“I’m just not good at this.” It’s a phrase nearly every parent has heard from their child at some point, whether the challenge is math homework, tying shoelaces, or learning a new sport. But what if we could help kids shift that phrase to: “I can’t do this yet—but I’m learning”? That simple shift is…
The third and concluding section of this three-part series will focus on a child’s normal and abnormal sexual behaviors for school-age children (First grade through Middle School). Like Part II, this article will provide parents with a guide to help them determine if a child’s sexual behaviors are normal and expected or problematic. This guide…
When we talk about the importance of self-care or loving yourself, this usually includes skin care, bingeing TV series, or retail therapy. Our hearts often get overlooked when thinking about self-care treatment until something goes wrong. Caring for your heart is one of the greatest acts of love you can do for yourself and your…
It all started as a fun Valentine’s idea we saw floating around, heart-shaped notes taped to each other’s doors. I thought it might be a sweet way to remind my kids how special they are, but I never expected how much it would mean to them. Soon, our hallway was covered in colorful paper hearts,…
There’s something magical about waking up to a world blanketed in snow. The house feels quieter, time seems to slow down, and suddenly the day stretches wide open with possibilities. Around here, snow days mean cozy pajamas, hot chocolate, and extra snuggles. Sometimes that looks like movies under blankets, and other times it means bundling…
When the days turn long, and the chill settles in, our family naturally shifts toward the kinds of moments that bring us closer. Winter has a way of slowing life down just enough for us to notice the things that truly matter, and for us, some of our favorite memories are made right at the…
Becoming the Dad Your Family Needs Fatherhood in the Quincy area often looks a little different for every family. Some dads are up before sunrise, heading to work. Some are managing kid drop-offs, coaching YMCA sports, or fixing what’s broken around the house. Others are navigating blended families, co-parenting, or raising kids solo. But while…
Winter can feel long and busy, but each year our family looks forward to a few special escapes that make the season feel magical. One of our absolute favorites is driving through Keokuk’s City of Christmas, a breathtaking display winding through Rand Park with 150 glowing scenes. One of the top light displays in the…
Keeping Love Alive in the Busy Season of Family Life In the Quincy area, family life often moves at full speed—between school events, work commitments, sports practices, and community activities, it can feel like you and your spouse are running a nonstop relay race. While the shared responsibilities of raising a family build a strong…
