Tag Archives: jennifer duval

“My mother-in-law is a complete nightmare,” said my friend for the fifth time in the same conversation. In response, I gave a sympathetic smile and a few words of encouragement, and then thought about my mother-in-law. The “monster-in-law” sentiment can be an all-too-common scenario for many, and I feel fortunate …

My 7-year-old daughter loves art. She’s very good at it and art has always been something that she enjoys. On the other hand, I get hives just thinking about doing anything artistic or creative. I just don’t have it in me. I’m not good at it and the mess that …

While in college, I worked as a counselor for at-risk children and teens. I worked at a middle school, which after school hours, served as a safe zone for children and teenagers who lived in the city’s high-crime areas. It has been nearly 20 years since I worked at this …

According to a recent New York Times article, flossing may be overrated. The article explained that while the American Dental Association says that flossing is essential, The Academy of Periodontology acknowledged that evidence falls short, which caused a stir and garnered a lot of attention on social media outlets. I …

Last Saturday, several Reno Moms Blog contributors, along with their kiddos, spent the morning at Urban Roots. Founded on the idea that food is a powerful tool for academic and sustainable agriculture instruction, Urban Roots provides school and farm-based opportunities for teachers, students, families, and future farmers. We spent time …

A few weeks ago, my very animated, unfiltered 6 year-old son told me that he didn’t want to talk to his friend at summer camp anymore because he had stinky breath. After explaining to him that many people have stinky breath when they wake up in the morning, eat lots …

July 4 marked my 20 year anniversary of living in Nevada. I have officially lived half of my life at the base of the Sierra Nevada Mountains, yet it wasn’t until this year – about one week ago – that I considered Nevada home. I came to Nevada to attend …

As part of my job, I coach senior executives and leaders on how to be effective communicators. From basic communication skills to more critical, complex skills that ensure leaders are communicating in an effective, efficient way that that drives positive measurable business performance, I cover the gamut. Communication includes all …

Did you know that gnashing and grinding teeth, also called bruxism, is a common habit among children? In a study of patients younger than 17 years old the prevalence of bruxism was found to be about 38 percent and most common among pediatric dental patients. While bruxism may occur when …

During spring break, my youngest son lost his very first tooth. Saying good-bye to his first baby tooth left him nervous and excited at the same time. His experience made me think about the transition from baby to adult teeth. Are baby teeth really that important? Do I need to …