Pure Grace Farms

A Sane Approach to Sustainability

Navigation
  • Blog
  • Recipes
    • Recipes By Post
    • Recipe Index
  • Garden
    • Garden
    • DIY
      • How to Make a Home Made Drying Frame
  • My Stories
    • Word’s and Musings
    • camping
  • In the Spotlight
    • About – In the Spotlight
    • Spotlight Thursday
  • About
  • Partner with Me
    • Advertise
    • Contact
    • Privacy Policy: Pure Grace Farms

I Choose to be a Blessing

June 12, 2014 by Shari Eckstrom 30 Comments

I Choose to be a Blessing

Ted, Shelly, Edison and Watson. Edison at 4 yrs old loves to share!

I choose to be a blessing. Did you know it’s a choice?

Everyday we have opportunity to bless someone else. So what is a blessing; how do we define it? I turned to my trusty Webster’s dictionary to find out the answer.

Webster defines a blessing in 3 different ways…

  1. the act or words of one that blesses; approval, encouragement
  2. a thing conducive to happiness or welfare
  3. grace said at a meal

Looking this list over I can pretty confidently say that I have definition #3 wrapped up with no problem. Showing approval and encouragement by my words and my deeds;  that I have a tendency to struggle with quite a bit more!

I Choose to be a Blessing

My sweet Tim sharing with Watson.

Being a blessing to others, in my opinion and according to Webster, takes an act on our part; it doesn’t just happen. A kind word, a smile, helping a neighbor when they need it…all these things are conducive to happiness. Not my neighbor’s happiness mind you, though they do reap the benefit; it is my own happiness here that is directly affected.

I Choose to be a Blessing
 
When I choose to be a blessing, I am in actuality blessing myself.  It is true what God says and a principle we can bank on…
Give away your life; you’ll find life given back, but not merely given back-given with bonus and blessing. Giving not getting is the way. Generosity begets generosity. ~ Luke 6:38  

Spotlight Thursday

I Choose to be a Blessing I choose to be a blessing is a wonderful segue into today’s spotlight blog…A Mother’s Shadow by Carrie Groneman.

I was first introduced to A Mother’s Shadow and Carrie through another fellow blogger in May of this year. I was immediately struck by her genuine spirit, kindness and her desire to give. A living breathing example of what a blessing should look like!

I Choose to be a Blessing

Food Creates Family Bonds: A Mother’s Shadow

I went to  A Mother’s Shadow to find out a little more of what made Carrie tick. I was not surprised to find how Carrie chose to describe herself. and her philosophy on life. 

“To me, prac­ti­cal life skills, being self-reliant and serv­ing oth­ers are vital com­po­nents for a peace-filled and joy­ful life. I know that every little bit of good put into action adds up to a full glass. All our efforts to be a positive influence will pay off. ~ Carrie Groneman

I Choose to be a Blessing

1 Year Anniversary: A Mothers Shadow

Carrie’s blog is filled with many examples of this philosophy. She is clearly someone who puts action to her words. One has only to browse through her “Featured Family” segment or pop over to her Family Time Section to see that it’s so.

I Choose to be a Blessing

Irish Soda Bread: A Mothers Shadow

Thank you Carrie for being my friend. Already in the short time I have known you, I have been blessed with your friendship, giving spirit, and encouragement. 

I Choose to be a Blessing

Lasagna Rolls: A Mothers Shadow

I hope you all will head over to A Mother’s Shadow. I know you will immediately be taken with Carrie; a blessing in every sense of the word!

I Choose to be a Blessing

White chocolate Lemon cookies: A Mothers Shadow

A Mother’s Shadow

 

I Choose to be  a Blessing shared with:

Happy & Blessed Home: Family Fun Friday 

Calm Healthy Sexy: Let’s Get Real

The Cookie Puzzle: Party in Your PJ’S

Coffee With Us 3: Pretty Pintastic Party

Natasha in Oz: Say G’day Saturday Link Party

My Pinterventures: Merry Monday Linky Party 

Create With Joy: Inspire Me Monday

Creative K Kids: Bloggers Brag

Yesterfood: Treasure Box Tuesday

Lou Lou Girls: Lou Lou Girls

 Nap time Creations: Create Link Inspire

3GLOL: Teach Me Tuesday

Crafty Spices: Wordless Wednesday

Oh My Heartsie Girl: Wordless Wednesday

Mrs Tee Love Life and Laughter: Wordless Wednesday

 
 
Disclosure of Material Connection: I have not received any compensation for writing this post. I have no material connection to the brands, products, or services that I have mentioned. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
 
 
 
 
 

 

 

       

Filed Under: Spotlight Thursday - Website

« Wonderful Wednesday Blog Hop #77
Bourbon Brown Sugar Glazed Flank Steak »

Comments

  1. Kimberly says

    June 23, 2014 at 15:31

    Beautiful message! Adorable kids! Thanks again for being a part of our party. i hope to see you tonight. Lou Lou Girls
    Kimberly recently posted…Rainbow CupcakesMy Profile

    Reply
    • Shari Eckstrom says

      June 23, 2014 at 21:10

      I just went and linked up at your wonderful party. Thanks again for the features!

      Reply
  2. Tammy says

    June 23, 2014 at 08:33

    This post touched me today because we do have a choice in what we do or how we act. Thank you for reminding me what choices I need to make.

    Thanks for linking up to the Bloggers Brags Pinterest Party. I’ve pinned your post to the Bloggers Brags Pinterest Board
    Tammy recently posted…Bloggers Brags Pinterest Party for June 23My Profile

    Reply
    • Shari Eckstrom says

      June 23, 2014 at 12:33

      Thanks Tammy. It is so easy to get caught up in what I am doing and forget that it’s not about me. I’m learning… one day at a time.
      Blessings,
      Shari

      Reply
  3. Erlene says

    June 20, 2014 at 17:20

    What a wonderful post. I’ve been to Carrie’s blog several times and I love both of your blogs. I think the both of you do such a great job to share thoughtful and meaningful posts.
    Erlene recently posted…Pinterest Tested: Chocolate Cupcakes vs Dark Chocolate CupcakesMy Profile

    Reply
    • Shari Eckstrom says

      June 20, 2014 at 20:04

      Thank you Erlene, Carrie is something special, I agree! Thanks for the kind words 🙂

      Reply
  4. Karren Haller says

    June 18, 2014 at 13:16

    Very nice post Shari, very nice!!!

    Thank you for your time to come visit and share your lovely post, so inspiring!!!
    Enjoy your week!!!
    Karren Haller recently posted…Tip Hero’s Kindle Fire HDX Giveaway EventMy Profile

    Reply
    • Shari Eckstrom says

      June 18, 2014 at 15:21

      It was my pleasure Karren. I appreciate your party and the opportunity you give to share my posts.
      Blessings,
      Shari

      Reply
  5. Sarah Nenni Daher says

    June 17, 2014 at 05:21

    What gorgeous words! Thank you for sharing such a great message with me at thank goodness it’s Thursday (Jordan’s Onion).
    Sarah Nenni Daher recently posted…Twitter Tuesdays to Tickle Your Funny Bone #7My Profile

    Reply
    • Shari Eckstrom says

      June 17, 2014 at 10:45

      Thanks Jordan for providing a great place to share content that might not otherwise be seen.
      Blessings, Shari

      Reply
  6. Crystelle says

    June 16, 2014 at 08:54

    This is so very true! I think it is a choice to bless the lives of t=others. I often get so caught up in my busy-ness that I am glad you sent out this reminder to choose to be a blessing to others…. Have a lovely week!!! 🙂
    XoXoX Crystelle
    Crystelle Boutique

    Reply
    • Shari Eckstrom says

      June 16, 2014 at 17:09

      Thank you Crystelle. I forget so often, I need these gentle little reminders.
      Blessings,
      Shari

      Reply
  7. Christina says

    June 16, 2014 at 08:14

    Great post and great images… thanks for sharing!

    Reply
    • Shari Eckstrom says

      June 16, 2014 at 17:10

      Thanks Christina, I appreciate your coming by!

      Reply
  8. kimberly says

    June 13, 2014 at 15:42

    So fun!
    *waving hi from a few hours north of you!
    kimberly recently posted…Fun DayMy Profile

    Reply
    • Shari Eckstrom says

      June 13, 2014 at 20:47

      Waving hello right back! Thanks for stopping by.

      Reply
  9. Gaye @CalmHealthySexy says

    June 13, 2014 at 14:49

    Carrie has been a great blogging friend to me, and I’m so happy that you are featuring her blog. Isn’t that picture of her gorgeous?! I love her tagline – Recognize a blessing and be a blessing today. It’s such a good reminder to me every time I read it.

    Also, thanks for sharing with the Let’s Get Real Party. Have a great weekend.
    Gaye @CalmHealthySexy recently posted…Welcome to the Let’s Get Real Party #43My Profile

    Reply
    • Shari Eckstrom says

      June 13, 2014 at 20:49

      Carrie is a doll and I appreciate the heart she does everything with. Thanks for the opportunity to join in the party at Let’s Get Real. Always a good time!
      Blessings,
      Shari

      Reply
  10. Jenny.U says

    June 13, 2014 at 05:49

    Beautiful post about a beautiful lady!

    Reply
    • Shari Eckstrom says

      June 13, 2014 at 06:58

      Thanks Jenny, she is indeed!

      Reply
  11. Joy @ Yesterfood says

    June 12, 2014 at 18:25

    I am still rather new to A Mother’s Shadow and Pure Grace Farms, but I enjoy you ladies more every day. This is a lovely post, Shari- thank you for helping us get to know Carrie and her sweet spirit a little better.
    Joy @ Yesterfood recently posted…Treasure Box Tuesday 23My Profile

    Reply
    • Shari Eckstrom says

      June 12, 2014 at 18:47

      Being a blogger has opened up doors and allowed me to meet so many wonderful people. I am grateful for the opportunity.
      Blessings,
      Shari

      Reply
  12. Janine Huldie says

    June 12, 2014 at 14:51

    Aww, I love both you and Carrie. Honestly, just have to say I feel blessed knowing you both and calling you my friends now, too. Thank you from the bottom of my heart 🙂
    Janine Huldie recently posted…The Pin It Party – Week 57My Profile

    Reply
    • Shari Eckstrom says

      June 12, 2014 at 15:06

      We have something special and I am grateful for the support and encouragement each and every one of you bring. So glad to call you friend!
      Blessings,
      Shari

      Reply
  13. Daine Roark says

    June 12, 2014 at 14:06

    Shari,

    This post really touched me. We all have a choice everyday to choose to be a blessing. When we bless others, we are blessed in so many ways. It is all about the heart. God looks at the reasons we are trying to bless others. If we do it out of love, we will definitely be blessed.

    I truly feel the same way about Carrie at A Mother’s Shadow. She has a heart for God and a spirit of JOY! She is truly a good friend. Not to mention a great writer and a wonderful cook.

    Reply
    • Shari Eckstrom says

      June 12, 2014 at 15:09

      I am thankful you listened to God’s leading Diane when you brought us together. Not sure how I got figured into the mix but I am so grateful I was included. You have been an incredible blessing. Thank you so much for all you do!
      Blessings,
      Shari

      Reply
  14. Barbara W. says

    June 12, 2014 at 13:49

    A Mother’s Shadow is one of my favorite blogs, and I’m so glad to have found yours now too. It’s simply lovely!

    Reply
    • Shari Eckstrom says

      June 12, 2014 at 13:52

      Welcome. I am blessed to know Carrie and love the work she puts out. Thank you for your kind words.
      Blessings,
      Shari

      Reply
  15. Carrie Groneman says

    June 12, 2014 at 13:34

    Oh Shari, how incredibly sweet and generous! Thank you Shari for this beautiful feature. I’m very blessed to be ‘bloggy’ friends. Carrie, A Mother’s Shadow

    Reply
    • Shari Eckstrom says

      June 12, 2014 at 13:49

      I meant every word!
      Blessings,
      Shari

      Reply

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

CommentLuv badgeShow more posts

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.

Welcome to Pure Grace Farms. It's great to have you stop in for a visit. We are a small farm nestled in the foothills outside of Boise, Idaho where food is organically grown, prepared and preserved for optimum benefit to body and soul. Read More…

  • Email
  • Facebook
  • Google+
  • Pinterest
  • StumbleUpon
  • Twitter
Happy Camper Pasta Salad Bar

Simple Whole Food Camp Cooking Guaranteed to Impress

Everything You Need To Know About Camping: Part 2 - 10 Must Haves When Camping

Everything You Need to Know About Camping: Part 2 – 10 Must Haves When Camping

5 Essential Tools For Camp Cooking

Everything you Need to Know About Camping: Part 4 – The 5 Essential Tools For Camp Cooking

Everything you Need to Know About Camping: Part 3 - Let's Get Cooking

Everything You Need to Know About Camping: Part 3- Let’s Get Cooking

Categories

Archives

Support Pure Grace Farms – Afilliate Sponsors

Want to help Support Pure Grace Farms? If you have enjoyed my blog and the recipes you find here, one of the ways you can help support Pure Grace Farms is by visiting my Affiliates and making a purchase through their links on this site. Each of my Affiliates pay me a small percentage from your purchase at no additional cost to you, and allows me to continue delivering great recipes and content to this site week after week. Thank you in advance for your support.

Connect

It has long been a passion of mine to live off the grid and develop a greater level of sustainability. Life and circumstances have not always cooperated with my passions. Sometimes my desires come face to face with reality. I am learning to live within that happy middle ground, finding …A sane approach to sustainability. Read More…

Popular Posts

5 Lessons Every New Blogger Should Know…

5 Lessons Every new Blogger Should Know

Watermelon Lemonade: A favorite Summertime…

Watermelon Lemonade: Pure Grace Farms

Klondike Royale Au Gratin Potatoes : Taste The…

Klondike Royale Au Gratin Potatoes: Taste The Love in Every Bite

Preserve the Harvest Series: Blackberries and…

Preserve the Harvest: Let's Talk Blackberries and Canning Homemade Blackberry Syrup

Garden Fresh Zucchini Fritters…

Strawberry Rhubarb Hand Pies…

Strawberry Rhubarb Hand Pies

Copyright © 2021 · Foodie Theme by Shay Bocks · Built on the Genesis Framework · Powered by WordPress