"Everything is Possible with God" Cross Stitch

On a family vacation to the mountains, we visited a quaint needle stitch shop off the beaten path.  I have never seen so many needle crafts in one place!  Cross stitch, needlepoint, embroidery, you name it and it was there!  This sweet cross stitch kit made its way home with us and I am so glad it did!  The church reminds me a little of the church/school on the "When Calls the Heart" series.  We hung it in our kitchen with several other cross-stitches we have finished over the years :).

Thank God for Little Things

Poetry by Helen Steiner Rice is just beautiful.  Her poems so sensitively capture the heart and soul of a believer.  My sister has several books of her poetry and I love reading and rereading my favorites.  Thinking of the "little things" mentioned in the poem below, there are so many little blessings from God that we take for granted or completely fail to recognize.  This poem is so special and I knew I had to share it.
  

                                      

Thank You, God, for little things

that often come our way-

The things we take for granted

but don't mention when we pray-

The unexpected courtesy,

the thoughtful, kindly deed-

A hand reached out to help us

in the time of sudden need-

Oh, make us more aware, dear God,

of little daily graces

That come to us with "sweet surprise"

from never-dreamed-of places.

- From Heart Gifts by Helen Steiner Rice

Listening to the Father

As a nursing student, I have quickly learned that nurses must possess the art of listening.  Listening is a critical part of nursing assessments.  Nurses gather both objective and subjective data about patients through listening.  In our present age, we are all quick to speak but slow to listen.  We impulsively share our opinions but often fail to hear the hearts of others.  The act of listening is always being refined in the life of a Christian.  In my own spiritual walk, I admit to being quick to raise my requests to God but much slower to be still and truly listen to what God is whispering to my heart.  We know medical errors occur when healthcare professionals fail to listen effectively, but how many opportunities for spiritual growth do we pass up when we are the ones doing all the talking?  How many chances to minister to others do we forfeit because we are deaf to Christ’s voice when He commands us to be His hands and feet?  

A stethoscope is one of the ultimate tools for healthcare professionals.  In nursing school, we have learned to assess a patient’s heart sounds, lung sounds, abdominal sounds, and blood pressure with this valuable tool.  The use of a stethoscope requires intentional and dedicated listening - talking or excess background noise can drown out the sounds we are trying to hear.  How similar this is to a Christian’s spiritual journey.  Talking and excess background noise, whatever form it may take in our busy lives, drown out the most important Voice.  Like the nurse’s stethoscope, Christians have been given the ultimate tool for listening: the Bible.  God speaks to our hearts through His Word when we open ourselves to listening.  Praise the Lord for this gracious gift to us!  Lord, please help us to learn to listen to You.

“My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry.”  James 1:19

June 2020 Stitch Fix + Coupon Code

Hello again!  I enjoyed my first experience with Stitch Fix so much that I requested another box for June!  I was once again thrilled to receive my Fix this past week.  With summer temperatures heating up here, I requested summer items and reiterated that I don't care for spaghetti straps or low necklines.  Once again, they delivered and did a great job.  I received a dress, three tops, and a pair of shorts this time. 

French Grey - Evalynn Brushed Knit Dress

This dress screams perfection!  I just love everything about it - the colors, the print, the cut, the feel of the fabric, literally everything!  It is very versatile, can be dressed up or down, and seems to look good with everything.  Did I mention yet how much I love this dress?

  

Papermoon - Reece Mixed Material Top

This top is pretty cute and I love the color.  Interestingly, the back of the top is a solid knit fabric while the front is a woven floral.  Very comfortable and flowy for hot summer days.

Papermoon - Egan One Pocket Knit Top

Level 99 Tinley - Distressed Cuffed Shorts 

Unfortunately, neither of these items "made the cut" for me so I included stock photos instead. They are cute in their own way, but not styles I typically go for.  I'll be sending these back so they can go to someone who loves them and can give them a good home.  In the future, I'll be more upfront and specific about my likes/dislikes.  However, they did a great job with what little information they had to go off of.

Papermoon - Jaimin Tie Front Top

I really like this top!  The fabric is soft and feels like good quality. I love navy shirts and this one is no exception.  The tie in the front gives it extra flair and personality.  Yet another keeper!

All in all, this was another great fix and I discovered several new favorite items.  If you are considering trying Stitch Fix for the first time, I highly encourage you to give it a shot!  Use the link below when signing up to receive $25 worth of credit to apply towards any items you keep!

https://www.stitchfix.com/invite/dcw7cv3zv3?sod=w&som=c

I hope your day is blessed!

Emily