Christmas and Candy Canes
A Candy canes are iconic confections that can share the Christmas story with young and old alike. Really, is there a better method of stirring cocoa than with a candy cane? Candy canes became popular in our family for a few reasons. One, we all really like peppermint, especially on cocoa. Two, the candy is…
Read MoreChristmas Countdown: Advent Calendars for All Ages
The countdown to Christmas begins soon! Prepare the hearts and minds of all ages to celebrate the birth of Jesus with an Advent calendar. Store bought or homemade, Advent calendars can be a great way to focus the holiday on faith. When my eldest son came home from college for Christmas break his freshman year,…
Read MoreFamily Fun at the Thanksgiving Table
Thanksgiving, a time to for family members to have fun with one another. When families join together around a holiday dinner table, reminiscing and reconnecting build long-lasting relationships. Gratitude is an attitude to encourage is kids of all ages, and adults too! Make part of your time together a learning experience for everyone too. If…
Read MorePicky, Picky Eaters
Picky eaters are frustrating at any age, from toddler to teens. Get in the habit of encouraging your littles to give new foods a chance. Incorporating a “One Bite Rule” encourages kid to at least try new foods and to keep trying. What’s rejected today might be a favorite tomorrow! When working with fussy eaters, try…
Read MoreGrowing Capable Adults
A special thank you to guest blogger, grandfather, and author Jim Doudiet for sharing his thoughts and experiences to encourage and inspire grandparents to connect with their grandchildren. In my book, The Best Ideas I’ve Ever Heard (What I Want My Grandchildren to Know), I have an essay which is titled “A Parent’s Objective: growing…
Read MoreTen Springtime Stress Relievers for Busy Moms
Spring should be a time of quiet renewal, a reawakening after a long winter. Unfortunately, it’s a time of stress for many moms. Unfortunately, May is BUSY with the ending of school year events, summer activities beginning early, and sport team practices moving into high gear. Throw in a graduation, wedding, or even a birthday…
Read MoreInstilling a Lifelong Trust in God
Raising Kids to Follow Christ: Instilling a Lifelong Trust in God by Lee Ann Mancini reaches to the heart of the matter for both parents and grandparents. This new parenting resource goes deep into what it takes to lead children to the foot of the cross and develop faith for life. Building a strong foundation…
Read MoreWhat’s Our Mission as a Family?
Family mission statements define the values, vision, and expectations of the family. Children typically live up to the expectations set for them. A well-defined description of who a family is and what they believe clarifies overarching goals for each member of the family. What’s your family’s statement of intent? Faith-filled families are centered in Jesus…
Read MoreAre you Trustworthy?
Are you worthy of another’s trust? Are your kids trustworthy? Trustworthiness and confidentiality are vital to good relationships. Ephesians 4:29 is a great place to begin when discussing trustworthiness and confidentiality with your kids. “Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according…
Read MoreCalm Anxious Kids with God’s Word
Calm anxious kids with scripture. God’s Word tells us, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:6-7). The way to relieve…
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