So—you are planning an event? Where do you even begin?! Here are a few tips to help you execute a successful and memorable experience for not only you (!)-- but all of your special guests! Tip: Creativity was used to help keep within budget (and save time) for a sweet 16 party. I used a... Continue Reading →
The Bible and Storybranding: Esther—The Girl Who Became Queen
Written for my Masters of Art in Communication School of Communication and The Arts, Liberty University Background God’s sovereignty and His loving care for His people is displayed throughout the story of Esther in the Old Testament. Although the author is unknown, the audience is the people of Israel, and the story is set in... Continue Reading →
How to make royal icing sugar cookies, even if you’re not a baker.
With Valentine's Day around the corner, here's a creative way to show love to your family — beautifully handcrafted decorated sugar cookies. Or team up with your kiddos in the kitchen for a family baking session!
Wait, what did you say? — How are you communicating?
“Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry, for man’s anger does not bring about the righteous life that God desires” (James 1:19, New International Version, 1986). God gave us two ears and one mouth — could that be a reminder for us to do more listening than speaking?... Continue Reading →
How I made a lei from my daily walk in Hawaii Kai.
I know I have said it before, but, I love Hawaii. I love living here (especially since my kids are home!) I am continuously surrounded by such incredible views of the mauka (mountains) and makai (ocean). And since we moved here in December, despite the craziness with covid, I have enjoyed daily walks to reset... Continue Reading →
Fear is a liar!
Listening to your father fall to the ground with a massive heart attack -- at the age of nine. Running to my aunt and uncle's home through the woods to get help. Arriving back home watching my brother perform CPR on my dad, while hearing the loud sounds of the ambulance arrive. That is fear,... Continue Reading →
Never underestimate a Sunset
Daily Sunset off our lanai. No filter needed. Is this a dream? Am I really living the Hawaii dream? Listening to the sound of the Avett Brothers playing in the background — watching another beautiful sunset — breezes blowing my hair as I type, while birds fly by chirping. If you looked out over the... Continue Reading →
The Should be’s…
The “should be’s” of today... there are so many. I “should be” in Australia today with my hubby. My Ash “should be” in Switzerland with her 60 other study abroad students. My oldest “should be” back in Shepherd University getting ready to graduate college.... and on and on. We all have our “should be’s”, right?... Continue Reading →
We’re empty nesters! Now what?
I can't believe how time flies. I mean I think back to the days when my husband was forever traveling and protecting America, and I was a stay at home mom with three little babies-- being the nurse, chef (ok, that's stretching it), cleaner (maybe, this too), room mom, creative director of all projects, and... Continue Reading →
Destination Birthday — The Inn at Kelly’s Ford: How to throw an overnight sweet 16 birthday party!
Who doesn't love a good party? And a sweet sixteen at that!
When you add in a short drive to a beautiful and serene setting, what's not to love! If you are looking to host or throw a destination sweet 16 birthday party, read on!