Mornings are my favorite.  They are my time to have quiet time with God, to read scripture, pray for the day and watch the sunrise.  I love the sunrise because it always feels new and it reminds me that everyday something unexpected and exciting can happen.

This morning I woke up after a wonderful night sleep to chilly air (low to mid 50's) pouring through the three open windows in my room.  I wrapped myself tighter in my covers and tried to sleep longer, but there was no way God was going to let me miss our time together.

I am so glad I'm not missing the morning.  It's feels like autumn.  I love autumn.  I love the way the air smells and the colors of the landscape.  I love bonfires that create a cozy escape from the cold and wearing my favorite sweatshirt.  I love fresh apple cider and the aroma of homemade pies in the kitchen.  I love curling up in a blanket with a cup of tea and a new book.  I love college football.  All of these things make me happy.

Then it hit me.  God loves it when I am happy.  So I started to think what else makes me happy?

  • Painting
  • Playing the piano
  • Reading
  • Hugs
  • Gardening
  • Teaching
  • Learning new skills

Then a glaring realization leveled my moment of bliss.  Apart from gardening, I am not doing any of the other top six activities that make me happy.  WOW.  So I scrambled to think of more things that make me happy.

  • Camping
  • Exercising
  • Riding my bike
  • Playing with dogs
  • Picnicking
  • Hosting tea or luncheons
  • Cooking

Oh no.  No, no, no.  This cannot be.   I haven't camped once this summer, I've been too busy to cook, I haven't visited the animals shelter in almost a year.  Why?  Why am I not part-taking in the things God allowed me to love?

…To be continued.