Published September 2012: Mom.Me Mama's Boys Doing Things Together Enhances the Mother-Son Bond Article Excerpt: Ann Morgan James believes in turning minutes into moments with her 13-year-old son. “It is just Jack and me,” says James, “so we get to spend a lot of quality time together.” In addition to running a business together that educates kids about financial literacy, the two strengthen their mother-son bond with fun activities. And so can you. From indoor playtime to outdoor adventures, seek out the fun with your son through bonding activities perfect for both of you.
Category: Magazine Writing
Halloween Parties
As the leaves turn colors and the winds pick up, the timing is right for a special night filled with ghosts and goblins. With some Halloween sorcery in the air and minimal planning, pull off the party of the century with out-of-the-ordinary ideas to frighten and delight children, families and adults.
Frugal Shopping Myths DeBunked
Frugal Shopping Myths DeBunked Find Your Own Truths About Frugal Grocery Shopping Article Excerpt: The list of frugal grocery shopping tips seems to go on forever. Typical ideas include buying in bulk, cutting coupons and stocking up during the off-season. But are all of these really the best practices when it comes to saving cash and filling the fridge for the family? Don’t be deceived by common myths that may end up costing you at the checkout. Dig into fresh strategies, and you could end up saving more than a few dimes every time you fill your cart with fruits, veggies, meats and name-brand goodies. Read the Rest of the Story Here
Making Your Apartment a Home
Moving into a new apartment can be an adventure, but it can also feel limiting, as most leases bar any big design changes. Even though you don't own the property and can’t make drastic renovations, that doesn’t mean you can’t make it feel like home -- and you don't need drills, bits and hammers in order to make it happen.
When Grown Kids Return to the Nest …
After your children leave home, it’s likely that you’ve packed up the trophies and posters on the wall and converted their bedrooms into an office, sewing room or even a guest bedroom. When an adult child returns to live with you, a struggle for space and comfort might show up, too. A few space-saving techniques that won’t involve an emotional battle or pricey home remodel can help smooth the transition for all.
The Christmas Balancing Act
Even though Christmas cards and family portraits portray an image of a season of joy, the holidays often lead many on an emotional roller coaster ride that can easily run off course. From the hustle and bustle of shopping to preparations for family get-togethers, the spirit of the season can dwindle without the opportunity to recoup.
Classy Christmas Dining Decor
When it comes to Christmas gatherings, the tree may be the focus of the room, but the food is the center of the action. The table is where friends and families come together to celebrate the festivities of the season.
Homemade Christmas Decorations: A Family Affair
People who purchase Christmas décor each year can add quite a bit of expense to an already expensive tradition. Rather than buying yet another string of lights -- possibly pushing the electric bill higher -- or paying for pricey, mass-produced decorations that you are likely to encounter in as many homes as you visit during the holidays, this year make your own. You may or may not save money, but you will certainly provide a project that the family can share.
Picking a Christmas Tree
The Christmas tree is, quite literally, the centerpiece of Christmas for many who celebrate the holiday. But choosing the tree that best fits your family’s logistical and personal tastes can be a challenge, given the seemingly unlimited options filling store windows.
Put a Stop to Bedtime Tantrums
You know the scenario. It's time to go to sleep, but your toddler wants you to read just one more book or sing yet another lullaby. And once you're done with that, she needs a drink of water, but then still refuses to settle down. Before you know it, she's overtired and unhappy, which results in a bedtime tantrum -- and one exhausted parent.
Shannon Philpott-Sanders 