Real Advice. Real Life.

Straight-talk advice on marriage, parenting, work and the everyday crossroads of life. From a longtime wife, mom, and marketing VP who’s been there. Welcome.

Category: Parenting

  • Pumpkin Chip Cookies {No Butter or Oil}

    Ingredients 1 25 oz can Pumpkin 2 Spice Cake Mixes 1 cup Raisins (optional) 2 cups Oats (optional) 2 bags of GOOD Chocolate Chips (or 1 bag chocolate and 1…

  • On Learning Manners

    The Mom: So are you ready to start talking again? I’m wondering why you decided not to talk to anyone for most of the day. The 5 y.o.: Well, you…

  • Menu Plan for the Week 9/4/11 – 9/10/11

    It’s back-to-school week, featuring Phineas and Ferb bento lunches! Monday 9/4 (Labor Day)  b/ Panera Bagels w Cream Cheese l/ Cranberry Spinach Salad w Grilled Cheese Sandwiches d/ Grilled Lemon-Oregano…

  • I’m hungry, Dad. I need something to eat and I mean a BIG girl snack or I’m going to get very whiny in a minute. The 5 y.o.

  • Pizza Dough in the Bread Machine

    Ingredients 1 1/3 cups water (80 to 90 degrees F) 1 teaspoons honey or sugar 2 teaspoons sea salt 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil 3 1/4 cups bread flour…

  • On Ding Dongs

    The 9 y.o.: How badly does that woman want to win a million dollars? The Dad: Badly enough to stack 7 ding dongs on her forehead as a chocolate unicorn.…

  • On Tourism Ads

    The 9 y.o.: What is with this lame ad to visit the Gulf States? Just a minute ago the weather guy was all apocalyptic about Hurricane Katia and now all…

  • On Grandparents

    The 5 y.o.: So what was your father’s name? My grandfather? The Dad: His name IS Ian. He’s still alive, at least he was yesterday. The 5 y.o.: What about…

  • My backpack just arrived!!! It’s cute and small. Like me. Oh – and SMELL! It’s got new backpack smell inside. I can’t wait for school to start so I can…

  • On Hair Feathers

    The 12 y.o.: Do you think the hairdresser can stick a feather in my hair? The Dad (sings, badly): And call it macaroni? The Mom: Why do you want to…

Scarlett of Suburbia shares personal opinions and general life perspective for entertainment and informational purposes only. It is not professional, medical, psychological, legal, or financial advice, and no columnist-reader relationship is created by reading this site or sending a message. For serious concerns, please consult a qualified professional. Submissions may be published, edited for length or clarity, and shared anonymously.