brenda
Brenda is an Iowa native who has lived in the Iowa City area since 2005. She is married to her love, Robert, since 2012. Brenda is an elementary teacher by trade. She spent almost nine years as a stay at home parent but is now back in the classroom spending time with her school kids and being a mom to her own kids. She is the mom of three; Gabe (April, 2013) Maggie (April, 2015), and Julianna (September, 2017). Brenda enjoys being active by running and working out. She also enjoys trying new recipes, volunteering, playing board and card games, and being involved in church. Brenda is an elementary teacher and loves cheering on the Cubs, UNI Panthers, and the Iowa Hawkeyes. It is a busy but beautiful 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...
9 Steps For Putting A Stop To Bullying | Infographic
Several months ago, I shared the story of my experience with bullies and ways to combat bullying behavior. With a new school year underway, there is no time like the present to talk to your...