Four Practical Ways to Comfort a Friend When They’re Ugly Crying
Knowing how to comfort a friend who is going through a hard time is a delicate act. You want to be there for them and offer emotional support, but you…
How To Take a Social Media Hiatus and Reconnect With God
Social media is designed to help us connect with friends and family, but in recent years, it’s taken on a ubiquitous role in our lives. From connecting with online communities…
Carols on our Porch: Experiencing the Other Side of Giving
It was a cold Sunday night, days before Christmas. The doorbell rang, and my children ran through the house to answer the door. We were shocked to see a crowd…
Moving on Gracefully: Navigating the Messy Waters of a Broken Friendship
I saw her from across the room and instantly my stomach tightened. She was surrounded by friends and did not notice my arrival. Or did she? Either way, I decided…
Let’s Have a Care Package Party!
The crisp, fall air brings to mind cozy days at home, time with family, and making memories. It’s also a time of year that brings change. The leaves turn from…
A Lifestyle of Love: Living Beyond Our To-Do List
The early morning fog had not yet lifted as the raindrops fell steadily onto my windshield. Wishing I could have stayed curled up in the comfort of my bed, I…
How to Love Your Neighbor During Election Year: Tips for Grace-Filled Political Discourse
Welcome to 2020, a year of stark political polarization! We thought 2016 was a divisive year, but it might just be a picnic in comparison to what seems to be…
A Pot of Soup: Responding to God’s Invitation to Show Up
PAYING ATTENTION My plans had fallen through, and I suddenly found myself with a free day to do as I pleased. There was no lack of tasks to choose from—plenty…
Fair Weather Feasting
When you live at the base of the Eagle Cap Mountain Range in eastern Oregon, it can feel like summer defines the phrase “short and sweet.” The snow in our…
Are you a Hard Place Kind of Friend?
“My Life is Over!” I screamed into my pillow with all the natural drama of a 14-year-old girl. My first boyfriend, the love of my life, had just broken up…
Over 25 Unique Ideas for Fun and Intentional Girl Time!
There are so many things clamoring for our attention and time, making it hard to know the best ways to wisely invest these precious commodities. ‘Girl Time’ may sound overindulgent,…
Choosing Gospel-Focused Friendship in a Me-Focused World
It was Sunday morning, and I knew I looked as awkward as I felt. I groaned inwardly and tried to paste on a convincing smile. We had rushed out the…