“This book is not another before and after story.”

Author K. J. Ramsey wants to make sure her readers are well aware of this from the very beginning of her opening invitation. The title of her book turns a common consolation upside down to make it unmistakably clear as well: This Too Shall Last.… Read the rest

Summer weather is here along with the easing of some restrictions from the COVID-19 crisis, and I am so happy for a new season in both respects! But I’m taking a cue from Emily P. Freeman to pause and reflect on what I’ve been learning in the past season, spurred on by her reminder of these wise words from Jan Johnson:

“It’s not the experience that brings transformation; it’s our reflection upon our experience.”… Read the rest

Think back with me for a moment to a few months ago, maybe even to January of this year. Could you have possibly imagined the days we are living in right now? A global pandemic, stay at home orders, many cancellations and changes, and now trying to figure out how to ease into possible reopenings and determining what the dreaded phrase of a “new normal” might look like–all of these are occupying a space in our minds that we wouldn’t have even dreamed before.… Read the rest

Daylight Saving Time has arrived, and spring is in the air in southern Illinois (at least for a few moments). If you know me very well, you know I’ve been counting down for spring pretty much since the time changed last November, but I don’t want to miss the gifts of winter, either.… Read the rest