Many years ago, before I was a parent, much less a grandparent, a friend of mine described the "not the mama" phenomenon. A baby, content in mom or dad's arms, is passed to a friend or relative. Maybe there is an initial uncertain smile. Then a pout. Sometimes tears. Why? Nothing personal, but you simply are "not the mama." When a moment, day or month is confusing, we might turn to a number of things for comfort. TV, a book, a beverage, a cigarette. The comfort doesn'

It remains on my front stoop, a reminder of a treasure moment and a precious person. A sunny day, a grandson and chalk. He drew lines and scribbles with each color I had. I wrote our names and drew a double-heart. It was the best 7 minutes of the week! It will eventually rain and wash the artwork away, but in the meantime, I wonder what the mail carrier thinks? Take time for simple things that bring a smile.

Do you ever find old notes or cards from folks who are no longer in your life? If the sender has died, it is a treasure. A reminder of a memory you share, times you had together and how close you feel, despite the distance between life and death. If it is someone with whom you have not been able to reconcile, it is bittersweet at best. You are reminded of long-ago memories, the years you shared and the attempts you have made to clear the air. Jesus told Peter we are to fo

Sporting events are putting "virtual fans" in the stands. For some teams it is a fundraiser – for a certain donation, you can have your face enlarged and placed in your favorite stadium. Did you know that St. James, even while worshipping outside, has members in the front row? Unheard of for Lutherans! As a joke, someone places a portrait of Mrs. Ed Horn, and the photos of our confirmands on the front row. We have left them there. A reminder that even in an empty sanctu

Here we are, about 6 months after first hearing that Covid-19 had reached the U.S. Somewhat tongue-in-cheek, but also seriously, here is what I am learning about our day by day lives. Covid calendar – each day feels the same; old routines are out the window. Check the calendar often! Covid cranky – It can be hard to spend more time indoors; got comedy? Zoom brain – it takes more energy to concentrate and follow facial expressions, as well as know wen to jump in; be patient