Summers always seem to have another layer of unpredictability that I've learned to embrace. By being open to the surprise happenings of a full day with four young adventurers, I am able to soak in a lot of joy amidst the waves of chaos and sporadic meltdowns. In the summer…
“CLOSE THE DOOR!” Brady demands when I stealthily open his bedroom door to get a small glimpse at what he’s doing. We’ve removed the lock so he cannot really keep us out, but he makes it clear that while he’s creating art- whether a drawing or an origami boat- he wants…
I used to think that parents were solely to blame for a child’s behavior. Before becoming a mother, I’d observe a child having a meltdown and think: Can’t you get your child to be QUIET? Come on, do something! Once when I was given a mock interview in college, I…
Waking up on a school morning, I take a moment in the coziness of my bed to keep my eyes closed and take a few slow deep breaths. I let my mind enjoy this brief time of quiet because it wasn’t always so quiet when the kids were toddlers. After…
I grew up as the oldest of 4 children but didn’t like speaking up because of the direct attention it drew. I was never comfortable with people looking at me for more than a glance and certainly didn’t want to stir the pot with any controversial statements. If I was…
Spring is a breathtaking reminder of how truly astonishing change can be. The forsythia bushes call out: “Look over here! Do you like our vivid yellow? Want to take off your sunglasses to see how brilliant we really are? Come on, do it!” The daffodils try their hardest against the lush…
