Hi Friends!
Though Fall is “officially” here, it feels as though it’s barely starting to creep in. I’m willing the crisper weather and all that comes with it, but also still trying to remain present to the sunny side of things right now. I’m continuously reminding myself that there is beauty in the anticipation and in being present to what’s before us. It seems we are always in the in-between season, living our daily lives while hoping for what’s to come.
Did you know there’s a spiritual term for that? It’s called the “liminal” stage. It defines being in the state of transition; in Latin, limen means “threshold.” In a deeper sense, our whole earthly life is in a liminal stage. This life is constantly passing us by, leaving us within a place of longing. We long to hold on to what came before, while also having a sense of what’s ahead. Seasonal transitions often invoke wonder and hope in that way. Underlying that is our movement towards the eternal—that which we were created for…Eternity with God in heaven.
So, as seasons transition, I’m trying to keep that in mind.
Though I look forward to what’s to come in the months ahead, I’m trying to remember that it is a blessing to be able to step outside in the warmth.
As I wait for soup season to come (my favorite) and for the crisper air, I’m also noticing the fullness of life right now. We’ve had a busy couple of weeks, both in little routines and big celebrations.
Around Our Home
We have a ten-year-old in the house now! Yesterday our baby girl turned ten, and I can hardly believe it. A tenth birthday feels like one of those big steppingstones of life. It makes me pause to reflect on how far we’ve come in a decade and on the swift passage of time. This girl has taught me so much about being a mama—from the time she was born all the way to today. She has the biggest heart, and I am so grateful that she is ours.
We started the tradition long ago of decorating the house while the one who’s birthday is the next day is asleep (or at least attempting sleep). We hang up banners, set out balloons and presents, along with the birthday kid’s favorite snacks. Then, when they wake, we let them open all their presents and we have Belgium waffles with whipped cream and sprinkles on top.
It’s a whole to do—all before 8am.
As I was decorating, I started to wonder if maybe we do too much. I told my husband, “We started this so long ago, we can’t stop now, right? Will we be doing this until they turn 18?” We both laughed and agreed we would. Roughly 60 more of these if we’re blessed enough! But it’s a pleasure to celebrate the life of each one of our kids.
I think birthdays are special.
On Our Bookshelves
I started reading the “Pippi Longstocking” series to my littlest girls and they are loving it almost as much as I always have. I read this to my older ones years ago, and I’m thrilled I get to do it again. Pippi is one of my childhood friends…her quirky, optimistic, fierce and loyal way of life always made me feel seen and inspired me as a kid—not to mention, she makes me laugh to no end. I love hearing the girls giggle over her silly ways, like how she can carry a horse or pick up a bully with ease, and how she makes cleaning fun by wearing roller-skate-mops on her feet. She is a joy, and I can’t wait to watch the movie with them.
Faith in the Everyday
What does it mean to make good use of time? I often think about this as a wife, mom, and homeschooler. The tasks are endless, and the chaos and noise abounds…I have learned to become more regimented with my schedule over time, but this morning’s meditation was a big reminder to me of the importance of not wasting time and staying in the present moment.
A few things to chew on:
“A hardworking person makes good use of time, for time is not only money, it is glory, God’s glory! He does as he ought and concentrates on what he is doing, not out of routine nor to while away the passing hours, but as the result of attentive and pondered reflection.” St. Jose Maria Escriva
“Living in the present moment is an aspect of living in the presence of God. We should be convinced that the offering of our work requires our complete attention, as if it were the last thing we would be able to offer him. This attitude will lead us to finish our own tasks well, no matter how insignificant they appear to be. We will behave in this way because we have become thoroughly convinced that these tasks will be converted into something great by our Lord.” From “In Conversation with God,” Friday of the 25th week of Ordinary Time
All this is a reminder to us that making good use of our time means that we will live in the present moment. It is the present moment that can be offered to the Lord and none other.
Let’s make a resolution to live in the present moment and to sanctify each circumstance we find ourselves in today?
A Thought I’m Sitting With
I can’t stop thinking about what it means to be holy and what holiness is. I am currently working on a piece, and would love for you to answer a question for me as honestly and from the heart as you can:
What is holiness to you? Comment below, or send me a quick email. Would love to hear your thoughts!
I may end up sending out this Common Threads letter biweekly instead of weekly so that I can have more time in between to write some pieces that dive a bit deeper. I have a lot in mind and am excited to share!
Ok friends, my daughter came down and handed me this—something she made with her button machine she got for her birthday.
My cup, officially full for the day.
Time to get moving!
Have a blessed weekend, friends!
P.S.
After much prayer, I decided to get back on Social Media. It was a bit of a drag to decide, but I felt the Lord continuously nudging me back. I have a new perspective on it and I hope to reveal that here over time. Until then, follow me on Instagram HERE.