The new year has come and with it comes conversations about New Year’s resolutions. There are some very intentional folks out there who set aside time to think over the previous year and set goals for the upcoming year.There are other individuals that are more whimsical and just wing it, putting together a list of things on the spot when someone asks them what their New Year’s resolutions … [Read more...]
God Is With Us on the Way to Bethlehem
A few short days after Christmas, my daughter will serve as chauffeur to what we both hope will be my final doctor's appointment since breaking my foot almost 3 months ago. While we are both excited to hear that I can resume driving and other duties she's taken on during my convalescence, we're also apprehensive about the 30 mile drive to the hospital and clinic. Because my daughter is, as the … [Read more...]
Just Us
We have the awesome privilege of getting away together as a couple to speak around the country on the topic of marriage. We love what we get to do, but even so, as we are surrounded by 500-1500 people, we are not alone! We love that we have various ministries in which we are involved, but often we have to divide and conquer (one staying home/one going) in order to be a part of the event. Very … [Read more...]
How to Craft a Heroic Response to Your Holiday Special-Needs Challenges
A quote by Charles Schultz is framed on my desk, made perfect with a picture of Snoopy on his dog house pounding away on an old-fashioned typewriter. His beagle paws stamp out, “Happiness is Writing Your Own Story.” I adore this for three reasons: First of all, Snoopy is my hero; secondly, I love to write; and finally, Mr. Schultz makes a brilliant point—we constantly get to write our own … [Read more...]
Where Can I Find Peace?
Finding peace when your heart is breaking is difficult. Many of us have lost loved ones or are struggling just day to day and sometimes the holiday stressors can feel so heavy and we are more sensitive because of all the busyness. It doesn't feel that long ago when I sat and watched my son gasp for breath in the hospital, he was barely one year-old. He had asthma and when it came boy it was … [Read more...]
Capture the Wonder of Every Day
A few Sundays ago, I listened to the parable of the ten bridesmaids as it was read in mass. The message to “be prepared” came through loud and clear. On that particular Sunday, though, this gospel reading took on a very different twist. You see, three days prior, my father had passed away at the age of 100. He had lived at home rather independently (with some daily support) up until 12 days … [Read more...]