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She would have been 11; a balloon release with a mom who grieves

Posted by Melissa Smith ⋅ November 25, 2014 ⋅ 2 Comments

“Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn.” Romans 12:15 When she talks about her baby girl who died, she always looks away. For my friend, it’s like the reality of a life lost more than a decade ago is still too much to look straight in the eye. 11 years is not enough … Continue reading →

Let’s have a play date – intentional living in my backyard

Posted by Melissa Smith ⋅ November 21, 2014 ⋅ Leave a comment

One of the things about being the backyard missionary is doing things on purpose. I shop at the same places, eat at the same places, get my hair done, and drop off my husband’s shirts at the same places each time, all in order to connect with the people who work there and be a … Continue reading →

Meeting the new neighbors, being brave when it’s awkward

Posted by Melissa Smith ⋅ November 13, 2014 ⋅ 1 Comment

I met my new neighbor today. I marched right up to her door, store-bought cupcakes on a plate and a hand-written note containing my phone number. It was like I had every right in the world to be there, unannounced and not knowing if her kids were allowed to eat sugar. I figure if you act … Continue reading →