There are few things that hold the same weight, pain, and confusion as losing someone to suicide. Much like mental illness in general, when someone we know suffers with suicidal thoughts, we can feel helpless to know how to...
I knew it would be one of the more labor-intensive decisions I would make as a parent. I wanted to take my time, do research, ask friends questions and for recommendations, and find just the right place for my...
We have 141 children's books. That count is low because I'm always finding books under the couch, in the car, and yes, even in the bathroom.
We don’t have 11 kids. We have two boys and about seventy books per kid...
I used to teach 5th grade, and I heard over and over again, "How can you teach 10 year olds every day? I could never do that!" It always struck me as funny because I truly love this age.
Now...
My Lili girl has always had a heart for orphans. I'm not sure why. We didn't obsess over the movie Annie. We have never lived near an orphanage, nor were there any known orphans in her groups of friends....
This featured business highlight is brought to you by West Des Moines Community Schools.
For many children, kindergarten is a momentous step in life’s big adventure. Parents often wonder if their child is ready or worry about the transition. Paula Olson, a West...
At Bergman Academy in Des Moines, you matter. As children walk through Bergman’s doors each morning, they hear their name several times, as teachers, school leaders, parents, mentors, and fellow students greet them warmly. They experience the joy that...
Football games and Friday nights are right around the corner for many incoming freshmen as they begin their high school journey. When you are in a blended family and navigating step-parenting during school things are a little more complicated.
Thinking...
Who knew I would be registering my child for something that doesn't start for 8 months? Thinking ahead has not always been my strong point; needless to say, I have been forced to make some changes in that department! ...
I love books. Always have, always will. The following is by no means an exaustive list of all the books I think are necessary, (I had an awfully hard time narrowing it down to five per catergory) but ones that...
In + Around Des Moines
Des Moines Spraygrounds and Wading Pools
Perfect for the kiddos who can't quite swim yet, or for anyone just needing to cool off, splash around at one of the Des...
