It’s been over a month since Mom passed away. I have been somewhat dreading the impending holidays. Why? Because they will be different. But then, as I consider the truth – every day is different from its predecessor. So, why should I be surprised at this? Yes, it’s more extreme…but if I honestly believe what I say I believe, then it will all be fine. After all, grace is only dispensed when needed. So, rather than focus on the changes, or even refer to it as a loss, I’m choosing to be thankful. Autumn, you see, is a time for nature to take a collective breath and prepare for an…

There are things in life that bring a smile and reinforce its beauty… The smell of baking bread, A funny text from a friend, Freshly laundered sheets, Prayers answered, Swirling cloud formations, Your dog’s welcome home, A favorite song on the radio, Love that doesn’t stop, And flowers that seem to sing. Yeah – that was my Saturday. The simple things are so beautiful it takes my breath away. – RG  

There was a song in the 40’s written and performed by Johnny Mercer. (If you haven’t ever listened to his music, give it a whirl!). The first line says – “You’ve got to accentuate the positive – eliminate the negative…” Amen to that! I was talking with a couple of friends recently and we were wondering how two negative words (“No Problem”) could come to mean “It’s All Good”. Seriously? Can we please rethink that concept for a moment? So… I’m making a conscious decision to retool my thoughts and words to give an strong emphasis on positive. Instead of “barking up the wrong tree”, how about if I’m barking…

She stood in the cool of the morning, looking blissful. Her nose was twitching in delight, sniffing the breeze as it gently flowed. It was strange, because she did not attempt to look for anything. Her sole focus was on whatever she was smelling. The sun had recently come up, and there was fresh dew on the grass, sparkling like chips of glass. She did not care. As I watched her, she tipped her head slightly skyward, but still did not attempt to look. Our walk had come to a complete halt as Samantha put on the brakes. Her stance was alert but relaxed at the same time. I looked…

July always starts out bittersweet. Today is my Dad’s birthday. The memories of him are strong and fine. As I bow my head today, it is with profound gratitude that he’s my father. I mean – I had no say in the whole thing; but if I did, I wouldn’t have wanted any other. God willing, we will be together again. I’m counting on it. RG

So today was supposed to have worked out differently. Perhaps I should have known to tread cautiously when the power went out twice – even before the thunderstorm arrived! Maybe it was a warning? Anyway, in typical “Rose” fashion, I was off to church, humming and thinking happy thoughts. Until… Ok, I’m just going to vent for a minute. Church should be a place of encouragement and enlightenment, right? I really, REALLY wish teachers who feel a burden to teach on marriage would open it up beforehand and allow those of us not in that “situation” to opt out. God has made us all different. As I sat there, struggling,…