When the Saints Go Marching In…Wearing Snuggies
Note: This post was first published in 2012 in my “Growth Spurts” column for Parents & Kids Magazine. In light of today’s match-up between the Saints and the 49ers, I felt that it was time to re-share it! My son…
O, Christmas Tree
I love Christmas trees. I love the way they smell. I love the way they look. And I love the thoughts and feelings they evoke. I have fond memories of decorating the Christmas tree with my family when I was…
And Just Like That…
Note: This post is from my "Growth Spurts" column, which runs in Parents & Kids Magazine. I often see social media posts, from moms especially, that begin with the words โAnd just like thatโฆโ And then they finish with phrases…
Gratefulness: Teach Your Children to Look Beyond Themselves
An attitude of thankfulness is sometimes hard to find in our increasingly me-centered society. Attitudes of selfishness and entitlement seem to run rampant, while attitudes of service and gratefulness are often squashed or might even be considered to be weak.…
Confession
A few nights ago, I hit a very low point in my parenting. I was exhausted, worn down, and battle-weary. My buttons had all been pushed, and my triggers had all been triggered. I was tired of hearing lies, tired…
Making Marriage a Priority When You Have School-Aged Children
Remember when you were newlyweds and just couldnโt get enough of each other? Spending time together was never a question; the question was more What else would we do BESIDES spend time together?! But as so many of us have…
I Am Not a SuperMom
I am not a SuperMom. I do not have it all together, nor do I balance it all. My house is usually messy, as is my minivan. I let my dogs get on the furniture. I hate to dust. If…
You’re Not Just a Mom
Fifteen years ago I was referred to as a โbucket of rocksโ by a man I had just met. This is a true story. My husband and I were at a dinner held by the company he worked for at…
Please Listen
Parents, this poem might resonate with you, as it did with me when I read it today. Actually, it felt more like a big brick dropped on my head, because I very much struggle with jumping right into advice-giving when…
Your Home: A Powerful Arena
This quote on this actual same piece of paper has been hanging in my kitchen for more than 15 years. In fact, it has hung in three different kitchens now. With each move, I’ve packed this piece of paper as…