Do you have these 20 Social Skills?
Some people have work skills and academic knowledge, but not social skills to propel them to success. Some negative social behavior actually repels people. Some people lack self-awareness to identify what is repulsive to others. Some know, but don’t care. Some fail to weigh the cost of not caring about their interaction with others.

Whether you would like to improve the relationship with a child, a spouse, a parent, in-laws, a neighbor, a co-worker or a friend… the kindness challenge promises to increase the positives. Kindness is powerful!! It could be your new superpower.

As we enter this new month, I propose a new thinking.  Why not approach this entire season with high hopes and low expectations?  High hopes for a renewed sense of joy, family, spiritual insight, memories, and enjoying the activities of Christmas.  Low expectations of myself being superwoman. Low expectations of my kids being perfect and more well-behaved.  Low expectations for my husband to meet my expectations. Low expectations for others in terms of what they might do for us. Finally, low expectations for next year and how it will be completely different.  When hopes are high and expectations low, it is easier to be delighted and grateful.

Those who stay on the treadmill of busyness miss the really beautiful moments. So, in the season named THANKSgiving, I ask myself, “Who am I thanking?” In my college years, many people were extra kind to me with tips. My eyes fill with tears today as I remember their generosity. One of the pastors from my church handed me a crisp $100 bill after I waited on him and his wife for dinner. I still remember their kindness. My father-in-law used to carry a hidden $100 to give someone in need. Anyone that knew him remembers his generous love for people. Here are 5 ideas for a better THANKSgiving.

Changing schools at any time causes a redirection of the family lifestyle. Some parents select homeschooling because they are running from something. A teacher who does not understand a student’s learning style may discourage his student. The school environment may not be strict enough to force the child’s behavior into compliance. Bullies may be threatening their student, creating a fearful setting that prevents any cognitive progress. Others choose homeschooling because they cannot imagine their child spending all day away from them. They enjoy the joys and challenges of parenting. Some desire a private-school education for their child but cannot afford it. Homeschooling seems a viable route to reach this level of education. Still others dream of what their entire child could be if they custom design her education and skill-building development. Begin by answering the “why.”

One of the best thing about having a home is the privilege to practice intentional hospitality in preparing for overnight guests. It is much easier to be hospitable if you are anticipating guests. These 10 easy ideas to prepare for overnight guests. Planning for family or friends to spend the night makes it easy to […]

The news spread quickly as we told everyone we knew. However, our excitement screeched to a halt the evening that we began to lose them. Darkness settled in. Sadness engulfed us. Dreams died hard.

As I mature, pursuit of a calm and a peaceful spirit transforms me. Remembering that “the days are long, but the years are short”, definitely applies to homeschooling. Before me sits a child who God gave me to nurture into a Godly man or woman. Childhood is the bridge between these points. Every day behind impresses the years ahead. Here are 10 ideas to create cheerful, thriving and encouraging homeschool days.

For proactive, intentional parents this is an opportunity for growth. Knowing your child as only  as a parent can allows you  the unprecedented freedom to custom build your child’s immediate future.