We received a call from a hospital in Jacksonville that our brother was in neuro intensive care after a fall. He was living on Amelia Island and Jacksonville was the closest hospital for this type of injury. We all got there as fast as possible. Melinda and Kara flew in first and met David who … Continue reading Hard Things
I Am Not a Musician
I’m not a musician, but I have been married to one for 39 years. I have raised a few. People ask me what instrument I play and I say, “the radio”. I have learned a few things along the way. Musicians hear differently than non-musicians. I hear the whole, they hear the parts. My musicians … Continue reading I Am Not a Musician
Double-edged Sword
I’ve been contemplating this idea of allowing the word of God to read me, instead of the other way around. When I read scripture, I overlay it with my own thoughts and intentions. My own interpretations are based in part on my life experiences and also on what God has taught me as I have … Continue reading Double-edged Sword
Culture Shock
I cannot find words easily these days. Grief of losing both my parents is certainly a contributing factor, but it’s more than that. The world seems to have gone mad. Mean even. Ugliness is everywhere. I don’t do well with intentional spitefulness. My heart shrinks back. I was taught if you don’t have something nice … Continue reading Culture Shock
Real Fall
Golden light filtered through my window creating a morning altar…the whole room alight with silent comfort. I rise and follow the light to my back porch, watching it rise and cover the valley. Filtering between the trees, waking the birds and their songs, even the tree frogs acknowledge the light. No creature is immune from … Continue reading Real Fall
National Treasures
It is no secret I am a nature lover. I feel connected to the trees. The birds are the soundtrack of my life. The babbling waters of creeks and rivers my companions. When a tree is cut down I feel it in my bones. I know it has to happen sometimes, but it hurts me. … Continue reading National Treasures
September 11…A Reflection
On 9-11 the invisible became visible. What was only words and threats before, came to life in vivid horrifying color. There was nothing to be done but watch with mouths agape. Stunned silence. Tears on mute, as the reality set in while sitting in front of the TV. The unfolding of the day brought shock … Continue reading September 11…A Reflection
Switzerland Recap
Our trip to Switzerland wasn’t the usual tourist trip. We didn’t try to see the whole country in a few days. It was more of a healing visit. A time to relax and renew our tired souls; it just so happened it was a gorgeous place to do so. The weather was warm, but not … Continue reading Switzerland Recap
Our Swiss Sister
We have a Swiss sister named Isabelle. She became a part of our family around 1983, because she came to live with Mom and Dad in Clayton. At 15 years old, she travelled to the U.S. on her own. She ended up at Rabun County High School, where she and Melinda became fast friends. Since … Continue reading Our Swiss Sister
A Great Love (Part 2)
In 2020, when we moved Mom to memory care I wrote this blog entitled A Great Love. It was a tribute to the love I witnessed between my parents and how their devotion to each other impacted everyone around them. Now they celebrate their Great Love every day. I can’t imagine. What is it like … Continue reading A Great Love (Part 2)