The debate over cell phones in schools is over—Indiana has officially made the call. As a teacher and a parent, I’m looking past the headlines to explain why a “bell-to-bell” ban is a necessary sanctuary for learning, backed by data and real-world success stories.
Chris Marts 
The Almighty Nalgene
In a world of Stanley tumblers and Owala bottles, one OG reigns supreme. Discover why the Nalgene remains the ultimate, indestructible, and affordable choice for families and hikers alike.
What Kind of Goals Do You Set?
I’ve always been a “go big or go home” goal setter—until pushing too hard finally caught up with me. After an injury and a lot of stress, I learned that smaller, attainable goals can be just as meaningful. Here’s how shifting my mindset changed everything.
Cherokee Marts 
Worst Purchase of 2025
While shopping at Sam’s Club today, we wandered past the washers and dryers. I paused, looked at one of the models, noted the price, and said out loud, “I wish we bought this instead.” And just like that, our worst purchase of 2025 came rushing back.
Not Dieting, Going Mediterranean
In our long quest to lose weight and be healthier, Cherokee and I have tried some different diet approaches.
Buy It For Life: Why Durable Beats Disposable
We live in a world where most things are designed to break. Phones slow down after a couple of years, shoes wear out faster than they should, and kitchen gadgets seem to fall apart right when you need them. That’s where the Buy It For Life (BIFL) mindset comes in. …
Thanksgiving: A New Tradition
We have a blended family. Sometimes, holidays just get a little chaotic figuring out what child is going where and when, as well as figuring out when we will celebrate as a family, with our extended families. This year, we’re trying something different: Thanksgiving Breakfast.
Coverage, Kids, and Cost-Cutting: Our Family’s Cell Plan Shuffle
Switching phone plans is an easy way to save substantial money.
Embracing Mental Health Awareness
I’m a day late. Always. Yesterday, October 10th, was Mental Health Awareness Day. This topic is kind of a big one for me. If you’re sick or hurt, you go to the doctor. You take the medicine you need. You get whatever procedure done. Without the negative stigmas to go …
Happy Spouse, Happy House
You have all heard the saying, “Happy wife, happy life”, right? Yeah, we don’t follow that.