Life
Using a little magic to put my house in order
The workers at Goodwill know me by sight because I’m an almost daily donator. I’ve been following advice…
Life
We’ve learned a lot from our TV dads over the years — which one best describes you?
Fatherhood has changed a lot over the past few decades, especially when you turn on the television. But…
Life
Making school lunches worthy of your kids
The end is in sight. Soon I’ll be done packing school lunches.
Life
How low could you go on your grocery budget?
I am extremely ashamed to admit this, but when I was 19 years old I used to steal…
Life
If you need to critique a teacher, please keep it offline
As a former teacher, I’d like to say something on behalf of teachers: If you have an issue…
Life
Gear Up & Go! inspires results in kids and parents
Last fall my son turned into a calorie torcher. Every time I looked at him he was running…
Life
Motherhood is a constant test; here’s how to keep score
Conception is only the beginning. Let’s see how deeply motherhood has scarred your soul. Give yourself credit for…
Life
Foster mom gives pups a new leash on life
When I was 9 years old we discovered I was severely allergic to anything with fur. Years of…
Life
When Mom and Dad need a get-away from family vacation
Family vacations are best left to the imagination.
Life
For parents, ‘the good teacher’ will make all the difference
School stress is some of the worst stress there is, especially when you are a parent worrying about…
Life
Redrawing Western Washington’s map to fit in "Game of Thrones"
Right now I’m as agitated as Arya without Needle, Catelyn without justice, Margery without a husband, or Daenerys…
Life
Expect respect, but be realistic about kids’ ability to sit still
“Children should be seen and not heard.”
Life
Buckle up! When your kid’s safety breaks the bank
I just added it up and realized my family has spent $1,200 on car seats and boosters over…
Life
Letting down my guard and learning to understand Clash of Clans
My 9-year-old has tried to explain Clash of Clans to me at least a dozen times and I’ve…
Life
Supermarket clerks create a welcoming community
The winter bug has bit again. Apparently the Bardsley house is a fun place for germs to chillax…
Life
State gets highly capable education right — hope it continues
I’d like to introduce you to another reason to be proud of Washington state.
Life
Are you changing your child’s digital destiny?
Close your eyes and picture your first job interview. What was the worst possible secret that could have…
Life
Help your local Girl Scout, even if you order online
Have you bought Girl Scout cookies yet? I’m a Daisy troop leader and my girls are super excited.…
Life
Fed up with the squirrel show out my back window
There’s a 24/7 squirrel orgy going on in my backyard. Every time I look out the window squirrels…