Thanksgiving is upon us, so I’ve made my list and I’m checking it twice: Mashed Potatoes (the Make Ahead recipe), Cider Baked Turkey (purchase the juice), Butterhorn Rolls (for Gratitude Rolls), Pumpkin Bars, and I must remember to cut out […]
Join Me in Rewriting the Best “To-Do” List This Holiday Week
To Mothers, Women, Mentors: My Important Reminder
It all matters!! I’m finishing up a 60K word book manuscript this weekend. I’m exhausted. I’ve written about our home and hospitality and mothering with more words than I ever thought in me. I’ll share more soon because I have a […]
I’ve Never Been Told That Before
Clutching the crisp, white note, I held my 20 year old breath as I reread the words scribbled on the stationary by the Director of Admissions at my university. “Jennifer, Thank you for your servant leadership this year on our […]
My Real Family Christmas Letter
In the next few weeks, Christmas cards and letters from friends far and near will descend on our mailbox. Memories will resurface from a lifetime ago. Unfamiliar faces will appear in pictures, as marriages have dissolved and new covenants established. […]
Care Packages for the Homeless: Way to Help the Homeless
Nationwide, temperatures have been frigid. Ice courses through the bones. And while I tucking my children into bed, years of route “courtesy prayers” are spouted… “Lord, thank you for our yummy dinner tonight. Thank you for our house during the […]
When God’s Voice Sounds a lot like Twila Paris
“Honey, go home. You haven’t slept more than a few hours in five days. I’ll stay with him. Surgery is scheduled for 8 am. You need to sleep when you can,” murmured my husband. Tipping the newborn scales at 10.5 […]
Sometimes I Miss it…
Sometimes I am in such a rush, that I miss out on those simple moments. The moments of beauty. The moments of silence. The moments of grace. My first Spring flowers just bloomed: two beautiful tulips. The problem? They were […]
My Imaginary Conversation: a Sunday Moment
Last week, I shared some pictures and a video about the “new to me” spring outfits I purchased at a yard sale and thrift stores. I sat outside on my porch, nervously hit the “record” button and welcomed my readers […]
The Advent Jesse Tree: Jesse Tree Ornament Ideas
Traditions play a role in our family’s tapestry in dynamic dimensions. As a traditions consultant for many years, I can share traditions for every holiday and celebration that you can think of, and most likely, many that would never cross […]
Dear Me: a Letter to My Teenage Self
Dear Teenage Self Me, In one week, you will turn 16. I just love that you are so full of life, and innocent enough to believe that this magical birthday will suddenly allow life to explode with possibilities. I know, […]
When I Say “I Do” (Jen Sharing)
Last month, my niece and a wonderful young man stood before the Lord and declared, “I do.” I’ve had the privilege of singing at many weddings over the years, but when it’s someone who is like a daughter to me, […]
Love Them Well
“We’re praying for this next chapter,” I heard the greeter mention to someone as they walked out of the sanctuary. I glanced up to see who she was addressing, and my sweet friends came into view. “Chapter, what chapter,” I […]
Beautiful One (Sunday Moment)
We started out our worship package last week with the song, “Your Grace is Enough.” Based on the verse found in 2 Corinthians 12:9. But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made […]
I’m Weird, Are You? (A Sunday Moment)
Our twelve year old rolled her eyes at me as I descended down the stair case on the way to my self imposed “Tacky Day.” “You’re weird, Mom.” I guess in that moment I had delusions of grandeur, and that […]
He is Risen Indeed!
Do you know Him? Do you know my King? He paid my debt; He gave His life for me, but the grave couldn’t hold Him, and because of this, I am FREE. This greatest sacrifice. This unfathomable gift. Hallelujah, He […]