When I realized that love was indeed an action and not simply something to say, it changed our family.  It changed us because once I learn something new, I share it. 

Have you or any of your children ever experienced poison ivy?  Up until last week, we hadn't. We made it through the first 11 years of parenthood without encountering this plant even with our long walks (not necessarily hikes) down trails filled with brush and unknown vegetation.  

After celebrating eight birthdays as a family, one would assume that birthdays would be a cinch in our home, but too be honest they have been anything but that for the past three or so years.  I dreaded birthdays.  Not because everyone was aging or that they represent time passing.  I dreaded them because as the girls aged birthdays became a source of contention in our home.  Why, you may ask?  Well, we have one summer birthday and one winter birthday.  This caused our winter child to feel cheated. If we are honest, summer birthdays seem to represent fun!  It's hot outside and opportunities to do things are endless.