Expression

Write it down.

Record the past.

Reframe the future.

Remember tears to relive the morning  joy.

Let go--release the thoughts captive in your mind 

roam free and unhindered. 

Let your hand be firm and confidant as you pen.

Remind yourself of Promise.

Establish Truth.

 

Journal--a place where secrets are kept safe; ideas unabashed. 

Tis the expression of the heart; the confidant of reflections, dreams, pain, and pearls of wisdom life teaches. 

creators: these handmade journals my sister Emily and I are making for a craft show this fall. Designing them inspired me to share with you the value of capturing thoughts on paper.

Sing to Me Ciabatta

 A smile of satisfaction plays at the corners of my mouth as I tie the strings of my apron, a hand-sewn from a thoughtful friend. I dust my hands with flour after lifting the bowl's cover, inhaling the yeasty fragrance of bread dough. 

Ah, the joy of fresh discoveries that come with new experiences, like creating Artisan European breads such as ciabatta. The sweetness of knowledge and understanding that comes with it. These bring me great delight! I learned that sourdough enhances the minerals and nutrients in the whole grain, breaking it down in a way that makes it easier for our bodies to digest.

As I gently pat and roll out the dough I quickly learn that overworking it destroys the air bubbles, crippling it's potential to raise as it's meant to. This knowledge is honey to my soul, because I understand more about the Master of Artisan Breads and how beautifully he creates his bread; how uniquely and carefully designed each loaf is one-of-a-kind. What wisdom He has! 
 

And when I lift that stoneware pan from the blazing oven, noting the way each ciabatta is little bit different I am held captive in sacred awe, for I realize that He knows exactly what He's doing as He kneads and shapes us.

Hearth & Home: Artisian Style

      

Baking bread European fashion is certainly an art. Though the preciseness in measurement and timing is essential, the effort is well worth it. For me, it is not the crunch of the baguette I anticipate. Beyond the lingering aroma and beauty, is something far more desirable.

 

And that is the experience. Every day is a new adventure and this day is no different. How can I enhance the lives of my family and bless those I love, or perhaps offer a gift to those whom I do not like so much? Can what I create with my hands mend and heal and impart the love of One who sculpted us with His hands? Could this be to someone far more than a sweet little French treat? Could it be a reminder that just as these baguettes were sculpted with much care, they, too, have been formed to portray His beauty?

Baking French baguettes today paid me wisdom: even the small things in life have a multi-faceted purpose. Never underestimate the power of simplicity...

Or be afraid to try new things and take risks! (i.e. spending several hours in the kitchen, waiting for dough to rest four times, slitting dough at 45 degree angle, and creating steam with a cast iron skillet and ice!)

Photography by Emily Kopp