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 [...]

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 [...]

“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 [...]