My brother-in-law Jared Bangs is a fiery redheaded Baptist pastor with a killer sense of humor and four beautiful kids. He visited us in southern California a couple of Aprils ago, and our neighbors found him swimming in our condo complex’s frigid, unheated pool. “What’s wrong with him?” they asked. “He’s from Minnesota,” I replied. Our … More Today is a Good Day * Advent Devotional
1. Baby clothes are basically disposable I spent HOURS picking out clothing for my firstborn. Did I really want him to wear plaid? What type of plaid? Was tartan really HIM, or was he more of a stripes kid? You guys, baby clothes are cute and adorable and lovely and sweet and sooooo not worth having … More 6 Things I Wish I Knew Before Having Kids
Living in southern California, we’ve gotten to enjoy quite a few days at Disneyland. Kids are free until they’re three (“Mickey’s guests,” in Disney-speak!), and taking little ones to the parks never loses its magic. Still, we’ve learned that there are ways to make a Disney trip much more enjoyable and avoid making it an exercise … More 10 Tips for Enjoying Disneyland with Kiddos
Because let’s face it, we all need a tune-up now and then! 1. Say “I’m sorry” first I am terrible at this one.I’ll admit it. I like to wait until I’m feeling it. This is a mistake. Don’t wait. Admit you were wrong. Admit it even if it was a mistake. Admit it even if your … More 10 Ways to Boost Your Marriage
A few months ago, Daryl and I arrived home in separate cars around the same time. He parallel parked (we live in a townhouse and park on the street outside) and walked over to me, a big grin on his face, his arms open wide for a hug. I couldn’t meet his gaze. My … More Chin Up * 10 Minute Devotional
You guys, it is FINISHED. Over. Done. At last. At loooooong last. No, I’m not talking about the area road construction (ha!), the nasty election season (grooooan…), or even some cosmic Jesus-y thing. I’m talking dissertation. Not mine, since I’m not in the mood for a PhD (now or possibly ever). My hardworking, faithful, diligent … More 10 Signs You’re a PhD Spouse
Do you have a newborn? Dying for some sleep? Good news! Here are 10 foolproof methods for getting your baby to sleep through the night. 1. Put your baby down to sleep at the perfect moment Watch your baby like a hawk. Did she wrinkle her nose like she might be sleepy? Put her down immediately. Are … More 10 Ways to Get Your Baby to Sleep
My oldest son has just started asking questions about disabilities. Whether it’s why we can’t park in the handicapped spot at the pool to what happened to his little friend at preschool who uses leg braces, I’ve been looking for thoughtful resources to help him understand differences and disabilities. Enter Courtney Westlake. This author, blogger, and … More Top 10 Children’s Books About Differences and Disabilities
Oh man, you guys. School starts here in a week. A WEEK! Anyone else having a bazillion thoughts running through their brains, including but not limited to: AAAAAAAHHH!!! WHERE DID SUMMER GO?! 2. Did we make the most of every magical moment? Were any moments actually magical? Were too many of them magical? Did I WASTE THIS … More Back to School Mommy Link Round-up
This guest post was written by the gracious and gifted Kelly Smith of Mrs. Disciple. Check her out, yo. Do you ever felt like your mommy head might explode? Be it a colicky baby, a mischievous middle child, or a sassy-mouthed teen, sometimes our kids push us to the limit. Add the housework, responsibilities outside the home, and the … More 10 Things to Do When Mommy Needs a Time-Out
Courtney Ellis 