The dog days of summer were upon us, and temperatures were at record highs.  I was looking for something cool to do with my kids, when a dear friend offered the use of their pool while they were at work. I invited my sister and her kids to join us. We set out for a day of fun in the sun!

Have you ever felt like multiple parts of your life were being threatened? Like battles were being waged in your home and professional life? Maybe your physical and mental health too? How about your social relationships? Or even your finances?

During summer, there is a lot of talk about Kayaking, enjoying a lake, stream, ocean, or taking on rapids. I know many people who love this experience and enjoy being in the water. Kayaking can deliver adventure, relaxation, and refreshment to your soul!

“A penny for your thoughts?” Throughout any given day do you feel like your thoughts are a runaway train, a circus’ center ring, a serene garden landscape or a foggy scene?!

Let's set the scene: It’s early morning. Coffee's brewing. Your outfit is chosen, and the day's agenda is all mapped out. You are READY!  You say to yourself, “Yes! It’s going to be an amazing day!” 

My daughter Kyla turned the magical age of 16 on June 1st. The one that made me a momma. The trailblazer and pioneer of the family. My reliable, dependable, loyal, sweet, beautiful, and bright firstborn child. I’m pretty sure that I have navigated every emotion possible in the last 6 months…

In June, we celebrate Father's Day! For the early part of my life, I never thought about this day and did not celebrate what it represents. My father died when I was two years old, and my grandfathers had died before I was born. So being fatherless was all I knew.

Since the Civil War, Americans have observed Memorial Day to honor and remember those who gave the ultimate sacrifice for this country and the freedoms that we have today. This weekend, I stood among the many who did the same, but my reflections did not stop there.

I was in Sam’s Club one afternoon searching for a case of nacho chips. I was so focused. I knew exactly what I was looking for.

So, tell me something. What do you do when something is in your way? Are you the type of person who moves around it, jumps over it, or waits for it to move before you do?

It's so easy to say that I am unqualified.

All you have to do is take a sneak peek into my life or my mind and it becomes painfully clear that I do not meet the qualifications.

I have this imaginary qualifying list I use as a measuring stick to determine if I am adequate enough to be used by God.

Have you ever had a Mother's Day that you will never forget, but not for a good reason?

On a Mother's Day years ago, my plate was full as a young pastor's wife with two small children, a growing church, and a full-time job as an insurance agent. While successful at my job, I often felt I didn't measure up to what was expected of the pastor's wife.

A few years ago, I was at a retreat, and one of the speakers was a sweet young woman who shared about her life. She was a quiet Christian girl who had had a happy upbringing…

Lately, I’ve been pondering the goodness and the promise of the provision of God. Our Father is Jireh, our Provider. Do I truly live with this mentality and belief? Do I fully depend on His provision, or do I lean more on what I think I need and should have?

There was a time during the teenage years when my mom and dad talked to me about the dangers of the “crowd.”  I definitely didn’t understand the value of this conversation at the time, but I do now!

Have you ever gotten off track? You start well but then find yourself heading in the wrong direction? Maybe you decide to take a shortcut or copy someone else’s journey because it seems faster and easier.

Have you ever felt insecure in your calling or position in life? Has there been days where you gaze at what lies on your plate and you think, “There is no way I can do this!”

Drop everything you are doing right now at this moment. I have some very exciting news for you.  You have just won….