As young parents, we suffered from the illusion of control. We knew with absolute certainty what paths our children would take, what sports they would play, what their personalities would be. Lord, we were foolish. But we knew ... we knew our children would love whole grains and vegetables, our ...

When flipping back through the album of childhood memories, sometimes a seemingly meaningless mental photograph gains focus. With sudden clarity, your brain has an “Ah ha” moment recognizing how a small event significantly shaped your person. Second grade looked promising: We would ...

One meal plan swipe card deactivated. Two parking violations. Three RA interventions to manually unlock her dorm room door. The first weeks of college are over. Our youngest is adjusting in fits and starts. Bill and I are, too. We are currently in our “let’s keep busy and avoid being ...

As parents, it is easy to identify childhood traits that continue into adulthood. My oldest still tests for “the swirl factor” when trying on dresses. My youngest is still more inclined to listen to a conversation rather than join in. When it comes to us, we sometimes forget these strings ...

If you see me this week, be sure to admire my newest handcrafted bracelets. One is a strikingly patriotic red, white and blue rainbow loom fishtail design, the perfect Olympic wear. The other is crafted of clay beads centered around a watermelon sphere, totally a symbol of summer. This jewelry ...

Alas, my husband and I have become predictable. My younger self would be appalled by our comfortable routines. We eat at the same restaurants, get together with the same people, and follow the same schedules week after week. Even our retirement purchases mirrored those of other people our age, ...