Many of us will see trick-or-treaters visiting our neighborhoods this week. When you do, consider starting a new Halloween tradition. My sister, Debbie is a great hostess for trick-or-treat night. She fixes a big pot of chili with healthy beans, lean beef and tomatoes. As the soup simmers, family members can stop in for a […]
A great way to celebrate Earth Day is spending time outside and connecting with nature. Time in nature offers an easy and inexpensive way to increase your happiness, improve your mood, and feel part of something larger than yourself. Studies have shown that getting outside can: Improve your memory and attention: After just an hour […]
May 13, 2013 by bethstefura Be prepared for the upcoming storm season. Have a plan with your family and review it frequently to ensure everyone’s safety. The American Red Cross recommends reading these storm safety tips to be prepared and having these emergency supplies on hand in a safe place with easy access: Make a […]
August 17, 2018 by jmlobb When it comes to birthdays, people seem to have mixed emotions. Kids look forward to turning a year older, counting down the days until their next birthday and often saying their age with the “and a half” added to it. Children also look forward to their milestones – becoming a […]
June 23, 2014 by bethstefura Summer is here and it’s time for the American road trip. There is no better way to escape the daily routine than to hit the open road. There is nothing like a short road trip to refresh the mind, body and spirit. Before you break out the cooler and hit […]
There are many wonderful reasons to be involved with gardening and especially to involve children. Children love digging in the dirt, looking for worms and insects, watering the garden and themselves! Besides having fun, there are many benefits to gardening with children. The National Gardening Association has documented that teachers and youth leaders describe how […]
Weight is a topic that gets discussed from the moment we are born. “You just had a baby girl? How much did she weigh?” While we are young, we happily get on the scales and announce that we have gained a couple more pounds. Weight determines which car seat an infant or toddler or young […]
December 8, 2016 by lisabarlage Did you know that giving gifts can be good for the gift giver? There are numerous research studies showing the health benefits to gift giver of improved physical and mental health. Giving can lower your blood pressure, heighten happiness, and improve our self-esteem. While we are often on the lookout […]
November 19, 2017 by Michelle Treber During the upcoming holiday season, I encourage you to make time to enjoy an extra family meal together. Family meals can nourish your mind, body and soul. They provide a great opportunity to enjoy better conversations and strengthen your family ties by spending quality, focused mealtimes together. You can […]
Conversations about money might be uncomfortable for some people. When speaking with individuals about money I often hear comments like, “I don’t have enough money to budget” Or “it’s so overwhelming I don’t know where to start”. According to a FINRA Investor Education Foundation survey, 60% of those surveyed feel anxious when thinking of their […]
April 20, 2020 by Pat Brinkman Missing your gym? Not sure you are doing a good job working out? We know being active is important as it: reduces our risk of illness, reduces stress levels, and helps us sleep better. It’s probably more of a challenge now for many. My home does not have the […]
May 24, 2022 by Misty Harmon My daughter at graduation Sunday marked a milestone as my youngest child graduated high school. While I knew this day would be filled with mixed emotions, I also knew I had done my best to prepare my daughter, and previously her two older brothers, for this new chapter. High […]
June 28, 2021 by barton345 This year MyPlate turns 10! This important birthday marks ten years of guidance on building a healthy routine. In our family, we have a tradition where we share birth and baby stories with our birthday children. So, in that spirit, let’s look back at the “birth” story of MyPlate. You […]
February 16, 2023 by jmlobb The United Nations General Assembly declared 2023 the International Year of Millets as an opportunity to raise awareness of the health and nutritional benefits of millets and their ability to grow in harsh, arid and changing climates. So, what are millets? Millets encompass a diverse group of small-grained dryland cereals […]