Author Archives: joyocala

As I write this blog, I’m in the midst of making hot cross buns.  Having an abundance of time seemed to lend itself to a time-consuming baking project with yeast.   Knead that dough until it’s just right.  Then set it … Continue reading →

I was a widow at 39 years of age, with two young boys. The day after my husband’s the funeral, the boys and I returned to the cemetery and took time to admire the many wreaths and flower gifts that … Continue reading →

When I was in college a “few” years ago, I had the opportunity of performing in the brand new musical Godspell,  based on the Gospel of Matthew.  It was then and still remains my favorite role and I loved every … Continue reading →

When I was in grammar school, it was the local custom to spend the hours between noon and 3 o’clock on Good Friday, sitting in silence in our beautiful town park.  I don’t think that I ever completed the whole … Continue reading →

“The Lord Jesus on the night when he was betrayed took a loaf of bread, and when he had given thanks, he broke it and said, ‘This is my body that is for you. Do this in remembrance of me’” … Continue reading →

Trash talking seems to have become a big part of athletics, especially professional athletics.  There was always some; even in Little League you’d hear teammates tell the pitcher, “Don’t worry.  He couldn’t hear the broad side of a barn.”  In … Continue reading →

In these extraordinary times, while our ordinary lives are turned upside down, we may be finding ourselves turning to tasks we have put off for a long time. Deep cleaning. Pulling weeds in the yard. Finally getting around to that … Continue reading →

A thought provoking guest blog from our friend Annie Can you believe it’s Holy Week?  On Maundy Thursday we will celebrate Christ washing the disciples feet.  Christ’s life was all about actively loving and serving others. But maybe you don’t … Continue reading →

Traverse in your mind, back to Biblical times and history’s accounts of war and the battles that ensued.  Armies of men were armed with the weapon of the times and marched ahead to win.  The commander of the army; however, rode into … Continue reading →

Family reunions were a wonderful part of my childhood as 25 cousins always provided great entertainment.  It was also a handy time to “get lost” in the crowd, especially if you were one of the younger ones and nosey which … Continue reading →