Cliché notwithstanding, social media in all its forms is the ultimate double-edged sword. One edge blessing and one edge cursing. Whether we like it or not, it is here to stay, and it’s growing, so the trick is to embrace the blessing. When it comes to youth ministry, embracing the blessing is not always an easy... Continue Reading →
Note to Self: I choose my husband
Note to self: As a wife I have the opportunity to create a home that either supports or crushes my husband. I can make our house a haven of rest and peace, or a place of anxiety, struggle, dissension. I can choose to be affirming or critical. I can teach my children to honor and... Continue Reading →
Evil, Suffering and God
Why does God allow evil and suffering? There are no words to describe the anguish felt by those who encounter suffering. There are so many tragic stories, so much pain. And many people ask the question, “Why? Why did God allow this?” This has been a heart-rending couple of years for my home-state of Colorado. First... Continue Reading →
How do I prove love to my adopted child?
One of the most monumental and unforeseen obstacles I have faced as an adoptive parent is how to prove my love to my adopted child. This issue seems to be made more complicated by the fact we adopted him through the foster care system as a preteen. Adopted children struggle with feeling connected, loved, a part... Continue Reading →
Taking Off the Mask
Wearing a mask brings certain comforts, but it also may hinder our personal growth. As long as we wear the mask we don’t have to deal with the underlying problem. But when we are truly able to confront the truth about ourselves we will find true freedom. We can find healing.
What to (not) Expect When Adopting
"…she's my mom and I love her." -my son, age 17 The day we met our little boy he'd already experienced more trauma, neglect and abuse than most grownups will in a lifetime. When he rounded the corner on our first meeting I fell in love instantly. His little twelve-year-old face was adorable and smiley. (You can read more... Continue Reading →
Our Responsibility to Life
I’ve briefly shared about our journey with foster care and adoption in Two Prayers Answered, but our complete story has never been told. Someday. Maybe. Today I'll be sharing some information...some food for thought...and also challenging you – are you ready? Here's a short history lesson about National Adoption Month: In 1976 Massachusetts Governor Michael Dukakis announced... Continue Reading →
What Coffee Means to Me
Drinking coffee in our family is a bonding experience. There are heaps of positive (mushy, gushy) emotions attached to the smells, sounds and taste of freshly brewed coffee. All of my fondest memories of childhood are filled with the delectable, robust, savory, satisfying (I could go on) aroma of brewing coffee. I remember a family reunion in Denver when I was... Continue Reading →
It’s a Two Way Street
Everyone is entitled to have their own opinions and should be allowed to post them freely in their personal web-sphere-world. Although I may not agree with their stance on politics, religion, music, morals, human rights, etc; they are allowed to post whatever they want on their own Facebook page, blog, etc. Note to self: It... Continue Reading →
7 Ways to Encourage Positive Behavior in Children
Notice. If we really want to encourage positive behavior, we have to start by noticing it. When you recognize positive behavior, it is more likely it will continue. What you focus on is what you get, so focus on what you want. So, it's time to put down the phone and look up. Pay attention.... Continue Reading →
SELENA BOYTS 