The OG Santa
I never thought it would happen. Christmas pictures with Santa back where it all began! Fifteen years ago, we were living in Fargo, ND with just one baby. Our daughter Jordan was 10 months old. It was her first time meeting Santa and she found him at West Acres Mall. The following year, she brought
Mashed potatoes and kindness matter
I grew up with a second family. The Balkanskys took me in when I was in eighth grade and they still haven’t let me go. I traveled with them on vacations and rolled my eyes like a belligerent teenager when they gave me unsolicited advice. Without fail, I always knew they loved me. I was
I don’t want to be Mister Rogers
I’ve changed my mind. I don’t want to be Mister Rogers when I grow up. I still have his mug on my desk and his picture on my wall, along with King Friday and Daniel Tiger. I still share the core values he lived. I still long to grow stronger in the things he was
Biking community comes through with kindness
TRAM (The Ride Across Minnesota) is a five-day bicycle ride that raises money for the National Multiple Sclerosis Society. While I love the idea of being active for a great cause, biking isn’t my thing. But it is Harvey Laabs’ thing. He’s from West Fargo, and has been crossing the North Dakota/Minnesota border for TRAM
May your mirror become a window
I was lying next to my teenage daughter last night talking about life. We chatted about moving and finding new friend groups and how some high schoolers are really kind— and how others are not. “Someday their mirrors will become windows, Mom.” she finally said. Her comment floored me. She wrapped up everything I try
Grandmother has good reason to be proud of grandson’s kindness
Have I ever mentioned I have the happiest email inbox of anyone in the world? Seriously. Who else gets messages each day telling them about all the good things going on in our communities? I love writing this column so much I would do it for free (but don’t tell my boss that)! I recently
Turn on your TV
It’s time to set your VCRs! Kindness is heading to LA, Baby! I have my outfits all picked out, now if I can only get my mouth to cooperate with my mind. I’m in Los Angeles for two TV appearances this week. On Tuesday, Nov. 12th, I’ll be on the Hallmark Channel’s Home & Family
