Thoughts Along the Journey

Happy anniversary to my wonderful husband.  God has been so faithful to us, and has blessed our marriage in so many ways. I am thankful for you, my dear!

A tribute to my very special dad... First of all, let me preface this post by saying this:  my dad will never read this.  There is no computer/internet access in their home.  I don't think he has ever even touched a computer, unless he was helping move one. Having said that, I want to honor him.  I am the youngest of 4 girls.  I'm sure Dad would have loved to have a son.  I'm sure my sisters can attest to the fact, though, that he never showed it.  Each of us has a very special relationship with Dad, and we know he loves us so much. Being the youngest, I have to admit that I learned the ways of a little girl with her daddy.  Batting the eyes, sticking out the bottom lip, and just a bit of whining...sometimes worked!  I especially remember being on vacation in Colorado one summer.  I had my eyes on a cap gun.  It had the whole Old West sheriff's gun look, and came with a roll of caps.  I have no idea why I wanted it, but...

Today's post is more of a rant than any theological- or devotional-type message.  Just so you know! I have been a parent for about 18 years now (counting the pregnancy, because that is definitely a stage of parenting).  I have learned a lot in the past 18 years--some good, some bad.  I have heard a lot of parenting advice over those years, too--some good, some bad. You know how it goes:  as soon as anyone finds out you're expecting a child, they have tons of free advice to share on how you should parent. "Don't spoil them.  Let them cry sometimes." "Never let them cry.  It's a sign of need.  Pick them up." "Never let a child sleep in bed with you." "The best parents allow their kids to share their bed." "Put them on a strict schedule." "A baby sets its own schedule." "Never use a pacifier.  Thumb-sucking is more natural, and an easier habit to break." "Use a pacifier.  Thumb...