Six and a half hours of driving in the wrong direction. North instead of south. That’s what two of my cousins did to deliver a precious-to-me cargo. They had been visiting another of our cousins when she offered to give up some of the keepsake furniture from our grandmother. They knew I’d like to have…
Category: Family
Cousin Reunion
A few days ago I went to a cousin reunion. There were only four of us meeting in a city two and a half days journey from two of the cousins and half a day’s trip from the other two. This event has triggered thoughts about life, death, and legacy. Life, in that it…
A Pain in the Neck
My neck is killing me. Ok, so not killing me literally. Ever had a stiff neck that wouldn’t go away? Better check your posture. A couple of months ago my massage therapist recommended that I work on my posture. Yep, I knew I needed to improve that. However, it sure isn’t a one-time decision to…
Like a Child
“Jesus, I hope the kids want to make friends. And, Jesus, make this day the best day ever. Amen.” Prayer of a four-year-old the night before the first day of pre-school. “Unless you become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of God.” Jesus quoted in Matthew 18:3 In her mom’s words, this…
Six things to do now to make the holidays less stressful
How can I set myself up for an enjoyable holiday season? 1. Plan Guests and Dates. Ask friends and relatives what their plans are and if they would like to join us for a celebration on the day of the holiday or on a more convenient day. Write it on my calendar. Be gracious if…
Tomatoes and Sons
My friend is in her 70’s, but her enthusiasm for life is inspiring. She planted 300 tomato plants again this Spring. If the preceding years are any indication, she and her husband will harvest and sell 6,000 pounds of tomatoes from their home on a busy two lane road in rural Oregon. But entrepreneurship isn’t…