14 years ago we were talking baby names. After determining we would not find out the gender of our child, we considered several options for a boy and a girl. We landed here: Caleb Scott or Casiday Hope. Hope. It's a big little word. You see, in April 1999, we sat in a doctor's office in Birmingham and were told we'd never have a child of our own. We drove home that Wednesday afternoon and headed to the mid-week services at our little church. We were hurt. And we were mad. And we really ... [Read More]
Believe in the Beauty of Dreams
Amazing how once I realized my dream and then started sharing it with others, God began opening the doors to allow me to live in it. I suppose, though, it really isn't that amazing. Sometimes we hide behind the "what ifs" ... What if I'm wrong about this? What if I can't do it? What if no one supports me? What if I fail? What if I succeed? What if ... I have no idea what your "what ifs" are but I'd bet you have some. We all do. They are rooted in fear and insecurity. And ... [Read More]
Dayspring After Christmas Sale!!
We're headed to the Smoky Mountains today for our last getaway as a family during 2012. Our agenda includes The Apple Barn, Dixie Stampede, Fanny Farkle, the original Log Cabin Pancake House, and maybe a little laser tag. I'm certain a good time will be had by all. But before we head out the door, I wanted to let you know about the amazing After Christmas Sale at Dayspring. This is some serious goodness!! So, here are just a few of the goodies I'm thinking might have to find a home here ... [Read More]
When God Draws Near: The Person of Redemption
About half of women in the United States feel unattractive without makeup (source). Based on my Twitter stream, a good percentage of women struggle to build solid friendships with other women in their communities. We battle feelings of insecurity and insignificance. We wonder if we are good enough at mothering, wife-ing, homemaking, and ministering. Based on the popularity of books like Hope for the Weary Mom: Where God Meets You in Your Mess,Unglued: Making Wise Choices ... [Read More]
Fall Favorites: Thanksgiving Stockings
It's one of my four favorite seasons ... autumn! I love the colors and smells and foods and traditions of fall. So, I thought I'd share some of my favorites over the next few days. First up, my absolute favorite Thanksgiving tradition here at The Underwood Abode: Thanksgiving Stockings! Every year after the table is cleared and our bellies are stuffed with sweet potatoes and dressing and pumpkin pie, Scott and I give everyone who has gathered with us for the day a "Thanksgiving ... [Read More]
Redeemed, Recovered … and a Giveaway
Redeemed. I love that word. It means "to recover by payment or other satisfaction." (dictionary.com) That's what we are, you know. Recovered ... covered by the payment of Christ's death for our sin. Sometimes I think we lose sight of the price paid for our lives, for our salvation, for our freedom. And, as women, I know we lose sight of how treasured, how beautiful, how precious we are in the sight of God. My favorite verses in all of Scripture come from Isaiah (which might just be my ... [Read More]
