The Gift of Gathering Friends
I’m convinced God designed me to gather people. To serve them, encourage them and watch magic happen when strangers become friends. I…
Helping Women Move From Fear into Faith
Category: Gifts
Where is Your Focus?
I asked God for a word that would help me accomplish His plans for me in 2020. The word, Focus, came to me, oddly enough, during the Total Strength class at the YMCA.
Tips For a Perfectly Imperfect Christmas
I would speed through it all and finally sit down to enjoy our decorated fresh fir… after the holidays. I was overwhelmed with sadness when I realized I’d missed some priceless moments that were gone forever.
Somewhat Simple Soup Supper
I don’t want to carry gratitude around in seasons.
I want to carry it in my bones,
I want to rest it in on my tongue
like it is a language
that I never stop speaking.
~Arielle Estoria
The Art of Life
“At the basis of Jesus Christ’s kingdom is the unaffected loveliness of the commonplace.”
Finding Me
I realized today when I tossed those pillows on the swing that the way I’m wired hasn’t curled up and died. My gifts for gathering people and warming up our home so people will feel loved and welcomed. This is who I am. I just haven’t known how to be that person in a different place.
Reaping Where I Didn’t Sow
I stepped outside into a beautiful April morning and did a little trimming in our mini-yard. Compared to the acre we lived on earlier, this one is on the tiny side. I happened along into a small spot in between our house and Debbie’s. There, hidden away, is the most beautiful profuse light blush colored rose bush. I was reminded again that I’m reaping things I didn’t sow.
Charlotte—More Than a Friend
I lost a dear friend this week. Actually, she’s not lost. It’s me who’s lost just knowing she’s not here. Her earthly ties were cut loose and she flew right into the arms of Jesus. I’m hurting for my loss but no doubt the loss is felt much more by her dear husband of over 60 years and all the extended family who loved her so much.
Why We Should Keep Throwing Showers
My daughter Katherine was about three years old when I walked upstairs and saw a long row of shoes–our family’s shoes–up and down the hallway, near the bathroom door. There she was, bright eyed with that perpetual smile. “Joy” was the nickname I’d given her. When I asked about the shoes she said, “You told me we’re having a shower so I got everyone’s shoes ready.”
A Meaningful Christmas
I’d thought to bring stocking gifts along for the children. As we settled into our room for the night, our kids happily tore into small presents while sitting on motel beds. I can still feel their excitement over such a small thing. It’s always been one of my favorite Christmas memories.
Giving Thanks
Let’s call to mind all the real gifts we’ve undeservingly received. Sometimes we are moving too fast to notice. Thanksgiving beckons us to pause, open our eyes to the present moment and to wait a few more days before the foray into frenzy.
A Grateful Heart
“To be grateful is to recognize the Love of God in everything He has given us – and He has given us everything.