Still Center

Even in the midst of Eastertide, I need to stop sometimes and reflect on what the Incarnation means to us frail folk.This is a statue new to the retreat center I have just visited. Seeing it out … Read more...

Why I Am Hopeful for the Future of the Church: a Photo Essay

Four days at one of the most spectacular Catholic retreat centers in the country, just outside the great city of Chicago.Four days of some of the most intense work I've done since my retirement at the … Read more...

Mother Letters: The Stuff of Heroes

a blurry snapshot of a professional photo taken by Rich Austen of Austen's Photography, Arroyo Grande CA. His work is excellent, mine not-so-much.Dear Mother, My First-Born and … Read more...

Mother Letters: Just Like You

a blurry snapshot of a professional photo taken by Rich Austen of Austen's Photography, Arroyo Grande CA. His work is excellent, mine not-so-much.Dear Mother-in-the-Middle of my three favorite … Read more...

In Which I Am Honored to Be a Guest at Sarah’s Place

If there is one thing I have learned after 15 months of regular blogging, it is this: THERE ARE HUNDREDS OF FABULOUS PEOPLE OUT HERE. And one of my very favorites is Sarah Styles Bessey, who writes … Read more...

Dear Mother: Inviting Strength in the MIddle of the Scary Stuff

a blurry snapshot of a professional photo taken by Rich Austen of Austen's Photography, Arroyo Grande CA. His work is excellent, mine not-so-much.Dear Mother,I watch you making room for courage in … Read more...

Quiet Time, Nourishing Time

"Look around you: Winter is over; the winter rains are over, gone! Spring flowers are in blossom all over. The whole world's a choir—and singing! Spring warblers are filling the forest with sweet … Read more...

Midweek Meanderings: a Photo Essay

The 5-point (meaning I pivoted 5 times to get the whole thing), 240 degree view from our back terrace this week. Sigh.The rain last night was lovely, clearing the air, greening the … Read more...

The Source of Life…a Guest Post

I am writing with the good folks over at bibledude.net today about some of the words in 1 John 5...When you stop to think about it, the longevity of the church of Jesus Christ is pretty remarkable. … Read more...