Focusing on Fussy Eaters

By Becky | September 11, 2013
A vibrant salad bowl on a wooden table showcases an artful medley for even the fussiest of eaters: sliced avocado, cherry tomatoes, yellow bell peppers, chickpeas, roasted sweet potato cubes, watermelon radish slices, shredded purple cabbage, green leafy lettuce, and microgreens drizzled with dressing.

“Last night I made three meals for my son and he would not even take one bite! What am I going to do with my fussy kid?” This was the start of a conversation I had with an exasperated mom. The little boy was extremely finicky. Mom was at the end of the line, not…

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All Natural, No Preservatives

By Becky | September 4, 2013
A close-up of several vibrant red bell peppers with green stems showcases their natural beauty. The glossy, tightly packed peppers create a colorful and fresh display.

“I’m dancing right now!!!” This was the text message I received from Scott, my husband, when I informed him of the plan to make zucchini relish with my mom last fall. He’s my mother’s biggest relish fan, the one who can hardly eat a bratwurst or hot dog without the sticky condiment dripping out each end…

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Where are You? Walking with God

By Becky | August 28, 2013
A narrow forest path made of wooden planks, surrounded by dense green foliage, seems like a divine creation. The misty scene focuses on the ground, leading to a blurred, shadowy forest in the background, as if God himself painted it with mystery.

A couple months ago my friend, Sarah, and I took a trip to the North Shore of Minnesota. While hiking Gooseberry Falls we came upon numerous signs with maps of the area. Each included “YOU ARE HERE” to advise hikers as to their exact location. We had to laugh each time we read the words.…

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Silver, Gold and 3:00 AM Girlfriends

By Becky | August 21, 2013
Three girlfriends with long hair, clad in denim jackets, stand with their backs to the camera. Each one holds a bunch of small white flowers, possibly baby's breath. They are closely huddled together, embracing each other warmly.

Friends are balm for the soul. Ladies, our girlfriends are a special gift from God. And the benefits of friendship are plentiful! Proverbs 27:9 tells us, “Perfume and incense bring joy to the heart, and the pleasantness of a friend springs from their heartfelt advice.” When we face difficulties, friends help us though with love, support,…

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Fostering Kid Friendships

By Becky | August 14, 2013
A boy and girl lie on the grass, facing the camera. The boy wears a plaid shirt, and the girl is in a light dress with a leaf covering part of her face. Their heads are close, surrounded by autumn leaves—a picture of youthful friendships captured in nature’s embrace.

I’ll never forget my son’s first day in kindergarten. He hopped off the bus, pumped his little arms in the air, and announced, “I have a new best friend!” What a relief for both of us! He and his new BF rode the bus side-by-side everyday, played together on the playground, and sat next to…

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What God has Joined, Let No One Separate

By Becky | August 7, 2013
A close-up captures a couple's hands resting together, yet separate in identity, on a bouquet of peach roses and greenery. The woman's hand showcases a diamond ring, while the man's features a silver band and a watch with a brown leather strap.

A dad in a parenting class once said, “As soon as the kids came on the scene, I slipped down a notch on my wife’s radar screen. The dog and I now compete for second place.” His wife poked him the ribs with her elbow and frowned as the other parents at the table laughed.…

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Road Trips- Reconnect, Refresh, Redeem

By Becky | July 31, 2013
A scenic view of a deserted, winding road meanders through a dense forest adorned with autumn foliage. This tranquil path stretches into the horizon under a soft, clear sky, evoking a sense of serenity and endless journey.

I love road trips. The uninterrupted family time, the open road, and new places…totally exciting. It’s also a terrific way for me to reconnect and grow closer to Scott and the boys. The benefits of road trips with the family are many. Learning opportunities in academic skills such calculating mileage, determining expenses, using money, and…

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A.C.T.S.- Grow

By Becky | July 24, 2013
An open book with gently fluttering pages is centered against a dark background. The pages glow softly, their illuminated text fostering an atmosphere where ideas grow and flourish, creating a focused, serene ambiance.

The past three weeks have been spent discussing safety and kids. But can we really keep our kids safe? Do we really want them to be safe all the time? Taking risks can be good for kids to build confidence and experience new activities. My ministry partner, Lori Wildenberg, has sage advice for all parents…

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Hot Tips for Fire Safety

By Becky | July 17, 2013
A charcoal grill loaded with delectable foods, including asparagus spears, burgers, sausages on a metal skewer, and fish fillets. Smoke rises enticingly from the grill, while green foliage blurs in the background. Always prioritize fire safety while enjoying your feast.

My family and I were at a friend’s home for a barbecue when the boys were little. The kids were playing together, adults talking and laughing. Everyone was having a good time when all of a sudden there was a blood-curding cry. One of the preschoolers had put her hand on the side of the…

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No Helmet, No Wheels

By Becky | July 10, 2013
A cyclist in an orange helmet and backpack rides a matching bike down the street. Clad in a dark jacket and jeans, they are captured in motion from the side, set against a blurred urban backdrop.

A number of years ago Scott, my husband, came home from work later than usual due to an accident. He was not involved but was the first one on the scene. A few blocks from our home he came upon a woman sprawled out on the side of the road, her bicycle twisted beside her…

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