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 that God had someone else in mind for him. “Someday you will meet a girl who you will love even more than Mommy. She will think you’re special too, and will love you more than anybody else, and you will want to live with her for the rest of your life.” “Oh!” His face lit. “I’m going to marry Grandma!” *** I’m not…
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…
The Great Zucchini Debate
Some Families Debate Politics, We Argue Over Vegetables “Look at the size of this one!” Many summer memories on my in-laws’ farm featured Dad emerging triumphant from the garden, holding an enormous zucchini aloft. Mom, on the…
Jack Misses His Breakfast
A Tale of Overthinking “Here, Jack! Here, Kitty, Kitty!” I shake the bowl so the kibbles rattle against the sides. “Jack-Jack! Come get your breakfast!” Most days, my cats come running within a few minutes of being…
