Moms

We sat down with upcoming author, the Valley’s own Kristin Smith, to talk about her new kid-friendly, anti-bullying book. “Kona and the Dog Park Bully” follows the story of an adorable pup, Kona, as she goes through the ups and downs of making new friends.

Let’s meet Kristin Smith!

AFM: Yay for an Arizona State alum--go Sun Devils! What was your major in college? What sparked your interest in writing?

KS: “I received a Bachelor of Arts in Communications from ASU (Class of 2005)

Ask me what I want my kids to be when they grow up and I won’t hesitate with a reply. One word: happy. And to me, happiness is doing something that you love. Following your dreams. Being fearless. And going for it.

In all honesty, I hope my kids steer clear of anything crazy corporate. I don’t want them working insanely long hours, being caught in rush hour traffic, and having limited time off. Instead, I hope they have an entrepreneurial fire- a passion to take a chance and...

This weekend is all about keeping cool--perhaps that means enjoying ice-cold OJ alongside a Starburst-inspired pancake or burrowing in a chilly movie theater while catching soon-to-be classic flick. Check out all the family fun in the Valley for the weekend of August 3-5.

Thursday:

13th Annual Miracle Treat Day

Get the weekend started a little early with a sweet treat that will cool you down and gives back to the community. On Thursday, August 2, Dairy Queen will...

My first born is embarking on turning five…and I’m in denial.

He stands tall past my waist, hugs me hard, and has figured out how to eye roll (I know- painful).

I took his whole preschool graduation hard. Preschool is the best. It’s all fun. The kids are nice. The teachers are comforting. And there’s not much to fear. Kids have yet to learn meanness, exclusion and cruelty. The preschool age is pure innocence, and if I had it my way, I’d confine him in that safe preschool bubble...