Lauren
Lauren was born and raised in Columbia, South Carolina. She and her husband own a local upholstery shop called, Hot Rod's Upholstery. Lauren is a stay at home mama bear to two teenagers, a spunky little girl, and a toddler who is into everything. In a former life she was a single mom and yes her hair is naturally curly. Lauren loves binge watching Netflix and day trips to Charleston, South Carolina.
Life Is Short :: Enjoying My Kids While I Can
This past week I went to a resort in Myrtle Beach with two of my kids and my parents. One child was old enough to ride the waterslide but the other one was too little....
An Open Letter to the Mom Sitting Alone in Church
We live in the south where there is a church on just about every street corner and almost everyone you know attends one of them. It's a huge part of family life. For many, it...
Family-Fun Day Trip :: Richardson’s Lake Water Park and Outdoor Recreation Area
On a scorching hot Tuesday last July, my kids and I decided to head out of town and take a day trip to Richardson's Lake Water Park and Outdoor Recreation Area. We had a blast! Located...
Confessions of a Business Owner’s Wife
Owning a business isn't always easy. Often times the media portrays business owners as rich, driving fancy cars and going on lavish vacations. While this may be true for some folks, it can be...
The Afternoon My Son Went Missing
Moms aren't perfect ... and even better yet PEOPLE aren't perfect. The mom shaming and people shaming on social media over the past few weeks is disheartening. I feel shocked and embarrassed at some of the comments...
How I Became a Rainbow Mom: A Story of Open Hearts and Second Chances
I just knew something wasn't right.
In March 2013 I took a home pregnancy test that came back positive. My boyfriend and I had been dating for a few months, I was working full time...
40 Fun Spring Break Activities in Columbia
Spring break is right around the corner! If you're planning on staying in town like a lot of folks, there is still plenty to do and see right here in the Midlands to combat...
Toddlerhood :: Testing the Limits
I have an 11-year-old and a 22-month-old. Somehow, during the nine years between having my son and daughter, I forgot how challenging toddlerhood is.
Just this morning my toddler climbed on the kitchen table, poured a...
5 Things You Need to Know Before Taking Your Kids to a Political Rally
I love politics. When I attended the University of South Carolina, Political Science was my minor. I like to think back and reflect on how my political views have drastically changed since I was in my...
30 Non-Candy Valentine’s Gift Ideas for Kids!
Valentine's Day is rapidly approaching, which means more candy coming my kids' way. After Halloween and Christmas, I am sick of having so many sweets around the house.
As a mother, I am trying to...
How Boy Scouts Helped My Child With ADHD
My son was diagnosed with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) when he was in kindergarten. Looking back, I wish I would have explored other holistic routes first rather than choosing medication. As a young, 20-year-old...
How to Help Someone Through a Loss Anniversary Date
Losing a loved one is never easy. Losing a sibling, especially at a young age, is even harder.
My sister, Brittany, passed away January 30, 2006 at the age of 15 from Epilepsy. I had just turned...
The BEST Hot Chocolate in Columbia
Brr! It's cold outside. I have fond childhood memories of playing outside in the snow with my sisters and coming inside to a mug of hot chocolate. But it's not just for kids. On...
Why I Talk to My White Children About Martin Luther King Jr.
I am a millennial. Martin Luther King Jr. died twenty years before my generation even began. His impact wasn't something I, or anyone my age, knew firsthand. We didn't experience it for ourselves. And where I grew...