The Drug Pandemic. Not in Vain: Real Addiction. Real Pain.

The drug pandemic took one of her children. But Bobbie Ziemer decided, “Not in vain!”  Lord willing.  Today’s blog is dedicated to Madison Ziemer Cross in remembrance of her beautiful life and honoring the anniversary of her entrance to heaven on October 10,...

Marriage and Family: Marriage in the Era of Broken Hearts

We live in an era of broken hearts, wounding histories, cohabitation, blended families, and all sorts of new configurations of marriage and family. Dave and I LOVE it when we catch a quiet moment with Sandra Beck! ❤️ “My marriage was so bad. I realize it was not worth...

Recipes to Teach Hospitality and Reading: Welcome to My Kitchen

Nothing beats great recipes to get kids in the kitchen and reading! My childhood copy of Cooking Through Rose-Colored Glasses is falling apart! Welcoming kids into the world of reading is as simple as sharing a favorite family recipe in your kitchen. Yes, women have...

Bedtime Stories and Pajama Parties: Inspiring Your Kids to Love Reading

Kids’ Rules and Skittles make for a many happy faces when we play games. “All my pajama stories involve our cousins and the silly things we did,” reported Anna when I asked her to talk about how bedtime stories and pajama parties help kids read. “It’s less...

Comic Books and Magazines: Reading for the Adventurous Child

Are you having trouble getting your adventurous child to slow down long enough to read? Comic books and magazines might be a great solution, according to educator, artist, and yep, my oldest daughter, Anna Krafve Pierce, my fellow book-loving word-nerd.  Picture...

Strong Marriages Equals Healthy Communities: Tips for Encouraging Your Spouse

Scott and Kristen goof around with their four boys.(photo: Meredith Smith Creative) Dave and I are traveling (read: in a truck cab for extended hours together). On a Book Tour! Yep, it seemed like a great time to post some cool stuff about strong marriages I got from...