Category Archives: Parenting

3 Things Parents Can Do to Help Their Kids Succeed (Part 1 of 3)

If I could go back and whisper something to 30-something-year-old me, it might sound like this list. It’s my personal Top Ten List of Things Parents Can Do to Help Their Children Succeed (or, how to raise kids that don’t suck). Today, the first three things I believe every parent can do to help their kids grow into strong, grounded, capable adults.

When You Can’t Be Everything, Be Present

I’m learning I don’t have to be everything for everyone. I just have to be present—to my people, to the moment, and to the God who holds what I can’t. That’s where grace lives.

The Best Moments Are the Ones You Don’t Plan

Sometimes the moments that matter most aren’t the ones we plan. They’re the quiet, ordinary ones—like pancakes on a Saturday—that leave the deepest imprint. This post is a reminder that the real magic happens in the in-between.

Being a Dad to Older Kids is Weird

Becoming a father for the first time 25 years ago, the author felt unprepared for the emotional challenges of parenting. Managing his children’s diverse emotions was tough, and he realized that his older kids don’t always want to hear his advice. Despite this, he finds solace in the hope that they’ll appreciate his wisdom one day.

Would You Win Back Time for Me?

The author expresses feelings of “melancholiday” – a mix of sadness and joy during the holiday season, especially on what they call their “First Last Christmas”. The family is preparing for a significant change, as eldest daughter Audrey is set to marry, altering their longtime holiday traditions. The author reflects on the importance of cherishing time with loved ones and intends to focus more on present moments, despite nostalgic feelings.

3 Rules Every Family Should Live By

Since our eldest was born 23 years ago, Robyn and I have realized there are many things people say children should learn, many things parents should focus on to ensure their kids turn out great, to have a happy family.  We’ve tried a few of them. Some of them have worked, but many of themContinue reading “3 Rules Every Family Should Live By”

3 Things Every Dad Should Do

What’s interesting in the lead up to the big moment of parenthood is that you learn all about how to have a baby.  You learn how to breathe, what happens at the hospital, all the options for pain management. How to have a baby is a big deal, sure. But nobody tells you how toContinue reading “3 Things Every Dad Should Do”

You Don’t Have to Build a Rollercoaster

My favorite Disney cartoons of the past few years have been the ones about close family relationships.  The “What are we going to do today?” question of Phineas & Ferb wouldn’t have been nearly as memorable without the genuine affection their sister Candace and their parents had for the inventive kids.  Gravity Falls‘ weird and wonderfulContinue reading “You Don’t Have to Build a Rollercoaster”

“Inside Out” May Very Well Be Pixar’s Greatest Film

While I love Woody and Buzz and McQueen and Mater and Sulley and Mike, they all take a back seat to the two standout heroines of Inside Out.  A film set in the mind of an eleven year old girl, Pixar’s latest is easily its most difficult, its most cerebral (literally), and its most deeply felt.Continue reading ““Inside Out” May Very Well Be Pixar’s Greatest Film”