Watching my new grandson learn to control his facial muscles is precious and comical, but if some of his scrunchy faces were on an adult or adolescent, they may not be endearing or amusing. Body language accompanied by facial expression can be inviting or off-putting. I teach teenagers in Bible study and my main goal …
Forward Thinking
Before my third grandchild was born, my daughter began planning for life with two boys. She made appointments and reservations based on her new reality and no one really questioned her reasoning. Planning ahead is a good thing, but how far is too far, and is there such a thing as not far enough? You’ve …
How Much Does God Trust You?
Today was a long overdue cleaning day. While vacuuming the baseboards with a vengeance, I ran full tilt into the corner of the window trim, creating a small gash in my scalp. Thankfully my daughter was here to lend a hand and the damage was minimal, but I needed to sit for a bit to …
No Time To Waste
I love my grandchildren and there is nothing I wouldn’t do for them, but one thing is far more important than all the rest. Feeding them nutritious food and making sure they get plenty of rest is incredibly important. Being watchful and keeping them safe from harm is essential. Reading to them, showing them how …
Same Team
Thomas and Amelia are ten months and ten days apart in age. They’re often confused for siblings but they are cousins. Either set of parents could be theirs and one mom or the other is often asked when we’re together, “Are they both yours?” If either answered yes, no one would question it because they …
All About Jesus
Thomas is memorizing scripture at age two. Of course I’m incredibly proud, and of course I’m helping every chance I get. When his mom started teaching him a new letter each week, she naturally included a Bible verse. He is so eager to learn and retains information so readily, but what neither of us realized …
Turn Around
I’m just “ta-prending,” Lolly. My two year old grandson, Thomas, has a vivid imagination. In preparation for the arrival of his baby brother in a few weeks, he is rehearsing all of his favorite things with the stuffed penguin chick that has a recording of Timothy’s heartbeat inside. Just this evening, he put Timothy in …
That Doesn’t Taste Right
I keep regular coffee on hand for guests and family but I prefer my coffees and teas infused with flavor, and the more flavorful the better. When my husband’s mother came to visit this weekend, I pointed out the regular blend pods, grouped in one corner of the coffee drawer, that she would enjoy. She’s …
Synthesizing God’s Word
Bear with me as I brag a little. I’m certain I have the cutest and smartest grandchildren ever. They’re growing so quickly and they amaze me with all they’re learning. They’re constantly listening and repeating each other, their parents, and me. They know song lyrics and bedtime stories by heart and they’re already memorizing scripture. …
Conspicuously Absent
My mother had a beautiful young friend who babysat for us when I was a girl. She was one of those rare souls who loved purely and simply, who readily shared a smile and laughter even while she was hiding her own pain. Her life was cut short by cancer, but she blessed all who …
A Fitting Reply 