Another Anniversary

Another anniversary of my birth prompts me to a day of introspection. A sweet card from a sweeter friend blessed me today and I thank God for her being part of my life. This morning, I thank God for my Continue reading Another Anniversary

Remembering Mother

Mother would have been 95 years old today. Our birthdays are one week apart, always part of our Buckeyes’ football season. I miss her most in autumn; we always talked after an Ohio State football game. Ohio Stadium is home Continue reading Remembering Mother

Independent to a Fault

In the United States, we talk about raising our children to be independent of their parents and to stand on their own. It seems a noble goal – for adults to take care of themselves and their families without the Continue reading Independent to a Fault

Expert Weaver at Work

My maternal grandmother executed exquisite hand crafts of many kinds. She knitted, crocheted, tatted, made rag and braided rugs, and sewed beautiful garments and quilts. Her skills were extraordinary even for a time when women created many of the needs Continue reading Expert Weaver at Work

Promises Yield Peace

A new depth of peace rules my soul these days. I attribute it to more complete acceptance of God’s promises for my life and future. Remembering His faithfulness to provide for my home almost 14 years ago fuels faith. His Continue reading Promises Yield Peace

Only By His Grace

My family reunion was blessed. My three sisters and brother and I have chosen to be adults in attitude as well as age. As my brother observed, we have dealt with the issues between us as children and decided to Continue reading Only By His Grace

Resources Page Updated

The Resources page at The Cleft For Life has been updated with the correct links. Please take a look! https://thecleftforlife.com/resources/

Patience With My Soul

Moving forward requires more time than I like. Being patient with myself is one of my great struggles. Self-criticism is an enemy that I thought I had conquered, apparently not entirely as yet. Members of my high school graduating classed Continue reading Patience With My Soul

Early Summer Anniversaries

  June is a season of remembrance for me. I graduated from college in June. Father’s Day evokes memories of my family: A great-grandfather who lived until I was 20, my grandfathers, my father, and my sons as fathers. It Continue reading Early Summer Anniversaries

Confidence in New Life

I remember God’s faithfulness 38 years ago. I was embarking on a new life – leaving work and celebrating the birth of my older son. I wasn’t ready for it – I don’t think anyone is ready to be a Continue reading Confidence in New Life