In our lives: The first thirteen days in January brought celebrating, praying, and listening. Celebrating: When Emily was eleven years old, she received a "best ever" birthday present. Our first grandson, Ethan, was born. Emily and Ethan share a birthday with Elvis Presley. Auntie and Ethan Shawn, Melanie, and their teenager, Ethan Praying: We've spent time praying for Melanie since December. She had a herniated disc and has been in intense pain. God led them to the Spine Clinic and this past Monday she had laser surgery. God has helped her through it all. She's back home, but we are all wondering how we'll keep her down for three months. It's neat that her friends and neighbors have provided several meals for the family. Those of you who know Melanie know how many meals she's made for others. It's fun to see her "bread" come back. Listening: I'm a news junkie, so I'm enjoying the Cabinet hearings this week. Today, I've been listening to Wintley Phipps. RB was invited to a meet and greet luncheon where Wintley spoke. Amazon Prime has several albums of his music and I've been blessed by his "Amazing Grace," "How Great Thou Art," and "Just As I Am." At my writing desk: I met my December 31st deadline for curriculum a week early. I was so happy. I took the next week off to spend a week with my daddy in Indiana, PA. I did take my computer, but my time was spent cleaning out files, etc. Thankful for: Living close to my daughters. I had a 5-year-old with mischief in his eyes and a heart as big as the moon staying with me while his mother was having surgery. I was able to attend all the grandchildren's programs. This year they (and Melanie) were in a production of "A Christmas Carol." I'm reading: "Hygge: A Danish Concept of Cozy and Simple Living." Noah Nielsen (It's free for Kindle Unlimited.) (If you want to see 17 books -- plus a few -- books I want to read this year read: Click Here. Blurb from Amazon: "Fed up with the hectic pace of modern day living? Well then, curl up with this book, a cozy blanket, some hot chocolate and learn how to embrace the Danish concept of cozy and simple living...Hygge will allow you to create closer bonds with your loved ones, enjoy the simple miracles in life which occur each day and enjoy the winter instead of dreading it!" Favorite Quote: It is in the quiet crucible of your personal, private sufferings that your noblest dreams are born and God's greatest gifts are given. Wintley Phipps Linked to: Faith Filled Friday