Wow. The past month has really slowed us down. And, though it has been shocking and frustrating and crazy, I believe the slow down has been good. There’s beauty in every situation if you take the time to look.

For this month, I used the Beauty Abounds stamp set. Which most people purchase it because of the butterflies (which are beautiful and coordinate with punches and they’re great). But sometimes looking past the obvious reveals more beauty. Like this flourish stamp. I just love it. Though it comes many other stamps in the set, this stamp can hold it’s own as a artistic centerpiece on any card (or calendar). Kind of like the space we are in now. Slowing down, looking at what we have as opposed to what we cannot do. Realize that the slowdown has helped us strengthen relationships. Build (and test…hahaha) the sibling bonds, create connections with neighbors. Value life. And there’s beauty in all of that.

I am CONTINUOUSLY amazed at how God has PERFECT timing in all of his plans. I don’t always understand, and I’m realizing that I don’t need to understand. Just appreciate. We had a major health scare. And, (I realize that I’m being completely egocentric here…) this global shut down actually came at the PERFECT time for us to weather the health scare. We’re off work and can concentrate on recovery. And, I’m realizing one of our vehicles is probably in need of major repairs… but ALSO PERFECT TIMING… as we only have 1 driver and no place to go anyway! Now, all of this really hurts when you think about the negative. But, searching for the beauty helps me realize that this is perfect timing for all of this to happen…

I’m more anxious than anyone to get back to ‘normal’ (if that is even possible). I miss my students. I miss my freedoms. But, it’s important to stop dwelling on the parts we’ve lost and realize that , “And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.” (Romans 8:28).

Keep trying to find the good.

Go check out Anne and Cheryl today, on this Beautiful May Day.