Growing Through Fear and Rejection

This post was originally published on June 25, 2017.

“…may have power, together with all the Lord’s holy people, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, and to know this love that surpasses knowledge—that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God…” (Ephesians 3:18-19)

When I was a sophomore in college, I changed my major from accounting to English for two reasons: 1). I hated accounting and at 19 just couldn’t imagine working with numbers for the rest of my life; and 2) I loved words and wanted to be a writer. After graduation, I pursued several jobs as a writer, but most of those jobs were far from home. So instead of becoming a full-time writer, I began working in government and nonprofit positions where I used my writing and presentation skills. I then pursued writing part time. Continue reading “Growing Through Fear and Rejection”

Jeepers! It’s January! Giveaway Event Blog Hop

And the winner is…

Sarah Lehan

from Denver, CO

After-Christmas letdown is a real phenomenon that occurs after the holiday season is over. The wonderful experiences of Christmas are over, and we’re back to real life. In many parts of the country, we’re facing cold, dreary days until spring arrives. To warm things up and alleviate some of the strange sadness of January, I’m joining The Kids Did It blog and The Mommy Island blog to participate in the 3rd Annual Jeepers! It’s January! Giveaway Event, which runs from January 3, 2018, to January 17, 2018. The winner of my first giveaway of the year will receive a $10 Starbucks gift card.  Continue reading “Jeepers! It’s January! Giveaway Event Blog Hop”

Taking the Next Step

“In their hearts humans plan their course, but the LORD establishes their steps.” (Prov 16:9)

Several years ago, I decided to go back to college to get my master’s degree. In my mid-thirties, working full time, and out of school for over 10 years, graduate school was a whole new world. Online classes were now available (and sometimes the only option). I felt overwhelmed and out of place. Continue reading “Taking the Next Step”

Focus on God, Not Fear

Staci and Lilly, out for a walk

“When I am afraid, I put my trust in you.” Psalm 56:3

During the hottest part of the summer, I woke up at 6:00 a.m. to walk my dog, Lilly. Even though we left early, the temperature was already in the low 80s. Oklahoma summers can be brutal. One of the parks that we go to has a really pretty fountain on one end. On this particular day, we walked over to the fountain. It’s located in slight depression, so Lilly and I walked down the steps and circled the fountain a couple of times. She jumped up on the edge of the fountain, peered into the water, and promptly jumped in, startling me. She resurfaced and started paddling for the edge, but she couldn’t reach it to get out on her own. I lifted her out of the water, and she took off running to dry off, dragging me behind her as I held onto her leash with all my strength. Continue reading “Focus on God, Not Fear”

My Personal Top 40

“So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” (Isa 41:10)

Today is my 40th birthday, so happy birthday to me! I wanted to share with you 40 lessons I’ve learned over the course of my life. Some of them are obvious, but I think they bear repeating. Some, like the lessons I’ve learned about putting myself out there and talking to strangers, may not apply to you if you’re an extrovert. Some are humorous because “A cheerful heart is good medicine” (Prov 17:22a). Hopefully, you’ll find some of them to be eye-opening and helpful in your own life. Continue reading “My Personal Top 40”