{This work of fiction is based on the framework of John 21:1-5.} It was a dreary but familiar rhythm. Peter cast out his net and heard it slap the surface and then hiss as it sunk. Hand over hand, Peter and John drew it back in scraping ropes over the hull. Slap. Hiss. Scrape. … [Read more...] about Fresh Look at the Familiar: Waiting
In the Dark
Recently I watched a moving Under Armor commercial featuring the most decorated Olympian of all time, Michael Phelps. I might have even cried a tear (one that I could not even manufacture when my youngest went to kindergarten.) Can you imagine your own commercial? I tried: Do you need help … [Read more...] about In the Dark
A Fresh Look at the Familiar
We’ve had a little taste of Spring around here, and Spring is notoriously the time to celebrate new birth, new growth and lots of other new things we’ve been waiting for all winter. Maybe you’re eager to try out your new bike, new stroller, new running shoes, or new fishing reel. Trying new … [Read more...] about A Fresh Look at the Familiar
Six Word Story
Several years ago, blogger Rachelle Gardner challenged readers to write a six word memoir. She gave her own example: "Too much coffee? No such thing." As someone who struggles with being brief, I thought it would be a good exercise. It was, and I finally landed on these six words: "Jesus used … [Read more...] about Six Word Story
On Moving to a New Place
In 2012, about 100 blog posts ago, I set up a little blog called Permission to be Real. It was born out of unexpected inner conflict when my youngest started kindergarten. When I dropped him off for school the first day, I thought I might cry. Lots of my friends had cried. However, I’d dropped … [Read more...] about On Moving to a New Place
An Unconventional Valentine
It was what you might call an unconventional valentine. Early and unexpected. The best kind. It didn’t come with doilies, construction paper, glue or conversation hearts. There were no chocolates or stuffed animals. It was delivered to me over a table full of Mexican food as we crammed … [Read more...] about An Unconventional Valentine