When I encounter friends or acquaintances, it’s typical for me to greet them with a perfunctory “How are you?” They generally respond with cursory answers (e.g., fine, okay, good). Despite the fact that we exchange a few words, these conversations aren’t particularly personal or meaningful. The routine way in which I ask how they are doing … [Read more...] about 14 Alternatives to “How Are You?”
Names Are Gifts We Give to Our Children
Are names merely indiscriminate titles that help us know when someone is speaking to us or is there more to it? I believe the latter, specifically that names have the power to shape our lives in significant ways. We see examples of this in Scripture. Though names sometimes recorded an aspect of a child’s birth (see Esau and Jacob in … [Read more...] about Names Are Gifts We Give to Our Children
4 Wonderful Things About Interracial Families
I’ve heard a few mixed-race adults discuss the race-related challenges they experienced while growing up. For example, some struggled with identity, feeling like they didn’t really belong. Others were teased or felt misunderstood. I’m hopeful that my own children (who are mixed) will never feel this way. There are several reasons why I … [Read more...] about 4 Wonderful Things About Interracial Families
Practicing Hospitality with Large Families
As my family has grown in number, it has become challenging to practice hospitality. It is especially tricky when we want to welcome a large family into our home for a meal. Where will everyone sit? Can we afford to feed everyone? Do I even have enough bowls for everyone to use? Thankfully, with a little advanced planning, I’ve been … [Read more...] about Practicing Hospitality with Large Families
Snow Activities for Families Living in Warm Climates
My two older kids are fascinated with snow. They frequently ask me when it will snow and if they can do things like build a snowman. They aren’t quite old enough to understand that we live in a location (the Texas Gulf Coast) where snow is rare. Because they desire to play in snow so much, I’ve been on the lookout for “snow” activities that … [Read more...] about Snow Activities for Families Living in Warm Climates
One-Pot Savory Chicken and Rice
I love experimenting with recipes and trying new foods, but sometimes it’s the basics that make the best meals! For example, consider this Savory Chicken and Rice. It calls for simple ingredients and is easy to prepare. Moreover, my kids love it despite the fact that it contains a hidden veggie! Ingredients 2 ½ cups chicken broth 2 … [Read more...] about One-Pot Savory Chicken and Rice
Christian Parenting Affirmations
This last summer, as I was preparing to give birth to my third child, I wrote out some labor affirmations on note cards. Affirmations—statements meant to encourage, inspire, and energize—are helpful during labor because delivering a baby (vaginally or via C-section) is strenuous, requiring a lot of mental and physical energy. As I was caring … [Read more...] about Christian Parenting Affirmations
Keep Short Lists
I don’t typically think about my mortality on a daily basis. However, throughout this past year, my husband and I have been reminded of the fragility and brevity of life on numerous occasions. Early in the year, we had a young cousin nearly die in a car accident. In the fall, I experienced two rare and serious complications while having … [Read more...] about Keep Short Lists
