The Bright Eyed Brunette

There is a kind of ache that comes when God disciplines us; when He closes a door we were sure was meant for us, exposes something in us that needs fixing, or allows a hard season that humbles us. It's not easy. In fact, sometimes it feels unfair or confusing. If we take a closer look, we realize that His discipline is never just about punishment. It's about love. Hebrews 12:6 says, " For the Lord disciplines those He loves, and He punishes each one He accepts as His child."   That verse hits hard, doesn't it? It reminds us that being corrected by God isn't rejection, it's confirmation that we belong to Him. A parent doesn't discipline a stranger's child; they correct their own because they care about their growth and well-being. I can think of times when God's discipline looked like delay. I was frustrated, praying for things that didn't happen, only to later realize He was protecting me from something I couldn't see. Other times, it l...

"Lord, fix me because sometimes I'm the problem".  There are moments in life when it's easier to point fingers than to look in the mirror. We notice what others did wrong, how they hurt us, or how they made life harder. But if I'm being honest, sometimes the biggest problem in my life...is me. I don't like admitting that. It's uncomfortable to say, "Lord, I've got attitudes, habits, and patterns that are standing in the way of peace and growth." But the truth is, I don't just need God to fix situations; I need Him to fix me. It's humbling to realize that I can be short-tempered, unforgiving, stubborn, or even blind to the ways I hurt others. Sometimes my words cut deeper than I intended. Sometimes I hold grudges a little too long. And sometimes, instead of praying for God to change me , I pray for Him to change everyone else . But the Holy Spirit reminds me that real transformation begins with me. Psalm 139:23-24 says, "Search me...

 There's something about sitting down to a meal that brings the whole household together. It doesn't have to be fancy--sometimes the simplest dishes become the most memorable. One of my favorite go-to family meals is Cheesy Baked Ziti. It's quick enough for a weeknight, comforting enough for Sunday dinner, and almost guaranteed to leave everyone asking for seconds. This can be a very customizable meal. Add meat, go vegetarian or sneak in extra veggies. It's kid-approved and makes for great leftovers. Ingredients 1 pound ziti or penne pasta 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage (optional) 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese 1 cup ricotta or cottage cheese 1/2 cup grated Parmesan 2 cloves garlic, minced 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning Salt and pepper to taste Instructions Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside. In a skillet, brown the meat (if using) with garlic, seasoning, salt, and pepper. Drain excess...