Learning how to be content: an attitude of the heart and mind
I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. ~ Philippians 4:11 Merriam-Webster defines contentment as freedom from worry or restlessness; peaceful satisfaction. Queue in the lyrics from the popular Rolling Stones’ song: “I can’t get no satisfaction.” This refrain suggests that contentment is elusive. Yet the Bible expounds on the definition by describing contentment…
Hope deferred is not hope denied: good things come to those who wait
This summer, I’ve been busy writing proposals for a Guideposts’ imprint, submitting short stories to Woman’s World, and plotting a third Harlequin Love Inspired novel. In addition, I’m revising my second book under contract! THE FIRE CHIEF’S SURPRISE, a July 2025 release, has been more than a year in the making, my hopes deferred along…
A hedge of protection: standing guard
Last year, I began the daily practice of prayer walks that include reciting scripture, petitioning the Lord, and praying for a “hedge of protection” around our property and community. When we first moved into our little cabin in the woods, we soon discovered we share our home with the forest wildlife that had come before…
What happens in the kitchen: best kept secrets
When I was a little girl, my mom “tricked” me into eating her zucchini crisp by letting me think the (abnormally long) fruit slices were thinly sliced apples. And while the dessert tasted good, I couldn’t eat more once I learned the truth. Which proves that some secrets are best kept to ourselves—especially when they…
Between the promise & the outcome: walking by faith
I’m believing in your promise, Lord. Several days after staking my claim (see Three more feet…), that had been my prayer. Yet I’d already become weary in that gap between the promise and the outcome. “Wait on the Lord.” While not audible, these words spoke to my spirit—reminding me that as believers, we walk by…
Putting yourself out there: on the other side of self-doubt
Around the time my Harlequin Love Inspired debut novel—A FATHER’S VOW—released in April 2024, I’d heard about dozens of writing contests available for authors. At the time, I sat back and cheered on my fellow writers as they proceeded to walk away as finalists and award winners, while I was paralyzed by self-doubt. Once I…
Three more feet: staking your claim
A few weeks’ ago, I heard the story about a young man who staked a claim during the gold rush and mined the land for months. After his initial discovery, the vein appeared to dry up, he became discouraged and quit. He then sold his equipment to a “junk man,” who consulted a mining engineer…
When there’s no ‘next time:’ making peace in the present
It was a classmate’s passing in 2022 that became the catalyst for my husband, Bob and I to take a leap of faith and “retire” early, sell most of our furnishings and relocate to Northern Arizona and a little cabin in the woods. During my travels last summer, I had arranged to connect with another…
Inviting discovery: stretching our creative muscles
During my recent week-long hiatus from my keyboard (see “Pause, breathe, resume…”), I spent considerable time brainstorming various hobbies I might enjoy as creative outlets—aside from reading and hiking, of course. A few past interests have included crocheting, cross-stitching, embroidery and, most recently, making personalized bookmarks from recycled greeting cards. As far as gardening, I…
Pause, breathe, resume for optimal well-being
It’s been a few weeks since I issued a self-imposed break from my laptop, during which time I engaged in several activities—including copious amounts of reading, a home improvement project, some spring cleaning and napping. One afternoon, my husband, Bob and I commuted ninety minutes roundtrip to indulge our sweet tooths with soft-serve gelato. On…
In search of a linear life: a lesson in futility
In a quick text to my daughter shortly after my husband, Bob’s hip replacement surgery (see “Delayed gratification”), I shared a bit of discouragement and she reminded me that—as frustrating as it can be—the process of healing isn’t linear. First, when did she become so wise? And second, I’m all about celebrating life’s victories, both…
FOMO: divine timing at work
Okay, it’s true. I Googled the FOMO acronym. For those of you scratching your heads, I’m referring to the fear of missing out. Although FOMO was a big deal when I attended school, as an adult I still struggle with the idea that I must participate in #allthethings. And this year, due to circumstances beyond…