Since I finally started teaching piano lessons again this fall, I have been reminiscing about my own history of piano. Maybe this is in an effort to recall lessons I learned for the sake of keeping ahead of my students. Or maybe it’s just because this grand and glorious instrument has always had a place in my […]
The One with an (in)couraging Friend
Today, in honor of Ministry Appreciation Month and the first (in)courage carnival, I would like to take the time to honor the selfless work of my Pastor’s wife, Pam. She is the most beautiful woman–from the inside out. Pam is an amazing example of a mother. Her teenage boys love and respect her. She encourages […]
On Bearing with the Bothersome
My thoughts are flowing right alongside Kevin’s. Ever since I had to do some serious conflict management on Sunday morning (and night), I’ve been thinking about how God wants us to live at peace with everyone. This does not mean to shove things so far under the rug that we forget about them. NO. Because […]
On Conflicts…and long-suffering
Recently, I’ve been reminded of how Christians tend to be. Unfortunately we’re not all that different from everyone else when it comes to how we handle conflict. I think the sheer number of denominations (and non-denominational churches) in America should stand as a pretty fair witness to our inability to resolve serious conflict. But rather […]
The One with Homecoming Drama
Oh! to be fifteen again! Or not. I was reminded this weekend of how great my teenage years were, but also of how I don’t have any desire to go back there again. Wow. Pubescent teenage girls are WOW. You’re probably thinking, “Gosh, is she just realizing this now? Two years after starting this youth ministry […]
Spiced Apple Cake
I couldn’t resist this delicious recipe from Joy the Baker when considering what to contribute to our church potluck. It was perfect. Apples. Spice. and Cake. My favorite things. And who can resist a pretty bundt cake. *Almost* too adorable to eat. When I finally got to grab a fork I have to say, I […]
(Quick and Easy) Ricotta Tomato Penne
This is an amazingly quick (15 minutes!), surprisingly elegant, and super delicious dish. I came up with it as a dinner idea in a pinch last week. We didn’t have much time but I had some quality ingredients. Sometimes less is more. Nothing fancy. Just pasta. tomatoes. cheese. and of course garlic. It’s perfection in […]
The One with the Lunchroom Loves
I’m trying to think of topics to write on that don’t have something to do with my sweet husband, my awesome teens, my times with Jesus, or food. Those are, afterall, my loves. They are (almost) all I think about. That either makes me: A. a weirdo. B. obsessive. C. super committed. D. all of […]
Ultimate Ginger Cookies
Do NOT attempt to make or eat these cookies if you don’t really love ginger. Ginger is a strong, pungent root which is unmistakable. People either love it or hate it. If you’re in the latter category, run! If you’re in the former, then hold onto your hats. This is like a ginger or molasses […]
The One with My First Winner
And the winner of my first ever giveaway–a cd of my favorite worship soak songs–IS……ANDREA! Congrats, friend! I pray you will experience God through this music.