Every parent wants to connect with their teens. But maintaining this connection can be challenging especially if our teenagers appear to thwart our efforts. For a season, we may feel like our status has changed from Competent Human to Seemingly Irrelevant. Almost overnight. Stereotypes abound … [Read More...]
Parenting
4 Reasons Every Parent Needs a Pause Button
I used to think I could be much more on top of things if I could just pause time. But I am realizing that it is not time that needs to pause – it’s me. In my journey as a Mom, many moments of parental success have come from … [Read More...]
Miracle Baby with Spina Bifida: One Step at a Time
Beth's face was peaceful as she rubbed her belly and shared solemn news of this pregnancy with me. Her third little one was expected to face serious obstacles including spina bifida and hydrocephalus. A wee one who had not yet taken his first breath … [Read More...]
Money Tips
4 Surprisingly Affordable Birthday Parties
Is it possible to host an affordable birthday party that is not in your home? Parents can pay hundreds of dollars for off-site venues without even blinking. That is not hard. What is more difficult is not spending a small fortune. My recent … [Read More...]
Smart Money Tip #1: Pay Cash for Big Items
Once upon a time there was a Mama who wanted her children to have piano lessons. Except they didn't have a piano. And she didn't have room in the budget to buy one. The. End. C'mon - you know me better than that. My love for a challenge would … [Read More...]
All the Latest
10 Family Board Games Parents Will Actually Enjoy
Anyone else crazy about family board games? It may have subconciously been why I decided to have a lot of children. The other day my husband pulled out a glass chess set he was saving for a … [Read More...]
10 Innovative Ways to Play With Lego You Already Own
If you have been following Lightly Frayed, you know I encourage our kids to spend their money wisely and live frugally. So if our children want something, they will likely hear: Can you repurpose … [Read More...]
Dear Boys: Dad Deserves the Last Piece of Pie
If you have a sweet, snuggly child who still says, "I love you to Pluto and back," bottle those moments. Savour every word. Shut your eyes tightly so you can replay these memories during the less … [Read More...]
When a Mom’s Easter Story Begins to Fall Apart
When my boys were little (6, 4 and 2), I determined to tell the Easter Story in a meaninful way. After much searching, I found a practical tool using plastic eggs from the dollar store. But for … [Read More...]