Saturday, November 14, 2015

Hold Onto Every Moment



Do you ever take a moment to stop and think about life?  The life that you live, the moments that surround you, or even the life that others live?  Is there ever a time when you really notice nature, or the people that you come into contact with on a daily basis.

Earlier today, I ran to get a cup of coffee at McDonald's.  I didn't have a lot of time, so I decided to go through the drive-thru, and as always, I was pleasantly surprised by the workers that greeted me at each window.  Both women carried smiles, and were ready to serve me to the best of their ability.  Their level of care made me happier, and if I had been looking at my phone or thinking about all I had to do today, I would have missed out on a great blessing. 

This is what I am talking about--do you ever take the time to notice the little things in life?  Because these little things measure up to greater things in one's life.  A stranger's kindness, autumn colored leaves falling from a tree, a dog's bark in the distance, and a beautiful sunset--all of these moments are important.  It is imperative that we never take any of these moments for granted--small as they might seem. 

I don't want to be too solemn here, but with my own life experiences, I know how easily these moments can be taken away and how precious it is to be a part of normal everyday opportunities.  And that is exactly what they are--privileged opportunities.    

Not everyone will get the chance to hear a robin sing or take their dog for a walk.  Not everyone will get to buy a prom dress or walk down the aisle in a beautiful wedding gown.  Not everyone will have the honor of graduating from college in order to pursue an exciting career.  These possibilities seem quite normal, and you might think that everyone experiences these events.  But they don't.

Never take anything for granted and hold onto every moment. 

I say all of this because of various events I have witnessed recently.  Events that have caused me to stop and ponder what is really important in life.  It is not how much money you have or how successful you might be--it is the little things in life that people miss the most.  These are the memories that people want to relive.  In all honesty, no one really cares about the kind of car they drove when they were young.  They care about the best friend they once knew and for whatever reason lost touch with.  They care about different individuals who touched their life, and who helped shape who they are as adults.  In the end, it's all about people. 

So please take some time to notice the little things today.  Tell someone you love them.  And remember to grab hold of each moment in your life--don't let unimportant matters hold your attention anymore.  Focus on family, friends, and the simple pleasures that life brings us each day.  


Saturday, November 7, 2015

Books and Tea


This time of the year reminds me that is time to pull out the Christmas and Thanksgiving stories.  I love reading these types of novels throughout the year, but especially when the weather begins to turn crisp and cold.  Then it is the perfect time to snuggle up with a good book and cup of my favorite tea.

Recently, I ordered the novella collection entitled A Patchwork Christmas, and I am so excited to read this compilation of stories.  

                                                                                            


I always love picking up these types of books throughout the year.  It is great way to read a variety of stories from several different authors.  I will let you know my thoughts about this book later this month.

As far as tea goes, my favorite this last month has been pumpkin tea.  I got a cup of pumpkin tea from Barnes an Noble the other week, and it was from the brand Harney and Sons.  I first tried this tea brand years ago at a local tea shop in loose leaf, but it is nice to know that they do have a tea bag version.  Of course, I had to pick up a box...or tin in this case.  


                                                    
What holiday books do you enjoy reading?  What types of tea have been your favorite this past month?  Please let me know in the comments below.  Have a lovely day! 

                                   


Thursday, October 15, 2015

Exciting News!!!


Hi everyone,

Hope you are having a great day.  I have some wonderful news regarding my writing journey!  I am so excited to announce that I will be writing monthly pieces for the Daily Megaphone website!  My good friend from college, Danielle Thompson, runs this lovely website and has given me the amazing opportunity to write for her site.   

My first post is already up, and you can find links to this blog and my Instagram from the Daily Megaphone as well.  Just go to the contributors page, and you will see my biography posted.

This is such an exciting endeavor for me, and I look forward to writing and posting pieces each month.  You can find a link to the Daily Megaphone on my blog, so please head on over to her website and check it out!

Thanks so much for your support!  

Heather J. Snyder 


Sunday, October 11, 2015

Quote for the Day

"The way to get started is to quit talking and begin doing."

                                          ~Walt Disney~


Saturday, September 19, 2015

Just Be Held



I heard this song on the radio this morning, and I wanted to write about it on my blog.  It's a beautiful song by Casting Crowns called "Just Be Held."  The lyrics remind the listener that no matter what life throws your way, don't worry, because the Lord is holding you.  So, just rest in His loving arms.

I know the times in my life where I have been overwhelmed by what is going on around me, and I want to ask God why.  Why me Lord?  But I love the words in this song--"Your world's not falling apart, it's falling into place."  God knew what was going on in my life even if I didn't understand it, and it's true--my life was falling into place.  My life was being weaved into a beautiful story that only God can create.  A life that I could never fathom, and I can honestly say a better life than I ever imagined.



Hold it all together
Everybody needs you strong
But life hits you out of nowhere
And barely leaves you holding on


And when you're tired of fighting
Chained by your control
There's freedom in surrender
Lay it down and let it go


So when you're on your knees and answers seem so far away
You're not alone, stop holding on and just be held
Your world's not falling apart, it's falling into place
I'm on the throne, stop holding on and just be held
Just be held, just be held


If your eyes are on the storm
You'll wonder if I love you still
But if your eyes are on the cross
You'll know I always have and I always will


And not a tear is wasted
In time, you'll understand
I'm painting beauty with the ashes
Your life is in My hands

So when you're on your knees and answers seem so far away
You're not alone, stop holding on and just be held
Your world's not falling apart, it's falling into place
I'm on the throne, stop holding on and just be held
Just be held, just be held

Lift your hands, lift your eyes
In the storm is where you'll find Me
And where you are, I'll hold your heart
I'll hold your heart
Come to Me, find your rest
In the arms of the God who won't let go

So when you're on your knees and answers seem so far away
You're not alone, stop holding on and just be held
Your world's not falling apart, it's falling into place
I'm on the throne, stop holding on and just be held
Just be held, just be held


Here is the music video clip for this song:  https://youtu.be/tIZitK6_IMQ 


https://s.yimg.com/fz/api/res/1.2/wx0AbDiyDODl.nrNIyb4lQ--/YXBwaWQ9c3JjaGRkO2g9MTAwMDtxPTk1O3c9MTAwMA--/http://fanart.tv/fanart/music/51013eb4-dcd1-4fd2-945c-e5cf1eb85e84/albumcover/casting-crowns-4f287f89867ed.jpg