My friend Janet and I sat down and talked about Crocs, long-eared rabbits, and egg sandwiches. We talked about suffering, motherhood, and what we’ll write in our journals when we’re 70 years old. We laughed. I cried. It was one of those conversations. But the conversation wasn’t just between the two of us. With every answer, I thought of you. … Read More
Why Garth Brooks was singing to the sweet corn at 5 a.m.
One of my favorite things about living in the country is discovering the secret tactics of well-seasoned gardeners, farmers, hunters, and whoopie-pie bakers. One summer, I needed some gardening techniques when a critter nibbled our precious sweet corn before we had a chance to harvest it for our picnic. We were crushed. And we wanted to make sure it wouldn’t … Read More
You’re never too far gone. (New podcast episode)
When I was a kid, my dad had one big rule: “Don’t do gymnastics in the house.” Did I listen to him? Nope. This podcast episode is about one time when I totally disobeyed and found myself in quite a disaster. It’s also a story about God’s good heart to welcome you and me home every time – every time … Read More
Big Decision To Make? This will help. (New Podcast Episode)
Life is full of tough decisions. Sometimes, we make the wrong one simply because we don’t trust God’s good heart for us. Let this episode of Expect Something Beautiful strengthen you to choose the good thing, the best thing. God wants you to have a good life (and I don’t mean the “prosperity gospel” type of good life), I mean … Read More
Hope for the woman who hates men
Have you ever said, “I hate men”? You’re not alone. A lot of women say it. I’ve said it. For every woman who says it, there is a unique reason why. And there’s a personal invitation from her Creator to be healed, strengthened, and empowered with love. I used to say, “I hate men,” but I don’t anymore. Here’s why. … Read More
Restoring Relationships That Covid Complicated
Relationships were difficult BEFORE a worldwide pandemic threw a giant wrench in them. If you’re like me, you’re just beginning to clear your head and get your feet back on the ground after a year of complicated relationships. (The unknowns! The sickness! The logistics! The distance! The emotions! The politics! Oi.) May God give us big hearts and open arms … Read More
Splish Splash! Two fun episodes about swimming (and so much more).
The way we respond to our children in their moments of distress could impact them for eternity. Just think: our help could teach them to expect God’s help. Our comfort could warm their hearts to receive God’s comfort. Our smiles could open their eyes to look for God’s smile. Even though we’re only human and we mess up aplenty (I … Read More
Tired of serving? I sure am. Here’s what to do next. (New podcast episode!)
My friend didn’t ask much. And yet, when my kids and I returned home from serving her, we were wiped out… for DAYS. I couldn’t help but wonder, why am I so weak? And why can’t I bounce back faster? If you’ve ever asked yourself these questions, I invite you to listen to this episode of my Expect Something Beautiful … Read More
My Stillbirth Story (Podcast Episode)
When we’re gathering around the dinner table or piling into the van, I naturally count the kids. “One, two, three, four, five, six.” Despite all of the energy and noise, I often get the sensation that someone is missing. Call me crazy, but it’s not quite loud enough. And there’s just a little too much elbow room. I find myself … Read More
The Art of “Ending Well” (And a new podcast episode!)
Oh, do I have a good laugh for you today… What began as an embarrassing moment (one I, too, can laugh about now) launched me into a season of pondering the importance of “ending well”. I share some of my thoughts – and the embarrassing moment, of course – in this week’s Expect Something Beautiful podcast episode. To hear the … Read More
