This guest post is written by Dr. Teresa Burns Murphy, one of my former professors who has served as a writing mentor for me for years. I'm so grateful for Dr. Murphy! If you want to hear more about how she's helped me, be sure to check out my podcast about those who add value... Continue Reading →
Turning points
Dear One, When you died about one month ago, you caught me off guard. You became suddenly ill, and 24 hours later, you were eating pizza, fruit cake, and pudding cups in heaven. I can't say I didn't see it coming. There was something inside of me that whispered, "Go see her more often" about... Continue Reading →
How to move
I woke up humming a tune. “Whippoorwills in the willows…” I love that little song. It takes me back to a sweet time in my life when I had fewer cares and responsibilities, a time when love enveloped me like the warm comforter I nestled in as I awoke with the June sunshine streaming in... Continue Reading →
Oh, to be thankful!
Big thanks to my lifelong best friend, MeLissa Massey Horseman, for making gratitude a family affair. I love you, MeLissa. Dailen (9 ½) – I’m thankful for a house, my family, and myself. I feel that thankfulness means you are appreciative and have a good attitude about stuff people give you. Lexa (8) –... Continue Reading →
Liz, Mom, and the Witch
Today's post is written by Dr. Teresa Burns Murphy, one of my writing mentors and former professors. Every time Dr. Murphy contributes to this blog and sends me a post, I cannot wait to read it. I know I'll enjoy the story--and I know the story will speak to me. Bethany asked us to share... Continue Reading →
The Ravine
*The following essay was written by one of my students, Samantha Jones, in English Composition I about a place of significance. While this essay is not in letter format, it does pay homage to the memories of her childhood and her sister. For that reason, I asked for her permission to share it with all... Continue Reading →
Another cat’s tale
*Here's another cat's tale from Debra Dickey. This post reminds me of all the fur babies I've had over the years and how much joy they've brought to my life. Thanks, Debra, for the great reminder!* Growing up, my parents didn’t allow us to have inside pets. We had plenty of animals, but because we... Continue Reading →
My mother’s Bible
*Thank you, Lorie Mink, for sharing your reflections and gratitude in this post.* While searching my closet for a pair of slippers, I came across my mother’s Bible. It’s been sitting on the shelf since we moved in the house three years ago. And I can’t remember the last time I opened it. Mama’s been... Continue Reading →
What I learned from my parents
This piece was written by my former professor, who I like to consider one of my writing mentors, Dr. Teresa Burns Murphy, as a tribute to her parents. They will celebrate their 60th wedding anniversary this month. Happy anniversary to a couple who obviously understand what it takes to love others well. My parents were... Continue Reading →
Second chance love
Special thanks to my former professor and friend, Dr. Teresa Burns Murphy, for sharing this beautiful piece on gratitude, friendship, and love with us today. At the beginning of 2014, Bethany wrote a beautiful essay identifying still as her word for the new year. When Bethany invited other people to identify their words for 2014,... Continue Reading →