One day, “Barb” approached me. She smiled as she dusted pretend lint from my jacket. “You’re really a people person aren’t you?” I wasn’t sure where this was headed. Barb and I were acquaintances, but not close friends. Was she being complimentary or was there some hidden meaning behind her remark? I got odd vibes as she brushed at my …
I love beautiful plants, flowers, trees, and shrubs. I’m in awe of the people who grow them. My mama is one of those people. She could transplant a brick and bring it back to life. (Well—she can raise a stick from the dead.) Despite the odds, green things thrive under her watchful eye. Gardening’s never been my strong suit, but …
Here in the Ozarks we’ve hit a rainy patch. Usually by now we’re basking in sunshine and warmth, but this week it’s been rain, rain, rain—with more on the way. (It seems we have Tropical Storm Bill to thank, in part, for our drenching.) Not to seem ungrateful, but I wish we could share some of our moisture with our …
Since bad news is easy to find, I pray your stop here today is a brief respite from the discouraging gunk that would drag you down. Wouldn’t you agree that a little sweetness and light are far more encouraging than those ugly, old dust bunnies in the corner? (You know the joy-stealers I’m talking about—television, the national news, those good …
Although not officially summer yet, we’re in summer vacation mode over our way. (Meaning: Schools out and we’re doing the Happy Dance!) Besides end-of-school wind-down, June kick-starts some wedding anniversaries for our family. That generally includes fun, food, and fellowship. (Did I mention food?) Here in the Ozarks, (God’s country), we love to celebrate happy occasions. I bet you do, …
Hello, friend! Today I wanted to do a little light housekeeping so sit back, relax, and kick your shoes off for a while. After all, wouldn’t you agree that it’s always fun when someone else does the work? Gives us a chance to pause and catch our breath. Whew! First, I wanted to mention my newsletter. If you received yours …
Often, there are many books I can’t wait to read. Great stories by fabulous authors. Sadly—since I write, too, there just aren’t enough hours in the day to read everything I wish I could. However—regardless how busy, how drained, how pressed for time I am—there are those authors who, without a doubt, I know I will read. I’ll make time. …
Today I’m delighted to welcome my friend Keli Gwyn, author of Family of Her Dreams. I first met Keli online, and then in person at the 2011 ACFW conference in St. Louis. Over the years, I’ve enjoyed getting to know Keli better—and let me just say—she’s the real deal. Nice. Thoughtful. Down-to-earth. And a huge Taco Bell fan. Let the …
Some seasons are mountaintop moments. Others are sojourns in the valley. Today, let’s talk about the sojourns. Everyone experiences difficulties, hardships, and trials from time to time. It’s inevitable. Some folks may endure these struggles temporarily. For others, the season of suffering may seem never-ending. As writers, we’re deeply in tune to these times of seasoning. These experiences mature us—not only …
Like many couples, when my husband and I were married we chose to include a portion of 1st Corinthians in our wedding vows. “Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. …
