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Free Philippians 4:8 Printables
I love Philippians 4:8’s reminder of where we should focus our thoughts, and created this printable based on the verse:
“Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.” (NIV)
I’ve tried to memorize this verse, and I always seem to get hung up on remembering exactly which words appear in exactly which order. I think all the “whatever’s” throw me off! That, and brain fog has messed with my ability to memorize things.
So I wanted to create a printable that captured the essence of the verse. A quick glance at this printable offers a description of the kinds of thoughts that are most glorifying to God, and most beneficial for us.
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Things I Like About Autumn
I’m making this list for a reason you might not expect—it’s not because I love autumn, but because it’s a difficult time of year for my health. And although autumn is not my favorite time of year, I thought it was important to take time to remember that there are reasons to celebrate this season.
First, why don’t I love fall?
Like many people with chronic illnesses, pain, or health conditions, I have a rough time in fall. (Some people actually get relief in the fall if their conditions are aggravated by the heat. I am a summer girl at heart.)
I didn’t blog early this month because the weather changed dramatically and I went into a bad fibromyalgia flare. I was also hit with exhaustion, awful stiffness, and a fever.
All those outdoor activities you see on fall bucket lists? I usually can’t do those. I’m only outside if it’s unseasonably warm. And things like hay rides are off the table—I would sneeze so badly! And everything is spice flavored and scented, and because of a severe allergy, I can’t enjoy them unless I want to end up in the hospital not breathing. Even strong spice scents can trigger an asthma attack. Wearing layers looks cute, but makes me uncomfortable because of my fibromyalgia. Oh fall, must we be so diametrically opposed? What did I ever do to you?
But if I really spend some time thinking about it, there are beautiful things about fall, and things that I can enjoy. Here are some of the things that make autumn more enjoyable for me.
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Recovering from Major Events When You Have A Chronic Illness
Those of us with chronic illness know how challenging it can be to go to major events because of the toll it takes on our bodies.
I struggle to make it out of the house for a short coffee date with a friend, and unfortunately wonderful events such as birthday parties or weddings prove even more of a challenge.
So I created a plan to help me recover from going to bigger events, and I’m going to share tips so you can create your own plan tailored to your needs. I’ll share tips for listening to what your body needs and applying them in a way that is proactive vs. merely reactive.
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10 Of My Favorite Health Care Products
It’s hard to know what health care products are worth the investment. Especially if you have a chronic illness, it’s difficult to know where to choose to spend money because there are so many options out there and so many potentials to waste money on less-than-helpful products.
I’m sharing the products that have helped me most so you don’t have to discover them by trial and error like I did.
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A Playlist of Upbeat Songs
If you love music and are looking for some songs that will lift your spirits, I’ve compiled a bit of an eclectic mix!
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Easy & Affordable Ideas For Summer Fun + A Free Printable
If you’re looking for ideas for summer fun , I’ve been compiling a list of activities that won’t drain your energy or your pocketbook. My goal has been to make a list that is inspiring and feels achievable.
What inspired this list? I think it’s important to be intentional to make time to try new experiences and have a sense of adventure in life, and I enjoy suggestions on Pinterest and various blogs. Lately, however, when I see “bucket lists” or lists of what you “must-do’s before you’re 20/25/30” or “20 things to do to have the perfect summer” I feel discouraged because the activities are out of reach. These lists can assume that people have unlimited time, energy, and money and can lead to unhealthy comparison and discontent. What about those of us with chronic pain and/or illness?
This post contains affiliate links.
I had to take a moment and pause to realize that just because all these fun things were on a list doesn’t mean that someone else is enjoying them. (Honestly, how many people fit into one summer a backpacking trip across Europe, snorkeling, a road trip, Disneyworld, etc. etc.?!) I found myself feeling jealous for no reason thinking of these imaginary people having all of these imaginary adventures!
Let’s be a little more realistic. Lists of ideas can be a fun jumping off point so that you can pick and choose a few activities that you’re most excited about. And just because I’m dealing with chronic illness doesn’t mean I can’t enjoy the summer. For those of us who are sick, we have to work a little harder to find fun opportunities that are doable. We have to do some mining, but that’s how we find the gold. If we’re intentional and realistic, we can build many beautiful memories to treasure this summer.
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Some Thoughts on The Value of Patience
As a blogger who is a Christian, I’ve been trying to practice asking God what He wants from my blog. I want to be willing to let God disrupt my schedule and plans because He knows what I need to be writing more than I do, and He knows what my audience needs to be reading more than I do.
If you’ve listened to the wonderful Ransomed Heart podcast, you’ll be familiar with this idea that God’s plan is often disruptive. I’ve found this perspective helpful, as well as, ahem, disruptive. This awareness has helped me to look for times when I am getting too caught up in myself and the way I think things should be done.
As far as blogging goes, this means asking God in prayer about what topics to cover next. God is like my editor who gives my blog schedule final approval. (And yes, He has swapped things around on me!) As I was thinking about my upcoming posts, I asked God, “What topic would you like me to write about next.” “Patience” was the immediate answer. So immediate that I was rather taken aback. Do I really need to work on patience that badly?!
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A Playlist of Upbeat Christian Songs
If the approach of summer has you in the mood for making a playlist, I have some great suggestions for you!
It’s amazing how much music affects our emotions, and I’ve definitely felt the need for more upbeat music lately.
