Writing an autobiography is complex and vulnerable. You risk sharing too much, not enough, or becoming braggadocious about yourself. If I had it my way, I would write for my blog and skip the introduction. But, I prefer to know about the author of whom I am investing time to read and learn, so it seems only fitting to do this one hard thing and write it. So, here goes:
Ten Things About Karen:
I am a disciple of Jesus Christ
I have loved Jesus nearly all my life, although I have taken many detours on my journey as his disciple. I am more like Mary of Bethany sitting at the feet of Jesus than I am Martha, who lovingly served the Savior through hospitality in her home. I am in awe of the many women in my church who are masterful in their exercise of hospitality.
Wife
I have been a wife for almost 27 years. I married my college sweetheart and still sometimes wonder why he married me. Marriage, however, gets better and better with every year that passes. He truly is my best friend.
Mother
I am a mom to seven children. Yes, I birthed them all. I also homeschooled them all. Three have graduated from my homeschool, one will graduate in Spring 2023, and three are still at home. BONUS: My eldest son is married to the most awesome daughter-in-law in the world.
Homemaker
I am not the best homemaker, although I try. But, again, I attribute this to my “Mary” heart and lacking a stronger “Martha” heart. I prefer to study my Bible or read a theology book than clean my house. BUT, being a homemaker IS part of my vocation, so it is necessary work that must be done “unto the Lord.” (Colossians 3:23). There is much room to grow.
Conqueror
During the COVID pandemic, I trained to become a Certified Dyslexia Specialist. I am very proud of that accomplishment. It was the first of many things I have done in the past three years to conquer fear and anxiety. I also conquered a very tall zip-line and my fear of heights. I started a Master’s Degree program (that unfortunately only lasted a year.) Currently, I am working on conquering my fear of trying new things and publishing my writing.
Amateur Horticulturist
I LOVE plants but have always murdered every plant that enters my house. My family started apologizing to the new plants I would bring home. It was really sad. That is until I discovered that my accidental aquarium hobby allows me to naturally fertilize my houseplants by using discarded aquarium water. Now I have a proverbial garden of Eden growing in my home. I am learning so much about propagation, as well as how to maintain tropical terrariums. My next adventure is to move outside to my backyard.
Zoo Keeper
I own a zoo. OK, not a real zoo but my husband probably feels that way. We own 3 dogs and a therapy parakeet. My thera-keet. LOL!!!! Just Kidding. This little parakeet, affectionately named, Bird, only loves its own image in the mirror. By singing to itself, it sings to me. I find it very calming. I maintain 4 planted aquariums. Land plants and planted aquariums have become a huge anxiety reliever for me. I think I commune closer with the Lord when I am working with His creation.
Culinary Artist
I love cooking and baking. I wish I had known culinary schools existed when I graduated high school. At times I feel like I missed my calling. I am using my love of cooking to create a culinary arts/ kitchen science curriculum for my soon-to-be freshman in high school.
Doer of All things
If you have not guessed, I love doing “all the things.” I take on way too much sometimes. Part of the blog’s purpose is to have an outlet to talk about “all the things” so my family and spiritual director do not have to listen to me babble. I also have some very faithful family, friends, and spiritual directors who are helping me discern how to say NO when necessary.
Curious, Creative Cultivator
I have the drive to understand the church’s theology and liturgy. I exercise my creativity in many different ways as a Christian. As a wife, mom, homemaker, and teacher, my vocations call me to be a cultivator of life and faith. That is why I write.
My Hope
Welcome to my space on the web. I hope to provoke my readers toward curiosity, creativity, and cultivation in their faith, hearts, and lives. I desire to encourage you to work out your salvation with fear and trembling and in awe of the saving grace of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.