Research has shown that reading aloud to kids greatly increases their love for literature – but unfortunately, making time for “read-aloud” has been pushed off the table for many teachers. It can be understandable, what with all the demands for other things that have to be taught. But even though I feel this tug myself,… Continue reading Favorite Classroom Read-Alouds
At some point in time (probably in the 40’s or 50’s), someone decided that it was better to replace the word “sex” with the euphemism “intimacy” or “being intimate.” And because of this, to this day, many older people will blush if you use the term “intimacy” around them, assuming you’re referring to sex. But… Continue reading Intimacy Re-imagined
There is a frightening 21st-century predator lurking in the shadows for our children. And it comes in the form of unmonitored access to social media and Internet content. If you’re in your teens or twenties, you might be thinking, “Yeah, yeah – adults have been going on and on about the dangers of the Internet… Continue reading How Many “Reasons Why” Do We Need?
This year when I set out to discover the deeper meaning of the word “relationship,” I had no idea where it would take me. I had no idea of the lessons awaiting me that would begin to break down my selfishness, my pride, and my desire for attention. I had no idea that I would… Continue reading Single & Seeking a Barnabas-Like Community
These are the coveted days of summer. The lazy, lengthy, sun-drenched days of summer. The days when a teacher’s soul finds great respite and recovery from 180 days packed to the brim with school. And as I start my fourth week of summer vacation, I find myself loving and loathing the days of summer break.… Continue reading Weeping Sunshine
Some people can’t get attached to anyone. I, on the other hand, get far too attached to people, places, things, experiences. I let them take up too much residence in my heart so that it aches painfully when I have to say goodbye. Life transitions have always been hard for me because I’ve attached so… Continue reading My Reverse Attachment Disorder
I had a pretty happy, idyllic childhood. I had long days filled with my imagination, mystery novels, notebooks filled with stories, and giggles and sleepovers with friends. Adventures in Odyssey, American Girl, and Awana were my staples – I was innocent, adventure-filled, and happy-go-lucky. But just like everyone else, my childhood wasn’t exactly the perfect… Continue reading Escaping from the Death Grip of Legalism
The Vintage Girl 