We Were There — Opry100!
Oh, what a night! The Grand Ole Opry’s 100th Birthday Celebration was everything we hoped it would be — and more. Before the doors even opened, we sat outside by the grand stage under a perfect Tennessee sky, snapping photos, soaking up the golden glow of evening, and thanking God for such a just right…
Eight Months & Eighty Years — Got Milk?
This weekend was one for the memory books. We celebrated my dear Carl turning 80 — and oh, what a celebration it was! His daughter outdid herself: a gorgeous cake made by Pavla, beautiful hors d’oeuvres, a buffet fit for royalty, and a room filled with over 55 friends and family. Carl was the gracious…
Let’s Flex Our Faith
Some phrases just stick. Our Lamplighters Bible teacher, Zack Dawes, tossed one out Sunday morning while we were diving into the book of Daniel: “Flex your mighty right arm!” That’s straight from Isaiah 51:9 — a bold, beautiful prayer:“Awake, awake, arm of the Lord, clothe yourself with strength! Flex your mighty right arm!” It’s an…
Take a Deep Breath
Ever take your breath for granted? I do — until I’m lying awake at night and sleep doesn’t come. That’s when I remember to inhale deeply. Slow, full breaths really do help me drift off. And apparently, there’s science behind it. Deep breathing calms the nervous system, lowers stress hormones, delivers oxygen to our cells,…
The Less Is More Mindset
I sold our Sapulpa, Oklahoma home back in 2010 after my late husband moved on to glory! That’s when the “less is more” mindset first started tugging on me. I’ll never forget opening the attic, boxes of receipts, lumber scraps, holiday décor enough for the Macy’s parade, and keepsakes stacked to the heavens. I stood…
Let Peace Begin in Me
The world is noisy with hate right now. Harsh words, nasty comments, pointing fingers — anger seems to be the default setting. But there’s another way. A higher way. Reconciliation over retaliation. Jesus didn’t say, “Get even.” He said, “Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you” (Matthew 5:44). That’s not easy —…
How Do We Mend?
We don’t use the word “mend” very much these days. But, this day I’d like to use MEND in capital letters. I remember my mama mending a tear in my dress. Mending means to make something worn, torn, or otherwise damaged usable by repairing, restoring or fixing. The news of Charlie Kirk’s passing still weighs…
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…
Let’s Pick Up Their Mantles of Faith
Charlie Kirk’s story reminds us of the weight — and beauty — of a mantle of faith. He lived with zeal for Jesus, a deep love for his family, and a fire for the next generation. His call was clear: walk the walk, talk the talk, and never shy away from truth. His death, like…
Lord, I’m Available to You
From years ago, I remember singing these words by Carlis Moody:“Lord, I’m available to youMy will I give to youI’ll do what you say doUse me Lord to show someone the wayAnd enable me to say,I am available to you – Use me Lord.” I never want to say “no” to God. If He calls…