Scrolling through my Facebook feed last night I stumbled on a story about a couple that was up to their eyebrows in debt for their son’s college education. We’ve all read these before. They were in so deep retirement was only a dream. Their son, with a communications degree, worked [...]
When you think of Easter baskets, you probably think of young toddlers running out to see what the Easter Bunny has left for them. But what about teenagers?
Analycea Miranda enlisted family and friends to create a brighter Christmas for 14 Sonoma County families.
In our house, stockings are just as exciting as the bigger gifts - even in the teenage years. But what the kids don't realize is that I struggle with what to fill them with every year! So this year I enlisted the help of a few Facebook friends, and together we came up with this list of items that teens and tweens might love.
A 13-year-old boy shot and killed after being spotted with a replica gun is a tragic lesson for all parents and teens.
Trust. It's a hard word to swallow when your daughter is 15.
Jr. High is hard for kids who have just left elementary. Here are a few ways you can help to make it a little easier.
When my kids began fighting less in favor of being better friends, it reminded me of my own childhood and the relationship I held with my sisters.
Sometimes it takes a little bit of creativity to “trick” the kids into having fun away from their electronic toys.
My 14-year-old daughter, DQ, is moving out. It’s weird, I never thought I’d type these words before she turned 18. But here I am, standing by as she packs up her bags and prepares to leave the nest. My nest. The one I have padded with protection and comfort since the day she was born, through a messy divorce, during financially tight times, and in her tumultuous teen years. She is flying the coop with my assistance when I drive her a full three hours away to live with her father. And this might just be the hardest thing I have ever done in my life.
There’s an old African proverb that states “It takes a village to raise a child”, and these days that proverb has never been more true. Whether we’re related by blood or by intention, families come in all forms, and are only defined by the bonds of love.
Crissi Langwell is the voice of the Village, which she started in 2012. Crissi is a the mother of three kids, ages 18-24, and tells stories of her blended family and other stories related to families and parenting. She is also a Petaluma author of 11 books. You can find out more about her novels at crissilangwell.com.
The Village is also home to other voices, as well, including Stephanie Ansley (a new mom facing the joys of first-time parenthood), as well as Paul Gullixson (a parent and coach of a team of 12-year-olds) and Meg McConahey (a mom with enough experience to have some good laughs about the whole thing).
We welcome all kinds of voices, and you may see some additional viewpoints from other Press Democrat writers and local contributors. Because it truly does take a village.
