With great anticipation, we packed our suitcases, hired our dog’s favorite sitter, and planned our long-awaited weekend away in California to celebrate with family. For the most part, we had not seen the family since Christmas of 2019–just before the pandemic hit. This gathering would draw us together for the first time in more than a year and a half.
Continue reading →By the time we had two boys, we had just moved to Arizona–all beach, no water–in the middle of summer. Suddenly, summer wasn’t so fun anymore. We landed in 106-degree heat. And no pool in the backyard yet. But friends again came to our rescue from our home state
Continue reading →The fabric that weaves a culture together from one generation to the next, besides love, is tradition. Richly displayed most often during a particular culture’s holidays and religious ceremonies,
Continue reading →Traveling up the California coast, my body pressed against the molded truck seat soaking in the relaxation as my heart drank in the beauty of God’s creation along the route. Hubby and I were taking needed time off from a major project God had assigned to us.
Continue reading →Preparations for Mother’s Day and the celebrations that accompany it range from simple to extravagant. A Mother’s heart treasures the phone call from a child far away, scribbled notes with lopsided flowers filled with love and the family meal at home as much, if not more than the extravagant dinner at a 5-star restaurant. But an extravaganza prepared by your kids–well that’s another story. A friend of mine, Vicki Andrews found a unique way to help her young grandchildren present … Continue reading →
Mom–the word conjures up memories, feelings, longings, blessings, and sometimes regrets or grief. On the most difficult of days, sometimes, I wish I could just call up my Mom or step in the next room and collapse on her bed with my burdens from the day. My Mom was a good listener. I was her only child, though, which made it easier for her to accomplish this. But this was really my Mom’s heart. She was a good listener for … Continue reading →
We’re halfway through the second week of Advent. A time of preparing our hearts for a renewed focus on the reason Christ became man. In the midst of the busyness we call Christmas, our hearts get tangled up in where to put the focus. Is it on creating a warm and decorative atmosphere in our homes? Or is it on preparing a feast to welcome family both far and near? And if we’re people pleasers, are we caught up in … Continue reading →
Climbing the hills on the Isle of Capri in Italy on a funicular, I saw them almost everywhere. Sprouting from square patches of small backyards, this fruit tree graced the hillsides of the Italian island. In what seemed like a postage-stamp-sized growing area, these garden lovers planted vegetables, herbs, colorful flowing flowers, and lemon trees. They are the Blue Ribbon plant of these Southern boot dwellers. Lemons abound in Southern Italy. Not only fresh ones in menus, gracing tables, and … Continue reading →
One of the biggest blessings in my life is sharing time with family and friends, especially when they come to visit at our home. “Friends and family make time spent together a beautiful treasure.” Lisa Blowers (click to tweet) The times are marked with laughter, reminiscing, a tour of some favorite spots in town, and the sharing of Godly wisdom. Many times, these friends have shared the wisdom gained from their own journeys with the Lord, speaking directly to the … Continue reading →
“Give thanks with a grateful heart, Give thanks to the Holy One Give thanks because He’s given Jesus Christ, His Son And now let the weak say, “I am strong,” Let the poor say, “I am rich Because of what the Lord has done for us.” Lyrics by Don Moen (c) 1986 Hearing the words wash peace and trust over me. I see myself standing shoulder to shoulder with our first Christian community of brothers and sisters. Hands raised in … Continue reading →
