Hammer Down Mode
Carl and I just spent a few days in full “hammer down” mode at Epiphany Ranch. The barndominium — better known as the lodge — is nearly complete, and let me tell you, it’s looking mighty fine. We drove the 3½ hours to Alto, TX, rolled up our sleeves, and grabbed brooms, rags, and dustpans.…
Clear Conscience = Sweet Sleep
Yesterday I spoke about the beauty of rest — even for a few minutes in the middle of my day. Let’s take it a step further today! Have you ever noticed how good it feels to lay your head on the pillow at night when your heart is at peace? A clear conscience really does…
Don’t Worry — Be Happy!
One of the greatest joy stealers in our lives is worry. Worry sneaks in like a thief, sets up camp in our minds, and before we know it, our peace has packed its bags and left the building. God knows this about us — that’s why He reminds us again and again: “Do. Not. Worry.”…
May Jesus Be Seen in Me — In Spite of Me
A dear friend shared words with me that stopped me in my tracks: “May Jesus be seen in me, in spite of me.” Isn’t that the truth? Because let’s be honest, sometimes “me” gets in the way. My impatience can flare up quicker than my smile. My opinion can jump out of my mouth before…
Why So Angry?
I’ll admit it. If someone (or something) pushes just the right button, my last nerve might snap. It could turn into a full-blown, steam-letting moment. It isn’t exactly Hallmark material. I try to keep it together, but sometimes, the “flesh” shows up before the “fruit of the Spirit.” Argh! Thankfully, Paul the Apostle offers some…
Living and Being God’s Garden
Our time in Denver included one of the highlights — truly one of the sweetest scents of our visit — was our walk through the Denver Botanic Gardens. It was more than a stroll. It was a soul-awakening.From the moment we stepped through the entrance, it felt like we’d entered Eden’s side gate. The trees…
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,…
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…
From Family Reunion to Kingdom Calling
The Noble Reunion of 2025 is in the books! The hugs were tight, the “I love you’s” were plentiful, and the memories? We’re already getting excited about next year’s reunion in Carlsbad, California! Sure, it was a bit of a workout (my feet will testify!), but it was a holy kind of exhaustion — the…