“What in the world?” I said to myself as a careless, judgmental thought crossed my mind. It wasn’t just a one-time reaction - it had become a pattern I was slowly beginning to recognize. Sarcastic and cynical jabs toward people and situations were creeping into my...
There’s no denying that I love autumn. Snuggly sweaters, cool temperatures, wood fires burning, and crisp leaves make my heart happy. Peak foliage season has arrived here in Virginia, and driving along country roads has been breathtaking. On recent walks through my neighborhood, I’ve been noticing...
The leaves are changing, and the days are cooler here in Virginia. As I pause to breathe and reflect on the last few weeks, I am so very grateful for all God's goodness, and equally exhausted because the days have been filled with busyness and unexpected challenges. I'm...
Awakening from a deep sleep, something felt different in my room. There was an energy and a presence I could sense...
Old egg cartons, an empty box, and a teal trash can clutter the floor of my kitchen. My son sits in the midst of the pile of trash imagining the transformation possibilities. In less than an hour, he converts the pile of waste into a...
“Sweetheart, I need you to talk to me.” My husband requests as he stares out the window at the dark road before him. Out of words and ready to rest, I reply, “What do you want me to say?” “Anything! I need you to keep me awake,”...
"Lord, give us clarity and direction for the next step. We want more of you and less of us." Sitting silently around the kitchen table, Cari and I wait for an answer. This prayer is uttered from our mouths regularly, as our hearts yearn to only go...
Sitting atop the Ferris wheel, I glanced over at my ten-year-old son. After a full afternoon at the fair, we had saved the tallest ride for last. For the first time, his small frame sat high above the park. Terrified, yet determined. As the wheel began moving its circular...
"Will you snuggle with me?" my eight-year-old said, as he descended the stairs. Still enjoying my coffee and morning Bible study, I invited him to join me in my corner chair. I wrapped my arms around him and gently kissed his forehead. My baby was starting...