Wish Big!!

This year my husband and I ran away for Christmas. The kids are all out of state visiting various relatives, which provided us the chance for a guilt free holiday at the coast. Along the journey to the... [Read more]

School’s Out…Or Is It?

“Best. Day. Ever.” Came the text message from one of our kids. The certain sign that school is out for Summer Break, and that their reference as to what qualifies as ‘best’ is somewhat narrow.... [Read more]

The Cat’s That

  As mentioned in a previous column, I am in a blended family.  Beyond the standard of his/mine when it comes to kids, we have a his/mine/ours regarding the matter of pets. Upon our marriage last... [Read more]

From Pookie with Love

Being a parent in a blended family requires the ability to not take yourself too seriously. I never knew how much so until this week. In preparation for impending military deployment, my eldest son... [Read more]

Catitude to Gratitude

As my cat yakked up her breakfast this morning, I looked out the window at the seven thousandth day of rain, and muttered a quiet curse. Not that the one had anything to do with the other, but it’s... [Read more]

Time to Get the Party Started!

For all of you who are reading this locally, I hope you have been able to enjoy the beautiful weather we’ve had the last few days. For those who read this column from distant time zones, it’s a Des... [Read more]

I Get By With a Little Help…

In a recent chat with a friend of mine, I came to the realization that I am blessed to have a pretty amazing support network. “So, how’s your daughter?” Jeananne inquired. “You mean the turd?”... [Read more]

FILL-IN FRIDAY: Meet Our New Columnist, ‘Missed Congeniality’

[EDITOR'S NOTE: Since Dave Markwell has thrown his hat into the ring to run for Des Moines City Council, "Feel Good Friday," his regular weekly column, has been put on hiatus. In its place, we'd like to... [Read more]