New Year’s Goals

New Year’s Goals

It’s a scenario I’ve seen hundreds of times. One of my children sitting amidst a sea of toys they have just been tasked to clean up. Occasionally with tears or a scowl, they sit simply not doing the job. “What are you doing? Pick up your toys!”...
It’s Always There

It’s Always There

The leaves have changed once again. I savor every minute of this breathtaking season, taking frequent walks. As we were meandering through the neighborhood recently, my kids asked me why the leaves turn colors. I inadequately stumbled over a crude explanation and...
The Jennifer Jones Principle

The Jennifer Jones Principle

I’ve always said that my husband could never work from home. He’s far too social to feel fulfilled home officing. And, if I’m being honest, we’re both too high strung, strong-willed, and opinionated to ever be relationally successful working in the same vicinity all...
Don’t Settle for Close Enough

Don’t Settle for Close Enough

We have a lovely three-season porch where we eat most of our meals in the summer. It’s also where I go to pray and read in the mornings. I have a lovely view of the lake and can breathe the cool morning air . . . it’s comfortable . . . it’s...
When We Don’t Trust That God is Good

When We Don’t Trust That God is Good

A date night. A brief one, but a date nonetheless. The kids were finally old enough to be dropped off at church on Wednesday nights. Now my husband and I could finally get a much-needed hour and a half alone! We arrived at church early, in time to settle the kids in...