PARENTS Category
Seize The Moments
Posted on January 26, 2023 Leave a Comment
Aimée Crosby and I were reminiscing about how it seems like yesterday we just got married. Then, it seems the boys were just born. Now, they are ages 23, 21, 19, and almost 13. Guess we are getting older and those boys are now young men. Honestly, I don’t know how my wife made taking […]
Parenting Reflections
Posted on September 1, 2022 Leave a Comment
When we first start out as parents none of us fully know what we we’re doing. We do the best we can to love them and lead them the right way. We pray as they get older they will find their way in this crazy world. After all, we’re not raising them to live with […]
Dear Father’s Day In Heaven
Posted on June 18, 2022 Leave a Comment
I know you’re not here physically anymore on this earth. Yet, there is so much you’ve left behind I must acknowledge. In fact, with each day that passes your impact fills my heart. So much of my life, family and ministry is a direct product of your investments. In tribute to your legacy I just […]
Another Year Older
Posted on February 17, 2022 Leave a Comment
Well, Little Faith Walker is no longer so little. He turned 12 years old today and is nearly as tall as me. God keeps growing him and shaping him daily. I can still see God’s call upon his life on a daily basis. At his age I wasn’t even thinking about doing the things he […]
DADS ARE NEEDED TOO
Posted on February 4, 2021 Leave a Comment
I’ve always loved each of my boys very much. I’ve always wanted to be the best dad possible. Sadly, I’ve missed a lot of moments. Not intentionally, but just due to many things. Sometimes ignorance, busyness, tunnel vision or life circumstances got in the way. I guess I’m still striving to overcome some of those […]
Our Favorite 19 Year Old
Posted on September 1, 2020 Leave a Comment
Yesterday we celebrated my 21 year old. Today, we celebrate my 19 year old son. We named him Joel Andrew Crosby when he was born. Joel means “God with us.” Joel has always been a special young man. He cares deeply about other people and we care deeply about him. I’ve got a lot of […]
A 21 Year Old Surprise
Posted on August 31, 2020 Leave a Comment
I remember like yesterday when our first child was born. I was only 24 years old. His beautiful momma was only 22. After a couple of ultra sounds the doctor said we would be having a little girl. So, we picked out her name and looked forward to that special day. At the baby shower […]
Parents Just Don’t Understand
Posted on July 20, 2020 Leave a Comment
For some reason this subject matter recently popped into my mind. Maybe it’s because I know my own kids feel this way at times. Maybe it’s because I’ve felt this way at times. Maybe it’s because I know we’ve all thought this way at some point or another in our lives. I can honestly say […]
5 Ways I Can Improve My Dad Skills
Posted on June 20, 2020 Leave a Comment
If someone asked me to rate my skills as a dad on a scale from 1-10. I would quickly say that hopefully I’m a 5. I say this because I have plenty of room for improvement. In fact, the only reason I can choose a five is because many dads have zero involvement in their […]
Fight For Your Child’s Soul
Posted on June 6, 2020 Leave a Comment
Earlier me and one of my boys sought to go fishing together. Unfortunately, the weather ended our trip shortly after getting in the boat. However, on the way my son and I had a very important conversation. Actually, we’ve had several deep discussions together recently. Each time we talked about how important it is to […]
How Can We Not Celebrate?
Posted on May 11, 2020 Leave a Comment
This Mother’s Day is almost over. However, I feel inspired to talk about another mother in my life. Sadly, growing up we really don’t see the full value of our moms until later. However, observing a great mother day and night as an adult changes your perspective. Therefore, watching my wife’s daily efforts for our […]
Momma Is Exhausted
Posted on April 17, 2020 Leave a Comment
Our family of six just began day 32 of this never ending quarantine. My boys are ages 20, 18, 16, and 10. Everyone of them are a momma’s boy whether they admit it or not. The positive thing is due to school closings and jobs cancelled everyone is under one roof for this season. The […]
If Our Children Only Knew
Posted on February 26, 2020 Leave a Comment
I’ve been a parent for 20 1/2 years. Not long enough to know everything. But, long enough to know certain things to be true. I love our four boys more than they can ever understand right now. Mainly because none of them have been a parent themselves. One day God willing they will understand once […]
Daddy Days
Posted on February 5, 2020 Leave a Comment
Tonight is one of my favorite nights. We call it “Daddy Day.” Asher Crosby and I have been spending a weekly night together the past 4-5 years. I wish I could say I started this tradition with my oldest 3 boys. However, I did learn from them that time goes by way too fast. Asher […]
5 Characteristics Of Great Parents
Posted on January 19, 2020 Leave a Comment
I’m far from being a perfect parent. In fact, I’m afraid no such human exist that I’ve met. However, I have been a parent for over 20 years. Even better I was raised by two great parents. Plus, I’ve had a close up view of many other great parents. Here are five things that set […]
Parents: Tough Love Is Mandatory
Posted on May 27, 2019 Leave a Comment
I have four boys ages 19, 17, 15, and 9. Each one of them have totally different personalities. Each one has to be approached in an understanding way. Each one just like myself has certain strengths and weaknesses. Each one of them are in different seasons of life. Time has proven that growing up is […]
Christmas Shopping
Posted on December 13, 2018 1 Comment
My wife and I have always set a very clear budget for Christmas. Our 4 boys know they will not be getting gifts beyond our means. I doubt we’ve ever spent over $100 per child. When times were tougher we didn’t spend more than $50 per child. If Santa can’t pay his light bill he […]
Parents Wake Up
Posted on November 16, 2018 Leave a Comment
For a long time I was asleep as a parent. Sure I love my children dearly and I would do anything for them. However, I believe it’s when they hit the teenage years that most of us really wake up. Why? Because what once seemed simplistic gets very complicated. Before the teenage years you’re just […]
Continue To Learn
Posted on November 14, 2018 1 Comment
I still recall what my professor said on the first day of my journey towards getting my masters degree. He said, “I’m not here to teach you everything you need to know. I’m here to teach you how to be a life long learner.” Those words have never left my mindset the past twenty years. […]
Dads Lives Matter
Posted on November 10, 2018 1 Comment
Tonight we celebrated my dad’s 70th birthday. It was a surprise party and total family affair. He clearly appreciated our thoughtfulness. My brothers and I clearly recognized the significance of the moment. You see, we’ve each been blessed to call him dad for well over forty something years. I’m well aware that many never get […]
Watch Out My Friend
Posted on October 26, 2018 Leave a Comment
How often do we plan stuff and just expect things to all work out? Then, unexpectedly something goes on that we never expected. It might be our car breaking down, a sudden tragedy, an argument with our spouse, or an issue with one of our children. The list is endless of what can happen in […]
Just Glad To Be There
Posted on October 20, 2018 Leave a Comment
Just got home from watching our home town high school Cougars play some football. They ended up losing in the fourth quarter, but I was just glad to be there. Had the honor of walking out on the field with my next to oldest son for senior night. This is his last year to march […]
4 Ways Parents Shouldn’t Communicate
Posted on October 14, 2018 Leave a Comment
I’m presently trying to adjust to being a parent of a college student, a high school senior, a freshman and a third grader. Often it’s like riding a bull that at any moment could throw you off. Like most parents my heart’s desire is to be a perfect parent. Unfortunately, I fall short daily of […]
3 Things Every Leader Must Know
Posted on June 28, 2018 Leave a Comment
Anyone who ever thinks leadership is easy has simply never been a true leader. Whether at home or on the job you’re gonna have to make tough decisions. Not every decision you make will be popular, but you’ve got to do what’s best and trust God with the rest. If you know something needs to […]
Dads Matter Too
Posted on June 16, 2018 Leave a Comment
We live in a society that doesn’t celebrate dads anywhere near as much as moms. However, even as a dad I understand why to a certain degree. We don’t actually give birth to any child. We usually aren’t near as patient. We usually aren’t around near as much. And, compared to most moms we aren’t […]
A Tribute To My Mom
Posted on May 12, 2018 Leave a Comment
This past Mother’s day I felt led to reflect on how thankful I am for my mom. This is not an exhaustive list by far. But, it’s 5 of the things I love most about my mom. These things have been demonstrated all my life and I’m grateful God chose her to be my mom. […]
The Preacher’s Family
Posted on April 27, 2018 Leave a Comment
Earlier my wife and I had a normal argument that was escalated by the fact we are both exhausted. No, we’re not on the verge of a divorce. Yes, we still love each other. But, God prompted me to shed light on some things that someone reading this might need to hear. The preacher, his […]
Dear Parents Who Are Separated
Posted on March 27, 2018 2 Comments
Earlier I was sitting inside a Chick-fil-A restaurant with two of my boys. Across from me nearest the playground area was this young couple who were clearly still in the honeymoon phase of dating. They had 3 little kids with them in the play area that didn’t appear to be their own. Mainly because they […]
Give Us Childlike Faith
Posted on January 16, 2018 Leave a Comment
Earlier my 7yr old and I got down on our knees to pray together. He asked me to pray first so I followed his request. First, I reminded him how awesome it is that we can come to God with anything. He shook his head yes in a way I knew he believed every […]
A New Year’s Perspective
Posted on January 3, 2018 Leave a Comment
As the clock got closer to midnight on New Year’s Eve I was reading my Bible. Sitting right beside me in bed was my youngest son Asher. I really didn’t think he was paying any attention as he was playing with some toy. Next thing I know my 7 year old says, “Look daddy I’m […]
Don’t Blink Parents
Posted on November 7, 2017 Leave a Comment
If you have kids you will especially understand what I’m about to say. One moment you’re celebrating their birth and the next you’re bracing yourself for their departure. You hear people tell you early on that they grow up so fast. Well, those people are absolutely correct. I still recall the dramatic entrance of my […]
Parents We Must Teach Truth
Posted on September 20, 2017 Leave a Comment
I’m reaching that point with my boys where it’s impossible to avoid uncomfortable conversations. I know they live in a world that doesn’t clearly distinguish right from wrong. The least I can do and should do as a parent is guide them with unchangeable truth. And, I plan to do just that as long as […]
Approach God Like You’re 7
Posted on September 20, 2017 Leave a Comment
It’s so refreshing having a seven old in your home. He reminds me what it’s like to have a childlike faith. Whatever he prays he expects God to answer. Everyday he thanks God for what he calls the “best day ever.” He still thanks God for watching over his “Boo Boo” our family dog that […]
Young Parents Please Read
Posted on May 26, 2017 Leave a Comment
I’m writing this shortly after watching a slide show my wife made for my oldest son’s graduation party. The first time I watched it I’m sure I cried a bucket full of tears. The second time just a gallon of tear drops fell. But, by the fifth time I cried zero tears as there was […]
Dear Son, I’ll Try Not To Cry
Posted on May 20, 2017 Leave a Comment
Anyone who has ever watched a child grow up right before their very eyes will totally get what I’m writing. Anyone who has ever heard someone say years ago “before you know it that child will be all grown up”, you now understand. Anyone that is about to watch their son or daughter walk across […]
Daddy, Can We Play?
Posted on August 5, 2016 Leave a Comment
I’m a Pastor to many and husband to one of the greatest women on the planet. But, I’m beyond blessed to have four boys that call me daddy. Very soon I will have a 17, 15, 13, and 6 year old. Of course the youngest is beyond spoiled by us all. Recently I bought him […]
Creating A House Of Love
Posted on July 2, 2016 Leave a Comment
A huge goal of mine is that our family always be full of God’s love. I believe it’s the glue that keeps everyone together. I know it’s something that will carry on for generations to come. In our house, loving everybody is not an option. It is not acceptable at any time to think you’re […]
Dear Mom & Dad
Posted on February 18, 2016 Leave a Comment
I’m about to turn 41 years old. I’ve been happily married for 18 and 1/2 years. I’ve got four boys ages 16, 14, 12, and 6. I’ve been a minister for 21 years. I realize more everyday how blessed I am to have the parents that raised me. I would like to explain and express […]
More Than A Test Drive
Posted on February 15, 2016 Leave a Comment
Recently I took my oldest son out for lunch. Afterwards, I told him he could drive us home. All it took was him backing the car up and putting it in drive. Next thing I knew my blood pressure was rising very similiar to the last time we tried that experiment. In hopes of not […]
When Pictures Move You
Posted on September 1, 2014 Leave a Comment
I’m not one of those guys that just sits around looking at old pictures. But, every time I do my mind drifts and my heart is moved. Recently, my two oldest sons turned ages 15 and 13. Not only did I realize we now officially have two teenagers, but the pictures my wife showed me […]
Adjustments Every Parent Must Make
Posted on August 26, 2014 Leave a Comment
I’ve said the following for years. No one loves a child more than a parent. The question that remains is does that parent know how to show that love to their child? I believe any parent in their right mind wants to do their best, but that requires continued adjustments to our approach. Here are […]
Are You A REAL DAD?
Posted on June 2, 2014 1 Comment
It’s been said that anyone can be a father, but not every father chooses to be a dad. I’ve been a dad for almost 15 years. I’ve been blessed to have a dad all my life. I’m not sure this qualifies me to write the following words. However, with Father’s Day right around […]
5 Things You Must Know About Money
Posted on May 29, 2014 Leave a Comment
Recently, I was out with my 14 year old, on our weekly daddy day. During our times together we usually discuss many topics, but this time money matters topped the list. That night, I took the time to write down some things I believe God would have me model and teach my kids about […]
Lessons From Great Moms
Posted on May 12, 2014 Leave a Comment
I’m not sure there is a more deserved holiday than Mother’s Day. They’re not perfect, but most I know are a huge blessing to their family. Moms teach us so much by the lives they live, the sacrifices they make, and the love they lavish upon us. I would like to share three things […]
Dads Please Read This
Posted on March 21, 2014 Leave a Comment
I don’t need to read any more books, check any more stats, or live one day longer to know that dads matter. You show me a child with a missing in action dad and I’ll show you someone who will struggle. No, this doesn’t mean every child without a dad is hopeless. What it does mean […]
Confessions Of A Pastor
Posted on February 22, 2014 1 Comment
They say confession is healing, so here goes nothing. I was raised by two God fearing parents who did their best to raise us to have a healthy love for God, love for our neighbors, and live completely devoted to God’s word. Of course, there is no such thing as a perfect home. I […]
Living In A Make Believe World
Posted on December 5, 2013 Leave a Comment
Once upon a time there was a different world. A world where kids actually played with one another, television didn’t exist, and just listening to the radio was a big deal. Then came 500 satellite channels, cell phones, the internet, and what everyone must now have “the smart phone.” Slowly but surely the world changed […]
“Mother F…..Yes, I said it”
Posted on November 13, 2013 Leave a Comment
Awhile back I was at my 12 year old’s last football game of the season. Suddenly I heard a lady shouting behind me. Someone had just laid a big hit on a kid and she yelled out, “Mother F….., that was a hit.” I couldn’t help but whip my head around to see who […]
The Parent’s Job Description
Posted on September 2, 2013 Leave a Comment
Parents, none of us have really been given an official job description, but here is a top ten list of things I’m pretty certain should be included. Before I attempt to share any of this with you, I’ve taken note of this in my own heart. Parenting is a journey that will test you, breaks […]
A Key Family Moment
Posted on August 5, 2013 Leave a Comment
This summer we decided to split our week of family vacation into two long weekend getaways. Our last step away from normal life was to Myrtle Beach. As expected with four boys there was never a dull moment. Now, I could bore you with what we did, but I would like to share with you […]
Out Of Order
Posted on August 1, 2013 Leave a Comment
I am deeply sorry for the following. I apologize to my wife and I will be begging my kids for forgiveness. No, they didn’t tell me I have a problem, but a person knows when they are living life backwards. I’m afraid there are many more like me all around. As I write this, I […]
5 Keys To A Healthy Family
Posted on July 8, 2013 Leave a Comment
Maybe it’s because I see so many unhealthy families I’m writing this. Maybe it’s because I’m trying myself to discover the answer to this question. As I write this I understand that every family is different and there is no one size fits all. However, I do believe there are key ingredients that are critical […]
10 Reasons I Love My Dad
Posted on June 16, 2013 Leave a Comment
Before I go any further, I want to wish all you dads a belated Father’s Day. As a father of four boys myself, I know that being a dad is not a small order, unless you choose to water it down. I’m also afraid that due to all the dads missing in actions, dads that […]
Parents Must Monitor Online Activity
Posted on May 16, 2013 1 Comment
I think we all can agree that we live in an online world. Kids growing up today don’t know what it’s like not to have the internet and immediate access to just about anything. Every parent should have a healthy fear of the internet. You need the kind of fear that compels you to monitor […]
What Makes A SUPER MOM?
Posted on May 11, 2013 Leave a Comment
As I write this, I realize that every mom is priceless. I also realize that not everyone has been blessed with the kind of mom I was raised by in this life. I thank God every day for my mom and her commitment to doing her best to raise me up in the way that […]
You’re Gonna Miss This
Posted on May 2, 2013 1 Comment
God has blessed me with four boys ages 13, 11, 9, and 3. As a pastor of a brand new church and a full time hospice chaplain, I must admit it’s very hard to find time and energy to spend with my family. Of course, I love them dearly, but some weeks are just […]
Lessons From Little League
Posted on April 15, 2013 Leave a Comment
I’ve been involved in Little League since I was a young man. I can still recall the butterflies, excitement, and the crowds that came to watch us under the bright lights.. Years later, I’m now a coach watching my own boys take their turn on the baseball diamond. Today, Little League is not near as much of […]
5 Keys To A GREAT FAMILY VACATION
Posted on April 1, 2013 Leave a Comment
I just finished cleaning out the family van which resembled the aftermath of a severe hurricane. This experience was something I would not wish on anyone, but I was motivated by the fact that tomorrow morning we leave for family vacation. Here are five goals I have for this special week of our lives. #1: […]
Posted on February 26, 2013 Leave a Comment
Originally posted on Pastor Craig Crosby:
This weekend my wife and I will be getting away without our four boys. For months I’ve been waiting for our next getaway. One of my boys said, “Daddy you can’t go to Myrtle Beach without us, that’s not fair! You don’t love us?” I said, “Son, it’s because…
Why Parents Need To Get Away ALONE
Posted on February 26, 2013 2 Comments
This weekend my wife and I will be getting away without our four boys. For months I’ve been waiting for our next getaway. One of my boys said, “Daddy you can’t go to Myrtle Beach without us, that’s not fair! You don’t love us?” I said, “Son, it’s because I do love you that we […]
WE FAIL OUR CHILDREN WHEN……
Posted on December 12, 2012 1 Comment
Parents = People who aren’t perfect, but are responsible for raising and taking care of another person. There is nothing that qualifies any of us for this God-sized endeavor called parenting. At the very same time we seek to help someone else grow up, we ourselves are still under development. Our children are highly impacted […]
Gifts Every Child Needs This Christmas
Posted on November 3, 2012 Leave a Comment
It’s usually around Thanksgiving that family members start requesting every child sends them a Christmas list. There is absolutely nothing wrong with gift giving and enjoying things you’ve been given. However, too many parents will spend hundreds of dollars on gifts for their children that will quickly lose their value. What I’m about to share […]
THERE’S NO PLACE LIKE HOME
Posted on September 19, 2012 1 Comment
I hear people constantly talking about how bad this world has become. I hear parents talking about how terrified they are when it comes to the schools their children attend. I will not attempt to argue with either of these concerns, but I will say that there is no place like home. The home is […]
7 THINGS EVERY PARENT MUST REMEMBER!!!
Posted on September 14, 2012 1 Comment
*DISCLAIMER: Please know that I am not saying this because I think I am a perfect parent. I miss the mark daily! However, I do believe that these are ageless and priceless principles that can keep us all on track as we seek to be the parents God designed us to be! Every word I […]
MY KIDS INHERITANCE
Posted on September 12, 2012 3 Comments
I don’t think there is a parent on the planet that in their right mind doesn’t want the best for their kids. That is something that I rarely question. What I do question is “Do they really know what is best?” Many dads and moms will work countless hours hoping to give their children the […]
3 Things Every Parent Should Know
Posted on August 8, 2012 Leave a Comment
1. Your kids need you! More than the bills paid, more than pop corn and the movie, your kids need you. Yes, I know you’ve got to work and you are very busy. But, you must make time to spend with each of your children. As you know, they grow up quick and you will […]
Pastor Craig Crosby 