• strawberry popsicles
    Happiness,  Parenting,  Special Topics

    Backyard Fun in the Sun

    Summer vacation… For some it means travel adventures, for others it’s about finding new and better ways to enjoy our homes… Enjoying longer days with a little fun in the sun. I’ve expanded our “tips list” to include attention to backyard pools and play equipment as well as the ever-popular barbeque. [Tweet “I’ve expanded our “tips list” to include attention to backyard play equipment.”] Red Cross Home Pool Safety 7 Steps to a Backyard Playground for Kids I worked for many years as a family advocate…

  • brown ice cream cone
    Parenting

    Is Your Family Prepared?

    We know that when families grow and change it is not always by choice: divorce, job changes, relocation or re-marriage are not always choices that the entire extended family can agree on — or prepare for. The impact of those changes can rock our world in ways that we can’t imagine ahead of time. The foundation upon which our families have been built is tossed around like buildings in an earthquake. [Tweet “Our family’s foundations can be tossed around like buildings in an earthquake.”] While we…

  • shallow focus photography of two boys doing wacky faces
    Parenting,  Special Topics

    The Self Esteem Scam

    Maybe I’m too grumpy to write this right now but most of you have been with me for a long time.  I trust you’ll forgive me should that become necessary.  And if not?  I wish you well.  I mean no offense. Ready? I’m sick of self esteem.  I’m tired of talking about it. Hearing about it. Worrying about it. Building it. Protecting it.  Blah, blah, blah. [Tweet “I’m sick of self-esteem. How about you?”] How can a woman who has been an advocate for kids and…