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 When a child in need is matched with a Big Brother or Big Sister, it doesn't take long to notice the changes: parents say their children start focusing on school work, they get along better with their siblings, and - best of all - they start talking about the future.

I asked a group of parents, “Why? Why do your children respond so quickly and dramatically to this one friend in their life?” One parent said, “That's easy. They start to feel accountable.” 

My oldest granddaughter Claire was decorating my hair the other day, sticking barrettes and what-not in it. She made the comment that she was putting a clip in the white part of my hair.
My eyebrow shot up and I looked at her mother, who was barely suppressing her laughter. I couldn’t help but wonder: Did she put her up to it?
She didn’t have to. Claire, who is 4, didn’t need someone else to point out the obvious.
Grandkids make you proud and keep you humble.

 There are a few times in life when you just know things are going to change. Some for the good – some for the bad – and some just because it has to. 

Everyone has a story....
During the weather events of this past week everyone has a story to tell about what they saw, where they were, or how they were affected. I’m no different. I can’t tell you that I had a real good feeling that morning as I dropped off my daughter at daycare. They had already taken shelter in the hallways, heads down and plans in place for their safety. I arrived at the office ready to make decisions and be watchful for the pending weather that was to come.