Not Home
I decided to read 2 Peter this morning after Ashley told me that’s where he’d been reading. “It’s been awhile since I read 2 Peter,” he said. I couldn’t remember the last time I’d read the book in its entirety, in one sitting. I think about two things. First, everyone should memorize verses 3 and […]
Those Who Bring Nothing
This morning’s sermon reminded me how much God delights in blessing us regardless of our performance. We can’t earn our way to it, and yet, we continue to live as if we can. It’s the old lie, the old bondage of Galatians 5. We not longer do; we receive. I read Psalm 147 this morning […]
Yesterday and Today: Pumpkins and Figs
Yesterday, I happily observed my white mini-pumpkins growing. Today, I saw the slow-growing fig growing slowly. My tomatoes still haven’t ripened. Perhaps I’ll enjoy back-to-school tomato sandwiches in late August! And in October, I’ll put out all the mini-pumpkins (white, orange, yellow, and multicolored) for everyone on the street to pick for their autumn decorations. […]
Notes from the Arborist
I stand in horror as I’m instructed to murder my plum trees. This winter, I must chop them both down to the very base of their trunk. I’m incredulous. I’m stupefied. Four years worth of work, slaughtered. The Gentle Arborist tells me there’s another word for this extreme pruning. “It’s not murder,” he says. “It’s […]
A Little Every Day
I love working as a consultant to help writers finish their manuscripts. While I only have a few clients here and there, I find myself answering similar questions related to how to schedule time for writing. Start with 20 minutes whenever you want. One thing I recommend is daily writing for an audience just to […]
Seek the Wise
The arborists are coming! I’m consulting with two different experts just to be sure I’m getting the best advice. I find myself delighted by the particular passions and expertise of a certain certified arborist whose bio says “his passion, strong background in insect and disease management, thirst for knowledge, and love of plants make him […]
Noticing What You Love
I love noticing new things that bring delight. Like the sound of dripping water from hanging pots after you water them. Like the way you walk into a room to find a cat curled up and sleeping soundly. Like the way it feels to be in one room of your house and then hear a […]
My Chairs!
Ashley built these yesterday, and they are so comfortable for long periods of sitting out front. This morning, I took my coffee out here to watch the sunrise. If I turn the chairs around, I’ll see the sunset. I loved talking to a few neighbors this morning already!
Black Knot Woes
I’ve been reading up on Black Knot—the fungal disease creeping over my precious plumcot tree. When you have plum trees, apparently, you know to look for Black Knot, but I’m new to all this. I don’t know anything. I know my limits; I contact a certified arborist who knows what to do. This expert can […]
Whatever the Question
I’m compiling my thoughts on prayer to speak at an upcoming conference, and it occurs to me that the the people I’m studying (whether Duewel or Murray or obviously Jesus Himself) all posit that whatever the question, prayer is the answer. Think about it. God is an infinite source of wisdom, provision, and power. Whatever […]