Paula's Random Grace Notes | Monthly Musings & Encouragement | March 2024

Saying Goodbye to Winter Blues, Hello Springtime Hope

March is finally here! I don't know about you, but I'm always excited about the warmer weather, brighter days, and budding flowers this month brings. With the spring equinox and the time change ahead, the daylight hours are getting longer each day.

For someone like me who struggles with Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), this is a huge deal. The extra sunshine does wonders to lift my spirits and boost my mood as my SAD tapers off.

2023 was challenging with reading. I want to thank everyone who put up with me while I whined and fussed about being in a reading funk. You guys encouraged me, and I'm so grateful for your support. Special thanks to Linda; I participated in her The Listening Life Book Club in February (all 3 sessions are still open for discussion or comments) (Stop over and give Linda a visit). It helped me break out of the funk and rediscover the joy of reading again!

While I'm glad to see winter's end, I had one recent adventure! My best friend asked me to house and pet sit at her place, and my dog and I were happy to oblige. Knowing your friends trust you with their home and furry loved ones is heartwarming. But let me tell you, it always feels SO good to be back in my own bed!

The transition between winter and spring reminds me that change is always on the horizon, even amidst challenging seasons. The Bible reminds us of the steadfast hope we have in Christ:

"For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." Jeremiah 29:11

As we welcome the newness of spring, let's remember this verse and lean into the hope Christ offers. Whether you've struggled with SAD or something else entirely, don't lose heart – brighter days are indeed ahead! As we leave the heaviness of past seasons behind, may we all be filled with the joy and renewed optimism that springtime brings.

Poem

A Symphony of Spring

The last of winter's slumber fades, 
A whispered promise fills the glades. 
The sun peeks through with brighter 
beam, A hint of warmth, a hopeful gleam.

The earth stirs from its frozen sleep, 
Where budding life begins to creep. 
Crocuses and snowdrops raise their 
heads, Like tiny prayers on winter beds.

The wind still whispers winter's song, 
But softer now, not harsh and strong.
 It carries hints of gentler days, Of 
whispered praise and hopeful ways.

A time of shift, a time of change, As 
seasons turn on nature's range. With
 every thaw, a spirit soars, Hope finds
 its wings and upward pours.

For March reminds of life renewed, 
Of dormant seeds with strength imbued.
 Like Christ who rose, the earth will bloom, 
A testament to conquer gloom.

So let us find in March's embrace, 
The joy of change, the gift of grace. 
In budding trees and skies so bright,
 We see God's hand, a guiding light.

Scripture

Look! The winter has passed, the winter rains are over and gone. Blossoms have appeared in the land, the time for pruning and singing has come; the voice of the turtledove is heard in our land.

Song of Solomon 2:11-12— NET

What I Read In February

Book Review | God Will Use This for Good: Surviving the Mess of Life— By: Max Lucado

Book Review | Ten Words to Live By” by Jen Wilken + 5  Encouraging Quotes

Book Review | Everybody Always— By: Bob Goff + 10 Encouraging Quotes

Book Review | The Listening Life By: Adam S. McHugh

Journaling Prompts For March

1. Did you learn any lessons or gain new perspectives during this past winter?

2. How do you see God's presence in the changes of seasons?

3. Write a poem or short story about the transition from winter to spring.

4. As the days lengthen, what areas of your life are you hoping for growth and renewal?

5. What scripture or message resonates with you as spring approaches?

6. Write a thank-you note to God for something specific you are thankful for.

7. Describe the first signs of spring you notice in your environment.

8. Read a scripture passage about renewal or growth (e.g., Isaiah 43:19). How does it speak to you in the context of spring?

9. Create a list of things you are thankful for, following the "A is for Apple, B is for..." format.

Did You Know?

1. March is National Umbrella Month

2. Did you know there's a basketball court in the US Supreme Court building?(Located on the top floor of the US Supreme Court building, the former storage room was turned into an exercise area for courthouse employees in the 1940s before nets were eventually installed. It is now known as the “highest court in the land.”)

3. Did you know Queen Elizabeth II kept track of when she wore each outfit?

4. Did you know birds require gravity to swallow.

5. Around 8% of the world population has an extra rib.

6. Hummingbirds are the only birds that can fly backward.

Practical Tips

Spring Cleaning Tips for a Fresh Start

1. Gather supplies.

2. Declutter first.

3. Work from top to bottom.

4. Clean room by room

5. Utilize containers and labels.

6. Open windows for fresh air.

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I encourage you to take some time this month to reflect on your own journey. What are you grateful for from the past season? What challenges did you overcome? What seeds of hope and growth are you ready to plant for the future?

May this March be filled with joy, renewal, and the blessings of God's love.

Warmly,

Paula