Sarah Bengtson
2022 Santa Sightings in the Iowa City Area
It's that time of year again — when Santa and his reindeer start making appearances all over the Iowa City area. Last year, he was greatly limited in his travel abilities, but this year...
A Mom’s Guide to Voting in the 2022 General Election
Short of running for office, participating in elections is the best and most direct way to make our voices heard in our local, state, and national governments. This post is not about WHO you...
A Guide to Fall Foliage Around Iowa City
The air is growing crisper, mornings are cool enough for a sweatshirt, and the smell of pumpkin spice is in the air. So many things about the last several years have been strange and...
Three Road Trip Podcasts to Listen to with Your Kids
A few weeks ago my family and I took an epic road trip, spanning 3,500 miles, five states, and several national parks.
It was fantastic vacation, but along with a lot of great family memories...
Guide to Beaches and Lakes in the Iowa City Area
Nothing says summer like a trip to the beach! Even though Iowa is far from the ocean, there are many great beaches available in our landlocked state. Some of them are right here in...
Child Abuse Prevention Month: A Mom’s Story About Crying
If you ask a new parent their fears about parenthood, most will talk about disruptions in routine, feeding issues, sleep issues, and general questions about doing the right thing. I would bet that most...
17 Spring Break Activities in the Iowa City Area
Spring break is just around the corner! If you aren't escaping to the beach or some other far-flung location, check out these great spring break activities in the Iowa City area — that are,...
Guide to Starting Kindergarten in the Iowa City Area
Starting kindergarten can be daunting for both students and parents. When my oldest started, I remember it was difficult to know what needed to be done and by when to get it done, including...
Baby its Cold Outside! 5 Tips for Winter Weather Play
The temperatures have dropped in Iowa. But the kids still need fresh air. Really, I do too! My family enjoys all kinds of winter play and activities. We like getting out in the snow...
What Advent Means to Me
Do you have an Advent calendar? Twenty-five little boxes of prizes: candy, wine, socks, Legos, or all other manners of toys and trinkets? These calendars have gained all kinds of popularity over the past...