Summer 2022 Edition

My wife Kyla and I understand what it feels like to have four kids while attempting to balance all areas of life. We know that it’s so easy to let our family get what’s left of us, instead of the best of us. As parents try to model good health,...

Several years ago, I had the immense pleasure of working as an infant teacher. One day I was sitting on the floor, back propped against the wall, when the door to the room opened. In walked the mother of one of “my” infants, carrying nine-months-old Cal in her arms. Cal...

It’s funny the memories that stick with as you go through life. Sometimes, if you are really paying attention, even the most mundane memories, such as driving by a billboard on the side of a country road can give you a glimpse into your future. I am a college professor,...

When we listen, learn, and understand our loved ones and ourselves, we can be truly at ease along our path to a thriving family. My 5 Pillars to a Healthy Family Plan will help you pinpoint what is most meaningful to you and your family, moving each family member toward...

Game Plan implies intention. STOP. Reflection is one of the most underrated experiences in our society these days. Committing in advance to how I will be in situations, is a strategy to make things easier. For example, if you believe that only good is ahead in your life, then it...

You may relate to scoring four touchdowns in a single high school game, which fictional character Al Bundy often stated was the highlight of his life as he had never been able to top the experience of this event. Or maybe you relate to knowing that if coach would have...

The time will come, for every young person, to look for a first job.Whether your child wants a job to increase their independence or to make their own purchases, or you want your child to get a job, navigating the first job search process can be tricky. A child may...

Driving through the central Minnesota countryside, baseball fields, playgrounds, outdoor hockey rinks, skate parks and more dot the landscape. The only problem is, most of the time there is nary a soul utilizing what those “play stations” can offer. According to the National Recreation and Parks Association, children only spend...

I pass by a particular little group of trees often on my walks. I am always drawn to the tree in the group of straight trees that is curved. The one that doesn’t quite fit the mold of the rest of the group. It makes me think of people. Have...

As your children get older, they are likely to find part-time or summer employment to help pay for their needs and wants and, maybe, save for the future. Saving for a first car or college books is important for children to learn when they still have the safety of mom and...

Anthony Bemboom’s story of becoming a big leaguer is one of resiliency, hard work, commitment, and a willingness to never give up. It’s also a story of sacrifice, and one of support. Greg and Deb Bemboom were both star high school athletes so it’s no surprise Anthony and their daughter...

It’s a beautiful summer afternoon at the beach! It looks like Tinkerbell came floating by and sprinkled her glittery fairy dust all over the surface of the water. Like shiny little diamond specks everywhere! I am here with my son and his friend. There are a million things I could...