Sunflower
This One Party that One Time
Last night I hosted a party for my daughter’s Marching Band rank. Well, technically, she hosted the party. I just provided some of the food, only to realize that she already shopped for the treats everyone wanted. But I did make some food. And I know this about teen parties: You put out the platters […]
Paying Attention Not Seeking Attention
I recently listened to a TED talk in which Joseph Gorden-Levitt discusses how craving attention makes us less creative. I love considering how, instead of seeking attention, we should pay attention. I smiled. I nodded in agreement. Perhaps you will love his words, too
Learn From Those You Lead
Today I remember to learn from those I lead. In my teaching seminar, instead of lecturing the entire time, I’ve learned to ask the participants, “How would you teach this? or What’s your best tip on teaching this?” In a larger sense, I love to believe that every person I meet has something to teach […]
Get Up. Walk Around. Then Get Back to It.
I’m in the thick of my Monday / Wednesday / Friday writing schedule (I teach on Tuesday / Thursday and stay on campus all day.) The writing schedule looks like this: 8:30 AM-9:30 AM: At my computer to write. Coffee or nice beverage nearby. Cat sleeping close. 9:30-9:45 AM: Break for folding laundry, emptying dishwasher, […]
When All Else Fails, Bring Chocolate
I love my “writing workshop” days with students. I typically bring some kind of treat. I take seriously Proverbs 18:16 (NLT): “Giving a gift can open doors; it gives access to important people!” When I want to open the door of someone’s heart or mind, I bring a gift. I think of a little treat […]
Growing in Curiosity
I love asking questions to learn from other people. I truly believe God places people in our lives to teach us, to bless us, or reveal more of Himself to us. I love gleaning wisdom, elevating others, and asking the kinds of questions that lead to unique stories. Here are my five favorite questions: What […]
The Words From Another Kingdom
I spoke with a wise woman about why she’s still using the spiritual language that so many people think is “churchy” “outdated” “confusing” and too “Christian.” She’s talking about words like saved, lost, salvation, sanctification, justification, eternal life, sin, repentance, the flesh, or any other word you see in scripture that helps explain the gospel […]
Treats Along the Way
I love observing demonstrations of God’s love and goodness when I travel far from home. During my trip to Kansas, I loved the nature surrounding the retreat center that included finding a Kansas ornate box turtle. My host also treated me to something special: a trip to my birthplace in Fort Leavenworth! What a fun […]
Headed to Kansas
I’ve discovered one of the best parts of traveling to speak: meeting new people! I love experiencing true fellowship with those who love Jesus. It’s a taste of heaven. Please pray that God’s word comes alive this weekend for these ladies in Kansas!