On Sunday, June 19, we are reminded to pay tribute to the special father figures in our lives! Do you remember going fishing with your dad or uncle? Or as a child sitting with your  step father while he reads a book to you? Or going to a Yankee game with your cousins? Or being invited to a special breakfast with your grandfather? These are just a few of the divine moments in our lives which we treasure and carry deep in our hearts. Our father figures are men who guide us throughout our lives. They quietly see the special gifts that we bring to the world and somehow know how to help us evolve…

Happy Mother’s day to all! I am sure you are all thinking, the wishes are belated, but why not consider to honor our “mothers” every day? Let’s take a moment to reflect on the endless depth of love that our mothers share.  Mothers have a unique way to guide their wisdom with all who cross their paths. Their words come from an inner knowing and awareness of what is needed to be shared at a particular moment. They are the constant stable center core of each and every family! A mother’s gift is one of nurturing which fills our spirit and our souls through every dimension. When I wrote this …

My 10-year-old daughter Melissa and her father, Jim, are insisting that we purchase a dog? We both work and my children are involved with year-round sports. We saw this adorable poodle puppy at Paramus Park mall. Do you think it’s fair to bring a dog into this very active family? Family pets add important dimensions and pure love into our worlds. In a gentle way these precious creatures help to teach our children responsibilities. My children and I had to put our Beagle (Brandy) to sleep, and our home felt empty. When we decided to bring another family member into our lives I thought to …

Question: I have three children who have been talking about taking a family vacation over their summers recess from school. How do we stay on our budget and still plan a family vacation? Dear Amazing Planner, Congratulations! You are aware of how important it is to stay on your budget. You are ahead of the game. There are many wonderful ideas to help you solve this “Summer Puzzle.” One Sunday during the spring, when my family was young, we held a "Summer Planning Party." That was the day when we would sit around our family table and write down ideas for our summer recess. My dad used to get a…

Question: Can you give some tips on dealing with the "terrible twos"? Dear Mommy and Terrific Twos, The life and energy in a child is so vibrant, especially when they reach the “terrible twos." When the oldest of my daughters turned two, I felt overwhelmed. She wanted my attention 24/7! She would also be into everything, the cabinets, toilet, and climbing on chairs! When we were out in public it was no better. The solution that worked for me was taking back control and setting up routines. These routines created a structure that within time she became accustomed to. Everyone’s life is made up…