Weekend Reflection: Thankful

Top Row: Sister Elaine, Nephew Grant, Sister-in-Law Anne, Niece Allison, Nephew Craig, Bonus Son Ryan. Center Row: Wonderful Friend Hiram, Bonus Mom Mercedes, Father Rod (also the photographer–he used a tripod) Front Row: Brother Tim, Nephew Neil, Me, Amazing Husband Rich. A week ago on Thursday, I returned to Laity Lodge and spent a glorious […]


Sheer Joy

Daphne Kate, On Her Second Birthday. She’s One of Nine We are blessed with nine grandlittles, so far, and each of them brings joy to grown-up hearts overshadowed with burdens. On Daphne’s birthday, it is a special treat to gaze upon that hopeful, trusting face. Children’s children are a crown to the aged,    and parents are the pride […]


In Grief’s Waiting Room

Our Entryway. Memorial to Sergeant Sean Michael Lagrand Third Marine Air Wing, Aircraft Rescue Fire Fighting. July 13, 1981-September 25, 2006 Remembering Sean  This Memorial Day morning, I hear my husband sniffle. I look over, sure I know…but I ask, anyway, as I wrap my arms around him and his blue terry robe: “What is […]


Weekend Reflection: Joyful Noise

Sing to the Lord a new song; Sing to the Lord, all the earth. 2 Sing to the Lord, bless His name; Proclaim good tidings of His salvation from day to day. 3 Tell of His glory among the nations, His wonderful deeds among all the peoples. Psalm 96:1-3 (NASB) It’s the weekend. Around here […]


Tears, Toilets, and Teachable Moments

Cadence and His Cherished Toy. Oh, and Cake. And Why I am Buying My Husband a Cape. We’d had a lovely dinner, the Southern California branch of the family herd rounded up and gathered at the endless trough of hospitality that is my-dad-and-his-bride’s-home. My sister was there with her younger boy, and Rich and I had brought […]