Easter Monday 2025, I woke up with several speaking gigs in my inbox for April 2026, and several things happened: 1) Since the Lily Endowment grants for clergy sabbatical due date had passed and we had just buried our son, Jake, I knew that these speaking gigs were going to be my ticket to travel … Continue reading If you can, take a sabbatical.
writing
Day 4: The Post Office
Today I broke free—from the fever, from the sore throat, and from my dramatic, blanket-wrapped existence on the couch. I re-entered society in the most glamorous way possible… by going to the—wait for it—the Post Office. Yes, I peaked early. Getting mail: This is no small thing at our house. We live in a nearly … Continue reading Day 4: The Post Office
Day 2: Dog Groomer
As my kids got older and moved out, I did what any reasonable parent would do—I bought a dog. Not to replace them (obviously, they are irreplaceable and also significantly taller), but to bring a little comfort, and someone who still thinks I’m the center of the universe. When Noah left for St. Olaf College, … Continue reading Day 2: Dog Groomer
Day 1: Send Off
Today is the first day of my sabbatical, and naturally, I am celebrating by… waiting for the doctor to call. Not on a beach. Not reading a book. Not doing anything remotely sabbatical-ish. Just sitting here, aggressively sipping tea and trying to swallow like it’s an Olympic sport. Nothing major—just strep throat that has decided … Continue reading Day 1: Send Off
A Storytelling Directory
One thing I have been working on for my DMIN from Portland Seminary are a couple of prototypes for projects. One project I am thinking about creating is a Storytelling Directory. Below is the entry essay and a couple of simple audio storytellings. By no means is this a complete project. Thank you for checking … Continue reading A Storytelling Directory
StoryBoard 