“Nice dance moves, Buddy!” I wasn’t sure what my brother, calling from Edmonton, was talking about. But then he noted that he had recently seen the Inside Out launch video and proceeded to regale me with how much his daughter—my niece—was killing herself laughing at her Uncle Seth dancing in the library with his students. [...]
by Tanya KienekerAs I sit down on Kim Fleming’s couch, our kids playing quietly around the house, she jumps right in. She knows the topic of our interview, so it only makes sense that she skips all the pleasantries.“So here’s a good story. When my mom and dad first got married, they had someone from [...]
Am I that parent? Am I pushing my kids towards things that I wish I had been successful at? Or worse—am I steering them towards areas I think they should be successful at, that they might not even love? I always claimed I was going to be the kind of parent who allowed my kids to [...]
“Yeah! My son came home covered in mud again. He wasn't pushed but said that he told the older boys he didn't want to slide but they kept on telling him to slide. I know the responsibility lies with him to walk away or speak up, but I can’t help thinking the other moms don’t appreciate the muddy clothes either. [...]
My baby just turned three! Can I call him my baby anymore? He says "No!" But do they ever stop being your baby? My oldest turned 16 only days later and in my mind he's still my baby. I know my son is probably gagging at that thought right now but just hold your horses [...]
Renovations. It's a word that sends a chill deep into my bones. You see, in my house, renovations actually mean I have to do the work. No contractors, no professionals involved. So when my wife and I agreed it was time to renovate the downstairs bathroom, I got a little nervous. With all the confidence of [...]
I recently heard a pastor refer to France as a spiritual wasteland, and this wasn't the first time I had heard this. Twenty-one of our students went to France this past spring break and I asked them if they found this to be true. They agreed that French culture is very secular. Very few people [...]
This is pretty much me: I know some people find fulfillment and enjoyment in running, but for me, it’s agony! Believe me—I’ve tried. My goal was to win against that quick student in my class…only to be easily outrun by a sprite young six year old! Or that 5K I excitedly signed up for, only [...]
I know it’s not very lady-like, but sometimes I burp. It probably wasn't the best time to let go of one of those big bellywonkers, but it happened right as I walked into my daughter’s room. Me: "Braack…whatcha doing?" A: "My homework…and, say hi to Zoe." Me: (recoiling in shame) "When did Zoe get [...]
I went to a memorial service on Saturday for my father’s best friend and pastor, Carlin Weinhauer. He was a remarkable man and a testimony of what God can do with a servant who puts Jesus first in all his words and deeds. He accomplished many, many things in his lifetime, but perhaps the most [...]
