Hi Reader,

There’s a type of behavior I have been seeing at school a lot this year that doesn’t get talked about enough. Probably because it’s uncomfortable, and probably because it’s often dismissed as “just how some people are.”

A group of moms who bond by tearing other women down.

Openly commenting on other moms’ bodies. Calling people ugly or fat. Mocking how someone parents, dresses, or exists — often with kids standing right there within earshot.

That’s not confidence. That’s not being funny. And it’s definitely not harmless.

The thing is, kids are always watching. They notice how adults talk about other people when they think no one important is listening. And when body shaming or gossip becomes part of normal conversation, kids learn — without anyone explicitly saying it — that this is just how women treat each other.

The fallout isn’t just hurt feelings. It’s fractured communities. Parents who stop volunteering. Kids who sense tension they can’t explain. A school environment that feels smaller, colder, and less safe than it should.

Here’s the good news: if you’re reading this and thinking, I would never talk about other moms like that, then you’re already doing something powerful.

You’re teaching your kids that kindness isn’t performative. That confidence doesn’t require an audience. And that nothing truly good comes from gossip — especially when it’s disguised as humor or concern.

We don’t have to be best friends with everyone. But we do owe each other basic decency.

You don’t need a PhD to learn how to treat others with basic respect.

And our kids deserve to grow up watching adults who know the difference between connection and cruelty.
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This Week From Mama Knows
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​IN THE RECIPE BOOK

Lightened Up Homemade Queso

I think I managed to do restaurant queso justice and find a couple ways to boost nutrition in this lightened up homemade queso recipe. Everyone in my house comes RUNNING to the kitchen when I make this!

IN THE RECIPE BOOK

What Recipes Do You Want to See?

I’d love to hear more about what recipes you’d like to see from me. Last year, the top recipes included a lot of snacks (like these and these) and a lot of searches for dinner ideas. If you’ve been wishing for a specific recipe or just need more breakfast, healthy dessert, or no-bake ideas, let me know!

ON THE BLOG

Have you seen the news about raw milk?

That Ballerina Farm lady (have you heard of her?) was in the news because health inspectors found high levels of harmful bacteria in the raw milk she was selling. They are no longer selling raw milk due to this serious health issue.

Despite what people say on social media, raw milk is not healthier than pasteurized milk, and it’s less safe.

I seriously hope no one became ill from her milk, and it’s a good reminder that food safety is important!

If you have more milk questions. I’ve got you covered! Check out the two below posts all about milk:

• ​Are Raw Milk and Goat Milk Safe For Toddlers to Drink?​
• ​Milk for Toddlers: Answering All Your Questions on Cow’s Milk, Non-Dairy Alternatives & Hormones​

What's On The Menu?​
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Did you know I have a variety of free weekly meal plans? If you’re looking for ideas or a way to simplify your meal planning process, be sure to check these out!

Have a great week,

P.S. This is the snack in high-demand at our house right now!

Disclaimer: this message contains affiliate links. As an Amazon associate, I earn from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you.​
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