Latest Stories

Most recently published stories in Families.

It's Not Harmless
I have never been raped, for which I sincerely thank God. I have never been the victim of serious sexual assault. I have never been touched in an inappropriate way that left me traumatized. But I *have* been touched in a way that I did not WANT. Not for my own good (like being pulled back from something dangerous, or hauled off to time out by a parent), but purely for someone else's pleasure.
By Brynne Nelson8 years ago in Families
Everyday Tips to Help Kids Learn
Everyday moments are the perfect opportunity to help children explore the world around us through hands-on experience and discovery. Choosing learning activities that suit your family life and schedule is vital. Begin by introducing simple new ideas and as your child is ready to continue to add more variety. Each learning moment has the possibility of being a magical voyage of discovery- for your child and you. Here are some fun and simple tips for everyday learning by subject.
By Topacio Marrero8 years ago in Families
Delilah's Story
I grew up in a small town in Illinois. All there was there was corn fields. The high school even had a ‘Bring Your Tractor to School Day!’ every year. Half the high school kids were farm kids who basically lived in the FFA (Future Farmers of America) classroom. The other half were smoking in the parking lot. Unless you were super involved in everything, you didn’t get noticed at my school.
By Malorie Anderson8 years ago in Families
Dear Mom
You raised me. You know what I was taught. You know how my brain works. You know stubborn I am, how hardheaded. You know I think before I make decisions, even if the thinking process is just me saying F-it. So, before we get into this whole engagement/wedding drama there are some things you should know.
By Maverick8 years ago in Families
A Letter to My Future Husband
Dear Future Husband, Throughout the years I have prayed, asking God to send me a man who always puts you first. I never understood the importance of my own prayer until recently I realized the importance of having a man who is willing to do so. It’s so crazy to think you were created for me, just walking around on this earth somewhere. I just hope you continue to follow his word so it may lead you back to me.
By The Arlee8 years ago in Families
Babies on the Brain
Why do we attach ourselves to newborns more than any other age group? When someone is having a baby we anticipate and get so excited. Waiting and waiting for that moment to come when we hear they have went into labor. I have found that when people that are expecting, myself included, it brings people out of the woodwork. People that maybe you haven't spoke with in years all the sudden forge into your life bearing gifts and sentiment. I admit I even follow my friends on social media that have babies more than others that don't.
By Amy Blair8 years ago in Families
Single Parent Life
So many times do we see posts about such and such parent isn't here. However, no one really seems to acknowledge the things they do for their own children in a positive light or how much they go through without breaking. Yes, I know you cook and clean. You also serve as chauffeur teacher, counselor, monster hunter, personal shopper, coach, and so much more. So to all of you out there, you are strong and you can do this. I don't care about the reason you are single parent. I care that you know you are not alone. So to show just how capable you are, I'm going to share my story.
By Elizabeth Weilenman8 years ago in Families
It's Okay to Have an Opinion. Top Story - September 2018.
If you've ever been expecting a baby, then you're familiar with the question. The first one that everyone, even strangers, will ask. The question on everyone's mind; the answer they're obsessed with knowing. Are you having a boy or a girl? Followed up with, "Which do you want?"
By Kelsi Smoak8 years ago in Families
Layla
Pregnancy is supposed to be this beautiful thing, from the positive pregnancy test, seeing baby on ultrasound (or babies), little baby kicks, and finally the birth of your child. It’s a time of joy for most moms to be (and dads). No one and nothing preps you for never feeling those kicks, dreading seeing your baby on ultrasound, and never bringing home your child from a birth that wasn’t so perfect.
By Kiah Packard8 years ago in Families
The Knackered Mothers Club
So very recently my Dad died. He had a stupidly short fight with cancer and lost. Naturally I'm upset, I'm grieving. Everyone grieves in there own personal way, I get that. But, sometimes I feel like I'm doing it wrong! Dad died exactly 7 days ago at 11 PM, and this morning I rang work with a smile on my face and told them I will be back Monday, what's more... I'm looking forward to it.
By Tascha Ralph8 years ago in Families
Day by Day
As a SAHM (stay at home mom) that deals with extreme fatigue, it can be hard to get through daily tasks. Some days are great and you check off your entire "To-do list," while others you don't cross off a single thing.
By Mariah Senner8 years ago in Families
11 Weeks Later
The giggles, the smiles, the late night cuddles. Everything about her is so prefect. You miss her when she’s in the next room, you go out of your way just to get one last look at her before leaving for work. She has made you a mommy.
By Samantha Arquette8 years ago in Families