birds, beauty & a book

I’ve been fascinated by birds for as long as I can remember.  I think I must get it from my daddy.  He’s a bird-watcher, too.  I don’t know what it is about them – if it’s the sweet songs they sing, how carefree they seem, their tiny, delicate feathers, or their ability to soar above the chaos and craziness of life.  I recently hung a bird feeder outside the office window at our house, and I have thoroughly enjoyed it.  Sometimes in the middle of a busy day, I’ll look out and see the blue jays playing, and it brings a smile to my face.  It makes me slow down and enjoy the moment that I’m in and see the beauty in the simple things.

At the suggestion of a friend, I’ve been reading the book One Thousand Gifts by Ann Voskamp.  I’ll admit that it took me a little time to get into it.  Ann writes very poetically, and I’m more a “get-to-the-point” kind of girl.  However, as I’ve read, I’ve come to truly appreciate her writing style.  Even it has caused me to slow down and appreciate the beauty of words written well.  I’m about halfway through the book, and it has encouraged me and challenged me, and so far I love it!  It contains some amazing truths about seeing and receiving the gifts God gives us and (as the subtitle says) living fully right where we are.

I’m sure I’ll share more of my thoughts when I’m finished with the book.  For now, I’ll keep reading and keep taking time to enjoy the little things – like birds outside my window – and keep pondering the countless things in my life for which I’m thankful.

{Now, if only I can keep my furry friend from scaring away the birds!}

What about you?  Have you read this book to know what in the world I’m talking about?  If so, I’d love to hear your thoughts!

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Amy Nabors - January 15, 2011 - 10:30 PM

Your bird photos are amazing! I think our feeders are empty. I need to refill them and bundle up and sit out to watch. That book has changed so much of my thinking lately. Love it. I’m going to do a giveaway of it on my blog next week I think. Thank you for linking me! Can’t wait to hear more of your thoughts on it.

Joan - January 16, 2011 - 9:04 AM

Katie, your photos are beautiful! Isn’t it amazing that these tiny creatures handle the cold weather so well?

Ken - January 16, 2011 - 9:39 AM

Thanks for sharing your bird photos. I’d love to have some of your images. Aren’t they amazing little creatures!?! Feed them well when the snow and ice come. They need the energy to stay warm and have a difficult time finding food on their own. Love ya!

Courtney - January 17, 2011 - 2:36 PM

the book just shipped today! it’s on it’s way! i ordered it MONTHS ago! i can’t WAIT to get my hands on it…

i relate to you saying you’re a “get to the point” girl – i sometimes feel that way when i read her blog…yet, once i slow my brain and heart down and really let her words in there…they almost always stay with me the rest of the day!

oh, and i LOVE your chalkboard wall!!!

Tina - January 19, 2011 - 2:28 PM

I am so jealous of your pictures of the birds! I so love birds too, and am especially fond of redbirds – the delicate coloring of the females and the bright flag of the males. I wish I could take pictures of animals and not have them be so blurry or just blah. But, anyway, I am so happy you are enjoying your bird feeder and the book!

Kera Hughes - January 20, 2011 - 12:38 PM

i just got this book in the mail today and am looking forward to reading it and being part of an online book club through http://www.audreycaroline.blogspot.com {Bloom}. I look forward to delving in…..have heard of SOOOO many people who have just started reading this or getting ready to start!

p.s……we are bird lovers too! we have 4 bird feeders on the back porch and just love the flow and variety of birds that come and go!! my uncle got a bird diary to keep track of birds we’ve seen….place for date and place! very cool book! love your pics!

[...] may remember how much I enjoy birds, so it was a fun surprise, a special treat to start the day!  It counted as one of my gifts for [...]

{three little birds} » The Dunlap Family - April 27, 2011 - 12:18 PM

[...] you’ve been reading this blog long, you know I like birds and bird watching.  So, these little guys have been super fun to have around (and they make me think of this song, [...]

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