Do you have middle schoolers? Are you wondering how to manage these years? As of today, I have five teens and one pre-teen (plus five young adults). I love teens, they’re interesting, fun to be with, and their worlds are exploding with opportunity. They also need a lot of guidance. Middle school is a time […]
Thankful for Vacation and for Going Home
This morning I was up at 5:00 because the “silent” alarm on Russ’ Fitbit was going off every five minutes. He didn’t hear a thing. It’s our last morning on Whidbey Island and I’m thankful for the moments in the nearly dark and very quiet house, but after spending hours packing the house last night, […]
Something New for You!
Do you ever feel your life is so different nobody will understand? Or do you feel judged by people who see you parenting in a less-than-conventional way? Do you wonder if you’re cut out for this life as a foster or adoptive mom? I never want you to feel alone. Next Tuesday, August 7th, marks […]
Happy News – They’re Engaged!
We have exciting news! Hannah is engaged to her love, David! She was completely shocked when he proposed last weekend, thinking it would be a couple more months. We were in on the surprise, so that made it extra fun for us. It’s also very special that he proposed at our family’s special place, Whidbey […]
It Takes Courage to be a Mom
One year ago, I would not have stood on this bridge for a picture. I have a terrible fear of heights. Staying alive is important to me. Heights set off an alert system that screams, “You’re about to die!” The problem is, this fear hinders me from adventures with my family. I would tell you the […]
![What Does Healing Look Like? [Eight Thoughts from an Adoptive Mom]](https://www.onethankfulmom.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/qualls-family-selfie-2-562x400.jpg)
What Does Healing Look Like? [Eight Thoughts from an Adoptive Mom]
I have found that there are three stages in every great work of God; first, it is impossible, then it is difficult, then it is done. Hudson Taylor In March 2011, I wrote a post beginning with this quote. It’s fascinating (and a little frightening) to read my thoughts and hopes from so many years ago. […]
