As a lover of all things chocolate, today's visit to the Valor Chocolate Factory in Villajoyosa, Spain was the highlight of a trip that ends tomorrow. To learn so much about this God-given gift of pure sweetness and joy made my day. As we walked through the factory where bonbons in the thousands and other... Continue Reading →
As we left church on Sunday, Douglas and I knew that we would not be back at church until October 28, as we are leaving for Spain on Saturday. So, I was quite surprised when the associate pastor advised me that she was looking forward to my sermon for First Wednesday, a regular weekly feature... Continue Reading →
I received the invitation for my youngest grandson's birthday party for this Sunday. I believe Jadon will be ten years old, but with 15 grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren, I simply cannot remember when some of them were born. I sent his mother a text to see what he likes, so that I can buy him... Continue Reading →
Troubles are as sure to come as morning follows night. In the psalm today, Psalm 62, King David reminds his soul and his people to wait patiently for God in the midst of the betrayal of his son, Absalom, who had seized his father's throne and had David running for his life. This is a... Continue Reading →
When someone tells me not to take something personal that is written or said about me, I know that I should do the opposite. Friends and colleagues try to save our feelings by insisting that we not consider negative words regarding our efforts, demeanor, or intelligence as a direct attack against us. But, I have... Continue Reading →
I prided myself on not being star-struck, carrying on in an obsequious way to someone just because they are famous. I have watched people nearly lose their minds when they see a celebrity, even if it is only the local news anchor. In the 1960s and 1970s, women passed out screaming for the Beatles. Underwear... Continue Reading →
Many years ago, after my children were grown and gone, I decided to treat myself to a posh night out, with dinner at one of the priciest restaurants in town and a play at the Fox theater. I knew I was in trouble the moment I crossed the threshold into the dining room, for I... Continue Reading →
Written for the September Writing Prompts by Putting My Feet in the Dirt: the absence of her. As I am writing my memoir, I cannot help but remember my sister. Her name was Joann, and she was the strongest person that I have ever known at a compact 5 feet, 2 inches tall. She was... Continue Reading →
Under no duress from anyone, I decided to pursue exercising again, to improve flexibility and balance. I also wanted to put some structure in my life, now that I am retired, and every day looks the same. So, even though my back has been sensitive recently, I decided to go to the local gym and... Continue Reading →
As a professor, one of the hardest parts of the job was when students ask you to write recommendation letters for graduate school. For the students who were exemplary in your courses, it is fairly easy, especially the students who have taken two or more courses with you. After speaking with them and reading their... Continue Reading →
Help from Heaven 