In southern California where I was raised, all the backyards in my neighborhood were fenced. Neighbors didn't traipse through your back yard; if they had business with you, they had to come to the front door and knock. I came from a home that was "invitation only" - and invitations were few and carefully issued. … Continue reading Fences
Author: Andrea
Evacuation
Sometimes it seems a lifetime ago that I lived in my little town in the mountains. I miss small-town life; the being known. I miss having the boundaries established and purposes to fulfill. My little mountain town came close to burning down last month. The houses across the street from my childhood home all burned, … Continue reading Evacuation
A Baptism
He stands on the shore of Prairie Lake, swinging his arms and jumping up and down like Michael Phelps preparing to break another world record. It is a rainy, chilly day but he doesn't seem to notice as he rushes down the hill into the cold water to stand with our pastor. His people cheer … Continue reading A Baptism
Meeting Places
At crucial points in my faith journey, I have found places - physical places of special beauty - for deep prayer and contemplation. As a child just discovering God's love in an emotionally unstable home, I spent many hours on a rock across the street from my house, overlooking a mountain pass. I met God … Continue reading Meeting Places
A View of the Lake 