Category Archives: appreciation

This Is Not the Life I Asked For

Posted on January 21, 2015 by sandrapaldrich

I’m a transplanted Kentucky woman who was raised to take care of a husband and children, be a good cook and a gracious hostess. In addition to those accomplishments, I earned a master’s degree and taught at a Detroit suburb … Continue reading →

Posted in appreciation, encouragement, God's presence, grief, helping others, single mothers, single parenting, single-parent families, widows | Leave a comment

Dare to be the Bold Button

Posted on December 31, 2014 by sandrapaldrich

What are your thoughts as we approach the New Year? Are you excited about fresh opportunities on future unblemished days? Or are you concentrating on the all too rapid end to another year? Are you determined that this year you … Continue reading →

Posted in antiques, appreciation, Bold, button jar, confidence, counting blessings, courage, encouragement, perfection, pleasing others, Psalm 138:3, self-esteem, self-talk, Stouthearted | Leave a comment

Believing Makes It So

Posted on December 9, 2014 by sandrapaldrich

Even though I’m a card-carrying member of AARP, I still ponder the wisdom my maternal grandmother, Mama Farley, possessed. The world undoubtedly saw her as a simple Appalachian mountain woman, but her strength and understanding of life rippled out to … Continue reading →

Posted in ancestors, Appalachia, appreciation, confidence, counting blessings, courage, education, encouragement, faith, families, grandmothers, Kentucky, mentors, perseverance, self-esteem, self-talk | Leave a comment

A Cheerful Lesson From an Underground Worker

Posted on November 26, 2014 by sandrapaldrich

Ever feel unappreciated? Ever wonder if anyone notices your efforts? I’m sure all of us have felt that way at one time or another. But the years have taught me that even little actions can make a big difference to … Continue reading →

Posted in appreciation, encouragement, Macy's Day Parade | Leave a comment

Sweet Birthday Memories

Posted on October 5, 2014 by sandrapaldrich

What special memories do you associate with birthdays? Do you smile as you ponder a long-ago celebration? I like remembering my 34th birthday when my husband surprised me with a gathering of dear friends at our Michigan supper club. How … Continue reading →

Posted in appreciation, birthdays, children, counting blessings, families, God's presence, single mothers, single-parent families, widows | Leave a comment

Don’t Wait for Roses

Posted on September 2, 2014 by sandrapaldrich

Single women, do you sigh over red roses in the flower shop? Do you long for that perfect man to ring your doorbell and say, “Hi. The Lord sent me” and hand you a bouquet? If so, please allow me … Continue reading →

Posted in appreciation, confidence, courage, encouragement, goals, perseverance, rescue, roses, self-esteem, self-talk, single mothers, widows | Leave a comment

A Good Lesson on a Grumpy Morning

Posted on August 5, 2014 by sandrapaldrich

Ever notice how the best lessons often come from unexpected sources? I learned that when I met a women who appeared to offer only an empty seat in her breakfast booth. That New York day, my mirror had revealed more … Continue reading →

Posted in aging, appreciation, confidence, encouragement, helping others, self-talk, widows | 2 Comments

When We Feel Unappreciated

Posted on June 14, 2014 by sandrapaldrich

How’s your day going? Are the demands exceeding the accomplishments? I know that reality, as do most of you—especially if you are a single mom. I’ve learned from experience how difficult that role is. Yes, we’d love to have a … Continue reading →

Posted in Appalachia, appreciation, rescue, single mothers | Leave a comment

What Will People Think?

Posted on November 15, 2013 by sandrapaldrich

Have you ever longed for the approval of others? Most of us have at one time or another, maybe even though we’ve read 1 Thessalonians 2:4—“We are not trying to please men but God, who tests our hearts.” My emotional … Continue reading →

Posted in Aesop's Fables, appreciation, pleasing others | 4 Comments

The Beautiful Square Button

Posted on October 30, 2013 by sandrapaldrich

Have you ever felt inadequate? Oh, I have! In fact, over the years and despite my supposed accomplishments, I struggle with who I think I should be as a Christian woman. After all, shouldn’t I be slim, silent and musically … Continue reading →

Posted in appreciation, encouragement, self-esteem | 6 Comments