When You’re All Grown Up: This
I loved today. I just loved every minute of it. I loved walking to school and meeting the new Brindle Boxer puppy who is just learning how to take a walk. She’ll walk with us more and more. I’ll watch her grow all summer. Her name is Pearl. I loved talking with my friend about bird […]
The Same Grace
I asked a wise man and father his best parenting advice. He said this: “Extend the same grace to your own children that you show to other children.” He explained that when other children make mistakes or act out in embarrassing ways, we often show massive amounts of love and grace. We respond with understanding […]
Drawing In
I’m in San Antonio, and I discover hundreds of little plants that seem to float in the air. I’ve heard of airplants before, but I find myself so intrigued by these little plants that have no roots and require no soil. I learn that the leaves have structures that gather moisture and nutrients from the […]
Comfortable with Uncomfortable
We’re learning how to stay comfortable with being uncomfortable. It’s a critical life skill, especially for children learning it’s OK to have hard days. It’s OK to be in new situations that make you nervous or unsettled. If “comfortable” is the test of whether we should do some new thing, travel somewhere, or befriend new […]
The Dogs I’ve Met Today
I’m traveling, and I first meet Millie, a dog with three legs whose owner pushes her in a cart. They are companions traveling to Mexico. Millie’s recovering from cancer and probably the sweetest dog I’ve ever seen. She lets everyone pet her. Her owner says, “Your love keeps her living.” Then, I meet Barney on […]
Distressed
I find myself fascinated by the truths of certain statements by Biblical writers who experienced, not just distress, but what they call deep distress. David writes, “I am in deep distress. Let us fall into the hands of the Lord, for his mercy is great” (2 Samuel 24:14). In Psalm 86:7, he writes this simple […]
Some Questions About My Life From Growing Plants
I pass by the seedlings growing in the window, and I notice how my daughter has transplanted the seedlings into larger containers. She continues to upgrade the containers to accommodate the rate of growth. I know that soon, she’ll move the plants outside to strengthen them in the harsh wind and varying temperatures to form hearty […]
Better Late Than Never
We weren’t expecting any blooms after all the snow and frost. But this morning, the blooms surprised us, bringing more joy for their unexpected arrival.
A Drizzle of Balsamic Vinegar
I learned how to make salmon cakes with canned salmon, chopped red onion, egg, breadcrumbs, lemon juice, and cilantro. (Make into patties and brown in a little olive oil. Serve warm on a bed of lettuce with chopped peppers.) But wait! You must then drizzle with balsamic vinegar. The balsamic vinegar! Our secret ingredient of […]
Out of Order
I remain fascinated by the trees in my yard that flower before leafing. It’s so strange. It’s not what I’m used to. Leaves come first. Then flowers. Everyone knows this. But not the Weeping Cherry. She exhibits hysteranthous–the phenomenon of blooms before leaves. Many fruit trees do this, and I think it has something to […]