“Are you planning to mow the grass today?” I asked my teenaged son one day over the summer and he replied with an honest, “Nope.” I suggested that my teenaged daughter do her laundry last week, and she said no thank you. Now, as the mom I have a choice to get upset with my... Continue Reading →
The Reason I am Excited about Fifty Shades of Grey
My family went to see a movie together on Christmas Day and watched several three minute trailers for upcoming movies, as you do. When we see a movie, we usually react to the future films, making faces or nodding in agreement that we're going to see that one. The advertisement for Fifty Shades of Grey... Continue Reading →
Not Not a Negative
We were driving in our neighborhood several years ago and saw a girl in my daughter’s grade taking a walk. I vaguely knew the child’s family and I also knew that she was very popular at school so I asked my child, “Is so-and-so a nice girl?” Her response was quick, “Well, she’s not not... Continue Reading →
Great and Terrible
Last year was a tough year in our house. We had teens that were struggling, but who were not talking to us about it. The result was that one got into a pretty big mess and pulled others into it, as well. I won't go into detail because it's not my journey, although as the... Continue Reading →
PG-13 or Rated R?
Suppose an investigator walked through your house without you being there, gathering clues about who you are as a family. What would they conclude? If a MPAA rating were to be placed on the environment, what would it be? Consider the books being read, the movies and TV shows ingested and the language and tone... Continue Reading →
Why
I am attending a funeral today for a nineteen year old who committed suicide. Please look around and notice the teens that God has placed in your life. See them, and tell them that you see them. Then listen to them as much as they will talk. Then speak hope and life into them. Please... Continue Reading →
Teen Wisdom
A secret to parenting your teenager? Refuse to get on the roller coaster with her. Be willing to stand on solid ground and watch her ride, waving as she goes by. But never, ever strap yourself in beside her. Your teen doesn't really want someone sitting next to her, she needs someone who is stable... Continue Reading →
Our Teens Still Take Time Outs
When our children were little, a time out was the symbol of trouble, somebody had pushed Mom past the point of understanding and they needed to take a break. Truth was that break usually as much for me as them. These days my teens still take time outs. Some more often than others, depending on... Continue Reading →
More Picnics
This past weekend our church celebrated its 5th anniversary. We had a Celebration Service, looking back at what God has done over the years and looking forward to where He will move in the future. Afterwards there was a big picnic with food and games. I love a celebration; give me a birthday or anniversary... Continue Reading →
Step Up to the Cliff
Last year our oldest daughter was a couple of months from graduating from high school and she was ready to get on with life. Plans were set in motion for college, deposits had been made and we were shopping for dorm supplies when an opportunity arose. A family friend knew of a couple traveling to... Continue Reading →