The big move!
It’s bittersweet really, finding myself at this very place. A new blog, a different name, same mission yet with a fresh vision.
I’ve always kept some form of an online journal so to speak since I was teenager. The public realm of blogging began a little over 4 years ago. I would have never imagined where this “blogging thing” would eventually take me. I don’t consider myself a writer, I make silly unintentional mistakes all the time. And when it comes to my life – it’s simple and messy and my heart can be so ugly at times.
In the blogging world, I see BIG moves come with BIG giveaways and BIG enthusiasm. Today, you won’t find any flashing lights, neon signs or pricey giveaways.
Why, so simple?
My goal is not to become a bigger or better blog. My only goal for this blog is to bring glory to the Lord for what He is doing in my heart and in the hearts of others. HE’s the one who has brought this blog to this place, not anything I have done. I pray my heart will stay open and focused as I am only a tool furthering His Kingdom. Often times all those “flashy” things get in the way of being intentionally focused. So today – we celebrate a fresh vision uncluttered.
Why the name change?
The name was outgrowing it’s audience. The name change contemplation has been “in the works” for over 2 years at least. Many names have been reflected on, but there was never one that just fit right – until now.
Why ‘Graced Simplicity?’
Definition of Graced
‘unmerited or undeserved favour‘ God gives us unconditional love – despite all we do to Him or to each other.
I can be my own harshest judge and worst critic. I often find myself raising the bar higher than I can climb. This leaves myself with impossible, ridiculously high, and very unattainable standards.
My life is sometimes messy, my heart can even get ugly at times. Even still, my life is overflowing with God’s daily undeserving sufficient grace.
Some days we just need reminded of the eternal worth and significance of our everyday lives. Our lives are graced lavishly in and throughout. God’s grace — a gift that is given to us, that can be passed on and mirrored to others as we live out our graced lives.
“In Him we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses, according to the riches of His grace, which He lavished on us. In all wisdom and insight, He made known to us the mystery of His will, according to His kind intention which He purposed in Him.” {
Eph. 1:7-9}
“But as you abound in everything—in
faith, in speech, in knowledge, in all diligence, and in your love for us—see
that you abound in this grace also.” {
2 Cor. 8:7}
Definition of Simplicity
the state of being simple, uncomplicated, unmixed, alertness of mind
“For our boasting is this: the testimony of our conscience that we conducted ourselves in the world in simplicity and Godly sincerity, not with fleshly wisdom but by the grace of God, and more abundantly toward you.” {
2 Cor. 1:12}
To be simple is to be single-minded, to have one aim and no selfish ambition. Simplicity is also another word for “pure devotion.”
“Bondservants, obey in all things your masters according to the flesh, not with eye service, as men-pleasers, but in sincerity of heart, fearing God.” {
Col 3:22}
The purpose and passion for Graced Simplicity {Our Mission}
is to encourage you, while walking right alongside you…
To love God with our whole hearts, souls and minds
To grow in a deeper more intimate relationship with our Lord and Savior
To portray God’s love & amazing grace through our everyday lives
To honor, respect and love our husbands
To cherish our children as the blessings from God that they are
To make our homes havens, full of peace, love, kindness and encouragement
To open our homes with genuine hospitality and love
To glorify God in all that we do
To let go, pursue truth, and embrace grace
The journal side of things
Instead of forming my life to look polished and pristine as my blog, I do seek and strive to make my blog the simple broken, refreshed and renewed writings of my heart, and I only hope to live them everyday. I’ve always strived to be authentic in “real life” and when it comes to my blogging as well. If there is one pet peeve I dislike SO much in life – it’s fake people or double standard people. And when it comes to blogging or any kind of social media it can be way too easy to put on a mask. {I’ve been there.} And I’m pledging to you to be open and honest.
My blog won’t necessarily be a “show and tell” or “online diary” but only a representation of where and how the Lord is working in my heart and my life as a Jesus follower, wife, mom, homemaker and blogger.
I live life – and blog freely. You may or may not see much of me, as far as consistency goes. Every Thursday, I’ll still be holding our Hearts for Home link-up. Other than that, I’ll blog when I have the time, and when I’m certain that my priorities are in place.
Because of my inconsistency, you may find it helpful to follow me through these avenues.
Facebook – Twitter – E-Mail Updates – Reader Updates – Pinterest
Dedication
This blog ‘Graced Simplicity’ is dedicated to my Lord and Savior – His blessings are endless and so undeserving. Thank you, for dying and giving me a new life with meaning.
To Shane – thanks for being my best friend for always, for making my life sweeter, and always bringing a smile to my life – thank you, for holding me together and supporting me, and encouraging me to keep blogging, I love you.
To my Munchkins – you’ve taught me what perseverance really is, your smiles and daily hugs are enough to make all the rough days SO worth it! I’ve learned so much being your mom, and I wouldn’t trade a moment, I pray these pages will be an encouragement in your walk with the Lord one day. Mommy loves you.
To my friend Becca {Jun. 11 1984 – Feb. 1, 2013} who is now with Jesus, on the 2nd month anniversary of her sudden death. I’ve chosen to launch the blog in honor of her short life as a wife, mom, daughter, and precious friend. Her death has reminded me once again that life is fleeting and must be cherished each and everyday as if it was our last. Becca, your death has inspired me to live more fully and more focused on eternity than ever before. I miss you, see you again someday soon!
To my faithful friends and readers. Your dedication amazes me, your testimonies and notes of encouragement have deeply touched my heart, and have inspired me to keep writing. Thanks for following me these last few years!
The blog is still being tweaked and more posts will be imported as time allows. If you are looking for anything specific just
send me a note!
All you fellow blogging pals, there are new buttons at the bottom of the blog under ‘Blog Love’.
May you be encouraged to grow in the Lord through these pages.
Photo Credit: Style Me Pretty
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