These photos happened last July on a day I walked our wildflower fields the way I often do. It’s my normal practice to take at least 2 snaps of each picture hoping if one doesn’t turn out, the other will. I didn’t know until I got back in the house that I had taken two uniquely focused photos of these…
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I started this writing retreat with high hopes. The set purpose of intentional, dedicated time would bring results my word counts increased. Each day would be full of the quiet contentment that comes from writing. I had a plan of action, and Christmas-like anticipation rose in my spirit. Then, life took a sharp turn. While I have no idea today…
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When It Makes No Earthly Sense – A Nature Essay – by Joy DeKok He (Jesus) said to them, “Cast the net on the right side of the boat, and you will find some.” So they cast it, and now they were not able to haul it in, because of the quantity of fish. John 21:6 ESV For over a year,…
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It Could Happen – A Nature Essay – Joy DeKok Author Note: I have no idea if this young blue jay is male or female. When we saw each other, I spoke to it as if he was male, so I use the male pronouns when talking about him in this essay for simplicity’s sake. The young blue jay flew…
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As a reader, I sometimes find myself attached to where the story takes place before connecting with the characters. It started with Laura Ingalls Wilder – the prairie fascinated me. Later, reading Perry Mason mysteries, it was the courtroom. When Jan Karon’s Mitford series released, I never wanted to leave town.
The other day, on my way to the tree I love, I was distracted by loveliness along the way – a normal occurrence for me.
Some of you who have read Between the Lies have asked if Olivia’s abuse story is also mine. After all, authors write what they know – right?
Not always. None of the men in my family or life hurt me that way.
Living in the Gray I love walking in the fog. Being surrounded by mystery and mist is both calming and exhilarating. I also enjoy snuggling with our dogs, wearing my gray sweater, and drinking coffee from my gray mug. When it comes to living in the gray, I prefer clear answers to my questions. I don’t have to know today….
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Behind the Lies Copyright Joy DeKok, 2020 Prologue All the lovey-dovey moments of move-in day faded by the next morning. I woke up livid and stayed that way for six months. My main goal was to avoid all human contact. After years of living under Alan’s absolute rule, it wasn’t as hard as it sounds on a practical level….
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I was down by the pond, and one sturdy little plant stood out to me. My first thought was “Awkward.” Starring at it, I said to God, “Just like me, Lord.”