Staying Positive in a Negative World
Years ago when I lived in Tulsa, I walked out of the grocery store, minding my own business, when a TV reporter swooped in with a microphone and a cameraman in tow. Before I could say “no comment,” she was asking what I thought about all the new traffic in our area. Now, I hadn’t…
From West Texas to the Kingdom of God
Carl and I are back in Lubbock — old stomping grounds and the heartland of all things Texas Tech Red Raiders. Guns up! But the real celebration this time is another family reunion. Last June, we hosted the Noble Family Reunion in Fort Worth — Carl’s dad’s side. We wrangled about 130 kinfolk together —…
Let’s Mix and Mingle
One of the highlights of our 60+ active adult community is the Thursday night “Mix and Mingle.” It’s dinner with a theme — a Luau, Western night, or a 50’s Sock Hop (poodle skirts included). But the real draw? The people. The mix is the food and fun. The mingle is where the blessings happen…
From the Flood to the Foothills
Yesterday Carl and I made it to Denver, Colorado — the “Mile High City”. Denver sits exactly one mile (5,280 feet) above sea level – hence the nickname. Yes, the altitude is high, the mountains are tall, and the landscapes shout the greatness of our God. AND, bonus, this is where our dear Austin friends…
Still Got It! (With Glue on My Fingers)
What an amazing time we had at Epiphany Ranch — where peace, purpose, and porch-sitting reign — and where, apparently, a long-lost talent of mine was resurrected. Wallpapering. Yes, you heard that right. Mama here dusted off the ol’ wallpaper-hanging gift (which I’d hung up years ago). But wouldn’t you know — my daughter Staci,…
We have Questions. You have Answers.
I had planned to write something lighthearted today. Something about wallpaper and laughter and a mama still managing a glue brush. But I just can’t. Not yet. Not while there are Texas families still waiting. Still grieving. Still aching from floodwaters that stole more than homes — they stole lives, joy, and certainty. We may…
After the Waters Recede
The fireworks have faded. The skies are still. And while some homes hold sweet memories of July 4th celebrations… others, especially here in Texas, sit heavy with sorrow. A girls camp — nearly a century old — once echoed with laughter, and held this beautiful cross at the pinnacle of the camp, canoe races, horseback…
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…
On the Road Again… and Grateful for the Ride!
We’re packed to the brim — literally and emotionally — as Carl and I hit the road to Fort Worth, Texas, for the annual Noble Family Reunion. The trunk? Loaded with over 75 Silent Auction items. My heart? Loaded with anticipation, love, and just a smidge of “please Lord, let this all come together.” This…
Don’t You Dare Say It’s Impossible
There are moments in life when God steps in and leaves us speechless. You know, the kind of moments that make you chuckle under your breath and shake your head like Sarah did when she overheard the Lord say she was going to have a baby in her old age. (Genesis 18:12) Can you imagine?…