Trust the Process-Rest, Restore, Roar

We met at a book and pie event in the fall of 2022. We exchanged numbers, and I saved her name as Kristy Floyd (we met at Blackberry & Honeysuckle). One week in November, she texted that her life was falling apart and wanted to see if we could meet for dinner. I said yes but did not think it was this girl I was talking to!!!! Her family showed up, and they walked into the house, and I was like, “Oh, that’s not who I was thinking, but this makes much more sense now!!!” We now text nearly daily, and we have big dreams together!!! Enjoy her story of attending, Rest. Restore. Roar. 

Guest post-Kristy Floyd

Trust the Process

Rest, Restore, Roar March 2023


In the Fall of 2022 God brought me unexpectedly in contact with someone that was doing kingdom work. She would change my life through her obedience. I am so thankful.


At that time, her life was filled and still is with surrender to his will.  Mine, well, was feeling overwhelmed, and even burdened with my own faith. Life was hard and I was exhausted. 


Enter Rest. Restore. Roar. 


It is literally described as a soul restoration camp. 


“imagine you’re a piece of furniture that, when the creator created it, was exactly what it was meant to be. perfect in its own right. as it gets passed on from generation to generation, person to person, they start manipulating it to what they like. different paints, change the knobs, dull or shiny. when we close for restoration, we acquire the tools to strip away the layers & restore to our beautiful self” -Gather N Grace


What a beautiful picture, you might think, to go back to a place of restoration, but at the time, I was so afraid. I knew that meant stripping away and having courage to be remade. 


The truth is that in the Fall, I didn’t want to go, God and my husband had other plans. He made the path straight as Psalms says. As a good, good father, he prepared my heart. That Spring, I drove towards Brenham, ready and expectantly reaching towards what I knew would bring freedom.


Rest 

Rest they said, leave the family for almost 5 days, leave the responsibility behind and let yourself lay in the quiet and still hands of the creator. There is so much truth to this, yet the reality was that the rest provided was literally allowing us, as women, to sit in a space where the battle lines were held by others and the Holy Spirit was given space to move in our lives without us taking up armaments and continually charging forth each day. As I sat each day in a place where I knew I could lay it all at God’s feet, I was thankful and inspired as 7 other women sat with me and trusted God, myself and our leaders to honor their hearts, their brokenness, and the painful truths of the darkest parts of our stories. Rest required work to bring about restoration. 


Restore

To restore something, requires it be marred or changed from its original design. All of us that sat in the Bake Shop came understanding we held hurt and pain. I don’t know that we understood the beauty that would take place in the work to be done. We were shattered as if to dust through discussions, personal challenges, mindfulness, equine connection, art, yoga, and of course, pie. The pie queen sat on the floor with the women God had called to help lead and held us as we journeyed through the valleys of pain, some known, some coming to the surface for the first time. We were stripped bare, because God wanted to see us. The beautiful daughters he had created with great purpose, full of joy, overwhelmed by his love. 


In Psalm 107:10 it says “Some sat in darkness and the deepest gloom, prisoners suffering in iron chains…”. For me, this was everyday. I had known my savior since I was a young girl, yet by the age of 12, I was someone that I didn’t recognize. The joy and silliness was all but gone, the heart to cover others in prayer without hesitation had disappeared and the willingness to stand for others with the power of my words, seemed stolen. But God, right? 


My heart shattered and held with love and prayer, began to mend. I sat in the hurt and pain of a messy childhood and wandering adulthood. That isn’t where it ended though. I sat at the feet of Jesus through the obedience of Tara and our leaders to find that little girl once again and recapture what was lost: my voice, my joy, my willingness to live life without fear. 


Later in Psalm 107:13 it follows the narrative that “...they cried to the Lord in their trouble, and he saved them from their distress…” 


Myself, and the ladies that were with me, did the work and found freedom in who Christ was calling us each to be, who he made us to be. The chains, the burdens were lifted. The peace and love reclaimed. As we were restored, it was time to step forth and roar. 


Roar

This was no mountain top experience to walk away from and reclaim all of our chains. The soul restoration work was only the beginning. We celebrated with one another as our minds drifted to returning home, showing our families the women we had become. Peace exuded from each of us because it wasn’t just about restoration. It was about equipping, providing tools to keep us from running right back into old habits, mindsets, shame, self doubt. We were taught to use our voices against the battle of the enemy, to speak truth and face shame with joy as God provided our worth. We were given practical activities to work through when the world went upside down. Most of all, we were given the connection of others in a community of honesty and Jesus, a bond that is such a sweet gift. At no time can we say, no one knows what I have gone through. We are vulnerable with one another and lift each other up daily in prayer. It is an ever present reminder that I am seen, I am loved, and I am His. With these women, we are an army together, boots on the ground, for ourselves and for each other. 


As you read this, I challenge you to search your own heart. Is God calling you to find freedom through Rest. Restore. Roar.? Maybe he is calling you to join the team by donating to Gather N Grace because you know the power of soul restoration. Could he be calling you to pray for those that are to join the next retreat? Whatever it is, surrender it to him. 


Thank you to those who gave of their hearts, time, finances, and prayer for me to find freedom in Jesus Christ.


One year ANNIVERSARY of Monday Night Family Dinners!!!

It's our FIRST ANNIVERSARY & WE ARE HAVING A BIG FAMILY DINNER to celebrate!

It's hard to believe we have had Monday Family Dinners every week for a year!! Monday Family dinners were essential to my mom. After her passing these dinners became part of carrying on her legacy. Mom loved to celebrate; she could throw a party, and we will have one heck of a party on 9.11.23, our FIRST ANNIVERSARY!! Watching the community come together to welcome, love and serve has been soothing to my fractured soul. Kids sitting with their families and not on devices, churches linking arms together, volunteers bringing their own pitchers to refill cups of water, the unseen feeling seen, encouraged and empowered. Before we start dinner we pray for divine appointments, last week I saw four. Friends praying over my son through an anxiety attack. A little boy running up to an older boy and asking him to throw the football. Friends texting that they got to pray over a little girl. A family feeling safe to ask for financial help. The table is a place to share a simple meal made with love, break down walls over time, connect and see a need.

There will be local fire trucks, ambulances, lifeflight helicopter, and police cars for the kiddos to touch and see up close! Hamburgers and all the fixings, chips, cookies donated by local churches, and lemonade! Face painting, balloon artists, and our own soap created at Buff City Soap. Brenham Pregnancy Center will have a table with diapers, & the flying horse carousel will be open the whole evening. Live music, too! Gather n Grace will be giving back a portion of the night's donations to our first responders to honor them on this particular night!! Thank you to our donors-Old 300 Title, Chris Planto Team at CrossCountry Mortgage and Gooseneck Freitag Insurance Agency

Come as you are; there is enough room for everyone at the table. Bring your family, bring your friends, just show up. We can’t wait to sit with you!

There is no charge for dinner, donations are accepted. Text 979-353-0864 to RSVP!

To learn more about our non-profit, Gather n Grace, and how you can partner with us visit here!

Fireman's Park

901 N. Park St.

Brenham, Tx

The Gathering at Round Top-October 27th, 2023

The Gathering at Round Top

October 27th, 2023

6pm-9m

Royers Pie Haven

190 Henkel Circle

Round Top, Texas

Worship-

Callie Ann Stelter

Callie Ann Stelter is a…Texas Panhandle born…Hill Country resident.. full time
Artist..wife..mom…worship leader and floral- southwest art -.junkin enthusiast!

She has always been a wild-free-creative soul! She works alongside two amazing companies with her art- Texas True Threads and Glory Haus. Callie Ann is the worship leader at Hunt Baptist church, and Artist in Residence at Mo Ranch, and runs her own floral and art studio in Ingram TX.

Callie know’s that if were not for the GRACE and goodness of our Saviour she wouldn’t be here..or at least be who she is today.  She loves to share what He has done in her life any opportunity she receive through art and music.
To God be the GLORY, great things HE has done.

Special Guest Speakers-

Rebecca Greebon

Rebecca has been married to her college sweetheart, Gregg, for 23 years and together have three amazing, beautiful, rambunctious children: Luke, Drew, and Emry. They live in New Braunfels, and spend as much time on or in the river as possible.

Rebecca is the Director of Women’s Ministry for River City Church. She is devoted to making spiritual family and community a way of life as opposed to just a concept. Her blogs and lessons revolve around this central idea, so when you stop in to read or listen, what you’ll find is a tone of solidarity, encouragement, authenticity and a healthy dose of laughter. 

Cheryl Moses

Cheryl Moses is the Secretary and Ladies' Ministry Leader at Calvary Community Church, in Houston. She is writer, event planner, and creative soul who is affectionately known as “Ebby” to the littles in her world, and the human mom to one adorably sweet canine named, Beau. Cheryl began attending Calvary in 1991 and since then, her understanding of who Jesus is and how big His love is for his beloved ones, has grown considerably. It is at Calvary that her passion for seeing believers step into the calling of God upon their lives. She often tells others that she has grown up at Calvary. She has a heart for serving others and ministering to women, and she deeply loves the church. To her, the body of Christ is a beautifully flawed menagerie of the face of God. Above all, her passion is to see believers flourish in their walk with the Lord, especially those who believe they have strayed too far to come back home or have nothing of value to offer. You can always come home.

LIVE PAINTING during The Gathering with Wayne Kerr

Come gather with us, we are so excited for what God is already doing, and sharing with us to share with Y’ALL!!! We know that God is already moving, and preparing for this night. We can’t wait to sit at the table with y’all.

Dinner, drinks, treats, and lots of surprises. Cost $65, come alone, grab some friends, just show up!

Tickets!

xo,

Tara

The Dance-Dr. Karen Royer, my mama

What better person to share next up than my mom, Dr. Karen Royer.

What better person to share about the dance than my mom, Dr. Karen Royer?

Oh, how can it be three years since you've left this world? Gosh, I think of you often, like every day. I miss you so much, but I know you are with me every day walking out this mission. I don't think we would be having Monday Night Family Dinners if you were still here. You would love it; I know you are there. You were the best at making everyone feel loved and seen. You were the best at gathering around the table. You could make macaroni and pistachio fluff fit for a king.

I remember Pastor Joe Champion telling us as a family to grow up at your celebration of life. I didn't really know what that meant at the time. Over the years, I've discerned it meant for me to grow up spiritually. I want to continue growing spiritually and learn so much about the goodness and kindness of a good, good Father.

It's a big day for me today. I'm pretty sure you asked Jesus to move a meeting four times and have it land on today. I'm expectant and excited.

I love you, mom, you're my favorite. Thank you for leading me so well through this dance of life.

Christmas in July! My mama's Chicken 'n Dumplings

It feels like Satan’s front porch in Texas right now, but what if we started dreaming of cool fronts, chicken & dumplings, and the holidays?

I don’t want to rush things, but I love that season! When the first cool breeze comes in am taken quickly to my mom in the kitchen making a pot of her fluffy chicken and dumplings.

She made the best. We gathered around the table with family and friends, and the worth of the conversation and dumplings filled our souls and bellies!

Two #’s Cubed Raw Chicken Breasts (or whatever chicken ya like!)

4 Cups of Bisquick

1 1/2 cups of water

Chicken Base-I love Minor’s

Fill a large stock pot halfway with water. Bring to a boil, add cubed chicken. While the chicken is cooking, add Bisquick and water to a separate bowl. Stir until combined; the dough is sticky but falls off your hands. Your chicken should be nearly cooked through; add 2 TBSPs of chicken stock. Now we are going to add our dumplings. Grab a spoon (the same one you will use to eat!!), scoop a helping of dough, and drop it in the boiling water. Keep on until all the dumplings are in the water. Don’t touch the dumplings!! Let ‘em sit for 5 minutes until they look like fluffy clouds. Take your spoon and gently press the dumplings below the water. Lower the temperature to a slow simmer. Let them cook for 15 minutes or until the dumplings are cooked through. Turn the heat off. Taste, and add salt and pepper to your liking! Let those billowy pillows rest for 20 to 30 minutes, then make yourself a big bowl!

Enjoy!

The Dance-Susan Hickey aka Sooze

“As the focus shifted to the instructor, the music seemed to slow, and the steps became easier. There were still toes stepped on, and stumbling, but there was a new rhythm, a rhythm of love, grace, mercy, and forgiveness.” 


“Don’t ever forget who brought you to the dance.”


The dance started for me, Tara, when I was a kid, yet I didn’t realize it until much later in life. Not too late though. God was right one time. The dance for me started when we moved to Round Top, Tx to take over a small country cafe. Our family loved food, and always gathered around the table. My mom included everyone, was thoughtful in all her giving and celebrating. My dad had a palette for simple food with depth. When we moved to Round Top we took over the Round Top Cafe, the cafe was a hole in the wall with burgers, pork chops, CFS, and pie. Two pie flavors, Apple & Buttermilk. We knew nothing about pie and had no idea that God would use pie to reveal himself to us over and over. Pie has opened and closed doors. Pie has built relationships that have become solid foundations in our lives. Pie brings people through the doors and gives us the opportunity to put the customers hand in the hand of Jesus. The pies at the cafe expanded to hundreds a week, and so many different flavors. The pies birthed Royers Pie Haven, The Bake Shop at All Things Acres, and Gather n Grace. To find out more about how to join the dance too, you can explore Gather N Grace and All Things Acres at tararoyersteele.com.


Say hello to Susan Hickey akaSooze. In 2010 we met at a clothing store in Brenham and our paths crossed again at Table 1 of my family’s cafe. Sooze trusted God’s leading and gave me her “digits” on a napkin and the rest is history. Sooze took a leap of faith, quit her corporate job, and moved to Austin, Tx. She helped us open our 2nd Royers Pie Haven (it was fun, but we like Round Top and closed this location) on the ‘ole UT drag. Sooze exuded customer service. She was in the relationship business, and made everyone that walked in the pie haven like family. Even though she has moved to Clifton, Tx. we still talk weekly, dream often, and partner whenever we can! She has learned that “Grace and Love WIN always” and “discovered her love for dreamin’, vintage/junk and Round Top, TX.” I am excited to watch Sooze continue to shine her light for all to see and join in whatever FUN endeavors that come. 

Follow on the socials-

@lollianddauts-her cute little shop

@marketatthemill-wondeful venue she runs


Second Chances-Perfect Father

A Second chance is for when you mess up, make a mistake. Messing up and making a mistake doesn't always have to be something we did that was negative against someone else or ourselves.

Typically, we will say something we regret or do something physical maybe. These are easy ways we can think of to be grateful for second chances. We made a mistake, not just in God's eyes or ours, but very much in the sight of others. It was evident our mistake. The need for a second chance is often wanted. What about the mistakes that aren't so easily seen and the only mess-ups that only God sees? Plenty of these examples exist, but I want to go into one slightly differently.

Let me tell you a story; I was at the gas station one day, with long lines and pumps closed, and I was sitting below "E." My truck registered ("0" zero) miles left, for approx. 10 miles. ANYWAY... I saw the gentleman in front of me get to the pump. He gets out of his truck, limping. He digs for his wallet and then limps over to pay cash. This usually sticks out to me because, For a long time, I have realized how financially blessed I am to be able to fill up my vehicles without worry. I think about how this person in front of me is limited on funds and has to watch their dollars more closely.

Now at this particular time, seeing this, I feel the Holy Spirit telling me to put my card in the pump so that when this person comes back, they don't have to worry about how much gas they can get. It seems easy enough, but that is where the struggle begins.

I start thinking about when he tries to pay cash, the attendant will notice it's been paid for. Then would they cancel it out because he knows he didn't pay yet? I overthink what I should do, to the point that I'm too late because he probably paid already. So, I wait for him to return, thinking he will be walking around the corner any second. Seconds continue to go by, and I may still have a chance. At the same time, what's taking so long? After going back and forth for what seemed like an eternity, I finally got out of my truck to pay and saw him walking around.

In my conversation with God, I immediately apologize for not following through the second the Holy Spirit had led me to. I feel like I failed my Father. But God is good!

I say to God, ok, God, if I can see that this gentleman doesn't get a full tank, nothing is stopping me from going to him and offering to top it off.

I see him put the pump in, and he pulls it out within a couple of minutes. Ok, God, here I go. I walk up to the man, thinking he put 6-7 gallons in, and I introduce myself. I recognized the gentleman from working at Walmart, so I asked him, and he confirmed. I told him that the Holy Spirit laid it on my heart to fill his tank up with gas and asked if that was ok. He said yes and thank you. When I looked at the amount of gas he had put in his truck, it was only $3.00 worth! One gallon! Even in an old truck, you will need more time to get there in Brenham.

See, God put me there in that moment, not necessarily for the good feeling of helping someone though it filled my heart; he put me there specifically to remind me that He is the perfect Father. He will give me second chances; He loves me enough to be with me in every situation.

Where do you want a second chance?

Talk to God about it; He won't disappoint.

Rick Steele

The Gathering at Round Top, Spring 2022

YAY!! We are going to gather in Round Top again!!! I was looking at past gatherings and got all nostalgic, so back to Royers Pie Haven it is! The long tables full of sisters, twinkling lights, and big oak trees.

Friday, March 25th, 2022

6pm-9m

Royers Pie Haven

Round Top, Texas

Worship-

Debbie Byrd

Speakers-

Sarah Wallace, @blessedcrazytexasnest

Linda Bradford, @junkstyledesign

Lorzel Waltner, @barnhousechicksmarket

Dinner, drinks, treats, and lots of surprises. Cost $75, come alone, grab some friends, just come.

Come gather again with us. I know that God is already moving, and preparing for this night. I can’t wait to sit at the table with y’all.

xo,

Tara

In the event that the gathering must be canceled, due to COVID, tickets are non-refundable, but will be honored for any other event, or the rescheduled event

Rest, Restore, Roar Retreat

think back to your favorite childhood memory or age... where you weren’t held back. where you were free & innocent.
let’s go back to that.

imagine you’re a piece of furniture that, when the creator created it, was exactly what it was meant to be. perfect in its own right. as it gets passed on from generation to generation, person to person, they start manipulating it to what they like. different paints, change the knobs, dull or shiny. when we close for restoration, we acquire the tools to strip away the layers & restore to our beautiful self

together we will work on peeling back the layers of shame, guilt, and lies. recognize, and receiver our identity in Christ! we will work through a course I created after much soul work called, rest. restore. roar. we will unpack our toolbox, and repack it with the right tools for truth, identity, purpose, and peace.

this is a personal journey for everyone, a journey to His best for our lives. a time to rest. restore back to who he had originally created us to be, so we can go out and roar about his transforming way!!

this retreat is a 4 day, 3 night, all inclusive retreat. we will work through rest, restore, roar course, journaling between you and Jesus, work through our story with art (don’t worry, you don’t have to be artsy, trust me on this one!). eat amazing meals, snacks, drinks, and all the art supplies you will need. you just need to show up for you!!! that’s it!

lodging at country dome suites, check in there by 4pm, Thursday, October, 7th, 2021 (sleeps 2 people, please let us know if you would like your own room)

arrive at All Things Acres at 5pm, October 7th, 2021.

we will meet, greet, have dinner, and just love on each other.

The retreat will end at 11am on Sunday, October 10th, 2021.

for any other questions, please email us at hello@allthingsacres.com.



The Gathering at Round Top

YAY!! We are going to gather in Round Top again!!! I was looking at past gatherings and got all nostalgic, so back to Royers Pie Haven it is! The long tables full of sisters, twinkling lights, and big oak trees.

Friday, October 29th, 2021

6pm-9m

Royers Pie Haven

Round Top, Texas

Worship-

Debbie Byrd

Speakers-

Tara Dickson

Veronica Hutchinson

Dana Knox Wright

Dinner, drinks, treats, and lots of surprises. Cost $65, come alone, grab some friends, just come. Tickets here.

Come gather again with us. I know that God is already moving, and preparing for this night. I can’t wait to sit at the table with y’all.

xo,

Tara


Karen's Table-May 8th, 2021

I walked out of her last celebration on earth, and watched the pall bearers load her casket into the hearse.

As I watched them close the back door of the car, I heard The Lord say, “Karen’s Table”.  After mom’s service all I wanted to do was celebrate her with no excuses. 

Mom’s favorite thing was family dinner.  Gathering people.  We always had family dinners on Monday nights, then kids moved away, got married, had kids, and life interrupted family dinners.  I know that watching her earthly celebration she was beaming with joy as so many gathered to love and shine Jesus.  Mom did all she could to get us together or gather people around the table, it was her favorite.  It didn’t have to be fancy, she could make macaroni and cheese with chili taste good.  The table would be set with a theme, and wonderful conversation would be had.  That’s karen’s table, intentional family dinners, they don’t have to be hard, just need to be had.  They need to be had to love, encourage, catch up, and stick together in a world full of hurt and darkness.  Family dinners are like gathering around the table with Jesus, a safe place with open arms for everyone. That’s what it was like around mom’s table.  

Join us for the first Karen’s Table

Saturday, May 8th, 4:30pm

All Things Acres, 2758 FM 389, Brenham

A portion of all sales will go to one of mom’s passions, giving back. At this gathering, we will give back to Our Daughter’s House, a safe place for girls who have aged out of the foster care system with no place to go.

We will gather around the family dinner table, and share real conversations with curated questions karen would have asked. A time for us to share fond memories of karen too. The hope for the evening is to bring back real community. Real togetherness. Real connection. A safe place for everyone to feel seen and heard.

A family style meal will be passed around a table decorated in the best karen style!

Creamy parmesan chicken

Roasted herbed potatoes

Fresh asparagus

Field greens salad with feta, cherry tomatoes, red onions, cucumbers and raspberry chipotle vinaigrette

Homemade strawberry short cake with fresh cinnamon cream

Iced tea, and water

2 coupons for beer and wine

Of course there will be sweet gifts for everyone, one of Karen’s favorite things, giving gifts.

Please join our Facebook group, Karen’s Table. We will share stories of our own, Karen’s Tables, as my hope and prayer is that there are gatherings all over.

tickets here

xo, tara

can’t wait to see you around the family dinner table…



Journey to His best

Recently, I asked 5 questions in a newsletter, and wanted to take the questions further, and give some “advice or ideas” to help answer them.

Here’s the questions…

  1. When was the last time I sat quietly to hear what God is saying about my life?

    Well, being intentional with our time is one of the best ways to hear God. I know this is easier said then done! I say i’m gonna wake up, sit in the word every morning, and I hit snooze. The world is full of noise, and I have recently changed my phone settings so I can’t get online from 10pm-7am, that gives me room to sit quietly with Jesus. I also quit using my phone for the Bible, tooo many distractions. I set the timer on the coffee, so the coffee is brewed when I wake up. I curl up in my cozy corner, turn on some of my favorite worship music, and dig into a devotional, or spend time in a specific book of the Bible. When I start my day out this way, and open up my hands to what He wants for me to do that day, my to do list becomes His, and I accomplish what He wants me to do to further the kingdom. I used to be a serious list maker, and now I wake up and ask Him, “what do you want me to do today?” I can do His to do list wherever He has me.

  2. What does He say about me in this season?

    The world is noisy!! Amen? Everyone sharing advice, uhmmmm, that’s what i’m doing here, haha! Anyways, what is He saying about me? Am I supposed to be quiet, and wait? Run, and chase down dreams He’s planted? So many things! So, when you’re sitting quietly with Him, ask Him. “Lord, what would do you want me to do this season? Where do you want me to be? Do you want me to rest, and gather information? Is it time to run and chase that dream you’ve planted?” Winter, a time for letting the ground rest. Spring, a time to plant. Summer, a time watch things begin to bloom. Fall, a time to reap the harvest. What season are you in?

  3. Are there words i’m speaking over my life that aren’t truth or in line with what God is saying about me?

    For so long I believed so many things about myself, then figured out they were all lies! Today, make a list of things about yourself that you believe are truths, then think, hmmmm? Is this something that I’m making up, or this scriptural truth!!!

  4. Are there things i’m saying yes to that aren’t in line what God is calling me to do?

    I have so many dreams, hopes, and desires, but not all of them are for me. But, how do I know? When we sit quietly with Him, and stay rooted in scripture, or surround ourselves with friends that speak truth, we are more able to discern His will. Turning up the music and worshiping Him or getting out in nature, we are less likely to be distracted with the world, and more in tune with His will. The word is truth, He will not leave, or forsake us, HE promises!!!

  5. What is the thing that has been keeping me stuck from moving forward with my purpose?

    Do you know what your purpose is? Have you thought about it? Have you wondered what the heck am I supposed to be doing here? Does money, relationships or a current job keep you stuck? If you took money out of the equation, what would you do?! What are those things that you always dream about, think about? Continually bring you joy?!?! What is stopping you? If God has put that desire in your heart, then take the first step. You gotta do the work too!!

loving having these conversations with y’all!! Let’s keep getting to His best for our lives!!

xo,

tara

Cultivate the seeds of 2020

My list of grievances is extensive from last year, just like yours, I'm sure. The sudden death of my mother, my best friend, the person I called for anything.  Launching a book during a pandemic, canceled speaking gigs, and a book tour.  Doing all we could to keep our small family business open during COVID, pivoting, to pivot again the next hour and nearly losing my dad, twice, right after my mom. My list of new traditions and blessings is just as long and oh so sweet.  

In March, the freezers were full of pies for the cafe and pie haven; we were ready for Antique Week.  Then, the governor made the call, canceled.  Antique weeks, our livelihood for all our family businesses.  Our team gathered around our commissary kitchen and talked about what we could do.  Where was the need?  We could still get food and without going to a grocery store empty-handed.  Rick and I had always wanted to do casseroles, so we began creating meals for families.  Feed His People, a Facebook group we created, started, and grew to sustain our businesses and staff.  And, Feed His People became a community that loved and rallied alongside us.  Heck, we were able to hire two full-time and two part-time team members!! Father's Day rolled around, and selfishly, I wanted to get away, so I booked a room nearby to celebrate Rick (and selfishly enjoy some time away from work).  The restaurant wasn't open, no room service, and then the rain began to pour while swimming.   Shortly after that, we got an email from each of our Pie Haven staff with their resignation letters (that's another story).  I threw my hands up; fell on the bed and screamed, “what else God?!?”  The next week, He sent six, yes SIX, applications!!  And, now we have a new team, they are rockstars.  

I had many favorite memories this year. The most recent was the boys and I playing hooky and decorating the house before the unknown crazy holiday shipping season.   The holiday mail-order season was one of our best, only God.  I don't think we would have had the time if we waited until after Thanksgiving, and playing hooky the first Tuesday of November is a new tradition.  The boys also wrapped all the gifts this year, and I did the details.  Rick reminded me of how when I met him and his family, I would cover the presents with such craft, but that craft fell to the wayside over the years.  He asked if I could wrap the gifts with bows and details this year; he felt it was a reminder of my mom. He was right. And I can't forget the sweet notes, texts, and stories of people that had bought and shared my book.  My book, Eat, Pie, Love, was doing precisely what I had hoped, and God intended, meet people exactly where they are on their journey and remind them; they are on purpose.  Oh, the sweet sisters that lost their mom's only a month before mine, who came alongside me, linked arms, and we continue to walk this path together.  There were so many gifts in 2020; it helps to write them down, ponder and relish in them; they help soothe the pain.

I have big God-given dreams for 2021, but I want to go slow.  I'm a morning girl, waking up each day like a bull in a china shop, ready to go, then about 5:30, I turn into a pumpkin, and by 9 pm, cinderella is snoring.  It will be a challenge for me to slow down, but I’m up for it.  During Covid, there was not much time to rest for us; we pulled out the strength we didn't remember we had.  I wondered, had I gotten lazy in the last few years? Was I going thru the motions, dreaming but staying comfortable?  Was I even growing? Our businesses were running fine pre-covid, so I'd say, "let's go to a movie, or how about a nap?!"  Or, was I genuinely resting because God knew what was coming?  Had I been taking the time to let the ground rest and let the seeds planted push through what I think were the most challenging ten months?  Rick and I had been here before; this wasn't a new feeling; we had walked this hard path a few times.  We had been on our knees in complete exhaustion.  But, through all of it, He has made us strong and carried us to today.  Seeds that He planted so many years ago, were cultivated in 2020.  

So as we enter into a new year, what about not hitting the ground running but letting the ground rest? This month let's pray for the seeds planted in 2020, for God to show you what to let be and what to sow. Because spring is coming, and the harvest will be plenty. Make plans loosely, as they change like the wind.  Now I'm not saying you don't start.  Let's put one foot in front of the other and do the next right thing.  And, as the winds shift, be open to the pivoting, be willing to change, and surrender it all to Him.  If we learned anything in 2020, we are entirely out of control of what comes, making adjustments to the weather as needed. We cannot do anything in this life without Him. He is our light and anchor.  Spring is coming, and the harvest will be plenty. 





Merry Christmas, mom

We gathered around as he looked at his detailed gift list on a pink ledger pad. The presents are strewn around his feet as he starts to go down the list of gifts. He tells everyone there is a card at the bottom of each bag and that we would open them all together at the end. I got to go first. I opened the black bag stuffed with crinkled black tissue paper with gold polka dots, and the linger of cigar smoke, the first gift, one of mom's favorite pieces, a Nellie Wortman junk journal. Mom was so good at keeping everything and putting it into a journal. She wasted nothing. This journal was small but mighty. Little trinkets stuck in between other trinkets, safely secured with buttons, glue, love notes, and old tattered fabric. The next gift, a leather folded pen case to carry my favorite brushes or markers. He knows that creating is my heartbeat. It was hers too. Next a bowl, not just any bowl, but one I thought my great grandfather had thrown on the pottery wheel. To my surprise, my great grandmother, Lyda, had made it! I know it was one of my dad's favorites; his fondest childhood memories were at his grandparents' house. I used to throw pottery with my great-grandpa in his garage.

He made me a potter's wheel and taught me how to make small jars and vases, such a sweet distant memory. I know that bowl meant a lot to my dad, and I'm grateful to have it; it will be perfect for serving around the table. His memories are fading, but the ones that came from his grandparent's house are precious and dear to him. I went to the bottom of the bag and held onto the wrapped card at the bottom. We continued around the room as my brothers, nieces, and nephews opened their precious thoughtful gifts. Gifts gathered from around their house, a trophy from mom's nightstand, Santa's from her collection, silver dollars she had collected, her dad's old pen. A tin necklace she had painted over 30 years ago, and a beautiful Spode dish from her piles of glorious dishes.

My heart wept as I thought about my dad gathering these precious gifts for us. It was one of the kindest, most thoughtful things he has done—what a sweet memory in a season of surviving. She was watching; she was so proud. I miss you so much; you are in the details. God is in the details. Y'all make a powerful team, and that will keep us going. That will keep us putting our feet on the ground, knowing that one day, we will meet again. Oh, what a gift that will be, to be in your arms again. Merry Christmas, mom.

BE Creative...

BE CREATIVE. I've written more on creativity lately, it seems to be where God has me. hmmmm, wonder where that's coming from. love you mom. Thanks Be for the opportunity to share. I remember the day. I walked into the Glamp-Inn to drop off some dinner, and Jessica Tyo saw my weariness. She told me to stop, to rest. All the other weary women were laying on their yoga mats. I got on an extra mat, laid down, opened my available hands, and Jessica came over and prayed for me. It was the sweetest time. God is in the details. EVERY SINGLE ONE OF THEM, the fun, the hard, the mundane, the good, the sad, the broken, all of them. xo, sisters.

read all about BE CREATIVE here…

The Gathering, a Revival of Love, at All Things Acres

Y’ALL! THIS IS OUR 11TH GATHERING, and so glad to be moving forward to gather with y’all!! We sure missed the spring gathering. It all started as a dream. a gathering in Round Top, Texas during the TEXAS ANTIQUES WEEKS SHOW. It's an amazing place, full of creatives, makers, sisters, brothers and dreamers, GOD has been building an army. He built a dream at Royers Pie Haven, to create a safe place for men & women to encourage, support, love one another. we picked during the ANTIQUE SHOW because so many gather in our small town and try to see each other, but we know hard it is to get up and down 237, so why not create an event to bring us all together. It's something that fuels us through the show, an amazing time before to carry us through the middle until the end. 

Now we have gone through a pandemic, and everything has been like riding a wild river, at times there were moments of still, then boulders and crazy rapids. When my mom passed away I knew that I didn’t want to miss another chance to gather around the table, no more excuses. 2020 has stirred a revival in my soul, to live His best and dream!!! I don’t want to say, “oh we should do that, or let’s meet for coffee and never meet.” This year we are doing things a bit different, small (very small), intimate and at ALL THINGS ACRES!!!!!

2758 FM 389

Brenham, TX 77833

So won't you join us for an evening under the clear TEXAS skies, during TEXAS ANTIQUES WEEKS, AMAZING PRAISE & WORSHIP, friends bringing THE WORD, a yummy dinner, snacks, drinks & lots of surprises!

Book signings start at 5:30pm & everything else kicks off at 6pm, with dinner at 6:30!!

HERE'S THE LINE UP, IT'S A GOOD ONE!

Debbie Forest Byrd will be there to lead praise & worship, we are so excited!! She has been with us since the beginning.

Sarah Martin-THIS girl. SHE GLOWS WITH JOY FOR JESUS. She is a vibrant speaker and author and I know y'all will be alive after she shares!!

Danna Lynde-Danna is a rock in my world, she is a truth teller, gospel seeker, artistic genius, and the best room mother you could ever have. Everyone needs to have a Danna in their life.

Jen Crane-Oh Jen, she is a girl that shines for Jesus. She has been down many dark roads, but stood strong on her Rock, and continued to be an encouragement. We saw each other at my mom’s funeral and all we said was, “no more excuses.”

Ronne Rock-She’s that girl that sits with you in the dark, shares the most amazing stories, and reminds us that we can change the world with Jesus.

Food by The Dine in Dude! Wahoooooo, we aren’t cookin’

there are so many more exciting things, but i want to keep them a surprise!! follow along on Instagram for details, @tararoyersteele & @royerspiehaven

BUY YOUR TICKETS HERE

bless,

tara & the grace gang

In 30 minutes, it will be one week since I got the call.

Here are some of the things I want to remember from the last 7 days…I try to write them down as they come rushing back like a flood of tears.

  1. We were sitting with Jamie from Celebration Church at my parents dining room table. Micah was there, and then he was gone. I texted him, I yelled for him, I looked for him in every nook and cranny, but nothing. As soon as we were done planning the celebration service I went outside, he was siting in his car, I hopped in and he played Supermarket Flowers by Ed Sheeran, GOD BLESS!!! I wailed and screamed from the top of my lungs, he then proceeded to drive away and hit super charge. I might have stopped crying and nearly peed my pants.

  2. All the flowers, the cards, the texts, the phone calls, the hugs, the food, the people showing up, clients, friends, family, students, co-workers. It was a testament to her life, it was exactly what she wanted. To love BIG and shine for Jesus.

  3. Everyone gathering around the table, standing in her kitchen, kids playing in the back yard, that was always her dream.

  4. Her garden. Getting to water it for her. It is lovely. There are statues of angels, saints, dogs and Aslyn watching over it.

  5. I tried watching The Young & The Restless, couldn’t do it, HAHA. We used to watched it everyday.

  6. My kids loving me so well. Brayden taking on my pain as I got the call, Bentley holding me like he never has. They never left my side.

  7. My tribe, they are fierce. They all showed up.

  8. Curiosity and ideas that have taken root because of my mom this week. The creativity and legacy is deeply rooted. Can’t wait to share with y’all.

  9. My sweet husband. I was yelling and sobbing in the bathroom, the dog hid under the bed, the kids came running, and he told them, “this will happen often kids, just love her through it”

  10. My dad, our family, the softening of hearts, continuing to let things be, to grow up and forgive often.

A new dance every day

Nobody knew all the new steps. The dance started slow and steady, like a gentle waltz, back and forth with big smiles. Everyone was gliding next to each other, sharing stories, and laughing; it was easy to keep up. As the day went on, the music got faster and louder, and the steps were nearly impossible without guidance. The beat was heavy and fast, more people piled on the dance floor, and the toe stepping created pain from old wounds. The music sounded like a rave, chaotic, and blinding. Words began to fly that hurt worse than the physical pain. But, then the instructor gently stepped in and changed the rhythm. He began to speak words that brought healing, hope, and restoration. As the focus shifted to the instructor, the music seemed to slow, and the steps became easier. There were still toes stepped on, and stumbling, but there was a new rhythm, a rhythm of love, grace, mercy, and forgiveness.