'Tis the season to be thinking about why you are thankful. I have enjoyed reading people's Facebook quotes this month as they list the reasons they are thankful each day. Some reasons listed have been unique, others typical, and some have even said they are thankful for the pain of this past year. At first glance, it seems to make no sense to be thankful for the painful experiences in our lives, but it's those trials that help us to grow, and teach us to trust God. When considering what we are thankful for, sometimes we cling to the surface. We are thankful for our families, our home, and … [Read more...]

            A short and sweet post today. I'm thankful for... Jesus Christ, for being my propitiation. My wife, Heather, for loving and respecting me. My family and friends (who are there for you in thick and thin - even if it takes some reconciliation) My dog, Ramsey - she's faithful to greet me heartily every day no matter my mood. Work that matters - I am glad to be able to make a difference in people's lives The necessities - food, shelter, clothing, transportation, and utilities. Inspirational leaders Life-changing … [Read more...]

To kick off Thanksgiving week, I will let you know something I am truly thankful for: the godly people in my life that advised me soundly about relationships from the time I was young until today.  Keep reading to see how they impacted me.... When I was a kid, it seemed like they just did not want me to have any fun. By the time I was twelve years old, I was interested in boys and the thought of waiting until I was an adult to be in a romantic relationship seemed impossible. Unfortunately, I squandered their advice at times, but they did not give up on me. Their prayers and guidance helped … [Read more...]

Marriage is such a gift with so many great times together; however, now that two families are joined into one, it can be a challenge to balance holidays with family and friends. Christmas, the most wonderful time of the year, may also be the most difficult time to balance each year. Why is that? Because Christmas is often a sentimental time we remember from our childhood, oftentimes, we want to maintain our childhood traditions throughout our adulthoods as long as possible. One Christmas tradition many people have is seeing their family on Christmas. So, if you and your (future) spouse were … [Read more...]

What do holidays mean to you? Do you think of time with family and friends? Do you think of overtime or time off?  Do you look forward to celebrating? Do you enjoy the decorations that go with the season or are you annoyed by the hullaballoo? Holidays mean different things to different people, but everyone enjoys a holiday when they have something to celebrate.  Christians look forward to Christmas and Easter because of what it means to our faith (His birth and resurrection), as well as the good food and fellowship that comes with the season. Romantics everywhere look forward to Valentine's … [Read more...]