Author Archives: joyocala

“Precious memories, how they linger; how they linger in my soul.” These are lyrics from one of my favorite hymns, which have great meaning for me.  I was born in Chicago to parents who were active in the Lutheran church.  Mom … Continue reading →

I remember well singing this song at camp, “He’s got the whole world in His hands.”  Perhaps you remember it too.   As the verses go on we sing – He’s got you and me, brother, in His hands,He’s got you … Continue reading →

A lighthouse is a maritime structure/building that is built as a watchtower with lights from within reflecting off lenses to warn seagoing vessels of hazards and help guide them through water passages and away from dangerous shoals or rocky shorelines. When Jesus … Continue reading →

I read this excerpt from an article written by Daniel Bovino. I liked this and how true it is for each of us, especially as we get older.  At birth we board the train and meet our parents and we … Continue reading →

Astrid’s family asked her what she wanted for her birthday. She replied that she wanted a rake to use on her compost heap. The family gave her a fancy apron which she stored in the cedar chest along with the … Continue reading →

I love the mornings but I don’t necessarily love getting up in the mornings. I really enjoy nestling in my comfy bed, listening to the lake lapping at the shore and, if it is a cool morning, pulling the covers … Continue reading →

Do you ever feel like you’re putting inordinate pressure on yourself to “pray right”? Like it’s some kind of holiness test to show the Almighty that you are true of heart? “Maybe if I squeeze my eyes shut, I’ll draw … Continue reading →

Do you have any trophies?   When my boys were kids they won a few trophies; there were Little League trophies and bowling trophies.   Each one was decorated with gold plastic, but at the time they symbolized an accomplishment.   We don’t … Continue reading →

A dear friend of mine came to visit and while chatting, I shared stories of our recent move, new friends I had made, activities I had become involved in and also, an acquaintance I found difficult to be around.  Her reply … Continue reading →

During my semi-quarantine of Covid, I decided to do some research into places to visit in and around Ocala once the pandemic ended.  One in particular that appealed to me was The Yearling, a restaurant in Hawthorne which is about … Continue reading →