Having a baby is one experience that will open your eyes to how pervasive materialism is in our culture. My husband and I need things for the baby and I need new clothes to accommodate my growing belly. However, as we shop, I sometimes begin confusing my genuine needs with wants. Materialism is a way of thinking that emphasizes material … [Read more...] about Resisting Materialism
Reflecting on Life
The Line Between Restfulness and Laziness
The one symptom of pregnancy that has been most surprising to me is fatigue. Some afternoons I can barely function unless I first take a nap. Because of my fatigue, I’ve been accomplishing less around the house. Laundry has piled up, I’m preparing easy meals instead of those I planned on our menu, and I’ve been cutting my workouts … [Read more...] about The Line Between Restfulness and Laziness
The Dream in Fulfillment: What My Interracial Marriage Has Taught Me About Racial Harmony in the U.S.
I tend to be reflective on Martin Luther King, Jr. Day because it is Dr. King and other leaders like him who pioneered the changes that make my marriage possible. As many of you know, I am white and my husband is black. I’m often asked about our experience with interracial marriage. Did your family accept him? Did his family accept you? Is it … [Read more...] about The Dream in Fulfillment: What My Interracial Marriage Has Taught Me About Racial Harmony in the U.S.
Lessons Learned in 2013
Last year presented many opportunities to learn and grow. As I complete my goal setting and prepare for 2014, several of the lessons I’ve learned stand out. The perfect is the enemy of the good I’ve become familiar with the veracity of this aphorism courtesy of my tendency to be a perfectionist. I’ll often tinker with work that is … [Read more...] about Lessons Learned in 2013
It’s the Little Things About Winter
Winter 2013 officially begins this weekend! It’s the little things about winter that gladden my heart and put a smile on my face. Christmas. An opportunity to celebrate the birth of our Savior is reason enough to get excited. However, I can hardly contain my excitement when time with family, cookies, Christmas carols, candy, lights, and … [Read more...] about It’s the Little Things About Winter
Setting Goals as a Couple
As the New Year approaches each winter, my husband and I set aside a weekend to focus on setting goals for the upcoming year. This is one of the most beneficial activities we complete together. Let’s consider why it's beneficial to set goals in general and why it’s especially beneficial to set them together. I’ll also share a copy of … [Read more...] about Setting Goals as a Couple
The Masks We Wear
Whether you celebrate Halloween or not, you likely see Halloween paraphernalia, including masks, in stores during the fall months. Children who are in search of treats aren’t the only ones who wear masks. As we attempt to be “good” Christian women we often wear them, too. Why we wear masks We wear masks when we don’t want our true … [Read more...] about The Masks We Wear
It’s the Little Things About Fall
Fall 2013 officially begins this weekend! It’s the little things about fall that gladden my heart and put a smile on my face. Apples. Though apples are available year-round, they take center stage during fall. I'll soon have caramel apples, apple cider, apple crisp, baked apples, apple pie—they’re all delicious! Changing leaves. I … [Read more...] about It’s the Little Things About Fall