Each year at the start of the Advent season, I find myself thinking about Mary, the mother of Jesus. This teenage girl was to be a womb for God, the mother of His one and only son. That day when the angel Gabriel came to her, I imagine light refracting in all directions in her humble home in Nazareth. I have three daughters hovering in the [...] Keep Reading
community
Unexpected branches: An invitation into God’s family tree
My mama’s extended family usually meets every two or three years for a reunion in different cities where clusters of our cousins live. After four years of waiting because of the pandemic, this year we gathered in Detroit, Michigan where my mom was born. We weren’t sure how many would actually show up because of high travel costs, canceled flights, [...] Keep Reading
Representation Matters: Stories Shape Who We Become
This month I’m collaborating with fellow children’s book authors and featuring a series called “Why Representation Matters in Children’s Literature.” Each week, I’ll be sharing a guest essay by one of my favorite children’s book authors on this topic culminating with a book giveaway. Today I’m excited to welcome my new friend Tina to the blog. Her [...] Keep Reading
Flourishing together: When racism affects us all
When my late husband Ericlee and I were newlyweds, we invited my Grandpa Frank to come live with us. Several years earlier my Grandma Cora had soared to heaven, and our family knew it wasn’t good for Grandpa to be living alone anymore — far from most of our family. My generous husband offered up our guest room. He knew this was important to me. [...] Keep Reading
Instant Pot Mac & Cheese: Comfort food at its best!
During this time when so many of us are "sheltering at home," it's a good time to get out new recipes and some of the old family favorites. This homemade Mac & Cheese made in the Instant Pot is one of our go-to lunches for feeding a crowd. Kids, groups and even our running teams love this Mac & Cheese, especially with fun toppings they can [...] Keep Reading
Instant Pot Recipe: Easy Haitian Rice & Beans
On Thursdays, we eat Haitian rice and beans. We pray for our friends in Haiti and around the world.We started this tradition in January before we knew the coronavirus even existed. Long before people were stocking their pantries for home quarantine. We wanted to eat this simple meal in solidarity with people who survive on little.Haitian rice and [...] Keep Reading
