Balance is Healthier Parenting Than Health Obsession

We want to give our kids the best, right? And the closer to nature, the healthier and better, right? Drugs, chemicals, cleaning products, household items, cosmetics, disposable items, kids products--we try to use natural ingredients as much as possible. Note I said "as possible." It's virtually impossible to avoid all. And my naturalista friends are going to gasp, but I say balance is healthier parenting that rigid obsession with health.  Balance is Healthier Parenting Than Health Obsession

Soda Ban for Food Stamps Recipients--Violations of Rights or Common Sense?

Food stamps will no longer be used for soda pop or sugary beverages, if 18 big-city mayors get their way. Leaders including NYC's Michael Bloomberg who has long-opposed soda, are pushing for limits. Ostensibly, they're doing it to curb the nation's obesity problem. I've got mixed feelings on this. Of course bevvie makers are objecting. But that's profit-motivated, more than anything. My humanitarian self says you can't legislate morality (or lifestyle, dietary choice). It's also a little shame-based and patronizing. But the big picture is, we taxpayers are funding unhealthy habits. We have a right to object to misuse of our money. We have a say in how it's spent. Soda Ban for Food Stamps Recipients--Violations of Rights or Common Sense?

Minimalist Lifestyle is Healthy for Kids, Parents

My out-of-the house son and I were recently discussing the minimalist lifestyle. We noticed how many people claim to be minimalists but in fact aren't. Case in point: money. It's easy to talk about living simply, but much harder to do it. And now that our son is paying his own way, he realizes why dad and I were so frugal when he was growing up. He sees first-hand how expensive things are and how easy it is get deep in debt. Avoiding debt is one reason parents should live simply. Here are others.  Living minimally is good for families