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Day 278: Day 2 of Lent - A Very Good Start!

On my morning walk: Foster Floodplain Natural area



My Lenten declaration candle (far right). Underneath the statue of Jesus bearing His cross.

My candle joining the ranks of other candles in the Grotto

My reading bench!

St. Joseph holding the child Jesus

The walk to the Servite Monastery

Servite Monastery

Beautiful trees!

Just beautiful!

The Grotto Labyrinth. I love how the sunlight is streaming through the middle!

My feet in the center of the Grotto labyrinth.

I spent yesterday, Ash Wednesday, the first day of Lent at the Grotto. One of my favorite places in the world. Since I haven't traveled much of the world, I should say my favorite place in Portland!  

It was time well spent as you can tell from the pictures.  

I had a nice piano practice session after which I decided to break for lunch with my kids. We were all free at the same time, which doesn't happen much. We went to Namaste, and Indian Buffet (you know how I love those!) conveniently located across from the Grotto.

I decided to bring my prayer journal, Beth Moore book, bible and Lent handbook with me. 

I gave them hugs after a most scrumptious lunch and headed over to the Grotto.

I decided to make my Lenten declarations right then and there. I purchased a candle, lit it and told God what I decided to focus on for the next 40 days.  

I placed it front of the statue of Jesus and went up to the upper level gardens.  On the way, I spied the myriad of candles in the actual Grotto and decided to move mine so it wouldn't be lonely.

It was a divine day. I was one of the only visitors. I loved the peace and quiet, big old trees, immaculate grounds, singing birds, and a sense of the Spirit with every step.

It was a most refreshing experience for my body, mind and spirit.

And today I rose promptly at 6:00 a.m. Prayed, journalled and read the bible for 1 hour. Practiced piano for 1 hour. Made breakfast (my new favorite "migas"!). Put some beans in the crockpot.  Went to the gym with my daughter. Came home and had tuna with pickle and olives on a rice cake and hot tea. Took a nap with Honey Dog and now am getting ready to go teach.

I am usually just barely crawling out of bed by the time I got home from the gym, so my nap was well earned!

Trust me enough to spend ample time with Me, pushing back the demands of the day...You will find that you can accomplish MORE in less time, after you have given yourself to ME in rich communion."
~Jesus Calling: Enjoying Peace in His Presence, February 10. Sarah Young


Here's to keeping promises!


Happy Thursday! :)


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