First, You Decide to Live

Recently we learned of another couple who lost a child—a baby, only four months old. My heart aches for them, for the traumatic pain that has just flooded their souls, threatening to drown them. And then I think, “They’ll need to decide if they want to live.” Yes, it’s partly that meaning. I wanted to die when Robb did, the …

The Gift of You

          Searching for a meaningful gift for your husband/wife, and can’t find anything that shouts THIS IS IT. Craig and I have a suggestion for you: All you need is a small box and a piece of paper. On that paper, jot down, “This year, I’m giving the gift of You.” Then, explain… *You’re so very …

WANTED: Couples with these Traits!

  We both have an attitude of and decision to be life-long learners No matter where we are on this journey as a couple—whether married 2 months or 25+ years—we’re searching for ways to grow closer to God and each other We’re open to recommendations on how to improve our communication We’re on the look-out for creative ideas to add …

Two Gifts

The last roses of summer 2018. And a nugget from Apostle Paul…. I’m constantly puzzled by our inability as Christians to tap into the power that created, holds together, and fuels the universe: The Holy Spirit. We have direct access to it; it lives within us! Why, then, do I so often grow weary? Why do I feel weighted down …

A Challenge: Can You Think outside the Box?

I have a theory to present to you. Can’t prove it, but it sure makes sense to me. Might make perfect sense to you also if you’ll open your mind to a radical view…of heaven.  So fire up those brain cells! Here goes: Fact #1: God created time. For us. He didn’t need it, is not bound by it. We …

We’re Brand New!

I’m the person who usually only tolerates change—through gritted teeth and skeptical, narrowed eyes. I am truly and thoroughly conservative, I’m afraid! While Craig has often courted and welcomed all things new (he appears to thrive on it, to great frustration), I’ve often been passive aggressive. Pouty. And rather vocal in my complaints. Whining, actually. Pathetic, eh? But this change…well, …

ANNOUNCEMENTS: A Newsletter for You!

Dear Friends and Family, We need your help. Craig and I would love to write another book on marriage. I even have a title that many of you have already remarked you’d like to read…. Whoever Still Thinks Sex Starts in the Kitchen Hasn’t Watched My Husband Eat Cereal: Creating and Growing a Real Relationship But before we can write …

For the Little Things

I’m reading through Philippians for my devotions, and I just studied the passage in chapter two that says, “Do everything without complaining or arguing” (verse 14). Grinning to myself, I scribbled in my journal, “What would be the fun of THAT?” Because, you know…well actually, I can be a pretty accomplished whiner. I’ve got skills. A few minutes later I …

Madelaine Takes the Town by Storm

That was her full registered name, and she’d earned it. Born in Craig, Colorado (why didn’t I realize that was an omen for how ornery she’d be?), we drove through a snowstorm out I-70 to go pick her up, spent the night, and drove back home through another snowstorm. Next challenge: Ever tried to train a puppy in two feet …

December 1

Today is the first day of December. The holiday month, the jingle bells and mistletoe and carols and manger scene month. It’s also…that month. In the weeks after Robb died, I would go to the living room and lie down on the couch. Where I’d sob and cry out, “I want my son. I want my son!” Almost 7 years …