Parenting
X O…Sending Love
My mom has signed “XO” along with her name for as long as I can remember. She followed the example of her mother, my grandmother, whose letters and cards always closed with the familiar “XO” message. Because of their example, I do too. X and O were two of the first letters my sons could…
Read MoreBack to School Transition Tips for Parents
Kids aren’t the only ones who experience angst when the school year begins. The transition can be challenging for parents too. Lori and I hope these tips will help you ease into the school year, smoothly and peacefully. If you cannot access the vlog, you may go directly to YouTube to view the video at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hfohbgNBKOQ&feature=plcp
Read MoreGetting into the Swing of Things… SCHOOL!
Few things will assist you and your children with a smooth transition back to school as much as a well-established routine and good preparation. Take into consideration sleep habits and family mealtimes. Determine where backpacks and school supplies are going to be kept. Decide on where homework will be done. Preparing before the first day…
Read MoreSummertime to School Time
Get off to a great start with a few simple strategies to ease the transition from summertime to school. Lori and I have tips for both you and your child! Recommended books to help children get ready for school. •Llama, Llama Misses Mama Anna Dewdney •The Good-bye Book Judith Viorst, Kay Chorao •David and the…
Read MoreI'm BORED!
Summertime is more relaxed and carefree, a great time to build family unity along with treasured family memories. But by the end of July, the novelty of summertime CAN wear thin. At this point, many parents start to hear the irritating, whinny phrase, “I’m bored.” Here’s an idea that nipped that comment in the bud at…
Read MoreThe King's Friend
During my quiet time today I was reading 1 Chronicles 27. The number of official positions held in King David’s royal court is staggering. Along with the lengthy lists of priests, advisors, military leaders, and overseers are four men who were apparently also quite important to the king. “Jonathan, David’s uncle, was a wise…
Read MoreAll for the Glory of God Through Music
Have you ever had a friend tell you about an amazing turn of events, God’s clear calling for one’s life, then continues with, “Thank you for praying for me.” This happened recently with an interesting twist. The prayer request was made many years ago regarding a position in music ministry. My friend’s story jogged my…
Read MoreAmerica's Forgotten Heritage
Happy Fourth of July! May this day be one of celebration, reflection, and gratitude for the ones who founded and sacrificed greatly for our nation. Freedom is a gift. A few months ago Scott and I took the boys on a whirlwind American heritage tour. We visited Gettysburg, Philadelphia, Washington D.C., and Williamsburg. The tour was…
Read MoreKids in the Kitchen with Cranberry Chicken Salad
My sons arrived home from Boy Scout camp this afternoon, sunburned and happy. They had a great time! My youngest was telling me about the fried chicken he prepared on a camp stove as part of the Cooking merit badge. Yes, fried chicken…on a camp stove! (Maybe for teenagers frying anything in oil is best…
Read MoreMarriage Magazine…on Newsstands Now!
Here’s a special treat for you and your spouse. Marriage Magazine! The magazine was relaunched this month with a brand new look. Lori Wildenberg, my coauthor, and I are very excited as we are blessed to be a part of this new venture as regular columnists. Look for “Parenting Prose” in this issue. May God…
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