Party of 9 — Betty Vertin

For years, I told the kids we couldn’t get another dog unless something happened to the two we already had. I did not want three dogs! I didn’t have room for that! Yet we…

August here in Nebraska is sweltering. Not only do the temperatures reach the high 90s, but the humidity is suffocating. I’ll never understand why our kids return to school at this time of year,…

I’m no longer a young mom, but I was once. In fact, I was a very young first-time mom, as my oldest daughter, Lexi, 24, was born when I was 21 years old. Six…

Years ago, I had my colors done: I’m a winter. Dark blues, greens, scarlets, royal hues, red, black, and hot pink look best on me. I don’t always follow these guidelines, but I own…

July is my favorite month. Many people who know me might be surprised by that, as they’re aware that I’m a Christmas enthusiast who loves to decorate, making my house look like the North…

Summer vacation in the Midwest typically begins in mid-May, and kids return to school by mid-August. Here in Nebraska, that puts us halfway through summer break already. Like most moms, I’m feeling a mix…

Late afternoon sunlight drifts into the house, brightening the blue paint on the walls. The room feels cheery and welcoming. Wicker baskets hold soft blankets, pillows cushion the couch, and dogs are sleeping on…

Here in the Midwest, June brings warmer temperatures. I live in Nebraska, where warmer weather is welcome after bitterly cold winters and brisk, windy springs. It’s also necessary for the crops growing in the…

I’m a mother of seven and a caregiver to the three of my sons who have Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD). My oldest daughter, Lexi, 24, lives a few hours away with her husband.

When I think about my son Charlie, I always remember my pregnancy with him. I’d taken a home test and knew I was pregnant, but when I called to make an appointment with my…

Once again, I’m writing from an uncomfortable chair in an infusion room as my son Max participates in a clinical trial. I frequently visit this room with my three sons — Max, 19;…