How to deal with awkward family situations during the holidays. Catherine Ryan Gregory

Deal with awkward family during the holidays

Two-thirds of people expect arguments during the holidays, but the season doesn’t have to be so fraught with family disagreements. Here is how to handle awkward family at the holidays—from responding to insensitive comments to dining with loved ones on the opposite side of the political spectrum. Read the story online, Women’s Health, November 2017.

When I grow up: Portland travel with kids

When traveling with kids, the sight of someone in uniform — be it a police officer, firefighter or boat captain — can be more exciting than anything you planned. Why leave such a highlight to chance? At these Portland attractions, your little ones can walk in the shoes of their heroes for a day. Read…

Life in the Slow Lane

Sometimes it’s okay to ditch the schedule and simply soak in the moments with your children. As a mom, I’m constantly learning this lesson—and learning to take it slow with my kids. Read Life in the Slow Lane, PDX Parent, June/July 2016 or read it online.

Future Tense

When President Trump was elected, I didn’t know how it would affect my family. But with the New Year, we are getting involved in family activism. Read Future Tense, PDX Parent, January 2017 or read it online.

Two daughters, opposite needs

One daughter wanted nothing to do with me; the other one refused anyone else. This stage in motherhood was absolutely exhausting. Read Two daughters, opposite needs, PDX Parent, March 2017 or read it online.

Flying with a toddler Alaska Air

Up in the Air

Flying with a baby and toddler solo is no picnic. But as I write in this Metro Parent column, flying with kids helped me find compassion in the least likely of places. Read Up in the Air, Metro Parent February 2016.

Wishful thinking

Holidays with kids entail a deluge of gifts from well-meaning friends and family. Here is my wish list for our girls’ presents—a list a little different than you might expect. Read Wishful Thinking, Metro Parent, December 2015.

Having a second child essay

Take Two

Having a second child means a lesson in patience, for everyone in the family. Read Take Two, Metro Parent, October 2015.

Take toddler for a walk hike

How to take your toddler for a walk

Taking your kid for a walk sounds so easy. These super-simple instructions cover everything, from diaper blowouts, kids who refuse to move, stir-crazy dogs and wardrobe malfunctions. Isn’t hiking so much fun? Read How to take your toddler for a walk, Metro Parent, January 2015.