Kitchen Organizing for the Holidays

The fall is a great time to start thinking about the holidays, which are really just around the corner. I promise you, they will be here before you know it. So why not take some time this month to start prepping your kitchen? By cleaning and organizing it now, you will have a head start and prevent future stress. It’s actually a great time to organize your cabinets. Focus on one or two each weekend. But while you are doing that, you should also start keeping an inventory of what you have and what you need. For instance, if you … Continue reading

My Easter Sunday

I was looking forward to Spring Break and being with my parents who were traveling across the country to be with me and my family over the Easter Weekend. I imagined a great Sunday where my sweet little girl was going to give a talk in Primary all dressed in her Easter clothes and my boys would be dressed in adorable outfits as well as we all soaked up the spirit of Easter. Things don’t always go as planned. I am learning this everyday as a Mother. I had been sick already when my parents got to my house, and … Continue reading

Spring Stranger Danger

The recent record-breaking heat has made it feel more like summer than spring. Earlier this month we started the week wearing winter coats, hats and mittens, and by Friday my second grader was sporting a swimsuit while running through our neighbor’s sprinkler. Go global warming! Yes, the unusually warm weather has many kids jumping for joy. Their bout with cabin fever has come to an abrupt end, and most have been rejoicing in the great outdoors. Unfortunately, this wild spring fling comes with a few drawbacks. With tens of thousands of kids frolicking outside way before school lets out for … Continue reading

Spring or Summer?

Mother Nature is having hot flashes in March and I am loving every minute of it. From a mother of an outdoorsy second grader to the Mother of all things outdoors, thank you. I don’t know where you live, but here in the Midwest we are experiencing a historic heat wave the likes of which has never been previously recorded. We’re sizzling under 82-degree temps in the middle of March. Now, this is the kind of March madness I can really cheer for. March weather madness has been in the air for nearly two weeks. Yes, for two glorious weeks … Continue reading

Traditional Spring Break

Sun, surf and half-naked college coeds are quintessential elements of spring break. However, if you are traveling solo or have a gaggle of little ones to entertain, you might not want to share sand with a bunch of drunken college kids. If you are looking for spring break destinations that don’t attract the “Girls Gone Wild” crowd, consider the following: Bermuda: The picturesque island is located roughly 650 miles east of Cape Hatteras, North Carolina. Known for its luxurious pink sand beaches, the popular vacation destination offers families a quiet retreat from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Its … Continue reading

Spring Break Camping Trip

Heck, with the record-breaking, summer-like temperatures sweeping the nation, why wait until July to rough it in the great outdoors? Our neighbor’s kids pitched a tent and slept outside Saturday night when the mercury was still in the 60s well after 10 p.m. Mind you, we live in Wisconsin where it snows in June and we’re lucky to see 70s in July. Naturally, my daughter wanted to join in on the fun, but I put the kibosh on that getaway. However, I did allow her to roast marshmallows with her pals and partake in some of the activities featured in … Continue reading

Spring Break Survival Tips

Did you watch the news tonight? All three major networks led their shows with the scary news that we’ll likely be paying $5 per gallon for gas by the time Memorial Day weekend rolls around. If you are planning to take a road trip this year, now is the time to do it. Spring break is an ideal time to load up the family and hit the road to explore our great nation; however, if you don’t plan properly the adventure could turn into vacation purgatory. To help you survive what could be a very, very long trip, consider stocking … Continue reading

Spring Break Snapshots

Tis the season for family getaways. Many schools around the nation are gearing up for spring break, and families are following suit. Now is a great time to drive or jet-off to your favorite recharging spot. For most people that means escaping to the sun, sand and surf, though any place that allows you to become one with nature is a prime choice as temperatures becomes more tolerable. If your spring break plans include visiting our nation’s natural treasures, don’t forget your camera… and your lenses. This is especially critical if you are planning a trip to major landmarks, such … Continue reading

Spring Getaway at Sea

Watching video of the doomed Costa Concordia after the ship ran aground off the coast of Italy doesn’t exactly make one want to rush out and book a spring cruise. The maritime disaster has resulted in 16 confirmed deaths. In addition, 16 other crew members and passengers are still missing. Despite the horrific tragedy, cruise experts maintain that setting sail on an upcoming spring or summer voyage is perfectly safe. What’s more, they point to a number of enticing benefits you can enjoy on a floating resort, including: Amenities: Modern-day cruise ships are akin to floating cities. They include everything … Continue reading

Missing School Days

I am so proud of Jessie. She is doing well in school. The reports from the teachers, counselor, and office staff are all glowing. Jessie is loving school too. Spring break was a difficult adjustment because she didn’t understand not going to school. She missed her teachers and her friends. I am beyond happy that she loves school. I hope it lasts. If she loves and enjoys school, she’ll be more likely to take it seriously and strive to do well. I don’t want my children to be underachievers like I was. When Jessie first started school I decided that … Continue reading