Musings

By Rick Moore Reading, writing and arithmetic are commonly referred to as the “Three Rs.” This phrase first appeared in “The Ladies Magazine” in 1818. It seems like someone at that magazine was really hooked on phonics. Obviously, only one of these words actually begins with the letter R. While...

By Kirk McCarley Today, more than ever perhaps, we crave leaders who demonstrate high standards of personal conduct and integrity.  The preponderance of information we see, read, and hear seems to argue a reality that is otherwise:  Violations of ethical standards.  Investigations.  Whistleblower testimony. The desire for moral and trustworthy leadership...

By Rev. Pete Hyde The old car rolled to slow stop at a bleak and abandoned intersection literally in the “middle of nowhere.” The driver looked down at his quickly scribbled instructions. Had he come four miles or five? Perhaps it was only three because he was paying more attention...

By Kirk McCarley Traditionally the holidays are a time to reflect on families, friends, and blessings.  It’s an opportunity to share stories…and laugh.  The spirit of laughter and comedy prompted an observation and a few tales, some personal and others from the separate worlds of church and human resources. Merry Christmas…and...

By Lauren Catanese One of my favorite Christmas memories growing up, was sneaking off into our Christmas room. That’s what I liked to call it. It was where our tree was lit and glowing, the fire roared and toasted up the room, and the paper snowflakes my sister and I...

By Rick Moore Going through a drive-through at lunch is a simple process for some. Many just pick a meal deal and drive around. Others tend to over think it. They begin by saying to the person taking the order, “just one moment please.” They then try to remember what...

By Rev. Pete Hyde The morning broke cold and blustery - temperatures in the 30s and the wind chill in the teens. As I lie in the half-slumber that is early morning, I looked out the window that sheltered me from the cold winter's day. The sun was just touching the...

I feel a little silly writing you. Recently, I wrote a column about how when I was a boy I always wanted you to bring me a cowboy hat. A silver-belly colored Stetson. A few days later, one showed up on my porch from an anonymous person. I almost...

By Stephenie Craig, LCSW There I sat crying in a butter-soaked shirt, holding a tired, screaming baby wondering why I ever agreed to 3 Christmases in one day.  It was our baby son’s first Christmas, what was supposed to be a picturesque, magical day to remember. We decorated, put our...

By Lauren Catanese Life is a beautiful journey. We have a plan, hopes and dreams and we set off to see it through. We have detours, byways, time-outs and U-turns. And all along the way we question it all. We feel that if only our external circumstances would match these...