Author Archives: joyocala

This has probably happened to you, as it did me this morning. Usually our most vivid dreams (or nightmares) happen right before we awaken. This morning I had a humdinger! I was on stage, performing trombone with a band, and … Continue reading →

I recently had the occasion to visit a shop in Cedar Key that features art and crafts, all made by local artists.  All the items were beautiful; each showed the distinctive talents of a particular artist.  I found so much … Continue reading →

Let’s be honest. Have you ever felt unloved, perhaps unimportant, or even insecure? With the bumpy, twisted road of life, I think these feelings have bumped into you at different times. The Message version of the Bible, Ephesians 2:19-22 states, “That’s … Continue reading →

Psalm 30:5 speaks to us about anger and wrath lasting for a night but gives a reminder that joy comes with the light of day, in the morning.  During my working years, I was up at 5:30 a.m., wakened by … Continue reading →

Two years ago, during Black History Month, I did a series of blogs about outstanding black Lutherans. One of those special people was a young bishop in the Metropolitan Chicago Synod, Reverend Yehiel Curry.  On Saturday, October 4, 2025, Bishop … Continue reading →

Somebody asked me if I had gone on vacation this past summer. I said I hadn’t physically, but my brain seemed to have been on vacation several times without letting me know where it was going. Age plays tricks on … Continue reading →

I did not write this piece.  It was sent to me by a Facebook friend who is going through a rough patch and I thought it had an excellent message, so I decided to share it with my Joy friends. … Continue reading →

It’s the working title for a social gathering I’ve started at Hiatus Brewing Company,6230 SW Highway 200, Ocala. It’s not just about the beer. Have a Diet Coke if you wish. One ofthe three new attendees asked what the theme, … Continue reading →

I just love those catalogs that fill my mailbox unsolicited.  It’s like old-fashioned window shopping, only I don’t have to leave my comfy lounge chair.  Each page tempts me with styles in the season’s newest colors, styles that look fabulous … Continue reading →

You probably remember from Old Testament stories that Rebekah was at a well, when a servant of Abraham, asked her to follow him. She believed the messenger was sent by God and agreed to follow him.  She ends up being introduced … Continue reading →