25 Days of Giveaways!

For many of us, the turkeys and pumpkins are packed up and the Christmas decorations are on display. As moms, December is a full month of shopping, baking, making memories for our family. That’s why I’m devoting December to you, Mom, in my 25 Days of...

Friday’s Quote of the Week

Your child doesn’t need a parent paralyzed by guilt. Your child needs a parent empowered and motivated by the truth. ~Jolene Philo

Growing a Grateful Heart

Turn on the television these days and you’ll find just about every kind of makeover show possible. We seem to be drawn to this makeover madness by our desire for something fresh and new in our complicated, and sometimes disorganized lives.I’ve recently become aware of...

Giving Thanks

Last weekend our family gathered together to celebrate our son-in-law’s 30th birthday. Matt (far-left) is also the daddy of our first grand-child due in late April (not that we’re excited or anything like that!) We had a slumber party for all 9 of us at...

There’s no place like home…

Last week, Mark and I had a wonderful week at the Blessing Ranch in Livermore, CO. It was great getting away from the everyday. But truly, there is no place like home.As usual, while preparing for our trip, I struggled leaving my kids. I always do. This was the first...

Friday’s Quote of the Week

Your gentle caress is as necessary to your child’s health as food & water, shelter & clothing, light & air. ~Jolene Philo

A week of refreshment

This week Mark and I are spending some time at the Blessing Ranch in Livermore, CO. It’s a Christian Renewal and Resource Center for ministry couples.I won’t be be blogging this week because I’ll be focusing on personal renewal and spending this time...

There’s light at the end of the tunnel!

So tonight my newly married daughter, Erica, accompanied me to a speaking engagement in Morris, IL. After it was over and we were packing up the book table she said, “You did a great job tonight, Mom. I think the last time I helped you (which was a couple of...

Hearts at Home Conference Reflections

It was a great weekend at Hearts at Home, Rochester, MN. I spoke in the morning keynote session and Dr. Kevin Leman spoke in the afternoon. He’s a nut and always wears the craziest socks.If you were there this weekend, of if you attended one of the other Hearts...