Time goes by so quickly. We put one foot before the other and before we know it we’ve put a lot of road behind us.One year ago I started this site and got serious about writing.My friend Meredith revisited her “first words” on her blog-a-versary and I thought it was a great idea. So I am re-sharing my first post from one year ago.
It’s funny that after all the words poured out here, over 365 days, these first-fruits still speak the core message; the echoes of my heart.
Spies, Grapes & Giants…Oh My! (click on the title for the full post, here’s an excerpt below).I could waste many hours, and even years, trying to decide if I should take my writing to the next level…or I could just take a shaky step of faithand see what God does. For many years I have been plagued by “I’m not good enough” and I’ve had enough of that; it is exhausting! There will always be better writers, singers and teachers than me, but I have something to offer, however small, and I am not hiding it under a bushel anymore.Is there something God is asking you to offer to those around you? It might be a talent, treasure or your time. I want to encourage you today, to take the next step. Ask the Holy Spirit to guide and provide as you dare to dream and shine for His glory and fame.
I have been bound by doubts, fears, and discouragement for too long- have you too? Today is the day to let those chains go and live in the freedom found in Christ alone. You are made in His image and you are loved, so very loved.
Some of my favorite blog moments from this past year have been:
- speaking to the heart of other tightly wound women,
- meeting new and dear friends,
- hosting others’ words here
- guest posting on other sites,
- sharing ways that we can do more good around the globe through Extension 26.
- and giving away gifts!
In light of my blog-a-versary I am giving away a Party Pack that represents some of my favorite things (books, music, tea, and grace): Choosing to See by Mary Beth Chapman, The Five Love Languages by Gary Chapman, Echoes of My Heart CD, Moroccan mint great tea, and a “Find Grace in the Unraveling” magnet.
Two winners will be selected (one will receive the two books and the other will receive the CD, tea and magnet). The contest begins today and runs through Wednesday, Feb. 25th. The winners will be announced here on Thursday, February 26th as the Unraveling Grace series continues that day with a special guest.
One last surprise in honor of this special day…I am guest posting over at a new friend’s place.
Come on over to Courtney Stanford’s blog, Let Every Heart, as I share about what really matters at the end of the ride.
Katie, you are such an inspiration! I admire your tenacity and passion! 🙂 well done!
HI Friend, Thanks for the encouragement. Been a hard few days and your cheering lifts my spirits.:)
Congratulations! Today let’s celebrate that I’ve almost been at this for almost 6 years! I am so thankful you decided to take your writing to the next level. You are a blessing!
Thanks Barbie.:) Celebrating with you- 6 years is amazing!
Celebrating being alive!
That is a great thing to celebrate Michelle!:)
Celebrating my sweet newborn. She’s #3 and the apple of our family’s eye!
What a precious thing to celebrate LeeAnn, so happy for your family!:)
Congrats on making it through the first year! So cool! May the Lord continue to use you and your words to bless and encourage others for His glory!
Thank you dear Kate!:)
Congrats Katie! Your blog is one of my favs. I really enjoyed reading your first post. May God continue to bless you and your words/writing.
Thank you so much Kim- Your comment made my day, thanks for taking the time to write it!:)
I’m just so proud of you for beginning and following through on God’s call, Katie. I honestly thought you’d been writing much longer than a year. 😉 So glad He connected us and so looking forward to all God has in store for your NEXT words. xoxo
Thanks Meredith- Oh yes, I’ve been writing online for almost 4 years but it’s been one year for my website and my launch into serious writing instead of just therapy, but it’s still that too.:) “Next Words” I love that!:)
You provide a safe home and a much needed message. I pray God blesses your words and life for many years to come!
Love the connection of not hiding our talents ‘under a bushel’ because of discouragement and fear of failure. Thank you for your words!
Congrats on 1 year! May there be many more!
Congrats Katie! Wish you many more.
God’s Blessings to you.
Congrats on one year! May you continue to stay true to God’s calling on your life, and write as He leads.
Celebrating with you!!