When I was young and single, I would envision the family that I would have and the kind of mother I would be. I would create disciplinary strategies, structured schedules and be baffled (in a way only non-parents are) by mothers whose children seemed “out of control” whatsoever. I dreamt of the active, productive, creative […]
Enjoy ’em Before They’re Gone
I am a closet worrier. I try to keep my worries hidden, to act nonchalant, but in truth, I worry about everything. I come from a don’t-run-with-scissors and motorcycles-will-kill-you-early kind of home; it’s genetically ingrained in me. So worrying became Worrying when I had children. My WorryList starts with the basics: Are they eating enough? […]
Along for the Ride
It started with the usual oohing and ahhing. The hotel’s desk clerk and concierge loved my four week old baby. “Ah, so small!” “So sweet.” “How old?” “What’s her name?” Then came the question, “Is she your first?” I almost burst into hysterical laughter right there, but I composed myself and answered wryly, “Actually, no, […]
Love More
About five years ago, we decided to add two more words to our already established three word family mission statement (to be revealed at a different time). These two words: LOVE MORE are so simple to write, simple to say, often hard to put into action. When everything is going well, the weather […]
Love Loans
I sat beside the tub and poured water over Ivy’s belly, wishing I could make the noise and chaos behind me disappear.
It was me they needed. More of my time, more of my energy, more of me.
Each Day is a Gift
Submitted by Kelleyn Rothaermel: I remember the day as if it were yesterday, but over three years have passed since that day. My husband, our middle child, and I were going in to find out the sex of our third child. I was so excited! I was hoping for a girl since we had two […]
My Summer Bucket List
I love love love summer. I am always a little flabbergasted when I talk to moms who dread summer. Usually it’s because they feel overwhelmed at the prospect of so much free time. They feel it’s a bit of a chore to keep their kids busy. But that’s why I like summer. I cast aside […]
When Mommy Fell Down
I had a very ungraceful moment the other day when I tripped on our bottom stair. Though the experience was not enjoyable, the results of it taught me I have a priceless gift–right in my own home.
April Fool’s
April Fools pranks are so… pointless? fun? I don’t know but I just love the chance to do silly stuff and get a rise out of my kids.
Navigating the Internet
A few nights ago, I collapsed on the couch after tucking my children into bed, and I thought I’d look through a few blogs before heading out to a baby shower. As I looked through a seemingly-endless stream of perfectly-decorated homes, darling crafts, and breathtaking photography, I started to feel like an absolute zero. I […]
Teenagers
Teenage girls…what can you say about ’em? They’re emotional, they’re giggly, and they’re trying to find themselves. The teenage years are so difficult. Would I do them over again? No way! So as I stand by watching my daughter go through them, I feel a tug at my heart strings whenever she’s hurting. I remember how […]
Taxi Cab Confession
So here we are, the calm before the storm. It’s about 1:30 PM time and time for me to fuel up. It’s hard being a taxi driver. You never know who you’re gonna get once that door opens up. You never know if you’ll need to be a cheerleader, a doctor, a problem-solver or just the […]