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Encouragement

Encouragement, Life Is Beautiful

Faith Like Fireflies

On warm summer nights, I lay in bed beneath my cool sheets, next to warm husband and a snoring pug, and I wait for the appearance of the fireflies. My bay window comes to life with their lights as the fireflies appear first one, then another, then several. They arrive just a few feet from where my head rests on my pillow and I end my day enchanted by their light and presence.

I’ve always been delighted by fireflies. When I was a child, I’d sit impatiently on the wooden swing in our yard, my gaze fixed on the nearby woods, waiting for the charming creatures to flicker and enchant me with their warm glow. I was (and still am) captivated by these “bugs” who were lights. I had an ardent affection for fireflies that were to me, magical… Continue Reading

August 2, 2015
Encouragement, Life Is Beautiful

Teenage Dating: 10 Rules Before the First Date

Teenage dating: The subject evokes excitement or perhaps angst if you’re a teenager; strikes fear into the hearts of many parents. Teenage dating tends to stir up some nostalgia, concern, and sometimes, even controversy when we enter into discussions about the when, who, why, and what of dating. It’s a hot topic and there’s nothing simple about it.

My daughter is 17 and thus far, has chosen not to date. I’m sure I had influence on this decision but so did what she witnesses in some of her peers, as well as how she feels God is guiding her. I have told my children more than once that I don’t want them getting overly involved in romantic relationships in high school. I don’t think it’s healthy and I haven’t wavered on my stance. I’ve seen in myself and in others how painfully easy it is to immerse yourself in another person, especially at these young ages where they’re (let’s be honest) ill-equipped to handle all the emotion that comes with relationships, dating, heartbreak, and the plethora of responsibilities that accompany it all. (Side note: If you’re not a Christian, these rules can still apply to you as they are a recipe for a healthy, strong relationship where you have a voice and are safe).  Continue Reading

July 22, 2015
Book Reviews, Encouragement

To Win Her Favor

I had the express privilege to review “To Win Her Favor” written by Tamera Alexander for Family Christian. I received this book and agreed to write an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are indeed honest and my own. 

When I had the opportunity to review “To Win Her Favor”, I was delighted to learn it was a Belle Meade Plantation novel. Two years ago while on vacation in Nashville, my family and I toured the Belle Meade Plantation. What a joy to be able to step back in history in this novel and become engrossed in a story in which the setting includes a historical place I’ve visited. Continue Reading

July 19, 2015
Encouragement, Health, Life Is Beautiful

The Best No!

“No” is a powerful word, often at least as powerful as “yes” but not heard nearly as often, it seems. It’s easy to say “yes” to everything because of the guilt we feel when we offer the negative. But that’s just it, isn’t it? “No” isn’t always negative.  In fact, it can be a positive thing for us to say. It can mean making more time for ourselves, setting a much-needed boundary, and making a healthy choice… Continue Reading

July 16, 2015