Over the years, we’ve shared many stories that have encouraged us as parents—but this one has become one of our favorites during the holiday season. Each time we revisit it, we are reminded of the quiet, powerful ways children absorb what we model and how wonderfully God works through the simplest moments. A few Christmas seasons ago, a mom and dear friend of ours took her two boys, along with their aunt and cousin, on [...]
“OneFamily has been such a steady source of encouragement for us—reminding us that we’re not alone in this journey and giving us real tools to strengthen our marriage and deepen our family connection. We’re deeply grateful for the OneFamily community and the many ways they’ve poured into our lives and the lives of so many others.” For us, OneFamily, helping families thrive is at the center of everything we do. Every day, we equip parents [...]
We’ve all experienced it – the time when you thoughtfully held a door open for some stranger and they walked through it without a thought, as if you were born to serve them. What didn’t happen? Sure, the smallest of expressions, a simple “Thank you”. A teeny courtesy acknowledging this small gift you gave them didn’t take place. But more importantly, underneath that rote childhood learned response, the person would have needed to be aware [...]
When our boys were about six and four years old, we started a new family tradition that completely changed the way we connected as a family. Little did we know that this simple idea would spark countless meaningful conversations, create cherished memories, and strengthen our relationships with our kids in ways we never imagined! One of Rich’s favorite memories growing up was visiting his grandparents. On their kitchen table sat a small yellow box filled [...]
“Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.” (James 1:2-4) At some point you will be releasing your children into a world filled with adult challenges; they will certainly face situations requiring resilience despite feeling down-hearted. Whether facing finals week when sick, or social engagements [...]
Thanksgiving is just three weeks away, and the holiday season is beginning to stir with its familiar rhythm of preparation, reflection, and anticipation. For our family, Thanksgiving has always been more than a meal or a gathering—it’s been an intentional moment to anchor ourselves in gratitude and to make thankfulness a defining part of our Family Identity. When our boys were five and three, we started a simple tradition. Each Thanksgiving, like many families, we’d [...]
Why Teaching Courtesy Matters A child’s behavior often reflects the values and training they’ve received at home. When children act out or behave in ways that embarrass us, it’s usually not because they’re “bad” — but because they haven’t yet been guided in how to act courteously. For us, we realized that our constant need to correct or restrain our kids stemmed from our own lack of intentional leadership in teaching moral courtesies and practical [...]
We are HUGE football fans! In fact, our family has held Denver Broncos season tickets since 1968. With the college and pro football seasons underway, we’re reminded of a powerful coaching philosophy that applies far beyond the field: Are you playing to win—or playing not to lose? In football, there’s a strategy called the “Prevent Defense.” Coaches often use this late in the game to protect a lead. It’s designed to allow short-yardage plays that [...]
If you really want to learn something – teach it to someone else. Aimless, often lacking an engaged father, addicted to the visual reality of screen pleasures (video games, doom scrolling, and porn), shamed by society’s bias against masculinity, unable to desire or risk female intimacy. Drifting in an endless state going nowhere. There are millions of Charlie Kirk’s “Lost Boys”. [From Erika Kirk at Charlie’s Memorial: “Charlie passionately wanted to reach and save the [...]
Our mindset plays a powerful role in shaping our happiness and success in every area of life. In today’s world—where we’re constantly exposed to social media, 24/7 news, and a nonstop flow of information—this influence is more intense than ever. Navigating uncertainty, discouragement, and tough times demands real emotional strength. Many of us have felt the weight of increased stress and anxiety, and if left unchecked, it can show up in harmful ways. Parents often [...]