Do you ever feel like your life is at a standstill, while other people seem to be making moves left and right? And though you’re making some serious efforts to move along a goal or a dream, there are so many setbacks and discouragements along the way you wonder if it’s even worth it to keep trying.

I have not been sure how to share what’s been going on in our lives, but I’ve felt a nudge from God to share. I have wanted things to be all tied up in a pretty bow before sharing, but that’s just not life. We all have these unresolved struggles and that is where the rubber really hits the road, and we have to put our faith into practice.

Spring is here, guys! I love Spring. Daylight Savings happens, so the days are longer. The temperatures warm up a little, but not too much. Flowers bloom. Layers of clothing can come off. It’s just lovely.

Late in January I was delighted to see the first daffodils crop up. They always serve as a reminder that even though Spring feels light years away, it is just around the corner. This year they really struck me though

Hi. My name is Melissa and I’m a perfectionist. Well, recovering perfectionist. Over the years I’ve stopped short of some really great things. I desired perfection so badly that I’d rather settle for nothing than settle for good enough. This tendency has bit me in my work, my parenting, my “wifing” and especially in my writing.

Has anyone told you lately that you are beautiful? Recently I was preparing for a Toastmasters speech and I asked God what I should speak on. I felt like He said, “Tell them they are beautiful.” And I feel like He wants to say the same to you.

Are you working towards a big goal in your life at the moment? Maybe it’s a fitness or business goal, or maybe you’re working to improve in some area. Whatever the goal may be, it’s probably safe to say that it’s going to take a lot of time and effort.

A few years ago, Cherry Blossom trees came to my attention two random times in the same day.

I was in the car with my husband and girls trying to remember what the cherry tree I climbed as a child looked like. I googled cherry trees but only came up with pictures of Cherry Blossom trees, which were at least pretty to look at.