the “dirty dozen” foods: what we need to know

assorted fresh produce

Near the middle of each year, the Environmental Working Group (EWG) releases its Shopper’s Guide to Pesticides in Produce, ranking fruits and vegetables based on pesticide contamination. The 2025 guide draws on USDA testing of more than 53,000 produce samples, evaluating how often pesticides are found, how much is present, and how toxic those chemicals … Read more

What are forever chemicals?

“Forever” sounds appealing when it’s attached to diamonds and love. It feels far less comforting when it describes chemicals that linger in our bodies for years. These substances are PFAS, often called forever chemicals because they break down very slowly. They have been popping up in my news feeds lately, so I thought I’d do … Read more

9 life lessons from my cat

my cat Kaci napping

After nearly eighteen years with our cat Kaci, I’ve come to realize she was more than just a quiet companion who napped a lot and supervised us from the back of the couch. She was a teacher in her own right: patient, opinionated, and full of life lessons I didn’t know I needed. Somewhere between … Read more

linger in the Psalms

greenery, flowers, and a book entitled "PSALMS"

Each year, I choose a word to help shape my focus and faith. Last year’s word was CULTIVATE, a reminder to be intentional about nurturing what matters most. This year, my heart keeps returning to the word LINGER. I don’t want to rush through the moments that deserve my attention. I want to pause in … Read more

women of the Bible: faith in unexpected places

a Bible, notebook, and pen

Previously, I’ve shared a full Bible study featuring ten different women of the Bible. Some were well known; others were lesser known. I was fascinated by their stories and enjoyed learning about them. I thought I’d take that idea and create a devotional series featuring five other women of the Bible. Each one shows what … Read more