Equipping Parents for The Journey
I grew up Catholic. Before you think I’m one of those with the so-called “Catholic guilt” or negative feelings about my upbringing, let me assure you it’s quite the contrary. I am deeply thankful for how I was raised, and while I did not fully know the Bible, I did know Jesus. And I loved Him passionately—with all my...
Lately, I’ve been angry. Though I can’t stand admitting so, it’s the truth, and what good is a blog without truth? Yes, my anger is what I would classify “righteous anger,” but it is certainly not right. Even righteous anger can be handled the wrong way. Whether our children are fully aware of our...
The Olympics are in full swing, and Rio is taking our family, and possibly many of yours, by storm. Last night, we watched my friend’s niece on the uneven bars help take Gold, and “The Final Five” —as this group of girls has coined themselves—showed us all what it looks like to celebrate and win...
My dear, sweet children, you are truly the zest of life! You add more excitement to the days than I could ever anticipate, and you make certain the tips of these parenting toes are in top shape. The dishes would have been done hours ago, but attending to bug spray in the eye kind of came first. Same...
Words. Our world revolves around these little things that have lasting power and consequences. Death and life are in the power of the tongue, and those who love it will eat its fruits. Proverbs 18:21, NASB As children, we were taught to think before we speak. As adults, it seems we need to call...
I do not go incredibly deep with many people, and I shy away from sharing too much of my soul. I suppose you could call me an extroverted introvert, or selective based on the situation. Like everyone, I desire to know and be known, but questions like “How did you potty train?”, “Who does you...
On Sunday mornings, families are often separated at church, attending classes geared for their various ages and stages of life. But on Stonebriar Family Experience nights, the entire family—from nursing babies to those in the nursing home—come together to worship. Family Experience events typically include a time of worship, a lesson from a pastor, and a fun project...
One purple balloon slipped away from little fingers and floated to the sky. One little heart broke as the tears poured from the boy’s eyes. In an instant, the carefree morning became unbearable as it seemed a child’s entire world had imploded. All because of one purple balloon. What do we do when our children experience...
“I can’t imagine.” Whenever tragedy strikes, these words are often tossed about. Yet, these words don’t carry much truth when you truly stop and think on them. You see, when tragedy strikes, we can indeed imagine, and that is often what makes circumstances all the more real to us and the presence of God all the more...
This year, I will be volunteering (and attending) my first ever Vacation Bible School. Yes, you heard that right—my first ever. At nearly 34 years old, I get to experience what is a seemingly normal part of summer for thousands of children. I am eager to see hundreds of faces soaking in who Jesus is—many...
As you have likely heard, a small boy recently found his way into a gorilla cage at the Cincinnati Zoo. The gorilla, a 17-year-old, 450-pound silverback named Harambe, was ultimately shot to death once it was deemed the safest option to save the child. I have pondered whether or not to share my thoughts on...
You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead, they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they...
