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Detroit Mom’s Travel Series: Yosemite National Park

By
Jessica Johnson
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Our national parks are a true treasure. The diversity of landscapes and recreation can offer even a city-lover an opportunity to enjoy nature. The question is, with over 60 national parks to choose from, where do you start–especially, if you plan to visit with kids?

That was my question, as our family set a goal of visiting at least one national park per year. Yosemite National Park quickly rose to the top, as we discovered the family-friendly options the park offered. Additionally, we felt that this park would allow my six-year-old daughter to experience a variety of scenery and activities, helping to keep her interest during a week-long vacation. Here are some options to enjoy our nation’s third oldest national park!

Yosemite Valley, Yosemite National park
Yosemite Valley, Yosemite National Park

Know Before You Go

Plan Ahead for Lodging

Lodging inside Yosemite fills up fast. If you want to stay in the park (which I highly suggest to avoid long, windy drives in and out of the park each day) look to make your reservation a year or more before your planned visit, especially if your travels place you in the park between April and October.

Consider Visiting in the Shoulder Season

Over 3.5 million visitors entered Yosemite park in 2022, with the majority of tourists coming between June and August. If you are looking to avoid the crowds, consider visiting in the spring or fall. Spring brings roaring waterfalls and fall offers temperate weather with beautiful foliage.

Winter is the quietest season and the park remains open with unique experiences to be had. Just know that tire chains are required where posted, even for four-wheel-drive vehicles.

America the Beautiful Annual Pass

Entrance fees are required to visit Yosemite. You have two options to consider: you can pay $35 per vehicle, which is good for seven consecutive days to the park, OR the second option is the America the Beautiful Annual Pass for $80. This is a great option if you plan to stay longer than a week or if you plan to visit another national park or federal recreation site in a year. The annual pass is valid for 12 months from the month of purchase. If purchased online, allow for shipping time.

Check for Trail/Road Closures

Be aware that trails or roads may be closed due to construction or natural events, so check ahead to see if your plans may be impacted.

Half Dome Hiking Permits

Permits are required to hike Yosemite’s iconic Half Dome. You can apply for a permit during the preseason lottery, which is held in March, or you can try your luck in the daily lottery (applying for a weekday in the daily lottery gives you a better chance of success). Note that it is a very strenuous hike, and is not suitable for kids!

Top of Lembert Dome, Yosemite National Park

Hikes to Do With Kids

Lembert Dome

If you have an older child (or an adventurous younger child), Lembert Dome offers sweeping views from the top of its granite peak. It is a moderate hike, with an elevation change of 850 feet, but it really gave my daughter a sense of accomplishment once she made it to the top!

Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias

Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias was my daughter’s favorite day in Yosemite. We walked the two-and-a-half mile Grizzly Giant Loop, which took us past some of the famous trees in the grove such as the Bachelor and Three Graces, the California Tunnel Tree, and of course the Grizzly Giant.

Sentinel Dome Trail

The two-mile Sentinel Dome Trail hike offered panoramic views of the park, including Half Dome and El Capitan. Plus views of Yosemite Valley!

Vernal Falls

We accessed Vernal Falls using the Mist Trail. There are many options of trail length and elevation gain, depending on the ages and endurance of your kids. My husband and I continued on past Vernal Falls (thank you, grandparents!) up to Emerald Pool, then to Nevada Falls, and looped back to our starting point via the John Muir Trail.

Yosemite Lower Falls

This is an accessible one-mile hike that takes you to the base of Yosemite Falls. But bring rain gear if you are visiting in spring or early summer (which is the best time as the waterfall is flowing at its peak) as the mist from the falls can leave you drenched!

Best Views

The best views of Yosemite can be found at:

Activities That Are NOT Hiking

Ansel Adams Gallery | open year-round

This fine art and photography gallery boasts a beautiful collection of prints and artwork. It also offers photography workshops.

Tenaya Lake | open late May/early June through November

The crystal clear waters of this alpine lake are the perfect spot for a picnic. Michiganders can probably brave the chilly waters for a swim!

Yosemite Valley Bike Path | open March/April through October 27

Explore the park from a different vantage point via the 12 miles of flat, paved bike trails. Bikes, helmets, bike trailers, and tag-along bikes for kids are available to rent at Yosemite Valley Lodge and Curry Village Recreation Center.

Yosemite Valley Floor Tour | open year-round

We found this to be a great introduction to Yosemite on our first full day in the park. The Yosemite Hospitality naturalist, who led our tour, highlighted the history and nature inside the park, in-between designated stopping points. Depending on when you visit Yosemite, the tours are offered in an open-air tram or a heated motor coach.

Bonus Tips for Yosemite National Park

  • Print the Yosemite National Park Junior Ranger Handbook for fun and informative activities for your child to complete during their visit.
  • Depending on where you are in the park, cell phone reception can be spotty. Download any maps or information to your phone before entering the park.
  • Get to the park early to beat the crowds and the traffic!

What’s your favorite vacation spot? Check out our previous Travel Series location–Sturgeon Point Lighthouse!

Your Guide to a Night Out in Corktown!

By
anniegallagher
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It’s not every day that you can encounter authentic cobblestone streets. Yet, Detroiters have this rarity available just west of downtown on the edge of the Detroit River. CORKTOWN: the oldest neighborhood in Detroit!

Named after the Irish immigrants of the 1800s and still holds the annual St. Patrick’s Day festivities. This beautiful pocket of Detroit is a perfect place for a date night or a family outing.

The landmark of Corktown is the Michigan Central Train Station. This epically stunning building is a staple to the city of Detroit. Trains haven’t run through this building since the 1980s. However, the structure has stood the test of time and is ready to reopen this June. With plans for food and retail shops as well as corporate offices, this building is a must on your “to-visit” list come summertime.

Corktown Food + Drink

Situated just in front of the train station is Cork and Gabel, a restaurant with a unique blend of Irish, German, and Italian meals. The indoor space is great for large or small groups (some tables are communal). The menu variety makes this place appealing to many.

Drink-wise, I recommend the Interstate 75 for those that love fruity-bubbly drinks or the Manhattan for dark-liquor lovers. Food wise, do not pass on the Dip Trio; I was obsessed with the sun-dried tomato portion (and a word of advice–just ask for double bread from the start). The Mushroom Ravioli was a delight and is covered in cooked veggies. This dish is a perfect blend of pasta and freshness!

Post-dinner, take a short walk next door to Two James Spirits, the first licensed distillery in Detroit post-prohibition. This tiny gem off Michigan Avenue has a view of the train station through the top window. The walls are full of local artists’ work for sale, and the circle bar provides many seats to belly-up.

A flight is the way to go at this space if you are a “neat” lover. If that isn’t for you, I recommend the Negroni.

A view of the train station from the bar at Two James in Corktown.

A Corktown Bonus Spot

If you have one more spot to visit in you at this point, head past the train station to The Sugar House. With over one hundred drink options, everyone in your party is bound to find multiple drinks to fit their tastes. But if you find the menu to be overwhelming, the bartenders are ready and willing to pinpoint a drink that fits your preferences!

I went with a specialty holiday drink called I Can’t Believe it’s Not Bath Water (floral flavors with gin). My husband enjoyed the Suffering Bastard (bourbon, gin, lime, and ginger). The ambiance of this space is very dark in a romantic way–perfect for a date spot or a girls night out!

Venturing Corktown With Family

Walk about the streets, explore the cobblestone, visit the wall art. The simplest and cheapest form of entertainment.

Bobcat Bonnie’s is a perfect space for your family to dine in Corktown. The mimosa bar for mom and dad plus delicious food for the babes make it a prime spot for a weekend brunch!

The annual St. Patrick’s Day parade should be a must on your family’s bucket list, too. Since the first parade in 1958, Detroiters have gathered annually in Corktown to celebrate Irish customs and traditions. The parade always falls the weekend before the actual holiday so be sure to mark your calendars for the opportunity to assemble and celebrate in green unity!

The options in Corktown are endless. If you have yet to venture to this part of the city, I encourage you to make an effort to try one of these recommended places/activities!

We simply cannot get enough of the city! Dana shares 10 unique day date ideas to explore all that Detroit has to offer!

What Your Library Wishes You Knew During National Library Week

By
lauriegolden
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National Library Week is April 7-13, so we asked some library staffers what they would like moms to know about public libraries. Here’s what your library wishes you knew as we celebrate National Library Week!

Mother and toddler daughter play in brightly colored early literacy area at public libraryYour local library is special.

Whether you’re at the largest multi-branch system or a small rural library, every book, program, activity, and service is specially curated by librarians and staff just for your community. You won’t find the exact same set of materials or programs or services duplicated at any other library. Everything in your library is uniquely designed for your community’s unique demographics, interests, and needs. 

Libraries can save you a ton of dough.

Your tax dollars fund your library but it can more than pay off when you borrow items or attend programs. Use this calculator to see how much money your family saves using the library!

  • Attend storytimes, use NHS tutors, or get the resources to write an A+ paper.
  • Check out activity or sensory kits, puppets, or storytime materials for at-home fun.
  • Get free or reduced admission to hundreds of museums and activities across the state, like discounts on Detroit Zoo tickets or 313 Presents shows. 
  • Instead of buying hard covers or expensive e-books, borrow instead.
  • Make use of online tutoring, take practice ACT, SAT, and AP tests, community college-level classes, or learn a language.

Libraries are a great parenting resource.

Another thing you should know: if you want to meet up or make new mom friends without the obligation of buying something, head to the library. It’s a great place to hang out and reduce the isolation that parents can feel. Sign up for storytimes, drop in for play times in early learning centers, and check out parenting books.

Some libraries, like Grosse Pointe Public Libraries, have outreach services to new parents that include book delivery and local parenting resources. Looking for something to keep the kids busy over the summer? Sign up for free programming and activities.

Libraries are all about sharing.

We’re libraries, of course we share resources with the community and with each other. Take advantage of interlibrary loan (ILL) through the Michigan eLibrary (MeL) to borrow materials from a library across the state and have it delivered to your home library. You can also use your library card and visit reciprocating libraries throughout the metro area. Every library is different and worth exploring!

No one knows your community better than your library.

Libraries are a community connection point and gathering spot for everyone. Because they have that specific knowledge of what the community needs, you’ll see unique and interesting collections from a bakeware collection at Royal Oak Public Library, to a seed library at Birmingham’s Baldwin Public Library, to snowshoes from the Clinton-Macomb Library. What does your local library offer?

Libraries are for everyone.

Parents, kids, remote workers, students, seniors—people from all walks of life—are welcome at the library. Library staff won’t judge you on the type of materials you check out or what your needs are. Many libraries offer assistive devices, programs, and services, like this wide-ranging list from Bloomfield Township Public Library, or English Language Learner programs at the Canton Public Library. 

Make a Librarian’s Day

Of all the resources available at the library, the most valuable one is the staff. Library staff are experts in helping you find the perfect book for a reluctant reader, putting you in touch with a social service, or helping you learn new skills for a better job. They take their love for their community seriously and are ready for any situation—many are CPR, first aid, and NarCan trained.

Librarians can also help you spot scams and disinformation and send you to a verified resource. They are happy to share tips and tricks about requesting the latest best seller or setting up an account to stream online media. Ask a librarian for a reading suggestion and you’ll make their day!

And Lastly: Love Your Library Staff

Libraries are facing more challenges than ever—from budget issues to book censorship to demanding patrons—so show them some love. National Library Workers Day is April 9. Baked goods are especially appreciated! 🧁

Looking for more ways to celebrate libraries and reading? Check out Jessica’s 7 Ways to Celebrate Family Literacy Month post.

Unraveling the Medical Mystery: My Journey Beyond “Just Anxiety”

By
fotinicallis
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DISCLAIMER: The following post outlines the writer’s personal medical journey. It is not intended to act as medical advice. As always, please consult your doctor with any questions about your health.

“It’s just anxiety.” I have lost count of the number of times medical professionals have told me this. Have you ever felt like a detective trying to crack a case when it comes to your own health? That’s exactly how I felt for years. Every ache, pain, unexplained symptom was a mystery, leaving me baffled and frustrated.

It all started with a subtle sign–fatigue, dizziness, and heart palpitations that seemed to come out of nowhere. At first, I brushed it off as stress from having a new baby. But as my son grew up, the symptoms persisted, and new ones emerged. I knew something wasn’t right–it was time to unravel the medical mystery.

We are calling to confirm your appointment . . . again.

Thus began my journey through cardiologists, psychologists, endocrinologists, functional medicine doctors, primary care physicians, emergency room visits, consultations, and tests. Each one bringing me closer to the truth, but never quite there.

I have been “diagnosed” with irritable bowel syndrome, anxiety, iodine deficiency, possible tumors, Hashimoto’s, thyroid issues, autoimmune disorders, and depression. It felt like I was stuck in a never-ending loop of uncertainty, with no way out. I had started to lose hope–and convinced myself that the exhaustion, weight gain, abdominal issues, and all my other symptoms were just that “anxiety.”

Always Trust Your Gut

I knew deep down that something wasn’t right–that these symptoms weren’t just “anxiety.” Just when I was about to lose hope, a close friend referred me to an endocrinologist. He identified a pattern in my symptoms that had eluded other doctors. This led him to conduct a stimulation test aiming to confirm his suspicions of pituitary gland dysfunction.

The test took part over two days. The first day they placed arginine in my IV that was supposed to stimulate the pituitary gland; I was nervous going into the infusion room, but it wasn’t bad at all. The second day, they injected insulin into my system to drop my blood sugar and see how my body reacts in distress. This one was the most difficult!

My sugar levels dropped super low fast–I started sweating profusely, feeling dizzy and lightheaded. After drawing two vials of blood, they told me it was time to eat. I brought my mom with me, so someone could drive me to the restaurant to indulge in food after.

Medical Mystery: Solved

The waiting game was the hardest part. Waiting for test results, waiting for follow-up appointments, waiting for the elusive diagnosis that would explain it all. Meanwhile, the uncertainty was gnawing at me, fueling my anxiety. It was a weight lifted off my shoulders when I finally received the results.

The diagnosis wasn’t necessarily what I wanted to hear, but it was an answer, nonetheless. Knowing what I was up against meant I could finally act. No longer was I in the dark; I had clarity and a renewed sense of empowerment. Life threw me a curveball–a diagnosis of hypopituitarism and adult human growth hormone deficiency. Instead of singing into self-pity, I decided to take charge and kickstart my healing journey.

I contacted my dream team of medical professionals that helped me find the perfect treatment plan. Fast forward five weeks, and the transformation has been nothing short of miraculous. I am finally feeling like myself again–I am feeling like the supermom I always dreamed of being! The days of constant fatigue and irritation are scarce; now, I have energy to spare and am able to be fully present in my children’s lives like never before.

My workouts? Let’s just say they’ve leveled up! I am conquering intense exercises that once seemed out of reach. The icing on the cake?! I am finally getting some quality shut-eye–real, rejuvenating sleep that leaves me refreshed and ready to take on the world.

So here I am, on the other side of a medical mystery, finally having some answers and relief. It’s a reminder that even in the face of uncertainty, perseverance pays off. By actively listening to your body and being your own advocate, you empower yourself to take control of your well-being. This proactive approach allows you to make informed decisions, seek appropriate care when needed, and ultimately live a fuller, healthier life.

Never underestimate the importance of prioritizing your health and taking proactive steps to maintain it. While the journey may have been long, the satisfaction of unraveling the mystery makes it all worth it.

It’s so important to trust your gut when you feel like something is wrong. Megan shares her journey to a diagnosis of Graves disease.

The Parenting Post: Disagreeing With Your Partner

By
Whitney Cornelli
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Do you have a parenting hurdle you’re working through? If so, “The Parenting Post” is for you! One of our writers, Albiona, has been answering all of YOUR parenting questions over on IG, and we’ve turned her series into blog posts on our website as well. We just can’t get enough of her helpful advice, and we thought you’d appreciate it, too!

Her videos cover a wide variety of parenting questions–honestly, anything and everything! If it’s something you’re wondering, there’s a really good chance that another parent in our community is struggling with it, too. And Albiona is here to help!

This week, she’s focusing on the idea of not always agreeing with your partner on parenting issues. It’s only normal that two different people may have two different ways of thinking about the same topic. So, how do you move forward when there’s a difference in opinion? We’re sharing three simple steps you can use the next time you find yourself needing to connect–and not convince.

How do my partner and I work through an issue we do not agree on?

This is so common, so know you aren’t alone in this! Albiona runs coaching sessions for parents, and these are the steps that she recommends to parents in a coaching session with her when it comes to disagreeing with your partner.

1. Ask yourself: is my intention to connect or to convince?

Before you even sit down to talk about disagreeing with your partner (because yes, it does need to be talked about!), figure out what your intention is. Do you want to connect with them? Or do you want to convince them to see things your way?

If you intend to connect: make sure your guard is down, and that you are open, available, and curious! You’re not looking to defend your point of view. You are truly invested in wanting to know where they’re coming from, and what their rationale is. You are recognizing their good intentions and you know where they’re coming from.

If you intend to convince: well, the conversation will go absolutely nowhere. And, you’ll find yourself on the hamster wheel of arguments all the time because you will be steadfast in wanting to convince your partner of how right YOU are. Your partner is probably going to do the exact same thing back to you–and their guard will go up. You and your partner are BOTH trying to defend your own point, and neither of you will come to any kind of compromise or middle ground.

2. Recognize the strengths in your partner that they have, and you do not.

When you feel yourself disagreeing with your partner on something, it’s really, really valuable to do this. Sometimes it all comes down to our strong suits. When you can recognize who is the better person to respond in different scenarios, you can really lean on each other more.

For example, one person might be better at setting boundaries and recognizing that their child needs to go through hard things. The other person might really struggle with this, and it could even be triggering for them. So, having that first parent handle a situation involving these specific circumstances would be the way to go in that moment. And the second parent can support from the sidelines as needed, while feeling supported in the moment, too.

Think about it: what strengths do you bring to the table? What strengths does your partner bring to the table? And how do you find that commonplace where you both are a team, where you recognize that you’re the person who needs to handle ____ situations, and you recognize that your partner is the one who needs to handle ____ situations?

It can be tricky, but if you can have a nice, honest conversation about your strengths, it really does help!

3. Set aside a time to come back to the topic and discuss it later on, out of the moment.

When you find yourself disagreeing with your partner on something, you might want to talk to them immediately about where they’re coming from, what their rationale is, or why they think their way is the best way. But, you need to find a time outside of the emotion to do this. Don’t have these discussions in the midst of the parenting challenge.

A lot of times, when disagreeing with your partner, emotions are high, and we say things we don’t mean. We’re not viewing the situation through a clear lens. We haven’t had time to ground and reflect on the situation and what came up for us specifically. We’re coming from a really defensive place and what we say in the moment isn’t going to be helpful. And, it’s not going to get you what you want–which is, what’s best for your child.

Think about planning out a separate time to chat with your partner about it. Decide to let calmer heads prevail, recognize that you’re not agreeing with one another, take a couple minutes to yourselves . . . whatever you need to do. Recognize that it is really incredibly important to go through that process.

And when you’re back, feet on the ground, calm, and able to really connect (and not convince!)–that’s the BEST time to have those conversations. This is where you’ll be able to gain those insights, make those connections, and you’ll be able to be there for your child in a way that is really helpful and positive.

Do you have more parenting questions for Albiona? Leave them below so she can possibly answer them for you. To learn more, you can follow Albiona on Instagram. Or, subscribe to her weekly newsletter and download her free guide for teaching parents how to get their kids to listen.

Looking for more parenting advice? Our previous Parenting Post blog post covered child fears + helping our kids to feel brave!

You Can’t Always Get What You Want: My C-Section Story

By
jennifer stallings dewey
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DISCLAIMER: The following post outlines the writer’s personal experience having a C-section. It is not intended to act as medical advice. As always, please consult your doctor with any questions about having a C-section.

C-sections are considered major surgery and although they are relatively safe, there can be risk to both baby and mother. The Mayo Clinic describes risks to mother including infection, blood loss, clots, and increased risk of complications in future pregnancies. Risks to baby include breathing issues and surgical injury. In recent years, they have raised in popularity. The CDC reported that as of 2021, C-section births had raised to about 32% of all births in the U.S.

My experience with C-sections is best described by the Rolling Stones when they sang, “you can’t always get what you want.” When I found out I was pregnant, what I wanted was to have a natural birth. Further, what I didn’t want was to have a C-section because I had heard a lot of negative things about them.

The Plan

My mother had delivered me and my two sisters without any pain medicine and spoke positively about the experiences. I was young, healthy, and active, so assumed I would similarly have an easy experience giving birth. Since I didn’t like to leave things to chance, I made a plan.

My husband and I attended birthing class and toured the hospital. I wrote out a birth plan and packed it in my hospital bag next to my nursing bra. The plan stated that I wanted to deliver vaginally, preferably without any pain medicine. A C-section was not even an option I considered. With a clear plan in place, I turned my sights to preparation.

The Preparation

I have always been very physically active. When I got pregnant, I was teaching barre classes and working out around five days a week. I started seeing a trainer that specialized in pregnant women and together we put together a program that would help me prepare for delivery and recovery.

My Spotify account contained several delivery room music playlists. Some had calm music for early labor and others had pump up music for the later stages. Friends and family had even written encouraging messages for me in a notebook I brought to the hospital. I was fully prepared.

On my due date, my water broke (right on schedule) and I headed to the hospital. Sure, I was nervous about motherhood, but I was fully prepared to push that baby out and recover in record time.

The Problem

Almost 8 hours after my water broke, I sat in the hospital with monitors keeping track of both me and the baby. But nothing was happening. I was in a lot of pain but was not dilating or progressing towards actual delivery. All of a sudden, the waiting turned quickly into action. The monitor tracking the baby’s heart started to beep rapidly and the doctor said the baby was in distress and needed to be delivered immediately.

The Pivot

Everything changed from a slow-motion waiting game to rapid action. A team of medical professionals appeared out of nowhere changing my gown and putting a hairnet over my head. I tried to protest and remind the doctor that this wasn’t what I wanted, but she said there really wasn’t any choice. This scared me and as I looked at my family members around the room, it was clear: the feeling was mutual.

I was wheeled into an operating room and the surgery started almost immediately. My husband appeared, magically wearing a gown from the hospital. Within moments, I was holding my son. A C-section was not what I wanted, but it had gotten my child safely to the world, and that was what mattered.

The New Plan

During my second pregnancy, we talked to the doctor about delivery. I was a good candidate for a VBAC (vaginal birth after Cesarian section) so we came up with a flexible plan. If I went into labor before my due date, we would try for a vaginal birth. If not, I would have a scheduled C-section on my due date.

I never went into labor, and ended up having the scheduled C-section. The second C-section was a completely different experience. I went into the hospital at a prearranged time, just like I was heading to an appointment. Everything was calm and felt orderly. The baby arrived and my recovery was fine.

The Rolling Stones were right: “you can’t always get what you want,” but hopefully, one way or another, “you get what you need.” As it turns out, what I needed were C-sections. They were not in my original plan but after having two C-sections, one emergency and one scheduled, I believe that the best birth plan is the plan to be flexible.

There are definitely risks associated with C-sections but there are risks involved in vaginal delivery as well. It doesn’t matter how a baby gets here or whether it was according to plan. What matters most is that the baby and mother are healthy after delivery.

Recovery after a C-section can be tough! Whitney shares six things you should NOT do after having a C-section.

An Open Letter to Our Local Librarians

By
Megan Moore
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We love our library for its resources–the books, the cozy reading spots, the quiet spaces for learning, the family-friendly programming, and the rentable items ranging from metal detectors to pickleball sets. But it is you, librarians, who truly make the magic.

You are much more than a keeper of books or someone who knows how to hunt down a copy of my child’s favorite movie in the labyrinth of aisles. How my little ones’ faces light up when a librarian remembers their name or work is priceless.

Coming from a small town–the same one in which I am now raising my children–I can recall the countless hours spent among those shelves.

It was not solely a repository of books but a sanctuary: quiet, peaceful, welcoming. Behind every memorable visit was, and still is, a librarian—someone who recommends hidden gems, guides craft time and storytelling, and overall nurtures curiosity. My kids feel like they belong at the library, like their knowledge, interests, and work are valued–even if it is a snake formed out of halved miniature cakes and a multitude of frosting in an attempt to win “Cupcake Wars.”

Because it is not just about books, but also about fostering a sense of community.

Under your watchful care, our library has been able to transcend its physical boundaries to become a vibrant hub of community engagement. Whether through concerts on the lawn, performances at the musical hall, book clubs, craft sessions, or educational workshops, you create platforms where individuals like my kiddos can connect, share ideas, and be someone outside of school, sports, and social media.

I will forever cherish the memories of my three children dancing barefoot in the grass outside the library as one of your invited musical artists played their favorite songs live. Or, the way my son turned out covered in just as much paint as his canvas but proudly boasted he was just like the artist in The Dot by Peter H. Reynolds.

Nevertheless, it’s true that inside those brick walls, you are the keepers of the keys to other worlds—the worlds found between the covers of books.

A place my oldest will gladly go for hours, especially if it’s an audiobook. Your commitment to fostering a love for literature and learning is nothing short of extraordinary. Based on a single title or interest, you can recommend a myriad of other stories my child might also enjoy. She’s picky, so I admire your patience, passion, and unwavering belief that the transformative power of words is always worth it.

As my little ones grow, I’m sure I’ll value how you are the unsung guides of the vast knowledge landscape. Effortlessly transitioning from reading a group of eager toddlers’ picture books with unsurpassed animation to assisting with big kid research endeavors and navigating the labyrinth of information both in print and online.

As an adult, I now know what my little ones don’t recognize; you do so much more behind the scenes.

You create spaces where minds can wander, imaginations can soar, and kiddos can discover at their own pace. Your meticulous organization of shelves, careful selection of books, and inviting spaces are the foundation upon which the magic of libraries is built—but without your compassion, zeal, and incredibly good memories, the library would be little more than a storehouse of books.

I want to express my deepest gratitude to each and every librarian who has played a part in shaping minds, kindling imaginations, and fostering a love for learning–especially those we are lucky enough to call our librarians.

This week is National Library Week! Lindsay shares a little insight into all the amazing things your library can do for you.

Detroit Mom’s Local Love Spotlight: Soul Roots Wax Co.

By
Whitney Cornelli
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Detroit Mom’s Local Love series highlights local women and the businesses they have built. We love supporting small business! Today’s Local Love Spotlight belongs to Shea Kondrat, owner of Soul Roots Wax Co..

To start, we asked Shea to share a few fun facts about herself with us!

  • She is a twin mom!
  • She is a list-maker.
  • She’s an optimist!

We asked Shea to share a little bit more about her business with us, too. Get to know her and her business, Soul Roots Wax Co., below!

Photo by Shelby Dubin/Shelby Dubin Photography

How did you come up with the idea of your business, and how did you start?

“The roots of our craft started in 2015, after taking a candle making class while living in Chicago. In 2018, I decided to turn my hobby into a business and Soul Roots Wax Company was born. During this time, I had relocated to Michigan and was a newlywed. Then in the Spring of 2019, my husband and I welcomed our twins, Karson and Kennedy.

“Since becoming a wife and mother, I became more conscious of what products we used in our home. Little did I know, that most commercially made candles are made with paraffin wax, dyes, and other toxic materials. This inspired me to create honest, eco-friendly, non-toxic, and clean burning candles. Each of our products use[s] fragrance oils that are free from phthalates and Prop 65 chemicals. Our candles are made from 100% American grown soy wax and are free from paraffin and dyes.

“I started Soul Roots Wax Co. in the kitchen of our apartment in Canton, using our personal funds [to] purchase my initial candle making supplies. I made five candles at a time using the double boil method. To try to get my name out, I created an Instagram and Facebook for Soul Roots Wax Co. and an Etsy account to start accepting orders online. Then I eventually started attending local markets and pop-up events and slowly by word-of-mouth business started growing.”

Knowing what you know now, is there anything you would have done differently when you were first starting out?

“I would have done more research on starting a business and coming up with a business plan. Although, being the optimistic person I am, I’ve learned valuable lessons along the way.”

What is the best business advice you’ve ever been given?

“The best business advice I’ve ever received was to stay true to yourself. I think it is so easy to compare yourself to others and be influenced, especially with social media. It’s something I have personally struggled with over the years. It’s important to me to be authentic and myself and I think that if you are constantly comparing yourself or let others influence you, you’re holding yourself back. Be your true authentic self and your customers will organically find you.”

Photo by Shelby Dubin/Shelby Dubin Photography

Have you faced adversity in business due to being a woman? How did you navigate that?

“The adversity I’ve faced in business being a woman is balancing it all (a full-time career, being a wife and mom, finding time for myself and running a small business). I have struggled with the guilt of being away on the weekends at events or spending the weekend in the candle studio pouring candles and packing orders in addition [to] the feeling of not being fully present.

“To help navigate the challenge, I pour candles or focus on business after my kids have gone to bed (luckily, I am a night owl!) and I’ve cut back on my pop-up market schedule significantly over the last couple of years. My priority this year is to be more intentional on how I spend my time.”

How do you persevere in challenging times?

“I preserve in challenging times with talking things through with my husband and other fellow women business owners, in addition to prayer and reflection.”

What impact do you want your business to have?

“The impact I want Soul Roots Wax Co. to have is to inspire others and celebrate entrepreneurship and everyday life moments. I want to help our customers experience self-care and create slower, mindful moments, each time they light one of our non-toxic, clean and slow burning candles.”

Photo by Shelby Dubin/Shelby Dubin Photography

What are the pros and cons of being a woman business owner in 2023?

“The pros of being a woman owned business [are] that there is such an incredible community out there of like-minded people who want to support you and see you succeed. I’ve met the most amazing group of women (other business owners and customers) who have become my closest friends.”

What knowledge would you share with someone who wants to become an entrepreneur?

“The knowledge I would share with someone who wants to become an entrepreneur is to have a plan, start small, stay true to yourself, and do not give up. Success does not happen overnight and even being in business since 2018, I still find myself having to pivot.”

What do you do for personal and professional development?

“For personal and professional development, I listen to podcasts, network, talk to other entrepreneurs, and read books. It’s on my list to find a mentor or business coach this year!”

Photo by Shelby Dubin/Shelby Dubin Photography

What mantra or quote do you live by?

“I show up as my authentic self and I shine.”

What’s your favorite place in Detroit or Michigan?

“Sleeping Bear Dunes/Traverse City.”

Where can our readers find you on social media?

You can follow Soul Roots Wax Co. on Facebook, Instagram, and on their website!

We hope you loved getting to know more about Shea + Soul Roots Wax Co. Be sure to check out our previous Local Love Spotlight featuring Magda + Michigan Pediatric Therapy!

From Fallacy to Advocacy: Sexual Assault Awareness Month

By
Detroit Mom
-

TW: This post contains references and experiences of sexual assault.

I vividly remember telling a friend my freshman year of college that “rape doesn’t happen here.” The worst part is that I genuinely believed that, too. I thought that the near-perfect collegiate experience I’d had up until that point was the experience of nearly everyone. With a bustling social scene and extracurriculars galore, sexual assault was something that happened “out there”–or so I thought.

My perfect fallacy of the college world I knew came crashing down one night at a party.

I had been to this house dozens of times before, but this night was different. A man I knew decently well invited me to his room for some “special” drinks–the good stuff–and I couldn’t say no to that. I knew him and his roommate who we were with, what could go wrong?

Before I knew what was happening, the roommate was gone and the door was locked. He began to kiss me, but I remember not wanting his advances. He pushed me on the bed and continued to touch and kiss, all while I continually repeated, “Stop,” and, “No.” Thankfully, after pushing hard, he did stop eventually. I worked to unlock the door, told my friends at the party, and ran to a nearby fraternity house.

I sat there, crying, explaining to my friends what had happened. How could someone who knew me do such a thing? We had to see each other regularly. Why would he do that? Why wouldn’t he stop? The questions played over and over again through my tears.

The next few days and weeks were full of denial for me. I wasn’t really intoxicated, but I began to question that. More than that, I questioned if what had happened was really assault since there was no penetration. Through months of processing, I came to realize that it was. I named it . . . I was sexually assaulted. Putting a name on it helped me enormously. Names are so incredibly powerful, and rape and sexual assault are no exception. 

I began to speak out on campus and meet other survivors of sexual assault.

Honestly, this was really scary to do because he and his friends were quite powerful–and I made enemies by doing this. I was lucky enough to get involved with advocacy work around this, even getting the opportunity to speak to the university’s president and other senior-level officials about the issue. They needed to know just how bad the problem is, so I told them with conviction.

As life continued after graduation, things got better, easier really as I healed–and as I shared my story with others. I continue to advocate for those who have been victims of sexual assault, especially gender-based violence. But, I’m not sure things will ever be the way they were before this happened to me, and I’m starting to think that maybe that’s a good thing.

Being a wife and a mother with this experience is uniquely difficult.

Sometimes, because of my assault, I jump when my husband tries to initiate sex too quickly. I want this to go away, and believe it will with continued therapy, but it’s just an instinctual reaction from that experience. 

With my children, I plan on talking to them about this experience. No part of my assault was my fault. Not the alcohol, not the mistake of going into his room, none of it. The blame is entirely on the perpetrator and they will know this. They will know how to treat people, emotionally and sexually, and they will know about consent. They will know they can tell me anything. And when the time comes, they will know that their mom was hurt in this way. It may sound overly personal to share with my children, but at what cost? 

According to RAINN, 1 out of every 6 women will experience an attempted or completed rape in their lifetime.

1 out of every 6. Let that sink in for a moment . . . If you are like I was and thinking that rape “isn’t a problem around you,” chances are, it is a problem in the lives of at least one woman you know. With April being Sexual Assault Awareness Month, I urge you to take a step in the direction of better understanding the problem of sexual assault around you. 

Here are some tangible ideas to help you take action this Sexual Assault Awareness Month:

  1. Do some research about the problem. President Biden’s 2023 proclamation on sexual assault is a great place to start.
  2. Wear teal and share a banner on your social media pages.
  3. Collaborate with your community partners to mobilize and work on concepts like consent and bystander intervention.
  4. Be ready to listen and validate a friend or family member who has experienced assault.
  5. Be a great bystander! If you see a woman looking uncomfortable in a situation, intervene. You may feel awkward, but it is far better to feel uncomfortable than to have a situation arise later where you watched and did nothing.
  6. If you’re the 1 in 6 like me, tell someone your story. You may help them name their experience and heal.

Together as a Community

Sexual assault is not a problem “out there.” It is happening in our schools, in our city, and in our communities . . . and it will continue to happen if we do nothing. This April, stand with Detroit Mom as we raise awareness and continue the conversation about sexual assault awareness. By creating an open, honest place for discussions, together we can and will help survivors of sexual assault name and heal from their experiences. 

If you or someone you know has been sexually assaulted, call the RAINN (Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network) hotline at 800-656-4673 (800-656-HOPE) or visit their website for additional resources.

You may also visit the National Sexual Violence Resource Center for many helpful resources if you are in need.

Navigating Transitions: A Mom’s Guide to Preparing Your Child For the Next Educational Step

By
Charmaine
-

Navigating transitions is one of the most nerve-wracking parts of the special needs journey. Being a mom of a special needs child can be challenging. This is especially true when it comes to the Individualized Education Plan (IEP) process.

I have been actively engaged in the IEP process for over 10 years, and I have three tips for moms to make transitions less overwhelming.

Three Tips for IEPs and Transitions

First, have all of the reports in order. This can be achieved by creating a digital binder with reports from previous IEP sessions and transition reports.

Second, organize information by looking at where your child started, where they are at, and what supports they need next.

Finally, simplify the transition process. You can do this by involving the support coordinator or other interested party. Keep the meeting as simple as possible. Also, make sure to e-mail team members with any questions you have before the meeting.

After the Transition Meeting

After the meeting, I suggest sitting on everything for 24–48 hours to ensure everything is in alignment with the child’s goals. In the video below, I invite you to get to know upcoming teachers by e-mailing them and setting up Zoom meetings.

Tips For Caring For Yourself, Too

These tips are life-sized and useful for you, especially if you’re feeling overwhelmed by the IEP transition process. It can be challenging to keep track of all the reports and goals for your child, but creating a digital binder can make it easier to access these documents. By organizing the information, moms can get a clear view of what their child needs and what supports are necessary for the next transition. You can go to Wrightslaw to learn how to create and organize your binder.

It is important to acknowledge the emotions and struggles that you’re going through while caring for your special needs child. These emotions can include anxiety, fear, and uncertainty about the future. However, make sure to take care of yourself by taking breaks and engaging in self-care activities.

In addition, remember that you are not alone in your journey. There are support groups and organizations that can provide resources, advice, and a sense of community. These groups can be found online or in-person and can help you connect and navigate this process with more ease.

These tips for moms of special needs children are practical and useful for those who are feeling overwhelmed by the IEP process. By creating a digital binder, organizing information, simplifying the process, and taking a step back, moms can reduce stress and anxiety and get a clearer perspective on what needs to be done.

Looking for more support with school? Julie shares tips for setting up a 504 plan.

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