In search of advice on how to mother my daughter

by Lisa-Jo | Jan 26, 2011 | Callings, Daughters, Faith, Family, Motherhood

I have two sons. And in March I will have a daughter. I’m not sure I’m ready. But in these months of growing my belly, God has also been growing my heart. Part of that process has been Hilary. A 20-year-old student I had the privilege of mentoring. And...

Pregnant with a vengeance

by Lisa-Jo | Jan 19, 2011 | Motherhood

You know you’re well and truly into the third trimester of your pregnancy when: – It seems like more effort to take a shirt off over your head than to undo a million buttons. – Your husband brings home slabs of chocolate anytime he runs out to the...

When you feel ashamed for feeling so empty

by Lisa-Jo | Jan 18, 2011 | Callings, Faith, Family, Motherhood

Sometimes at the end of the week I’m too tired to be much good for anything or anyone. I get that “my eyes feel like they’ve been crying” sensation, even when they haven’t. My head aches and my lips can’t seem to absorb enough Vaseline. I’m hungry, but making a meal...

When personal space is a thing of the past

by Lisa-Jo | Jan 12, 2011 | Family, Kids, Motherhood

It’s late. Me and my computer are spending some quality time together. I get up to use the restroom for the – oh I lose track of the number of times. I pass a set of ten toes in the hallway. And a curly head. He’s sitting in the doorway reading by the light of the...

Legos, they’re not just for kids

by Lisa-Jo | Jan 11, 2011 | Kids, Motherhood

The waves of this pregnancy break over my belly in tired, tight ripples warning me that I’ve done too much. I feel her kicking as my side tightens and my muscles groan in familiar protest. 29 weeks. It feels heavy. Weighty. To have the responsibility of growing...

If your resolutions are already mocking you

by Lisa-Jo | Jan 10, 2011 | Christmas, Faith, Family, Kids, Motherhood, Raising Boys

Parenthood is the epitome of finding yourself five minutes into a beautiful plan that has utterly derailed. Plan a birthday party and your toddler will wake up with a fever of 101. Get everyone miraculously dressed in time for church and the minute you’re about...