As I take a moment to reflect on Christmas I remind myself why we are celebrating.  Once I center my thoughts on the meaning of Christmas I am better able to move through the season and appreciate all that each year brings. Things are always changing, traditions get altered, and life brings new challenges every year.  When I center my thoughts on celebrating Jesus, those changes quickly become little curves in the road rather than obstacles that bring sadness, disappointment, or even anger.  I consider myself very fortunate because I grew up in a home where my parents had little…

Storms were brewing for our family during 2020 and 2021.  Sometimes we experienced a light shower other times a downpour.  There were times when we were hit with hail and even a few tornados that spun us around and spit us out in every direction.  I believe that many of those reading this blog have also had their share of storms, particularly during the past few years.  The struggles and storms can attempt to throw us off track if we are not equipped with the right tools.  For me, those tools are hope and love.  No matter the strength of…

With the excitement of the holiday season, I like to plan for success.  That doesn’t mean that the plan has to be perfect or that everything will run smoothly.  What it does mean is that I have a plan that can be adapted, moment to moment, depending on how the day is going.  I like my plan to be a simple one-word outline.  When things get a bit out of control, I can look at the plan and make changes as needed.  If things are going smoothly, I may not ever look at the plan and simply let…

Clean-up was a chore as a child, but as an adult, it sets us up for success.  In December I find myself reflecting on the events of the past year with the hope of preparing for a successful start to the new year.  As I start my “clean-up” or review, I like to think about what went well, what could have gone better, and what never made it to the starting line.  I think about my values and ask myself if my actions support my values.  Are my actions representing who I am or am I sending mixed…