A rhubarb custard pie new-baked, because my friend Ellen said, “I’m going to get some rhubarb while it’s fresh and pretty. A dollar fifty a pound. Want to come along?”
Yum. Are you a rhubarb kind of person? Sit down and have a slice.
So now I am fresh out of Short Things to say, for the time being, and – did you know I was going to say this?
It is your turn.
I can’t help feeling like some of you have Things to say, but you are not sure you want to say them. Some of you have never commented before, and some have at one point but feel more shy now, and some don’t even know where to start.
You can start right here, telling me a Little Thing about you.
Every once in a while on this blog, we get into a strange holding pattern of inertia, and we have to start speaking out again to break ourselves from the habit of Who Talks (I love you guys) and Who Doesn’t (I love you too) (at least I think I would if I knew you).
I know you’re at a disadvantage – It’s not your space and you don’t know who’s listening and you don’t get to add a photo to do part of your talking for you. Also, maybe you feel tongue-tied with all you want to say, and does it really fit here? Or you know me in real life, and you hate joining the crowd like a stranger – Do you know that you matter most? Or maybe you feel like an intruder because you don’t really know me, and you wonder if you belong here – Would it help if I tell you that outliers are my favorite people, next to my best homies? And that all of us are outliers, somewhere?
I can feel you hovering on the outskirts, words on the tip of your tongue. It’s strangely unsettling, feeling your presence but being unable to see you. It’s harder for me to talk, too, when I don’t know who you are.
The wonderful thing is that I can feel my curiosity about you coming back. For a long time I was just drowning in my own goo, watching the vultures circling, and that’s no fun.
The Things in your head are worth saying, even though you worry they are not. As Milne says in The House at Pooh Corner: “When you are a Bear of Very Little Brain, and you Think of Things, you find sometimes that a Thing which seemed very Thingish inside you is quite different when it gets out into the open and has other people looking at it.”
Truly. Let it be a Little Thing. Let yourself be seen for a moment.
Would you like if I told you I’d answer your comment? Sometimes I do that, though it’s a little hard. I think I can do it this time. It’s a more friendly meeting place when we’re both talking.
Here are some questions for you, to get you thinking. Just pick one, or make up your own.
- What do you want to be known for?
- What are three things you can see right now, that tell me something about you?
- What is a fun activity you did recently?
- Who do you love most?
- What did you cook today?
- Have you changed your mind lately? Was it worth it?
- What are you worried about?
- What’s the last photo you took with your phone?
- Is there a crazy story you have to share?
- What have you been wishing to ask me or tell me? I’m here.
This is only a Short Thought, not a Public Presentation, okay? No stress allowed. The first one’s always the hardest; after that it’s clover.
And if you’ve been here a long time and said a lot, you’re good too, to speak or to listen. I’m glad you’re here.
If I get five comments on this post, my star rating as a decent salesman will plummet considerably, but I think I can handle it. If I get fifty, I’ll host a giveaway. How’s that?
I’m here.
Listening.
Update, May 10: Okay, I’m done listening now. Lol. Just kidding – I am still listening, but no promises to respond to any further comments. I am finally caught up!!!! Yay for me! And thank you all for talking!
One more update, May 12: Comments are closed. My OCD got out of control and I HAD to keep replying. 🙂
As Milne says in The House at Pooh Corner: “When you are a Bear of Very Little Brain, and you Think of Things, you find sometimes that a Thing which seemed very Thingish inside you is quite different when it gets out into the open and has other people looking at it.” It’s funny I just read that recently and absolutely loved it too ???? I love books. We recently moved, and I realized once again that it doesn’t quite feel like home until the books are on the shelf. They’re such friendly things.
I enjoy your blogs. You have a beautiful way with words. I do better with the reading than the writing of words so I’m a silent follower most of the time ????
I love Winnie the Pooh too. And books that find words for all the things. Thank you for breaking silence with me. 🙂 Good to have you here.
I loved your list of questions…. Some answers would be too personal for this space and some too long, so I will answer the safe question, “what was the last picture you took on your phone?”????
The last photo on my phone is a screenshot from a video call with my oldest daughter who is living in Greece serving with I58 for three months. I miss her like crazy. She’s my best friend, my right arm, and my biggest source of encouragement. I feel her loss deeply when she’s gone from home. She’s been gone six months out of the last year doing mission work.
I’m sorry you miss your daughter! Sounds like such a bittersweet gift, having the wonderful relationship – but from afar – yet while being delighted with her choices, I’m sure. God bless you both for this sacrifice and gift.
https://everydaywords976946570.wordpress.com/
As a decent self respecting woman I will advertise my blog at this time????
And I will say that I love yours and I hear you about drowning in one’s own goo and Lord Jesus how long!!
And you don’t really want to see the last photo I took with my phone.
I mean, really.
Well, I do. But perhaps I would not If I Only Knew. 🙂 I take some weird ones too. A lot, actually. Thanks for saying hi. 🙂
Good morning, Sheri, Here are three things I see right now that show something about me.
1. A pink and green bouquet my sister received for her birthday and passed on to us because she went on vacation.
2. my planner open to this week with a pencil on top.
3. my morning cup of tea.
How beautiful and peaceful! Thank you for letting me look into your space for a moment.
I’m a silent follower ???? I really enjoy your blogs, Sheri.
Something fun I’ve done recently is planting seeds! Planting digging in the dirt is calming therapy for me! My onions and garlic are growing ???? the peas and potatoes aren’t up yet hopefully they didn’t drown! Radishes are coming and the lettce.
Does it work to say I made cinnamon rolls yesterday that we had for breakfast today ????
I’d have a lot of questions for you! But only one on one.
Hi Esther. I think we should schedule that one-on-one, at least once! ❤ Your gardening sounds delightful and invigorating. Thank you for this fun glimpse.
I want to be known for being kind and interested in people.
Right now I can see my baby and seven-year-old playing on the floor, my morning coffee, and many small messes that need to be tackled today.
I love your beautiful way with words.
Oooh good wish. I like that. And thank you for your kind words. Bless you in your mothering!
Wow! I actually read this post before a week went by, which tells you something about me right there.
The last photo on my phone is of a quote from one of the books I’m reading right now (The Late Scholar, a Lord Peter Wimsey and Harriet Vane story by Jill Paton Walsh). The quote is “‘All the world is mad, save thee and me,’ said Peter, ‘and even thee’s a bit odd.'” Delicious!
I got to meet you at your book signing in Pennsylvania a few weeks ago. That was cool.
A fun activity I’m looking forward to is going away with my husband for the weekend. It’s in honor of our 20th anniversary, which was in April, and it’s rather surreal to realize we’ve been married that long.
I’m looking forward to reading others’ comments!
Have a wonderful weekend!
Hi Tabitha. It was so nice to finally meet you in person. I loved that introduction to your sisterhood. And now, happy anniversary!
It’s been a while since I read Lord Peter Wimsey – that quote is too good. 🙂 I would like to use it quite a lot with the beloved people in my life. Hehee.
I see a train passing on the opposite track, my trusty tennis shoes, and my very practical brown bag.
You sound like a practical person who is peacefully at home in this earth, in the best possible way. Thank you for sharing. 🙂
I want to be known as a loving, caring person. Encouragement from others can brighten a dreary day!
I love reading your blog! And even more, I enjoyed the few times we were able to talk in person!
Hi Rose! I always like when our paths cross too. God bless you in all your days. Your desire to be known as loving, caring, and encouraging is coming true in your life already. ❤
I want to be known as the friend, sister, wife, daughter, Mom, stranger – who stayed even when things got hard and messy. Someone who believes in a person even when they don’t believe in themselves. Someone so full of Jesus there’s no room to be filled with myself.
I’m a silent follower, but I’m here because I love your writing and your honesty ❤️
Ooooh yes! I’ve been talking with a friend about People Who Stay because they’re anchored in faith and love – one of my personal goals too. I really love the vision you crafted here. Thank you for your words.
I love your blog by the way. That’s not what you asked though:) Yesterday I took new bubbles outside with my careful 5 year old and carefree 3 year old. And we blew bubbles. And our new puppy named Butterscotch ran and smashed those bubbles happily. That was fun. End of story. My baby is crying on my lap…
Why thank you. 🙂
Butterscotch and playful children sound delicious… and then that reality check of a sweet baby in tears… Aw. God give you all you need as you nurture a house full of littles! May your joyful spirit carry you.
I want to be known for loving well and freely.
I’m worried that I will get buried in the little things that must get done – housework, for instance – and forget to lift my eyes to see the things that truly matter.
I heard you speak at REACH,and I’m still pondering it. Thank you.
Yes, yes! to your wishes and worries. Me too. Thank you for putting this into words… Sometimes it helps just to be reminded.
Hi Sheri!
I only stumbled onto your blog in the last year or so, and subscribed for two reasons: #1- your words REASONATED with me! Ive been jealous at your bravado to speak things that are true, but are hidden deep in my heart because I’m scared to be so honest! #2 – we live only about an hour north of you and so you seem like home folk…virtually.????
The main focal point for my week has been sewing a dress for my daughter for her school program. The fabric is great; the fit is not. It agitates my perfectionistic tendencies to see a dress with character flaws….anyway, this is one area I changed my mind on: changed from “this pattern gotta be adjusted!” to “its gonna be ok….the program is Fri eve!” Has it been worth it? Im still trying to convince myself it was.
I don’t want to be known as someone bogged down with small things of insignifigance…. But sometimes its the insignificants that bog me down and keep me from doing the things that matter…like patience with my family, and being the hands and feet of Jesus in my home, neighborhood, and church!
Blessings to y’all….
Ooh, you are not far from me! And this line made me grin – “Has it been worth it? I’m still trying to convince myself it was.” 🙂
I’ll be honest – what you called the “bravado to speak” comes at a cost. Most days I do not regret it because the alternative of silence is (for me) a stronghold of Satan, and I stand against it in my heart. But there are things I can’t say, too. I know what that feels like.
I’m pregnant with twins, and hoping they keep growing appropriately so they can stay inside me a few weeks longer. Also, today is my birthday and yesterday my husband blessed me by spending the afternoon/evening with me – yard saling, shoe shopping, taking me out for supper. ???? It was lovely! ????
Happy birthday Marlese! ????????????
Heavenly Father, please bring these twins at exactly the right time and not a moment too soon. Nourish them and care for them as only you can. And hold Marlese in your arms as she waits.
Oh, Amen to Julie’s prayer!! Yes Jesus wrap your arms around Marlese and her babies. Keep them in your care. How delightfully exciting! Cheering and praying for you.
And… Happy birthday! 😉
I see a fresh bouquet of lilacs (love the beauty and smell), the cookie jar with cookies made for the Wednesday night meal when 2 single fellas joined us for dinner. Also shared them with daughter’s family who are enjoying a week and half old baby girl after 3 boys (the youngest being 14 months old). Then there’s the computer in front of me ready to order birth kits for 2 clients due to have babies in the next month. I love sewing quilts and just got away from the sewing machine sorting some patches for the next row. I love being busy! (usually)
Wow, your hobbies are varied and your interests engrossing. How wonderful!
I am trying to figure out if you are the Esther Mae I met in person, in which case – thank you again for buying the book I accidentally signed with your name… And if not, this comment is free of charge although entirely misguided. Hahahaha. Thank you for this fun picture of what makes your life tick. Lovely!
You might not want to see the last picture I took with my phone if you’re squeamish! It is a pic of the foot of my 5 yr old who was riding his bike barefooted last evening with his toes wrapped down over the pedal “like Curious George does”.. Unfortunately his foot scraped n he is now missing several patches of skin n 1 toe nail, tho it was still dangling there connected at the 1 corner! He thinks there must’ve been a little hill right in the middle of the driveway where he was biking, n that next time we move to a new house (no plans!) we should check out the driveway before we buy it!
Oh poor baby! I don’t like that moment of realizing there’s been an injury and assessing how bad it is, what we have to do to address it, and what’s underneath the blood and crying… He makes me grin though, riding his bike like George and plotting “the next driveway” which will be safer! Lol. Hope he heals soon.
Good morning! Three things I see right now is my 18 month old snuggled on my lap, my 3 and 5 year old emptying the dishwasher, and my house looking like a “before cleaning” Friday morning!
A fun thing my children and I did this week was go to a greenhouse and get some beautiful blooms and put them in dirt (that was more like mud) and loved every minute of it!
Your blog is one of my favorites…. even though I am a silent follower!
You are a busy lady… and look at those children trained in their chores. Good for you!! I can’t wait till we can plant flowers here. We will probably still get a frost or two, but I hope to get some annuals soon and pot them for my porch.
What did I cook today? It’s 8:43 AM, so not much yet. I spread cream cheese on a bagel for one child, and then hastily packed a lunch of a peanut butter and honey sandwich, several mandarins, a cheese stick, and chips. After taking her to school I heated up oatmeal, bacon, and rice and beans for the rest of us (in separate containers, of course). Breakfast was well-received by one child, but not the other. It’s okay. I think we have enough calories and love to move on to the rest of our day.
Lol. I make a rule for myself about not cooking before the hour of 9 am. Okay, I just made that up – but I am not the big hot breakfast kind of mama, unfortunately. My children do know how to make their own, which is a gift. Most mornings a few of us make oatmeal and someone makes an omelet, and someone else eats toast or cereal. Easy. Your last two sentences made me laugh – thank you. I know you’re one of the readers who have been here a long time, and I appreciate you.
Another silent reader that enjoys keeping up with your posts. ????
The most recent photo on my phone is a picture of the most adorable 8 month old riding on his Daddy’s back. We made the delightful discovery that the Horseshoe Trail goes within half a mile of our house, so we bought a better carrier for our baby and have been having so much fun exploring.
I LOVED carrying my most recent baby in a good carrier! Walking that summer, when she was 3 – 6 months old, was my favorite activity ever. I loved the bonding time mixed with nature time mixed with exercise time. So fun!
I want to be known for kindness and compassion. One who lends a listening ear and a caring heart. Three things I can see are sweet potato plants that we’re growing for our garden, gluten free dark chocolate oatmeal cookies, so delicious! And glass dishes from my mother-in-law, she’s going through her stuff and downsizing since Dad died a year ago.
I don’t know what all shaped your beautiful desires, but I see that grief has been part of your story, and I know that undesired journey can soften the heart significantly for relating to the griefs of others. God be near you and grant your wish.
I would like one of those cookies. 😉
I wish I could be known for knowing how reach people’s hearts and having empathy. But I’m afraid I’m more known for being dramatic and impulsive. Sigh.
I read your book and loved it. Never have I seen words that expressed my heart so much. Now I know I am a real human. Thanks.
🙂 This makes me happy. Thank you too.
I’m not sure the two options you named are mutually exclusive. Seems like the heart-alive people might be good at both pieces… theoretically…? 😉 And I like impulsive people. They are a really good checkpoint for us overthinkers.
Sheri, love your posts , love gut honesty, loved your book and hated it because the hard didn’t stop ????. I love reading , ! I love music , love to write but only in my journal where no one ever sees it. The most funnest ????thing I did this week was call a friend last minute, go to a greenhouse together and go to tomatoe pie cafe for lunch . Btw I love hanging out with friends too .
Yeah, I’ve been waiting for the hard to stop for a while now. Lol. Hopefully my next book will be something like “How It All Turned Out Fine and We Lived Happily Ever After.” One can always dream… Your day out sounds right up my alley. Splendid!
Who do you love the most? As a grandmother I have been blessed to live enough years to see them! So outside my husband and children I am blessed to love my grandchildren. My own mother’s life was cut short due to a vehicle accident, so she never saw any of her grandchildren! Maybe that is why i consider it such a privilege! Besides praying for them I love to shower them with good books to read. My goal is to write a short note to all of them each month.
I could have no greater joy than to hear that my children are following the truth.III John 1:4
My mama had cancer and prayed she would live long enough to meet her first grandchild. Her request was granted but she passed at the age of 44.
I had an accident that very easily could have been the End, so I, too, am very grateful the abundance of Life and grands!!
And that is one of my favorites verses too!!! ????
I love when you people talk to each other! ????
So grateful to know our children and grandchildren walk in truth. As grandmother I’d find it hard to write a note every month to all 47 of them! ????
Aw Lois – so good to hear from you, and to hear this perspective on the gift it is to stay in our loved ones’ stories. The word-gifts you are giving those grandchildren – books, prayers, and notes – must mean the world.
I just recently finished your book Peanut Butter & Dragon Wings and it’s definitely become a new favorite. Absolutely loved how relatable, honest, encouraging, and humorous it is! Thanks!
On a personal note, my husband and I are leaving for our 1st anniversary trip to RI today. We love to travel.
Happy travels! We want to get to Rhode Island this summer too. And thanks for your kind words about my book, Kristi! I appreciate it.
The last picture I took on my phone was a (awful looking but special anyway) selfie with my 15 year old brother last night. It was such a beautiful evening and it was one of those rare times when I actually had time to go on a bike ride. My bro actually stopped in the middle of mowing the yard to go with me, so that was really special.
I LOVED spending time with my brothers while I was still at home. It’s harder to do at my current stage, and while separated by more miles, so I love that you are treasuring up those good times and special memories. Joy to you!
What are three things I see right now?
My firstborn son, 15, tall, and handsome bringing me a cup of coffee!
A trashcan in need of help. (!!!)
My trusty little fan, keeping my hormones cooled. Ha Ha!
Does that tell you anything about me? 😉
And, Oh, I love your blog! 🙂
Thank you, Darlene! Yes, that tells me a few things about you – hehee. Sounds like you trained your son right. 🙂
My craziest story would be the story of my life, but sharing that would no longer be a Short Thought…it would quickly turn into a Public Presentation!
Who I love the most?… Jesus first, and then all the people that live with me! My hubby, and eight children, five of whom we just got finalization on their adoption paperwork two days ago. God is so good!
I’ve been a silent follower, but I love hearing from you, so I’ll return the favor.
I do love long stories! Maybe sometime I will get to hear yours. Hurray for your adoption news, so fresh, and I’m sure an answer to prayer. Bless you for loving on children in this way – and thank you for your kind words to me.
I am a silent reader of your blog, but I devour your words, and I loved “Peanut Butter and Dragon Wings”
The last photo on my phone was taken last evening. It is of my youngest daughter, with a mile wide grin, and her big sister at a gym. Due to a change in custody schedule, I was able to finally take her to watch her hero sister play volleyball. There are a lot of layers of emotion in this photo, and I do not take it for granted… this unexpected gift in the midst of the hard.
Oh wow – layers of emotion I am sure! In whatever circumstances you find yourself, may Jesus and his angels fight for you and your precious daughters. Blessings. Thanks for your words. ❤
Good morning, Sherri! I also am one of those quiet followers..☺️ I’ve often felt we could share a cup of coffee (or tea) and talk for hours! The honesty of your experiences has made my heart ache, yet also gave me courage that we don’t walk alone..By Gods grace, I want to be known as a lady that chose truth, and was tender and courageous.. I want that my life reflects Jesus in such a way that others have courage to press on in their own journey.
Hi there. Talking with real humans over coffee or tea is my favorite. I don’t know which parts of my story overlap with yours, but I pray buckets of grace poured out on you and yours.
Shari where do I start?
I’m Vicky, wife & mom to three littles ranging 9 – 3.
My world started to change when I read your book. I was in a bad place mentally & spiritually. I immediately booked myself into the El Roi retreat to hear you speak in person (I live in northern Alberta so it would be quite the treck, but worth it.)
The Lord had other plans, at the time I was suffering intense morning sickness. I ended up canceling.
Fast forward a few weeks & my morning sickness seemed in our earthly minds for nothing. We lost our precious baby at 15 weeks.
Since then I have grown in ways one can only imagine. I have been amazed at how such immense pain can come hand in hand with such great peace. Gods grace has been immeasurable!
So I guess I felt lead to comment, to maybe be of some encouragement to the hurting out there.
God truly has purpose for your pain & it will all be worth it. Just don’t give up….. just when you think it’s the worst it can be, it can get worse yet! But in the process you may be amazed at what beautiful work God is doing in you!
Bless you all!
Thank you so much for being vulnerable in sharing these painful experiences, Vicky. Wow… that is a lot to walk through, a miscarriage when you are already depleted mentally and spiritually. But the words of faith and praise you have to offer afterward are remarkable. Thanks for encouraging others. I would have enjoyed meeting you, but meanwhile I am praying redemption for all the hard places of your journey!
Oh, Vicky, I’m so, so sorry. I felt so much empathy for you in the middle of your morning sickness, when you cancelled your retreat registration. Now my heart breaks so much to hear of your loss. God hold you close.????????
I see:
-My newborn feeding in my arms
-Calla lillies growing on the windowsill, waiting for warmer weather
-Clean, folded laundry on the island
You know I love your words and this place on the internet. ????
Yes. And I LOVE having you here, dear Jenn. Your littles all seem extra precious, but that baby even more so. Joy to you while you love on him!
I want to be known as gracious and wise but I struggle to be real/honest sometimes because I want to be liked and don’t want to come across as being judgemental or a know-it-all.
My baby is pulling my hair and picking my nose and babbling because I’m not nursing him to sleep. I guess he gave up on screaming for now. My last picture is of him because he was 11 months yesterday.
Aw, he sounds like a busy one. 🙂
Do you know I get it wrong All. The. Time? That mix of real and honest but not TMI or invasive? Yup. If we had to get it right to do it, I’d be sunk. 🙂 Grin. We learn stuff by trying and failing and trying again. But it sounds like you are already on that path. Courage!
I can’t make up my mind what to answer.lol
I see an issue of Daughters of Promise magazine which is part of my TBR( to be read) pile of other issues of DoP magazines and books. I see an empty coffee cup that needs refilling. I see the I outside wishing it would snow again.
I wish we could meet in person for coffee or tea.????
I want to be known for loving the Lord and being kind.
I was only going to answer one question but changed my mind. I think it was worth it .????
Now I’m going to fill that empty coffee cup now.
Regina, you have a talent for making me laugh. “I was only going to answer one question but changed my mind. I think it was worth it.” Lol! I love what I see of your path in Jesus, and I am often blessed by your words. Thank you!
I just recently discovered your blog while reading your book and feel like you are a kindred spirit, Shari. ???? I wish I could invite you to my house in Thailand for a cup of my favorite Thai tea and get to know you in person.
Three things I see as I sit on my little balcony:
-a torrential tropical downpour
-palm leaves glistening with raindrops in the light of street lamps
-a mosquito buzzing by my face
Thank you! Our worlds sound far removed, yours novel to me and so different from mine (except for those ubiquitous mosquitos) (and possibly one or two other commonalities 😉 – ha) – but I can easily imagine a kindred spirit on the other side there, sitting on a balcony with tea. That’s a happy thought. Thank you for commenting! I’m so glad you’re here.
A fun thing I did recently:
walked into an airport Starbucks and spent $8+ on an iced coffee and a slice of lemon loaf—a deliciously impractical and out of character thing for this penny pinching lady to do!=)
Also, I loved your reference to Pooh. The Bear of Little Brain is just so relatable!
The occasional splurge outside the guardrails of a frugal life is a joy all its own. 🙂 I bet you savored that moment thoroughly. Sounds heavenly!
This post was too good to read and remain silent. The last photo on my phone is a collage of random book stacks and shelves for today’s photo challenge #can’t live without. . . I just rocked my fussy baby to sleep, am expecting my school children home for lunch because !hooray! it’s the last day of school and the closing program is tonight plus my oldest son is graduating so we have family staying overnight. This was a delightful little fresh breeze in my morning.
Wow, your weekend sounds like a preview of mine a week from now. My oldest will be graduating as well, with family staying for the weekend. I’m excited! Thanks for this picture into your life. Congrats and joy to you!
3 Things I see
Your bravery with words blesses my life – even though I am mostly a silent reader, so you might not know it. ????
Now I want to know what sagebrush smells like. 🙂 I grow garden sage, but I understand that’s a whole different family. Thank you for your words of blessing to me!
My favorite line from this post was watching the vultures circling. You may not have meant it to be funny but I laughed because that is so accurate in real life some times.
Something fun I did lately was take my one year old to market for fruit, and donuts and of course soft pretzel sandwiches. Last year this time it felt like the little fussy baby stage would last forever (I knew it wouldn’t).
I want to be remembered for being a good listener and caring deeply about other people. And for laughing a lot.
And I didn’t cook this today but I made fish tacos last night that were so delicious I couldn’t believe I made them.
Well yes, sometimes it’s better for me to laugh at my own drowning and wallowing and vulture watching, instead of taking it so seriously that it makes itself come true. Humor often saves me, though it’s been a bit MIA this past year.
Beautiful picture of a good life. I want some of those fish tacos!! 😉
I do want you to hit 50 comments so here goes…
This morning I made caramel french toast and it was a success for both the egg and the pancake lovers.
I enjoy your blog. Thankyou for sharing in this way.
Thank you for contributing to 50 comments! I appreciate the effort. 🙂 I’m glad you’re here. Your breakfast sounds stunning.
Okay. So honestly I don’t talk 1. I don’t want to be a cheesy Christian. 2. I am dubious of salesmen. I don’t like the feeling of being conned into some crazy theory that “Awww— You’re so sweet.” When my insides stink.
Palm trees are swaying, my grading books rest the table, Grandpa (the ebony one) just hobbled past.
I hear ya. And I am sorry if I am sometimes that salesman who makes you feel conned. I hope not, but I might be. Thank you for being honest… I am regularly overwhelmed by the difference between who I want to be (or who people think I am) and who I actually AM. Maybe that’s where humility can be born, if we allow it. And grace. I would like to sit with you beneath the palm trees. Thank you for talking.
From a silent follower…Today I made a strawberry milkshake for my son. He had his wisdom teeth taken our yest.
I love reading your words, they express what’s inside my heart, but cannot say it in so nice of words!
Thanks for sharing your heart.
Thank you, Judy! I appreciate your words. I had my wisdom teeth taken out as an adult, and it was hard. I hope your son heals soon!
I had to smile as I read this post. On my own blog, I too feel empty of words at times. And at all times love the comments. 🙂
I love how you’re so relatable, Shari. Does my heart good!
Yes, comments are great motivators. 😉 Your blog looks lovely. Thanks for your words!
My last picture was taken just hours ago of some airline food. I feel like North American airlines could take some lessons from South American airlines. My husband and I are currently ‘laying over ‘ in Panama on our way home from Bolivia.
Well, I wish North American airlines took lessons on airline food from SOMEONE. 🙂 They have a ways to go, in my opinion. Your travels sound exotic and lovely, but maybe they are normal for you, or sacrificial, or unavoidable. Either way, I hope you enjoy!
I would much rather be doing a creative project than cleaning my house. That’s a thing about me.
And a thing I want to share that nobody asked for is an Idea for moms and teachers. We have a little tin with about 30 cards which have “categories” written on them. E.g., Bible person, tree, color, something to wear, country, fruit, object in this room, mammal, body of water, etc. Sometimes we go through the alphabet, drawing a card for the next letter, or use them for speech practice (think of a word with this sound). Recently it came in handy for focusing on things we could be thankful for.
Greetings from the PNW where it’s pouring rain today.
This is a fun idea and great conversation starter! Thanks!
Cleaning is my last favorite thing to do in my house. I dream of the day I will pay someone else to do it. 🙂 Meanwhile, I train my children to help, and pray one of them really takes to it. Lol.
Wow, so many things that don’t enter my head to pray for! Guess I need more practice. 🙂
Thanks for schlogging through the comments. When I saw you had actually started replying to everyone, I made a point to come back and see what you said to me. 😀
Blessings for your busy week and big events.
😉
Something I have been pondering lately (due to a podcast I listen to) is how we limit ourselves by our thought patterns. And how we accept a diagnosis as a label and it becomes our identity. I want to embrace my season of life and its challenges instead of wearing it as a label.
Thanks, Em! Interesting thought, how we can become consumed by ourselves.
Reading in one of the Peters recently (II, I think?), a verse that stood out to me was the one that commands us to have fervent charity, because charity covers a multitude of sins. Not just charity, but fervent. And to start thinking about my reactions and thoughts – ouch. I would that God could be glorified by the fervent charity He would give me the grace to have.
That “charity covers a multitude of sins” brings up so many questions. I do love it!
Hm great thoughts. It’s good for me to think about love as a fervent action, and redemptive for both myself and those around me. I wonder how often I am covered by the fervent charity of others.
………And yet another silent reader as of last fall. ???? Earlier this year I finished reading your blog all the way from the beginning. Thank you for your words.
The last picture on my phone is of the evening sky from last nights walk. Walking is where I turn to get out of my “goo” when the vultures are circling.
After the first comment it’s clover?!?!? ????
Oh dear, when I hear of someone reading my posts from the beginning it makes me tired. 🙂 Thank you for wading through that – I hope you made it out the other side safe and sound.
You’ll see. The second comment will pop right out.
After reading through the comments, this silent reader is wondering if you recently changed the spelling of your name. ???? A nod to my stickler-ism.
Lol. One of those types, are you?
😉 😉
I’ve been a silent listener for a few years. But enjoying your honesty with real life.
My favorite place is in the kitchen cooking for family & friends. Yesterday for supper I made a Mexican meal with home-cooked tortillas.
YUM! I love homemade tortillas. My friend Cynthia taught me how to make them the Belizean way, rolling out and dry-frying on a griddle. Now I am hungry for them again. Thanks for commenting, Martha!
Very new to this blog… I’m not so good at writing but love reading and enjoy your blog very much.
Didn’t cook much today other than grilled cheese sandwiches for lunch but I do love to cook.
As far as “projects” … we moved to another state about 4 months ago and are currently living in a small rental until we build a house on our new property. So we are trying to make a new place feel like home and also preparing for Baby # 5’s arrival in approximately a week and a half.
And I’m drooling over the rhubarb dessert and wondering where I could find rhubarb. ????
That’s a lot of changes in a short time! Bless you as you adjust to all of that and find a new normal with a new state, new house, and new baby. ❤ May Jesus hold you.
I’m another silent listener…thank you for giving words to so many of my silent heart cries. I appreciate very much your willingness to be vulnerable and honest.
Something fun I did lately was working in my garden. Spring is a time of renewal for me, in both body and soul. I love the freshness and beauty of Spring and growing things.
Yes! Me too. I am happy that my words can help you find your own heart. ❤ Hoping Jesus meets you there.
Well, I see you already have 50 comments, so I’ll tip it to 51 unless someone is currently typing faster than I am. A short thought that popped into my head this morning while I was vacuuming: Frustration doesn’t serve my family. I’ve been reading “The Lifegiving Home” by Sally and Sarah Clarkson, and it’s all about homemaking and hospitality and serving the people within our walls… So perhaps that book inspired this convicting thought. For some reason I have been getting frustrated over random things lately… 2-year-old airheadedness (she gets it from me)… an ill-timed supper with people due to arrive in 20 minutes… my husband asking for ingredients while I was trying to fix my daughter’s dolly stroller with some hand-sewing (not even close to my favorite task)……… and then I got to thinking that all that frustration isn’t serving them at all! So anyway, I should keep pondering that one for awhile.
Yup, been there too. For me, the unending small demands are perfect fodder for frustration – and if I don’t deal with the frustration as it builds, it turns to resentment and Cranky Mom Syndrome, which is real fun for all… 😉 Thanks for the good call to let it go.
I just signed up yesterday, Shari. How dare you do this to me? The first blog I signed up for. And here’s my first comment ever on a blog.
I hate moldy food in my refrigerator. Worse yet is throwing it away. (know the guilty feeling?)
Do you ever get the quivers when you are talking to someone you don’t know? May I ask a favor of you with a personal email? You aren’t obligated to grant it.
My timing is impeccable as always, I see. 😉
Thank you for being brave and talking! And yes, you may email me – shari zook at gmail dot com. I look forward to hearing from you.
Your blog resonates with me in the deep places of longing for transformational connection but simultaneously feeling the fear of being disliked (or worse) if truly known.
I’m worried that now that I have gotten Covid for the second time, I won’t get all the things done that need to be done (well, that I really wanted to do) before my 6-week summer grad school class starts on May 19th.
Since I missed being the 50th commenter, perhaps I will take more time and answer one of your other questions.
Some fun things I did recently:
Hi again Sylvia! Good to hear from you. I am fascinated by the image of this bonnet, and the creativity of lining it with stiff plastic, reused. Bravo! Your days sound delightful. And thanks for that first sentence – well said. Me too.
Yes, these precious days of time off between classes are being quite delightful. I’m enjoying the feeling of having the pressure be off and no homework deadlines.
I appreciate you taking the time to reply to me! That personal tidbit means a lot and I’ve come back and reread it again and again and again! But I totally understand why you cannot possibly do it every time. After all, you are allowed to be human! And have limitations!
🙂 Thank you, Sylvia!
I’ll answer the 7th question. I’m worried that when I post my comment, I’ll feel really silly for what I said. Hence, I rarely comment. Now you know something about me. ????
I don’t “know” you, and you don’t know me, but I read your words and feel understood. Thank you.
Oh yes, the I’ll Feel Silly Afterward fears. A regular thing inside my head. 🙂 Thanks for braving them today – that means something to me.
A crazy story…rather personal but I think you’ll understand. My husband spoke recently at a meeting about trauma, anxiety and scrupulosity. Also recently we’ve noticed a child having obsessions. Eventually she was able to talk to us, saying I think I have what dad talked about (scrupulosity) She is only 10 but had a mind in great distress. She is able to track back that it started when we had rabies at the barn last fall. So we are helping her and getting her the help she needs. Meet my fam… ????
We also have a 10 year old like that. She’s doing better.
Oh my. How wonderful that she was able to talk with you about it, and that you are on the path to getting her help and healing! I am saying a prayer for you and her. Parenting is so tricky, always a new learning curve and sometimes in exactly the things we have the best resources or training on – except now its US. Thanks for letting me meet you and yours. You sound well worth knowing. ❤
I’m one who has commented but still feels out of place. Your words always burrow deeply into my heart and resonate with me. Thank you for sharing your heart with us.
•the last picture on my phone is my precious chocolate two year old standing at the window watching one of the hired guys cleaning up the dead leaves from the banana trees. There’s blue sky in the shot as well, which is a rarity this time of year since it’s out super rainy season.
(We are living in east africa caring for 10 of Tanzania’s precious children).
Bless you, Kim! That is a brave and rewarding and heartbreaking life, I am sure! Thank you for what you are doing.
I see clothes waiting to be put away…a messy kitchen that needs this mama’s hands…a birthday balloon floating through the air…(3 birthdays in this household in a week’s time!) I would rather be sewing, or reading, but 2 little boys are coming to stay with Grandma while their daddy who’s life was spared in a serious vehicle accident 3 weeks ago, goes to another Dr. appointment…We are thankful for life! I enjoy reading your blog, but rarely comment online! Thanks for sharing your life…
Praising God with you for sparing your son (or son in law) – that is wonderful! Praying for his full healing and recovering. May God give you grace for this busy and messy life.
I am worried that I won’t get a chance to let my sheep graze today. It’s raining and I’ve been working so carefully to get them acclimated to grass! I’m not sure if the lambs can handle the rain. They are so adorable!
I haven’t seen new lambs for too many years. We used to have them in Ohio. Enjoy! I’m glad you’re here; I always like you bringing your thoughts.
I bought “Peanut Butter and Dragon Wings” at the recommendation of a friend thinking it would be another good mom book especially because you’re a fellow foster mom. I’ve been reading it and crying my way through the book. Thanks for showing me that I am real and ok!
I made pancakes this morning. Not my usual ones, not as well received. I made chicken broccoli quiche yesterday for supper and 10 minutes before supper time, my golden haired daughter came in crying very loudly with blood dripping from above her eye. She and I spent the evening in the ER getting one tidy little stitch put in. Sometimes you take quality time no matter how it comes! 🙂
Yes! I’ve had many quality-time bonding experiences surrounding the ER and OR. We take what we can. 🙂 But I hope your daughter is well soon. I’m glad you’re connecting with my book. Thank you for your words, Kendra!
I would love to sit at your table and have some of that amazing pie! No coffee. No tea. Just pie and visit! ????
I want to be known as a woman of praise. I saw a quote years ago, “When you deliver a praise, your praise will deliver you.” It’s true.
I would love to share the last picture I took, what was in front of me this morning. A photographer was here to do a newborn shoot of my two week old grandson and I took a few shots with my phone! He is in my arms as I speak!
And the last thing I made in the kitchen was a batch of chocolate chip banana muffins for Justin and Janelle. Late at night. ????
It’s a grandma tour season. First visited a new baby in Virgina and now spending time in PA. So many fun activities!!!!????
It’s a wonderful life!!!
I like your style. Skip the beverages and cut straight to the dessert. You got it! ❤
I definitely experience you as a woman of praise and intentional joy. Thanks for the many ways you blessed me this year. I am grateful. And ohhhh soak up that newborn grandbaby!
Lol. I don’t like coffee, not even the smell. And tea does nothing for me either! So it’s an easy pass. ????
Shari, I just want to thank you and bless you for the way you have dared to be honest with us. You inspire me to do the same. I am one who is much happier to read than to write. Many times I read your blog as I rocked my teething baby, now 3 months later and still no teeth. As a mom still dealing with complications from the birth, I have a habit of looking at other moms with babies much younger than mine, resuming their normal mom and wife life without a hitch, and wonder why I can’t do the same. Your book has helped me realize that we all struggle with something; everyone has their own unique struggle. It is my own choice to thank God for my trials and let them make me “pure as gold”. God bless….
Thank you for being honest about this, Beth! I too was a mom who looked around at all the other rock star moms wondering what I was missing. But you know what? Whatever it was, it came with time. Or maybe I learned that it didn’t have to look like everyone else’s. Like you said, accepting the reality of what IS and giving thanks is a great path in getting to peace and wholeness. Bless you as you mother! I hope you already know this, but you have what it takes, and you don’t have to do it alone.
I dream that the book I am slowly beginning to write will be half as inspiring as yours. And I wish I could ask you all the questions about marrying into a new community.
Hurray for new books in the making! 🙂 Yay!
I hope sometime we can talk about marrying into a new community. For now, I’ll just say that it took five years before I felt like I was settled. And in another five, I looked back and saw much further still I’d come. It takes a LOT of time. Getting married is a huge adjustment already. Leaving everything familiar – how much more so. Sometimes you just need to find that one piece you connect with – one woman friend, or one sport or hobby or interest that you share with your new people group. Then you have a home base to launch from. I hope you will be gentle with yourself as you adapt. ❤
I’ve commented only once or twice and that was anonymous. Fifty to sixty years ago I grew up in Northern Minnesota. I knew your husband’s father well and your Mom casually. Thus the interest in your blog.
You’ve kept me interested though with your splendid way of sharing the ups and downs of life.
Did you know many of us struggle with these ‘things’? The things that many hide and everyone thinks we are ok. The other evening at prayer meeting I was amazed how many requests were made for the down and outers, neighbors, prisoners and someone sick in a neighboring community. But no one said, “Pray for me. I’m struggling with discouragement. ”
I love your honesty. Please keep it up.
Thank you, Jo Ellen! I love Northern MN connections – one of the happiest phases of my life.
Wow – your paragraph about Us vs Them is bullseye. Thank you for putting that into words.
I’m waiting in the school line for my children at the moment.
I made 5 dozen donuts today, mostly to give away.
I enjoy your way with words and admire the way you work through hard things!
Yum. I’ll take a few dozen, mostly to eat all by myself.
😉
A thank you barely feels sufficient for the many times I’ve been inspired by your blog! Your honesty blesses me and I always enjoy your gift of words. It touches a part of me that I can’t always express but can identify. Thank you! I’m cooking a ham roast for supper and have sweet potatoes ready to cook as a side. ????
Thank you, Beth! Or you are welcome – I’m not sure what to say, but your words blessed me too. 🙂 Thanks.
As I write i see the rain and the beauty of a PA spring. A week ago I was hugging my daughters friends in camp in Greece and the week before that I was closing up my house in Thailand to be gone for 3 months. Now I type in a sweet air bnb, attached to your sil house and look at the transition mountain that i can’t avoid and how grateful I am for this life while at the same time feeling how hard it is. I see his faithfulness in the golden threads woven in my life and I feel his smile warm on me and that its ok to be weak. And at the same time I need to ‘gird my robes’ and get ready for the graduations and weddings this month. One.breath.at.a.time. Thanks for always speaking truth especially in the hard.
World traveler! 🙂 Thanks for this look into your life. I like the balance you talked about, with rest and preparation mingled together, collaborating with God and in tune with him. Bless you as you journey.
I would love a piece of that pie. ????
I love knowing you (a little) in real life.
Today at an equine therapy introduction, my daughter smiled more than I’ve seen in years.
I’m working on a POYO in my house (Place Of Your Own). A private little corner that can be my sacred space, a place to shut out the chaos and soak in peace. That’s the theory, anyway.
Love you, Lisa! And hip hip hooray for big smiles and private corners. Those are great developments. ❤
I am also a silent follower and I enjoy your writing as well. The last picture on my phone is one of my house that I sent to my family who all live over 3000 miles away since we moved into a rental while we work toward building our own.
That’s far! I hope during the process, you will be surrounded by people who will care for and love you – and start to feel like family.
I commented a few times. Sometimes I have got thoughts to share but I don’t do it because I fear that I can’t express my thoughts properly and everyone will find out that English is not my mother tongue…
Rike, please don’t let language be a barrier! It doesn’t have to be perfect.
I remember you! I’m always happy to hear your thoughts – they make more sense than you think they do. 🙂 What Sylvia said – it’s only a barrier if we let it be, and I love your courage. Thanks for writing.
Thanks for your encouragement, Sylvia and Shari! I will try to comment more often.
And if you will ever travel to Germany make sure you stop by at our house. ???? I would be delighted to host guests from the U. S. ????
I thought I remembered that you are German! I have a Pennsylvania Dutch background and when I was 12 year old child, I attended a weekly German class for 6 weeks for several winters. I actually learned to read German then! but haven’t used it so I feel absolutely rusty and don’t comprehend it well when I do try to read German. At that time, I had also memorized the Lord’s Prayer in German, of which I now only remember a few phrases.
Pennsylvania Dutch is such an interesting language! I wonder if I would be able to communicate with Dutch speaking people.
To my ears it really sounds like English because they have adapted the English pronunciation. I once watched some videos by Dorcas Smucker and heard lots of words that my parents-in-law use. They speak a southern German dialect (Badisch) – e. g. Grumbiere, means potatoe and is called “Kartoffel” in standard German.
Good to hear that German ist still taught in America. ????
Sorry, Shari! This is totally off-topic…
Ich wuensche euch einen schoenen Tag!
Wundebar Tag tzu dich auch!
LOL. I’m not certain of the spelling!
Go for it. 🙂 Totally enjoyable.
Why thank you! 🙂
Do you really want to know what the most recent picture is on my phone?! It’s a little mouse huddled in our bathtub! Eek!! We don’t usually have problems with mice getting in our house, but we caught two small ones this week already. Sigh! My hobby/therapy is sewing.
Hahaha! You took a picture at that moment? And THEN what? 🙂 🙂 You might need some extra therapy after that experience.
I have fond memories of my parents chasing down mice in my childhood home. 🙂 It was a slightly horrifying game, and we weren’t sure who was going to win, parents or rodents.
I want to be known as an intentional builder of God’s Kingdom (and preferably in the educational realm of His Kingdom, thank you very much Jesus ????). I clearly heard Him calling me to teach first graders many years ago and within several months, I’d decided that’s what I’d do for the next 10 years. (I always have my life planned out.) And I did, kinda- if you count the two years I took “off” for higher education and then the following years of working in the public school system. Now I am a stay-at-home mom with a husband who is helping to start a new school in our city; and I love this stage too of teaching my own boys and observing childhood development up close. real close. sometimes it’s intense with three boys – 4.5 yrs, 3 yrs, and 1 yr. Thankfully, they need more sleep than I, so in the early morning hours and during their nap, I get to continue reading, studying, and teaching-in-way through my blog: http://creatinglearningenvironments.com/ And somehow when they are sleeping, it seems I love them even more; and if I have spent my time well while they sleep, I am very excited to see them wake up and join me again.
Hi Kendra. I love your heart for teaching children – and teaching your own boys is such a gift. Yay! Kudos for gathering fun and helpful resources for other moms/ teachers.
Haven’t been here long but I love your blog already & your book. Oh my. It spoke to me on so many levels. So relatable. I’ve gifted it to many a friend now!
Things I see
•The Spit I’m sitting on with water on both sides. Ships/Boats cruising the bay between me & the mountains. Waves crashing … sea gulls chirping … Beautiful spot which has become my office for this morn!
•The open book with my list of to do – customers to answer – happy mail to send off – staring at me
•My mostly drank coffee in my fav mug
Mmmm I’m feeling more relaxed just from vicariously sitting by that water. 🙂 Happy to have you here. Thanks for saying hi and blessing me – glad you enjoyed my book.
3 things I see right now
-a whiteboard that needs to be erased
-a large stack of unchecked workbooks
-a droopy bouquet of lilacs from a student
Oooh – this does tell me things about you. Teacher. Industrious. Loved. Treasurer of gifts (drooping lilacs, but still there). Able to sit and relax before all the work is done – a great gift in a teacher or any human. Aware of the work that needs to be done. Honest even about things that might make you look bad. Should I go on or is that good? 😉 🙂 Thanks for sharing these snippets. Your classroom sounds homey.
I’m also a silent listener. But oh I do love to read your blog. ???? you definitely have a way with words and as a reader and lover of books that important!
So the last pix I took with my phone is my two girls outside on their scooters!
Something I’m cooking today Slow Cooker teriyaki sirloin steaks, mashed potatoes, and cooked Carrots that we just dug up from two nites ago. (The last of last years crop)
Oh yummy! That sounds delicious. I love carrots from the garden the best – they have a whole different wild flavor. Thanks for saying hi. 🙂
I am another silent listener????. I love your bravery and honesty about the Hard Things in life. I love Jesus, and the Most important people in my life, my husband and two precious daughters!
Thank you, Julia! That means a lot to me.
I stumbled onto your blog several months ago…thank you for your honesty, particularly in marital healing.
* I want to be a thankful person, who others can see the faithfulness of Jesus through me.
* I see my cozy farmhouse kitchen, school lunches and backpacks, and a love note from my daughter.
* The last photo I took on my phone was a picture of a recipe…white raspberry ice cream cake????
BTW your blog got me to El Roi????
Aw glad I got you there. 🙂 It was a wonderful weekend for me, and I hope for you too. So happy to be allowed to see into your cozy life. Thank you.
I have several ponderings, and the last one had to do with my child that asks Many Hard Questions that I wish I always felt like answering. (If only I had a brain that could break it down into tidbits she can understand.) Ever since she discovered my tea set from my childhood she longs for a tea party. I decided sooner than her birthday is appropiate since Little Sibling is to appear four weeks before her birthday, and Lord willing, in just four days The Tea Party is to happen. Today we baked some cookies for the event, and she is officialy ready for The Tea Party two hours ago already. I finally told her, “I have something planned. But you need to just wait until I tell you to get ready for it.” And I wondered, just how often does my Father in heaven plan wonderful things for me, but I get buggy because it isn’t happening yesterday already?
🙂 This made me smile with recognition – both about trying to help children wait, and about having a hard time waiting myself. It’s hard to trust in those moments that Our Parent is actually doing what They said They’d do. I hope your tea party was magnificent, all she longed for.
Hi, I’m a silent follower, fairly new subscriber referred here as a fellow foster mom (pretty new at that too) last summer sometime, and found I could relate to you in more ways than foster care. I have and love Peanut Butter and Dragon Wings- my Christmas wish realized .
•I made pizza crust today, some for the freezer and 1 for tonight because Friday night is pizza night!
•I want to be known as genuine, kind, and caring (with the wisdom to care correctly (1Peter 5:7) to avoid breakdown, I’m still learning)
•What do I worry about? My my husband, children, birth mom primarily and a bunch of stuff I shouldn’t be worrying about.
I thoroughly enjoy your blog.
Blessings!
I love meeting other foster moms. Thanks for saying hi. I’m a worrier too – trying to learn to let go on that, but it’s an uphill process. Sometime soon I’ll do a post about feeling responsibility for managing all the things, called Give Me the Marshmallow. 🙂 That idea was born today. Hope you enjoyed your pizza, and blessings on your foster care journey!
I want to be known for being genuine and welcoming.
I’ve followed your blog ever since my husband attended FB. I would have enjoyed getting to know you but our circles didn’t overlap much.
Right now I can see the last pancake frying on the skillet, my coffee brewing, and plants in our back courtyard.
I’m sorry our circles didn’t overlap much – We have much less interaction with the FB students than we used to when Ryan was on staff. 🙁 I miss them, and I’m sorry I didn’t get to know you. Your view sounds very satisfying.
I’m a shadow-admirer, and I love your words.
I’m also very impressed with how much you made me want to comment on this post.
I became a little intimidated to comment when I looked back at a 3rd and 4th grade Bible lesson that you evaluated me on a couple years ago. 🙂 (You were kind, and you were honest, and I’m grateful.)
I want to write, but I find it so hard to make time to do it. I wonder how you started writing and what have been the most helpful learning tools for you in your writing journey.
Oh DEAR. I have no specific memories of evaluating you – but some of the FBCS evaluations I did were more on the honest side than kind; I didn’t know how to not-see what I saw, and had to learn a lot along the way. I hope that was not the case with yours, but if I made you uncomfortable or pained or too seen, I am sorry! Thank you for being brave enough to say hi, all this time afterward. 🙂 I am so glad I could spark that desire. 🙂
I love your mom and sister very much, which means I like you too. Already.
I have been writing (journals, poems, private stories) my whole life, which was good practice – but sharing it publicly was something new, and much more vulnerable. I started on a whim, almost – blogging regularly – and that constant real time feedback from people making sense of my words has been one of the most helpful things in getting me writing, keeping me writing, and improving my writing. And then offering my work from time to time for a more focused review by someone experienced. And reading, reading, reading all the best things that I’d like to write LIKE. I still have so far to go.
Go for it! 🙂 🙂
Today I am creaky and rickety after touring Washington D C with a group of eager teenagers and long legged adults. I am not created in a sprinter style body and being out of shape after the winter. . . But I made it! And realised that the Museum of the Bible requires more hours than teenager attention spans can muster. Maybe we can come back as a couple and pore over illuminated texts from the 18th century to our hearts content.
Oh and did you know my husband wants a rhubarb pie for his birthday on Sunday. Yes, Sunday. You know. . . the revered and hallowed day kept strictly for honoring motherhood and all that that entails. Tell me, WHO gets breakfast in bed?
I’ll answer both comments at once. Creaky and rickety sounds more funny than it is, I’m sure! My son just spent three days in DC with his junior-senior group. Teens are still challenging humans to engage and to herd en masse. 🙂 I wasn’t a chaperone but I felt for those who were. 🙂 Good workout – good investment – good for you!
So…. Did either of you get breakfast in bed?
No breakfast in bed – but French toast with real maple syrup from Canada, strawberries and blueberries. And a new set of matching mugs with coffee. And a lovely bouquet and book from . . . guess who?????
Hi Shari!
Three things right now I’m looking at are… 2 bouquets of spring flowers, daffodils, tulips, and blue bonnets, from my flower gardens, a bag of Whisps Cheese Crisps, (which I happen to love and are on my diet),????and my checkbook.
And a fun thing I did tonight was attend FB benefit auction. The food was delicious????,( not all on my diet????) Also, the lady who took my order was lovely and the friendly sort!!!????♥️ Her daughter also crocheted some cool candle holders and reminds me of her mother! ????
Fun Fact…..Husband and I are now officially empty nesters!! Still adjusting to that fact.
Happy Mother’s Day!
Sounds like spring! I’m so sorry I couldn’t remember your first name. “Kayla’s Mom” was all that was coming to mind. 🙂 Thanks for saying hi. Always a joy to see you. Happy Mother’s Day to you too – I hope it was wonderful and you were richly celebrated by those beautiful children who’ve flown the coop.
The last photo on my phone was of my children and their cousins yelling their way through a game of Pit, a game we resurrected from my childhood. It brings me great joy to see them enjoying this loud game as much as I and my cousins used to.
I love my husband most. He is hard working, handsome, and has poured out himself in caring for me and for our kiddos when I couldn’t.
Your blog is my favorite. I like you a lot here in this space, and am quite sure I would in real life as well! ????
Why thank you. 🙂 Same to you.
Pit is my husband’s family’s game, and it brings out their loudest and most competitive streak, I can assure you. Good times are had by all!
Hi Sherri,
3 things I see right now are
1; a kitchen that is mostly cleaned (finally ????)
2; Loads of laundry that need folded
3; a wonderfully clean living room that my 7 year old cleaned for me!
The last picture I took with my phone was of my oldest son mowing yard in a floppy large gardeners hat! ????
Something we enjoyed this week was fresh strawberries from our patch, picking out flowers to plant & enjoying the few days of sunshine we had! As my 5 year old said one day when it was sunny Glory Hallelujah the sun is shining!! I hope you have a wonderful eve!
Sunshine is my favorite. With the combination of others joys you named, sounds like a little piece of heaven. Thanks for sharing, Carolyn! Blessings to you.
I enjoyed your post about the chicken. I don’t have chickens, but I shared the post with my sister-in-law who has had them, and she got enjoyment from it too. I wondered whether you captured the pictures in sequence. Or was the last picture first and then the chicken captured and put back there in order to recreate the first ones?
PS Is it starting to feel like the promise to answer all these comments was a questionable one? 🙂
Yes. Except for “starting.” The process of regret is already signed, sealed, delivered. 🙂
But people are enjoying your answers too. I keep coming back to see what all you have added.
Oh, this is a fun question and I finally got all the way to it, though I went out of order to answer your regret question. 🙂
I actually failed to give credit for the chicken photos, which were taken by my daughters Jenny and Kelly. I would hand them my phone and say “Go out there – the chicken’s in the box again.” That’s the first time they’ve taken pictures for my blog, and I should have remembered to mark the event with recognition. Occasionally I do (re)create photo opportunities, but this wasn’t one of those times. Madame Hen kept coming back a couple days in a row, feeling so smart with herself for finding this perfect hideout. It was easy to capture her in her natural habitat. The photos on that post were all taken the same day, and the egg picture was last. 🙂 When I heard her whooping out there, I knew we’d scored an egg.
You ask good questions.
3 things I see right now…
Morning sunlight streaming through my window, spring green of the little tree in my yard, the blanket made from girlhood fabrics finally finished.
A fun activity I just did was a star-gazing sleepout with my older nieces & nephews where we neither saw meteors nor slept out but ended up piling in my house at 1 a.m. to escape mosquitoes….and still had a pile of memory-making fun.
“A star-gazing sleepout… where we neither saw meteors nor slept out.” ???? Your memory-making sounds perfect – Did not do what we set out to do, but hip hip hooray – we laughed, we loved, we made memories. I love it! What a fun aunt you must be.
I love listening to the conversation here with all these commenters coming out of the blogwork. I don’t know which category of your readers you’d put me in, the Those Who Talk or the Those That Don’t… maybe somewhere in the middle, well-balanced, you know, where I like to be. (though, I must admit, sometimes under the mere illusion of its safety)
My favorite thing lately was to host my mom & dad here from Wisconsin for a couple days and to see them interact with/love on their great-grandson who is our grandson Seth, freshly-turned three.
One more comment about your blog post: A positive thing I see about your times of floundering in the goo is that you have become a much loved and sought after goo-ru. (in the wonderful “influential teacher” sense of the word) Thank you!
Hahaha. Well-balanced of COURSE, because that is what we ARE. 🙂 But truly, you are right at that spot in the middle, and I love when you write. To me, and in your own space too.
Thank you for the word picture in your last lines. They connected with me and were very special. Maybe I will put out my shingle with this on it. Goo-ru: Experienced in Slime. Won’t that draw a crowd? 😉
Hey Shari….one of your silent followers here, who will be brave and show “her face” this once. I absolutly love reading your words.
Three things I see right now…
Just this once? Are you sure? Won’t it be easier the next time? 🙂
I’m so happy you’re here. Thank you for talking to me.
Who do I love most? The baby nestled sleepily in my arms, the two-year-old with a dirt beard around his mischievous smile, the 4-year-old with many more questions than patience to listen to the answers, and the loving, steadfast man who provides for all of us. Life is good.
Well said! The holy and the messy mixed together. ❤ Bless you in your engrossing life.
First of all, I feel a little sorry for you if you truly meant that you would answer each one of these comments! You certainly have inspired people to comment.
3 things that I see right now are: my dog enjoying the guilty pleasure of laying on the carpet in the middle of the living room floor. Daughter curled up on the couch reading on a Saturday morning and cloudy skies and fresh snow on the mountain tops out side my window.
Thank you for feeling sorry for me. I feel sorry for me too.
But also happy and grateful.
Thank you for being here, and sharing a bit of your life with me.
I love teenagers. I did not always think I could but now that I have teenagers of my own I love them so much and the glimpse they and their friends give me into the teenage world of today melt my heart. Almost nothing makes me happier than when my house is full of teenagers especially struggling teenagers. I sense deep in my soul that they are a rising army and the potential energy they carry is phenomenal. Recently I read an author who’s goal as a teenager was to see how quickly he could get himself kicked out of every foster home he got into. He met his match in Rodney. Rodney refused to walk away. This author says every teenagers is one caring adult away from a success story. One caring adult. One. I cannot get that thought out of my head.
This is a beautiful vision, Linda! Both your heart for teens and the picture of Rodney – every teenager one caring adult away from a success story. That is amazing, and something we hear said in other words in our foster care training – You can be the one. When I hear survivors talk about making it through horrific stories, I don’t usually hear them say “I had a great support system.” They say, “There was my grandma. She never let go.” And they say, “Then in sixth grade, I had Mrs. Jennings.” They SAY it was about one or two people. I love it. Courage, grace, and thousands of blessings to you as you live out the deep sense in your soul of who they are and can become. That’s gold.
Thank you for reminding me of what they say, I hadn’t thought of that but, yes, they do. I remember hearing it now.
I hope to be known as compassionate, helping others who are hurting. We lost a baby in 2011, my son who is now 19 yr had 2 friends killed in accidents 1 yr apart & 6 weeks after the 2nd accident, our daughter had a friend who passed away suddenly.
I love how you are so open, I’m working on that in myself!
Aw Karen. Wow. That is hard stuff, and I can see how it wakes the ache in you to be compassionate to those who are also hurting. Thank you for sharing. May God enlarge your sphere of influence and grace-giving.
I’ve been here awhile but always in the shadows and always looking forward to your words. Three things I can see right now are my husband in his wheelchair trying to transfer himself to his recliner, freshly made granola by my oldest daughter and my youngest daughter doing laundry. A post that resonates with me is When Faith Becomes De Longest River. We’ve been in stroke recovery mode since July of last year. I appreciate what you share.
I have not been where you have been, Jewel, but BLESS YOU for your commitment and courage in handling this journey. You might say you didn’t have a choice, but you did – You chose to stay and to engage and to overcome. I pray for restoration, and joy along the way. God keep you. God shower radiance all over your mundane, the granola and the wheelchair and the laundry.
Generally silent, but rarely miss a blogpost…
Three things I see right now:
Hello there, old friend. Good to hear from you. I can almost hear those pictures singing…
I was so happy to get your card in the mail and see your beautiful rainbow baby. Bless you and your family!
I was reading this blog and comments this morning and didn’t have time to comment, so here goes with what I wrote mentally at the time. ???? Three things I was seeing: my oldest son (21) all dressed up in gray shirt and black pants and vest ready to go to a friend’s wedding where he was usher, my youngest son (8) snuggled beside me in my rocking chair and my Bible open to Isaiah 32 where I was pondering on (9) Rise up, ye women that are at ease; hear my voice, ye careless daughters; give ear unto my speech.
Your children’s age ranges must be a joy. One to dress up and go out, and one to stay close and snuggly. 🙂 Wishing you joy in your mothering!
I would like to be known as a world changer, Truth speaker, who doesn’t say bad things about other people.
The things that I see that I love: my beloved husband of almost 23 years, who has always been The Best Man Ever; our big white van, which is because of our seven amazing children and also because it gets used in children’s ministry every Tuesday evening; and a bottle of kombucha- I love to be healthy…
Hi Wendy. I’ve enjoyed your comments. World changer, truth speaker – good words. Good wishes. May they be so! ❤
Try not to make Mothers’ Day only about yourself. Remember someone who has no children or who lost a child or Mother with a flower plant or other gift.
Good advice. Thank you for sharing this.
I want to be known as someone that cares about/for people.
I stumbled across your blog a long time ago (I don’t remember how). And confession: I don’t always take time to read every post, but I always enjoy what I read. A little about me: I worked as secretary at Allegany Boys Camp in Maryland for 4 years. I moved home to Pennsylvania for 3 months last June to get ready for my September wedding. I got married to Brandon (he was a chief and is now a supervisor at camp). We made our home here at camp where he’s continuing his role as supervisor. All that said, I enjoyed reading your posts about your experience at Bald Eagle. Moms (and dads) who send their sons to camp are some of the bravest parents I know! I attended your workshop at REACH and promptly went home and bought your book and read it…so much good stuff! I don’t know you personally,
but we have connections! My uncle is Amos, husband of Shaunda. ????
Camp is very dear to us. And so are Amos and Shaunda. 🙂 Welcome, with open arms. Hehee.
Hi Shari! I want to be remembered as a friend who truly cares for her friends from the heart! Not one who has a bunch of advice, etc, but to just be there for them, to show them the heart & love of Jesus! And the same for my children and husband! Especially to the struggling teenager…. I love the garden & flowers, but here in Texas it’s already hot! On Friday I had my first picking of green beans and that was fun!
That is hard to imagine! We are expecting a week of sun here, which is unusual and glorious. But hot? And green beans? Wow. Send some here, please. 🙂 I like your vision of your spot in this world, who you want to be in Jesus. I pray your wish continues to come true.
It’s me, Esther, the silent follower. Also the one who did know where her baby was the other day when you wanted to see her.
I only read blogs, I don’t comment.
I’m also always up for a good time and don’t plan ahead. So I have a mental list of locals that don’t mind my last minuteness and sometime I just start going down the list looking for the next available person.
Lol!! ???? I love that you lost your baby for a moment, full of in trust in your family and community. I’m sure she was perfectly happy and having a blast, I just wanted to see her! 🙂 She’s so adorable. Thanks for making an exception to your blog-reading rule and commenting this time. I am delighted for it. Love to you!
I’ve been so challenged and encouraged by your blog Shari! This Monday morning, I see ingredients for chocolate peanut butter granola- a family favorite, a half eaten berry cake made by my daughter for Mother’s Day…it and outside the window, sunshine in dreary NE Ohio is miraculous, calls me outside to play with flowers and garden!????
Hi Dorcas – sounds scrumptious! Hope you had an amazing Mother’s Day, and get lots of chances to soak up that sun.
Out the window beside my screen I can see a washline tent, 3 small kids in swim clothes, and freshly mowed grass. The last pic on my phone is of the 3 kids washing the fence while I mowed the yard. What I’m “cooking” today is mountain pies by the fire once the Man gets home from work in about 5 min. It’s a good and happy day. We’ll leave it at that, and not say what my brain twisted and puzzled over while I mowed.
Well… you don’t have to say it to me, but I bet one of your girlfriends would love to hear it. 🙂 Mowing is a great time to sort things out, no? I used to do that a lot too. Now my boys mow. Maybe that is why I have so many loose threads mentally. Mountain pies sound so summery and yummy.
From where I’m sitting in my living room, I can see about 5 bookcases. And that’s not all of them. So that could tell you that I love books and also that I haven’t moved lately. I see a book with an aqua cover. It was one of my very best reads in the last few months. I read it as slowly as I could because I knew I would be sad when there was nothing more to anticipate. Thank you for your honest and vulnerable words. When I get big, I want to be like you.
Aw. I can’t even think of what to say in response to this. Just – thank you! This comment was a gift.
I’m a silent listener from Belize- Colleen Schroeder, a Mom of a 2 and 3yr old. I started reading your blogs about a year ago when my sister-in-law introduced me to The Mennonite Game. I’ve been blessed by your writing, especially your honesty and vulnerability. I also enjoyed reading all the replies on this post.
Hi Colleen. So happy you are here. 🙂 Thank you for your kind words.
Dear Shari, I’m privileged to live in the same community, and enjoy watching your family grow. I’ve been wanting to tell you my youngest daughter said she learned to really enjoy your son last year, when they were together on the year book committee.
I’ve been following you for several years now. I really enjoy your brutal honesty, your sense of humor. I cried silently for all of you during the hard times.
It occurred to me that I could tell a story (not a story but reality) on the horrors of bed courtship. Gulp! But nobody talks about that subject! The sad thing is I grew up in a community where it was and is still practiced and in many communities of the like.
Instead I’ll tell a fun story of my childhood.
When I was 9 years old someone gave us a Shetland pony. She was mean, cantankerous and not broke to ride, or obey any commands. My 17 year old brother was a strapping 6’2” guy with long legs. When he straddled her his legs almost reached the ground. She couldn’t buck him off! In a few weeks she calmed down. I spent a lot of time playing with her, feeding her brown sugar, carrots etc. I loved her and she in turn loved me. It got to the point where I could jump on her bareback with no bridle, with me talking to her we would go galloping out across the field, make a big circle and back to the barn again.
When I tell my grandchildren that story I can still feel the wind in my face, and the pure carefree pleasures of childhood.
Aw Martha, I don’t know you that well or deeply yet, but you and your words are always special to me. Thank you for this comment. I LOVE thinking of you as a child, enjoying that wind and joy on your pony. The bed courtship is something I have only heard about, and cannot imagine the damages done. Thank you so much for crying with us in our pain. You are a woman who inspires me!
I am also mostly a silent listener too and love this blog that a friend introduced to me a couple years ago. I almost commented on your Valentines Day post! It sounded so familiar! Just as people don’t think about the firefighters plans neither do they stop to think of the fact that just maybe the tow truck driver’s wife may be in labor and needing her husband when they careen into the ditch! Thankfully he could mostly pass off responsibility to others. For the tow, not the wife in labor!????
What am I cooking today? Nothing except cooking myself with a fever and sore throat and aches (Thus the chance to sit and read the entire 234 comments! Super saleswoman apparently????)Hubby and 8 yr old made fish stick sandwiches for supper. My favorite people include my husband and 4 children 7 months(today) to 8 years.
I love photography and design, tho amateur, and reading as hobbies. Photographing newborns makes me especially happy! Thanks for all the thought-provoking posts! Blessings to you.
Hi Debra. Oh my, that tow truck story is crazy. 🙂 I’m glad your husband could be there for you in a crucial moment. 🙂 Juggling family commitments with being on-call for emergencies is not easy.
I’m sorry you’re not well today – praying for quick recovery. Thanks for writing!
I’ve been a silent listener for a few years- I do enjoy reading your blog and I was planning to post a comment but in this crazy busy time I forgot all about it! This morning I cooked eggs while one daughter fried sausage, another one made toast, and another one packed 7 lunches. After combing hair, answering lots of questions, and getting the school children out the door, I hung up some wash, put my baby down for a nap, and made some finger jello for my son to take to his class picnic tomorrow. It’s been a crazy busy few weeks, trying to remember who goes on school trips when, how much money they need, (my husband and I went along on one) and now tomorrow is everyone’s picnic and I am hosting 4th grade’s here at my house. It’s been a challenge to keep my patience with the children and be sweet and cheerful to everyone when I feel like my head can hardly keep up! ???? But I’ve been challenged recently to just take a moment at a time and not stress about the big picture!
God bless you for being open and honest with us, your silent readers! ????
Sounds like home. 😉 Lots of events and details, and worrying about forgetting something important. Praying for strength and joy for you in the middle of all that! Thanks for sharing.
I’ve been a silent listener for a while and thoroughly enjoy reading your posts, Shari. I’m only 20 and not married, but I can still relate to a lot of your posts. Keep writing and thank you from my heart! I’m not a big one to comment, but I wanted to on here and am only now getting around to it.
3 things I saw in the last 10 min was the sunshine, thank you Jesus, robins building a nest where they don’t belong, and my delicious lunch which included an avocado!:)
Well thank you! I’m happy that the different life circumstances don’t keep you from connecting here. Those things are more surface than we think, sometimes, and our hearts are beating pretty much alike, underneath…
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