Don't worry; this is not about politics. I had a bad case of salmonella lately which I don't wish on anyone. After a week in the hospital I had two weeks in quarantine. To while away the two weeks I watched the old tv series The West Wing on Netflix. I realized something as I watched. You Are Like a President of the United States You … [Read more...]
STOP THE MOMMY WARS NOW
Have you heard of the Mommy Wars? Worse yet, have you experienced them? I just shake my head in disbelief when the new moms in our family tell me their stories of verbal abuse by other moms. These people are not just critical of your parenting methods, but they demonize you for having a difference of opinion. I think the term Mommy Wars … [Read more...]
How to Raise Successful Kids: What Works Now?
I recently saw a quote: Don't try make your kids have more than you; try to make them better than you. Good advice. Yet our grown children need to have enough money to live on and to raise their families. So we try to teach them about money and about treating others with respect. We live in changing times, so it's a challenge to guide them toward … [Read more...]
The Most Important Skill to Master: Being Happy with Yourself
It's part of our culture to always try to improve ourselves. That can be a strength, but it can also set us up for always feeling "not good enough."How many people do you know who are watching their weight? Personal finance bloggers, myself included, are always touting ways to improve your finances and live better for less. Not gardening? Not … [Read more...]
Parenting: Just Say Yes
I know it's tough being a parent, especially during difficult financial times. Just a suggestion here from a parent of four & grandmother of seven, yes, 7. When it doesn't make any difference, say yes to your kids. So often we have to say no. But what difference does it make if the child wants to wear a certain shirt or wear comfy … [Read more...]
Nicer Parents Have Smarter Kids
Want smarter kids? Just be nicer to them. I know, that sounds strange and simplistic, but research shows that early nurturing aids in brain development. Children's brains develop better if their parents are more nurturing and positive in their interactions. In other words, the parents are just nicer to their kids! The study was concerned with … [Read more...]