Mom at odds with family about sleepovers

DEAR HARRIETTE: I am a mother to a 9-year-old and a 12-year-old. We have a huge debate in our home about whether my children are allowed to go on sleepovers. I am fully opposed because I don’t know or trust the adults in the homes they would possibly be staying in. My husband and my children, on the other hand, say that this is a crucial part of childhood and that I am overreacting.

Corns develop after bone is exposed to friction

Dear Doctors: I’ve been dealing with a corn on top of my little toe for almost a year. I used the patches you get at the drugstore and it went away, but a few months later, it came back. Why? How do I stop that from happening?

Harrison Butker and Catholic confusion about sacraments

E arly in the coronavirus pandemic, Catholic clergy – along with pastors in many other traditions – struggled with secular authorities or even their own leaders while trying to provide sacred rites at the heart of their faith.

New dad wants to jump ship from kid

DEAR HARRIETTE: After giving birth to a healthy baby boy, I experienced weight gain due to health issues. My partner admitted that he no longer finds me attractive, and he suggested an open relationship. His suggestion has left me feeling hurt and insecure about my body. While I strive to understand his perspective, I find myself struggling with deep-seated fears. The thought of leaving him is enticing, but I don’t think I can handle it, particularly with a newborn baby in the picture. I’m not sure how to proceed. – First-Time Mom DEAR FIRST TIME MOM: Your partner is an impatient jerk who doesn’t deserve you.

Whatever they can get him for

The trial of former President Donald Trump is heading toward a conclusion. For those who at the beginning thought the case was weak and politically motivated, the presentation of the prosecution’s evidence has made it seem even weaker and more politically motivated. A conviction will not change that.

Parent wants to make memories with kids

DEAR HARRIETTE: As summer approaches and another school year passes, my kids are now 11 and 13 years old. I can’t believe how fast time is going; it seems that just yesterday, they were babies. With each passing year, I’m increasingly aware of how precious these moments are, and I want to make the most of the time I have with them while they’re still young. As they grow older, I know they’ll become more independent and our family dynamic may change. Therefore, I’m seeking advice on how to create meaningful bonding experiences with my children during the summer months, as I only have so many summers left when they’ll be young enough to fully enjoy these moments together. During the school year, my children are so busy with extracurriculars that I feel like I hardly ever see them. What are some creative and engaging activities or outings that we can do as a family to create lasting memories? – Making Memories DEAR MAKING MEMORIES: Research fun summer activities in your area. These can include classics like botanical gardens, museums with exhibitions tailored to children their age or outdoor adventures like ziplining, rock climbing, canoeing, etc. Many of these activities are free or low-cost. The ones with a price can be figured into your summer budget. As you go on these adventures with your children, plan with them so that they are fully invested and excited. Consider allowing them to invite friends to join some of your exploits. By all means, document what you do. Take pictures. Make postcards to send to the grandparents. Do things in the aftermath that require all of you to pause and remember the experience you just had. Put those memories into a scrapbook that you can revisit in the future.

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