By Deanna Parmenter

As I sit at my desk to begin writing this blog, I look around and see the various post it note reminders, papers to file, and a lot of junk mail that should be tossed out.  Stacks of envelopes, pens, magazines, and labels finish out the décor.  And I began to think about all the desks I’ve seen at offices all around the country.  Some are very messy.  Some have not one piece of paper on them.  Some face outward, and some face away from people.  Ever wonder what your desk says about you? 

When I was 15 my family hosted an exchange student for the summer that came from France. It’s an experience that I’ve always remembered and I made a lifelong friend that summer. So, when the opportunity came last year for me to be able to participate as a host family, I jumped at it.

By Chrissy Bernal

We have a busy intersection here that often has people who stand on the corners with signs.  We’ve seen some funny signs like, “My family was kidnapped by Penguin Ninjas; need money for Ninja classes.”  However, most of the time, we see signs indicating that the person wants to work for food or would just like a donation.

By Deanna Parmenter

The last couple of months have been a whirlwind of activity for me personally.  My son announces he is getting married.  I suddenly have three more grandchildren born earlier than expected.  My other son will likely deploy to Afghanistan or some other “very friendly” place in the near future.  Aside from the usual emotions one feels at the happy, and sometimes not so happy, events that occur in our lives, we should also prepare for that time when we won’t be around to help our children.

By Chrissy Bernal

The school year is ending and summer is beginning.  The kids will be home and will be thrilled to relax for a bit.  Before you know it…. “Mom, I’m bored!”

So what are you going to do with the kids?  Here are some tips: