Love That Will Last

Last Saturday, we made the trek to Tulsa for the wedding of my precious niece, Madison aka Maddie, and her handsome groom, Brady.

Madison poured her heart into every detail of the wedding. Each table setting was adorned with a beautiful bow. The meal was elegant and thoughtfully prepared. Most touching of all, she hand-wrote personal notes of gratitude and love to each one of the 144 guests. It was typical Madison -- thoughtful, intentional, and full of grace.

The gorgeous outdoor venue gave way to God’s magnificent creation. Brady was the first to walk down the aisle – and he was already tearing up – even before his bride showed up. It was precious.

And, Maddie? Let’s just say – she looked like an angel on her daddy’s arm -- and a precious remembrance guided by Maddie.

Those sitting on the aisle -- tossed dried petals that Maddie had saved from the many roses Brady gave her during their many dates over many years.

And there they stood. Maddie and Brady looked radiant. More than once they giggled during the ceremony -- like two kids sharing a wonderful secret. Their joy was contagious.

Though there was beauty in the flowers, the dresses, and the stunning venue -- the real beauty was watching two hearts become one.

Jesus said, "The two shall become one flesh." (Mark 10:8) And, Brady’s uncle – who performed the touching ceremony -- quoted King Solomon’s words from Ecclesiastes 4 -- “Two are better than one,” (the value of companionship, mutual comfort, protection and strength).

Now, two families, two histories, two careers, two dreams and one beautiful life together.

At the reception -- came one of my favorite moments. Maddie's father, Troy, became emotional while speaking about his daughter and expressing his happiness for Brady. Not too many dry eyes in sight!

The best parts of the wedding were the moments no one could script -- the tears, the laughter, the whispered prayers, the proud parents, and the joy of family gathered together.

Because marriage isn't merely the story of two people finding each other -- it is the story of our faithful God leading two lives through thousands of ordinary days until they stand before Him one day and hear the words: “Well done, good and faithful servants.”

And that kind of love will live on and on.

Congratulations, Maddie and Brady!

#LoveThatLasts #WeddingJoy #GodsFaithfulness

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His Promise Changed History

Today is Pentecost Sunday -- we celebrate the day God kept His promise and changed history forever.

Let’s imagine what it must have been like. The disciples had watched Jesus die. They had witnessed His resurrection. They had heard His final instructions. And then He told them to wait.

Wait for what? "You will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you..." (Acts 1:8)

So they waited in Jerusalem, praying, hoping, and trusting.
Then suddenly it happened.

A sound like a mighty rushing wind filled the house. Ordinary men and women were filled with the Holy Spirit and empowered to do extraordinary things. Fearful followers became fearless witnesses. The gospel that began in a small upper room would soon reach the ends of the earth.

As I typed this blog, I realized that the disciples were not spiritual superheroes. They were ordinary people with ordinary fears, questions, and uncertainties. Yet after the Holy Spirit came, they became bold, courageous, and unstoppable in their faith.

What changed?
THE PRESENCE AND POWER OF THE HOLY SPIRIT!
And it's the same for us today!

We face doctor's appointments, family concerns, wedding plans, travel, unanswered questions, missing luggage, and all the twists and turns of everyday life.

Yet we do not walk alone. The same Holy Spirit lives within us, strengthening us when we feel weak, comforting us when we are anxious, and reminding us that God is still on the throne.

What a promise!

Pentecost is not merely a historical event we remember once a year. It is a daily reality for every believer. The Helper is here. The Comforter is here. The Counselor is here. The One who gives wisdom, courage, peace, and power is here.

Yesterday we were in Tulsa, OK for my precious niece's wedding – the same Holy Spirit filled our hearts with joy, safe travels, sweet memories, and renewed wonder at God's goodness.

How fitting that while celebrating a new beginning for Brady and Maddie -- I know that the same Holy Spirit who faithfully held us through the forty-plus years in Tulsa – is the God who led me to Austin, blessed me with Carl, and continues to offer me help with the beautiful chapters in our story.

Praying for you, my friends and loved ones – may this Pentecost Sunday be filled with fresh gratitude for the precious gift of the Holy Spirit.

#PentecostSunday #HolySpirit #HolySpiritPower

Living the Love Life

 

Our hearts are full of anticipation this morning as we head to Tulsa to celebrate Maddie (my precious niece) and Brady as they marry and begin their new life together.

There is something wonderfully hopeful about a wedding. In a world that often seems divided and hurried, a wedding reminds us that love still believes, still commits, still endures, and still dreams.

For the last couple of years, I've watched their love story unfold from afar. Through photos, family gatherings, and sweet social media posts, I've seen something beautiful happen. They didn't just fall in love -- they seemed to grow in love.

And isn't that what we all long for?

Now, let's talk about love itself. Real love is far more than romance. It heals wounds, lifts burdens, strengthens weary hearts, and brings hope to difficult days. Why? Because God is love. (1 John 4:8)

One of God's greatest gifts is the people He places in our lives. Family. Friends. Neighbors. Fellow believers.

After all, God never intended for us to travel life's road alone.

The phrase "one another" appears 58 times in the New Testament. Love one another. Encourage one another. Pray for one another. Care for one another.

That sounds a lot like God's blueprint for a joy-filled life.

Romans 12 reminds us that we belong to one another. What a comforting thought! When someone celebrates a victory, we cheer them on. When someone faces a trial, we help carry the load. We laugh together, cry together, pray together, and grow together.

I especially love these words:

"Take delight in honoring each other." (Romans 12:10)

Imagine what our homes, churches, and communities would look like if we truly delighted in celebrating one another's successes.

The beautiful truth is this -- whenever we pour love into others, God has a way of pouring love right back into us.

So today, whether you're attending a wedding, calling a friend, encouraging a neighbor, or simply sharing a smile, choose to live the love life.

After all, the world needs more love -- and God has entrusted each of us with plenty to give.

So -- let’s encourage someone, celebrate someone’s victory, pray for a friend, and watch how God pours His love back into our own hearts.

Holy Activity

Some days just feel like a merry-go-round.

We make the bed, work out, answer a text, get the mail, buy groceries, and before the milk is half gone, we’re back at the store again -- wondering if we should just rent a parking space there.

Meanwhile, with vigor and vitality -- someone else appears to be climbing to the top of the mountain, writing books, and changing the world before breakfast.

And we wonder, Am I making any difference at all?
Oh, yes, dear friends -- we are!

God specializes in holy activity disguised as ordinary life.

The encouraging note we send.
The prayer we whisper.
The meal we prepare.
The phone call we make.
The hug we offer.
The smile we share with a weary cashier.

These may seem small, but in God’s hands, small acts become eternal investments.

“We are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.” — Ephesians 2:10

Think about that! Before we opened our eyes this morning, God had already arranged opportunities for us to brighten someone’s day.

A phone call.
A kind word.
A listening ear.
A simple reminder that someone is loved.

Heaven keeps excellent records, and one day we may discover that what felt like a routine Friday was actually a world-changing assignment.

Nothing placed in God’s hands is wasted.
Not our talents.
Not our trials.
Not our tears.
Not even our trips to the grocery store.

So today, let's offer our ordinary lives to the Lord.

He is an extraordinary God, and He delights in turning everyday moments into holy activity.

And that, dear friends, is how the world is changed -- one faithful act of love at a time.

#holyactivity #Ephesians210 #ActsOfLove

God’s Lost-and-Found Department

Apparently, our luggage isn’t the only thing taking the scenic route.

This week, while our suitcases continue their extended stay somewhere in London, I headed to Round Rock, TX for a doctor appointment.

There I was delighted to see a dear friend working at the check-in desk. Her workspace -- and her coworker’s -- quietly proclaimed their love for Jesus. Bible verses, encouraging notes, and reminders of God’s goodness decorated their desks like little lighthouses.

My appointment went well, so I rewarded myself with a trip to the nearby Round Rock Premium Outlets. Haven't been there in a long time -- and besides -- upcoming weddings were calling my name for some potential new outfits!

I tell you this -- it can only be described as wholesale heaven.

Then it happened. My phone disappeared.

I sprinted from store to store like a contestant on an Olympic relay team. Checked my car. Retraced my steps. Searched the restroom. Nothing.

Finally, one of the kind ladies at White House Black Market called mall security for me!

Hallelujah! A thoughtful stranger found my phone in the restroom and walked all the way across the outdoor mall to turn it in.

She could have shrugged and kept walking.

She could have handed it to the nearest clerk.

Instead, she went the extra mile -- literally.

And I walked away with more than my phone.

I walked away reminded that kindness still lives.

In a world that can seem hurried and indifferent, God still plants people who care. Little acts of honesty and compassion are heaven’s fingerprints on ordinary days.

“Do not forget to show hospitality to strangers, for by so doing some people have shown hospitality to angels without knowing it.” — Hebrews 13:2

“Let us not grow weary in doing good.” — Galatians 6:9

So if you feel as though you’ve lost something important, take heart. God’s lost-and-found department is always open.

And sometimes His greatest treasures arrive in the form of a kind stranger who simply cares.

Amazing how God strengthens our faith. He still uses kind strangers to remind us that honesty, compassion, and goodness are alive and well.

#godslostandfound #kindnessmatters #FaithInEverydayLife

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Tough Times Don’t Last

Just when we thought our travel adventures were over, we experienced another plot twist.

Our suitcases are still somewhere between London and Austin. We are trusting that one day soon they will roll through our front door like prodigal luggage returning home.

On Sunday, our Lamplighters class -- more than 100 seasoned saints strong -- prayed for us -- asking God to speed those wandering suitcases back to Texas. Amen and amen!

Then, after our class, walking to our car -- I looked down.
Flat tire. Oh my soul and oh my goodness!

First, we called to cancel an appointment we were headed to. And second -- called AAA!

A dear friend walked over to comfort me and another friend comforted Carl. All -- shaking their heads and smiling -- as if to say, "The Nobles are collecting stories again! Donna will have a fresh new blog soon!"

Within thirty minutes, our knight in a shining white big AAA truck arrived. Our knight lifted the car and in a matter of just a few minutes -- we were on our way!

That’s when Robert Schuller’s famous words came to mind:
“Tough times don’t last, but tough people do.”
Or, better yet, faith-filled people do.

Every inconvenience becomes another spiritual barbell. Delayed luggage? Curl 20 pounds of patience. Flat tire? Bench press a little trust. Unexpected detours? Strengthen those hope muscles.

God sees the whole picture when we only see the flat tire.
He knows where the luggage is.
He knows what we need.

And He knows how to turn temporary inconveniences into lasting testimonies.

So if life has left you feeling deflated, take heart.
The same God who guides airplanes and roadside heroes is guiding you.

And no matter what happens, we know this:
God has us firmly in His mighty hands.

And in Him, we win every time. AND, I had more content for yet another blog!

#TrustGod #toughtimesdontlast #FaithOverFear #Godhasus

Need a Lift?

One of the delightful discoveries we made in England was that elevators are called lifts.

Need to go up to your hotel room? Take the lift.
Need to reach the top floor of a department store? Take the lift.
Need a little help after walking 18,000 steps through London? Definitely take the lift!

We Texans call them elevators, but whether we say lift or elevator, the purpose is the same: to raise us to a higher level.

And that got me thinking.
Life has a way of pressing the “down” button.

Disappointments happen.
Worries pile up.
Suitcases get lost.
Our thoughts sink into the mullygrubs.

Before long, we find ourselves stuck on the basement level of fear, regret, or discouragement.

That is when we need a lift.

A phone call from a friend can help. A hug from someone who loves us can help. But the greatest lift of all comes from our Lord.

King David wrote, “He lifted me out of the slimy pit… and set my feet on a rock.” (Psalm 40:2)

Jesus said, “And I, when I am lifted up… will draw all people to me.” (John 12:32)

Because Christ was lifted up on the cross, we can be lifted above the weight of our circumstances.

I know how easy it is to slip into a “woe is me” attitude. But I’m learning to catch myself and press the “up” button -- to choose faith over fear, gratitude over grumbling, and trust over trying to control everything.

When life feels heavy, don’t stay on the ground floor.
Call on Jesus.

He still specializes in lifting weary hearts to a higher place of peace, joy, and hope.

And best of all, His lift is always available, never out of order, and there is plenty of room for everyone.

#TheLift #LiftTogether #needalift

Security Checkpoint

After eighteen wonderful days abroad, Carl and I were finally headed home through London Heathrow Airport. We had learned a few things along the way -- especially about airport security.

Empty your water bottle.
Remove your jacket.
Take off your belt.
And apparently -- never carry little tin boxes of mints in your back pocket.

Carl sailed through security without a hitch. Me? Not so much.

The scanner lit up like I was smuggling crown jewels into Texas. A sweet security officer politely pulled me aside, and before long, I was emptying pockets, removing layers, and explaining that my dangerous contraband was peppermint mints.

Finally -- concluding my pat down -- I passed inspection, thankfully -- without handcuffs.

But as I walked out, I thought about how important those security officers really are. Their entire job is to keep dangerous things and dangerous people from getting on board. They watch carefully for anything harmful, suspicious, or destructive.

And honestly? We need that same kind of security checkpoint for our minds.

Every single day, “shifty” thoughts try to gain entry:
Fear.
Regret.
Bitterness.
Panic.
Envy.
Temptation.
Negativity.

If we’re not careful, those thoughts can hijack our peace faster than a delayed flight announcement.

Scripture reminds us:
“We take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ.”
2 Corinthians 10:5

In other words, we don't have to give every thought permission to land!

Philippians 4:8 gives us Heaven’s security guidelines:
“Whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable -- think about such things.”

That is our spiritual security checkpoint.
The moment destructive thoughts try to enter, we intentionally replace them with truth, praise, gratitude, and God’s promises.

It takes discipline.
It takes awareness.
And sometimes it takes a full pat-down of our attitudes.

But when our minds stay fixed on the Lord instead of fear, God gives us something better than airport clearance — He gives us peace.

“You will keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on You, because he trusts in You.” — Isaiah 26:3

And thankfully, God never mistakes peppermint mints for a security threat.

#spiritualcheckpoint #security #securityguidelines

Praying Without Ceasing

 

Just one more blog about our travel experiences. Though our luggage is still in the great unknown -- we already know God has us AND our luggage is in His all-knowing and all-seeing eyes.

While waiting through delays at Heathrow Airport, we did our best to stay calm. We enjoyed a leisurely lunch, relaxed in reclining chairs, and reminded ourselves that suitcases are replaceable, but peace of mind is priceless.

As I walked through the maze of people and restaurants and namebrand shops all over -- I noticed signs pointing to a “Multi-Faith Prayer Room.” Curious, I stepped inside.

There, one man stood quietly in prayer. Another knelt on a prayer rug, fully devoted and undistracted. Their sincerity was unmistakable.

I left that room deeply challenged.

Am I as intentional in my own devotion to Jesus?

Do I seek Him and find Him in my daily walk and talk with Him?

Not necessarily by kneeling on a rug in an airport, but by openly acknowledging Him in my everyday life. In my words. In my reactions. In my gratitude. In my trust when flights are delayed and luggage goes missing.

Prayer doesn't require stained glass windows, a favorite chair, or the perfect mood. Prayer is simply an ongoing conversation with our Heavenly Father.

We can pray while driving down I-35, folding laundry, standing in line at H-E-B, or waiting for lost luggage to reappear.

A minister once said, “I never pray for more than fifteen minutes, but I never go fifteen minutes without praying.”

That is the kind of relationship God desires.

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart. -- in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths.” Proverbs 3:5–6

Whether we are in Heathrow Airport, our kitchen, or stuck in traffic, God is only a whispered prayer away.

He never loses track of us OR our luggage! Stay tuned for our missing luggage saga! Surely there's a happy ending in store!

There’s Really No Place Like Home

After 18 unforgettable days exploring London, Scotland, Ireland, and beyond, Carl and I finally arrived home to Austin just before midnight, last night.

Our flight was delayed. Our luggage took its own extended vacation and did not arrive with us. But none of that could diminish the joy in our hearts.

At Heathrow Airport, I snapped a picture of the sign that read, “Welcome to the United Kingdom.” It was exciting when we arrived.
But after all the castles, cathedrals, cruise ports, and countless memories, nothing compared to seeing the words in our home town "Welcome to the United States of America".

Don’t get me wrong -- we loved every minute of our adventure. We saw God’s fingerprints everywhere -- in emerald hills, soaring cathedrals, kind strangers, and sweet moments together.

But home is special.
Home is where familiar pillows await.
Home is where the people we love gather.
Home is where our hearts exhale and says, “Thank God, we’re home.”

Life is much the same.
We all experience delays, detours, and seasons when our “baggage” seems lost. But God never loses track of us.

“They that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength.”
Isaiah 40:31

And one day, after all the journeys of this life, every believer will hear the sweetest words ever spoken: “Welcome Home!”

A good old gospel song says what I feel.....
"What a day that will be -- when my Jesus I shall see.
When I look upon His face -- the One Who saved me by His grace.
When He takes me by the hand, and leads me to the Promise Land.
What a day -- glorious day that will be!

Until then, let’s treasure every adventure, trust God in every delay, and hold our loved ones close.

Because while this world offers breathtaking places to explore, there is truly no place like home!

#noplacelikehome #whatadaythatwillbe #HomeSweetHome

Make Every Moment Count

As you read this -- Carl and I are flying home with full hearts and grateful souls.

What began in London carried us to Rotterdam, Edinburgh, Belfast, Liverpool, Dublin, Cork, and yesterday, Portland, England -- plus many more breathtaking places along the way.

We rode taxis, trains, buses, tender boats, and our own two feet -- lots and lots of steps! We laughed with people from around the world, marveled at stunning cathedrals, and were captivated by the extraordinary performers aboard the MS Nieuw Statendam.

Yesterday marked our final excursion as we visited Portland Castle, a remarkable fortress built around 1541 by Henry VIII. It was constructed to defend England’s coast against possible invasions from France and Spain.

Its thick stone walls have stood watch over the sea for nearly five centuries. As I walked through its ancient rooms and looked out across the water, I was struck by the contrast between then and now.

Generations have come and gone, kingdoms have risen and fallen, yet here we are -- alive, healthy, and blessed to enjoy this very moment.

Standing inside that historic castle made me profoundly grateful to live in the here and now, cherishing the gift of today and the faithful God who holds every age in His hands.

One of our favorite memories from this trip was being chosen to play “The Love Game” on stage. We answered questions about our marriage and somehow won! Only one question stumped us "What is the most sentimental gift you gave your wife?" I answered "my sunflower necklace." We lost to Carl’s unforgettable answer: “a handheld vacuum cleaner.” Oh my!

But beneath the fun was a deeper truth. Time is precious.
The older we get, the more we realize that life is not measured by how much we accumulate, but by how deeply we love.

“Teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom.” — Psalm 90:12

None of us knows when we will cross over to the other side. But until that day, may we stop and smell the roses. May we laugh often, love generously, and live with no regrets.

“Every good and perfect gift is from above.” — James 1:17

Our journey may be ending, but the greater adventure continues. Each sunrise is another invitation to cherish the people God has placed in our lives and to make every moment count.

Why don't you join us with letting the people around you see what true love looks like?

When God Sends a Guide

 

When we were in Cork, Ireland, Carl and I were reminded how precious it is simply to be alive.

Three months ago, Carl underwent emergency surgery to receive a pacemaker. It was a sobering moment for both of us. But thanks to God’s mercy and skilled doctors, he was restored and stronger than ever.

And there we were -- walking the cobblestone streets of Ireland with energy, curiosity, and grateful hearts. Every step felt like a quiet thank-you to the Lord.

We passed towering churches pointing heavenward, charming storefronts, canals, bustling markets, and signs that made us smile. One quote read, “To describe my mother would be to write about a hurricane in its perfect power.” I chuckled and thought, “That mama must have been some powerhouse!"

We saw “To Let” signs (that’s Irish for “For Rent”), colorful flowers tucked between concrete walls, and a butcher expertly stringing sausages. Life was happening all around us, and we wanted to savor every bit of it.

Then came our own adventure. Yikes!

My trusty iPhone was guiding us to the bus, but I accidentally had it set for driving directions instead of walking. What looked like a quick five-minute trip turned into a marathon. Then, to add to the fun, my phone battery died.

There we were -- two Texans in Ireland, a little lost and a lot tired.

At that moment, a kind Irish woman hurried by. We asked for help, and with a warm smile and that delightful accent, she pointed us in exactly the right direction.

My sweet Carl looked like he had just been handed the winning lottery ticket. In a matter of a few more steps -- we spotted the queue -- our fellow travelers lined up for the bus. Whew!

And isn’t that just like God?

When our plans fail, our batteries run down, and we’ve wandered farther than intended, the Lord sends help. Sometimes it comes through a friend, a stranger, or a gentle nudge in our hearts.

Isaiah 30:21 promises divine guidance, stating: "Whether you turn to the right or to the left, your ears will hear a voice behind you, saying, 'This is the way; walk in it'"

Maybe you feel a bit lost today -- ask for help. God knows exactly where you are, and He is faithful to send a guide.

And when He does, you may find yourself saying what we said in Cork: “Whew! Thank You, Lord.”

Living in God’s Presence -- Wherever We Are

 

There is something deeply moving about stepping into a great cathedral.

The heavy wooden doors open. Sunlight filters through stained glass. Whispered prayers seem to linger in the air. For a moment, our hearts instinctively wants to say, “Surely the Lord is in this place.”

That is exactly how we felt in Cork, Ireland -- yesterday!
We walked more than 15,000 steps -- yes, our feet are officially requesting a sabbatical!

We wandered through charming streets, explored bustling markets, and discovered a delightful second-hand shop benefiting the Irish Cancer Society! And that's where I found a beautiful baby-blue sweater for a bargain. Nothing thrills a bargain hunter quite like finding treasure for the price of a cup of coffee!

But my favorite treasures of all the journeys yesterday -- were the churches.

I never tire of entering those sacred spaces where generations have lifted their voices in praise. Gothic arches stretch heavenward. Candles flicker. Stone walls silently testify to the faithfulness of God.

Why so Gothic? Many churches are Gothic because the style was intentionally developed during the Middle Ages to represent divinity, light, and heavenly ascension. Later, it became the dominant choice for church construction due to its symbolic power and structural innovations.

The style flourished from the 12th to the 16th century, and was revived in the 19th century, resulting in a lasting visual legacy for Christian architecture.

And, here is the wonderful truth: we do not have to be inside a cathedral or church or auditorium -- to experience God’s presence.

He is with us in the market and on the sidewalk.
He is with us when our legs ache and our cameras are full.
He is with us when we find a sweater and when we lose our way.
He is with us wherever we are.

“The Lord your God is with you wherever you go.” — Joshua 1:9

The same God who inhabits magnificent cathedrals also dwells in the hearts of His people.

So whether we are standing beneath towering stained glass windows, strolling through a crowded city, or sitting quietly at home with our morning coffee, we can whisper, “How beautiful it is to be in God’s presence.”

And He will whisper back, “I am right here.”
That is the greatest treasure of all. 💙🙏🇮🇪

The Boy Who Came Back

And, I'm so glad he did.
Some dreams take years to unfold.

For as long as I can remember, I have loved the story of Saint Patrick. Every March, my front door becomes a little tribute to his remarkable life -- with a shamrock wreath, his Breastplate Prayer, and a small statue that reminds me that one life surrendered to God can change a nation.

So when Carl and I stepped off our ship in Dún Laoghaire, Ireland and traveled into Dublin, Ireland, my heart was as giddy as a child on Christmas morning.

Our tour included going to the gorgeous St. Patrick's Cathedral. I read this -- the Cathedral is a House of Prayer for all nations. It is a place where history is alive and tradition breathes, where lives are remembered and transformed, and where all are welcome to experience and explore the loving presence of God.

Patrick's Story: Patrick was only sixteen when pirates captured him and carried him to Ireland as a slave. Alone and afraid, he tended sheep in the fields. Yet in the middle of his hardship, he discovered the presence of God. The boy who arrived in chains found freedom in Christ.

Years later, after escaping and returning home, Patrick heard God whisper an astonishing assignment: “Go back.”
Go back to the place of your pain.
Go back to the people who once enslaved you.
Go back and tell them about My love.
And he did.

Armed with faith, Patrick traveled across Ireland sharing the Gospel. Tradition says he used the humble shamrock to explain the Trinity -- Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Three leaves, one stem. Three persons, one God.

Our guide told us this is usually rainy season in Ireland, which explains the rolling emerald hills. But on the very day we arrived, the sun shone brightly, as if heaven pulled back the clouds and smiled.

Dreams really do come true.

A story heard long ago became a sacred moment standing on Irish soil. And Patrick’s life still speaks to us today: God can redeem our wounds, send us back stronger, and use our story to bring hope to others.

What the enemy meant for harm, God can turn into a testimony of grace. ☘️

The Gift of a Mother’s Love

Happy Mother’s Day -- from the Irish Sea!

Today Carl and I are sailing between Ireland and the United Kingdom, and by the time you read this, we’ll be in Liverpool — home of The Beatles.

Can you imagine the pride of those Liverpool mothers hearing their boys on the radio for the first time?" John, Paul, George, and Ringo — don’t forget your jackets!”

As I gaze across these deep blue waters, my heart is overflowing with gratitude for my grandmother, my mother, my children, Ryan and Staci, and the grandchildren and bonus family (Carl's crew) God has so generously given me.

Earlier on this trip, we stood in line for a bus tour in Stornoway, Scotland. That's when we noticed a tender scene. A devoted son was gently pushing his mother in a wheelchair. He told us, with a smile, “I take my mother on a cruise every year.”

My heart melted.

I thought of my own children, who wrapped me in love after my first husband went to heaven. They checked on me, included me, and reminded me that I was never alone.

“Their children arise and call them blessed.” (Proverbs 31:28) And that is so true -- coming from my children!

Motherhood is more than biology. It is love in work clothes. It is prayer at midnight, hugs in hard times, casseroles, pep talks, and the ability to find things no one else can locate.

And if you’ve never had children, but you nurture, encourage, and love others, you carry a mother’s heart.

As Jesus hung on the cross, He entrusted His mother to John’s care (John 19:26–27). Even in His suffering, He honored His mama.

Today, call your mother. Hug your grandmother. Encourage a widow. Love someone who needs a little mothering.

A mother’s love is one of God’s sweetest gifts.

And every expression of that love points us to the everlasting arms of our Heavenly Father.

To my mother and grandmother in heaven, and all you dear, loving, encouraging friends and loved ones -- happy, happy Mother's Day!
I love you ALL so, so much! Thank you for loving me!

From Then -- to Now -- to What’s Ahead

Yesterday, Carl and I ventured from our cruise ship to the rail (train) into the remarkable city of Glasgow, Scotland — and what a surprise it was! I expected charm and history, but Glasgow is also a city of brilliance, innovation, medicine, literature, beauty, and bold ideas.

As we rode the hop-on hop-off double-decker bus, our guide proudly shared story after story about people from this city who helped shape the modern world.

Allan Pinkerton, born in Glasgow, founded what became the world’s largest detective and security agency. Joseph Lister, Professor of Surgery at the University of Glasgow, discovered how to prevent infection in wounds, pioneering antiseptic surgery. And, James Goodfellow, was the inventor of the Automated Teller Machine (ATM) system.

Medical minds in Glasgow helped advance brain surgery and modern healthcare. Inventors, writers, shipbuilders, teachers, and scientists all left their fingerprints on history.

And I sat there thinking -- look what God placed inside humanity.

The same God who painted Scottish skies, formed rolling green hills, and created oceans full of wonder also planted gifts, wisdom, creativity, and purpose inside ordinary people willing to use what they had.

Sometimes we focus so much on what is wrong with the world that we forget how much good has also come through human hands guided by God-given insight.

Buildings rise. Medicines heal. Music comforts. Literature inspires. Bridges connect. Families love. Churches serve. And people — imperfect people — still carry sparks of divine creativity.

This world has traveled through wars, struggles, heartbreak, and division. Yet here we are -- still discovering, still learning, still building, still hoping.

God never stopped pouring gifts into His people.

Perhaps that is part of our assignment too -- not merely to criticize the darkness, but to bring light. To leave behind something that blesses others. A kind word. A helping hand. A faithful life. A hopeful spirit.

After all, history is not only written by famous inventors and leaders. It is also written by ordinary people who quietly reflect the goodness of God every single day.

Glasgow reminded us that God places remarkable gifts inside ordinary people. Every good gift reflects God's creativity and grace.

Why don't we let our lives leave light behind for the good of our world?