The reason I’ve quit praying for my husband

Our pastor urged us to beseech God. Lord, teach us to pray. This simple request led to extensive training as I became a pupil of God’s Spirit. I discovered my motives and purposes for prayer were often askew. Specifically for my husband. As I evaluated my petitions on my husband’s behalf, I realized my desired…

Less is more (an RV kind of Christmas tree)

Some time back, my friend Tiffany offered me three words of encouragement. Less is more. I didn’t realize, then, I’d be celebrating Christmas in an RV. And living out less is more as a family. This journey is certainly one to be remembered. A path taking our family toward a greater appreciation of the simple.…

Strengthening the core (a tip from my favorite quarterback)

I find myself being continually enlightened by my fifteen year old. Camden and I are still arising in the early mornings to exercise together. (Tip for parents of teenagers: find something your teen enjoys and join him there.) The time spent encouraging one another to overcome obstacles and building camaraderie has been priceless.  Our conversations…

Fudging around for a fourteen year old (homemade healthy fudgcicles!)

If you know me to even a short extent, you know I believe living healthy is part of living fully. Don’t you know that your body is a sanctuary of the Holy Spirit who is in you, whom you have from God?  You are not your own, for you were bought at a price. Therefore…

A change in *SEE*nery

Last week, my husband and I retreated to the Texas Hill Country.  Compared to our city surroundings, it was certainly a change in scenery. And the colorful change was welcomed heartily. There’s another panoramic alteration not so easily embraced. The one instigated internally. Let me explain. On any given day, I can pass through our…

The path to the cross (warning: it might be an uphill climb)

Our first day of spring break.  My husband and I retreated to the Texas Hill Country at Camp Buckner. With bicycles in tow, we took little time to head to the hills once we arrived. {I’d like to know, however, at what point a hill becomes a mountain.  I am quite certain we became acquainted…

Chipping away to find the beauty within

When meeting with the Navy SEALs last week, I was enlightened in many ways (of which I’m sure you’ll hear more about in the future). Each of the men separately confided in my son a common piece of advice to use during SEAL training. One shared thread of truth woven through this fabric of special…

When the small things turn big

Sitting in a room in Coronado, California, I embrace thanks living. Less than three months ago, I followed God’s leading into Guatemala.  Amongst the huge wonders He provided for me, there was an encounter.  Not a chance nor a coincidence.  Certainly not luck. A  brief visit with a man in the Guatemalan airport.  Just a…

Finding joy in finding joy

I’m curious this morning. My children accepted January’s joy dare.  Naming three gifts from God a day.  Writing them in a notebook.  Intentional thanks living. I wonder what they’ve captured. I notice Caleb’s joy journal on the table.  Thirty one days of January completed. And I am overwhelmed at the depth of his joys. A…

I abandoned my schedule {to follow my heart}

Mommy will you read me a story? I’m ready for bed.  I glance at the clock. I quickly calculate the number of hours I’ll be allowed to sleep before arising early the next morning.  {Quack.  Quack.  Quack.} There’s not enough time.  And I’m a stickler for schedules. Please.  Will you read to me? I explain…