Building Traditions That Bond

For blending families, there are a lot of “but we always did it this way” challenges that come during the Christmas season, whether it’s about food, gift giving, visiting and traveling, or even decorating. Younger children may adapt… Read More

When Christmases Clash

The Christmas season can reveal differences between the two of you that didn’t even know you had, and this time of year can even exacerbate the differences you already know you have. When you’re aware of your holiday… Read More

Talking About the Holidays

Lots of emotions, obligations, and sometimes unreasonable expectations come with the holidays, and when it comes to understanding those things, mind reading doesn’t often work too well during this time of year…or anytime, for that matter. So it’s critical… Read More

My Picture Book Critique Group

Each month I meet with my critique group, and I love it. Each of us is working specifically on picture books, and we are all learning a lot about this special area of writing. We hone each other’s work…. Read More

Loving Words

“Do everything in love,” 1 Cor 16:13-14. My precious husband, Dale, and I just celebrated our 12th wedding anniversary. What a joyful journey it’s been being married to a man who tries his best to do everything in… Read More

The Adventure of Thankfulness

For the past few years I’ve been doing the “30 Days of Thankfulness” challenge, posting what I’m thankful for each day of November. Maybe next year you can join me in this adventure or at least the rest… Read More

My Favorite Playground

When I’m with my granddaughters, one of our favorite things to do is to go to a playground. Their imagination goes wild! Swings let them fly like birds. Slides let them soar like a dolphin in the blue… Read More

Blessings

So much of our Christian walk has to do with “…knowing that tribulation brings about perseverance; and perseverance, proven character; and proven character, hope; and hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out… Read More

Teamwork

The characters in my novel faced lots of changes in their marriage, and I’m guessing you face lots of changes in your marriage as well. But as we embrace those changes together, seek to understand ourselves and our… Read More

A High View of Blending Family Life

When there are kids in the home, it’s often critical for you as a couple to take a long-term view of family life. Yes, in the short term, you’ll probably be sacrificing many of your wants and desires—and… Read More