I'm currently reading "A Resilient Life," and in one of the chapters the author maps out what he sees as the burning questions of each decade. For the 20s, they are questions like, What kind of person am I becoming? Who are my people? Around what person or conviction will I orient my life? In the … Continue reading Squeaking by.
Author: Jamie
Summer Buddy.
One of our kids started school yesterday. Two more go back tomorrow. Summer break is over, hallelujah, thank you, and AMEN. America moms, how did you do it? I only have to handle a 4-week break, but it took every last bit of my energy and ability to make it to today. Perhaps it's like … Continue reading Summer Buddy.
Jumping the chasm.
When people put their trust in God in radical ways, and we hear the stories of how He provided at the last minute, the exact thing, just enough or massively more than enough, it evokes a response in us for MORE. MORE of the radical, MORE faith, MORE trust, MORE of Him. Something stirs up … Continue reading Jumping the chasm.
Surugadai Summer.
It's our 7th August in this house, the rental that needs so many fix-ups we cannot name them, yet has become our tenderly loved spot in the world. August is summer break in Japan, splitting the school year in half: a whole month of river trips with onigiri picnics, cold soba noodles to delight our … Continue reading Surugadai Summer.
Something grand.
Yesterday was the grand opening of our coffee roasting business here in Japan. I'm celebrating by spending the morning in my pajamas, locked up in our bedroom, sipping, reading, and tapping the keys: an introvert's party. I remember sitting in a Shizuoka cafe a little over five years ago, journaling and daydreaming about the coffee … Continue reading Something grand.
Reframing.
It's raining. I'm upstairs in our bedroom, space heater at my feet, writing a few letters in between sips of coffee. My oldest is gaming with his friends downstairs, my second fell asleep in his bed for a rare afternoon nap, my third is drawing in the playroom, and my fourth is napping as well, … Continue reading Reframing.
Expectations in mothering.
Our staff team has used Gallup's StrengthsFinder this past year to learn more about ourselves and each other. One thing I've learned about myself is that I'm really good at analyzing present circumstances and thinking of ways to enhance them. I've also learned that I currently lack the wisdom to know when the present circumstances … Continue reading Expectations in mothering.
Knowing Less.
I read yesterday that Tim Keller was glad he didn't write any books in his 30s, because he was pretty sure he would've wanted to burn them once he reached his 40s and 50s. I breathed a sigh of relief, as I thought of my silent fingers, so little to tap or say. Right now, … Continue reading Knowing Less.
Limitations.
I have been in counseling via Skype for the past few months, with an amazing and loving counselor as my guide. I am beyond thankful for the ways God is using this in my life right now, so much so that I've begun recommending counseling to everyone I know. 😉 (Stubbed toe? See a counselor!) … Continue reading Limitations.
Need.
The constant presence and care needed by a baby makes me crave quiet in a way not normal to me; as an introvert, this is saying a lot. I plan my days around morning nap time, that magical hour-and-a-half, boiling water for coffee before I even take her upstairs so I can maximize the time. … Continue reading Need.
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