Encouraging Words

United Church of the Valley Christmas Cantata 2010 Pleasing my Father My dad’s approval is important to me. As a child, I would have rather endured a spanking than heard him quietly say, “I’m disappointed in you.” My dad has also encouraged me to write since I was a small child. So when I blogged […]


In the Land of the Living

Cadence, Rob, Elaine, and Sawyer Happy Birthday, Rob! Our son-in-law Rob is 30 today. Yesterday, Elaine prepared a lovely party for her husband. Rich and I drove in the rain to San Diego to share in the merrymaking, arriving a bit early to help with last-minute preparations. Thus we had the pleasure of watching the house fill with […]


Who’s Next?

Our Friend Nadya Likes Brownie Pudding So Different! Brownie Pudding is a Legendary Family Dessert® from my childhood. When I was a girl, it was one of my favorites. As an adult, I value its homey goodness and the memories it conjures. I also love that the ingredients are mixed right in the pan with […]


Faith Made a Mountain, Part Two

Judi, Leonard, Me, and Big Smiles Catch some Joy Sunday I told you about the trip we made to Salvation Mountain the day before. Five days later, Leonard and his mountain are still very much in my heart. I keep reflecting on his joy. If you go to see Salvation Mountain, Leonard will want to […]


Now Hear This!

The Newsboys: “He Reigns” Meant to be Shared I heard this song on the radio last night, as I was driving home from an exceptionally long day. This morning, as I sat down to reflect on what to write today, I noticed that last night I’d jotted “Newsboys–He Reings” [sic–I did mention it was a […]