Positively Beautiful

Merry Fence-mas by Deena McDaniel, Positively Beautiful blog 12/20/25 Christ is Christmas! There’s always a blur this time of year. The tree is set up, and a plethora potpourri of decorations abounds. Some reflect the silliness of the season’s Santa and his elves, while others may point directly to the “Reason for the Season!” Christ-mas is Savior centered. Even Pagans and other religions might take the 25th to exchange gifts for the fun of it. Who wants to be left out of a celebration? Everyone loves parties! “And going into the house, they saw the child with Mary his mother, and they fell down and worshiped him. Then, opening their treasures, they offered him gifts, gold and frankincense and myrrh.”-Matthew 2:11 We all battle the business! There's one kid’s party at school, a work event, and then the local Christmas celebrations too! I missed the “drone display” again, but the videos were outstanding! Endless opportunities call us in, but discernment takes the front seat ...

Every Last Breath by Deena McDaniel Positively Beautiful Blog 1/2/26 Resolutions become revolting in mid-January! Failure is common. Intensions are with heartfelt solutions. And then comes complacency. Give up and give in to past indulgences or take a 360 spin. Change is a process and not very often a “poof” of an instantaneous shift. “But do not overlook this one fact, beloved, that with the Lord one day is as a thousand years, and a thousand years as one day.”- 2 Peter 3:8 Recycle that resolution. What exactly is a resolution, if not a resolve to change? Change begins with your mind. Where have you put your thoughts throughout the day? Naturally, we petition the Lord with our wants and often our needs. Wants trigger the heart motive. Why? Why do we want _____? Several months ago, I made prayer cards about the ones I love. Spending mornings going through the list of wants and needs for each, I’ve also included myself. Scripture accompaniment is vital. Pray back the promises...

Cookie Kiss By Deena McDaniel Positively Beautiful Blog – 1/10/26 When we moved to Florida in 2004, the culture shock was—well—shocking! Suddenly, the entire world walked across my path. Every tribe, tongue, and nation had a presence in my life. Our past life in Montreal, Missouri had created a very homogenous existence. Everyone was mostly like me. The town closest to us had 81 people and a gas station/diner/laundromat combo—nothing like Buddy’s Diner for breakfast! And then…transplant to South Florida! I cried for two months trying to adjust. Making friends, finding a brand-new church, and navigating an unfamiliar culture with four kids ranging from 14 years old to 18 months had me constantly running to the Cross. Winter was sunny, yet I was praying for Son-shine. Now, opening the door to 2026, cozy in my bedroom with my granddaughter snuggled into the pillows playing Minecraft, I gladly choose the path God set before me—hindsight is clear. Now is the time to begin again. Have you ...