
Winters’ Day In
Conversations on life, faith, stories, and creativity from author Talena Winters.
Pour a cuppa and stay awhile.

Aspirational Paradox
Kent M. Keith’s “Paradoxical Commandments” really hit home today. Quick read, but a powerful one.

You do you, boo.
Everyone needs something they do that feeds their soul without worrying if it’s “good enough.” And if the trolls don’t approve, just remember—they’re the ones who are missing out. Keep doing the thing. Keep making the art. Keep playing and being creative and having fun. Ditch the perfection and hold onto the joy for dear life. That’s what creativity is for.

Learning to Follow
Maybe the overwhelm is from taking on things that weren’t mine to bear?

The Sphinx's Heart and the Lion of St. Mark
A behind-the-scenes post with a quote from my new book, plus how I came up with the attributes of the cherubim in Rise of the Grigori.

Could Your Story Change the World?
You might think your story isn't that special, that you have nothing to give. But if you think about it, you'll probably realize that you have already learned some life lessons that others would benefit from. Have you ever wondered how your story might be a powerful blessing to others?

Photo Friday: The Wonder of Everything
When one travels, it is easy to look in wonder at the big buildings, the different customs, the strange food, and wonder, "What is that for? Who made that? Why do they do it that way?"
The truth is, wonderful things are all around us, no matter where we live.

Photo Friday: Memories of Sunshine
Nothing like a few garden herbs growing inside in winter to bring back memories of summer. Oh, sunshine, how do I miss thee? Let me count the ways...

Photo Friday: Become Vulnerable
By opening up your heart and showing others your weaknesses as well as your strengths, you become more of who you are, and give others permission to do the same. Isn't that the most loving thing to do?

Photo Friday: Become Brave
The theme of my life for the last several months has been about becoming brave. My life has become less about protecting myself, and more about how my life can bless others. Sometimes, the things I have done have cost me. But for the most part, they have helped my heart and my courage to grow. Here are some lessons I've learned on the way.

Photo Friday: Become Patient
Patience is what happens when we are presented with opportunity. Because no opportunity worth having ever comes easily.

Photo Friday: Become Gentle
Sometimes it is easier said than done to be gentle on yourself. Use this wallpaper as a reminder. Happy Friday.

Photo Friday: Difficult Discoveries
"It's your road, and yours alone. Others may walk it with you, but no one can walk it for you." - Rumi

Photo Friday: New World Discoveries
"We cannot teach people anything; we can only help them discover it within themselves." - Galileo Galilei


Photo Friday: Tears of Joy and Sorrow
"Grief is in two parts. The first is loss. The second is the remaking of life." - Anne Roiphe