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...
A couple of weeks ago we traveled to Chicago for a gymnastics meet. This meet was a little different than usual because there were two levels of gymnasts competing at the same time. On one side of the gym we had the beginners, the level threes. On the other side were...
Gotta love that smile! Snow days. Funny how those words sound very different to me as a mom compared to when I was a kid. Before I begin, let me give you a warning. Some portions of today’s blog may make me sound old. Okay, I’m ready now....
After eight years of marriage, I thought my husband knew me better. I was wrong. It all began when our pastor asked everyone in our small congregation to participate in the annual Christmas program. Not being one who enjoys the spotlight, I cringed. Maybe I could just...
"Maybe Grace scrutinized the newsletter with a critical eye, but she always looked for the best in me." Today on the blog I'm sharing my story about a very special (yet unexpected) friendship. This story was recently published in Chicken Soup for the Soul: Just Us...
Watch out! I'm coming in for a landing! “Hey, do you have time to listen to a story?” I can’t imagine how many times I’ve asked my mom that question. I remember coming home from junior high and reading her my stories. Even now, when I struggle with writer’s block,...
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?”...
Gotta love that cape! I looked over our schedule. As usual, all three girls had after school activities. But after some quick calculations, I realized that for once, the timing of their activities worked out perfectly. 4 PM - Take Madison to gymnastics. 5 PM - Pick...
My childhood home ... Last weekend Curt and I found ourselves in unfamiliar territory. We looked at our calendar—and found nothing on the schedule! It was a beautiful day, so we decided to take the girls fishing at Grandma’s house.Whenever I visit Mom and Dad’s house,...
I’ve noticed a strange phenomenon at my house the past several years. It doesn’t happen all the time, but every now and then, a very specific item gets added to one of my lists. But here’s the thing. I didn’t add it. For example, on my daily to-do list I’ll notice,...
Have you ever felt like you were being watched? It’s a creepy sensation. Like someone (or something) is following your every move. Lurking in the shadows. Waiting ... I’ve experienced this feeling many times. The first time it happened was about a year ago. At the...
If you're a girl who grew up with brothers, you understand the torment I’ve faced. To be fair, I probably deserved it. I was an annoying little sister. I snooped through their stuff and tattled to Mom. Still, my brothers took such pleasure in picking on me. One of my...
Other moms tried to warn me, but I wasn’t concerned. I had my emotions under control. Yes, my oldest was leaving for college, but I had no reason to be sad. Was I excited for her? Yes. Proud? Absolutely. I would miss her, but I wasn’t going to have an emotional...