November 9, 2020
by Maralee
3 Comments
My daughter has a birthday coming up. As I was shopping for gifts for her, I thought about how stressful her birthday used to be for me. I wanted things to be perfect for her, but I felt like I … Continue reading
February 18, 2020
by Maralee
Comments Off on We Spent the Morning Arguing about Cereal. I Don’t Regret It.
I woke up early to come wake you up. Even though you don’t need me to. Even though you’re capable of waking up on your own to your own alarm clock in your own room. Every day you become more … Continue reading
January 21, 2020
by Maralee
Comments Off on Let Me Catch My Children in the Act
A Prayer for My Children as They Make Their Own Choices Lord, let me catch my children. May I always listen to that still small voice that tells me to walk into the room without warning. Let me not avoid … Continue reading
October 10, 2019
by Maralee
Comments Off on What I Would Go Back and Tell Myself The Day We Adopted
Dear Maralee, Today you will become a mother. I know they told you you would meet your baby son tomorrow, but the orphanage administrator decided it will be today. She will not tell you this until she walks into the … Continue reading
June 3, 2019
by Maralee
1 Comment
A Prayer for My Children as They Make Their Own Choices Lord, let me catch my children. May I always listen to that still small voice that tells me to walk into the room without warning. Let me not avoid … Continue reading
May 17, 2019
by Maralee
1 Comment
Yesterday my twelve-year-old decided to take his second “personal day” of the year. He slept in, played with his younger siblings, watched some videos, ran errands with me and grabbed lunch at McDonald’s. No homework, no extra chores, no having … Continue reading
February 8, 2019
by Maralee
Comments Off on Radio Interview: Combatting the Pressure to be an Overscheduled Family
I think the topic of family priorities and family schedules is an important one. I also think it’s one I’m still learning about. I’m constantly having to preach to myself on the importance of rest and family time. I have … Continue reading
February 1, 2019
by Maralee
1 Comment
Quitting has a bad reputation. It’s perceived to be giving up on your dreams or on yourself. It’s what you do when you’ve run out of willpower, support or talent. It’s that thing that losers do. Whatever else we do … Continue reading
September 24, 2018
by Maralee
Comments Off on Dear Son, Our Work Together Isn’t Done Yet
I woke up early to come wake you up. Even though you don’t need me to. Even though you’re capable of waking up on your own to your own alarm clock in your own room. Every day you become more … Continue reading
August 22, 2018
by Maralee
Comments Off on Moms Aren’t Forgetful, We Just Have Mom Brain
Moms get a bad rap sometimes. When we show up late or forget that thing we were supposed to do or accidentally put the TV remote in the fridge, people assume we’re flighty or irresponsible. Nothing could be further from … Continue reading