Doll Can Create

100 Mile Life/Grandma Core

Author: Barbara (Doll) Creelman

loving life; keeping it simple!
How to Ply Yarn with a Spindle: My Simple Method — March 29, 2025

How to Ply Yarn with a Spindle: My Simple Method

/Barbara (Doll) Creelman/Leave a comment

Hi friends! Welcome to this tutorial where I share my personal method of plying yarn from a spindle. While there are many techniques out there, this is the one that works best for me, and I hope it helps you too. (this is not a word for word transcript)

Getting Started

Before we begin, here’s what you’ll need:

  • Your favorite spindle (or one of them, if you’re like me and have several!)
  • A small amount of spun singles
  • Your hands—no fancy tools required!

This method works best with a fiber that has some grip to it. Today, I’m using a beautiful fiber from Germany that’s naturally grabby, making for a warm and fuzzy finished yarn.

Step-by-Step Plying Process

1. Preparing the Singles

  • Remove the spun singles from your spindle.
  • Wrap the singles around your hand by first looping it around a finger and then wrapping it around your open hand.
  • Once fully wound, slide the loops down onto your wrist, creating a bracelet of yarn.

2. Setting Up for Plying

  • Find the two ends: the one from the inside of the bracelet and the outermost strand.
  • Make a slipknot with these two ends and attach them to your spindle.
  • Start spinning in the opposite direction from how you originally spun the singles.

3. Plying the Yarn

  • Hold the two strands together and let the twist distribute evenly as you spin.
  • If needed, gently guide the twist so that the yarn plies consistently.
  • Wind the newly plied yarn onto your spindle and repeat until all singles have been plied.

Finishing the Yarn

1. Making a Skein

  • Once all the yarn is plied, remove it from the spindle.
  • If you don’t have a niddy noddy, use the old-fashioned elbow method: wrap the yarn around your forearm to measure out a small skein.

2. Setting the Twist

  • If your yarn has extra twist, give it a quick flick or a gentle shake to distribute it evenly.
  • Soak the yarn in lukewarm water for about 20 minutes to set the twist.
  • Squeeze out excess water and hang it to dry.

Tips & Encouragement

  • If you’re new to spinning, don’t stress about perfection! It’s all about practice and enjoying the process.
  • Your yarn’s characteristics (twist, thickness, and texture) will determine its best use. Sometimes, the fiber itself will tell you what it wants to be.
  • Spinning can be addictive, and it’s easy to fall down the fiber arts rabbit hole! Enjoy the journey and explore different tools and techniques at your own pace.

Join the Spinning Community!

Are you taking part in a spinning challenge? I’m currently spindling for 100 days, leading up to the Tour de Fleece! Whether you’re just beginning or have been spinning for years, I’d love to hear from you.

Leave a comment below: Are you new to spindle plying? What projects are you working on? Need any extra help? Let me know!

If you found this tutorial helpful, consider subscribing to my channel or blog for more fiber arts content. Let’s grow together—my goal is to reach 200 subscribers, and I’d love for you to be part of that journey!

Happy spinning, and may your yarn bring joy to your hands and heart!

Until next time,

Doll from Doll Can Create

(Like, share, and subscribe to help support the channel and blog!)

100 Mile Journey Check-in March 28, 2025 — March 28, 2025

100 Mile Journey Check-in March 28, 2025

/Barbara (Doll) Creelman/Leave a comment

Embarking on a Hundred Mile Life—sourcing essentials within a 100-mile radius—has come with its share of challenges. Here’s how I’m tackling them:

Budget Challenges & Solutions

  • Local products can be more expensive, so I need to cut back elsewhere.
  • Reviewing subscriptions to streaming services:
    • Prioritizing only what we actually use.
    • Canceling unnecessary ones to free up funds for local purchases.
  • Reducing unnecessary delivery costs:
    • Checking if I’m paying for services I don’t need.
    • Finding ways to replace delivery items with local alternatives.

Finding Local Alternatives

  • Some items are harder to find, like canned goods and long-term storage items.
  • Farmers’ markets will be opening soon—good opportunities to stock up.
  • Meat sourcing has been a challenge:
    • Local meats can be pricey but not impossible to find.
    • Found a store in Hamilton with its own meat processing plant—more affordable and transparent.
    • Whole chickens are cheaper there than at big-box stores.

Tracking Local vs. Non-Local Spending

  • Need a better way to measure how much I’m truly sourcing locally.
  • Planning to use YNAB (You Need a Budget) to:
    • Separate spending into “local” and “non-local” categories.
    • Analyze where I can improve and adjust.

Minimizing Delivery Costs

  • Ensuring delivery services are within the 100-mile radius.
  • Already have local options for dairy, produce, and coffee:
    • Dairy: Prepaid for a year’s worth of delivery.
    • Produce: Can pick up for free in Ancaster (15–20 min away).
    • Coffee: Found a local roaster that delivers affordably.
  • Planning errands efficiently to reduce fuel costs when picking up local goods.

Looking Ahead

  • Expecting more challenges but staying flexible and creative.
  • The goal is sustainability—balancing cost, convenience, and commitment to local sourcing.
  • Continuing to track progress and refine strategies.

Have you tried focusing on local purchases? What obstacles have you encountered, and how did you overcome them?

Let’s start a conversation. What steps will you take this weekend?

Till again,

Doll from DollCanCreate

Walking Through the Final Days of Lent: A Journey Through Ephesians — March 26, 2025

Walking Through the Final Days of Lent: A Journey Through Ephesians

/Barbara (Doll) Creelman/Leave a comment

As we approach the final days of Lent, we reflect on the transformative message of Ephesians. This powerful letter reminds us of our calling to walk in the light, redeem our time, and stand firm in faith. Let’s journey together through these last days, drawing strength from God’s Word.

Walking in the Light (Day 23)
“For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Walk as children of light.” – Ephesians 5:8

Lent is a season of transformation. We were once in darkness, but Christ has made us light. Today, take time to reflect: How is God calling you to shine His light in your daily life?

Prayer: Lord, help me walk in Your light. Let my actions reflect Your truth and goodness. Amen.

Redeeming the Time (Day 24)
“Making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil.” – Ephesians 5:16

Time is a precious gift. Lent reminds us to refocus, using our time wisely for God’s glory. Consider how you are spending your days—are distractions pulling you away from His purpose?

Prayer: Father, teach me to use my time for Your kingdom. May my choices reflect Your wisdom. Amen.

Submitting to One Another (Day 25)
“Submit to one another out of reverence for Christ.” – Ephesians 5:21

True submission is about humility and love. How can you serve others with a heart that mirrors Christ’s love? This Lenten season, seek ways to live out His command to love one another.

Prayer: Jesus, give me a heart of humility. Help me to serve and love others as You have loved me. Amen.

Strength in the Lord (Day 26)
“Finally, be strong in the Lord and in His mighty power.” – Ephesians 6:10

Lent can be a time of spiritual challenge, but our strength comes from God. In times of struggle, we must lean on Him. Where do you need His strength today?

Prayer: Lord, I trust in Your strength, not my own. Equip me for the journey ahead. Amen.

The Armor of God (Day 27)
“Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes.” – Ephesians 6:11

Paul calls us to wear the armor of God: truth, righteousness, peace, faith, salvation, and the Word. Each piece equips us to stand firm in our faith. Are you clothed in His armor daily?

Prayer: Father, clothe me in Your armor. May I stand firm in faith and truth. Amen.

Praying in the Spirit (Day 28)
“And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests.” – Ephesians 6:18

Prayer is our direct line to God. As we prepare for Holy Week, let us deepen our connection with Him. How can you cultivate a habit of prayer in your daily life?

Prayer: Lord, teach me to pray continually. May my heart always be turned toward You. Amen.

Boldness in Christ (Day 29)
“Pray also for me, that whenever I speak, words may be given me so that I will fearlessly make known the mystery of the gospel.” – Ephesians 6:19-20

Paul asked for boldness in sharing the gospel. This Holy Week, let’s pray for courage to live and speak our faith. Where is God calling you to step out in boldness?

Prayer: Lord, give me courage to share Your love with others. May I be a witness to Your grace. Amen.

Grace Be With You (Day 30)
“Grace to all who love our Lord Jesus Christ with an undying love.” – Ephesians 6:24

As Lent comes to a close, we rest in God’s grace. His love sustains us beyond this season. May our journey not end here, but continue with renewed faith and devotion.

Prayer: Thank You, Lord, for Your grace. May I walk in Your love always. Amen.

As we conclude our Lenten journey, let’s carry these lessons into our daily lives. May we continue walking in light, redeeming our time, submitting in love, standing strong, and boldly proclaiming Christ’s message. May His grace sustain us in every season. Amen.

What’s in your tool kit? — March 24, 2025

What’s in your tool kit?

/Barbara (Doll) Creelman/Leave a comment

Finding Calm: How Spinning & Knitting Help My Anxiety

When life feels overwhelming, I reach for my fiber. The rhythm, the movement, the texture—these are the things that bring me back to myself. Spinning and knitting have become more than just hobbies for me; they are lifelines, gentle anchors that steady me when my thoughts start to spiral.

I can always tell when my anxiety is creeping in. It starts with staying up too late, doom-scrolling through news headlines, or lying in bed as my mind races through worries—especially about my family. My heart beats faster, and suddenly, the world feels a little too big, a little too out of control. I need something steady to hold onto.

That’s when I sit down at my spinning wheel. I place my foot on the treadle, letting the motion slow my thoughts. My hands draft the fibre, watching as it twists into yarn, transforming from something loose and chaotic into something whole. Also picking up my spindle and a small amount of floof works well. It’s a small act of control in a world that often feels uncontrollable. The wheel hums, the fibre moves through my fingers, and with each turn, I feel a little more grounded.

Knitting offers me the same comfort. The repetitive motion of each stitch feels like breathing—it moves in, it moves out. I don’t have to think too hard; I just follow the rhythm, letting my hands lead the way. Each row is a prayer, each stitch a step toward calm. There’s something about soft wool, warm colors, and familiar patterns that soothes me when words fail.

Over time, I’ve learned that my anxiety doesn’t just disappear, but I can meet it with tools—tools that bring me back to the present, that remind me I’m okay. A spindle, a pair of needles, a skein of wool. Simple things, but powerful in their quiet way.

Anxiety still comes, but now I know I’m not powerless against it. I have my fiber. I have my stitches. I have my breath and I have my faith.

What helps you find calm when life feels overwhelming? Maybe it’s fibre, or maybe it’s something else. But I think we all need a thread to hold onto.

Till next time,

Doll

Daily Bread: A Reflection — March 23, 2025

Daily Bread: A Reflection

/Barbara (Doll) Creelman/Leave a comment

The Lord’s Prayer in Many Forms

  • Have you ever prayed the Lord’s Prayer in another language?
  • I recall singing it in French, German, Dutch, Latin, and even French Sign Language.
  • It’s a prayer that unites us across cultures and time.

The Meaning of Daily Bread

  • Jesus taught us to pray for “daily bread”—our needs, not our wants.
  • The Israelites in the wilderness received manna each day, just enough for that day.
  • Trusting God means relying on God daily, not storing up out of fear.

More Than Physical Bread

  • Jesus is the “Bread of Life,” offering spiritual nourishment.
  • We need Scripture and faith as much as we need food.
  • Gratitude should be a part of our daily prayers.

Generosity & Trust

  • We often hold onto too much—possessions, worries, control.
  • How much do we truly need? Can we share more with others?
  • Sometimes, we are the answer to someone’s prayer through kindness and generosity.

Living Out Our Faith

  • Faith isn’t just about Sunday prayers; it’s about daily trust and action.
  • We should be mindful of how we engage with others.
  • A simple smile or greeting could be the encouragement someone needs.

Give Us This Day

  • The prayer doesn’t say “give us bread for the month”—it’s a daily act of trust.
  • We give thanks for what we have and trust in God’s continued provision.
  • How will you share God’s love today?

Amen.

Practical Ways to Live a 100 Mile Life — March 20, 2025

Practical Ways to Live a 100 Mile Life

/Barbara (Doll) Creelman/Leave a comment

What if everything you ate, wore, and used came from within 100 miles of your home? No big-box stores, no global supply chains—just what’s near, what’s seasonal, and what’s truly local.

That’s the challenge I’ve taken on for 100 days: living as locally as possible. This isn’t just about food (though that’s a big part of it). It’s about fiber, household goods, and the relationships that sustain a truly local life.

What I’ve learned so far is that living locally isn’t about finding a perfect replacement for everything—it’s about rethinking what I actually need. It’s about discovering abundance in my own backyard.

Here are some of the ways I’m embracing this lifestyle, and practical steps you can take to live more locally, too.

Food & Cooking: Eating with the Seasons

Food is one of the biggest shifts when committing to a 100-mile life. We’re so used to having whatever we want, whenever we want it, that we forget food has a season.

  • Buy from Local Farmers – Farmers’ markets, CSAs (community-supported agriculture), and direct farm sales have become my go-to. Not only does the food taste better, but I’m also building relationships with the people who grow it.
  • Cook Seasonally – Instead of planning meals and shopping for specific ingredients, I’m flipping the approach—I buy what’s local and in season, then create meals around it.
  • Preserve the Harvest – I’m learning to can, freeze, and ferment so I can eat locally even in the off-season. (My first attempt at pickled beets was… interesting. But I’ll get better!)
  • Grow My Own – Even a small herb garden or a few raised beds can add fresh, local flavor to meals.
  • Trade & Barter – A neighbor has fresh eggs, another bakes sourdough bread. By swapping what we have, we all get a little more variety while staying local.

Clothing & Textiles: From Fleece to Fabric

Sourcing clothing locally is a challenge, but it’s one I’m excited about—especially since I love fiber arts.

  • Support Local Fiber Farms – I’ve been connecting with nearby sheep and alpaca farms to source fiber for my knitting and spinning projects. There’s something special about working with wool from animals raised close to home.
  • Make & Mend – Instead of buying new, I’m knitting my own socks and sweaters. And if something tears, I repair it instead of tossing it.
  • Experiment with Natural Dyeing – I’m trying out plant-based dyes from local sources like onion skins, acorns, and flowers. (I’ll report back on my results—expect some trial and error!)
  • Seek Out Local Makers – Weavers, seamstresses, and artisans are out there—you just have to look. Finding someone who crafts clothing locally is a rare but valuable connection.

Home & Living: Bringing It All Closer to Home

Beyond food and fiber, I’m also thinking about the everyday things I use at home.

  • Use Local Wood – Whether for furniture, crafts, or even firewood, sourcing wood locally is a more sustainable choice.
  • Find Local Artisans – Handmade pottery, candles, soap, and cleaning products can often be found close to home, supporting small businesses instead of big corporations.
  • Reduce Waste – Living locally isn’t just about buying local—it’s also about making things last. I’m focusing on repairing, repurposing, and reusing instead of replacing.

Community & Connection: The Heart of a Local Life

One of the most unexpected joys of this challenge has been the relationships I’m building. Living locally isn’t just about what I consume—it’s about the people I connect with.

  • Build Relationships with Local Producers – Knowing the farmers, spinners, and craftspeople in my area makes this journey feel richer and more meaningful.
  • Join a Local Exchange – Trading homemade or homegrown goods with others makes local living more sustainable and fun.
  • Learn Traditional Skills – Bread baking, cheese making, beekeeping—these skills are disappearing, but they make a huge difference in living a truly local life.
  • Support Local Businesses – Every dollar spent at a small, locally owned business strengthens the community.

Final Thoughts

This journey isn’t about perfection—it’s about intention. It’s about slowing down, paying attention, and living in rhythm with where I am.

I’d love to hear from you! What’s one way you could start living more locally? Let’s share ideas and encourage each other on this journey.

I’ll be sharing more updates, challenges, and lessons learned along the way—so stay tuned! 💛

Doll

Lenten Devotions for Days 15-22 — March 19, 2025

Lenten Devotions for Days 15-22

/Barbara (Doll) Creelman/Leave a comment

Introduction: Finding Strength in the Psalms

As we journey through Lent, we are invited to draw closer to God through reflection, repentance, and renewal. The Psalms serve as a rich source of encouragement, reminding us of God’s presence in every season of life—whether we are seeking His protection, thirsting for His presence, or crying out for His mercy.

In this week’s readings (Days 15–22), we will walk through psalms that highlight themes of trust, forgiveness, longing, and divine shelter. These passages offer a place of refuge in times of struggle and a song of praise in moments of renewal. Each day provides an opportunity to meditate on God’s faithfulness and to respond with prayer, inviting Him to work in our hearts during this sacred season.

As you engage with these psalms, consider how they resonate with your Lenten journey. What fears or burdens do you need to surrender? How is God calling you to deeper trust? May these readings strengthen your faith and remind you that He is your light, your portion, and your ever-present help.

Let me know if these readings bless you in any way.

Blessings,

Pastor Barb

Day 15: Psalm 27 – Confidence in God’s Protection

📖 Reading: Psalm 27:1-5
🙏 Reflection: The Lord is our light and salvation; whom shall we fear? This psalm reminds us that God is our refuge and strength.
🧶 Prayer Prompt: Reflect on a time when God has been your stronghold. Ask for renewed trust in His protection.

Day 16: Psalm 32 – The Joy of Forgiveness

📖 Reading: Psalm 32:1-7
🙏 Reflection: This psalm celebrates the blessing of being forgiven. Confession brings freedom, and God’s mercy covers all sin.
🧶 Prayer Prompt: Spend time in confession and thanksgiving for God’s unfailing forgiveness.

Day 17: Psalm 42 – Thirsting for God

📖 Reading: Psalm 42:1-5
🙏 Reflection: “As the deer pants for streams of water, so my soul pants for You.” In times of dryness, God remains our living water.
🧶 Prayer Prompt: Ask God to deepen your hunger for Him and to satisfy your spiritual thirst.

Day 18: Psalm 51 – A Clean Heart

📖 Reading: Psalm 51:10-17
🙏 Reflection: David’s cry for mercy is a model for repentance. God delights in a broken and contrite heart.
🧶 Prayer Prompt: Pray for a renewed heart and spirit, asking God to restore your joy.

Day 19: Psalm 63 – Seeking God First

📖 Reading: Psalm 63:1-8
🙏 Reflection: David longs for God in a dry and weary land. True satisfaction comes only from seeking Him.
🧶 Prayer Prompt: Dedicate your day to seeking God first in all you do.

Day 20: Psalm 73 – God is My Portion

📖 Reading: Psalm 73:21-26
🙏 Reflection: When our hearts fail, God remains our strength and portion forever.
🧶 Prayer Prompt: Meditate on what it means for God to be your portion and your inheritance.

Day 21: Psalm 91 – Resting in God’s Shadow

📖 Reading: Psalm 91:1-4
🙏 Reflection: Those who dwell in God’s presence will find rest and protection under His wings.
🧶 Prayer Prompt: Pray for peace and security in the shelter of the Almighty.

Day 22: Psalm 121 – My Help Comes from the Lord

📖 Reading: Psalm 121:1-8
🙏 Reflection: The Lord watches over you and will not let your foot slip. He is your keeper.
🧶 Prayer Prompt: Lift up your concerns and trust God to be your help and keeper.

5 Must-Have Items to Start Spinning with a Spindle — March 17, 2025

5 Must-Have Items to Start Spinning with a Spindle

/Barbara (Doll) Creelman/Leave a comment

Welcome! If you’re new to spinning, this post is for you. I’ll be sharing five essential items that will help you get started. Spinning is an ancient craft, one that predates the spinning wheel itself. Before the wheel, people used a simple yet effective tool: the spindle. Let’s dive into what you need to begin your own spinning journey.

1. A Spindle

When I first started spinning, I was looking for an affordable way to make 100% wool socks. The yarn available in my area was mostly plain white or brown, so someone suggested that I try spinning my own. That’s when I discovered the drop spindle.

I bought my first spindle on eBay, and it came with some fiber to practice on. Over time, I’ve gathered several different spindles, each with unique characteristics:

  • DIY Spindles: My husband made one using a dowel, a round piece of wood, and a cup hook.
  • Plastic Spindles: I have a small 3D-printed spindle that’s lightweight and easy to use.
  • Top and Bottom Whorl Spindles: Both work well; it’s all about personal preference.
  • Turkish Spindles: These allow you to create a center-pull ball as you spin.
  • Heavier Spindles: Ideal for plying and getting a leader started.

The key is finding a spindle that spins smoothly and suits your style.

2. Fiber and Fiber Preparation Tools

Once you have a spindle, you’ll need fiber! You can buy pre-washed and prepared fiber or process raw fleece yourself. If you’re preparing fiber at home, you’ll need tools to help:

  • Dog Brushes: Before I bought hand cards, I used two dog brushes to prepare fiber.
  • Hand Cards and Drum Carders: These tools help align fibers for easier spinning.
  • Combs: Useful for finer fiber preparation.

Spinning starts with good fiber prep, so having the right tools can make a big difference.

3. A Niddy Noddy

A niddy noddy is a tool that helps measure and skein your yarn. I have a handmade wooden niddy noddy that my husband crafted in 2004. I also have a 3D-printed version that is more compact and versatile.

By wrapping yarn around the niddy noddy, I can measure my yardage and prepare the yarn for setting. Whether you choose wood or plastic, this tool is incredibly helpful for any spinner.

4. Wraps Per Inch (WPI) Tool

A WPI tool helps determine the thickness of your yarn by counting how many times it wraps around a set measurement. If you don’t have a WPI gauge, a standard ruler works just as well!

Knowing your WPI helps ensure that your handspun yarn is the right weight for your project, whether you’re making socks, shawls, or sweaters.

5. A Lazy Kate or Alternative Plying Solution

If you plan to ply your yarn, a lazy kate can be very useful. While some wheels have built-in lazy kates, I’ve also used DIY solutions:

  • Handmade Lazy Kate: My husband made one using a log and dowels.
  • Plying Bracelet: When working with a single ply, I sometimes wrap it around my wrist and ply from there.

A lazy kate or an alternative plying method helps keep tension even and makes plying much easier.

Bonus: The Joy of Slow Spinning

Spinning is more than just making yarn—it’s a meditative and mindful process. Whether I’m in my rocking chair spinning, or walking outside with a spindle in hand, I find that this craft allows me to slow down and be present. Sometimes, I even use my spinning time for prayer and reflection.

There’s something deeply satisfying about creating yarn from fiber, knowing that each step of the process is part of a long-standing tradition. So if you’re just starting out, take your time, enjoy the process, and embrace the rhythm of spinning.

If you’d like to see a spindle demonstration, let me know! And don’t forget to subscribe, comment, and share your spinning journey. May you find blessings in each day. Happy spinning!

Embracing the Little Things: A Journey with Faith — March 16, 2025

Embracing the Little Things: A Journey with Faith

/Barbara (Doll) Creelman/Leave a comment

As I sat down to prepare my sermon, I found myself drawn to the concept of small beginnings—tiny sparks of faith that grow into something significant. This theme, often expressed through the parables spoken by Jesus, beckons us to look closer. Parables, after all, provide stories with hidden meanings, and if we’re not attentive, those messages might pass us by. The disciples notably missed the point on occasion, requiring Jesus to retell the stories, much like the one we heard today.

One parable speaks of yeast, small and seemingly insignificant, hidden within a large quantity of flour. Yet, it causes the entire batch to rise. The hidden yeast is much like the mysterious presence of Jesus Christ within us—a small, potent force that propels growth. Sometimes, we might question, is God really with us? Can He hear us? In those moments of doubt, we’re reminded that a tiny spark of the divine rests on our shoulders, urging us to keep these truths in our hearts.

Our spiritual journey is likened to a mustard seed or a grain of salt that infuses and transforms. Each of us conceives Jesus differently—perhaps as the Good Shepherd, the light of the world, or the bread of life. Regardless of perspective, the essence remains the same: He is the alpha, omega, and the Wonderful Counselor.

The disciples pondered the kingdom of God—curious if it mapped out like earthly borders. Parables, though, challenge such delineation. Imagine placing the Messiah in a box! The kingdom of God defies such constraints; it’s like a mustard seed or hidden yeast. It is a part of all of us, growing endlessly.

We’re attending worship today, and during this Lenten season, fulfilling our spiritual obligations is important. But here’s the catch: the seed of Christ in us can’t remain dormant. Just as we evolve through life’s stages, the divine spark within us must grow. Our growth is not only physical but spiritual, too. Worship, scripture readings, and hymns nourish this growth. They compel us to dust off our Bibles or explore new versions, nurturing the faith seeded in our hearts.

I recall a beloved story: a child grows into a man, much like our faith evolving from simple beginnings. This growth, often slow like sourdough bread rising, requires patience. Similarly, in our spiritual lives, patience, care, and love are necessary for fostering that divine spark. Like bread, as we rise in faith, we must be patient with ourselves, allowing room for grace and growth.

Jesus’ teachings about the kingdom of God being life-giving remind us of the simple blessings—like a stranger’s smile or a helping hand. These small gestures build us up, compelling us to continue their spread.

Do we recognize that divine leaven within us? Jesus Christ resides in our hearts daily, but do we feed that leaven and witness God’s love expanding within us? We often see growth in others, yet it is difficult to find it in ourselves due to self-critique. Still, self-examination can pave the way for improvement, encouraging us to embrace our spiritual journey.

An amusing anecdote highlights my blunders and the ongoing cycle of giving. Let’s just say, amidst donations, my bathing suit inadvertently got shifted to charity. Moments like these spark laughter and serve as gentle reminders of life’s lighthearted aspects even as we endeavor to bless others with our offerings.

In conclusion, though seemingly small in life’s grand design, each of us carries God’s kingdom within. Whether as a seed or yeast, it grows only when nurtured with love and grace. Our divine spark, when nourished, transforms us into who God intends us to be. Amen.

Join me as we sing “In the Bulb There is a Flower” and reflect upon these small, transformative blessings. Let us pray and offer gratitude for the bounty of life and lend support through music and prayer, trusting in God’s grace to guide us.

As we prepare for the world outside, let us allow our faith and hope to rise, much like the yeast in bread. May we carry this message out, in the name of God, our Creator, Jesus, our Brother, and the Holy Spirit who lifts us. Let’s hold onto these truths, examining how God’s kingdom prompts inner transformation, nourishing us to be channels of love and grace in the world.

I hope this sermon and reflection inspire your spiritual growth and journey during this Lenten season and beyond.

Light Cherry Sock Yarn —