Peggy Mama

My mom would have turned 67 today. This world got her for 52 years and for almost 26 of those, she was by my side. What a gift. In honor of the day she was born, within minutes of her twin brother Paul, I celebrate her life today and the legacy she left for us. I think … Continue reading Peggy Mama

Lowering My Standards

My job description could read: Spend all day putting things back where they started. Matchbox cars, pretend food, books. Wash, dry, fold, put back. Repeat. Maintain. Keep needs met, keep everybody alive. Most of the things I do get undone again before the day is through and I rarely feel like I'm making progress. I am not … Continue reading Lowering My Standards

Diamond in the Rough

I used to be sharp. Really I was. I could remember most things, I contributed intellingenly to conversation and I could accomplish more than two tasks each day. It's somewhere in my distant memory, but I do remember (and miss) that me. I've also been looking a little rough lately. I shower less often than I go … Continue reading Diamond in the Rough

The Good Yearning

Five bunches of peonies have made their way into my house over the past two weeks. And I've been really holding back. I've mentioned my vase-collecting-flower-loving habits before, but there are certain seasons where I go hog wild. Like when peonies show up. If I don't enjoy their tight little bundles (soon to be bursting blooms) … Continue reading The Good Yearning

We Are Winning

As for chores, I don't think that mowing the lawn and doing the dishes carry the same weight. My husband mows the lawn about once a week and I do dishes for a few hours each day. He pays bills twice a month, but I do laundry always. But then I think about how he works full-time, is … Continue reading We Are Winning

In Good Company

Having guests in our home is a habit. A very natural and very intentional habit. I grew up in a family of social people and "having company" was a way of life. My parents valued and protected time just for our family of five, but they also maintained a culture of hosting and inviting others in. We lived a mile away … Continue reading In Good Company

My Comfort is My #1 Priority

Our family dog is a pug named Chub. Pugs are known to be very smart but to have a low work ethic. It's true, I see him pretending he doesn't "get" the instructions. He likes creeks and hikes and walks, but he'll also feel free to find shade in the middle of the adventure and will not budge … Continue reading My Comfort is My #1 Priority

Think Upon Such Things- part two

Think Upon Such Things-part one (in case you missed it) For the past few months, my kids have been wild about listening to The Jesus Storybook Bible in the car. It’s a paraphrase of scripture for kids by Sally Lloyd-Jones and is read on CD by British actor David Suche. We’ve listened to all 3 CDs at least … Continue reading Think Upon Such Things- part two

The Icing on the Cake

I like to celebrate. I like food and decorations and music and treats. I've been known to celebrate because it's sunny, because I'm in a great mood, because I'm in a terrible mood, because it's Wednesday. I get especially carried away with celebrating life's big events. Somewhere in the middle of the night before my … Continue reading The Icing on the Cake

Trials That Change Your Fabric

  There are trials. And then there are the trials that change your fabric. The lessons of pain and beauty become so intertwined that they’re forever joined. I wouldn't say it defines me, but this story is woven in so tightly now that I can't separate it from who I’ve become. This is my family, … Continue reading Trials That Change Your Fabric