Quirky

“I am reminded of your sincere faith, which first lived in your grandmother Lois and in your mother Eunice and, I am persuaded, now lives in you also.” (2 Tim 1:5)

We all have funny quirks. When I’m reading, Lilly will jump in my lap, sniff the book all around, lick it one time, and then look up to see my reaction. It’s almost as if she wants to know why I’m just holding the book and not licking it, too. I haven’t figured out why she does this. Maybe it’s the glue or the taste of all the other hands that have held the book. Continue reading “Quirky”

41 Days to 41

“But show me unfailing kindness like the Lord’s kindness as long as I live…” (1 Sa 20:14)

After my fortieth birthday last year, I learned about something called 40 days to 40 in which you pick a theme and do one thing each day to fit that theme for the forty days leading up to your birthday. Since I missed out on doing it last year, I decided to do it this year, even though it’s not a milestone year. Every birthday is one to be celebrated, and each day is one for which to be thankful. This year, I’m doing 41 acts of kindness to 41. I’ll complete forty-one acts of kindness – at least one per day. I started the challenge on July 3. Continue reading “41 Days to 41”

Leave Your Cares Behind

“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.” (Phil 4:6)

I watch the birds flit through the air in my backyard. There’s a cardinal in the tree. Its red feathers stand out among the branches and leaves of the tree. Some believe that cardinals represent the spirits of those who have passed. Maybe one of my grandparents or my uncle has come to visit. Others believe that a cardinal sighting for a single person is a good sign – it may be a sign of a future romantic encounter. I like the idea of that one, too. Continue reading “Leave Your Cares Behind”

A Mother’s Influence

“Her children arise and call her blessed…” (Prov 31:28)

With Mother’s Day coming up next weekend, this seems like a good time to acknowledge the women who have influenced me the most in my life. From my mom to her mom to my dad’s mom, these women have provided strong examples of who a Christian woman should be. Continue reading “A Mother’s Influence”

Promise Keeper

Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go. (Josh 1:9)

Lilly has been my furry, faithful companion for over eight years now. She trusts me completely – to feed her, to water her, to walk her, to play with her. I see it in her eyes when she rolls over to ask for a belly rub and when she runs to greet me as I walk in the door, dancing excitedly on her hind legs as she tries to lick my fingers. She never hesitates to bark for a treat or a trip outside because she knows that her wish will be granted. When we sit in my recliner, she will burrow her head under my hand so that I will pet her and give her the attention she deserves. Continue reading “Promise Keeper”