Why Your Pre-Teen Quit Playing Sports

One way to encourage your child to get a healthy amount of exercise is to make it fun. Sports offer kids the ability to exercise while having fun, the chance to learn how to play as a team, and a good way to develop athletic skills. Despite these benefits, 70% of kids quit sports by the age of 13. Here are some reasons why that happens. It stopped being fun. Have you ever watched kindergartners play soccer against another team of kindergarteners? What happens is both adorable and amusing. They sit down when they get tired, and start playing with … Continue reading

More Young Adults are Living With Their Parents

Years ago, when the “Baby Boomer” generation was young, it was expected that they would graduate, get married, and start having children in their early 20’s. Today, for the first time in more than 130 years, Americans who are between the ages of 18-34 are more likely to live with their parents than any other living situation. A Pew Research Center analysis gathered data about Americans who are between the ages of 18-34. They found that 32.1% are still living in their parents’ homes. Another 31.6% have moved out of their parents’ homes and are currently living in their own … Continue reading

Focus on the Candidates – Martin O’Malley

This blog is part of the series that focuses on the candidates who are running for President of the United States in 2016. This blog focuses on Martin O’Malley. Martin O’Malley was a state field director for Congresswoman Barbara Mikulski’s successful U.S. Senate campaign in 1986. Martin O’Malley was the mayor of Baltimore from 1999 to 2007. He served two terms as Governor of Maryland. Health Care According to his official website, Martin O’Malley championed the Working Families & Small Business Health Coverage Act. It would provide over 100,000 Marylanders access to quality, affordable health coverage by expanding Medical Assistance … Continue reading

Focus on the Candidates – John Kasich

This blog is part of the series that focuses on the candidates who are running for President of the United States in 2016. This blog focuses on John Kasich. John Kasich is the 69th Governor of Ohio. He was first elected to that position in 2010, and he won re-election in 2014. Health Care According to his official website, John Kasich believes that “Obamacare” must be repealed and replaced. He wants to replace it with what he calls “A New, Conservative Vision”. That vision includes “having a primary care system that helps promote long term good health instead of just … Continue reading

Focus on the Candidates – Ted Cruz

This blog is part of the series that focuses on the candidates who are running for President of the United States in 2016. This blog focuses on Ted Cruz. Ted Cruz was born in Calgary, Alberta, Canada, to an American mother and a Cuban father. Ted Cruz has since renounced his Canadian citizenship. He was Solicitor General for the state of Texas from 2003-2008. Ted Cruz was first elected as a Texas Senator in 2012. You might recall him reading “Green Eggs and Ham” on CSPAN during the government shutdown of 2013. Health Care According to his Senate website, Ted … Continue reading

Focus on the Candidates – Chris Christie

This blog is part of the series that focuses on the candidates who are running for President of the United States in 2016. This blog focuses on Chris Christie. Chris Christie is the 55th Governor of New Jersey. He was first elected in 2009. He won re-election in 2013. Health Care According to his official website, Chris Christie proposes expanding the existing sliding scale for Medicare premiums for higher-income seniors. “If you can afford to pay more for your health benefits you will, and if you can’t you won’t”. He proposes giving each state a set amount of Medicaid funds … Continue reading

Focus on the Candidates – Donald Trump

This blog is part of a series that focuses on the candidates who are running for President of the United States in the 2016 election. This blog focuses on Donald Trump. According to his official website, Donald J. Trump is a graduate of Wharton School of Finance. He is the author a popular business book called The Art of the Deal. You might recognize his name from Trump Tower, the Trump International Hotel, or his “Celebrity Apprentice” TV series. Unlike the other Republican candidates, Donald Trump does not have any background in politics. He has never held an elected position. … Continue reading

An Affordable Treasury of Fun

There’s no easier way for kids to explore new and exciting worlds than cuddling up with a favorite book.  Adventures await on each page and there’s no telling where your child’s imagination can take her once she peels back the front cover. And that’s just with one book.  Imagine the fun kids can have when they are gifted with a treasury of stories. If you are looking for an affordable way to keep your kids entertained this summer, consider investing in a box set of books.  My daughter adores her Little Critter Bedtime Stories set.  The colorful collection is a … Continue reading

Make Your Own Snow Cone Syrup

Cut down on the cost and eliminate the high fructose corn syrup when you make your own snow cone syrup. It is easy and inexpensive. What are summer days without a snow cone? This classic summer treat can bring smiles to practically any child. I remember my childhood summers. One of my favorite “toys” was my snoopy snow cone machine. It took a lot of work to get enough shaved ice to make one small snow cone, but it was worth every moment. Because my parents weren’t interested in buying any of the snow cone syrups that were available, I … Continue reading

Affordable DIY Grad Day Decorations

Pinching pennies is no fun; however, finding ways to create memorable graduation day decorations without breaking the bank is sure to bring a smile to your face. Instead of getting despondent about not being able to afford expensive embellishments for your graduate’s party, consider buying budget items and jazzing them up at home.  For example, rather than splurging on pricey banners from the store, make your own at home using your laptop and printer.  You can personalize the look by choosing a fun font and some festive images that will enhance the commencement theme. Another way to save on party … Continue reading