Section INDfamily

Life's Lessons

you've never walked this way before, you're in for a wild ride. We're here to equip you with our annual Mommy Guide covering the basics of mind, body and that allintimidating registry process..

In Love and Respect, for My Mother

When we are children, we love our mothers as a child loves, openly and reflexively. We love oblivious to the complicated paths of their lives before we arrived.

Q&A FOR COLLEGE FRESHMEN

Freshman year is a time of discovery — what it takes to make it on your own, thrive in a crowd of thousands often many miles from home, and how to cook an entire meal on $3 and a contraband hot plate. Two Lafayette natives post-freshman year weigh in on the lessons they’ve learned.

Q&A FOR COLLEGE FRESHMEN

Freshman year is a time of discovery — what it takes to make it on your own, thrive in a crowd of thousands often many miles from home, and how to cook an entire meal on $3 and a contraband hot plate. Two Lafayette natives post-freshman year weigh in on the lessons they've learned.

CHALLENGE OF CHANGE

Adolescence can be a time of declaring independence, a catalyst of what’s to come in adulthood. It can also be a time when students begin to fight the battle of the bulge.

GOTTA HAVE IT GIFTS

There are few things more important to a new mom-to-be than the baby registry.

We Are Family

Don’t call it a ‘gay pride’ festival: The Acadiana PRIDE Fest celebrates diversity.

Acadiana PRIDE Festival 2015

A celebration of Acadiana's diversity, including but not limited to its gay community, PRIDE is what you would expect of a South Louisiana festival: great music, great food, hanging out and passing a good time.

FAMILY LAW

Attorney Amy Kern of New Orleans, founder of Beginning Families, helps an average of five Louisiana couples a year have children through surrogacy, as well as many other couples — gay and straight — who want to adopt.

Need and Feed

Each day more than 300 meals are served at St. Joseph’s Diner. Until recently those meals were often high on calories and low on nutrition. Just months ago the clinic that works in conjunction with the diner and shelter secured a grant to bring healthier options for every meal.

THE SIRI FACTOR

She says maybe it’s the predictability of knowing the next bend in the road. But, whatever the case it’s bettering a tough situation. Seth is not alone. Reports of children on the autism spectrum responding to communication with Siri and other technology-based audio communication have been cropping up in the media.

THE WILDER LIFE: Letting go of "them"

What I will tell my 3 year old about Ferguson The newsfeed today is full of dark. No matter what you believe about what did or didn't happen in Missouri. No matter what you believe the world is full...

THE WILDER LIFE: Let me write a post

The beauty of social media Tonight I write from home with a sick little boy. Not for real sick. Sick of the hand, foot and mouth variety. I do not write to complain on the health front. He's...

THE WILDER LIFE: Invisible Cape Society

The Super Momma For Halloween this week I dressed as Super Momma. Because I believe it may just take super hero epic size powers to pull this motherhood thing off on some days. I rocked that cape as...

Well Fed

This month begins the biggest drives of the year to stock food pantries and bring hunger to the forefront. "There are no poor people in Lafayette." Valla Culpepper's heard that one before....

Remembering Alison

Jeff Gremillion delivers a touching eulogy, capturing the essence of his longtime friend. "I did not want to go; [I was a] scaredy cat," Jeff says of being talked into parasailing with...

The Bump and the Road

Cabaret tackles pregnancy and beyond. The road to motherhood is paved with good intentions. Intentions that, if those carrying that precious bundle of joy are honest, are enough to feel like labor...

Eat. Play. Love: Rewind the future

A powerful PSA on childhood obesity and why the epidemic needs to stop today In general I try to avoid the overly shared video posts I see on Facebook - one more cute cat video and productivity will...

Cool Kiddos

Style for the little ones at your fav stores Moms love a one stop shop and so when our beloved local retailers for grown ups start with the little style, we take note. New to the fray of children's...

Fall is coming

New arrivals for mom and daughter The cool temps of fall may feel so very many days away, but your favorite local retailers are already gearing up for the cool temps. In honor of the upcoming school...

Party Animals

The DIY birthday done right Party Animals The DIY birthday done right By Madeline Hurst Aug. 1, 2014 Planning a birthday party can be a hectic affair with high cost and endless options. We break down...

Momma with Style

Bump and baby friendly wares MOMMA WITH STYLE Bump and baby friendly wares **By Amanda Bedgood Aug. 1, 2014 ** A positive pregnancy test is not the first sign of a life without style. It is a sign of...

Meaux Betta Cooking

Filmmaker documents local foodways with Dans Ma Cuisine.' Meaux Betta Cooking Filmmaker documents local foodways with Dans Ma Cuisine.' By Walter Pierce Aug. 1, 2014 Stephen Meaux likes his kitchen,...

THINGS TO DO BEFORE I'M DUE: A guide for moms-to-be

It's an exciting time in life as you prepare to meet your new bundle of joy - get ready to plan out the next nine months so when your baby arrives, you can stress less and love more. It's an exciting...

Carnival of fun

LARC hosts summer carnival Pack your swimsuits and head for the village this weekend. The folks at Acadian Village are hosting a carnival of fun. The LARC Summer Carnival is slated for August 3 and 4...

Mom Style: The Necklace

Form and function for mom and baby Finding something that's cute enough for the most stylish mommas and good for baby too is a rare thing. That's why when we spotted this Red Arrow necklace we were...

THE WILDER LIFE: Why mommas are never enough

The joys of balloon animals and the struggle to be everything You will never be enough. And that's alright. Because you're just the one person and you're more than enough for the spots you fill and...

Where Coaching Comes In

Daphne Olivier doesn't need a whistle around her neck to help food consumers make sensible choices. Photos by Tyler F. Thigpen Food coach Daphne Olivier says son Alex is being raised "a...

The Summer Slide

Stay smart all summer long. There are things that happen every summer in the kingdom of kids - snow balls, sleepovers, camp and the summer slide. The latter is what happens when kids give their brains...

THE WILDER LIFE: Summer essentials

Wearing shorts (a lot) and other terrifying endeavors I hate shorts. I loathe them. With the fire of a thousand suns. They never fit me right. They are too short. They are too long. They hug the parts...

MALLORY JUNEAU: Mix it up

Family Blending 101 I always knew that mixing or blending families with another once I found that special someone would be a challenge. Now a year later, we are working to successfully blend two...

More than a game

Games of Acadiana poster artist revealed Lawtell artist Theon Guillory has been tapped to create the 2014 Games of Acadiana poster that will represent Miles Perret Cancer Services annual game...

Father's Day gift guide: The outdoorsman

INDfamily staff picks goodies for dear old dad Father's Day is this Sunday, June 15 and hopefully the dads in your life are not getting another tie.  Next to birthdays and Christmas, Father's Day is...

TREVIS BADEAUX: What's the Real Goal?

Soccer dad I am officially a soccer dad. Our Little Men joined a team in the Youngsville area this spring. I couldn't wait to get off of work on that first night to go with them to the field and watch...

VALERIE WOERNER: If I had it all to do over again...

The time we gain My husband and I tease that if we had one week without Vivi, we could catch up on everything in our life and get ahead of the game. But you know what we'd probably do? The same amount...

Waste not, want not

Every day green [Editor's Note: When it came time to find people really living the green life, we turned to Cheryl Perret. Mother of two and married to Lafayette Parish Clerk of Court Louis Perret,...

Uniquely UL

Spring commencement produces largest graduating class ever, including these two sweet success stories. Another academic year has come to an end at UL Lafayette and 1,615 candidates received degrees -...

INDfamily fINDs : May 30-31

Picks around town for planning the weekend ahead Friday, May 30 Lafayette Public Library Summer Reading Kickoff 6101 Johnston St., Lafayette South Regional Library 10 a.m - 3 p.m. School's out but...

VICKIE NETTLES: What's in a Word?

The power we give our words "Words can hurt" - but it is we ourselves who allow words to wound and wield power over us. I remember there was a time after my daughter was first diagnosed that...

THE WILDER LIFE: Maya Angelou

Phenomenal Woman I remember the first time I read Phenomenal Woman by Maya Angelou. Where I was? What I was doing? No idea. It may sound cliche but more than anything I remember so very clearly how it...

Eating well and spending less

ChooseMyPlate.gov introduces free program for eating healthy on a budget The USDA's Healthy eatin on a Budget program makes understanding how families can make healthy choices with free online...

THE WILDER LIFE: Memorial Day

Thank. You. Everything in this world is more easily understood and yet sometimes more difficult to comprehend now that I have Wilder. All those mommas with babies in the service - beyond me. (Yes. I...

Class Act: Katelyn Simon

INDfamily honors Lafayette Parish School System's Students of the Year Katelyn Simon Evangeline Elementary, fifth grade Top honors at school: Spelling bee champion, 4-H fall fest participant in...

Class Act: Gabrielle Prejean

INDfamily honors Lafayette Parish School System's Students of the Year Gabrielle Prejean Prairie Elementary, fifth grade Daughter of Heidi and Brian Blanchard and Beau and Shannon Prejean Top honors...

THE WILDER LIFE: Facing the scary

Faith that stretches The doctor eliminated the "scary stuff" today. I found myself saying that and then kind of laughing to myself. If only! If only! Wilder's been having some knee pain...

Class Act: Emily Roy

INDfamily honors Lafayette Parish School System's Students of the Year Emily Roy Edgar Martin Middle, eighth grade Daughter of Stephen and Tricia Roy Top school honors: Received citizenship award,...

NFL star appearance

UL alum Ladarius Green in River Ranch Saturday This Saturday NFL star and UL Ragin Cajun alum Ladarius Green will be on hand at Bengals & Bandits in River Ranch signing autographs and meeting...

Class Act: Tagg Babineaux

INDfamily honors Lafayette Parish School System's Students of the Year Tagg Babineaux Charles M Burke Elementary, fifth grade Child of Christy and Spencer Babineaux Top honors at school: Fitness team...

Class Act: Caitlyn Hermann

INDfamily honors Lafayette Parish School System's Students of the Year Caitlyn Hermann S.J. Montgomery Elementary School, fifth grade Daughter of Amanda Hermann and Neil Larriviere Top honors at...

Class Act: Victoria Andrus

INDfamily honors Lafayette Parish School System's Students of the Year Victoria Andrus Judice Middle School, eighth grade Daughter of Brandi and Ricky Andrus Top honors at school: Student of the...

Class Act: Trenton Charles

INDfamily honors Lafayette Parish School System's Students of the Year Trenton Charles Carencro Middle, 8th grade Top honors at school: Football, track and field, good GPA Hobbies and...

Class Act: Tori Spindler

INDfamily honors Lafayette Parish School System's Students of the Year Tori Spindler Carencro High, 12th grade Daughter of Angela Lavergne and Timothy Spindler Top honors at school: Student of the...

THE WILDER LIFE: A love so big

Happy Mother's Day I read once that when a baby is born they don't comprehend they are an individual outside of the mother. They do not know where we begin and they end. I can buy that. The bond that...

NICOLE LOPEZ: The mothers we love

Giving props to the special women this Mother's Day Mother's Day is fast approaching and I was asked to write about either how motherhood has changed me or about my own mom. Well, after thinking about...

Class Act: Peter Higginbotham

INDfamily honors Lafayette Parish School System's Students of the Year Peter Higginbotham Edgar Martin Middle, fifth grade Son of Llyod Higginbotham and Alison Mueller Top school honors: Student of...

MALLORY JUNEAU: To all the mommas

In honor of Mother's Day In honor of Mother's Day I wanted to talk about two very special ladies that both became mommas this year. With both my sister and best friend being pregnant at the same time,...

Class Act: Olivia Tolliver

INDfamily honors Lafayette Parish School System's Students of the Year Olivia Tolliver Early College Academy, 12th grade Daughter of Rachael Tolliver Top honors at school: Nine-year member of French...

PATRICIA THOMPSON: The Struggle

MOTHERHOOD: The struggle is real, y'all. So I haven't written a blog post in some time - not because I have nothing to write about. With kids, the content is always there. But since they're...

Class Act: Myles Scott

INDfamily honors Lafayette Parish School System's Students of the Year Myles Scott Acadian Middle, eighth grade Son of Malcolm and Vanessa Scott Top honors at school: Maintained at 3.8-4.0 GPA, named...

Class Act: Michael Morvant

INDfamily honors Lafayette Parish School System's Students of the Year Michael Morvant O. Comeaux High School, 12th grade Son of Albert and Kim Morvant What top honors have you received at...

Class Act: Miguel Vasquez

INDfamily honors Lafayette Parish School System's Students of the Year Miguel Vasquez L.J. Alleman Middle School, eighth grade Son of Axel and Donna Vasquez Top honors at school: Student of the Year...

Class Act: Micaiah McZeal

INDfamily honors Lafayette Parish School System's Students of the Year Micaiah McZeal J. Wallace James Elementary, fifth grade Daughter of Durkey and Slasia McZeal Top honors at school: A/B honor...

Power to the Parents

Studies show that parent involvement is directly tied to student achievement. For the Lafayette Parish School System, parent involvement is an important component of Superintendent Pat Cooper's...

Class Act: Madison Trotti

INDfamily honors Lafayette Parish School System's Students of the Year Madison Trotti Broussard Middle, fifth grade Daughter of Chad and Denise Trotti Top honors at school: Student of the Year, BMS...

Horse Farm design enters final phase

Concepts for design being unveiled now, but your input is still needed. Lafayette Central Park's "It's My Park!" campaign continues throughout April and May with community forums focusing...

Class Act: Madison Dronet

INDfamily honors Lafayette Parish School System's Students of the Year Madison Dronet Youngsville Middle, fifth grade Daughter of Kenneth and Wendy Dronet Top school honors: 5th grader of the year at...

NICOLE LOPEZ: Who am I ...

The many roles of motherhood I've never been great at actually talking about myself without being prompted by specific questions. So when Amanda asked me to be a contributing blogger for IND family, I...

2014 LPSS Students of the year

See the faces of this year's honorees Each year the Lafayette Parish School System selects its top students to be honored as students of the year. Here are the faces of this year's honorees and the...

Class Act: Kori-Kate Comeaux

INDfamily honors Lafayette Parish School System's Students of the Year Kori-Kate Comeaux David Thibodeaux STEM Magnet Academy, eighth grade Daughter of Michele and Cory Comeaux What top honors have...

THE WILDER LIFE: What do you believe?

This is not a test. This is life. For a couple of months now I hear the voice of God asking "what do you believe?" When I quote scripture, when I pray, when I face the obstacles of life - my...

Class Act: Kelsey Doucette

INDfamily honors Lafayette Parish School System's Students of the Year Kelsey Doucette Scott Middle, fifth grade Daughter of Cory Doucette and Heather Hebert Top honors at school: Principal's list...

Class Act: Kaylen Chenevert

INDfamily honors Lafayette Parish School System's Students of the Year Kaylen Chenevert Youngsville Middle, eighth grade Daughter of Paul and Tricia Chenevert Top honors at school: Student of the...

Class Act: Kacie Francois

INDfamily honors Lafayette Parish School System's Students of the Year Kacie Francois Plantation Elementary, fifth grade Daughter of Kevin and Sonya Francois Top honors at school: Student of the...

Class Act: John'tasia Jackson

INDfamily honors Lafayette Parish School System's Students of the Year John'tasia Jackson Live Oak Elementary, fifth grade Daughter of Terressa and Anthony Poullard Top honors at school: 4-H member...

Class Act: Jakeyla Chavis

INDfamily honors Lafayette Parish School System's Students of the Year Jakeyla Chavis Northside High, 12th grade Daughter of Joseph and Georgia Chavis Top honors at school: Student of the Year, Miss...

Class Act: Faiz Alam

INDfamily honors Lafayette Parish School System's Students of the Year Faiz Alam Lafayette High School, 12th grade Son of Ifran and Rabia Alam What top honors have you received at school? Mu Alpha...

THE WILDER LIFE: Life Unfiltered

What do our children see? I've been reflecty lately. Whether it's approaching Easter, my own mother's recent 60th birthday or just the truth that our lives have been feeling a bit wild as of...

Class Act: Emma May

INDfamily honors Lafayette Parish School System's Students of the Year Emma May David Thibodeaux STEM Magnet Academy, 12th grade Daughter of Cherry Fisher May and Steve May What top honors have you...

Class Act: Emily Street

INDfamily honors Lafayette Parish School System's Students of the Year Emily Street Duson Elementary, fifth grade Daughter of James and Nicole Street Top honors at school: Student of the Year,...

Class Act: Elizabeth Janette

INDfamily honors Lafayette Parish School System's Students of the Year Elizabeth Janette Acadiana High, 12th grade Daughter of Jeff and Katrina Janette Top honors at school: Third in the Louisiana...

Class Act: Danni Gallette

INDfamily honors Lafayette Parish School System's Students of the Year Danni Gallette L.J. Alleman, fifth grade Daughter of Melodie and Phil Gallet Top honors at school: 4-H student of the year,...

Class Act: Damari Padilla

INDfamily honors Lafayette Parish School System's Students of the Year Damari Padilla J W Faulk Elementary, fifth grade Son of Deon Leopaul and P.J. Padilla Top honors at school: Honor roll, 4-H,...

Crafty: Easter bunnies

Easy crafts in time for Easter Easter is just days away. The eggs are getting dipped and the bunny shaped cakes are baking. We've rounded up three DIYs any bunny can whip up from a piece of pallet art...

CLASS ACT: Camryn Scott

INDfamily honors Lafayette Parish School System's Students of the Year Camryn Scott Acadiana Middle, fifth grade Daughter of Danielle Francis Top honors at school: Student of the Year, honor roll,...

INDfamily fINDs: April 11-13

Picks around town for planning the weekend ahead Hopefest, Parc International Saturday, April 12 , 12-7 p.m. This outdoor festival is hosted by St. Thomas Moore students and is packed full of fun like...

THE WILDER LIFE: Falling without failing

Get yourself up and try again This week I fell. Hard. Like the kind where you don't see it coming. It happens so fast  you don't attempt to catch yourself. Like you're running down the street at break...

CLASS ACT: Cameron Milam

INDfamily honors Lafayette Parish School System's Students of the Year Cameron Milam Ossun Elementary, fifth grade Daughter of Beth and Eric Milam Top honors at school: All A's in conduct,...

CLASS ACT: Benai Breaux

INDfamily honors Lafayette Parish School System's Students of the Year CLASS ACT: Benai Breaux Alice Boucher Elementary, fifth grade Daughter of Doris Davis and Marques Thibodeaux Top honors at...

CLASS ACT: Avery Reed

INDfamily honors Lafayette Parish School System's Students of the Year Avery Reed L. Leo Elementary, fifth grade Daughter of Bridget and Jayson Reed Top honors at school: Project leader and vice...

VICKIE NETTLES: It's All About Family

Loving each family member in their own way [Editor's note: This month new blogger Vickie L. Nettles joins the IND Fam to share her journey of motherhood. With a passion for her own family and a...

CLASS ACT: Anna Cain

INDfamily honors Lafayette Parish School System's Students of the Year Anna Cain Ridge Elementary, fifth grade Daughter of Chris and Karen Cain What top honors have you received at school? Student of...

CLASS ACT: Alphae LeBlanc

INDfamily honors Lafayette Parish School System's Students of the Year Alphae LeBlanc Myrtle Place Elementary, fifth grade Son of Lorin and Theresa LeBlanc What top honors have you received at...

CLASS ACT: Alix Basden

INDfamily honors Lafayette Parish School System's Students of the Year Alix Basden Paul Breaux Middle, eighth grade Daughter of Alice and Tim Basden Top school honors: Paul Breaux's Student of the...

CLASS ACT: Alexander Saunier

INDfamily honors Lafayette Parish School System's Students of the Year Alexander Saunier Milton Elementary, fifth grade Son of Michael and Ann-Rachel Saunier Top honors at school: In gifted and...

THE WILDER LIFE: Hitting Pause

Finding peace in the middle of it all I'm kind of fired up. At myself. At all of us, really. I've half written a million blogs lately on everything from being authentic to that Vogue cover to Ms....

CLASS ACT: Alaina Mowry

INDfamily honors Lafayette Parish School System's Students of the Year Alaina Mowry Broussard Middle, eighth grade Daughter of Timothy and Amelia Mowry Top honors at school: Named to principal's...

New Moms on the Block

IND Family welcomes two new bloggers IND Family welcomes two new bloggers to the fam - Vickie Nettles and Nicole Lopez. These fierce mommas will share their adventures at...

Beyond the Diamond

Sports facility flourishes in Erath, thanks to the head of one of Acadiana's largest companies It's just a ball game. Just a sport. Just a field. But for families like the Toups of Erath sports are...

CRAFTY: Easy Easter displays

Pretty simple spring tables Easter holidays and displays can quickly go the way of a bit too cheesy. And so, we've rounded up three simple DIY ideas for your table that range from chic to a bit...

INDfamily fINDs: March 28-30

Picks around town for planning the weekend ahead Saturday, March 29 Lafayette Holi Festival, Girard Park 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. The traditional Hindu religious festival celebrated every spring is also...

MALLORY JUNEAU: She's the boss

The power of words and bossy little girls If I could describe myself in three words they would be: determined, ambitious and passionate. It's odd because those are the traits that I see in myself but...

In the Kitchen: Spring has sprung

Whimsical ideas for Easter treats The sun is shining and the birds are singing - soon you will gather your crew to dye eggs and go on a hunt for hidden treasures in a field of wildflowers and...

CRAFTY: Easter at home

Easy DIY for the home Seasonal decor is a tough nut to crack without things getting too kitschy. And so, with that in mind we've rounded up some cute and simple options for DIY Easter decor and...

CLASS ACT: It's about forgiveness

Holocaust survivor speaks at local school Eva Mozes Kor is a picture of the power of doing more than surviving. The Holocaust survivor who, with her twin sister, was the subject of human...

INDfamily fINDS for March 20-23

Picks around town for planning the weekend ahead Thursday, March 20-Saturday, March 22 Friends of the Lafayette Public Library Spring Book Sale Heymann Convention Center, 1373 S. College Road 9...

In the kitchen: Cookie monsters

Love is sweeter with chocolate chips There is little children love more than a chocolate chip cookie - the same could be said for parents. But not all cookies are created equal. Baking cookies in the...

CRAFTY: Easy St. Patty's Day

Last minute DIY Celebrate the luck of the Irish today with super easy crafts and recipes so simple they'd be more aptly dubbed food arrangements. Check out our gallery for last minute ways to discover...

VALERIE WOERNER: The nursing kit

Tips and tech to make nursing easier I am the queen of figuring out ways to make my life easier. Call me lazy, but I probably spend more time trying to avoid things that take a long time than actually...

INDfamily fINDs: March 14-16

Picks around town for planning the weekend ahead Snow White & The Seven Dwarfs Grand Opera House of the South, 505 North Parkerson Ave., Crowley March 14 - 16, 7PM and 2 PM Sunday Admission: $12,...

IN THE KITCHEN: Zucchini noodles

Squash the pasta and sneak veggies into your family's dinner tonight Are spaghetti and meatballs on the menu this week for the family? If so, here's an idea to ditch the starchy noodles and sneak some...

CRAFTY: Luck of the Irish

St. Patty's Day crafts You don't have to be lucky to nail our super easy St. Patty's Day craft round up. IND Family has three hand-picked super doable DIY options for the luckiest day of them all that...

INDfamily fINDs for March 7 and 8

Picks around town for planning the weekend ahead Friday, March 7 Popcorn Theater at the South Regional Library 4:00-6:00 PM Free Birds will be on the screen and popcorn, drinks and friendly faces are...

Eat.Play.Love: #girlcode

The sisterhood only women can share Every morning I get up, get myself and my daughter ready and go on about my day - sometimes I have help from my spouse and some days I'm solo. It's a tough gig,...

MARIE DELAHOUSSAYE DIAZ: The meaning of Mardi Gras

Beyond the beads I grew up in Breaux Bridge - not so far from Lafayette, unless you had parents who thought that driving to Lafayette was tantamount to driving to the North Pole. For our family to...

CRAFTY: Easy Mason jars

Easy DIY for everyone in your life Maybe it's my southern roots showing, but there's something I've always loved about a Mason jar. Used in the south for far more than jarring, the beloved jars are...

PATRICIA THOMPSON: Mardi Gras round here

The beauty of Mardi Gras in the country It's an image that's forever emblazoned in my memory. While most people think of New Orleans when they hear the term "Mardi Gras," those of us in...

After the Last Push

New evidence shows long-term effects of bullying The first study to examine the long-term effects of bullying shows the longer the bullying, the more severe and lasting the impact on a child's health....

Take a Little Trip

Farmers markets are proliferating within a scenic weekend drive from Lafayette. Photos by Lucius Fontenot As the weather warms and the sun shines a little longer each day, many of the Cajun Country...

INDfamily fINDs

Picks around town for planning the weekend ahead Children's Parade Saturday, March 1 at 12:30 p.m. Party for Mardi Gras with the kiddos in Lafayette's annual Children's Parade that runs from the...

Shine a Light

Make a stand against slavery Today there are more than 27 million people living in slavery. You read that correctly. Slavery. It's not a bygone travesty. It is alive and well and thriving, and today,...

THE MOTHER LOAD: SIDs, bullies and college roomies

News and happenings for the whole family New SIDs cause possibly found A piece of the puzzle that could reveal more clearly the cruel mystery of SIDs was found recently thanks to researchers from...

THE WILDER LIFE: It takes a village

The power of friends Whoever said it takes a village to raise a child clearly had the mother of all stomach flus. I was sick recently. Like "Mom! I need a washcloth! And a bucket next to the bed...

IN THE KITCHEN: DIY King Cakes

Mardi Gras cooking fun for kids Mardi Gras is a week from today and soon the kids will be on a break from school looking for fun adventures around the house. Try out this recipe with your curious...

Crafty kids

Mardi Gras masks DIY It's that time of year for beads and king cakes and at IND Family that means a round up of some cool crafts to do at home with the kids. Nothing says Mardi Gras like the perfect...

Vote early and often

Schools vie for GMC Terrain Lafayette Parish schools are competing for a new set of wheels. In partnership with Lafayette Courtesy Buick GMC Lafayette Parish School System has launched...

Antoni's kid-friendly menu

Treat the whole family to a taste of Italy Antoni's Italian Café tucked back in the Oil Center has long been a quaint location for couples to dine on tasty traditional Italian cuisine, but now the...

THE WILDER LIFE: Known

I want to be known by you. By you and nobody else but you. Each year I think more and more about Valentine's Day. Life with a child (someone has to plan ahead for those treat bags) and life on...

Follow the leader

School transformation begins here This week educators and stake holders in the Lafayette Parish School System will gather for The Leader in Me symposium thanks to United Way of Acadaiana. The event...

CLASS ACT: Fatima Warriors champs

Seventh grade boys basketball team defeats St. Michael's Saints The Fatima Warriors 7th grade boys basketball team defeated the St. Michael's Saints of Crowley in the recent Catholic league...

THE WILDER LIFE: Spectacular love

The beauty of the minor things What love means to me has changed over the years. It was first that look my mom always gave me when I did something minorly spectacular. I see now it was pride - a way...

TREVIS BADEAUX: I want to love like that…

Love is a subjective word. Love is a subjective word. Great way to start out a blog about love right before Valentine's Day, no? Think about it. What defines love for one exemplifies something else...

EAT.PLAY.LOVE: What women want

Valentine's Day gifts, practically What do women really want for Valentine's Day? Let's go ahead and say what we are suppose to say: "All I want for Valentine's Day is to be in the presence of...

Sweet eats

Treats your family will love Whether it's a dozen goodies for the classroom or a sweet little something for your man, Valentine's Day is just the time to show off your skills in the kitchen. IND...

A few of our favorite V-Day things

A roundup of the coolest crafts and neat treats It's that time of year. The one that used to mean nothing more than fancy dinners and mushy cards. But, once the kids come add to that list a hot glue...

Put on your boogie shoes

Local celebrities get ready to dance for Ascension Episcopal School. Ascension Episcopal School's Blue Gator Boogie happens tomorrow, Saturday, Feb. 8 at 6:30 P.M. at the Lafayette Hilton Ballroom -...

PATRICIA THOMPSON: Love, sweet love

The changing face of love There is perhaps no topic that's been written about more than love. Some of our favorite songs are about love: What About Love What's Love Got to Do With It Love Will Keep Us...

(Don't) Shoo, Fly!

The Urban Naturalist's latest venture: fly larvae that are not only crackerjack composters but excellent fishing bait, too. Marcus Descant is an old-school naturalist, well-versed in many ecological...

THE WILDER LIFE: Love Is …

Accepting people for who they are I don't really know when we started the "Love is " little game we play. It was somewhere between reality and life is hard. In retrospect it's around that...

EAT.PLAY.LOVE: A Girl's First True Love

Here's hoping my daughter will know the same special bond Valentine's Day is fast approaching, and I vividly remember the first time a man ever gave me flowers. He greeted me asking how my day was and...

Class Act: Meredith Arnold

12 year old recognized as the youngest donor to the Lourdes Foundation Meredith Arnold and Tony Gordon Meredith Arnold was recognized as the youngest donor to the Lourdes Foundation. Through the...

Dating 101

The boundaries and basics for kids While love is in the air as Valentine's Day approaches it may be just the time to figure out the boundaries for your children and their dating lives. Boundaries that...

JACKIE LYLE: My virtual life

Staying close miles away Here we are, not as in olden days. It's the twenty-first century and we have all of these devices that make it possible to be in many places at the same time. With my family...

Sneaux song

Local mom's Royals parody A musical mom and dad with a sense of humor, too much gumbo and a wintry mix storm are the perfect recipe for parody it seems. More than 36,000 people agree. That's how many...

THE WILDER LIFE: What parents know

Welcome to toddlerhood Parenthood. It's kind of like a secret society. Only the initiation is much less The Skulls and a lot more like Shark Week. There's blood and you are just trying to get out of...

Cool kids

Ageless style There's a time and place for cutesy little rompers and rows of ruffles. But, sometimes the cutest kid style takes a cue from grown up style in a way that works. For little boys that...

LEF Teacher of the Year Awards

Four teachers win in annual awards While many were celebrating an impending snow day last night, a joyful group of educators and students braved the cold with zeal to celebrate the parish's teachers...

EAT.PLAY.LOVE: The intentions of 2014

Resolving to resolve nothing I didn't make a resolution this year. I did however make a few "intentions" - you know, those things we plan to do but if we don't do them we won't feel so bad...

VALERIE WOERNER: Beyond the first weeks

Getting past the "just making it" phase It's been 14 weeks since Vivi arrived. We're definitely past the "just make it through phase. You know the one I'm talking about. The one where...

TREVIS BADEAUX: Sit in a Basket

Finding what matters in unlikely places So, I walk into the living room one evening after cooking dinner, serving the Little Men, negotiating how much they can eat before they can get up from the...

Teachers of the year

Educators honored in LPSS A handful of educators got a surprise visit this week and a welcome nod to their efforts when Lafayette Parish administrators surprised the Teachers of the Year and...

Class Act: Cameron Domingue

Brazilian jiu jitsu student to represent among top competitors Photo courtesy of Battle for the Ages Cameron Domingue will compete in March among top youth Brazilian jiu jitsu students Cameron...

So pretty and pink

Sweet little girly picks As spring arrives little girly clothes are thinking pink. Whether you dress your little gal less than frilly or with rows of tulle, there's a little something for even the...

AMY CAVANAUGH: Mommy Resolutions

Curbing the fun police in 2014 I love making New Year's resolutions. I think it has something to do with my birthday being on New Year's Eve. I like the idea that starting the very next day anything...

THE WILDER LIFE: Mickey rehab

The cruelty of TV detox I hate kid shaming. I hate when kids are heartbroken and you post their pic crying. But I had to take this pic and now I'm posting it for you. You're welcome. This pic was...

Red carpet bumps

The art of formal dressing with baby on board There are few fashion tasks more daunting that formalwear with a baby bump. When I was about five minutes from giving birth I chaired the American Cancer...

VALERIE WOERNER: Ready, set, baby

Prepping head to home for baby These are some of the few things I have learned along the way - you can (almost) get it all done in due time. PREPARING YOUR HOME 1. Hire someone to clean your home a...

Changing the taste of Carnival

A gluten-free, Paleo King Cake meant for sharing "Why on Earth would you want to make a Paleo King Cake?" It has come to my attention that A) to some folks anything deviating from the...

Breaux Bridge family recovers from recent fire

Community organizes collection of donations to benefit those who lost everything On Sunday, Jan. 2, a Breaux Bridge family lost everything in a house fire. One of the children noticed their father,...

THE WILDER LIFE: The mommy vortex

The time and reason vacuum of parenthood It's all about the Polar Vortex. Something I've learned about in bits and pieces because I am trapped in what I'll call the Mommy Vortex and so there are few...

TREVIS BADEAUX: The ‘Art' of Coloring

Staying outside the lines There is an art to coloring. Oh, you may think you have it down. Years of experience taught you how to stay between the lines, how to add just the slightest hint of color...

Play That Funky Music (2)

New fitness method catches fire Funkie Fusion was never meant to be a success. It was made, simply, for a mom trying to lose some of the baby weight. But when Physiques owner Khristie Gass saw results...

No Place Like Home

Senior living gets the home treatment This isn't your grandmother's nursing home. As the Baby Boomer generation reaches "senior" status, more and more families are looking for options for...

The Big O

The ultimate key ring for moms It's the little things that make a big difference for moms without a minute to spare and a lifetime of juggling. It's this truth that inspired the O Key Ring. It's a...

THE WILDER LIFE: Waiting for Tucker

The changing face of love What a difference a year (or three) makes. The first grandchild arrived in our family more than three years ago when my younger sister had a girl - the infamous Emery. I was...

Play That Funky Music

New fitness method catches fire Funkie Fusion was never meant to be a success. It was made, simply, for a mom trying to lose some of the baby weight. But when Physiques owner Khristie Gass saw results...

Ragin' with Pride

Call me couillon cause I love life in a Cajun town. Photo by Mark Lagrange At the 2013 New Orleans Bowl, Katie Wolpert sported her Ragin' Cajuns pride right down to her rouge colored lips. Ten years...

VALERIE WOERNER: Budgeting for baby

How to put finances in order, plan for maternity leave and become a realist on expanding our nest Photo by Ashleigh Jayne When Tyler and I found out we were having Vivi, we had some serious number...

Happy noon year

The way to celebrate NYE with little ones Don't miss celebrating the coming of 2014 with your littlest ones. Each year the Children's Museum of Acadiana hosts a New Year shindig with the kids in mind...

THE WILDER LIFE: I am Santa Claus

The woman behind the curtain At some point you realize where everything comes from. That pecan pie. And that golden basted turkey. And the whatnots brimming from the stockings. And all those...

MALLORY JUNEAU: Slacker elf

Keeping the elf on the shelf I am often reminded that I am a crazy busy working mother of two around the holidays, not because of the changes in my family's traditions but because of all of the...

AMY CAVANAUGH: No place like home

Just consider that bad behavior a compliment Every year around Christmas time I enjoy seeing pictures on Facebook of other people's Elves on the Shelves. I admire the creativity of it all, and I...

PATRICIA THOMPSON: So this is Christmas

The season's real reason It's the most wonderful time of the year. It's also the busiest, the craziest, and the saddest for some. There's a lot of pressure to buy the right gifts, prepare the right...

KIM WOOTEN: Learning moments

The teachers that change our lives [Editor's Note: Come January the Lafayette Education Foundation will honor the best teachers in the parish with an Academy Awards-like ceremony - LEF Teacher Awards....

UL Lafayette's outstanding graduates

Eight students will be honored by the alumni association during fall 2013 commencement ceremonies on Friday Congratulations to UL Lafayette's fall 2013 outstanding graduates. These students were...

CLASS ACT: Kierany Shelvin

Lafayette Christian Academy student nominated for medical Congress Lafayette Christian Academy's Kierany Shelvin has been nominated to represent the state at the 2014 Congress of Future Medical...

Protecting your health during the holidays

Spread Christmas cheer, not germs Photo courtesy of Lafayette Family Healthcare Michael S. Sonnier It's the most wonderful time of the year to get sick - said no one. Ever. Odds are you know someone...

THE WILDER LIFE: Waiting for Tucker

Worry less, love more What a difference a year (or three) makes. When the first grandchild arrived in our family it was more than three years ago and it was my younger sister and she had a girl - the...

Give the gift of life to a furry friend

It's the season for saving by helping Lafayette Animal Aid "What if you were the only hope?" When I first read those words in the subject of an e-mail, all I could think is, "Oh man,...

VALERIE WOERNER: Motherhood behind the scenes

The positive truths of the mommyhood Moms, you had me pretty scared. When I first became pregnant, I became a little depressed at the thought of being a mom. (This coming from someone who getting...

A few of our favorite little things

Bowl game to Christmas Day Functional and cute isn't always the easiest combo to find for kids. We've rounded up several options that are both. From galoshes for those rainy days to an outfit perfect...

EAT.PLAY.LOVE: Supermodels are humans, too

Sharing the same love as Giselle and her babe I was not able to pry myself away from a sappy Hallmark channel Christmas movie to watch the Victoria's Secret fashion show, but I know how this song and...

Keep Calm

First Baptist's singing Christmas tree arrives The crew over at First Baptist Lafayette are keeping calm this holiday season with their annual Christmas spectacular. A great option for families this...

TREVIS BADEAUX: What the 40?!

The roadmap to life I went to bed at 18 with hair down to the middle of my back and a goatee that tickled the middle of my chest when I laughed. I woke up at 29 with no hair, two pierced ears and that...

A Few of our Favorite Things

Stylish holiday finds for kids As we head into the holidays the mommas at IND Family are picking our favorite goodies for the kiddies. Today we've rounded up a variety starting with super cute bow...

CLASS ACT: Megan Martin and Michelle Menard

UL marketing students place at national competition Two UL Lafayette Marketing students recently placed in a recent National Sales Challenge hosted by the Russ Berrie Institute for Professional Sales...

Christmas at Coteau

Shopping with the family There are few locations around Acadiana more beautiful than the sprawling oak-laden campus of Schools of the Sacred Heart. Add Christmas to the mix and it's a magical thing....

MARIE DELAHOUSSAYE: The school of choice

Homeschooling and curriculum options I missed the picture, but for me it was sort of an iconic picture of homeschooling - my daughter outside on our front lawn reading, with Loki (our new puppy)...

Festival of Light

The can't-miss event for kids From hula dancing to Cajun jams, the Oil Center's Festival of Light promises a rocking time for kids and parents alike. The shindig kicks off at 5 p.m. Friday with...

Holiday Open House

Giveaways and goodies at Martial Tonight the Shops at Martial are hosting an open house for the holidays and thanks to two kid-friendly shops the event is just the thing to take the kids to tonight....

Belt it up

JV offers two-day deal Great stocking stuffers can be hard to find. For the next two days you're in luck. Local collegiate kids brand JV Clothiers has its super cute belts on sale for a cool $12. With...

MALLORY JUNEAU: Pick Your Battles

Learning to let go I don't necessarily believe in the whole horoscope, astrology idea but I cannot deny that I fit all of the qualities of an Aries (which my April birthday makes me) to a T. Some of...

INDfamily fINDs: IberiaBank's holiday photo contest

Enter your family photo album favorite for a chance to win big. Maybe your wallet is feeling the holiday pinch from Black Friday, Shop Small Saturday, Cyber Monday and every other promotion and sale...

THE WILDER LIFE: The late shopper

Accepting the inevitable My new Method dish soap in hollyberry is the only evidence at my house that Christmas is near. Not a stocking is hung by the chimney with care. Not a gift wrapped. Let's get...

The Care Taker

Whether it was sweeping floors, teaching students or now shepherding a school, Joseph Sonnier has a heart of gold and mettle of steel. Whether it was sweeping floors, teaching students or now...

'Tis better to give than receive

Come together as a family to make someone else's holiday shine. Come together as a family to make someone else's holiday shine. Monday, Dec. 2, 2013 By Kari Walker It's the season when we focus a bit...

Less is More

How the toy room can take a lesson from life on the trail Photo by Kari Walker My view hiking the Backbone trail in the Kisatchie National Forest Monday, Dec. 2, 2013 Written by Kari Walker I...

So God Made a Mommy

The beautiful (messy) moments of motherhood Monday, Dec. 2, 2013 Written by Amanda Bedgood Years ago Paul Harvey gave a moving speech to farmers about farmers - "So, God made a farmer." This...

Go ahead, what are YOU really thankful for?

Some holiday humor from INDfamily - Happy Thanksgiving! While you are gathered around the turkey today giving thanks, we want to lend our readers' thoughts on what they are really thankful for. Over...

EAT.PLAY.LOVE: Friendsgiving

Because we refuse to let holiday stress get the best of us I'm slightly confused and have been since Halloween when I went to buy pumpkins for carving that were merely one aisle over from Santa, elves...

TINA BROUSSARD: Giving Thanks for the Tough Times

Giving thanks is more than turkey and cranberry sauce As Thanksgiving approaches, I think about how our family traditionally gives thanks.  I can't help but reflect only to realize and admit that it...

IN THE KITCHEN: Diamonds or Dough

Shining bright with my life-saving stand mixer "I want either a five-carat diamond pendant or a KitchenAid mixer. If I can't have either of these, then please do not give me anything." I...

ELIZABETH SAVOIE SONNIER: Fingerprints on our lives

Cullen's story [Editor's Note: Today is National Children's Grief Awareness Day. To raise awareness of what children face in the wake of loss, guest columnist Elizabeth Savoie Sonnier shares the story...

PATRICIA THOMPSON: Who we are

The beauty of our roots I hope to give Eleanor memories she will cherish. I grew up in the country. I didn't take swimming lessons or dance classes or play soccer. "Fast food" was leftovers,...

Artfully Asian

Looking east for inspiration There's something this IND Styler just loves about Asian-influenced pieces. A sort of refinement found in mandarin collars and perfectly smooth buns. And there's something...

VALERIE WOERNER: A birth story

How Vivi arrived Vivi's birth story started Saturday night after some Chick-Fil-A. I was having pretty weird pains from Vivi moving around so much. I didn't know how to describe it. It wasn't...

AMY CAVANAUGH: It's not about me

Release the mommy guilt As a single parent with a full-time career, I have a lot of balls to juggle and occasionally I drop one (or two or a bunch). As much as I try to give myself the forgiveness and...

VALERIE WOERNER: My little secret

The secret weapon to feeling great post baby I was holding out on y'all. There is one other thing that made my first two weeks better than expected.  It can be a bit of a taboo topic: placenta...

NICOLE LOPEZ: Army, strong

Mother and solider In honor of Veterans Day Lafayette mom Nicole Lopez shares her story of being a soldier and a mom. I wanted to feel accomplished. I wanted a sense of usefulness. I was 23. Still in...

Skate for a cause

The Children's Shelters and Louisiana Ice Arena partner up Looking for a nice way to ease in to cooler temps with the kids? Head out to the Louisiana Ice Arena on Saturday, Nov. 9 from noon -2:45 p.m....

JACKIE LYLE: Raising things

Life. Etc. Despite the fact that I have had two significant, satisfying careers (Times of Acadiana 1981-97 and PASA executive director 1989-2010), my only ambition ever was to be a wife and a mom. I...

SEBREANA DOMINGUE: Raised right

The lessons our children teach This was the message that greeted me when I finished my Comprehensive Exams for my Master's Degree program yesterday. My daughter was more nervous than me when I talked...

AMY CAVANAUGH: The great spanking controversy

Consequence and discipline [Editor's Note: Amy Cavanaugh is a medical psychologist specializing in adolescent and family counseling.] Spanking is one of those controversial parenting topics where...

Louisiana Lunch Money needs your candy

A sweet opportunity to give back and help raise funds for school lunch Did the Halloween rain leave your trick or treat candy bowls a little too full? Want to get rid of the temptation to gorge...

CLASS ACT: Alex Cagnola

Congratulations to Alex Cagnola of Lafayette on his recent honor to serve as LSU's Homecoming king for 2013. Congratulations to Alex Cagnola of Lafayette on his recent honor to serve as LSU's...

SEBREANA DOMINGUE: Memories of mom

Priceless lessons from a tour de force So my sister and her children recently visited from New Orleans, and we spent some time hanging out. These visits remind me of how important my family is to me,...

SEBREANA DOMINGUE: Memories of mom

Priceless lessons from a tour de force So my sister and her children recently visited from New Orleans, and we spent some time hanging out. These visits remind me of how important my family is to me,...

The Craft Table

Ideas for keeping kids creative and leaving their mark on Thanksgiving dinner The Craft Table Ideas for keeping kids creative and leaving their mark on Thanksgiving dinner By: Kari Walker Nov. 1,...

Mother, Inventor

Happiness comes in a bar of soap Mother, Inventor Happiness comes in a bar of soap By Amanda Bedgood Nov. 1, 2013 There is perhaps nothing so driven as a mother with a problem. Margo Baker knows this....

What's your excuse?

I'm not even sure where to start, but here goes. I wrote a blog a while back about accepting our bodies. It's an every-other-day thing for this momma. I could write a book. Or two. It's something I...

TREVIS BADEAUX: Jam sessions

Letting little ones find their own voice I am a practicing student of the guitar. The fascination began at age 4 for no known reason. I simply cannot remember a time in my life when I did not want to...

VALERIE WOERNER: The first two weeks

Learning the ropes as a new mom I remember hearing so many moms talk about how the first two weeks of mommyhood were going to be the hardest. You are recovering from either an exhausting labor or...

KARI WALKER: Getting wiser not older

You are only as old as you feel Earlier this year I hit a milestone - I turned 30. They say with age comes wisdom and I'm really not that wise, but I'm also really not that old. I'm 30. Flirty. And...

Pack and Paddle hosts garage sale

Grab new-to-you outdoor gear at this biannual event Pack and Paddle's biannual outdoor gear garage sale happens Saturday, Oct. 26 at 8 a.m. - if you're hoping to snag some top notch used gear, you...

AMANDA BEDGOOD: What's your excuse?

Where do I begin I wrote a blog awhile back about accepting our bodies. It's an every other day thing for this momma. I could write a book. Or two. It's something I fought and won and lost and then...

TREVIS BADEAUX: Daddy's chair

Memories of a place of comfort and refuge It sat in the corner of the living room, perfectly snuggled between paneling-covered walls. It had a direct, unobstructed line of view from the 27-inch...

Raising funds with Raising Cane's

Eat poulet frit for Les Amis de L'Immersion On Wednesday, Oct. 23, Raising Cane's at 2426 W. Congress St. is giving back to help the French immersion programs in Lafayette. When diners mention Les...

SEBREANA DOMINGUE: Making memories

Tradition and the next generation I love to recall the moments in life that make it special. My daughter and I were talking about going to the Rice Festival in Crowley this weekend to introduce the...

AMY CAVANAUGH: The psychology of motherhood

Even psychologists don't have it made Sometimes people assume that being a psychologist must make parenting so much easier. Let me assure you, it does not. In fact, I think it makes it harder. I tend...

MALLORY JUNEAU: Pregnancy guru?

Just call me the mommy whisperer I I had my babies in a time of my life when all of my friends were still out partying or just planning their weddings.  Some say I did things backwards by having kids...

PATRICIA THOMPSON: Patience

The humbling lessons of parenthood There is no greater lesson in humanity than becoming a parent. My (almost) 3-year-old teaches me this time and time again. Babies are born into this world crying and...

THE WILDER LIFE: The Grapes of Wilder

Choking hazards and the relentless worries of motherhood Under parenthood in the dictionary there should be a special note that reads upon arrival of children one will become plagued with irrational...

AMY CAVANAUGH: The truth about birth order stigmas

An adult middle-child and a first-born only child figuring life out together "Ok, Mom, here's the deal..." These are some of Avery's favorite words, right before she launches into a...

Braxton's Story: Footprints on my heart

A lesson in unconditional love through the unexpected. Editor's note: Most families go to the hospital for the birth of their baby and will leave with that precious new little bundle of joy. But, this...

TREVIS BADEAUX: Camp medal

Two kids, one award. Isaac and Zachary attended a summer camp for the first time this year. The program selected held many fun-filled days of fun jumps, water park visits, field trips to the zoo and a...

EAT.PLAY.LOVE: Birth, naturally

Through pain comes strength and knowledge Nobody likes to hurt. We have this amazing thing called modern medicine and it can take away any twinge of an ache or pain. As a nurse, I have a personal...

THE MOTHER LOAD: Satan didn't make formula

And other hard truths We women sure do put a lot of pressure on each other. Some women are all Pinterest this, and Pinterest that. Cloth diapers. Natural labor (It's all natural, honey!)....

VALERIE WOERNER: Stay fit

Keeping in shape with baby on board I hesitated to mention anything about having a fit pregnancy because I'm not an expert and although I've managed to keep my weight manageable, every pregnancy is so...

MARIE DELAHOUSSAYE: Freedom

The benefits of homeschooling. This last couple of weeks, we benefited from one of the best parts of homeschooling:  freedom. Our family spent almost 2 weeks in Pennsylvania and New York City, right...

IND Family's Guide to Schools

From pre-K to senior year, we've got you covered. Choosing a school, whether that's pre-K or college, is one of the most important decisions a parent can make. Preparing for your child to enter that...

Pin This

I'm too busy making memories to make wreaths and cupcakes. I haven't looked at Pinterest since before Christmas. Sure, I waste my time looking at Facebook and Instagram and posting an embarrassing...

Size Matters

I've finally gotten over the pressure to procreate. It's about time - time for people to start asking me the age old question: "So, when are you having another one?" I usually interpret this...

In costume

Stand out in the Halloween crowd without breaking a sweat. Not much is cuter than a kid in costume, and this month we're showing you how to pull off some creative options even if you're afraid of...

AMY CAVANAUGH: Holler back

The damaging of yelling. Photo source: NY Times A recent study from the University of Pittsburgh and the University of Michigan found that parents who yell at their teenage children for misbehaving...

EAT.PLAY.LOVE: Bikin' the block

Getting back to basics Yesterday we made plans to attend the Stone Energy Gumbo cook-off because in my opinion it's the best $5 I'll spend all year on a meal - and it supports the works of United Way...

THE WILDER LIFE: Mine

Appreciating the life we're given The other night it was around dinner time. Mike had just arrived home and I let Wilder run out in nothing but his diaper and t-shirt to greet him. Wilder, of course,...

MALLORY JUNEAU: Make me a match

Dating and the single mom Getting into single mode after being married can be extremely hard.  For me I hadn't been single since college and the men I dated in college were not what I was looking for...

VALERIE WOERNER: Color Full

Getting Used to Color As a designer, I work with tons and tons of different colors for my clients. This has caused me to gravitate to neutrals for my own personal style. I love black, ivory, nude,...

AMANDA BEDGOOD: The reason we really have kids

My child is a unique snowflake. People have kids for a lot of reasons. They yearn to bring life into this world. To mother. To father. To nuture. But, the truth of it all is that we all think our kids...

AMANDA BEDGOOD: The reason we really have kids

My child is a unique snowflake. People have kids for a lot of reasons. They yearn to bring life into this world. To mother. To father. To nuture. But, the truth of it all is that we all think our kids...

LGMC tops in country for full-term deliveries

Local hospital's efforts cut early-elective deliveries to zero. Our babies are thanking you. Kudos to Lafayette General Medical Center, which has just learned that its efforts to eliminate...

AMY CAVANAUGH: Facing the tough stuff

Raising kind minded children. When I was in my clinical internship, a supervisor asked us psychology interns to go around the table and say what we wanted for our children or how we wished for them to...

AMY CAVANAUGH: Facing the tough stuff

Raising kind minded children. When I was in my clinical internship, a supervisor asked us psychology interns to go around the table and say what we wanted for our children or how we wished for them to...

INDEats guide to tailgating food safety

Don't miss the first touchdown because of ill effect of food poisoning by following these simple suggestions. As the weekend approaches, Ragin' Cajun fans are ready to pack the coolers, grills and...

MELINDA MANGHAM: Parents, don't panic

Expert advice on letting go senior year. Speaking of families, for those families who have seniors in high school, "letting go" is a difficult experience. As the school year begins,...

SEBREANA DOMINGUE: Taking stock

Birthdays mean reflecting back and looking forward. The anticipation of my birthday dinner with my daughter is always the best. We make our annual trek to Tsunami and she tells me how I look younger...

KARI WALKER: Size matters

One and done? Maybe so. It's about that time - time for people to start asking me the age old question: "So, when are you having another one?" I usually interpret this one of two ways....

TREVIS BADEAUX: Best part of the day

Family time around the table. The kitchen table in the family home is becoming more of an ornament as time goes by. That's even more tragic for the Cajun and Creole cultures, where the kitchen table...

AMY CAVANAUGH: Growing pains

Easing the transitions for kids (and moms) Avery has always loved school, from St. Mary's Early Learning Center to the Academy of the Sacred Heart. She loves to learn and she adores her teachers and...

MALLORY JUNEAU: What's in a name?

The great name change debate. Our names are often the first things people know about us.  To say that a name is an important part of who we are is a total understatement.  I have always been a very...

Parents, get out and play

Be a kid again with Lafayette Recreation and Parks Department fall league play Lafayette Recreation and Parks Department is in need of adults who love to play - fall adult volleyball program...

PATRICIA THOMPSON: Our Beach "Vacation"

Family travel is no day at the beach. My family and I recently embarked on a beach vacation. (And by "vacation," I do mean I still had to cook, do laundry, encourage nap time and feed and...

The Ties that Bind

The power of keeping family close, no matter the miles The river was too high - not something you'll probably hear me say again. And not something I ever pay much attention to. But something that...

Go Ahead, Judge Me

Like you, I was the perfect parent of perfect kids. Before I had kids, I was one of those judgy types (you know who you are). I'd look about in abject horror at moms who dressed their kids in light-up...

The Colored Wheel

A young artist emerges and inspires. Seth Wolf has found his voice in art. With unconventional methods, he's creating work that's vivid and abstract - and soon on display during Lafayette Art...

The Sweet Life

The great in between - girl to woman There's a rare time in every woman's life where she sits on the cusp between girl and woman - beyond the pigtails and smocking, but before the minis and heels....

MARIE DELAHOUSSAYE: Why I Homeschool

One mother's journey of education from the dining room. I've been sitting here at the computer off and on for at least 4 hours.  I've surfed the internet, read up on the news, downloaded pictures from...

KARI WALKER: The Force of Nature

Eight years of surviving and thriving from Hurricane Katrina's might. This morning I woke up and during my ritual checking of Facebook, I realized something: today is the eight year anniversary of...

KARI WALKER: The Force of Nature

Eight years of surviving and thriving from Hurricane Katrina's might. This morning I woke up and during my ritual checking of Facebook, I realized something: today is the eight year anniversary of...

JACKIE LYLE: School's out. Forever

No back to school parties around this empty nest. As much as I would give my right eye tooth to have kids still at home, I must say I was literally swelled with delight this past week when all of...

VALERIE WOERNER: Pregnancy symptoms

What to expect from A to Z Pregnancy Symptoms. Y'all, there are an insane amount of them. I told my husband that if you wrote all the pregnancy symptoms that you get over the 10 months all on a sheet...

We wish you'd stop

The Miley Cyrus train wreck Last night I'm minding my business watching an old episode of Rookie Blue (because I literally can't help but watch every police drama on television and I'm old) and the...

Ascension community rallies for support

Local family loses all in house fire here's how you can help. A house fire earlier this week left Ascension fifth grade science teacher Melissa Gentner and her family with few possessions and many...

SEBREANA DOMINGUE: A walk down the aisle

Stress over a dress and daughters who grow up before our eye. As a mother, the realization that one day your daughter will get married and have a life separate from you is inevitable and we prepare...

Head to toe

. With options limited, kids show unique style even in uniform. Uniforms don't offer much wiggle room in the self expression department. But, there are a few spots that allow personal style to shine...

MALLORY ACREY: My mini vacay

The joys of getting ready alone. Most moms know that day-to-day tasks like loading the dishwasher, making dinner and even going to the bathroom are things that are forever changed once you have kids....

Games of Acadiana photo gallery

Highlights from Miles Perret Cancer Services' 2013 Games of Acadiana. Children of all ages and adults alike came together for play with a purpose during Miles Perret Cancer Services' Games of Acadiana...

VALERIE WOERNER: It's in the bag

In my Hospital Bag and Kate Middleton's, too. It's time to pack my hospital bag. I'm including all the usual items, including one big important (and incredibly cheesy) item: a little extra grace for...

TINA BROUSSARD:On being grandparents

The joys of being a backseat rider - not driver It's that moment when you first lay eyes on your precious first grandchild they take hold of your finger with their sweet little hand at that very...

Let the games begin

Miles Perret Cancer Services presents Games of Acadiana Saturday, Aug. 17 at the Cajundome. Miles Perret Cancer Services presents Games of Acadiana Saturday, Aug. 17 at the Cajundome for another year...

WILDER LIFE: Give me a break

No, seriously. Give a mom a break. Mother's Day Out starts this week. I'm irrationally excited. Go ahead, judge. But, I'm thinking what a lot of moms won't say "free free, free at last!" as...

AMY CAVANAUGH: Blondes don't have more fun

Not everyone likes change. After almost six years as a highlighted blonde, I recently changed my hair color to brown (with a few blonde highlights). It was not a huge change for me, since it was a...

KARI WALKER: What led me here to this

How a Registered Nurse became a writer of stories people actually claim to read thanks to a mundane elementary school assignment. When I was in the second grade, we had to write a daily journal entry...

WILDER LIFE: Cousinpalooza

Staying close no matter the miles we have to travel The river was too high last week. Not something you'll probably hear me say again. And not something I ever pay much attention to. But something...

PATRICIA THOMPSON: Go ahead, judge me

I was the perfect parent with perfect children - before I had kids. Before I had kids, I was one of those judgy types. (You know who you are.) I'd look about in abject horror at moms who dressed their...

Class Act needs your help

Calling all proud parents, grandparents, and teachers - INDfamily is in search of academic and organizational achievements by area youth for public recognition. Calling all proud parents,...

Jackie Lyle: The not so empty nest

The kids are grown with a place of their own, but the memories live on in what's left behind. We've lived in the same house for 29 years. On a day in 1984, when our first child, Crawford, was 20...

SEBREANA DOMINGUE: Cartoon lessons for grownups

The worst thing about having your only child grow up and become an adult is not having an excuse to see an animated movie. The worst thing about having your only child grow up and become an adult is...

TREVIS BADEAUX: Trying to get out of heaven

A dear friend unexpectedly passed in September of last year. The untimely death of such a young, wonderful husband, father, musician and friend all these months later is no easier to swallow with the...

MALLORY ACREY: Gender rules, not in my house

How I'm raising kids and breaking down stereotypes. Being a mom can be a terrifying job, you are literally molding little people into who they will become as adults.  That is crazy! Every little...

AMY CAVANAUGH: Mom on the run

Learning to care for myself better so I can be a better mom. Being a single parent of a young child and having a full-time career taking care of other people doesn't always lend itself to taking very...

VALERIE WOERNER: Don't Eat the Sand

With only 11 weeks left to go, I'm officially in the phase of needing to learn about this whole child rearing business, and I should probably learn something about birth while I'm at it. With only 11...

United Way of Acadiana collecting school supplies

'Stuff the Bus' school supply drive collection sites set for Aug. 8 in Lafayette Parish. It's the time of year when parents start to fill their shopping carts with pencils, crayons and glue sticks...

Table for two and a place for kids, too

A night out for an upscale dinner becomes more family friendly at Ruffino's on the River. When someone suggests dinner out at a restaurant known for white-linen elegance with waterfront dining, the...

Making the Grade

Lafayette Education Foundation Teacher Awards finalist Terry Richard tells INDfamily how parents can help kids get to the head of the class this school year. Friday, Aug. 2, 2013 By Kari...

Lunch and Learn

Brown bag lunch doesn't have to be boring or unhealthy - let your kids participate in planning lunches to inspire healthy choices and keep them at the head of the class. Brown bag lunch doesn't have...

The Case for Nursing

There is nothing weird or wrong with breast-feeding through the Terrific Twos.' There is nothing weird or wrong with breast-feeding through the Terrific Twos.' By Kari Walker Friday, Aug. 2, 2013 My...

Wilder Life: The More You Know

I've learned a lot in 22 months, but there is so much more that awaits me. I've learned a lot in 22 months, but there is so much more that awaits me. By Amanda Bedgood Friday, Aug. 2, 2013 I think a...

Never a dull moment

Welcome to IND Family. A place dedicated to keeping families in Acadiana healthy, strong and connected. Photos by Robin May [Editor's Note: The expanded IND Family zone will be online the first week...

THE WILDER LIFE: Life's a beach, baby

Vacations redefined Here's the truth all you parents know: a vacation really isn't one if you're taking the kids. I'm back from a relaxing' week at the beach and I'm exhausted. Lest you find me a...

Registration begins Saturday for fall soccer

Youth and adult soccer registration for Lafayette Parish starts July 27. Although the temps outside are blazing, soon fall will be here and it's time to start thinking about registering the kids for...

THE WILDER LIFE: All hail the king's momma

Motherhood on the world stage must be tough stuff I can think of 2,340,567 reasons being a princess would suck (I could say challenging or complicated but my unroyal self thinks nothing sums it up as...

The Wilder Life: Body Issues

#motherhood. #truth. Real life leaves most of us scarred - and stronger for it. #motherhood. #truth. Real life leaves most of us scarred - and stronger for it. By Amanda Bedgood Monday, July 1, 2013 I...

Mother Load: Reggie to the Rescue

Man's best friend helps a diabetic child monitor and prevent hypoglycemic episodes while bringing comfort to his family. Man's best friend helps a diabetic child monitor and prevent hypoglycemic...

INDfamily Weekend Planner

Looking for a few activities to keep the kids busy this weekend? Here are our picks from around town. Looking for a few activities to keep the kids busy this weekend? Here are our picks from around...

Baby Fresh

Two moms are providing high quality local and organic baby food to Acadiana babies. Two moms are providing high quality local and organic baby food to Acadiana babies. By Kari Walker Monday, June 3,...

Playing Responsibly

Red Arrow Workshop's toy selection offers socially responsible opportunities for child development. Red Arrow Workshop's toy selection offers socially responsible opportunities for child development....

Lafayette Public Library heats up reading Friday

The solution to summer boredom also promotes literacy for young readers. The Lafayette Public Library Summer Reading Program Kickoff Celebration will be held Friday, May 31, from 10 a.m.- 3 p.m....

Eli's still reaching

The story of local boy to be heard by an audience of 100 million this week People around Acadiana have heard about Eli Judice. After two books and reaction more dramatic and far reaching that his...

Mom enough? Baby, you be the judge

To all the mamas out there putting in overtime, can you relate? Wishing you a Happy Mother's Day from INDfamily. In honor of Mother's Day, I give you a piece of my life as a mom. A mother's work is...

Icing on the Cake

Cena is cooking up a good time and making birthday experiences memorable. Cena is cooking up a good time and making birthday experiences memorable. It comes just once a year, but this time skip the...

Summer camp faves and raves

The time of year where boredom seems to set in before feet have hit the ground at the last bus stop is upon us. For those looking into summer activities for kids, here are a few in the area to keep...

A Culture of Violence

The problem of children's exposure to violence is urgent - and we can't afford to ignore it. The problem of children's exposure to violence is urgent - and we can't afford to ignore it. One...

When life gives you lemons, turn a profit

Calling all pint-sized entrepreneurs: Get your business up and going just in time for Lemonade Day Louisiana. This Saturday, May 4, let your children explore their inner business sense by starting...

Honoré delivers lesson on leadership and family

Lt. Gen. Russel Honoré offered advice on building a stronger family unit at the Cajundome Convention Center Saturday. Lt. Gen. Russel Honoré, best known for taking charge and restoring order...

IND's baby tent set up on Jefferson Street

While out catching the sights of Festival with the little ones, let us make your experience more comfortable to feed your baby and put dad on diaper duty. While out catching the sights of Festival...

INDfamily Weekend Planner

Looking for a few activities to keep the kids busy this weekend? Here are our picks from around town: Looking for a few activities to keep the kids busy this weekend? Here are our picks from around...

A life lesson from Boston

Reach out and hug someone. There is no time like the present. Reach out and hug someone. There is no time like the present. It feels like there is an elephant in my room. These feelings are far too...

INDFamily Weekend Planner

Looking for a few activities to keep the kids busy this weekend? Here are our picks from around town: Looking for a few activities to keep the kids busy this weekend? Here are our picks from around...

Test post 1

Crossfit gyms are changing the face of fitness in Acadiana. Patrick Conner is a hard-working, 34-year-old single dad to two kids who mean the world to him. After receiving the diagnosis of fatty liver...

IND Monthly sponsors fest tent for families

Moms planning must-sees at Festival International this year take note: For the very first time in festival history, there is a special tent just for you and your little ones. Monday April 1, 2013 Moms...

Music to My Ears

Los Angeles native Katie Marino's talented vocals are the heart and soul of a new music school. Los Angeles native Katie Marino's talented vocals are the heart and soul of a new music school. By...

Mouton Park attracts major League players

The Junior League of Lafayette, along with a little help from Lafayette Consolidated Government, rebuilt and replaced outdated playground structures at Mouton Park on Center Street. Monday, April 1,...

Festival International: A Family Affair

A successful family outing starts with all the right stuff. Photo by Danny Landry As we shed our winter coats and trade up for some warmer sunshine, here in Lafayette families are shifting into...

Mouton Park attracts major League players

The Junior League of Lafayette's 55th anniversary celebration makes a lasting impression on an aging Lafayette park. The Junior League of Lafayette, along with a little help from Lafayette...

Legislating from Experience

When you hear U.S. Sen. Mary Landrieu talk about federal adoption policies, it might be worth listening, as she is uniquely positioned to know how the issue can affect Louisiana families When you hear...

International Uncertainty

Russian children hoping to be adopted by American parents are facing an uncertain future due to their government's ban that took effect Jan. 1. Russian children hoping to be adopted by American...

Giving Hope A Home

The state is reporting more foster care adoptions in the Lafayette region than in any other major metro area, but there are still growing needs and a few troublesome trends. The state is reporting...

Making Bubbles

Best friends add sass to local soap biz. Best friends add sass to local soap biz. By Amanda Bedgood Friday, Feb. 2, 2013 At 12 years old, hobbies don't usually include profit margins. But for the duo...

Lucie Arnaz to headline Go Red for Women luncheon

Lucie Arnaz tends to be pretty frank, a handy quality when trying to rid the country of women's No. 1 killer: heart disease. When Lucie Arnaz gives the keynote speech at the 2013 Go Red for Women...

My Lenten Confession

Or, how I figured out how to give up alcohol for Lent and still have drinks on the weekend. OK. Here's how it happened. I'm a Catholic, a lawyer and as of a few years ago, an empty nester. What that...

The CrossFit Mommy

You can balance motherhood and shed the baby weight. You can balance motherhood and shed the baby weight. Kari Walker is short on time and long on responsibility. She is, simply put, a mom. She works...

Mommy Time

These busy professionals keep their sanity - and their figures - by pounding the pavement. Photo by Robin May These busy professionals keep their sanity - and their figures - by pounding the...

‘Eli Has A Purpose'

Little Eli Judice's reach extends far further than the length of his tender arms. Photo by Robin May Eli Judice, in his Pre-K class at St. Pius, was born with spina bifida. Eli is the inspiration for...

The Spirit of Christmas

This year teach your kids that a little goes a long way for those less fortunate. So many of us in Acadiana are blessed and able to help others who can't help themselves. And every year thousands of...

Coping Mechanisms

Holidays should mean joyous times - but too often they're also filled with dreaded days of difficult relatives. Holidays should mean joyous times - but too often they're also filled with dreaded days...

Beyond Borders

In a world of me, me, me,' we can't overstate the value of teaching about others. In a world of me, me, me,' we can't overstate the value of teaching about others. by Amanda Bedgood November...

Know When to Call ‘BS,' When to Listen

Even when I can identify the problem, I rarely know for sure whether I should be, (a) telling her to cut the BS or (b) quietly listening to the story she wants to tell me. November 2012 Written by...

Calling all cake decorators

Cake decor contest slated for Saturday morning The Louisiana Lunch Money Carnival Saturday morning will include a cake decorating contest for the best "fall expressions" creation with the...

Cry, Baby, Cry

The current motherhood War of the Roses is roughly this: Baby Wise versus Mayim Bialik. Persistent and early boundary-setting defines the former, attachment parenting the latter. Monday, Oct. 1,...

The Mother Load

Breastfeeding Battle Scars I've been breastfeeding my 8-month-old son since the day he was born, and I'm a true believer that breast is best. But I have to admit that when I heard that NYC Mayor...

Passing the Smell Test

Cathy Irwin thinks it's the best new product for front load washers. "I'm using it in mine and love it," she says in a Facebook post. "I've been using it for three weeks and I have no...

One Moment in Time

Maternity photos are the best way to capture the essence of motherhood. Like so many moms out there, I live with the regret that I didn't document my pregnancy. My daughter is 21 and I'm 45, which...


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