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Holidays and Traditions Carlene Szostak Holidays and Traditions Carlene Szostak

Our First Christmas with a Newborn: What Could Possibly Go Wrong?

So, it's just about Christmas, and my daughter-in-law and son are staring down the barrel of a holiday on steroids. A newborn, born in October, a Nacha-Nacha dancing 4-year-old, and an army of grandparents who are already revving up their gift-giving engines to make it even more festive. It's gonna be... well, interesting.

We haven't lived it yet, but I can already tell you that this Christmas will be far from silent. Oh no, it'll be more like a mash-up of "It's a Wonderful

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Grandparenting Playbook II Madeline S. Hoge Grandparenting Playbook II Madeline S. Hoge

The World’s Worst Grandma: A Legacy of Free-Range Parenting Controversy

The blog explores the legacy of the so-called "World's Worst Grandma," whose supports her children’s free-range parenting style. It highlights how her trust-based and hands-off approach influenced her children’s parenting philosophy, which promotes children's independence and resilience. The article examines the societal backlash against free-range parenting, the benefits of this approach, and the broader conversation about balancing safety with fostering autonomy in children. Ultimately, it challenges readers to rethink modern parenting norms and consider the long-term impact of overprotectiveness on child development.

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Grandparenting Playbook II Madeline S. Hoge Grandparenting Playbook II Madeline S. Hoge

The Pros and Cons of Taking Young Kids to Salons: Is It Worth the Glam?

Twiggy was the fashion icon of my youth in the '60s. Unlike Twiggy, who is often considered the first supermodel, my aunt used to come to our house to cut my hair and my sisters. I sported Twiggy’s iconic pixie haircut in my early years but eventually transitioned into old-fashioned curlers as my hair grew longer. When perms became popular, my mom never considered taking any of her five daughters to a fancy salon. I can still smell the potent odor from those home perms, a sharp and acrid scent that lingered in the air long after the process was done. The smell had a way of clinging to everything: the cushions, the curtains, and my clothes.

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Holidays and Traditions Carlene Szostak Holidays and Traditions Carlene Szostak

Dad's Death-Defying Act: Creating Christmas Magic While Mom Has 911 on Standby

Ah, Christmas—twinkling lights, festive music, and, of course, a special dad perched on the roof, defying both gravity and common sense to hang holiday lights.

This is a story of how Christmas transforms ordinary dads into holiday superheroes.

Since my stepson became a dad, he has taken this magical experience to new heights. Yes, Santa is still coming to visit, but his Christmas is now less about Santa's sleigh and more about his death-defying stunts on the roof. And it's not Santa's that I am talking about!

While he focuses on creating holiday magic, his wife keeps a close eye on him, with 911 just a tap away.

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Grandparenting Playbook II Madeline S. Hoge Grandparenting Playbook II Madeline S. Hoge

Nail Polish for Kids: How Young is Too Young? Pros, Cons, and Safety Tips for Parents and Grandparents

When I was growing up, my parents forbade me from wearing makeup or painting my nails until I reached high school. They didn't want any of their five daughters to focus on our appearances. Since our school had uniforms, the extent of our fashion statement was limited to wearing wild socks, as pantyhose were not allowed. Instead, my parents encouraged us to concentrate on our studies, particularly in science and math. They wanted us to dream about college rather than fashion.

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Holidays and Traditions Carlene Szostak Holidays and Traditions Carlene Szostak

Turkey, Tension, and Table Manners: Surviving Thanksgiving One Fork at a Time

Thanksgiving – the time of year when the family gathers, turkey gets carved, and everyone walks a fine line between gratitude and frustration.

My family, probably like yours, is known for its holiday traditions. There's something about the obligatory pilgrimage to Auntie Sally's and Uncle Gene's house every Thanksgiving that's equal parts nostalgic and slightly terrifying. The memories are still with me as if they just happened yesterday! This is where two sides of the same family come together to "celebrate" (and sometimes clash). On one side, you've got my mom, who served practical meals and used simple settings in the interest of efficiency.

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Grandparenting Playbook II Madeline S. Hoge Grandparenting Playbook II Madeline S. Hoge

Grandparenting Magic: Where Fairytales Are Never Extinct

There’s something truly magical about grandparenting – the way generations connect through stories, imagination, and shared moments. In an age dominated by screens and technology, grandparents remain a vital source of timeless traditions. They are the custodians of family stories and the narrators of fairytales. Now, with our introduction of Dinosaur Discovery: An Egg-cent Adventure, grandparents have a new tool to spark their grandchildren's curiosity and love for adventure.

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Intentional Grandparenting Series

These insightful books are designed to strengthen the bond between grandparents and their grandchildren, offering a fresh and humorous perspective on grandparenting. With a mix of wit and wisdom, CJ Corki addresses the common challenges faced by grandparents today, providing practical advice and engaging activities that make grandparenting both fun and meaningful.