“I’m number one.” “No, I’m number one!” “You can’t be. I have number one.” Clearly there was some confusion, which—let’s be honest—isn’t all that uncommon. It was one of my first times volunteering to do manicures at a nearby retirement home. I was about as unsure of what was going on as they were. Then…
My husband and I grew up on opposite sides of Missouri but had similar upbringings. We both come from two-parent households in the suburbs. All four parents worked. We spent our entire childhoods in one city and one school system. They were predictable, safe, even unremarkable experiences in many ways. I sure miss that consistency…
“I sought the Lord, and he answered me; he delivered me from all my fears” (Ps. 34:4 NIV). I have a tendency to get wrapped up in worry and anxiety. I spend large amounts of unproductive time concerned about whether something I said or did was received in a manner I didn’t intend. I fear…
I have an unusual habit. I write letters. I mean the old-fashioned, handwritten (in cursive), on pretty stationery, with a postage stamp, sent through the U.S. mail kind of letters. One reason I do this is that I enjoy receiving letters. There is a look and feel to a personal letter that almost casts its…
I have a peace lily that has moved with our family across the United States a few times. Lately, the leaves have turned brown, and I’ve had to water more often. The peace lily is known for its low-maintenance classification and its ability to purify the air. Even its pruning process is low-maintenance—just simple deadheading….
But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me. (2 Cor. 12:9 NIV) I recently took up knitting. As a young girl, I learned the basic…