When the government shuts down, headlines focus on politics — but for women who are pregnant or caring for young children, it feels far more personal. It can mean questions about food, housing, or medical care. Programs like WIC (Women, Infants, and Children), SNAP (Food Stamps), and TANF (Temporary Assistance for Needy Families) may be […]
Every night around 10:30, my body decides it’s bedtime. Doesn’t matter what I’m doing—TikTok, texting, or finishing homework—my eyelids get heavy and I think, “Finally, sleep.” But my brain? Oh no. My brain thinks it’s time for a pep rally. Suddenly my thoughts start racing: “Did you study enough for that math test?” “Why did […]
“One can choose to go back toward safety or forward toward growth. Growth must be chosen again and again; Fear must be overcome again and again.” Abraham Maslow You tell yourself, This is it. Starting now, I’m going to be different. And maybe for a day, or even a week, you are. You skip the […]
By: Jami McDermott, Outreach Coordinator Feeling drained, exhausted, and utterly spent? Do you wake up in the morning with a heavy heart, dreading the day ahead, feeling like you just can’t muster the energy to face it? You’re not alone. Many of us grapple with overwhelming life events—whether unexpected challenges like unplanned pregnancies, health issues, […]
By: Jami McDermott Ever pick up your phone to check the time and end up watching cat videos for an hour? Or meant to send a quick email but somehow ended up shopping for a hoodie you absolutely do not need? Yep, distractions may be stealing your life. According to Reviews.org, it has become a daily […]
By: Jami McDermott The four-leaf clover is considered lucky because it’s so rare. I’ve found a few in my lifetime, always hoping they’d bring me a little extra fortune. But here’s how luck has played out for me: Someone asks, “Want to buy a raffle ticket?” Nope—I already know I won’t win (but I’ll still […]
By: Jami McDermott The holiday season, while traditionally associated with joy and celebration, can present unique challenges to our well-being. Here’s how to maintain balance during this time of year: Healthy Holiday Eating: Simple Ways to Nourish Your Body Mindful Food Choices: Instead of restrictive diets, focus on balanced options. Choose whole foods with simple […]
Maybe open adoption has crossed your mind, but it’s one of those options you quickly pushed aside—maybe because of things you’ve heard or because it just feels too heavy. But what if adoption today is different from what you’ve been told? If you’re feeling lost and unsure what to do next, that’s completely normal. It […]
In today’s world, people seem less willing to accept differing viewpoints. Even when presented with facts, personal agendas can overshadow rational thought. It feels like anger and emotion dominate, leaving little room for understanding someone else’s perspective or finding common ground. While I’m not perfect in this regard, I strive to keep an open mind. […]
Being the parent of a newborn can feel overwhelming. Sometimes, it may feel like more than you can do, and you need a safe way out. Missouri’s Safe Place for Newborns Act of 2002 allows a parent to anonymously leave a newborn child with hospital staff, firefighters, emergency medical technicians, law enforcement officers, or pregnancy […]