by Cathy Baker | Faith |
Resolutions tend to revolve around my desire to improve certain areas of my life, resolving to do this or that better…or at all.
I’m actually quite successful in fulfilling my resolutions — that is, until around noon January 1st, when my bubble inflated with good intentions bursts, thanks to a prick of reality.
In 2012, scripture verses will be the focus rather than resolutions—particular verses for life, writing (see below), and struggles. The verses will change throughout the year, but I prefer a fistful of verses fueled by the Spirit than a dozen “I will’s” of my own.
- Seek first His kingdom. Mt. 6:33 My “job” is to focus heavenward, releasing all the details to God. He has those covered.
- The Lord directs the steps of the godly. He delights in every detail of their lives. Psalm 37:23 Every detail? Live in awe of this most remarkable truth.
- He brought me out into a spacious place; he rescued me because he delighted in me. Psalm 18:19 Stop limiting God. Too often I settle for cramped quarters.
- Never be lazy, but work hard and serve the Lord enthusiastically. Romans 12:11 If I want God to bless my work, I must first do the work. Stop hoping and start typing.
How about you?
-photo courtesy of Ligonier Ministries
by Cathy Baker | Faith |
The view was spectacular, the home historical, but it was Carl Sandburg’s corner office upstairs that captured this writer’s heart. I pictured him at work in the wee hours of the morning, wielding his wordsmith weaponry on a black typewriter that sat atop an apple crate turned sideways.
The details of his work space both inspired and intrigued me. What writing utensil did he reach for first? How did he organize the slew of paper filling the slots that surrounded his worn wooden desk? What rituals did he practice, if any, before his fingertips began tapping the keys?
We can learn much from studying the surroundings of those who are successful and it’s for this reason I snatch up every issue of Where Women Create…Inspiring Work Spaces of Extraordinary Women.
The Nov/Dec/Jan 2012 issue is no exception. If viewing organized, creative, and successful work spaces inspire you, be sure to pick up your copy at Barnes & Noble.
Photo courtesy of fatquartershop.com
by Cathy Baker | Faith |
A daily planner is a necessity. Think they’re the same? Think again!
Ann Voskamp is offering a FREE downloadable daily planner she calls The Day’s Draft. It’s not your ordinary planner with space to list your “to-do’s”. You’ll have to see it to believe it. Click on the link and scroll down to read her comments on how to use it. Did I mention it’s FREE?
Ann summed it up nicely: If it matters, you make the time. If it doesn’t, you make excuses.
by Cathy Baker | Faith |
If you want to be a writer, you must do two things above all others: read a lot and write a lot. -Stephen King, On Writing
So, how does one strike a balance betwixt the two?
I don’t pretend to know, but I have decided to take a pro-active approach in 2012 by devising a reading/writing plan.
Goals:
- Read at least one book a week, rotating reference types with various genres
- Write at least one hour a day
- Maximize pockets of time in between appointments and exercising to read through writer’s magazine subscriptions
- Keep mini-moleskins handy for serendipitous moments
How do you find time to incorporate both reading and writing into your schedule?
by Cathy Baker | Faith |
Thanks to my talented hubby, a special card is ours to share.
(Click image to enlarge)
