When Gary and I decided to travel to our young friend’s wedding in Northern California, I was excited to put some national parks on the must-see list. We enjoyed our time in Oregon, visiting Crater Lake. We even hiked to the base in the cold weather to view the epic blue lake from the rocky shore level. It was a breathtaking time, and I couldn’t get enough of the cerulean lake punctuated by the sole…
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I am trying to remember how I developed an interest in letter writing other than the halting start of the obligatory thank you note for Christmas gifts to far away relatives. Even then, I remember joyfully caring about either making the card or selecting one that fit the occasion and the recipient. I have lovely memories of receiving letters. My mom wrote me during Plebe Summer at the Naval Academy. Even though I was just…
Leave a CommentThree big ideas pressed into my life and learning in 2022. Who not how helps resolve my challenges. God is present and available to every one of us. Caring means listening presence. Here are some questions I am asking myself: What significant learning grew you in 2022? How do you hope to begin in 2023? I am committed to helping others grow personally and professionally, and I invite you to begin 2023 with me. If…
Leave a CommentYears ago, Gary and I became good friends with Navy Neighbors Bob and Kim while stationed in Guam. Bob and Kim were young in their faith journey and were excited to learn about Jesus through God’s Word. We had Bible Studies together, and on Sunday nights after church, we always went to Swensen’s ice cream, where we had what we dubbed a “whosit whatsit” conversation. We talked and asked questions about anything and everything, connecting…
4 CommentsWe usually think invitations arrive in the mail, engraved, and personally addressed, but every day, we receive invitations in the most unexpected ways. Recently I was asked by a teammate to go pick up some materials at a mutual friend’s home. Our friend is no longer able to help with the work. I said yes to go not just to pick up the materials but also to see our friend and personally express appreciation for…
1 CommentI am back in school this year. After twenty-seven years of planning and preparing for students, I am buying books from my required reading lists and posting replies to discussion boards. I have always loved learning but have preferred my own curation of books and courses. What that does not provide, however, is a community within which to learn. I am pursuing a certificate in spiritual direction, and community will be crucial to my learning. …
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