Dear ones,

I write from under a blanket, for the first time this year, with my slippers dusted off and bringing comfort once more, as England seems to have finally welcomed in Autumn.

I know it officially started some time ago, but even two days ago I was still wearing sandals and a sleeveless linen dress gathering cosmos from the garden to adorn the table, so I am thrilled to finally feel the chill in the air.

I don’t know about you, but as that chill sets in, Christmas is immediately all I can think about. Perhaps it’s because I am chief gift organiser in our family, which feels like a full time job when you have five children and a rather large extended family. A true gift, but a large operation at this time of year.

So I greet you today with but one suggestion, if you are seeking to slowly fill your Christmas gift cupboard…

Lithos Kids are releasing a rather special version of Pilgrims Progress, which is now open for pre orders. A graphic novel version

In true Lithos Kids style, the illustrations are detailed and beg to be lingered on, its cover is beautifully clothbound and my children’s noses are forever hidden behind its spine.

If you have children of any age, this would make a delightful gift and I’m thrilled to share a 50% off code with you - LIFEGIVINGPAGES - which can be used on anything in their shop for the next 9 days. Lithos Kids regularly sell out in these sales so I’d recommend getting in there early here ♥️

This book actually features in my full Christmas Gift Guide which will be released next week! So keep your eyes peeled for that email.
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It has been a real labour of love - a gift guide that feels more peaceful, intentional and made with integrity. It’s been carefully curated, featuring small Christian businesses and gifts that will be treasured and used for many years.

If you’re looking to block out the noise of the barrage of gift guides full of random things from Amazon, and to take a few thoughtful recommendations of items we’ve truly loved, I hope it will be a blessing to you, in this oh so very full season.
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And a gift for you

As you pour out so much throughout this season, I have a gift for you. I am giving away two copies of this beautiful high quality print with such an important reminder to us all, from Heaven and Nature Co, over on Instagram here - and yes, it’s open to my British friends! Such a rarity to find a giveaway open to us! 🥰
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What we’ve been enjoying lately

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Me - it feels embarrassing to admit this, but I’ve barely read anything (just for me) recently. Though I have been slowly rereading Different by Sally Clarkson, which, if you have a child with any kind of neurodivergence, emotional struggle or character trait that you just don’t understand, is a phenomenally helpful book!

I haven’t been reading as much as usual because my work online has increased. I’m currently doing some more recordings for the Dwell Bible app, for their nighttime devotionals, which I’m very excited about. As well as just the busyness of five littles. So whenever I’ve had time to read, I’ve prioritised the Bible and I’ve been really blessed by introducing the practice of writing out scripture. I started in Revelation and it’s been such a fascinating process, writing out this book. I highly recommend it. You can use any journal of course, but I’ve appreciated the structure of this one. ​

Sefton (9) - he’s just finished the third in the series by Christian author, Andrew Johnston. It’s technically more of a developing reader book but he thoroughly enjoyed it. It’s full of illustrations which can feel refreshing when you’re used to books with just one or two. Andrew’s done a great job of providing a wholesome book with themes that our inspire our young ones. Sefton said that he loved it because it was full of adventure, courage and determination.
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Bethel (6) - is absolutely transfixed by horses currently. If there’s a horse on the front, she’s picking it up, and this Pony Tale series by Olympic Medalist Pippa Funnell has gripped her.

Elias (3) - three year olds are renowned for wanting to read the same thing over and over and this has been his choice this month. He loves the themes of overcoming the “baddies” as he affectionately calls them. You can use the code LIFEGIVINGPAGES for 50% off this week.

Leilani and Talitha (1) - could there be a better book for this age range than a beautifully rhythmic Winnie the Pooh treasury of five stories with captivating illustrations. In honour of his 100th birthday, we’ve been savouring this delight.
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Blessings,

Jessica