A few months ago, as we ate oatmeal for breakfast, I read to my girls about Moses and the burning bush. My 3-year-old appeared deep in thought. When she spoke as I paused to turn a page, her statement left me speechless: “I know, mommy, let’s have doughnuts!” I wasn’t speechless because she shared some deep insight or asked an … [Read more...] about Encouragement for When Your Family Devotions Look Like a Circus
Winter Worksheets for Preschoolers
As I did last fall, I’ve created some worksheets to supplement the other materials my preschooler uses as we do preschool at home. This set contains winter-themed images (snowflakes, sweaters, snowmen, hot chocolate, mittens, etc.). (Click on the image below to view and download printable versions of the worksheets.) Even if you’re … [Read more...] about Winter Worksheets for Preschoolers
How We Should Respond to Phrases with Racist Connotations
Many of us use a variety of terms and phrases each day without giving thought to their origins. It can come as quite a shock to learn that some of these are rooted in racism! Consider the term “gyp” or “gypped,” for instance. I heard this term on occasion when I was growing up. It is widely used as a way to say “cheated.” I used it … [Read more...] about How We Should Respond to Phrases with Racist Connotations
18 Children’s Books that Feature Multiracial Families
Last fall, as Thanksgiving neared, I was reading to my children numerous books on the topic of giving thanks. I was pleasantly surprised when we opened one of these books and saw that it featured a mixed-race family. Up until that point, I had seen very few children’s books that feature families like mine (a black parent and a white … [Read more...] about 18 Children’s Books that Feature Multiracial Families
Hamburger Gravy
I’m always trying to come up with ideas for easy-to-prepare meals. This is one that I came across a few months ago. I’ve made it a handful of times since then because it is simple, yet flavorful and filling. Ingredients (Adapted from this recipe.) 1 lb. ground beef 1 small onion, minced 6-8 oz. mushrooms, sliced 2 cloves … [Read more...] about Hamburger Gravy
Ways to Save Money this Winter
Though winter technically happens every year, it doesn’t always feel like we have winter here on the Texas Gulf Coast. However, this year we’ve had a number of cold days and it’s even snowed! We have different needs in cold weather than we have in warm weather. Because we’re always pinching pennies in my household, I’ve been considering … [Read more...] about Ways to Save Money this Winter
Take Heart, Mama: 5 Truths that Will Transform Your Mothering
All around me I see fellow moms who are struggling. I see stay-at-home moms who wonder if they would be contributing more to society if they worked and working moms who feel guilty because they spend so much time away from their kids. I see moms who are worried that their choices regarding discipline or schooling will ruin their children. I … [Read more...] about Take Heart, Mama: 5 Truths that Will Transform Your Mothering
Marriage Goals for the New Year
A few weeks ago, as I started planning goals for 2018, my marriage was at the forefront of my mind. This is because so many other goals, including those related to finances, parenting, and serving others, impact and are impacted by my marriage. Moreover, I’m a firm believer that strong marriages don’t just happen—they take deliberateness and … [Read more...] about Marriage Goals for the New Year