I was in for a busy night, but I had a plan. I could get all three girls where they needed to be – and on time – but I needed to hurry. Unfortunately something ruined my plan: a little gray car. “I can’t believe this. They’re driving 40 miles an hour.” I shook my head...
It began about three years ago. I was alone in the house and heard a noise in the basement. It sounded like a thump – or possibly a knock. I tried to ignore it. Maybe it’s my imagination. THUMP. My heart pounded as I tiptoed down the steps. Maybe I should've grabbed a...
Go Hawks! Every now and then, something strange happens when I look into the eyes of my nine-year-old daughter. I see her dad. Sometimes I see him in her sense of humor. Other times it’s just a facial expression. But many times I've shook my head and said, “Wow, when...
Paula Sands & Me I've never cared about being the center of attention. The mere thought of public speaking makes my hands sweat and heart race. In fact, I’m perfectly content spending time alone with my thoughts in my nice, peaceful office. There. I've said it. I...
Yes, it’s the most wonderful time of the year. But as many of you know, it’s also a difficult time of year to lose a loved one. I was reminded of this last Tuesday morning when my 92-year-old grandpa passed away.Now I know what you’re thinking. Ninety-two years! And...
Thankfully, this is not the house I grew up in! As a young girl growing up in a big old farmhouse, there were certain places in my home I’d learned to avoid. I’m not sure when it began, but I know who’s to blame. My brother. His favorite pastime was to tease and...
Grocery shopping with kids. It’s one of those unavoidable joys of motherhood that ranks right up there with diaper changing and helping with algebra homework. I try to avoid it whenever possible. The fun usually begins in aisle two. “Chocolate doughnuts! Please Mom?”...
The crowd goes nuts. I glance up from my book and watch the excitement on the TV. Crazy football fans with painted faces leap out of their seats, cheering and high-fiving anyone within reach. The announcer hollers and throws his hands in the air. “What an amazing...
I folded my arms and stared out the car’s passenger window. I couldn’t believe this one simple question still caused conflict between my husband and me. What do you want to do this weekend? I’ll admit Curt’s outgoing personality was one of the qualities I first liked...
Ok, I’ll admit it. I was tempted to skip the talent show at family camp this year. Not that I had anything against talent shows, but honestly, those programs can get a little hokey sometimes. Even the camp director joked about it. “Be sure to join us for tonight’s...
Hi everyone! In honor of Mother's Day (this Sunday) I'm sharing my story that was recently published in the book, Chicken Soup for the Soul: Mom Knows Best.Leave me a comment and I'll enter your name for a chance to win a copy for your favorite mom! One word. That’s...
No one likes to watch their parents grow older. In my eyes, my dad was always strong. When I was a kid, Dad used to throw me up on his shoulders while he walked through the hilly pastures on our farm. Yep, he was a farmer, which meant long hours of hard work. He also...
“Merry Christmas! Come in!” Grandma wiped her hands on her apron and hurried over to greet us. I took a deep breath, enjoying a wonderful whiff of turkey and apple pie. I stomped the snow off my shoes and kicked them onto a nearby rug. Four pairs of well-worn...