It is the third week of Lent and the last area of focus is almsgiving. This is a gift of your time, talents or treasures. This can be anything from donating your time at school or church, sharing your gifts with a neighbor or coworker, or giving money, clothes, or toys you no longer use to a local charity. Gift Bag for Homeless Person and His Dog My wife and I were traveling and saw a homeless person with his dog at an underpass. We knew we would be back in the area later in the week, so we...

We are in the second week of Lent and fasting is one of the opportunities to focus on during this season. When I was young, I would give up pop (yes, I'm from the Midwest), candy, or possibly tv, most likely cartoons. The intent is to fast from things that keep us from growing closer to God, family, or community. As I am now an adult, activities that don't bring me closer to God or my family are shown above. I decided to give up alcohol for Lent. So far, so good...alcohol-free beer and club...

Family game night is a great way for families to put down devices, take a pause from the busy week, and reconnect. Each week, one member of the family gets to pick the activity... a board game, movie night, fun dinner, or some other activity everyone can do together. The important thing is a different family member gets to pick the activity each week. Yes, that means mom and dad get to pick as well. The challenge is everyone needs to participate in the activity. You could even start tonight,...