For forty years, I’ve been putting my heart on paper. Some of those written words have been shared for the purpose of honest encouragement, but most have been private, for God’s eyes only. The silent but strong written word is enduring and therapeutic for me, like the music of white water cascading over rocks. I like to get to the heart of the matter after verbal pleasantries are exchanged, but if this doesn’t happen, I walk away feeling shortchanged. I do enjoy spoken words, but I think the wiring between my brain and my mouth is jumbled, and the optimal route is from brain to fingers. Writing provides the perfect canvas for my heart’s artistic expression. Almost a quarter of a century ago, I said, "I do." It is only by the matchless grace of God that I am still "doing" marriage. Though it's been challenging, God works our marriage together for good. Our two adult daughters contribute much joy (and challenges) to our family. Our home is surrounded by history, rhythmic church bells, a maze of sidewalks for long walks, and a sprawling university with immaculate buildings and grounds. A few of my favorite things are; antique books, naps on the screen porch, a song new to me popping up on my ipod during a walk, steaming black coffee warming my hands in the stands of a stadium, high school band, and crispy apples. I love my simple life!