Rethink Valentine’s Day

Maybe you aren’t a romantic and images of cupids and hearts illicit eye rolls and declarations about the capitalistic origin of Valentine’s Day. Maybe it is a product of greed and consumerism propagated by Hallmark, flower shops and manufacturers of cheaply made stuffed animals. But perhaps, it is an opportunity. Ask songwriters and they will tell you, […]

How To Help Your Child with the Great Unmasking

Governor Murphy of New Jersey announced a couple of days ago that the mask mandate would be lifted on March 7th. It is an arbitrary date, and while I’m not certain, based purely on science (NOT my political views,) why the masks can’t come off today, I am very grateful there is finally a light at the […]

Help Your Kids Combat the Uncertainty

Certainty is a comfort, and it is gone. It is January 1st, a day to reflect on the old and eagerly anticipate the new. While it is as easy as ever to look back, looking ahead has become something of a challenge. In our new cancel culture, certainty feels like a thing of the past, relegated to […]

30+ Ideas for Your Elf on the Shelf

Still Need an Elf? Get Your Elf on the Shelf here.Remember when your Elf on the Shelf was content just sitting on a shelf? Those days are over! We live in a Pinterest perfect work and our elves are not immune! They get more creative every year and now require props, accessories and new outfits–some wearing Elf Couture! This year’s elf might even […]

How Were Your College Kids Over Thanksgiving?

“I want a redo.” Also Read: Tips for Staying Healthy in College Two of my kids are in college now, and even with three still at home, the house feels so empty. I was giddy they were coming back, sleeping in their own beds, and I was planning all these moments to catch up with them. If […]

Don’t Let the Holiday Stress Get You!

Here are some tried and true ways to avoid it.

When Are We Going to Stop Putting Out Fires?

“Why do we have so many fires?” There is a small, suburban town somewhere in the northeast. If you drive through, you’ll undoubtedly be impressed by the cute cafes, the eclectic dining options and the scattered shops. The pedestrians you pass, some with strollers, some with dogs, some with both, appear fit and content. You […]

What to Do if Halloween Truly Scares Your Child

My 18 year old doesn’t like Halloween. She is the kid who double checks all the doors are locked every night and scolds my husband and me when we are lax about safety. It follows she wouldn’t care for a macabre holiday. She doesn’t understand why I would want fake blood, headless figures and  scary […]