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I wrote two posts for Motherlode, the parenting blog of the New York Times, in September. One discussed my decision to decline prenatal tests during my third pregnancy, in spite of the higher likelihood of Down syndrome. The second post discussed the reality of having a child with Down syndrome. Readers of Motherlode responded in…

Before I offer favorites from July of 2010, I have to mention that today is Penny’s 5th birthday! I will be writing more about this day next week. For now, Happy Birthday Penny! Two posts of note from July: “Diagnosing Down Syndrome,” a post about what doctors should say when they are delivering a diagnosis…

Although I recommend reading all the entries in the Perfectly Human series, and it was nearly impossible to choose a “favorite” from among them, Melissa Florer-Bixler’s “Broken Bodies, Blessed Bodies” provides one beautiful reflection upon why bodies matter, and how we can come to understand the brokenness and blessedness of our bodies. 

Last May, I wrote a post–“Happy, Mom?“– that describes Penny’s concern that her parents feel happy about her behavior. It offers a glimpse of her sweetness, and of the challenges of being a parent. And of what makes us happy.

Last April, I read A Praying Life by Paul Miller. In response (and as an encouragement for ANYONE who is even remotely interested in prayer to READ THIS BOOK), I wrote, “Prayer is Stupid, Unless…” 

Last March, we discussed the benefits and problems with birth control. A positive advancement in stewardship of human life and the environment? A negative attempt to control God? Even now, you can chime in and comment on: “What do you think about birth control?”

In February, I had an article for Christianity Today online about my reservations related to “curing” Down syndrome. A vigorous debate ensued, and this post–“The Curses of Brokenness, the Blessings of Limitations” explains how I have come to see limitations and vulnerability as gifts from God. 

As we approach the end of the year, I’ve chosen one or two posts from each month of 2010 to highlight as “favorites” of 2010. Happy reading, and Happy New Year! From January, 2010: “I Want to Be Like Penny” offers a reflection on the benefits of integrated classrooms and the fun of a 3-year old…

A few years ago, a Jewish student in the boarding school where we lived came to my apartment in tears. Her dormitory was filled, top to bottom, with Christmas. Wreaths. Lights. Bows. Secret Santas. She just didn’t want to feel so different, so excluded, so… Jewish. She came to my apartment with a friend, a…

We’re approaching Christmas. The hustle and bustle. The songs and bells and tinsel. The complaints of shoppers. The joy of children. The dinner conversations with family members.  In the midst of all the noise–the happy noise and the distressing noise–a reminder of the grace that comes through listening: “Not listening fails to treat you with…
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