The Never-Ending Nature of Motherhood

I like to finish projects. There’s just something about wrapping up what I’ve begun that gives me a great sense of accomplishment. I want to check the final box, finish every detail, pack it up and move on to the next thing. There’s just one problem… I’m a mother! Motherhood just doesn’t lend itself to…

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When There’s More Questions Than Answers

Mom, Mom, MOM! Do you sometimes feel as though everyone needs you and you’re the answer to every question? I sure do! Somedays, I just want to shout, “Mommy doesn’t live here anymore!” So many questions… All the time! Little questions, like: “Why does A have to equal B” (I never get that one right?)…

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Taming the Mama Bear

I’m finding myself in Mama Bear mode today…   Have you ever been there? A big kid bullies your toddler. The Captain never chooses your son for kickball. Someone calls your pre-teen ugly. Mean girls gossip about your daughter. Or, your teen suffers a broken heart. I don’t know about you, but I just want…

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Before It’s Too Late

I’ve been running like crazy for the past several days. Last Thursday we traveled to Cincinnati, OH to speak at the Home School Legal Defense National Conference. When that was finished, we packed up and drove to Illinois to launch four days of teaching parents, sharing Steve’s 9/11 story, television shows, and men’s and ladies…

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You’re Coming In Loud and Clear

I’ve always prided myself on being a good listener. Especially with my children… I’ve listened to stories about my toddlers’ imaginary friends. I’ve listened to replays of stolen bases, double plays, and switch-hitting. I’ve listened as sobbing teens shared their heartaches and heartthrobs. Listen Listened Listening It’s all just part of the Mommy resume.  …

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Sometimes the best Yes is a No

May I be totally honest with you? I hate saying “NO!” Everyday, I’m presented with exciting opportunities, needy relationships, pressing engagements that tempt me to “come and follow”… Activities and adventures always seem so much more fulfilling than my daily duties and obligations. They beckon me and draw my heart away from home. I’m spring-loaded…

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Beginning to See the Harvest

Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. Galatians 6:9 Every time we send out a character quality email we include this verse. Sometimes, I think it’s as much to remind ourselves as it is to encourage and remind…

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What’s More Important? The ABCs or the CCCs?

Welcome to the end of summer! No more lazy days by the pool or late nights chasing fireflies. Nope, it’s time for backpacks, pencils, notebooks, and day planners. Like it or not, summer’s ending and the school year is upon us.    Whether we homeschool, private school, or send our kids to public school, the…

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A Recipe for Fun

Are you ready to make some memories on Memorial Day weekend? Does opening your home and serving friends and family seem overwhelming? Too burdensome? Just not worth the effort? May I encourage you to change your mindset? Holidays are a natural time to build relationships and stockpile sweet memories. Opening our homes doesn’t have to…

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The Year of “Where Were the Parents?”

Years take on a distinct character and personality. Sometimes we name them… like the Year of the Child or the Year of Inventions. Sometimes they’re marked by the biggest news events, like hurricanes, or elections. Sometimes, they gain their notoriety simply by the biggest stars and the biggest scandals.    For me, 2013 will always…

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