Yesterday I felt joy as I rearranged the furniture in my bedroom. I know that sounds like kind of a silly thing. But one of my most favorite activities is turning a house into a home. I am sitting on my bed as I write this and feel truly at home. Home has always been a safe place for me and truly a respite from the world. I believe our homes can be some of the most sacred places on earth – for example, the place I pray more than anywhere else in the world is in my bedroom.
Today I felt joy as I cleaned out the refrigerator. Sitting on the top shelf was the Longeneckers’ (John’s parents) corsage and boutonniere from John’s and my wedding. Looking at them reminded me of what a special day that was in our lives.

p.s. In other “joyful” news, the Iowa Hawkeyes are ranked 5th in the nation. I’ve never closely watched or rooted for a college football team, but since I married John things have changed 😉