Summer is a great time for catching up and taking a breather and sipping lemonade on the porch with the neighbors or the kids or your husband or all of the above. So today, as you begin your weekend, kick back and enjoy a few (in)courage summertime classics about living our summers to the full, making memories and telling our stories, and remembering The Best Story of All.
The Word has done it. The Word holds up a mirror and the Word peels back the mask and the words are who we are. We weep out of recognition. This story is us. This is the read that is deeply revelational. We see us. When we pick up Scripture, we do not read, a verb; we become, a realization.
The Best Read This Summer — Guaranteed by Ann Voskamp
The summer snapshots are endless. The memories shape us, for better or worse. The stories are told and re-told — if not in words, then in our choices, our insecurites, our loves and our aversions. It’s why I sometimes still hesitate when I put on flip-flops, why Dolly Parton sounds like home, why it feels extravagant to drink Coke from a can.
Learning to Tell Your Summertime Stories by Emily Freeman
I write it out to remember the smell of the driveway and the drive, the morning air with hornets buzzing behind the dew berry bushes. We all have to stop once in a while to gather up these good summer days, no matter how sometimes our hearts can ache. Look around. We are blessed here, even just with this breath.
A Deep Summer Breath by Amber Haines
I know I’ve said it, but I’ll say it again—if Susanna Wesley, 17th century mother of 19 kids, managed to find some rest, we 21st century gals can, too. The story goes that when she’d pull her apron over her head, the kids knew to be quiet. She was getting some alone time to pray. We can, too.
Summer Breaks: Not Just for Kids by Tsh Oxenreider
The list doesn’t have to be long but it should be slightly different than what you normally do, a bit uncomfortable even. Let us come into this brilliant summer with others on our mind and with hearts open to give and to love.
Summer Bucket Lists Aren’t Just for Kids by Sarah Markley
Too often, as adults, we are so caught up in the “big” stuff that we miss out on the simple joys. At least I know I do. Today, go jump in a pool. Laugh until your belly hurts. Take time to revel in the simple.
Don’t Miss the Simple Joys by Jessica Turner
Instead of focusing on what we “can’t do,” let’s focus on what we CAN do! Let yourself and your family find delight in small pleasures that ARE accessible to you this summer. Make a list of little things that could bring beauty and happiness to your summer. Experience as many of them as you possibly can!
Six Tips to Enjoy A Beautiful Summer {at Home} by Melissa Michaels
For more seasonal posts, check out the sweet “Seasonal” tab on the front page of our pretty new (in)courage site, as well as in the sidebar of the blog!
What memories are you making and stories are you telling this summer?
Leave a Comment
Bev Duncan @ Walking Well With God says
(in)courage,
Wow, what a great summer reading list you have provided us with. I can’t wait to carve out some “me” time and dive in. I thought aprons were outdated, but what a great symbol that we all need time to hide in prayer from the demands of the world! I continue to weave stories on my blog each week and my favorite summer memory so far is spending the day with my daughter (24) picking out dresses for my wedding. We laughed, cried, talked, lunched and sang along with the radio – just like old times. My favorite memories are made spending time – real time – with those I love! Thank you (in)courage for all your support and encouragement year round!
Blessings,
Bev
Beth Williams says
Wow! Such wonderful stories from wonderfully talented writers. Just love the picture of the ocean & beach. Reminds me of years ago when we sat on the beach, just being lazy, slowing down enough to enjoy life.
We can get so busy with life & stuff that we miss out on God’s goodness for us. Too many days pass when I don’t take a look at sunsets that He has painted me.
People need a break from the constant noise & hectic of life to enjoy this life and family He has given us!
Patty says
Wow! Just read about getting out of my comfort zone this summer today, hours after I said goodbye to two Chinese students. We hosted them for the week through AHLI. This was a first for our family–to welcome international students into our home. It was out of my comfort zone, but what a wonderful experience! Now as the week is over, my mind goes back to a lady I knew throughout childhood. She always brought international students to church and welcomed them into her home. She is a reflection of God in her. Her example continues to inspire me from long ago.
The students were fascinated with the sunsets and lightning bugs, experienced mini golf and Uno for the first time, and were pleased with the pancakes served at breakfast. I take for granted so much–they brought to the forefront of my mind and I thank God!
I agree–do something different this year–get out of your comfort zone!
Thanks for the readings–they inspire me too!