The Reality of the Nativity

20 children shot and killed in an elementary school in Connecticut. 22 children stabbed at a primary school in China. As moms we hug tighter the children in our own homes.  And we wonder at the evil, the brokenness, the sin.  Our hearts break at the tragic loss, ache for the moms who will spend Christmas morning mourning. We echo the words of Longfellow, And in despair I bowed my head, "There is no peace on earth, " I said. "For hate is strong and mocks the song Of peace on earth, good will to ... [Read More]

I’m an Advent Failure!

Every year I have grandiose plans for Advent. Books to read, activities to complete, prayers to write. And every year one of two things happen: I don’t get started until December 10th  . . . OR  . . .  by December 10th I’ve missed so many days I am ready to give up. For the past few years I’ve owned my Advent failures and determined not to attempt so much and instead slow and be still more. Instead of adding to my December calendar, I subtract. I write less and expect less—of myself and of ... [Read More]

Using Scripture in Your Christmas Decor

I'm over at Do Not Depart today sharing about how we incorporate Scripture into our holiday decorations. I'd love for you to join me there today for some simple ideas! And a few other reminders: 50% off code for the Redeemed Christmas Doormat is good through Saturday!  Use code DOORMAT50 to get yours for just $15!   10 Great Gift Ideas for Guys ... From calendars to shaving kits, these are some classic gifts for the guys on your list! Leave a comment on this review of Karen Ehman's ... [Read More]

Where Did Baby Jesus Go? Or A Review of Let. It. Go. by Karen Ehman

As much as I like to think my years on Paxil have eliminated all the control freak tendencies inside my little type A head and heart, I suppose I'd be lying to myself and everyone else if I didn't 'fess up to the conviction I felt when I started reading Karen Ehman's latest book, Let. It. Go.: How to Stop Running the Show and Start Walking in Faith. Seriously, when Amy asked me to join the blog tour team, I really did think, "Okay, but I am so not that girl anymore.  I don't worry about things ... [Read More]

10 Great Gifts for the Men on Your List

Guys can be really hard to buy for, you know?  Especially if your guy isn't a golfer, hunter, fisher, or ridiculous sports fanatic.  And it's all harder if you have a guy like mine who usually just saves up for whatever he wants and buys it for himself ... or adds items to his list that you feel incredibly ill-equipped to purchase.  So, with the help of said guy, we've come up with a list for all you, like me, who wonder what on earth to give the guys on your list. Shaving Kit — Lots ... [Read More]

When God Draws Near: The Passion of the Redeemed

I love this season!  I love the lights and the decorations.  I love the music and the parties.  I love Black Friday shopping and wrapping the gifts.  I love the food and the gathering around the table. Christmas is definitely one of my favorite times of the year! But mostly because Christmas is such a great opportunity for me to be light in the darkness!  Just as my tree lights shine through the windows and the candles promise rest and warmth as they glisten in the darkness of night, so I have ... [Read More]