The Ups and Downs
This morning, I didn’t even need a coat. I opened the door to warm, balmy air. But by afternoon, the freezing air returned. I’m bundled again in mittens, hat, and coat. Worse, an ice storm will come tomorrow. The theme of these past two years involves flexibility in the face of the unpredictable. There’s no […]
Paths Made Ready
This morning, I’m struck by Hannah Whitall Smith’s description of a child fully surrendered to the care of others. She wishes for us to understand the joy and freedom of living as a “child in the Father’s house.” A child lets others meet her needs. A child lets others plan a beautiful day. A well […]
Make Time for Solitude —Find Water
I love walking along Spring Creek!
One Thing Is Needed
I haven’t read the story of Mary and Martha for a while. I find it this morning before church in Luke 10:38-42: Now as they went on their way, Jesus entered a village. And a woman named Martha welcomed him into her house. And she had a sister called Mary, who sat at the Lord’s feet and listened […]
The Snow Squall
The whiteout conditions suddenly swirled around the house like a tornado of snow. We could hardly see the house across the street. The wind howled. The blizzard covered us. And then, as soon as it blanketed the neighborhood, it left us. A snow squall puts you inside a cyclone of snow. It feels haunting and […]
A Little Love for You
I often ask students (and myself) this question: How are you taking care of yourself? It’s a great question to unearth mental health practices, joyful rituals, and habits for well-being. I love hearing what students say whether hydrating, getting out in nature with friends, listening to great music, or cooking a fantastic meal. This morning, […]
Pacing
I’m teaching students how to “pace” their writing. Pace is the speed at which a reader will experience our writing. I teach students to manage pace in several ways: They can speed up the pace with shorter sentences, strong verbs, and action. Give me a three-word sentence. Make it quick. Keep me engaged. They can […]
A Little Hello
My cat Merlin hardly spent time in plain sight. Once, he lived a scared, anxious, and hidden life. But over the years, we’ve coaxed him out of hiding. He now rolls on his back to show us his love. He snuggles on the couch and meows pitifully if we fail to pet him enough. He […]
As You Know, I Love Pickles
Today I bought our family my favorite pickles of all time! Barrel Pickles! Having a favorite pickle makes me me. As I teach my students how to write about themselves in personal narratives, I remind them to think of small details that make them them.
When You Don’t Pack Your Lunch
I didn’t pack my lunch today. Now, I find myself in my office at Penn State. I’m hungry! With no lunch and students arriving for office hours, I’m drawn to my candy bowl reserved for students. I take note of the old candy left over from Halloween at the very bottom of the bowl. It’s […]