By Marisue Alsobrook
Introduction: If we’re not in control of most of our happiness and attitude, then who is? We CAN change how we think and react to life. We CANNOT always control what life gives us. Our hope, lies in our own thoughts and actions. And always remember the quote from Abraham Lincoln, “Most people [...]

by Marisue Alsobrook
Introduction:  Do you know people who always seem to be in a good mood, no matter what?  You think “They’re lucky!  I wish I had their life!”  But, wait.  Take a closer look.  It’s not luck.  It’s choice.  Everyone has a back story. 
Learning From Your History
During my 18 years of parenting foster kids I [...]

by Marisue Alsobrook
The secret to guilt free holiday eating is in our mind and approach to mealtime.  Temptations and overeating surrounds us from Thanksgiving to New Years. Meals are brimming with mashed potatoes, turkey and yummy stuffing, sending out a powerful call to one and all. Pies, cakes and creamy fudge can leave us frighteningly full. [...]

by Marisue Alsobrook
Introduction:  Do you have someone close to you who is in grief?  Are you struggling trying to talk to those in pain? I know you want to help. Sometimes the best thing to say is nothing much.  Please avoid giving well meaning advice.  Listen.  Make comforting sounds.  Hug or don’t hug.  Be there.  [...]

Marisue says:  “Happiness seems elusive, but it’s gotta be easier than we think, or act.  It’s got to be something we have control over, because my experience has shown that if we’re waiting on someone to give it to us….we’re outta luck.  It’s about choices, and action, not re-action.  Choosing to be in a different mood [...]

“One of my pet peeves is when someone who is probably intending to give me a compliment says something like ‘You’re always so up.  Nothing ever seems to get you down, I don’t know how you do it.  You’re so lucky.’  Well, what looks like luck to them is actually another four letter word:  W O [...]

by Marisue Alsobrook 
I’ve got the blues.  What do you do when you’ve got the blues?  I’ve got a lot of ideas about what to do, but the trouble  is, when you have the blues, you don’t want to do what you should do.  
Depression
When the blues have you down, it’s hard to climb up.  The [...]

We all need stronger relationships; especially now when friends and loved ones will be needing to bond together and even share homes at times if financial disaster hits. Can you get along? Read tips about strenthening family ties.

by Marisue Alsobrook 
“It’s a new year, let’s take a fresh look at our parenting.  Do these 4 questions sound like you?

Are you wishing your home was running smoothly? 

Do you wish your children showed more respect?

Do you wish your kids talked with you?

Do you want peace in your home?

If so, all things are possible.  It can happen!  [...]

by Marisue Alsobrook 
Empty Nest 
“I don’t like that term, but that’s where I find myself.  Most of my adult life was spent learning to be a parent and now that I kind of know what I’m doing, I’m out of the job.” 
Life After Kids 
“Where are the kids?” I ask you.  Out terrorizing the neighborhood, using what [...]