The Power of Entertainment in our Children’s Lives
By Jamie Oleka
Entertainment is one of the most powerful influences shaping our children’s values, identity, and worldview. Whether through movies, music, books, or social media, what children...
How to Celebrate America 250 in the Nation’s Capital
By Virginia Allen
The explosions of color could be seen in every direction. Some were only a block away, others at least a mile in the distance. For...
Don’t Leave All Your Green on the Emerald Isle!
by Maggie Murphy
For our 10th wedding anniversary, my husband and I went to Ireland, and upon returning, we committed to taking our kids someday. A trip like that took...
Starting a Business Will Change Your Marriage–But You Should Do It Anyway
By Elizabeth Condra
Most people say not to mix business with pleasure. My husband and I did it seven months into our marriage.
We were newlyweds when we bought...
Caring for Those Who’ve Lost A Loved One on Valentine’s Day
By SWSM Contributor
Editor’s Note: In the spirit of giving to others on Valentine’s Day anonymously, our writer wishes to remain anonymous.
My mom’s mother passed away on February 13th, and...
Trump Accounts: What Parents Need to Know
By: Catherine Martinez
The White House recently announced a new savings initiative, Trump Accounts, to help children jumpstart their savings journey. All babies born between January 1, 2025,...
The Food Pyramid Reimagined: Eating Well on a Budget
By Elizabeth Webb
For decades, the food pyramid was a familiar fixture in classrooms and on food packaging—emphasizing carbohydrates at the base and placing protein and fats near...
Marriage & Money: What We Learned in Our First 9 Years
By Jamie Oleka
When my husband and I got married nearly nine years ago, we were full of big dreams, optimism, and a deep belief that love—and our...
Making Advent Meaningful
By Catherine Martinez
In many ways, getting our finances in order around the holidays means going back to basics and getting to the root of the true meaning...
“How Are You Doing, Mom?”
Checking In a Couple of Months into the School Year
By Jamie Oleka
The school year starts with sharpened pencils, fresh backpacks, and the excitement of new routines. But...













