Is My Brand Accurate?

African Missions

After reading a few of my blog posts, a writer friend suggested that my brand, Friendship, Hope, & Fried Fruit Pies, may not fit my writing style. I appreciate her honesty, and I know her intent is to help me. As I consider the stories I write, and the books I...

Presidential Prayer

devotional

Have you been confused about which presidential candidate to support? After watching the debates, I felt fearful, and discouraged. I want to elect a president who loves God, more than self.  Someone who will strive for peace, have compassion for the poor and helpless,...

Do You Love Our Muslim Neighbors?

African Missions, devotional

A friend posted a picture of himself holding a sign that said, “I  love my Muslim neighbors.” It surprised me, but I’m grateful for his bold witness because it inspired me to write this post. I usually avoid controversial topics, but Christians must take a stand...

Meru National Park – Kenya

African Missions, Stories of Hope

Not all our activities in Kenya revolved around mission work. On the first day in Nairobi, we visited a mall and had the opportunity to see how the middle class live. I could have closed my eyes and imagined I was home, in America.  However, we were required to go...

Anger: The New Normal

devotional

I’ve noticed that anger seems to be the new normal. Earlier this week, I sat in my car at a red light with my blinker indicating I planned to turn right, and a horn blared behind me. In Kentucky, a driver may turn right at a red light, if there is no oncoming...

Highlights of Kenya – August 2015

African Missions

One of the highlights of 2015 was our mission trip to Kenya.  We planned this visit for for almost two years and prayed often for God’s hand to guide us. God was faithful and answered our prayers. Our flight plan included leaving Nashville, to Detroit, to Amsterdam,...

To Forgive & Forget… Can I?

devotional

When I read my devotional this  morning, I winced. “Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts.” Psalm 139:23. What does God see when he searches my heart? I’m not going to make a list because it’s too discomforting. Thank  you Lord for...

A Year of Blessings

devotional

The year is winding down and as I look at my prayer journal, I realize it has been a year on the mountaintop. God has blessed me beyond anything I deserve. So many prayers have been answered, it overwhelms me. Friends have received miraculous healings, my family is...

Covered By Grace

devotional

The holidays can be the most stressful season of the year.  It’s rare for me to lose my temper, but last week I experienced a tantrum so violent, I’m amazed my hair isn’t  scorched. Considering the season, you might assume this happened while I was shopping in...