Inspired to Shine {Plus: Award and Giveaway}

Inspiration. It is what I desire to be. It is the vision that I have for this space...to motivate, encourage and enlighten. So, when I read a post by Claudia at Lashes and Beard this past weekend, about blogs that inspire her, I was honored to see my name among her list. It felt good to know that what I write reaches people, that it encourages and inspires.

Part of receiving Very Inspiring Blogger Award, is to acknowledge the person that awarded you (Claudia is the best! Read her blog. Check out her adorable son, Isaiah.), to write seven facts about yourself, and award seven other bloggers.

Since I wanted to keep this post about inspiration and encouragement, I have decided to share seven facts, related to what inspires me. Included in this list will be the seven other blogs that I consider a must-read when it comes to being inspired.

When I first started blogging, I didn't think about where my ideas would come from. As I posted more and more, my husband asked me if I was worried that I would run out of posts. Since he knew that I had many posts in draft form, he thought I should save some, just in case. I have never worried about where my posts would come from. They just appear, in my head and at my fingertips. For that, I am grateful.

My inspiration comes...

Through music. I love music. I often hear songs and am inspired on a certain topic or by the story of the artist. I have shared my favorite songs in many blog posts, because I feel they explain so much of what I am thinking and feeling.

In the shower. My inspiration often comes to me in the most awkward times and places. In situations where I have no access to pens, paper, or my iPad. Like, in the shower or in the car. Maybe it's because these are the times when I am separated from everything, and can think, without distraction or interruption.

My family. I am often inspired to write about my kids. Their struggles, the silly things they do, and how important they are to me. Likewise, my husband inspires me daily, by encouraging me and helping me see which boundaries need pushing and where I need to let go.

The Bible. This month I have been participating in the 30-day scripture challenge. Looking into God's word everyday for a scripture passage related to that day's theme has inspired many of my posts this month. Today's challenge word is inspirational. Here is the verse I chose, because it inspires me to put one foot in front of the other, every day, despite my circumstances:

"I have told you this so that you may have peace in me. Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have overcome the world."

- John 16:33

Time in prayer. It is through prayer that I am able to listen. Through my conversations with God, I can ask for many things, share my desire to inspire, and He provides me with so many ideas. It's His voice that I have shared in so many of my posts. I am merely a tool for His message.

From others. I read a variety of blogs, each for different reasons. There are several blogs that I always read when a new post appears. It is because they inspire and challenge me. Here are just a few (it was really hard to choose!) of my favorites:

This Little Life of Mine
Life with Joys

Taking the Plunge

Beauty in Weakness

Girls of God's Heart

Free and Holy

Number 7. The seventh blog that I consider a must read is The Shine Project. What first led me to this organization was this bracelet...

I purchased it because of what it said, be the change, which is part of one of my favorite quotes. Then, I read their purpose... to inspire you to live the highest quality of life obtainable, and to motivate you to join our efforts in making this world a better place. On the blog Ashley shares stories of how she is showing love to others and making a difference, in small, yet impactful ways.

It is because of these things that I decided to sponsor The Shine Project blog this month. As a result, I am privileged to be a part of an awesome giveaway.

Check out their site. Enter the giveaway. You won't be disappointed.

What inspires you? I would love to know.