This whole thing about gift-giving gets me so tangled up. I love to give gifts. And yes, I enjoy receiving them too. But the Christmas rush can feel overwhelming. If left unattended, it can rob us of the joy found in the giving and receiving of gifts. I ponder my own Christmas shopping list, looking …
When You Uncover the Gift of True Friendship
Her shirt caught my attention. It was a simple shirt, but printed on its front was a familiar logo. I recognized it from a ladies conference I had recently attended. At that time in my life, I seldom initiated conversation with strangers, especially when those strangers were in the middle of a conversation with someone …
Finding the Good in a Different Kind of Thanksgiving
Friend, how does Thanksgiving look for you? For many of us, Thanksgiving looks different this year. Whether it’s the travel distance between our homes, a physical distance caused by a loved one’s passing, a choice to distance ourselves for health reasons, or an unresolved relational issue creating distance within the family. Distance seems to be …
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The Gift of Our True Father: a guest post by Jennifer Elwood
Today, I would like to introduce you to my friend, Jennifer Elwood (jenniferelwood.com). Jennifer and I met in a writing critique group about a year ago. She is a few steps ahead of me in her writing journey and has taught me so much about my own. I’m excited over the release of Jennifer’s book, …
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When You Stop to Embrace the Silence
Sometimes my mind seems closed, devoid of anything constructive, meaningful or insightful. Mental fatigue finally catching up with physical exhaustion. So, I dig a little deeper. I think a little harder. I ponder a little longer. Expending all of this effort in hopes of uncovering wonderful words, beautiful stories to fill this blank page. …
Giving Thanks for the Gift of Imperfect Family Gatherings
I take a step back and observe the life unfolding in my kitchen. Grown kids sauntering into the already lively surroundings. Sometimes with friends in tow, sometimes alone. But, always making their way home. A myriad of conversations has ensued within these walls. Laughter, friendly teasing, an occasional clash of personalities. Always lots of noise. …
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What Comes to Mind When You Think of Home?
What are your first thoughts when you think of home? Do you picture yourself as a child, reliving a precious memory of years gone by? Do you explore more recent thoughts of life with your own children or others you hold dear? Or, do you fall somewhere in between? Home. The word itself evokes a …
When You’re Tired of Driving Around in Circles
I sighed as I made the loop over the interstate heading in the opposite direction. I had made a wrong turn. Again. I do this so often I’m no longer surprised by it, but I’m always bothered by it. It causes me to feel stupid, to hurl hurtful accusations at myself. Why do you have …
How to Usher Frustration Out of Your Life
Frustration. It’s what causes us to lose patience with the slothfully slow cashier. The government official who leaves us on hold for what seems an eternity. The waitress who forgets to refill our glass even after two reminders. The co-worker who doesn’t carry her load. It’s what causes us to feel aggravated over a delayed …
