Memories of summer vacations are never the only thing we take home By George Valadie We love the beach. It wouldn’t be everybody’s choice for sure. But when we can, we do. And it goes without saying we’re beyond lucky to get to go a little more than we used …
‘I just don’t know if those babies are ready’
Moms and dads everywhere sharing the same fears and calling on the same Father By George Valadie Looking back, I think Madge moved in back in late January. The process took longer than you’d think given the fact she had so little to bring. We definitely had plenty of room; …
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The would-be case of Valadie vs. social media
It’s a sure-fire loser, but self-image and self-perception aren’t the same for all ages By George Valadie They’ve got me. I have to admit it, I’m addicted. It’s not tobacco, and it’s not alcohol. It’s not drugs or gambling or shopping at Amazon. But in this one area, I’m hooked, …
The magic of a candy jar and a listening ear
Sharing time with students might be the enduring legacy of Catholic schools By George Valadie It’s a simple candy dish, but it’s like it has magical, magnetic powers. I don’t understand it … but I do love it. In the interest of full disclosure—and please don’t tell her I’m giving …
Snow days, celebrations, and Catholic schools
‘The fullest and best opportunity to realize the…purpose of Christian education’ By George Valadie For some, the week ended exactly as it had begun. Battles with the weather, shortened schedules, and a whole lot of smiles at the unexpected closures. Catholic Schools Week has again come and gone for our …
The overpass sign everyone should read
And a resolution that might make the most difference for the most people By George Valadie There were three of them. At least I think there were three of them. I should probably know since I was driving and in charge of paying attention to the road, but they went …
Holding on to, letting go of holiday visions
We all crave our Christmas traditions, even when they have to evolve By George Valadie “… while visions of sugarplums danced in their heads …” I’m 72 years old and still don’t have a clue about sugarplums. Wouldn’t know one if I saw one. Never ate one either, at least …
Making Sundays stressful is a talent for some
While seeking the unknowable balance between petition and gratitude By George Valadie Fourteen minutes, no more. Always the same. If it varies at all, it’s never more than 60 seconds either way. That’s all it takes to get from our house to Sunday Mass. What’s your drive like? When our …
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A love-hate relationship with country music
And missing the mentor who loved it and the family life it reminds me to cherish By George Valadie It’s my new favorite song. I’ve always felt like a bit of a music oddball when compared with my friends, but it was especially true when I was growing up. While …
Report cards can be stressful for all concerned
But if we can’t be good at all things, we can surely be good at some things, right? By George Valadie I don’t know how it’s possible, but it won’t be long before schools will arrive at report-card time. There are quarter versions and six-weeks versions, not to mention the …
Back-to-school time for family routines
Lunches, homework, and uniforms have evolved but still need a schedule By George Valadie Praying for Perspective—the back-to-school edition. Because can there be a family experience where we need it more? In our diocese, as I write on this Sunday morning, teachers have been working a week already, and all …
Dads and daughters and a day at the pool
Exhilaration and exasperation are common themes with family vacations By George Valadie She was all of 3. Maybe. He was 33. At least. But she was winning. By a lot. “Come on, you can do it. Just jump,” he said. Her brain was all about it. Her legs? Not so …