December 2009

What makes the holiday season so special? Stories you never forget, time spent together, and family traditions. Here, parents share some of their most cherished holiday moments. Looking back at the fondest of holiday memories, I barely remember the gifts. I do recall the things we did together each year. Whether I…

As a girl, my introduction to sex came from Judy Blume’s books. A friend of mine says she remembers sharing an old tattered copy of Forever with all the steamy parts highlighted and earmarked. It felt like the book had been passed down from older generations of girl students—even though…

Like every mother, Kyra Oliver of Richmond loves to recall the early days of parenthood. She vividly remembers the days spent bonding with her infant son. “Hayes was a very contented baby,” she says. “He loved to laugh, and he cooed and smiled a lot. He loved to be outside…

It was my sister who jolted me back to reality. “Lemme get this straight,” she deadpanned. “Your daughter’s favorite Christmas gift this year was a 30-year-old, used baby doll?” She paused for effect after almost every word. It was true. I had regifted my favorite doll from when I was a…

It’s our first Richmond Family Magazine Christmas… When we launched the magazine, I knew we’d be helping area families with all of our great articles and resources – like the calendar, book reviews, and menu ideas. But I also knew that we would make a special effort to form partnerships that…

When it comes to communicating with your teen, there are ways to make him or her talk. While I do not profess to being an expert, I have parented four teens – three at the same time! So, I speak from experience when I say: “Just say yes to fostering…

So go ahead. Hang a wreath on every door. Fill the mantel with all the fresh holly and pinecones you like. Line the bookcases with as many porcelain Santas as they can hold. But let’s get one thing straight right now. I am the dad. And I put the lights on…

Allison Smith called Children’s Home Society of Virginia (CHS) in 2002 to offer her volunteer services. “I thought it was a home for children,” she said. “And I love children. My husband and I couldn’t have our own, but I thought how fulfilling it would be to help them by…

Q: I just got home from my friend’s house and was amazed to see her nine-month-old almost walking. My little guy is finally sitting up by himself – but only if I put him there. Should I be worried? A: While it is great for parents and babies to have…

1. Baked Brie in Filo Cups with Apricot Jam & Almonds Place ½ tsp. Apricot jam in each of 30 mini filo-dough cups. Top with ½ inch cube of Brie cheese (without the rind). Sprinkle with ¼ tsp. Chopped almonds. Place on parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 15 minutes…