Christmas is hectic for my family. We’re so busy traveling from one family to another that it’s hard to find time to enjoy our own, personal family traditions. On Christmas Eve, we arrive early at my parents’ house and unwrap gifts. This may not seem like a time-consuming event, but when you … [Read more...]
Holiday Treats: How to Make Graham Cracker Cottages
December 9, 2010 By Leave a Comment
I’ve always loved gingerbread houses. They’re fun, festive and delicious. And really, who doesn’t like to decorate for the holidays with sugary snacks? Last year, I bought a gingerbread house kit for about $20 and was disappointed to find that one of the “walls” was busted beyond repair and … [Read more...]
E-mail Santa Claus: Goodbye, Snail Mail. Hello, 21st Century!
December 2, 2010 By 2 Comments
Have your children written their letters to Santa Claus yet? Are they a little too tech savvy to use snail mail? Then I’ve got great news for your kiddos, because Santa’s online! I was scouting out a Web site that would mail a letter from Santa to my children and stumbled upon EmailSanta.com. … [Read more...]
Ho-Ho-Hold That Smile: Pictures With Santa Claus
November 30, 2010 By Leave a Comment
There’s nothing like a sweet picture of your little one nestled comfortably on the lap of Santa Claus. As your daughter sits on his lap and whispers her deepest wish, a photographer captures the moment to be shared in this year’s Christmas cards. If your children are older and have a full grasp … [Read more...]
10 Fun Thanksgiving Facts to Share With the Kids
November 25, 2010 By Leave a Comment
1. Unlike Christmas, which is held on the same day every year, Dec. 25, Thanksgiving is determined by whatever day happens to be the fourth Thursday in November. 2. The Plymouth Pilgrims and the Native American Wampanoag tribe were the first people who shared an American Thanksgiving. 3. The first … [Read more...]
Marshmallow Treats: A Thanksgiving Twist on a Classic
November 11, 2010 By Leave a Comment
Every person has a weakness. Superman has kryptonite, Macauley Culkin had puberty and I have Rice Krispies treats. There is something so heavenly about the sweet marshmallow crunchiness that will melt my butter every time. Odds are if you give me a pan of Rice Krispies Treats, I'll follow you into … [Read more...]
Road Trip Tips: Making the Ride Better for Everyone
November 9, 2010 By Leave a Comment
Holiday travel will soon be upon us, and with a carload of kids, having something to occupy their time can make or break your trip. Bored children can turn a quiet drive to Grandma’s house into a full-on voyage down Misery Lane. Nipping the “Are we there yet?” blues in the bud before they even … [Read more...]
Family Thanksgiving: Sharing the Holiday With Your Kids
November 1, 2010 By 1 Comment
Thanksgiving is a special time to show gratitude for all the blessings and good fortune that have graced your life in the past year. While the holiday is only one day, its spirit should be observed all month long. In a world where children consider Happy Meals and Xbox 360 games as necessities, it’s … [Read more...]
Fourth of July Tips for Stress-Free Fireworks
July 2, 2010 By Leave a Comment
The only thing more American than apple pie and baseball is Independence Day. And what kind of celebration would it be without seeing a festive, sparkling fireworks display? Most children love the bright colors and flashes in the sky and the ooh’s and ahh’s of the crowd add to the excitement. … [Read more...]
Five Ways to Celebrate Mother’s Day From Far-Away
May 5, 2010 By Leave a Comment
At this age, it's impossible to imagine our little Stay-at-home baby will someday move away. Of course, I am many states removed from my own family, but that seems so different from letting go of my own little girl. For now, I will savor every holiday that I get to have her close. But how does one celebrate … [Read more...]
