We’re Related Now (But I Still Don’t Know What to Call You)
Now that we have in-law children, we also have in-law families: parents, siblings, grandparents, aunts and uncles, both related and honorary. What we lack is an easy way to refer to all of them. As I’m anticipating hosting the extended branches of our family for the holidays, I have teasingly called them “the in-laws and the outlaws.” But I am daunted to think of introducing all of those people to one another without cumbersome explanations of who belongs to whom. “Hey, I’d like you to meet my son-in-law’s brother’s fiancee, who is my daughter’s future sister-in-law,” or “This is my…
Learning a New Rhythm of Life
It’s Lent. Often during this season I undertake some type of fast, setting aside a habit or a routine from my normal rhythm of life in order to focus more on God. But this year — my…
How to Help Your Kids Find Suitable Spouses
“Mommy, I’m going to marry you when I grow up!” My three-year-old son blurted out this declaration one night during his bedtime routine. “Silly boy,” I said. “I’m already married to Daddy.” I went on to explain…
If Parenting Had Do-Overs
Being an empty-nest parent is like being a Monday morning quarterback. You find yourself looking back on a game you’ve already played, and analyzing what you could have done differently. Prior to motherhood, I was a reasonably…
If My Nest is Empty, Why is My Basement Still Full?
With both our kids married and living in their own homes, my husband and I have officially joined the ranks of “empty nesters.” Can I just say I’m not sold on this label? I understand the reference;…
Five Things That are Smarter Than Me
I consider myself a reasonably intelligent person. I can balance my checkbook, hard boil an egg, and navigate using real maps. I’m teachable and love to learn new things. I can re-light the pilot on the water…
The Quest for King Crab
Adventures from summer vacation We landed in Juneau knowing that there were only 32 hours left of king crab season. Fish and Game never gives much notice when and how long the season will be open, and…
