Welcome to Cats in the Cradle Blog! My name is Elizabeth Brooks, and I am a single mom to two daughters, Althea and Cordelia Kelley. As a mom, I know firsthand how easy it is to get caught up in the busyness of life and feel like we are missing out on precious moments with our children. But through a dream and a calling from the Lord, I felt led to start this blog about intentional parenting and being present with our kids.
Intentional parenting means making a conscious effort to prioritize our relationship with our children and be present in their lives. It means setting aside time to connect with them, listening to their hearts, and guiding them in the ways of the Lord. It also means finding joy in the simple things, like living in a state where the sky goes on forever, the sunflowers grow tall, and the sunsets are breathtaking.
As a family, we also have some feathery friends who provide us with eggs every day. We also have a few cats, who remind us to not take life too seriously and keep us entertained with their silly antics.
We live in the heart of Kansas, where the sunflowers grow tall and the prairies stretch wide. We love the simple life and the beauty of God’s creation all around us. I also work in a school cafeteria, where I have the privilege of serving meals to children and interacting with them on a daily basis.
Matthew 13:3-9 tells us about the parable of the sower, where the seed that falls on good soil produces a crop. In the same way, when we prioritize our relationship with God, we can grow deep roots and bear much fruit. Jeremiah 17:7-8 speaks to the importance of deep roots, as those who trust in the Lord are like trees planted by the water and will not fear when the heat comes. When we prioritize our relationship with God, we deepen our roots and stand firm, even in the midst of the storms of life.
As we seek to be intentional parents in Christ, we can look to the example of sunflowers. Like these flowers, we should seek God’s face and grow our roots deep by going deep. We can only strengthen in the middle of the storm by seeking Him. By doing so, we can mature in our faith and be witnesses to others.
The song “Cats in the Cradle” by Harry Chapin reminds us of the importance of spending time with our children, as time is precious and goes by quickly. As intentional parents, we can prioritize our time with our kids and make the most of every moment. On this blog, you will find tips, reflections, and reviews on products to help you be intentional with your children and your relationship with Christ. As Jesus said, “Let the little children come to me,” and through this blog, we can help our children come to know Him more deeply.
Thank you for visiting, and we hope our little corner of Kansas and our feathered and furry friends bring a smile to your face and joy to your heart.
Parents, are you seeking inspiration and practical tips for intentional parenting? Check out #catsinthecradleblog, a blog that's all about nurturing little hearts in the light of Jesus. #intentionalparenting #christianparenting Click To TweetListen to the song “Cats in the Cradle” down below:
“Cats in the Cradle” is a classic folk-rock song by Harry Chapin that tells the story of a father who is too busy with work and other responsibilities to spend time with his son. As the years go by, the son grows up to become just like his father, perpetuating the cycle of neglect and missed opportunities. The song serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of prioritizing work over family and the importance of intentional parenting. It reminds us that our children grow up quickly, and if we don’t make time for them now, we may regret it later. By highlighting the consequences of neglectful parenting, “Cats in the Cradle” encourages us to be present and engaged in our children’s lives, creating lasting memories and meaningful relationships.
Listen to the song “Spend a Life” by David Dunn below:
David Dunn is a Christian singer-songwriter who has released several albums and singles throughout his career. His song “Spend a Life” is a reflective piece about the importance of intentional parenting and making the most of the time we have with our loved ones. The song’s title encapsulates its message, encouraging listeners to spend their lives in meaningful ways that bring joy and fulfillment. Through its poignant lyrics and understated instrumentation, “Spend a Life” serves as a powerful reminder to cherish our relationships and invest in the things that truly matter.
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