Come Away with Me
Some mornings don’t just dawn — they unfold like a love letter from the Lord. Yesterday was one of those mornings. It was just my daughter Staci, and me — two recliners, one fireplace, one soft sunrise stretching its fingers across the big East Texas sky — and one little surprise guest: Aggie, the cat…
Help for an Ice Cream-oholic!
Help for an Ice Cream-oholic!I scream. You scream. We all scream… well, you know the rest!My lifelong affair with ice cream began with a hand-cranked peach delight my dad used to make. That creamy sweetness was followed by a chocolate fudgesicle ritual every Sunday night after church. And then came the ice cream truck. That…
He Walked Among Us and We Walk with Him
Today is Ascension Thursday — a day many believers don’t realize carries as much awe as Easter morning. We often shout “He is risen!” And rightfully so. But do we whisper the second half of the miracle? He stayed a while — for 40 extra days! For forty days — after coming out of that…
The Mountain and the Ocean
Marvin Gaye and Tammi Terrell once sang, “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough,” but on Sunday, Carl and I had to admit — some mountains (and even hills) are, in fact, too high! I’ve made the climb to the lighthouse and chapel on El Encanto (to love) many times, but this time, wisdom (and my marathon-worn…
Finding Rest—Wherever You Are
This morning, Carl and I will board a plane for Cabo San Lucas, thanks to our children who made this trip possible. It’s love week — a time to celebrate marriage, life, and the incredible gift of slowing down. We could have easily stayed in Austin, but when your kids insist that you enjoy life…
I Am a Friend of God
I am who I am because, early on, God became my “bestie.” No kidding. He’s been with me through every season, every joy, and every heartbreak. And even on days when I don’t say much to Him, I know it’s okay. Real friends don’t have to talk nonstop; sometimes, just being in each other’s presence…
Christmas is Coming Soon
How does that statement make you feel? If you’re like many people, it may be along the lines of one or more of these scenarios: • You love the season, but your mind immediately jumps to a stressful “to-do” list.• You have absolutely no clue what present(s) to get for [whomever] — or when you’ll…
Surprised by Great Love
In these in-between days from Jesus’ resurrection to His ascension, I enjoy reading about the beautiful “surprise” stories that verifies that Jesus really came back to life and moved about to prove it. At first those who witnessed Him alive were startled and then they were elated that their Savior lived. I love the story…
From Presents to Presence
Yesterday the young ones were jumping in excitement: “He was here! He was here!” The “jolly old soul” showed up! They were sure he was there. The cookie plate and glass of milk were empty! Stockings that were hung by the chimney with care were bulging with presents on the floor. I made it back…
Celebrating Life
Life should not only be lived. It should be celebrated. Our family is BIG on birthdays. We are still here for a reason, so it SHOULD be a BIG DEAL to us! My son, Ryan, got off easy this 55th year. He didn’t get all the “you’re old” jokes like he did on his 50th.…