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the little children
My children don’t carry the burden of things unaccomplished. They don’t yet know the meaning of the ticking clock. To them, the sun’s journey across the sky only means more or less light in which to play. They do not ponder the repercussions of what they do or don’t do, but rather drift along the day’s current like little leaves. They are not bound by internal expectations. They do that which amuses them, Pursue what interests them, And submit to their own needs. They sleep when they’re tired, eat when they’re hungry, cry when they’re sad, laugh when they’re amazed at the little things I forget to see as amazing.…
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How Hygge Can Help your Family
Dozens of candles are lit. Soft instrumental music is playing. Your house is filled with the scent of stove-popped popcorn and you can taste the warm vanilla in your cup of hot tea. Your family enjoys a simple snack together at the dining room table while playing a game. Then, you move to the living room and pile onto the couch, snuggled under blankets. There’s laughter, coziness, togetherness. This is hygge. What is Hygge? “In essence, hygge means creating a warm atmosphere and enjoying the good things in life with good people. The warm glow of candlelight is hygge. Cozying up with a loved one for a movie – that’s…
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15 Non-Fiction Books for Your Christmas List (Plus, a Gift for the Mama with no Time to Read)
What’s on your Christmas list this year? I know, Mama. You probably haven’t taken a lot of time to think about it. You’re busy shopping for your kids, your husband, your parents, your neighbors. But what would you like for Christmas? A cleaning service, a massage, a bottomless cup of hot coffee, some uninterrupted alone time? Consider adding a non-fiction book to your Christmas list. Reading is a great way to learn, gain perspective, and care for yourself. I have been on a non-fiction reading kick ever since I became a mom, and I can’t get enough. Here are eleven books I’ve read, appreciated, and impacted my life over my…
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Everyday Gratitude
In a few days, Thanksgiving will be over. But giving thanks doesn’t have to be. I love Thanksgiving. Not only do I enjoy the fun, food, feasting, and fellowship, but I think it’s beautiful to have a season in which we reflect on what we are thankful for. It forces us to be reflective, permits us to recognize how much we’ve been blessed. I think it also makes us all a bit more cheerful; focusing on the positive things in life is good for us. It makes us more patient with our kids, more appreciative of our spouses, more optimistic about humanity in general. But a few months from…
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‘Tis the Season…to Get Rid of your Kid’s Stuff
Have you ever walked into a home that felt more like a toy store than a place of residence? Is, perhaps, your home that way? If so, it’s easy to understand. We live in a materialistic, commercial culture where more is better and overstimulation is the norm. The problem is, more actually isn’t better, and an excess of stuff is taking a toll on American families. Simplicity Parenting A few months ago, I read Simplicity Parenting: Using the Extraordinary Power of Less to Raise Calmer, Happier, and More Secure Kids by Kim John Payne. It was informative and convicting, and one of the main things Payne addresses is the issue…
