Well, I got outside and cleaned out the flower beds before settling in under the umbrella and reading on my Paperwhite Kindle. I am extremely happy that it works well outdoors, unlike the Kindle Fire or regular computer screen.

Wondering how I can have an umbrella outside in our whirling wind without welding it to something? I devised a method using my favorite new tool: bungee balls:

Close up on my creative solution

So, I started to read a new book, “Less is More:Spirituality for Busy Lives” (sermon tomorrow!), by Brian Draper. Wow–I highly recommend it for anyone who wants to slow down, smell the roses, regain a positive outlook on life and live with less stress. Since directing people to this “state” is my job, I have read many books and sacred Scriptures. However, Draper seems to narrow it all down and relate the journey in simple language. I am doing a fast read today, but this is a book I will return to often.

The book is not beholden to any religion or faith perspective–just full of good stuff. You can find the Kindle and print versions here: