The most lasting memories rarely come from expensive vacations. They grow from ordinary days made extraordinary. On today’s edition of Family Talk, Dr. James Dobson sits down with Gloria Gaither and Shirley Dobson to explore simple, meaningful ways parents can shape their children’s hearts and minds. They share why small moments matter most, and how everyday interruptions can become God’s work.
Making the Most of Ordinary Days, Part 1
About Our Guest(s)
Shirley Dobson is nationally recognized for her leadership skills and many contributions to Christian organizations and other groups advocating for the family. She has received honorary doctorate degrees from Asbury Theological Seminary, Biola University, Huntington College and Dallas Baptist University. A graduate of Pasadena College (now Point Loma University), Mrs. Dobson earned a Bachelor of Arts in education. Following graduation, she taught in the Hudson and Arcadia Unified School Districts in California. After she was married and her first child was born, she chose to become a stay-at-home mom. Beginning in 1991, Shirley proudly served as chair of the National Day of Prayer Task Force for 25 years. Through the efforts of the task force, tens of thousands of prayer gatherings were established and conducted across the country. Mrs. Dobson co-authored, along with Gloria Gaither, a four-book series — Making Ordinary Days Extraordinary, Creating Family Traditions, Celebrating Special Times with Special People, and Hide it in Your Heart. She also co-authored Nightlight: A Devotional for Couples, and Nightlight for Parents with her husband. Her book that describes the remarkable gift of prayer, Certain Peace in Uncertain Times, was published in 2002. In 2012, Mrs. Dobson and her daughter, Danae, co-authored the heartwarming hospitality book, Welcome to Our Table. Shirley and Jim have two children, Danae and Ryan, as well as two grandchildren. Mrs. Dobson resides in Colorado Springs, Colorado.
Gloria Gaither is a renowned Christian singer-songwriter. Alongside her husband, Bill Gaither, they have written more than 700 songs, and were named Christian Songwriters of the Century by the American Society of Composers, Authors, and Publishers (ASCAP). Gloria has authored more than 40 books, including Something Beautiful, Bless This House, and the Let’s Make a Memory series, co-authored with Shirley Dobson. A respected voice in the academic community, she holds honorary doctorates from several universities, and has served on the board of directors for both the Council for Christian Colleges and Universities and the United Christian College Fund. Gloria and Bill have three adult children and several grandchildren.
