Now that my girls are 5 and almost 4 years old, it's time for this mom to draw some lines in the sand. I want to make sure these little ladies continue to develop in a positive way. No lazy bums growing up here. Here are a few of my brand-new rules that I have for my kids.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

While some schools have opted for remote learning this year, it’s not the ideal situation for everyone. But there are ways to make it work, and we've always reminded ourselves that we can get through the hard stuff. The main thing we need to be able to do this is to be kind to ourselves, let go of that perfectionist voice in our heads, and hold on to the belief that everything is going to work out. Here are four parenting hacks that will help the kids (and parents) get through this together.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

I recently put together my baby registry, and as cute as the cozy sleepers and baby blankets are, along with necessities like diapers and nursing pads, I found what I really need after I actually have the baby to be lacking. After a few babies, I’ve come to realize how absolutely essential these non-baby registry items are. If I could truly add anything to my baby registry, here's what I would want.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As parents, we know that our kids love their things. Like really love them. What mom hasn’t tried to throw out that extra-dingy blanket that’s a completely different shade from when it was purchased? Or the stuffy that only has one eye? Yep, those prized possessions are sticking around for the long haul, but that doesn’t mean we can’t keep them looking their best — even if their best is a little, well, let’s just say “well-loved.” Here are four ways to protect your child’s favorite things.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It’s normal for kids to be self-centered despite all of our efforts to help them be more empathetic or appreciative. The good news, though, is that we can help them broaden their perspectives and see beyond themselves. We can help them think about others and help them approach life with an attitude of gratitude. Here are a few suggestions for fostering thankfulness in your kids.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Halloween decorations have come down, and it’s nearly time for turkeys to take center stage! Thanksgiving is a time of great food, family togetherness, and lots of football on TV. This year, many families are planning a different kind of Thanksgiving. Big family gatherings aren’t safe for many folks, so people are having to think creatively about new ways to celebrate the season of gratefulness.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Three kids is normal, but anything more turns you into a baby-making factory in other people’s minds. So, imagine what I’ve been hearing now that I have a visible baby bump PLUS four kids.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The holidays are upon us, and there's no question that this year will be different from all the others. It's arguably been one of the most stressful times of our lives, and it's not letting up yet. All we want is for the holiday season to take our minds off of these challenges for a little while. In order to do this, we need to simplify the holiday season. We can do a lot to keep this fun for our kids and help take stress levels way down for ourselves and fellow parents. Here are four ways to do just that.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

While family time has taken a front row seat for most of 2020, something about the holidays makes spending time together that much more special. Whether it’s the annual traditions of bountiful table settings, colorful home décor, gift exchanges, or just gathering together after a big meal to get cozy on the couch, family time feels extra special year. Here are four ways to make the most of your time with the fam — even if it includes a bit of escape, too.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Lately, finding fun things for couples to do has been like pulling a rabbit out of a hat. Although married couples are accustomed to having busy schedules that aren’t exactly conducive to getting alone time, this year the stakes are a bit higher. Some of us are working from home together, which makes being a married couple and a parent a 24/7 situation, so carving out a special date night is essential. Check out these date ideas for married couples.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.