Day: February 18, 2018

I'm so pleased to announce the launch of my new book "Screen-Free Fun: 400 Activities for the Whole Family." The book is now available in local/national bookstores or on Amazon. Book Overview: Fight back against boredom and keep your kids busy and entertained—without staring at a screen—with this handy collection of family activities ranging from… Continue reading Big Announcement: New Book Launched April 3, 2018

Published November 2017: The Messenger St. George parishioner forges 64-year friendship with pen pal Article Excerpt: While many friendships do not stand the test of time, Marlene Fridley, a parishioner at St. George in New Baden, knows the exception. Fridley forged a friendship 64 years ago with Hawaii-native Theresa Silva, a friendship she credits to… Continue reading St. George parishioner forges 64-year friendship with pen pal

Published December 2017: The Messenger At Daystar, it's the 'most busiest time of the year' Article Excerpt:  What began as an effort to provide Christmas gifts for needy families by the Poor Handmaids of Jesus Christ 40 years ago has evolved from a pile of presents in a convent basement to Santa’s Workshop at the… Continue reading At Daystar, it’s the ‘most busiest time of the year’

Published June 2017: BabyGears.com Newborn Essentials: How to Survive and Thrive the First Few Weeks Article Excerpt: As I was preparing for the birth of my daughter some years ago, I mistakenly thought that all I needed to do was to clean my home and stock her closet with clothing. However, what I failed to realize… Continue reading Newborn Essentials: How to Survive and Thrive the First Few Weeks

Published August 2017: The Messenger Volunteers Keep Food Pantry Stocked and Social Article Excerpt:  While the stock of food fluctuates at the on-site food pantry at St. Augustine’s in Belleville, the volunteers are always constant. Every Tuesday and Friday, senior helpers stock shelves, pack bags full of non-perishable food, milk, and eggs while sorting donated… Continue reading Volunteers Keep Food Pantry Stocked and Social

Published June 2017: BabyGears.com Do You Sleep Enough? (15 Tricks for New Moms) Article Excerpt: I can remember as a new mother being able to recognize other new moms while out and about. The disheveled hair and dark circles under the eyes stuck out to me as a clear indicator that these women were just as… Continue reading Do You Sleep Enough? (15 Tricks for New Moms)