Hey Reader, I don't know about you, but as we usher in 2026, I find myself longing for tranquility and peace even more than usual. If I were to ask you if your life ever felt tranquil, you would probably do one of two things: bust out laughing or look at me like I was from another planet. I get it, I really do. Which is why I’m thrilled to have the author of one of my absolute tippy-top recommended books with me today. Laura Vanderkam is a time management expert, mother of five, and the...

Hi Reader, It's a new year, and that means it's time for a challenge. Not for you you, though. (Don't you already have enough on your plate? 😆) No, I'm talking about a challenge for your kids. The Kids’ Read-Aloud Challenge is a simple way to kick off a great reading year. During the challenge, kids commit to reading aloud for at least 10 minutes a day on as many days as possible throughout the month. When they reach 25 days, they win a reward! You'll be amazed at how much their fluency...

Hi Reader, Last week, I watched my oldest daughter graduate with a Master’s in Theology and the Arts from the most prestigious university in Scotland. When I began homeschooling her way back in kindergarten, I had no idea we’d keep going through high school. I couldn't imagine that this five-year-old girl—a late reader, quite attached to her mama, rather nervous about new experiences—would grow up to travel the world. She'd live in Austria, Uganda, and Scotland… all before the age of 24....