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At The Picket Fence with Vanessa Hunt

Where Ideas for your Home Meet Inspiration for your Heart

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  • Meet Vanessa
    • Featured

July 11, 2015

Before Our Big Announcement

We know we’ve been teasing about this for awhile now. Little hints have been dropped here and there that we have something really exciting to tell you.

And honestly? We REALLY, really want to tell you!

We thought we would have been able to announce it this week but with another ‘I’ to be dotted and ‘T’ to be crossed we simply can’t spill the beans yet. And, at first, we were kind of disappointed about this.

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But then, well, then we got to thinking. Thinking about you. About how perhaps this is an opportunity to have a little pre-announcement conversation. A little heart to heart.

Because, you see, we want you to know how very much we appreciate you. How much we treasure the relationships we have built through blogging these past few years. How we consider you cherished friends.

And we also want to talk for a bit about YOU before we talk more about us.

We know that you have dreams. And we’ve heard from so many of you who long to see your dreams come true. This is something we’ve talked about here before.

For some of you, there is already action attached to your dream. You are actively pursuing it and determined to give it your very best shot. You are out there pounding the pavement and putting in the work and might even actually be at the point of seeing results.

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For others of you, those dreams are still merely whispers. You may not be sure if you even want to pursue them. It all seems impossible or overwhelming or unrealistic. Maybe you think that it’s even wrong to dream because of your circumstances or your season of life.

But, we have something that we want to say to ALL of you, whether you are the dreamers who are already taking action or the dreamers for whom just the word ‘dream’ itself seems more at home on a poster on the wall than as a thought in your mind.

Your dream, your goal, was put in your heart on purpose.

You see, we believe that you were created with great intention. We believe that you have giftings and abilities and talents that didn’t just arrive by accident.

And that dream you’re dreaming? It wasn’t an accident either. There is nothing random about it.

That dream was put there by an almighty God who loves you so much and is so unselfish that He doesn’t just place the dream in your heart. He gives you the tools and the strength to work towards that dream and then watches with pure delight as you experience the joy of having that dream come true.

Quote about God given dreams from atthepicketfence.com

When she speaks to people about weight loss who are at the beginning of their journey, Heather always makes sure to tell them, “I am you, just a little bit further along.”

And we think that the same is true when it comes to any other type of goal or dream. We’re all in various stages of the journey. Some of us are just starting out, wondering if we should actually nurture that dream that won’t seem to leave us alone. Others of us are in the thick of the pursuit where we have finally embraced the truth that this dream of ours might really become a reality. Still others of us find ourselves humbled and amazed to discover that our dream has finally come true.

Friends, we can now say that we have experienced all of the stages of this journey! And in the midst of all of our pinch-me moments lately, what we keep coming back to is how much we want to encourage you in your own journey.

We are you.

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So, we want to ask you today. Where are you on this journey?

We’re going to challenge you to do something that may be a bit scary for some of you.

We want you to leave us a comment telling us about your dream. Because, we think that sometimes just saying it out loud can be a monumental step in the direction of having it come true.

Are you ready?

Tell us about your dreams! 

And pretty soon, VERY soon, we’ll tell you about ours. 😉

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35 Comments Filed Under: Devotionals

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Comments

  1. sandy neither says

    July 11, 2015 at 4:10 AM

    I think I’ve lived most of my dreams, really, I’ve lived in 5 different countries,
    been to 41 of our States and have had a wonderful family but now while
    retirement settles in I have no more things or places I need or want…
    Except Peru, that is the last on my bucket list.
    I’m happy and content to just garden and be a grandma but sadly my
    4 little grandboys are part of their dads Military life and we don’t get to
    see each other much.. but I do send boxes of goodies 4 or 5 times a year
    and they know me as the box gma!! haha Good topic!
    Happy Summer!

    Reply
  2. Marisa Franca @ All Our Way says

    July 11, 2015 at 4:42 AM

    My Dream? To make a success of All Our Way. By success I don’t necessarily mean money, although that would be nice, I mean to have loyal readers who enjoy what I post. I want to grow my readership and while doing that improve what I do and improve my photos. I’d like to learn how to do videos and post tutorials. Now I’m no spring chicken but I don’t feel age matters if what you do and say is top notch. Anyway, that is what I’d like and if any money comes my way, after I pay for expenses, I’d like to start a college fund for my grandsons.

    Reply
  3. Cindy says

    July 11, 2015 at 5:21 AM

    Ahh…the dream. I’ve had one for twenty-three years. I’ve attempted to achieve that “end result” many times over the years doing various things, but none of them were the “right” fit. However, the dream never faded…
    Ultimately, the goal is to replace the income that I walked away from, to someday have my home look like it belongs in a magazine, and to share that with others so they realize that it’s all possible.
    Several years ago, I stumbled upon my first blogger. I remember sitting there and thinking, “who are you…what are you doing…how are you doing this…” Lol! That blogger, lead me to another blogger, and so on…until I realized that you all were this huge presence online! I flipped! And so it began…I started a blog. I have much to learn, but I love every minute of it. I’m not sure where this will lead me- but I have faith, a sense of peace, and that somehow I’ve started something.
    It’s possible that I might have to get another job again, but I’m ok with it. I have a belief that EVERYTHING happens for a reason- God reveals all when you’re ready to hear it:)

    Reply
  4. Melissa says

    July 11, 2015 at 5:44 AM

    My dream is to become a blogger. I’ve always wanted to be a writer and work for myself. I bought the domain now I’m frozen with fear! But I want out of my current job so I need to find a way to get over the fear. Fear can be so paralyzingly!

    Reply
    • Jayne says

      July 12, 2015 at 9:52 AM

      Melissa
      Please don’t be frozen….go ahead…do it…..I’ll be your first reader !!
      Jayne

      Reply
      • Melissa says

        July 12, 2015 at 11:09 AM

        Thank you for Jayne for the encouragement! Bought the domain, just have to start writing!

        Reply
        • Rebecca says

          August 23, 2015 at 10:03 PM

          I can’t wait to see you in action! I’ll be a reader too!

          Reply
  5. Jackie says

    July 11, 2015 at 6:27 AM

    Dear Heather and Vanessa,

    Precious words and careful reminders in your message……..feeling blessed to be inspired by you!

    Dreams are that crazy mix of motivating, illusive, inspiring, and yet just today, this was my reminder from God: “Do not neglect your gift…” (1 Timothy 4:14, NIV)

    I believe our dreams are born of our natural gifts and talents. Like both of you, developing those gifts and talents carefully and intentionally has opened doors and dreams beyond any that I could have ever imagined.

    So thankful that I can understand the source and the reason for any success in my dreams, just as you have written today.

    Very excited to hear your news, girls!! 🙂

    Hugs,
    Jackie

    Reply
  6. Kerry Purcell says

    July 11, 2015 at 8:34 AM

    Heather and Vanessa,

    How sweet are the words in this blog post. And, what a beautiful reminder that with faith all things are possible. For me, it’s about going in blind faith. It’s about trusting God and trying daily to live out his purpose and calling for my life. I’m blessed by a wonderful job that I love. I’m blessed with family and friends that I adore. And, I’m blessed to have a God that I can freely worship and that loves me without conditions.

    My dream is that still, small voice inside of me telling me to keep on keeping on as I share with others what I hope are helpful nuggets of information that assist others in continuing to lead a balanced and purposeful life. As I continue to refine my craft as a blogger at Home Sweet Organized Home, I pray for wisdom to write posts that will attract and keep readers. I want to be a successful blogger that inspires others. I want to be able to maintain my blog through monies that will cover the costs and perhaps a bit more. I want to improve my craft and always be willing to stretch myself.

    Thanks for allowing us to have the space to be vulnerable enough to share our journey and the ups and downs of it all.

    Reply
  7. Lynn Richards says

    July 11, 2015 at 9:56 AM

    I’m learning that by believing in a very creative God, my dream morphs into His dream for me. My art is a constant and I see it growing and changing and being able to share it with others as well as encourage others with it. From that comes amazing offshoots.One in particular that will be announced soon!!!
    Looking forward to your announcement as well. You both have been such a blessing to me over all these years.
    xoxo

    Reply
  8. Kay Robles says

    July 11, 2015 at 9:56 AM

    Dear Heather and Vanessa,

    I love your blog and appreciate you triggering my thinking regarding my dreams.
    I’m in the winter of my years, as Frank Sinatra would sing. I’ve had a very full life with much to be thankful for but when all is said and done my most rewarding dream is to have a strong personal relationship with our Lord and Savior. It has brought me peace and contentment beyond anything else that I have accomplished. I’m still busy with my arts and crafts, keep my home running smoothly, enjoy my large family that continues to grow with more G. Grandchildren and do some traveling. This does bring me great joy but my biggest joy is the peace that God has blessed me with. I still have my moments of struggling but through prayer I’m always blessed with that promised peace. I can’t really say that I have any unfulfilled dreams left except to stay healthy and live for as long as I can. However, I do have one more thing on my bucket list. I want to go on a zip-line through beautiful forests and
    canyons. Nature has always been the main inspiration in my arts and crafts. It offers endless possibilities to our creative juices.

    As someone else said, thank you for allowing us this space to share our heart felt thoughts and the inspiration to reflect on our life’s journey. May you both have continued success in your journey.

    Reply
  9. Sharon Rexroad says

    July 11, 2015 at 10:34 AM

    My dream is to return to my writing of quilting and fabric craft books. My last one came out in 2005, shortly before I discovered I had cancer. I’ve used the excuse of chemo-related numb fingertips as a reason to not quilt for about ten years, but it was really that I lost my passion during that time. I’ve recently created a few new quilt blocks and realized the passion is still there, just hidden. It’s time to rediscover and revitalize that passion.

    Reply
  10. Brittany shook says

    July 11, 2015 at 11:17 AM

    The good Lord placed an idea in my heart over 12 years ago. I’ve reached out to people who might could point me in the right direction but no luck just yet. The dream speaks to me often and I’ve got to keep searching for a way to get it in the right persons hand! I’m not giving up and I look forward to hearing your good news!

    Reply
    • Rebecca says

      August 23, 2015 at 10:10 PM

      I would love to hear your dream. You never know. Someone here might just have a bit of direction to offer you. 🙂

      Reply
  11. Hope Williams says

    July 11, 2015 at 11:49 AM

    Ah “dreams”! At 42, I thought I had everything I could ever need or want. Like so many, life as I knew it changed in an instant! Since March 24, 2005, I’m as lost as lost can be! I’ve tried very hard to listen for the unmistakable inner voice as to which direction to go from here. For now, it’s silent. And for the most part, I welcome the silence.
    Dreams are healthy to have. But dreams change, and that season has to be accepted before you can move forward. I know I’m just not “there” yet for whatever reason. But I’ll get there. Somehow, some way, some day, I hope to hear that voice again. Until, I’m so grateful God chose for me to keep living. Life itself is just good enough for now. I’ll take that.
    This is not a “Debbie downer”, I have God, I have faith, I have life and for those things, I am on bended knee with blind faith and a grateful heart.

    Reply
    • Rebecca says

      August 23, 2015 at 10:19 PM

      This post was absolutely beautiful and full of truth. I did not hear Debbie Downer at all. I heard honesty, reality and faith. Thank you for having the courage to write what you did. Those few (at least it seems like few), that know the deepest depths of grief and disillusionment, could only be encouraged and built up in their faith after reading your stalwart words of dependence on God…. no matter what was or will be in store. That’s what I read, and I’m grateful for it. Lol I’m 42 as well!

      Reply
  12. Rebecca Turner says

    July 11, 2015 at 12:52 PM

    When my mother was young she had a desperate desire to learn to play the piano, but eventually she gave up on her dream, and asked God to take away the desire. But I can’t, or won’t, give up on my persistent dream. It began when I was a child, out on a Sunday drive with my family. We pulled over to peek in the windows of an abadoned farmhouse, sitting in the middle of a romantic flower field. In spite of the fact that I’ve been married almost 39 years now, and all but five in the same small house in the city, (for which I am thankful) I still dream of escaping to the country. Of course I’d like to bring my family along with me, but I see myself there with a small guest house for vacationing missionaries. Maybe I’m not too old yet.

    Reply
  13. Chandler says

    July 11, 2015 at 5:13 PM

    My dream is to conquer how to make my own bars of soap, to learn how to sew clothes not only for myself but for my soon-to-be-here little boy Jack, to learn how to cook, to be that mom who can pass on so many dying skills to my kids. I have a nice long list of things I want to learn!

    Reply
  14. Michael Reddin says

    July 11, 2015 at 6:04 PM

    My dream has come true already. My girls are more than I could have dreamed. Their mother and I have two incredibly wonderful and creative daughters who have delighted us all their lives. Their thoughtfulness of others is inherited from their mother who is the most thoughtful and caring person I’ve ever known. What I know about their writings is that they (my girls) are sincere (From the Greek to describe an earthen vessel which does not have any cracks, thus indicating integrity as a vessel.) My girls genuinely care about their families and other people. I am proud of them more than I can describe. Please, pardon a father’s bragging.

    Reply
  15. Teresa says

    July 11, 2015 at 11:16 PM

    My dream is to write – first a book about a bondage that God freed me from, then a series of fiction books. There is a fear that no one will want to read what I write so I am hesitant to start writing

    Reply
  16. Diane says

    July 12, 2015 at 12:10 AM

    For a very long time, I have wanted to be able to assist the elderly. This statement is so funny because I realize that I am considered ‘elderly’ myself by some! I’ve thought about taking the indoctrination to become an Ombudsman; alternatively or including also obtaining a degree as a Paralegal. I’ve put this off for more years than I can remember and now I’m thinking I’ve missed my chance. Am I , in fact, too old for such goals? I’ve found out how to get the needed education, I don’t think money will be a real issue, I just would like to be more productive and assist my fellow beings. Currently, I’ve just spent an entire year trying to redirect my life following the death of my 2nd husband due to cancer. I was his primary care giver for nearly all of the 5 years we were together. I have back issues (since cleared up) and now a hip which causes so much pain…..I’ve begun to seek the necessary assistance to take care of this challenge. Long ago, I read a wish or mantra if you will. It is: Living each day trying to accomplish something, not merely to exist’. I still embrace this statement.

    Reply
  17. Bailey wife @Irishman Acres says

    July 12, 2015 at 6:30 AM

    I’m excited to hear finally what your dream come true is! I’ve always been a dreamer, so many have come true, and so many that are just wishes. But one huge dream that I keep coming back to, and now my husband is even a fellow dreamer of, is building an event/party barn. A beautiful country setting for weddings, family reunions, etc. We know what needs to be done to see this dream come true, but it’s a scary leap of faith…..and all in God’s timing!
    I just pray that if it’s meant to be, then hopefully it’ll “BE” before we’re too old to enjoy it!:) ~Kim

    Reply
  18. Debbie says

    July 12, 2015 at 12:02 PM

    My dream is to have a barn with lesson horses so I can be a testimony of the Lord’s grace and goodness and love to all the little girls who dream of riding a horse and owning one someday. I grew up praying for a pony and then horse, every night. I love these incredible creatures that God gifted us with and God has given me a passion for working with them. I currently don’t have a place to board or lease and I miss the interaction with all the parents and children who God placed in my path so I could touch their lives and they could touch mine. I pray that God will expand my boundaries again, in whatever area He has for me. I also love art and interior decorating. So anywhere you like, Lord !

    Reply
  19. Karen says

    July 12, 2015 at 5:10 PM

    I’ve been out of work just shy of one year because if health problems. Prior to that, I had been employed full time from the age of 15 years. Now that I am finally getting back on my feet, I’m starting to tackle all of the ‘we’ll get to it later’ projects around our house that I was never able to devote time to before. Living in metro Atlanta, in addition to working 60 hours per week, there was an additional 10-14 hours per week commuting. I’m thrilled that I can finally give these projects the attention they need. I’ve also stepped up my cooking and baking skills to provide homemade, healthy snacks and meals for my husband and our grandsons. They love it when they visit and the cookie jars are out, and I’ve discovered some new recipes that they all love. In addition to the satisfaction of a job well done, I’m saving tons of money by doing it myself. Thank you for so generously sharing your adventures; I may end up blogging some of my projects once I get a schedule fixed.

    Reply
  20. Anne says

    July 12, 2015 at 6:40 PM

    I am beyond excited for you both!!! And I cannot wait to hear! Yes I agree, that we all have a journey and dreams. And I too believe that we all have a path. We need to listen to those whispers, as they will lead us on the path. Sometimes we don’t listen to those whispers and things don’t turn out the way we want them to. But they are learning lessons. Okay some of my dreams have come true. But I know there is much more coming. My goal is to be self sufficient, my husband and I working as a team building a business. Doing what I love, but doing it for a living. I am almost there, but not quite.

    Reply
  21. Karen says

    July 13, 2015 at 8:39 AM

    My dream is to be able to do some job from home that would pay enough for me to actually be at home and could continue on with into retirement years. I’m interested in DIY projects to do and sell but am really not creative.

    My second dream is to have a job where it’s different every day – preferably inside and outside work. I currently sit at a desk all day and it’s just not where I want to be in my life at 50 years old.

    Reply
  22. windy rodriguez says

    July 13, 2015 at 2:44 PM

    My dream…
    I have lived in the “concrete jungle” all of my life in the south bay area of Los Angeles county in CA. About 15 years ago, I really started to see other places outside of “my own little world.” I discovered that not everyone lives like people in LA do. My family lives amidst prevalent materialism, looking good no matter the price, sexual immorality of all types and so on. Our next generation of young people are immature and ill prepared for the future, marriage, having a family, etc. We’ve raised our kids to be different and my husband and myself are too.
    My dream is to live somewhere where life would be better. In the past I’ve said, “I don’t want to live on the edge anymore.” We live in a 794 sq. ft. home, the 4 of us, and that hasn’t been a problem. We’ve made it work and it’s kept us close. The problem is the intense, prevalent sin outside our door. We’ve been good citizens, run an honest business, have served in our church faithfully,… Now I’m 43 and both my kids are college aged and when I think of the future, I want better for them; I don’t want my future grandchildren growing up in LA. But as of today, we’re here because this is where God has us but I am hopeful that He will bring this longing to pass.

    Reply
  23. Anne B says

    July 14, 2015 at 11:02 AM

    as i read some of these comments i see i am not alone (windy) my dream would be to have food …i always have food for my family but not always for me. My husband and i work hard …I have wonderful kids, but sometimes the people reading these blogs are just dreaming of having what you have

    Reply
    • Anne B says

      July 14, 2015 at 11:04 AM

      no pity..but i just get joy from your blog

      Reply
  24. Shirley@Housepitality Designs says

    July 14, 2015 at 7:17 PM

    You have me on the edge of my seat Vanessa….I am thrilled that you are realizing your dream in a point of your life that is truly just beginning….My dream isn’t about the big dream house or winning the lotto….my dream is to see my granddaughter grow up and realize her dreams….that would make me happy to live long enough to see that….. My other dream is for me to know that she will be living in a safe world filled with peace…
    Can’t wait to hear the news!

    Reply
  25. Sue {munchkin munchies} says

    July 20, 2015 at 7:21 PM

    My dream is to be able to bring in an income from my blog (and cookies) so that I can quit my day job and spend more time with my family!

    Reply
  26. Jacqueline says

    July 24, 2015 at 3:10 AM

    Dear, sweet, Heather and Vanessa,
    There has been so much going on in my life of late, pursuing the house of my dreams at the age of 71, sometimes, I forget to check my mail. You two never cease to bless me…everytime. Your blog will be sent to many of my friends this morning. Blessings have a way of reaching others and reverberating on to yet others.
    Many thanks to you both for your willingness to share the gospel of Christ in such a special way.
    Numbers 6:24, 25, 26….
    Jacqueline

    Reply
  27. Rebecca says

    August 9, 2015 at 2:35 AM

    Firstly, I’m immensely grateful that I stumbled upon this blog! God is amazing; He heard my cry (or should I say my many cries), and led me to this beautiful source of hope. I’ve been so moved by each and every person’s heart-touching and sincere comments. Thank you for being the vessels Our Creator’s loving, redeeming and encouraging power that you are.
    Secondly, my soul is bursting at the seams with so many dreams! Some have been lifelong dreams lain dormant in my heart, long ago resigning myself to accept the futility of hoping… almost.
    After some very traumatic, shocking and painful events that have left me barely treading these choppy waters of life….. my eyes still blinded by the salty sting of egregious injustices… I know that my Abba Daddy has a plan. He has a hope and a future for me; a plan for good and not for harm. Now all I can see are the dreams and hopes I thought had been extinguished. These creative sparks have become an insatiable electric current — and multiple successes are logistically achievable! I’ve done the math!
    Except that the tattered remnants of my human circle dismiss me as having fanciful and impossible imaginations. For years I was a very respected and successful investment advisor and sales trainer. I was a rabid self-learner and always eager for knowledge in multiple subjects. Because I was grateful to God for bringing me out of a scary and lonely childhood (raised in a ‘Christian cult’), and for protecting my heart to know human failures did NOT represent His character, I was always compassionate and extremely generous with all my friends and family members. I was the one everyone came to for help. But now in my time of grief, desperation and loss, these same people have either completely abandoned me, and the few that are still with me, (family members), scoff at my dreams and ridicule my ideas, ignoring the actual logistical research I’ve done.
    My dream that is currently the most possible is to publish in print a children’s Christmas short story I wrote that I already self-published as an e-book on Amazon. It’s had great reviews for a work I’ve had zero time to promote due to barely surviving and trying to provide for my children and myself. I barely can keep the electric on and feed us, let alone pay for printing. But I know that this heart-touching story will bless many children as well as adults, and in turn can be financial provision for me and my children.
    I apologize for this lengthy essay. I did not intend to write so much. I was just so moved by all of your comments and the encouraging, life-giving message of hope this blog shares.

    Reply
    • At The Picket Fence says

      August 10, 2015 at 8:05 AM

      Rebecca, first of all let me say thank you for sharing your journey with us! Opening up your heart to share with us what you have been through and the dreams you long to see come true is a huge honor and privilege to us and it’s one we don’t take lightly. It’s so important that we share our stories with each other and yours is a powerful one for sure! I’m so sorry that you are experiencing people turning from you in a time when you need their support the most. That just breaks my heart. I will be praying for healing and reconciliation and for God to bring people into your life who will encourage and build you up. I have no doubt that He is going to use your experience combined with your gift of writing to be a blessing and encouragement to others!! Thank you so much for your words and for sharing your story with us. Blessings to you! 🙂

      Reply
  28. Rebecca says

    August 23, 2015 at 10:08 PM

    I would LOVE to see the links of everyone here who has, or will be starting, a blog. If it’s okay and doesn’t misstep any rules or guidelines, I think it would be great if you could add your blog link. Thanks!

    Reply

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The first weekend in December seems like a good ti The first weekend in December seems like a good time for my annual gentle reminder about this month. I don’t know about you but, for me, December is a month of mixed emotions, ranging from joy-filled moments to ones that have me wanting to pull my hair out.

There are so many expectations and we put so much pressure on ourselves to create magical memories. And for years I have felt the added weight of wanting to make sure my family had opportunities throughout the month to grow in their relationship with Christ.

We celebrate advent and read all of the appropriate Baby Jesus books and encourage a spirit of generosity and heavily emphasize the real reason for the season.

But sweet friends, I want to remind you today that one month out of the year does not a strong relationship with the Lord make. December doesn’t define our faith in Christ.

For our families or for us.

There are 11 other months in the year. 11 other months to live out our faith in front of our children. 11 other months to pray with them. 11 other months to help them wrestle through their questions and add depth to their walk with the Lord. 11 other months to encourage them to have generous spirits.

Let’s stop putting so much pressure on this one month out of the year. Let’s be surprised at the ways we might be able to celebrate the baby in the manger without a dozen countdown calendars. Let’s give our kids some grace when they are focused more on gifts because…well…they’re kids after all.

And while we’re at it, let’s give ourselves some grace too.

Grace when we think we should feel all the warm fuzzy feelings about Christmas but we really just want to take a nap. Or have a good cry. 

Grace that reminds us that this month will soon be over and we will have a brand new year ahead of us.

A new year filled with big moments and little moments and everything in between.

A new year to draw even closer to our Savior.

My hope for you is that, as you head into this season, you will be given fresh perspective and that you will give yourself (and your family) permission to just ‘be’. ✨
✨ The first Sunday of Advent is upon us and this ✨ The first Sunday of Advent is upon us and this year I created a super simple centerpiece for my dining room that incorporates the candles we will use each of the four weeks leading up to Christmas. While we will only light one candle each week, I used more than four so that the centerpiece would look a bit more filled in. In keeping with my goal to embrace a softer approach to my decorating, this arrangement works perfectly and helps to keep our focus on the beauty and the meaning  of the Advent season. For more ideas like this, check out my previous Advent post! ✨

#advent #adventcandles #simplechristmas #wearethehomemakers
In this season of motherhood, my soul is feeling a In this season of motherhood, my soul is feeling a bit more tender. When Christmas rolls around and I no longer have wish lists that include Lego sets or dollhouses, I find that I want my home to reflect this craving for all things gentle.

So our hot cocoa station this year is much more simple and done in a neutral color palette that just subtly blends in with the rest of the decor. It still feels festive and is definitely still “user friendly” but it’s just a bit less…well…less.

And, that’s ok. It’s not that this area won’t ever again have bright colors (maybe even pops of red!) but, right now I’m happy to have things this way.

With all that is going on in the world right outside our door, my desire is for our home to truly feel like a respite. I want it to be where we come and let our guard down, our heart rates slow and to be flooded with a sense of peace in knowing that here is where we can just simply be. I want it to be a place of rest. Rest from the constant onslaught of news and information. Rest from the seemingly small struggles of school and jobs that can so often feel like big struggles.

And, most importantly, we rest in the comfort of knowing the One who is Sovereign over all and is the reason this month is so very special and sacred.

Many blessings to you dear friends as we kick off this wonderful season! ✨
Next week is first Sunday of Advent. And contrary Next week is first Sunday of Advent. And contrary to popular belief, the celebration of Advent is VERY different from just simply doing a ‘countdown to Christmas’. It’s not about having little drawers filled with candy or doors to open with prizes inside. Those things are so much fun and definitely help to build anticipation as you head closer and closer to the big day.

But Advent, from the latin word ‘adventus’ meaning ‘arrival’ or ‘appearance’ keeps the focus completely on celebrating the arrival of the King who came in the form of an infant.

This is one of our favorite family traditions and over the years I’ve figured out how to incorporate the Advent candles into my decor without using the traditional wreath. I hope this gives you some ideas and inspiration as we head into this sacred season. 🌲

#advent #adventdecoration #wearethehomemakers
Why do I start decorating before Thanksgiving? Bec Why do I start decorating before Thanksgiving? Because it’s the Saturday after and my house is almost completely ready to start the season! So I’m sitting with my coffee and just soaking it all up knowing that now I can focus on shopping, hosting and preparing our hearts for the start of Advent. The only thing left to do is get our fresh tree for the front room and then the decorating is done. 

Starting early is a gift I give to myself and I’m always grateful for it! 🌲

#simplechristmas #traditionalchristmas
“I would maintain that thanks are the highest fo “I would maintain that thanks are the highest form of thought, and that gratitude is happiness doubled by wonder.” ~ G.K. Chesterton

Happy Thanksgiving to you and yours dear friends! 🍂
Christmas has arrived in the family room where I k Christmas has arrived in the family room where I keep things simple but festive! We’ll get a fresh tree after Thanksgiving which will go in our front room bay window but this slim faux tree with its colorful ornaments tides us over for now. Which room in your home gets the Christmas treatment first? Or do you just start doing a little at a time in each room? 🎄

*pillow covers are from @jshhomeessentials
I share this recipe every year because it’s JUST I share this recipe every year because it’s JUST.THAT.GOOD! 

And I have a confession ...I’d rather have cranberry sauce smothering the turkey on my plate than gravy any day!! And this, this right here? Well it’s the best (and easiest!) cranberry sauce ever!! I eat on crackers and sandwiches and sometimes just by the spoonful. It’s so yummy! And I’m just so very thankful for all of you that I’m going to leave the recipe right here instead of making you go to the blog to get it. I promise you won’t regret having this on your Thanksgiving menu but be warned...you may find yourself up in the middle of the night sneaking some helpings of this deliciousness. Or maybe that’s just me!

Ingredients:
2 pounds fresh or frozen cranberries
2 oranges
2 cups granulated sugar
1 cup white wine.

Instructions:
Wash and pick over berries, removing any that are soft. Peel and dice oranges removing any seeds. Combine all ingredients in a large pot. Bring to a full boil. Reduce heat and continue cooking until cranberries pop open and mixture is thickening.
For best flavor, prepare and let stand for several days before using.

Gobble, gobble!! 🦃
How do I want people to feel when they walk throug How do I want people to feel when they walk through my front door? That’s always at the top of my mind when I’m decorating my entry for each season, particularly at Christmastime. 

✨I want them to feel like my home is greeting them with a smile.

✨I want them to feel like this is a place where care has been given to details (but not to the point of being too stuffy or too busy or too overwhelming). 

✨I want them to feel like there is peace here.

✨I want them to feel like they are welcome…because they are. 

My home is a reflection of my heart and my heart is a reflection of the ONE for whom I live and try to honor and praise all of my days, but especially at Christmas.

How do you want people to feel when they come into your home? 

#christmasentry #simplechristmas #simplicity #wearethehomemakers
This is not a criticism of those who are sharing t This is not a criticism of those who are sharing their great new Christmas finds but rather an encouragement to those of you who are feeling a bit overwhelmed by it all and trying to resist the temptation to purchase more items than you really need.

Several years ago I felt a conviction in my heart about how much time and money I was spending on trying to create a new look every Christmas. I was not being a good steward of my resources and I was far too easily swayed by the peer pressure in this area. And a funny thing happened when I smashed this idol that had taken up residence in my heart. I suddenly found renewed joy in decorating for the season. By keeping things simple and maybe only buying something like a new spool of velvet ribbon, I actually realized that I could be far more creative reusing and repurposing what I already had.

In the coming weeks your news feeds will be filled with temptations for MORE. Maybe, this year, you too can find the joy in LESS. 🌲

#simplechristmas #simplicity #wearethehomemakers
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