Author Archives: Andi

This is the first year that I did not put up the kid’s Christmas tree. You know the one with all the ornaments the kids grew up with. Last year I put it up in my cabin along with a Santa tree. This year I only have a small snowman tree in my cabin. My woodlandContinue reading “My Woodland Tree”

I’ve been MIA. Yes, it’s been difficult for me to write. Not that I don’t have anything to say because I do. I always have something to say. I like to think that in the past I’ve had important things to share, like hard lessons I’ve learned with hopes that sharing might help someone elseContinue reading “A Piece of Humble Pie”

Original post: November 1, 2021. Edited. For some reason my life seems to center around this particular date. I began to compile a list of significant events because they all seemed to have one thing in common. They all happened on November 1st. It’s not all been good, but they are highlights; meaningful in oneContinue reading “November 1st”

This past winter was very difficult for me. It was bitter cold and windy. It was my first winter without any children living with me. My first winter, in many years, of not working outside the home. My first winter in a new home with my new husband. So many life changes in a relativelyContinue reading “Summer of 2025”

Lament. What does this word mean? It’s not used much in today’s world. Lament means to mourn, to regret deeply, or to grieve.  A vast majority of our country, and those in other countries as well, are grieving. The grief isn’t solely on behalf of a young man killed for his willingness to stand forContinue reading “Lament “

I know that I am not living to my full potential in this life. I’ve never been more sure of that statement as in these last four days.  I am 64 years old and I’ve been brought to my knees by the death of a man half my age. Charlie lived life to his fullContinue reading “Living Our Full Potential”

I haven’t been inspired to write much as of late. Probably because I just haven’t felt well. But I am inspired this morning.  I found this powerful quote yesterday evening while scrolling through the news.  When you tear out a man’s tongue, you are not proving him a liar, you’re only telling the world thatContinue reading “The Effectiveness of a Good Man”

Sunbeams sliver through the darkness of the woods and glisten the dewdrops hanging tightly to the fence near where I sit. A new morning. A new day.  Last night I admired the starry sky. I saw the Big Dipper and recalled seeing the very same stars from the driveway of my Waukegan home in myContinue reading “That Which Is Familiar”

One thing about life is you just never know. In the scheme of things we really know nothing. All we know is know is what we’ve lived up to this very moment. That’s it. We can plan for the future, but… We just don’t know. So this afternoon when my daughter, Charlie, sent me aContinue reading “Buy The Shoes”

Dani is my wonderful daughter-in-law. She is married to my second son, Jet. She’s an adoring wife and wonderful mother to their 3 year old daughter, Juneau. She is also an artist and I’d like to share her talent with the world. Dani excels in watercolor and I love receiving framable birthday cards that she paintsContinue reading “Dani”

I love this quote. It’s from the movie The Magic of Belle Isle. Morgan Freeman (one of my favs) was teaching his nine year old neighbor how to use her imagination when he told her to never stop looking for what’s not there. Freeman portrays a well-known author, Monte Wildhorn, who lost his ambition andContinue reading ““Never stop looking for what’s not there.””

One of my favorite seasons is tightly squeezed in between summer and fall. It’s the shortest season of the year. Back to School. Ahhh…I can smell those pencil shavings now.  My heart flips a little when I see the seasonal aisles near the front of the store filled with notebooks, folders, glue, and lunch boxes. Continue reading “The In-Between Season”

It’s been difficult to write lately unless something extraordinary inspires me. Like heroes in my last posts.  July was simply not a good month for me. It was a month of pain. Physical pain. I spare you the details of my physical wellbeing. Let’s just say it’s a month I wish never to repeat. AlthoughContinue reading “A Day of Reflection”

As I was writing about Jet and his longtime hero, Ryne Sandberg, I began to reflect on heroes in my life. Did I have one? Off hand, I cannot recall having a hero in my youth, as did Jet. I do realize, though, I have many heroes today.  I will say that Jet is aContinue reading “Heroes, Part 2”

It’s 11:00 pm. and I can’t sleep.  My daughter, Charlie, shared with me tonight that Jet’s hero passed away. So Jet has been heavy on my heart. Ryne Sandberg, a cherished second baseman (retired) for the Chicago Cubs died today after a battle with cancer. He was Jet’s hero.  1984 was a big year forContinue reading “Heroes, Part 1”

I love to read obituaries. This may sound weird, or maybe even somewhat dark, but really it’s not. It’s not that I’m obsessed with death. Quite the opposite. I’m obsessed with life. Whether it’s my life or someone else’s. And whether they are alive or have passed on. An example would be of my blogger friend,Continue reading “Obituaries”

Original post: August 12, 2020. Edited. A lot has transpired since I first penned this post. Nothing stays the same forever, even though we cannot see the possibilities. Seasons of our life change…when it’s time. And the appropriate timing is best left to God. Patience. My life is very different now and I appreciate everyContinue reading “Outside Looking In/ Inside Looking Out”

Once upon a time, many many years ago, in a classroom set high up in the trees, I was a teacher and my students were my children.  We were blessed with a  comfortable classroom on the second floor with an exceptional view into the woods. Every change of season was breathtaking. Squirrels outside the windowContinue reading “Christmas in July”

♥️ Andi

For several years, my father, Dennis G. S., lived part-time in Casoli, Italy, in the region of Abruzzo. His maternal side was from Naples so Dad was deeply drawn to his Italian roots and the beauty of Italy. Dad’s home was located near the castle, or what is now a Catholic Church and museum. FromContinue reading “The Tailor of Casoli (CH) Italy”

Back in the mid to late 90’s, I traveled through one of the darkest tunnels of my life. My vision of life was narrowly channeled, dark and enclosed. Very little light shown at the end of the of the darkness. Strangely, the longer I traveled through the tunnel, the light became smaller and even moreContinue reading “The Darkest Tunnel”

What is a Gamma Shark? Well…that would be me.  When my oldest grandson was learning to talk, he couldn’t say my name, Grandma Schardt. It came out as Gamma Shark. And that name just kinda stuck with me.  With Schardt being my maiden name, I reclaimed it after my divorce. My kids were happy thatContinue reading “Gamma Shark”

Lately, as I drive around on the weekends, I notice balloons tied to mailboxes, white tents set up in backyards, and cars parked along the roads and in fields. Ahhhh…the much anticipated graduation parties. Thinking about being a graduating senior sure makes me smile. I remember how exciting it was for me. I graduated inContinue reading “Graduation”

I originally posted this a few years back. Edited. Last night I was having a discussion with a fellow blogger who was feeling discouraged with his writing. While trying to encourage my friend, I explained to him the most important and meaningful reason of why I write. I write for my kids. I write fromContinue reading “Why I Write”

Original post: July 30, 2021. Edited. While I no am longer party to all the “you should haves/ could haves”concerning my life, of which there were many, I know this is a real problem for others. We have all sorts of well-meaning people telling us how to walk through our life. Including how we shouldContinue reading “Shoelaces”

Ever have one of those days where you could do/ should do a million things but you aren’t inspired to do a single one of them? That’s my day today.  I’ve been stressed over the last couple of hours to do something as I rehash all the possible things I should do and could  do…whileContinue reading “A Million Things”

Original post: June 3, 2024. It’s been a fast year since that first night without my last baby here with me. Many nights have passed since. Time doesn’t stand still for anyone…not even for the yearning heart of a mother. I’m grateful for the wonderful memories of when my children were under my roof. I’mContinue reading “First Nights”

Actually, all three of my girls display great positive attitudes. All are strong women. Driven women. They don’t give up and they will fight hard to make their own way in this world. And they never ask me for help.  But this particular post is about my oldest daughter, Denae. This girl is a worker.Continue reading “My Positive Girl”

June 1st. How is this even possible? I don’t believe in my lifetime that a month has ever slipped away as fast as this past month. My girls and I love the month of May. It’s the green month…and, to us, it’s the most beautiful part of spring. Trees are full and green. Even theContinue reading “What Happened to May?”

Original post: May 22, 2023; edited for my current birthday. Today is my 64th birthday. Woohoo! I made it another year! What have I learned in the approximately 23,360 days of my existence on this earth? Well, let’s see…. I have learned that not all love is the same. I’ve figured out that my wayContinue reading “The Things I’ve Learned”

Original post: September 10, 2022; edited. This was written when I was single and struggling with life in general. Especially with my rebellious yard. Since I posted about me and my mower yesterday, I thought I’d follow up with this post. September 10, 2022 As some of you may recall, I have the yard fromContinue reading “God is Funny”

Original post: July 10, 2021. I thought this would be a fun read for my husband, D. My Husqvarna now sits in his barn. He likes to make fun of it. Compared to his monster mowers, it does look like a sissy girl. But it’s mine and I still love it. I asked if heContinue reading “Me and My Husqvarna”

Yesterday, physically, I felt awful. Could I blame it on the farmer for spraying toxic herbicides on the field across from my driveway that blew on me while in my front yard? Yeah, I could. I could blame it on the weather. I could blame it on my lack of exercise, my lack of properContinue reading “Self-Care & Self-Love”

…is quite disappointing.  I am a little old-fashioned in a way. I like to send greeting cards. I spend time choosing perfect cards for the people in my life. Cards, though, have not maintain their old-fashioned prices. Not to mention the cost of a single stamp. So I spend time and money on people IContinue reading “The U.S. Postal Service…”

Original post: July 2023; condensed and edited. Regardless of who you are, or what you believe, when you take that last breath you are walking into an unknown. You leave all that is familiar here and all those you love to walk into unfamiliar. You leave work undone. A yard un-mowed and bills unpaid. YouContinue reading “The Truest Act of Courage”

My thought for the day. ♥️ Andi

“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” – Joshua 1:9 Sometimes we called out by God to do hard things. Not that we particularly like to do hard things as it’s really notContinue reading “Hard Things”

I have two beautiful children who are currently quite overwhelmed with life. Sadly, they watched how I handled issues throughout my life. I wasn’t the best example.  A few short years ago, I was describing my woes to a friend. He told me, “You’re not going to go hungry, nor will you lose the roofContinue reading “Revealing or an Unraveling “

I’ve lost many people throughout my life. High school friends, a boyfriend, my parents, two best friends, an ex fiancée…people all whom I loved very much.    Reality is this…I’m getting older and with my parents both gone, I’m now at the top of the chain.  This isn’t a sad affair, nor is it meantContinue reading “Death Makes Life Real”

Original post: April 9, 2021. Edited. Reposting again today on this beautiful spring day. I just heard this song on my Waukegan playlist. It’s probably my favorite song of Rod McKuen’s. My dad listened to Rod McKuen a lot when I was growing up. I have a Rod McKuen playlist on my phone. Listening toContinue reading “Blessings in Shades of Green”

I’ve been working on a children’s story. This story has been in the works for more than a couple of years. Yep, you read that correctly…more than a couple of years. I thought the story would flow easily but it has not. Well, in my head it did. So this has taken me quite byContinue reading “An Ugh Moment”

A bobblehead in the rear window, looking at everything but what is in front of me…story of my life. I definitely have lived in the past while worrying about the future. I rarely lived my life in the middle. You know, in the moment.  How do you teach younger people to live in the present?Continue reading “The Middle”

Okay, I know how messy Canada geese are and that most people dislike them…but, they have my heart.  Our property is a sanctuary for all kinds of animals. We have deer, wild turkeys, wood ducks, periodically, fox, coyotes, a white skunk, opossums, bobcat, a blue heron, a variety of song birds, woodpeckers, and buzzards, andContinue reading “Gertrude”

There really is a method to my madness; a rhyme to my reason.  My mother passed away almost ten years now. She died with vascular dementia. She went to her room for a Sunday afternoon nap and never woke again. She went peacefully and quietly. But that is not how the days and years wereContinue reading “The Reason Why”

I ran across a conversation I had with D a year ago. It melted my heart.  March 17, 2024 Me: Looking over my life I’ve had happy moments, but it really wasn’t a happy life.  D: I want to make your last years happy. I want to see you sitting under a tree writing yourContinue reading “I Get To See You”

Mitch Teemley posted this yesterday and I found it to be most entertaining. I remember the mindset of those years. It certainly wasn’t that long ago. It brings to mind the slogan for Virginia Slims “You’ve (We’ve) come a long way, baby.” Be sure you click on each picture to see the full ad. 🙂Continue reading “The Most Cringe-Inducing Ads Ever!”

Coming out of a busy week of early appointments and errands, I am enjoying this cold, spring day of really doing nothing. Oh, I’m throwing in loads of laundry periodically, but for the most part, just chilling and reflecting upon the goodness of God.  Currently, I am wrapped up in a blanket in my cozyContinue reading “A Blessed Day”

The storms have been powerful and the lightning energizes the earth. The chorus frogs sing their songs of love and a green glow shimmers through the woods after the heavy rains. The air is clean and fresh. The grass is thick and speckled with yellow dandelions…delicious treats for my son’s tortoises. The birds and otherContinue reading “Spring Has Arrived”

My dad magnetized people. They were drawn to him like those fly strips you hang in your garage. And he had friends all over the world.  Not only did he have a boatload of friends, Dad lived life in full technicolor, 4D…or whatever the latest techno-trend is today. I’m not very tech savvy as youContinue reading “He Never Said “I Can’t””

What? I’m sorry…what did you say? Um…huh? Mom.  Mom. Mom. Mom. Andi.  ANDREA!! Am I going deaf or do I just tune people out like I did when I had six children living under my roof? Sometimes the words I hear are very muffled. But do I give my full attention to those in conversation?Continue reading “Huh? “

D and I have an area in the basement that is designated for donations. We are constantly finding things we no longer need but that are in good shape for someone else to use. He’s had to downsize so I could fill up every nook and cranny with my stuff. I do try to keepContinue reading “The Value of a Bag”

My youngest just left my house. My heart sinks every time one of my kids drives away. Maybe I’m the sappiest mom on the planet. Mattea and I had good conversation today. She amazes me with her well thought-out perspectives on many aspects of life. She has a new life so very separate from mine.Continue reading “Dream Doers”

A few times throughout life I have come across a voice that stands out of from all the others. James Earl Jones had a wonderfully bold voice. Cary Grant had a fun, exciting voice and James Stewart had a voice that was truly unique. But one voice that stands out from rest for me isContinue reading “A Voice That Stirs “

D made my morning. He informed me that’s it’s officially National Napping Day! I didn’t know! My family history involves much napping so this is pretty exciting for me. Well, my kids aren’t into napping but I grew up with nappers. As for me…I’m a believer.  I don’t fair well with daylight saving. In fact,Continue reading “National Napping Day!”

Original post: June 2023; edited. When I was in my early twenties, I heard a preacher discussing eternal life. He said that some people think when you die you are dead all over like a dog named Rover. I don’t share that sentiment. I believe in life after death. Eternal life. I believe that weContinue reading “The Breath of Life”

Living with pets is a joy…until it’s not. Like today.  When I moved here with D, I brought three critters with me. My dog, Nyx, and my daughter’s cat, Frodo, and her dog, Crystal.  Sadly, Crystal passed away in December. Frodo…well, if you have had a cat you know the struggles of being a catContinue reading “Life With Pets”

Original post: April 2, 2023. Edited. There is great power in words. We know what it feels like to have a harsh word spoken to us with sarcasm or in anger. It cuts like a knife and leaves a scar forever embedded in our heart. Our mind marks it unforgettable. Knowing how words have theContinue reading “If I was dying…”

This winter D has been going through his many totes of pictures. Something I need to do as well. We sure can accumulate a lot of pictures and stuff over our lifetime. It’s been fun learning about D’s life. You know…his 65 years of living before he met me. That’s a lifetime for sure.  DContinue reading “With Appreciation “

I’m watching my grandkids today and I’ve had enough of SpongeBob and Mario Brothers so I turned off the TV and am playing MY music. I am thankful I don’t need a cigarette or glass of wine to chill. Just music.  I recently created a playlist called Waukegan. It is the music of my youth,Continue reading “Music and Sunshine”

I found this poem years ago. I’ve had it my draft file for a long time. I don’t know how e.h. would have titled it, but I think Who You Are is appropriate. WHO YOU ARE You are not your age, Nor the size of clothes you wear,  You are not a weight,  Or theContinue reading “Who You Are”

Original post: March 13, 2024, edited I guess I woke up today on the wrong side of winter. Seasonal depression is a real thing. It’s very real to me. I loved the beauty of the first snow at the beginning of this year, but here it is six weeks later and I’ve clearly had enough.Continue reading “These Three”

We all have choices to make and most choices affect not only us, but others.  Think about this: we all have just ONE life on this earth. And our choices should not negatively affect another’s. This might be a complicated concept but let me explain.  Say you are having an affair and your spouse hasContinue reading “The Choices We Make”

I don’t know whose quote this is but it could have easily been written by me. I don’t claim to be holier than thou. Never have. I did have a chip on my shoulder for a period of time though. I am not perfect. I’ve never been ashamed to admit that. There is no reasonContinue reading “A Million Reasons”

Ahhhh…tis the season.  People are dropping like flies around here with head colds and the flu. I’ve been able to ward off the worst of it…so far.  I never heard that phrase until Grandpa said it a couple of weeks ago. I thought it was pretty hilarious.  The kids and I just love Grandpa to pieces.Continue reading “Green Apple Quickstep”

Many decades ago I received the picture below as a gift from my two oldest boys. They were but wee lads then, all those years ago. They spent the little money they had saved on me instead of buying something for themselves. I absolutely love this picture. Maybe the old sailor is great-grandpa to theContinue reading “Love In Its Purest Form”

Transparency is one of those words that has been around for a very long time but has only just gained momentum in its usage over the last few years.  Transparency means being out in plain view. It means others can clearly see your actions to understand your motives.  This word is very common in theContinue reading “Transparency for Thee…”

My youngest daughter, Mattea, turns 23 today, the 23rd of January.  Her golden birthday. I don’t know where the time went. I spent Tuesday with her since I cannot see her today and we had such a nice visit. I sat in awe of the young woman she is today.  Mattea had a bad birth.Continue reading “My Golden Girl”

I love to write. It is one of my happiest places. Typically, I can easily spend hours writing.  The current pressure I feel to write, on my blog and on my children’s book, is self-inflicted pressure (and pain). I own it.  I had a goal to dive into my children’s book last October but lifeContinue reading “Hemingway”

Most of the snow melted during the end of last week. But now it is frigid. Current temperature is 1 degree with a windchill of -14.  I think I’m done with winter now.   I loved the initial snowfall. It was beautiful. I felt like I was in a hallmark movie. But when it isContinue reading “Cabin Fever”

For some reason I have been having great difficulty writing. Maybe it’s writer’s block but honestly I’ve never had a block last this long. Months long. There was a time when I would post every day. Sometimes twice a day. All my life I’ve been a deep thinker. I have always felt every single thing, deeply.Continue reading “My Writing”

The moon is just as amazing to me as the sun although I love them for very different reasons. This full wolf moon shines bright against the white snow covered ground. It’s as though someone has forgotten to shut a light off while I’m trying to sleep.  The moon is a connection of hearts. There’sContinue reading “The Full Moon”

I love the change of seasons. My favorite seems to be the shortest season of all…autumn. Once the leaves fall off, well…it’s just kinda blah. Winter is my least favorite but I’d probably miss it if I didn’t have it. This winter hasn’t disappointed me though. It’s very beautiful even though it’s bitter cold.  OnContinue reading “Snow Days”

A repost of another blogger, Regie Hamm. 3 MONTHS Is it just me, or has this been the longest election-to-inauguration in history?  It feels dozens of major global stories have played out and a … 3 MONTHS… My personal thoughts: I appreciate Regie’s thoughts. D and I have been discussing this “in-between period” and allContinue reading “3 MONTHS”

Back in October, my sister and my daughter, Charlie, came to stay with D and me for a week. My sis is from North Carolina, a beautiful state. My daughter from sunny Florida. We spent one of those days shopping and we visited our favorite bookstore, Barnes and Noble.  Charlie was picking out a fantasyContinue reading “The No-Sense Book Club”

Another new year has begun. It’s been a quarter of a century since we thought the world might crash and burn because of an imagined massive world-wide computer glitch. But here we are now in 2025. We made it. We made it through that and many numerous tragedies and scares. Seems like someone (or someones)Continue reading “New Year’s Day: 2025”

Wishing you a beautiful day! ♥️ Andi

The desire to live is fierce. The body does not want to un-live. Regardless of whether the being is human, animal, or plant, all were blessed with an innate desire to live and thrive.  But on the other hand, sometimes enough is enough. The body is compromised. The spirit broken. The will to thrive hasContinue reading “The Fragility of Life”

Earlier this week I spent time with Ezekiel. We went to Barnes & Noble. I love that my kids and I share in a love of writing and in books. Books that you hold in your hands and can smell the pages.  I decided to visit the children’s section where I hope to one dayContinue reading “Children’s Books”

My mom’s name was Helen. She wasn’t well-known upon this earth. Her name was never in lights. She didn’t win a Nobel Peace Prize. She didn’t author a book. But she did write on the hearts of those who knew her. Her message was of love and kindness. Today Mom would have been 84 yearsContinue reading “My Momma”

My car won’t start on this cold day but I more than welcome the opportunity to stay home. So I am enjoying Christmas movies as I  work on my children’s story. Yay me! The movie I am watching is called Merry In-Laws starring George Wendt as Santa Claus, and Shelly Long as Mrs. Claus. WhileContinue reading “Every Day is a Gift”

When I was moving from my house to D’s, I told him that I needed to be all settled in so I could begin to write my stories by October. It is now December and I haven’t written a single line. Well, except for my blog.  The holiday season is basically over for me soContinue reading “It’s Time”

Our annual holiday baking day was successful. The elves were busy, busy, busy all the day long. And the house was filled with noise, noise, noise…as the Grinch would say, along with D. Actually, the two have sort of blended together to make one entity. D is in agreement. The gingersnaps made by Jangle wereContinue reading “A Whirlwind Weekend”

I have loved the idea of a simple life since the beginning of my time. But I have searched for it all my life. Life just never seems so simple. When asked what I wanted out of life, I would always respond with two things: 1) a simple life, and 2) a close family. ThoseContinue reading “Stacked Wood”

The holiday magic would not happen without these two. Tomorrow they will get a workout on our annual Holiday Baking Day. Gingersnaps, Oreo Balls, Peanut Butter cookies, and Lemon Bars…and anything else my elves decide to make.  We have a long, fun day ahead of us. It’s a lot of work but so worth it!Continue reading “Big Red & Old Yeller”

In everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. 1 Thessalonians 5:18 As this busy year begins winding down, I look back with gratitude of where I was to where I am now. But even so, if this year would not have played out as it did, I’dContinue reading “Thanksgiving Thoughts”

The other day I wore my Amazing Grace sweatshirt to Hobby Lobby.  After I loaded my treasures into my car I pushed the cart back to the store. A woman was just about to enter the store when I asked if she’d like my cart. I told her it rides nice. She was grateful andContinue reading “Amazing Grace”

As many of you know, we have a family tradition of an annual holiday baking day. We are excited to be planning this year’s baking day which will take place in just two weeks. This year has gone so fast! Let the holidays begin! THE NIGHT BEFORE BAKING DAY The night before baking day AndContinue reading “The Night Before Baking Day”

Once upon a time my dream began. My oldest daughter, Denae, said she first heard about my dream in utero. She’s 32 now.  I don’t exactly know when it began. I’ve always loved the solitude and beauty of the country life ever since my teen John Denver days. He’s actually the one who taught meContinue reading “Cabin Cove “

Selfish desires rarely affect only the owner of said desires. Often there are ill effects for those who don’t deserve to be party to such desires. Vision is distorted when something (or someone) is not in God’s plan or in his timing. Way too often children are the ones who are subjected to the painContinue reading ““This is fun for them too.” Not…”

♥️ Andi Photos: watermarked are my photos

I was blessed to visit my friend this past Wednesday. We live three and a half hours apart so when an opportunity arises to see each other we jump on it. Today I’d like to honor her through this post. She deserves it. Michele is the most unique and one of the most genuine personsContinue reading “Michele, with one “L””

This is truly one of my most favorite passages. To me, the two most important parts of these verses, besides trusting in God with all my heart, are: 1) to not lean on my own understanding, and 2) to not be wise in my own eyes. I could have saved myself from a lot painContinue reading “Proverbs 3:5-8”

…that whatever state you are in, whatever problem is looking you straight in the eye, whatever decision needs to be made, whatever words have shattered your spirit or altered your life…have faith that, Don’t give up. Trust in God. ♥️ Andi Photo: northern lights, October 10, 2024

Earlier this week, I was talking with my friend, Michele, who lives three and a half hours northeast of me. I mentioned how I wish I could visit more frequently.  Her response was this: That’s ok you have been able to step through all the doors God has provided! After my friend (also Michele’s brother),Continue reading “Doors”

Original post: February 9, 2020; edited One Sunday morning, back when our family was still young and growing, we decided to visit a tiny, white building which housed a church. Originally the building was built for a few families to gather to homeschool their children. We unloaded our then five children out of the suburbanContinue reading “Buddy’s Bible”

I visited my youngest daughter on Friday. She moved an hour and a half away almost four months ago and this was my first visit. Bad mommy….but with everything that’s been going on here…well, time just got away from me.  She moved to a very beautiful, well-kept, city which is big on the arts. And herContinue reading “A Humbling Milestone”

The funny thing about writing (and posting) in the middle of the night is rereading what I did the next morning.  Yeah, it can be funny. Or sometimes, not.  I went to bed at 10:30 and woke up (wide awake) one hour later. I got up and went into the living room. I felt inspiredContinue reading “TheFunnyThing “

1 Peter 3:3-4 Do not let your adorning be external–the braiding of hair and the putting on of gold jewelry, or the clothing you wear,  but let your adorning be the hidden person of the heart with the imperishable beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which in God’s sight is very precious. Just throwingContinue reading “Beauty”

I’m not a swimmer, scuba diver, or snorkeler. I tried skiing once, and only once, and I tore my hamstring in three places. I was the passenger on a jet ski once, and only once, with an inexperienced driver, and he dumped us in the middle of the lake. That was pretty embarrassing at theContinue reading “Along the Water’s Edge”

The past eleven months with D have been a whirlwind of events and changes. Life-changing events. Not to mention all that transpired last year prior to our meeting. Life moved fast from one moment to the next. One event to the next. Change after change. I’ve barely been able to digest it all.  But hereContinue reading “As The Dust Begins to Settle”

My bench has a new home. It is such a treasure to me that I couldn’t part with it when I moved. I bought it once-upon-a-time at Gilley’s, an antique mall, which is one of my most absolute favorite places to shop. If you recall from previous posts, the prior setting of my bench wasContinue reading “The Bench”

Just so much has taken place in a very short period of time. Many life-changing events have kept my head spinning. My brain has been sorting, pitching, filing away, and coming to terms with an array of information and emotion. Just so much. For those who know me personally, know I have difficulty when IContinue reading “Just So Much”

I woke up early and began reading news articles before I got out of bed. This is something I should refrain from doing as it sets the tone for my day. And since there is not much good in the news, this is an unpleasant way to begin.  So I will forget for the momentContinue reading “In This Morning”

Today I did another hard thing. I opened up two containers. Containers that I needed to go through and get rid of most, if not all, of its contents. Actually, I opened the first container last night which was labeled My Youth. The other was Baby Clothes and Blankets.  Do you recall these lines fromContinue reading “Attachments, Part 2”

My friend, fellow blogger, Danielle, posted this morning about feeling your emotions. (Link below.) I am sharing a poem I wrote many years ago to go along with her post. https://thedailyaddictcom.wordpress.com/2024/08/16/feel-your-feelings-8-16/ EMOTIONS Is there shame in expressing sadness, heartache, or pain, To look through the sun and only see rain, Is it absurd of meContinue reading “EMOTIONS”

We are attached to many things. Probably more than we actually realize. When you decide to put your house up for sale the reality of attachment hits you upside the head. Or, should I say…hits you in the heart. Weeding out what I no longer need in my life from those things I cannot liveContinue reading “Attachments”

With it being county and state fair season, I started thinking about carnival rides. Do you remember that Tilt-a-Whirl? I think it might be renamed now. I recall my first ride was with my brother and sister at a 4th of July carnival in Minnesota. I was about 9, my sister, 8, and my brother,Continue reading “Tilt-a-Whirl”

God is faithful.  Over the course of the past couple of years I finally realized this. Over the past several decades if there was any walking away, it was me who turned my back. God, being patient, waited and watched. Jesus was never far from me.  I have been blessed beyond measure. And when IContinue reading “For Those Who Love Him”

Tonight as D and I drove out to the pond to feed the fish, we stopped to look at our wildflowers. This spring we planted wildflowers along a fence row. D mows a wide strip between the flowers we planted and an area of wildflowers that grew up naturally. Most people would call them weedsContinue reading “Wildflower Heaven”

Kamala Harris could be the first female president by the end of the day. She’s already the first female vice president. Has that made your life … BEAUTIFUL PEOPLE… I thought this post was a good read so I decided to repost it here. ♥️ Andi

I was speaking with someone precious to me this morning…my youngest son. I tried to give good advice for a most difficult time. Another season of change in his life. He mentioned the loneliness he’s experiencing and I totally understand loneliness. I’ve been so very lonely many times. But not all loneliness is a badContinue reading “Trust in His Quietness”

You never know what you say or do that will greatly impress a young child. I recall odd things from my youth and I wonder why I remember such a thing. Today I spent the day with my precious grandchildren. As we walked around our pond, Belle told me about Sunday school yesterday morning. TheContinue reading “Through A Child’s Eyes”

Today is July 4th and as I reflect on what this day means, I cannot help but feel overwhelmed with love for our country. It is true she is a wreck at the moment, but our history, which cannot be erased, tells the story of our great land. And I am so proud of her.Continue reading “Our Country”

I officially retired as of June 27th. That is a great reason to celebrate. It’s both exciting and scary for me. I been in survival mode for so many years and that switch is difficult to turn off. D said he wants me to focus on my health and writing. He helped me to makeContinue reading “My Front Porch”

Quite awhile back, in February of 2021, I wrote about a special scarf that was given to me in a grocery store parking lot many years prior to that post. It was a beautiful moment shared with a beautiful soul. (I’ve attached the link to that post.) A couple of nights ago, D and IContinue reading “Paths Intertwine”

When the Bible speaks of life as a vapor, or a mist, the writer, James, was not mistaken. In the blink of an eye, here we are…one.year.later. James 14:4 ESV …yet you do not know what tomorrow will bring. What is your life? For you are a mist that appears for a little time andContinue reading “One Year Later (a blink of an eye)”

“The heart is the map that shows us where we’re going. The face is the map that shows us where we’ve been.” This is a slightly edited version of a quote by Julia Roberts in the movie “Wonder”. Last Saturday night I babysat my grandkids. Belle, who is seven years old, asked if I’d likeContinue reading “Maps in Life”

I received texts from my youngest daughter, Mattea, earlier this week. She is the one who just moved out on Monday. I was questioning whether I prepared her well enough for life without me. These texts have helped me to put things in perspective. Here’s what she wrote: I am my own person. I’m makingContinue reading “To Put Things in Perspective”

Tonight is my last night in my home. Granted, I’ll still be in and out of the house for a while as I have things to move out, sell, and of course, make minor repairs to, and clean. Then it will go on the market. There is a big event around the square tonight withContinue reading “Feel to Heal”

As I sit on my porch swing on this chilly morning before work, my mind races to recapture everything that transpired here. I have two more nights before I move away. My porch swing has been one of my absolute favorite spots on this property. Many posts were written on this old glider. Lots ofContinue reading “As Moving Day Approaches”

Original post: April 30, 2021 Today was quite breezy. In fact, it’s been windy for the past several days. I love the sea breeze in my hair, but here at home, the wind blows my hair in my face when I’m trying to work outside so I have to pull it back. While I wasContinue reading “The Need for Stress”

A rough night, but an even rougher morning. While my coffee was brewing I wandered in my daughter’s bedroom. It’s so freakishly quiet. And clean. I sit on the side of her bed and open her blinds. She used to sprinkle birdseed on her windowsill. That way she had up-close views of her bird friends.Continue reading “Questions Arise”

The shadows are long as it’s 8:30 pm. But the night will be even longer as the shadows will soon blend with the night sky. I’m glad I don’t work tomorrow. I have six children ranging in ages from 41-22. One by one each left my home. They left my care, my shelter, my arms,Continue reading “First Nights”

I truly cannot believe that this is June. How is it even possible? My life seems to be traveling in fast forward. Have you ever felt like this? I sit here in unbelief, as I reflect on the multitude of changes that have taken place in just one year. It’s simply hard for me toContinue reading “Life in Fast Forward”

I’m finally relaxing in my bedroom recliner. It is time to write. My window is open. It was a cooler day. I have a sweater on and I am very cozy. I love the summer sun but I’m still a sweater girl at heart. I slept with the window open last night and I willContinue reading “My Day With the Kids”

Yesterday was my official last day as clerk treasurer of my little town. As humorous as this may sound, I have been trying to resign from that position practically since the day I was appointed. And that was in December 2022. It was a tough job and I kept clicking my heels to take meContinue reading “Dorothy’s Bittersweet Goodbye”

Original post: March 29, 2021, the day our dad was removed from life support. Edited. I’ve been thinking of my sister a lot lately. My parents, my brother, and my sister moved 700 miles away from me in 1982. My father worked for IBM and was transferred…again. I was married then and expecting my firstContinue reading “Sisters ♥️”

All through history from the creation through present time man has battled between right and wrong, good and evil. Many strive to be righteous according to God’s will. Some try to walk the line between God’s will and their own. And then there are some who blatantly defy God. Sadly, there is an ever-growing peopleContinue reading “Who Is An Enemy of God?”

During the 2020 lockdowns, two of my daughters and I spent a lot of time outside on our deck. I remember those first two weeks were very quiet in our neighborhood. No one was driving anywhere. It was a strange time for sure and the quietness reminded me of the three days after the bombingContinue reading “A Fascinating Sky”

Ponds can be breathtakingly beautiful. They attract all kinds of wildlife in and around its perimeter. D has one such pond. The wildlife he sees on a daily basis is really quite remarkable. This past weekend we saw three deer, a momma white skunk, a ground hog, three goofy young male turkeys who I referContinue reading “Pond Life”

Yesterday evening was a little scary. In the town where I was working, the weather turned ugly very quickly although we had been keeping up on the predicted bad weather forecast throughout the day. The tornado sirens went off at least two times. I heard twice. The rain was extremely heavy. The guys I workContinue reading “The Tornado Warning and Jeep Challenge”

When we were kids living on North Bonnie Brook Lane, in Waukegan, Illinois, my siblings and I and a couple of our neighborhood friends would get excited for May Day. We had learned about this fun May Day tradition in grade school. We would cut up strips of paper and weave tiny baskets. Sometimes weContinue reading “Happy May Day”

Sometimes when you start feeling sorry for yourself (me) for missing life with your kids, it is humbling to hear about their experiences in life, especially with children of their own. I was greatly humbled this morning. Even though I miss my little ones, I do not want to keep my kids from experiencing lifeContinue reading “Best Day”

My Charlie just texted me that she is boarding the plane now that will take her home. I cried when I dropped her off at the departure gate. And I am crying now. A mother’s heart wants the best for her children. She thinks about this all through those tough, but amazing nurturing years. AndContinue reading “A Mother’s Heart”

The power of the sun is quite remarkable. I have been thinking about this ever since the eclipse on Monday. We were fortunate to witness the eclipse in our area. My family gathered together out in the country, away from the rush of onlookers who traveled here from other parts of the country. My son,Continue reading “The Sun”

Once in a while something brings to my memory an actor or musician from days gone by and I have to research them to see what they are up to. A few nights ago, I searched David Cassidy. He was a heartthrob for many girls during the Partridge Family days. According to Wikipedia, David CassidyContinue reading ““So much wasted time.””

Back in 2016, I was working for a florist. On November 1st of that year, my best friend of over 30 years passed away suddenly in her sleep. I was devastated. Because I was so distraught, my boss allowed me to work in an area of the store where I wouldn’t have to talk toContinue reading “Your Personal Floormat”

Original post: March 30, 2021. Edited. This was written three years ago, the day after my dad passed. The last six weeks of his life were grueling…agonizing, to say the least. He was not ready. Neither were we. I didn’t have the closure I really needed. We had a tumultuous relationship, filled with highs andContinue reading “That Thin Line”

I love taking photos. Photos take you back to the very moment you snapped that shot. You can remember most everything surrounding that moment in time. Who you were with. How you were feeling. What was on your mind. Nature is my favorite subject to photograph. But I also like to take pics of thingsContinue reading “Photographs”

Original post: March 7, 2021. Edited. Yesterday, my daughter and I took a long country drive. We drove to a small farming community just for curiosity’s sake. In the middle of farmland were rows of houses, some with white picket fences, and large mature trees dotted the small town. There was a lone gas stationContinue reading “Days of Old”

Original post: March 13, 2022. Edited. My youngest daughter and I took Nyx for a walk one lovely Sunday afternoon. For most of that day, I’d been going through my jewelry, trinkets, and keepsakes; sorting and pitching as I went. There were a lot of journeys down memory lane. Happy and sad journeys. Much ofContinue reading “There’s No Learning in Easy”

No one knows what the future holds for us. For the most part, we cannot foresee the obstacles that will get in the way of our desires, or the hurdles we have to jump in order to get ahead. No one can see, even with those special eclipse glasses, all the scenarios that can happenContinue reading “Choose Your Path, Wisely”

Yesterday I came home from my new job…discouraged. I didn’t want to see anyone. I didn’t want to talk to a single person. I knew my state of mind would only bring others down. I didn’t want to do that. Not at all. But D did want to talk to me. He wanted to knowContinue reading “These Three”

I stated a few days ago that I would be sharing my carnivore lifestyle. This is a lengthy read and I do apologize, but I wanted you to get a better picture of how I got to this place in my life. I know several people have been wondering about me. My life began inContinue reading “The Lioness in Me”

Out of the mouths of babes. Even when your children are adults, they will forever be your babes. And sometimes they will love you so much in any given moment that you will be brought to tears. On Wednesday, my oldest daughter, Denae, did just that. She sent me this text: Mom, I found aContinue reading “Bulletproof”

I have a bazillion notebooks and half as many journals. Most journals I have had for years but are still untouched just waiting for the most perfect inspiration. Many notebooks are written in, often only a single page of something I didn’t want to forget at the time. It could have been a simple listContinue reading “List Maker”

My apologies upfront as I rant a little this morning. I am already working on a couple other posts but this one stirred me up. There’s nothing quite like a stirred up Andi. My kids and D would most likely agree with that statement. So this morning I read yet another disturbing bit of informationContinue reading “What Can Possibly Go Wrong?”

♥️ Andi Photo: sunset at my thinking spot, January 2020

I came across this quote during one of my morning meditations. It really made a lot of sense to me. I think about my life and the future. I always begin with “I want”. I want a new job, a cabin, a lake, and a woods. I want to lose weight. I want summer. IContinue reading “Where to Find Peace”

As I sit here in my recliner, drinking coffee, and listening to the last three Jay Shetty meditations I missed, I look out my window to the snow that covers the outdoors wishing it was spring. Then one of the meditations talks about this very thing. Rushing seasons. I know that I have been guiltyContinue reading “Seasons”

So today was a difficult day. I spent much of it wrapped in the heated drama of our small town. I got caught up in the controversy, the frustration, the helplessness, the defenseless, the seriousness, the anger. I wrote long ago about who I am as a person. I take things to heart easily, butContinue reading “Understanding Who I Am”

No, this isn’t a special valentine message. Even though I have a special guy in my life, I am not a fan of the day. Bah humbug… But it is about love. Love for one another. Romans 12:10. I read recently that the mind tends to gravitate toward negativity rather than positivity. I don’t knowContinue reading “Outdo One Another”

Time goes so S*L*O*W when we are young and then in the mid twenties it speeds up dramatically. And then by the time you are 62, time travels like the Shanghai Maglev in China, which can reach a top speed of 267 mph. No, thank you. Is there ever a time in our life whenContinue reading “Time”

I have several dedicated readers. People I know and others whom I’ve never met. I am beyond flattered that people actually read my stuff and still come back. I enjoy the engagement with fellow bloggers too. I think my Bucket List should include meeting each of them in person. Such great writers. All of them!Continue reading “Turkey”

My meditation this morning with Jay Shetty was quite interesting. He told of a Dutch method to help relax the mind. It is called Niksen, or “nixing”. This art is simply giving your mind a much needed break and can be as simple as looking out a window at birds or cloud watching. There isContinue reading “Niksen: The Art of Doing Nothing”

Below is a wonderful post written by my blogger friend, Danielle. She has been on a remarkable journey of self-discovery and healing after years of addiction. I have never met Danielle in person yet through her openness in her writing I feel I know her very well. She writes of her struggles and of herContinue reading “Home – in myself 2/10”

How often in a day do you say “I can’t”? Honestly, I’m probably the world’s greatest, or should I say worst, I can’ter. What do we actually mean when we say “I can’t”? Granted, we may have physical, emotional, or mental limitations that solidify an I can’t to a request. Or, there may be timingContinue reading “I Can’t”

Yes, I am finally leaving the job I do not love. Moving on. Although I absolutely love the hours and my coworker…the work, well…not so much. Tonight my resignation will be formally announced. And it will be bittersweet. Changing jobs, again. This made me think all the places I’ve worked throughout my life. I’ve actuallyContinue reading “Moving On”

Growing up in the 70’s was awesome. Music was very important to me then and it still is today. I thank my father for that. It was probably the greatest gift he ever gave me. He opened my world to a variety of music and I grew to love the artists. I wish I hadContinue reading “My Vinyl Past”

Learning the hard way has kind of been my lifelong motto. I made bad decisions, wrong choices, and messy mistakes more than once. You know…just to be sure. But life is full of THOSE things. And I’m not the only one who has suffered through them. That’s because we are imperfect people living in anContinue reading “Softening in the Hands of God”

As every February 1st approaches I think that I won’t post this poem this year. That maybe I will skip a year. Some of my readers have been with me since the beginning of this blog and have seen this poem several times already. But….my love for this girl never fades. My gratitude of havingContinue reading “My Chelle”

Original post: August 28, 2022 My dad’s mother’s family is from Naples, Italy. I do not remember my grandmother as she passed away when I was about three years old. Sadly, my dad lost both parents about seven days apart, in separate hospitals, and both from heart disease. As I grew up, I thought GrandmaContinue reading “Through Our Heart Line”

“Ebbs and flows” is an idiom that refers to the natural rhythm of life and the continuous change that is inherent in it. It means that things constantly change and that there are times when things are on the rise and other times when they are on the decline. ~grammarly.com Ebb is the movement ofContinue reading “Ebbs and Flows of Life”

Today is the fourth anniversary since the creation of this blog, coffeewithandi. Not including this new year, I’ve posted 813 times. There were 13,502 views; 5,626 visitors; and approximately 329,400 words written. (In all fairness, during difficult times in my life, I critiqued, edited, and reposted old posts, which are included in these totals.) ThisContinue reading “An Exciting Anniversary”

I walked through two devotions this morning and they both discussed the importance of the Holy Spirit in our lives. That made me consider myself. I embrace God and Jesus but I tend to overlook the third person in that holy trinity. The Holy Spirit is God dwelling within believers. But what is his purpose?Continue reading “The Holy Spirit”

♥️ Andi Photos: pictures were taken off a very old bridge in the fall of 2020. The bridge has since been replaced with a new modern bridge.

Grief is one of the hardest things in this life to grasp and understand. Realistically, it is a part of life. Anyone with a heart cannot escape it. Grief cuts us to the core. It disrupts our entire life on a daily basis. And it appears to be never-ending. Everyone handles grief differently, but theContinue reading “Grief”

John14:1 Let not your hearts be troubled. Believe in God; believe also in me. John 14:2 In my Father’s house are many rooms. If it were not so, would I have told you that I go to prepare a place for you? John 14:3 And if I go and prepare a place for you, IContinue reading “Believe”

Seeking God with all your heart. What does that mean…with all your heart? I believe it’s walking through your day with a conscious and purposeful awareness of God. I believe it’s dwelling on his will and his desires for your life. It is an intentional effort on your part to draw closer to him andContinue reading “With All Your Heart”

i walk down a wintery path in silence i reflect on the many lives i’ve lived and of the many hats i’ve worn …and i wonder how do i feel about it all? i look upward into a snowy sky i enjoy the touch of snowflakes upon my lashes and upon my cheek and forContinue reading “i wonder”

In good times, bad times, and questionable times, God is our refuge. Our anxieties come from fear. Fear of the unknown. Fear of not being able to handle all that is before us. Fear. Fear. Fear. Just as when God handed Joshua the keys to the new land after Moses had died. It was aContinue reading “Psalm 46:1, 2”

A fellow blogger included a picture of Joker with a recent post. It reminded me of my son and I told her I would post about him. So my son, Ezekiel, has a dream to be a voice actor. He can replicate many MANY voices to a “t”. Once when he riding in the seatContinue reading “Ezekiel”

Sometimes we become unbalanced. You say (or write) one thing, but then your life shows a completely different picture; a side of you that isn’t quite as stable as how you’ve projected to others. Is that a sign of weakness or of being a hypocrite? Maybe. But I don’t believe it is in every case.Continue reading “Balance”

January 6, 2024, is a day of great honor for one of my dearest friends, and adopted brother, Bruce. Bruce was a wrestler in Waukegan (West) High School in Illinois. We graduated in 1979, so we’ve been out of school 45 years this year. Remember that…45 years. Even though Bruce and I started out inContinue reading “My Friend, Bruce”

Original Post: February 14, 2021. Edited. One very sunny, but chilly winter day I ran to the grocery store. I picked up a few things and got in line at the checkout counter. This was long before there were self-checkouts and at a time when a pandemic was something you only read about in aContinue reading “The Scarf”

Original Post: August 22, 2021. Edited. Words just can’t express the joy that enters the home when a baby arrives. There’s nothing like a baby or two, or even six, to fill a home with love. My first three bundles of joy were born in the hospital. The last three were born at home. Yeah,Continue reading “A Parent’s Happiness”

Tomorrow is a new year. A brand new spotless year. Crisp, white pages of the next chapter of our lives, not yet marred by sadness or defeat. No sin or shame has darkened its pages. No eraser marks for do-overs. No white-out to cover what we want to forget. Crisp, clean, white pages. But todayContinue reading “A Unit of Measure”

Written September 16, 2013 In the night, as I sit alone in my room, I think of many things. Not that I can solve the world’s problems because I cannot even solve my own. But I am a thinker. It’s what I do. Tonight my thoughts are a tangled web of what if, why, I’mContinue reading “Searchers”

I had an experience recently where I realized I was feeling insecure. This is not a new emotion and I can recognize that “I am not enough” feeling … The train of insecurity 12/28 A wonderful post by my blogger friend, Danielle. I needed this today. Maybe you do too. ♥️ Andi

My daughter, Charlie, called me an “uncultured swine” the other day. Huh. Can’t say I’ve ever been called that before. Huh. All because I didn’t know a line she quoted from Pride and Prejudice. So I ordered a copy and will read it this winter. Unculture that…. ♥️😊 Andi

Original post: February 11, 2020 “Forever that person who gets really excited when the sky is in pretty colors.” -unknown This would be me for sure. The older I get, the more I love and appreciate nature, and rejoice in the simpler things of life. But mostly I’m drawn to the vastness and beauty ofContinue reading “Forever That Person”

Another year is quickly coming to a close. That seems sad to me when I think about all that transpired in 2023…with its highs and lows, and the loss and the changes. But the choice is mine. I can enter the new year in sadness because death robbed me of someone special or I canContinue reading “Another Year’s End, Or Is It A New Beginning?”

Every decision we make is a choice. How we treat others is a choice. How we react to something is a choice. How we live our life is a choice. Today was my cousin’s funeral. She was a mere 52 years young and died from lung cancer even though she never smoked. She fought longContinue reading “Choices”

As I was driving from the bank to Aldi’s this afternoon, I listened to I Can Only Imagine by MercyMe. It’s a wonderful song that makes me think. And as I was singing and driving (honestly, these are the only two things I am able to multitask), I started comparing what I can see andContinue reading “The Hem”

Singing songs of praise this morning. ♥️ Andi Photo: sunset view from my backyard, October 6, 2016

I got up this morning and went to let Nyx out and make coffee. And when I was walking around my kitchen I felt…well…short. Short as in un-tall. What’s up with that? No one was with me yet I felt short in comparison to everything around me. The cabinets, the counters, the fridge. I’ve alwaysContinue reading “Feeling Short-er”

As I sit here alone in my decorated house, I am visited by the ghost of Christmas past. My life is much different now than what seems like only yesterday. Johnny Mathis’s beautiful voice singing The Christmas Song, Winter Wonderland, and Silent Night brings back childhood memories of being at home with my parents andContinue reading “The Ghost of Christmas Past”

Original Post: July 10, 2020; edited. When your heart is troubled, …remember that God is still in control. …invite a friend over for coffee. …double up on prayer. …take a nap. Or, two. …find comfort that God knows your anguish. …take a walk in nature. …realize that life isn’t always fair. …repot your plants, orContinue reading “When Your Heart is Troubled”

I’m always in the middle of not just one thing, but several at a time, so it seems. Sometimes when I’m buried so deep I lose sight of what’s most important. Time spent in drama is not time well spent. So this morning I decided to spend much needed time with Jesus. My devotion thisContinue reading “Life’s Drama”

You are not your age, Nor the size of clothes you wear, You are not a weight, Or the colour of your hair. You are not your name, Or the dimples in your cheeks, You are all the books you read, And all the words you speak, You are your croaky morning voice, And theContinue reading “Definition of You”

Sometimes you have to stop chasing the dream so it can find you. ~ Andi The last four years of my life I didn’t allow myself to be involved in a relationship. That was my choice which I still believe was for good reason. Reasons, of which, I am still discovering. During those four yearsContinue reading “When You Least Expect It”

I was gently reminded last night by one of my very best friends, Michele, that a man who is at peace right where he’s at…is a gift. And she couldn’t be more right. I was once married to a man who felt the only way to his happiness was if he saw as many patientsContinue reading “A Man at Peace”

At this time of year, many of us get into the rhythm of the hustle and bustle of the holiday season. We are busy with parties, get-togethers, baking days, watching holiday movies, drives through Christmases in parks, shopping for gifts, etc. But during this fast-pace holiday season, let’s not lose sight of God’s design forContinue reading “Gift-Giving”

In the wee hours of the morning, by the light of my woodland tree, I came up with a short list of why we give to others. Not sure why this came to mind, but okay. I’ll write about it. I’m sure I’ve left out some major reasons. I’m just running with four reasons thatContinue reading “Why We Give”

The most important gifts in my life are: Jesus, the love of family and friends, and nature – where I feel the closest to God. I am blessed with the ability to express myself through the written word as well. And I am so very grateful. I am blessed. ♥️ Andi Photo: my photo takenContinue reading “Gifts”

The sky never ceases to amaze me. In fact, several of us had to step outside tonight to see the unique ring around the moon. Next to the moon is Jupiter which looks like a bright star just slightly northeast of the moon. God was so creative in his every design. God gave us extraContinue reading “The Night Sky”

With a grateful heart, today my table will be seated with those whom I love and care for. With a welcoming heart, I will open my home to those who have recently touched my life. With a blessed heart, I will watch and listen to the interactions between my family and new acquaintances. With aContinue reading “With A Grateful Heart”

I was cleaning up the kitchen after my daughter and her boyfriend made three pumpkin pies last night for our Thanksgiving dinner tomorrow. I was watching a Hallmark Christmas movie called Take Me Back for Christmas while I cleaned up flour that appeared to have exploded in my kitchen. By the time I had theContinue reading “Without Goodbyes”

I can hardly explain this year with all its highs and lows. I’ve never experienced one quite like it before. 2023 will forever stand out in my heart. My personal walk with Matt through his sickness and then through his passing, heightened my awareness of God and the very presence of Jesus in every singleContinue reading “My Bountiful Thanksgiving”

If you erase all the mistakes of your past, you would also erase all of the wisdom of your present. Remember the lesson, not the disappointment. ~ Unknown Mistakes. Wow. I’ve made them. A boatload of them too. Many of my mistakes were made because of carelessness. Far too many because of selfishness. Some becauseContinue reading “Mistakes”

Thank you, Jesus, for never leaving my side. For making sure we always have just enough. For never giving up on me even when I didn’t deserve such graciousness. For giving me the joy of laughter. And thank you for filling my heart with love. ♥️ Andi Photos: my backyard view taken by Mattea; MaineContinue reading “With Much Gratitude…”

Life is full of changes. Sometimes they are, ohhhh…so good. Other changes, not so much. But regardless, change is inevitable, no matter what they look like. And sometimes we have zero control over them. I’m not so good with change. I’ve mentioned my dislike for change many times in this blog. I like to beContinue reading “Butterflies”

♥️ Andi Photo: a friend’s pond in the sunset

Which one do I enter? How do I know God’s plan when two doors are opening and both look promising? With my long history of making poor decisions, I have been hesitant. Fear of entering a wrong door has kept me from entering either. And that’s not living. A friend recently shared something with meContinue reading “Those Open Doors”

What are the keys to life’s happiness? A perfect place to start is to love Jesus. He gives us hope through promise. But while walking this earth, how can we live happily with all that troubles us? I have been on quite a journey. A journey that has taken me to the pinnacles of mountainsContinue reading “Keys to Happiness”

Original post: August 16, 2021; pictures added. Luke 10:38-4238 Now as they went on their way, Jesus entered a village. And a woman named Martha welcomed him into her house. 39 And she had a sister called Mary, who sat at the Lord’s feet and listened to his teaching. 40 But Martha was distracted withContinue reading “Martha, Martha”

These last couple of weeks at work have been horrific for me. From being told by a female customer she was going to take me down because her bill was too high, to being belittled by a large man who seemed to find satisfaction in humiliating a woman, to being falsely accused as corrupt byContinue reading “Haters Hate”

For my beautiful Chelle 02/01/1962 – 11/01/2016 I miss you….💔 Butterflies and roses, gifts from a friend. Treasures I’ll keep from now to my end. 🌹 Dragonflies and rainbows bring tears to my eyes, Of both joy and sorrow, of hellos and goodbyes. 🌈 The moment you left us many hearts broke. But loving kindnessContinue reading “Butterflies & Roses”

Yesterday was an emotionally charged day because of two of my precious littles. My oldest granddaughter, Belle, and I went to my basement. She asked about all the piles of things I have laid out. I told her I was getting rid of things so I can start packing to move to another house. SheContinue reading “Two Littles”

Over and over, for the last 11 months, I’ve heard, “You are so perfect for this job.” Am I though? I took this job as clerk-treasurer of my small town to get away from the insurance business. Being an insurance agent for two years in a windowless office from 8-5, as I sat behind threeContinue reading “You are perfect…”

Original Post: July 28, 2020 I created a cookbook for each of my kids. It contains lots of recipes that we’ve tested and tried and found worthy of a repeat. It also contains recipes from my parents and their parents and from friends I’ve had over the years. I placed the recipes in page protectorsContinue reading “Old Yeller”

Could hardly wait to get outside, On this beautiful, beautiful day, Sunlight golden through the trees , Above me circling, a bird of prey. The sky, a most perfect blue, An amazing moon is still awake, He’s not wanting to miss this day, So his precious time he decides to take. The morning air isContinue reading “Glorious Autumn Day”

I have this thing about cabins. Many years ago, at an annual festival near me, I bought a canvas of a cabin in a snowy woods. The light in the window flickers. (Batteries, included.) In my young girl imagination, that is where I sit to write. It’s warm and ever so cozy in there withContinue reading “My Cabin, My Dream”

My dad and I butt heads, always. We were always on opposite ends of the earth in our thinking. We clashed on religion, politics, and whether coconut oil is healthy for you or not. (It is.) These weren’t subtle disagreements. They ripped us apart. Everything was big to us. And it was that way fromContinue reading “Happy Birthday, Dad ♥️”

When Buddy passed away, I thought about life and friendships on a much deeper level. I decided at that time that if I was given a choice of knowing someone at the beginning of their life or at their end, I choose their end. There is much I learn from the end. Often, when weContinue reading “In The End”

I love the country. I may have grown up just north of Chicago in Waukegan, Illinois, but I wouldn’t say we lived in the city. We had open fields where we spent much time playing. Under the power lines was a makeshift motorcycle track where the guys would ride up and down all summer long.Continue reading “Country Life”

Have you ever chosen to repeat something just so you can shock the listener? Have you ever wanted to be the first to share news even though it wasn’t your news to share? Have you been told a juicy tidbit of information about someone and felt it was okay to repeat since “other” people know…therefore,Continue reading “Gossip”

I turned on tv this past weekend as I waited for my coffee to steep in my French press. The program I turned on was Woody Woodpecker. I haven’t seen an old cartoon for a long time. So the cartoon that came on was about a little mouse in a sad predicament. I remember seeingContinue reading “My, how things have changed.”

Last Friday, I spent time with three of my high school classmates. One of the girls, Michele, has a boat on the river and offered to take us for a boat ride. She said the trees along the river were beginning to show their color. We decided to make it a dinner cruise. The dayContinue reading “A River Ride”

The heavy fog wafts over the river, Over and thru fields of corn; Hiding speed limit signs and rooftops. Until the sun comes up, To warm the earth. The autumn leaves drift down, For golden rays to break thru, A joining of earth and heaven. ♥️ Andi

I’ve done a great deal of soul searching over the last few weeks. Maybe a better definition is healing. I feel it is time to share this healing with you since I’ve been pretty much absent here lately. In my relationship with Matt, I viewed perfection through my own eyes. I wanted our relationship toContinue reading “What is Perfect?”

About a week ago, I was out on my back deck with my daughter-in-law, Dani, and my little granddaughter, June Bug. I am contemplating moving from this house and I’d actually like to do it soon. At least before the next mowing season. We were admiring the tall cornfield in my backyard and she mentionedContinue reading “Same Sky, Different View”

Golden streaks of autumn sun,Shoot through the forest trees,Enhancing every color scheme,Contained within the falling leaves. A spider’s web hangs gracefully,Created skillfully through the night,Glistening with the morning dew,A chef d’oeuvre of pure delight. The air is crisp and clean these days,It refreshes my very soul,And awakens a youthful spirit within,Once again…I feel whole. GrapesContinue reading “Autumn Morn”

Image by Johannes Plenio Thought for the Week We’re slipping into fallmost, almost fall, the not-quite season. Or perhaps you think of it as notumn, … The Not-Quite Season I hope you enjoy this post as much as I do! Written by a fellow blogger, Mitch.

Autumn approaches subtlyYou can smell it in the airThe distant trees outlined in goldCool breezes in my hair A leaf or two fall gentlyTaking their time as they float downWithout a care they lingerBefore they hit the ground Cinnamon laced hot ciderWith just a hint of orangeAdd warmth to cool eveningsAnd delight to early mornsContinue reading “Autumn Arrives”

On Friday, I drove my youngest daughter and my granddaughter to my oldest daughter’s home near Chicago. My middle daughter met us there on Saturday. She drove up in her new Nissan Rogue. It was a great weekend with my beautiful, fun-loving girls. The weekend was filled with birthday fun for two of my grandchildrenContinue reading “As the Taillights Fade into Her Future”

Many times in life I find myself in the midst of a wilderness. Often it’s dark and scary and I can’t seem to find a path out. I can feel the burn of hidden eyes watching my every move. Watching me breathe. While in the wilderness my mind is being pumped full of adjectives declaringContinue reading “Who Are You Listening To?”

I posted a poem yesterday and there was a line in it that really resonated with me…“To always walk lightly – Tread the Earth ever gently – Lovingly … Walking lightly 8/23 I really encourage you to read this post by my blogger friend, Danielle. All of her daily posts are enlightening. She is anContinue reading “Walking lightly 8/23”

I spent a majority of my life feeling misunderstood. I felt that very few…very very few…actually got me. I spent much time in agony when people didn’t seem to understand me. To me, if they didn’t understand me, they didn’t like me. And I had this intense need to be liked. But why was thisContinue reading “Misunderstood”

I’m struggling to write as you may have noticed. My mind is quite unsettled as I sort out life according to needs, wants, and what is truly important. Of course, for me, this is all nicely wrapped in worry and topped with a bow of anxiety. Praying fervently that all my plans align with God’sContinue reading “Romans 8”

What are you allowed to believe? That is actually a question we now grapple with.  Most of us were raised in a world where belief had to be earned. … CRIMINAL BELIEFS … Another worthwhile post to read by Regie. ~Andi

I woke up too early this morning and couldn’t go back to sleep. So I started watching videos on my weather app. The devastation in Maui is beyond belief. But that’s only one area of so many throughout our whole world being destroyed by wildfires, floods, tornadoes, and drought. Anyone else have a creepy feelingContinue reading “Dumbing Down”

“One day at a time. That’s all we got. I will not, and I do not, fear tomorrow because I feel as if today has been enough.” ~Mikayla H. ♥️ Andi Thanks to Mikayla H. for sharing with me the quote and poem.

While I was sitting out in the hospital waiting room…waiting…I found a beautiful song I never heard before while searching for 10,000 Reasons by Matt Redman. Now…Never Once will be forever at the top of my favorite list. This song struck all of my heartstrings. It was the most perfect sound track for the lastContinue reading “Never Once”

Original post: September 28, 2020. Edited. The original post was a comparison between the years 2013 and the infamous 2020. Now I am adding 2023 into the mix. We tend to forget things and then end up reliving them later because, well…we forgot what happened, how we got there, and therefore, how to prevent theContinue reading “A Comparison”

Original post: April 16, 2021. Edited. Failure can mean something different to each of us. Failure to make the grade or get that next promotion. Failure to pay bills on time. Failure of a marriage or of that big business deal. Failure in child rearing. Failure often follows the mindset of “I can’t”. I tendContinue reading “Failure”

…is key. Original post: April 15, 2021. Edited. I created this quote when I first created this blog. I was inspired after I climbed to the top of Mt. Sargent, 9 1/2 months after my hip replacement. Prior to the surgery, I spent a couple of years in debilitating pain, of which the last severalContinue reading “Determination Behind the Dream..”

Original post: May 8, 2021. Edited. This post was written on Mother’s Day two years ago. I know I’m a little late for Mother’s Day 2023, but women can be celebrated all year. I know many great women. And I have recently added several more beautiful women to my life. This would include my bloggerContinue reading “The Blessing of Being a Woman”

Original post: August 18, 2020. Edited. **I have been struggling these past few months to write. My muse, my inspiration, became very ill during the winter. He passed in June. Today is August 1st. A second month has begun without him here. I am struggling with his loss. I look through old posts and giveContinue reading “An Emptiness I Cannot Imagine”

Original post: May, 12 2021. Edited. As I was drinking my coffee, a million thoughts rushed through my head…as usual. I turned on a random religious program. I am not familiar with TV evangelists. This woman preacher had an accent of some sort and I believe her name was Sheila. As soon as she beganContinue reading “My Morning Thoughts”

Original post: March 13, 2022. Edited. My youngest daughter and I took Nyx for a walk on this lovely Sunday afternoon. For most of this day, I’ve been going through my jewelry, trinkets, and keepsakes; sorting and pitching as I go. There have been a lot of journeys down memory lane. Happy and sad journeys.Continue reading “There’s No Learning in Easy”

I am feeling very blessed this morning even though this is a painful time. People have been brought back into my life and new relationships have blossomed. My small world has gotten a tad bigger. God is so good in providing just what we need. We don’t always understand his purpose or plan, and whyContinue reading “Blessed”

Original post: May 6, 2020. Edited. We often visualize flowing creeks, streams, and rivers when thinking of this idea of paths of least resistance. They will move around rocks and earth to find the easiest route to take them on their journey. We pretty much do the same thing with the many paths traveled inContinue reading “Paths of Least Resistance”

♥️ Andi Photo: coast of Maine, 2017

I am sharing a wonderful post by my blogger friend, Danielle. It reminded me of my post “The Breath of Life” on February 23, 2023. Both links are below. Poem by: John Roedel my brain andheart divorced a decade ago over who was to blame abouthow big of a messI have become eventually, they couldn’tContinue reading “‘My brain and heart divorced’”

I don’t know what I am supposed to be learning right now, but everyday seems to bring another something. It is all so unrelated that I’m confused on what the lesson is for me. But whatever the lesson is, I’d like to learn it so life will maybe smooth out. I’m just so very tired.Continue reading “More Than You Can Handle”

I’ve lived in this house for almost 10 years now. My sunroom is about my favorite room. It has certainly evolved over the years. While all of my plants have come and gone, my multicolored Madagascar Dragon Tree is thriving. It absolutely loves this room. I’ve had it for about 18-20 years. 🌸♥️🌸 Andi

There’s a saying I’ve heard since I moved to rural Indiana a long, long time ago in reference to the height of corn. Knee high by the 4th of July. And there once was an amusement park ad which stated. “There’s more than corn in Indiana.” Well, there may be more than corn in IndianaContinue reading “Corn”

I often admire what others refer to as weeds. The term weed is used loosely around my home. I love when Queen Anne’s Lace start blooming. I have loved these flowers since I was a child. My granddaughter picked a bloom for me today when she went on a walk with Aunt Tay. You mayContinue reading “Queen Anne’s Lace”

I am the newly appointed clerk for a small rural town. This term ends in December. I wasn’t going to run for office but then decided at the last minute to run. I think between myself and the contracted office help, the two of us have really been making a significant dent in the messContinue reading “Talking Smack”

Original post: February 22, 2022. A good, meaningful thought for this day. My kids…how I love them. When they are happy, I am happy. When they are sad, my heart breaks. Whatever they feel, I feel. And intensely. I still worry about their needs. Are they fed and warm? Are they making good decisions andContinue reading “You Don’t Have To Feel It…”

Original post: April 21, 2022, edited ~~A friend loves at all times.~~ Praise God for providing that special someone in your life who lovingly walks behind you…steadying you, picking up your broken pieces, pushing you, holding you up, and gluing you back together. Ecclesiastes 4:10For if they fall, one will lift up his fellow. ButContinue reading “That Special Someone”

Suffering is a very real part of this world. We cannot escape its chokehold when it chooses to pour its wrath upon us. We just have to be brave like the apostle Paul and think beyond the suffering to our heavenly home with Jesus. Grief is a type of suffering. It’s a very real partContinue reading “Our Suffering”

In my devotion this morning, I am reminded that God never changes. He doesn’t change with our changing times. He doesn’t change his mind. He doesn’t go along with the latest fads. He has not/ will not alter what he’s established since the beginning of time. He does not waiver like we humans do. HeContinue reading “Unchanging”

As I’m sitting on my front porch swing listening to the conversation between two of my two littles, I rejoice in their innocence. And I’m grateful they are here with me. My Jack handed me what he called a special rock. I asked him why this particular rock is so special – expecting him toContinue reading “Out of the Mouths of Babes”

I used to be so wordy. Now I can hardly find one word to share with you. Life has just not been so kind lately. Inspiration comes and goes. I have discovered wonderful kindness in others these past weeks though. So I guess I should rephrase that sentence. Life has just not been so easyContinue reading “Wordy”

I have mentioned in past posts about valuable lessons I’ve learned by listening to my kids. Children, even at a young age, can speak words that ground us. Words that are untarnished by the ways of the world. Children speak from the heart. Today was no exception. My youngest, Mattea, sat outside on the deckContinue reading “To Make Way ♥️”

Satan, get behind me. I have no need of you. I am battered and worn from all that has been thrown at me in just one week’s time, but you will not win. My God is stronger. He is wiser. And he cares for me. So release your grip from all that I love andContinue reading “Enough is Enough”

I haven’t written much lately. With all that has transpired over the last couple of weeks, my head is spinning. I lack sleep. I’m not eating in the manner which keeps me healthy. I’ve been troubled, worried, tired, sad, and broken. I did post a couple of times but, for the most part, I can’tContinue reading “Sometimes It Starts With A Picture”

I cringe when new posts are sent to my email readers WITH TYPOS. Believe it or not, I do edit prior to sending. But…it never fails that I find one or more grammatical errors after sending, even with proofreading several times. I can’t explain it so I won’t. I guess it takes me back toContinue reading “Oops….”

I couldn’t sleep. Again. So I went to my daily Bible devotion on YouVersion early. The focus was on Isaiah 26:3. I felt comfort in the verse. Therefore, I decided to use that verse for a post. Well, I guess God had other plans. I went to my Bible Hub app and searched for IsaiahContinue reading “James 1”

Original post: March 10, 2023. With the passing of Matthew, I have been reflecting on the prayers I prayed on his behalf over the past several months. I recall that I would also add to my prayers, “and help me to accept whatever the outcome.” Now that I am having to accept the “whatever”, IContinue reading “But Even If You Don’t”

He ignited a fire within me while softening my heart. He cleared my mind of clutter so I could see life, nature, and God with greater appreciation. He made me wonder like a child, showed me that the magic is found outside of the circle, helped me to embrace life a little closer, and loveContinue reading “A Kiss on the Forehead; A Journey’s End”

♥️ Andi

hī-ā′təsnounA gap or interruption in space, time, or continuity; a break. Life is challenging and confusing at the moment. I had a minor meltdown last night. It may or may not have involved chocolate. Lots of chocolate. And maybe a some peach Crown. Perhaps you could tell by my Memorial Day post yesterday that I’mContinue reading “Hiatus”

A friend texted me this picture over the weekend. This is at the home of someone she loves deeply, her daughter. She mows her yard, does housework, and helps with personal needs. Lately when she arrives at the home, she feels a heaviness due to her inability to help her daughter with debilitating health issues.Continue reading “A Bit Broken Inside”

Psalm 118:24This is the day that the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it. My friend, Robin, and I go back to 1977. We met in our junior year in high school when my family moved from Waukegan, Illinois, to a small rural town in Indiana. A few years ago weContinue reading “What Made You Happy Today?”

My daughter and her husband, saved their money to take a vacation. They hadn’t had a vacation in a quite a long time. They couldn’t wait. A trip to Florida! This trip was special. My daughter wanted to visit the area around St. Pete Beach where my dad had lived. He passed away two yearsContinue reading “Worth More Than a Thousand Words”

From the time we are born until we die, we are thrown into countless relationships. Most come and go. Others are deep and intense, and forever. The most important are often the most challenging. The family relationship is intricate. You have multiple people living with or near each other. Everyone knows your business; your moods,Continue reading “Relationships”

Kids nowadays might not really grasp the whole concept of a broken record. You remember the saying…you sound like a broken record? While I do see that LP’s are making a comeback, I think music is still mostly purchased from iTunes or Spotify, or whatever. Me…I’d love to have a turntable again for my collectionContinue reading “A Broken Record”

Communication is the key to every single relationship. I don’t think anyone would disagree with that statement. When we begin a new relationship, a relationship that absolutely clicks, we cannot talk enough to each other. We share our histories, our likes and dislikes, our beliefs on every topic ranging from religion, to child rearing, toContinue reading “Expectation Without Communication”

For the past couple of weeks, when I randomly open my Bible ESV, the first word I notice is steadfast. This has happened numerous times. Sometimes it’s written steadfast love and sometimes the word trust would be used in the same sentence. What is God trying to tell me? Synonyms for steadfast:LoyalFaithfulTrueDedicatedDevotedConstantStudyFerventPassionate Psalm 52:1The steadfastContinue reading “Steadfast”

Original post: July 7, 2020, during the initial Covid days. Edited. Last evening, I decided to do a little writing from my back porch. I was able to sit peacefully outdoors without the heat chasing me back inside. It was a gorgeous evening. I watched Amber, my daughter’s golden retriever, and Herc, my German shepherd,Continue reading “Nothing, But Everything”

Blessed beyond measure with greetings from so many. Phones calls, cards, text messages and online wishes. I was able to spend all day with three kids out of six, and then a fourth stopped by for a short visit. He is on his way to Africa tomorrow so he had much to do today. TheContinue reading “My Birthday Review”

Today is my 62nd birthday. Yippee!! I made it one more year! What have I learned in the approximately 22,900 days of my existence on this earth? Well, let’s see. I have learned that not all love is the same. I’ve figured out that my way is the hard way. Golden retrievers have the bestContinue reading “The Things I’ve Learned”

…remember that God is still in control. …be reassured that not everyday will be this hard. …double up on prayer. …take a nap. Or two. …paint a room. …take a nature walk. …find comfort that Jesus knows your pain. …realize that life isn’t always fair. …spend time with a child. …rock away on your frontContinue reading “When your heart is troubled,”

Galatians 5:22,23 Patience: the capacity to accept or tolerate delay, trouble, or suffering without getting angry or upset; forbearance, tolerance, restraint, long suffering. Virtue: behavior showing high moral standards; goodness, righteousness, morality. One of my favorite scripture verses begins in Galatians 5:22. I can remember this verse because it happens to be my birthdate. 22Continue reading “Patience is a Virtue”

My focus for today. The steadfast love of God…and trust.

Philippians 4:6-7 6 Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. 7 And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. It’s hard to give problems up to God because,Continue reading “Doubt”

My favorite version of the Bible is the English Standard Version (ESV), and that version is what I typically reference in my posts. But today, I will be referring to the King James Version. I don’t know…I guess because I want to use the word “ye”. In the KJV, “O ye of little faith” appearsContinue reading “O me of little faith…”

Silence is a good thing. We need to turn off the static of the world and just chill for awhile. It would be in our best interest to turn off the TV every so often. Maybe even leave the car radio off on the drive home from work. I believe silence really is golden. IContinue reading “Sounds of Silence”

Another great post by fellow blogger, Regie Hamm. 🙂 What is crime? That seems like an easy question to answer. But is it? If you lived in 1830, and you set fire to a plantation and freed all the slaves… HIGH CRIMES …

Forever that person who gets really excited when the sky is in pretty colors. ~ unknown This would be me for sure. The older I get, the more I love and appreciate nature, and rejoice in the simpler things of life. But mostly I’m drawn to the vastness and beauty of the sky. God’s canvasContinue reading “Forever That Person”

Tonight, I’m lifting you up in prayer. I pray that God will hold you close tonight and give you peace as you rest. I’ll ask that His healing hands be placed upon your heart and that your burdens be lightened. And I will pray that He might give you wisdom for the days ahead, andContinue reading “I Lift You Up”

Throughout the Bible we are taught to trust God. And because of our faith in God, we place our trust in him even when we do not understand. God says to not even lean on our own understanding. Sometimes this is how we have to work with family and friends when they make choices andContinue reading “Trust Without Understanding”

A friend of mine said he was at the store over the weekend when he came across a woman with a couple of young children. She was asking for help. So my friend walked her and her children around the store and let them shop. He said her children were loving on him the wholeContinue reading “Having a Conscience”

I wonder if perhaps a part of why we find it so difficult to find peace in our soul, is maybe our perception of what peace is. Do we believe peace is where there is no more conflict, pain, or heartache? That struggles will cease to exist? That tears will no longer fill our eyes,Continue reading “Coming to Terms With Peace”

Strength and honor are her clothing, and she can laugh at the days to come. She opens her mouth with wisdom, and faithful instruction is on her tongue. She watches over the affairs of her household and does not eat the bread of idleness. Her children rise up and call her blessed; her husband praisesContinue reading “Happy Mother’s Day”

I was going through pictures this morning and I came across this one of my son, Jet, and his brother, Ezekiel’s, daughter, Belle. They are in the waiting room of the hospital where I was having my hip replacement. Children are most precious because of their innocence and vulnerabilities. All of a sudden, they justContinue reading “Copycats”

Original post: August 24, 2023. Edited. A situation that requires something be done a certain way because one believes it is the only right way. -Merriam-Webster Dictionary Sometimes we are faced with a harsh reality which forces us to make a decision based on a matter of principle. It isn’t something I’d call fun. IContinue reading “A Matter of Principle”

🎶…And always let your conscience be your guide…🎶 ~ Jiminy Cricket’s famous advice. That’s the one line of the movie Pinocchio that sticks out the most to me. And one that I disagree with wholeheartedly. The conscience must be taught. It will guide by whatever it is being fed. It can be trained to beContinue reading “Our Conscience & the Decisions We Make”

Original post: September 24, 2020. Edited. There is a book called The 5 Love Languages by Gary Chapman. It is a very interesting read and one I suggest to anyone who desires to understand love more fully. This particular book is for couples. It would be beneficial to read prior to marriage but it certainlyContinue reading “Loving Someone”

Original post: October 2, 2020. Just a note: As I read through my old posts, I see that everything was written with myself in mind. My younger self is writing to the older me…and just when I need it most. I have been struggling ever so much lately. That hasn’t been a secret. I’ve questionedContinue reading “L*O*V*E”

Original post: August 23, 2020. Edited. This week I’ve had difficulty focusing on scripture. My mind has been a whirlwind of thought with a touch of anxiety. I read the Bible but nothing makes sense as I drift from verse to verse. It’s like looking into a bowl of alphabet soup (do they even makeContinue reading “God is Greater”

Sometimes when life is hard I have find an outlet and keep busy. Usually it is something creative or being outside in nature. I’ve been on overload lately and doing things without thinking things through. Yesterday, I painted a wall. I chose a color that clashed with everything I have. Therefore, I ended painting twoContinue reading “Keeping Busy”

I took this picture at Big Long Lake, Indiana. My best friend had a lake house there. I always thought the center cloud resembled a heart. Tonight, I see an angel. It’s beautiful no matter what you see. Yes, I am afraid. But that’s okay. God knows all about it and I will trust inContinue reading “Trust”

Written September 16, 2013 In the night, as I sit alone in my room, I think of many things. Not that I can solve the world’s problems because I cannot even solve my own. But I am a thinker. It’s what I do. Tonight my thoughts are a tangled web of what if, why, I’mContinue reading “Searchers”

There’s so much on my mind and someone is heavy on my heart. I’m distracted. Indecisive. Worried. Feeling helpless. I find myself doing stupid stuff. I am forgetting things I never forget. I say the wrong things. I use wrong words! I even used a stapler incorrectly. A stapler! Not once. Not twice. But threeContinue reading “So Much”

Original post: July 22, 2021. Edited. (Based on the song You Say, by Lauren Daigle. Highlighted words belong to her.) I listened to this song twice on my way to work this morning. It hit home. When nothing seems to go right, when you just don’t measure up, and when you feel empty and alone…thisContinue reading “I Believe”

Psalm 130:5I wait for the Lord, my soul waits, and in his word I hope. A new heart? As you told me that you need a heart transplant, the floor dropped and the walls caved in around me. Tears stung my eyes. And my heart hurt for yours. That was on Saturday afternoon. Since thatContinue reading “HOPE”