My darling Emmy Lou, What a strange time to be writing this birthday letter. This past year has been full of amazing, wonderful things, yet these past two weeks have been full of uncertainty and changes. We had planned a small party with your friends for this Saturday and upon hearing that wouldn’t happen, you… [Read More]
Summer Time as a Stay-At-Home Mom
Summer time. A time for vacation, relaxation in the sun and warm nights on the patio. A time for dirty feet from playing barefoot all day in the green grass followed up with catching lightning bugs in the evening. The time of the year we can all grill out with friends, stay up a little later and… [Read More]
Breast Cancer Research – Can we reduce our risk?
In the last several years, I’ve known at least five women – friends, colleagues, sorority sisters, – in their 30s and 40s who’ve had breast cancer. Both my maternal grandmother and my husband’s paternal grandmother have had it. So when I was approached with helping the Breast Cancer and the Environment Research Program (BCERP) with… [Read More]
I’m still learning to pick my parenting battles
I blinked. That was my first mistake. I blinked and my babies are gone. In their place are two children. Two individuals with their own interests, opinions and personalities. It’s time for me to let go a little. I’m not a helicopter parent by any stretch. But I’m not exactly free-range either. I like to… [Read More]
What to pack for a trip to Universal Orlando Resort
We are ONE WEEK out from our family trip to Universal Studios Florida. We’re spending four days at the Family Forward Retreat and I am STOKED to spend some quality time with the family. I’ve been thinking about and planning for this for awhile. I’ve read lots of blog posts and advice on theme parks,… [Read More]
12 water games for the pool and backyard
We are now officially in the sun drenched, heated heart of summer. If your kids are anything like mine, that means playing in, around, and with water every chance they get. The problem is those days at the pool or afternoons in the yard with the sprinkler can get a little old. Everyone needs a… [Read More]
Camping With Kids – Secrets for Success!
About a year ago, I embarked on my first camping trip. I went with a few women I work with for one little (adults only) overnight campout… and I fell in love. There is just something about the simplicity of gooey s’mores, talks by the campfire, and sleeping under the stars that makes me feel… [Read More]
Stocking Stuffers for the Whole Family
If you’ve been following me for some time, you’ll know that stockings are my number one favorite thing about Christmas. It’s always been a big deal in my family and it’s way more fun than the actual presents. Stockings can be filled with anything you can think of…candy, beauty items, any sort of fun tchotchke you… [Read More]
Great Children’s Books for Thanksgiving
Thanksgiving is my second favorite holiday. To be honest, it’s a close race for first place, but Christmas still takes the cake. I think that Thanksgiving kicking the door wide open to the Christmas season is one of the reasons I love it so much. I really love Thanksgiving though, because it reminds each and… [Read More]
Fall and winter fashion for kids
I love fall fashion. Dressing in tall boots, sweaters and jeans makes me incredibly happy. Getting dressed is easy for me. Dressing my kids, on the other hand, during these colder months can be much more challenging. Take my son. Lover of athletic wear, shorts and sports jerseys. He’s not a fan of jeans or… [Read More]
