Parenting Unchained

Cover of "Parenting Unchained" by Dr. James D. Dempsey. Features a smiling family of three outdoors in a green field, embodying the joys of parenting. The father carries a child on his shoulders, while the mother walks beside them under a clear, sunny sky.

When I find a book that really speaks to me, I share it with you. Lori Wildenberg, my ministry partner, and I have had the honor of working with Dr. Scott Turansky and Joanne Miller, founders of the National Center for Biblical Parenting. Lori and I were on the NCBP team at an Association of…

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Tissue & Bubble-Wrapped Memories

A gingerbread man ornament, adorned with white icing details and a red nose, hangs on a Christmas tree branch, evoking warm memories. In the softly blurred background, glowing yellow lights create a cozy holiday ambiance.

As soon as the remnants of Thanksgiving dinner are packed away in Tupperware containers, my mind turns to Christmas. Traditionally on the Friday after Thanksgiving, Scott, our two boys, and I visit the local tree lot to choose the perfect Christmas tree. Scott trims the lower branches, fits the trunk into the stand, and with…

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The Thanksgiving Proclamation

A statue of a seated man in a suit rises among leafless trees, evoking a peaceful moment of reflection. With the blue sky and tall buildings as a backdrop, the scene suggests a city park setting in winter, capturing the season's essence akin to the tranquil gratitude of Thanksgiving.

On October 3, 1863 President Abraham Lincoln issued the Thanksgiving Proclamation. The third Thursday in November was set aside as a national holiday of thanksgiving and praise. To celebrate our national heritage and to draw upon the words of this great president, here is the first page Lincoln’s address. By the President of the United…

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Fostering Thankfulness

A holiday meal spread on a kitchen counter featuring a carved turkey, dishes of stuffing and casserole, and a salad. The warm lighting creates a cozy atmosphere of thankfulness, with serving utensils at the ready for grateful guests.

Thanksgiving is a time for families to gather, celebrating with thankful hearts. To grow an attitude of gratitude in your family, recognize both the large and small gifts in life. Set the stage for thankfulness by noticing the blessings. Be intentional about how you’ll portray gratitude at the dinner table on Thanksgiving Day. Start your…

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Stress Reducers for Mom

A woman in a green dress is lying on a tree branch surrounded by lush leaves. She appears relaxed and serene, free from stress, with her eyes closed and the sunlight gently filtering through the foliage.

Last week was all about creating margin during these busy holiday months. And in creating these margins we are actually giving ourselves the gift of time. Stop and enjoy beauty: a bouquet of flowers, a fresh dusting of snow, a conversation with your little one. But when we’re in the midst of this busy season, here…

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More Margin, Less Stress

Three chocolate cupcakes sit enticingly on a wooden table, next to a glass carafe of milk and a wooden spoon on a patterned cloth. The setup, enhanced by two transparent jars and a dark chalkboard background, offers a sweet antidote to stress.

    In parenting classes I sometimes begin with an ice breaker. A favorite is, “If you had a day to yourself to do anything you’d like without any regard to time, money or distance, what would you do, where would you go, and with whom?” Moms with younger children get animated with the thought…

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Who's Speaking at HeartCORe?

Friends, This weekend marks the first of the 1 Corinthians 13 Parenting Conferences. I thought I’d take an opportunity to introduce you to the fabulous team members speaking at the event. Each has a unique story and is an expert in his/her field. I hope you’ll make time to join us!  The HeartCORe Parenting Conference…

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A New Tool for My Parenting Toolbox

Dr. Scott Turansky and Joanne Miller, RN, BSN have done it again. They have created yet another helpful study for families. The Family Toolbox is a valuable study for parents and teens. The Family Toolbox is an interactive tool, with a video to watch together and a workbook designed for both the parent and teen to use. The…

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Busy as a Bee

A close-up of a busy bumblebee feeding on a vibrant orange flower with a yellow center captures its wings and fuzzy body in detail. The background is a soft blur of greenery and more flowers, enhancing the scene's lively charm.

I love this time of year! There’s a chill in the air, the days are growing shorter, and the roadside stands are loaded with produce, cornstalks, and pumpkins. It’s so beautiful with the leaves changing colors. The next three months are loaded with holidays and family gatherings. But walk into your local store and it’s…

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Meaningful Mentors

A woman with gray hair and a calm expression, reminiscent of wise mentors, looks into the camera. She is wearing large hoop earrings and a light beige top. The background is softly blurred.

Think of all the people who have guided you, shaping you into the person you are today. Parents, pastors, coaches, teachers, siblings, and others have invested time and energy in guiding and encouraging you on your path. But who specifically guides you as a mom? Who are your parenting mentors? When I think back on…

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