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The Last Buzzer
Basketball season just started for my oldest, which means this week is the first of the last. As a senior, it’s his last try-out, his last time to anticipate the season ahead, his last opportunity to feel the excitement of a calendar filled with court-side games and competition. If I’m completely honest, I must admit I’ve both looked forward to and dreaded the start of this season. Because as much as I love cheering him on from those side-line bleachers, that final buzzer is going to crush me.
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This Generation is the Revival We All Need
In the past few years, something has started to shift among the younger generations. In my 46 years, I’ve never seen anything like it. Gen Z is hungry and thirsty for the living word of God. They’re desperate for His presence. They want to know Him, closely, intimately, honestly. And they’re not ashamed to proclaim Him in their classrooms, on their campuses or in the public square.
This generation doesn’t care for pretenses, and they’re not interested in a production. They’re tired of being enslaved to anxiety, depression and addiction, and they want to see chains drop off and prisoners set free. They want truth. Raw. Authentically. Honestly.
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Holding on Before the Year of Letting Go
Light shone down from a cyan sky as we parked the car in the college admissions lot. It was a beautiful day. Seventy degrees. Sunny. February in Texas is like that. It can be the best of times, and it can be the worst of times. Thankfully, it was the former.
Ochre rays warmed our skin as we walked toward the building. He was all smiles. Confident yet humble. He gave a firm handshake. He spoke with a mixture of assurance and nerves. And I wondered, when did my little one who used to delight in dump trucks and mud puddles grow into this? When did the child who was obsessed with a certain tank engine mature into the young man who now sat beside me speaking of his hopes for the future? When did my little boy become a young man with only a year and a few months left at home?
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The 2025 Goal-Setting & Dream Guide
The new year is upon us, and with it comes all the joys and expectations of a fresh start. In…
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Prepare Him Room
I’m sitting in a coffee shop. It’s the same spot I return to weekly for some quiet writing sessions. Wreaths…
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The Complete List of Curated Black Friday Sales
The holidays are here, and with them comes all the excitement of holiday shopping! I’ve curated a list of some…
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Spring Refresh
We updated our youngest daughters’ room with the ultimate IKEA Pax hack! Create your own custom, built-in wardrobe with this simple project.
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Italy Family Travel Guide Part 4 – Florence & Tuscany
Step into the enchanting region of Tuscany and Florence through the eyes of our family’s adventure! Join us as we navigate the cobblestone paths, savoring every moment of art, culture, and cuisine. From the iconic Florence Cathedral to the breathtaking views of the Arno River, immerse yourself in the rich history, exquisite architecture, and vibrant atmosphere that make Florence, Italy a timeless destination.
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An Easter Gift – The Timeless Truths Bible
The Timeless Truths Bible features devotional notes and commentary from trusted theologians from the second century on, ancient creeds and confessions of the faith, plus artwork made throughout the history of Christianity
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Italy Family Travel Guide Part 3 – Rome
“A fool is one who admires other cities without visiting Rome.”-Francesco Petrarca, Italian Poet The Eternal City We arrived into…
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Italy Family Travel Guide Part 2 – Venice
The salty sea air saturated our senses as we stepped out of the airport, a stark contrast to the stale air circulating through the plane from which we’d just disembarked. It was late in the evening, and darkness had descended as we stepped aboard our water taxi and sped towards Venice. Part 2 of our Italy Family Travel Guide is LIVE! Hop over to the blog and indulge in a little Venetian wanderlust!
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Have Kids Will Travel – Our Family Trip to Italy
Our family of 7 recently embarked on a 12-day trip to Italy. Here’s part 1 of our trip review, including our itinerary and what we packed for our time in Venice, Rome, Florence and Bellagio.
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Reflections on the 1970 Asbury Revival
In 1970, my aunt was a freshman at Asbury University when revival broke out in Hughes Auditorium. This revival changed the lives of thousands. In light of the current outpouring of the Holy Spirit on Asbury’s campus, I asked my aunt about her experience. This is her story …
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Thoughts on the Asbury Revival
Today, in the humble town of Wilmore, KY revival is unfolding. The Asbury Revival has been ongoing for 9 days now. But you don’t have to travel to Kentucky to experience it. The same Holy Fire that is burning at Asbury is available to YOU! The Holy Spirit that is filling the Asbury worshippers can fill you. Just ask the Lord. He is faithful to answer.
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When They’re Grown … Who Might I Be in the Next Stage of Motherhood?
As I stood there alone, one thought crossed my mind: “This is what it will be like when they’re grown. Who will I be then? I don’t know who I am without them.” This is the question I’ve been pondering the last few days. And the Lord’s gentle answer has been so gracious.
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A Getaway Guide to Carlton Landing
We recently slipped away to Carlton Landing, the sweetest resort town on the shores of Lake Eufala. If you’re looking for a quick getaway, here are my recommendations to make your stay as delightful as possible.
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The Gift of a Holy Pause
There’s a certain quietness that settles in during the days after Christmas. The beautiful chaos of Christmas morning is tidied, and there is a quiet aftermath following the glorious raucous. It’s natural to feel a bit let-down. But what if there’s more to this in-between? What if we’re missing something? What if these few days between Christmas and New Year’s Day are a precious gift we’ve yet to unwrap …
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Advent – Christmas Eve
I don’t know where you find yourself today. I don’t know the state of your heart or the feelings you may be battling. I don’t know if you’re struggling with a loss or grappling with a death or swallowing the lump in your throat when you see the vacant seat. I don’t know if you’re on the street or in the cold or hopeless and heartless. I don’t know where you stand today, but I KNOW there is a manger beckoning you to come and stand before a baby. A baby who came to the cradle so he could go to the cross … for you, for me, for us all.
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Advent – Day 13
Throughout history God has used the marginalized, the cast-aside, the weak and the oppressed to bring about ransom, rescue, reconciliation and redemption. And he’s going to do it again through Mary. But this time, he won’t just bring about ransom and redemption for the Israelites. He will usher in salvation to the ends of the earth for all who believe. This time, the Lord is going to use a lowly girl from the unlearned region of Galilee to bring about the Savior for all mankind. Come read along with us in Advent Day 13.
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Advent – Day 12
Have you ever been the recipient of a gift or a promise so astounding you could scarcely believe it? Perhaps it was perfect provision when you were in desperate need, a miraculous healing, or a gift for which you had been longing. What was your response in that moment? Was it shock, doubt, wonder? When we receive an extravagant gift or the long-awaited answer to a desperate prayer, our reaction is often incredulous. We find ourselves wondering if it’s true.
Today in Advent Day 12, we’re talking about Zechariah’s response when Gabriel appeared to him with the news that Elizabeth would have a son. Come read along with us!
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Advent – Day 11
Zechariah and Elizabeth waited for a child. The Israelites waited for Messiah. And you and I wait during this Advent season. We wait with the hope and expectancy of answered prayers and miraculous interventions, because we know God has done it before, and he can do it again. Advent Day 11 is live. Come read along with us!
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Advent – Day 10
Zechariah and Elizabeth had prayed for a child, but God was going to give them something so much more. God was going to give them a son who would be the forerunner to Messiah, the promised messenger who would confirm the arrival of God’s son. In their season of waiting and hoping, God was working out a plan for redemption that was beyond what they could fathom. Today for Advent Day 10 we’re studying Luke 1:5-7. I hope you’ll join us and hear how waiting on God is never wasted.
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Advent – Day 9
Have you ever been plunged into total darkness? Perhaps a moment when the electricity went out or a light suddenly died? The few times we’ve lost electricity during the night, my children have screamed from fright. It’s always jarring to go from light to utter darkness. Sudden darkness is paralyzing. Sudden darkness is fearful. Sudden darkness is disorienting. Today we’re talking about darkness and the light that overcomes it all on Advent Day 9. I hope you’ll join us!
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Advent – Day 8
For thousands of years, the Lord had revealed prophecies concerning his son throughout time. These prophecies spurred the Israelites on and kept hope alive. Then around 432 BC, the prophet Malachi pens his book. In Malachi 3:1, he writes a prophecy concerning the coming of Jesus. And then the prophecies went quiet. Four centuries of silence. Four centuries of waiting and hoping. Can you imagine the doubt? Can you imagine the long-suffering ache. Surely they wondered if perhaps the Lord had forgotten his promise? Come find out how this ancient prophecy pointed to Jesus and encourages us now in Advent Day 8.
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Advent – Day 7
Jesus Christ fulfilled every Old Testament prophecy, beginning all the way back in the book of Genesis. He was and is and forevermore will be the promised savior, sent to save the souls of man. Today in Advent Day 7, we’re talking about all this and Isaiah 9:6. Come join us!
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Advent – Day 6
Nearly 700 years before Gabriel would appear to Mary to reveal the news that she would conceive and bring forth the Son of God, the prophet Isaiah foretold of this miracle. Today we’re looking at Isaiah 7:14 in Advent Day 6. I hope you’ll join us!
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Advent – Day 5
Little town of Bethlehem. We sing it in our carols, and we teach it to our children. It’s where the hopes and fears of all the years are met, where the morning stars proclaim the savior’s birth. And today we’re talking how Jesus’ arrival in that town impacts us all. Come join us for Advent Day 5!
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Advent – Day 4
Jesus didn’t come to establish his own position of kingship. He came to save us from our position of depravity. And he didn’t come to save the Jews from the oppression of Rome; he came to save us all from the devastation of hell. Read more in day 4 of our Advent study!
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Advent – Day 3
Today is day 3, and we’re diving into a difficult passage. As a mother, it hits me especially deep. I can’t fathom the weight of the burden upon Abraham. How could a good God ask Abraham to sacrifice his son? To fully answer this question, it’s important to look at this passage through the lens of Advent. This wasn’t merely a historical event, this was another Old Testament prophecy that clearly pointed to the coming of Jesus.
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Advent – Day 2
Advent day 2 is live on the blog! Come join us as we prepare our hearts to celebrate the birth of Jesus.
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Advent – Day 1
“The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and they will call him Immanuel” (which means “God with…
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The 2022 Amazon Gift List for Kids & Teens
I’ve just rounded up my favorite Amazon gift ideas for little kids, big kids, tweens and teens! Each of these…
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In the End Only Two Things will Matter
I attended the homegoing of a friend the other day, a friend who battled cancer and ultimately beat it when she walked into glory and into the presence of Jesus. And as I sat in that service and looked around at everyone she’d touched, at the sanctuary full of hundreds of people whose lives are richer because she knew Jesus and they knew her, it hit me … in the end, the only things that will matter are how we loved Jesus and how we loved others.
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Kindness and Conviction
Throughout the last 14 years, the Lord has graciously used my children to refine me, and this situation was no different. In that moment I was keenly aware of the power of my words and my reaction. But just as quickly as the Lord convicted me, he also reminded me that His mercies are new each morning and his grace is sufficient. Because when the Lord convicts, he also comforts. It’s his kindess that leads us to repentance (Romans 2:4).
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The Curl – A Mother’s Thoughts on the Gentle Ache of Watching the Years Fall Away
How does a mother get used to the reality of waning time? How does she hold with an open hand the memory of the tenderness of those early years and the swelling emotions of growing a child and watching him fly?
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God Qualifies the Called
Whoever she is, wherever she is, there is a woman who needs to hear this. God doesn’t call the qualified; he qualifies the called.
He called a shepherd boy to slay a giant. He called a stuttering man to command freedom for His people. He called a prisoner to interpret dreams, a young girl to save her race, a virgin to deliver His son.
Friend … He’s calling you too.
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Remembering Kim Jones & Wedgwood Baptist Church
Twenty-three years ago, my dear friend Susan Kimberly Jones (Kim) was taken from us too early in a shooting at Wedgwood Baptist Church. And yet … Kim’s story doesn’t end with tragedy. Hers is a story of victory! Because through it all … through the loss and the blinding heartache and the searing pain, there is an unexplainable peace that comes with the knowledge that Kim’s departure on this earth heralded her arrival into the arms of Jesus!
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To the Mom who Feels Sad at the Start of the School Year
To all the moms who get a bit teary at the start of the school year … to the moms…
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Mourning and the Nearness of God
Nearly 23 years ago, a man walked into a youth rally in Fort Worth and opened fire. I lost my friend that night, and I am forever changed because of it. Two decades later, I still carry around the trauma. Sometimes it is passive. Other times it comes charging back with the same anguish and fear. This week it all came roaring back with another headline, another shooting and another incomprehensible tragedy.
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Speaking Truth in Love
I debated writing this. There is so much discourse on the topic, I wasn’t sure I had anything to add…
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The One Thing Your Children Need to See You Do This Holy Week
Dear mama … maybe you’re trying to do all the things this week. Maybe you’re trying to make the menus…
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Dear Friend, Your Resurrection is Coming
As I read this passage today, I was suddenly struck by the reality that there are many right now who feel a bit like Tabitha before her resurrection. You’ve suffered loss, defeat, discouragement, and you feel a bit like death is closing in. Maybe not literally, but indeed metaphorically. You are heartbroken and hopeless. You wonder if you will ever feel alive again. Your soul is shattered. Your spirit is broken.
To you, dear friend, I just want to say … I believe your resurrection is coming. By the power of Jesus Christ, Peter resurrected Tabitha. He brought her to new life and then presented her alive and well to those who were mourning her loss and “many people believed in the Lord” because of it.
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Dear Moms of Littles … Here’s the Secret to the Next Stage: It gets even better!
I took the girls to one of our favorite coffee shops last week, and all around me were parents of babies and toddlers. Their little ones toddled up and down the lawn, when it suddenly hit me with perfect clarity: the sun has nearly set on this season for me. My children are getting older, and there’s sadness in this reality. But there’s also joyful anticipation, because the dawning of this new season brings with it a surprising awareness that there is so much sacred beauty ahead.
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How to Respond to the Humanitarian Crisis in Afghanistan
For the last few days I’ve watched the events unfolding in Afghanistan with a heart torn in two and a…
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Teach Them to Look for the One
As school doors open across the country, as the gates fling wide and the tardy bell tolls, let us teach…
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Motherhood and the Great Commission
I’ve been thinking a lot about the Great Commission lately, thinking about how it intersects with my everyday motherhood. And…
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The One Thing We All Need in 2021
2020 certainly wasn’t what any of us anticipated. It was unexpected and unprecedented. We struggled in ways we could have…
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Once a Year – Black Friday Cyber Monday Sale!
As a thank you to each of you who faithfully follow me here, I wanted to pop in and share…
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The Homeschool Series – Part 1
Back to school beckons, and with it, many of you find yourself in a position you didn’t expect, in a…
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Faith | Family | Homeschool
To the Mom Who Feels Like She’s Failing
To the mom who feels like she’s failing in her newly found role as quarantine crisis homeschooler, please hear me…
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You’re Invited to #LightTheGoodNight
Dear friends, I want to personally invite you, your family, your friends, your churches, your neighborhoods, and your communities to…
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Heroes in the Fight
To school teachers, administrators, and staff during this Coronavirus crisis, you are some of the unsung heroes in this war,…
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Love in the Time of Corona
Voices ring out across the dark, barren streets of Siena, Italy. They rise and fall in unison, blending like a…
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A Quick-Getaway Guide to Charleston, SC
My husband and I recently returned from a weekend getaway to Charleston, SC celebrating his birthday and our anniversary. We…
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The Halftime Controversy & What it Means to Empower Our Young Girls
Perhaps you saw it … perhaps you didn’t. Maybe you have your own opinions. Maybe you don’t. Regardless, I bet…
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A Restart for the New Year
They cuddled up next to me last night, one girl on each side, the weight of my arms around them…
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Position Over Performance
I find such joy in watching my children do what they love. It literally makes my heart leap to see…
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When God Sings Over You
Not long ago in the darkness of night, I sang over my daughter. Not because she had accomplished anything remarkable…
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The Light is Growing
It’s the first day of April … the month of Easter. And the light has been growing longer each day,…
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There is Room for You
Sometimes it doesn’t feel that way. Sometimes it feels like the market is saturated when it comes to your gifting,…
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To the Mom Who Fears She’s Missed Her Calling
To the mom who’s tending babies and teaching toddlers and training teens … to the mom who gave up goals and dropped dreams and put aside plans … to the mom who commits herself to the pouring out and the selfless sacrifices and the unseen work … to YOU … please allow me to tell you something:
You have not missed your calling.
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A Word for My Son
Eleven years ago, he made me a mom. At 12:21 am, following 27 hours of labor, they placed a 9-pound,…
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The Resolution We All Really Need
It’s everywhere this time of year … talk of resolutions and resolves, plans and promises. There’s just something about the…
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The Miracle of Ordinary Motherhood
She sat in her high chair just the other day with sticky hands and chubby toddler fingers clinging to veggie…
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The Hope of Hospitality
“How does hospitality affect justice?” His question echoed across the quiet living room, swelling and then settling among our friends…
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The First Year with You
One year ago … one year ago I awoke early in the inky black, pre-dawn hours with a sharp labor…
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The Tapestry Unfolds: How a Little Business is Making a Big Impact
It was two and a half years ago when I decided to take a leap of faith and start my…
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Faith | Family | Uncategorized
ROOTS AND WINGS – How to Let Go on the First Day of Kindergarten
I look at you, and I wonder if I’ve done enough, said enough, prayed enough, loved enough. It’s only kinder, they say. But I know better; these last five years … they were just a blink. The next will be too. Then you’re 10, then onto 15, and before I know it … you’re 20. All of this unfolds before me in an instant as I prepare to walk you inside.
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The Fellowship of Mama Friendships
She came over the other day for a cup of coffee. Just an average Friday. Two kids in tow, workout…
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Faith | Family | Uncategorized
A Life Well Lived
On Wednesday, June 20, my grandfather passed away. He was 95. This is in memory of him and the remarkable…
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Birth | Faith | Family | Uncategorized
Great Expectations and Grace: A Birth Story Part 2
They laid her atop my chest immediately following the final push, and the midwife ceremoniously handed the scissors to my…
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Great Expectations: A Birth Story Part 1
It’s been three months since the birth of our fifth child, and much longer since I last made an appearance…
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The Secret to Our Family’s Wellness
A couple years ago, I changed the way I approached our family’s wellness. Always an advocate of whole, unprocessed foods…
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Dear Moms: You’re Not the Only One
So it happened. I sat down last night after the kids had gone to bed and started to talk with…
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Just a Blink
He celebrated his last day of school yesterday. Second grade is written down in the history books, and the summer…
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Free Art Print – Isaiah 43
I’ve been writing about bravery since I recently launched my first children’s book (get it HERE while it’s on sale!). The title…
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He Will Make Us Brave
I hear it echoing in my mind, this line from my new children’s book that I just can’t shake. When…
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Bruce the Brave | Faith | Family | Read
GIVEAWAY – Bruce the Brave Signed Copy
In honor of the release of my new children’s book, Bruce the Brave, I’m excited to offer a GIVEAWAY today!…
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Bruce the Brave | Faith | Family | Read
My Children’s Book and Overcoming Fear
It is with a mixture of humility and hard-to-contain excitement that I am thrilled to announce the release of my…
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A Letter to my Children on Valentine’s Day
You’re looking forward to Valentine’s Day. You’ve told me already. You’re looking forward to chocolate and cards and candy. But…
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A Return to Writing and IF
It’s been a while since I’ve written, a long while. Between the width and the breadth of the last time…
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FREE Beautifully Brave Mother’s Day Printable!
Today I am so excited to share that I have teamed up with my lovely friend, Teresa of Hugs & Punches to…
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Beautifully Brave – A Tribute to Moms
They call you Mom. You with the baby on your hip or the toddler at your feet. You with the…
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Mother’s Day Gift Round-Up
With Mother’s Day just around the corner, I’m excited to share some curated gift offerings from some of my favorite…
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Free May Lock Screen and Verse!
It’s nearly May, and I can hardly believe that the summer season is upon us. Soon enough, schools will be…
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A Word for the Weary Mom
Recently I found myself waist high and elbow deep into one of those nights. It was 9:30 pm, and there…
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Hope Rising
Sometimes, the days are hard. And occasionally those days can stretch into weeks, months, even years. There are seasons that…
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What the Cross Means to a Tired Mama
There are piles of laundry to be washed and folded, and sticky spots are scattered upon the kitchen floor. The…
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Friday Favorites | March 27, 2015
Sweet friends, I am literally giddy with excitement that I will be attending the HopeSpoken conference this weekend. I have…
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Every Bitter Thing is Sweet
Today I’m excited to have my guest book reviewer, Katie Atkins, back with us. Katie has previously shared a review…
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A Little Announcement …
It’s been quiet here the past couple weeks, and for good reason! I have hardly been able to muster the…
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Why Others Need You to Embrace Authenticity
Authenticity can be a frightening prospect. The very act of baring honest struggles and removing a mask for other to…
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Friday Favorites | February 6, 2015
Today I’m excited to start a new series on the blog, something a bit more lighthearted that will give me…
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Thoughts on Marriage – 9 Insights to Help Preserve What’s Sacred
They’ll tell you marriage isn’t easy, that it’s like a mirror held up to reveal your finer moments and your…
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A Word for 2015
January brings with it the desire to reset, start afresh, wipe the slate clean. It’s an opportunity to sit down,…
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A Prayer for my Daughter, on Her Birthday
Dear sweet girl, you’re two today. Remnants of baby still cling to your frame, but you’re growing tall and your…
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A Look Back, Plus the Top Posts of 2014
I can hardly believe 2014 is coming to a close. The older I get, the more I understand how true…
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O Come Let Us Adore Him, FREE iPhone Wallpaper
Christmas is nearly upon us, and I can hardly believe it. There’s still so much I have to do … remaining presents…
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For When You Hurt at Christmas
She walks into the store bravely, yet broken, bearing the fresh scars of a deep soul-pain that I can’t even…
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The Cure for Christmas
The youngest is sleeping, and the older two are resting when I pick up my phone to do a little browsing….
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Introducing the #ThanksIn30Challenge
Today I’m excited to introduce an Instagram project for the month of November. The #ThanksIn30Challenge is a project I originally launched last year, and…
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Regret-Free Mothering
Regrets can suffocate a mom, threaten to steal the joy right out from within her. A mother can tally up…
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The Butterfly Lesson
As I dropped the oldest off at his classroom the other day, there was a flurry of excited activity. A…
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Finding Rest
I’m tired. I bet you are too. If you’re a mom to one, two, three, four or more … I…
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Be Still and Know
I feel it creeping up, the familiar strangling sensation of anxiety: the tightness in the chest, the heart palpitations, the…
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Dear Intentional Mom: Just Look Up
It’s incredible how inadequate I feel as a mother at times, how unintentionally I sometimes spend my days. I’ve previously…
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You tell me … what makes an intentional mom?
We’re just over one week into this 31 Days of Intentional Mothering series, and today I want to hear from you….
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The SECRET to Intentional Motherhood
It’s half past nine, and my kids are breathing deeply when I finally squeeze out of the bed. All three of…
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But Then Grace
If brokenness is vital to an intentional mom, then grace is her lifeline. Because grace is the beautiful mystery that…
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Intentional Mothering Begins with Brokenness
Let me be honest about something, I’d rather not begin with brokenness. I’d rather skip right over this hard stuff…
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Intentional Mothering Is …
Y’all, I have a confession to make. We’re just four days into this 31 Days of Intentional Mothering series, and…
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Intentional Mothering Is Not …
I said that we would start today with a discussion of what intentional mothering is, but after further thought, I…
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Confessions of an Unintentional Mom
It’s a bit ironic that I chose to talk about intentional mothering for 31 days. Because truth be told, sometimes…
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31 Days of Intentional Mothering
I may be crazy, because committing to write for 31 days when I have three kids at home certainly sounds…
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October Love | Free Printable
I don’t know about you, but I’m pretty smitten with the fall season. Unfortunately, fall isn’t as smitten with Texas….
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Because Motherhood is Worth It
Recently, I opened my inbox to find a comment on this post: the one that talks about the hard, die-to-self…
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A Quick Hello and the Sweetest Newborn Photos
It’s been a bit quiet here throughout the past couple weeks, and for good reason. The summer days with flexible agendas…
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Remembering a Princess, and Encouragement to Engage the World
Seventeen years ago yesterday, the world lost a princess. I was a senior in high school, and her death deeply…
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Treasuring Christ When Your Hands are Full
Today I’m excited to introduce Katie Atkins to you. Katie is a friend and avid reader; she’s frequently engrossed in…
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31 Days of Prayer for our Children – A Back-to-School Pledge
I turn on my computer or flip on my phone, and I’m flooded with images of the back-to-school season. Tiny…
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How to Respond to Heartbreaking Headlines and a Hurting World
I turn on the news and the headlines hit me with a weight that is too heavy to bear: mass genocide,…
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Your Story Matters
I lie awake sometimes and wonder … Why do I do this? Why do I sit down at the keyboard…
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COLORADO and the Majesty of God
Before I begin this post, I feel I should give you a fair warning. This wasn’t the easiest entry to…
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Dear Moms: You are Enough
I saw her today in the checkout line, juggling a baby, one toddler and an elementary-aged firstborn. There was a…
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A Bit of Encouragement + Free iPhone Wallpaper
There a few quotes on parenting that have really encouraged me in the past few months. The words of Charles…
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Let’s All Be Brave
I almost hesitate to tell you how I met author Annie Downs. In truth, it’s a little bit crazy on…
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Art Print GIVEAWAY and Welcoming Baby C!
This giveaway is now closed. The winner as selected by Random.org is Jamy Smith. Congratulations Jamy! Please e mail me at shalene(at)shaleneroberts(dot)com…
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When God Interrupts
I’m sharing a story today of an event that happened earlier this week. It was an immense encouragement to me!…
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Unmasking the Mess: How to Invite Others into the Heart of Your Home
Dear sweet friend, you stopped by my house today, and I welcomed you in. There were a few piles of…
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A Quilt GIVEAWAY with Phoebe Flock!
A year and a half ago, I started this little blog as a way to merge faith and motherhood with…
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What Freedom Really Means … For Today and Always!
Today, as those of us in the United States celebrate the birth of our nation, there will be an exuberant…
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Let Freedom Ring: FREE Fourth of July Art Print + iPhone Wallpaper
Today marks 238 years since Congress voted to approve separation from Great Britain. Just two days after that vote, on…
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Oven-Baked Fried Chicken: A Feast for July Fourth
The Fourth of July has always been one of my favorite holidays. It evokes in me a wave of nostalgia…
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Good-Enough Mom GIveaway Winner! {and the last week of the reading group}
Today I am excited to announce the winner of the Good Enough Mom tee giveaway. But first a big thanks…
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Into the Mountains and Week 6 of the Reading Group
Just a few days ago, my family and I returned from a week-long trip to Colorado. Though I will be sharing…
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A Free Father’s Day Printable
This post originally appeared on 6/15/2013. I don’t remember when or where I first heard this quote, but it’s since…
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Good Enough Mom: A Giveaway with Charity Craig
Today I’m excited to announce that I’m teaming up with Charity Craig at The Wounded Dove to offer you a fantastic…
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Kicking Off Week 5 of the Reading Group
Today we’re kicking off week 5 of the reading group (click for week 1, week 2, week 3, week 4)….
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13 Life Lessons from a Mother to Her Son
My oldest recently completed kindergarten, and I’ve been musing a bit on the rapid passage of time. Wise, white-haired, nostalgic…
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Welcome to Week Four of the Reading Group
If you’ve been awaiting week four of the F&C reading group, I apologize for posting late. I planned to post…
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A Simple Summer Dessert: Berries and Maple-Sweetened Whipped Cream
Memorial Day harkens the unofficial start of summer! And If you’re looking for a delightfully quick, whole-foods dessert to add to…
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Succulents in a Coconut Half Shell
With spring in full swing and summer beckoning just around the corner, I find myself longing to infuse some fresh…
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Honest Contemplations and Week Three of the Reading Group
Do you ever have those days where the cumulative effect of the urgent, must-be-done-soon tasks is a bit overwhelming? I’m having one of…
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Encouragement for When You Have a Dream
In the small map-dot town of Mansfield, Missouri stands a home that houses a desk bearing a unique claim to…
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Our Whirlwind Travels and Week Two of the Reading Group
This last week was a busy one for us. Last Sunday, my husband boarded a plane bound for the jungles of…
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Welcome to Week One of the Reading Group
Today we dive into week one of our first-ever online reading group, and I’m excited to share this little adventure…
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When the Mess of Anxiety Takes Root in Your Heart
It’s been two years now. Two years since I looked fear in the face and boarded a plane bound for…
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Announcing the FIRST Faith and Composition Reading Group
Vulnerability, transparency, accountability … it’s often a difficult thing to put skin on those words. They require a certain amount…
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What the Cross Means to a Tired Mama
There are piles of laundry to be washed and folded, and sticky spots are scattered upon the kitchen floor. The…
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A Newborn Shoot with the G Family
I recently had the opportunity to photograph a newborn session for sweet friends of ours, and ya’ll, I cannot express how precious this…
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When Grace Trumps Guilt
It had been a taxing evening. My husband was out of town, and the older kids had both decided to throw…
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Faith | Family | Holidays | Uncategorized
Why We Won’t be Giving Our Kids an Easter Basket
This post originally appeared on March 29, 2013. I originally began this post as a compilation of ideas for candy-alternative…
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Birthday Reflections – A Mother’s Thoughts on the First Six Years
Our firstborn recently turned six, and I find myself wondering how the time has passed so quickly. Six years old…
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A Free Printable and the Fine Art Print Giveaway Winners
This week has flown by in a blur so far. We’ve been a bit hectic, and I failed to post…
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A Changed Perspective {Finding the Blessing in the Mess}
I herd the kids into the car and rush off to the boy’s school. Perpetually late, I can’t ever seem…
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10 Life Lessons I’ve Learned from My Mom (when she didn’t realize she was teaching)
My mother turned 61 on the 17th … a St. Patty’s baby. Raised on a Kansas farm, an educator by…
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A Giveaway with Artist Emily Jeffords
I first “met” artist Emily Jeffords via Instagram. I don’t remember how I initially found her photo feed, but once…
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Mom Unmasked {Embracing Authenticity in Motherhood}
Last Friday I had one of those days. Perhaps you know the kind … when pressures and concerns weigh heavy,…
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A Sneak Peek at a Children’s Book Project
I currently have a few fun things brewing, and today I wanted to pop in to share just a quick…
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Let Our Words Speak Life
Last week, I treated my daughters to breakfast at a local restaurant. As I was filling my coffee cup—the baby…
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When the Little Years are Fleeting and Their Needs Never-Ending
This past weekend my son went to spend some time with my in-laws and his cousins. We sent him two…
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An Afternoon Pick-Me-Up {My Favorite Cup of Coffee}
{Simply because it’s Friday, and I feel like being a bit light-hearted today, I’m sharing a lifestyle post. So kick…
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For the Days You Feel Small
Tiny Legos litter the floor, and miniature dinner plates adorn my table. I match pint-sized socks and fold little pairs…
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Laundry and Grace
If you’ve been reading F&C for a while, you may have seen this. But since many of you are new…
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A Recipe for Preserving Children
My mother was recently sorting through some old boxes when she came across a letter dated July 12, 1970. It…
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When Competition Divides, Let Grace Unite
There’s a battle waging. And if you’re a mom, you’ve undoubtedly felt it. Sometimes it’s obvious; other times it’s covertly…
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Faith | Family | Uncategorized
This Beautiful Community, a Free Printable, and a Giveaway Winner
For the winner of the Handmade Yoga giveaway, please scroll to the end of this post. I awoke this morning…
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How to Love a Husband When You Feel You’ve Nothing Left to Give {in honor of Valentine’s day}
He pulls in after a day at work, and the house is in a state of organized chaos. The older…
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Valentine’s Day Breakfast and a Free Printable
Valentine’s Day is this Friday, and while I try not to over-emphasize the material aspect of the holiday, it’s certainly…
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Thank YOU! And a Giveaway with Handmade Yoga
Last week I wrote about those moments when mothering is hard and no one sees. And friends, I was overwhelmed…
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When Mothering is Hard and No One Sees
Somewhere, in a house with walls and a roof very similar to the place you and I call home, there…
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Weekend Links
A few inspired links for your weekend reading. Have a blessed one, friends! The 8 Biographies Everyone Should Read |…
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The Stirrings of a Heart and an African Boy
Halfway around the world, there’s a 15-year-old boy who traipses across red African dirt and calls Uganda home. When grinning,…
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A Visit and a Letter to a Friend
It’s an overcast day, and rain is threatening to spill over when I arrive at her house. I have three…
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A Letter to My Husband {on his birthday}
He turns 34 today, the man I have the privilege of calling my husband. We met at the age of…
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Friday Freebie {John 10:10 F R E E Printable}
Happy Friday, friends! I’m popping in today to share a pretty little F R E E printable with you. Sometimes…
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To My Daughter on Your First Birthday {and our Water Birth Story}
You were due January 3; our surprise baby number three and the manifestation of God’s goodness. The week before your…
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A Word for 2014
I can hardly believe 2013 is coming to a close. It’s been a good year, most especially punctuated by the…
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Free Christmas Printables {My Gift to You!}
With Christmas just a few days away, I’m going to be stepping away from this little space for a week…
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A Holiday Interview {with Mary Beth at Annapolis & Co.}
Today I have a little treat for you! The lovely Mary Beth is popping in to answer some questions on…
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Faith | Family | Holidays | Uncategorized
The Cure for Christmas {whether you’re a perfectionist or not}
The baby is sleeping, and the older two are resting when I pick up my phone to do a little…
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Mini Fall Photo Sessions {A Glimpse at Some of the Shoots}
It’s the start of the Christmas season, and my head is swimming with ideas and posts to share here ……
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A Newborn Shoot {with Baby N}
A few weekends ago, I had the immense pleasure of photographing this precious little baby girl and her sweet family….
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Announcing the Thanks in 30 Instagram Challenge
Today I’m excited to announce that I’m launching an Instagram project for the month of November, and I’m dubbing it…
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For When Your Children are a Mirror (and God Reveals Grace)
She came running in the other night with red, swollen eyes and tear stains on her cheeks. It had been…
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The Gift of Family and Our Weekend
There are bursts of lightning outside the window and the rain pounds down as I lie with the baby and…
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In Christ Alone {A Free Printable}
As I drove the kids to school on Monday, this song came streaming through my Pandora playlist. The words renewed…
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A Weekend Recap {The Pumpkin Patch}
This weekend brought with it crisp air that carried a little bite. The hubby and little man woke early Saturday…
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Laundry and Grace
It sits on the baby’s rocker in a tangled, wrinkled mess. That pile of clean laundry I pulled from the…
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Chopped Harvest Salad {A Recipe}
I am always amazed by the splendor of fall; brilliant reds, oranges, yellows and browns litter the landscape like a…
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Apple Picking
Hello dear friends, how was your weekend? We went apple picking on Saturday. Texas certainly isn’t known for its apple…
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Weekend Links
What are your plans for the weekend, dear friends? We’re hoping to go apple picking, if the orchard isn’t picked…
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Anchor-Themed 1st Birthday
My niece recently celebrated her 1st birthday, and although we couldn’t attend, my sister-in-law had a photographer capture all…
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A Glimpse into Our Weekend
Whew, it’s been a bit quiet over here! The mister was out of town for a few days last week,…
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Peanut Butter and Honey Popcorn {A Recipe}
Fall was in the air this weekend, with its slightly cooler temps and a quick rainstorm that sent us all…
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Five-Minute Friday {Truth}
Good Friday, dear friends! I’m linking up with Lisa-Jo Baker today for her Five-Minute Fridays … just five minutes of…
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Fall Printable {Free 8×10 Art Print}
Today is the third day of Fall (not that I’m counting), and the weather in Texas has actually felt a…
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A Photo Shoot with the S Family
I always relish the opportunity to sneak behind the viewfinder and attempt to capture fleeting moments with the lens. So…
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Five-Minute Friday {She}
This past week was a busy one. We had family in town for my daughter’s third birthday, and then each…
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To My Daughter {on Her Third Birthday}
You arrived one day early. Your brother had been nearly two weeks late, so we weren’t prepared for you yet….
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We Will Never Forget {September 11, 2001}
September 11, 2001. The day is forever etched in my mind. I was a wide-eyed senior at TCU, and I…
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Weekend Links {A few things to inspire}
Greetings dear friends! I just wanted to pop in quickly and share a few things to encourage and inspire you…
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Five-Minute Friday {Red}
For the past three weeks, I’ve been linking up with Lisa-Jo Baker for her Five-Minute Fridays. I wasn’t sure if…
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Sample 5-Day Whole Foods Meal Plan
(If this is your first time here or you found your way here via A Storied Style, welcome! I’m so…
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Five-Minute Friday {Worship}
Last week I linked up with Lisa-Jo Baker for her five-minute Friday series. I really enjoyed the process of unscripted…
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A Quick, Efficient Workout for Busy Mamas {Guest Post by Heather Jones}
Happy Monday to each of you! Today I have a delightful guest post from a friend of mine. Heather and…
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Five Minute Friday {LAST}
I’ve had a few sick kiddos this week; first the boy and now the baby. Just a fever and lethargy,…
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A Quiche Recipe and a Book Review {French Kids Eat Everything}
Open the first chapter of Karen LeBillon’s French Kids Eat Everything, and these words from the first paragraph jump off…
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Friday Freebie {Printable Watercolor Verse}
I had another post planned for today: a review of a fun, informative, witty little book that fits right in…
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How to Make a Whole Foods Lifestyle Work for Your Family
As I sit typing this post, there’s a bowl of cookies and cream ice cream keeping me company. It’s not…
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How to Save Money on Unprocessed, Whole Foods and A RECIPE
Welcome! If this is your first time visiting, please note that this part 4 in a series on Whole Foods…
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Whole Foods for the Family Table, Part 3 {Sourcing Animal Proteins}
If this is your first time here, welcome! We’re currently in the middle of a series titled Whole Foods for…
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Whole Foods for the Family Table, Part 2
Good morning and happy Tuesday! I hope y’all had a great weekend! If you joined us last week, you know…
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Friday Freebie {“Love You to the Moon Little One” printable}
Happy Friday dear readers! I’ll be kicking off Monday with part 2 of Whole Foods for the Family Table, but…
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Whole Foods for the Family Table, Part 1
This is part 1 in a series on whole foods for the family. Click through to read part 2, part…
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To Fellow Mamas of Multiple Little Ones {When You’re Stretched Thin}
I called my husband a few weeks ago on the brink of tears. It was 6:15 pm, and those long…
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Praying God’s Word for Your Family
Reminder: TODAY is the last day to enter the contest for the Greek Key bracelets! I’ll announce the winner on…
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The Future Mrs. George Alexander Louis {A Free Printable}
Prince William and Duchess Kate announced the name of their newborn son today. And in honor of the little prince…
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A Painting and Deeper Truth
Throughout the past few days, I’ve been working on an abstract painting. Though I should preface that statement by admitting…
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A Giveaway {Win 1 of 2 Bracelets}
Good Monday to you all! Today I’m excited to announce the very first Faith&Composition giveaway! Up for grabs are these…
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Clearing Clutter and Getting the Most for Your Donations
I mentioned earlier that I’d be hosting a giveaway later this week, but we had a slight delay, so I’ve…
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A Confession {Learning to Live with Little Messes}
I have a confession to make. A few days ago, I plopped the kids in front of the TV and…
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My Water Birth Story {A Guest Post at FWMB}
Greetings friends! Today I’m guest posting over at Fort Worth Moms Blog about the water birth experience I had with…
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Friday Freebie {My Hope is in You – Printable}
Just wanted to pop in and say that I hope you all have a great weekend! In appreciation to all…
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The Invisible Mother {For When You’re Tired and Discouraged}
If you’re new here, welcome! You might want to subscribe to Faith&Composition by entering your e mail in the box…
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A Kansas Wheat Harvest {And Other Adventures}
In Monday’s post, I mentioned that we’d recently returned from a whirlwind trip, which included a drive from Texas to…
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A Family Photo Shoot with the P Family
We just returned from a bit of a whirlwind trip, lugging three kids from Texas to Kansas, from Kansas over…
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The Fourth of July and a Free Printable
The Fourth of July has always been one of my favorite holidays, and for good reason. I have a…
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A Summer Bucket List {of a Different Sort}
I’m sure you’ve seen them floating around, maybe you have one yourself … the list of all the things you…
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A Friend’s Design Blog and How She Met Martha (THE Martha)
It’s been quiet over here throughout the past week and a half, so please forgive my absence! In addition to…
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To my Husband on Father’s Day
My Dearest B: Just over five years ago, T entered this world, all 9 pounds of him and that full…
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A Father’s Day Printable
I don’t remember when or where I first heard this quote, but it’s stuck with me. I love the honest…
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A Summer Pick-Me-Up
Although it’s not technically summer just yet (the summer solstice is on June 21 this year), the temperatures here indicate…
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A Little Sweetness for Your Monday
How about starting your Monday off with a little newborn sweetness? Last weekend, I had the pleasure of photographing a…
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A Journey through Anxiety – Wrap-Up
If this is your first time here, WELCOME! Please note that this is a wrap-up in a 5-part series on…
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A Journey through Anxiety – Part 5 (Belize 2012)
If this is your first time here, WELCOME! Please note that this is part 5 in a series on a…
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From Belize with Love
One week ago, my hubby boarded a plane to return to Belize … to the same village he and I…
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A Journey through Anxiety – Part 4
If this is your first time here, welcome! You’ll notice that this is part 4 in a series on anxiety,…
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Happy Mother’s Day
Happy Mother’s Day to all you mamas! May you know today that you are doing work of the highest calling…
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A Journey through Anxiety – Part 3
I promised that I would get to the personal details of my own battle with anxiety, and today starts that…
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A Journey through Anxiety – Part 2
If you read Part 1 of this anxiety series, you know that today I planned to share how I learned…
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A Journey through Anxiety – Part 1
This months marks an anniversary of sorts for me. Last year, I journeyed through a rather debilitating bout of anxiety….
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When You’re Stuck in the Mire
Last weekend, Little Man took part in a 1.2 mile all-kids mud race. Just 10 yards out of the start…
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Happy Sunday
I hope you’re having a lovely Sunday! May your afternoon be grace-filled.
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A Weekend without Social Media – My Review
On Friday, I challenged you to take the Redeem the Time – Mini Pledge. Several of you joined me in…
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Redeem the Time – Mini Pledge {A Weekend without Social Media}
This weekend I’m posting a challenge to myself, and I’d like you to join me. Knowing that I’m not going…
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Pray for West, Texas
Just heard news of the explosion in the city of West, Texas. Praying for them all!
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Working Miracles
If you read my previous post, you know my cousin was in an accident a week and a half ago…
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Please Join Me in Praying
On Sunday, my cousin (the eldest son of my mom’s brother, who lives at the farm I mentioned in my…
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Whole Wheat Bread – A Family Recipe
My mom’s family hails from central Kansas, where the tall-grass prairies of the Flint Hills stretch for endless mile after…
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Why We Won’t be Giving Our Kids an Easter Basket
I originally began this post as a compilation of ideas for candy-alternative Easter baskets. We really try to avoid consuming…
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For When You Feel You’ve Failed as a Mother …
As I laid down with the baby a few nights ago, I wept. Wept because I was suddenly overcome with…
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A Taste of Spring
A pretty little image for your Friday. Spring has arrived in Texas, and I hope you’re enjoying a taste of…
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A Kitchen Staple – Homemade Granola
I make granola nearly once a week, sometimes twice. The aroma of cinnamon, vanilla and orange zest emanate from the…
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Celebrating Easter
As Easter nears, here’s just a little reminder of the season’s significance.
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Letter to a Five-Year-Old Birthday Boy
Monday marked five years since the day our little boy was born. He was due February 28, 2006, but (much…
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Finding the Magnificent in the Mundane
Scarcely more than six years ago, I occupied the editor’s desk for two nationally circulated home design publications: Signature Kitchens…
Welcome, friend! I’m so glad you’re here!
