Like many authors, I also have a day job. I teach biomed at a STEM, Early College High School. This allows me to use my nursing degree and teach high school students. A career move that could have only been authored by God. I love the students, I love teaching about the amazing human body, and I so appreciate this opportunity to hear so many people’s stories as they journey through life.
I usually write after dinner, and my favorite time, at 6 am on Saturday mornings while my daughters sleep late, and my husband simply makes me coffee and takes the dog out so I can pursue the story on my heart.
I reserve Sundays for worship and rest. After serving at church, I relax and rejuvenate with my family. I’ve tried to use Sunday as the “catch up” day in the past and found it just never works for me. I have learned there was a reason why God wants me to rest every seven days! Sunday afternoons are the one time each family member keeps free each week. We often find ourselves hiking or playing a board game marathon.
I have a long list of dream pursuits for later, but I try to build margins into my life to make the days both manageable and joyful. While preparing for the day, I ask God to show me His to-do list. I often get caught up in mine and could easily miss any divine assignments: a word of encouragement, a hug, or simply lending an ear.
I am imperfect and often find myself blazing ahead, but His love and grace are sufficient. As I look back over my life, I see slow yet constant improvement. How encouraging! In order to serve others, I need to care for myself. I have learned my personal formula: eat healthfully + exercise + quality time spent with God and in His word + doing something creative + enough rest. A bonus is adding in some quality Christian music. Music touches a part of my heart that just doesn’t need words to communicate. Yes, an author just penned that!
My favorite ending to the day is a few minutes praying with each daughter and then journaling reflections and prayer requests on my heart. Our Rottie, Minna, tells me it’s time to turn out the light by settling on the bed, her weight warming my feet. It’s the perfect moment to recount the blessings of the day.