Happy Friday!
This was big week for history, and it made me think of a quote I heard about predicting the future. I am paraphrasing the quote here:
“History has always been a mix of opportunity and difficulty. If you want to know what the future holds, you can be sure it will be a mix of opportunity and difficulty.”
Until Jesus returns, I think we can expect that every season will have a blend of the two. Just some food for thought as you navigate your current season and sending love to all of you who weekly open this email!
Sending love your way this week as opportunities come your way.
Opportunities for growth, friendship, loving, and knowing Christ more.
And sending more love as you strive to navigate difficulties as best you can with Christ.
Suffering well, knowing that we can count it all joy when we face trials, but with Christ we know the difficulties will be used for our good and His glory.
Here are some Ideas for Intentionality for your week:
Ideas for Intentionality:
Come Hang with Me: I did an unedited mom chat talking about some pretty tricky topics in motherhood…like co-sleeping, pride in motherhood, tribalism in motherhood, mama anger and loneliness in motherhood. This was new style of YouTube video that is more low-key, I hope you like it!
Diapering Lately: I am doing a blend of cloth diapers (these are similar to what I started with 10 years ago-a hybrid style) and then one box of these diapers and wipes every 6 weeks or so. It is a good mix of doing what I can to save some money and keeping the convenience when I need it. Plus, I love this pro-life diaper company, win-win! LANA10 saves you 10% 🙌
Best Heirloom Boots on Sale: This is the best deal they do all year on their boots! Up to 30% off on their fall boot collection. These boots hold up year to year! And remember to get a little shoe horn to help your kids slip the boots on a little easier by themselves.
New Christmas Worship Album: Did you see that Phil Wickham just released a NEW Christmas Album? It is already playing at my place. I so enjoy the lyrics that remind me that Christmas is all about Jesus! Apple Link and Spotify Link
Reading Stack: Anybody else have a couple of books they are reading at the same time? I am currently reading Dyslexic Advantage (for one of my kiddos, trying to learn all I can), Re-reading Treasuring God in Our Traditions, Miracle Morning (a little out there on somethings, but wow is it helping get going in the morning), and Really Very Crunchy (fun to flip to a random spot and just learn a little and giggle).
Fall Smells: Emily S sent this simmer pot recipe my way. I am excited to give it a try! The 5 senses are a great place to start when it comes to creating an environment for our people. Smells can create that cozy vibe without decor.
Christmas Planning: I got the free downloads from Christmas Dose of Deb’s and her mission sheet was a couple of dollars download from Etsy. It is super detailed and helpful! Slowly working through the missions this week!
Advent Ideas: I did an Advent YouTube LIVE last year sharing my Advent favorites, but I have a video in the works on how to keep Jesus at the center of our Christmas celebrations coming soon. I would love to hear your favorite advent resources, traditions etc I will share and give you credit. Just hit reply to this email 🙌🩷
Sending love,
Lana
P.S. Need a conversation starter for all the get-togethers? My favorite one lately is, “what are you excited about or looking forward to?” This opens up such fun conversations, and it is fun to see what someone looks like when they talk about their new goals, plans, or dreams!
Pregnant P.S. Birth can be wild and uncontrollable, and YET there is a ton that every pregnant mama can learn and do to increase our chances of a better birth outcome. Learn and get prepared for your upcoming birth and feel the fear of what-ifs melt away!