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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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    • Featured

January 3, 2016

I’m in Better Homes and Gardens!

Oh friends. I had been so looking forward to writing this blog post. In fact, I had it written in my head weeks ago. I’ve been waiting and waiting to get a copy in my hands and then I was going to shout it from the rooftops.

I was going to say, “It’s me. ME! I’m in Better Homes and Gardens!! Can you believe it?!” 

And then I received my copy in the mail.

I ripped open the package and quickly flipped to the ‘I Did It’ feature on the last page.

BHG Photo

There I was. All of me. ALL of me. Head to toe.

And it took only a few seconds for me to be flooded with insecurity. I stood there at my kitchen island with my precious, excited family crowding around me to get a look at the page and all I could think was that I wanted to crawl into a hole.

My 12 year old son quickly brought some levity to the moment by pointing out that my feature was right next to a giant ad for dog food which for some reason he found hilarious. Boys.

I closed the magazine and resumed making dinner but all the while the thoughts were creeping in….whispering…taunting.

“Why did you wear THAT outfit?”

“Why do your folded arms look so awkward?”

“Why did you go with the shirt that kind of bunches up in the middle?”

“Why couldn’t they have airbrushed your face more?”

“Who are you to think that you even belong in this magazine in the first place?”

Here I was, having this amazing experience, this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, and rather than being able to just enjoy the moment, I was tearing myself apart.

DIY plate rack with silver platters atthepicketfence.com

The next morning, things began to explode on Facebook. I was being tagged left and right by fantastic, supportive friends and family who were all so thrilled for me and wanted to celebrate this achievement.

But every time the photo of me in the magazine was shared I cringed.

Later that day as I was driving to pick up my son from school, I found that my inner turmoil had reached it’s peak. As I wound my way along the country road, I felt the desire for quiet, for peace, become overwhelming. I turned off the radio, let my shoulders relax a bit and looked around at the beauty of that crisp, winter day.

And all I could think was, why do we do it to ourselves? Why when there is so much positive do we focus on the negative?

Why was I allowing my insecurities to overshadow what should be a wonderful moment in my life?

I pulled into the parking lot and for once was thankful that my usual parking-lot buddies (the other middle school moms who I sit and gab with while we wait for our kids) weren’t there. Because I knew what I needed to do.

I sat there in the quietness of my car and prayed. You see, when I first found out that I was going to be in Better Homes and Gardens, I immediately whispered the same words I always whisper when an opportunity presents itself.

“For YOUR glory, Lord, not mine.”

But here I was, making things all about me. All about what I perceived to be my flaws. And I was allowing all of the negative thoughts to steal away the joy of the moment. The joy that I believed God allowed to come into my life as part of His greater purpose.

plate rack on wall

And I realized how much I struggle with simply being in the moment. With just receiving. With allowing myself to actually celebrate an accomplishment.

I realized that it was easier to pick myself apart than to deal with the REAL reason I was struggling.

When it comes down to it, I feel so incredibly undeserving of anything that it’s much easier to pick it all apart than to give it any sort of merit.

As I sat there in my car praying, I could feel God telling me words of truth. Words that started as a whisper and were in a stiff competition with all of the whispers of insecurities, but words that grew louder and louder.

He told me that no, I didn’t deserve ANY of it. It wasn’t ever about being deserving. The opportunities that I’m getting have nothing to do with my value, my worth, my deservedness.

He told me that by focusing on the negative, I was actually being selfish. I was taking back the moment I had originally given to Him.

And He told me that it was ok to look at the page in the magazine and smile. To allow myself to be celebrated by family and friends. To just enjoy the moment for what it is.

A really neat thing that happened in my life.

But a neat thing that doesn’t define me or define my life. And suddenly, as I put it all back into the proper perspective, I felt the peace washing over me.

And with it came the reminder that perhaps I had neglected to do something when I held that magazine in my hands for the first time.

I had forgotten to thank Him. To remember that I want my legacy to be that I was a woman who was gracious in accepting praise but ALWAYS pointed to Him.

bible verse

I could have just done what I had originally planned to do here. A quick, “Here I am in Better Homes and Gardens! Yay!” kind of blog post.

But (and I might be way off here but I don’t think I am), I suspect that that’s not why you come to the picket fence.

I think that you come because in the midst of the home decor and crafts and recipes, you will hear from our hearts. Maybe even find a nugget or two that you find resonates with your own heart.

Our desire has never been for any of it to be about us. It’s always been for this to be a community where we can support and encourage each other in the journey. So we’ve tried to keep it real. Sometimes brutally, painfully real. We’ve talked about weight loss and infertility and other struggles.

As we head into a new year, our promise is that this will continue to be a safe place. A place where we share our lives; our real, messy, beautiful lives. And a place where you can share yours too.

Because you are always welcome, just as you are, right here At the Picket Fence!

Vanessa signature

63 Comments Filed Under: Better Homes and Gardens, Community, Features, Good Thoughts

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Comments

  1. Rachel @ Architecture of a Mom says

    January 3, 2016 at 5:15 PM

    I was so excited to see you (all of you!!) in BHG this month….because I’ve been following At The Picket Fence for a long while…and I know that both of you are a genuine, real person with real struggles, and a heart and home that is in the process of becoming beautiful inside and out! Thanks for sharing all of it.

    Reply
  2. Maria says

    January 3, 2016 at 5:52 PM

    I was excited and in awe for you. I love that platerack! I did not see any flaws at all. I do understand the way we undermine ourselves, though. I am happy that you found a way to reset your mind. CONGRATULATIONS! you earned it!

    Reply
  3. Kim R says

    January 3, 2016 at 5:57 PM

    I am a lifetime BHG subscriber and know no one more deserving on being on their pages. You looked darling in your outfit and the crossed arms look natural to me. It is always hard to know what to do with our arms/hands when we get our picture made. I’m glad you didn’t do the coed pose (hand on hip) :). You have a beautiful smile and that is what most people focus on.
    You are right….I come here because your love for the Savior shines through in your posts.
    I hope God blesses you richly in 2016!

    Reply
  4. Anita Ward says

    January 3, 2016 at 5:57 PM

    I saw it and I love it!!!! Thank you for the follow up with this wonderful post!!!!! Yes, we must all give God ALL the glory!!!!!!

    Reply
  5. karen ferrone says

    January 3, 2016 at 5:58 PM

    Thank you for your honesty. I think you are beautiful!

    Reply
  6. Jan says

    January 3, 2016 at 6:06 PM

    Wow! Great project and SO VERY COOL being in my favorite magazine!
    GREATJOB!
    Jan

    Reply
  7. Aly H says

    January 3, 2016 at 6:14 PM

    Great post! It’s all His!
    Congratulations on your BH&G story. You look lovely.

    Reply
  8. Pam says

    January 3, 2016 at 6:16 PM

    You always git it right. Give Glory to God for all he has done.

    Reply
  9. Jane @ Cottage at the Crossroads says

    January 3, 2016 at 6:21 PM

    I only saw beautiful YOU when I opened my copy of BHG! So glad you cleared your mind so that you could be joyous in your achievement.

    Reply
  10. Lynn Richards says

    January 3, 2016 at 6:46 PM

    Oh, Vanessa! I love your journey and your heart. Thank you so much for sharing the good and the bad, because don’t we all learn from it and know we aren’t alone in our journey?

    I loved seeing you on that back page. It was like seeing a friend and I was so excited for you!
    Again, so happy that you get to do this and share your beautiful testimony.
    xoox

    Reply
  11. Karen says

    January 3, 2016 at 6:49 PM

    Sweet Vanessa, you look beautiful in that article. Got my copy about 10 days ago and was so happy to see you there. Thanks for sharing your thought process about giving God the glory and enjoying the moment.

    Reply
  12. june says

    January 3, 2016 at 6:53 PM

    When my BHG arrived I shouted from the office…Vanessa’s in BHG and my hubby came running. He thought something happened. I recognized you right away…not the observations you made. I saw standing there a proud, confident woman with a genuine smile. I was so thrilled that I knew who you were.

    I’m quick to judge myself…but as i read your reflections and thought back to the day my magazine arrived…it really drove the message home to me how critical we are about ourselves as women. We allow ourselves to judge who we are …when it truly is not how we are seen.

    Reply
  13. Marty@A Stroll Thru Life says

    January 3, 2016 at 7:09 PM

    I think you look totally amazing and you so deserve this feature. Congratulations and Blessings.

    Reply
  14. Sandy says

    January 3, 2016 at 7:17 PM

    Congratulations Vanessa……lv your plate rack, would lv to try that idea in the future. Thanx for reminding all of us here how we so often are critical of ourselves……Others see us as beautiful people, and we are……cause we were all made in HIS image! Thanx again, and Happy New Year from Canada!

    Reply
  15. Andrea Oppedisano says

    January 3, 2016 at 7:31 PM

    Your writing is beautiful..!! So lovely and from the heart!! I too loved your pic & article…but I needed to hear about giving God all the glory…again!! God bless you & thank you !! Keep up the great work.

    Reply
  16. Brenda Scott says

    January 3, 2016 at 7:33 PM

    Congratulations! Beautiful picture, beautiful heart!
    May God continue to richly bless you..

    Reply
  17. Angie g says

    January 3, 2016 at 7:33 PM

    It is a truth that many of us feel the same level of anxiety when we are in the spotlight. But, from outside of your head you look amazingly appropriate for the story. The jeans, fashionable shirt, pop of color in the sweater. The outfit looks just right in Better Homes and Gardens and so do you. I love your gentleness and fragility and how clearly they come through on your blog, but you are not frail in the least and God knows YOU DO BELONG right where he is leading you. Yay! You are in Better Homes and Gardens!!!!!!!!

    Reply
  18. Shirley@Housepitality Designs says

    January 3, 2016 at 7:38 PM

    The article/feature was awesome and so are you!!!….You looked confident and proud!…And must say that I love what you chose to wear….You are saying that you are a mom like millions of others and you too can “do it”…Nothing could be better than being recognized for your talents in the iconic shelter magazine such as Better Homes and Gardens…..I turned to the back of the magazine as soon as I got it in the mail last week….It was fantastic!!!….Bravo Vanessa!!

    Reply
  19. Karen @ The Decorated Nest says

    January 3, 2016 at 7:45 PM

    Your message touched my heart. Congratulations on BH&G and, more important, on the realization and insight that allowed you to enjoy it!

    Reply
  20. Design Chic says

    January 3, 2016 at 7:52 PM

    I am so excited for you, Vanessa- what an amazing accomplishment. You and your home look gorgeous!!

    Reply
  21. Grandma Joy says

    January 3, 2016 at 8:11 PM

    1. You are SO beautiful
    2. The world needs talented, vital Christian women who live for God and Family.
    3. You are a breath of fresh air…can’ wait to see what is coming next

    Reply
  22. Vicki says

    January 3, 2016 at 8:22 PM

    This is a lovely post – and your magazine article is lovely as well! Congratulations on being in the magazine! I love the idea!

    Reply
  23. Vicki says

    January 3, 2016 at 8:26 PM

    P.S. Heather looked wonderful in her article this week too!

    Do you know that you two are just loved by so many fans out here? Lol!

    Reply
  24. Gail says

    January 3, 2016 at 8:28 PM

    I just saw your smile. Keep on shining. Be the light that this world needs.

    Reply
  25. Paige.Rose says

    January 3, 2016 at 9:21 PM

    I love that plate rack, the styling & you look fabulous Vanessa!! Congratulations , so well deserved!!!

    Happy Monday!!

    Paige.Rose
    from
    http://www.TheQuaintSanctuary.blogspot.com

    Reply
  26. Cathy says

    January 3, 2016 at 10:02 PM

    Thank you for sharing from your heart….again. That is why I love your blog! I was so excited when my issue came in the mail because I love that “a friend” had been published. But I can so relate to what you write now, because that is so often the message in my head. But the real message really is “To God be the Glory”!

    Reply
  27. Gwen says

    January 4, 2016 at 12:16 AM

    First, I totally liked the spiritual lesson I can learn from your post today ( no, I’ve not been published anywhere but I won a rug wink) …but the pick ourselves to pieces moments. Your age with middle school kids who can also have ways to put us down a bit can be rough times for our feelings of femininity. God makes us age gradually and at that first sign that we don’t look as great as at fifteen we self criticize. Why do we do that?? I think Sarah had self esteem problems over Hagaii. Rebecca over Leah. (Rachel? I always get those two confused). So I think your post on what TO DO when caught in this snare was superb. Holy Spirit guided. Thank you!!!
    And I’d gotten the magazine too but I have facial recognition problems so I’d never have known you, but I didn’t quite understand the project until the post today. I thought you’d gone between studs. But now I see you did not. And that you change out your platters too. So neat!! I’d have given you half that dog food page to fill readers like me that don’t quite catch on so easily. Lol

    Reply
  28. Peg says

    January 4, 2016 at 4:21 AM

    Congratulations!!! You LOOK BEAUTIFUL!! Love, love!! : )

    Reply
  29. Karen says

    January 4, 2016 at 6:33 AM

    I like reading your blog and I was so excited to see you in my Better Homes and Gardens! I felt like a friend of mine had made it into the magazine. I don’t often comment, but was so excited for you and all of us, your followers.

    Reply
  30. Judy says

    January 4, 2016 at 6:46 AM

    Congratulations, Vanessa! I saw the post on the blog and loved the display shelf. I got my January issue of BHG, and there you were with your creation! Awesome and good for you. Regards, Judy

    Reply
  31. Leslie says

    January 4, 2016 at 6:55 AM

    Oh, sweet friend!! Precious!! Loved this and cried all the way through it…feeling your heart and the insecurities and thankful balance we all struggle through!!! Two reasons to celebrate!! YOU are in Better Homes and Garden!!!! AMAZING!!! And that you thanked Him!!! ❤️

    Reply
  32. Emily, Our house now a home says

    January 4, 2016 at 7:12 AM

    I am so sorry you had that initial reaction. When I saw the image my first reaction was “I hope I can look that radiant and relaxed if I ever get featured in a magazine. You and your home looks great! I can understand how you feel about letting the accomplishments be ok to celebrate. I have had some great moments with my little blog and with each one has come a weird feeling of not wanting to shout it out, not wanting to “brag” or even take the compliments. As if accomplishing something and my hard work do not deserve to be celebrated like anyone else. We are all a work in progress and I am so happy you found the piece, that strength and that joy in your moment!

    Reply
  33. FABBY says

    January 4, 2016 at 7:30 AM

    AWESOME! Congrats sweet girl, you deserve it, wow, a national, prestigious and beautiful magazine, Vanessa! I know, we are such bad judges of ourselves and mean too! Actually, my first impression of your pic was that I loved your look for someone who was projecting been confy and secure of yourself in your own home and that is…young and pretty!
    FABBY
    PS: Almost forgot! I love that tray rack, I will make me one, see, what an inspiration too!

    Reply
  34. Pamela says

    January 4, 2016 at 8:46 AM

    what an authentic post. And I get it that you hunted for flaws in your appearance. Thanks for sharing that with all of us who always do that. I have the benefit of years…this post made me think of a photo a friend passed on a few weeks ago that was taken while I was still raising a family. When I saw it I thought, DANG! Was I ever cute! Then I remembered that when I saw it back then I had picked everything apart from hair, to outfit, to posture! Just like you did. I was reminded that I was and AM adorable/beautiful/amazing in Christ and I had wasted those years instead of being wonderfully grateful and joyful about the life He had given me. Please please tell your readers how stinkin’ adorable they are right now! A man told me once that before he came to Christ he was always drawn to Christian gals because they were so beautiful.

    Reply
  35. DC says

    January 4, 2016 at 12:52 PM

    Seriously???? You look soooo beautiful!!! And on a more practical note, the idea of a shelf to hold those big plates and platters just lit up a light bulb in my head as I’ve been struggling to find a place for all my big platters. I went back and looked at the picture – no, no need to airbrush that lovely face. Bunched up shirt? Didn’t see that either. You’re a star, you look like a star, you glow and for the masters at BH& G, if they’d seen the need for any changes, you can be sure they would have made them. Savor your moment, you deserve it!

    Reply
  36. Julia says

    January 4, 2016 at 1:22 PM

    To God be the glory! How wonderful that you are in BHG and your plate rack – that is one of my favorite DIY posts. You look fabulous!!

    Reply
  37. Sue says

    January 4, 2016 at 1:57 PM

    Everything about the photo is lovely and relaxed. Your smile is as warm and comfortable as it would be if you were leaning there talking with a beloved friend who had come over for a visit.
    Honest. 🙂

    Reply
  38. Susan says

    January 5, 2016 at 6:08 AM

    Congratulations! How exciting to be featured in BHG! I love what you did with that empty space and it will certainly help me look at my house differently. You look wonderful, and you look very happy with how your design turned out. Enjoy!

    Reply
  39. Milena says

    January 5, 2016 at 6:18 AM

    I loved seeing your piece in Better Homes and Gardens! The rack was wonderful and I liked your collection that you chose to put in there. We all look to the negative too much but your positive change is inspiring. Thanks for sharing. Milena

    Reply
  40. Carol Reddin says

    January 5, 2016 at 12:01 PM

    I love you Vanessa – just for being who you are – always the same, always consistent in your life! You are a blessing to your Dad and me! Mom

    Reply
  41. Lisa B. says

    January 5, 2016 at 12:13 PM

    I was so tickled to see you in the BHG magazine!! You looked so pretty, and I thought the plate rack was so clever!!

    Reply
  42. Leslie says

    January 5, 2016 at 1:26 PM

    Vanessa, I’m so glad I stopped by to read today! This post really blessed me, because of your heart and letting us in on that intimate conversation with God. I can. so. relate. with you(!) on the insecurities setting in even when God has done something wonderful and like you said for His glory! My friend (if you will), this is a beautiful picture of you and your home in the magazine and nothing less! I’m so happy for you and I am one of those readers that certainly comes back to hear your heart on life even more than your amazing home ideas! Thanks again for sharing this backstory with us!!
    Blessings from Kentucky,
    Leslie

    Reply
  43. Rita C at Panoply says

    January 6, 2016 at 4:42 AM

    Congrats, Vanessa! I’m just sad I haven’t gotten my copy, as sometimes my mail gets delivered incorrectly. And who wouldn’t want to keep a great magazine like BHG, instead of passing it to its rightful recipient? Speaking of rightful recipient, you are the one! A fine accomplishment of which you can be proud.

    Reply
  44. Catherine says

    January 6, 2016 at 10:18 AM

    Congratulations Vanessa! I was so happy to see your feature- and don’t think for a moment it was not well deserved, they wouldn’t have picked you if you didn’t!
    I don’t think any of us really like seeing ourselves in pictures- but you did look really pretty!
    Catherine
    ps- I’ll bring my copy to Haven and have you autograph it! ; D

    Reply
  45. Chloe | Boxwood Avenue says

    January 6, 2016 at 11:55 AM

    All I can say – is that I think everyone feels like that from time to time. And you look amazing – but that’s beside the point! You have accomplished something many people dream of! You did it! I love that you share your moment of happiness, because yes, smile! Cherish the support you have from you are loved ones! This is amazing!

    Reply
  46. sharon / tpt says

    January 6, 2016 at 4:39 PM

    saw it and came here! loved the plate rack. i have the same kind of end wall, and years ago added a one can deep cabinet and china glass cabinet on top. anyway, nice job and pretty blog!

    Reply
  47. Yvonne @ StoneGable says

    January 6, 2016 at 6:08 PM

    Vanessa, a huge congratulations on your magazine shoot. YOU look GORGEOUS! And thank you for your honesty and the way you share how our great God worked in your life! YEs, to HIS glory!!! You are amazing and I love you! xo Yvonne

    Reply
    • At The Picket Fence says

      January 14, 2016 at 6:47 PM

      Thank you so much sweet friend!

      Reply
  48. Lisa @ Ruthie Bell Home says

    January 6, 2016 at 6:30 PM

    Great post! Why as women do we do that to ourselves in the first place? I see absolutely nothing wrong with that picture, but if it was me, I’m sure I also would pick it apart! If BHG put you in their magazine then your stuff must be good enough for it. 🙂

    Reply
  49. joyce gius says

    January 7, 2016 at 7:43 PM

    I am trying to get your directions for this PlateRack. It is just what I need in my kitchen. I have gone on BHG.com but don’t seem to find it. can you help. Thanks. What a great idea.

    Reply
    • At The Picket Fence says

      January 7, 2016 at 8:41 PM

      Hi Joyce! Here is the link to my directions for the plate rack. Please let me know if you have any questions! 🙂 https://www.atthepicketfence.com/2014/05/diy-wall-plate-rack.html

      Reply
    • joyce gius says

      December 26, 2017 at 6:56 PM

      Got the directions and my brother-in-law made it for me. I love it. I painted it black to match my kitchen cabinets.

      Reply
  50. Kathy Barton says

    January 8, 2016 at 5:37 PM

    I really enjoyed your article and then was so excited to find out you are only one hour away from me in Eugene/Springfield, OR. I always find your articles interesting and most relevant to my style of decorating. I do not own a home, but we are renting a duplex. It is difficult to find articles relating to a temporary way of decorating some things. Thanks for such interesting and fun ideas for my home.

    Reply
  51. Rebecca says

    January 8, 2016 at 11:23 PM

    Well the FIRST thing I noticed was your radiant smile as I turned the page … wonderful! But the second, and one that made me suck in my breath was … we live in the same city!?! What??? Little tiny Salem, that can’t even have a Home Goods OR Hobby Lobby (although both are somewhat close)! Little Salem is home to one of my favorite bloggers? As you know, nothing exciting happens here, until now!! You are amazing and He created you to bless and teach all of us – I doubt anyone looked at how your arms were folded!

    Reply
    • At The Picket Fence says

      January 14, 2016 at 6:47 PM

      LOL Rebecca!!! Maybe you and I can start a petition to get a Home Goods and Hobby Lobby here! It’s always so fun to connect with other folks in the area and thank you so much for your very encouraging and thoughtful words. Hope we get a chance to meet in person sometime! <3

      Reply
  52. Megan says

    January 9, 2016 at 4:41 PM

    Hi,
    I was just looking to your blog to ask where to buy the shirt???? I love it!

    Reply
    • At The Picket Fence says

      January 9, 2016 at 5:35 PM

      Hi Megan! The wine colored shirt is from Nordstrom and the mustard color sweater is from Target. 🙂

      Reply
      • Megan says

        January 11, 2016 at 12:04 PM

        It’s the wine-colored shirt. Do you happen to know the brand? I looked on
        Nordstrom’s site, and it’s endless. 🙂 Thanks a bunch!

        Reply
  53. lori nelson says

    January 10, 2016 at 5:56 AM

    Congrats! Great idea and use of practical space & beautifying a room! I’m new to your site and within the first blog reading I’m thankful to have found yours! So refreshing and truly a blessing to have you share your faith, along with your talents and your ideas! Looking forward to enjoying much to come!

    Reply
  54. Sandi says

    January 14, 2016 at 6:35 AM

    When I opened my BUG magazine I thought, ” I “know” her! Lol I am a lurker, but had to drop in and say that you are beautiful and so is the photo. I think we as women are our own worst critics. I am trying to overcome that with God’s help.
    Blessings~

    Reply
    • At The Picket Fence says

      January 14, 2016 at 6:45 PM

      Oh thank you so much Sandi! Blessings to you too!

      Reply
  55. FABBY says

    January 30, 2016 at 3:31 PM

    Right now we’re in the process of drawing the plate rack for a wall I have in our kitchen, white and empty, waiting for me to make your great plate rack.
    Again, I’m so happy for your magazine featuire and thank you for the inspiration.
    FABBY

    Reply
    • At The Picket Fence says

      January 30, 2016 at 7:28 PM

      Oh I just LOVE that you are going to make one Fabby!! Thank you so much for being such an encouragement to me. Make sure you let me know how yours turns out! <3

      Reply

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I just went to make my mid-morning protein shake a I just went to make my mid-morning protein shake and grabbed a banana out of the freezer and was about to put it into my shake before I realized it was a frozen egg roll. Sooooo that's how my day is going so far! 🤪How about you?

It's honestly fairly representative of my state of mind these days as I can't seem to make the date on the calendar match the date in my spirit because it feels like it should be January 45th. Every year this month drags on and every year it seems to surprise me for some reason. In addition, my heart just feels heavy as I witness a lot of darkness and sadness around me. So, I'm choosing to control what I can control by making my house feel as cozy as possible, relishing the sunshine whenever it dares to peek through the clouds, gathering inspiration for warmer weather projects and, most importantly, resting in the comfort of the sovereignty of my Father.

“God’s voice thunders in marvelous ways; he does great things beyond our understanding. He says to the snow, ‘Fall on the earth,’ and to the rain shower, ‘Be a mighty downpour.’ So that everyone he has made may know his work..." Job 37:5-7
What if you could do something at the beginning of What if you could do something at the beginning of your day that would be a gift to yourself later on? That’s what we’re talking about on this week’s Tip Tuesday! #tiptuesday
The sun decided to make another appearance today! The sun decided to make another appearance today! It’s been such a lovely Sunday. Chocolate croissants for breakfast followed by church then naps/football/reading/etc and soon we’ll be heading out to dinner with friends. These are my favorite kind of weekends. Hope yours has been lovely too! 🌿
Yesterday was stormy and cold but today the sunshi Yesterday was stormy and cold but today the sunshine is breaking through the fog and my house just seems happier. We definitely needed to see that light streaming in through the windows and it’s a gift I don’t take for granted.

And yes, there are still twinkle lights on my mantle because those help when the sunshine goes away again. ✨
Happy weekend! The rainy and gloomy weather here i Happy weekend! The rainy and gloomy weather here in the Willamette Valley has me feeling less frustrated about my migraine forcing me to just snuggle up indoors and these flowers in my kitchen are lifting my spirits. What are you up to on this holiday weekend?
It’s time for TIP TUESDAY! This week, I’m offe It’s time for TIP TUESDAY! This week, I’m offering a gentle reminder from my own parenting experience after feeling my heart pricked with conviction about what was waiting for my daughter every day after school. I hope it will encourage you! 🌿#tiptuesday
The day after Christmas I found myself laundering The day after Christmas I found myself laundering and folding all of the linens we used the previous night as we hosted my husband's side of the family for dinner and other festivities. As I laid out each cloth napkin and folded them one by one, I couldn't help but be struck by what a simple, yet meaningful, task it was. It's such an honor and privilege to be the hostess and, at this stage of my life, I realize that this has almost one hundred percent become my role now. Our parents are in their 70's and have either downsized significantly or simply don't have the energy to take on hosting duties for a large group. I could resent this. I could feel overwhelmed by it. But, instead, I'm choosing to embrace it knowing that, someday, I too will pass the hosting torch and I hope that I will be welcomed with love and attentiveness. So, I fold the linen napkins, taking pleasure in the way all of the creases line up and how neat and tidy they look in the drawer of my dining room buffet. These seemingly simple chores are part of the lifeblood of homemaking and my attitude towards them can either be one of gratefulness or grumbly-ness (yes, I'm making up words now). 

And I’m choosing gratefulness. 

“This job has been given to me to do. Therefore, it is a gift. Therefore, it is a privilege. Therefore, it is an offering I may make to God. Therefore, it is to be done gladly, if it is done for Him. Here, not somewhere else, I may learn God’s way. In this job, not in some other, God looks for faithfulness.” (Elisabeth Elliot⁣)
Welcome to Tip Tuesday! I’m so excited to be kic Welcome to Tip Tuesday! I’m so excited to be kicking off the year with a brand new series! Each weekly installment will feature a tip for everything from your home to faith to parenting to family life and so much more. My goal for 2023 is to have far more personal interaction with this community while continuing on with the mission of weaving together all things heart and home. I hope you enjoy this first tip and I’d love to hear from you about whether or not you decorate for winter! 
#tiptuesday #organizing #winterdecorating
“He has made everything beautiful in its time. H “He has made everything beautiful in its time. He has also set eternity in the human heart; yet no one can fathom what God has done from beginning to end.” 

Here’s to beginnings. Happy new year friends! May you experience the majesty and sovereignty of the Lord in 2023 like never before! ✨
Oh how I love this week each year! It’s my favor Oh how I love this week each year! It’s my favorite for sure. Everything is still festive and decorated but there’s none of the stress of the cooking and wrapping and making preparations. It’s the week where we get to take everything slowly and simply enjoy being together while the house still has twinkling lights and we can just be cozy.

What about you? How will you be spending this week? ✨
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