The Competitive Edge
I come from a long line of go-getters… and yet, I was the kid hiding behind my mama’s coat-tails. I wasn’t loud, didn’t play sports, and wouldn’t dare raise my hand unless I was really sure of the answer. But somehow, God gave me a family full of people who don’t just show up to…
Got Credentials? You Bet You Do.
Some folks have impressive credentials—titles like Dr., Rev., or Esq.—attached to their name. Those designations usually come after years of study, sacrifice, and a mountain of coffee. My pastor, for example, recently earned his doctorate and humbly says, “You don’t have to call me Dr. Spencer.” But oh, he earned it — and we’re proud…
Welcome to My Safe Place
My Safe Place is smack dab in the green pastures where God always soothes my soul and gives me daily ideas for yet another blog. Most days, folks read the words, smile (hopefully), and carry on with their day. Occasionally, I get a “like” or a heart and let me tell you — those little…
Evicting the Worry Wart
I don’t usually invite worry over for coffee. I’m more of a “blue skies ahead, God’s got this” kind of gal. But every now and then, that pesky Worry Wart sneaks in like it owns the place. It doesn’t knock. It doesn’t ask permission. It just plops itself down, right next to my peace, and…
Let There Be Light
Here’s the truth about darkness. Darkness is absent of light. And what about dark thoughts? Think about it. The more we dwell on our negative feelings or confront someone that is negative, the darker it becomes. The more we watch political news, and listen to the he said/she said stuff, and the backbiting between opposing…
Perfection Is Overrated…and Exhausting
Let’s just go ahead and say it: no one is perfect. Yes — I know someone probably popped into your head just now. The one with the pristine planner, color-coded everything, and hair that somehow is always in place. But I promise you, even they have a junk drawer, a regret, or a broken something…
When “Suddenly” Strikes
There we were — taco in one hand, enchilada in the other –celebrating my bonus daughter Amelia’s birthday at El Alma’s in Austin. The conversation was as rich as the queso, especially as we praised Amelia, who is a beloved middle school social worker with a superpower: making people feel seen, safe, and strong. She’s…
A Penny for Your Trust
I bent down to pick up a penny in the parking lot the other day. Carl wondered why I did. Because I saw it — those four powerful words engraved in faded copper: “In God We Trust”. And suddenly, that scuffed-up coin wasn’t just a penny. It was a proclamation. A pocket-sized sermon. A reminder…
Is It a Heart Condition… or a Condition of the Heart?
A couple of weeks ago, a friend shared that her husband had a heart attack. After a whirlwind of tests, doctors inserted a stent — and now? He feels like a million bucks. His family is relieved, and he’s got a new pep in his step (and probably fewer burgers in his diet). Along with…
I Will Not Let Go
I Will Not Let God Go“I will not let you go unless You bless me.” Genesis 32:26 Now that’s a bold thing to say when we’re locked in a wrestling match — with God, no less! That’s exactly what Jacob did. God had already promised him blessings — land, family, influence, legacy — the works!…