I have not posted since fall as my daughter has had me busy traveling. This past year we went to New York, to Philadelphia, to Missouri, to Chicago and several Christmas markets in the Midwest during December. And in two weeks we go on our big trip – two weeks to the British Isles. We will hit London, England; Edinburg Scotland; and Dublin, Ireland. I told her that when we got back home, I was not going anywhere for several months.

And with all that busyness, I still managed to finish book 2 of Smiles from Heaven.

This again is mostly short stories, a smattering of poetry and some Psalm-like prayers. Our pastor challenged us this past summer to find some quiet time and really try to write a Psalm with the idea that a Psalm is a heartfelt prayer or conversation with God. Like book 1, this book’s purpose is to encourage one another through uplifting stories about life from a Christian perspective. I have enclosed one of the poems and hope you enjoy it. If interested, the books are sold through Amazon.

Nature’s Gift

I lean my head back staring up thru the tree

I close my eyes to sense what I cannot see

I feel the rough bark, the breeze lifts my hair

Bringing in the fragrance of flowers so fair

The birds are singing and chirping close by

Jumping through the tree or heading to the sky

I can hear the small brook flowing over the rocks

Creating soothing sounds like a small music box

The beauty of nature, God’s creation gift for us

A place where we escape, the noise and the fuss

Nature is a place where all senses come into play

Relieving our stresses on any given day

I hope these few words helped you smile. Life can be hard for many of us but if we can find one moment to breathe and smile, it helps relieve the stress we may be facing. Be encourage as God is always close by ready to carry you if needed.

In closing I remind you of the power and gentleness of kindness.