As we saw last week, the research findings on preschool are varied. Some studies show that preschool boosts school readiness skills (particularly for low-income children) and gives students an academic advantage during their elementary years, while other studies show the benefits of preschool are transient and that it may contribute to burnout … [Read more...] about Deciding If Preschool is Right for Your Child
Printable Kitchen Staples Checklist
It’s super frustrating to be in the middle of preparing a recipe and realize that you’re missing some common ingredient needed to complete the dish. This happens to me on occasion and it’s probably happened to you, too. Christine, one of my readers, recently asked if I had ever created a pantry checklist—a tool that could reduce how often … [Read more...] about Printable Kitchen Staples Checklist
Can Busy Moms Really Find Time to Spend with God? (Part 2)
Last week I was joined by two other moms—Michele of Living Our Days and Elizabeth of Guilty Chocoholic Mama—as we discussed how we find time to spend with the Lord. Today we are going to examine two related topics: How motherhood impacts a mom’s devotional time and what practical tools are helpful for facilitating time with God. Be … [Read more...] about Can Busy Moms Really Find Time to Spend with God? (Part 2)
Is Preschool Necessary?
It seems like just yesterday that my oldest child was born. However, she’s about to become a three-year-old! I’ve noticed that many children her age are beginning preschool programs. Some of these are very formal programs, while others are traditional childcare with a special focus on school readiness skills. Does my child need … [Read more...] about Is Preschool Necessary?
Ranch Chicken and Veggies Sheet Pan Dinner
I love the convenience of one-pot dinners, so I was immediately curious when I began seeing sheet pan dinners all over Pinterest. A sheet pan dinner is exactly what its name implies: An entire dinner cooked in the oven on one sheet pan. Preparation and cleanup are easy, plus roasting is a healthy and delicious way to prepare foods. I … [Read more...] about Ranch Chicken and Veggies Sheet Pan Dinner
Can Busy Moms Really Find Time to Spend with God? (Part 1)
Moms are busy. It doesn’t matter how many children they have, if their kids are young or grown, or if they work or stay at home. Given this reality, is it really possible for moms to find time to spend with God? I first considered this question a couple of years ago when I was struggling to find time to spend with the Lord while … [Read more...] about Can Busy Moms Really Find Time to Spend with God? (Part 1)
Christmas in July: Keeping the Christmas Spirit Alive Year Round
I usually focus my Christmas in July posts on topics that will help us plan early so we won’t have a chaotic Christmas season. This year I’m focusing on a slightly different topic. One thing I love about Christmas is the “Christmas spirit” that often surrounds us during the weeks between Thanksgiving and Christmas. We tend to be more … [Read more...] about Christmas in July: Keeping the Christmas Spirit Alive Year Round
Why I’m a Singing Mom
If you were to eavesdrop on my household at random times throughout the day, it’s likely you would hear me singing more than once. This isn’t because I’m particularly fond of singing and it’s certainly not because I’m gifted at it. I began singing to my children before they were born. When I was pregnant with my first, I would sit in … [Read more...] about Why I’m a Singing Mom
