By author Shari McMinn

Like me, you are probably getting ready to celebrate Thanksgiving this week. My family is gathering in Houston at my oldest daughter’s home. Several of my children and grandchildren will be traveling from different states to fellowship and feast. As is true with any typical family, there will be some moments of conflict that we parents need to navigate. If we can smooth out the rough patches by our own kind example, hopefully all will enjoy the happy memories we can make together. Families with adult children who are special needs might have more than the expected turmoil, so preparing ourselves to deal with it in a gracious, positive manner is important. I have already been praying God will mercifully grant me extra grace, patience, and wisdom.

By author Shari McMinn

We live in an age of Pinterest perfectionism — I call it a “Martha” world. We are super busy and too much is expected of men, women, and even children! As a homeschool mom to lots of kids, a long-time farm wife, working part-time in our home businesses, and volunteering in our community, I had a lot on my plate for many years. In my human frailty, I could only do so much despite my desire to do more, and I wanted to do it all really well. Honestly, I did not even do most of it, nor perfectly. I often did it minimally, and was grouchy because of the overload. My house was a mess, my children “farm wild,” my marriage not nurtured as it should have been, and I was a train wreck at the end of most days. Throw in a variety of unique learners to our homeschool life mix, and I flew by the seat of my pants more often than not! I have a Pinterest account but long ago gave up looking at it, so as not to become discouraged!