Monthly Archives: September 2019

A letter had arrived in the day’s mail. The family had gathered to listen. I watched my aunt struggle to read the German handwriting, stretching her limited proficiency in the language. I was still a child sitting quietly on the … Continue reading →

As my loved ones and I say goodbye from a visit, it has been natural to say “I love you,” “Let me know when you get home” and to give the sign for I love you. In American Sign Language, … Continue reading →

Recently I had the pleasure of listening to the Gaither Vocal Band sing “We Have This Moment Today.” I was touched by the message. I’d like to share the chorus with you. “We have this moment to hold in our … Continue reading →

This blog dates back quite a few years. It relies on memories of my college days at Elmhurst College in Illinois. I was brought up by Christian parents, who imparted their faith into both my sister and I since our … Continue reading →

One of my all-time favorite hymns is “The Day thou Gavest, Lord, is Ended.” I first sang this hymn during Evening Prayer in a small chapel in downtown Minneapolis. I was tremendously moved by the words and music. The day … Continue reading →

Some years ago Paulette and I were very fortunate to be able to take a trip to Australia. It was a great trip, and while there we visited the outback, staying in the small town of Alice Springs. A highlight … Continue reading →

You have all heard, I’m sure, the self-effacing joke: how many Lutherans does it take to change a light bulb? “CHANGE?” Change makes us feel all out of sorts, like when the Pastor changes the order of service (which never … Continue reading →

Shoulders tense, brows knit, eyes wary, each buried within himself. Some attempt sleep on an uncomfortable chair. No one speaks. Everyone in this surgical waiting room awaits “the call,” the surgeon reporting the outcome. It reminded me of the disciples … Continue reading →

Oh my gosh, it is sweltering, I cannot wait until fall weather arrives and it is cooler. Brrrrr, it is freezing, I cannot wait until summer gets here and we can bask in its warmth. This rain, these storms, the … Continue reading →

Fifteen years and three months ago, God blessed me with a standard schnauzer named Trudy. Over these years Trudy became my closest friend and family on my little farm (as I have no children and lost my husband). She was … Continue reading →