Who writes here?
On a personal note:
I was born in Colorado sometime after World War II to a small-town girl and an ex-Marine cowboy – who later became a pastor.
My parents soon after their wedding
I remember praying to tell Jesus that I loved Him when I was about five years old. Later in my adult life, God brought an understanding of His sovereign grace to me – that He is the Great Initiator of Grace. And that understanding was the sweetest redemptive freedom I have ever known.
Following high school I set off across the country to Michigan where I graduated from a small Bible Institute (major: Christian Education) and fell in love with a tall basketball player, who also became a pastor – and a really, really good husband and dad.
a few years ago
In the years that I have been married to Jim, we have lived in five states and raised four children. They – and the amazing in-laws and precious grandchildren God has added to our family – are my favorite people in the whole world. (And I really believe that … even when they change the rules when we are playing games together.)
Jim’s spiritual leadership has been a greenhouse, a place where he has provided encouragement and shelter for me both to blossom and be protected. Because of his encouragement, I studied at Knox Theological Seminary and graduated in May of 2007 with a Master of Arts – Christianity and Culture degree (summa cum laude).
I’m still figuring out the details of how this next chapter of life should be put together but I do know this: God loves me, His plans for me cannot be thwarted and He is getting me ready to be at home with Him. And I love to talk, write, speak, teach to pass along to others anything I know about Him and His Word.
That’s the big picture view of the person writing this blog. Once you get beyond this top layer things will get a little less “picture perfect,” so consider yourself forewarned.
And I’m glad you’ve stopped by to visit. Join me in some intentional conversation – make yourself at home …
Make Yourself at Home 
Becky! I am so excited to follow your blog. I am one that your ripple of sharing has impacted : ) I am stoked that you are going to be writing, proud of your accomplishments, and appreciate that you aren’t afraid to go gray ( I vowed to never color my hair but it does get tempting sometimes!) I still have the notebook we made in Utah to study with that great group of women… and even then your favorite place was home and wasn’t you fav cereal alphabits? Love you and your investment in me : )
You and Paul were such amazing teammates to us! We loved having you next to us! I remember lots of laughter and authentic friendship. It is sweet to see the Rest of the Story unfolding – how God has continued to use your family for His purposes! You’re right – “home” is my favorite word, my favorite place, … and, despite what Jim says about Lucky Charms – alphabet cereal has more class! (Although, Golden Grahams have a certain appeal!) Stop by often and visit!
What can I say. You and Jim have always been an inspiration to Dick and me. I’ll enjoy your words and ponder them and grow from them along with you. Just got back from a really great time of training some long-time friends in another city (Sxxxxxx) and it was not only a good time of teaching and learning and interacting, but it was at a beach resort so the sun and sand was refreshing too. Since our return from the north, we have both felt in a deep pit – mostly just exhaustion but also betrayal in a sense by some people we thought were friends. So it was good to be reminded that, yes, God delights in me and He has often pulled me up out of the pit and He will do so again — and again, and again!
Thanks for making it possible to reconnect again and in this good way. Don’t know how often I can get on here, but I know it will be refreshing every time I do. Give our greetings and love to your really, really good husband!
I LOVE technology! How else would I get to chat with my friend in the East! (not New Jersey, more like We Three Kings… ) Soon I will launch a page for Strange and Wonderful People I Have Known and I would love to share your story. What a sweet story of God at work – and the romantics in the group will need extra Kleenex. And what adventures you are having as you follow Him! I’m so thankful that God has preserved our friendship! (If you read this and you aren’t Dee, then take a minute and pray for her – strength, protection, and laugh-out-loud fun with her Mr.)
I am so happy you are writing your thoughts and words out. I have always bragged about you to others. You amaze me – you open your mouth and flowers fall out. Always sweet, thoughtful, and kind. I love you dear sweet sister of mine – HUGS!
Walking with you as the Gospel is displayed in your life is a JOY! Thanks for your encouragment! Maybe we should both admit that writing is a better plan for me than speaking because when I write a have to edit before it gets to a real person. 🙂 Your friendship is one that keeps me real – and out of the ditch.
You and Jim were my youth group leaders when I was 16-17 ish. (That’s 30 years ago!). I am encouraged and inspired to have reconnected with you. Thanks for your influence then and your continued faithfulness to the Savior. You’re still a good role model ;-).
Good memories, Kirk. Your name brings a smile! Your music was always a blessing – as was your warm humor! I’m glad that the Lord has limited your memories of us to the good stuff! But, did you have to do the math out loud in front of everybody? It makes it a little hard to continue by tale of looking forward to my 35th birthday. 🙂
God certainly has blessed and plugged our “cracks” as parents! Fun to see your gang all grown up! Keep blogging, I’m so impressed and inspired!
Thank you, dear friend, for your characteristically encouraging words! Stop by often.
Becky,
In the short time that I’ve known you (God does reign through tough times at our church), you have been a true blessing! Thank you!
The blessing is very mutual, dear friend. Our hope is being rejuvenated as we watch God at work in this church family. The openhearted welcome and the appreciation for the Word is refreshing our souls in very deep ways. You all are being used by God to strengthen our hearts! This is the way the covenant family was been to work together!
Thank you for your inspiration. Love you both and plan to visit daily.