jen austin

Have your kids been submitting a wish list for things they want for the Easter Bunny? Mine have. And it prompts me to remind them that this ain't Christmas.

It can feel a little strange making a big deal about Mother's Day if you're a single mom because you're the one coming up with the ideas and making a fuss over the day, and it's not really all that much fun to throw your own party. But single moms, you deserve a good day and there's one big reason why.

Spring baseball and softball practices are underway and the games will start soon for kids across East Texas. For many parents like me that means lots of equipment shopping, meals on the go because practices always seem to be at dinner time, and usually a really bad case of bleacher butt. But it's so much fun. There are at least 5 reasons why little league is awesome, and I bet you can add to the list.

Some of those national and world holidays get a little weird, but this one we can totally get behind! Today (March 6th) is World Oreo Day, and I'm celebrating with Oreo Balls. This recipe is the easiest thing you'll ever make, and it's awesome. And addictive.

Autocorrect happens.

Every year I text my dad to ask what he wants for Father's Day, and every year I get the same answer.  Barbecue sauce.  He's so low maintenance!  We've got some other gift ideas too, in case your pops aims a little higher.

No flowers, no brunch.  Just a gift card for my mom for Mother's Day, and it's black and white and doesn't even have any pretty decorations on it. Is this a huge Mother's Day disappointment?

Most kids have these things and they're supposed to reduce stress and help with concentration, but do they work?

There are hundreds of pets in shelters across East Texas right now, waiting for an awesome home like yours. And it's National Pets Day.

This is the worst part of pet ownership.  We've learned that Harry has major health issues and he's in noticeable pain, and we're faced with that big decision that no dog owner wants to make.  How do you talk to the kids about what's coming?

It's January and the gym parking lots are a little more crowded. It's awesome that so many people are resolving to get in better shape.  But there are some things we should work together on so we can all be good gym members, right?  Like don't wear too much perfume.

This smoothie recipe may not sound all that appetizing, but pumps me full of vitamins and gets rid of headaches.  Swear. This smoothie along with some black eyed peas on the side, and you'll be off to a good star in 2017.