A little while ago we installed one of those invisible electric dog fences for our dogs so they'll have more space to roam around and play in the yard instead of staying stuck on the couch.

Little did we know that it would be a nerve-wracking training for the dogs (and their bosses) to figure out the system.

Here's what happened. Which dog do you identify with the most?

People often ask what my kids are into and how I manage all the activities. Managing it all is a constant work in progress, but as far as current interests go, this is how it’s looking:

Number One Son: 12 years old

My family spent a full week getting excited about doing a TRi KiDS™ triathlon scheduled for a Sunday this summer. Our kids have participated in triathlons for as long as I can remember. For a big family – a triathlon day is hectic, but a lot of fun!

Over the last two years, I have seen a lot of young women battle illness – yep, that usual suspect, cancer, hard at work. As I see them struggle with their young families, businesses and work obligations, it always leaves me wondering – how would I cope? Or more to the point – how would my family cope?

Hello there. My name is Jaclyn Rubly and I’m from the Greater Seattle area. Allow me to introduce myself. I’m a freelance journalist, happily married and guess what? I’ve got 5 kids all under the age of 6! Phew…You must have known that one was coming. I’m a busy mom who works a job as a receptionist all the while my husband is a stay at home dad. We’re not your typical family, but we’re a happy one.

Does this conversation seem familiar to you?

 He Says:  She's always nagging me to do something! I work 40+ hours during the week. When I get home from a long day at work all I want to do is relax! All I get are complaints from her! It's "Why do you sit in front of that T.V. all the time?" Oh yes,we can't for get the "You love that television more than me!" I especially hate that on weekends when there's a ball game on! That's when she wants to go out and do stuff together. I ask her repeatedly to cut me some slack,but all I get is more drama! What's a guy to do?

Article first published as Kids and Concussions - Are You Ready for Some Football? on Technorati.

 I recently had the opportunity to read a book. As a busy, working mom of six, it was a rare occasion. We were at the cottage for a week and my kid had been nagging me to read her favourite novel, The Hunger Games. Surprisingly, I got really into it and had a hard time putting it down.

What It Is:  Saying ‘please’ is more than meeting social expectations; it’s the attitude of gratitude and appreciation from which your child automatically operates.

Why It’s Important:  “Please, may I . . .” is the beginning of gift giving and receiving.  It’s the request that creates the opportunity for the giver to feel good about giving.  Without these few words the whole thing feels like an entitled demand.