Coloring Outside the Lines of Grace
I still remember my grade school glory days — me, a blank coloring page, and my prized 64-pack of Crayolas. Oh, the smell of wax and potential! I might not have been Michelangelo, but give me a steady hand and I could color within the lines like a pro. Let’s just say, if there’d been…
Muster Up and Vote!
It’s decision time, friends — early voting has officially begun here in Austin! And once again, Carl and I are stoked (yes, stoked!) to be serving as election officials. No, this isn’t a major presidential primary — but don’t let that fool you. State and local propositions are where a lot of real-life decisions are…
You’re Not a Loser — You’re a Winner
I’ll admit it — I love reality talent shows. America’s Got Talent is one of my favorites. Ordinary people — all shapes, sizes, ages — step onto a stage, risk rejection, and dare to shine. This season, one singer stopped me in my tracks: Jessica Sanchez, a radiant, very pregnant 30-year-old with a powerhouse voice…
Bravery That Cannot Be Silenced
I can’t stop thinking about Charlie Kirk. His passing has left a mark on all of us who admired his relentless faith, his courage, and his determination to live for Christ. Charlie gave his life teaching, loving, sharing the Gospel of Jesus Christ, and standing unashamed for God’s Word. He died a martyr’s death, and…
What a Ride!
Last Monday, Labor Day — instead of grilling burgers or napping in a hammock, Carl and I decided to shake things up. No “same-oh, same-oh.” We took ourselves on a field trip to the Bullock Texas State History Museum in Austin — and oh my, what a ride through time! Carl’s from Lubbock, I’m from…
Misbehaving….again?
I came across this photo and, OH MY…..total recall! Years ago, we ran an 85-child daycare (yes, you read that right — eighty-five energetic little ones). One afternoon, I turned my back for what felt like half a second… and that was all it took. A mischievous 5-year-old had taken scissors in hand and decided…
No More Shoulda, Woulda, Coulda
You know those three little words: “I should have,” “I would have,” “I could have” — followed by a list of excuses longer than a CVS receipt. Well, I’ve decided I’m done with them. No more standing at the crossroads of hesitation. No more tiptoeing around opportunities. It’s time to trade in the “shoulds” for…
Saluting our Veterans
A hero is someone who has given his or her life for something bigger than oneself! Today is Veterans Day. Our utmost appreciation and respect for our Veterans, alive, and for those who made their ultimate sacrifice for us and our Country. Freedom really isn’t free – especially the high cost of those who keep…
Just Take the First Step
Oh how sweet the memories of helping my children and grandchildren take their first steps. It was an achievement for them, but even more so, it was an achievement for us. Jesus understands children and He understands us. He Who created water certainly knew His ability for walking on water. Nowhere do we read about…
A Blank Canvas Artist
I really did want to paint! Let me rephrase that. I could paint walls, doors, railings, and any piece of furniture. But what I REALLY wanted was to paint a delicate and beautiful scene on a blank canvas. No paint-by-numbers for me! I desired to create something that was uniquely mine. What I’ve come to…