We Can TRY Not to be Too Dorky

As a rule, I do not try purposefully to embarrass my kids (which is more than I think I can say for them); in general, I try to be solid, reasonable, and not too much of an out-of-touch dork, but I think single parents can get confused and the boundaries can get blurred–we might end up either trying too hard to be our child’s “buddy” or we may get so involved in our own life that we come across as embarrassing and dorky. Of course, as our children become teenagers, they are supposed to find their parents a bit out … Continue reading

Try to Instill Confidence

Even after years of what I consider “successful” single parenting, I am dismayed to report that my children still occasionally worry. I am not sure where it comes from since I have always taken care of them and they have never really wanted for any of the basics. I think they are old enough now to be starting to realize what it takes to hold things together and they occasionally will say things like “We’re doing alright, right mom?” It always catches me off guard since I have done everything in my power to portray an air of strength and … Continue reading

Exploring Homeschool Methods

Finding a homeschool method that fits your family will focus your homeschool and improve the educational experience. I spent a few years exploring methods before deciding on the one that suited my family the best. Since that moment, my children and I have benefited in numerous ways. I encourage you to research the methods for yourself. A lack of vision and focus, as with any endeavor will result in failure and frustration. However, choosing a method should not be frustrating; it should be a natural fit into your family’s lifestyle. The method is simply framework for how your homeschool is … Continue reading

It’s Okay to Say No

Have you ever stuggled with someone in your church or community asking you to do a job you feel almost compelled to say yes to? I have. This week, within the space of ten minutes, my husband and I were asked by two people to undertake two different jobs within our church. We’ve been thinking for a while about what tasks God has for us in this new church. A couple of thoughts had surfaced but no clear direction, so we were still praying through the issue. Then the two phone calls came. In each case we found out what … Continue reading

Practical Lessons from Hezekiah

If you want practical lessons about life, look at the example of Hezekiah.One of the first facts we learn about Hezekiah is that, ‘He did what was right in the eyes of the Lord,’ 2 Chronicles 29:2. At the beginning of his reign, he re-opened the temple and restored worship of the Lord. He recognized that the unfaithfulness of Israel and the way they had turned their backs on the Lord, had caused evil to come to them, 2 Chronicles 29:6-9. Hezekiah decreed that he intended making a covenant with God. He called the people to consecrate themselves. Hezekiah then … Continue reading

Reassurance is a Skill

I think that the ability to reassure our children is one of the most oft-used and important skills in parenting–and, I do think it is a skill that can be practiced and nurtured. We start out with our tiny babies, needing to instill confidence and let them know that we will be there to meet their needs and look after them whatever arises–BUT, as our children grow and head out into the world, it is often our reassurance that keeps them moving forward and fosters their resiliency. Reassuring our child means letting him know that we have confidence that everything … Continue reading