Raising children is a joyful experience for most parents. Holding a new “little bundle of joy” in their earliest days of life can be indescribable. It’s an experience most parents enjoy with overflowing love in their hearts. On the flip side, becoming a stepparent is sometimes a very different experience. In most cases, you don’t get…
As parents, we spend years training our children to be fully functioning adults by the time they’re ready to fly away from the comforts of their childhood home—aka “the nest.” At least, we think we should be guiding them toward this big event. But is this parent-to-child training time something of days gone by? Is it…
When we consider the years of childhood, we typically think about a span of time filled with friends, laughter, and playtime with friends. Toys, bikes, and games are the primary ingredients of joy to children around the world. However, when wrongful “adult games” intersect with childhood, the innocence in children’s fun and laughter is suddenly boxed up…
Lorraine Looney, LMSW, shares practical insights for how to encourage a friend or family member struggling with addiction.
Ever feel like your world just got blown to pieces? This question reminds me of the cartoon series The Coyote and Road Runner Show. Think of the scenes where Wile E. Coyote gets flattened to the road by some unexpected collision with a train, cargo ship, or huge boulder that comes out of nowhere and then Smush! He was crushed! Coyote…
Most people think of Valentine’s Day as a time for romance. And obviously, it is a day set aside for couples to express their love for one another. But during this season we can also show love for those we care about in non-romantic ways. After all, the Bible reminds us in John 13:34 to…
When was the last time you and your significant other went on a date? Has it been weeks, months, or even years? With busy schedules (and possibly several young kids at home), date night often becomes the last priority for many couples. Without intentional planning, “couple time” never makes the calendar. Not only can it…
God never promised us an easy life without discouragement. In fact, the Bible reminds us in John 16:33 that “In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” This passage tells us that God knows the difficulties we’re facing, but has a plan for helping us get through them with His power! To stand…
January is a time when many individuals desire to make changes of one kind or another. And it’s great when life modifications are self-prompted and accomplished over the weeks following. Unfortunately, for some, this month is also known for its cold sting of unwelcomed surprise job losses and hiring freezes. In fact, according to Forbes.com, “December…
It was like getting punched in the stomach. I heard the words coming from my supervisor’s mouth and watched as she relayed the news of our company’s layoff, but it still felt surreal. After hearing the terms of departure, I was met by a security guard at my office where I was to immediately clear out. I was…