When change feels hard...

Hi friend,

One of my favorite spots in the morning is in my backyard, facing the sunrise. As the days get shorter, I notice my chance to catch the first light is slipping a few minutes later each day. While I’m not fond of the shortening days, I have to remind myself that God plans all things—who am I to argue with the rhythm of the seasons?

Sitting in this spot, I also get to look at these resilient black-eyed Susans, a gift from a friend. They sat in small containers by my garage for a year and a half before I planted them. Last year they had just a little bloom, but this year the blooms have been abundant. As I look at them today (the photo is from two weeks ago), I can’t help but think that perhaps I missed the right time for deadheading. Sometimes, our timing isn’t perfect, and that’s okay—just like the changing of the seasons, everything has its cycle.

And speaking of changes, I recently faced a rather significant one myself. As you may know, I had surgery on my left foot last week, which has been the most significant change in my life recently. The recovery has been more challenging than I expected. Being restricted to heel weight-bearing ONLY has left me feeling frustrated, but I have come to accept this is where I am for now. I’m learning patience through this process, even when it’s tough.

Normally, I enjoy seeing fall arrive, but for some reason, I just don’t feel ready to say goodbye to summer. I guess I was looking forward to the last fleeting days of summer. Maybe we’ll get another burst of really warm weather before fall really sets in. What changes are you noticing as we approach the end of summer? Kids are back to school and college, so that signals a little breather for moms with kids at home. I think we could all use one last burst of summer energy before the season shifts.

Changes can be good, though. I’ve already noticed a deep sense of gratitude for simple things I’ve been taking for granted, like a walk down the road or preparing my own meals. Why is it that we always want what we can’t have? Just last week, I couldn’t have cared less whether I made my own meal or not. But now, having time to sit very still and reflect, I see the joy in those everyday moments.

If you are struggling with change, remember that you are not alone. Whether it’s a health issue, life transition, or unexpected shift in routine, many of us are facing similar seasons. Most importantly, the Lord, Our Comforter, is always with us, guiding and loving us through it all. “The Lord, your God, goes before you. He will be with you; he will not leave you or forsake you. Do not fear or be dismayed.” —Deuteronomy 31:8 (ESV) Let this reminder be a source of comfort as you navigate the changes in your life.

As always, you can find your monthly prayer guide below, designed to help you to pray different scriptures each month. My prayer is that it brings consistency and joy to your prayer life.

September Prayer Guide here

If your current routine seems off or unexpected changes have taken you by surprise, meditate on His character of Comfort. 

For as we share abundantly in Christ's sufferings, so through Christ we share abundantly in comfort too.     2 Corinthians 1:5 (ESV)

Book Progress 📚

I’m eagerly awaiting the final version of my book cover from the publisher—such an exciting step! In the meantime, my outline has been officially approved, and I’m now working on both my sample chapter and moving forward with the full manuscript.

Thanks to the detailed outline work I did with my writing coach, I feel confident about tackling each chapter. Even as I sit in my recliner recovering (and wishing I could be more active), I’m finding these to be fruitful days for writing. Of course, my human nature wants to push beyond what I’m able to do right now, but this season is reminding me to rest and trust the process.

Upcoming Journaling Class ✍️

If journaling is part of your quiet time (or if you’d like it to be), our church, Mt. Pleasant Methodist, will be offering a journaling class one Sunday afternoon this fall. I’ll share the exact date soon, but I’d love for you to consider joining us.

We’ll be learning the Seeing Jesus Together journaling method. While the specific journal isn’t required, it can be a helpful tool if you’d like to use it. Stay tuned—I’ll keep you updated!

A Note of Thanks 💛

Thank you to so many of you who have checked in on me and Flint. We’re doing well most days, but your kindness and support mean more than you know—especially with the little things we can’t do right now.

It’s amazing to realize how much you do in a day—until you can’t do it anymore. So my encouragement to you is this: make the most of every moment, and if you’re able, keep your body moving. We only get one, and it’s a gift worth caring for.

Books I’m Reading 📚

Did you know? It has been proven that reading for only SIX minutes a day will reduce your stress by 68%. I definitely work on my stress reduction every single day by reading.

Here are a few books on the table by the recliner right now—each one offering encouragement or perspective in its own way:

1) The God You Need to Know — Margaret Feinberg. A beautiful reminder of who God is and how He reveals Himself through the Holy Spirit.

2) Resilient — John Eldredge. A timely guide to finding spiritual strength and renewal in seasons of challenge.

3) Unbroken — Laura Hillenbrand. The inspiring true story of resilience, survival, and redemption.

4) Broken Country — Clare Leslie Hall. A powerful exploration of faith, brokenness, and healing.

Maybe one of these will encourage you too! 

Much love,

Bonnie