Stop saying these homophobic slurs and help break the chain of hurtful speech.

In a vulnerable time like this, communication is incredibly important. Our kids are relying on us more than ever for education, and social development. So, how do we avoid unintentionally hurtful words and teachings that we ourselves may have learned by accident? Linguistically speaking these terms and phrases can be considered a “pathogen”—they’re “Word Germs.”

Perhaps you can recall a time when a parent or grandparent taught you a word or spoke aloud an idea that was offensive to you, or to people you cared about. You, when you decided not to repeat it, were the first link that broke that instructional chain of thinking and speaking. 

After surveying an NYC-based LGBT & Ally Performer network, we have come up with 10 commonly used words and homophobic slurs that you may not have known were offensive to the LGBTQ+ community and some alternative options that will promote our children to grow up to be compassionate and intelligent advocates for justice in their classrooms, social circles and future homes. 

“No, that’s for girls/boys.”

that's a girl toy is one of the homphobic words to stop saying
Robo Wunderkind via Unsplash

Kids are naturally curious and like to try out all different kinds of playtime activities as well as clothing options. Playing house, playing with trucks, or building LEGO sets are formative activities for young kids of any gender. Additionally, playtime, for households with multiple children, is a social activity. It’s not rare or wrong for a brother and sister to play cars, dolls, or dress-up pretend games together, so why do we enforce separation when it comes to other activities?

For example, when your son wants to try makeup or wants his nails painted, it can simply be because activities such as those are calming and involve spending quality time with you, or perhaps an older sibling. When a young girl plays with tools or has an interest in mechanics/building, not only are those creative activities the foundation for important skills she will need as an adult but are also a bonding activity for her and a parent and/or sibling. Though these activities aren't indicators that your child will grow into an LGBTQ+ adult, your reaction will be remembered if they begin having questions about their gender and sexuality, so responding positively and openly will set a trusting foundation for your relationship when they need your help finding those answers later in life. Celebrating your child’s curiosity will ultimately bring you closer together.  

“He’s a little ladies’ man/She’s going to give her Daddy trouble when she’s older.”

happy baby
Jason Sung via Unsplash

It's a known fact: babies are cute. And it's exciting to see their personalities take form. When babies/toddlers are social and bubbly, sometimes adults will remark in a way that indicates when they grow up, they’ll have plenty of romantic attention. Comments like this could potentially make your child fear making gestures of affection, particularly in front of you or other adults, in case they would be ridiculed or embarrassed. It also establishes an expectation that in adulthood, your child will be heterosexual.

Maybe you can recall having a “kindergarten boyfriend/girlfriend” who waved at you at pick-up or held your hand on the playground. These sorts of gestures of friendship and closeness among young kids should be encouraged. It teaches kids to be honest about their feelings and establishes a place in their life for kind gestures and affection, rather than concealment of emotions and violent outbursts.

These types of comments can also set a tone that same-sex relationships or the need for physical comforts such as hugs or hand-holding outside of a romantic relationship are "strange" or “abnormal.” Instead, it's important to encourage your children to be openly kind to their friends and classmates, without jokingly hinting that something else lies beneath those actions.   

"Be more ladylike."

Kenny Eliason via Unsplash

Whether she was climbing a tree or sitting bowlegged in a chair, every single girl has heard this phrase at least once growing up. This saying is damaging to every girl, establishing limitations on what girls can and cannot do. In the same way that "no, that's for boys" discourages girls from exploring interests in male-dominated fields, "act like a lady" teaches girls to consider themselves an "other" to boys, even something less than boys. While, of course, we want to teach children manners, how to be polite, to say "please" and "thank you," and to treat everyone with kindness and respect, comments like this make girls resent being born as girls.

It also assumes that a child's sex and gender match one another. Jo March from Little Women, the "blueprint" for how we view tomboyism, often remarked that she was "the man" of the family, cutting her hair short, wearing trousers, and refusing to do "girly" things like needlepoint or flirt with boys. She, like many young girls, rebels against conventional expectations of girlhood/womanhood. So, it's unsurprising that theorists have wondered whether Jo was gay or transgender. Allowing girls to breathe a bit as they develop, leaving room for any activities regardless of her sex will help her in expressing her gender identity later in life.

 

Related: 5 Trivia Questions for Pride Month

“You’re so brave for being out.”

be an LGBTQ ally by erasing these homophobic slurs out of your vocabulary
Anna Selle via Unsplash

While it comes from a place of kindness, and of understanding that there are plenty of people who are still intolerant of the LGBTQ+ community, telling a gay person "you're so brave" reinforces that being gay is an abnormality. Not every gay person is completely out, some are only out to friends or friends and a portion of their family. You may have heard "but I haven't told my uncle" or "but I'm never telling my Nona." This homophobic slur subtly assumes that a gay person wants to talk about their struggle to openly accept their sexuality. Saying instead, "I'm here for you if you need to talk (coming out, your intolerant relatives, being bullied at school, feeling confused, etc.)" establishes that you're an ally, and they're in control of when they bring up potentially traumatic events. You could also say, "I'm happy that you're so happy," or "I'm glad you've found your significant other."

“I’m not gay but.../I'm no homo...” 

two dads on how to Be an LGBTQ ally
iStock

We'd love to say the reminder is unnecessary, but we'll say it anyway: stop saying this homophobic slur or any variation of it. Whether you think Lupita Nyong'o is beautiful or you love spending time with your best friend, you don't have to reaffirm the admiration of a celebrity or the strength of your love as platonic. This is another phrase that alienates LGBTQ+ people, making it seem as though gay people are abnormal, and there's a necessity to keep reaffirming you do not belong to that group. It makes it seem as though there is some fear attached to being mistaken for gay as if there is some punishment that may be involved. It's much easier to simply say "I'm really happy we're friends" or "I love the time we spend together" to someone you care about without adding the addendum at the end.

“I have a great gaydar.”

LGBTQ ally at a pride parade
Josè Maria Sava via Unsplash

We've all heard some version of it: "I always knew ____ was gay!" or, "With style like that, it was obvious!" or to the opposite effect, "But you don't look like a lesbian?" Employing your "gaydar" assumes that there is one single way of being gay. When in fact, gay people and their experiences are just as diverse as anyone else. It also gives gay people a reputation for being "sneaky" as if being in the closet is an act to fool or trick people, but those with "gaydar" are more adept at seeking out the lie. Instead of telling your friend/child/family member that you always knew they were gay, try saying "That's great!" Or if they tell you they're transgender or nonbinary, ask questions like "What does that mean for us going forward?" and "Do you have a new name or pronouns?" and "How can I best support you in this?" Showing you're listening and you care is the most crucial step in making the person you care about feel loved and accepted.

“But, are you sure? Have you ever dated a (person of the opposite sex)?”

learn how to be a good LGBTQ ally
Masha S. via Unsplash

Even members of the LGBT+ community are guilty of this one. It's natural to be curious about how someone came into their sexuality, but ultimately it's not your business. Often times gay and transgender folks experience "internalized homophobia" where, it's difficult not to listen to the voices of bullies, politicians, clergy members, and even characters on television, who tell them they're "looking for attention" or "just haven't found the right person" or "can't possibly know unless they tried." You wouldn't ask a straight person how they knew they were straight if they'd never been in a same-sex relationship, so why the curiosity when it comes to gay people?

“I don’t mind what you are but, you’ll always be my little boy/girl to me.”

homophobic slurs to stop using today
Brian Kyed via Unsplash

It's understandable that a change such as your child's gender can be shocking. Especially when discussions of reassignment surgery, hormone therapy and legal measures (regarding name, insurance, official documents, etc.) follow. Fond memories of watching your child grow up will potentially feel like a "Before" and "After" and perhaps, your child will not remember those precious moments with the same fondness, as they will remember them as a time of closeted-ness. It is so crucial in helping your child to feel accepted for who they are, to let go of the "Before" and "After" mentality. Talking openly about your concerns, and listening to theirs will help you better understand each other's needs. Sometimes decisions about how best your child can live their life happily as their preferred gender will require several conversations and lots of research. Tackle those moments of doubt by listening to what your child needs. Help them find an LGBTQ+ network, and as their parent, talk to adults who went through the same thing at their age, and what they needed/wish they had, as far as parental support.

“That’s gay.”

Raphael Renter via Unsplash

This phrase has somewhat fallen out of fashion in the last ten years but it still comes up, particularly around the adolescent schoolyard. The sentiment is simple: all things stupid, inconvenient, weird, loud, gross, tedious, annoying, and so forth, are branded "gay" instead. With a vocabulary so rich and diverse with words that describe the things that irritate us, why continue to choose the word gay at all? It reinforces the notion that there's something inherently wrong with being gay. If you hear it said by someone you know or even someone you don't, it's easy to correct, "Did you mean (new word)?" or "Gay isn't a synonym for (new word)." Setting an example for your kids in this way, when they hear these pathogen-like phrases (especially when they're uttered by others in your presence), will help them not only learn not to say these things but also why it's important not to.

The “Reclaimed Slur”: “Fairy,” “Queen,” “Queer,” “Dyke,” “Faggot,” “Tranny,” “Cross-Dresser” 

homophobic slurs to quit using against the LGBTQ community
iStock

This last one is a little trickier than the others. Sometimes, you will hear members of the LGBT+ community use terms that seem offensive, or you've heard them used offensively before. There isn't one single opinion from the community about these terms. Some people find it liberating to use words that were once meant to damage them as a signifier of pride or self-love. Others prefer to leave homophobic slurs in the past. However, at one point in history, the words "Gay" and "Lesbian" were also slurs, so it's difficult to come down decidedly on one side of the argument or the other.

Ultimately, “slurs” can only be reclaimed by the parties they were originally used to bully. Even if you hear someone call themselves an offensive word, it does not mean they’ve permitted you to use that word to describe them as well. Communicate with your child, friend, or family member, and ask them how you should refer to them—there’s almost always a straightforward answer. Whether it be “Sometimes I call myself a dyke, but please call me a lesbian in conversation” or “I’m gay, but I also use the word queer, so you may too when talking about me.” 

As with any marginalized group, the best thing you can do to support the LGBT+ community is to listen to and amplify their voices whenever/wherever you can. Educating yourself is the first step to becoming an LGBTQ ally to those you care about.

Related: 14 Inspiring LGBTQ Books for Kids

Scientists, chefs, activists, dancers, and poets—our Bay Area history is full of inspiring women you’ll want to learn all about!

The Bay Area wouldn’t be the place of innovation, creativity and activism that it is today were it not for many of our trailblazing women. Keep reading to celebrate their accomplishments which have transformed the Bay Area and motivate your little trailblazers to set out on their own quest for a better world! 

Maya Angelou

Creative Commons

Renaissance Woman, 1928-2014

Chalking up dozens of awards and over 50 honorary degrees, Maya Angelou has worn many hats—from nightclub performer and Porgy and Bess cast member to fry cook, sex worker, and Civil Rights activist. She is best known for her written work—particularly her poetry and her memoirs spanning a series of seven autobiographies, including I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings. Before Amanda Gorman there was Maya Angelou, who became the first female inaugural poet in 1993.

Interesting fact: In 1944, after dropping out of San Francisco’s George Washington High at 16, Maya Angelou set her sights on becoming a cable car operator. She wanted the job because she admired the uniforms, but at first she was refused an application. She sat in the company offices every day for two weeks until she was hired, becoming one of the first Black cable car operators in San Francisco.

Juana Briones

Founding Mother, 1802-1889

Often referred to as “The Founding Mother of San Francisco,” Juana Briones was born near Santa Cruz, of mixed Spanish and African descent. Many of her family members arrived in Alta California with the de Anza and de Portola expeditions. Briones, a midwife, herbal medicine healer, and successful entrepreneur, gave birth to 11 children and adopted one. In 1844 she was granted a clerical separation (almost unheard of at the time) from her physically abusive and alcoholic husband. The same year she purchased the 4,400 acre Rancho La Purisma Concepcion in present day Palo Alto and Los Altos Hills. Through the late 1850s and 1860s she successfully fought in court to retain the title to her land in San Francisco and Santa Clara Counties.

Interesting fact: Juana Briones was killed in a cow stampede in the then city of Mayfield, now part of Palo Alto. There is an elementary school and park named for her in Palo Alto.

Charlotte L. Brown

Wikimedia Commons

Justice Seeker, 1839-?

Before Rosa Parks there was Charlotte L. Brown. She was the plaintiff in one of the earliest civil rights cases in California after being forcibly removed from a whites only horse-drawn streetcar near her home on Filbert Street in San Francisco in 1863. Brown won her case and was awarded $25, and later in criminal court the conductor was convicted of assault and battery against her. Only three days after the first trial she was ejected from a streetcar again, and once more filed suit against them, winning again. The Black-owned newspaper, the Pacific Appeal, noted at the time that the verdict “establishes the right, by law, of colored persons to ride in such conveyances.” Charlotte L. Brown’s case paved the way for similar cases that challenged the segregationist policies of private streetcar companies, culminating in an 1893 ruling officially outlawing segregation on state streetcars. The case was one of the first of several brought by Black activists in the U.S. against segregation and exclusion in the 19th and 20th centuries.

Interesting fact: Brown’s father was born enslaved and her mother, a free seamstress, purchased his freedom. They lived as Free People of Color in Baltimore in 1850, before moving to San Francisco and becoming part of the city’s burgeoning Black middle class.

Dominique Crenn

Creative Commons

Lyrical Chef, 1965-

Dominique Crenn elevated the San Francisco dining scene to the world stage after becoming the first female chef in the United States to earn three Michelin stars at her eponymous restaurant, Atelier Crenn. Lines of poetry literally accompany each course and her exquisite food is presented like an elaborate work of art. Her one Michelin-starred wine bar, Bar Crenn, is also a red hot attraction. Known for her creative modernist menus as well as her uncompromising vision, she is acclaimed as a chef and a business leader. 

Interesting fact: Crenn is engaged to Coyote Ugly and NCIS star, Maria Bello.

Isadora Duncan 

Creative Commons

Innovative Dancer, 1877-1927

Isadora Duncan, the “Mother of Modern Dance,” brought her unique free-spirited and untrained style to the field of ballet. Her ideas spread across the U.S. to Europe and the Soviet Union, and helped bring about modern expressive dance. Duncan was born in San Francisco and raised in Oakland, which is where she met Florence Treadwell Boynton. Boynton created a home and dance school in the Berkeley Hills that reflected Duncan’s dance style which was influenced by Greek art and sculpture with dances in flowing tunics. This Greek collonaded “Temple of Wings” helped solidify Berkeley’s turn-of-the-century reputation as the Athens of the West.

Interesting fact: Not only was Isadora Duncan one of the most innovative and internationally renowned dancers of her time, she also leaves behind the lesson not to wear a long scarf while riding in a car. She was strangled after it became entangled in the rear wheels.

Dian Fossey 

Creative Commons

Gutsy Naturalist, 1932-1985

San Francisco-born Dian Fossey attended U.C. Davis and San Jose City College before travelling to Rwanda where she spent 18 years studying the endangered mountain gorilla. Her “war on poaching” is generally credited with reversing the downward trend in the animal population, which reached a low of 250 in 1981. In the process she made a lot of enemies and was found brutally murdered in her cabin in 1985. Fossey made huge contributions to the study of mountain gorilla behavior and a movie was made based on her best selling autobiography, Gorillas in the Mist.

Kamala Harris

Vice President of the United States, 1964-

Born in Oakland, Kamala Harris served the people of California for many years as Attorney General for the state of California (2011-2017) and U.S. Senator (2017-2021). In 2021 she was inaugurated as vice president.  She is the United States' first female vice president, the highest-ranking female official in U.S. history, and the first Black and first Asian American vice president. After securing her historic win for Vice President of the United States, Kamala Harris heralded, “I may be the first woman to hold this office. But I won’t be the last.” 

Louise Lawrence

Consciousness Raiser, 1912-1976

After marrying twice and spending the first 30 years of her life as a low key young man named “Lew,” Louise Lawrence was finally able to fully embrace who she was on the inside and moved from Berkeley to San Francisco to begin living full time as a woman. She placed personal ads and regularly scanned the newspapers for cross dressing arrests in order to find other trans and gender non-conforming people.

Lawrence started assisting at the U.C.S.F. Langley Porter Clinic and lectured to the doctors there in order to convince them not to classify being transgender as a mental disorder. Her work at U.C.S.F. put her in touch with Dr. Alfred Kinsey in 1948 who had recently released his book, Sexual Behavior in the Human Male. By then, Louise Lawrence had amassed a network of nearly 200 trans people across the United States and decided to share their stories with Kinsey. She felt that gender variance was missing from his first book, and she directly facilitated its inclusion in his follow-up works. Without Lawrence’s efforts it likely would have been left out.

Interesting Fact: Louise Lawrence housed strangers travelling cross country to San Francisco to undergo gender confirmation surgery and also counseled them.

Julia Morgan 

Creative Commons

Prolific Architect, 1872-1957

After graduating from Oakland High School and then U.C. Berkeley near the turn of the twentieth century, Julia Morgan became the first woman admitted to a prestigious architectural program in Paris, and in 1904 the first woman in California licensed to practice architecture. A project assigned to her by Phoebe Hearst to improve one of her estates led to a meeting with her son, newspaper magnate William Randolph Hearst, and her most famous commission—Hearst Castle.

She was one of the leaders in the Bay Area Arts and Crafts Movement and her buildings can be found all over the Bay Area, including the Berkeley Women’s City Club; several buildings at U.C. Berkeley including the Hearst Greek Theater and the Women’s Gymnasium; six buildings at Mills College including El Campanil, the Margaret Carnegie Library, and the Student Union; the Julia Morgan Ballroom at the Merchants Exchange Building; numerous YMCAs; and the redesign of San Francisco’s Fairmont Hotel. In the course of her career, she designed more than 700 buildings, and in 2014 she became the first woman awarded the AIA Gold Medal for Architecture.

Isa Noyola

Wikimedia Commons

Trans Crusader, 1978-

Bay Area-raised Isa Noyola, is a Latina transgender activist and deputy director of the Transgender Law Center, the largest transgender-led civil rights organization in America. She organized the first national anti-trans violence protest in 2015, with over 100 activists—particularly trans women of color—protesting the violence trans communities face. Noyola also founded and serves as a national advocate for El/La Para Translatinas which seeks to improve the quality of life for TransLatinas in the Bay Area. She is a tireless activist in the LGBT immigration rights movement, advocating for transgender women being detained at ICE detention centers.

Amy Tan

Wikimedia Commons

Heritage-Inspired Writer, 1952-

Oakland-born Amy Tan, author of The Bonesetter’s Daughter, The Kitchen God’s Wife, and most famously her best-selling novel, The Joy Luck Club, was often inspired by her mother’s stories of growing up in China. The Joy Luck Club became the most prominent example of Asian Americans on screen for a quarter century. (This writer saw a scene from the movie adaptation being filmed at U.C. Berkeley.) 

Interesting fact: While pursuing a doctorate in linguistics at U.C. Berkeley, Tan’s best friend and roommate was murdered. She was asked to identify the body, and the shock of it all left her temporarily mute and prompted her to leave school and become a speech therapist for children.

 

 

Whether you are limiting trips to the grocery store, trying to turn over a new (salad) leaf for your family in 2022 or are just pressed for time, you’re not alone. Planning, cooking and even buying healthy meals is time consuming, especially when unexpected curveballs get thrown at you (school closures much?). Fortunately, Seattle is chock full of meal delivery services, preparing fresh and healthy kid-friendly dinners and delivering them straight to your home. Read on to make feeing your fam simple.

seattle meal delivery service, premade meals
Westerly via yelp

Westerly

This weekly meal delivery service will help your family eat healthy with their Wellness or Plant-Based Menu. They locally source, prepare and deliver your fully-cooked meals. All you have to do is heat them up, set the table (you've got two minutes) then enjoy them with the kids. Choose to have three, four or five meals for the week. The menu rotates weekly, and you'll find lots of creative choices with each new listing.

Cost: $105-$155/week
Online: westerlykitchen.com

 

Seattle meal delivery service, premade meals
Homegrown Goods

The Speedy Dish

Adding chef-created, semi-prepared meals to your dinner rotation is easy with The Speedy Dish. Chef Michaela Skloven, a Ballard mom and Queen Anne mom, Erin, understand the ups and downs parents are facing right now. If you live in Queen Anne, Ballard or Magnolia, you can take advantage of this easy to prep meal kit that gets delivered straight to your home. Each Speedy Meal Kit serves two so you can easily build your family's meal plan, and takes about 20 minutes to get it on the table. The Speedy Dish also delivers ready-to-enjoy meals (think tamales and pot hand pies) alongside prepared proteins, sides, wraps and salads. 

Cost: $9-$28/meal
Online: thespeedydish.com

Seattle meal delivery service
courtesy ACME Farms Kitchen

ACME Farms + Kitchen

Joy Rubey, mom and founder, started ACME Farms + Kitchen in 2011 with a simple mission–to make access to local food easier. As a busy working mom of toddlers, she found herself searching for a simple way to get clean, local food at home, without having to haul little ones around.

Signing up for an ACME box is as easy as clicking a button and choosing a curated box that's right for your family. It's hard to go wrong with the Family Classics Box or Kid's Box, that'll get your hungry crew through breakfast, lunch and dinner. There are also options for those who are gluten- and dairy-free, vegan or veg. Each box is fully customizable and you can set delivery to meet your needs: once only, weekly, monthly and more. Inside each box you'll find everything you need to make your meals, including pre-made sauces and portioned seasonings, as well as pantry items like chicken broth and coconut milk. Orders are submitted by Wednesday at midnight and delivered the next Wednesday or Thursday, depending on where you live. Each meal serves 4-6.

Cost: $7-$12/serving
Online: theacmebox.com

seattle meal delivery service
courtesy Fresh N Lean

Fresh N Lean

It doesn’t get much easier to eat healthy than this. Breakfast, lunch, dinner meals and even in-between-meal snacks are catered to match your diet plan whether you are looking for nutrient dense meals, gluten-free meals, keto, Paleo or vegan. Non-GMO meals are never frozen. Meals arrive at your home fresh and in an insulated box. Just unpack them and place them in the fridge. They heat up in the microwave in just three minutes. Their meals are open to all ages and many families enjoy their plans. When ordering, please be cautious about any allergies your child may have.

Cost: $11/meal
Online: freshnlean.com

seattle meal delivery service
courtesy The Custom Plate

The Custom Plate

A car crash in 2011 started the odyssey that brought Dean and Tamara Hobson from losing everything back to solvency and health. What started as a local food delivery service for about 30 neighborhood families has grown into a citywide meal delivery and catering business focused on nourishing people. Weekly breakfast, lunch and dinner options rotate and deliveries are made twice a week on Mondays and Fridays. Be sure to order by 3 p.m. on Thursday for Monday delivery, and by the same time on Tuesday for a Friday delivery. Food is delivered fully cooked, and ready to eat once you reheat it, and it gets dropped in the personal cooler you set out on your front porch (don’t forget the ice packs!). You won’t find a lot of carbs or grains in these meals, just a whole lot of meats and veggies, calibrated for optimal nutrition. Specialized meal programs are also available if you’re looking for help with Keto, Whole 30, cleanses and more.

Cost: $9-$16/meal
Online: thecustomplate.com

seattle meal delivery service
courtesy Pick Me Up

Pick Me Up

If there’s one thing busy parents understand, it’s other busy parents who are trying to balance kids, school, work and childcare. When Seattle parents, Rachael and Phil encountered this eternal problem, they came up with a solution. They took Phil’s skills as a chef and Rachael’s as an organizer to create Pick Me Up, the chef-prepared meal service that lets Seattle and Eastside parents get dinner delivered to their homes or to a daycare partner. The system is streamlined through an app. All you have to do is set up an account, select your meals and portion size, heat and enjoy. Meals rotate weekly and each day has a couple of options to choose from; we love the kids meal variations offered for each too. From there, families can either choose to pick their meal up at a participating daycare or have it delivered to their doorstep, packed and chilled between noon and 5 p.m. the next day (order cut off is 10 p.m. the day before). While the kiddos set the table, you heat up the meal. Voila, dinner is served!

Good to know: When you set up the app, use the code 1111 for home delivery.

Cost: $23-$42/meal
Online: pickmeupseattle.com

seattle meal delivery service
courtesy FreshMeal

FreshMeal

What started as a meal delivery service catering to people with specific fitness goals in 2016 has transformed into a healthy meal service delivering to nearly 80 different zip codes around Seattle. FreshMeal dinners are created for anyone who wants to get on a healthier diet and start eating fresh, never frozen meals. The meals are cooked by professional chefs out of their local commercial kitchen in the International District using fresh, locally sourced ingredients. To get started simply order your meals anytime before Thursday at 10 p.m. Then the FreshMeal team gets to work sourcing ingredients and cooking your meal just before delivering it on Sundays. It’s ready to be placed in your fridge to keep you fed for the week.

Cost: $12-$13/meal + $7 delivery fee
Online: freshmeal.com

Seattle meal delivery service
courtesy Maven Meals

Maven Meals

It was a bout of chicken pox a long time ago that led Maven Meals owner, Heidi Finley, to find her passion—food. Ever since she’s been studying nutrition, sustainable business and restaurant management to create flavorful, healthy meals for people who are too busy to cook them themselves. There’s no need to subscribe or meet a minimum order requirement here. With Maven Meals you simply place your food order Sunday by midnight, and Maven Meals delivers it on ice in an insulated cooler sometime between Monday and Wednesday of that week (delivery day depends on your zip code). They deliver as far north as Edmonds and as far south as Lakewood, as well as to the Eastside. A new menu is posted every Monday and it always comes with suggested pairings for entrees, and the ability to filter for food specificity (think: vegan, gluten-free, egg-free, etc.) so you know exactly what’s available to you. The best part? Everything is ready to eat with a quick reheat or as-is, with the exception of some fish dishes that take a minimal amount of cooking.

Cost: $9-$10/meal + $5 delivery fee
Online: mavenmeals.com

The Fresh Chef
courtesy Fresh Chef Seattle

The Fresh Chef

Chef Virginia Blashill runs a "virtual restaurant," delivering restaurant-quality meals to busy families, without the hassle of a brick and mortar building. It's a great option for those of us who crave home-cooked meals, but lack the time to make them. Head to the website to choose meals from the menu that rotates weekly. Orders are placed by Sunday for delivery Tuesday or Wednesday, depending on your delivery zone. Meals are delivered fresh not frozen, so this is a great heat-and-eat option, no cooking on your part. Each is made from scratch in small batches, using local suppliers whenever possible. You can choose from entrees, soups, salads and desserts that are customizable to your crew. Choose regular portion sizes for hungry adults (they're quite generous) and smaller ones for kids. Keep in mind each entrée typically comes with two sides so you can customize meals in this way too. There are also low-carb, gluten- and dairy-free options available, but all foods are prepared in the same kitchen.

Cost: $9-$15/entree
Online: freshchefseattle.com

Freshly
courtesy Freshly

Freshly

Freshly is a weekly subscription service delivering fresh (not frozen), chef-cooked meals that can be heated and served in three minutes. Unlike meal kits, all you need is a microwave, fork and plate (optional!) to get a satisfying lunch or dinner on the table. Think “nutritionist meets personal chef” vs. TV dinner when it comes to quality and flavor. With a food philosophy centered on less sugar, less processed and more nutrients, the menu features better-for-you versions of comfort foods with smart ingredient swaps. For example, Chicken Parm is coated in almond flour vs. bread crumbs and topped with marinara sauce sweetened with honey instead of refined sugars; Mac and Cheese is made with brown rice pasta and cheesy sauce blended with a purée of cauliflower and butternut squash; and Turkey Meatballs are packed with mushrooms and served over zoodles for a lower-carb alternative to pasta.

Cost: $9-$12/meal
Online: freshly.com

Yumble

If dinner for your crew in two minutes or less sounds like a plan, check out Yumble's nutritious, ready-to-eat meals just for kids. They keep picky eaters in mind when they plan their menu, and meals come shipped in sustainably packaged boxes where you'll also find cute kid perks like stickers and activity sheets we know your kids will love. Yumble's lunches, dinners and snacks balance nutrition with flavor, so you can count on lots of fresh veggies and fruits in every meal. Simply choose your meal plan (four, six, eight or 12 per week), then wait for dinner to arrive at your door.

Cost: $6-$10/meal 
Online: yumblekids.com

meal delivery services in Atlanta
courtesy Martha Stewart & Marely Spoon

Martha Stewart & Marley Spoon

This cook-at-home food delivery service partnered with Martha Stewart to help harried families discover their inner Martha. The menu features 22 choices every week and the website tags meals as family-friendly, under-30 minutes, gluten-free and other categories. Favorites include: chicken fajita bowl, bacon-wrapped skillet meatloaf and lemon-brown butter salmon. The website provides big, colorful step-by-step photos for careless cooks and kids who want to help.

Cost: Starting at $7/portion + $9 shipping
Online: marleyspoon.com

Gobble

Say goodbye to grocery shopping, meal planning and prep, and all that cleanup! Gobble shops, chops and delivers gourmet three-step recipes for one-pan cooking with zero prep required. How about picky eaters? Try Pan-Seared Sirloin Steak with Roasted Fingerling Potatoes & Béarnaise Sauce or Crispy Chicken Sandwich & Napa Cabbage Slaw with Caraway Vinaigrette. What have you got to lose when it's just a one-pan cleanup?

Cost: Starting at $12/serving
Online: gobble.com

meal delivery services in chicago
courtesy Blue Apron

Blue Apron

Blue Apron has been part of the meal delivery game for a long time and their expertise shows. Choose among two-serving, four-serving, wellness and vegetarian menus to pick the options that are right for you. We love that the meals typically take 40 minutes or less and include kid-friendly ingredients like baked chicken and pasta while exposing kids to different flavors like curry and chile-lime. With super easy-to-follow recipes, you can definitely get the kids involved in the cooking process.

Cost: $9/serving + $10/shipping
Online: blueapron.com

Home Chef

Home Chef meal kits offer fresh, pre-portioned ingredients and easy-to-follow recipes delivered weekly. With a variety 19 different recipes that rotate on a weekly basis, most recipes include a "Customize It" option to accommodate any dietary needs or preferences. Skip a week any time you'd like, the meals are convenient and kid-friendly. The 15-minute meal kits include options like Honey Garlic Chicken with Broccoli and Carrots. Or, opt for more sophisticated meals from the culinary collection like Steak and Garlic Thyme Butter with balsamic Brussels Sprouts and Parmesan Twists.

Cost: Starting at $7/serving
Online: homechef.com

Hello Fresh
courtesy Hello Fresh

HelloFresh

The goal of HelloFresh is to bring the fun of cooking back into people’s lives by doing all the planning, portioning and shopping for in-season, sustainably-sourced, healthy and flavorful ingredients. HelloFresh prides itself on its delicious recipes with quick cook times; all your chopping, zesting and sautéeing will take less than 30 minutes. Family-friendly meals include Tomato Tortellini Bake, Ginger Plum Chicken and Pork Chops with Apple Rosemary Pan Sauce.

Cost: $9/serving
Online: hellofresh.com

Dinnerly

If your goal is to get a wholesome, easy meal on the table for your family, then Dinnerly is the meal delivery option for you. Each week Dinnerly customers choose from over a dozen options which change each week. The choices are totally kid-friendly with options like sweet and sour Swedish meatballs, turkey burgers and enchiladas. Each meal has only five prep steps and takes less than 30 minutes to get on the table, perfect for rushed weeknight dinners. Not interested in getting your box this week? No problem! You can skip any time.

Cost: Starting at $5/person
Onlinedinnerly.com

Green Chef
courtesy Green Chef

Green Chef

Healthy eating at home is the name of the game with Green Chef. Choose from three plans: Keto + Paleo, Balanced Living and Plant-Powered. Set up your deliveries to come weekly or less frequently if you prefer. Menus change every week and you'll enjoy options like Steak & Cheddar Melts, Salmon with Creamy Chimichurri, and Creamy Baked Penne Pasta.

Cost: $12-$13/serving + $10 shipping
Online: greenchef.com

Veestro

How about 100% plant-based, organic, non-GMO, chef-prepared entrees, soups, and juices that just show up at your front door whenever you want them to? Then look no further than this healthy bunch (bonus: they deliver nationally, too). There are no, zero, zilch animal products of any kind, here, ever! Chick'n Nuggets with chipotle dipping sauce complete with veganaise will do the trick every time for your kiddos and no one will miss the meat. Veestro food is available a la carte, in full-on Meal Packs, and they also carry a surprisingly delicious weight loss menu plan. As with most vegetarian cuisine: most meals have nuts in them so be careful with a nut allergy, but all meals are completely dairy-free and don't contain other allergens.

Cost: Starting at $10-12/serving, free shipping on auto-delivery options
Online: veestro.com

courtesy Splendid Spoon

Splendid Spoon

Bowls, soups and smoothies. Oh my! Splendid Spoon grew out of mom-preneur and French Culinary Institute-trained chef, Nicole Centeno’s desire to find quick and nutritious meals and snacks when she was pregnant with her first son. The service now delivers over 50 different meal options including soups (both hearty and light), smoothies, grain bowls, noddles and shots to busy families everywhere. Splendid Spoon's plant-based foods are totally fresh, gluten-free and were developed hand-in-hand by registered dieticians and chefs, so you know they taste great. To get in on the action, you need to hit the website, choose a plan and then customize it. Lunch is at the heart of each, and it builds from there. Add in breakfast five times a week at the second tier and a reset (think light soups for dinner) when you choose the full monty. You can skip delivery whenever you need to, and food is delivered straight to your door via FedEx, chilled, using dry ice. Bowls and soups keep for a week in the fridge or freeze them for up to a month.

Cost: $9-$13/meal
Online: splendidspoon.com

Purple Carrot

Whether you're looking to eat more greens, add color to your plate or just plain love veggies, Purple Carrot is for you. Families can have dinner delivered two ways with Purple Carrot. If you go with the meal kit, you'll get a box delivered to your doorstep, filled with fresh ingredients and everything you need to make an amazing meal, from the good stuff to the recipe. If cooking isn't high on your list, try Purple Carrot's prepared meals. Like the meal kits, they come straight to your door. But unlike the meal kits, these are heat and serve, ready to eat in just five minutes. From there it's as simple as choosing your serving size (two or four) and how many meals you want each week (two or three). Then you sit back, relax and wait for your meals to deliver, freshly prepared, boxed and on ice, ready for you to enjoy.

Cost: Meal kits start at $10/serving; prepared meals start at $13/serving
Online: purplecarrot.com

Yumi
courtesy of Yumi

Yumi

Developed by two moms on a mission to create optimally-balanced baby food blends, Yumi's meals are all about babies. Yumi’s baby blends come in over 60 flavors, and span baby's major food-related milestones. Expert Chefs use seasonal ingredients to whip up your baby’s food using diverse flavors and nutrient-dense ingredients like chia seeds, spirulina and flax, so your baby is exposed to a variety of flavors and textures. Then the blends are shipped to your doorstep in fully-recyclable packaging, using ice packs to keep it fresh. It’s easy to make substitutions or cancel an order any time, and you’ll receive text messages letting you know where your food is from the moment it ships out to the moment it delivers.

Cost: $5/day
Online: helloyumi.com

Meal Delivery Tips:

1. Once you find your favorite service, make sure you note your preferences, dislikes and allergies. Many services can accommodate these if they know ahead of time.

2. If you don’t have a cooler, buy one! The last thing you want is your delicious delivery spoiling in the sun.

3. Think about having your meals delivered to your workplace. This can give you instant lunch options, or can keep you from stressing out about your delivery waiting for you on your doorstep.

4. Order more than you need and freeze.

5. Did a friend just have a baby or is a parent recovering from surgery? Meal delivery is an awesome gift for anyone who might have more important things on their plate, or just as a time saver for a busy loved one.

—Jeffrey Totey, Allison Sutcliffe, Erin Cranston, Kristina Moy & Myriam Gabriel-Pollock

Feature image: iStock

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The Green Bay Packers game against the Chicago Bears looked a lot brighter this NFL season. On Sunday, Dec. 12, Packers’ running back Aaron Jones wore custom-designed cleats, in partnership with the Northwestern Mutual Foundation, to support children battling childhood cancer.

The special NFL program, “My Cause, My Cleats”, raises awareness and funding for causes that are near and dear to players’ hearts. Participating athletes sport a custom cleat design that represents their passions beyond the field on game day, then auction off the cleats at the NFL auction to raise proceeds for their selected charity.

Earlier this year, kids with cancer and their family members submitted their original hand-crafted designs for Aaron’s cleats, from which he personally selected his favorite. This year marks Aaron’s second time partnering with the Northwestern Mutual Foundation for the “My Cause, My Cleats” campaign to support and raise awareness for childhood cancer.

On November 13, Ashley Herman of Marshfield, Wis. was selected as the program’s winner. The 18-year-old cancer hero was invited to visit Lambeau Field in Green Bay with her mom, dad, brother and boyfriend, where Aaron surprised her with the news that he selected her design for his cleats.

“You’re definitely strong and resilient. Never stop fighting,” Aaron shared on a virtual call. “I want you to know that I’m in your corner forever.”

Ashley was surprised and delighted to speak with Aaron about her design and thought process behind the artwork. When selecting her design, Aaron was particularly drawn to the phrase “be the change” on the cleats—a phrase that stuck with Ashley throughout her treatment. “All it takes is one person,” Aaron told Ashley. “And now when I wear those cleats, everyone will see be the change.”

To top off the victory, Ashley was not only gifted a pair of her own custom cleats but also learned she and her family would attend the Packers’ game on December 12 to see her design in action.

Cleats designed by childhood cancer heroes seem to bring a little bit of magic to Aaron’s game. He scored back-to-back touchdowns in Ashley’s cleats to help boost the Packers’ to a 45-30 victory over the Chicago Bears, while, last year, he ran for his longest career touchdown in Ethan Haley’s cleats.

Finding Hope and Courage Through Art

Both art and sports played a large role in Ashley’s everyday life growing up. When she wasn’t in school, she would spend her time painting or sketching or playing volleyball for Columbus High School.

This past winter, however, Ashley was faced with news that would change her life. On Jan. 27, 2021, the Wisconsin native was diagnosed with Stage 2 Hodgkin’s Lymphoma—cancer that affects specialized white blood cells within the body’s immune system, which hinders it from defending against bacteria, parasites, or viruses.

Despite receiving this startling news, Ashley’s perpetual positive attitude kicked in and her first words to her doctors and families were, “okay, what do we do next.” Today, her cancer is in remission.

For Ashley, “My Cause, My Cleats” campaign means more than just winning. She plans to continue to share her story with others battling cancer to help them keep pushing forward and to encourage them to share their own experiences.

Aaron also hopes his participation with the Northwestern Mutual Foundation will inspire others to make a difference. The Foundation, which launched its Childhood Cancer Program in 2012, has worked vigorously to find better treatments and cures, provide family and patient support and offer aid to children who struggle with the long-term effects of treatment. Since its inception, the foundation has contributed over $35 million towards its mission and also funded more than 455,000 hours of research.

In 2022, Northwestern Mutual Foundation’s Childhood Cancer Program is celebrating its ten-year anniversary by continuing to create moments of joy and drive connections amongst those affected by childhood cancer. Learn more about the Northwestern Mutual Foundation’s Childhood Cancer Program here.

If you’d like to hear more about Ashley’s story, watch it now!

Keeping your baby healthy and safe involves more than babyproofing. And new technology is here to help. Check out these recently released products that make your life with baby easier, healthier and safer. From thermometers and baby monitors to sanitizers and air monitors, they’re guaranteed to bring you peace of mind.

Sleek Socket Outlet Covers

Hide unsafe outlets with this clever cover! This ultra-thin cover connects to an extension cord with a power strip or surge protector. Keep those cords away from your baby and create a sleeker-looking living space at the same time.

Available at sleeksocket.com, $24-$34.

Coral UV 2 UV LED Sanitizer & Dryer

Make sure the items your kids put in their mouth are clean with this compact UV-C sanitizer. It's sleek and small enough to live on your kitchen counter for easy cleaning of toys, bottles and pacifierseven stuffies and electronic gadgets. This ultraviolet sanitizer and dryer uses ultraviolet C lights to kill germs and bacteria in minutes, without the use of water or heat. Use the sanitizer or dryer on their own or use both combined. When you're not using the sanitizer for baby gear, pop in your cell phone, makeup brushes, shaver or toothbrushes for a cleaning.

Available at coraluv.com, $149.

NozeBot Electric Baby Nasal Aspirator

NozeBot

Designed by a pediatric ear, nose and throat specialist, the NozeBot takes cleaning boogies to a whole new level. This nasal aspirator uses hospital-grade suction to safely and hygienically clean your child's nose when they're sick. You place two fingers in the ingeniously designed nosepiece, leaving three fingers to help stabilize your child's head. It's portable and rechargeable, and the nosepiece and tubing are dishwasher-safe.

Available at amazon.com, $119.99.

Talli Baby One-Touch Tracker

Talli

The easiest way to log feedings, diapers, sleep, nursing, pumping and more! Push a button to sync with the app and add any notes in the app at your convenience, so you can track baby's routine and be better prepared for meetings with the pediatrician, lactation consultant or sleep consultant. There's even a miscellaneous button you can use for medication, baths, tummy time or other baby-related tasks you want to keep track of. Attach this user-friendly device to the wall in baby's nursery or bring it with you around the house to help you remember to use it. When you no longer need it, send it back through the company's buyback program.

Available at talli.me, $99 for a new tracker; $69 for a reconditioned tracker; $169 for a two-pack.

Ally Lockable Storage Containers

Ally

Little kids are lightning fast and have a knack for playing with exactly what you don't want them to. Avoid an unfortunate or dangerous situation with the Ally lockable storage container. In it, you can hide away your meds, supplements, passport, valuables, fancy chocolates and anything else you want to keep away from curious kids. The small size (9.25” x 6” x 3.5”) means you can easily tuck it away on a shelf or in a drawer, even the fridge or freezer, but it's sleek enough you won't mind keeping it on display. You choose your three-digit code and can reset it as needed if mombrain makes you forget. Comes in berry, navy and cream and makes an amazing baby shower gift.

Available at theallyco.com, $85.

Watch Your Mouth USB Safety Cover from Geddy's Mom

Playing with the free end of a plugged-in USB charger can be dangerous for kids, causing electrocution burns in more than 200 kids under age 5 each year. As a doctor of dental surgery, Dr. Sarah Shell had seen the traumatic injuries. And she and her neurologist husband had seen their own son put the loose end of a plugged-in charger in his mouth. So they worked with a team of other doctors, designers and engineers to create a product to keep kids safe. Just snap this safety cover over the free metal connector end of any standard USB cord and you keep curious fingers away from it. The plastic cover has a child-resistant lock and no small parts.

Available at geddysmom.com, $12.95 for a 3-pack.

Baby Brezza Formula Pro Advanced WiFi Baby Formula Dispenser

This is a game-changer for formula feedings: Thanks to the Baby Brezza app (iOS and Android), you can mix water and formula to the perfect consistency from your phone! Meaning, you can prep a bottle for your child from bed, from work, from the car, or wherever else you happen to be. Get alerts on your phone that tell you when the bottle is ready, when you're low on formula or water, or when there's no bottle in the machine. Choose from three temperature settings, and whether you want it to dispense 2-10 ounces of liquid. It works with all bottles and virtually all formula. brands.

Available at babybrezza.com, $299.99.

Baby's Brew Bottle Warmer

Give your baby a warm bottle of formula or breastmilk wherever you are, thanks to this portable, battery-operated bottle warmer. Great for road trips, park visits, camping and all of your daily excursions, the Baby's Brew warms your child's bottle in just 5-10 minutes and keeps it warm for 8-12 hours. Liquids can be warmed to four different temperatures, and it's compatible with many bottle types, either with or without an inexpensive adapter (check the website to find out if you'll need one). The warmer is sold on its own ($75) or in a set with a formula dispenser (pictured; $85).

Available at thebabysbrew.com.

VAVA Smart Baby Thermometer

No more waking a sleeping baby to take a temperature reading or getting up every hour to feel their forehead. Apply the small silicone patch (FDA approved and made with medical-grade adhesive) to your baby's armpit and this wireless thermometer will beep and blink red LED lights if their temperature rises above 100°F. Thanks to a 24-hour battery life, temps will be monitored all night long. The device also notifies you about low battery, disconnection and if the device falls off your baby. The large, backlit temperature reading is easy to see in the dark, or you can move the device to whatever room you're in to track the readings.

Available at vava.com, $79.99.

TruSens Air Purifiers

Here's what makes this air purifier a game-changer: It uses a separate sensor you can place across the room that measures air quality so the purifier can adapt to clean the air more effectively. The filtration system captures pollutants, allergens, VOC gases, airborne viruses and microscopic particles from every direction and then uses UV-C light to destroy germs and viruses trapped in the filter. Once the air is cleaned, the purifier pushes it out in two directions, so the filtered air flows throughout the room. TruSens also sells filters for specific concerns: pets, odor and allergy & flu. The unit comes in three sizes, for small, medium and large rooms.

Available at trusens.com, $149-$399.

Carseat CoPilot Automatic Alert System

Reduce the risk of forgetting your baby in the car with this alert system from American Home Safety Products. Clip this sensor to the straps of your car seat and attach the alarm to the keychain with your car keys on them. If you step more than 10 feet away from your car, an alarm will sound to let you know your baby is still strapped in to the carseat. This alert system comes with one sensor and two alarm key fobs.

Available at shop.ahspcompany.com, $39.95.

Nanit Complete Baby Monitoring System

This combination video and breathing wear monitor has everything you need for baby’s optimal sleep. The overhead camera allows you to see all that is going on in and around the sleep space and includes two-way audio. The camera also reads the fabric patterns on the included electronic-free breathing wear and sends real-time alerts right to your smartphone. There is a wall mount and a floor stand that keep cords safely out of reach and allow for easy portability when you're on the go. The app can show you all you need to know about baby’s sleep patterns and offers tips for making sure everyone has a good night. The Nanit Plus camera works with Amazon Echo and Echo Spot, and the complete baby monitoring system is eligible for purchase with FSA/HSA healthcare benefits. Add Nanit Pajamas ($29.99) to monitor baby's breathing motion in real time without wires or sensors. The pajamas work exclusively with Nanit cameras.

Available at nanit.com, $379.

Smart Beat Baby Breathing Monitor

What sets this breathing monitor apart is the fact that there is nothing for baby to wear. To monitor baby's every breath, the camera checks for movements 20 times per second, detecting motions too small to be seen by the human eye. The HD video streams to your smartphone or tablet and sends notifications for sleep apnea, if breathing falls outside the normal range, and for when baby falls asleep and wakes. There is no need for special sleepwear and the monitor is designed to work when baby is swaddled or in a sleep sack and when baby is in different sleeping positions. Other features include two-way audio, night vision and remote viewing.

Available at mysmartbeat.com, $249.50.

Airthings Wave Plus Indoor Air Monitor

Airthings Wave Plus Indoor Air Monitor

Rest assured that the air baby is breathing is safe and healthy with the Airthings Wave Plus indoor air quality monitor. Its sensors check the air for serious air pollutants, like radon, carbon dioxide, and total volatile organic compounds. It also monitors temperature, air pressure and humidity, so you can keep conditions optimal for baby. The app dashboard on your smartphone provides alerts and advanced analytics of air quality and offers tips for improving it. The battery is designed to last for up to two years.

Available at airthings.com, $229.99.

Katie L. Carroll

 

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Endometriosis is an often painful disease that is estimated to affect more than 6.5 million women throughout the United States. It causes tissue similar to that which normally lines the uterus—the endometrium—to grow outside of the uterus, with symptoms that may include excessive menstrual cramps, abnormal or heavy menstrual flow, and painful intercourse.

Endometriosis usually affects the ovaries, the tissue lining the pelvis, and the fallopian tubes. The endometrium outside of the uterus thickens, breaks down, and bleeds—as it would in the uterus—during menstrual cycles. Endometriosis can result in cysts, scars, and adhesions that cause pelvic tissues and organs to stick together. Endometriosis causes pain and problems; however, endometriosis growths are not cancerous.

It is estimated that 11% of women ages 15-44 in the United States have endometriosis. Especially common among women in their 30s and 40s, it can make getting pregnant difficult, potentially causing infertility.

Though you can’t prevent endometriosis, there are some things you can do to reduce your chances of getting it. These include ensuring that any hormonal birth control you are taking has low doses of estrogen, avoiding excessive consumption of alcohol and caffeine, and exercising regularly.

As an obstetrician, I’ve delivered more than 6,000 babies, some to women who had endometriosis. Endometriosis is a somewhat mysterious disease that, if left untreated, can prevent women from getting pregnant. Being informed about endometriosis is key in detecting and treating this disease that is debilitating for many.

Q: How does endometriosis get triggered in the body?

A: Over the years there have been various explanations. The generally accepted answer is that endometriosis is spread by retrograde menstrual flow. This means that at least some of the menstrual flow goes backward, up the fallopian tubes and out into the tissue surrounding the ovaries, instead of down and out the uterus. Why this would happen is unknown; however, it is widely believed that a predisposition for endometriosis is hereditary. So, if your mother or your grandmother had it, you may get it, too,

Q: What happens if endometriosis is left untreated?

A: Endometriosis can cause pelvic structures to adhere to each other. There are different courses endometriosis could take if left untreated. Infertility and pain are among the first symptoms. The disease can eventually cause ureters (the tubes bringing urine from the kidneys to the bladder) to close, possibly ending in kidney failure. This is why it’s important to diagnose and treat endometriosis as soon as you can.

Q: What are the early symptoms of endometriosis?

A: Pain would most often be an early symptom, but there is not always a correlation between abdominal pain and the degree of endometriosis. Some women with the most severe endometriosis have no symptoms, while others with minimal endometriosis have debilitating pain. Other symptoms include painful intercourse, infertility, bleeding between periods, gastrointestinal issues, and lower back pain.

Q: Can you have a healthy pregnancy and birth with this condition?

A: Pregnancy can occur with endometriosis. Sometimes surgery and anti-hormone medications such as Lupron can help with pregnancy. The issue of whether endometriosis interferes with pregnancy hasn’t been resolved. Some say up to 80% of pregnancies in people with endometriosis result in miscarriage (loss of pregnancy before 20 weeks). Other studies indicate miscarriage is more frequent with early endometriosis. Still others have concluded there isn’t an increased rate at all. The definitive study has yet to be done.

It’s important not to suffer in silence if you are experiencing the symptoms of endometriosis. Your doctor can help you find treatment, and potentially reverse infertility. If you are having excessive menstrual cramps, painful intercourse, or bleeding between periods, be sure to seek medical advice as soon as possible. Many women who have experienced this disease continue to live happy healthy lives. You are not alone.

Dr. Alan Lindemann
Tinybeans Voices Contributor

An obstetrician and maternal mortality expert, “Rural Doc” Alan Lindemann, M.D. teaches women and families how to create the outcomes they want for their own health and pregnancy. In nearly 40 years of practice, he has delivered around 6,000 babies and achieved a maternal mortality rate of zero! Visit LindemannMD.com

Anyone who’s ever loved an animal knows just how special the bond between person and pet can be. The long walks in the park, the endless games of fetch and the sweet, curled-up cuddles after a long day make up some of life’s best memories for both people and their pets.  

If you have an animal lover in your family, you’ll be thrilled to hear about the work that Annenberg PetSpace is doing across Southern California. Annenberg PetSpace is focused on the benefits that animals and people receive from loving and caring for each other and is a unique community space that includes an education center, a leadership institute, and, best of all for people who are looking to add a new (four-legged) family member, an adoption center. 

Annenberg PetSpace is open to the public and committed to fostering a love of animals in the next generation. On a visit, you’ll have the opportunity to take part in a Pet Encounter with an adoptable animal, explore the Critter Corner and enjoy a behind-the-scenes view of how pets are received and prepared for adoption. Interested in adding to your family? Annenberg PetSpace lets you schedule an appointment for a meet-and-greet with a potential pet and gives the option to take them home the same day!

 

If you’re interested in adding someone special to your family, check out these friendly pets who are currently living at Annenberg PetSpace as they wait for their forever home:

Heidi

Heidi is two years old and 62 lbs of bouncy, full-of-life fun. With her perky ears and soft tan and black fur, she’s a picture-perfect pup who’s looking for a family to call her own. Heidi can be shy when she meets new people for the first time but loves to play and cuddle once she’s gotten to know you!

Zorro

Zorro is the perfect mid-sized pup for an experienced pet parent who’s ready to build a loving, trusting relationship with a dog who has lots of love to give! Zorro had a leg injury, received surgery and is working hard to regain his strength in physical therapy. At just two years old, this playful guy is ready for a lifetime full of love!

Clifford

Clifford might not be quite as big or quite as red as the Big Red Dog, but he’s got a heart just as sweet and can’t wait to be a part of a family! Clifford can be a little nervous meeting new people (who isn’t?), but it doesn’t take much to get his tail wagging.

Cheesy Mac

Cheesy Mac is a laid-back kitty who likes things quiet and relaxed, but who gets playful quickly when someone brings out his favorite toys. Cheesy Mac is looking for a home where he can snuggle up and relax in calm and tranquility with a helpful human there to make sure he gets all the snuggles he needs!

Sadie

Sadie is a four-year-old pup who is ready for a loving, trusting family. She's timid and takes a little while to trust people, but once you get to know this 76-pound doggo she's sure to be a furever friend. 

If your family is looking for a new pet and wants to explore options other than dogs or cats, a visit to the Annenberg PetSpace Critter Corner is a must-do! The Critter Corner, home to a variety of small animals, is designed to help potential families learn about all the pet options available to them and determine what sort of animal might be the best fit for their family! 

With a playful box turtle, a California kingsnake, a cockatiel, a domestic rabbit, a guinea pig, a hamster and a leopard gecko, the Annenberg PetSpace Critter Corner has something for everyone. As you move through the Critter Corner you’ll have a chance to learn about what sort of care each animal needs, what makes them feel happy and fulfilled and what you’ll need to do if you want to bring one into their home. 

This summer, whether your family is on the lookout for a new pet or not, an afternoon spent at the Annenberg PetSpace is an afternoon well spent!

Whether your little one has a bump, scrape or break, or something more serious, keeping your kids healthy and happy is a challenge every parent faces. Luckily, when your child does need more serious care, healthcare experts specializing in tiny humans are there to save the day. We talked to five physicians from top-ranked Children’s National Hospital in Washington, D.C. to hear the things they wish all parents knew about their child’s healthcare—from prevention to how to make hospital visits less stressful.

Learn more and help your loved ones grow up strong with Children’s National Hospital.

Here’s what they had to say:

It's Okay to Ask Questions

Your doctors are there to help your family, which means helping you understand exactly what's going on. “Ask questions and don't be afraid to say when you don't understand,” says Children’s National Hospital Cardiologist and Electrophysiologist Elizabeth Sherwin. “Medicine has its own language and vocabulary, and it is important to ask for clarification if something doesn't sound familiar or make sense. We want you to feel heard, and we want you to understand what is being discussed.”

Check in With Your Doctor

If you're not sure whether or not that owie, rash or cough warrants a trip to the doctor, you can always reach out before making the trip. “Do not delay in seeing a medical professional for any worrisome condition. Many visits qualify for an initial telehealth appointment. You can ask your provider if that’s an option,” says Timothy Kane, Chief, Division of General & Thoracic Surgery.

This year, Children’s National Hospital is celebrating 150 years of pediatric care, research and commitment to community! Learn more and help your loved ones grow up strong with Children’s National Hospital.

Sometimes There's Not An Easy Answer

As much as your child's doctor wants to give you an answer quickly, it's not always feasible. Associate Division Chief of Oncology Eugene Hwang shares: “Sometimes, there isn't a perfect test to diagnose a problem, and it may take time, careful observation and repeated visits in order to make the best decisions regarding diagnostic or treatment procedures.”

Give Your Doctors Details

When it comes to your child's health, there's no such thing as oversharing. Cardiologist Niti Dham says: “We want parents to feel empowered and advocate for their child. We want to hear from them. The parents’ perspective and observations at home are just as, if not more, important than what we see in the office. We want to hear how the child is doing at home: Are symptoms improving or worsening? Are they tolerating the medicines? Are there any other concerns?”

Children’s National is ranked number 1 for newborn care for the fourth straight year and as one of the top 10 pediatric hospitals in the country by U.S. News & World Report. Learn more and help your loved ones grow up strong with Children’s National Hospital.

I’ve been spending time with a new friend lately and I’m starting to like her.

At first, we just took trips in the car together—short trips to pick up or drop off the kids from school and then longer trips to watch my son in his high school baseball games. Initially we rode in silence, just listening to the sounds of the world. Then we started listening to music. Each day it was something different. Some days it was show tunes. Sometimes it was R&B or hip hop from the ’90s and 2000s. Sometimes it was classic rock or a news podcast.

She lets me pick and accepts my choices—without judgment.

She recently convinced me to redo my bedroom. As I stood in the middle of my room, an hour into the process, I was overwhelmed by the mess. But, she refrained from telling me I was stupid or messy and didn’t scold me for waiting so long to tackle the project. Instead, she helped me focus on the possibilities before me and together we put the room back together. She helped me see the hope in the midst of a mess—without judgment.

When I finally got back on the spin bike 8 weeks after my surgery instead of 6 weeks, she was my biggest cheerleader. “You can do this!” she whispered as I climbed into the seat, unsure of what my body would be able to do after such a long break. As each mile ticked by, her support grew louder and louder.

She believes in me—without judgment.

When I had one of those big parenting moments with my teen the other night, she was there, trying to build me up and remind me that I am a good mom. At first, I tried to ignore her, silence her, tell her that’s she wrong—just like I used to do for so many years. But eventually, I let her speak louder.

She points out my strengths and helps me see my growth—without judgment.

When I ventured back into the world outside my house, she has been there, silently encouraging me to be my true self, to say what I am thinking. To reach out to the people that matter. To hold boundaries to protect my energy.

She makes me believe I am worthy of love and laughter—without judgment.

While I know she’s always been there—a part of me—I kept her hidden away. If I let her help me be confident, I would be seen as cocky. If I believed the positive things she says about me, that I was superficial or phony. So, I turned down the volume on her for much of my life, pushing her into the far corners of my brain.

But I’m starting to see now that she’s not just a part of me—she’s the real me. And I think it’s time to let her stay and that maybe it is time to let her shine. Because it turns out, she’s kind of a great person. And here’s the thing—you all have a friend inside you that is just like her. Maybe it’s time to let her shine too.   

RELATED:
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To the Mom I Thought Was Judging Me, I’m Sorry

This post originally appeared on Jenni Brennan of Changing Perspectives.

Jenni Brennan is a psychotherapist, college professor, creator of Changing Perspectives, and co-host of The Changing Perspectives Podcast. Jenni is passionate about exploring the topics of parenting, relationships, grief, and mental health through her writing and podcast episodes. She lives with her husband, 2 sons, 3 dogs, and 2 cats in Massachusetts.

Your candy bar might look a little different over the next two months and you might want to stock up! CRUNCH, Butterfinger and Baby Ruth have released limited-edition bars with art supporting the Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals and a percentage of proceeds will go straight to CMN Hospitals.

The colorful artwork is designed by CMNH child ambassadors and there’s a different design for each brand. Ciarlo has Spina Bfida and designed the T-rex on crutches for CRUNCH. Audrey had surgery to correct scoliosis and created the serene scene for Butterfinger. Logan has muscular dystrophy and his art features an astronaut in space. All children were treated at CMN Hospitals and their art is inspired by memorable or imaginative moments in their lives.

“We’re very excited to partner with this great non-profit organization and invite our customers to join us in our journey to support all the futures made possible by Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals,” said Mark Wakefield, Senior Vice President Marketing, Ferrero Mainstream Chocolate & Nutella. “Just like Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals, CRUNCH, Butterfinger and Baby Ruth aim to create moments that bring people together every day.”

To learn more about the campaign, you can visit a new online site with more info on the kids, their stories and their artwork. Butterfinger is also collaborating with Extra Life, a program affiliated with CMNH that is tied to the gaming community. On June 3, the two companies will host a fundraising stream for gamers to play Final Fantasy XIV.

—Sarah Shebek

Images courtesy of Ferrero USA

 

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