Nicole’s e-Pistle

March 19, 2025

Greetings, Friends!

After a wonderful Sunday afternoon with a leisurely lunch and a trip to the sports store to buy Lovinia her first real bicycle (with training wheels, of course), Bjorn and the kids and I arrived home in the early evening. Several neighbors were outside putting in new mulch and cleaning up their lawns and landscaping… thanks to a light warning that the HOA would be coming out to do inspections soon. (Gotta love the HOA.)

I was inspired and headed off to Home Depot for some black mulch, then picked up some dinner on the way home. As Bjorn was cleaning up from dinner and getting the kids ready for bed, I decided to get all the mulch put out. Bjorn and Layfe had already raked up and thrown out the old pine needles that formerly lined the holly bushes in the front yard, so it was the least I could do. I enjoyed digging my hands into the cool, damp mulch to smooth it out over the Georgia rocks and clay. It took less than an hour, but I did most of the work using my hands (my gardening gloves are still in a box somewhere in the garage). Most of this week, my fingernails and cuticles have been dyed black because of it!

Just as I don’t mind getting my hands dirty on landscaping projects, I do not mind putting in the work that goes with full-time ministry. I know that I joke about my energy level and the fogginess of my mind at times, but I am thoroughly enjoying my new profession and all that goes with it. What I do doesn’t feel like work to me. Reading books, studying scriptures, sharing what I’m learning, and just lovin’ on folks are just part of living the good life to me!

That being said, I appreciate those of you who keep me accountable in taking care of myself along the way. Therefore, as we get closer and closer to Holy Week (for which I have four sermons to prepare), I wanted to let you know that I will be doubling up on my sermon preparation each week. There may be times that you stop by and will see my door closed with the sign posted, “Caution… Sermon Under Construction.” I want you to know that I am still here for you, especially if you need to talk. Please feel free to set up an appointment with me – my schedule is pretty flexible, especially on Monday afternoons and Wednesdays. However, on Tuesdays and Thursdays, I will be more deeply engrossed in preparing for Palm Sunday, Maundy Thursday, Good Friday, and Easter Sunday. (Then I plan to spend the Monday after Easter in my pajamas all day long!)

I hope you continue to find ways to rest in God’s love for you during this Lenten season, as you pray without ceasing and dive into poetic devotions. Heed the advice you so lovingly give to me and take care of yourselves. Remember that I am also here for that purpose, so if there is anything I can do for you, please do not shy away from stopping by or reaching out in some way.

Blessing and Peace to each of you, Dear Hearts!