Since the beginning of the new year, Wednesdays have had a new significance for me. At first, I thought it would just be a way of organizing my prayer life, a personal thing, a necessity for someone whose prayer life has consistently been inconsistent. But it’s turned into so much more. I catch myself saying numerous times throughout the week,… Read More
With my preschooler strapped into his car seat behind me, I pressed on the accelerator and prepared to ease my van into the flow of traffic on the interstate. We were probably singing along with a Wee Sing cassette tape, Daniel bopping his head up and down to the catchy beat, me stumbling over the too familiar words. Then it… Read More
I will always remember the year 2005 as one of the most difficult for my family…for me. Good things happened. Hard things happened. Life changed drastically. We said hundreds of goodbyes. We said hundreds of hellos. We were all overwhelmed. For several months of that year, every day felt like a battle. We weren’t warring against each other, thankfully. But… Read More
I used to squirm when anyone mentioned accountability, much less suggested it. Maybe you, too, think accountability is a four-letter word…on steroids. And maybe your reasons for politely turning down offers to hold you accountable resemble the excuses I used to give: “I’ve got this, thank you.” “That’s for people who have a real problem, not a little challenge.” “I… Read More
I struggle with telling myself no. I’m great at talking myself into undisciplined and greedy behaviors, and I have a hard time refusing myself those indulgences. Let’s have a few more potato chips. Ok. Let’s skip exercising today. Hmm, ok. Let’s knock off work early and head over to Hobby Lobby. Great! Let’s rush through our time with the Lord… Read More
“Mom,” she said with a hint of impatience. “You’re doing it again.” I started to explain…to excuse my wordiness and interruptions and parenting voice. But then I took a deep breath, sat further back in my chair and picked up my coffee instead. “I’m sorry,” I huffed with exasperation. I wasn’t put out with my daughter. I was put out… Read More