We explored a new-to-us area of our city. It was a fun and free outing! Plus, the sun was shining. We like to be "tourists" in our own town. Although I've lived here my entire life I has never seen this area.
It's a wildlife preserve and they have added a walking trail in a loop. The area is being restored to it's natural state as an estuary.
We are focusing on getting outside and enjoying "green spaces". It is very good for our body and mind to make time for this....everyday.
Lent has begun and it's a time for us to quiet our minds and grow closer to God. It's amazing how much beauty there is in the world. I notice more of it and give thanks more often when my environment is quieter.
The kids will have no video game time and Cam and I have signed off of FB and other screen time for Lent....except I will be writing here. I do find it to be useful for my soul.
Our meals will be simple and frugal. We are fasting from meat and some dairy. Our goal is to focus less on food. We will use the money we save to increase our almsgiving.
We are going to spend more time reading scripture, lives of the Saints and Bible stories with the kids. And of course spend more time in church for special Lenten services.
While on our hike Mr. P was carrying Moses on his back and Sis ran in front of them with a big stick....CRASH. Mr. P went down hard on both knees....scraped and banged hard inside the kneecap.
As a family of 7 we get in each others' way sometimes....or often. We argue and we irritate each other...sometimes on purpose. Lent will be a time to reign this in. The kids and I talked this morning about how to Let It Go....as the Disney song says. We can choose to not react, not comment, to walk away or to react in love and kindness.
As a family of 7 we also have great opportunity to love on each other. There is always at least one person around willing to hug you, comfort you and be your friend.
When Mr. P fell it was his Dad that carried him ALL the way back to the van. This was a wonderful example for the kids. Throughout Lent we will work towards this spirit of carrying and comforting one another.
Our day ended with this amazing sunset. God's love for us shows in His creation of our world.
We hope to show God our love for Him by growing near to Him in this season of Lent.
Wonderful post Becky! We also have a list of things we're doing during Lent this year to make it more meaningful and to honor God.
ReplyDeleteLove your post Beck. That was a nice hike, even with the extra "workout" from carrying Paddy back;)
ReplyDeleteTeaching by example is the hardest (and best) method. This was a beautiful post and yes, I especially understand how writing can relieve one's soul.
ReplyDeleteLove this post!!!
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