If I had to use one word to describe my dear friend and next-door-neighbor Brenda, “passionate” might nudge out all other adjectives. She throws herself wholeheartedly into anything she views as important.
I love her enthusiasm! I’ve been inspired by it and I know others have, too. We’ve all benefited from one aspect or another of her energy and drive for excellence.
And when I say all, I mean an entire city!
The year she ran for City Commissioner, she turned 60–proof that age is no barrier to growing and learning new things. She brought a fresh perspective to the commission where, among other things, she was instrumental (watch this) in getting an interactive musical garden installed at Noble Park (instrumental, get it?).
Important Lessons
“I learned so much from this experience,” she said. “Most importantly, it’s always a good idea to obey God. It was only by his grace and the tremendous support of friends and family that I was able to serve and hopefully make a positive impact. I was surprised by the negative image many Christians gave through their conversations with city officials. So, my prayer everyday was that I would represent Christ to the best of my ability, above all else. And it’s still my prayer today.”
Brenda’s Seven Passions +1
If you know Brenda, you won’t be surprised by the list of things she’s passionate about. I asked her what her seven passions were and she, true to form, gave me more!
- Knowing God
- Family
- Friendships
- Gardening
- The Lake
- Church Family
- Cooking
- Plans/Lists/Organization
A Family Cookbook
When the pandemic slowed many people down, it just gave Brenda time to put together a family cookbook, filled with favorite recipes she collected from family and friends.
Pop back to the blog this Thursday, when I’ll share some of those recipes and more of Brenda’s favorite things! (You’re going to want her chocolate chip cookie recipe…none better!)
Going hand-in-hand with being a great cook, Brenda’s a fabulous hostess. She entertains her friends, couples from their church Life Group, and, of course, her family regularly.
Here’s one of the first recipes I remember asking Brenda for…
Teriyaki Flank Steak
1/2 cup soy sauce
4 T salad oil
4 t honey
2 T wine vinegar
1-2 sliced cloves of garlic
3/4 t ground ginger (fresh is best)
Marinate the flank steak 3-4 hours (overnight is best), turning occasionally. Grill 4 minutes on each side for rare. Slice thinly on the diagonal.
Yield: 1 steak for 2-3 people
What About You?
What are your passions? Have you ever thought about it? If you haven’t, now’s the perfect time. Your passions may not be the same as anyone else’s–which means I’ll LOVE you! I’m all for being the person God designed YOU to be.
Whatever they are, I’ll guarantee that they drive your life. So, it’s worth thinking about what they are.
I would love to hear from you! Give me your top seven (or eight) passions. Or, even two or three!
Andrea
Love this woman for all of her passions and more!
Tracey Buchanan
She’s an inspiration!
Tracey Buchanan
We’ve had a front row seat!
Kathy Slaughter
Loved reading about Brenda and her passion for faith, family and friends! So encouraging!