Author Archives: joyocala

The Baptism of our Lord was observed last Sunday. It reminds us how blessed we are to be included in a spiritual community. We are united with Jesus, who lives to please our Heavenly Father. So fitting that we join … Continue reading →

Sitting here poised to write, I hear my office clock bonging the hour.  Yes, some of my old clocks chime melodiously, but some (this one included) simply bong.  I dutifully count the bongs; five o’clock is almost time for supper.  … Continue reading →

Is this a word you are familiar with? Snarky is a newer adjective meaning sarcastic or mocking. A service repair man was just at our house giving an estimate. Sadly, I found him rather snarky. He seemed rather put off … Continue reading →

Many of you who read this are no longer what my mom and dad used to call “Spring Chickens”.  This was sent to me by one of my friends, who just like me just like me is no longer a … Continue reading →

My dear friend! Janice and I met in high school and shared a knack for drama. While she loved and went on to major in English, I loved Biology and specialized in the field of science. She was from a … Continue reading →

Someone asked if I found the holidays depressing. No, not at all. What I found discouraging was the end of the holidays. On December 26 the stores are tearing out all the Christmas decorations. On January 2 people are back … Continue reading →

That’s right. Here in the Sunshine State there is a Peace River. As a youngster, our family camped and canoed. The second-most beautiful river in FL is the Peace, in my opinion. First is the Juniper, which flows from the … Continue reading →

Tomorrow is January 6th, Epiphany.  On this date we officially mark the visit of the Magi or Wise Men to the child Jesus.  Most of our nativity sets have probably had them visiting for a few weeks now.  And, if … Continue reading →

History was a little vague, but I think a blind English pastor, William Walford, in the 1800’s, had someone transcribe his poem of the words to Sweet Hour of Prayer (it later was put in music form). On my morning walks, I … Continue reading →

As the calendar turns and a new year begins, many of us feel a renewed sense of hope and possibility. New Year’s resolutions often focus on health, finances and personal goals which are all good places to start, but how … Continue reading →