As we wrap up the craziness that has been 2024, we continue to be amazed and humbled at how much Jacksonville Mom has grown and evolved over the years. But most of all, we are so very thankful to you, our readers, for your consistent support. Jacksonville Mom has always been, and will always be, for YOU.
That said, we wanted to share our top 10 most-read blog posts from this year, along with a few beloved honorable mentions. Sit back, relax, grab your favorite bev (coffee or mimosa… we’re not judging), and look back at the past year and laugh… or cry. Or heck, at least get some good ideas for local parks and date nights. Happy reading!
Jacksonville Mom Top 10 Blog Posts of 2024
“It was a beautiful, hot summer day, the water was still cold, and everyone was enjoying themselves to the fullest… until a couple of teenage lifeguards approached me and my friend an hour after our arrival. ‘Ma’am, we’ve had a couple of complaints about your swimsuit.’ EMBARRASSING. How embarrassing it was to be in trouble with two girls half my age. Embarrassing to be told I needed to cover up or leave. Embarrassing that I had to tell my son I couldn’t swim with him anymore. Because in that park somewhere, was someone who was embarrassed by a body that wasn’t theirs.”
“To the outside world, it looked like I had it all together. In many ways, I guess I did. I loved my job, the unpredictability of covering storms, and the thrill of live TV. But behind that smile, I was running on empty, pushing through exhaustion, and ignoring the little cracks forming beneath the surface.”
A Few Honorable Mentions...
Cry Me a River, Justin by Tina Peckham
The One Thing My Husband and I Do Every Day for Our Marriage by Amber Junker
Co-Parenting With a Narcissist by Anonymous
Help Save Our Public Schools (and Our Teachers) by Gamble Scott
Finding Victory After Postpartum Depression by Athena Estelle
I Feel Like a Monster… Is This Normal? by Renee Demers
Why Sleepaway Camp Was the Best Thing for My Son… and Me by Tina Peckham
DCPS Considering Closing Several Beloved Public Schools by Stacy McDonald-Taylor
When School Choice Goes Wrong by Anonymous
I Got Dressed for 30 Days, and It Changed My Life! by Kayla Trapp
The Most Popular Local Guides...
The Ultimate Jacksonville Brunch Bucket List by Tina Peckham
Our Favorite Kid-Friendly Restaurants in Jacksonville by Meagan Vesta
Summer Camps In & Around Jacksonville by Chantel Beidleman
Strawberry Picking Farms & Festivals Near Jacksonville by Chantel Beidleman
Guide to Drive-In Movie Theaters In & Around Northeast Florida by Corinna Hoffman
Hidden Gems: Best Parks & Playgrounds In Jacksonville by Tina Peckham
Best Date Night Restaurants in Jacksonville by Amber Junker
Top 10 Family-Friendly Springs to Explore in Florida by Nicki Wiggins
Best Indoor Play In & Around Jacksonville by Mischelle Storm
Guide to Great Family Hiking Trails in Jacksonville by Meredith Loudenback
Kid-Friendly Day Trips from Jacksonville by Kacey Roache
Our Favorite Local Photographers in Jacksonville by Chantel Beidleman
Still Trending...
Dear Husbands: Mother’s Day is Not About Your Mom by Cassy Fiano-Chesser
My Newfound Love of Scavenger Hunts: 10 Reasons to Try Them by Jeanine Ferguson
I Tried Non-Alcoholic Social Tonics and Ranked Them From ‘Just Juice’ to ‘Suspiciously Legal’ by Allison Lore
The Gaylord ICE! Review I Wish I’d Had by Allison Lore
Tips for Finding Shark Teeth on the First Coast by Kerry Schicker
A Letter to My Daughter About Heartbreak by Christie Pettus
Honest Thoughts On Having a Fifth Baby by Cassy Fiano-Chesser
Stocking Stuffers: Tween Purse Essentials by Sharnique Green
The Ultimate in Family-Friendly Meals: Grazing Tables by Cassy Fiano-Chesser
Potty Training Success: Waiting for Her to Be Ready by Kathy Waller
Now we want to hear from you! What were some of your favorite Jacksonville Mom posts from 2024? Let us know in the comments below. Thanks again for a crazy, but awesome year, and we look forward to what 2025 has in store. Happy New Year!