Did you know that Des Moines is the home to one of the largest skateboard parks in the nation? Lauridsen Skatepark is located on the north side of the downtown riverwalk. It boasts an Olympic-quality skate experience for skateboards...
I remember hearing from friends and family how dreadful the teenage years are for parents. While no kid is perfect, and no parent is either, I’m learning to enjoy some of the things that come with having a 13-year-old...
My refrain of, “Why don’t you turn off the tablet and go read a book?”, is often met with a slight groan from my 10-year-old daughter.
As a former English teacher, you can imagine my shock when I realized,...
I am in my fifth year as a high school English and Journalism teacher. A lot of the time when I tell people what I do, they say, “Wow, how can you deal with teenagers all day?” And to...
My daughter who just started 6th grade is kind, generous, really, really good at math, a Girl Scout who just got her Bronze Award. She also happens to have turquoise blue hair.
It may surprise some when they realize...
I’ve always been a big football fan. I was a statistician for my high school team. My dad played college football and spent nearly 35 years as a football referee. I know the game and I love the game....
My cousin and I were lamenting recently about how when we go to the park with our kids we are no longer the “young moms.” It’s strange to realize you’ve moved past a stage you loved.
Time keeps chugging along,...
I’m not ready for my daughter to start driving.
There, I said it. I’ve been thinking about it for the better part of a year. I’ve been thinking about it since she turned fourteen last January.
Fourteen. That is all. She’s...
“Hey Elizabeth, could you get me some tampons when you go to the store?”
It was said in a whisper in the hallway by my stepdaughter who was mortified to have to ask. A total stranger who came into...
I started geocaching with my kids when they were really young. We love learning how to find hidden treasures in our own city! It isn’t hard to get started, but knowing the basics for geocaching are important. The best...
In + Around Des Moines
15 Best Brunch Spots in Des Moines
Brunch in Des Moines is the best! Not only does it combine the best of breakfast and lunch, it's a social event best enjoyed...
