a few personal notes We got snow this weekend here in Virginia, so we have had even less school than the normal at-home days. BUT . . . we found out yesterday that the school board is starting the process to bring two of my three kids back to school at the end of March! Winter is hard for me emotionally. My mood takes unexpected dips and sometimes my whole body feels heavy. Other times I want to cry,...
Well friends, the new year feels . . . like more of the movie Groundhog Day (and there were way too many wonderful Groundhog Day GIFs to choose from). I know this past week has been heavy and anxiety-inducing for many of us in this country, so here are a few things from the last week (and month or so) that I have enjoyed and learned from: I thought this article by Esau McCaulley, “Truth over power: It is...
I had started a lighter, more newsy post for this week . . . and then Wednesday happened. There is much to process and discuss. You might trace the history of white supremacy and voter suppression in this country. You might trace the history of white Christian nationalism in the evangelical church. You might look into the roots of right-wing extremism and internet conspiracy theories like QAnon. You might trace how all these things may have led to a...
First of all, HAPPY ADVENT SEASON! I hope that you have found doable ways to enter in and celebrate Jesus and all that He brings. I have done a wrap-up of Advent resources in previous years if you’re still looking for help: Advent Resources 2019Advent Resources 2018Advent Activities 2016Joy to the World Coloring PageGiving Art for Christmas (free and for purchase) As this wildest (and most difficult) ride of a year comes to a close, I am closing out...
How is it the middle of October already? Our days have been filled with school in the morning, lots of play time outside with friends, naps for me in the afternoon, followed by me avoiding making dinner as best I can. But in the midst of these wearying days, there are good things! Here’s a little recap: Recent Art And how can I not share this little treasure of a family portrait from my son? This is my favorite...
A fierce love for dark days
One of the lessons I’ve learned in this pandemic is that it’s okay to be gentle with myself. It’s okay to show myself compassion and care. I’ve learned that my anxiety can get the better of me if I don’t pay attention to the warning signals my emotions send. In response, I have needed to allow myself extra rest and fewer demands (where possible, haha). “The LORD is gracious and merciful, slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love.”...
All good things: September
I can’t believe I haven’t checked in since June! It feels like the last few months have been a bit of a time warp. I don’t even think I’ll attempt a detailed recap, but the intervening months included: grocery store sushi, puzzles, exploring streams and rivers, smoothies, books on tape, Minecraft, library books, bike riding, cartoons, attempts at gardening, lots of Hamilton listening, daily naps (for me), and just one emergency dental appointment (which turned out well). My kids...
Grab some coffee or tea and join me for a rundown of some good things I’ve read or watched or learned recently, and also what I’m working on. I hope you find something helpful! Jamie Grace’s Playlist for UnderstandingDo you know Jamie Grace’s music? She’s been speaking a lot about racism lately, and I love hearing from her! She created this playlist “for understanding why a lot of black people feel a lot of things.” Goodness, music sometimes hits...