The Best Read Alouds of 2022
Here are some of our favorite Read Alouds from 2022. Some made us laugh, some made us cry, some made us think. All brought us closer together because we shared them together. Which will you read?
Seeking Goodness, Giving Thanks
As I watched the simple act of making a list of good things turn my son’s day around, I realized that there is power in giving thanks. When we are intentional about mining our memories for beautiful blessings and glimmers of goodness, our gaze shifts from the things of the self to the goodness of God so that we can’t help but “give thanks to the Lord for His goodness and for His wonderful works to the children of men” (Psalm 107:8, NKJ).
When Pride Sounds Off: How God Can Speak Through a Car Alarm
I wrote a story for the Hear Him Louder essay series in which God got my attention in a way that was humorous, humbling, and very, very loud!
Reading Aloud: Enjoying the Present Together
There is undoubtedly something magical that happens when stories are shared together. One night, as our family finished reading The Green Ember series, the magic spread beyond our backyard and far out into our neighborhood…
The Neighborhood News: Good News for Everyone
Publishing The Neighborhood News provides a monthly creative challenge for our kids and a hefty dose of cheer for our neighbors. It truly is a win-win!
Art Fan: How to Cheer Kids on to New Creative Heights
To be a sports fan is fairly straightforward; sit in the stands and cheer! But what does comparable support of the arts look like? What does it look like to be an “art fan?”
The Best Read Alouds of 2021
2021 was an amazing year for read alouds in our house. Read on to discover the books that made us laugh loud, think deep, and feel brave. Which one will you read next?
No I Guess, Simply Yes
It stinks to be on the receiving end of a begrudging I guess. You make a request of someone and they do it, but instead of feeling blessed, you feel cursed. Instead of feeling gratitude, you feel like you owe them. The murky land of I guess is a disheartening place to be…
“Roxaboxen” and the Power of Outdoor Play
The story is delightful, the illustrations are darling, but the true magic of “Roxaboxen” is the invitation to come out and play.
Romeo and Winifred
This hilarious parody makes me laugh, and the teenagers bringing it to life on the stage make me proud.
My Tree and My Kids: Journaling to Capture the Wonder and Growth of Both
This spring, I came across the “My Tree” nature journaling idea, and I jumped at the opportunity for us to celebrate the trees that withstood the winds of the derecho. Little did I know that a monthly check in with a tree would also serve as a reminder for me to stay on top of “My Kid” journaling efforts as well…
Why I Gave Something Up for Lent
Why did I give something up for lent? The answer is easy. Because I didn’t want to.