Homes are very much like people and take on a life of their own. As spring breaks through from the hardened earth of winter, our dwellings can shake off the gloom and echo the vibrant season on the other side of the windowpanes. April is a feast for the senses. Here are some simple ways... Continue Reading →
A friend recently pointed out that the population of Connecticut moves to rhythms rather than to routine. As a native Okie gal, I found this observation intriguing; my soul took a deep breath and smiled. Of course! Of course Connecticutians (or Connecticutters, or whatever they may be) adhere more to rhythm than routine. And of... Continue Reading →
"But you think perhaps you can smell caramel wafting through the evening breeze, beneath the crisp scent of the autumn leaves. A subtle sweetness at the edges of the cold." (Erin Morgenstern) The windy shift from swimsuits to scarves is a happy one around here, and I don't want to miss a single sensation. The... Continue Reading →
There once was a foolish farmer who loved his wheat field so much that he refused to harvest it. Months after carefully planting, watering, tending, and praying, his wheat was golden, ready to bring into the barns and be put to good use. The farmer walked his field, discussing the upcoming harvest. "After I gather... Continue Reading →
The days are getting warmer, and the budding trees hint that winter has finally faded. What a perfect chance to bond with some girlfriends over a springtime adventure! All you need is a camera and a happy heart. Whether you choose to check off the items on this list or create your own, I hope... Continue Reading →
Ah, Easter: that glorious day marked by egg hunting, honey ham, and zombies. Wait—what? Yep. Zombies. It's actually one of my very favorite parts of the Easter story, and for the life of me, I have ZERO idea why it so often gets overlooked in church. But it's right there in the middle of Scripture:... Continue Reading →
"Practice makes perfect!" What kid hasn't heard this sentiment? Loathe as we may have been to sit down and go through the notes or moves or whatever yet again, those grownups had a point. What we consistently rehearse becomes second nature to us in time. Our culture rehearses love. Well, not love. But something disguised... Continue Reading →
"See the beauty and the magic that surround you, no matter where you are." (Christen Olivarez) Welcome to the long duration of cold between Christmas trees and Easter eggs. It's a stark season, winter, but there's beauty here if you know where (and how) to look. Seeing seems easier with a camera in front of... Continue Reading →
"Death is the hardest thing about living so far away from our families," Riley murmured as I fought back collapsing into tears again. "No," I replied through gritted teeth, "death is the hardest thing about living, period." Because it doesn't matter if we are in the same room with a loved one or on the... Continue Reading →
Don't you just adore Christmastime? The music, the smells, the treats, the traditions—it all swirls into one superbly jubilant festival of light in the middle of the dark. I've had a year now to treasure hunt the most delicious gifts for your holiday season. Wishing you a glorious riot of Christ this month as you... Continue Reading →
The Dwelling Place 