General

I love the magic that comes with Christmas and the excitement that builds as we are drawn to the babe in the manger. Jesus really is “The Reason for the Season.” But the magic is in believing. So, do you believe? One of my favorite things to do during the holiday season is watching Christmas movies. My all time favorite is The Polar Express. There’s something magical that happens when the conductor says his famous line, “Seeing is believing but sometimes the most real things […]

“What are you expecting this Christmas?”, the words fell on me like the first flakes of snow on a winter’s morning. As we enter into this Advent Season, it is time to think about what we are waiting for. I find it intriguing that the definition of advent is “a coming into being.” Is that Jesus coming into being or is it me? Or maybe it is Jesus coming into being, in me. Regardless, this all excites me and makes me think of that old […]

With Thanksgiving upon us, every email I receive seems to be a reminder to give thanks this holiday season. But with Thanksgiving falling late this year, we are tempted to jump ahead to Christmas. Don’t do it! There is a reason to pause and give thanks. It is a family tradition in our home to gather around the table at Thanksgiving. If I had my way, we would all be sitting at one big table. My father and I started another tradition. On the Wednesday […]

As I slowly pull my car to a complete stop at the red light, I see him crouched on the concrete median with a sign in hand, “Will work for Food”. My heart sinks as I try not to look at him. He is bundled up with a hoodie and toboggan, no gloves and work boots. It’s 21 degrees and although the heat in my car is working properly, the thought of being outside gives me a chill. I keep my eyes fixed straight ahead, […]

God never stops. God never stops working, never stops drawing us in and most importantly, He never stops loving us. As I wake, I can already hear the waves crashing against the cool sandy beach. I slip out of bed, grab a cup of coffee and make my way to the balcony hoping to catch the early morning sunrise. The air is cool and crisp, yet oddly warm for October. I settle into my seat to take in the vastness of the ocean. The sea […]

Do you know the power of an encouraging word? When Travis and I first started biking, I had so much trouble climbing hills. Embarrassing as it was, on our very first bike ride, I had to get off the bike and walk up the hill. Each time we ventured out, those hills got just a little easier. I was overjoyed the day I made it to the top. But I almost didn’t make it. Half way up, with my thighs burning and sweat dripping off […]