Category: Inspire

  • Embracing the environmental spirit of Tu BiShvat

    Embracing the environmental spirit of Tu BiShvat

    Though Judaism is a spiritual practice, many Jewish observances are grounded in my people’s connection to the land of Israel. From praying for rain at certain times of year, to celebrating the harvest season, Jews maintain that connection to Israel in almost everything we do. This includes the observance of…

  • Trauma expert shares advice on talking to kids about global events

    Trauma expert shares advice on talking to kids about global events

    Thanks to social media and a 24-hour news cycle, our children have greater access to global news than any prior generation. And while we as parents can do our best to shield them from learning about uncomfortable topics, we can’t hide them from everything. Kids are curious and turn to…

  • Educator shares bullying prevention tips

    Educator shares bullying prevention tips

    By Samantha Childs Whether it is nasty comments shared across the cafeteria table, or targeted humiliation campaigns on social media, bullying is everywhere. Author and educator, Samantha Childs, shares her personal experience of being both a child who was tormented for her physical features and one who poked fun at…

  • Rain could not wash out our fun at Busch Gardens Williamsburg

    Rain could not wash out our fun at Busch Gardens Williamsburg

    Consistently named as one of the most beautiful theme parks in the world, Busch Gardens Williamsburg draws millions of visitors every year. Designed to feel like a condensed tour of Europe, the park features several lands that each pay homage to a unique country including England, France, Italy and Germany.…

  • 5 tips for a better family vacation

    5 tips for a better family vacation

    Memorial Day weekend is almost here, bringing the unofficial start of summer and the start of vacation season. With two children ages eight and ten, my husband and I have experienced many family vacations, and, over the years, I have picked up some helpful tips to make these trips more…

  • 5 ways to put yourself first this Mother’s Day (and beyond)

    5 ways to put yourself first this Mother’s Day (and beyond)

    Mother’s Day is almost here, and, if you are like, many moms I know, I am going to bet you are too busy to think about how you might treat yourself that day. I am going to further assume most of the time you are thinking about your kids, your…

  • Get it when you can, and other sex tips for new parents

    Get it when you can, and other sex tips for new parents

    By Sally and Zach Maxwell As parents of a three-year-old and four-month-old, we know the feeling of overwhelm and straight up exhaustion that becoming new parents brings with it. We also know that becoming parents together as a couple simultaneously brings you closer together and forms a true crucible for…

  • Hey You! The Nat Geo Kids book Earth Day GIVEAWAY is here

    Hey You! The Nat Geo Kids book Earth Day GIVEAWAY is here

    I am celebrating Earth Day (April 22) by giving away SEVEN Nat Geo Kids books! National Geographic is a trusted name in education, and I am proud to say our home library has held many Nat Geo Kids titles over the years. With Earth Day on its way, I was…

  • Leading authority offers parents life-saving advice on suicide prevention and awareness

    Leading authority offers parents life-saving advice on suicide prevention and awareness

    Earlier this month, I was privileged to have an insightful conversation with Dr. Stacey Freedanthal, Ph.D, LCSW, a sought-after expert on understanding suicide and the author of  Loving Someone with Suicidal Thoughts: What Family, Friends, and Partners Can Say and do. During our talk, which aired live on Facebook, Dr.…

  • How to cope with broken resolutions and the mid-January slump

    How to cope with broken resolutions and the mid-January slump

    Before reading further, be advised I am not a professional in the field of mental health, and what I share here should never replace the services provided by someone who is trained to help those who struggle with depression, suicidal thoughts, anxiety or other mental health issues. January is a…