The Christmas that Won’t Go Away

Ornament Boxes. January 2, 2012 Christmas Won’t Fit in the BoxA photo essay in honor of my friend Nancy Owen Franson, who loves Christmas more than anyone I know. The day after New Year’s Day is a good day to undress the tree, box up Christmas, hide it away until next year. But this year, […]


The Christmas that Won’t Go Away

Ornament Boxes. January 2, 2012 Christmas Won’t Fit in the BoxA photo essay in honor of my friend Nancy Owen Franson, who loves Christmas more than anyone I know. The day after New Year’s Day is a good day to undress the tree, box up Christmas, hide it away until next year. But this year, […]


Dream Bigger this Christmas

Kevin and Baby Carly. Christmas, 2008. Just Ask.  None of my (suburban, American, well-fed and cared for) grandchildren has ever told me, “I want a rubber band this Christmas.” Nor “I asked Santa for a bowl of oatmeal.” Nor “I wish for a tube of toothpaste.” No. They dream big: They ask for new bicycles […]


Dream Bigger this Christmas

Kevin and Baby Carly. Christmas, 2008. Just Ask.  None of my (suburban, American, well-fed and cared for) grandchildren has ever told me, “I want a rubber band this Christmas.” Nor “I asked Santa for a bowl of oatmeal.” Nor “I wish for a tube of toothpaste.” No. They dream big: They ask for new bicycles […]


The Value-Added Visit

Nadya and me. October, 2010. The Bonus Blessing “St. Petersburg is amazing,” Pastor Robert said. “Could you please pass the rolls?”  I sat at the table, drifting on the buzz of happy conversation. Our friend Nadya, visiting from Moscow, had joined us for church that morning, along with our buddy Mike. After church, everyone returned […]