Top Ten Mistakes Christian Parents of Teens Make

I came across this entry on a blog recently. I wanted to repost for my readers as well. I believe this article complements some of my posts on parenting very well. Top Ten Mistakes Christian Parents of Teens Make.   *A word of caution: I haven't read through the author's theology or other writings so I … Continue reading Top Ten Mistakes Christian Parents of Teens Make

The Joy of Parenting: Mom

Recently there was a video making the rounds on the social networks of someone interviewing several applicants for a job. As the perspective employer described the long hours, the multi-tasking, the lack of peaceful bathroom breaks, and the absence of compensation, the applicants were heard to say phrases such as “you’re nuts!” and “is that … Continue reading The Joy of Parenting: Mom

Are You My Mother? : Childhood Grief

We sat as a family along with close friends near Carrie’s body the morning she died. We talked about her and told stories. I remember my youngest son bringing a building block model into the room then setting on the floor putting it together. Some might think that it was out of place to see … Continue reading Are You My Mother? : Childhood Grief

Yours, Mine, and Ours: The Blended Family

With this post I've added a new category to the blog: StepFamily. With my recent marriage, I’ve entered the world of step-parenting. Although my journey has barely begun, I’ve found it to be a wonderful yet scary place to live. Wonderful and scary may sound like some strange terms to use to describe my new … Continue reading Yours, Mine, and Ours: The Blended Family

THE Anniversary and An Afirmation of Life

The day has finally arrived: the one year anniversary of Carrie’s death. Together, me, the boys, and all who have been part of our life have experienced every anniversary during the last twelve months. There was mother’s day, the birthdays, wedding anniversary, the holidays, and many private anniversaries. Each met with warm, wonderful memories as … Continue reading THE Anniversary and An Afirmation of Life

Spiritual Milestones for Youth

Several years ago the Supreme Court of Michigan made a monumental ruling declaring, in essence, that parents are responsible for the education of their children. Although the court case was primarily about the rights of parents to educate at home, the ruling gave notice to all parents to take responsibility for the process of how children are educated and what they are … Continue reading Spiritual Milestones for Youth

Widowered Fathering: Figuring Out Our New Traditions

Happy New Year! It’s 2013. Out with the old and in with the new… Wait! seriously? I’m pretty comfortable with some of the old, maybe even a lot of it. Besides, new makes me itch! Itch or not, there is no way around all the new in my life. It seems that it’s part and parcel … Continue reading Widowered Fathering: Figuring Out Our New Traditions

Bake Like A Man

Today screamed for banana nut bread and a little father-son bonding time. The bananas were far too gone to eat and I can’t remember the last time I baked. It is strange to go through the cook books and written recipes and see Carrie’s handwriting. It is a pleasant reminder that she was once here. … Continue reading Bake Like A Man

Trimming the Tree

Today is the day; I’m setting up the Christmas decorations with the boy. It’s been our family tradition that mom and the boys would decorate. Mostly because she was better at it and my less than enthusiastic desire to participate was secondary or maybe even way, way, way down the list…. Really. I love the … Continue reading Trimming the Tree

A Ready Date and Social Substitutes

One of the things I miss about not having Carrie around is always having a ready date. I am aware that this doesn't sound too romantic but stay with me a moment. For nearly 30 years (I’m including dating and rounding a little) if I wanted to do something with someone she was my first … Continue reading A Ready Date and Social Substitutes