Feature Stories, Magazine Writing, Sample Work

The Essentials: Things to Have on Hand for a Natural Disaster

Natural Disasters can bring out both the best and the worst in people, but you can reduce the panic and anxiety of adverse weather conditions by being prepared with tools and resources that can secure your safety. Balancing safety with being human is key, says Scot Conway, leadership trainer at Guardian Quest Martial Arts in Spring Valley, Calif. “Disaster preparedness includes getting back to your life and work as quickly as possible after the disaster,” he says. Protect and prepare your home and your family by having the essentials on hand.

Feature Stories, Magazine Writing, Sample Work

The Essentials: First Aid Kit Must-Haves

Whether you are nurturing skinned knees and scraped elbows in the backyard or wrapping up a sprained ankle on the side of the road, having medical and first aid materials is essential both at home and on the go. Accidents of any kind are bound to happen, and preparation is crucial to ensure the safety of your family. Packing a first aid kit to have on hand doesn’t have to break the bank or take up a lot of room in your vehicle or mudroom. In fact, just by gathering the essentials, you're preparing yourself to better cope with unexpected injuries.

Newspaper Writing, Opinion, Sample Work

‘In Your Face’ Faith

If you would ask my kids about my parenting style, the phrase “in your face” would probably surface. I’m the type of parent who avoids sweeping anything under the rug. If my child appears to be upset, I’m going to drag it out of him, no matter how much he resists. If my daughter is cranky and snippy, I will harp on her until we get to the root of the problem. Even though children and teens need their space and privacy to work out issues, sweeping problems under the rug does not help. I’m ‘in their face’ until they talk. This doesn’t mean I do the talking — it means my children do the talking. And, one of the most important things I can do as a parent is listen.

Feature Stories, Magazine Writing, Sample Work

Toddler Games That Incorporate Music

Toddlers love to dance to music and play games, so providing opportunities to do both at the same time is a win-win. As your child jumps, skips, shakes his body and sings to melodies, he will be making memories and learning valuable skills that encourage creativity, improvisation and physical activity. From competitive dance games to sing-offs, show your toddler just how fun games can be when you add a little music.

Feature Stories, Magazine Writing, Sample Work

16 of the World’s Best Marathons

Completing a marathon takes determination and a commitment to months (and sometimes even years) of training. The sense of accomplishment, though, when crossing that finish line makes it all worthwhile, says Ewen North, head coach and director of Revolution Running in Boulder, Colo. “Not everyone in the world is capable of such a feat, and the dedication to training alone is an achievement in and of itself,” says North.

Newspaper Writing, Opinion, Sample Work

Identity Crisis: Making a Full Circle with Faith

When I was in 2nd grade, I wanted to be a teacher. The thought of holding that red pen and bossing a bunch of kids around seemed exciting to me. In 8th grade, I wanted to be Joan Jett, singing rock songs to a crowd of screaming fans. In high school, I decided I wanted to be an accountant, crunching numbers and filing taxes all day long. By the time I took my first managerial accounting class in college, the appeal quickly faded.

Newspaper Writing, Opinion, Sample Work

Parenting Pitfalls: How to Turn Flaws Into Faith

We are all flawed. From eating too many sweets and over-indulging in material items to shirking our responsibilities at times and giving into greed. As a parent, I’d love to say that I’m flawless, but I would be lying. I’m not as consistent as I should be, I give in when I shouldn’t and I sweat the small stuff when there are bigger things to worry about. As much as it is difficult to admit it, this parenting gig is full of trial and error and even though my children are teenagers, I’m still making mistakes left and right while doing my best to get it right.

Feature Stories, Magazine Writing, Sample Work

Outfit Ideas For St. Patrick’s Day

St. Patrick’s Day is known as one of the luckiest days of the year, and you don’t have to be Irish to join the festivities during the holiday. While cheering on a parade filled with pots of gold and leprechauns or while sipping green beverages with friends and family, show off your Irish side with decorative attire to “go green” with your Irish friends.

Feature Stories, Magazine Writing, Sample Work

When to Retire Your Running Shoes

It’s no secret that runners get attached to their shoes. These footy companions have traveled with you on the open road as you work to complete milestones and personal running goals. Even though your running shoes may have been a trusty cohort in your exercise routines, all good things must come to an end. How do you know, though, when it is time to retire your running shoes? Carefully consider the wear and tear and your body’s reaction to determine if it is time to let go.

Newspaper Writing, Opinion, Sample Work

Limiting the ‘Busy’ in Life

As parents, we sometimes get so caught up in our children’s lives and our need to please them that we tend to create more havoc for the entire family. Case in point: I have always wanted my children to pursue all of their dreams, join any activity their little hearts desired and stay busy in hopes that they are fulfilling their passions. I wanted them to have the perfect childhood.