October 3, 2023
by Maralee
Comments Off on Making The Case for Toys
I was at a training about a month ago where a retired judge talked about the importance of creating a welcoming climate for kids who come to court. As part of his presentation he held up a board book and … Continue reading
April 26, 2023
by Maralee
Comments Off on When You Don’t Want to Need Your Village
My son participated in a track meet in another city this winter. Track season is usually in the spring, but he conditioned all through the winter and participated in an indoor meet outside of what the public school typically offered. … Continue reading
April 17, 2023
by Maralee
Comments Off on That Time We Stone Souped a Small Group
We have been involved in church small groups for years. I remember babysitting for other people’s small groups during my teen years and hiding in the basement while my parents were hosting their own. I believe strongly that creating community … Continue reading
September 1, 2022
by Maralee
Comments Off on People are Quiet Quitting the Church. I was almost one of them.
“Quiet Quitting” seems to be the hot phrase of the moment. If you haven’t run into it, it refers to doing the bare minimum for your job– not going above or beyond expectations, setting firm boundaries, protecting your off time. … Continue reading
June 7, 2022
by Maralee
Comments Off on When It’s Time to Leave a Church You Love
We have been attending the same church for over a decade. We have loved it there. I’ve written about our church family so many times over the years. They have held us up during very difficult moments and been a … Continue reading
January 20, 2022
by Maralee
Comments Off on How to Make Small Talk with a Large Family Mom
I had an awkward interaction with someone the other day. It wasn’t the first time. It certainly won’t be the last. When people see a large family, it’s kind of tough not to comment on it. In the immortal words … Continue reading
September 25, 2020
by Maralee
2 Comments
I want to tell you a story. The story of two acquaintances who treated each other with a reasonable level of civility online. I wish that didn’t sound like the start of a fairytale these days, but we’re living in … Continue reading
September 9, 2020
by Maralee
Comments Off on Every Baby Deserves to be Celebrated. Especially Foster Babies.
A couple months ago my neighbors brought home their premature twins after a lengthy hospital stay. It was a joyous occasion as our cul-de-sac hung streamers from trees and balloons on their porch. We lined the street and applauded as … Continue reading
April 28, 2020
by Maralee
Comments Off on Infertility– Suffering, Marriage, Friendship and Faith Radio Interview
It was a weird moment the other day when I verbalized to my husband that we are now experiencing secondary infertility. About fifteen years ago we were diagnosed with infertility, adopted four kids, experienced two miracle pregnancies that ended with … Continue reading
March 2, 2020
by Maralee
Comments Off on Bring Your Kids to Church (radio interview)
Maybe somebody out there has a really easy time getting through the morning insanity of church prep, then their kids sit so nicely and quietly during the service (hands folded, obviously) and afterwards the kids have these insightful conversations about … Continue reading