We went to church last night for Ash Wednesday services. I was going to go by myself because Ben was still a little under the weather and service started at 6:00pm., which is nearing on Connor's bedtime. Last minute, Ben thought it would be good to go as a family. I was thrilled that he thought so but a little apprehensive because I know what Connor is like in church, doubled with an incredibly out of routine night.

Ash Wednesday is one of my favorite church services; it symbolizes so much in the Christian faith. Ash Wednesday is the beginning of Lent, the beginning of the 40 days Jesus went into the wilderness right before holy week and my very favorite holiday of them all, Easter. The entire season of Lent means so much to me because it is a very tangible reminder that we are capable of starting over, starting fresh. Lent usually falls right smackdab into the beginning of Spring and what better reminder of a beautiful, fresh start than the sun shining, birds singing, tulips, daylilies, and all those gorgeous spring flowers in bloom? I really love this time of year.

Outside of the religious significance of Lent, the sermon last night was about internal vs. external appearances. How much time, money and energy we spend to look "beautiful." Unfortunately, internally, most of us aren't that great. They don't sell Sephora for the soul.

Now, don't get me wrong. I make it a priority to look presentable and I don't think anyone expects you to stop taking care of yourself but the point is this. Are you investing as much time being the best person you can be? Is it anywhere near as much time as you invest on your external appearance? What a great season to start making some changes so the internal and external are more in line.

And P.S.- Connor was a great boy in church!