And even a tiny bit of Play-Doh residue left on her hands or pushed underneath a fingernail has the potential to cause a big-time reaction. It didn’t – thank God. But that lesson did show me that I live in an ignorant bubble when it comes to food sensitivities and allergies – and I will never take for granted my kids’ normal digestive systems ever again.

Thinking about sending my baby off to kindergarten makes me want to rewind time and burst into tears!

It’s crazy how some days it feels like my children are listening to EVERY word a person says, yet other days they don’t seem to hear a word they are told. When my children repeat something I wish they weren’t saying, I start to question where they could have heard that from.

My husband and I have talked a lot about that a lot this week.  Truth of the matter: we can’t shelter our kids.  We can’t let them walk through life with blinders.  So, what values can we instill in them to help fend off the bad?

The time to take care of our health and prevent diseases, like Alzheimer’s, is NOW.  What, you’re too young for dementia?  Most likely, yes, you are too young to have dementia right now (no, mommy brain doesn’t count).

Friendship in the motherhood years can be challenging. Busy schedules, needy kids, and “Mom Brain” can all contribute to our ability to connect or stay in touch with others.

Homeschooling is a job. As a homeschool mom, I am responsible for teaching our children. And yes, we can take a break day here and there, but what if I can still have my children learn on “those days”? Then “those days” can be a successful day.

Now, the only journal I keep is a small, 5-year daily calendar with about 4 tiny lines for each day.  You only have space for one single memory per day.  I bought this calendar when my twins were born four years ago, and I have not kept up very well until this year. 

What I want to talk about is what to DO with all those school supplies.  There are such great deals available; if you can, buy extra.

The minivan gets some major love via social media. Maybe all those love stories built my expectations up too high. Letdown was inevitable. Don’t get me wrong, I fully recognize the practicality of the van.