The Joyful Life Magazine
A quarterly lifestyle print publication. Heart & Home Inspiration for Christian Women seeking the JOY found by inviting JESUS into our everyday lives.
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I was driving down an old highway, my car eating up mile after mile of country roads. Night had fallen and I was more than ready to be where I was going but the water I drank earlier was compelling me to take a break at the next gas station. ⁠⠀ 273 10
My son laid in my arms and sobbed. After a strong battle of wills, he finally relinquished and gave up the fight against me to instead run into my arms for comfort. As I stroked his hair and murmured words of encouragement, I realized the beauty in the moment. Beauty in brokenness.⁠⠀ 198 2
I was tired of the squabbling. Normally, my girls get 20 minutes of “technology time” after they’ve cleaned their room and finished their tasks, but after a morning of incessant fighting I decided to switch it up.⁠⠀ 186 1
I’m a terrible gardener; the only things I manage to keep alive are tomatoes and herbs on my deck. I love watching the tomatoes grow. If the color green had a smell, those plants would be it. ⁠⠀ 232 15
With what appeared to be every ounce of his strength, the newborn reindeer calf pushed himself to a standing position. His spindly legs trembled and his entire fuzzy, brown body shook with the effort of remaining upright. Close behind, mama reindeer hovered protectively, keeping watch over her baby’s progress. The calf took one halting step forward—then tripped and tumbled to the ground.⁠⠀ 241 5
“May my cry come before you, Lord; give me understanding according to your word.” Psalm 119:169 (NIV)⠀ 269 20

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Sue Donaldson

3 posts
Sue Donaldson and her husband, Mark, live in San Luis Obispo, California. They have raised 3 semi-adult daughters who keep them at the bank and on their knees. Sue blogs at Welcome Heart and has been speaking for women’s retreats and conferences for the past 20 years with long pauses for babies, diapers and soccer pasta parties.