Wordless Wednesday: Guarding The Trees

Devotional: When The Holy Spirit Speaks

I was looking for protection and refuge from the world. I had taken a picture of the sky that evening. I wanted to share it on social media but didn't know what to say. I decided that a verse might be a good choice. I sometimes like to add them with a photo I took. I looked up verses on google for ones that meant protection or safety. I came across Psalm 46:1. It seemed well-chosen for that night. After that night, I went to work as usual in the day. I wasn't expecting anything to happen from it, but I would later find a gift.

Once I got home, I decided to do God Time. It's where I read devotionals, write, and pray. Well, I hadn't done it in a month, so I felt like I needed to, and I wanted to spend time with God again. One of the devotionals I picked up had a daily devo and a verse attached to it. I opened the devotional, and the verse written above the writing was Psalm 46:1. I couldn't believe it. It was the same verse that I had selected the night before. Was the Holy Spirit trying to talk to me? Was He confirming the verse from the night before?

That afternoon, I was struck with surprise and joy. The Holy Spirit comforted me with that verse, and now I feel completely safe within God's arms. I know He watches over me, but sometimes I still feel afraid. But He knows how I feel each day. And He protects me and encourages me with His mighty love. I'm so thankful to the Holy Spirit for giving me that verse, because now I'm going to hold tight to it. But I also felt like I needed to share it with others, so that's why I added it to my devotional today. It was meant to be shared.

God gave me some color and light again in my life. It's no longer bleak. Sure. There might be some hard days, but His love will always get me through. And I know He's with me all the time. He demonstrated it clearly. And He's with you all the time, too. Seek Him out. That's what He was saying to me, as well, and to you. Seek Him out. He's longing to hear from you, and He'll provided you with comfort through His Word. Thank you, Jesus. Thank you for comforting me with your Word. And for the ability to share it with others.

He's there for us. Waiting. The Holy Spirit speaks.

"God is our refuge and strength, a very ready help in trouble." - Psalm 46:1 NASB

Do you need prayer? Leave a comment, and I'll pray for you.

Many blessings,

- Grace Thorson 

Museum Spotlight: Nez Perce County Historical Society & Museum Part 3

After stepping out of the museum, I headed to the Heritage House. I had been inside of it before, but it's one of my favorite parts of the museum. I walked up to the doorway that was guarded by two lions. Once I entered the house, I took pictures of the rooms. I thought the wallpaper was really pretty. I just love old houses. They have such character and are mysterious. You don't get that with a new house. I also noticed around the rooms there were nativities. These were from the nativity collection. You can check out my blog post here that I wrote about the nativity collection being held there. I didn't realize how many the collector had - they were all over in the lower rooms. It was fun to spot them as I proceeded forward on my journey. Because it was Christmastime, there were a few decorations, as well. It gave the old house a festive look - which was a lovely addition.

Looking around, I noticed they had old appliances and furniture in every room. It was fascinating to explore everything. I mentioned before, but I really like old things, like antiques, too. I haven't been antiquing in a long time, but I hope to do so soon (this inspired me). I don't necessarily have any room for antiques in my place, but a few items would fit, I'm sure. On another adventure, I'd like to check out some antique stores. Watch out for it! But I digress, I found so many treasures hiding, or in plain sight within the house. Each piece had a specific purpose. I found an old stove, dishes, pans, utensils, and more. I didn't remember much from my last visit, but I did remember a piano, and the upstairs rooms. I walked into another room and spotted a typewriter. I have one that my Mom gave to me when she had it as a young woman! I then admired their piano in that room.

When I stepped up the stairs, I was welcomed by some old dolls and toys. There was an old bathroom near the stairs that was next to a bedroom. It all seemed mysterious and stuck in time. I wondered what memories were created here, and the people that inhabited it. I quietly stepped into the first bedroom, trying not to disturb anything. It was like being back in time, and I enjoyed that feeling. If you haven't been to this museum, be sure to check out the Heritage House. It's pretty cool. As I wandered around the room, I spotted some dresses, hats, and furniture. I admired it all, but I especially liked the lamp on the ceiling. There was also a second bedroom that was closed off to the public, but you can still gaze into it. The first bedroom allows you to walk along and take it in all up close. You know, I suppose it was a simpler time back then. How I wish I could go back to those days.

Leaving the bedroom at the top of the stairs, I walked through the lower rooms and out the door. There were a few things to see outside, before I made it into a building where the nativity showcase was being held. The outside will be in next week's blog post on Monday - it's the last leg of my journey. I wish more people were interested in museums and old buildings. We must preserve the past so that we can better understand the future. That's how I see it, anyways. So, be sure to visit the museum soon. The nativity showcase will not be there at this time, but there's still many wonderful things to look at. I hope you liked today's post. Be sure to visit the museum's website here. See you next week, wanderers.

Many blessings,
- Grace Thorson 

Photo Quests: Dreaming of Spring

Intro: Winter is still here. Don't get me wrong, I like the colder weather, but my heart always longs for flowers. Spring is also my second favorite season, so I'm kind of excited for it. Because of that, I'm sharing photos from a past springtime with you today.

Quest Ending: Looking at these photos provides a sense of warmth. I can't wait to see the flowers blooming again. Actually, each year I search for them, always ecstatic when I spot some. Flowers are such a wonderful symbol of rebirth. Hope you find a renewal this spring.

Many blessings,
- Grace Thorson

Book Review: Hush, Little Mommy

Book: Hush, Little Mommy
Author: Lori'el Tritto

Book Synopsis:

52 thoughts of hope and healing for moms who struggle with postpartum depression.

Some of us think motherhood comes softly with tiny toes, light-hearted giggles, and warm cuddles in a rocking chair. But, what if it comes as a storm, wild and dripping wet with high winds and low-hanging fog, that leaves a mom's heart shaken and foggy?

Lori'el wants to invite you into a grace-filled place to find hope and courage if your journey into motherhood begins with the storm of depression, a mood disorder, or if you just need a bit of encouragement.

Book Review:

The author approached me about reading her book for a review. I gladly accepted. I enjoy reading various books on different subjects. This one was unique. Hush, Little Mommy is a devotional and journal for women with postpartum depression. It includes scripture, anecdotes, and personal reflections. While I've never endured postpartum depression, I liked reading this book. I believe it's a light that shines in the darkness for mothers, and I really can see it as being incredibly helpful for those times. And Lori'el did a wonderful job putting it together to create one cohesive piece as a devotional and journal.

I liked how honest and down-to-earth Lori'el was in her book. I think this is her first book, and it's a much needed one for the world today. The stories in each chapter are especially helpful. Actually, I found all of it to be encouraging. Its kindness radiates from the written words on every page. Lori'el is a gentle and lovely individual, and her writing reflects that kindness. I'm so glad she wrote this. It's a beneficial devotional to have as a mother. 

I've struggled with depression myself, but I know it's not the same thing as postpartum depression. I just know what it's like to be in the dark, and I really hope Lori'el will also continue to write more comforting books like this. I can see her doing more devotionals. For this book, I highly recommend Hush, Little Mommy by Lori'el Tritto for any mother struggling with postpartum depression. If you're interested in reading this book, you can find it on Amazon here. It's available in paperback. 💓 Thank you to Lori'el for the book.

Many blessings,
- Grace Thorson

The Gwen Fire: Life Is Growing Again

 

The Gwen fire started in July. It destroyed a lot of acres. It also destroyed homes. Our own home was in the midst of the fire. We had to evacuate. It was one of the worst days I've ever experienced. But our home survived, and I'm so incredibly thankful that it did. The people who were involved in helping save our home, I'm eternally grateful to. I still think about it, but it seems behind me now. I'm at home with my family and we're together.

Recently, the hills that were black, are turning green. It's such a beautiful sight. I'm comforted by the fact that even though the fire burned what was on the hills, new life springs forth. There's always fresh life to be expected in some form. A new beginning takes place. And every time I look at the green, I'm also reminded of God's goodness. He was there with me. He was there with us. I wasn't alone. None of us were. He was so close.

As I look back at all my family has endured, I'm thankful to God that He pulled us through. We could have lost our home. But we didn't. We were spared. Unfortunately, some homes were destroyed. I only wish that the fire hadn't happened, but it did that day. I saw God move through the process, though. He made sure that those who lost their homes, that their needs were met. He met ours through the kindness of family and friends. 💚

It's comforting. With the green hills near, I'm eager for 2025. And I pray it's an easier year for everyone. May you be encouraged, my friends. Even though we went through hardship, God was with us. The whole time. He'll be there for you, too. We're going into the new year with safety and love. He's got us protected within His hands and nothing can change that. In ending this last post of 2024, I hope my family and friends have a Happy New Years.

Many blessings,

- Grace Thorson

Christmas Blog Advent: Day 25 - A Late Christmas Greeting

Merry Christmas. I realize it's late to wish this greeting to you, but I hope you had a lovely one, or if you're still having celebrations. Me? I'll probably leave my Christmas decorations up for a little while longer. I don't really want Christmas to leave. I'll eventually take them down in January, just not right now. How about you? Are you leaving them up or taking them down? It would be interesting to know what you're doing with them. 💓

My Christmas spent with family members was wonderful. We made new memories together. I got to visit Locomotive Park with my Dad to see the lights. Go out shopping with my Mom. Hand out presents to my niece and nephew. Ate yummy food with my family. Decorated. Sent out cards. It was fun. To be honest, I was really worried about this Christmas. I didn't know how everyone would feel. I wanted it to be comforting for my whole family.

The best gift was ending 2024 in a pleasant way. It was a hard year, and I'm thankful that we got to rest somewhat. And that, my brother wasn't in the hospital. Thank you, God! As we end Christmas, I'm wishing that everyone has been able to rest, and is now ready for the new year. While I'm not anxious to take down decorations, I'm looking forward to 2025. May it be a good year for all of us, and I'm praying many blessings for my readers.

- Grace Thorson