It’s not too late to start a new devotional this year. Here’s a link to Elisabeth Elliot’s daily devotional, if you love her writing as much as I do.

I just got back from taking a sneak peak at Two Talent Living’s Carnival of Beauty today, and you’re in for a refreshing variety of ideas (including mine — of course!). The topic is “The Beauty of Limits.” As I go about my day, whenever I need a five-minute break, I’ll read one of these 12 essays sent in by women bloggers. (And I’ll probably have my timer ticking beside me — because here’s where I have trouble losing track of time!)

So far, nobody has taken me up on my offer to let me post your essay in my blog. If you’re not a blogger, don’t you want to share your views with others? Next week’s topic is “The Beauty of Winter.” Sallie’s deadline is Jan. 10th at 3 p.m. So, you’ve got a few days to think about this topic. What do you love about the season of winter? Is it what takes place outdoors? Describe what it’s like in your part of the world. Or do you enjoy what goes on inside your home? Tell us! I’d love to publish a collection of ideas here.

This is your English teacher assigning you an essay to write — due by midnight next Monday, Jan. 9. I think it would be so fun to see what winter is like in different parts of the world.