Saturday, December 12, 2015

Spoiling my kids

Younger Daughter attends a college about ten miles away. In theory, I can see her whenever she likes. I texted her a few days ago to meet for dinner and then go grocery-shopping (my treat, of course).

As we were walking around Krogers, picking up items to stock for her apartment, we had this conversation.

Her: You spoil your kids.
Me: Yes, I do.
Her: You're admitting it?
Me: Yes, I am. I spoil you, and I'm proud of it.
Her: Don't most people think spoiling kids is a bad thing?
Me: Probably. But if something ever happens to me, remember us just like this. Laughing. Talking. Being spoiled.


I was in an airport last week, preparing to fly home from a visit to see my parents. The lady behind me in line was flying home from a funeral--for her 24-year-old daughter.

Over the past week, I've been thinking a lot about that lady. I'm sure she would love the opportunity to go grocery-shopping with her daughter one more time. To text whenever they wanted. To talk and laugh. To indulge each other with love.

That grieving mom has my deepest sympathies, but she also has my gratitude. In this holiday season, she's reminded me what my priorities should truly be. May I never forget that gift.

Yes, I spoil my kids. No apologies.

Wednesday, December 9, 2015

December 10 event in NC

If you're in the Raleigh, NC area on December 10, I'll be speaking at a book fair for one of our local magnet middle schools.

Where: B&N Cary
When: Thursday, December 10
Time: 7:00 pm

Please join us!

Tuesday, December 1, 2015

Giving Tuesday

Last week in America, we had Over-eating Thursday (also known as Thanksgiving) and Black Friday.

Yesterday, we had Cyber Monday.

Today is Giving Tuesday. It is still an opportunity to spend your money this season--only this day, your gift helps families, groups, or individuals with needs that might not get met unless we're all generous.

Is there some cause that resonates with you?
What calls to your heart?
You could:
  • feed the hungry,
  • nourish souls,
  • make it possible for children to learn, or 
  • fund research to heal the sick.

There are many who can use our help. All we have to do is give generously.

If you don't know where to start, check out the GivingTuesday site or watch twitter for the #givingTuesday hashtag.  Join millions of others in the global community by giving back.


As for my family, we are honored to help through the following organizations: