gathering and scattering...

I have such a whirling cloud of emotions hovering these last few weeks.  We've been tossed through the cycle, suffering through loss while still having moments of triumph and peace in between.

My back is no worse, and not much better.  But I have figured out how to navigate fairly well.  And I have loved having you all celebrate with me- "its not cancer" is perhaps the most magical thing I've heard in a long time.

It probably goes without saying... our "trip" has been postponed yet again.  But rather than feel too sad about it, it just keeps us dreaming and ever more determined to make something happen.  I am convinced we will go... we just will...

I found myself inspired by this t-shirt arriving in my mail box yesterday.  With all of the "Westra Family Benefit" planning taking place- this quote resonates deeply with me.

Amen- so encouraged and inspired by all of the volunteers signing up to help at the benefit and all of those who have said they're attending.  Some exciting news surrounding both the benefit itself and the days leading up to it... more to come...

Here is a sign up sheet for anyone else interested in helping out: Westra Benefit Sign-up Sheet.  

 Karen @ This Old House II, helps organize and run dog adoption events in her community. To help raise funds she created this t-shirt and I simply wanted to "Pay-it-Forward."  Karen and her friends help match rescue dogs with forever families!  Her posts about the event make me want to adopt every stinkin dog... but Crosby has us about maxed out in the dog department.  So sending a small donation was a no brainer.  

I've also been inspired by the work of my friend Kristin.  She and her husband started a blanket ministry for the homeless in her area.  Again- the cost of donating and mailing a blanket of my own didn't make sense.  But I could send her some money to purchase a blanket or perhaps two.  Look through her photos and see the difference she is making and you'll be inspired too. 

My Gitz handcrafted canvas helps keep me in check.  It seems to be our season to "gather," but truly it makes me look harder for what I have to "scatter." 

This is the new Bloom Book Club book and I picked it up when Dayspring announced it was on sale with free shipping.  It has a straightforward premise that we live in a society of excess.  The author decides to challenge herself and her family to 7 different areas in which they will reduce, reuse, rethink, etc.  

The first chapter is where she decides to eat just 7 foods for 4 weeks straight.  Chicken, spinach, sweet potatoes, whole wheat bread, water, apples, and eggs.  She gives an honest and often hilarious account of both her successes and her failures.  I've just started, but sure have had some kernels of truth lodge firmly in my gut.  More scattering planned.  

What are you reading these days?  Books?  Blogs? I'd love to hear who is inspiring you right now?