On a recent walk through the city, we stumbled upon these unexpected beauties tucked between concrete and steel: It always amazes me how something as simple as flowers can soften even the hardest surroundings. They surprise me with joy—like a quiet reminder that beauty can bloom anywhere. 🌸 Consider That little pop of beauty made me think of another joy-filled moment from this week. At church on Sunday, we were asked to introduce ourselves to someone new and share our favorite summer food....
18 days ago • 1 min read
Hi [first name], Thank you for your anniversary wishes. Here are a few pictures from our special dinner at Boka Chicago. From the moment we walked in the door, we enjoyed a well-planned and executed culinary experience. Every staff member congratulated us on our 43rd anniversary and thanked us for sharing the celebration with them. Many expressed their amazement at reaching this milestone. It was over-the-top customer service—something you rarely see today. A personalized note on their menu!...
25 days ago • 1 min read
Welcome to June! Can you believe it? Where I live, we’re just now enjoying consistent 70-degree days. I’m soaking it in. This week, Dave and I celebrate 43 years of marriage—a true miracle for those who know our story. If you haven’t read the whole journey, I’d love to send you a copy of our book. Just cover the small shipping fee. [Click here for details.] Consider You’ve probably heard me mention Dr. Gary & Barb Rosberg before. This year, Dave and I get to learn from them each month in a...
about 1 month ago • 1 min read
Have you ever asked yourself, “What’s wrong with me?”That question haunted me for a long time after betrayal shattered my world. Maybe it haunts you, too. You want to feel like yourself again. To stop spinning in the pain. But deep down, you wonder if that’s even possible—especially when healing feels like a luxury you can’t afford. I get it. I’ve been there. Consider Betrayal hits hard and deep. And it often leaves you silently carrying shame, anger, and confusion. You try to press on, but...
about 1 month ago • 1 min read
We just celebrated Mother's Day in the USA. For many of us, the day generates mixed emotions: sadness, joy, fun, regret, or a feeling of loss. Or maybe you'd just rather skip it altogether. Dave and I celebrated a bit early with his mom by spending time together. We loved surprising her with flowers that reminded us of her—bright and beautiful, much like her heart. Whether you celebrated with joy, felt the sting of loss, or chose to avoid the day, know that you're not alone in the emotions...
about 2 months ago • 1 min read
If we were sitting across from each other, mugs in hand, soft music in the background, I’d lean in and listen. Really listen. Because sometimes words come out wrong. Perhaps you’ve had a recent moment where you were misunderstood. Or you said something that didn’t land the way you intended. And suddenly, a conversation turned cold or quiet. That happened to me this week. I apologized, but the silence that followed still stings. It reminded me how easy it is to take offense—and how hard it can...
about 2 months ago • 1 min read
It’s Holy Week. Yesterday, if you went to church, you most likely celebrated Palm Sunday. Jesus entered Jerusalem to cheering crowds, knowing that in a few days, they would be jeering. While this week marks the most powerful moment on the Christian calendar (at least in my opinion), it also reminds me of the unimaginable cost Jesus willingly paid for our eternal relationship with God. How about you? Consider Jesus—God in flesh—came to live as one of us. He was misunderstood; He loved deeply;...
3 months ago • 1 min read
Have you ever had a plan completely change in an instant? That just happened to me—right in the middle of the Gaither Homecoming Cruise! As I mentioned in my last newsletter, I had the privilege of serving with Inspiration Travel on the Gaither Homecoming Cruise this past week. My parents loved listening to the Gaithers, especially their homecoming events, which feature many artists. Yes, this was a music-filled cruise. Throughout the cruise, as I met many artists from the past, I was...
3 months ago • 2 min read
Sunshine always gives me hope. When we lived in Colorado, with almost 300 days of sunshine, I took it for granted. But after experiencing Midwest winters, I appreciate every golden ray. Spring sunshine just feels different—it lifts the soul. ☀️ Right now, I’m on a Caribbean cruise, working as a travel coordinator with Inspiration Travel. This is my first time working a cruise without Dave, and each trip reminds me that God’s plans for us are bigger than we can imagine. I’m hoping to see some...
3 months ago • 1 min read
