July 4th Weekend Daybook

Outside My Window
Hostas with their lavender flowers are blooming.  Small American flags are interspersed between the hostas.  Independence Day is near!

I am Listening 
to the birds singing.  Clare yells out, "Sing with me, birdies."  She hears them sing back to her.  "Thank you, birdies," she replies.

I am so Grateful for
my health.
electricity.
a break in the humidity.
a husband who is able to help out with doctor visits.
wisdom to say the encouraging words my daughters need to hear.

I'm Pondering
"Walk with simplicity in  the way of the Lord and do not torment your spirit. Learn to hate your faults, but to hate them calmly." - St. Padre Pio

I am Reading
The Jesuit Guide to Almost Everything: A Spirituality for Real Life by James Martin, SJ
Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen

I am Thinking
that I should start to declutter our basement.  We have way too much stuff that could be used and loved by others.

I am Creating
this daybook so that I can be more intentional in my daily living.  I also like the idea of looking back to see where God has been with me in the good times and the bad times.

Education
We've been enjoying bible camps and history camps these past two weeks.  Lots of fun and learning going on here. 

Rhythm and Beauty
I've been pouring through seasonal recipe books for new summer meal ideas. I like to keep the foods simple, fresh and chilled in the summer.  I just need new ideas for presentation.

I am Wearing
Tan shorts and a 3/4 length peach shirt.

To Live the Liturgy
My morning and evening quiet times have gotten shorter with the longer days.  I'm struggling with reading the Liturgy of the Hours with our summer schedule.

I am Hoping and Praying
for healing. 
for peace among the nations.

In the Garden
The ground hog and rabbits are eating whatever fruits and vegetables are not protected by a cage.  I am not a happy gardener.

Around the House
We are getting ready for the 4th of July weekend.  We have flags, music and the Patriotic Little People toys out.  

From the Kitchen
Watermelon and fresh strawberries with milk are a favorite snack this week. 

One of My Favorite Things
Listening to my girls dream of their future jobs.  They are so full of hope.  I need to hear hope in their voices when the television and newspaper scream anything but hope for the future. 

A Few Plans for the Rest of the Week
Holiday weekend food shopping and cooking
Snow cones
Fireworks