One day I’ll be thankful that my kid is strong willed but that will not be today, not in this grocery store.-Unknown

Does your child fight nearly everything you do and say? Bath time, naptime, mealtime, and all the times in-between? Is your patience constantly being tested and you feel like you’re always trying to figure out a more effective way to parent your little one? Oh boy, can I relate!

My four-year-old officially stopped napping this summer. Not because he was ready to move on from them, but because he knows his big brothers are home from school. When I asked why he wasn’t sleeping for the millionth time, he matter-of-factly informed me that he wouldn’t be able to nap while they were home. I tried explaining why naps were good and helped his brain and body calm down, I tried telling him that he had to sleep or else, I told him that his brothers took naps when they were four. Did any of this help to change his mind? Nope. Instead, my sweet but strong-willed child told me I couldn’t make him sleep and that he was never closing his eyes again. If you’ve got what they call a “spirited” child, this probably sounds very familiar.

This isn’t our first rodeo with a spirited child; our first son was/is very similar. With him, we were in complete shock that none of the classic parenting methods seemed to work. Kids with this temperament tend to be more persistent, sensitive, intense, curious, and perceptive (according to Dr. Mary Sheedy Kurcinka in Raising Your Spirited Child). With all the labels in today’s world, my husband and I often joke that “spirited” is just a nicer way of saying, difficult. It’s true, this personality type is often very difficult to parent. It can be exhausting in so many ways. They tend to require the bare minimum when it comes to sleep, for one. Their big emotions sometimes make it feel like you’re trapped in an insane asylum as you try to reason with them. Kiddos with this temperament pick up on everything, can become fixated on something and refuse to give up, and can sometimes have very strong reactions with seemingly no warning.

The reason it feels like a whole new (and even more exhausting) ball game this time around is that unlike with the oldest, our four-year-old is living in a much fuller home and has lots of big brothers to mimic and argue with.

By the time dinner rolls around, my older kids are usually asking, “Has he had his nap today?! Mom-he needs a nap!”.  One of them even asked a few weeks ago if we could send him to boarding school. After refusing to eat his dinner, I was frustrated and asked him how it felt to never eat to which he replied, “It feels good!”.

On another stressful day and after countless time-outs, I thought it would be a great reset to take a walk with just the two of us, through our neighborhood. He fought me while I held his hand to cross the road and when we reached the sidewalk, I asked him why he was trying to pull away. He didn’t even hesitate to give me an honest answer. “Because you’re trying to control me!” was his reply. Even though he usually loves holding my hand, he realized that was just one more thing he could fight for control on.  Below the defiant exterior, he eventually gets overwhelmed and sad just like everyone else. He’s just able to hide it for a really long time while he goes to war with all of his family members. Sure, all toddlers and preschoolers have their defiant moments. They’re learning, they’re pushing boundaries, they are trying to figure out their place in the world.

Yes, there are certain things you can try to do with kids this age to help things run more smoothly. Parenting books are full of ideas and from what I’ve seen, often suggest that kids struggling with control need more options. That can be true, definitely. However, even implementing more options for my more challenging kids rarely seems to change the outcome. For example, my four-year-old can brush his teeth with supervision, but I still help to make sure he got them clean enough. I tell him I’ll put the toothpaste on and then he can help brush. To which he often responds, “No, I want to do it. I know how.” I tell him that toothpaste is a parent’s job and that he can help brush, but instead of complying, he reacts by telling me he isn’t brushing and seals his lips together.

I say he should wear pajama pants to bed because he might get cold, he disagrees and wears shorts. We ask him to sit on the stairs to get his shoes on, so he sits just out of reach and says he likes the other step better. I say he can’t roll his window down in the car because it’s raining, he says he wants the rain on his face and likes to be wet and cold. I say he should wear a hat because it’s so sunny, he says he likes the sun in his eyes.

You get the picture. It can be really tough and wearing to navigate, especially when you mix in the sibling dynamics and bickering. Even when my little guy isn’t fighting me, he is usually fighting his brothers and everything can quickly descend into chaos. If your child is always early to rise, demands to do everything themselves, and makes it feel like you’re living with a teenager from the age they can walk-you more than likely have a spirited child.

Two of my kids have completely different personalities from my more spirited children. That doesn’t mean they’re better, it just means that our two with bigger emotions tend to need us differently. Every child is unique, but we can still be as consistent as possible. Hopefully, understanding the quirks and challenges that come with raising more persistent, intuitive, and sensitive children will help us react in ways that calm the situation rather than aggravate it. For what it’s worth, I have learned that children with spirited temperaments tend to thrive with more activity and steady routines. At the end of the day, my little guy loves even more fiercely than he fights. He can be thoughtful and empathetic, cares deeply for animals, helps others when they’re hurt, and is extremely protective of his family (even the brothers that he goes to war with). I have no doubt that the traits that sometimes make him difficult to parent, are the very same traits that will become strengths when he is an adult. His intense curiosity, strong-will, and perseverance are a gift, even if they feel like more of a curse sometimes in these younger years. The same little boy that fights me at every turn and makes steam come out of my ears is the same one who knew I had a headache the other day, put his head against mine, and said, “I’m trying to give it to me instead of you.”

A few things that absolutely help when it comes to raising not-so-easy little ones, are patience and choosing your battles. Both can be very difficult, especially when you’re at your wits-end with your child’s fighting spirit. Pray for peace in your heart and home, for patience and discernment in your parenting, and for strength in the stressful and exhausting moments. Ask them for forgiveness when you lose your temper no matter how young they are and trust God’s plan in giving you these children to raise. Hang in there, mom. Your spirited child loves you to infinity and beyond, and there is no one more qualified for the job.

So, as those who have been chosen of God, holy and beloved, put on a heart of compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience. -Colossians 3:12

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Read more of Maria’s contributions to AllMomDoes here.

1.  “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God.  I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” Isaiah 41:10

2.  “When I am afraid, I put my trust in you.” Psalm 56:3

3.  “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.  And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:6-7

4.  “Peace is what I leave with you; it is my own peace that I give you. I do not give it as the world does. Do not be worried and upset; do not be afraid.” John 14:27

5.  “For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.” 2 Timothy 1:7

6.  “There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in love.” 1 John 4:18

7.  “When anxiety was great within me, your consolation brought joy to my soul.” Psalm 94:19

8.  “But now, this is what the Lord says…Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have summoned you by name; you are mine.” Isaiah 43:1

9.  “An anxious heart weighs a man down, but a kind word cheers him up.” Proverbs 12:25

10. “Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.” Psalm 23:4

11. “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” Joshua 1:9

12. “Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.” Matthew 6:34

13. “Humble yourselves, then, under God’s mighty hand, so that he will lift you up in his own good time.  Leave all your worries with him, because he cares for you.” 1 Peter 5:6-7

14. “Tell everyone who is discouraged, Be strong and don’t be afraid! God is coming to your rescue…” Isaiah 35:4

15. “Do not worry about your life, what you will eat; or about your body, what you will wear.  Life is more than food, and the body more than clothes.  Consider the ravens: They do not sow or reap, they have no storeroom or barn; yet God feeds them. And how much more valuable you are than birds!  Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to his life?  Since you cannot do this very little thing, why do you worry about the rest?” Luke 12:22-26

16. “The Lord is my light and my salvation—whom shall I fear?  The Lord is the stronghold of my life—of whom shall I be afraid?” Psalm 27:1

17. “Cast your cares on the Lord and he will sustain you; he will never let the righteous fall.” Psalm 55:22

18. “Immediately he spoke to them and said, ‘Take courage! It is I. Don’t be afraid.’” Mark 6:50

19. “Be strong and courageous.  Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you.” Deuteronomy 31:6

20. “’For I am the Lord, your God, who takes hold of your right hand and says to you, Do not fear; I will help you.  Do not be afraid, for I myself will help you,’ declares the Lord, your Redeemer, the Holy One of Israel.” Isaiah 41:13-14

21. “God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.” Psalm 46:1

22. “The Lord is with me; I will not be afraid.  What can man do to me?  The Lord is with me; he is my helper.” Psalm 118:6-7

23. “Fear of man will prove to be a snare, but whoever trusts in the Lord is kept safe.” Proverbs 29:25

24. “He got up, rebuked the wind and said to the waves, “Quiet! Be still!” Then the wind died down and it was completely calm.  He said to his disciples, “Why are you so afraid? Do you still have no faith?” Mark 4:39-40

25. “The angel of the Lord encamps around those who fear him, and he delivers them.” Psalm 34:7

26. “But even if you suffer for doing what is right, God will reward you for it. So don’t worry or be afraid of their threats.” 1 Peter 3:14

27. “I prayed to the Lord, and he answered me.  He freed me from all my fears.” Psalm 34:4

28. “Do not be afraid of them; the Lord your God himself will fight for you.” Deuteronomy 3:22

29. “Then he placed his right hand on me and said: ‘Do not be afraid. I am the First and the Last.’” Revelation 1:17

30. “Jesus told him, ‘Don’t be afraid; just believe.’” Mark 5:36

31. “And I am convinced that nothing can ever separate us from God’s love. Neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither our fears for today nor our worries about tomorrow—not even the powers of hell can separate us from God’s love.” Romans 8:38-39

32. “The Lord your God is in your midst, A victorious warrior. He will exult over you with joy, He will be quiet in His love, He will rejoice over you with shouts of joy.” Zephaniah 3:17

33. “He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty.  I will say of the Lord, “He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.”…He will cover you with his feathers, and under his wings you will find refuge; his faithfulness will be your shield and rampart.  You will not fear the terror of night, nor the arrow that flies by day, nor the pestilence that stalks in the darkness, nor the plague that destroys at midday.  A thousand may fall at your side, ten thousand at your right hand, but it will not come near you…For he will command his angels concerning you, to guard you in all your ways…“Because he loves me,” says the Lord, “I will rescue him; I will protect him, for he acknowledges my name.  He will call upon me, and I will answer him; I will be with him in trouble, I will deliver him and honor him…” from Psalm 91:1-16

Do you need prayer? If you are struggling and need a community to surround you, I’d love to invite you to check out our prayer community. Post your prayer request and pray over others. It is a great faith builder!

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One of my favorite ways to tackle anxiety in my own life is through worship music! So, here is a list of 20 worship songs that have helped me turn my eyes to Jesus and brought me so much peace when I have been in my darkest moments. I hope you can use these as a tool to calm your anxiety and focus on Jesus.

Warrior – Hannah Kerr

“You’ll never stop me, I’m a warrior, when I fall down I’ll get stronger, faith is my shield, your love is the armor.”

Eye of the Storm – Ryan Stevenson

“In the eye of the storm, You remain in control, in the middle of the war, You guard my soul, You alone are the anchor, when my sails are torn, Your love surrounds me, in the eye of the storm.”

Stand In Your Love – Josh Baldwin

“My fear doesn’t stand a chance when I stand in your love”

Love Has a Name – Jesus Culture feat. Kim Walker Smith

“We will fix our eyes on the one who overcame. We will stand in awe of the one who breaks the chains. Love has a name, Jesus!”

 Praise You Through the Storm – Casting Crowns

“And every tear I’ve cried, You hold in your hand, You never left my side, and though my heart is torn, I will praise you in this storm.”

Reckless Love – Cory Asbury

“Oh, the overwhelming, never-ending, reckless love of God, oh, it chases me down, fights ’til I’m found, leaves the ninety-nine, I couldn’t earn it, and I don’t deserve it, still, You give Yourself away, oh, the overwhelming, never-ending, reckless love of God”

Scars – I Am They

“So I’m thankful for the scars, cause without them I wouldn’t know your heart, and I know they’ll always tell of who you are, so forever I am thankful for the scars.”

The Father’s House – Cory Asbury

“Love is breaking through when the Father’s in the room! Lay your burdens down, here in the Father’s house. Check your shame at the door cause it ain’t welcome anymore!”

Anchor of Peace – North Point Worship

“Oh you don’t have to look no farther, He’s the hope that you need, oh if your sails are torn and tattered, and the storm just won’t cease, take hold of the hand of the Saviour, He’s the anchor of peace.”

Ceasefire – for KING & COUNTRY

“I will be the first to say I’m far from perfect, but grace was made for those who don’t deserve it”

Lord of My Life – Matt Maher

“Every step I take, always by my side, I am yours, you are mine, be the Lord of my life.”

Waymaker – Michael W. Smith

“Waymaker, miracle worker, promise keeper, light in the darkness, my God, that is who you are.”

Not Today- Hillsong United

“Let the Devil know not today!’”

 God Only Knows- For King & Country

“God only knows what you’ve been through, God only knows what they say about you, God only knows the real you, but there’s a kind of love that God only knows!”

Peace Be Still – Hope Darst

“Peace be still, you are here so it is well, even when my eyes can’t see, I will trust the voice that speaks!”

Control – For King & Country

“I give up control; body, mind, and soul. Can’t do this on my own, alone, no.”

I Will Fear No More – The Afters

“You’re my courage when I worry in the dead of night, You’re my strength ’cause I’m not strong enough to win this fight, You are greater than the battle raging in my mind, I will trust You, Lord, I will fear no more”

Rescue- Lauren Daigle

“I hear you whisper underneath your breath, I hear your SOS, your SOS. I will send out an army to find you in the middle of the darkest night, it’s true, I will rescue you.”

You’re Gonna Be Okay – Jenn Johnson

“Hold on, don’t let go, just take one step closer, put one foot in front of the other, you’ll get through this, just follow the light in the darkness, you’re gonna be ok”

No Longer Slaves – Jonathan David and Melissa Helser, Bethel Music

“I’m no longer a slave to fear, I am a child of God.”

BONUS! Choosing only 20 songs is impossible because there are SO many great songs out there that could easily make this list. However, I only have 20 spots to fill. BUT I’m breaking the rules and giving you ONE more. The last song on this list is… Cover the Earth by Kari Jobe and her husband, Cody Carnes. I promise this song will make you want to sing along at the top of your lungs.

Next time you feel consumed by anxiety and worry, use these songs as a tool. In Psalm 105:2 it says “Sing to him, sing praises to him; tell of all his wondrous works!” God wants us to come before Him in worship, no matter how we are feeling. When we come to Him in worship with our fears, He hears our cries and does work in our lives.

]]> https://www.allmomdoes.com/blog/20-worship-songs-to-help-you-fight-fear-anxiety/feed/ 0 https://www.allmomdoes.com/blog/talking-with-kids-about-tragedy-traumatic-events/ https://www.allmomdoes.com/blog/talking-with-kids-about-tragedy-traumatic-events/#respond Sun, 26 Jul 2026 16:54:37 +0000 Rebecca Joy 2026-07-27T03:48:33+00:00 https://d955.cms.socastsrm.com/?p=42996 Getty | fizkes Recent events have me looking at my children wondering how to talk to them about tragedy and the difficulties of this world. I’m grateful for resources that can help us as we try to grapple with hard stuff. In order to equip you with your own children, we’ve compiled some resources from trusted professionals.

Questions to Help Guide Hard Conversations

• What are you worried or afraid about?
• What are your friends talking and thinking about?
• How have you been affected?
• Talk about your core values. We hold on to the hope of Christ.
• Allow children to express their emotions. Remind them that having a lot of emotions is normal.
• Remind your child that you are there if they want to talk at any time.
• It’s okay to not have the answers, but you can still share how you struggle with your child and where you look for that hope and security.
• Pray with your child.

Without factual information, children speculate to fill in the empty spaces so it is important that they know you are a safe place to have hard conversations. Reassure them. Encourage your child to share their feelings by sharing your feelings (in an age appropriate way!) Remember to look for the good. There is always heroism in the face of tragedy.

Strategies by Age Group

Ages Birth to 6

No media exposure to major traumatic events. Children at this age draw love and support from their parents so if they guardians feel safe, children will as well. Speak calmly about bad things. Parents should maintain a sense of calmness.

Ages 6-12

Children this age are more aware of the world around them, yet still need moms and dads to shield them from most of the bad news in our world. Very limited exposure to the media is recommended at this stage, with more open discussions about any fears or insecurities that the child is feeling. Talking is encouraged for this age group, or write letters to emergency workers to thank them for helping the victims. Drawing pictures allows for healthy emotional expression, and something everyone needs is just being held close. A hug can help bring security to a child. Also remember to have special times of prayer. These steps help children better deal with their fears about bad things that happen in the world.

Ages 12-18

Young students have their own impressions of traumatic events. The older they are, the more likely they will have strong opinions, and it is normal for them to process their feelings with friends. This should be balanced with family, teachers, clergy or counselors. They need time to verbally process how they feel about what happened ten years ago. Special emphasis should be placed on helping this age group talk through the issues and how it impacted them and not stay isolated. Silence is a warning sign that the crisis events of the past have been internalized. Strict limits on over exposure of media is essential to prevent anxiety or panic levels from rising.

How to Help Kids After a Tragedy

• Listen carefully and compassionately.
• Spend time with traumatized children. It’s always better to be together than alone after trauma.
• Offer assistance and a listening ear. Reach out to people you haven’t heard from.
• Reassure safety after danger has passed.
• Help with everyday tasks.
• Tragedy produces a lot of emotions. Crisis brings out the best and the worst. Don’t take these feelings personally.
• Never use phrases like “Lucky it wasn’t worse.” Seek to tell them you are sorry the event occurred.
• Connect with compassion and empathy. Avoid trying to ‘fix’ them.
• Utilize professional grief counselors.
• No one gets through a crisis alone. Talking through elevated stress after tragedy is essential.

Signs of Stress

Infants & Toddlers

• Regression in sleeping, toilet training, eating. Slowing down in certain skills.
• Difficulty with sleep.
• Clinginess
• Crankiness, temper tantrums, crying

3-5 Years of Age

• Regression. Returning to security items, lapses in toilet training and other age appropriate behavior.
• Bewildered. Making up fantasy stories.
• Blaming themselves and feeling guilty.
• Bedtime anxiety, fitful sleep, frequent waking.
• Fear of being abandoned. Clinginess. Feelings of not being safe.
• Greater irritability, aggression or temper tantrums

6-8 Years of Age

• Pervasive sadness, specifically if they perceive they will be abandoned or rejected.
• Crying and sobbing
• Afraid of their worst fears coming true. “Catastrophizing”
• Fantasies that the stressful event didn’t happen and that things will just ‘go back to normal.’
• Overactive or over-involved to avoid thinking about stressful issues.
• Feel ashamed of the crisis; or feel they are different from other children because of the crisis.

Adolescents

• Fear of being isolated, lonely
• Fear loss and stability and security from parents leaving them
• Feel hurried to achieve independence party to escape crisis
• Trying to over-achieve to forget the crisis
• Worry about their own future, preoccupied with the survival of stable situations.
• Chronic fatigue, difficulty concentrating. Physical complaints may indicate stuffed emotions.
• Mourn the loss caused by the crisis or begin to understand that life can be a dangerous place.

Coping Skills to Reduce Traumatic Stress

Physical:

• Sleep, (7-9 hours)
• Sleep rituals- Same time to wake up and go to bed
• Predictable daily schedule
• Healthy Diet with Regular mealtimes
• Hydration throughout day
• Nutritional supplements
• Low impact exercise
• Deep breathing
• Relaxation routines/massage or energizing naps
• Regular physical checkups, including blood work
• Medication, (as prescribed by your physician)

Emotional:

• Esteem building exercises, especially with photos or images
• Laughter/Fun/Playtime
• Face anger, anxiety and apathy directly
• Journal out negative emotions
• Let go of painful past memories
• Say “NO” to bad habits
• Talk through issues to get through issues
• Identify and process hurtful emotions
• Write letters to vent out disappointment, (then tear them up)

Relational:

• Face relationship issues
• Voice your needs to others
• Confront conflict directly
• Connect with friends/family
• Share your burdens with others
• Join a support group
• Utilize counseling supports
• Join a hobby group which involves others
• Say “NO” to manipulative behavior
• Hugs/affection, (from pets or students)
• Learn the love language of those close to you

Behavioral

• Daily planning time
• Utilize organizational planners
• Short term goals
• Daily hobbies for enjoyment
• Creative activities for relaxation
• Develop victory list of accomplishments
• Create a bucket list of lifetime goals
• Reading for personal development
• “Pay it forward” to do good for others
• Learn something new everyday
• Take on new challenges
• Leave work stress at work
• Take a training course to gain a new skill

Spiritual:

• Prayer
• Volunteer to help others
• Reading for inspiration
• Forgive those who have wronged you and forgive yourself
• Listen to inspirational music
• Attend spiritual development classes
• Attend inspirational services
• Make prayer a regular part of your day
• Observe a day of rest
• Find a way to get in touch with nature by visiting a state park, lake or beach
• Memorize scripture to develop your soul
• Remember, “Things come to pass – not stay”
• Re-create spiritual peace in quiet places
• Build spiritual strength through meaningful experiences
• Attend prayer vigils to experience greater spiritual and community connection

Sources: Information gathered from resources by Kathleen O’Connell, Dwight Bain, The American Red Cross

If you live in the Pacific Northwest, you’ve probably heard about the larger-than-life wooden trolls tucked away along trails and in parks. They’re whimsical, mysterious, and just magical enough to convince a seven-year-old that maybe—just maybe—they come alive after everyone leaves.

One afternoon, Penny and I decided to go for a walk to find one. The entire way there she buzzed with excitement. “What if it’s bigger than our house?” she asked. “What if it’s real? What if it moves?” I assured her that it wouldn’t move, although I secretly hoped it might blink just once so I could see the expression on her face.

After weaving through the trees, we finally found it.

It was enormous.

Its wooden hands stretched across the forest, its face peeked through the trees, and every carefully carved detail made it feel almost alive. Standing beside it made us feel wonderfully small.

Joanna Gott

Penny stared up at it for a long moment before turning to me and asking, “Mom… is God bigger than the troll?”

I smiled.

“Oh yes,” I replied. “Much bigger.”

She nodded thoughtfully, still looking up at the towering figure. Then she asked another question that stopped me in my tracks.

“How big is God?”

Those are the moments motherhood has given me—the questions no parenting book really prepares you for. Because how do you explain someone who can’t be measured? How do you describe someone who has no beginning or end, who created the universe, but whom you can’t physically point to?

It’s an especially interesting question in a world filled with imaginary characters and magical stories.

Children grow up hearing about Santa Claus, the Tooth Fairy, and the Easter Bunny. They read stories about dragons, unicorns, talking animals, trolls hiding in forests, superheroes with incredible powers, and dinosaurs that once roamed the earth. Some of those things are real. Some are pretend. Some are based on history, while others exist only in imagination.

Then somewhere in the middle of all those stories, we tell them about God.

Only this time we say, “This One is real.”

If you stop and think about it, that’s actually a pretty big concept for a child to grasp. Unlike the troll standing in the woods, we can’t point to God with our finger. Unlike Santa, He doesn’t leave wrapped presents under the tree. Unlike the Tooth Fairy, He doesn’t tuck money beneath a pillow. We teach our children about Someone they can’t physically see but who is more real than anything else they’ll ever know.

We tell them He hears every prayer.

That He created the stars.

That He knows every hair on their head.

That He loves them more deeply than anyone ever could.

That He is always with them.

Those are beautiful truths. But they’re also invisible ones.

The older I’ve gotten, the more I’ve realized that this isn’t just a challenge for children. It’s one we continue wrestling with as adults.

Our questions simply become more sophisticated.

Is God really here?

Can He hear me?

Is He paying attention?

Does He see what I’m walking through?

Has He forgotten me?

As children we wonder, “How big is God?” As adults, we often ask, “Is God big enough for this?”

Big enough for the diagnosis.

Big enough for the financial strain.

Big enough for the broken relationship.

Big enough for the uncertainty.

Big enough for the prayers that seem to echo back in silence.

Maybe that’s why I loved Penny’s question so much. Children have a way of asking the questions adults are quietly carrying in their hearts.

The Bible paints a picture of God’s greatness that stretches far beyond what our minds can fully comprehend. Isaiah writes, “Surely the nations are like a drop in a bucket; they are regarded as dust on the scales.” (Isaiah 40:15). Just a few verses later we’re reminded that God measures the waters in the hollow of His hand and stretches out the heavens like a curtain. The oceans fit within His hand. The stars were spoken into existence by His voice. Mountains are measured by Him.

Suddenly that giant troll didn’t seem quite so giant anymore.

Neither did many of the things that tend to overwhelm me.

Sometimes I think we unintentionally shrink God down to the size of our own understanding. If we can’t see Him working, we assume He isn’t. If we can’t explain what He’s doing, we wonder if He has a plan at all. We measure His ability by our own limitations.

Children don’t do that.

Penny never questioned whether God could be bigger than the troll. She simply assumed He was. She just wanted to know how much bigger.

There’s something incredibly beautiful about that kind of faith.

Jesus understood it too. That’s why He said, “Let the little children come to me… for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.” (Matthew 19:14). Children believe before they fully understand. They trust before they have all the answers. They don’t spend their energy trying to reduce God to something manageable. They simply believe He is who He says He is.

As we turned to leave, Penny looked back one last time at the towering troll.

“God is definitely bigger,” she said matter-of-factly.

I laughed.

“I think you’re right.”

As we walked back through the woods, I couldn’t stop thinking about that simple statement. So many things in life can feel like that giant troll—towering over us, intimidating us, making us feel incredibly small. A difficult diagnosis. A broken dream. Financial uncertainty. Waiting for an answered prayer. Parenting struggles. Grief. Fear of the future.

Maybe the goal isn’t to convince ourselves those things are small.

Maybe the invitation is simply to remember that God is so much bigger.

Bigger than our fears.

Bigger than our doubts.

Bigger than our unanswered questions.

Bigger than the mountains we face.

And yes…

Even bigger than the biggest troll in the Pacific Northwest.

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Read more of Joanna’s contributions to AllMomDoes here.

Last week, I tried having my Bible Devotion in the living room because I heard someone say the children should see you reading your Bible and it sounded like wise advice, so I gave it a try. Let’s just say I now understand why Peter went out all the way onto of the roof top to pray. Out of sight, out of reach and all alone.  Peter went up on the roof of the house to pray. Acts 10:9
I was literally interrupted every 3 minutes. This reminded me of a clip that a friend shared which said the average Mom is interrupted about every 3 minutes.

Finally, I gave up and took my Bible reading to a more secluded place, aka my bathroom. I guess only Daddy has the privilege of reading his Bible in the living room uninterrupted.

On the other hand, I love that the children know that they can come to me anytime for anything and they will have my ear.

However, as they grow and mature, I now need wisdom on how to train them on reading the room, learning how to wait for a more opportune time and how to show respect for what others are doing as well. Teaching them to think of others and not just themselves. To judge and know when it is an emergency and Mom can and should be be interrupted versus when what they have to say can wait until Mom has finished reading her Bible and spending time with God. They like to say if they wait, they will forget, so this training has the added bonus of them acquiring the much needed skill of memory retention.

Where there is a will, there is a way. Having a consistent personal time of Bible reading and prayer may mean getting up half an hour earlier to pray while the children are still sleep, utilizing naptimes and quiet times or the last hour of your day after everyone has gone to bed. What is important is that this vital time with God is consistent.

Just as a father loves his children, So the LORD loves those who fear and worship Him [with awe-filled respect and deepest reverence]. Psalm 103:13

[The LORD answered] “Can a woman forget her nursing child and have no compassion on the son of her womb? Even these may forget, but I will not forget you. Isaiah 49:15

Having children and families was never meant to draw us away from our consistent, intimate communion with our God in Bible reading, worship and prayer. Rather, it serves to give us a deeper understanding of God’s love, devotion and affection for us. The love a parent has for their child is fierce. Think about what you would do for your child, the lengths you would go, now multiply that by a gazillion because that is how fiercely God loves you.

So, if you who are evil know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give good things to those who ask Him! Matthew 7:11

I noticed that once I give the children my complete, undivided attention at the start of the day, no phone, no quick chores while we talk but sitting down with them, making eye contact, hugging them and letting them connect with me deeply fills their tank up. It gives them a sense of grounding and security that we all crave as human beings because we were created for community and family. Once their tank is full, they are more content to go about their own activities like playing or reading a book for a more extended period of time.

May God give us wisdom as Moms and parents on how to strike that balance between holding our children close, which is vital for their sense of belonging and teaching them a grounded sense of independence which they will need to thrive out in the world as adults.

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]]> https://www.allmomdoes.com/blog/motherhood-and-dealing-with-constant-interruptions/feed/ 0 https://purposely.com/podcasts/allmomdoes-podcast/raising-them-well-tired-dad-with-jon-gustin-from-the-archives/ https://purposely.com/podcasts/allmomdoes-podcast/raising-them-well-tired-dad-with-jon-gustin-from-the-archives/#respond Wed, 22 Jul 2026 10:00:33 +0000 Purposely 2026-07-22T10:00:33+00:00 https://purposely.com/?p=19634

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There are the basic things, like how to dress themselves, how to tie their own shoes, how to ride their bikes, and how to change the toilet paper roll (good luck with that last one!).

And, then you add in the big things: teaching them about God and faith, teaching them empathy and compassion, and how to survive in this crazy world.

“Start children off on the way they should go, and even when they are old they will not turn from it.” Proverbs 22:6

It’s no wonder that moms often feel stressed out and hopelessly unqualified for their jobs.

I felt such a heavy weight of responsibility as a young mother as I attempted to teach my kids everything they needed to know.  What had I forgotten?  Were they absorbing the lessons?  Often as they were heading out the door I was still yelling instructions to them.  “Don’t forget to say please and thank you!”  “Share with your friends!”  “Be kind to others!”

My kids would yell back, “We know!”

But I wanted to make sure that my children didn’t fall through the cracks, that they didn’t have to learn things the hard way, and that I was doing my job of mothering well.

Of course I did miss teaching some things and of course they had to learn some things the hard way.  I felt so much self-induced stress as I watched them traipse through life.

What I failed to acknowledge back then was how much my kids learned on their own and how much THEY could teach ME.

When my son was little, I took him to see the play, “The Victor” (about Jesus’ death and resurrection).  As the soldiers marched Jesus down the center aisle of the church ridiculing him for saying he was the king of the Jews, my little son began yelling angrily, “He is!  He is the king of the Jews!”  It was very embarrassing.  But he didn’t care.  It was more important to him to get the truth out there.

He taught me about brave faith.

One of my children was mercilessly bullied in school for years.  I wanted to go to the school and beat up the bullies, their parents, and anyone else I could blame.  My child told me in no uncertain terms to stay out of it.  Watching this child march off day after day to a literal war zone taught me more about bravery than anyone else ever has.

I grew up in a gossipy house.  My mom loved to “discuss” people and their problems.  I used to fall into that same trap, until my daughter changed me with her kind nature.  Whenever I would begin to speak harshly about someone she would defend them: “Maybe they were just tired, mom.”  Or “They probably didn’t mean it that way.”

She taught me so much about grace.

I have a jewelry box full of weird costume jewelry.  None of it has any monetary value.  My granddaughter used to love to get the box down.  She would pull out each item, caress it gently and speak about its beauty.  “Oh, isn’t this lovely?” she’d ask me in a reverent whisper.  When she was done she would carefully lay the jewelry back in as though it were worth millions.

She taught me to appreciate the little things in life.

I wish I had taken away a big percentage of the stress I put on myself to teach my children everything I had ever learned and instead spent more time listening and learning from them.  Children have so much to teach us if we only take the time to listen.

My kids are adults now and they are still teaching me, maybe even more than I taught them.  And now I have grandchildren to learn life lessons from too.  I am better at slowing down and taking in the lessons now.  I love nothing more than to sit and watch them as they experience life and its teachings on their own.

Proverbs 17:6: “Children’s children are a crown to the aged, and parents are the pride of their children.”

My grandkids know that they can teach Nana whatever they’ve learned.  They tell me about sports teams and the latest online games.  They teach me new slang words and what they mean.  They come to me with the latest things they’ve realized about life and I pause and am astounded by the learning they’ve acquired all on their own.

“And he said: “Truly I tell you, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven.” Matthew 18:3

I am having more fun becoming like a little child than I ever did as the teacher.

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In fact, these have officially climbed to the top of mine and Penny’s favorite cookies to bake together. The dough is packed with gooey marshmallows, crunchy graham crackers, and plenty of chocolate, and watching the marshmallows puff up in the oven is almost as fun as eating the finished cookies. Almost.

If you’re looking for the perfect dessert to bring to a backyard barbecue, neighborhood gathering, or simply enjoy on the porch with a glass of cold milk, these cookies are it. They’re soft in the middle, slightly crisp around the edges, and loaded with everything that makes a s’more so irresistible.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup salted butter, softened
• ¾ cup packed light brown sugar
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2½ cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 cups mini marshmallows, divided
• 2 cups broken graham crackers, divided
• ½ cup milk chocolate chips
• ½ cup semisweet chocolate chips
• 2 Hershey’s chocolate bars, broken into small pieces

Step 1: Prep Everything First

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper to keep cleanup simple and prevent sticking.

Gather all of your ingredients before you begin. You want the butter to be softened, but if it has become a little too soft sitting on the counter, pop it into the refrigerator for about five minutes so it isn’t overly melty. Having everything measured ahead of time also makes baking with kids so much easier. Penny loves being the official “ingredient helper,” and it keeps the process moving without searching through the pantry every few minutes.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars

In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar for about 2–3 minutes until the mixture becomes light and fluffy.

This step is worth taking your time on because it creates that soft, chewy texture everyone loves in a homemade cookie.

Step 3: Add the Eggs and Vanilla

Mix in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract. Beat until everything is fully incorporated, scraping down the sides of the bowl as needed.

At this point the dough already smells amazing, and if you’re baking with little helpers, expect a few requests to lick the spoon.

Step 4: Mix the Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the flour, cornstarch, baking soda, and salt.

Mix on low speed until everything just comes together. Be careful not to overmix the dough. Once the flour disappears, stop mixing. Overworked cookie dough can become tough instead of soft and chewy.

Step 5: Fold in All the Good Stuff

Now comes everyone’s favorite part.

Using a spatula, gently fold in:

• 1½ cups broken graham crackers
• 1½ cups mini marshmallows
• Milk chocolate chips
• Semisweet chocolate chips

Every scoop of dough should have a little bit of everything. I always let Penny sprinkle these in because she gets so excited watching the cookie dough transform into something that already looks delicious before it’s even baked.

Step 6: Scoop the Dough

Using a large cookie scoop (about 2–3 tablespoons), portion the dough onto your prepared baking sheets.

Leave about 2 inches between each cookie because they’ll spread while baking.

For even more texture, gently press a few extra graham cracker pieces into the tops of the dough before baking. It gives the finished cookies that classic campfire look.

Step 7: Bake

Bake the cookies for 10 minutes, just until the edges begin to set while the centers still look slightly underdone.

Immediately remove the baking sheets from the oven and gently press:

• 4–5 additional mini marshmallows
• A couple pieces of Hershey’s chocolate

onto the top of each cookie.

This is the secret that gives them that picture-perfect bakery appearance and ensures plenty of gooey marshmallow in every bite.

Step 8: Finish Baking

Return the cookies to the oven for another 2–3 minutes.

If you’d like your marshmallows to have that beautifully toasted campfire look, switch the oven to broil for the last minute. Just don’t walk away—they can brown very quickly!

Step 9: Cool Before Enjoying

Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 2–3 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack.

This helps them finish setting while keeping the centers wonderfully soft.

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to five days, or freeze them for up to two months. If you’re enjoying them later, pop one in the microwave for about 10 seconds and it’s almost like eating a freshly baked cookie.

A New Summer Favorite

There are recipes that you make once because they look fun, and then there are recipes that quietly become part of your family’s traditions. These cookies have definitely become the second kind for us.

There’s something special about baking them together. Penny loves adding the marshmallows, I love sneaking a few extra chocolate pieces on top, and together we wait impatiently by the oven, watching the marshmallows puff up and the chocolate melt. They bring all the nostalgia of roasting s’mores around a campfire but are simple enough to make any afternoon when you’re craving a little taste of summer.

So whether you’re planning a family movie night, hosting friends for a backyard barbecue, or simply looking for a cozy baking project with your kids, these S’mores Cookies are guaranteed to disappear quickly. They capture everything we love about summer—warm memories, sweet moments together, and just enough melted chocolate to make life a little more delicious. And if your kitchen ends up with marshmallows scattered across the counter like ours always does, I’d say that’s just part of the fun.

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I love planting seeds, watching the starts poke through the soil, and then seeing them grow into crop-producing plants.  If anyone wants to experience God’s miracles, all you have to do is plant some seeds.  Seriously, how is it that so much comes out of a tiny seed?

It brings me more joy to be able to feed my family from the things I have grown in my yard.  I feel like a homesteader when I wander outside with my basket to pick food to nourish my people.

Ann Kirsten

My berry hedges alone produce uncountable gallons of raspberries and blueberries each summer.  The berries are like little jewels.  Their colors are vibrant and they taste so sweet.  But picking all those berries takes time and energy.  Added to that, they have to be processed (flash-frozen in batches or turned into jam).  It’s a lot of work.

Ann Kirsten

Besides the berries, I grow tomatoes, peas, beans, beets, carrots, parsnips, and radishes (to name a few).  After processing the berries I have to harvest the rest of the vegetables and work on them too.

By the time summer ends I am tired and burnt out from gardening and I never want to see another home-grown vegetable again.

I have a short memory however and usually by the time the next spring arrives, I am ready to plant way too much once again.

But this year a funny thing happened.  The few flowers I planted last year flung seeds to all of my raised beds and this year the beds were filled with blooms.  There was no room to plant my usual variety of vegetables.

Ann Kirsten

My daughter urged me to pull up the flowers to make room for other things, but I couldn’t bear to do it.  For one thing, the blooms were so pretty (it was like a meadow in my backyard) and for another, I felt such a lifting of my spirit.

I felt like I had been given a sabbatical from work.  The flowers taking over meant that I didn’t have to spend weeks in the kitchen processing uncountable tomatoes and other vegetables.  I didn’t have to feel the constant guilt of unpicked food that was going to waste.

I suddenly felt free.

So, I did something I never thought I’d do.  I left the “meadows” alone.  I didn’t plant my usual produce-department-variety of seeds.  Instead, I picked bouquets and drank in their beauty.  I skipped my marathon sessions of food processing and just enjoyed the beautiful weather instead.  I read and embroidered.  And I truly enjoyed the summer without the constant guilt and back-breaking work.

Ann Kirsten

Other countries tell us that Americans don’t know how to stop and rest.  And that can be true.  Until the flowers arrived, it never occurred to me that I had a choice.  I thought I had to work hard just because I have dirt and I have seeds and I have a body that moves.

Taking a year off has been life changing.  I feel rested and peaceful.

My garden is starting to fade now.  The blooms are going to seed and seedpods are replacing petals.  They have a beauty of their own and the promise of flowers to come again next year.

If I wanted to, I could let all the seeds scatter and give myself another year of respite.  But, for now, this year was enough.  I will pull most of the seed pods and compost them instead.  There will still be enough flowers.

Next season I will go back to planting food once again.  The flowers and vegetables will mix together in a more symbiotic way.  Yes, that means that the garden will be a lot of work.

But, I have had my year of rest and I will be ready next year for the harvest once again.

When you read through the Bible you will see that even the God of all creation rested.

“Thus the heavens and the earth were completed in all their vast array. By the seventh day God had finished the work he had been doing; so on the seventh day he rested from all his work. Then God blessed the seventh day and made it holy, because on it he rested from all the work of creating that he had done.”  Genesis 2:1-3

This year God has taught me so many lessons about resting.  That it is indeed an option, how good it feels, how necessary it is for renewal of body and land, and how treasured it is by Him.

And, instead of a heavy yoke, He used flowers to teach me.

“The Lord said to Moses at Mount Sinai, “Tell the people of Israel this: ‘When you enter the land I will give you, let it have a special time of rest, to honor the Lord.” Leviticus 25:1-2

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Every child is created purposefully and intentionally by the Almighty God.

The pregnancy journey is more than a physical, it is a spiritual experience as well.

The Word of God reminds us that each child is deeply loved and cherished by God even before they are in the womb.

“Before I formed you in the womb, I knew you, before you were born I set you apart” Jeremiah 1:5

For many, pregnancy is a time riddled with fear and anxiety. Below, I share Bible verses to pray over your pregnancy and child. Knowing the truth of God’s Word about us and every situation we experience builds up our faith. God’s Word empowers us and equips us to live victorious over fear as we walk in the plans and promises of God for us. And we know His plans are always good.

‘For I alone know the plans and thoughts that I have for you,’ says the LORD, ‘plans for peace and well-being and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope.’ Jeremiah 29:11

When Jesus shed His blood on the cross, He not only conquered death and the grave, but He stripped the devil of all His power. This includes power to rule over your mind.

The Bible says, “…through death He might destroy him who had the power of death, that is, the devil, and release those who through fear… were all their lifetime subject to bondage.” Hebrews 2:14–15

You are free from fear! It’s just up to you to believe it and walk in that reality.

Bohdan Bevz

Say this prayer: Heavenly Father, I thank You that through Jesus, I already have the victory. Thank You for the blood of Jesus that covers me and my baby. Thank You that fear has no authority over my mind, my pregnancy, or this baby’s birth. I declare that I am free from fear, anxiety, confusion, worry, uncertainty and mental torment. I receive the peace, clarity, strength, faith and a sound mind that Jesus purchased for me at the cross. Thank You, Father, that no weapon formed against me or my baby will prosper. Thank You that Your hand is upon this pregnancy and that my child and I are protected, loved, and called for Kingdom purposes. I will not be shaken because You are with me. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Death and life are in the power of the tongue, and those who love it and indulge it will eat its fruit and bear the consequences of their words. Proverbs 18:21.

God tells us life and death are in the power of the tongue. Our words have power and influence in shaping reality, whether we realize it or not. By speaking words that align with God’s truth, we can bring life, direction, and transformation.

Knowing that, I try to be really careful with what I speak over my children and regularly declare God’s Word over my life, husband, children and home.

God has proclaimed that His Word is powerful and it will all surely come to pass. So, open your mouth and boldly speak His Word over yourself, your children and your home in faith.

So is my word that goes out from my mouth: It will not return to me empty but will accomplish what I desire and achieve the purpose for which I sent it. Isaiah 55:11

 If you feel afraid

• ‘Do not fear [anything], for I am with you; Do not be afraid, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, be assured I will help you; I will certainly take hold of you with My righteous right hand [a hand of justice, of power, of victory, of salvation].’ Isaiah 41:10
• “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go.” Joshua 1:9
• For God did not give us a spirit of timidity or cowardice or fear, but [He has given us a spirit] of power and of love and of sound judgment and personal discipline [abilities that result in a calm, well-balanced mind and self-control]. 2 Timothy 1:7

If giving birth feels intimidating or overwhelming

• Shall I bring a baby to the point of birth and not deliver it?” says the LORD. “Or will I who deliver close the womb?” says your God. Isaiah 66:9
• Trust in the LORD with all your heart and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight. Proverbs 3:5-6

When you need a reminder that Almighty God is always with you

• “I WILL NEVER [under any circumstances] DESERT YOU [nor give you up nor leave you without support, nor will I in any degree leave you helpless], NOR WILL I FORSAKE or LET YOU DOWN or RELAX MY HOLD ON YOU [assuredly not]!” Hebrews 13:5
• God is our refuge and strength [mighty and impenetrable], A very present and well-proved help in trouble. Psalm 46:1

If you feel anxious

• Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. 7And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:6-7.
• No weapon that is formed against you will succeed; And every tongue that rises against you in judgment you will condemn. This [peace, righteousness, security, and triumph over opposition] is the heritage of the servants of the LORD, And this is their vindication from Me, says the LORD. Isaiah 54:17

To keep calm

• Cast all your anxiety on Him, because He cares for you. 1 Peter 5:7.
• And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:7
• Peace I leave with you; My peace I give to you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled; do not be afraid. John 14:27
• Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, for to this you were called as members of one body. And be thankful.  Colossians 3:15
• Now may the Lord of peace Himself give you peace at all times and in every way. 2 Thessalonians 3:16
• He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will abide in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say to the LORD, “You are my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.” Psalm 91:1-2
• You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are stayed on Thee. Isaiah 26:3

To remember that pregnancy is God’s beautiful and divine plan

For You formed my inward parts; You wove me in my mother’s womb. I will give thanks to You, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made; Wonderful are Your works, and my soul knows it very well. Psalm 139:13-14.

Download bookmarks as a daily reminder of God’s constant Presence:

Philippians 4:7    |    Isaiah 26:3

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5 Fun Firefly Facts:

Fireflies aren’t flies, they’re actually beetles!

They are also known by other names such as: lightening bugs, moon bugs, and blinkies.

Not all species of fireflies can glow.

Before they mature to fireflies, they are known as glowworms while in their larval stage.

As glowworms, they eat slugs, other worms, snails, and other larvae.

What you’ll need for the craft:

Maria Magee

• Scissors
• Yellow paint
• Glue stick or glue dots
• Construction paper (I used light blue for the jar and dark blue for the background)
• Black marker or sharpie
• Ribbon (optional)

First, draw and cut out your jar shape.

Next, glue it to your background color.

Glue the ribbon on for the jar lid (I used a dark blue ribbon that I already had, but any type of color works!)

Maria Magee

Pour some yellow paint onto a paper plate. Have your kids dip their thumbs into the paint and stamp onto the jar.

Maria Magee

Once it’s dry, draw the wings, head, and antennae onto each yellow thumbprint.

Maria Magee

Hang up your firefly art to enjoy all summer!

If you’re looking for more firefly fun, check out this book! My kids have all loved it and it goes perfectly with this craft. The Very Lonely Firefly by Eric Carle is a colorful adventure that ends with fun, flashing lights!

In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven. Matthew 5:16

– Download Bookmark –

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]]> https://www.allmomdoes.com/blog/summer-firefly-craft-and-bible-verse-printable-bookmark/feed/ 0 https://www.allmomdoes.com/blog/we-all-need-a-little-jesus/ https://www.allmomdoes.com/blog/we-all-need-a-little-jesus/#comments Fri, 10 Jul 2026 17:00:49 +0000 Joanna Gott 2026-07-22T22:48:22+00:00 https://d955.cms.socastsrm.com/?p=60542 Joanna Gott Sometimes the most profound reminders don’t come from a sermon or a devotional. Sometimes they come from the back seat of your car, delivered by a seven-year-old with a pocket full of tiny plastic Jesus figurines.

A few weeks ago, Penny found a little box containing one hundred miniature Jesus figurines. Each one carried the simple message, “Jesus Loves You.” It didn’t take her long to decide exactly what she wanted to do with them. She wanted to give them away.

I loved her idea. There was something so sweet and genuine about her excitement. She wasn’t thinking about who deserved one or who needed one the most. She simply wanted people to know that Jesus loves them. Children have such a beautiful way of making faith feel uncomplicated.

On Sunday morning, as we were getting ready for church, Penny asked if she could bring a few figurines with us. Without thinking too much about it, I replied, “Well, you can, but people at church already know about Jesus. Shouldn’t we save them for people who don’t know about Jesus?”

She didn’t argue. She didn’t even respond. I could tell she was thinking about what I had said as she quietly slipped a few little Jesuses into her pocket before we headed out the door.

A few minutes later, while we were driving to church, she broke the silence.

“Mama,” she said, “even if they go to church, they still need to know Jesus loves them.”

Oof.

I don’t know if you’ve ever had one of those moments where your child says something so simple, yet so full of truth, that it stops you in your tracks. That was one of those moments for me. I realized that somewhere along the way, I had unintentionally divided people into categories—those who needed to hear about Jesus and those who already knew Him. But Penny reminded me of something I should have known all along.

Just because someone knows who Jesus is doesn’t mean they no longer need to be reminded of His love.

In fact, I would argue that we all need that reminder far more often than we realize.

Life has a way of making us forget. We know the truth in our minds, but our hearts can become weary. We carry burdens that no one else sees. We wrestle with disappointment, grief, anxiety, guilt, loneliness, and exhaustion. We wonder if God is listening to our prayers. We question whether we’re enough. We show up at church with smiles on our faces while quietly carrying things that feel impossibly heavy.

Church isn’t filled with people who have it all together. It’s filled with people who are desperately in need of Jesus—every single week.

That’s exactly why Scripture encourages believers to keep encouraging one another. Hebrews 10:24–25 says, “And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds… encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching.” We often think of encouragement as something reserved for those who don’t know Christ, but these words were written to people who already believed. They still needed reminders. They still needed community. They still needed someone to speak hope into their lives.

Paul echoes this same truth in 1 Thessalonians 5:11, where he writes, “Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.” Again, these weren’t instructions for reaching unbelievers—they were instructions for caring for fellow believers.

Isn’t that beautiful?

Sometimes we think the gospel is only for the moment someone first accepts Jesus. But the gospel isn’t just the starting line of our faith—it is what carries us every single day afterward. We never outgrow our need to hear that we are loved, forgiven, chosen, and held by our Savior.

Joanna Gott

As I watched Penny hand out those tiny figurines after church, I couldn’t help but smile. She wasn’t trying to decide who needed Jesus the most. She wasn’t evaluating someone’s faith or wondering whether they’d already heard the message enough times. She simply wanted people to be reminded that they are loved.

Maybe that’s what we’re called to do, too.

Not to decide who has heard enough.

Not to assume someone sitting in the pew next to us doesn’t need encouragement.

Not to believe that because someone has followed Jesus for decades, they’ve somehow graduated from needing reminders of His grace.

Instead, maybe we’re simply called to keep pointing one another back to Him.

As Penny continues to hand out the Jesus figurines, I think about that conversation in the car. I think about how easily I forget that the people around me—even the ones who faithfully attend church every Sunday—are carrying stories I know nothing about. They may desperately need someone to remind them of a truth they’ve heard a thousand times before.

Because the truth is, none of us ever outgrow our need to hear three simple words:

Jesus loves you.

And this mama is grateful that God chose to use a seven-year-old little girl to remind her of that.

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Ummm, what?

I couldn’t relate.

For one thing, my kitchen floors are never pristine and two, I loved summer break with my kids!

It seems that moms are divided into two camps when it comes to summer.

• Camp A is relieved that all the scheduling, paperwork and homework that comes with having kids in school is over for the year.
• Camp B can’t wait for the NEXT school year to start so they can get back into the rhythm they’ve created to keep their homes running smoothly.

You all know me well enough by now to guess which camp I belong to.  I celebrate letting go of schedules, time crunches, homework, and “have-to’s”.  I love lazy days and relaxed kids.

I should mention that there was a hard and fast rule in our house; if you say you’re bored, you will be assigned a chore.  No exceptions.  My kids learned that lesson quickly.  They became skilled at inventing things to do.  That doesn’t mean that mom won’t need to step in once in a while though.

Because here’s the thing, summer should mean being a kid again for moms too!

Here are some ideas to get started:

• Buy popsicles from the ice cream man.  They’re more expensive but it’s so much fun.
• Have a water gun or water balloon fight.  The kids love it when you join in!
• Eat pancakes for dinner.  Top them with summer berries.
• Pick berries at a farm and bake something with them together.
• Set up a campsite in the backyard.  Camp overnight or just use the tent for a summer fort.
• Search for four leaf clovers in the yard or at a park.
• Stay up late watching old movies.  Introduce your kids to your childhood favorites.
• Blow bubbles or play hide and seek in the dark.
• Ride bikes together.
• Make daisy or dandelion chains.
• Create silly hair-dos and then take pictures.
• Roll down a grassy hill.
• Run through the sprinkler.
• Order funny books from the library and read them together.
• Write and illustrate your own books and read them to each other.
• Bake cookies and then ding-dong-ditch them at your neighbor’s front door.
• Draw pictures and send them to your faraway relatives.
• Make funny movies with costumes.  Have a viewing party.

Your kids will always remember that mom got silly with them and they will love it.  There are times though when you will need a break, and moms do deserve one.

• Trade a few hours of babysitting with a friend.
• Meet another family at a restaurant with a play yard.
• Give your kids a list of “money jobs” to do.  Sit back while they do them.
• Have a coffee date with an understanding friend.
• Invest in a pool and sit in the shade lifeguarding with an iced tea.
• Put on a classic movie, spread a blanket on the floor and let your kids eat lunch and watch it.
• Make a quiet time rule.  Every afternoon kids need to lay on their beds and read for an hour.
• And if you just can’t let go of a clean house, enlist your kids and make it fun.

My kids and I used to time ourselves to see how fast we could put laundry away.  We had so much fun doing it.  Kids were running everywhere, yelling and bumping into each other.  It made a boring chore doable.  Lots of chores can be done this way.  My son still remembers me singing the jeopardy song while he raced to put underwear away.

Life is about balance, isn’t it?  And balance can be hard to find.  With a little effort though, even if you’re a pristine house mama, you can find joy in the summer. Get silly with your kids and they will remember it forever.  Spend your time stressing over clean floors and they will remember that forever.

I hope these ideas help to remind you that summer isn’t just for kids.  And no matter which camp you belong to, I pray for you to have the very best of summers!

Children are a heritage from the Lord,
offspring a reward from him.
Like arrows in the hands of a warrior
are children born in one’s youth.
Blessed is the man
whose quiver is full of them.
They will not be put to shame
when they contend with their opponents in court.

Psalm 127:3-5

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Sometimes they’re born from looking around the house and thinking, “Well…we already have these. Why not?”

That’s exactly how our painted paper lantern afternoon happened.

After a graduation party in June, I found myself with several round white paper lanterns that had done their decorating duty. I couldn’t quite bring myself to throw them away because they still had plenty of life left in them. They were simple, cheerful, and seemed to be asking for a second chance.

So one afternoon I spread out some paint, grabbed a few brushes, called Penny outside, and decided we’d see what happened.

We painted flowers, colorful patterns, dots, and all kinds of creative designs. Some lanterns looked like little works of art. Others looked exactly like what you’d expect when a 7 year old child is given unlimited paint and creative freedom—and honestly, I think those might be my favorites.

Now they’re hanging near the entrance of our garden, greeting us every time we walk outside with little pops of color and personality.

Every time I see them, they remind me that beauty doesn’t have to be expensive or complicated. Sometimes it just takes a little imagination.

What You’ll Need

Joanna Gott

The beauty of this project is how simple it is.

You can find everything you need at your local craft store or order it online.

Here’s what we used:

• Round white paper lanterns
• Acrylic craft paint
• Paint brushes in a variety of sizes
• Cups of water for rinsing brushes
• Paper towels
• A tablecloth or large piece of craft paper

That’s it!

No fancy supplies.
No complicated instructions.
Just a handful of inexpensive materials and an afternoon together.

Take the Project Outside

If the weather cooperates, I highly recommend doing this project outside. Not only is the lighting better, but you’ll spend a whole lot less time worrying about paint ending up somewhere it shouldn’t.

Joanna Gott

Let’s be honest—kids and paint have a way of expanding their creative reach far beyond the paper lantern.

Outside, you can simply relax and let them create.

Well…mostly relax.

If you happen to have a breezy afternoon like we did, you may want to come up with a plan for keeping your lanterns from taking flight. At one point, a gust of wind scooped up one of ours and sent it happily bouncing across the yard.

Then another.

Then another.

Before long we were all running after paper lanterns that seemed determined to begin their own adventure without us.

I’m fairly certain at least one neighbor’s Ring camera captured the whole event. Somewhere there’s probably footage of me chasing a giant painted lantern down the street while laughing and trying not to spill my paintbrush water.

If you can, tuck your painting station into a sheltered corner of the patio or use small containers to gently hold the lanterns in place while they dry.

Your future self—and perhaps your neighbors—will thank you.

Let Kids Create Their Own Masterpieces

One of my favorite things about this project is that there really isn’t a wrong way to do it.

Some kids may carefully paint tiny flowers. Others may decide the entire lantern should become one giant rainbow. Some might cover every inch with polka dots. Others might proudly announce that brown and neon green absolutely belong together.

Joanna Gott

They’re probably right.

This isn’t about making something Pinterest-perfect. It’s about giving your kids the freedom to create something that reflects them. Children are wonderfully uninhibited artists. They don’t spend much time worrying if something looks “right.”

There’s something beautiful about that.

As adults, we can learn a lot from watching our children create with confidence and joy.

Where to Hang Them

Once they’re dry, the fun really begins.

We chose to hang ours near the entrance of our garden because they make the space feel extra welcoming and cheerful.

But there are so many places they could brighten.

Try hanging them:

• From tree branches in your backyard
• Around a patio or porch
• In a playroom
• In a child’s bedroom
• Above a reading nook
• In a homeschool room
• For birthday parties or family celebrations

Really, anywhere you want to add a little color and whimsy.

Joanna Gott

One quick note: these paper lanterns are not weatherproof.

If they’re left outside during rain, the paper will soften, the paint may run, and your beautiful artwork could become a soggy mess.

We plan to bring ours inside if there’s rain in the forecast so we can enjoy them for as long as possible.

More Than Just a Craft

As I watched my daughter paint, I found myself thinking about how often God invites us to create. The very first thing we learn about Him in Scripture is that He is Creator. Made in His image, I don’t think it’s surprising that we find joy in making beautiful things too. Not because every project turns out perfectly or every craft deserves to be framed, but because creating has a way of slowing us down. It gives our hands something to do while our hearts begin to settle.

Some of our sweetest conversations happen side by side while we’re making something together. There isn’t any pressure to maintain eye contact or force a deep discussion. We simply paint, laugh, tell stories, and enjoy each other’s company. Somewhere between rinsing paint brushes and deciding whether the lantern needs “just one more flower,” the conversation naturally unfolds. Those ordinary afternoons often become the memories that stay with us the longest.

As parents, it’s easy to believe we need elaborate outings or expensive experiences to make childhood magical. Social media can make it seem like every memory has to be a grand adventure, but I’ve found that children rarely remember how much something cost. They remember that we sat beside them. They remember laughing until someone snorted. They remember chasing runaway paper lanterns across the yard while trying to catch them before they floated into the neighbor’s bushes. They remember that for one afternoon, the dishes waited, the laundry stayed unfolded, and we simply chose to be together.

I think those are the moments God delights in too.

He isn’t just present in the big milestones or perfectly planned family vacations. He’s there in the paint-covered fingertips, the giggles that echo across the backyard, and the quiet conversations that happen while little hands are busy creating. Those simple afternoons become gentle reminders that joy is often found in the ordinary, if we’re willing to slow down enough to notice it.

So if you happen to have a few paper lanterns tucked away after a party—or decide to pick some up on your next craft store run—I hope you’ll give this project a try. You might end up with colorful decorations for your garden, a playroom full of whimsy, or a backyard that feels just a little more magical. You might also end up with paint on your elbows and your own appearance on someone’s Ring camera as you chase a lantern down the street.

But more importantly, you’ll create something far more meaningful than painted paper. You’ll create space to laugh, connect, and make memories with your children. Years from now, they probably won’t remember every flower they painted or every color they used. But there’s a good chance they’ll remember that you were there beside them—and that is always the most beautiful thing we can create.

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For he has rescued us from the kingdom of darkness and transferred us into the Kingdom of his dear Son, who purchased our freedom and forgave our sins. Colossians 1:13-14.

As a Christian, Christ bought my freedom with His life. I did not have to toil and save for decades because He paid the price in full. My life was not free; it cost the priceless life of God Himself. He paid the price I could never pay, no matter how long I worked or saved up. He died that I may live free. And greater love has none than this, that one should lay down his life for his friends.

No one has greater love [nor stronger commitment] than to lay down his own life for his friends. John 15:13

Jesus came to set the captives free. Surely, He is not talking about us, is He? We do not consider ourselves captives because, thankfully, we are not living in slavery, and neither are we on a ship captured by pirates or in a hostage situation.

“The Spirit of the Sovereign LORD is on me, because the LORD has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor. He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim freedom for the captives and release from darkness for the prisoners.” – Isaiah 61:1

As distanced myself from this phrase, whilst praying for those in actual captivity, God clearly spoke to me and said He is setting me free from being captive to sinful habits like anger, pride, laziness, procrastination and resentment. Hallelujah! I thank You my God for revealing to me what has been hidden in my heart, festering unforgiveness towards those that hurt me in the past. What a weight had been lifted! Jesus has set me free from that noose I did not even realize had me in a choke hold.

Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. Point out anything in me that offends you, and lead me along the path of everlasting life. Psalm 139:23-24

Thank You, Jesus, for bringing me to a place where pride is not able to keep me in denial and thus rob me of my deliverance. Yes, it is painful to admit that such has been the state of my heart. But more so, it is liberating to know that my redeemer has come through and redeemed me from all the sins that so easily entangled me.

What is so wonderful about Jesus setting us free, is that He not only pays the cost required but we are assured that we will never be captives again. We know this because He says so in His word. Whom the son sets free is free indeed! So, if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed. John 8:36 

And what exactly is He setting us free from you may ask? Jesus sets us free from all sin and death. For in Christ Jesus the law of the Spirit of life set you free from the law of sin and death. Romans 8:2

Jesus came to set all the captives free. Physically, spiritually, mentally, emotionally or financially. And we know Jesus accomplished all He set out to do when He cried out on the cross: it is finished!

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For sure it is not easy living whole-heartedly for Jesus in a culture that is increasingly hostile to Him. It is hard. But it is not impossible. Jesus, in His divine wisdom and foresight, warned us about this already, but He did not leave us helpless or hopeless. He sent us the most powerful and effective Helper anyone could ever ask for; the Holy Spirit. Jesus also encourages us to take heart, because He has overcome the world. Not will or is going to, but He has already. That is an encouraging truth to hold on to, that we are fighting from a place of Victory.

I have told you these things, so that in Me you may have [perfect] peace. In the world you have tribulation and distress and suffering, but be courageous [be confident, be undaunted, be filled with joy]; I have overcome the world.” [My conquest is accomplished, My victory abiding.] – John 16:33

Teaching our children to worship God is something I believe is top priority for every God-fearing parent.

Here are some steps you can take right now to ensure that you are leading and teaching the generations after you to serve and worship God from their hearts.

Pray over them

Remind God of His promises concerning your children and speak them over them by faith.

All your children will be taught of the Lord, and great will be their peace. – Isaiah 54:13.

Prayer: Oh Mighty Lord, teach my children to worship You in spirit and truth. Give them divine instruction and guidance to bring acceptable worship to You. Teach them the posture of worship, from their hearts, spirit and body. May they have a personal relationship with You. In Jesus’s Name, amen.

Start them young

From the lips of babies and infants, You have ordained and ordered high praise. –Psalm 8:2

Your children are never too young to worship God. Jesus Himself said let the little children come to Him. Remove every hinderance and obstacle that could stop your children from coming to Jesus and having a personal relationship with them. Attend Church services, fellowships, and Bible studies with your children. Teach them to memorize the Bible and live by it. Sing hymns, praise and worship songs to God with your children.

But Jesus said, “Let the little children come to Me, and do not hinder them! For the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.” – Matthew 19:14.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank You for ordering Your praise from the lips of my children, may it manifest in their lives in the Name of Jesus. May Your praise always be upon their lips and may their hearts never draw far from You. Thank You for making my children open and receptive to Your teachings. May I too approach You Lord with child-like faith, trust and openness.

Model worship to them

One of my favorite Bible verses about being a Christian parent is Deuteronomy 11:19: You shall teach them [diligently] to your children [impressing God’s precepts on their minds and penetrating their hearts with His truths], speaking of them when you sit in your house and when you walk along the road and when you lie down and when you rise up.

It gives clear guidance and instruction of what God expects of us as parents and points out how to execute His instructions.

But the verse before it is as equally as important. You can not teach what you do not know. The best kind of teacher is the one who models the lesson by living it out themselves. That way they can teach with authority and with the heart and passion that only personal experience can give.

Teaching our children true worship of God begins first of all with us being worshipers of God ourselves. There must be a permanent and deliberate effort on our part to remember and live by God’s laws first before we can then teach those very laws to our children.

“Therefore, you shall impress these words of mine on your heart and on your soul, and tie them as a sign on your hand, and they shall be as bands (frontals, frontlets) on your forehead. – Deuteronomy 11:18

It is so important for us to pass on our faith and obedience to God to future generations. And God will help us to do this as we consistently yield ourselves to Him.

“We will not hide them from our children; we will tell the next generation the praiseworthy deeds of the LORD, His power, and the wonders He has done.” – Psalm 78:4

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But this recipe I have made on repeat for the last month.  I’ve probably baked these seven times.  Which is not to say I ever make them quite the same way.  My brain is just not wired that way.  But that’s the beauty of this recipe, you can veer off and make it your own (and I do).

Have you ever researched a Biblical diet?  It’s pretty interesting and consists of very healthy foods.  No wonder they lived so long.

Following a Biblical eating plan basically means eating fresh, clean meats, vegetables, nuts, fruits, and berries.  Many of the authors of Biblical eating plans also stress staying away from “unclean meats” like pork, fish without scales, processed meats, etc.

Once processed “instant” foods were introduced in the USA, our diets changed drastically.  Many of our foods have addictive ingredients that make us eat more.  The ease of processed foods are also addictive.  Who doesn’t want dinner ready in ten minutes?

The farther we’ve strayed from the diets of our ancestors, the unhealthier we’ve become.

Diabetes runs rampant in my family’s lineage.  My mom had it, her mom had it, both my uncles had it, my sister has it … the list goes on and on.  I was cursed with it about a decade ago.

At first I didn’t take it seriously.  I ate less but pretty much the same foods.  No matter how much insulin I shot in, my blood numbers were still too high.  As I got older I realized that I couldn’t continue in that way or I wouldn’t get to see my grandkids grow up.

I am now researching recipes online and gathering a whole collection of new, healthier ideas.  I’m cooking more at home, buying interesting ingredients and my blood sugar is now in the target range 90 percent of the time!  My doctor is thrilled.

I have to say that I get great joy from eating more like they did in the Biblical times.  I don’t feel deprived because the fresh foods are so delicious.

Now, I have to warn you that these cookies don’t look like the pretty processed ones you see in the store.  In fact, they look rather funky.

Ann Kirsten

But the taste will make up for that, I promise you!  My husband and my teen grandkids have given them the seal of approval (which, believe me, says a lot).

Okay, here we go:

Ann’s Biblical Cookies

• ½ cup mashed ripe banana (about 1 ½ bananas)
• ¾ cup natural nut butter (peanut, almond or cashew)
• 1/3 cup raw honey or date syrup (agave would probably work too)
• 1 teaspoon real vanilla extract
• 2 ½ cups of old-fashioned rolled oats
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt

Add-ins:

• ½ cup dried fruit (raisins, cranberries, currants, chopped apricots …)
• ½ cup chips (chocolate, white chocolate, butterscotch, …)
• ¼ cup seeds or nuts (pepitas, sunflower, almonds, peanuts …)
• 1 Tablespoon flax or chia seeds

Directions:

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees and line your cookie sheets with parchment paper.

Throw a soft banana and a half into a mixing bowl (no need to measure).  Add in the nut butter, honey and vanilla extract (don’t forget to spray your measuring cups with cooking spray – your sticky things will slide right out).  Run the mixer until all the ingredients are mixed together.  Add in the oats, cinnamon, baking powder and salt and mix again.  This makes the base of your cookies.

Then go wild with your add-ins!  As long as you stick (almost) with the cups listed you can get creative with what you put in these.

If your dough is too sticky you can chill it for 30 minutes or even overnight.  Then roll your dough into golf ball size balls.  Press down the tops with your fingers until they are shaped like pucks.

Ann Kirsten

Bake 15 minutes or until the tops are set.

That’s it!

I store these in the fridge and they are delicious cold.

I have made these with every combination of add-ins you can imagine.  I couldn’t pick out my favorite because they are all delicious.

With a glass of milk or a cup of coffee, these make a perfect breakfast or snack. And everyone is different but they do not raise my blood sugar.  Win, win, win.

Give these a try and see if they don’t become a favorite of yours too.

^“Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own;  you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your bodies.” 1 Corinthians 6:19-20

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Sunshine, road trips, melted ice cream, backyard laughter… summer has a way of reminding us how good God is. And this year, AllMomDoes wants to help you savor every moment with a fun, family‑friendly Summer Bucket List you can take wherever the season leads.

Whether you’re planning slow evenings on the porch, big adventures with the kids, or simple moments of joy that reconnect you with God’s creation, this printable list is packed with ideas to make your summer brighter, lighter, and full of praise.

Download it, toss it in your beach bag, tape it to the fridge, or keep it in the car; however you use it, let it inspire you to make memories that matter!

Summer is here and that means a whole different kind of activity level in our home! I imagine most moms can relate to this shift in atmosphere. It’s an adjustment for everyone as we fumble around to establish a new summer routine. The backpacks and lunch boxes are cleaned and tucked away until fall, schedules have shifted, and ready or not, the kids are preparing for some exciting days ahead as they’re filled with anticipation of what new adventures this summer might bring.

Our oldest son has wrestling camps, practices, and will be starting driver’s ed soon. He’s got all kinds of goals for the summer and is also enjoying some time to take it slower in the mornings. My thirteen-year-old is just relieved he can sleep in a little and spend more time doing the hobbies he loves. Our eight-year-old is content to have some sports, Lego building, and bike riding on the agenda. My four-year-old son is happy to have his brothers home (for the moment) and just tries to keep up with them at all costs. Even though they’re all enjoying their time so far, each of my kids have asked, “Are we going anywhere this summer?”

We aren’t big vacation people. Being a family of six and with the age gaps between our kids, we haven’t had many opportunities to go on fancy vacations. If I’m being honest, it just hasn’t been a huge priority for us, either. Even little trips require so much preparation from us moms that it can be daunting.

Camping, trips to the ocean, and staying a few nights somewhere are usually the extent of our summer plans and that has suited us well. We’ve had a few bigger trips over the years and there are a lot of places I would love to take our kids, but when they asked where we were going this summer, I didn’t have an answer! It just snuck up on us after the very full school year we had, and my husband and I realized we hadn’t planned a single camping trip or stay somewhere. At first, we thought we should scramble to plan something so the kids have more to look forward to. But you know what? They have summer to look forward to and everything that comes with it.

Samia Gatgens

Somewhere between the sidewalk chalk and the lemonade stands, summer settles in. We navigate the first few days of chaos while they’re all choosing to stay in one room of the house and fighting over a spot on the couch, and then things start to shift. They get into a rhythm and I try to keep some sort of routine going (for my own sanity and theirs!) Yes, there are some bumpy days. Unfortunately, summer doesn’t mean kids won’t argue, fight, or get bored. We aren’t all blissfully leaping through sprinklers and enjoying a popsicle. Sometimes it happens, but most often someone has dropped a popsicle and the ants are all over it.  Or after all the sunscreen applying and swimming trunk finding, they are shivering and say the water’s too cold after two minutes and beg for a towel. The grass is stuck to their feet and tracked all over the house, their brother hit them with a water balloon outside of the designated pelting zone, there’s a hornet chasing them, or they think they should stay up until 10 because the sun still hasn’t set!

Nope, things aren’t perfect here. It’s still a busy time with a few sports camps, VBS, and swimming lessons. Aside from that, it feels good not to have a big trip on the calendar. We love to celebrate the 4^th of July so that’s always a big highlight, there are some local places we’d like to visit if we can, and maybe we’ll take a ferry boat ride for a day trip somewhere. My husband takes our older boys on some big hikes and we’re fortunate to live near many beautiful parks and a nice library.

Summer doesn’t have to be extravagant to be good. It’s amazing how much kids will come up with when they’re given the opportunity to slow down, to not be over-booked, and to take in the season by appreciating the simple things. Finding lady bugs, dipping their feet in a creek, and having an ice cream sandwich on the porch are great ways to spend a summer, no matter what the age.

If you’ve been feeling like your summer isn’t going to be “enough” because you don’t have some Instagram-worthy vacation planned, that’s just not true. The truth is, your kids will have a great summer even if all they do is draw with sidewalk chalk and ride their bikes. There’s no perfect recipe for summer vacation. Have some ice cream, go for walks, play catch with water balloons, and give yourself a break. It’s not our job to provide a picture-perfect summer, it’s our job to enjoy the time we have with our kids and to show them that some of the best memories can come from doing nothing at all.

A Moment in Summer

A moment in summer belongs to me and one particular honeybee. A moment in summer shimmering clear making the sky seem very near, a moment in summer belongs to me. -Charlotte Zolotow

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I’ve learned that I don’t need elaborate Pinterest-worthy projects or expensive craft kits to keep my daughter entertained. In fact, some of our favorite afternoons have come from using things we already had around the house. A little paint, a cardboard tube, some paper, and suddenly we’re creating masterpieces together.

The best part? These crafts aren’t really about the finished project. They’re about spending time together, letting kids explore their creativity, and giving their hands something fun to do. Some projects are wonderfully simple while others take a little more patience (from both kids and adults!). And as a bonus, with it being summer, you can make most of these creations outside so the clean up is minimal and not as stressful.

To make it fun, I decided to rate each craft using my official Sun Scale:

= Super easy
= Easy with a little help
= Moderate
= More involved
= Adventure-level crafting!

1. Painted Rocks

Difficulty:

This one has become a summer tradition at our house. Every walk suddenly turns into a treasure hunt as we’re searching for the perfect smooth rocks.

Once we get home, we spread out newspaper, grab some acrylic paints, and let creativity take over. We’ve painted ladybugs, strawberries, rainbows, flowers, silly faces, and even tiny houses. Sometimes we write encouraging words on them before hiding them around the neighborhood for someone else to find.

There’s something so satisfying about turning an ordinary rock into something colorful.

You’ll need:

• Smooth rocks
• Acrylic paint
• Paint brushes
• Optional clear sealer if you’d like them to last outdoors

Joanna Gott

2. Toilet Paper Roll Creatures

Difficulty:

I have learned never to throw away an empty toilet paper roll because somehow they always become the foundation for a craft.

We’ve turned ours into butterflies, binoculars for backyard adventures, little owls, rockets, flowers, and even a tiny castle. Add construction paper, googly eyes, pipe cleaners, or whatever odds and ends you have in your craft drawer, and kids will often come up with creations you never would have imagined.

It’s one of those crafts where perfection isn’t the goal. The sillier, the better.

You’ll need:

• Empty toilet paper rolls
• Construction paper
• Glue
• Scissors
• Markers or paint
• Googly eyes (always a favorite!)

Joanna Gott

3. Homemade Kites

Difficulty:

This one takes a little more time, but it’s worth every minute.

Making the kite is only half the fun. The real excitement comes afterward when you head outside to see if it actually flies. There’s usually plenty of laughter involved, a few adjustments, and lots of running across the yard.

We’ve made simple kites using fabric, wooden dowels, ribbon, and string. There are lots of great tutorials online to follow, or you can buy a cheap plastic kite to use as a template. In the end, even if they aren’t perfectly aerodynamic, kids don’t seem to mind. There’s something magical about watching something you made yourself catch the wind.

It’s the kind of project that easily turns into an entire afternoon.

You’ll need:

• Cotton fabric
• Wooden dowels
• String
• Ribbon for the tail
• Fabric glue or hot glue
• Markers or paint for decorating

Joanna Gott

4. Nature Collages

Difficulty:

Sometimes the best craft supply store is your own backyard.

Go on a short nature walk and collect leaves, flowers, pinecones, twigs, feathers, or interesting grasses. Once you’re home, spread everything out on a piece of cardstock and let kids arrange their own masterpiece.

Some create flowers. Others build little woodland scenes or abstract works of art. There isn’t a wrong way to do it.

I love this craft because it encourages kids to slow down and notice the little details outside that we often walk right past.

You’ll need:

• Cardstock or heavy paper
• Glue
• Leaves
• Flowers
• Twigs
• Anything nature provides!

Joanna Gott

5. Paper Bag Animal Puppets

Difficulty:

Craft time often turns into pretend play around here, so masks are always a hit.

Start with a brown paper lunch bag and let your child decide what they’d like to become. Maybe it’s a lion with a yarn mane, a bunny with floppy ears, a butterfly, a dinosaur, or even a silly monster.

Before long, your living room becomes a jungle, zoo, or magical kingdom of puppets that will lead to hours of additional play.

I love projects that continue long after the glue has dried.

You’ll need:

• Brown paper lunch bags
• Paint or markers
• Construction paper
• Yarn, feathers, or pom-poms
• Glue
• Craft sticks or elastic

Joanna Gott

A Few Thoughts Before You Get Started

If I’ve learned anything as a mom, it’s that crafts don’t have to be perfect to be meaningful.

Sometimes the paint ends up everywhere except the paper. Sometimes the glue bottle gets squeezed a little too enthusiastically. Sometimes the finished project looks nothing like what you originally imagined.

And honestly? Those are usually the crafts we remember the most.

I’ve also realized that kids don’t necessarily remember what they made nearly as much as they remember who sat beside them while they made it. Those conversations that happen while coloring or painting often become some of my favorite parts of the day.

So if you’re looking for a simple way to fill a summer afternoon, pull out the craft supplies, and embrace the mess. You don’t need fancy materials or artistic talent—just a willingness to create together.

Who knows? You might even find yourself having just as much fun as your kids.

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I am living that right now and it makes growing older so worthwhile.

Last week, my husband and I headed over to see our youngest grandkids (6 and 9).  Because they live a few hours away we don’t get to see them as much as we’d like to.

We were meeting at a coffee shop and looked forward to window shopping in the boutique stores nearby.  As we parked, our nine-year-old grandson came running towards us with arms wide open.  There is no better sight than a loved one running at you with their arms open for a hug.

As we walked towards the shop together, we heard screams.  When we realized that they were coming from my daughter and granddaughter, we ran as fast as we could.  We were not prepared for what we saw.

Our daughter was on the ground holding our little granddaughter in her arms.  Blood covered the front of our granddaughter from her forehead all the way down onto her shoes.  Our sweet little pixie had run as fast as she could to greet us, not seeing a metal rail right at her forehead height.  She hit it hard and it whipped her head back and cut her forehead straight across.

We were all traumatized.  Her older brother paced back and forth, her Papa shook while he called 911, her mom was barely keeping herself together, and I was trying to think of nothing but holding our granddaughter’s forehead together.

The firemen arrived quickly and were professional and kind.  They took our little sweetheart and her mommy away in an ambulance to the hospital in the next town over.

Once we knew she was in safe hands, we were all left with too much adrenaline and so many questions.

Why did this have to happen?  Why was her run to hugs and kisses ruined in such a cruel way?  Could any of us stopped it?  And then … Where was God?

We’ve probably all groaned that question out at one time or another, “Where are you, God?”  It’s easy to fall into the trap of thinking we should somehow be saved from the evils of this world because we are believers.

Psalm 22:1 – “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me? Why are you so far from saving me, so far from my cries of anguish?“

Years ago, I read an article written by a Pastor who had lost his son in a car accident.  He had a crisis of faith afterwards.  His why’s were even more intense.  After all, he had been doing God’s work and yet his son was still taken.  What came to him after a long time of anger and prayer was the realization that God was mourning right along with him.  God was also heartbroken that His precious man-child had lost his son.  He sure didn’t cause the accident and no, He didn’t stop it either.  But He was mourning right next to the pastor and aching that this world had taken the precious son (He certainly knows what that is like).

JeffGoulden

That article has stayed with me all these years.  It has helped me whenever I find myself in a “Why, God!?” situation.  God gave not only we believers free will, but EVERYONE free will.  And sometimes that causes some less-than-ideal circumstances.  Not that our sweet little granddaughter made a bad decision to run to us with love, but perhaps whoever installed a metal rail in the middle of a walkway that blended into the surroundings did?

James 1:2-3 – “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.”

The days that followed were a struggle.  Our little pixie retreated into herself and stopped talking, only answering our questions with a tiny shake of her head.  Her brother was upset by the fact his sister wasn’t her usual bubbly self and that she had changed into someone he didn’t recognize.  And her poor mom (who had witnessed the accident) was a mess of flashbacks and “why?” and “what if it had been worse?” thoughts.

John 16:33 – “I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.”

As we all struggled to make sense of the accident, we were forced to search our hearts, search our faith, and to trust our Lord in a deeper way.  I think that is the one benefit that comes when something like this happens.

• In Numbers 11:11, Moses asked, “Why have you dealt ill with your servant?”
• In Psalms 10:1, David asked, “Oh Lord why do you stand far off?  Why do you hide yourself in times of trouble?”
• Job asked, “Why have you made me your target?” Job 7:20
• Even Jesus on the cross asked God “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?” Matthew 27:46

We are not alone in asking the “Why?” questions of God.  And He has answers when we pause long enough to ask.

Our little granddaughter will eventually be fine.  Her forehead was stitched shut and she will have quite a scar (and a story).  She has popped back faster than any of the adults did.  Her faith comes from the sweet innocence of a child.  Ours was forged in fire and trials and tribulations (and continues to be).  This last trial was a doozy, but I’m happy to say that we came through with a new respect for life and the realization that we have an unquenchable need for the Lord.

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When I walked through the front door, I reached into my bag for my phone, only to come up empty-handed. No big deal, I thought. My bag has become something of a black hole over the years. Surely it had just slipped to the bottom beneath a collection of receipts, chapstick, pens that no longer write, and whatever little treasures Penny has convinced me to carry around for her.

So, naturally, I dumped the entire contents of my bag onto the kitchen counter. While I didn’t find my phone, I did uncover a pair of sunglasses I had been convinced disappeared weeks ago, so it wasn’t a total loss. But after checking every pocket, every zipper, and every hidden compartment, it became clear my phone wasn’t in there.

Next came the car. Then every room in the house. I retraced my steps with the determination of someone solving a mystery, checking countertops, side tables, bathroom counters, and even places that made absolutely no sense. Finally, it hit me. My phone was sitting exactly where I had set it down earlier that morning—on my sister’s kitchen counter.

That’s when the panic set in.

What was I going to do without my phone? How would I contact anyone? What if there was an emergency? What if, for some completely irrational reason, the world fell apart while I was unreachable? I don’t even have a landline anymore, although I have to admit, this experience made me briefly consider bringing one back.

Thankfully, I remembered computers still exist. I messaged my sister, who quickly confirmed that yes, my phone was safely waiting for me. Being the wonderful sister she is, she immediately offered to drive it over, but since we were already planning to have dinner together that evening, I figured I could survive a day without it.

And so, I found myself asking a question I never expected to ask in 2026: What exactly do you do with an entire day and no cell phone?

Olga Ionina

Originally, Penny and I had planned to run a few errands, but if I’m being honest, I felt strangely uneasy about driving anywhere without my phone. Which is funny, because I spent nearly all of my twenties doing exactly that. If I got lost, I used a paper map. If my car broke down, I found a payphone. If I was running late, people simply waited. Somehow we all managed just fine.

I was born in the late seventies and grew up through the eighties and nineties. I know what life looked like before smartphones. Before Google answered every question in seconds. Before cameras lived in our pockets. Before every spare moment was filled by scrolling through updates from people we haven’t seen in years. And yet somewhere along the way, this tiny rectangle of glass quietly became woven into nearly every part of my daily routine.

So, Penny and I decided to stay home instead.

What surprised me most wasn’t that I missed my phone. It was how often I reached for it without even thinking. Every five minutes my hand instinctively moved toward my pocket. I wanted to check my messages. Scroll through social media. See if I have any emails. Snap a quick photo. At one point Penny asked if it was supposed to be windy all day, and before I could stop myself my mind immediately thought, I’ll check the weather app.

Then I laughed. There was an entire generation of us who only knew the weather forecast because we watched the evening news or read the morning paper. Somehow we survived without hourly updates telling us exactly when the wind would die down.

Later that afternoon we went for a walk, and that’s when I noticed something else. Normally I would have taken pictures of Penny skipping down the trail or stopped to identify a flower with Google or looked up the name of a bird we heard in the trees. Instead, we simply walked. We talked. We noticed the things around us without feeling the need to document them.

I’ll admit, it felt a little like I was missing a limb—which is probably being a bit dramatic—but it also made me realize just how integrated this little device has become in my everyday life. Not because phones are bad. They’re wonderful tools. They help me stay connected with family, work, capture memories, navigate unfamiliar places, and answer questions in seconds. But somewhere along the way, the tool quietly became a habit, and the habit became something I rarely questioned.

Psalm 46:10 says, “Be still, and know that I am God.” I’ve always loved that verse, but I wonder if the hardest part today isn’t knowing God—it’s actually being still. Our phones have an incredible ability to fill every quiet moment. Every wait in line. Every stoplight. Every walk. Every few minutes of silence that might otherwise invite us to notice God’s creation, have an unexpected conversation, or simply sit with our own thoughts.

Francesca Leslie

By the time dinner rolled around, I was reunited with my phone. I unlocked it expecting…well, I’m not sure what I expected. There were a handful of text messages, a couple of emails, and a weather notification happily informing me that the wind would calm down around eight o’clock. Nothing life-changing had happened while I was disconnected.

Did I feel a sense of security having it back in my pocket? Of course. Did I also realize life functions surprisingly well without constantly checking it? Absolutely.

There isn’t some profound ending to this story. I didn’t experience a life-changing revelation or decide to throw my phone into a lake and live off grid. I still appreciate the convenience of technology, and I’ll probably check the weather again tomorrow.

But yesterday served as a gentle reminder that when we disconnect from one kind of connection, we often make room for another. A conversation. A quiet walk. A little more noticing. A little more presence.

Not everything needs to be shared. Not every memory needs to become a photograph. Not every question needs an immediate Google search.

Sometimes it’s enough to simply experience the moment exactly as it is.

Who knew forgetting my phone on my sister’s kitchen counter would send me back to the “dark ages” for a day?

Turns out, they weren’t so dark after all.

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But even in the unpredictability, the drizzle, the sunbreaks, the “is this warm or just less cold?” moments, God is right here with us, weaving joy into the everyday chaos.

We don’t need a perfect devotional setup to experience God. He meets us in:

• The foggy morning walks with coffee in hand
• The kids running wild at the park the moment the sky clears
• The “Mom!” call moments that happen throughout the day
• The car on the way to baseball tournaments, soccer matches and gymnastics camp

Lower the Bar, Raise the Joy

Summer doesn’t need to be a curated Instagram grid. It just needs to be yours. Embrace the simple and the loud; these moments will fly by…trust us.

Some days you’ll plan something amazing. Some days you’ll hand your kids a hose to water the garden and call it “water play.” Both count.

Try simple things like:

• Backyard campouts (bonus points if you actually sleep outside)
• Family bingo challenges to get everyone off screens [Text BINGO to 89419 for a free bingo card!]
• Easy service ideas like dropping off treats to neighbors or serving in a food pantry

No perfection required — just presence.

Family Summer Activity List

Outdoor Adventures (for when the sun finally shows up)

• Neighborhood Nature Walk — Look for God’s creativity in flowers, bugs, clouds, and “mystery plants.”
• Backyard Water Day — Hose, inflatable pool, sprinkler, done.
• Park Picnic + Devotional — Pack snacks, read favorite verses and talk about it, let the kids run wild.
• Family Bike Ride — Bonus points if you stop for ice cream.
• Sunset Gratitude Walk — Everyone shares one thing they’re thankful for.
• Scavenger Hunt — These are so much fun!

 Rain‑Friendly Fun (because… you know)

• Family Movie Night — Build a blanket fort and pick a family‑friendly film.
• Indoor Scavenger Hunt — Kids LOVE this and it burns energy.
• Baking — Bake cookies together and share favorite memories.
• Board Game Marathon — Winner picks dinner.
• DIY Craft Hour — Keep it simple: paper, markers, glue.
• Do a Craft Together — DIY Fun Felt Craft

 Faith‑Building Moments

• Verse of the Week — Put it on the fridge, memorize it, and talk about it at meals.
• Prayer Walk — Pray for neighbors as you stroll.
• Service Saturday — Pick one small way to bless someone.
• Gratitude Jar — Add notes all summer long for things you’re grateful for.
• Create a Praise Journal — We have one here!

 Just‑for‑Fun Memory Makers

• Backyard Campout — S’mores required, actual sleeping outside optional.
• Family Bingo Challenge — Complete squares all summer.
• Library Adventure Day — Everyone picks a book, then grab a milkshake afterward.
• Ice Cream Taste Test — Buy 4 different-to-your-family ice-cream flavors and declare a family favorite.
• Photo Scavenger Hunt — Capture fun moments in your yard or neighborhood.

Summers can be loud and messy, but your daily presence is the anchor your family feels. Take care of yourself and take breaks when you can… 5 minutes in the bathroom for a little space counts! Give yourself grace, breathe deep, and remember that God delights in your everyday faithfulness. He will give you what you need for the day – Lean into Him. You’re doing better than you think.

A Summer Prayer

“Lord, help us find joy in the chaos, rest in the small moments, and grace for ourselves and each other. Let this summer be full of laughter, connection, and reminders that You’re with us in every moment — even the soggy ones.”

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“The American flag represents all of us and the values we hold sacred.”
– Adrian Cronauer

America is about to celebrate a huge milestone. That’s right, our nation’s 250^th Birthday is right around the corner! Parades, barbecues, and fireworks are about to take center stage and a great way to get in the 4^th of July spirit is with this fun, American Flag Paper Plate craft! It requires simple supplies and its streamers waving in the wind will add a patriotic splash to your celebration. My kids loved making their flags and plan to give some out to relatives to brighten up their homes this 4^th of July.

Here’s what you’ll need to create a red, white, and blue paper plate flag:

• White paper plates (I used heavy duty so they wouldn’t bend)
• Glitter scrapbook paper (white or silver for the stars)
• Hole punch
• Twine
• Glue stick or glue dots
• Stapler
• Scissors
• Pencil
• Blue craft paint
• White and red streamers
• Ruler
• Paint brush sponges
• Star to trace with (I drew my own on construction paper and cut it out, but you could use a small star cookie cutter!)

Maria Magee

Directions:

First, make your star or use a cookie cutter to trace stars onto the glitter paper. I folded my scrapbook paper so I could get more stars out of each cut.

Maria Magee

Next, flip a paper plate over and using your ruler, trace a line right down the middle. Cut it in half. This will give you two flags.

Maria Magee

Using the paint sponges, paint your plate blue.

Maria Magee

Once it’s mostly dry, use the glue dots or glue stick to place your stars.

Maria Magee

Cut your streamers whatever length you prefer. Alternate the red and white to resemble the stripes on our flag and staple them to the plate.

Maria Magee

Use the scissors to cut them in half length-wise to make more “stripes”. This will make them flow beautifully, too!

Maria Magee

Finally, punch a hole in the top of the plate and tie the twine through it. Now you can hang up your flag and let it fly in all its glory this 4^th of July!

Maria Magee

I hope you and your kids (or grandkids) have a blast making these paper plate flags, and that they make your 4^th of July even more special!

As the fireworks and American flags fly this 4^th, lets appreciate this incredible country that we are so blessed to live in and the brave men and women who defend it. Here’s to the American heroes past and present, who have made this a nation worth fighting for and have provided us the freedom we have today.

For more 4^th of July activity ideas, check these out!

• 4th of July Craft, Book, and Snack
• Celebrate the 4th of July with a Quick DIY Craft, Tasty Snack, and Great Read for Kids!

Happy 4^th of July and God Bless America!!!

“I like to see a man proud of the place in which he lives. I like to see a man live so that his place will be proud of him.” -Abraham Lincoln

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My friend who is a counselor was taught in school that hoarders are the hardest clients to rehabilitate.  If you’ve ever watched one of those Hoarding shows, you can see why.  The hoarder starts out as the sweetest person who seems to want to change.  But the second the crew shows up to help downsize, that sweet person turns into a controlling, very angry adversary.  It shows that this goes so much deeper than a messy house.

I think a lot of us have watched hoarding shows and thought, “At least I’m not that bad,” or we’ve even decided that we’re not hoarders at all.  I once spoke with an extreme hoarder and she told me, “I can throw garbage away, so I am not a hoarder”.  This was said despite the fact that her house is impassable.

When is our stuff “too much”?

For my husband, cars parked outside the garage are a sign of too much hoarding.  In his mind, garages are meant for cars and tools.  If you can’t park inside, you have too much stuff.

“For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.”  Luke 12:34

Storage units are also prevalent in modern society.  I know people who pay the equivalent of another mortgage to store things that they can’t fit in their houses.  Do they even know what they have in there?  Do they really need it?

Now, to complicate hoarding even further, different types of hoarding have been identified.  Whereas we might be fine in one area, in another area we may gather too much.

I have a teeny-tiny kitchen and I’m pretty proud that I have fit everything I need into it.  I do not buy unnecessary appliances or gadgets.  But these new subgroups of hoarding have shown me that I have areas I need to work on.

Here are some of the subgroups:

Sentimental and Emotional Hoarding – These types of people have attached sentimental value to everything they own.  This makes it almost impossible to get rid of anything.

Bargain Hunters – They buy and keep things because they were on sale.  My friend’s mom loved coupons and would drive from store to store to buy all the “deals”.  When she passed, the amount of expired food items she had was mind boggling.

Collectors – Collections are fun.  The hunt for items is exhilarating. Collections is a kinder word than hoarding, isn’t it?  But collections can take over if we’re not careful.

Paper – I know people who have issues with paper.  Receipts, bills, medical forms, what to keep and what to throw away?

Craft Supplies – Okay, this is me.  I want to try every new craft I see.  Even though most of my supplies are hidden away, the amount of crafty stuff I have is too much.

Clothes – Yikes, I am always amazed at the volume of clothes some people have.  They may have a nice, clean home but a closet crammed full of unworn clothes.

Tech Hoarders – I admit to having a box of old phones under my bed, but I think guys have more of a tendency to keep tech items.

Freebies – Some people grab all the free promotional stuff they can find.  You know, like cheap sunglasses with logos, hotel soaps, meal toys, etc.

Just-In-Case Items – Who knows?  Maybe you really will take up spear fishing, even though the stuff you have is outdated.  Or you might need that old non-waterproof sleeping bag that smells like mold.  Trust me, you won’t.

Duplicates – I once tried to help my mom tidy her sewing room.  She had seven irons.  Seven!  When I tried to get rid of six, she balked.  They were all broken, but she just knew they would get repaired someday.  Update: they did not.

Mixed – And then there’s mixed hoarding.  For many people, more than one or two of these subcategories describe them.  That’s when things get tough.

All is not lost though.  If a hoarder really wants to change, they can.  Taking the first step though is on them.  They have to be ready.

“Come now, you rich, weep and howl for the miseries that are coming upon you. Your riches have rotted and your garments are moth-eaten. Your gold and silver have corroded, and their corrosion will be evidence against you and will eat your flesh like fire. You have laid up treasure in the last days.”  James 5:1-3

Counseling – Counseling can be a huge help.  There are counselors that specialize in hoarding but even general counseling can get to the root of the deep-seated issues that have caused the problem in the first place.

Organizing help – There are tons of people who help others organize their messes.  You might even find a friend who would help for free (some people love to do it).

Pretend you’re moving – This one always motivates me.  Do I really want to haul all my stuff from one place to another?  Items lose value in my mind when I think of having to pack and move them.

Death Clean – What do you want to leave behind when you pass?  Do you want your kids to have to wade through piles of junk while they’re mourning?  Here’s an article about The Gentle Art of Swedish Death Cleaning.  Swedish Death Cleaning | AllMomDoes  It tells you that you can go slowly and don’t have to downsize all at once.

Getting started yourself – If you’re ready to make a start on your own, experts say to start with: expired meds, old chargers, duplicate kitchen items, unworn clothes, expired food, single socks, broken things, broken electronics, expired make-up, old paperwork, empty boxes, old magazines, and unused décor.

Hoarding is a sensitive subject.  Those who have issues with it will defend their need for “stuff” to the very end.  It makes me sad that they will never know the joy of paring down their belongings.  The happiness that comes from going from chaos to peace is immeasurable.

“Then he said to them, “Watch out! Be on your guard against all kinds of greed; life does not consist in an abundance of possessions.”  Luke 12:15

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I hope your family enjoys these thick, fluffy and delicious pancakes as much as mine does. If they are old enough, and with supervision, the children will enjoy helping to mix ingredients, carefully pour the batter onto a pan or practice their pancake flipping skills.

Cooking from scratch means you know and control what is in your food and trust me, it will definitely taste better than the boxed stuff. The good news is that with this recipe, you will most likely already have all the needed ingredients in your kitchen or pantry.

Ingredients:

• 2 eggs
• 2 ½ cups milk (or water)
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 5 tablespoons butter, melted
• I teaspoon vanilla extract
• 3 cups self-rising flour

Instructions:

1. Melt the butter on a pan and set aside.
2. Sift and mix the dry ingredients; flour and baking powder in a large mixing bowl.
3. Beat the eggs and add the water or milk (whichever you prefer) to them.
4. Make a well in the centre of the dry ingredients and add the water/milk and egg mixture, stirring till well incorporated.
5. Finally, add the melted butter and vanilla and mix well into your pancake batter.
6. Heat a pan over medium-high heat. Add a dollop of butter and then pour or scoop the batter onto the pan, using approximately 1/2 cup for each pancake; cook until bubbles form and the edges are dry, about 2 to 3 minutes.
7. Add another small dollop of butter on the top of the pancake before flipping and cooking until browned on the other side as well.
8. Repeat steps 6 and 7 with the remaining batter.
9. Serve and enjoy!

Rachel Matembe

Toppings:

From diced fresh fruit and chocolate chips to the classical syrup, be creative and adventurous with your pancake toppings.

Rachel Matembe

For a savory twist, I like to top mine with bacon and a sunny side up egg.

Our son prefers to top his pancakes with chocolate. He loves to add a square of milk chocolate to his hot, fresh of the fire pancake and watch it melt into a delicious spread.

Rachel Matembe

Our daughter prefers to enjoy her pancakes topped with Greek yoghurt, blueberries and maple syrup.

Rachel Matembe

Enjoy!

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Maybe it’s because we’re standing at the finish line of another school year, where every day somehow holds three events, four permission slips, and one library book that’s been missing since February. Maybe it’s because summer is stretching out in front of us with all its promise… and all its snack requests.

Right now my days are filled with wet swim towels draped over every chair in the house, sunscreen smudges on the floor, endless rounds of “Can I have a snack?” followed immediately by, “There’s nothing to eat!” and the familiar chorus of “I’m bored.”

Some days motherhood feels less like making memories and more like managing logistics.

Laundry.

Lunches.

Carpool.

Cleaning.

Planning.

Repeat.

And if I’m being completely honest, there are afternoons when I catch myself wishing time would move just a little faster. Maybe just until bedtime. Or until school starts again. Or until Penny can make her own breakfast.

Then I remember something that always stops me in my tracks.

Somewhere, there is another mom who would give anything to hear those little footsteps racing down the hallway again.

While many of us are trying to survive the beautiful chaos of raising young children, there are moms quietly stepping into a completely different season. Their children are packing up dorm rooms, moving into first apartments, getting married, or simply building lives of their own. The house that once echoed with laughter, sibling arguments, slammed doors, and backpacks dropped in the entryway now feels…quiet.

I imagine those moms walking past bedrooms that stay clean because no one is there to make a mess.

No lunch to pack.

No permission slips to sign.

No school performances to rush across town for.

No little voice calling, “Mom, watch this!”

It’s a different kind of hard.

And it reminds me that every season of motherhood carries both joy and grief.

When our children are little, we ache for a little more space, a little more quiet, a little more sleep. When they’re grown, I imagine we ache for just one more bedtime story, one more tiny hand reaching for ours in the grocery store, one more sticky hug after school.

Time really is a thief.

Not in a cruel way, but in a quiet one.

It steals ordinary Tuesdays while we’re busy folding towels.

It slips past us during school drop-offs and bedtime routines and soccer practices. Before we know it, the child who needed help zipping their jacket is driving away without us.

That thought isn’t meant to make us feel guilty for the moments when motherhood feels exhausting. Because it is exhausting.

There are days when the noise feels overwhelming.

When everyone seems to need something from you at the exact same moment.

When you’ve answered the same question seventeen times before lunch.

When you’re certain you’ve washed the same swimsuit four days in a row.

Those moments are real.

But so are the beautiful ones tucked quietly inside them.

The little hand that still reaches for yours in the parking lot.

The artwork proudly pulled from a backpack.

Packing a favorite lunch and knowing they’ll smile when they open it.

Watching them scan the audience during the school play until they find your face.

Listening to bedtime prayers that somehow become both hilarious and deeply profound.

Being the one they still run to when they’ve had a hard day.

Those ordinary moments don’t usually feel extraordinary while we’re living them.

They simply feel…normal.

Until they aren’t anymore.

The beautiful thing is that motherhood doesn’t stop being meaningful as our children grow—it simply changes shape.

The moms who have raised children into adulthood get to experience something equally beautiful. They watch little personalities become fully formed people. They move from reminding their kids to brush their teeth to having real conversations about faith, marriage, work, dreams, disappointments, and life. Their children begin asking for wisdom instead of permission.

What a gift that must be.

The relationship becomes something entirely new—not less beautiful, just different.

I have a feeling that if moms on both ends of this journey sat down together over coffee, they wouldn’t spend much time comparing whose season is harder.

Instead, I think they’d remind each other to notice it.

The young mom might remind the empty nester to celebrate the incredible adults she helped shape.

The empty nester might gently tell the young mom, “Hold their hand while they’ll still let you.”

Both would understand something the other sometimes forgets: every season feels ordinary while you’re living it, and precious once it’s gone.

Scripture reminds us, “There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens” (Ecclesiastes 3:1).

Not every season feels easy.

Not every season feels peaceful.

But every season has purpose.

God doesn’t ask us to rush through the one we’re in. He invites us to find Him there.

Even here.

In the piles of laundry.

In the wet towels.

In the sticky kitchen floors.

In the school concerts.

In the long summer afternoons.

In the quiet homes.

In the full ones.

Psalm 90:12 says, “Teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom.”

I’ve always loved that verse because I don’t think it’s asking us to count our days with sadness. I think it’s inviting us to pay attention to them.

To notice the sacred hidden inside the ordinary.

To recognize that one day we’ll miss the very things that feel overwhelming right now.

So today, if you’re in the thick of it with little kids climbing into your lap, asking for one more snack, one more story, one more push on the swing, I hope you’ll remember this:

You don’t have to love every moment to treasure this season.

You don’t have to pretend the hard parts aren’t hard.

You can be tired and thankful.

Overwhelmed and deeply grateful.

Ready for bedtime and still wish time would slow down.

Those things can all be true at once.

And if you’re reading this from a quieter house, I hope you know that your season is just as beautiful. The conversations are deeper. The hugs may be fewer, but they carry years of shared history. The prayers look different now. The love hasn’t diminished—it has simply grown.

Motherhood was never meant to stay the same.

Neither were our children.

So here’s to the moms in every season. May we encourage one another, borrow wisdom from those a few steps ahead, and remember that the ordinary days we sometimes wish away often become the ones we miss the most.

Because one day, we’ll look back and realize these weren’t just the busy years.

They were the beautiful ones.

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This year, the whole gang is coming to our house to celebrate and I’m so excited.  It’s a special year, the 250^th anniversary of our country.  It’s a great excuse to gather your people, barbecue some food, and have a party. I’ve been researching recipes and decoration ideas for months.

Psalm 33:12: “Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord, the people he chose for his inheritance.“

Even if you’re having a quiet 4^th this year, why not add some fun to the day with a few decorations?  Now is the time to get crafty and get them done!

Here are some ideas.

 RUSTIC FLAGS

A few years ago I wrote about making rustic little flags.  I made some of them into a garland for my daughter and she hangs them on her fireplace every year.  They were a fun project and a great way to teach beginning sewing.  Rustic Flags Craft Tutorial | AllMomDoes

If your kids aren’t ready to use a needle, There’s an easier way to make them.

Buy red and white striped fabric and some blue fabric (with stars if you can find it).  Tear the striped fabric into 4 x 6” pieces.  Tear the blue fabric into 2 x 3” pieces.  Then simply glue the pieces together into a flag shape with fabric glue.  So simple!

Ann Kirsten

Turn these simple flags into a garland (by attaching them to twine) or make flags by gluing them to dowels or sticks from the yard.

WOOD CUBE BOOK PAGE FLAGS

I had my husband cut 4” x 4” cubes out of 2 x 4s.  I needed mine to fit into certain spaces, but you could cut the wood into any size you want.

Ann Kirsten

To make a book page flag, you’ll need an old book you can cut up, mod podge, and paint.

Ann Kirsten

First, cover the block with an old book page (using mod podge).  Trim the corners to make it easier and make sure you press out any bubbles.  Let dry.

Ann Kirsten

Paint a flag onto the front side.  Thin your craft paint a bit so the print shows through.  I started with the blue and then I painted a red stripe on the top and bottom.  This made it easy to center the other two stripes between the top and bottom.  (You can paint the sides and back in any way you want to).  After the paint is dry, use a paint pen to add a star or cut a star shape out of another book page.  If you want to age the flag, add a tiny bit of brown paint with a dry brush.  Then add a bit of brown paint to some mod podge and brush that mixture over the whole flag.

Ann Kirsten

PLAIN WOODEN FLAGS

If you don’t want to bother with book pages, simply paint your blocks white and let them dry.  Paint the blue corner and then one red stripe at the top and one at the bottom of the cube.  Center the remaining stripes in between those two.  Add a star with a paint pen or cut one from a book page. (Paint whatever you’d like on the sides and back).  Leave the flag as is or softly sand the edges to age the them.  Paint with varnish or mod podge if you want shiny flags.  Add brown paint if you want your flags to look aged.

Ann Kirsten

PATRIOTIC FLOWERS

With red, white and blue fabric, cut five circles.  I used a plastic lid as a pattern.  Mine was about 4 inches across.  Fold the circles as shown.

Ann Kirsten

Sew a running stitch along the curved sides.  Continue sewing from one piece to the next until all five are connected (leave tails of thread on both ends).

Ann Kirsten

Pull the thread tight to gather the stitches.  Tie the ends into a knot and trim the ends.

Ann Kirsten

Sew or glue a button or a circle of felt into the center.  Wouldn’t these make cute corsages or barrettes?

Ann Kirsten

DRYING RACK FLAG

Ann Kirsten

Here’s a unique flag to make.  Grab one of your cooking racks and some red, white, and blue fabric.

Ann Kirsten

Craft and sewing stores sell “fat quarters”, small pieces of material folded into a neat package.  They are great to buy for crafts even if you’re not a seamstress.

Rip your fabric into strips, any width you want, I used about 1 ½ inch width.  You do not need to be perfect on this.

Weave the strips in and out of the drying rack.  I did: over two, under one.  You will find that because of how the drying rack is made, you will not be able to weave perfectly.  Don’t worry, that just adds to the fun of this flag.

When you’re at the end or beginning of a row, leave a tail of fabric, turn the rack upside down and weave the tail into the rack.  I found that a pair of tweezers really came in handy to pull the fabric through.

Voila, a flag!

Ann Kirsten

Any or all of these crafts will add a bit of whimsy to your 4^th of July festivities no matter how you’re celebrating.  Plus, they’re fun to make!

1 Timothy 2:1-2: “I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people— for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness.“

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The select soccer practices, the travel team, the chess club, the homework, the test prep…moms today are navigating not just a more complex world when it comes to raising their kids, but also all the add-ons that are supposed to help our kids prepare for an uncertain future. But what if you decided to get off the hamster wheel and make your kids…and your life…more simple? Novelist and journalist Christine Gunderson joins AllMomDoes host Julie Lyles Carr for an insightful conversation about the forces that drive us to do more more more for our kids and why it could be time for a reset.

Listen to "Off the Hamster Wheel with Christine Gunderson" on Spreaker.

Special thanks to George Fox University for sponsoring the AllMomDoes Podcast!

---

Show Notes:

Find Christine: Website | Instagram | Good Reads

• Book: Behind White Picket Fences

Key Topics:
The evolution of motherhood from the 1960s to today
Impact of societal expectations on mothers
The role of community in raising children
The importance of boredom and free time for kids
The influence of technology and screen time on literacy and creativity

Sound bites:
“Why are we doing all this stuff?”
“Fast content shortens attention spans.”
“Share passions, don’t impose them.”

Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Motherhood Today
03:04 The Changing Landscape of Motherhood
05:47 Community and Its Role in Parenting
08:38 The Impact of Scheduling on Children
11:26 Boredom and Creativity in Kids
14:35 The Walk Away Wife Syndrome
17:23 Finding Solutions Through Community
20:10 Unrealized Aspirations and Parenting
22:49 Conclusion and Resources

Keywords: motherhood, parenting pressures, community, family life, homeschooling, childhood freedom, social anxiety, screen time, work-life balance, novel

Find Julie: Online | Instagram | Facebook | X | Pinterest

Find AllMomDoes: Website | Instagram | Facebook | X | Pinterest

*Transcription can be found on most podcast platforms.

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Lord, help me to speak kindly to my children. Please help me to be kind, loving, warm and fun. In Jesus Name, Amen.

I just prayed that for the millionth time this week. And how many times do we Moms pray such a prayer, after being wrecked by Mom guilt. (Side note, does Dad guilt exist? Will have to look into that.)

The Psalmist in Psalm 113:9 declares that God will make you a joyful mother over your children.

Something just hit me about that verse this week. God is speaking to the mother. Because in His divine wisdom He knows how we tend to beat ourselves up and are harsh in our thoughts towards ourselves. Always falling short and never quite doing good enough, in our own opinions.

The Holy Spirit revealed to me that there is a specific way the enemy attacks mothers, through tormenting guilt that is a stealer of joy and eventually even robs us of life. Notice how the guilt will snowball if we dwell on it even just a little, until it builds up into depression and robs of the family of the wonderful gift of a joyful, present mother. Not today Satan. Not any day, actually.

As I was wallowing through another bout of Mom guilt, the Holy Spirit snapped me out of it by bringing this verse into remembrance, Psalm 113.9. I was l also reminded of Romans 8:1, Therefore there is now no condemnation [no guilty verdict, no punishment] for those who are in Christ Jesus [who believe in Him as personal Lord and Savior]. For the law of the Spirit of life [which is] in Christ Jesus [the law of our new being] has set you free from the law of sin and of death.
 That is why, dear Moms, it is such a gift to store up God’s Word in our minds and hearts. Some versions actually say treasure, because it is a treasure that the Holy Spirit taps into and brings us back into our remembrance just when we need that injection of life and hope back in to us.

Your word I have treasured and stored in my heart. Psalm 119:11

In such a characteristically timely manner, that Wonderful Counsellor, the Holy Spirit, brought these verses back into my mind and said; pray these instead in faith. Speak God’s Word in prayer. See yourself as God sees you. So I prayed instead; Thank You Father that you have made me a joyful mother over all my children, as Your word declares in Psalm 113:9, I will rejoice in them and over them, I’m so grateful for the privilege of parenting them, being their Mom, loving and nurturing them. Please strengthen me in this beautiful role, forgive my shortcomings and help me to do just as You designed. Thank You that a there is no condemnation for me as a Mom and as a person because I am in Christ Jesus. I know You will help me because You say so in Your word.

Don’t be afraid, for I am with you. Don’t be discouraged, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you. I will hold you up with my victorious right hand.  Isaiah 41:10

Dear Mom, as you read this, remember the truth of God’s Word. There is therefore NO condemnation for them that are in Christ Jesus. Not a little condemnation, not some condemnation, but NONE. God called you to this ministry of raising Godly seed because as He said in Psalm 127:3 that children are a gift from Him alone, and His reward. So He sees you as capable and worthy. And He empowers you daily to excel. His mercies are new every single morning and His faithfulness to us is great, not small.

May you receive the joy that God has set apart and intended especially and specifically for Moms. You WILL be a joyful mother over all your children. God had said it, the creator of all things declares it. And so we believe it and receive it. Amen.

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]]> https://www.allmomdoes.com/blog/a-joyful-mom/feed/ 0 https://www.allmomdoes.com/blog/summer-moments-can-we-just-stay-here-for-a-minute/ https://www.allmomdoes.com/blog/summer-moments-can-we-just-stay-here-for-a-minute/#respond Fri, 05 Jun 2026 17:00:20 +0000 Joanna Gott 2026-06-10T14:23:54+00:00 https://d955.cms.socastsrm.com/?p=60262 I’m so sad how fast summer is going to go.”

The funny thing was that summer hadn’t even started yet. She still has a few weeks of school left, lunches to pack, library books to return, and all the usual end-of-year activities filling our calendar. Yet there she was, already mourning the end of a season she hadn’t even experienced. At first, I laughed. Then I realized something that stopped me in my tracks: she learned that from me.

As moms, I think many of us live our lives one step ahead of where we actually are. My brain often feels like it’s permanently attached to a calendar. I’m constantly thinking about what’s happening today, what needs to happen this weekend, what appointments are coming up next week, and what preparations need to be made for next month. Sometimes it feels like my mind spends so much time planning the future that it barely gets to enjoy the present.

The truth is, we’re living in a culture that constantly pushes us toward what’s next. Summer hasn’t officially started, yet stores are already filling their shelves with fall décor. I’ve seen pumpkins and cozy autumn displays while I’m still trying to figure out where I stored last year’s beach towels. Movie previews are advertising Christmas releases before we’ve even celebrated the Fourth of July. Play dates somehow need to be scheduled weeks in advance, and social media never lets us forget that there’s always a new trend, a new product, a new routine, or a new opportunity waiting just around the corner.

Without realizing it, we become conditioned to believe that the next thing is always more important than the current thing.

Maybe that’s why Penny’s comment hit me so hard. She wasn’t really sad about summer ending. She was missing a moment she hadn’t even lived yet. And if I’m honest, I’ve done the same thing more times than I can count. I’ve worried about the end of a season while standing right in the middle of it. I’ve stressed about the next school year before the current one was over. I’ve caught myself thinking about August while living in June.

As I reflected on this, I couldn’t help but think about Jesus’ words in Matthew 6:34: “Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.”

I’ve read that verse countless times, but lately it feels especially relevant. Jesus wasn’t telling us never to make plans. He wasn’t suggesting we ignore responsibilities or stop preparing for the future. Instead, He was reminding us that today’s blessings deserve today’s attention. So often, we carry tomorrow’s worries into today and then wonder why we feel exhausted.

I think summer offers a unique opportunity to practice living differently. There is something about this season that naturally invites us to slow down. The longer evenings, backyard dinners, popsicles on the porch, spontaneous trips for ice cream, and afternoons spent outside all seem to whisper an invitation to be present. Yet even summer can become another item on our to-do list if we’re not careful. We can spend so much time planning memories that we forget to actually experience them.

This year, I’m trying to be more intentional about staying in the moment, and there are a few simple practices helping me do that.

Leave Space on the Calendar

One of the biggest changes I’m making is leaving more space on our calendar. This doesn’t come naturally to me. I love a plan. I love knowing what’s coming and feeling prepared. But some of our family’s sweetest memories have happened when absolutely nothing was scheduled. A spontaneous trip to get ice cream. An evening bike ride through the neighborhood. Running through the sprinkler because it seemed like a good idea at the time. Those moments rarely happen when every minute is accounted for.

Notice the Ordinary Moments

I’m also trying to pay closer attention to ordinary moments. It’s easy to believe that meaningful memories only happen during vacations or special events, but some of the moments I treasure most are incredibly simple. They’re found in conversations around the dinner table, folding laundry together, hearing laughter drift in from the backyard, or watching the evening sunlight spill across the kitchen floor. Psalm 118:24 reminds us, “This is the day the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it.” Not next week. Not next month. This day.

Put Down the Phone More Often

Another challenge for me is putting my phone down more often. I say this as someone who works in a world connected to social media as it can be a wonderful tool, but it can also make us feel like we’re constantly missing something. While we’re enjoying our own family’s summer, we’re simultaneously seeing everyone else’s vacations, parties, projects, and adventures. Before we know it, we’re mentally somewhere else instead of fully present where God has placed us. Sometimes the best thing I can do is set the phone aside and fully participate in the life happening right in front of me.

Practice Gratitude for What’s Right in Front of You

I’ve also found that gratitude is one of the quickest ways to anchor my heart in the present. When I intentionally thank God for today’s blessings, my focus shifts away from what’s missing or what’s coming next. A morning walk, a cup of coffee, a conversation with Penny, a beautiful sunset, or even an ordinary day at home can become a reminder of God’s goodness. Gratitude helps me see that today’s gifts are enough.

Remember That God Is Already in Tomorrow

Finally, I’m learning to trust that God is already in tomorrow. So much of our obsession with the future comes from a desire to control it. We want certainty. We want guarantees. We want to know how everything will turn out. Yet Isaiah 46:10 reminds us that God knows the end from the beginning. The future that feels uncertain to us is already known to Him. That truth doesn’t eliminate planning, but it does free us from carrying burdens that were never ours to hold.

As we head into summer, I’m reminding myself of something simple: I don’t want to miss today’s blessings because I’m busy worrying about tomorrow’s. The calendar pages will keep turning. Summer will eventually end. Another school year will begin. The next season will come whether I’m ready or not.

But right now, there are memories waiting to be made. There are conversations to have, sunsets to watch, ice cream cones to eat, sidewalks to cover in colorful chalk, and ordinary moments to enjoy. And maybe that’s enough.

So when Penny asks what’s happening next weekend, I’m going to do my best to gently remind both of us that we’re still living this one. Because one day, these ordinary days will become the moments we miss most. And I don’t want to spend so much time looking ahead that I forget to enjoy the beautiful life God has placed right in front of me.

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]]> https://www.allmomdoes.com/blog/summer-moments-can-we-just-stay-here-for-a-minute/feed/ 0 https://www.allmomdoes.com/blog/the-power-of-family-worship/ https://www.allmomdoes.com/blog/the-power-of-family-worship/#respond Thu, 04 Jun 2026 17:00:17 +0000 Rachel Matembe 2026-06-04T22:12:26+00:00 https://d955.cms.socastsrm.com/?p=60258 Christian Chan “But as for me and my family, we will serve the LORD.” Joshua 24:15

Are you a family that does things together? One of the instructions God has given us as a family is to talk about His Word together, pray and worship Him together.

It is our God given role as parents to pass on the faith to our children. If the Church helps, that’s great! But the primary responsibility rests on us as parents, as God shows us in His Word.

“So commit yourselves wholeheartedly to these words of mine. Tie them to your hands and wear them on your forehead as reminders. Teach them to your children. Talk about them when you are at home and when you are on the road, when you are going to bed and when you are getting up. Write them on the doorposts of your house and on your gates, so that as long as the sky remains above the earth, you and your children may flourish in the land the LORD swore to give your ancestors.” Deuteronomy 11:18-21.

While it may come naturally to you as a parent to pray for your children, this is an encouragement to take it a step further and pray with your children too.

My husband and I recently attended a workshop led by Steve Demme called Family Worship U-See. Steve is the author of various books including ‘Family Worship’, the creator of Math-U-See and the founder of Building Faith and Families. We were reminded that having a family altar, a regular time and place to worship, pray and read God’s Word together as a family is not only vital to us passing on our faith, but it builds strong relationship bonds within the family as we seek God as a unit. Like Steve likes to say, a family that stays together, stays together.

Family worship will look different at different stages of your family life and in different seasons. From the toddler years when they are just happy to be there and can feel the love and warmth of loved ones, to the elementary years and beyond when they can actively participate in reading and discussing Bible passages with you.

Some days it will look like 10 minutes of going through the motions because everyone caught a cold and is groggy and other days you will lose track of time as you enjoy singing hymn after hymn, playing Bible games like draw your sword or read along and delving deep into Bible study. The key is that we keep our daily appointment with God as a family, showing that He has priority in our lives. These habits and rhythms that our children grow up with will be hard to shake as adults. And that is exactly the point. Train up a child in the way they should go and when they are old, they will not depart from it. Proverbs 22:6

Timothy’s mother and grandmother are great examples of the eternal benefits that passing on our faith from one generation to another will have. Paul testifies to this in 2 Timothy 1:5, I remember your sincere and unqualified faith [the surrendering of your entire self to God in Christ with confident trust in His power, wisdom and goodness, a faith] which first lived in [the heart of] your grandmother Lois and your mother Eunice, and I am confident that it is in you as well.

But as for you, continue in what you have learned and have become convinced of, because you know those from whom you learned it, and how from infancy you have known the Holy Scriptures, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus. 2 Timothy 3:14-15

Timothy’s Mum and Grand Ma were diligent in teaching him the Holy Scriptures from infancy. This shows us that our children are never too young to be part of family worship. Even babies in the womb can be filled with the Holy Spirit, like John the Baptist was. He will be filled with the Holy Spirit, even from his mother’s womb. Luke 1:15.

It is possible to make studying God’s Word and praying together as a family a daily part of your home. Even just the simple act of reading the Scriptures out loud together allows God’s words to take root, and His Holy Spirit to minister to the whole family. Be encouraged in knowing that when you take even the smallest steps to disciple and steward your children, God does much more than we could have ever imagined!

We will not hide them from their children, but tell to the coming generation the glorious deeds of the LORD, and His might, and the wonders that He has done. Psalm 78:4.

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]]> https://www.allmomdoes.com/blog/the-power-of-family-worship/feed/ 0 https://purposely.com/podcasts/allmomdoes-podcast/screening-summer-with-julie-lyles-carr/ https://purposely.com/podcasts/allmomdoes-podcast/screening-summer-with-julie-lyles-carr/#respond Wed, 03 Jun 2026 10:00:48 +0000 Purposely 2026-06-03T10:00:48+00:00 https://purposely.com/?p=19517

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She was duly impressed by the experience.  She loved the opulence of the theater and the soft seats that folded in half if you weren’t careful.

When we gathered for lunch afterwards, I presented her with her gift of the little figures.  We were all shocked when she opened them, shuddered, and said, “No, thank you, Nana.”  Her mom tried to get her to touch them and play with them and she refused.  She couldn’t articulate why she wouldn’t play with them.

For about a month we tried again every time she came over but she was adamant that she wanted nothing to do with them.

Finally, her mom brought them to her house and promised to try again.  She gently took them out of the package and touched them herself.  My granddaughter saw how pretty they all were and began lining them up on the table and then she handed the Hans figurine to her mom and said, “Not him!”  Every time her mom tried to put him in the group, my granddaughter fiercely stated that he was not allowed to be a part of the play group.  She even made her mom put him away where he could not be seen.

If you remember, Hans seemed in the movie to be a classic prince.  Only towards the end do we find out shockingly that he has evil intentions.  He was a deceiver and my little granddaughter did not like that at all.  She wanted no part of him.

Sometime later, Tangled came out on DVD.  I was thrilled again to share it with my granddaughter.  I have always loved the story and I was a fan of some of the voice actors.  But once again, my granddaughter was less that happy.

This time it was the witch/mother who upset her.  Who was she really, the mother who pretended to be nice or the awful witch with evil intent in her heart?  Again, the deception upset my little granddaughter and she refused to ever watch it again.

Years have passed and supposed children’s movies have become even more filled with upsetting things.  Decades ago, we felt we could trust companies like Disney to put out sweet stories that kids would love.  Looking back, I can see that these insidious moves were just the beginning, and isn’t that how Satan works?  He creeps in silently, often unnoticed, until he gains a foothold.

I now have more beautiful grandchildren and a few weeks ago we sat down to watch Swapped.  It was animated and the colors and characters caught our attention.  All through the movie there was a goofy and kind fish who helped the main characters.  Then, at the very end, he turned into an ugly fiery wolf, again with evil in his heart.

My sweet, sensitive grandson yelled out, “Why did they make this movie?!”  “What is the point?!”  He muttered under his breath for the rest of the scenes and clung to my arm.  He slept next to his mom that night.

“Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep’s clothing but inwardly are ravenous wolves. You will recognize them by their fruits. Are grapes gathered from thornbushes, or figs from thistles?” Matthew 7:15-16

I revisit these experiences over and over in my mind.  Where I might have glossed over these scenes, the innocence of children’s hearts saw the evil contained inside.

One of Satan’s names is “The Great Deceiver” and we have to be aware at all times of his attacks, especially if we’re raising children.  In this corrupt world it is hard to stay alert when so many attacks are all around us.  It took my sweet grandchildren to show me the subtle ways that even cartoon “family” movies aren’t safe anymore.

As Matthew 18:3-4 says: “Truly, I say to you, unless you turn and become like children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. Whoever humbles himself like this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven.”

The Great Deceiver is described as a spiritual being who twists God’s truth, leads humanity into sin, and orchestrates widespread spiritual deception across the world.

There are many who think I am being too picky about these things.  After all, these are just silly movies, right?  But I think that if even young children can see the evil, I should be paying attention too.  There are others who think that children should be anesthetized to the evils of this world so they can handle life better.  I, for one, love that my sensitive grandkids don’t accept the muddying of the line between good and evil.  Instead, they stand for truth and keep a hold on their faith.

“If anyone causes one of these little ones—those who believe in me—to stumble, it would be better for them to have a large millstone hung around their neck and to be drowned in the depths of the sea.”  Matthew 18:6

It’s so sad that Satan targets even children in his quest for control.  But he will stop at nothing to turn people away from the Lord.  I am humbled by the things my grandchildren teach me.  Seeing things through their eyes simplifies the difference between good and evil and allows me to see more clearly.

“But Jesus said, ‘Let the little children come to me. Don’t stop them, because the kingdom of heaven belongs to people who are like these children.'” Matthew 19:14

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]]> https://www.allmomdoes.com/blog/the-great-deceiver/feed/ 0 https://purposely.com/podcasts/gospel-tech/stop-the-summer-slip-2/ https://purposely.com/podcasts/gospel-tech/stop-the-summer-slip-2/#respond Tue, 02 Jun 2026 07:05:44 +0000 Purposely 2026-06-02T07:05:44+00:00 https://purposely.com/?p=19523

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Then [with a deep longing] you will seek Me and require Me [as a vital necessity] and [you will] find Me when you search for Me with all your heart. Jeremiah 29:13 Amplified Bible

I’m reminded of the time Jesus chose a few of His closest disciples to go to the mountain with Him to pray. They could not do it. They kept dozing off and falling asleep, much to Jesus’s disappointment. This was because praying and seeking God is not something they had been practicing and doing consistently like Jesus had, so it was hard for them to do. Jesus often withdrew to a solitary place to seek God and pray as we see in Luke 5:16. It is something He had trained Himself to do, did consistently and often and so had the muscle built up and could exercise it for hours while others slept off in a few minutes. The good news is that the disciples noticed this desirable attribute in Jesus and asked Him to teach them to pray. And He did. They had a rough start, falling asleep and not being able to keep up with their teacher but with consistency and not giving up, they were finally able to spend extended hours seeking God and in prayer. We see this in Acts 2:42.

But you will receive power and ability when the Holy Spirit comes upon you; and you will be My witnesses. Acts 1:8

Another very vital piece of them being able to seek God and pray was the Holy Spirit. After the disciples had the Holy Spirit come upon them at Pentecost, were empowered to do what Jesus did. We need the Holy Spirit. And praise God that Jesus sent us the Holy Spirit who indwells everyone that accepts Jesus as their Lord and Savior.  The Holy Spirit empowers us to seek God with all our hearts and find Him. Not half heartedly, but with all of our hearts.

And you also were included in Christ when you heard the message of truth, the gospel of your salvation. When you believed, you were marked in Him with a seal, the promised Holy Spirit. The Spirit is God’s guarantee that He will give us the inheritance He promised and that He has purchased us to be His own people. He did this so we would praise and glorify Him. Ephesians 1:13-14.

God desires intimacy with us. When we seek God, we seek Him for Him, not just for His answers or blessings. He is our exceedingly great reward.

Here are three ways we can seek God:

1. We seek God through His Word, giving God’s Word first place in our lives and referring to it as the final authority.

This does not mean we give up on other pursuits like work, sports, ministry or family but it means that God comes first. He is priority.

Seek first the Kingdom of God and His righteousness , and all these things shall be added unto you. Matthew 6:36.

I’ve heard people say God never speaks to them. The answer to that is: open up your Bible and read it. The Bible is God speaking, so find the time to read it and hear God talking to you.

My child, pay attention to what I say; turn your ear to My words.  Do not let them out of your sight, keep them within your heart; for they are life to those who find them and health to one’s whole body. Proverbs 4:20-22.

The Israelites used to write God’s Word everywhere so it was ever before their eyes and so they could give attention to it. So go ahead and post Bible verses everywhere, on the fridge, in the living room, by your nightstand.

2. We seek God through prayer.

Give yourself to prayer. Following the first step above, when we have the regular storage of God’s Word in our heart, as we start to pray, the Holy Spirit brings to mind the appropriate scriptures for whatever situation we are praying. To quote my Pastor PS “A Christian who is not praying is playing. A people that are not praying are straying”

He said to them, “It is written, ‘My house shall be called a house of prayer,’ but you make it a den of robbers.” Matthew 21:13.

Jesus was talking about the physical temple in this verse, but now, we are called the temple of God in 1 Corinthians 3:17 so we are called to be a house of prayer, as the temple of the living God. Because if we leave the temple without prayer, other things will come in like they did in Jesus’s time.

Consistent prayer is one of the core disciplines that builds up a Christian.

3. We seek God through fasting.

Fasting is not very popular I know, but Jesus did it and so should we.

And when He had come into the house, His disciples asked Him privately, “Why could we not cast it out?” So He said to them, “This kind can come out by nothing but prayer and fasting.” Mark 9:28-29.

We do not fast in order to change God, because fasting does not change God, but changes us. We fast to bring our flesh into subjection; to silence the demands of the flesh so we can hear more clearly what the Spirit of God is saying on the inside of us.  Fasting is about silencing the carnal nature and edifying our spiritual nature.

Fasing is not a cultural thing. Fasting is a Biblical thing. Jesus said WHEN you fast, not if you fast. To train yourself in fasting, take baby steps. Fast till noon one day, then till 2pm and then 6pm and so on. We fast so we can spend more time with God in prayer and His Word. Our physical body is denied but the spirit is feasting on things that edify like God’s Word and prayer.

I discipline my body like an athlete, training it to do what it should. Otherwise, I fear that after preaching to others I myself might be disqualified. 1 Corinthians 9:27

Like Paul, our flesh should not dictate the course of our lives. Instead, we are led by the spirit, not the flesh.

Matthew 6:16-18 Moreover, WHEN you fast, do not look somber as the hypocrites do, for they disfigure their faces to show others they are fasting. Truly I tell you, they have received their reward in full. But WHEN you fast, put oil on your head and wash your face, so that it will not be obvious to others that you are fasting, but only to your Father, who is unseen; and your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you. 

Jesus teaches us that fasting should not make us irresponsible Christians who are slacking at our work or school or other responsibilities because it should not be obvious that we are fasting. Instead, fasting makes us spiritual giants, empowered to do all God calls us to do. We pray better when we fast and we understand God’s word better because our flesh is under and our spiritual antennas are in tune and more receptive to hear from God.

Making room for Jesus as our priority has eternal benefits. We cannot seek God real quick. But when we seek Him with all our heart, we will surely find Him.

“Show me your ways, Lord, teach me your paths. Guide me in your truth and teach me, for you are God my Savior, and my hope is in you all day long.” Psalm 25:4-5.

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]]> https://www.allmomdoes.com/blog/seek-the-lord/feed/ 0 https://www.allmomdoes.com/blog/the-value-of-introverts/ https://www.allmomdoes.com/blog/the-value-of-introverts/#respond Fri, 29 May 2026 17:00:43 +0000 Ann Kirsten 2026-05-29T19:29:56+00:00 https://d955.cms.socastsrm.com/?p=60229 franck reporter

I watched as my more social friends were celebrated and revered while I got report cards saying things like, “needs to get over her shyness” or “doesn’t participate in class”.

And I have to admit that from the outside, introverts can seem a bit odd.

Don’t be surprised if we talk to ourselves … out loud.  It’s just how we process information sometimes.

Our idea of a perfect day involves cancelled plans.  Please cancel.  We love time spent on our own.

In fact, we recharge by being alone.  Going out for a drink after work or meeting a friend for dinner?  No thanks.  We need time with our thoughts, hobbies or just zoning out to the television instead.

Kelly Sikkema

Small talk drives us crazy.  Social settings where surface talk is the norm will exhaust us faster than anything.  A deep conversation with just one or two people suits us much better.

We may seem anti-social.  Because of our wiring, we might look like we are aloof.  We do like people; we just show that in a different way.

Silence does not bother us.  We don’t feel the need to fill every second with noise.  This freaks some people out.

Introverts don’t have a large friend group.  Instead we invest in a few deep and meaningful relationships.  We prefer it this way.

We tend to have weird hobbies.  All that time alone (plus not feeling the need for others’ approval) can lead to strange pastimes.  I have been known to paint sticks, glue stamps of my own making into small books, and make dolls out of toilet paper rolls.  It all makes sense to me.

Our need for quiet time is fierce and non-negotiable.  One of my guy friends, when he is forced into a social situation, has escape routes figured out before he goes.  They include not only excuses to cut the night short, but actual plans of which door will get him out quicker.

These things are hard for social people to understand.  I used to hide these parts of myself because the world made me feel ashamed.

It is only recently that introverts have fought back.  Finally, enough of us were tired of the labels and began talking about our unique strengths.

For example:

1. Introvert friends are excellent listeners.  Try getting your social butterfly friends to listen to you for any length of time and you may notice that they have trouble listening.

2. Introverts are keen observers.  Because we tend to sit back and observe, we notice small details that others miss.  We can read body language and the tiniest nuances of behavior.

3. This leads us to advanced empathy.  How can we not have empathy when we see so much that more social people miss.

4. It is easier to have a deep conversation with an introvert.  We do not dominate conversations.  Instead, we listen carefully and take in small details.

5. Introverts often excel at creative pursuits.  Writing and art are best done alone and introverts are not afraid of being alone, in fact we often prefer it.

6. We can keep ourselves happy and occupied.  We don’t need others for constant entertainment or validation.

7. We make ideal friends and partners because we value personal space and privacy.

8. We think before we speak and take action.  This reduces hasty errors and impulsive actions (making us ideal employees).

Knowing all these pluses to being an introvert makes it hard to understand why the world has always been so keen to “fix” us.

And because so many were telling us that we were broken, we believed it.

I am happy that introverts have finally started speaking up (even though it’s hard for us!).  I spent years being a square peg trying to shove myself into the round hole the world insisted I fit into.  I just couldn’t do it and it made me feel so ashamed.

When I had my own kids, I became a mama bear.  Teachers who tried to label my children the same way I was labeled were given an earful.  I did everything I could to make sure they did not go through the guilt and shame that I went through.

My journey to acceptance of myself took much longer.

It is through years of trying and failing to be more social, counseling, and just plain stubbornness that I now view being an introvert as a blessing and not a curse.

My kids’ pediatrician had a sign in his office that said, “God Don’t Make No Junk”.  And it is true.  He doesn’t.  The gifts He gave me would not have been possible without the unique wiring I have.

For years I dreamed of magically turning into an outgoing party person.  I can finally say that given the chance to be changed into a social butterfly, I wouldn’t take it.

I am fine the way I am and God knew that when He created me.

“For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.” Ephesians 2:10

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