I just spotted that my sweet friend Layla is having a word-of-the-year party, so I thought I would join in.  It actually fits nicely with what I was going to write about today, anyway.  I’ve had a few overwhelming moments this year already…and we’re only nine days in!  It’s all good stuff, but I’m realizing that when too many good things happen all at one time, it can be overwhelming. Last year around this time, I wrote a post challenging you to not be afraid.  To follow God’s leading in your life and to do so with a spirit of courage.  A few days ago, I realized I wasn’t following my own advice.  I was afraid.  Not afraid of failure, but afraid of success.  Afraid of things getting out of control and beyond what I wanted.  Afraid of the expectation, responsibility and criticism that comes with success.  I started this business

Some of you spotted the gorgeous next painting in my master bedroom… It was painted by my very dear friend, former student in our youth ministry, designer of my logo and an amazing artist, Laura Dreyer.   She is now selling original oil nest paintings in her Etsy shop and graciously offered one up for a giveaway.  Here it is… This is a one-of-a-kind original oil painting on a 16 x 20″ canvas with a soft gold frame. It’s gorgeous.  I cannot express how talented Laura is.  She doesn’t have a lot listed in her Etsy shop right now, but she does paint commissioned pieces, so send her an e-mail if you’re interested.  Here are some of her other nest paintings… …and I think this one is my favorite… Stunning. If you’d like to win the nest painting, just leave a comment.  For two additional entries, you can Tweet or share this giveaway on Facebook and

Happy New Year!  I must say, I’m excited about 2012.  2011 was a fantastic year for me full of exciting e-mails and big opportunities and lessons learned and growth and friendships.  I feel like even more exciting things are around the corner, though, and I can’t wait to see how it all unfolds.  It’s exciting and terrifying all at the same time.  I keep clinging to the fact that God has not given us a spirit of fear or timidity, but of power and love and discipline.  I’m purposing to step into this new year and face the opportunities it will bring with courage.   So, what’s on the calendar so far?  The focus of the first few months will be writing and photographing for my book.  Everything’s due in March, so it’s going to be an intense couple of months.  I also have some freelance articles to finish, a magazine photo shoot and another exciting thing