My Thoughts and Stories

The holidays can be a lonely season when we wish we could have someone alongside us for social gatherings. This dread of loneliness can fuel our fear, limiting our ability to make wise dating choices in the new year. Today I'll share some responses that can help in...

It’s easy to assume that God is like the people around you.  You feel like He tracks your shortcomings and loves you only when you do not sin.  Instead of remembering God’s unconditional love, you assume you must earn God’s favor and risk losing it with each mistake....

Most of us know how easy it is to allow emotions to get the best of you, especially this time of year. It’s hard to sort things out, identify feelings, and gain clarity. Are we frustrated, disappointed, hurt, overwhelmed, or resentful? A recent post shared about using...

During this holiday season, you may find you are trying to do too many things and failing to get the rest you need. For instance, you’ve been snappish toward co-workers and you’re frequently on the verge of an argument with your spouse or friend, ready to lash out....

Next week I will celebrate the first Thanksgiving without Mom. I decided to share a few stories as a tribute to her as we head into the holiday season. There are so many blessings I received from my mom over the years, but one that really stands out is all the ways...

Have you ever cleaned your house before guests arrive and thrown junk in the back of a closet? Few of us would show our guests the dirtiest or most disorganized place in our homes. We in a habit of closing the doors, making excuses, and avoiding those places. It's...

Last night, in a coaching class I’m attending, I experienced one of those wonderful aha moments. I knew from experience that if I didn’t capture that thought by writing it down, the brilliant insight God gave me would disappear. The instructor, Cheryl Scanlan, talked...

After a painful divorce, it can feel impossible to find love again.  Yet, at a conference a few months ago, I was surprised at the number of women, who had been in an abusive relationship, wanted practical suggestions on how to find a healthy loving relationship. Many...

Recently I was waiting in a checkout line and overheard the two women in front of me. They were talking about a mutual acquaintance. One said, “I agree. She is always so down on herself. She is such a lovely, supportive friend. I wish she could see herself as we see...

The packet of Heavenly Blue morning glory seeds stared up at me from their place next to the box of tissues on the kitchen counter. They were an unwanted gift from my Aunt Cecelia. The day she gave them to me, I silently moaned, Morning glory seeds? I don’t have any...