Meredith Loudenback
Parenting a 16-Year-Old Is Emotional Whiplash!
If you’re currently parenting a 16-year-old, or have already parented a 16-year-old, what is the emotional equivalent of the cervical collar? Parenting at this...
Guide to Great Family Hiking Trails in Jacksonville
One of the best things about spring in Jacksonville is getting outside again. The crisp, clean air after a dreary winter season fills my...
I’m Not a B*tch Because I’m in a Clique!
Until recently, I considered the word “clique” as mean and unfriendly. It’s typically used in a derogatory way to describe a group of people,...
Parents, Let Your Kids Do Their Own Fundraising
She’s controversial again — Alyssa Milano, that is. In recent days, she has saturated social media regarding her fundraising tactics to help her 12-year-old...
Your Skincare Cheat Sheet
I’ve been passionate about skin health for over 20 years, worked in the aesthetic industry, and have used countless products and tried many procedures...
Middle Schoolers: Ignore Them, Push Them, and Let Them Suffer
My second time enduring middle school, this time as a parent, I thought I was prepared. What I wasn’t prepared for was the time...
What Teachers REALLY Want for Teacher Appreciation
So, I am surrounded by teachers. Not just because I am involved in PTA, but because my dear mother is a retired teacher and...
I Didn’t Realize How Much He Needed This
Where the hell is the manual, “How to Raise Children”? At least a Dummies Guide would be helpful. And if you’re like me, I...
I’m Not Ready
I’m sitting here at the kitchen table tapping away at my keyboard as my son is sitting next to me doing the same thing....
Why I Support Uniforms at our Public School
Our public middle school has mandated school uniforms for the upcoming school year, and many students and parents are not happy about it. Recent...
I Said This to My Kid, and The Result Was NOT What I Expected
“Because I said so!” “Do as I say, not as I do.” “Stop crying, or I’ll give you something to cry about.” I swore...
How a GOAT is Helping Raise Our Son
As of three days ago, I have a teenager. He’s thrilled; I’m nervous. He’s not full-blown into the apathetic attitude and “Mom, you’re embarrassing...