Slow Love

Last evening, a group of us gathered at the Borders bookstore in Fairfield to hear a presentation by Dominique Browning. Dominique has just written the book Slow Love. I have been following her blog Slow Love Life and I was looking forward to seeing her in person and hearing more about her book.

As the minutes counted down, the audience - mostly women - sat and whispered quietly in anticipation. Soon, Dominique was being introduced and to our surprise she rose from a seat within our group.

She introduced us to her book - the result of reinventing herself after losing her job as editor-in-chief of House and Garden magazine combined with her children leaving home and the ending of a long relationship.

I was delighted to hear her read excerpts from the book; it means so much more when you are able to hear the author's words in their own voice. She answered questions with honesty and humor.  Dominique has such a warm, compassionate manner that it soon felt like a group of friends sharing thoughts over a cup of coffee.

Too soon it was over but I was delighted to get the chance to meet her and chat one-on-one, and have my book signed. 

And this book!  It is beautiful, colorful, a handy little size - a gem.  I am looking forward to unwrapping the stories that are inside, sharing the journey and savoring the beauty that unfolds.

Dominique is just starting out on her book tour.  If she comes to a town near you, I urge you to go meet her and hear her share the journey of Slow Love. 

Meanwhile, find the book and share the journey with her there. 

Marcy 

Connection to God and friends

I am honored to work each day with Paul McManus. He has a spirit that is full of joy, a ready smile and he's the most wonderful, creative thinker. Do you know Paul? He and his wife, Tracey, are the authors of the book The 7 Great Prayers. It wasn't until I read this book that I learned about praying.



For a long time I thought that praying was reciting the prayers that I had grown up with. Sure, every once in a while I would put in a plea to God for something, but what I was missing was the conversation. The conversation with God. Talking to Him and listening to Him. Through this book I have learned about that conversation and it has made it so much easier for me. Seven simple prayers that help me to connect with God.

There is a 7 Great Prayers bracelet that has 7 colorful beads to remind you of each of the prayers. I've been wearing mine for more than a year now.



One year ago today, I found myself at the hospital emergency room because a family member was very ill. It was a Saturday morning and I hadn't yet put on my bracelet. And I missed it... In its simplicity it reminded me to focus on all the good gifts from God and helped me to get grounded to handle what was ahead.

After that morning, I've never forgotten my bracelet. It continues to be a daily reminder to me to thank God and to see Him and his beauty all around me.

~~~

Have you heard about (in)courage.me? I am so excited for its debut tomorrow. They have asked an amazing group of women to contribute to their website. I am familar with quite a few of them - and they are terrific! I'm looking forward to meeting all of them and joining in on the discussion.

Marcy