Nativity, at Night, A Christmas Poem Inspired by the Art of the Same Title of Geertgen tot Sint Jans, 1490 Beneath a Northern star, his life cut short, Geertgen tot Sint Jans, of Netherlandish sort. An oak wood sheet, his genius would proclaim, He built his Christmas mystery not for fame. Inspired by faith, the artist sought to spread The holy words that Saint Bridget had said. She saw a light no earthly sun could claim, A radiant glory round the Manger flame. "The sun in hea

I was a girl at the First Methodist Church of Griffin, Georgia, when Reverend Kellum told us, one Christmas, the story about John Wesley and a ghost. "A ghost?" we gasped, sitting cross-legged on the rug in the Sunday school classroom. "Listen closely - and I'll tell you the tale. It really happened!" The story stayed in my mind for decades, until I decided to write my own version. Here is the story, based on real events Reverend Kellum cited, told through Wesley's pet, a rea

The years 1941 to 1944 were a challenging period for Americans as World War II profoundly shaped daily life. Christmas during these years was unlike any before. Families faced rationing, separation from loved ones, and a constant undercurrent of uncertainty. Yet, amid these hardships, Americans found ways to celebrate the holiday with resilience, creativity, and hope. The Impact of War on Christmas Traditions When the United States entered World War II in December 1941, the n

The holiday season often brings warmth, joy, and connection. But for parents who are victims of the No Contact movement, this time can feel isolating and painful. When relationships with adult children are suddenly cut off, the holidays may highlight the absence and stir deep emotions. Finding ways to care for yourself during this challenging period is essential. This post offers compassionate guidance and practical self-care choices to help parents move through the season wi

Dedicated to Henry Browning, this is based on real events in your Grandfather Browning's Christmas. The time and setting have changed, but the spirit and story are the same. The most important lesson I ever learned didn't come from a textbook or a sermon; it came from a stack of small, green paper squares and the steadfast faith of my Granny Holman. Even now, in my sixties, I can still see those stamps perfectly—each one bearing the distinctive S&H logo, a tiny token of long-