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Teaching Children to be Grateful

Children have a well deserved reputation for selfishness and self-centeredness. How can a father take the initiative and create an environment where children can learn the social art and attitude of gratitude?

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Fatherhood Spotlight10

Wayne's Fatherhood Blog

Tips for Online Holiday Shopping

Thursday November 26, 2009
Every year we read stories about the dangers that sometime lurk in the world of online shopping. For example, a couple of years ago, my sister-in-law purchased (she thought) a collection of Hogan's Heroes DVD's for her son who is into older television shows. Her DVD's never arrived, but what did arrive was credit card statements showing that her identity had been stolen by the operator of this fraudulent website that she thought was legitimate. About.com's Collectibles Guide Barbara Crews has put together her top tips for safe holiday shopping online.

Favorite Thanksgiving Traditions

Tuesday November 24, 2009

Apple TurkeyOur family has some really fun Thanksgiving traditions. On Thanksgiving morning while mom is busy in the kitchen, I gather the kids and make apple turkeys, which are proudly displayed on the dinner table. We also try to have the Christmas lights up outside so that they can be turned on Thanksgiving night, ushering in the Christmas season. If you have some fun traditions for Thanksgiving, click the comments link below to add yours to the list.

Dealing With Tragic Loss

Sunday November 22, 2009

Last week, Julie and I attended the funeral of the 15 month old daughter of a friend and colleague. This friend and one of his friends were digging a pit in his backyard into which they were to sink a trampoline. As the friend who was driving the truck loaded with dirt taken out of the hole, he accidentally and tragically backed over his friends little 15-month old toddler who had wandered over unseen. Our friend, the child's father, attempted first aid and CPR while emergency crews were called, but the little girl died en route to the hospital. My friend Gary and his wife Amber were clearly distraught, but were remarkable examples of faith as they and their remaining four children began the grieving process. Our hearts go out to them and to all their sorrowing family and friends.

As we considered this tragedy, I thought it might be well in my blog to share some resources for parents, friends and others who might find themselves in a situation where they might offer help, healing and perspective.

Talking to Children About Tragedies
Coping With the Death of a Child
After The Death Of A Child
Buddy's Candle
The Grieving Garden: Living with the Death of a Child

Mixed Blessings: Celebrating The Holidays in an Interfaith Family

Friday November 20, 2009
What happens when two religious traditions square off in an interfaith home? Whether the mom and dad are Jewish, Christian, Muslim, or of different groups within a faith, or whether the holiday is Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, or Ramadan, there are many challenges to interfaith holiday traditions. Find out how families successfully balance the holidays in interfaith families.
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