Finding God at the Kitchen Sink--a book review

Life has thrown me some curve balls lately, and more than ever I find myself gravitating toward faith-based reads. I hope you don't mind if I speak a bit about one of my new favorites, Finding God at the Kitchen Sink by Maggie Paulus. The back cover note from the author says this:

"I want you to know--

you with your brokenness, your chaotic days, and your one, fleeting life--

I want you to know there is a Maker who isn't far from each one of us.

He very much wants to be found.

So I scribble down my stories for you. 

And I testify to this--that I have seen God-glory.

And now I can't help but live in awe of the Eternal One who has woven

His narrative into my days.

I hope you see Him too.

Isn't that beautiful?

Have you ever had a troubling situation? A rough day when you sometimes feel overwhelmed by it all? Me, too. And I tell ya, this book is like a big warm hug on days like that. My copy is now dog-eared, with little hearts next to my favorite passages. I've read the words of hope and encouragement over and over again.

I usually blog about writing lessons learned, but in this case my main writing lesson is to write from deep within your heart about what moves you.

This book is beautifully written by an author with an open heart and an imperfect life. I'd highly recommend it not only for you, but as a gift for someone you love--especially moms.

Have you ever gone through seasons when you gravitate toward the spiritual? Do you have a favorite book that calms your soul? Please share!

Goodbye, Guilt! #IWSG

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Do you ever feel guilty when you haven't been diligently writing? Me, too.

Besides the mass editing I accomplished during my mini writing retreat, I've barely gotten anything done this summer. I have a bucket full of excuses. I have a lot going on in my life right now, including the fact that my oldest is heading off to college soon.

At first I felt guilty about the lack of writing I've accomplished. But I said goodbye to guilt a while ago.

Writing is no longer the be-all, end-all, write-or-die obsession that it used to be. It's simply another piece of my life. An important one, don't get me wrong, but if it's a choice between writing or spending time with my sons during summer break, my sons will win every time.

School will begin soon, and my writing life will get back on track. Perhaps it'll even help divert my attention as my birdie leaves the nest :(

How about you, fellow writers? Have you been writing this summer? If not, do you feel guilty about it?