Helicopter Parenting, Simple Abundance, Christmas Candy Windows, Pets and Mental Health, In Praise of Nurses, Weekend Review

Helicopter Parenting (0:00:00) For those parents that are listening, we all want the best for our children, so naturally we get involved in their lives to support them where they may need help. But what does it look like when this involvement goes a step too far? Maybe you’ve heard the term “helicopter parenting” before, which describes this phenomenon that seems to be on the rise. But what does it mean to be a “helicopter parent”? Today we are joined by Dr. Kristin Moilanen, a professor of Child Development and Family Studies, here to talk with us about the effects of helicopter parenting. Simple Abundance (0:15:28) The book Simple Abundance has been instrumental in helping the more than 7 million people who bought copies to find joy and balance, and with us is the author, Sarah Ban Breathnach, to teach you how you can do the same. Christmas Candy Windows (0:35:22) A classic Christmas activity for many is admiring the Macy’s candy window displays—preferably with a hot chocolate in hand. If you don’t know what I’m talking about, I’m referring to the giant, elaborate ornaments purely made of candy that decorate the Macy’s display cases. I stand in awe of the creativity and dedication required to make each unique ornament, and I’ve always wondered what it really takes to make one. Joining us is Pam McMurtry, expert crafter and creator of candy window displays, to share what it takes to make these 100-pound ornaments, as well as give us tips on how to use candy in our decorations. Pets and Mental Health (0:50:36) There are some researchers out there that believe that having a pet can make you happier—but is there any truth to this? Here to dive a little deeper into the subject with us is Hal Herzog teacher, researcher and anthrozoologist. In Praise of Nurses (1:07:09) There are many professions that are staples of our society that primarily go uncelebrated. Teachers, social workers, and healthcare professionals just to name a few. One woman wanted to celebrate her twin sister, a labor and delivery nurse, who had undergone a tough shift. In October, Laura McIntyre posted a picture of her sister Caty Nixon. In the picture Caty is depicted wiping her tears after sharing about her day. She had worked 50+ hours in 4 days and had just helped deliver a stillborn. In the post, Laura praised her sister for working hard for little to no recognition and said, “Caty (& all other nurses) you are SPECIAL. You bless your patients & their families more than you will ever know.” We are lucky to be joined by both Caty and Laura as they share their experience with this post going viral and what it means to nurses everywhere. Weekend Review (1:23:39) Lisa and Richie share what new movies are coming out this weekend and tell us about fun events happening across the country.