Springtime signals renewal, growth, and—if you’re among the millions—an onslaught of sneezing, itchy eyes, and runny noses. If you live in the Southeastern United...

It’s often said that small changes lead to significant results — and when it comes to our diet, this couldn’t be truer. Even the humble condiments we reach for at meal times can have a surprising impact on our health. By making smarter choices, swapping out a few everyday sauces and dressings for healthier alternatives, you can support your well-being without sacrificing flavor. Try these swaps for a couple of weeks and you might just notice the difference! The Condiments to Avoid Mayonnaise: Traditional mayonnaise is often made with processed soybean oil, a refined oil high in omega-6 fats. Excess omega-6, especially without a balanced intake of omega-3s, can promote internal inflammation—something we want to avoid. If...

For over a decade, my husband and I have opened our home to foster children—17 young souls aged 3 to 17, each carrying their own stories etched in trauma. Despite the differences in their backgrounds and personalities, one thread unites them all: the deep impact of trauma, often invisible yet profoundly shaping their emotional worlds. Trauma in children can manifest in many ways—emotional turbulence, behavioral struggles, mistrust, and difficulty forming attachments. More than anything, these children need safety, stability, and grounding. But beyond meeting their basic needs, a vital part of their healing journey is learning to self-regulate emotions. This begins with what I call holding space—a practice of co-regulation, where patience, mindfulness, and empathy create...

As summer rolls in, countless Americans load up their cars, lace up their hiking boots, and head toward the open expanse of wilderness—vast landscapes of forests, deserts, lakes, and mountains that stretch beyond the horizon. These wildlands, preserved under the Wilderness Act of 1964, span more than 110 million acres, largely in the Western U.S., and remain the most strictly protected public spaces in the country. Yet, behind their serene beauty and recreational appeal lies a deeper truth: the American wilderness is not just land—it’s part of our national identity, our cultural fabric, and a cornerstone of our freedom. This truth, though long understood by environmentalists and outdoor enthusiasts, is once again being tested. In May...