Today I finished planting the flowers I bought with my sister last Friday. It seemed like no matter how many flowers I planted there were still more to go. While taking a break in my favorite spot—the porch swing on the deck—I realized my problem. Planting flowers does not take a long time. Dig a hole, put in the flower, pat the dirt, and water. Not hard. For me, planning flowers is the problem. I spend more time deciding where to put which flower than actually planting them.

Big picture planning (yes, flowers for my yard count) has never been my strength. I remember planning for Kelsey’s wedding. I asked my sister to help me plan. She eagerly agreed. She loves event planning and decorating. At our first discussion for the wedding she asked, “How would you like to see the day flow?”

“Oh, I don’t know. It will just happen.” I actually believed what I was saying.

“If you don’t plan it, it won’t happen,” Lisa stated the truth.

Wow. So true. Why didn’t I think of that? Of course, she was right. But I didn’t have a clue where to start.

My sister planned and came through with a beautiful wedding for Kelsey and Caleb. I realized not only how different we are, but how necessary are the details. It was a life lesson for me. I needed to give more attention to the details in many areas of my life. By giving attention to the details, I give attention to the little things. By accomplishing the little things I accomplish my goals. Step-by-step.

Now when I have something to plan or accomplish, I take out my notebook and make my lists and schedules. The kids are all coming home for the weekend so every day this week I have a list of to-do’s so when Friday gets here I am ready to enjoy them.

Flowers planted. Check! Can’t wait for the weekend!

Brenda Garrison is an author and speaker who empowers women with the confidence to live their calling. Brenda is currently pursuing a Bachelor of Science Degree in Ministry Leadership with a Concentration in Women’s Ministry at Moody Bible Institute. She and her husband, Gene, are the parents of three young adult daughters and live near Metamora, IL.