Americans love their movies, and the 2011 holiday releases had just about everything to offer.  Audiences were whizzed all over the world, from heights to depths, and through everything in between.    Here is a look at the season’s best movies, many of which can still be seen in theaters (if you hurry), as well as a peek at what’s to… Read more…

I’m giving 2012 a name:  The Year of Life.

2011 had a name for me, too:  The Year of Simplicity.

Naming the years is not my idea.  One of my best friends names the years.  My favorite blogger (http://www.aholyexperience.com/2012/01/a-creed-for-the-new-year/) does, too.

I began last year, sort of by chance.  How about you?

Giving the year a name gives… Read more…

“Sweet Jesus Christ, my sanity…Sweet Jesus Christ, my clarity…”

The words on the screen drew me in, and enveloped me as I sang.  This was my song, and I knew it.  The song is “Mystery” by Charlie Hall, and the worship pastor chose well that day.

For me, the words to the song have special meaning, because insanity… Read more…

I used to belt out the words to that Aretha Franklin classic in the pre-dawn while throwing a paper route for extra money. Little did I know how important the concept of respect would be in my family relationships.

… Read more…

Once, there was a mom and her son. One bright day, they had a disagreement. And the disagreement turned out to be like manna from heaven.

This family lived a busy life. They had not unpacked from an out-of-town trip. They were late to an extended family gathering. And the mom was finishing paperwork that had to be postmarked that… Read more…

Grace is something I desperately, deeply need.  So, I try to sprinkle it around.  I hope that people in my life will return the favor.

I just got a bill (payable immediately) from my son’s university.  They didn’t offer me much grace.  In fact, they… Read more…

I’ve been pondering Josh Hamilton’s story lately.  I guess it’s because it’s spring, and the major leaguers are reporting to spring training.  Or maybe it’s because it’s time for my son to sign up for little league ball, and his team is dusting off the bats and gloves.  Or maybe it’s because I recently read Josh’s book, I… Read more…