JUST Listen! Life with ODD
There is no perfect thing to say to a parent who is in the middle of a meltdown. … Read More JUST Listen! Life with ODD
Author: Ashley
When did I become a mom of “bigs”?
My oldest son is spending the first week of summer away from home, on vacation with a friend. While I’m sure he’s going to have the time of his life, this last-minute addition to our summer plans wasn’t exactly part of the picture I had in my head, and part of my brain is having… Read More When did I become a mom of “bigs”?
See the One, Be the One: On Vulnerability, Ministering, and Letting Others In
Service isn’t just about reaching outward, it’s also about letting others reach inward. Sometimes we are invited to be the One, to let ourselves be seen, to accept help, and to allow connection to happen… Read More See the One, Be the One: On Vulnerability, Ministering, and Letting Others In
Lift Where You Stand: What Louise Taught Me About Making a Difference
One of my favorite children’s books is Sheila Rae, the Brave. It tells the story of two sister mice: Sheila Rae, who is fearless, and Louise, who—by her own admission—is timid. Sheila Rae charges headfirst into situations others find terrifying, using them to show off her bravery. In contrast, Louise stays on the sidelines, encouraging… Read More Lift Where You Stand: What Louise Taught Me About Making a Difference
Walking on Eggshells: Living with a Child Who Thrives on Conflict
My second child recently received his official diagnosis of ADHD and ODD. For years, we have joked that he had ODD, but now we have the documentation to prove it. Lots of parents deal with defiant children. Learning to defy the rules is part of childhood! It’s just like learning to lie to save your… Read More Walking on Eggshells: Living with a Child Who Thrives on Conflict
Kindness Begins Here
It’s hard to remember that most people rarely make decisions out of pure malice…treating people and their differences with kindness and respect helps facilitate meaningful discussions and productive interactions. … Read More Kindness Begins Here
Embracing Heritage, Rejecting Hate: A Reflection on Kindness and Identity
Late last night my oldest told another child called him a terrorist at school.… Read More Embracing Heritage, Rejecting Hate: A Reflection on Kindness and Identity
Celebrate, Recognize, Lift
Let’s take a few minutes to discuss Mother’s Day. I anticipate an audible groan from my imaginary audience at the mention of that holiday. I, for one hate Mother’s Day. Like almost as much as I dislike hot weather, waking up when it is still dark, and vomit. The dislike runs deep. I know it’s… Read More Celebrate, Recognize, Lift
Be Cool Like a 90’s Middle School Dance
So I want to be the mom that plays it cool enough for her kids to come talk to her about… well, anything. I know my perfect angels are going to screw up; I do. I know they will grow into adults who need room to stretch their wings and make their own choices. And… Read More Be Cool Like a 90’s Middle School Dance
Cultivating Chaos 