They keep growing, Mama. One moment, you’re pushing them in a stroller, and the next, they’re walking beside you and almost (but not quite!) tall enough to reach the doorbell. I continue to marvel at the delights of each new stage with each child—what a blessing it is to walk alongside each of them andContinue reading “They Keep Growing”
Category Archives: Mindful Motherhood
Sowing Seeds
We tilled the soil and began planting our tiny backyard garden this week. And as I surveyed our hard work, looking like a barren patch of brown dirt, it hit me how much gardening exemplifies our work as parents. All we can do is plant and water the seeds, Mama. We’re gifted these tiny onesContinue reading “Sowing Seeds”
Always Watching
You are an example, Mama. They’re watching you, and they want to be just like you. And that’s a good and beautiful thing—but it’s also a big responsibility. What are they seeing as they watch you throughout the ordinary days? What are your actions saying to them? What are your priorities, that may someday becomeContinue reading “Always Watching”
A School Bus, Waiting & Contagious Joy
Every day, shortly after he wakes up, he takes his post at the window. He’s into trucks and police cars and ambulances and fire engines, but his current favorite is the “ding-ding bus”—the yellow school bus he sees stop near our house every morning. And when that bus finally pulls arrives, slows to a stop,Continue reading “A School Bus, Waiting & Contagious Joy”
He Chose You
Sometimes it feels like the people we follow have it all together, when we’re just trying to survive and make it till the kids go to bed. And sometimes, scrolling through the ‘gram can even make us doubt our skills as Mamas, because we aren’t doing it like SHE is. Consider this your friendly reminderContinue reading “He Chose You”
What Season Are You In?
What season are you in, Mama? Sunday evenings at our house look like dessert (in this case, homemade brownies a la mode) for 6, plus a toddler portion in a bowl alongside. But now, instead of me making dessert, my oldest makes it, sometimes consulting me on technique, sometimes doing it all by himself. ThereContinue reading “What Season Are You In?”
Daily Disciplines for a Life Well-Lived
What are you working on this season, Mama? Sometimes, it’s less about the victories, and more about the daily disciplines. Whether it be writing cursive, learning the multiplication tables, having a daily time with the Lord or washing the dishes, there are some things that simply need to be practiced daily, whether we feel likeContinue reading “Daily Disciplines for a Life Well-Lived”
Celebrating Kids’ Birthdays
Let’s talk birthdays, Mama. I used to do it all. The big celebration for each child. A themed party, complete with food, games, activities or art, and of course, goodie bags. Those were fun years…and my kids still talk about some of their favorite parties: the Ninja Warrior one, the Painting Canvas one, the OlympicsContinue reading “Celebrating Kids’ Birthdays”
Tweens & Teens
Celebrating my second oldest turning 12 today—he’s 10 years older than the “baby” and it’s hard to believe how quickly the years have passed. It seems such a short time ago that he was the one sleepily snuggled on my lap, and suddenly, I blinked and he’s almost a teen. It’s really true, Mama, theContinue reading “Tweens & Teens”
Look for the Gems
A city park—even a less than desirable one—can be just as fun a place to play as a beautiful natural outdoor setting. Look for the gems around you, Mama, and be content where He’s called you. In being thankful for the good gifts from His hand, you’re also teaching your little ones to be thankful.Continue reading “Look for the Gems”
Next Door Hope 