brenda
I am a small town Iowa girl who is loving life in the Iowa City area. I graduated from The University of Northern Iowa with a degree in Elementary and Middle Level education. I moved to the Iowa City area for my first teaching job and never looked back. It is here in Iowa City where I met my husband, Robert, married him, and we started our family. After our oldest was born, I left the classroom to be a stay at home mommy. We are the parents of three; Gabe (April 2013), Maggie (April 2015), and Julianna (September 2017). In addition to being a stay at home mom, I also substitute teach occasionally. I have many hobbies and interests. I love to be active by running and working out. I also enjoy spending time with friends and family, trying new recipes, playing board and card games and being involved in church. I am a sports enthusiast and enjoy cheering on the Hawkeyes, UNI Panthers, and the Chicago Cubs. I feel grateful for our little family. Life as a mom of three is busy and chaotic, but I wouldn’t have it any other way
Time With My Littlest: Life Lessons From My Two-Year-Old
I am the mom of an amazing trio. We laugh, we play, we explore, we learn, we argue, and we are loud. I love it and would not have it any other way. Life...
Reconciling the Loss of Friendships As An Adult
“Make new friends but keep the old. One is silver and the other gold.”
You may remember that song from your childhood. I know I do. I often think back over my life and...
Getting to Know Our Kids: The Date Night That Changes Everything
It was a beautiful summer day and my son had an evening playdate planned with some friends from school. When trying to figure out how we were going to get everything in and everyone...
From a Teacher to a Mom: A Reflection of Gratitude
It’s that time of the year. The weather is turning nice. Everything is in bloom. The school year is winding down, and summer is coming. As a mom, that may excite you or cause...
The Incredible Healthy Hulk Muffin Recipe
Is your house like mine and trying to get your kids to try new vegetables or even just eating vegetables can be like pulling teeth? There are so many times when I am trying...
6 Lessons I Have Learned as a Mom
Do you ever feel like as a mom you are learning new things every day? Maybe not even related to your kids, but things about yourself. I know I do. Every day I learn...
From Man-to-Man to Zone: The Art of Raising Three Kids
People often ask me what it is like to have three kids. I have distinct memories of comments from very well-meaning strangers and non-strangers alike. “You are going to have your hands full,” as...
Continuing A Sweet Holiday Tradition: Frosted Cashew Cookies Recipe
It’s Christmas time. A time for cheer, love, baking, gifts, and all of the joys of the season. I am sure we can all recall a special tradition from our childhood that as an...
From Judgment to Curiosity: Shifting Our Response to Other Moms
Recently, my husband and I were traveling on a vacation without our kids. As we spent time in airports, I saw many moms with kids. I saw the stress on the faces of moms...
Practically Perfect Mini Cheddar Meatloaves Recipe
It’s fall. Glorious fall! The leaves and weather are changing. The crisp cool air brings about the desire for some warm comfort foods. Ideally, some warm comfort foods that everyone in your house will...