Shug-Steps of Faith

Senior Night

2026-04-14T06:25:00.001-05:00

Last Thursday night was "Senior Night" on the Softball field. Just one of the several events that will be happening until the end of the school year.

Our granddaughter (Mylee Jo) stood proudly among the six seniors being recognized. These girls are not just teammates -- they've been playing side by side since their freshman year. Through early practices, long bus rides, tough losses, and sweet victories....they have shared so very much! One of the highlights of their journey together was winning state their sophomore year.

Each senior had a table set up, filled with snapshots of their softball journey. Photos from younger days, action shots on the field, medals, an all kind of mementos that told a story of years of dedication and their love for the game. More than just a display, their boards were a timeline of hard work and some really great friendships.

I was so proud of each of them as they stood out there on the field...(with their parents)... and them knowing that this chapter of their lives is about to close. A new season of life will begin soon, but their love for the game will remain always.

It was a beautiful ceremony and it was exciting just to see how much they have grown and how far they have come.

Memories have certainly been made for each of them, and for their families as well.

💛💛💛

Keep shining....you make this corner of the internet brighter for me...

Shug....💛

It Felt Like Christmas

2026-04-13T06:34:00.001-05:00

It Might Not Be Christmas… But It Felt Like It

It might not be Christmas, but this past week I received a gift that felt every bit like it.

Several years ago, my mother-in-law had the most beautiful ceramic Christmas tree. It was solid white, standing about two feet tall, with tiny colored lights. It wasn’t just a decoration—it was a memory, a feeling, a piece of her home. Our daughters always admired that tree. I'm sure it was the simplicity, maybe the way it lit up a room, or maybe the love attached to it that attracted them to it.

After she passed away, that tree was never found. It simply disappeared somewhere along the way, leaving behind only the memory of its glow.

A couple of weeks ago, Sam was scrolling through antique websites and came across a tree that looked so similar—only this one was green and not as tall. It wasn't one of the newer versions you can find in stores today, but a true antique, full of character and history. It was located in Oklahoma, and without hesitation, he bought it.

It arrived on Friday.

But instead of opening a box filled with nostalgia and joy, we were met with heartbreak. The tree had been shattered. The bottom was in what felt like a hundred tiny pieces, and the top was broken into larger fragments. Something so carefully chosen… so full of meaning… reduced to pieces in a cardboard box.

The seller was very kind and the good thing is...she had insurance, so she is refunding the money. And yes, I suppose these kinds of things happen, don’t they?

But oh… it still stings.

Because it wasn’t just about the tree.

It was about the thought behind it. The remembering and the searching. It was about the hope of holding something again that felt connected to the past… to family… to moments that can never be replaced.

Maybe that’s where the real gift was all along.

Not in the ceramic.

Not in the lights.

Not even in the perfect condition of something fragile.

But in the heart behind it.

In a husband who remembered.

In the effort he made.

In the love wrapped up in that unexpected surprise.

Sometimes gifts don’t arrive the way we imagine. Sometimes they come broken, or delayed, or not at all. But if we look closely, we may find that the truest gift is still there—quietly tucked inside the intention.

It might not be Christmas…

…but love still showed up like it was.

Thank you Sam for your genuine love.

Shug...💛

Bottle Brush Plant

2026-04-12T08:57:00.002-05:00

Flowers don't question where they're planted.

They don't worry if the soil is too hard....or if the season will be too dry...or if they're growing in the "right" place. They simply reach for the light.

Out in our yard, the bottlebrush plant is one of those reminders...

It's bright red blooms are showing up with a bold color of red and it is full of life right now.

It's not one of those delicate flowers....but it is strong, vibrant, and full of purpose.

One thing that I love about this plant is that it "brings life in."

Bees gather and the butterflies linger on it. Hummingbirds come close, finding exactly what they need.

It simply blooms and in doing so, it blesses everything around it.

This is the kind of life that God calls us to.

Not one spent comparing or questioning, but one rooted and trusting.

Some season are quiet.

Some are Bold.

Some feel hidden.

Some are full and vibrant.

ALL OF THEM MATTER!!

In our own lives, we need to just keep reaching for light.

When the time comes, we won't just bloom, we will bring life to others along the way.

💛💛💛💛💛

About this plant....

1. This plant is named for it's shape. The blooms look like bottle brushes.

2. It is native to Australia and it thrives in warm climates.

3. This is a drought-tolerant.

4. Many of the varieties stay green year round.

5. They bloom in Spring and sometimes in the Fall.

6. They are loved by pollinators since it's blooms are filled with nectar.

Hoping something beautiful finds each of you today...

Shug....💛

On the tailgate of a Whirlwind

2026-04-11T17:41:00.005-05:00

Hey Friends... Since Thursday morning, it feels like we’ve been hanging on to the tailgate of a whirlwind.

On Thursday, I headed out early to Dallas with Sam riding shotgun. The plan was simple—go to his doctor’s appointment and stay the night, because anyone who knows Dallas knows that after 4:00, traffic turns into something you pray your way through. But wouldn’t you know it, everything wrapped up earlier than expected—around 2:15.

And just like that, a new plan was born.

Thursday evening was senior night for Mylee at the softball field, and there was no way we wanted to miss that. So we took a chance, said a little prayer over the highway, and headed home. We rolled into the parking lot at 5:30… with the presentation starting at 5:45.

Y’all… we made it. And it was worth every mile.

Friday morning came early again. I headed out to take care of a few things for Sam’s upcoming surgery. That evening, we went to the funeral home for visitation for our dear friend. And then we were up early this morning for the funeral. Sam was a pallbearer and this service was pretty hard for him. His friend Roy had the same liver disease that Sam has.

What a beautiful service it was.

The service was held outside at a venue, in front of a big lake. COMPLETE PEACE filled the air all around us.

The perfect place to hold a service for a man who loved the outdoors.

I took this picture after the service and after the flowers had been taken to the cemetery..

It’s been a lot.

We finally made it home around 2:40 this afternoon, and let me tell you—there’s something sacred about propping your feet up after days like this. The service was beautiful, held at a venue near a gorgeous lake… peaceful, meaningful, and just what the heart needed.

Now… about Sam’s eye.

His surgery is scheduled for Thursday at 11:00, and we’ll be staying the night since he has to see the doctor again early Friday morning. But before we get there, we’ve got one more trip to Dallas Monday to get additional measurements taken. It’s a good two-hour drive, and we’re hoping traffic shows us a little mercy this time.

The plans are to go in to the back of his eye and remove the lens that is stuck in the top of his eye. The doctor will then repair the lip that holds the lens in place and insert a new lens. Sounds painful, but he will no longer be feeling like he has a sticker bur in his left eye.

I’m tired… and if you’ve made it this far, I imagine you might be a little tired too just reading it all.

Life has been full in every sense of the word—joy, sorrow, rushing, remembering, and showing up where it matters most.

Hoping to catch up with all of you soon, and I'm hoping to get back to my normal blogging without it being full of health issues. My apologies for this. You all have been so gracious to keep reading my blog post and for this I am thankful..

Do what you love doing this weekend. Whether it's watching "The Masters" .... planting flowers ..... relaxing .... Or Whatever....just enjoy all that life has to offer..

Love,

Shug..💛

Be Back Soon

2026-04-09T08:24:00.006-05:00

Today and Tomorrow

Sam and I will be in Dallas.

Hugs to all...

shug....💛

Hodgepodge Wednesday

2026-04-08T07:23:00.002-05:00

Hodgepodge Day

Joyce asks the Questions

We answer the Questions

HERE

Mix and Match Hodgepodge

From EGGS, to BEER, to SIBLINGS

to the LETTER G, to SCENTS

TO...RANDOM THOUGHTS....

1. Egg on your face, putting all your eggs in one basket, a good egg, walk on eggshells, nest egg, or a tough egg to crack...which eggy idiom currently applies to your life in some way? Explain

Right now, I would say "Putting all my eggs in one basket" fits best. Life has a funny way of reminding me of how much I pour into the things (people) I love. This might sound a little risky, but it also feels honest. When you care deeply, you don't hold back, you give your all to them.

2. April 7th is National Beer Day...are you a beer drinker? If so do you have a favorite? Beer battered fish, beer bread, beer can chicken, beer brats...which one sounds good to you? Have you made any of these?

I am not a drinker of any kind of alcohol including Beer...however, I can appreciate what you can make with it! Most likely...Beer battered fish.

To tell the truth...we have never had a can or bottle of beer in our home...so, my answer would be No, I have not cooked or baked with beer.

3. Do you have siblings? What's the best thing about being your sibling? If you don't have siblings, what would you say are the pros and cons of being an only child?

Yes...I had one sister who passed away at the early age of 28. I had a younger brother who passed away Christmas Day, 2024. I also have another brother (David) and we live about a mile away from each other.

The best thing about me being David's sibling is that I am a truly dedicated sister. We are very close and he knows that I am and will always be there for he and his family.

4. How do you feel about floral scents in products? Do you have a favorite?

I do not care for many scents that come in candles or potpourri. I have purchased many different room sprays, candles, melts and such......but have ended up giving them away because the scent makes me sick.

If I did have a favorite, it would be cinnamon.

5. What's one thing in your home that begins with the letter G that you would say is a keeper, something you'll hold on to? Tell us why.

Grandmother's dishes! Anything passed down or given with love tends to carry more than just its physical presence...it carries memories, stories and a piece of someone's heart. Those are the thing I hold on to the longest..

6. Insert your own random thought here.

Truthfully....I am moving slow in the random thought category. My thoughts have been consumed with my April calendar.

In Full Bloom

2026-04-07T09:02:00.000-05:00

The stunning Texas Bluebonnets are in full bloom right now!!

You can be driving down a plain old road...headed to the grocery store or just out running errands and what you see, looks like someone took a paintbrush and brushed the earth with the softest shades of blue.

We have them in our area, but driving South or even South East of my little town, you can view what looks like a sea of blue. Bluebonnets stretch along the Texas highways....like miles of blue waves, dancing in the breeze.

Best thing?? No tickets required. Sam and I will be driving to Dallas on Thursday for a visit with the eye specialist and I can assure you, that along the way, we will pull over a few times to grab extra pictures of these beautiful flowers.

They don't last forever, so it's important to grab those special photos during late March through the end of April.

Here are some facts about our gorgeous Texas Bluebonnets..

1. They're the State Flower of Texas.

Bluebonnets proudly hold that title—and we take their beauty seriously!

2. They Bloom in Early Spring

Usually March through April… They are some of the first blooms we see.

3. They Love the Roadsides

Those long stretches of highway suddenly become painted in blue.

4. They’re Part of Texas Heritage

Generations have grown up stopping for photos in the fields… Rattlesnakes love to slither through them and for this reason....I stay away! "Not in our area, but further down in South Texas."

5. There’s More Than One Type

While the common one is Lupinus texensis, there are actually several varieties across Texas.

6. They Thrive After Rainy Winters

A good, wet season means a stunning bluebonnet year!

7. Picking Them Isn’t Illegal (But…)

It’s not actually against the law—but it’s discouraged to preserve the beauty for everyone.

8. They Close Up at Night

These little blooms rest when the sun goes down and reopen with the daylight.

9. Bees Love Them

Bluebonnets are important for pollinators—so they’re beautiful and beneficial.

10. They Pair Perfectly with Indian Paintbrushes

That mix of blue and red across a field? Pure Texas magic.

11. They Make the Sweetest Memories

Family photos, little kids running barefoot, laughter in the fields.

12. They Remind Us to Slow Down

For just a moment… pull over, step out, and take it all in.

I do have a few in my yard and each year, I have to remind Hector (my yard maintenance guy) NOT to mow them down. I usually put up flags around them.

Proud of our Texas Bluebonnets...

Shug....

* I know you all have been praying for Sam...please say an extra prayer for him this week. One of his dear friends passed away on Easter Sunday. Roy had cancer of the liver which makes this even more difficult for Sam. The service is this next Saturday and Sam has been asked to be a pallbearer. He needs strength physically and emotionally.

Easter 2026.

2026-04-06T12:32:00.000-05:00

Even with a few empty chairs around the table, Easter lunch felt full in all the ways that matter most.

The eight of us gathered close and we shared so much laughter.. The room was totally overflowing with goodness....and a few dogs! Lucy, Missy, and Penny (my granddogs) were enjoying our gathering...each of them begging for food.

The food?? Absolutely delicious! The Desserts? They did not stand a chance....And the Egg hunt, pure joy watching the excitement unfold, ONE Egg at a time!

I say ONE egg at a time because I did something different this year. I had ONE egg for each of them (excluding Sam and I) PLUS a Golden Egg!

Each person could only find their own egg and If they did find someone else's egg and they told them where it was at, then I got to keep the egg that belonged to the person who shared the information!!

Lined up ready to hunt their one egg.

Tori....running to try to find her egg!

Oh no, no, no...they did not want to lose their egg because they knew it contained MONEY 💸....and for this reason, NO ONE helped anyone find their egg. I was even accused of trying to pull a joke on them. They thought I must have just told them there were some eggs hidden just so I could watch them run around looking for them.... HA, HA...this made me LAUGH... May have to try that next year!!

Tom and Carson....they were NO where near the eggs!! 😃😆

Shanda...hunting every branch of every tree...🤣🤣

Mylee....FINALLY Found her Egg.

Trista was the last one to find her egg!!

This egg hunt lasted a good 30 or so minutes. I'll have to give myself a pat on the back, because I really did hide them in hard places. The golden egg...I hid it in the freezer which is located in the garage. Carson, found The Golden Egg and was all smiles.

Goofy Crew...

More than anything, Our Easter Sunday was filled with an abundance of Love. WE did Miss our other 13 family members who were not able to come home for Easter... Hopefully next year...💛💛💛

Shug...

He Is Risen

2026-04-05T07:45:00.003-05:00

“And entering the tomb, they saw a young man sitting on the right side, dressed in a white robe, and they were alarmed. And he said to them, ‘Do not be alarmed. You seek Jesus of Nazareth, who was crucified. He has risen; He is not here… But go, tell His disciples and Peter…’”

—Mark 16:5–7

They came expecting to tend to death…

not to witness life. These women walked toward the tomb carrying spices, their hearts still heavy with grief. There was no anticipation of a miracle—only love and duty.

But God had already gone ahead of them.

The stone was rolled away. The grave was empty.

And heaven had a message waiting.

“He is risen… He is not here.”

In one moment, everything changed.

“Go, tell His disciples—and Peter…”

The empty tomb is not only proof of resurrection—

it is an invitation. An invitation into grace.

Hallelujah!!!

Shug....🌅.

Saturday Morning News.

2026-04-04T11:48:00.002-05:00

Saturday Morning News from my little corner of East Texas...

☔⛱🌂☔⛱🌂☔

Well, it's Raining Again!!Not a passing shower, not a sprinkle-and-go kind of morning… but one of those steady, all-day rains that has settled in. The kind that makes you move a little slower, pour another cup of coffee, and listen to it tap against the windows like a familiar song. I love it!!! Of course...it's Prom Day at our local Public School and this makes me sad for the kids.

Now let me tell you about our little "William" and his Easter egg hunt… I think it deserves its own headline.

Picture this:

He spots an egg. Success!

He sets his basket down right where he stands… very official about it.

Opens the egg.

Finds gummies (or something equally exciting).

Eats the treasure immediately—because why wait?

Then… the empty plastic egg? Tossed aside like yesterday’s news.

Basket picked back up. Off he goes to the next one.

I wonder if he actually collected any eggs… or just enjoyed a traveling snack buffet across the yard. Either way, he was living his best life, and honestly, I respect the strategy.

Next in today’s happenings…

Sam and I spotted a squirrel in the parking lot at LongHorn Steakhouse, and let me tell you—this little thing was not shy one bit. It had found itself a meal and was fully committed. No rush, no fear, just sitting there enjoying every bite like it had ordered it medium rare and even paid for it. We just stood there watching, slightly amused and a little impressed by its confidence.

And then comes a tradition that has stood the test of time…

Trista’s annual Easter Bunny Cake.

Twenty-five years she has been making these sweet little bunny cakes. Twenty-five! Her bunny cakes has seen babies grow up, holidays come and go, and still shows up every Easter like a beloved guest who never misses a visit. I love the special family traditions that we have. The kind that quietly stitches memories together year after year. Just have to add the whiskers!!

Last but not least.... I'll be in the kitchen this afternoon.

I'll be preparing a meatloaf that I'll cook in the morning... Getting the Ham ready and dressed for cooking...Making a "Fruit Pizza" inspired by Carrie over at Northwoods Scrapbooks.....

And making some adorable rice crispy bunnies with the recipe coming from Mari over at My little corner of the world.

Thank you Ladies for the recipes!!

Lots of good things happening around here.

Blessings for you all as you prepare For Easter Sunday.

Good Friday

2026-04-03T06:39:00.003-05:00

I've often thought about how strange the name sounds....Good Friday.

When you really stop and think about it...the day Jesus was beaten, mocked and crucified.....there doesn't seem to be anything "Good" about it at all.

If any of us had stood there that day, if any of us had watched it unfold...I don't think we would think of it as good.

His followers didn't. His friends didn't.

Those who loved Him most...they saw heartbreak, loss and what felt like the end of everything they believed in.

Can you imagine how terrible that day must have been? A day totally full of sorrow and I'm sure much confusion and darkness.

I'm sure it looked like evil had won!

This day was not an accident and it sure wasn't defeat....it was a decision.

Jesus did not stay on the cross because He had to...He stayed because He chose to. The nails did not hold Him there, but LOVE did.

It was love for His Father and love for you and me.

Sin didn't win that day and Death didn't win that day.

....3 days later everything changed! What seemed like loss turned into VICTORY! What felt like darkness gave way to light...What looked like death, was overcome by life.

THIS IS WHY WE CALL IT "GOOD FRIDAY."

Despite its sorrowful nature, Good Friday is considered the "Best Day" for humanity because of the ultimate good..forgiveness and salvation that was given to us through the suffering of Jesus Christ.

Shug....

Even in the darkest moments...God is still writing something GOOD!

April Flowers and Tiny Wings of Hope

2026-04-02T07:47:00.002-05:00

We have rain this morning!! So needed!!

I woke up this morning to the soft, steady rhythm of an April shower tapping against the window. I am so loving this gentle blessing falling from the sky.

I lingered in bed a while longer, listening to the raindrops hitting the roof, the window, and all of the soft places in between. This is exactly what we have been needing. Woo Hoo!!

🌺🌻🌺🌻🌺🌻🌺🌻

Y'all....we had our very first hummingbird on Tuesday!! I was able to snap a picture from my phone, but it is not real clear. I find it amazing how these tiny birds find the feeders so quickly. Every year, like clockwork, they show up, and this is something that never gets old. I Love seeing their little wings as they flap in speed of 50 to 80 times per second. (I had to look this info up)

I've not been able to find the "Esperanza" plant that the hummingbirds love...Still a little early for the nurseries to have them out.

And our "Turks Caps" are just now leafing out! I think it might be another month before the hummers can feed on the red and yellow eye catching blooms of these popular plants.

We usually have both of these beautiful plants planted all around the pool...Adds a lot of color to the back yard and they really attract the butterflies as well as the hummers.

Hope you all get rain (if you need it) and maybe even a hummingbird or two or three or four, stopping by your place.

🌺🌻🌺🌻🌺🌻🌺🌻🌺

Sam and I both agreed this morning that we feel "FREE" today! No appointments of any kind today!!

See Y'all tomorrow!!

Shug..🌺

Our Litttle Artist in the Family!

2026-04-01T11:31:00.001-05:00

We have a new Artist in the family!!

Our youngest great granddaughter (Emersyn) decided during her Spring Break to do a little painting. Emersyn is 5 years old..soon to be 6.

BTW...this picture is painted using her finger prints.

She sent me a text message with this photo of her holding her art work. She was so happy and excited. Well..what is a Shug to do when she has a little doll who is so proud of her work?? You buy the art painting!!! $$

She called me on Sunday and wanted to know if there was anything that I wanted her to add to the painting. I told her that I would love to have her signature at the bottom.

She is going to hold it for me until I am able to fly out there for a visit. I can't wait to get it and have it framed..

As I sat there thinking about it later, I realized something a whole lot bigger than just a little painting. It's not about the colors ... it's about those tiny fingerprints that worked so hard making something beautiful.

When a child creates something with joy, and then has a look full of pride...what they're saying is..."Do you see me."

And...oh how important it is that we do!!

We don't just hang their artwork on the wall..

We hang their confidence there. We frame their courage. We preserve a moment where they felt seen, LOVED and celebrated.

One day this painting might fade just a little, but the memory of being valued never will.

So yes...we have a new artist in the family and I have a feeling that this will not be the only masterpiece I will proudly hang on my wall. She has already asked what kind of picture her Pops might like!!

💟 💟 💟 💟 💟

I'm tossing a handful of happiness your way today!!

Shug!!

No Perfect Words Needed

2026-03-31T07:29:00.001-05:00

Oh wow....I just typed this entire post and then....my finger slipped and it disappeared. Let me try again!!

No perfect words are needed when we are meeting with God. I don't always pray with bent knees....No, sometimes I pray when my hands are filthy, as I'm busy potting my flowers. Sometimes I pray driving down the road...Often, I pray when I am just out walking.

I also have those moments when I am so sleepy, but yet God is speaking to me. At 2:00 A.M. my prayers sometimes do not make much sense, especially when I am... in-and-out-of-sleeping... and praying. But...They still matter and they are still heard.

Many times, this is when my prayers sound more like questions. Or sighs. Or sometimes my only word is "Lord."

No fancy words. No big endings. Just His name hanging there with me in the dark.

I don't always finish my sentences and if I'm being real honest, I sometimes wonder if God becomes disappointed with me. The truth is....God does not grade our prayers!!! 👐 I said: "God Does NOT grade our prayers!"

He is listening to our hearts no matter where we are, no matter what we are doing. He hears the tiredness in our voices and he hears the fears that we try to hide. AND...He understands the things we don't even know how to say.

God doesn't ask us to clean up our prayers and He doesn't say you need to polish up your words and tie them with a beautiful bow. He just wants us to come as we are!

Messy and real.

My point? God isn't searching for polished prayers or perfectly strung together words. He is listening for a willing heart. A heart that shows up even when it is tired. A heart that simply says, "Lord, I am here."

This week...Holy Week...reminds me just how personal that invitation is.

I am thankful for this sacred time of reflection...a time to slow down and remember that Jesus walked toward the cross knowing every detail, every pain, every weight He would carry, and He did it anyway. He did it for you and He did it for me.

He bore the cross not because He had to, but because He chose to. He stretched out His arms in love, taking on our sins, our burdens, our brokenness, so that we could walk in freedom, grace and forgiveness.

Because of His sacrifice, we don't need perfect words. We can come to Him just as we are with no rehearsing and no pretending.

This Holy week is about drawing near to the One who gave everything so we could Know Him!

* I will be gone a good portion of today. We have an appointment with the eye doctor for Sam. Hoping to get on the schedule to have his surgical procedure done.

Little Pieces of a Full Day.

2026-03-30T08:23:00.003-05:00

Little pieces of a full Day.

It was a long night here in East Texas. The work began around 8:00 p.m.

The road in front of our home is a Farm to Market road that usually carries a steady hum of quiet country traffic. Well....it came alive last night in a whole different way. The highway department began resurfacing it last week, and their work happens after the sun goes down. Last night, they were hard at it again.

We could hear the low growl of machines as they ground up the old pavement, followed by a steady rhythm of fresh asphalt being laid down. We lost a little sleep, however, I am thankful to have a smooth new road to drive on.

🚧 🚧 🚧 🚧 🚧 🚧

Sam and I both are enjoying a quieter morning today!

Hummingbird Time!!

Yesterday afternoon, I stepped outside and grabbed the hummingbird feeders that have been resting all winter. I cleaned them out, filled them up fresh, and got them hung. Now, we wait for the buzzing of the hummers to come and bring life back to the yard.

Earlier in the week, the pool cleaning company came out and gave our pool a good cleaning. They also washed and cleaned the filters, so now we have a very clean pool...ready for the season. I love seeing the clear water...especially during the evening hours when the light is on.

Resurfaced roads, freshly filled feeders and clean water waiting for my swimmers. Life is Good!

Just some little pieces of a Full Day!

Palm Sunday...Senior Sunday

2026-03-29T12:28:00.001-05:00

It is a beautiful Palm Sunday here in East Texas. We are stepping into Holy Week. So gentle...so sacred...and needed.

I'm not going to lie...these past few days have been exhausting. More especially for Sam. Life has a way of piling things on us all at once, doesn't it? But somehow, even in the tired, there's still grace tucked in the corners. I am so thankful for this grace.

Today is Senior Sunday, and if you've followed me for very long, you know I always like to tuck these moments away in my memory book.

Our sweet Mylee will graduate on May 16th. How in the world did we get here so fast?

As I sat thinking about her today, one thing kept coming to mind...HER BLANKET!

Since the day she was born, she has loved that blanket. A dear friend of mine gave it to her...and at one time it was the prettiest blanket, pink and yellow, with delicate stitching around the edges. Over the years, it's been loved well...worn soft by time, travel, and tiny hands that never quite would let it go.

This blanket has been everywhere....Costa Rica, Guatemala, Colorado, California, and lastly to Ireland. I suppose we could call it "the Traveling Blanket." It's real name is:

Pink Bwank Bwank!!! A name Mylee gave it when she was first learning to talk.

And if you know Mylee, you know this...she may love you dearly, but that blanket? Well...not just anyone gets the privilege of holding it. We've had more laughs over that little blanket than I can count.

But...Isn't it something how love can settle itself into the simplest of things? A blanket, a gift, a thread of kindness that never really unravels.

I couldn't help but think of my sweet blogging friend Connie over at Far side of Fifty. She spends a lot of her time crocheting beautiful baby blankets...one after another. And I wonder if she fully knows how something made with HER hands might become someone's everything. A comfort, a memory, a piece of home they carry through life.

This is what Mylee's blanket is to her. .......

Love isn't always loud. Sometimes it is stitched quietly into the fabric of everyday life. Sometimes it does look like a worn out blanket that's been held a thousand times.

This Palm Sunday, in the middle of our tired hearts and our very full days, I am extremely thankful for the small steady reminders of love.

The Three Marys...

2026-03-27T06:35:00.000-05:00

Lately, I've been reading "The Women of Easter" by Liz Curtis Higgs, and this book has gently stirred my heart is such a sweet way.

It has made me think about the women who stood near Jesus in His final days....(Mary of Bethany, Mary Magdalene, and Mary of ..the mother of Jesus). Women who didn't always understand what was unfolding, but they stayed anyway. They showed up. They watched and they wept..THEY LOVED!

I dare not compare myself to them, however, sometimes, I don't fully understand what God is doing either.

Sometimes I'm standing in moments that feel uncertain, or heavy, or even heartbreaking. But like those women, I'm learning that faith isn't always about having answers.

Mary of Bethany...She was the one who sat at His feet when others were busy. She was the one who poured out expensive perfume, not even caring what anyone thought. Her love was bold, unashamed, and deeply personal. She reminds me that worship isn't about perfection...it is about presence.

Mary Magdalene....She was a woman with a past. A story that could have defined her, but didn't. Jesus changed her life and Mary never forgot it. Her life whispers to me that no matter where I have been, redemption writes a new story.

Mary, the mother of Jesus....I honestly can not imagine what she felt in her heart. She carried Him, she raised Him, and she watched Him suffer. Mary was a mother whose love stood face to face with unimaginable pain. Her quiet strength speaks volumes.

This is a very good book and perfect for this Easter Season.

🌷🌸🌷🌸🌷

Sam has treatment today which means I will be away from my computer until after lunch. We still have not heard from the CT Scan...It will most likely be next Wednesday when we see his oncologist.

Happy Friday...Sending you happy vibes with a little sparkle today!

A Grateful Heart.

2026-03-26T07:12:00.000-05:00

Thankful Thursday:

There are moments when gratitude doesn't come from big, life-changing events....but from the quiet beauty that surrounds us every day. Yesterday, my heart felt especially full as I spent some time reflecting on the simple gift of spring and the breathtaking blooms along the Azalea Trail, located about 10 miles from our home.

Walking among those flowers, I was reminded of how faithful God is in every season. After the stillness of winter, the earth awakens. The trail this year was stunning and had the biggest blooms that I've ever seen on azaleas.

My walk felt so good as I could feel the warmth of the sun as well as a slight hush of a breeze. There was also a sweet fragrance swirling around me. I did not feel rushed and I actually enjoyed getting in a few extra steps as I viewed the gardens.

So today, I am very thankful for the beauty of new beginnings, for the quiet moments that restores my soul, and for the Creator who fills the world with color, details and purpose.

I am also thankful for a peace that doesn't rush....and a grace that meets us right where we are.

With a Grateful Heart...

Shug...💛

Joining Michelle

here

No change..Big Lesson

2026-03-25T06:59:00.004-05:00

* Note: I did not explain the Irish pudding very well in yesterday's post. I actually called it by the wrong name. NOT Chocolate pudding.....it is "Black Pudding!" Black Pudding is made out of Pigs blood, barley, seasonings and sometimes mountain oysters. Not at all anything I would eat.

When "No change" turns into a Big Lesson....💛💛

We all make mistakes. Little ones....big ones...and then there are those moments that leave us sitting there thinking....well...what just happened.

Sunday evening, Sam and I went into town to grab a bite to eat. Nothing fancy...just one of those easy, comfortable meals where the conversation is good and the atmosphere is LOUD. (The Loud was definitely NOT planned) We honestly did not know that the restaurant was going to be as loud as it was.

We had the sweetest young lady waiting on us. She was very attentive, kind and just one of those people who checked on us several times throughout the meal. She made sure we had everything we needed, and she kept our iced tea glasses full throughout the meal.

As we were finishing up, Sam stepped away to the restroom, and I stayed at the table waiting on the ticket. I had a $100 dollar bill in my hand and, when the waitress came back, I asked her:

"Do you have change for a hundred?"

Well....

What she heard was:

"NO CHANGE"

She paused....looked at me...and her eyes got big.

"Oh my goodness," she said, "thank you!!! This is such a sweet blessing...y0u have no idea how much I needed this."

"👀 👀 👀 👀 👀 👀"

Y'all...I just sat there.

FROZEN.....

STUNNED...

Somewhere between wanting to clarify and not wanting to crush that beautiful moment for her, my brain completely short-circuited. I didn't know what to say...so..I said nothing.

And just like that, our $36.21 dollar meal turned into a $36.21 plus a VERY NICE TIP meal. ($63.79 tip)

I met Sam out at the car and I told him what had happened...I'm sure I still had that "Did that just happen" look on my face.

With a smile and his calm wisdom that he carries so well, he said...

"God sure has ways of putting us on the spot when He plans to bless others."

Well....that will preach, won't it?

I'm thankful for the beauty in our blunders!! Sometimes our awkward moments become God's perfect timing and sometimes....what feels like "oh no" turns into "oh wow."

Sometimes, God uses our mistakes to make something meaningful.

Shug...💛💛💛

** Lesson Learned: Do Not Dine in Loud Places!!

A Taste of Ireland

2026-03-24T07:33:00.002-05:00

If you love potatoes, then Ireland is the place you need to visit. There was some type of potatoes served with almost every meal.....

Every meal we had felt like a warm hug, and I will say that the warmth lingered long after we left the table. Our tummies were full. I enjoyed the experience that went along with the visit to our different country.

Our meals were filled with hearty beef stew. Beef stew was served at every restaurant we ate at. Rich, slow-cooked beef, tender carrots and a thick savory gravy. YUM! A big bowl of stew and in the middle was a huge spoon full of mashed potatoes.

Other meals were full of beef pot pie...very similar to the beef stew with the exception of having a crispy crust surrounding the stew. One thing that I thought was very interesting was that our breakfast meals were all served with baked beans!! Never, have I heard of baked beans being a breakfast food.

SWEET TREATS and BAKERY WINDOWS...

I could have stood in front of those windows all day. Rows and rows of beautiful donuts...chocolate covered, cream filled, topped with crumbs, drizzle and all kinds of pure goodness. They all looked like a piece of art!! I did indulge in a Blueberry donut and it was delicious!!

Then came the HOT TEA and lots of Cozy Moments. We all enjoyed the hot comforting tea...along with sweet cream and a sugar cube OR TWO!! And the scones were like a little slice of heaven. They were soft, crumbly, slightly sweet, and perfect with a touch of butter and jam. Ours had berries tucked inside and every single bite was bursting with flavor.

Goodness... a warm scone paired with the Hot Tea....these were moments that we never rushed. We had several opportunities to just sit and talk while soaking up all of the goodness.

I cannot leave off the bread pudding...It was so warm and rich and drizzled with a buttery sauce that left my tummy full of love. It was indulgent in the best way and was the kind of dessert that you do not want to go away.

Every meal seemed to invite us to sit longer and we took advantage of this many times. The only food that I did not like was "Chocolate Pudding" which is a breakfast food. If you've never heard of it, you must google this and take a look at the ingredients included in a slice of chocolate pudding. It was not for me!!

These foods are still lingering in my mind and I am sure that I will attempt to make the beef stew in the days ahead. I enjoyed discovering a culture through its food...it for sure opens your eyes and warms your heart and it reminded me just how wonderfully diverse this world truly is.

I'll leave you all with this short video. Enjoy...

* Yesterday was filled with Doctor appointments and today is test day for Sam. I will be away from my computer again today. Hope to catch up on reading post this evening. Thank you for understanding.

My Own March Madness

2026-03-23T06:58:00.002-05:00

The madness of March doesn't only apply to Basketball. Yesterday, I felt what I would consider March Madness in my own life.

It all started late Saturday night. I had been asleep, but for some unknown reason, I was awakened by thoughts racing through my mind about Passports. Yes... I had placed Mylee's passport as well as mine in a zipper pocket of my purse. But when I went to look for them, they were not there.

What did I do with these passports? I prayed several times yesterday morning for God to please lead me to where I had placed them. A couple hours later of looking and praying, I remembered where I had put them.

On Wednesday after our trip, I had to run in to town to see my chiropractor. Why? I do not know why.... but before I went in for my appointment, I took the passports out of my purse and placed them in the console of my car. YEP!!! This is where I found them. Thank you Lord.

AND THEN... I remembered receiving a check in the mail for an overpayment on insurance. (I know...hard to believe) .... but I could not find it anywhere. I spent a good few hours searching for it and I even ask my girls to be in prayer with me as to where I had placed it.

A few hours later I found it!! I even told the Lord that if He would help me find this check, then I would give it all to the church. Thank you Lord again for you favor.

Our TV has been tuned in to Basketball MM.....but I already feel like I am the winner of the madness of March.... I think jet lag still has me in a fog.

Shug...💛

St. Patricks Catherdral.

2026-03-22T08:20:00.000-05:00

Before I began writing about St. Patricks Cathedral, I want to point out what I consider to be a BIG thing.

I did not wear my Apple watch on this trip, but my daughter (Shanda) did. We walked a LOT on this trip and I'm not quiet sure how I was able to keep up, but I DID.

Shanda calculated all of our steps and would you believe that we walked over 35 miles on this trip to Ireland. Of course, this includes the airports as well and a long walk over to visit St. Patricks Cathedral.

It was incredible to see the cathedral. From the moment we stepped inside, it felt so peaceful. The high, arching ceilings seemed to stretch all the way to heaven, and the light pouring through the stained glass windows was so gentle with a sacred glow.

Walking along those beautifully patterned floors, I couldn't help but think about all the footsteps that came before mine. Generations of prayers, tears, hope and gratitude have filled that space.

The details were breathtaking. Every tile, all of the carvings and every banner told a story. There was a lot to take in and even with others all around, I felt a reverence in the air.

Ireland has it's own way of touching your heart and it simply did touch mine, but this place.....this cathedral...felt like a holy pause in the middle of it all. It was a place to breath and a place to reflect.

This cathedral....the very place where many of my steps were taken, has stood for more than 830 years. This is amazing to think about. The very floors that I walked on, the arches I looked at.....have witnessed centuries of history changes as well as details that tell of stories past.

I am so very thankful to have had this opportunity to visit this place...even if I did have to do a lot of walking!!

Happy Sunday Friends..

Shug...💛

A Beautiful "YES" in the City Skyline

2026-03-21T08:41:00.001-05:00

Before I continue sharing all the beauty from my Ireland trip, I just have to pause and share some incredibly special news from our family. 💍

Our Oldest granddaughter is ENGAGED!

Connor, her sweet fiance', planned every single detail so thoughtfully...it truly could not have been more perfect. Tori was completely surprised in the best way. Her dad, who works out of state, made the trip home, and her brother came in as well for the big event.

Connor's mom and dad, his brother and girlfriend, along with Trista, Ty, Tucker and Emily were all waiting to celebrate this unforgettable moment.

The proposal took place on top of a building in downtown Dallas, with the city skyline wrapping around them...just completely breathtaking. And the sweetest part? Tori had no idea her family was there to witness it all. The joy, the surprise, the love...it was one of those moments you wish you could bottle up forever.

Afterward, everyone gathered for a beautiful dinner together, soaking in the excitement and celebrating the beginning of a brand new chapter.

And just like that....it's now planning time. 🤍🤍

As soon as they finished dinner, Tori face timed her Pops (Sam) to share the news.. I was able to join in to see all of her excitement... Our hearts are so full, and we are beyond grateful the this season of love, family and new beginnings.

God has answered our prayers that we have been praying since Tori was a little girl. For a good, Christian man to come into her life and to be the one she spends the rest of her life with.

More Ireland stories coming soon....but this joy just had to be shared first..💕

Shug....💖

Chasing Green Dreams 🍀

2026-03-20T06:59:00.001-05:00

Oh my goodness.....where do I even begin?

Ireland didn't just meet my expectations, it wrapped its arms around me and completely stole my heart.

From the moment we arrived, everything felt like stepping into a storybook. The rolling hills seemed to go as far as I could see...

and every little winding road felt like it was leading us somewhere magical.

But...one thing that really made Ireland truly unforgettable was the people. They were all so kind, gentle and had such genuinely warm souls. There was a sweetness in their voices and they had so much patience in their pace of life. It just felt like Peace all around me. We all felt this kindness everywhere we went.

And then....there were the Castles!!

Standing at the Rock of Cashel, I could almost hear the whispers of history being carried through the winds. There was something so powerful about the place in just knowing that it is over 1,500 years old and dating back to the 4th or 5th century.

Then came Blarney Castle, and NO...I did not climb the 200 steps to reach the famous Blarney Stone. Hopefully I already hold the gift of eloquence! I for sure have the gift of gab....😂 My daughters and Mylee all did make the climb up the many steps and were so excited to have accomplished kissing the stone...the one that only gets sanitized maybe once a day.

Look close and you can see Mylee kissing the stone. I had to really zoom in close because the stone is WAY UP THERE!

And then there was Bunratty Castle. It felt like we were walking into a medieval dream. The structure, the grounds, the feeling of life that once filled all of those stone walls. All of it was incredible.

I enjoyed every step that it took for me to experience this part of history.

I had to place my hand on these 601 year old stones. It's construction was completed around 1425 by the MacNamara family.

More to come tomorrow! Hope you all do not mind, because I have many more photos of this once in a life time trip.

* St. Patricks Cathedral

* Book of Kells

* Hot tea and scones

* Lamb stew

* Gardens

* Shopping

* Pubs

* Cancelled flights

and so much more.....

Stay tuned:

Shug.

A Green Thankful Thursday.

2026-03-19T14:23:00.005-05:00

It is Thankful Thursday and today, I am so thankful that I was Blessed to visit Ireland last week.

A beautiful country with the sweetest folks.

My heart is full.

💚💚💚

More photos of this trip to come..

Shug....💚