Squirrels, Princesses, and Bigger Arms I’ve been thinking a lot lately about rest and recovery. And I’m realizing there’s a difference between doing nothing and actually recovering. Sometimes we think rest means sitting on the couch, scrolling through our phones, and watching three hours disappear. Sure, you weren’t working—but did you actually feel better afterward? Maybe a better way to gauge recovery is simple: Do I feel better after doing this? For some people, recovery might be...

Vacations may refresh you, but true recovery begins every day with sleep, restoration, and a healthy nervous system. As I sit here reflecting on our trip to Great Wolf Lodge, I'm reminded of something we all need a little more of: recovery. Trips and vacations are incredibly important for a family, but parents know there's a distinct difference between the two. A trip is when you take your kids with you. A vacation is when it's just you and your spouse. When you have young children, a trip is...

Tossing Dog Poop into the Neighbor’s Yard The other evening, my younger boys, Ethan and Evan, wanted to go with me while I took our Great Dane, Ryder, for a walk. Now, if I'm being honest, it's much easier to walk him by myself. But if I tell them they can't come... well, let's just say toddlers have a special way of expressing their disappointment. I'm fairly certain the official definition of a toddler is "a tiny negotiator with unlimited energy." So the three of us headed out together....