We live in a time when it is important to have a positive attitude, despite the divisiveness in our culture. Is it possible to engage in a productive discussion with someone that holds a viewpoint we can’t understand? Perhaps . . . I am reading a book that encourages curiosity, Faith for…
Two books that I have read recently were pleasant stories developed around historical figures. The stories wove historical facts and settings together. I could read a few chapters before bed and think about the characters. Mount Vernon Love Story by Mary Higgins Clark was first published in 1968 and republished in…
Let’s face it. A cherry tree in the backyard has pros and cons. This year the tree has produced an abundance of cherries. For five days I have been picking, pitting, freezing and canning cherries. I expect to see cherries in my dreams. Many of the cherries are perfect. But a…
Northern Finland is above the Artic Circle. During the summer, the sun never sets, skimming the horizon at night. The growing season is short, but the hours of sunlight are long. Wild flowers and berries flourish. My husband and I visited Finland during the summer and experienced the amazing hours…
While continuing through the one year Bible, I am now in the book of Acts. Chapters 6 & 7 record events in Stephen’s life and death. The violence is both startling and tragic. Stephen was a man of faith, chosen to administer help for widows. First he was accused and…
As I spend time gardening, I am thankful for the wonderful variety of plants and bushes that God has provided for our enjoyment and nourishment. My love of berries might be due to my Finnish heritage. So many different kinds of berries grow in Finland, wild and cultivated. The strawberries…
On Wednesdays I meet with several women on zoom. We are studying the Psalms, reading a few during the week and meditating on them. We meet to discuss each Psalm and then spend time praying together. The Psalms tell the story of human life. There is joy and sorrow, conflict…
The birth rate in the United States and other countries is declining and has fallen below replacement. Healthy families are the foundation of a healthy country. It is also concerning that childbirth is becoming more dependent on technology. In 2018 I wrote a blog post about childbirth, past and present.…
How precious is your steadfast love, O God! Psalm 36:7
Twice this week I have been reminded about gardens, farmers’ markets and community. I am reading the book, Home Fires, by Julie Summers. Summers has researched and described the work of the Women’s Institute during World War II. Women in villages and towns throughout England formed groups to take care…