Grand Traverse Herald, Traverse City, MI

Kids and healthy snacking go together
Children need healthy snacks. They are growing and developing rapidly. They have small stomachs that empty quickly. Active kids need energy and nutrients to refuel their bodies several times a day. This translates to three regular daily meals plus two to three small snacks. Snacks should be scheduled about two hours before the next main meal.
More columns »
Threat a step toward independence
Sometimes you can exercise independence by taking a single step -- even if you don't make it out the front door. Even though it was the epitome of an idle threat, this weekend our daughter uttered the phrase used by disenchanted children everywhere -- I'm outta' here!
Selecting a lawn and garden care company
Do you have or want a lawn or garden care company? It's that time of year that you may be thinking about hiring one. Before you do, consider what you want your lawn (or garden) to be like and how much time you will work on it.
Rebate plans less than stimulating
While my rebate check isn't even in the mail, I've decided to cash in on the American dream of paying bills. I'm so economically stimulated. A recent Associated Press poll showed that 35 percent said they would use their refund check to pay utility, credit card and other bills. Even though I don't fall into this particular +/- 4 percent sampling margin of error, I am just another percentage.
Children learn healthy lifestyle habits
The earlier children begin to practice healthy lifestyle habits, the longer they are likely to use them. Current statistics on the health challenges that face youth indicate the need to educate children about the importance of making healthy food choices and being physically active.
Forest fire hits a little too close
There are some experiences you don't want to repeat. While root canals and seventh-grade gym class readily come to mind, forest fires are just a given. This past week a fire in Long Lake Township proved a little too close to home -- as in 200 yards from our front door.
Tools, techniques to estimate timber volume
Selling timber is not the only reason for understanding some basic ecological characteristics of a forest. Certainly, species composition, wood volume, and forest density are key components of establishing a timber sale, but they are also essential to assessing forest health and condition. There are practical ways for a forest owner to learn more about their forest.
Leg casts keep parents on toes
Children have a way of keeping parents on their toes, or back on their heels. It is the unenviable job of grown-ups to ground kids in reality -- sometimes feet first. For the next five weeks, our family's daily life will be wrapped around two fiberglass casts attached to the little legs of a 6-year-old.