A Time for Renewal

The BBA's Monthly Challenge for April is to create something that signifies renewal. As we have just celebrated Easter I decided to focus on what renewal means to me right now. I took an old cabinet door and repurposed it to carry a message which reminds me of renewal.

Renewal is to be made new or fresh. There can be a time of renewal after a time of upheaval or unpleasantness.

I think of the spring bulbs growing outside our window--they lie dormant for a year, when the conditions are right they burst forth with vigor and beauty, and then they seem to wither and die.

Only they are preparing for the coming Texas heat and winter to burst forth once more next Spring.

Renewal.

When I think I can't do it alone or I don't deserve it then I am reminded that I am worthy of so much more. That I am worthy of the growth that comes after a dark spell. I am reminded that I am not alone.

And I am grateful for the time of renewal.



Thanks to Splendid Little Stars for creating this great challenge!

First Days

Today marks the first week of the new school year for my kids. The youngest loves his teacher and the class and actually cries a bit when he has to leave. His teacher.

ready for the new year

 I love it.

The older one (by 12 months) is ready to take charge and get her little brother to where he needs to be. She also promptly asks him for his homework when they get in the car after school. She is such a mother hen.

ready to begin

 He loves it.

I organized a backpack ministry for a few local kids whose families needed help buying school supplies. Folks really stepped up; the administrator and others got teary when they saw the monogrammed backpacks. Can you imagine that some of these kids have never had their name on anything like this before?

my kids helping take everything inside

I also enjoy my new job but am still trying to manage the new schedule. It has not been consistent yet since we are gearing up for the new year and getting the school cleaned before the teachers return next week. But I have been working on sprucing up my space as well as a bit of organization. Here is a sneak peak.

my bulletin board makeover

QUESTION: What are some of your firsts?

God and Country and a winner

took this reflection off a table in front of the window

 We took the kids to a 4th of July concert on Sunday. While we listened to the orchestra and choir we watched sepia toned photos of veterans of long ago and those of today pop up on the screen. It was a great way to express our gratitude for those that serve in our country as we celebrate this day of Independence.

source

 The crowd was decidedly red, white, and blue in various forms of dress. I found myself wishing for my camera when I spied an elderly woman wearing what can only be described as patriotic bloomers with coordinating shoes. The outfit was pressed so perfectly and stiffly I wondered if she was comfortable sitting down. 

I found myself tearing up and smearing my mascara when they played the music for the different branches and the families stood.

Do we tell these people thank you enough?


And I want to take this opportunity to thank everyone for sharing their thoughts on the How Do You Make a Difference Contest. We need to remember to see worth both in what we do and what others do as well.

The winner of the contest is.....Deb. Deb will be receiving the grand prize of the prompted journal, headband, and bracelet. And, as it was very difficult to pick a winner in this category, I have elected to send out a little goodness to the other ladies as well. Thank you for participating and for sharing a bit of your story.

I am linking up to Jenny Matlock for the letter G. See what what the others have to say.