I'm sure you've all been there. That one week where your head is just pounding from stress. It's one thing after another: a work task, a doctor's appointment, a commitment you can't get out of... It's just so much. And all you can do is wait for the weekend to get here, but it's just crawling by. It's Tuesday and you're already thinking, "Okay, I need to breathe. I need to relax. Friday, where are you?!"
For those of us with a 9-to-5 or more, it feels like we're just running on a treadmill all week, telling ourselves, "Friday is coming." When you get home from work, all you want to do is sleep. You can't even get through your favorite show or reply to blog comments. All you want is to eat, shower, brush your teeth, and crash. Then you wake up the next morning and do it all over again, just silently wishing for the weekend to arrive.
That was me all last week. Seriously, I could not wait for the weekend to come. It was just too much. But I found something that has helped me ease the stress, and the psychology behind it is actually pretty amazing. Mangatopia, illustrated by Liv Wan. It made me wonder: Why do children love coloring so much, and why do adults need it?
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Key Verse
“Flee fornication. Every sin that a man doeth is without the body; but he that committeth fornication sinneth against his own body’’ (1 Corinthians 6:18).
Text — 1 Corinthians 6:15-20
Message
A temple means the house of God, where He dwells and meets with the worshippers. In the Old Testament covenant there is a designated place to meet with God – the Tabernacle, but not all were allowed into the Holiest of All, a place designated for the priest alone, thereby denying the people of constant unbroken fellowship with God. In the gospel dispensation, God took away the barrier and seeks to dwell in human hearts, ‘…for ye are the temple of the living God; as God hath said, I will dwell in them…’’ (2 Corinthians 6:16).
Our bodies are the temple where God seeks to dwell. We must protect it against defilement. The sin of fornication defiles our temple, and the holy God cannot dwell in it. Also, pornography, masturbation, and watching immoral movies make our body, soul and spirit dirty and thereby cutting us off from fellowship with God. You can overcome. Ron Smith said, “One is neither a fornicator nor a homosexual constitutionally. One becomes a fornicator or a homosexual by letting the thought become an act.” Reject evil thoughts.
Quote
Protect it against defilement
Challenge
Flee fornication!
Prayer for today
Lord, please help me to flee fornication and all defilements.
Every week is a chance to learn something new. It could be a random fact, a new skill, or a valuable life lesson. I'd love to hear what caught your attention!
Tell us: What’s one new thing you learned this week?
Share your answer in the comments below! Let's all learn something new.
There’s something wonderfully grounding about exploring a place on foot. It provides the perfect time to notice the small details. From stone walls covered in moss to the scent of wild herbs or the sound of church bells in a sleepy village, these types of getaways allow for opportunities to spot things you might otherwise miss.
Walking holidays give travellers the chance to slow down, breathe deeply, and connect with landscapes in a way that typical travel doesn’t allow. There are also a ton of amazing places to explore, with many destinations offering visitors the chance to head off the beaten path.
However, Europe, with its centuries-old footpaths, dramatic coastlines, and rolling countryside, is a top pick for many walking enthusiasts and for good reason! If you’re embarking on your next hiking adventure, here are some of the best places to go.
The Cairngorms, Scotland
In the heart of the Scottish Highlands lies a vast wilderness of ancient forests, deep lochs, and mountain plateaus that stretch as far as the eye can see. The Cairngorms are more than just a hiking spot; they feel like a place where myths and legends could come alive. Walkers here might cross paths with red deer moving silently through the heather or golden eagles soaring overhead.
Trails vary from gentle riverside strolls to demanding climbs that test your stamina. What sets this region apart, though, is the sense of raw space. Whether you’re standing on a summit with wind tugging at your jacket or strolling through dense forests surrounded by wildlife, there’s often no sign of human habitation for miles.
After you have explored the beauty surrounding the Cairngorms, you’ll also find that comfort isn’t far away. Cosy retreats tucked into the valleys provide a warm refuge where you can rest tired legs and soak up the quiet.
Normandy, France
When planning a walking holiday in France, Normandy is proof that not every trip needs to involve mountain peaks. Here, the adventure is gentler, more pastoral. Think rolling green fields, half-timbered villages, and orchards that burst into blossom in spring. Walking here feels a bit like stepping into an impressionist painting, with soft light and wide skies that change throughout the day.
History lingers in the landscape, too, in Normandy. You’ll discover paths that lead past medieval churches and dramatic coastal cliffs where pivotal events once unfolded. The beaches are wide and windswept, perfect for those who enjoy long, contemplative walks. Add in the promise of rustic meals at the end of a day, and it’s easy to see why Normandy makes such a memorable walking destination.
Amalfi Coast, Italy
Few places blend natural drama and Mediterranean charm as effortlessly as the Amalfi Coast. The walking here isn’t just exercise; it provides an unmatched experience all on its own. Wander narrow paths that wind through lemon groves and terraced vineyards, or climb high above the shimmering sea while taking in panoramic vistas.
Some trails are challenging, with steep climbs and endless staircases, but every effort is rewarded with views that stop you in your tracks. Hikers often find themselves reaching a lookout point just as the sun begins to dip, casting golden light over the water. There’s a romance to walking here, an intoxicating blend of history, scenery, and that distinctly Italian way of life where every pause feels like it should be savoured.
The Yorkshire Dales, England
Few landscapes are as quintessentially English as the Yorkshire Dales. Rolling green hills, stone barns scattered across meadows, and dry-stone walls snaking into the distance create a patchwork that’s both timeless and inviting. Walking here feels less like conquering nature and more like being welcomed into it.
The beauty of the Dales lies in variety. One day might mean an easy ramble along a bubbling river, while the next brings a more demanding climb up limestone escarpments with sweeping views across valleys. Villages tucked into the folds of the hills offer charming pauses, perfect for catching your breath and soaking in the slow rhythm of rural life. For anyone who loves quiet mornings with mist lifting over fields, the Yorkshire Dales are a dream come true.
Plus, if you’d like to continue visiting The Yorkshire Dales with ease, you’ll find some beautiful lodges for sale in Aysgarth. These accommodations provide a convenient way to explore the beauty here with little planning required.
Dalmatian Coast, Croatia
Sun-drenched and steeped in history, Croatia’s Dalmatian Coast is a walking holiday with a twist. Here, trails often weave between ancient towns and sparkling coves, blending cultural exploration with seaside adventure. The terrain varies from rugged coastal paths where waves crash below, to pine-scented hillsides that open onto panoramic views of the Adriatic. This makes it an excellent destination for travellers seeking varied trails for the whole family.
However, what makes walking in this region unforgettable is the contrast. One moment you’re winding through centuries-old stone streets, the next you’re looking out across a chain of islands, their outlines glowing in the evening light.
The pace of life is also slower in Croatia, and walks often feel like gentle meanders punctuated by swims, conversations with locals, and long, leisurely meals.
Tips for Planning a Walking Holiday
A walking holiday sounds simple. Just lace up your boots and go. But a little planning makes the experience much smoother and more enjoyable. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Choose the right level: Not every trail is a test of endurance. Think about whether you prefer leisurely countryside strolls or more challenging mountain hikes. Picking routes that suit your ability keeps the focus on enjoyment, not exhaustion.
- Pack smart, not heavy: Good walking boots are non-negotiable, but beyond that, try to keep things light. A comfortable backpack, layered clothing, and a refillable water bottle are essentials.
- Time of year matters: Europe’s landscapes transform with the seasons. Spring brings blossoms in Normandy, while autumn in the Amalfi Coast means quieter trails and cooler air. Summer can be stunning but also crowded and hot, especially in southern regions.
- Balance activity with downtime: The joy of walking holidays isn’t just in the movement, it’s also in the pauses. Make time for slow lunches, quiet afternoons, and unplanned detours. Sometimes the best memories come from moments you didn’t plan.
A luxurious escape often means something different to everyone. Some prefer 5-star all-inclusive resorts, while others enjoy the privacy of a lavish villa. The term "luxury" has multiple meanings for a variety of travelers, making it difficult to define what these escapes truly entail.
However, there are more travellers who are now looking to combine luxury with adventure, and there are more than enough places in the world where rugged landscapes meet refined comforts. These destinations don’t just offer breathtaking scenery; they deliver experiences that make you feel alive while still letting you unwind in style.
If you’re ready to embark on a luxurious yet thrilling getaway, below are some of the best destinations that blend the two effortlessly.
However, there are more travellers who are now looking to combine luxury with adventure, and there are more than enough places in the world where rugged landscapes meet refined comforts. These destinations don’t just offer breathtaking scenery; they deliver experiences that make you feel alive while still letting you unwind in style.
If you’re ready to embark on a luxurious yet thrilling getaway, below are some of the best destinations that blend the two effortlessly.
Key Verse
“Giving thanks always for all things unto God and the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ” (Ephesians 5:20).
Text — Ephesians 5:19-21
Message
“A thankful heart is not only the greatest virtue but also the parent of all other virtues,” says Cicero. The servants that broke different bad news to Job, one after the other, must have expected him to break down in tears and become emotionally unstable. Surprisingly, Job fell to the ground and worshipped. He blessed the name of the Lord. He praised God even at a bad time. Give thanks always, not just when things are rosy, but also at the time of disappointments, difficulties, delays, deprivation, and death of loved ones. Our thankfulness should not be done only on special occasions, church or during morning devotions.
Give thanks—do not hold it back or keep it just within your heart. It is an activity God commands us to do, which we must do well—wholeheartedly and willingly. Set time apart to thank God in songs, worship, and praises. The list of things we should praise Him for is endless—His greatness, grace, goodness, gifts, guidance, etc. Do not take things for granted. The Lord wants to hear your voice of thanksgiving every time and everywhere.
Quote
Set time apart to thank God
Challenge
The Lord wants to hear your voice of thanksgiving
Prayer for today
I will praise you, O my Saviour, forevermore.
By Higher everyday: Photo by Peggy Anke
For the longest time, I was convinced that blush and I just weren't meant to be. I tried so many different types and shades, but nothing seemed to work. I even found a cream blush I liked, but it was a whole ordeal to apply without it clashing with my foundation. I just didn't have the patience for it, so I gave up and stuck to what I knew.
If you've been reading this blog for a while, you know my makeup routine is pretty simple. I'm a MAC Powder Foundation girl—NW45, to be exact. I've got an Oriflame liquid foundation, but I don't use it often. My go-to look is just my MAC powder, some brow pencil, and mascara. Lipsticks are tricky for me, so I usually just go for a light stain and some gloss. I'm not into heavy makeup that feels caked on. I'm confident in my own skin, and I don't feel the need to cover anything up. My makeup is meant to enhance, not conceal.
But then, something changed. I got my hands on some blushes from Collections Cosmetics UK. They also sent me some of their High Color Glosses, but the colors weren't for me. I tried everything, but they just didn't suit my skin tone. I'll find a way to make them work eventually, but the blushes? Oh, my gosh. They're exactly what I've been looking for.
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