellent. These are the things to dwell on.
And I’m happy to do that. So I’ll put up twinkle lights. I’ll create seasonal ambiance in my home. I’ll invite people over to cook for them and spoil them. I’ll go out of my way to make something beautiful to bless someone. I do all the seasons. I love the little unexpected touches like wrapping a gift exquisitely so often the wrapping is better than the gift inside. I like to write a handwritten letter and send it snail mail. I love flowers everywhere and any way. I loved to add personal touches my workspace when I had one. Now I have a studio and let me tell you it doesn’t get anymore personally touched than I have it. It looks like Kew Gardens, Victoria magazine and Christmas threw up in here. It’s one of my happy places.
I’m all about celebration. I look for excuses to celebrate. I was thinking of adding the half birthday to my list. I enjoy creating cozy spaces in my home that feel safe and welcoming. Inviting cushions and throws that say subliminally say ‘stay as long as you like’. Ambiance lamps. I adore throwing a picnic with all the trappings…. food, flowers, makeshift tents, magazines and music. Or setting up a long table covered with food and surrounded by friends to pretend we’re in Tuscany. A tea party with more delectable delights than anyone in their right mind should ever consume. I love to have music playing – always. Music can soothe the soul and be a soundtrack for our memories. And don’t even get me started on Christmas……
I do look for the beauty in this world and I usually find it. When I’m getting too caught up in my own problems and pain I put in a favorite movie that makes me feel good all over. Even if I’ve watched it a million time. Especially if I watched it a million times.
I’m not oblivious to the injustice and suffering in the world….I just don’t want to live it every moment and miss out on all that’s still good here. Good things from the Lord’s hands that He gave us to enjoy and share. Someone has to keep the magic alive. Join me.
The Red Plaid Apron 