Wordless Wednesday: Just A Memory

My Favorite Tea + A Gift For You

I love tea. I drink about 2-3 cups each day. Because I like it so much, I thought I'd do a post about my favorite teas. I usually just do tea simply. I don't heat it up on a stove. I don't have a stove of my own, so I heat it up in the microwave. I know some may find this bad, but it doesn't bother me. I do like to add honey to my tea, though. I also enjoy trying different kinds of tea, whether it's black tea, green tea, oolong, white, pu-erh, or yellow. What's your favorite kind to drink? I'd like to know, especially if there's one you'd recommend I try.

One of my favorite teas is Cherry Blossom Tea, especially the Buddha brand. It has a light, flowery taste to it. It's not overpowering at all. At first, I didn't know if I'd like it, but it quickly became a favorite. I have this one on hand, because I keep going back to it.

Another favorite is the Taylors of Harrogate White Hibiscus and Peach Green Tea. It's also not a strong tea - which I like. The green tea is just right, and the hibiscus and peach are perfect together. A nice, spring or summery tea to drink on warmer days.

A new tea that I discovered recently is the Hibiscus Blueberry Superflower Herbal Tea by The Republic of Tea. It has a stronger taste, but it's the right sweetness. I like it so much, it might be my top favorite out of all of them that I've tasted. It's that good!

Like the tea above, I just found a new one that I really like. It's perfect for Autumn. It's the Pumpkin Pie Chai Herbal Tea by The Republic of Tea. I had bought a box of autumn teas, and this one was included in it. I decided to try it first, and I'm now in love with the flavors.

The Tazo Dessert Delights Glazed Lemon Loaf Herbal Tea is delicious! It's a yummy treat to have when you're craving something sweet. The flavor isn't too strong or anything. It's a nice balance of sweetness that is like having a dessert of lemon loaf.

A great friend gifted me with a bag of herbal tea that's called Evening In Missoula. It's packed full of wonderful ingredients, like peppermint, wild cherry bark, wintergreen, and more. It's become an absolute favorite of mine to drink. I really love it!

If I'm in the mood for a drink during Christmas with a little cheer, I pull out the Gingerbread Cookie Tea from The Republic of Tea. I enjoy anything with gingerbread, so this tea is the best! I highly recommend it if you like gingerbread, especially for some holiday fun.

The last on my list is the Harney & Sons Blueberry Green Tea. The one I got comes in a cool tin. It's a bit stronger, so you can really notice the green tea. It's more bitter, but I like to drink it because it seems healthy. The blueberry does help with the bitterness of it.

Most of these teas can be found on Amazon or from the company themselves. All the teas I listed, I recommend. I like to have these specific teas on hand when I'm craving a cup.

This post, however, isn't just about my favorite tea, but a small gift to offer my readers today. I want to share one of my favorite teas with you, my readers. I only have five packets of this tea (which is the Hibiscus Blueberry Superflower Tea - it has stevia in it), but I'd like to give each reader a tea packet sent with a card in the mail. The first five to either leave a comment on this blog post (with a way to contact you, unless I know you on Facebook) will receive a tea packet and card. If you don't wish to comment here, you can do it on Facebook instead. But, like I said, I only have five packets to give away today. Enjoy! 💓

If you liked my post, be sure to like and/or follow my Facebook page here. Thank you!

Many blessings,
- Grace Thorson

Devotional: You Are Unique

Amidst a plethora of people, you may feel like everyone else. Just another flower standing next to another flower of the same color. While it may appear this way, you're so very far from ordinary. Before you were born, you were preplanned in God's mind. He created you, uniquely you. He knew what your name was going to be, how many hairs are on your head, and even your own fingerprints. You aren't common. You're rare. You're special. You're so literally one of a kind. There is no copy of you. You are you, my friend, and no one else.

Life is hard. Fighting those thoughts in our head that we're nothing can be constant and devastating. The lies we tell ourselves aren't true. Satan also doesn't want you to realize how beautiful, loved, and special you really are. He'll fight that to your core. He'll even use others to bully you, tease you, and hate you. It doesn't matter what they think. It hurts, of course. But in this war we're in, we have the weapons to fight back Satan and the haters. We can use prayer, read God's Word, and spend time with those that love you.

Right down to your DNA, you're pretty awesome, you know. You were created by the Creator. You weren't created by anyone else. Every cell, body part, and even your life blood was knit together. You're a walking miracle. Everyone in the world should see us that way, but instead we fight. We hate. When you think about it, it's mind-boggling. We should cherish every life, no matter how small it may be. When you realize this, the world becomes so magical. Life is precious and should be celebrated every day.

I just wish that people would see each other differently. As amazing as it is, you're not just flesh and blood. You were formed to have a personality, preferences, memories, and those feelings unique to you. I feel like we forget that. We also have a soul - it was given to us by God. Putting that all together, we somehow function properly. I'll forever be in awe of this. Remember, when you think you're worthless, know that God made you. He loves you, and you were meant to exist in this world. He knit you perfectly together.

You are truly unique.

"For You created my innermost parts; You wove me in my mother's womb. I will give thanks to You, because I am awesomely and wonderfully made; wonderful are Your works, and my soul knows it very well." - Psalm 139:13-14 NASB

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

Many blessings,
- Grace Thorson

Photo Quests: On A Rainy Day (Special Edition)

Intro: I often don't actually do photo quests themselves on Fridays. I'll take photos on a different day before Friday, otherwise, I wouldn't be able to do photo quests. I'm too busy to take photos during the day on a workday. The series, Photo Quests, is still only posted on Fridays. I took these photos on Monday instead. It was a rainy day, and I wanted to hunt for droplets. Today, is a special edition post as there's more photos than usual. I just wanted to share more with you, my lovely readers. Hope you like my quest for raindrops. 

Quest Ending: I have a confession to make - I love rain. I like the occasional sunny days, but my heart belongs to the rain. There's something peaceful, cozy, and mysterious about it. I was happy to have time to walk out and enjoy the raindrops that had fallen. Most of them had found a landing pad. I sought them out with my camera. I couldn't help but think that they're little gems waiting to be discovered, and I treasure each one. So much magic to discover in nature. I'm looking forward to more rain, so that I may find its hidden gems. 

Wordless Wednesday: Ready To Bloom

We Can Help Those Affected By Recent Hurricanes

On September 26th, Hurricane Helene hit Florida. It was the strongest hurricane to hit the region of Big Bend in Florida with 140 mph. It was also the deadliest hurricane to have hit since Katrina in 2005. The impact of Helene impacted not just Florida, but also, Georgia, South Carolina, North Carolina, Virginia, and Tennessee. It caused 230 deaths. Many people felt the carnage of Helene. Electricity lost, flooding, few supplies - a complete disaster. 

I remember when Hurricane Katrina hit. I watched Fox News as Shepard Smith covered the aftermath. So many people sitting on tops of their roofs, getting airlifted into helicopters. The damage done was obvious. I watched the news constantly as they filmed the situation. During a disaster, I usually wish I could go and help out, but I often don't have the means to do so. Like many people, I'm sure. That's why I created this post for Hurricane Helene and Hurricane Milton. I'll provide a link you can donate to make a difference there.

I can't imagine what family members went through with these hurricanes. We, as humans, often feel comfortable at home, oblivious to the fact that hurricanes can be a constant worry. Especially, of course, down south. I have to say it. They're brave. There were many hurricanes that hit this year (it was above average). I know that the hurricanes changed many lives. The evacuations that were in place for residents made escaping difficult. I heard that some weren't able to fuel up their cars, and that traffic was packed. They must have been so afraid. I especially think about the children and pets in these instances.

As people begin to pick up the pieces, we can offer some assistance. Some can volunteer, provide aid, and send supplies. Those of us that can't, we can donate and pray. We can also get the word out to others about both hurricanes. If there's family or friends that's been affected, we can offer them hope. We can gather and pray to find the best way to do something for them. Although, not similar, we had to evacuate because of a fire this summer (we were later able to return home). I won't forget the help that we received. It meant a lot to my family. Any kind of reaching out would do so much for those that were affected during the hurricanes. You can make a difference in someone's life.

Of course, we can't take the pain away from what someone has endured. If they lost a family member or friend, for instance, that grief will never leave them. In that case, the only thing you can do is be there for them. If they ask for something in particular, you can provide it. And pray. Pray a lot. I'm saying this because life can be extremely hard, and we all need those special ones that show empathy. I'm trying to encourage people to show more compassion during instances like this. If we were placed within the target of a hurricane, we would want any kind of care and love. Just think of others. Please.

Personally, I wish I could do more. But I felt like I needed to write this post, because it's the least I can do. If you feel led to create awareness to this disaster yourself, I encourage you to do so, like on social media or at your church. I understand it's also a private decision to donate for relief efforts. But in case you wanted to donate, I provided a trustworthy place for your donation. Every little bit helps. Anything you can do, whether it's to pray, donate, or bring awareness is greatly valued. I would like to end this post with a big thank you to anyone that's helping those affected by Hurricane Helene and Hurricane Milton.

I recommend donating to Samaritan's Purse for its US Disaster Relief Fund.

Many blessings,
- Grace Thorson

Devotional: God Is Protecting Us

In this world, I feel vulnerable. I know that in the spiritual side of it, there's battles being waged. Battles we can't see but are real. And me? I just deal with a lot of anxiety. Anxiety about everything. In fact, I pray for protection when I get into my car. I know that only God can protect me, so I pray often for it. This doesn't mean that something bad won't happen. When we go out from within our home (our safe place), anything could happen. That's why I like to be prepared with prayer. God hears my prayers, and that provides me with peace.

Knowing that God is always with me, gives me courage. It helps me face my fears even when I feel alone. This doesn't make us invincible, but it gives us strength. I mean, God is also stronger than any foe. He can protect us from anything. The part I love the most about this is that God will protect my heart and your heart. Your soul is secure in Him. It's not going to leave you. He's with you wherever you go, and He has a place provided for you in Heaven. You're going to be okay. I'm going to be okay. It's just the fear that rises within us.

I've written about fear before in a devotional (you can read it here). It can stop us from many things. I decided for myself that I wasn't going to let it control me. Sure. I'll have anxiety. But I'll press on. It doesn't matter how hard life gets; I'll keep going. I've tried to give up before, and I'm determined to fight that fear this time. In the past, I was really focused on fear that I didn't see. I didn't see the light. I wasn't alone. I was never alone. Looking back, I can see God working through my past. Since then, I've tried to give God my fears, anxieties, and worries. They're too heavy for me to carry, and I need the rest.

If you're feeling burdened, give God your fears. Mine are too heavy for me on this journey, so that's why I'm trying to hand them over. Of course, this is hard to do. We kind of want to hang onto them, don't we? However, I've learned this doesn't ease anything in my life. I have to hand them over. I'm tired. But God is strong. He'll take them off our backs easily. I feel free when I give them to Him. I also know that God will watch over me, so I don't have to worry so much. I place my heart in His mighty hands. God protects us, even in the spiritual realm. We may not be able to see what He's doing, but we're safe with Him. 

Always.

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

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

Many blessings,
- Grace Thorson

Photo Quests: The Appearing Mums

Intro: I was late in taking photos for my quest. It was in the evening, and the sun was going down. The wind was also blowing, and it was chilly. I wasn't sure what to look for, but I saw the mums blooming. I knew. I had to get photos of them for Friday's quest. 💓🌼

Quest Ending: The photos I took were hurried, because I was getting cold from the wind. They didn't turn out quite the way I wanted, but they're still good, I think. Mums are such beautiful flowers, and I especially look forward to them when they bloom in Autumn. Hope you enjoyed today's quest for the mums. Be sure to stop by next week for Friday's quest.

Wordless Wednesday: Red Vibrance

Library Spotlight: Juliaetta Community Library

On a lovely Autumn day, I took a drive up to Juliaetta. My plan was to take pictures of the local library there because I wanted to do a spotlight. I had been to the library before for a book signing event. It was something I got to do with my Mom - Pamela Thorson. When I parked the car, I got out and strolled down the sidewalk. The outside of the library is whimsical - which I love. It has various book covers painted on the outside wall. Can you guess what my favorite was? After I took those pictures, I stepped inside the door. The library always feels so welcoming when I enter it. It's both cozy and comforting.

I approached Erin, the librarian, at the front desk. I first met her at the book signing we had. She's a wonderful individual. So thoughtful, open, and kind. I also found her to be highly knowledgeable about the library and the books. In a message, she answered all of my many questions I had about it. Erin has been with the library since 2017. She said that, "Being a librarian was always a dream of mine, but it never seemed plausible." She's always loved reading, so this is the perfect job for her. After saying "hi" to Erin, I walked around the library. I took a couple of pictures while doing so. It's such a calm environment.

The library has a great place for kids, too. There was a corner just for them. They also have a summer reading program for all ages, and they host events every week during summer for kids. During the year, they do a book talk book club, art contests, craft events, storytimes, and gardening events. Along with the events, they offer free internet, access to Libby and close to 1 million ebooks, hoopla, dvd's, board games, a sewing machine, and a ukulele. At the end of my taking photos, I entered a raffle they had for an Autumn prize. The raffle lasts until November 5th. The tickets are $2.00 each or 3 for $5.00. 

The history behind the library itself is interesting. Erin gave me some info about it. The library is more than 120 years old. She said, "It was originally the top floor of a two-story building. The order of Rebecca's used it for a meeting hall." The library was lowered where it stands today in the 1930's. Erin went on to say, "The library was given the first 10 feet of the building to use in the 70's. In the 80's, they got another 10 feet, and in the late 80's, they were given the entire space." The library is a branch of the Latah County Library District. They serve both Juliaetta and Kendrick. They are part of the Valnet Consortium of Libraries that has 47 libraries from Potlatch to Elk City, as well. They share books in the consortium with patrons which has almost half a million books. It has much to offer.

There is an update for the Juliaetta Community Library. They announced that they're moving to a building in Kendrick. I don't know when, but I'm sure it'll be really nice. At the end of my visit to the library, I drove back home. Thinking back to my visit, the library is a special place and Erin is an awesome librarian. Erin said, "I have the life I only dreamed about as a kid. I get to talk about books all day..." It's an inspiring thing when you meet someone that is enthusiastic about their job. So, if you have the chance, be sure to drop by and look through their books. Say, "hi" to Erin there when you visit, too.

You can like their Facebook page at Friends of the Juliaetta Community Library.

Many blessings,
- Grace Thorson

Devotional: Receiving His Grace

 
Grace. It's what we don't deserve but are given anyways. It's obviously my first name, but somehow, I've never been able to comprehend it. I've gone my whole life being extremely hard on myself, and I was confused at what grace even meant. I would compare it to mercy, but it's not the same thing. So usually, I wouldn't give grace to myself. I've done many things I'm not happy about, so I didn't and still don't think I deserve it. I've gone my whole life this way. What is even grace? I would think, but I would learn to understand it.

God's grace is beautiful. It's just so amazing. He gives us what we don't deserve. We're sinful creatures, so do we really deserve grace? God thinks so, and I'm so glad He does. Unfortunately, I've noticed that in today's society, grace isn't practiced much. Only God appears to be the gift bearer of this wonderful gift. We can be so hard on others, and ourselves, that we forget to be full of grace to the world. God gives us grace, so naturally we should gift it to people, too. Let's make grace popular again.

Like I mentioned above, I think it's interesting that even though my name is Grace, I've never really understood it. But He's often reminded me of his vast grace. It covers my multitude of sins. I truly don't deserve His grace, but I'm so overjoyed that He gives it to me. It really is like a gift that is wrapped in love and finished with a bow of joy. I eagerly wait for it when He gives it to me. Kind of like a kid on Christmas morning, I always look forward to His gifts. They're the best kind, especially when it's grace. I thank God for grace in my life, and I hope to share it with those that need it in their lives.

So, when you're in not a good place, just remember God's grace. It's there, and He's always willing to give it to you. And God's grace is all we need. We can survive on just that, and His love for us. We have an enemy that, however, doesn't want us to receive grace. He'll fight to keep you from accepting God's grace. He did that in my life, and I'm certain he'll keep at it. We just have to remember that Satan can't keep you from receiving it, though. You'll be able to open that precious gift as soon as you realize it. In other words, grace isn't going anywhere. God is there waiting to give it to you - that amazing grace.

Receive His grace today.

"For by grace you have been saved through faith; and this is not of yourselves, it is the gift of God; not a result of works, so that no one may boast." - Ephesians 2:8-9 NASB

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

Many blessings,
- Grace Thorson

Photo Quests: Never Looking Down

 Photo Quests: Never Looking Down

Intro: It's a warm Autumn day that I went out for a photo quest. I took photos of the 
sky and the tops of trees. I don't ever want to be caught looking down in life. I hope to continually be looking up to the heavens. This photo quest reminded me of that.

Quest Ending: It was a simple photo quest this time, but I was really inspired by the
never looking down. I want to always keep my eyes on God even in the hardship. The sky and trees provided that thought to me. I hope it inspired you to keep looking up, too.

Guest Writer: Author Janet Chester Bly

Guest Writer: Author Janet Chester Bly
Subject: Daily Graces

Dawn experienced no problems with her pregnancy. But a few minutes before her first child’s birth, the heart monitor suddenly showed the baby’s tiny heart stopped beating.

When her son was born, the doctors worked furiously to get his breathing started. They later told Dawn they couldn’t be sure whether to keep trying or not. They flew baby Lane by helicopter to a bigger hospital. The doctors warned he might not survive the trip, but he did. However, the hospital staff reported Lane may have suffered brain damage or loss of kidney function.

Dawn recalls, I remember the peace God gave me about the whole thing. Of course, we prayed God would work a miracle. But God also gave me that peace.” God did work a miracle. Lane survived to be a healthy adult. And Dawn grew in perseverance and spiritual trust from that experience.

Growing faith is sometimes a learned trait, a process of deliberation, line upon line, precept upon precept. Here a little and there a bunch, you practice your faith. When you buckle down on your troubles, you tighten your assurance God will help somehow. 

Somewhere along the line, everyone encounters a severe personal crisis in which the whole idea of God’s goodness gets tested. That happened to me when my husband was diagnosed with a rare form of prostate cancer that eluded the usual treatment.

One of the toughest things I faced when I lost him centered on answering the why God didn’t heal him when so many people in multiple places prayed for him. One person even expressed anger towards God because he just knew Steve would be cancer-free. I feared he’d turn from his faith altogether. He couldn’t understand why I seemed so accepting of Steve’s fate.

But by that point, I had witnessed so much of God’s hand in our lives. “You don’t know,” I tried to tell him, “All the many daily miracles of grace we experienced along the way, through all the ups and downs. Not the least, God granted us five full, mostly active years together, when the doctors said it could be much less.”

And after he passed away, God kept working when he allowed my three sons and me to finish Stephen’s last novel together, when he had only one chapter completed: Stuart Brannon’s Final Shot. Truly, finishing that task within the four-month deadline provided an unexpected, surprise wonder for my whole family.

Every round of circumstances and challenges we face will include unique details and sometimes unexpected or creative results. 

Life’s uglies, such as devastating disease and loss of loved ones, cause us to wrestle with monumental questions. We may confront God with our whys and doubts. But we do have the immense privilege of direct access and dialogue with our Creator. When we’re pressed down on our knees with no pretenses, we cry out to Him and dare ask for understanding and miracles. He may grant life, insight, or release . . . or not. One hope may be dashed, but watch for it, another always remains. For every mystery, every loss, there is a gain. For instance, God reigns beyond the grave.

Over the years, I’ve learned to stay alert for God’s gracious mercies mixed in with every big challenge I face. I’m more sensitive to notice what’s the over-arching Plan that will make me marvel at His wisdom. Since I’ve witnessed His works myself, in Him alone, I hope.

Hope keeps us buoyant with fire and energy, looking to the future. Patience grounds us in calm endurance to the present sometimes stark reality. And trust keeps us still and quiet, to pay attention to what God is doing in our world. He’s always busy—answering prayers, doing good, or suddenly springing a surprise.

To develop spiritual journey skills like that takes practice, with drills and repetitions. It’s a process of cultivation. We’re even toughened through our own wilderness jaunts, like the Israelites (Deuteronomy 29:5), and also like Jesus (Matthew 4:1ff).

Getting to know God personally means walking through life’s stuff with Him. We find out for ourselves that He is with us. We become pilgrims with a purpose, travelers with an assignment: to trust Him, to even enjoy Him, and to serve Him forever.

"We know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. And hope does not disappoint us, because God has poured out his love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit.” - Romans 5:3-5 NIV

Guest Writer: Author Janet Chester Bly

About the Guest Writer: Janet Chester Bly is the widow of award-winning western author Stephen Bly. She has published fifteen nonfiction and fiction books of her own and also co-authored twenty others with Stephen. She once lived in the town of Winchester managing Bly Books. She now lives in Lewiston closer to her family. You can find her books on Amazon, as well as some of them at ...And Books, Too! (andbookstooonline.com)

Her Books:

You can connect with Janet Chester Bly here:

Website: www.BlyBooks.com

Facebook Author Page: https://www.facebook.com/BlyBooks/

Facebook Personal: https://www.facebook.com/janetchesterbly/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/janetchesterbly/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/BlyBooks

Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/janetcbly/

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/269265.Janet_Chester_Bly

Thank you for being a guest writer, Janet. Look forward to having you on again.

Many Blessings,
- Grace Thorson

Wordless Wednesday: A Simple Beauty

Restaurant Spotlight: Hardware Brewing

I've noticed most of my adventures appear to happen on Sundays. Today was not any different. I saw on Facebook that Hardware Brewing was serving two new drinks - eggnog latte and an eggnog chai tea. I love eggnog (although strangely enough I didn't when I was little), so I had to try the latte. Instead of going alone, I invited my Mom along to try it out. Wanted to share the experience with her. We left one Sunday afternoon and took a drive up to Kendrick. We parked, and I took a few pictures of their sign (which is super cool!). Love their theme and style. It's unique. It has both an industrial and antique look.

Once inside, we found a table with two chairs. It was really busy. While we waited to be served, we took in the beautiful woodwork, lights, and overall design. I loved it. A waitress came up to our table and got our orders. My Mom got an eggnog latte and an appetizer. I just got the eggnog latte. It did seem to take a little bit in getting our drinks and appetizer, but it was well worth the wait. The latte was warm and sweet. The eggnog was also so delicious! If you like eggnog and coffee, it's the perfect combination. I probably could've had two, or even tried the chai one, as well. My Mom loved hers, too. So yummy!

After resting at our table, we got up and explored. Everything is nicely added. There are framed pictures on the wall and books to buy. I believe they're done by the J-K Heritage Foundation. The history of the place has been preserved, as well, as the surrounding areas. It's awesome when an old building is given new life. I'm always sad to see them taken down. As we walked around, we made our way over to the front table. I knew they had shirts and hoodies, so I checked them out. I decided on a hoodie. It's nice and soft, by the way. I'm glad I picked one up. When we left, I kept drinking the quickly diminishing latte. 

As I reflect back on it, I would gladly go again. I plan on going to try out their meals. They serve breakfast, lunch, and dinner. I want to try a plate per meal on different days. Their fettucine alfredo and chicken fried steak sounds especially good. If you're looking for a new place to try, I recommend checking Hardware Brewing out. I don't think it's too far of a drive from either Lewiston or Clarkston. And of course, if you're nearby, be sure to try their eggnog lattes. I'm thinking of getting the eggnog latte chai next time.

Many blessings,
- Grace Thorson