Can you picture your childhood house? This was mine from age 0-26, in Villa Park,IL. When my parents bought it, my dad said, “Mary, this is going to be your dream house.” Actually, my mom dreamed of a house with a big front porch like the one she grew up in. But year after year … Continue reading Dream House: 505
Author: beckykuiper
“I think I’m gonna like it here!” – Annie
When was the last time you encountered something that was way better than you expected? A few weeks ago, we were in Southwest Florida, and decided to visit Lighthouse Beach on Sanibel Island. We entered the tiny parking lot at Lighthouse Beach, to a line of cars driving around and around in a slow circle … Continue reading “I think I’m gonna like it here!” – Annie
Some Good News vs. Toxic Positivity
“This has been “Some Good News,” reminding you that no matter how tough life can get, there is always good in the world.” – John Krasinski A year ago, in the first several weeks of the pandemic, my kids and I discovered something delightful. Our weeks had been filled with bad news: school was closed, … Continue reading Some Good News vs. Toxic Positivity
The Power of Words to a Kid.
Most of you know my dad, Chuck Schipma. Back in February of 1980, Chuck bought two identical books for his two very similar blonde daughters, aged 7 and 5. Our parents often did this, bought us the same things so that life felt fair. Chuck wrote a message in each of these identical books to … Continue reading The Power of Words to a Kid.
Rest.
"Almost everything will work again if you unplug it for a few minutes, including you." - Anne Lamott National Margarita Day is Monday and I may be celebrating early. Donkey Taqueria here in Grand Rapids is offering these three fun flavors starting today, and I think I would like to try the Thai Basil one. … Continue reading Rest.
How did she know?
Last Friday all of Michigan was a shade of gray, including my mood. It was a heavy-heart week during which I had had some harsh words for God and for some people I care about. I told Jamie that I’d pick up some flowers at Trader Joe’s so we’d have something cheerful in the house … Continue reading How did she know?
She laughs a lot.
It’s getting harder to laugh these days, at least for me. How about you? My oldest son often mentions his favorite teacher, Sra. Triminio from third grade. She is a young brunette in her 20’s with high standards and an easy, laid-back way about her. She began teaching Spanish immersion at Grand Rapids Christian Elementary … Continue reading She laughs a lot.
Memory Makers, Part 2. Out West.
"Keep close to Nature's heart, yourself; and break clear away once in a while, and climb a mountain or spend a week in the woods. Wash your spirit clean."- John Muir So far, our “out west” National Park vacation has been our biggest, best family memory – confirmed by both of us and all three … Continue reading Memory Makers, Part 2. Out West.
Memory Makers, Part 1.
It is Christmas morning in the early 1980’s. My older sister Chriss and I are in our long winter nightgowns and bedhead, surrounded by mint-green wrapping paper, halfway through the presents under the tree. Dad’s coffee is steaming in his hands, and Mom walks into the living room with Pillsbury cinnamon rolls and a stack … Continue reading Memory Makers, Part 1.
Weight.
On December 23, 2013, my dad took me to Meijer. We were due to have our fourth baby in about a week. Dad heard me say that we were ready for the baby, but we just needed one more thing – one of those Velcro swaddle blankets. There was a winter storm going strong outside, … Continue reading Weight.