Summer greetings! In this favorite season of mine, here’s what I’m loving lately. Books: Theo of Golden by Allen Levi. This amazing best-selling book is a hit in culture and in my book club. A perfect book for our times.......
The first time I accidentally flipped my phone to selfie mode, I screamed. A tired middle‑aged woman had broken into my house and stolen my phone. Looking at myself from that perspective was and is brutal: all the flaws, wrinkles,......
Holy Week arrives with an invitation: to slow down, breathe deeply, observe its sacredness, and remember the grace of a Savior who changed everything. Grace isn’t just God’s benevolence; it’s His movement toward us. His willingness to step into our......
From the need of being praised, deliver me, Jesus. From the need of being honored, deliver me, Jesus. From the need of being preferred, deliver me, Jesus. From the need of being consulted, deliver me, Jesus. From the need......
Grace Upon Grace My word for 2026 is grace. It’s already just what I’ve needed in some complicated relational places in the first weeks of this new year: high doses of grace for others and extra for myself as my......
For last year’s words belong to last year’s language. And next year’s words await another voice. T.S. Eliot Happy New Year! I believe we’re allowed the whole month of January to say it, don’t you? We may be later......
Hello! It is that time again for my annual favorites roundup. I read 68 books this year, but let’s be honest—no one has time for a list that long, so I’ve narrowed it down to my top 14. This year’s......
This Advent, the Lord keeps whispering the same gentle invitation He’s given me all year: stay near, hold fast. Abide. Nearly every day of 2025, I’ve written “abide” across the top of my journal as a quiet reminder to stay......
“Give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” ......
Epistolary (adj.): written in the form of a series of letters — Merriam-Webster I’ve come to realize that the epistolary novel sits at the top of my favorite fiction genres. Letter writing feels like a lost art and, that saddens......
I sat on the edge of my bed and stared blankly towards the moonless sky outside my bedroom window. For two weeks, I lay awake with jittery sensations in the center of my body. It grew worse each night as......
“The grass withers and the flowers fall, but the word of our God endures forever.” Isaiah 40:8 September feels like a sigh. Not a hopeless sigh, but the kind that comes when the music dwindles and you know the band......
Greetings, friends! I have been blessed to go on a few trips this summer, and here are some of my favorite Amazon finds that I now can’t live without. Hanging Toiletry Bag: This is the best one I’ve owned. It fits......
Hello July, my favorite month! In you contains a lifetime of cherished memories: Wimbledon on the screen and dad by my side, jumping the waves at Tower 23, burnt marshmallows with melty smores, chubby sunscreened babies in the pool, the......
“Summer is the time when the soul can sit still and soak up the sunlight of God’s goodness.” – Unknown There’s something sacred about summer. The way the sunlight stretches across the sky just a little longer, as if heaven......
I wasn’t a girl who wanted to be a mom. Yes, I played with dolls, but it wasn’t my heart’s desire to mother. Yet, once I became pregnant with my oldest son, I was altered in the sweetest ways: the......
As I abide in Jesus this Lenton season, I have incorporated this Prayer of Examen (from Latin, meaning examination, test, or assessment) at the end of my day, but it can be done anytime. This method encourages self-reflection and helps......
Happy Spring! My world is bursting with beauty after weeks of much-needed rain. It’s been a while, so I wanted to share some of my recent fun finds and favorites. Apps During this season of Lent, I am memorizing scripture......
Abide (verb) synonyms: remain, dwell, cling, stay, hang on Meriam-Webster Online From ages 7 to 9, my youngest son had his own garden. We have pictures of Micah holding massive zucchini, gorgeous carrots, and colorful flowers. It was a......
“And we know [with great confidence] that God [who is deeply concerned about us] causes all things to work together [as a plan] for good for those who love God, to those who are called according to His plan and......
It was another enjoyable year of reading for yours truly. There are too many to write about, but as I review my list of the 55 I read, I’ve chosen a few favorites for this annual recap (and no, none......
‘Tis the Season for Holiday Favorites! Still looking for gifts? I’ve got ya covered with some last-minute ideas (or Amazon has ya covered, that is!). U.S. 500 Piece Puzzle This one was fun, and I loved how it looked......
So, there was an election recently. You might have heard about it. And here we are, careening to the holidays, almost to the Thanksgiving table. For some of us, this presents a challenge: We expect to count our blessings over......
A couple of weeks ago, as I walked through our local Carter’s store, a few tears slipped down my cheeks as I gently picked up and admired the darling baby girl clothing. My heart rang with a long, unfulfilled yearning......
Hi, my name is Kristin, and I am a book nerd. But you already know that (unless you are new here). What a great time to cozy up with a good read as the weather turns from warm to crisp......
Why, my soul, are you downcast? Why so disturbed within me? Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise Him, My Savior and my God. Psalm 43:5 The nurse asked me to rate my pain level on a......
Hello friends! I’m back. I pray you are doing well and enjoying the end of the summer season. I am thrilled to announce that I have a new and majorly improved website. It is beautiful (shout out to Tanya at......
It’s beginning to look a lot like summer, and it’s been a while since I’ve done a favorites post, so here are a few to kick off this sublime season. Summer Reads: Read this one by the ocean. It has......
You see, those lunch memories—what was in the box and not in the box—say a great deal. They represent who she is. Who she was....
But what strikes me most this Lenten season is Mary’s trust in God. So, I am taking steps of faith, like telling this part of my story....
So, amidst life's trials, heartbreak, disunity, and cultural turmoil, we must return to the God of Hope....
This devotional features the significant words of Christ in His journey to the cross and His resurrection. It is a book written with an Easter focus, in chronological order, with the Lenten season pointing us to Christ’s death and resurrection....
Whether or not you are a "natural journal-er," it is never too late to become one. This discipline has spiritual benefits, and I'd like to share some with you. ...
Here are a few fun things for the season (yes, more than my usual four)....
Happy Advent, friends! Take a screenshot and enjoy reading each day of the season....
I’ve seen this verse used quite a bit this time of year as one of the standard Thanksgiving verses. But what does it mean to offer a “sacrifice of praise?” This is unfamiliar terminology in today’s vernacular. ...
Where else would you go? For me, His Word is the place I return to each day....
The Bible contains about 7,000 promises made to humankind (and I probably read half of them that night)....
But we know the truth. Women are a powerful force for God’s Kingdom....
The Bible has much to say about God's attributes. Here are just a few:......
He speaks to us; we speak to Him. This is not a one-way relationship....
God Speaks to Us. “Whoever has ears, let them hear.”...
I’m reminded that His Word says He indeed is near, and we have access to Him no matter where we are....
And just like Jesus spoke to His followers on the dusty roads of Cana, God still speaks to us today through this book....
I fell in love with these words of wisdom and committed them to memory soon after......
I’ve pondered the power of praise and noted the various ways it benefits and fills me. Here are a few of them…...
Honestly, it is a lot on a mama. Trying to juggle it all and make it all work somehow....
Happy June, friends! Here are four fun things I've enjoyed lately......
His gift is one of freedom, a life of loosening our grip on what pulls us down. A life of new beginnings and fresh, resurrected faith!...
As we look towards the cross, let us practice practical ways to fill our souls with more of God this Easter week by reflecting and remembering. ...
A season for our souls to pause for breath and catch up with our bodies. A beautiful break to refuel for the future....
So, I am taking time to reset and refocus this year and this Lenten season. One way to do this is through quiet and solitude....
This is an invitation, not an obligation. Having more of God in my life is a gift worth practicing, an exercise to build Jesus muscles......
I enjoyed a great year of reading. There are simply too many to review, but here are a few of my favorites from the 51 books I read in 2022....
I am crazy about this season and want to savor the moments and make my time with others count....
Yet I struggle. Still. I can’t find the right place for my soul to land....
Hi friends! I hope this finds you well and that you are enjoying cool, crisp temps. Here are some fun things I have been enjoying lately. Book: My book club enjoyed an excellent fiction read last month; it was......
This morning, I took the LAST first day of school pictures......
This day's news triggered me and tripped me up as my mind traveled through the past six years of my life......
Happy Mid-Spring! It’s that glorious time of year when the stunning Jacaranda trees bloom in Southern California (my favorite tree). Here are four other faves that I’d love to share with you: One: The Lectio 365 Prayer App (free). I’ve......
As the pandemic numbers go down and the world opens up, it seems life is speeding up faster than I want it to......
I thought I would end the month by sharing some of my favorites of late......
Let’s talk about books. Since 2015, I have shared my best-loved books of the year on the blog. I enjoyed most of the 45 books I read in 2021, it was another great year of reading for me. There......
Happy Advent friends! Here is a handy tool to use for your scripture reading this season. You can take a screenshot on your phone and look up each verse each day of Advent. Also, if you are new here, you......
Autumn Greetings It is fun to think about a new season, new possibilities, and of course, new books! Of late, my reading trend is books about books. Books about libraries and librarians. Books about bookstores and their dealers and owners.......
Sometimes we need reminders of God’s presence when we can’t understand what He is doing......
It was deep and dark. I could not catch my breath because the air was restricted......
Hi friends, Summer always blows in with the scent of nostalgia: Coppertone sunscreen, pool chlorine, and the faint whiff of musty sand—the finest bouquet. I am crazy about this time of year—the feel of my library book in its......
“God is faithful, who has called you into fellowship with his Son, Jesus Christ our Lord.” 2 Thessalonians 3:3 It was a perfect day—one of the best days of my life, May 1, 2021. My oldest son, Samuel,......
Original post: March 26, 2016 “And be constantly renewed in the spirit of your mind [having a fresh mental and spiritual attitude].” ~Ephesians 4:23 AMP “I can’t stop remembering the cross!” Words uttered by my four-year-old after participating in......
When Jesus came to the region of Caesarea Philippi, he asked his disciples, “Who do people say that the Son of Man is?” “Well,” they replied, “some say John the Baptist, some say Elijah, and others say Jeremiah or one......
I am in yet another long season of waiting as I have been ill for five months now. I thought I would repost this blog because I find the words and scripture in this devotional ring true for me today.......
Hello, friends! I read quite a bit in 2020, as you can see by the pictures of the fifty-two books I tackled (copied from Goodreads). I reread seven from my shelves at home because of quarantine, and the library was......
Hello friends, Many of you know that I published a book last year called Savor the Savior: Twenty-Five Devotions for Advent and Christmas Inspired by the Names of Jesus. For those of you new here, you may not yet have......
Gloomy clouds dawned in the morning sky yet again. The Coronavirus closures coincided with weeks of rain and gray skies that are atypical for sunny Southern California, where we pay the weather tax. The dreariness outside and relentless bad news......
Hello friends, It’s been a while. Thanks to those of you who have reached out through the website to check-in. I have been ill (not COVID-19) for almost two months with something that began after I donated blood in September.......
Happy Fall, Friends! Here are four things I am loving these days… One: Did someone say “Pumpkin Spice”? https://www.realsimple.com/food-recipes/recipe-collections-favorites/pumpkin-spice-recipes Two: I’m crazy over this Christian meditation app: https://soulspace.co/ Three: T...
So, you may have heard there is an election heading our way. Say what?! Yes, it is true. We are experiencing a presidential contest in a global pandemic, along with natural disasters and an inferno of civil unrest and outrage.......
I hope you are hanging in there on these hot August days. I have four new, fun things to share with you… One – My favorite fiction book of the year so far: Two – Saturday morning good stuff: ......
Oh, how I love July! Here are four share-worthy things for you in this 7th month of 2020… ~Workout: Faith-based, online yoga videos (you can try them for a month for free): https://holyyoga.net/ ~ Podcast: Revisionist History (fascinating!) with Malcolm Gladwell......
Life can be daunting. Then, throw in a pandemic and civil unrest to the mix, each blowing gusts of angst......
“June is bustin’ out all over!” Oscar Hammerstein II Ahhh… Summer is here, and I have four favorites for you… One – Podcast: I love me some podcasts, here is a fun one called, That sounds Fun! http://www.anniefdowns.com/podcast/ Two......
Are you tired of hearing, “This is the new normal”? Me too. I want the old normal back… or do I? I mean, the notion of toilet paper and soap in my store again is terrific. How about going back......
I hurt for the seniors- high school and college, those dear ones whose glittering once-in-a-lifetime moments have been snatched......
Hello, Stay at Home friends! Enjoy the April edition of my favorite four....
Yesterday, a friend confided that she is experiencing persistent panic attacks. She’s not alone......
I’m back again… Here are four fun things for March! Podcast: Gangster Capitalism Season 1 – A fascinating look at the college admission scandal (FYI- language). Movie: This one is incredibly special. Quote: From Mr. Fred Roger’s, of course!......
On my 16th birthday, I passed my driver’s test, came home......
One of my goal-ideas for 2020 is to drop in and sprinkle some of my current fun-favorites now and then. ...
Are you one of those who likes to choose a Word of the Year?...
This is year number 5 of doing the books blog. I always enjoy the feedback and it is a fun one to write. Enjoy!...
I keep moving forward as He builds His strength in me. It’s as simple and as complicated as that....
ONCE upon a Christmas season morning, I freaked out in my living room. I am unsure what was said to or asked of me that Saturday morning, but it was all I could bear, and I lost it. All my......
The world needs a you that is choosing to fight, to conquer, to heal. A you that walks towards victory....
Psalm 112:7 (The Passion Version): They will have no fear of bad news; their hearts are steadfast, trusting in the LORD. I want that! I want to be a woman with no fear of bad news and a steadfast heart......
Most days, I fight. And it is hard. It is not natural for me. But I set an intention a year ago to work through some wreckage that was still wrecking...
Dear Time, I give you permission to s-l-o-w down. Thank you. Spring flew so swiftly. There was not a day when my calendar was not bursting, the days were filled with mostly good stuff (games, graduations, visits from family and......
I knew he did not want to face his mother falling apart that early September morning (or any day, really). But there I was in the kitchen, in my oh-so-attractive green robe, sporting wild bedhead, willing the tears to stop.......
Do you have confidence that you will follow Him on the road to tribulation? Will you stand for Him when the majority runs off, only to leave you and a small band of faithful with nothing left?...
As a child, I had a beef with some traditional, so-called “women’s work.” There was baking, sewing, and crocheting with my grandma. But cooking, no way! And doing dishes, oh brother. I believe my disdain stemmed from family holiday gatherings.......
Beyond these surface illustrations of our shared human state -we’re all good at some things and not so good in others- lies the state of our hearts. As I peel back my heart-layers, I shine a spotlight on the real me......
I developed a craving to control, to keep the fear from controlling me. Yet this tightrope of juggling fear and control made me oh so tired. You might know something about this weary walk yourself. ...
So, when the end of the day arrives and I have moments to myself, I usually choose my book to spend them with. My soul is filled, my mind expanded as I am transported to distant times and places....
I sat alone in the Costco Food Court and stuffed down a hot dog with a Diet Coke chaser. As I stared blankly at the abyss of people and cars, I heard a familiar voice and looked up at my......
“The one who offers thanksgiving as His sacrifice glorifies me.” Psalm 50:23b ESV November has not been kind to California. We lament as stories of suffering and death and horror continue to assault us. Have mercy, Lord. Have mercy!......
IF I were to have another baby boy, I would name him Ezekiel (meaning “God strengthens”). I adore this name, especially the nickname Zeke. This moniker fits with the rest of the names of my sons. They are Samuel,......
My buddies Vince and Eric wrestled for our school team in high school. The first time I watched them compete, I was grossed out (the lycra, the sweat, the sounds, oh my!) and awed simultaneously. These days, my favorite wrestler......
Give yourselves to God… surrender your whole being to Him to be used for righteous purpose. Romans 6:13 TEV The day was toast. I was toast. In an almost vegetative state, lounging across my bed with my phone in hand,......
A few months ago, I read the fabulous book, The Circle Maker by Mark Batterson. When I began the book, I read merrily along until I stopped, frozen on a sentence on page 15. Here is what it said: It......
Junior High School called, and it wants its hurt feelings back. Oh, Middle school. This demographic gets a bad rap sometimes, but I (usually) enjoy these humans, even though extra grace is often required. This stage of life is challenging......
“Our mouths were filled with laughter, our tongues with songs of joy…” Psalm 126:2a NIV My sister Jeni is sunshine and smiles and one of the best gifts the Lord has given me. She paints fun and joy in......
My dad was in the hospital this week. Thankfully, he is out, and his prognosis is good. While I hung out with Dad those two days, I was privy to some sad sights. The most tragic was the man recovering......
Once upon a time, there sits a girl: freckled nose, wavy hair, on the cusp of the oh-so-awkward stage, attempting to cover her shyness and vulnerabilities with coolness and confidence. Seated with her pals at a long table on a......
Surrender your heart to God, turn to Him in prayer, and give up your sins- even those you do in secret. Then you won’t be ashamed; you will be confident and fearless. Job 11:13-15 CEV This passage from Job is......
35 Then He went a little farther, fell to the ground, and began to pray that if it were possible, the hour might pass from Him. 36 And He said, “Abba, Father! All things are possible for You. Take this cup away from Me. Nevertheless, not what......
The other day at school, a 7th grader proudly shared with me all the foods she is giving up for Lent: chocolate, potatoes, and bread. Another student leaned into our conversation, confused. He had never heard of Lent. Student......
I went to an unforgettable memorial service last Saturday. Hunter was a remarkable young man. Only 18. A few weeks ago, I participated in a life celebration for a Wonder Woman mom of 4 and a wife named Heather. Cancer......
“But really, only one thing matters. Mary has chosen that one thing, and I won’t take it away from her.” Luke 10:42 The Voice (VOICE) Priorities. Goals. Resolutions. These words become almost cliché at the beginning of the year. Now that......
Best-Loved-Books! Can we talk about books? What fun! This subject is one of my favorites, and this is the third year I’ve written the “Books” blog. The beginning of 2017 was dry as novels go. I read and read,......
Only one life. How will we spend it for Christ? Two little lines I heard one day, Traveling along life’s busy way; Bringing conviction to my heart, And from my mind would not depart; Only one life, ’twill soon be past,......
JESUS And behold, thou shalt conceive in thy womb, and bring forth a son, and shalt call his name JESUS. Luke 1:31 ASV Iēsoús – Jesus, the transliteration of the Hebrew /Lṓt(“Yehoshua”/Jehoshua, contracted to “Joshua”) which means “Yahweh saves” (or...
Relationships and Christmas Part Two My Christmas intention is to focus on people and relationships. Let’s continue with part two (see part one: https://wp.me/p4RztF-Vz): ~See the unseen, the lonely, the hurting: “QUIETLY turn Your eyes to me and be compassionate toward......
Relationships and Christmas Part One My Christmas Intention At the end of the Thanksgiving week, I sat down with my notebook and began the Christmas giving and gift list. I aim to start the season with purpose, planning, and lists. This......
The Practice of Gratitude: Part 8 Psalm 27:13-14 New King James Version (NKJV) 13 I would have lost heart, unless I had believed That I would see the goodness of the Lord In the land of the living. 14 Wait on the Lord; Be of good......
A Brave Adjustment How do you feel about change? I’m not a huge fan, although I have come to understand that to live is to change, and change requires courage. I touched on my journey of acceptance in my last......
To Accept or Not Accept When my son, Noah, was a high school freshman, he broke his leg playing football. His tibia decimated and his spirit despondent. It was a rough go for all of us. This leg injury led......
If we’ve ever needed You, Lord, it’s now, Lord, it’s now, We are desperate for Your hand, we’re reachin’ out, we’re reachin’ out, If we’ve ever needed You, Lord, it’s now, Lord, it’s now, We are desperate for Your hand,......
Normalcy decimated. I attempt to empathize with the victims of these recent disasters. However, I can’t get my proverbial feet into their shoes. Yet I try. And I pray. Each day, my family overflows with gratitude as we compare our......
The Practice of Gratitude Part 7 Some dental pain is the worst kind of pain! Can I get an Amen? And I am no stranger to pain. At times, it has been my constant companion. I will spare you my......
“Rest is not idleness, and to lie sometimes on the grass under trees on a summer’s day, listening to the murmur of the water, or watching the clouds float across the sky, is by no means a waste of time.”......
In my last post (http://wp.me/p4RztF-PI), we focused on Seeking God First each day as the foundational ingredient in my Secret Sauce. Today, I’d like to add the rest of the fixings. Unfortunately, we are not exempt from trials and trauma. Our favorite Bible characters were......
365 days. My tunnel journey began one year ago last week. I had to make my way through the dark. Unfortunately, there was no way around it—one slow step at a time. Today, as I continue to plod on, I......
The Practice of Gratitude Part 6 Have you unintentionally crossed paths with someone who has hurt you? How did you respond? With thankfulness? Neither did I. Recently, this happened to me. It threw me, and I ran into others who were......
The Practice of Gratitude Part 5 Last week, after a dire diagnosis, my dad underwent Open Heart Surgery. And each day brings a teeter-totter of challenges and emotions. Yet, the Lord’s comforting hand holds my sister Jeni and me. We feel......
The Practice of Gratitude Part 4 Tramping at dusk through a field of weeds with my 12-year-old, Micah, my eye was on the prize: a porta-potty. As we got closer, I saw the door bolted shut. Nooooooo! My bladder was......
The Practice of Gratitude Part 3 …that habit of discontentment can only be driven out by hammering in one iron sharper. The sleek pin of gratitude. Ann Voss Kamp Most of us admit we have much for which we......
The Practice of Gratitude Part 2 A society dwells in a dump, a cavity of stink where the city throws trash in Tijuana, Mexico. As a college student, I spent a day volunteering there. We administered showers to the......
The Practice of Gratitude: Part 1 During my fourth pregnancy, we purchased a house that needed extensive work. As moving day approached, the doctor placed me on partial bed rest. It was a stressful time: making moving preparations, finishing our......
Unwell. Unengaged. Uninterested. It was as if I stood in a hallway before an unopened door, knowing health and healing lay on the other side. Ten years ago, I pleaded with God to heal my malaise. I desperately needed......
Can we talk about books? I enjoyed this last year (see: http://wp.me/p4RztF-ve). Let’s do it again! Most of the following books did not come out in 2016, and there is no particular order of favorites. I use the Goodreads app. On......
Lamb of God The next day John saw Jesus coming toward him and said, “Look, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world! John 1:29 -A Christian term for......
DAYSPRING …pay attention to this as you would to a light shining in a murky place, until the day dawns and the morning star rises in your hearts. 2 Peter 1:19 NET …Because of our God’s tender mercy the......
I am not writing today while feasting my eyes on a beautiful landscape of autumn’s delights. Nor am I wearing cute boots and a seasonal scarf. I am a southern California girl, sitting outside in shorts and bare feet, feasting......
What if we went easy on one another? What if the new Public Square (the internet) was a place of honest yet respectful debate, not the nasty and dangerous place it is today? I’m not saying the World Wide Web......
When my son, Josiah, was three, he often said, “I so proud” after catching one of us doing something “good”. I can still hear his raspy voice sputtering those words. Sweet words. Sweet boy. “I’m proud of you” is a......
About midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the rest of the prisoners were listening to them. Acts 16:25 NET Have you ever been to prison? I have. Not as a convict,......
You are blessed when the tears flow freely… Luke 6:21 The Message My tears flow freely these days. Ugly. Cry. Luke 6:21 says we will be “blessed when the tears flow freely.” Really? Blessed? Happy tears aside, I’m not......
Give thanks in every circumstance, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus. 1 Thessalonians 5:18 BSB “Remember, God tells us to be thankful for every circumstance, as it says in 1 Thessalonians 5:18.” These words came in......
Graduations bring reflection and sentimentality, don’t they? I find myself in that mode as another graduation approaches. Motherhood surpasses anything in my natural gifting, energy level, and temperament. Had you told me in my youth I would be a mom......
I am a spectator. And I have bleacher buns to prove it. After decades of watching my husband coach and four boys play sports, I am a professional! As a spectator, I don’t make much of a difference to those......
“The Heaven’s declare the glory of God; the sky displays His handiwork.” Psalm 19:1 NET Whenever I spend time with a little person, I find myself in awe of their awe, especially little people around the age of three to......
Anakainosiß (greek): A renewal, renovation, complete change for the better Don’t you love before-and-afters? How about those TV shows where they rapidly renovate a house (oh, what a miracle could be done with mine!) or a person’s body (no comment)?......
And be constantly renewed in the spirit of your mind [having a fresh mental and spiritual attitude]. ~Ephesians 4:23 AMP “I can’t stop remembering the cross!” my four-year-old uttered these words after participating in a Good Friday observance. As......
He renews my strength. He guides me along right paths, bringing honor to his name. Psalm 23:3 NLT What comes to mind when you hear the word renew? I think of a sunny morning, the day after a rainstorm. My......
“He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus. ” ~Philippians 1:6 NIV Thanks for joining me again for Baby Steps Part Three. Who knew a funny movie could......
Psalm 37:23 tells us the Lord delights in every detail of our lives. Every. detail. He desires to direct us in our point of struggle, delighting in our first small steps toward change. Have you chosen your “ONE thing” yet......
Have you dropped your New Year’s Resolutions already? Or are you pressing on? Maybe you don’t set goals because you know they won’t come to pass. Our family loves the movie “What About Bob” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p3JPa2mvSQ4 Bob learns that future success......
Can we talk about books? I adore reading and discussing books. Feel free to hop over to the “Books I Love” page on this site and check that out. Some of my reads from this past year fall into categories......
My oldest child arrived nine days late. Labor lasted over twenty-four hours until my doctor performed an emergency Caesarean, transporting my baby boy from my womb into my arms. This dark womb was a comfortable, familiar home; leaving was......
On the morning of Thanksgiving, I gave myself a talking-to. I promised me that I would not stuff myself like a pig. I lied. At the end of the meal, I scolded myself for lying and overeating. Then I looked around......
Come on in! I’ll clear my couch of dogs and blankets, then fill your mug with coffee- or would you prefer tea? Next, let’s pour some Christmas perspective as we sit, chat, and prepare for the Christmas season… In 2011,......
Furiously working on a talk for a women’s retreat, I felt a weird sensation on my neck. The retreat was sixteen days away, and I would present five messages. This was talk number three. I loved the content: recharging through......
Two of my friends complete their Christmas shopping and wrapping by August every year. That’s four stinkin’ months early! Impressive, but not me. But I purchased my first gift the other day. I texted my sister, and we were pretty......
With a writing idea brewing in my brain, my fingers touched the keyboard. I paused, asking God to speak to me and through me as I usually do. Breathing deeply, I sighed as I looked at my screen. I’m tired,......
Not all of us can do great things. But we can do small things with great love. ~Mother Teresa My light lost its shine during a trying time around nine years ago. I was in the abyss of homeschooling......
“A single candle can both defy and define the darkness.” Ann Frank Imagine crowds of people standing in an eerily moonless night, surrounded by every form of Evil. The sound of striking matches quickens as the smell of sulfur......
Picture the hostile faces of the Pharisees, their blood boiling as Jesus spoke about Himself: 12Then Jesus again spoke to them, saying, “I am the Light of the world; he who follows Me will not walk in the darkness, but......
Waking up with pain in my side, I pulled the covers down to investigate; my Bible lay bunched up against my ribs. Bad news had come the night before as I readied for bed. The tears fell until they couldn’t.......
But Jesus would often slip away to the wilderness and pray. ~Luke 5:15 NASB I love this verse. Even the Son of God slipped away for prayer- often! Have you seen the movie “War Room” (http://www.warroomthemovie.com)? It’s amazing. The theme......
For You are my lamp, O Lord: The Lord shall enlighten my darkness. 2 Samuel 22:29 This morning, the local, national, and global headlines suffocated me with darkness. Gloom took me down and could not be shaken.......
May He…supply and multiply the seed you have sown and increase the fruits of your righteousness. ~2 Corinthians 9:10b Have you sown and sown to no avail? Have the seeds you’ve planted not produced the slightest bit of growth? Do you......
“Deep summer is when laziness finds respectability” ~Sam Keen Here you are again, August. July came and went in a whirlwind, as you will too. Summer is my favorite time of year. I try holding on, but this delightful......
Our nation heard the news and reacted with heartbreak and horror after a twenty-one-year-old massacred nine people on June 17, 2015, in a Charleston, South Carolina church. A young man sat for an hour with this amazing group of Christians......
Have you suffered stinging rejection from a dear friend? A few years ago, I received an email containing the following words: “You haven’t been there for me in the ways I’ve needed. You’ve let me down, and I’m not sure......
Last week, an amazing woman in my life named Keri lost her fifteen-year-old son, Seth. He was a remarkable young man. Keri was sold out for her boy, and my heart bleeds for her. How can I help? Many years......
How does friendship, deep friendship, exist amid chaotic schedules and seasons of struggle? I wish I had a tidy answer. For me, friendship is a little messy. Actually, it’s messy in my world, period. I wrestle, wondering: If my friends......
“A friend loves at all times.” {Proverbs 17:17, NKJV} “I know you’re depressed; don’t try to deny it. I’ll be praying for you; call me if you need me. Or call someone.” Tossing the phone, I crumpled to the floor.......
As a child, I loved my diary. I used it to record the day’s events, my secret crushes, happy times with friends, and girlhood sorrows. There were times I propped it next to my mom’s bed so she could see......
Sipping a steaming cup of tea, my bottom planted in my favorite chair, my Bible nestled on my lap- I set out to pray. Before my eyelids shut completely, I notice a thick layer of dust on the fireplace and......
“One servant is worth a thousand gadgets” ~Joseph Schumpeter I recently heard a radio DJ ask, “If you had to choose between your smartphone or one of your kidneys, what would it be?” I listened as callers reported their choices,......
Most days, I’m jumping from thing to thing. When the year began, one of my goals was to spend more time praying for those I love, yet I wrestled with how that would work with my schedule. So, I began......
My seventeen-year-old Noah came home from youth group a few months ago and said, “I want to go to Ethiopia.” I replied, “Wow! Well, maybe someday.” That’s the typical mom answer, but in my head, I thought—it’s not going to......
As she walked through the door of the church, I handed her a ticket and said, ” it’s so nice to see you”, or something like that. “It’s so nice to be seen.” I thought I heard her say. I......
“Now therefore stand and see this great thing which the Lord will do before your eyes.” 1 Samuel 12:16 This verse, written on an orange note card, recently dropped out of a messy pile. It is one of my favorites,......
“But as for me, I will hope continually and will praise You yet more and more.” Psalm 71:14 NASB My sister Jeni LOVES to exercise. Rarely a day goes by without a workout, it is intrinsic to her identity.......
“Behold, I will do a new thing, now it shall bring forth…” Isaiah 43:19 NKJV I begin this post with a disclaimer: I am grateful to live where I do and know I am spoiled. Now let’s get started…......
Do you need a Christmas Cleanse? During the sometimes wonderful, sometimes crazy holiday season, my level-headed plans, usually nice personality, and prudent budgets get challenged. Often, I lose them altogether (like when I lost it with my husband over candles......
What can I give Him, Poor as I am? If I were a shepherd I would bring Him a lamb, If I were a wise man I would do my part, Yet what I can I give Him, Give......
Savor the Season with Books! Books are my thing. I adore the smell, the way treasured favorites fit in my hands, and the sight of books stacked on a coffee table—oh, what joys these bring. Couple books with Christmas,......
SAVOR THE SEASON BY FORCING YOURSELF TO SAVOR THE SEASON That sounds weird, doesn’t it? Let me explain… I am a “to-do list” kind of gal. And this time of year, there are a multitude of tasks on my list......
“O renew us, Lord, we pray, with thy Spirit day by day, That we ever one may be With the Father and with thee.” Wordsworth SAVOR THE SEASON WITH WORDS Years ago, I was given a tacky-looking Christmas journal.......
Let’s linger this holiday season. Close your eyes and count to three… Now open them. That’s how fast this Christmas season will seem to rush if we don’t S L O W it down. And that takes a bit of intentionality on......
“But I, with shouts of grateful praise, will sacrifice to You…” Jonah 2:9a NIV “Finish your soup! There are starving children in China who would love to have it.” Sitting at my grandparent’s table with my sister and two cousins,......
A few days ago, while snacking on grapes and looking through the mail, I heard my son say, “I’m thinking about going to Africa.” I giggled as I looked up, sure that he was joking. But he wasn’t. He explained......
Listen, Listen To Me… Why do you spend money on what is not bread, and your labor on what does not satisfy? Listen, listen to me, and eat what is good, and you will delight in the richest of fare.”......
My first book! Walk through 25 days of Christmas and Advent, learning about the names of Jesus and drawing close to Him. Celebrate each day of Advent with a quick devotional reading that is biblically deep and reflects on the name of Jesus from a historical and spiritual perspective. Each day includes a scripture, a reading based on a name of Christ, reflection questions, a short prayer, and a carol or hymn to encourage you. Join me on this journey of Advent!
Travel with me and hear the significant words of our Savior on His journey to the cross and His resurrection. This book is written with an Easter focus, in chronological order. It is a forty-two-day devotional with readings examining the Savior’s first recorded words in ministry to His last. You will draw closer to the Christ of Calvary and the empty tomb through His spoken words and inspirational stories from real life. Questions for reflection, classic quotations, and a daily prayer designed to focus attention on the Savior add to the devotional experience.
2️⃣ 9️⃣!
Happy birthday to my Noah. What a gift it is to be your mom. You are loved beyond measure— here’s to your first NY birthday! 💚🎂🌟🗽
Happy birthday, magnificent Mom! You are deeply loved. 💙
1776! Happy time celebrating America’s 250th with our book club. 🇺🇸
“…the outcome seemed little short of a miracle.” D. McCullough
Such beauty. Such fun. Such friends. 🤎#coloradowedding #grantandjelena #bffs
Grateful for this book.
Grateful for this group. #theoofgolden #bookswithfriendsbookclub
I never take for granted the honor of being their mother and her daughter.
The BEST night celebrating Dan’s birthday and checking off a bucket list dream of his— a @thirdday concert! They reunited just for him! 😃
Happy birthday to my son and friend! Micah, you are a blessing and delight to all who know you—thanking the Lord for the gift of you today. Thanks for your encouragement and love and for being YOU! Xoxo
My cup overflows! Thank you to all of you dear ones who made this birthday (month) the best ever! 💚💚💚
Having a great (and toasty) day at the Temecula Author Fair! #temeculawriters #hearthesaviorbook #saviorthesavior
Lent is almost here! Journey with me towards Easter by listening to the words of Jesus one day at a time.
Hear the Savior book offers daily devotions in chronological order, helping you walk closely with Christ through His teachings.
A meaningful gift for yourself or someone you love. Perfect for individuals, families, or groups.
Amazon link in my bio, also available through other online retailers.
#hearthesaviorbook #lent
Happy birthday to the world’s best sister and my best friend!
Also the best…
Wife
Daughter
Mom
Friend
Coworker
Dog mom 😉
Jen, you bring sunshine to all your spaces. You have the gift of encouragement and a servants heart. I am thanking the Lord for you today, with all that I am. 💚
I was once a nervous freshman girl walking into a new high school, more than a month into the year, knowing no one. I had planned to sit alone at lunch, tucked away somewhere unseen. The day started like a disaster: my math teacher told me there was no room in her class and that I had to sit on the floor. I passed out in speech class after the teacher made me give a speech. Yes, on my first day (the irony, considering I’m now a public speaker). Then came French. The teacher asked a smiling blonde girl to walk me to the library to pick up a textbook. Her name was Linda. This marvelous Linda invited me to sit with her at lunch.
And the rest is history.
Linda, you saved me that day and so many days that followed. I can’t think of MCHS without thinking of you: my buddy in French, Classical Ensemble, Pop Ensemble, Leadership, Student Government, and more. You were the straight talker to my silliness. There were crushes and sleepovers, endless laughter and tears, ridiculous moments, your wonderful parents and sisters who always made me feel like family, and a treasury of inside jokes.
Then came college. Mt. Soledad with Diet Dr. Pepper and cheese popcorn. Hungry Hunter and El Torito. More crushes, boyfriends, beach days, and trips to Mammoth and Hawaii. Lunch dates at SDSU.
We stood as bridesmaids at one another’s weddings and walked through motherhood. Who would have thought those two ridiculous girls would one day have such remarkable adult kids and become grandmas together? Surreal.
I am so proud of the woman you are. You’ve walked courageously through valleys and emerged stronger, never bitter. Your wisdom and perspective are gifts. And still the tell-it-like-it-is honesty. I love that about you!
Happy, happy “special” birthday, my dear friend. May the Lord bless you and keep you, and I look forward to the memories still to come. You are a gem, and I love you dearly.
PS. Were it not for you, I may have ended up as a “dot” (our favorite inside joke).
The highlight and best gift of 2025 was becoming a Grammy to the sweetest baby girl. I don’t think anything else could top this in 2026.
But I know my favorite days will be the ones I spend with family and friends.
Happy New Year! May it be filled with hope and grace.
“Through him we have also obtained access by faith into this grace in which we stand, and we rejoice in hope of the glory of God.”
Romans 5:2
A highlight of the season three years running. I adore singing (and laughing) with this Christmas choir.
Pulled off a successful surprise for Dan! Fantastic night. #musicofchristmas
25 years with my Josiah! Such a joy-filled journey of mothering you, my Sunshine Boy. Happy 25th, God’s gift of a son. I love you beyond measure.
As we enter Advent, I’m reminding my heart to rest in the hope, joy, peace, and love found in Jesus. Join me with Holy anticipation as we turn our gaze toward Him and offer these weeks as a simple gift of devotion.
May this be a holiday season where we slow our pace, lift our eyes, and truly savor our Savior.
 Advent blessings to you!
 “The people walking in darkness have seen a great light…” Isaiah 9:2
