How to Develop a Consistent Quiet Time Once and For All

"I just can't get it going. I know it's important. I really do. But I just can't maintain a consistent quiet time. I get bored or I oversleep or I fall asleep before I can do it at night. I give up." I sat there with my friend, trying to come up with something to say. I knew what she meant. I've felt those same things, had those same thoughts. I've even given up a time or two myself. If you've been in church or women's Bible study for very long, you've heard the admonishments and ... [Read More]

My New Journaling Bible || HCSB Illustrator’s Notetaking Bible

So, I have a new journaling Bible. Yes, this makes three. Whatev. :) I use my journaling Bibles in different ways and I have loved experimenting with techniques and tools. I love the way I can slow down and meditate on a passage or idea or even a word as I create on the pages of my Bible. It has become a very important part of my time in the Word. And I've also loved the challenge of learning new ways to illustrate what God is showing me. I am a pretty good hand letterer ... but, y'all, I ... [Read More]

A Peek at My Journaling Bibles

Can I preface this whole post with the fact that I know there are countless people in Instagram-land who are far more artistic and creative than I am? And that some days all the beautiful pages in their journaling Bibles  just flat out intimidate me to the point I don't share my own? Also, I don't share a lot of my pictures because I don't really know how to reply when I've written about what God is showing me and people compliment my handwriting.  But I've been wanting to tell you more ... [Read More]

10 Encouraging Verses from Philippians

Do you have a favorite book of the Bible? I have to admit, my favorite is usually the one I am studying. :) But, truth be told, I almost always come back to Philippians when I need encouragement. Here are a few of the most encouraging verses from Philippians. And I am sure of this, that he who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ. Philippians 1:6 I don't know about you, but sometimes I feel like the biggest mess in the world.  It's such a ... [Read More]

My Vacation Priorities

Y'all, we are headed to the Smoky Mountains today for a week-long vacation. I'm soooo excited. Seriously. We all three are looking forward to doing all the things we love in the mountains — pancakes at Log Cabin Pancake House, DollyWood, tubing the Ocoee, and driving through Cade's Cove. We may even manage a hike up to Clingman's Dome this year. Scott's grandparents are going with us so I feel sure there will be a Rook game or two in the evenings and we may even be able to talk Casiday into ... [Read More]

My Summer Bible Reading Plan

Can I let you in on a little secret? It's about one of those things we don't like to talk about or admit. When the topic comes up, we're likely to just smile and nod and hope no one asks us anything directly. It's about something we all readily agree should be a priority ... and yet, somehow, there are days when we never seem to find the time. Here's the truth: I am a quiet time failure every summer. I start with great intentions. I always have a plan. But somehow by the end of June the wheels ... [Read More]