All Posts By

Susan Merrill

Parenting

How a Pet Can Bring Your Family Together

When my youngest turned five I knew it was time to get a pet but with 5  kids and the responsibilities that go with them I was not looking forward to adding to my list with a dog.  So I researched and found a site where I could put in exactly what I needed — a smart, obedient, playful, patient dog.  One that wouldn’t run away every time a child forgot to close the gate!  Then I prayed for the…

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Parenting

Confession: I Stifled My Child’s Creativity with Correction

I believe I am the director of iMOM just to have a platform to share all of my mistakes in the hopes that you won’t make them!  So here I go again with another confession.  This confession is along the same lines as my confession last week about expecting too much from my children. I have a creative child–an artiste, with an artist’s temperament. Ever since she was a child I have been correcting her on how to clean/arrange/organize her room.…

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Marriage

Are You A Jiminy Cricket In Your Marriage?

Do you remember Pinocchio’s little friend? The one the blue fairy sent to watch out for him? The one that sang, “…and always let your conscience be your guide!” His name was Jiminy Cricket. I’ve got a tough question for you today–are you a Jiminy Cricket to your husband? I’ve realized that I assume that role quite a bit. It’s never my intention, nor do I believe it’s my job, but I do it anyway. Do any of you find…

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parenting expectations
Parenting

Confession: I Expected Too Much of My Kids

Expectations. They can disappoint, discourage and totally deflate a mom.  Here is my theory about why we are at a disadvantage when we attach ourself to expectations. Expectations are not well thought out and therefore often unrealistic. Expectations do not provide for unforeseen circumstances. Expectations are based on our control but we are not in control. Expectations most often err on the side of being to high. I err.  Often. I expected too much. To convince you of my guilt…

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Parenting

8 Things a Mom Should Teach Her Son to Look for in a Girl

One day my son is going to fall in love, leave us, and cleave to his new wife.  Until then, I have the opportunity to teach him to think before he gives his heart away.  The girl he loves can either be a distraction or she can be the wind beneath his wings–encouraging and inspiring him. Here are my thoughts on 8 things I want my son to look for in a girl.  You may want to add more ideas…

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Encouragement

Suddenly Single

Christy  is a dear friend of mine. I was with her on the night she lost her husband.  She was suddenly, without any warning, the single mom of three of cutest pea-pops, ever .  Her walk since that night has been nothing short of courageous and inspirational to me.  She has been a beautiful picture of contrasts: vulnerable yet strong, crushed yet hopeful, exhausted yet persevering.  She recently reached a point in her journey where she is ready to share.…

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