Bearing Others

HelenEncouragement, Reflection

I have lots of favorite stories in the bible. But these two are definitely on that list. I love that Aaron was given a breastplate made from the finest yarns, strung together with the purest gold, and covered with precious gems: carnelian, chrysolite, beryl, turquoise, lapis lazuli, emerald, jacinth, agate, amethyst, topaz, onyx, and jasper. Each of these gems represents …

Peace Does Not Necessarily Mean Quiet …

HelenEncouragement, Parenting, peace, Reflection

Sometimes I close my eyes and imagine my version of a peaceful home … the one where my youngest daughter is curled up on the sofa halfway through a reading book instead of one where I need to set a timer for her required thirty minutes of reading time. Sometimes when my kids are bickering, I worry they’ll end up …

Rejoice Always

HelenCourage, Encouragement, Reflection

Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.  1 Thessalonians 5:16-18   We’re officially in the season of pumpkin spice lattes, caramel apples, and pecan pie. You can go on a shopping spree and buy the words grateful, thankful, and blessed imprinted on pretty much anything as we head …

The Broken Fence

HelenEncouragement, Fear, Reflection

  This year we replaced the fence in our backyard. It was installed when the house was built forty years ago. It’s had a long life and did a good job. But over the past few years, some of the panels came loose and gaps emerged. We could see into our neighbor’s yard and onto the nearby street.  When I …

Desperately Seeking Rest …

HelenEncouragement, Reflection, Rest

We all have those days when we simply don’t want to parent, work, or do what we need to do. We’d prefer to get up and go for coffee with a friend, take a walk, curl up with a good book, or binge-watch our latest favorite show … in our pajamas. Sometimes when my alarm goes off at 6:00 AM …

Courage In Change

Courage In Change

HelenChange, Courage, Reflection

  Courage is the mental or moral strength to venture, persevere, and withstand danger, fear, or difficulty. (Merriam-Webster Dictionary)   This definition makes me shrink a little inside. It’s a statement that makes me want to walk away from hard situations, because you know that if courage is needed, it’s going to be just that … hard. Any volunteers for …