In a society where we’re continually bombarded with bad news and negativity, it can sometimes be difficult to keep a positive perspective about things. Today, especially, I think we have to be cautious about these influences or our lives can become one big melting pot of worry. Worry turns to fear, and the fear in turn can be paralyzing. I don’t bury my head …
Love Is in the Air
They say a way to a man’s heart is through is his stomach. I’ve not really tested this theory (intentionally), but I do believe there is some truth to that statement. I mean, what normal, red-blooded man doesn’t like a warm slice of bread baked fresh from the oven? Or an apple, cherry, or peach pie that’s made from scratch? Or my …
Will It Stand?
Have you ever noticed that in today’s world some folks are so busy parroting what others say you begin to wonder if they even have any core beliefs themselves? As a parent, this concerns me on many levels and for the obvious reasons. As an adult, it saddens me because I realize that we’re our children’s first influencers, and so many …
My Writing Journey
Yesterday I talked about encouragement. Continuing with the writing theme, this post will be a bit brief, but I wanted to share with you what I’ve been up to lately: Writing/Working on Book 2 in series Additional proposal revisions for Book 1 (yes, a little more polishing) Exploring website layouts Contemplating ACFW conference in September Blog posts Networking/Implementing marketing strategies …
Some Writerly Thoughts…
I am exhausted. It’s true. Life is busier now than before. But despite the exhaustion, I give thanks because it’s a good exhaustion. God is charting a new course for me. It’s a course that’s unfamiliar, somewhat daunting at times, and one that causes me a lot of self-reflection. It’s also a course that’s blow-my-socks-off exhilarating! I think when we realize that God’s plan for us is coming …
An Instrument Well Played
I’m in awe of people who are musically gifted whether it be in vocals, instruments, arrangements, or lyrics. For some, it seems to come naturally, yet for others it takes years of practice and discipline. In the church where I’m a member, we’re extremely blessed to have wonderful musicians on our worship team. Besides singing, I believe there are several …
Life in the Ozarks: Part 2
I’ve thought a lot about how much the past affects our present. It influences everything: cultural differences, lifestyles, the way we speak, the way we dress, what drives us to succeed, others’ perceptions of us, and a host of other things. Believe me, because of where I live, I’ve heard just about every hillbilly joke there is. I usually smile …
Going Coastal
The beach is one of my favorite spots. If you’re familiar a bit with this blog then you probably already know that. There’s just something about the sand, surf, and slower pace of life that draw me in. We visit a little spot along the gulf coast that’s less populated than most, so when we go, we truly are living on …
Splashes of Happy
I’m a very visual person and I firmly believe that what we surround ourselves with in our environment has incredible power over us. I love color (especially the color red), and since I’m a cheerful person, I enjoy having “splashes of happy” throughout our home. Yes, I realize things can’t make us happy and they shouldn’t determine our self-worth. What I’m …
Cookie Jars and Crayons
Many years ago, my husband’s beloved grandmother gave me a darling Red Wing antique cookie jar. He’s a happy, chubby fellow, and he’s always had a very prominent place in our kitchen. I’ve often wondered about the story behind the little chef and what kinds of cookies he might have held over the years before he took up residence in our home. Cookies weren’t all that The …