family Archives - Page 4 of 8 - The Sparrow's Home

How do you repay someone who saved your child’s life?

December 4, 2017 by Susan 19 Comments

Allie is a former neighbor and my boys’ favorite babysitter. She is the kind of young lady who would, every once in awhile, refuse payment, saying, “I just want to bless you.” Her ‘magic’ tricks kept the boys completely mesmerized. (I’m pretty sure this involved her hiding things behind her back and pulling them out with flourish, but what do I know?) My boys are teenagers now, older than Allie was when she babysat them.

And we owe her a debt of gratitude we can never repay. You see, my youngest son is here because of Allie.

Maybe it would be cool if we watched movies without 58 ‘F’ Words

November 2, 2017 by Susan Leave a Comment

When your kids get to be teenagers, it gets easier and harder to do things you both enjoy.

Easier, because they’re older and can do more. And harder, because they are now their own person with interests that may not match up with yours.

Watching movies is something that most families can do together…if you can agree on a film.

My youngest casts a wide net when it comes to movies he enjoys. He’s definitely into the superhero flicks, but also enjoys stories with a slightly less predictable plot, a little out of the mainstream.

Unfortunately, many of these films are full of sex and language that we’re not comfortable with.

Deepen your faith and have fun: Learn how Biblical holidays point to Christ

October 26, 2017 by Susan Leave a Comment

Perfect for family devotions, homeschool, or even a Sunday School class. Loads of activities for all ages about Biblical holidays & how they point to Christ.

This was one of the best things our family ever did.

We began studying this as part of our homeschooling, and turned into a whole family study that we invited friends and extended family to join us in. I’ve even used this material in a women’s Bible study at church.

I love it! (and can I say, I am not affiliated with this company at all…just love the product!)

Disneyland vs. Disney World: When to Choose Disneyland

September 18, 2017 by Susan 6 Comments

Chances are, if you’ve thought about taking a Disney vacation, tickets to Orlando are on the menu. Disney World is far larger and more expansive than Disneyland, after all. And there is nothing like an immersive vacation at The Most Magical Place on Earth. Clearly, with its 4 parks, Disney World has more to offer in many ways. (Being a homeschooler’s dream field trip for one!)

But there are lots of reasons why a trip to sunny California and Disneyland might be a better option to consider.

Have we disconnected the fruit from the seeds when it comes to a Biblical worldview?

August 28, 2017 by Susan Leave a Comment

Teaching a Biblical worldview matters! Kids are leaving their faith at astounding rates. How long is it going to take for us to recognize the seeds that produce this fruit & start planting something different?

I heard a story recently about a young man who was out in his father’s watermelon field working, with strict instructions not to eat any of the fruit. Giving in to temptation, he attempted to hide the evidence by burying the remains off in another part of the field. He was sure he’d gotten away with it until his father noticed watermelons growing where they didn’t belong. The evidence was irrefutable. Undeniable. Once the fruit appeared, the son could not hide that he had buried the seeds in just that place.

10 Sunny Summer Songs

July 31, 2017 by Susan 4 Comments

Music has the powerful ability to move us from the inside out. It begins as a stirring in our heart, then the shoulders begin a little side to side. Before you know it, your head is rocking and maybe a little toe tapping has begun. Other times, that stirring leads to tears streaming down our face; or maybe a deep, relaxing sigh. The thing is, music causes a reaction.

And just like we often eat seasonally, music can come to us in seasons as well. Today we’re looking at songs that just scream, “Summer!” Songs that make you feel like you’re standing in the sunshine or relaxing in your hammock. These are songs to play at the pool or beach or driving with the windows down.