Teaching the Children: Independence Day
On July 4, 1776, the Second Continental Congress adopted the Declaration of Independence. This bold and risky proclamation shouted to the world that the thirteen American colonies were no longer under British rule but were “free and independent states.” Today, fireworks, parades, and cookouts will mark the day, and...
The Best Holiday Tip
Holiday Tip (not a rant or directed at anyone, simply a life lesson): When you make plans for the holidays, it’s okay to start your own traditions. It’s even okay if those traditions change from year to year. The holidays, with their twinkling lights and festive cheer, often evoke...
Mom Life Together
For my birthday in 2012, my husband took our then family of three to Trier, Germany for the first time. Trier is the oldest city in Germany and home to the northernmost Roman ruins in Europe. This city is amazing to explore (so much so that we went back...
Remember All Day
Every Sunday morning, we attend Bible class and worship services (though this looked very different for most of 2020). At some point during the day, I ask the kids what they talked about in Bible class. One Sunday in October 2019, I asked Madilynn what she learned. Here is...
What If Wednesday
One day last week, while talking with my brother, the conversation turned to an “if/then” scenario. He was speaking about his circumstances and how if one detail had changed he would not have the life he does now. That sent my own wheels turning. What if… What if Peter...
Becoming and Unbecoming an Army Wife
This is the written version of a presentation I made at the Mart Lions Club. You can view the video here. In July of 2007, I made a decision that changed my life. Before I can tell you that, I have to tell you about a decision made about...
Take up your Sword
Too much of “religion” these days focuses on how a person “feels” and on the “worship experience” rather than Teaching the Truth. If the people in attendance experience entertainment, give generously, serve wholeheartedly, and even love unconditionally, but leave the assembly with a dull sword and tattered armor, is...
Do Something to make the Sun Shine
What would you do if you were given a day where you could do anything? A day without boundaries, money is no object, and the sky is the limit. Usually, when we run errands and eat out at lunch, I use the drive-thru. Due to routine extermination at our...
The Glue of Anniversaries
On this day, eight years ago, I woke to Peter’s phone call saying he had been bumped from his flight (the Army wouldn’t let him off early the day before to get to his own wedding). He made it, just in time – though I guess we would have...
Be You, Bravely
“You are so brave.” “I don’t know how you do it.” “You are so strong.” “I couldn’t do it if I were in your shoes.” These sentences start many conversations from a non-military spouse to a military spouse, especially during times of deployment or when facing a big transition. This post...