Although I’ve been a working mom for nearly all of my children’s lives, the majority of that employment was quite non-traditional. As I’ve ventured into the world of working outside the home again, I’ve struggled with lots of feelings from guilt to frustration to enjoyment. I notice other working moms more readily, and I see in their eyes the same …
The Blessing of A Bloom
This post first appeared on my old blog a few years ago. It’s message resonated with me today, so I wanted to share it with you again. We planted it back at the beginning of summer. Along with the strawberries that never quite made it, and the sweet pea that bloomed in beauty. It was the first of the three …
This Gal’s Journey Re-Launch Giveaway!
*This post contains affiliate links. Welcome to my new home! Isn’t it lovely?? A huge thanks to Johann at The Interface Studio for all his work behind the scenes setting it up! If you’re looking for someone to do quality hosting for your blog, send me a message because Johann has a great deal for you! I am so excited about …
Prayers with Skin On: An Open Letter to Our Neighbors
Dear Neighbor, I just want to take a moment to say: Thank you. Yes, you with the tween daughter just like mine, who took my girls under her wing and gave them a familiar, friendly face on the first day of school. Who has been that friendly face day in and day out since then — who has opened so …
Getting a Glimpse
Back in December, I posted this on Instagram: We had been back in the States for about 4 months, with zero clue as to what we were doing next. We had no idea if we would head back overseas or stay here in the U.S. I remember during that time, however, I had so many, many moments like the one …
When You’re Not Who You Thought You Were
I slowly sipped the steaming coffee, letting it soothe me with it’s warmth. As I cupped the mug in my hands, my eyes lingered on the faded Scottish flag painted upon it. We had bought it while in Scotland on a work trip back years ago. Back then there was no mistaking the stark white X slicing through the vibrant blue …
When You Realize Your Own Insignificance
I woke up with a jolt. Something wasn’t right. I sat up in bed and surveyed my surroundings. Pale blue light seeped lazily through the slats in the vertical blinds, and my husband slept, undisturbed, next to me. No children stirred down the hall, no bird welcome the day with his song. I’d heard something. It was a pop. Or …
The Exquisite Ache of Learning Something new
I started a new job last week. And after a decade of living the non-traditional expat lifestyle, I can tell you the learning curve was steep. Not just the learning curve, but the mental energy stamina. It’s been a LONG time since I’ve used my brain in this way. Oh, I’ve learned new stuff while we lived overseas, sure. Languages, …
The Safety Net of Silence
This has always been a very safe place for us, friends, hasn’t it? We’ve always been able to talk freely, and be vulnerable with one another. We’ve talked about everything from parenting funnies to spiritual constipation to culture shock to hair styles. And we’ve always been there for one another, lifting each other up, encouraging one another. That’s why I …
Learning to Curb my Temper in Motherhood
You guys, I struggle with being a grumpy mom. That’s a nice way of saying that I tend to snap quickly and ask questions later when I’m dealing with my children; particularly when I’m tired and/or stressed. So, basically the past 2 years of our lives. However, I’m taking steps, along with the Spirit’s help, to improve my situation – …