I know we're almost there when we reach this intersection.

We stopped here once, at the bottom of the hill, and I took this picture out the passenger window, which I later painted—"Country Road in Summer." Steve was driving and Rory was in the backseat going back and forth from window to window, ears flapping in the summer breeze. Every time we drive this way, through the hills of the Finger Lakes, I remember that moment in time as vividly as if it were a Polaroid.

Do you have places like this? Scenes that evoke such clear picture memories?

This is a season of wonder, of listening and leaning in, of slowing down a bit. A time when we seek calm in the midst of chaotic calendars and a brief respite from responsibility.

We crave stillness and quiet and space.

And so, my gift to you this Advent season (and week before Christmas) is a collection of things to read, watch, and listen to this week (or after Christmas, because, lets’s be honest - this time of the year can be crazy). I hope these resources inspire you, give you a new perspective, and refresh your soul during this busy season.

(Best enjoyed with a cup of eggnog and a gingerbread cookie, obviously.)

Enjoy!