Community Outreach
Despite the hustle and bustle of the holidays, the work of the Prayer Shawl Ministry ladies continued. Perhaps because the sort of respite many seek in the busyness of the season is putting hands and hearts on a quiet activity,…
On Being Still
Today is the first day of Epiphany on the religious calendar but truly, a personal epiphany can come at any time if we are quiet and listen. One night leading up to Christmas after darkness had settled, I lit my…
Rise and Shine
Happy New Year and "Good morning, glories!" as my mom used to say to my twin and me upon waking us. Well, since my mom has gone to her heavenly haven, I'm glad to share my today's blessing with…
Finding the Merry & Bright
There has been no challenge finding the merry and bright in this community. But we can always use a little more. This afternoon I look forward to the Bel Air Community Choral Concert which is freely given to all who…
Christmas at an Historic Mansion – Part 1
One hundred and twenty-plus years ago at this time of year, you would have been greeted at Liriodendron Mansion by Dr. Howard Atwood Kelly and Mrs. Laetitia Kelly. That is if they were in residence with their nine children at…
Scents of Holiday Chemistry
Meaningful relationships with our loved ones usually begin in the days of our childhood. For many, the scents of Christmas evoke powerful memories of time spent in the kitchen during the holidays with our mothers or grandmothers or perhaps with…
Community Christmas
Yesterday I had the most delightful afternoon joining in with other community volunteers and the local chapter of Evergreen Garden Club in Churchville, MD to help ready for Saturday's Holiday Open house at Liriodendron Mansion. We were making floral…
Branching Out
Are you overflowing with gratefulness for food, family and friends who gathered around the Thanksgiving table? I know I am. Isn't it nice to have a holiday where the focus is on the gift of just being together. Our…
About the Mending Business
Last Saturday I attended a baby shower for my niece. It was a joyous occasion and as I told her "I loved seeing her growing excitement and her fading fears." She's had disappointments in trying to conceive but thankfully with…
Victory Each Day
Yes, it is that time of year again - November, the month of Thanksgiving. Rather than the usual emphasis we place on being thankful for food, friends and a roof over our heads lets challenge ourselves to find…