CLINTON DAILY NEWS EDITORIAL
• First-grade Basal Ball winners for Arapaho included Jacob Lamborn, Zachery Lamborn, Desiree Krewall, Sarah Morris, Cody Seabolt, Beau Waltrip, Justin Shepherd and Lynsi Kent.
ASK THE DOCTORS
DEAR HARRIETTE: I am a 29-yearold single mom to twin boys who are 6 years old. Due to unforeseen financial constraints, I find myself unable to afford professional child care services. In light of this, I am considering asking my family for help in watching my kids from time to time. However, I'm concerned about bringing up the topic. I don't want to make them feel uncomfortable or obligated, because I wouldn't be able to pay them much or anything at all. How can I communicate my situation to my family, expressing the need for their support, without putting them in an awkward position? I want to ensure that my request is respectful, understanding that their time is valuable. Any advice on framing this conversation and addressing the financial aspect without making them feel burdened would be greatly appreciated. — In a Bind DEAR IN A BIND: Think about who might be the most receptive to helping you, and talk to that person first. Be honest about your situation. Explain that you need help sometimes with watching your children. Admit that right now you cannot afford to hire a babysitter, so you are hoping that family members can help out on occasion. Ideally, your family members would not charge you anything when they pitch in. Do not offer what you don't have. What you should provide is food, toys and anything else that will make your children's stay with them as easy as possible. Ask this family member to help you broach the request with others as you map out a strategy.
The Michigan Democratic and Republican primaries took place Tuesday. The Democratic contest is interesting not because any candidate had a chance of touching President Joe Biden, but for what it might say about the reach of the Israel-Hamas war into Democratic Party politics.
Dear Doctors: I've noticed that as I get older, jet lag hits me harder. I recently read that timing your meals on the day you fly can make a difference. Do you know if that's true? I'm also curious about apps like Timeshifter, which my son swears by. Can they help?
DEAR HARRIETTE: I have always valued honesty and transparency in my interactions with others. I strive to provide a realistic perspective and offer straightforward feedback or advice. However, it seems that this approach is not always appreciated or well-received. Rather than being seen as someone who is genuine and reliable, I find that my straightforwardness is often interpreted as insensitivity or even harshness. It can be disheartening to witness the negative reactions and anger that arise from my attempts to be honest and realistic.
The first month of the legislative session has been eventful with committee work, passing a grocery tax cut, and working on the state budget.
DEAR HARRIETTE: I am currently struggling with a phobia related to gunshots and police sirens due to childhood traumas. When I was a child, I experienced instances where my father would bring conflict into our home, and it has left a lasting impact on me. As a result, I have developed an intense fear and anxiety around the sound of gunshots and police sirens.
There is a tide in the affairs of America, and the big question is whether right now the political seas are at ebb tide or flood tide.