If some days you're the windshield and some days you're the bug, then I've been the bug for five days. Having a sore throat, congestion, an annoying cough, ear pain and absolutely no energy, I am starting to feel helpless and worthless in my own skin. (This is also why last week's entries were sparse on our blog - sorry about that!) Yesterday, I emptied the dishwasher and washed a load of towels (which are still in the dryer waiting to be folded) and those were my only big accomplishments. So far this week, I have had to cancel lunch with a friend, movie night with another friend, coffee … [Read more...]

This past Thursday, I went to my Ladies Bible study and posed a question about forgiveness. It has come to my attention that I struggle to let hurts and situations go. I've also noticed others who have endured numerous betrayals and abandonments in their lives forgive their perpetrators more easily than I forgive small offenses from others.  I was hoping the ladies in my church could tell me how God has helped them to forgive. While I was explaining my situation, I told them that sometimes I think I have forgiven someone only to have his or her offense towards me pop back into my mind and … [Read more...]

Who among us has not struggled with jealously at one time or another? It starts when we are kids and the girl down the street gets a new bike, or the boy in our class gets to take karate lessons and you can't. A few years later we find ourselves at a stoplight, behind the wheel of our parent's old car, only to have the biggest jerk you know pull up beside us in a brand new car (and doesn't it always seem to be the car of our dreams?). Then, adulthood comes and everyone else seems to be getting married or having babies but us. Or, maybe all of your friends are in their dream jobs and you are … [Read more...]

Last night, I was pondering the topic of criticism and what part it plays in our lives. I can't remember meeting anyone who enjoys criticism. Some people seek it out simply so they can know how to improve various areas of their lives. Whereas, there are some people who don't like hearing how they can improve their lives, but after reflection, implement changes as a result of having someone point out a fault. Then, there are those who cannot seem to handle criticism at all. There is nothing fun about being told you aren't perfect. Let's face it – we all want to believe that our way is best. … [Read more...]

Some of us are naturally born competitors. When a challenge is presented, we're off and running to the finish line with little concern for what's in the dust behind us. For others of us, we are calmer in nature and would rather have peace than the thrill of rivalry. Me, I've always considered myself to be non-competitive, but I realized that was not completely true after I got married... Whatever repressed competitive needs I had came bursting forth once Eric and I made vows to each other. Perhaps it was the security of knowing he was not going anywhere or the fact that he was always around … [Read more...]