by Shannon Popkin | Oct 30, 2012 | Anxiety, Holidays, Humility, Jesus, Kids' Perspective, Mistakes
A repost from 2010–just because I love this story so much. :)Tonight, when I tucked Cade into bed, I could tell something was bothering him. It was his pumpkin. The one he made today, in first grade. “I tried to listen to the instructions, but I just...
by Shannon Popkin | Oct 26, 2012 | Church, Communication, Kids' Perspective, Serving
I talked last time about a piano student who caused me some frustration.Today I’ll talk about one who warms my teacherly heart. Lauren is much like I was at her age–very curious and enthusiastic and determined.She brought two songs she had written to her...
by Shannon Popkin | Oct 22, 2012 | Anxiety, Kids' Perspective
by: Michelle Loveless”Look Mom, the sky is pink!” my three-year-old says in wonder.But I am too busy obsessing–almost frantic–studying the tail lights in front of me. Tail lights. Clock. Long line.I grope behind my seat. Where is her backpack?...
by Shannon Popkin | Oct 1, 2012 | Communication, Discipline, Faith, Kids' Perspective, Love, Mistakes, Pain, Parenting, Teens, Wisdom
My friend’s son was a 9th grader when a girl suddenly began inserting herself into his life in a big way. She came to his games, invited herself over, sent him texts (lots of texts). She was everywhere. My friend became concerned by how much her son was enjoying...
by Shannon Popkin | Sep 27, 2012 | Friendship, Kids' Perspective, seasons, Writing
Dear Tiny Paragraph Reader,Can I talk to you a sec? I just wanted to say thanks. You–a reader with access to the world wide web– obviously have a lot of other reading options. I’m happy to have you visit anytime, but if you’re someone who stops by...
by Shannon Popkin | Sep 24, 2012 | Compassion, Father, Humility, Kids' Perspective
When Lindsay was a toddler, she would often climb up in Ken’s lap while he was sitting in his recliner over in the corner. It didn’t matter if he was taking a nap or talking on the phone. She would bring her little Good Night, Moon book, climb into his...