Hau’ oli Makahiki Hou or Happy New Year from Maui! I had the great privilege of spending my Christmas holiday in Maui with all of my family. Needless to say, there was breathtaking beauty at every turn.
This is the stunning view from my hotel room balcony at the Ritz Carlton. I was able to wake up to this lovely view every morning. Yes, there is a heaven on earth.
We were greeted with this beautiful arbor each time we entered the hotel.
We enjoyed this incredible view while we ate lunch at Mama’s Fish House. It is so stunning you think you are staring at a movie set. If you are ever in Maui, eating at Mama’s Fish House is an absolute must. It is truly some of the best food I have ever eaten.
As my stay in Maui progressed, I found myself slowing down and relaxing a bit. Finally, a much needed respite for me. It occurred to me that the more I slowed down and relaxed, the more infinite beauty I found in my surroundings.

Have your ever seen more beautiful poppies? Absolutely perfect in every way!
During my vacation, I read my daily devotional, “Jesus Calling” by Sarah Young. Wow, did this ever hit the nail on the head. God had certainly used this vacation to allow me time to reflect and slow down. I am guilty of relying on my own strength rather than relying on the strength of my savior. As a result, I quickly deplete my energy.
After I read this devotional, a friend of mine on Facebook, Jennifer Reynolds, posted this exact devotional. God really wanted to get my attention. Jennifer poignantly commented, “Doing meaningful things on purpose, with attention and Less busy.” Can you imagine anything more freeing than to do LESS and accomplish MORE? One of my primary goals for 2015 is to slow down and use my time more efficiently so that I can be more productive. This year I am putting a greater value on my time. No more client meetings that are not productive, doing tasks that someone could do better for me, and no more doing things I don’t enjoy. I vow to be more productive with my time so that I can spend precious time with my Savior and my family.
So Cheers to 2015 and doing LESS to accomplish MORE! What a difference we could all make if we simply slow down in this very rushed society. It is only by slowing down that we can truly experience the true riches that God has given us.
~~~
Leslie Hendrix Wood
Founder, Editor In Chief
Hadley Court
Interior Decorator
Midland, Texas
Gracious Living. Timeless Design. Family Traditions.
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So timely, Leslie. I have been thinking a lot about light and need to remember that it is His Light I need to seek.
Leslie one of the most memorable trips ever was with my late husband was to Maui! Thank you for sharing these gorgeous images to begin the New Year!
All the best to you and yours in 2015!!
xoxo
Karena
The Arts by Karena
Dearest Leslie,
You’ve caused me to smile BIG, and thank the Lord for blessing the day our paths crossed via FB. We don’t have to have face-to-face friendships to enjoy a genuine connection to others. Your devotional’s message is something I, too, needed to read. And your words greatly resonnate with my personal intentions for 2015! Thanks for being a beacon of light not only in the design world, but in faith, love, and friendship!!! Wishing you a wonderful New Year and may our good and generous Lord fill you with more time to do ALL your heart desires : )
Big hugs,
XOXOX
Gloria