Nothing too fancy about this blog...just a guy sharing some thoughts about being a husband, father, community member, and an undeservedly saved Christian in small town Minnesota. I love to be outdoors (when it's warm), participate in theatre, read/write, cook/bake (yes, they're different), enjoy good microbrews and wine, and spending time with my gorgeous wife and our offspring, and our excellent friends and family.
A man who held the Keys to HeavenReleased the lock in proclamationThat, when in full communion cry,“Holy, Holy, to God on high!”How near we are to souls we lost,Who sing among the heavenly host. With mourning gates now open wide,My tears ran free to silence pride.No finger brushed the tears aside.No mother’s gentle voice to … More Forget you not: or, Loss in the COVID spring
My commute elevated recently by the audiobook of “Anna Karenina” by Lev Nikolayevich Tolstoy…or Leo Tolstoy for the Anglicized world. In the book, he used Russian names so devoutly, that it seems rude to call him “Leo.” Though, I don’t think he’d mind…it seems he got a little earthy as he progressed in life. Until … More Four insights from “Anna Karenina”…also, Tolstoy is a rock star
This is a long post. It’s a big topic. I’m also not sure how much of this is “right.” I know my faith in God and His Word are right…but I’m not sure if all my thinking is right. Take it as a need to process out loud thoughts brewing for some time. I’m sure … More Striving after the wind: a reflection at the start of new year
Food Network is one of my favorite channels. It’s fascinating to watch people who are so passionate about their craft – whether amateurs or professionals – go after new horizons in flavor, texture, and presentation. Perhaps their grittiest competition shows is Chopped. In this series, chefs from around the country compete in three rounds of … More The daily “Chopped” competition: writing edition
“Writers remember everything…especially the hurts. Strip a writer to the buff, point to the scars, and he’ll tell you the story of each small one. From the big ones you get novels. A little talent is a nice thing to have if you want to be a writer, but the only real requirement is the … More Writing reflection: hey, your dark side is showing…
What got your attention, the horrible giant spider or the sweet deceased grandmother? The combo is a little off-putting, I suppose. There’s a point. Stick with me. I’ve had two significant recurring dreams that took place in the late ’80s/early ’90s when I was a bit of a discombobulated teen. By the grace of God … More A giant spider and a dead grandmother walk into a brain…
Two thoughts in my head: Seemingly intangible dreams need a tangible plan. Focusing only on the art or only on the science is ineffective; we need to do both…or find a partner who can be the balance Nearing my third week of recovery, my propensity to think has multiplied. I’m thrilled that my mental state … More Lack of progress ≠ lack of desire; change is hard
It’s been a long time since I’ve written a poem. This is for my Ladybug. It’s fitting that the inaugural poem for this blog is dedicated to the one who inspires my every day. Do you remember the tapping and leaping and a whirling lilt spun by a driving bodhran? Or shadows of Dolores cooling … More Remember when our hearts soared above cliffs and towers?
The idea of a person moving through seasons of life has resonated with me more strongly than ever over the last few years. When I started my first blog, I had my own coaching business (Salt & LIght Living) while holding down a more than full-time job. The blog originated as a vehicle for my … More A new season, a new blog
a tilting of air 