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I know quite a few people who are about to have babies, and occasionally one of them will ask me for advice on one thing or another. That got me thinking, what’s the best advice to give new parents that they won’t find in a book? I’ve got a few tips, but I’d like you to offer your best pearl of wisdom, too!  Read the rest of the story...

I recently got an email from a friend who is about to celebrate her birthday. I asked if she had any plans, and she told me she and her husband and two kids were going out to dinner. Then she added that she’d enjoy it just as much if her husband would take the kids out for the evening, leaving her home for a quiet dinner and time to read. Doesn’t that sound decadent? Then yesterday, I chatted with my neighbor. He and his wife just added a baby to their already busy household- they have two elementary school kids. He looked exhausted! He told me his family was all over at his in-laws’ house, and might stay for dinner. He had a guilty look on his face when he said “I really hope they stay for dinner,” and sighed at the thought of a nap. It seems that moms and dads all over want a guilty pleasure: a little time alone.  Read the rest of the story...

In November, our Wanna Have Fun Hen wrote a post on award winning children’s author and illustrator James Mayhew. Mr. Mayhew has written over 20 books (and illustrated many more), including the very popular “Katie” series in which a young girl goes to various museums and has adventures in famous paintings. He is passionate about introducing children to the arts, including music, ballet and visual art. Despite a surfeit of ongoing projects, Mr. Mayhew recently agreed to answer a few questions for the Five Hens and I had the honor of corresponding with him.  Read the rest of the story...