The Day After the Fireworks
Yesterday was one for the record books. We celebrated the Fourth of July the good ol’ fashioned way — surrounded by family and many friends, food that made us thankful for elastic waistbands, and enough laughter to echo across the pastures of Alto, Texas. There were games, conversations, and yes — a quiet gratitude humming…
Star-Spangled Skies and Freedom that Lasts
It’s the Fourth of July, and here we are in Alto, Texas — the heart of big-sky country, where my daughter and bonus son live out their vision at Epiphany Ranch. Out here, the stars shine a little brighter, and the meaning of freedom feels a little deeper. I’m proud to be an American —…
Oh, the Glory Hallelujah!
It was a slice of heaven last Sunday morning.A giant American flag was the bold backdrop for our incredible choir and orchestra. Patriotic music filled the sanctuary, echoing our gratitude for this land we love. And, we sang each song of each branch of the military that keep watch over us. Holy chill bumps came…
The Big 2-1 (And the Bigger Picture)
Today, July 2nd, my #4 grandson in birth order — turns 21. That’s right. Brennan is officially stepping into the world of adulthood, full stride. He’s a business student at the University of Texas, following in the footsteps of his dad, and likely headed toward the family business. But long before boardrooms and spreadsheets, there…
Celebrating Freedom — All Month Long
July is here — and yes, my red, white, and blue is coming out in full force. From porch flags to festive red, white and blue everywhere. In fact, we were a few days early — but we wore our red, white and blue on Sunday. I love celebrating our freedom and the land we’re…
Let the Children Come to Me
Jesus said: “Let the little children come to me!” Big or little — Old or Young — We are His children. Sincerely — I know my age and I know I am not qualified to ride the 12 and under rides. But, I am still riding the joy-of-life bandwagon. Let’s be honest — some folks…
Parade of Homes (and Hearts)
These days, new homes are more than brick and mortar — they’re smart, sleek, and filled with more buttons than a space shuttle. Case in point: Carl’s daughter, Amelia, and her husband, Terrell, recently moved into their “forever home” here in Austin. With their kids off to college, the basketballs and pool toys are packed…
Bridging the Divide with Honor
I try to stay in the middle! I try to carefully NOT say anything that might cause me to lose a friend or neighbor. I’m not looking to pick a fight or rock the boat — especially when it comes to politics, friendships, or fragile family group texts. I want to be like Jesus: full…
Warning: Dishwasher Theology Ahead
Here’s a question that might spark more debate than politics at the dinner table: “When loading the dishwasher, do the utensils go handle side up or down?” I’ve always voted to say “handles up” — it just feels safer, especially when there’s a rogue steak knife involved. But then I pull out a spoon and…
Coming Out of the Fog
Ever felt like you were living in a fog?Not the cozy, misty kind you see in scenic calendars — but the thick, can’t-see-the-road, “Lord, help me!” kind. The kind that makes us squint into the unknown, wondering where we’re headed and what might be hiding in the murk. I’ve been there — literally and spiritually.…