Screen-Free Faith and Fun
Published May 2018: The Messenger
Screen-Free Faith and Fun
While it makes me feel just a little bit old when I think or talk about the good ‘ole days before the Internet, computers, iPads or cell phones, I do have so many memories that included quality time with my family, my sisters and my cousins.
The dinner table was for just that – dinner. It didn’t include any of us checking text messages or scrolling through social media. Times have changed, though, and my children were born into an era that consisted of emerging technologies. Technology has transformed and simplified how we work and how we live, and for that I’m grateful. I’m able to look up some of my favorite Bible passages just by calling out for Alexa or Siri. I’m able to read inspirational articles without having to go to the bookstore or the library. Continue reading
Tune into the John Carney Show Today
Shannon Philpott-Sanders, author of Screen-Free Fun, will join the John Carney Show today between 1-3 p.m. on KTRS 550 AM in the St. Louis area. You can tune in live at this link or check out the show after the broadcast on the station’s website.
Show-Me St. Louis Interviews Screen-Free Fun Author
If you’re a big fan of Show Me St. Louis AND Screen-Free Fun, check out this video of author Shannon Philpott-Sanders demonstrating activities from the book with host Heidi Glaus.
You can view the broadcast on the Show Me St. Louis website.
Belleville News Democrat spotlights Screen-Free Fun
If you’re wondering how Screen-Free Fun originated, check out this article and video segment by the Belleville News Democrat complete with an interview by Shannon Philpott-Sanders. Continue reading
Dreams Don’t Work Unless You Do
Published March 2018: The Messenger
Dreams Don’t Work Unless You Do
I’ve always been a dreamer, but a meticulous one. Although on the outside (and in my home of seven), you may not always see that I’m organized, but I believe that dreaming and planning go hand in hand.
Recently, I came across the phrase: “Dreams Don’t Work Unless You Do.” It struck me as something very fitting for my home office, so when attending one of those Brushes and Boards party, I made a wood sign with this exact phrase.
Every day when I’m working from my home office, I look up at this sign for motivation, especially when procrastination takes over. My children have walked through my office and noticed it, too. It truly defines how I feel about dreams and what I want my children to know. Continue reading
Big Announcement: New Book Launches April 3, 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 for pre-order.
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 DIY projects to outdoor adventures to easy day trips.
While technology often offers a quick and easy parenting solution to keep children entertained, too much screen time can negatively affect developmental and social skills, and even lead back to the original problem—boredom.
Screen-Free Fun offers over 400 ideas to disconnect from tech devices and reconnect with our families in a healthier way. You and your child can pick from DIY activities to games to weekend outings. Since many of the activities work well for kids at various ages, your family will be able to grow along with the different projects and make plans for both younger and older siblings alike. You can try indoor projects like homemade slime, outdoor activities like building a fort, or learn more about your favorite destinations with activities like a scavenger hunt in your 
neighborhood or an i-spy game at the zoo. There is also space for your family to add your own favorite activities so you never forget a great idea or memory! From summer vacation to holiday breaks and every rainy day in between, with this book you and your family will always have something fun to do together—without ever having to resort to a tablet, phone, or computer.
Follow important updates on the Screen-Free Fun Facebook Page Here
St. George parishioner forges 64-year friendship with pen pal
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 a nun at her elementary school in McCartyville, Ohio.
As a third grader, Fridley said she was eager to take part in the school’s pen pal program. It wasn’t until summer break neared that she connected with Silva, though. The two were paired together to write letters over the summer. “I remember her address to this day,” said Fridley, while leafing through a photo album of her recent visit with Silva’s family in Hawaii. Continue reading
At Daystar, it’s the ‘most busiest time of the year’
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 thrift store of Daystar in Cairo.
Each December, Director Sherry Miller, with the help of her staff and diocesan parish volunteers, clears out the thrift shop and turns it into a winter wonderland for families to choose gifts for their children.
“Each person in the household gets a gift as well as items such as underwear, socks, hats, and books,” said Miller. “Then, we provide them with a food box to help with their holiday meals.”
The Daystar Community Program in Cairo, an agency of the Diocese of Belleville, serves eight counties in Illinois throughout the year, providing assistance to families in need. Continue reading
Newborn Essentials: How to Survive and Thrive the First Few Weeks
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 is how baby gear can simplify my life with a baby at home.
As a new mom, I was also unprepared for the routine and emotional toll I would feel those first weeks. Arming myself and my home with the right essentials would have lessened the load. Knowing the basics of what you and your baby need well before he or she arrives will help you to survive and thrive as a mom.
Volunteers Keep Food Pantry Stocked and Social
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 fruits and vegetables in their spare time.
Approximately 15 to 18 parishioners volunteer their time, serving about 50 people who come to the window adjacent to the garage attached to the parish rectory each week. On a typical Friday morning, Clete Blaes makes conversation with a Belleville resident seeking groceries to feed her family.
“We’ve grown to have a personal relationship with many of the people,” said Blaes. “It feels good to volunteer.” Continue reading
About Me
Three words to describe me? Passionate. Motivated. Curious. These traits help me as a college media adviser and professor, freelance writer, author and mom. From student journalism and higher education to parenting and freelance writing, this site, focused on writing, reflecting and teaching, offers a mix of blogs with a hint of humor, sarcasm, and inspiration, as well as my published stories on just about every possible topic.
Feel free to browse my sample works including feature news, magazine, and web copywriting pieces from the past and present. You can also pick up my new book “Screen-Free Fun: 400 Activities for the Whole Family” now available. Check back often for daily updates, blog entries, and additional stories. Feel free to contact me directly at shphilpott@gmail.com, follow me on Twitter, or grab tips for Screen-Free Fun on our Facebook page. Comments are welcome!
