Summer is officially underway. This means that life is about to become a flurry of activity for many of us! What will occupy your time? A family vacation or staycation? Completing projects in the yard? Going camping? Attending a family reunion? We’ll be busy with a number of things, the most significant of which is welcoming our second … [Read more...] about Summer 2016 Preview
Things to Consider When Deciding Whether or Not to Cloth Diaper (Part 2)
Last week we began looking at factors that parents should consider when deciding if disposable or cloth diapers are best for their families. We discussed the financial implications of cloth diapering, if cloth diapers are “greener” than disposables, and what it takes to wash cloth diapers. Let’s examine two additional factors today: … [Read more...] about Things to Consider When Deciding Whether or Not to Cloth Diaper (Part 2)
Mexican Rice Bake
This recipe caught my eye because it seemed easy to prepare and sounded tasty. I’m glad we tried it because it met my expectations! Ingredients (Adapted from this recipe.) 1 lb. ground meat 1 ½ cups brown rice 2 cups water ½ of a red or green bell pepper, diced 1 medium onion, chopped 1 bunch cilantro, chopped 1 carton … [Read more...] about Mexican Rice Bake
Things to Consider When Deciding Whether or Not to Cloth Diaper (Part 1)
Many couples know what type of diapers they will use before they even become pregnant. They know there is absolutely no way they will use cloth diapers or they feel strongly that cloth is the only way to go. Other couples need to engage in lengthy deliberations before deciding which are best for their families. My husband and I found … [Read more...] about Things to Consider When Deciding Whether or Not to Cloth Diaper (Part 1)
Flag Code Primer for U.S. Households
My daughter and I go for a walk through our neighborhood almost every day. There are many things I love about our neighborhood, including the way many of our neighbors show their pride in our country and their support of our troops by flying the U.S. flag. Unfortunately, I’ve noticed that many of my neighbors fly their flags in manners that … [Read more...] about Flag Code Primer for U.S. Households
Equipping Toddlers with New Skills
Many parents find themselves in one of two extreme camps. They either expect their children to grow up more quickly than is realistic or they do things that inhibit their children from growing up at the proper pace. Parents in the former group may expect their newborns to be able to sleep through the entire night without waking to feed while … [Read more...] about Equipping Toddlers with New Skills
Summer 2016 Menu
As I did this spring, I’ve focused on easy-to-prepare meals while planning my family’s menu for this summer. We’ll probably stick with this menu until I give birth in July and then rely on freezer meals for a time. There are a lot of great meals here, so hopefully we’ll be ready to return to it by August! I’ve described my menu planning … [Read more...] about Summer 2016 Menu
Getting Time with Your Spouse When You Have No Babysitter for the Kids
One-on-one time with your spouse is beneficial in any marriage relationship, but it takes on new importance and is particularly elusive for parents of young children. At first glance, it seems like finding alone time is simple: Just leave the kids with a sitter for a few hours! However, for many couples, this is easier said than … [Read more...] about Getting Time with Your Spouse When You Have No Babysitter for the Kids