In a perfect world there would be no trouble. Even more, people who love God would never see a day of distress. But that’s not the reality of our fallen, imperfect world. We will all face hard seasons of life. As someone who has survived many hard seasons, struggled with anxiety and depression and fought to hold on to Truth and faith through it all–I’m sharing six things that help me move forward in the midst of a trial.
“I have told you all this so that you may have peace in me [Jesus]. Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have overcome the world.”
John 16:33
I didn’t mean to make this a multi-part series. However, God laid so much on my heart I thought it best to break it up. This is Part II of a three part series. You can see the introduction and further details in Part Ihere.
Progress Looks Different During a Hard Season of Life
When circumstances change and life presents something difficult (or downright painful) your days will look different. In a hard season of life you’ll need to loosen your grip on whatever you consider “normal.” Not all hardships require defining a new normal, but you need to be flexible. Being too closely tethered to an ideal of “normal” will only cause anxiety and added stress. Believe me, I’ve been there.
Progress needs a different definition when walking through trials. I’ve found it freeing to admit when I’m in the midst of trial, then accept that progress will be taking a different form for a while.
During a hard season of life, progress might just be getting through the day with all basic needs met. That doesn’t mean you are completely stalled or moving backwards. Every day is one closer to the end of the season. Every day hard fought is progress toward the end of the tunnel.
The point is, let go of your ideal of “progress” for a while. Perseverance, the ability to endure, and the ability to creatively problem solve during a trial is progress. Life experience is never wasted, especially when we entrust it to God.
Extend Grace
Grace is key to any Christian’s walk and worldview. (Romans 3:24) We cannot possibly begin to grasp God’s love for us, until we begin to understand His grace. God’s grace induces the miracle of our sins being completely covered. (Ephesians 2:8-9) His grace bridges the gap of death through Jesus’ sacrifice and allows us to be right before Him.
Grace is everything. When we have even a little understanding of what God’s grace has done for us–and how undeserving we are of its gift–we are convicted to extend grace outwardly beyond ourselves.
But often the hardest person to extend grace toward is oneself.
I cannot say this loudly enough. During a trial, you must extend grace toward yourself in order to move forward. Remember the grace God has given you. He isn’t expecting you to be perfect, He doesn’t want your works. God wants your heart. That’s something you can give, even when everything else seems to have stalled. If God is okay extending you grace, you can follow His lead and extend some to yourself.
Grace will allow you to redefine progress (see #1). Grace will be a net that catches you before you fall into an abyss of depression, anxiety and self-loathing. To survive a difficult season in life, grace is your biggest ally.
Ask For Help and Be Specific
Share each other’s burdens, and in this way obey the law of Christ.
I’ve learned this one over and over. Hard seasons of life are even harder when you face them alone. Trials often leave us feeling isolated and lonely. Satan clouds our mind with the lie that “no one wants to hear about our trouble,” or “we should deal with this on our own.” (More on overcoming lies here and here.)
That’s not the way the Church works. God has called us to work together and support one another. Would you be happy to help a friend facing difficult season? Chances are they’d be happy to help you too.
But here’s the catch. No one can read minds.
Do some brainstorming. Think of concrete things that could help you during this season. Besides magically turning everything back to “the way it was,” what would ease your load? (Both mentally and physically.)
Then reach out and ask for help.
My parents and friends were invaluable to me during this latest trial. (See Part I for details.) After days spent miserable, lonely and literally sick with first trimester nausea I made a list of ways others could help. Then I humbled myself and started asking for help. Here are a couple things that I asked others to do:
When my parents came to visit I asked them to meal plan and cook for us–because even the thought of food could make me gag.
Friends babysat while I went to doctor appointments and got groceries.
I identified the loneliest, hardest times of day and asked friends to join Gideon and me for afternoon walks in the park.
What tangible helps would ease your burden?
You Can Get Through a Hard Season of Life.
Now may the God of peace—who brought up from the dead our Lord Jesus, the great Shepherd of the sheep, and ratified an eternal covenant with his blood—may he equip you with all you need for doing his will. May he produce in you, through the power of Jesus Christ, every good thing that is pleasing to him. All glory to him forever and ever! Amen.
You can do this. Hard seasons of life will continue to arise, but you can continue to move forward. And Jesus will hold your hand and equip you every step of the way. Remember, in the narrative of our lives, God is not the enemy. He is the hero, the redeemer, the one who brings good from the villain’s craftiest, most wicked schemes. Cling to that truth and remember seasons don’t last forever. (We’ll talk more about that in Part III.)
What helps you move forward? I’d love to hear from you. Comment here or join me on Instagram or Facebook to be part of a community seeking to live life with intentionality and through a Christ-centered lens.
Minot Monday is made possible through a partnership with BeLOCAL Minot. BeLOCAL is a guide to living like a local and thriving in Minot. Tick season runs from April 1-July 1 and today I’m talking all about North Dakota ticks and how to remove ticks. Don’t let ticks stop you from enjoying the season. For ideas on parks check this out–for day/weekend trips look here.
Summers Here Are {almost} Perfect
I always tell folks moving to Minot that the “summer is always worth the wait.” It’s true. There is nothing better than a North Dakota summer. Days are long. Daylight hours are extensive. Although the locals complain about the “humidity” those of us from basically any other state will hardly detect moisture in the air. Crops stretch out across the fields as far as the eye can see. Parks, lakes, community, events and long days spent outdoors make this coming season sublime.
However, nothing is perfect. There are a couple drawbacks to living in a place with such a great summer. Namely ticks and mosquitoes. We’ll chat about mosquitoes a little later. Today we are going to talk ticks.
I’ve talked with lots newcomers who are (unpleasantly) surprised by ticks upon relocating to Minot. While it is amazing that anything living outdoors can survive the winter, ticks come back every year with persistence.
There have been years that I’ve lived in Minot and not had to pick off a single tick. Other years, I’ve picked off more than my fair share. Either way, it’s best to be prepared. As the catchy opening songs to one of my favorite 80’s sitcoms says, “You take the good, you take the bad, you take them both and then you have the facts of life.”
Realistic Precautions
I’ve got a lot of information in this post. The point is not to scare you into wearing tall socks over long pants and baseball caps all summer. Rather, This is information to help those new to the area–or new to an area with lots of ticks.
If you’ll be deep in the forest, by all means, take the upmost precautions. If you’ll be walking through tall grass or spending a day at the lake, just be sensible. Use common sense and appropriate preventative measures. In my experience, most ticks can be prevented with bug spray, socks, closed toe shoes and a quick tick-check before getting the car to head home.
Where Are Ticks in North Dakota?
True, North Dakota isn’t lush with forests. Traditional hiking trails may not be abundant…but we do have ticks. And they are plentiful this time of year.
Ticks love wooded and grassy areas. As with most creepy things, they like the dark and are less likely to be found in bright, sunny spots. In North Dakota, they are notorious for living along lakes–a North Dakotans favorite summer pastime. They are also common on trails (even those in town) and in taller grass near fields (I used to always pick up ticks when I did photography in the countryside).
Ticks favor taller grass, so lawns are usually safe, but the edges of a property may make a good habitat for them.
Prevention First
The best way to avoid needing to pick off (or out) a tick is preventing them from crawling on you in the first place. Ticks are notorious for living in grassy areas along our trails, lakes and fields. If you are going to be spending time outside be sure to use bug spray. Spray your feet, ankles and legs well, as this is a prime zone for a tick to climb on.
If you know you’ll be trudging through tall grass wear long pants and closed shoes. A hat will protect your head and hair. And speaking of hair–if yours is long braid it or put it up if you know you’ll be in a place that may have ticks.
At outdoor events (like fireworks displays, airshows, movies/music in the park, etc) remember to bring a chair or blanket to sit on.
And don’t forget about your dog! Some of the most horrific tick stories I’ve encountered have had to do with picking ticks off the pup. Be sure to use bug spray on your dog if he’ll be joining you at the lake or on the trail. And treat any pet that goes outside with medication to prevent fleas and ticks, like Frontline. (Ask your vet for specific recommendations for your pet.)
Checking For Ticks
Before we talk about how to remove ticks, let’s talk checking. If you’ve been outside in a place you suspect ticks may be lurking, it’s important to check yourself, pets and children.
Give everyone a once over before getting in the car. Run hands over your clothing and use a mirror (or check each other) to be sure no ticks are clinging to your back or places you can’t see. Run your hands over your dog to feel for bumps. The sooner you can remove a tick the better!
Once you’re home examine your body (and kids’ and pets’ bodies) closely. Use a full length mirror and be sure to check your hair, joints
If prevention doesn’t work, chances are you’ll need to remove a tick this spring or summer. This really gives me the heebie jeebies, even just writing about it. But it’s better to know now than panic later. Actually, it’s best not to panic at all. The keys to tick removal are getting the whole tick out (not leaving the head under the skin) and getting it out as soon as possible.
The “Right” Removal Method
The CDC recommends using fine tipped tweezers to remove a tick. Read details of getting a tick out with tweezers here. Experts agree that this is the best and safest method for removing ticks.
The Right Tweezers
Regular household tweezers will likely get a tick out just fine. But sometimes ticks can be tiny! To be fully prepared, pick up a pair of fine tipped tweezers. The fine points can get closer to the skin and make removal cleaner, less likely to leave the head embedded. Keep a pair in your car or bag, just in case.
Other Methods
It seems like everyone has their own “trick” for getting a tick out. However experts warn against using many of these methods. Dish soap, nail polish, matches and petroleum jelly are all involved in alternative removal methods. You can try them at your own risk, but know that removing a tick with good tweezers is tried, true and safe. (Even if it is nausea-inducing to think about.)
How to Remove Ticks from a Pet
Removing ticks from pets is similar to removing them from a human. Again, use tweezers and get as close to the skin as possible. Remember to check your pet thoroughly (including sneaky places like paws, eyelids, and in the ears). For reference, here is an article about removing ticks from pets.
Enjoy the Season and Be Safe
The point of this is not to cause you to live in fear. Just be aware and take appropriate (but not over the top) precautions. If you pick up a tick this spring/summer it’s not the end of the world. It’s just one of those things that make you North Dakota tough, like the locals.
Hey all–and Happy May Day! Mother’s Day is almost here–and if you are like me, you haven’t given your husband ideas yet…or gotten you own mom’s gift purchased and in the mail just yet. Don’t worry. I’ve got 30+ meaningful Mother’s Day gift ideas for you. There’s something here for every mama–or at least hopefully this will inspire a great gift this year.
Mom Swag
This is my favorite category of Mother’s Day gifts. In my heart, Mother’s Day is a holiday for me to celebrate the gift of being a mom. It’s the perfect time for me to get showered with clothes and accessories that declare to the world I. Am. A. Mom. (And I don’t care who knows.)
Simple, modern jewelry makes great mom swag. I love this bar necklace fromToozy Studio. See other ideas here.
Mom shirts are my favorite. I love this one from Top Tee Shirts, but there are lots more here.
Anyone could buy a coffee cup, but a “mom” water bottle? Now you’re getting creative. I love this one from Sweet Water Decor.
Family Fun
Sometimes the most meaningful Mother’s Day gifts are things that allow the whole family to be together. Or…create easy fun for the kiddos so Mom can have a cup of (hot) coffee.
Arrange for new family photos to be taken. This is something mom usually arranges, and is often like pulling teeth. Coordinating with a photographer and willingness is a great gift for any mom, grandma, or mother-in-law.
Get photos printed! Turn them into a book, canvas, or just get a few framed. Tangible photos are such a treat, and often something that’s pushed to the back of the to-do list.
A game the whole family can enjoy is a meaningful gift. Check out my list of 25 great games for ideas.
Easy, low-work fun for the family is a great gift for a busy mom with littles. Consider getting her season passes to the local zoo, a botanical garden or pool. All ways for her to turn a cranky-kid-day into a great afternoon.
Buy her something that will let her enjoy a favorite activity with the kids in tow. A kids’ bike seat, a hiking back pack, or baking kit (see this post for a few places offering it locally) are just a few ideas. (I love having a kids bike seat for Gideon on my bike. It’s one of our favorite ways to spend time together!)
Around the House
These gift ideas will make life around the house a little easier. Maybe even a little more fun.
A tripod to hold the phone is a great gift–so mom can also be in the photos. Bonus gift–no complaining when she wants to take a photo.
Give her the gift of quick dinners with an Instapot.
If she’s a coffee drinker who loves to go out, get her a fancy coffee maker for the kitchen. (A little spendy, but it’ll eventually pay for itself.) If the maker is out of the budget, get her some nice coffee making syrups and supplies.
Meal help. A meal services is a great choice, but an equally great gift is putting the time and effort into preparing some meals yourself. Here are 10 easy freezer marinades from Taming Twins. Having these ready to go in the freezer would be a real treat!
Homemade
The most meaningful Mother’s Day gifts are often homemade. This is especially true because often Mom is the one coming up with the project and helping the littles carry it out. To have someone else do the prep so she can be surprised by a handcrafted gift is truly special. Here five of my favorite ideas for homemade gifts.
I love the look of custom silhouettes. There are lots of tutorials. Here is one for cutting your silhouette (as pictured above from Design Dazzle), here is one for making a silhouette in PhotoShop.
Add a homemade twist to a potted plant. This is a terra cotta pot I spray painted white, scribbled on with sharpies and spritzed with rubbing alcohol. To finish I sprayed it with a clear, protective coating. Easy and the kids can do the scribbling!
Turn a piece of your child’s art into something wall-worthy by adding a quote on top. You could do this with any abstract piece, but It’s Always Autumn has a really good tutorial for this water color background–and free printable quotes to boot!
Create a fun, succulent garden or planted container. Pocket Full of Posies (in Minot) offers kids kits (pictured), here are terrarium kits on Etsy. Or just go to your local greenhouse and create a pretty container of your own.
Experiences
Some of my favorite gifts have been experiences. Experience gifts can be shared with the whole family, or something just for Mom. Either way, an experience is the gift of breaking out of routine, and having someone else do the prep work–things all moms appreciate.
Tickets to a live event (if events are open and happening this summer.) Think summer theater, a concert, play, or even museum exhibit. This can be for grown ups only, or the whole family.
Sign her up (or investigate) for a class she’d like to take. Derek surprised me with a wheel-thrown pottery class for my birthday and it was great! I learned, had some time to myself and got to let out some creativity.
Get her a DIY kit so she can make something with all supplies and instructions at the ready. Kits are great because she can do them when she has time, right at home. See this post for some offered locally in Minot.
Get her a gym membership or a punch card at a local fitness/yoga studio. Just be sure you aren’t implying she needs to work out.
Pay next year’s dues for a local moms’ group like MOPS. This gift keeps on giving as its a gift of community, activity and fun all rolled into one.
Self Care
Self care gifts always seem to come to mind for Mother’s Day. Is it because we moms always look so worn out? Self care gifts are always great, but instead of picking up (another) bottle of lotion, get inspired by these ideas instead.
Get her some really nice hair-care products. This texture spray from Navy Hair Care is universally great, but you can also ask her stylist for specific tips.
New, nice make up is always a treat. Get her a gift card to a business like Beauty Counter, so she can pick her own, or ask a friend to help you.
Instead of a single bouquet, get her a monthly bouquet. Check your local florist or grocer for availability.
Treat her to a nice pair of shoes this summer to spare her hard working feet from $1 flip flops. I love my Naots, but check with your locally owned shoe shop for more ideas.
The best thing she can do for self care is take time to be alone with God. Look into a new book or Bible for her. I love my Cultural Study Bible and also Praying God’s Word.
Coming Up With Your Own Meaningful Mother’s Day Gifts
If nothing on this list seems just right for the mom on your list here are some things to consider. Hopefully this mini-list will inspire something perfect for the mama you love so much.
What part of her day is most difficult? What would make it easier?
What part of her day is most enjoyable? What would enhance it?
What household tasks does she dislike most? What would ease the burden?
Are there things she’d like to do, but keep getting pushed to the back?
What are her giftings, how can you support her in those?
What does she love to do that’s hard with littles in tow?
Has she complained about something recently? What would resolve the complaint?
What does she like to do that you like to avoid?
Moms often do all of the planning and arranging. What could you plan or arrange for her? (It doesn’t need to be extravagant to be meaningful.)
Happiest giving, friends. Remember, the most important part of meaningful Mother’s Day gifts is to let her know she is seen, loved and appreciated. If your gift does that, you’re doing great.
Today I’m excited to announce a new “mini” series. We all feel stuck sometimes–especially during a difficult season in life. I’ll be sharing six lessons that have helped me move forward and become “unstuck” during a trial.Read Part II hereand Part III here.
Be serious! Be alert! Your adversary the Devil is prowling around like a roaring lion, looking for anyone he can devour. Resist him and be firm in the faith, knowing that the same sufferings are being experienced by your fellow believers throughout the world.
Now the God of all grace, who called you to His eternal glory in Christ Jesus, will personallyrestore, establish, strengthen, and support you after you have suffered a little.
The book of 1 Peter was written during a dark time in history. In the Roman Empire, Nero was brutally persecuting Christians. It’s safe to say that all Jesus followers were facing a difficult season in life at the time. For that reason, I find 1 Peter to be one of the best reads when facing a trial.
This passage, from the conclusion of his letter is so clearly instructive for anyone feeling stuck in hardship or a difficult season in life:
Be alert. Don’t fall prey to the enemy. You aren’t alone. God will personally see you through. He will bring good. This will end.
Honestly, is that not the best advice when walking through a difficult season?!
My Most Recent (mini) Difficult Season
Yesterday I dropped the “official” news that we are expecting a second little at the end of October. I’ve only been pregnant once before, so in no way can I claim to be an “expert.” I can only tell you that this time around has been very different and very difficult.
Unlike my first pregnancy, which had terrible–but acute–nausea, this time I felt puky around the clock. With no reprieve. It lasted all day. And all night. Movement made it worse, snacking made it better–but the idea of food, or looking at food left me gagging. I spent days calculating the minutes until I had to face food to prepare another meal or snack. Dreading the basic responsibility of feeding myself and Gideon.
The house was still mid-renovation, so there was the added responsibility of getting that back in shape. Then the pandemic hit and all of my “regular,” distracting activities stopped–leaving me lonely and alone with only nausea, high emotions, unfinished projects and a toddler for company. On top of it all, Derek was gone and unlike other deployments, I had no idea when he’d be back. I was miserable. Day after day I was frustrated, sick and had no idea when any of it would end.
We Will All Face a Difficult Season in Life
I’m not fishing for sympathy. I just need to spell out that the past few months have been hard. And, in many ways, unpleasant. I felt excited and so grateful about adding a second child to our family. However, it is difficult to live in pregnant bliss with a deployed husband, sick stomach, house in remodel shambles and social distancing restrictions in place. Today I’m not writing about pregnancy woes. Rather, I’m writing about feeling stuck and stalled during any difficult season in life.
The truth is, we’ll all need to survive a difficult season in life at some point. In difficult times, it is hard to move forward, stay faithful, persevere or just show up for the day ahead. No matter what is causing your hard season, take heart. You can get through it and Jesus will walk beside you every step of the way. He’ll even bring good from it, if you let Him.
I’ll Be Sharing Five Lessons That Help Me Move Forward During A Trial
Over the next week I’ll be sharing six things that have helped me move forward during a trial–this particular trial and those that came before…and the ones yet to come. I hope you’ll find some hope in my lessons learned. If you are walking through a difficult season in life right now, I hope you’ll come back.
Take Heart
Until then know that the One who create everything from nothing can create something lovely from whatever ugly situation is staring you in the face. The God who redeemed us from death can surely redeem your trial. He can transform it into a testimony worth shouting from the roof. He can even do it with your joy intact. You aren’t alone. It will be okay again.
Hang out with me on Instagram or Facebook. It’s where I share more encouragement and antics from this wild ride I’m on with God. He is so so good.
Minot Monday is made possible through a partnership with BeLOCAL Minot. In today’s post I’m sharing 10 Ways you can support small businesses during quarantine. BeLocal has great listings of local businesses and is an awesome guide to living like a local. Check it out!
Happy Minot Monday, friends. It seems like everything has been turned upside down since a global pandemic was declared in March. Even now as states consider “reopening” many communities (including ours) have a long road back to “normalcy.”
In Minot, we are lucky to have an amazing network of creative, innovative, small business in our town. Shopping local is easy here, because there are so many fun places and nice people to support. I love the small businesses that make life in Minot so sweet. Even in “normal” times I encourage others to support them. But now, in the face of shut downs and reduced business, it’s more important that ever to intentionally shop small and support local shops.
How You Can Support Small Businesses During Quarantine
Here are 10 ways you can support small businesses during quarantine. Please note: Minot has too many great small businesses to list all in one post. Check out BeLOCAL for additional listings to explore. And know that I’m not trying to play favorites…I just want to get some ideas in your head and small business shopping on your mind. Also, please observe the most recent Covid-19 precautions (North Dakota’s are here) and continue to practice social distancing and good hygiene to prevent the spread of the virus.
Order Take Out
Minot is full of great restaurants. Nearly all of them are offering takeout, delivery, curbside pick up or call-ahead ordering. When you find yourself in a cooking-at-home rut, treat yourself to dinner “out.” As a special treat some restaurants are offering extra hours (Charlies–usually only open through lunch–has added dinner hours!)
Don’t limit yourself to only thinking of fast food or casual dining. Explore finer dining options too. For example, Elevation(one of my personal favorite eateries) is offering a limited menu, updated twice each week for curbside pick up. Their website is linked above, but they also post announcements on their Facebook page.
Take Home Projects
It’s a bummer not to be able to craft at your favorite DIY-centric shop. It’s also a bummer to be stuck at home (an especially big bummer for kiddos.) What if I told you you could still enjoy some of your favorite crafty classes and break out of the at-home blues? (For more on Minot’s craft classes and DIY shops see this big list!)
Cool, right?
Some of our most creative shops are offering take home projects or instruction! This is the perfect way to support local and unleash your own creativity. A few fun examples:
The Foundry–take and bake projects and take-home crafts
Fiber Basket–Virtual knit/crochet nights and sharing free patterns
Get Coffee (or smoothies) & Take a Walk
Minot’s caffeine scene is flourishing and our coffee shops are still open and serving. As the weather turns, this is a great time to grab a coffee, tea or smoothie and take a long walk.
Make a Shopping List or Take Advantage of Curbside Pick Up
I think we can all agree this is not a time for loitering or browsing. (Which is unfortunate…because I really miss aimless wandering in shops just to get out of the house and look at pretty things.) However, many of our small businesses are open for business with limited hours or curbside pick up.
Instead of going to a big box store for everything on your list, explore small local options instead. Chances are you’ll find someone open who can tick an item off your list.
Gourmet Chef–hours and curbside pick up, also doing weekly “garage sales” which seem so fun
Shop Online
Shopping online is a great way to support small businesses during quarantine. Even if a shop has closed its doors for the time being, most of our small retail shops are offering online shopping. The Market On 4th has their wares and plant sales online, and also hosts live shopping events on Facebook. We have small businesses in town that offer everything from shoes and clothes to interior items and art supplies. Before you order from a big chain online, look local first!
Recreate Date Night at Home
It’s hard not to be able to go out for date night, but with a little creativity, you can have a great date night at home. My favorite idea is dinner and a movie. Order something delightful in (see above), get a movie (rent from Video Magic–they are offering curbside pick up), pick up movie concessions from Oak Park Theater (open for popcorn and candy from 3-7pm)
Buy Gift Cards
It might be hard to imagine right now, but this season will come to an end. Show support for business and organizations (even those that can’t operate right now) by buying gift cards next time you need a gift.
A gift card to the theater (or summer theater), movies, symphony, or a retail shop is a great way to keep local businesses afloat and be a great giver.
Interact on Social Media
Interact with your favorite businesses on social media during social distancing. Like their pages, share their content, comment on posts, enter giveaways (lots of these are happening and they are SO COOL!) This type of encouragement is invaluable to small businesses. Let them know you’re rooting for them, miss them, and that they haven’t been forgotten.
Support Small Businesses Online
In addition to getting social on social media, use this time to give your favorite small businesses a positive review. If you’ve had a great interaction (during quarantine or before) leave a review on Facebook or Google. These first hand accounts from customers go a long way to support small businesses during quarantine.
If You See Something Cool, Share It!
When you come across something cool, creative or innovative one of our small businesses is doing tell your friends! Let everyone know about your great experience or how much your kids loved your take-home project. When you enter a giveaway, share it on your page too. And remember to say “Thank you” to those staffing our small shops to keep our town lively and unique even during this difficult season.
I’ve talked a lot about progress at Acorn House on Instagram. However, I haven’t posted any progress here on the blog. If you follow on Instagram or Facebook (which you totally should so we can be friends) you’ve seen images of progress and lots and lots of story clips about what’s been going on. Today I’m sharing the first piece of the remodel I completed: our linen closet. It might sound lame, but I think I can sell you on the idea. Read on for my easy, real-life, linen closet organization ideas.
When I moved into Acorn House Derek was away for months on work. I was tasked with settling into a major project house with an 18 month in tow. The house had been vacant for several years. Before that, it had been flooded and haphazardly repaired. Before that, the second floor had been converted to an apartment–virtually untouched since the 1960s.
I found myself in a tricky and overwhelming situation. Our personal belongings (read: all our worldly possessions and furniture and comforts of home) were still at our previous home in South Dakota. I had moved a load of “essentials” up to North Dakota. A list that included a dining table, beds, the couch, linens, meager kitchen supplies and a TV.
Overwhelming Disorganization
As I looked around my heart sank. I had a growing knot in my stomach. Here I was alone, with a dirty house in complete disrepair. It seemed like a good idea when we bought it, but the reality was completely overwhelming. Nearly every inch of the house needed some kind of attention. Whether a complete overhaul, or just basic repair–no matter where my eyes settled I saw work to be done.
The biggest, most pressing struggle for me at first was the house’s tremendous lack of storage space. There is one small linen closet on the main floor. When I moved in, it the space was nearly unusable. For me, disorganization makes an overwhelming situation much worse.
My parents came to help me get settled. While in town, my dad and I put together a simple, but oh-so-effective linen closet. It’s hard for me to describe the impact this very quick project has had on me.
Having a place that could supply me with clean towels, fresh sheets and easy-to-find first aid supplies was a true gift. On my dirtiest, messiest days I could open the door and glimpse something pretty and finished. As bigger project started (and mishaps occurred) I found solace being able to look into my single, organized space.
The Linen Closet Points Me to Jesus, Seriously.
I tend to see everything as an anecdote of spiritual matters. So let’s go on a quick tangent. My small, peaceful closet bring the old hymn Turn Your Eyes Upon Jesus to mind.
Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith.
Heb 12:1-2a
See, in the midst of the chaos, overwhelming tasks and unforeseen obstacles–I can still come back to this one, completed space. Opening the door and breathing in the smell of clean linens and essential oils calms me and reminds me to be positive and intentional. Progress is being made. Projects will get done. We prayed over the decision to buy this house and God led us through the front door.
In the same way, no matter what is happening around us, God has given us the strength we need to persevere in the race set before us. We can fix our eyes on Christ and be refocused on what matters. The chaos, overwhelming tasks, obstacles and unhappiness all grow dim in light of His grace.
Easy, Realistic Linen Closet Organization Ideas
My linen closet isn’t going to go viral on Pinterest. For how much I love it, you’d think it might be prettier. Honestly, in person–it is prettier than in photographs. But it still won’t compare to the perfectly staged types you’ll see online or in home magazines. My closet might not be cover-photo-worthy–but it’s easy, realistic to maintain and doable for everyone.
I love this space because it is finished, polished and perfectly utilitarian. It houses lots of items and I know where each and every one lives. My closet is small, but I believe use of space is much more important than square footage.
Here are my seven best tips for creating a linen closet you love.
1. Eliminate
First, only organize the things you actually need and use. Eliminate unneeded and unnecessary items. How many towels do you really use? Washcloths? Bottles of lotion? Sheet sets?
Toss, donate, recycle or upcycle items that you are hanging on to but never use. Keep things you use and need. You’ll be surprised at the facelift this simple step will give your space.
2. Find a Fold That Fits Your Space
Next, it’s time to make sure the items you are keeping fit in your space. Find the folding style that best fits your space. In our previous Minot house I had a very deep, but very small linen closet. Rolling towels instead of folding them was best for that space.
In most of my other linen closets, this fold style has been best–it only takes a couple seconds. Here are other options for finding your best fold.
3. Fold Sheet Sets Together
This is a game changer. Learn to fold sheets well and fold entire sets together. You’ll never be looking for misplaced pillowcases again. Better yet, you’ll never have a pile of wadded up fitted sheets clogging up your closet.
This video from Marie Kondo shows my preferred method for storing sheet sets. But Martha also has great ideas here.
4. Create a Simple Storage Plan
Originally, in my closet there was only one shelf positioned too high to easily access sheets and towels. My dad and I installed a simple shelving unit to solve the problem. My solution uses hang rails and wire shelves. Be sure to secure shelves to studs to be sure they can hold enough weight.
No matter what solution you come up with, plan it out so you’ll be able to reach the things you need. If your space is deep, consider installing drawers to prevent items from being lost in the back of the closet. If it’s shallow, shelves will be your best friend.
5. Use a Storage Tower
There is almost always space for a storage tower. It doesn’t need to be huge, but it will help you. This is the best way I’ve found to keep medications and first aid supplies organized.
6. Make Things Look Neat With Storage Bins
Keep like items together in bins. Usually, these are things that are small and get lost, or aren’t often needed. In my closet, I use bins to organize lotion/hair products, first aid supplies, wash cloths, travel toiletries, essential oils and nail polish.
Within some of the bins, I use zippered pouches to store subcategories of items. I hold travel toiletries, guest toiletries and essential oils in the yellow striped bin, but each is in it’s own pouch to keep things neat. I hate sifting through lots of loose items to find a particular thing.
Putting items together keeps them at hand when you need them, but decreases visual clutter.
7. Pretty Extras
You’ll be more apt to keep your closet neat if its also pretty. I painted the walls a dark teal (it looks almost black in photos). The dark color makes the space feel more fresh than the dingy white.
Treat yourself to pretty storage containers. Get towels and sheets you love. Use items you already have on hand to make your space pleasant to look at.
Easy Linen Closet Organization Ideas : Conclusion
I hope this gives you some ideas–and some hope for your own space. When many things feel out of control and overwhelming, claiming and taming a small space can be empowering. How do you organize your storage spaces?
Most importantly, I hope you’ll remember that Jesus, more than an organized closet, will bring calm to the storms going on around you. And maybe, next time you see a happy, finished space in your home you’ll remember me and my silly linen closet anecdote.
Last, remember to join me on Instagram. I’ll be saving my linen closet details to highlights so you can see how I fold my towels and sheets. If I can do it, so can you.
Thanks for joining me. Today I’m sharing a topic that’s been on my heart for many months. This seems like the ideal time to finally put the proverbial pen to paper and write it down. I’m talking about the difference between happiness and joy. Too often we use these words interchangeably. However, the Bible shows us that there is a real and important difference between happiness and joy.
Unhappiness Is Easy
There’s a lot to be unhappy about right now. We are living through unusually hard times. Work looks different. School looks different. Relationships look different. Worship, ministry, connection, and routine all look different and unfamiliar right now.
Unhappiness is easy. And happiness is an easy goal to set–but not an easy goal to achieve. It’s so easy to say, “I just want to be happy…” Or, “I’d be happy if…” (I’m very guilty of the latter.) All too often things come up and get in the way of our happiness. Because happiness is tightly tethered to what is happening around us, happiness often rests on things out of our control.
Given the fallen state of our world and an often engrained sense of entitlement, unhappiness and discontentment can be the state we naturally gravitate toward. Unhappiness is something we commiserate over together. It brings us together, it’s common ground where otherwise there might be none.
I’m sure you’ve seen this happen. A group doesn’t know what to talk about, so they pick a safe topic–something everyone despises. Then one person offers up a terrible experience. The next commiserates and adds his own “one up” on the terribleness. And so it goes. On and on and on.
I call this negative camaraderie. It’s a social trap I truly loathe. But an easy trap to fall into nonetheless.
Unpleasant and Unideal Circumstances
I’ve faced a lot of unpleasant circumstances in the last year. Things that caused grief, pain, fear and anxiety kept coming up. (But don’t they always, and isn’t this true for all of us?) Because of this I’ve spent months simmering on the difference between joy and happiness.
As many of you know I spent many years grappling with cyclical depression and anxiety. I finally allowed God to penetrate that stronghold in my life about five years ago. Since then, I’ve seen a miraculous shift in my life. It’s taken a lot of time to heal and practice living in a state of victory over anxiety and depression, but slowly–this has become a new, normal pattern for me.
Over the last year as obstacles and unwelcome news cropped up I keenly noticed a distinct separation between my happiness and joyfulness. And friends, let me assure you–I’m nothing special. If God can draw this line in my heart, He can draw it in yours too.
The Week I Discovered the Difference Between Happiness and Joy
One instance in particular makes this difference so clear.
If you follow along on Instagram (and you totally should, because then we can be even better friends) you might remember that horrific week I spent in Rapid City getting our AirBnB transitioned to a long-term rental. (If you missed it, you can watch the whole saga in my Instagram Highlights.) Alone with an 18 month old, over the course of the week I was met with a mouse infestation, a huge waste leak in the basement, yellow jackets living in the walls, snakes under the deck, issues with the moving van, and a horrible smell that turned out to be poop stuck in a plunger.
Day after day a new, unpleasant circumstance arose. But every day my heart was calm, unshaken, capable, still fully focused on Christ and able to tell of His goodness. I saw humor in the circumstances and understood on a new level exactly what Proverbs 31:25 can mean about “laughing at the future.” No fear of what terrible situation (or smell) the next day would reveal–only the ability to have joy and peace. Because my joy is no longer harnessed to my happiness.
Let me attest. There is a difference between happiness and joy. In today’s unpleasant circumstances it’s more important than ever to claim victory and claim joy.
The Difference Between Happiness and Joy in the Bible
The Bible tells us that joy is a natural product of a life lived in the Holy Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23). Too often, I talk to fellow believers who tell me they are struggling to feel joyful. It’s not happening naturally. Are they doing something wrong in their spiritual walk?
There may be lots of things clogging up our joy tube. For a long time, mine was stuffed with lies. (Read about my journey with lies here.) But part of the problem may have to do with our etymology–they way we understand words.
I think we (we means me, too) too easily interchange the words happy and joy in our thinking and speech. We shouldn’t exchange these words lightly, because there is a difference between the two. Let’s take a look at what the Bible has to say.
The Bible has a lot to say about joy. The word “joy” is translated 182 times throughout Scripture. Meanwhile, the word “happy” only shows up 15 times. I believe that Scripture is God-breathed and therefore, each and every word is important and intentional. Since “joy” in used so many times, we can surmise that joy is important to God and He has a lot to tell us about it.
While the Bible doesn’t have a specific verse that explains the difference between happiness and joy, reading the verses where these words appear teaches us to differentiate between the two.
1. The Biggest Difference is Circumstance
The key difference between happiness and joy that I discovered is the circumstances in which each word is used. Happiness is usually used to describe a circumstance, or correlates to an event that has yielded positive results.
Greek and Hebrew words used in Scripture translated into our English “happy” are closely tied to circumstances as well. Their definitions encompass meanings like pleasant, agreeable, prosperous, benefit, blessedness, to make glad, to be glad, pleasing, and fortunate. (You can find out more by using the interlinear on these verses.)
So the LORD God appointed aplant and it grew up over Jonah to be a shade over his head to deliver him from his discomfort. And Jonah was extremely happy about the plant.
Jonah 4:6
Joy is God (Spirit) Generated
While happiness is an emotion that can be evoked by good fortune, joy is generated through a much more reliable means: God Himself.
You have put more joy in my heart than they have when their grain and wine abound. In peace I will both lie down and sleep; for you alone, O Lord, make me dwell in safety.
Psalm 4:7-8
But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law.
Gal 5:22-23
Unlike happiness, which rests on a shifting surface of circumstance, joy rests on God. When we trust God’s promises and hope, we can experience His joy in all circumstances. When joy from God is our goal, we can stand in peace and contentment, even during the days that bring tears to our eyes. If happiness is our goal, our bodies and minds will wear out from pursuing something that doesn’t last.
Joy Is Not Restricted to Pleasant Circumstances
While “joy” can be used in happy, pleasant circumstances, its meaning is richer. Typically, if it has to do with an event, it’s an event recognizably brought about by God.
However, in times of unhappiness, joy is still present. This is especially clear in the letters from Paul. Paul often wrote while enduring hardship, or to groups who were facing hardship themselves. Yet his letters are full of verses regarding joy.
A Christian’s ability to experience joy, even amidst a trial is one of our greatest tools of evangelism and pointing the world to God’s goodness and truth.
Great is my confidence in you; great is my boasting on your behalf. I am filled with comfort; I am overflowing with joy in all our affliction.
2 Cor 7:4
Joy Has an Overflowing Quality
In the Bible words translated to our English word “joy” have meaning that indicate an overflowing quality: to sound a glad alarm, to sing praise, rejoice, exultation, extreme gladness. The type of inner happiness that can’t be held in.
Scripture is full of verses about “shouting for joy,” “singing for joy,” “making a joyful noise.” While happiness can be soaked up quickly, joy exudes and pours out.
Sing for joy to God our strength; Shout joyfully to the God of Jacob.
Psalm 81:1
Claim Joy
There are other differences (and similarities for that matter) between joy and happiness. But this is a start. My point is this, let’s not make happiness our goal. When we hold that goal up to our very big God–who has saved us, redeemed us, defends us and is going to set all things right again–happiness seems like a small goal. God is not going to guarantee our happiness right now.
“I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”
John 16:33
Instead He assures us that we can overcome unhappiness with our joy and peace intact. He supplies and resupplies joy for us. Isn’t that a better goal, and a bigger miracle, anyway?
Dig in for yourself. Here are the uses of happy in Scripture and here are the uses of joy. What can you learn? How can you be cultivating a heart of joy, instead of a heart longing for happiness?
Minot Monday is made possible through a partnership with BeLOCAL Minot. BeLOCAL is a guide to thriving and loving your local community. Today I’m sharing my five favorite walking trails in Minot, but you can see more about parks and trails here.
I think it’s safe to say our schedules and routines are all looking a little different right now. Due to the global pandemic, schools and work are happening remotely, group gatherings are put on hold and we are all asked to observe social distancing rules. It’s a hard adjustment to make, especially for a busy, community-driven town like Minot. In all the hardship and disruption and disappointment, there are many blessings to be found here in North Dakota.
First of all, social distancing is required as the weather is turning. While we need to keep our distance, individuals are still being encouraged to get outside and enjoy fresh. Second, our state is big and beautiful–we are fortunate to have natural space to spread out. Third, people here are dang nice and our state government is doing a heck of a job staying ahead of this crisis.
These past few weeks, I’ve been especially grateful to wake up each morning in North Dakota.
Minot Monday is going to look different the next few weeks as we ride this out. But just because the “usual” stuff (classes, restaurants, events) aren’t looking usual right now, doesn’t mean we can’t find things to celebrate about our town.
My Favorite Walking Trails in Minot
Today I’m going to share five walking trails in Minot where you can get some distance and fresh air–and watch spring’s magic take over on our stickly, frost-weary trees.
**At the time of writing individuals are asked to practice social distancing and individual responsibility. Isolation mandates are not in place and parks are still open. To help flatten the curve and slow the spread, avoid using public play spaces/restrooms, carry hand sanitizer and keep your distance from others. Please abide by day-to-day recommendations from our state. You can see them here.**
Gideon and I walk almost daily at Oak Park. Even during peak “crowded” days in the middle of summer there is plenty of space. We walk the walking trail in a big loop around the park and through Camp Owetti. (Quick tip for navigating the trail through Camp Owetti–stay straight for a longer loop.) A highlight for Gideon is reading the walk-by book put up by the library.
The Bison Plant Trail may be my favorite walk in town. It’s wooded and rural and feel very removed. The 3 mile path is easy to follow and I’ve never seen it crowded. To get there drive SW on 52 toward Logan. The turn off on River Bend Rd is near an old KOA campground. If you get to Bell Elementary (when headed from Minot) you’ve gone too far.
Minot to Burlington Trail
The Minot to Burlington Trail is great for walking, biking, and (my favorite) rollerblading. The trail is straight through 5 miles. A round trip would be 10 miles total. The trail starts at the intersection of the 83 Bypass and 4th Ave NE in Minot and continues to Burlington. Although the trail follows a fairly busy road, it’s set away from the street, paved and goes through a beautiful part of the valley.
The Woodland Trail is a packed dirt trail with lots of loops and options. It’s perfect for a walk that feels remote while still being in town. I’d say this is Gideon’s favorite walk. It’s quiet, the path is well packed and easy to walk. The trees are thick and there is no traffic noise. Basically, it’s serene.
To get there take the 83 Bypass South. Just past the entrance to the Bark Park/Jack Hoven park you can turn onto a frontage road that will lead you to the trail. You can see a large “Woodland Trail” sign from 83. If you are headed south and come to 52, you’ve got too far.
The Bark Park Trail
The Bark Park Trail is an easy, paved path perfect for walking, roller blading and biking. The path leads past the Bark Park, past the woods that make up the Woodland Trail and through the golf course. Part of the trail is currently closed, but most of it is still open and it makes a great walk. To get there take the 83 Bypass south. Headed south, you’ll turn left onto 7th Ave SW/25th St SW. Signs are pretty clear.
Whatever your schedule looks like these days, I hope you’re able to get out and enjoy some fresh air as the ground thaws. For more trails and parks see here in BeLOCAL. Be safe. Stay healthy. Wash your hands. Limit your errands. And have a great week.
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