our adventures and wanderings

I know a woman who walks on tiptoes, and quietly chases adventure- along with me kindness and grace open to any idea or question willing to love, seek peace, work for justice. I know a woman who’s been by my side with each passing year- my defender, wild and free- talking so fast no one can quite keep up; with her interests so unique not one human could ever be- just like her. I know a woman who raised two bold and brave women; she is filled to the brim with grace and peace so much so that it easily overflows swirling and falling without question onto others. I know a woman full of sparkle and sass headband neatly placed stronger and much more gorgeous than she thinks she is heart open and searching for the greatest adventure. I know two women who remind me of one another; fearless mothers the ones I will call when it’s my turn, dark hair falling in waves past strong shoulders...

Here's to the men who aren't threatened by passion, power, and wisdom in women. Here's to the men who live life with humility. Here's to the men who stand up and say what they think is right, even when it might mean they lose a friend. And here's to the men who sometimes keep their opinions to themselves when they know the topic might not be important. Strong men are able to sit with the fact that others disagree with them. Here's to the men who follow their passions. Here's to the men who treat all women with love, respect, and dignity. Here's to the men who listen attentively. Here's to the men who love without stipulations. Here's to the men who are fair-minded. Here's to the men who can admit when they are wrong. Here's to the men who are advocates for women. Here's to the men who care about our world, our animals, our plants and trees. Here's to the men who fight for the underdog. Here's to the m...

I have been trying to compose my thoughts on my Grandpa Rudy’s passing for days now. I literally took a day off to try to get my thoughts and words together, and all I could do was stare at the screen. When people hear of someone’s grandpa passing away, I am not so sure they understand the magnitude of this in my circumstance.  This man was involved in every aspect of my life. He taught me, he helped me grow. I would not know my multiplication facts today or how to drive a stick-shift if it were not for this man, among many other more important things. He supported and loved me through every decision I ever made and was there to witness every last thing.  Once, a friend told me that I was “the weirdest mix of independent feminist and 1950’s housewife” or something along those lines. I smiled and said, “that’s exactly what I was going for.” I bring up this memory because I believe I inherited this juxtaposition of strange, opposite traits from Rudy himself, not that...

In August, I (R) began a new position with Rosslyn Academy. Here is my title: Intellectual Virtues Coordinator and Learning Support Teacher. Often, when I tell people about this, the response is an extremely confused expression. So, today, I decided to provide a little bit of information about my new role to help clear things up. Intellectual virtues are excellent thinking habits. Our superintendent, Dr. Phil Dow, wrote a book titled Virtuous Minds about these excellent thinking habits. At Rosslyn Academy, we have adopted 7 of these virtues to teach, implement, and encourage. They are as follows: Intellectual Curiosity: the tendency to wonder, ask deep questions, and explore Intellectual Humility: the realization of intellectual limitations; knowing you have more to learn Intellectual Carefulness: involves being patient and careful in thinking Intellectual Honesty: presenting what we know in an honest way; giving credit where credit is due; doing our own work Intellectual...

In this time of transition, I have been reflecting on the community we have been surrounded with since we moved to Nairobi. This message is for all of you.  "Let love be genuine . Abhor what is evil, hold fast to what is good. Love one another with brotherly [and sisterly] affection. Outdo one another in showing honor . Do not be slothful in zeal, be fervent in spirit, serve the Lord. Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer. Contribute to the needs of the saints and seek to show hospitality .  -Romans 12:9-13 I have never experienced the body of Christ so beautifully as I have with the people in this place. You've accepted me as your sister in ways I never could've quite imagined. You've shared your lives with John and I- everything from cars, houses, meals, holidays, the mess of our lives, the enneagram, walks, prayers, new life, marriage, climbing, to trips to places old and new. You've shown me what it feel...