When Moms are Tender (With Themselves)

Jennifer Deibel

I laid on the bed, heavy sobs rocking my body. An internal barrage of how dumb I had been rattled around my head. I played the events over and over in the cinema of my mind. It had been a simple mistake, a mere mixup with what turned out to be an easy fix. Yet I couldn't let go of the guilt and embarrassment gripping my heart.

A lithe hand with dimples and chipped nail polish rested a note on my chest and I heard feet quietly shuffle out the door as quickly as they had come in.

"It's okay, mom. Everyone makes mistakes,"

How to Raise Truly Thankful Kids

Jeannie Cunnion

When our kids were itty-bitty we were told to teach them a few basic words in sign language, as this helps eliminate frustration and whining in kids who desire to communicate their needs but haven’t developed the language skills to do so.

The four words that were recommended to us were “Please, thank you, all-done and more.”

When You Just Want To Stop Playing It Safe

Sara Hagerty
motherhood, Friendships

I never wanted to play it safe. 

In those rare minutes when the noise of life is quieter than His whisper against my insides, I welcome risk. I want adventure and a life-rush that might empty every last drop of me and dreams that keep my eyes open during otherwise-normal days. I'll take the threat of danger, if it means I get more of Him. I want unconventional, even when it's coupled with the prospect of clearing my bank account or my fuel tank or my carefully planned schedule.

Yes, even with my children in mind, when life is still and my pulse tells me He is near, I'm Caleb and the giants are small. 

6 Ways to Build a Positive Family

6 Ways to Build a Positive Family

Tricia Goyer

Do your kids struggle with negativity? Are you constantly having to break up fights? Do you cringe at the words coming out of your child's mouth? Do you wish everyone could just be happy and positive?

A positive attitude at home will leak into the rest of your child's life. The “family” is where the foundation of a positive living is built.

A Simple Lesson You Can Teach Your Kids about People

Christy Fitzwater

My daughter and I made a fun excursion to Wal-Mart recently, and when we came to the checkout line I said what I often say to the clerks in stores.

“How’s your day?” I asked. The clerk let out a big sigh.

“I’m tired,” she said.

“Are you at the beginning of your shift or the end?” I asked.

“Close to the end,” she said.

“Well, you’re gonna make it!” I told her, in my best cheerleader voice.

My daughter later commented on my kindness to the clerk.

“I try to see people,” I told her. “It’s easy to walk right past these people who serve us in stores and not even notice them.”

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