I had a big cry today. Crying isn’t exactly a rare occurrence for me, but today was different. I felt despondent and helpless. It felt like all the sorrow that has befallen my friends, family, and community hit me all at once. In addition to all the national tragedies, I have had several close friends... Continue Reading →
How to Cultivate Your Child’s Inner Activist
Around the country, teenagers are stepping up and speaking out against gun violence and demanding gun reform after yet another violent school shooting. Regardless of your stance on this issue, it is inspiring to see kids using the only outlet they have -their voice- to make a difference. To quote those students, “we are turning tragedy into an opportunity... Continue Reading →
Things I Love About My Husband Then vs. Now
My husband never ceases to amaze me, but the things I love most about him have definitely changed over the years since having kids. What better time than Valentine’s Day to reflect on how our love continues to evolve. How he shows he cares after I’ve had a long day: Then-He gave me a gorgeous... Continue Reading →
The Day I Realized My Child is Not A Special Snowflake
One of my favorite mentors once told me the secret to raising happy and healthy children is to know them well and genuinely think they are special for who they are. This sounded really easy, because luckily my kids are pretty awesome, and I often feel proud of them. However, it became a bit of... Continue Reading →
Tips and Tricks for Healthy Eating in the New Year
It seems like New Years resolutions have become a bit passe, but I would still argue that many of us look for some sort of healthy reset at the start of each new year. And let’s be honest: eating healthy consistently is really hard to do! It’s a choice, an active decision we have to... Continue Reading →
How My Kids Taught Me I’m an Introvert
I’ve always loved the human connection. I enjoy spending time with people, listening to their stories, having intimate conversations at dinners and small gatherings. I also like to feel included, part of a group, and a member of my community. My family is very close, and with three sisters and several cousins, being around people... Continue Reading →
Why I’m Protective of My Daughter’s Curls
It all started innocently enough. Pretty much since the day she sprouted them, people have been commenting on my daughter’s beautiful, curly blonde hair. “She’s so cute, where did she get her curls from, how often do you cut her hair?” The comments occur so frequently that I’ve grown accustom to it, and initially I... Continue Reading →
Embracing My Secret Identities
The other day I took my kids to breakfast at a local diner. It was my day off, so I was in my preferred comfort attire of Fabletics workout pants and a sweatshirt, my hair in a messy bun. As we were walking out, I couldn’t help but notice the sneer I received from a business-y looking woman,... Continue Reading →
The Importance of Family Storytelling
We recently spent a long weekend with my in-laws, who are the best storytellers I have ever met. They provide exquisite detail and plot twists that make even a trip to the grocery store sound enthralling. We pass many an hour sitting around the table sharing stories from the past, with everyone easily engaged, smiling,... Continue Reading →
Surviving Drop Off At Daycare
As I left my kids’ daycare this morning, I passed by a mom who was hiding in the doorway, listening to her toddler screaming her name over and over, a pained look on her face. I gave her a hopeful smile and said, “It does get easier, I promise.” She nodded grimly, making it clear... Continue Reading →