Good Advice?

Lucy finds out that sometimes our advice is remembered - whether we like it or not.

  As parents, we’re constantly giving advice. Some out of sheer rote like, “don’t speak with your mouth full” while others are more tailored to each child. For example, our son, Dakota, was born with a series of life-threatening birth defects (collectively called Pentalogy of Cantrell). One of his defects was an omphaloceale, which means his stomach never closed; his intestines and part of his liver grew outside his body. The doctors were able to sew him up, but it left a huge, one-inch-wide scar running much of the length of his torso. He also has a cleft sternum and no navel. As he grew, we’d go to beaches where it was obvious he was different. It soon became obvious to him as well. We told him over and over that he was a brave boy and …

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Terror Expert: 'Be Aware, But Don't Fear"

Local professor shares tips on identifying potential danger following bin Laden's death.

Government officials warn of retaliation by al-Qaeda for Osama bin Laden’s death.  But, Montgomery County Community College instructor, Ben Prybutok says, “Be aware, but don’t fear.”  Prybutok is MCCC’s Director of Criminal Justice program, and teaches terrorism, counter-terrorism and homeland security courses.  He says our area has the same type of terrorist targets as urban areas. Public places where large numbers of people congregate, and have easy ways to enter and exit the facilities are targets for al-Qaeda.  They include:  shopping malls, hospitals, places of worship, schools and colleges, and mass transit. Prybutok urges citizens to be watchful, but not paranoid.  “If you see unusual behaviors for a setting and your brain is …

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Ask Luci

Where Do I Start When I Want to Change Careers?

A reader who recently lost his job ponders tackling a new career path, but has some questions about the process.

Help! I am in my mid-30's and recently lost my job. I am thinking about switching careers. I don't know what I want to do.  Where do I start? How can I figure out what I would like to do and what I would be good at? Soul Searching in Solebury   Dear Searching, Believe it or not, losing your job could be good news.  Many successful people say that getting fired was the best thing that ever happened to them.  It forced them to take a long hard look at themselves and their aspirations. With that being said, know that you are not alone.  Many Americans are considering a new career path.  The good news is you have choices and lots of them. However, taking the leap into a new career isn't always easy.   Here are a few suggestions: First, make a …

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Ask Luci

What's a Grandparent to do?

A mother questions her role in the parenting style of her children, living with their children under her roof.

Hi Luci, What do you do when you have two adult daughters living with you and their two children age 3 and 5? Each mom has their own opinion on how to raise the boys and it is very difficult. Any suggestions? -Kitty Dear Kitty, The way you need to look at this situation really depends on your concerns.  Are you upset that you have two adult children living in your house, or do you enjoy having the family together?  There is no rule that says offspring have to move out by a certain age. In fact, it is becoming more common for college students to move back home due to unemployment. However, they do live in your house.  That gives you the right to create rules and set boundaries.  If you disagree with the way your grandchildren are being …

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Ask Luci

Just Ask Luci

Struggling with a problem or issue and need a new perspective? Luci is here to help.

Times are tough. The economy’s in the toilet, people are losing their jobs and this winter weather is enough to make you want to hibernate until the daffodils bloom. You're juggling everything from relationships to work, babies to beauty and it isn't easy. Sometimes even the little questions can be overwhelming. You don't need to go it alone. If you're having relationship, career, financial or family issues, or if you simply have a question about what to wear for the next Nor’easter, write to me at PatchAskLuci@gmail.com. No question or problem is too silly or small, I promise. Look for my column twice a week. I'll be answering e-mails and offering readers a fresh perspective on their problems. Remember, if you are struggling with an …

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