stop and smell the roses

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This week, I celebrated birthday #39, and it was also my 3 year anniversary of starting this blog.  I feel like I’ve been celebrating for a few weeks now, because my hubby surprised me with my birthday gift a bit early.  We took a trip to the beach a few weeks ago, and the day we arrived, he gave me a big box.  Seeing how excited he was to give it to me made me even more giddy to see what it was! DSC_0442

He bought me a nifty new camera- all decked out with different lenses and filters and a tripod… more stuff than I know what to do with!  And I love that he gave it to me when he knew I’d have the time to learn how to use it.    DSC_0444

One day while we were at the beach, we visited the Elizabethan Gardens.  The weather was gorgeous- just slightly breezy and warm.  With my swanky new camera dangling from my neck, we strolled through the gardens, taking in all the scenery.  DSC_0418

It was definitely a day to remember!  Just the two of us, leisurely strolling along without a care in the world- except to enjoy the beauty around us. DSC_0495

Here he is, trying to sneak away from the camera… holding my camera bag and map in hand…

I was so thankful for all the the Lord has  blessed me with, and for the wonderful husband He has given me to share my life with-  someone I still look forward to going on dates with.  Someone who makes me see things from a different perspective.  Someone who knows me better than I know myself at times, and who always sees the best in me.  DSC_0419

I’m gonna to make it a priority as I begin the countdown to birthday # 40 to

stop and smell the roses–

to appreciate His creation

to spend more time with my family and friends  

and to seek JOY!

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The Lord is my strength and shield.
    I trust him with all my heart.
He helps me, and my heart is filled with joy.  Psalm 28:7

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For the kingdom of God is not a matter of eating and drinking, but of righteousness, peace and joy in the Holy Spirit-  Romans 15:17

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May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit. Romans 15:13

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Posted by

Julie is an ordained elder in the Church of the Nazarene. She has a passion for leading worship, writing songs, preaching, teaching, and thrift store shopping. Julie has two amazing teenage daughters, two dogs ("fur babies"), and one wonderful hubby :)

21 thoughts on “stop and smell the roses”

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