“The night they took me from my mother, I wasn’t scared of losing her—I was terrified of losing school. It was my only safe place, my only constant. I had made a promise to my brother, and nothing—not foster care, not instability—could break it. This is the story of how education became my lifeline and led me to a future I never thought possible.”

“The Night They Took Me From My Mother, My Only Thought Was School—And Keeping My Promise To My Brother.”

Adoption Myth-Busting: The Realities And Rewards Of Adopting Teenagers
The misconceptions of adopting teenagers is damaging, and it’s time to dispel the rumors.

My Child Is All Grown Up, And I’m Not Ready To Let Go
“He uses the verb ‘hang out’ instead of ‘play’ with his friends; he requests gift cards for his birthday, not Nerf guns and Legos; he routinely passes on puppet shows at the library in favor of watching YouTube. On his iPhone. Just as the moon has phases, the same is true of a child.”

5 Tips For Socializing Your Homeschooled Child
Homeschooled children may not get the same socialization found in traditional schooling, but it doesn’t mean they can’t learn crucial social skills.

8+ Best Easter Gift Ideas For Teens
Teenagers can be notoriously difficult to shop for so Easter gifts for teens that won’t make them roll their eyes are a must.

‘One minute you’re changing diapers, next you’re tossing car keys.’: Mom shares embracing teen years through nostalgia
“Time is a funny thing when you are a mother.”

Dear Stepdaughter: I Am So Glad You Are Growing Up
“I am so proud of the young woman you have become. To know that you want to follow in even just a few of my footsteps is all I could ever ask for as your stepmom.”

Dear Teen Daughter: I Hope You Never Hesitate To Call On Me
“I hope she knows she can come to me with anything, any time. I hope she knows I will cheer for her in any place in life.”

Dear Parents Dropping Off College Kids: It’s OK To Feel Profound Joy And Sadness All At Once
“The price of love is sometimes hard. Constant grocery shopping, carpools, sleepless nights. But the letting go of doing all of that? Even harder.”

To My Grown Children: Until My Last Breath, I Will Always Be There
“They don’t quite need me the way they used to. However, as I move from the driver to the passenger seat of their lives, I get the beautiful privilege of witnessing them growing into capable, independent, faithful men.”