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Articles by Amanda Shaffer
Going Beyond the Jack-o’-Lantern with Your Littles
It’s officially my favorite time of the year. The air is brisk, the apples are ripe, and the pumpkin patches are open! While you won’t find me with a pumpkin spice latte in my hand anytime soon (I know, I know—gasp!), I do relate to just about every other fall meme out there. If it is fall-related, I am here for it. Lucky for me, my four-year-old is also a fan of everything fall.
Tips and Tricks for Exclusive Pumping
I am just four weeks into my breastfeeding journey with my second child. With my first child, I made it 14 months as an exclusive pumper, also known as an EPer. It is a world of breastfeeding I didn’t know about until my son was born early and with jaundice and bottle-feeding was our beginning. Three years later, my second child was born late preterm.
Murals In + Around Lansing and How to Find Them
After first moving to Lansing and taking a quick tour of the city, I was amazed by how much art touched the city. Lansing’s art scene is truly inspiring, and the artists that have painted the town have given us a tremendous gift. In an effort to get my preschooler out of the house but maintain social distancing, we decided to adventure to view some of these fantastic murals up close and in person. Where: 226 E César E.
Jackson Is One of Michigan’s Most Underrated Family-Friendly Summer Destinations
When we’re planning summer adventures in Michigan, we’re always looking for destinations the whole family will genuinely enjoy, including Mom and Dad. With nearly four years between our kids, finding places that appeal to both of them isn’t always easy. We also love discovering under-the-radar destinations, so the Jackson area quickly found its way onto our summer bucket list. Whether you’re planning a full weekend getaway or just a day trip, Jackson has something for every age and interest.
Take a StoryWalk® In + Around Lansing
Do you have little ones who love books? Does your family love the outdoors? Well then, the library has installed the perfect activity for your family – the StoryWalk®. What is a StoryWalk®? A StoryWalk® is an interactive outdoor reading experience. Children’s picture books are transformed into signs along a path in nature for you and your family to enjoy. You and your family will travel through a whole book with stops along the way. Who is a StoryWalk® good for?
Sacrospinous Hysteropexy With Mesh vs Vaginal Hysterectomy for Treatment of Uterovaginal Prolapse : 10-Year Results of a Randomized Clinical Trial
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Sacrospinous Hysteropexy With Mesh vs Vaginal Hysterectomy for Treatment of Uterovaginal Prolapse: 10-Year Results of a Randomized Clinical Trial Key Points Question At 10 years, is there a difference in treatment failure for vaginal mesh hysteropexy (hysteropexy) vs vaginal hysterectomy with uterosacral ligament suspension (hysterectomy) in women with uterovaginal prolapse?
By Charles W. Nager, Holly E. Richter, Kate V. Meriwether, Heidi S. Harvie, Halina Zyczynski, Amaanti Sridhar, Sonia Thomas, Cassandra Carberry, Deborah Myers, Vivian W. Sung, Matthew Barber, Cecile Ferrando, Annette Graham, Beri Ridgeway, Cindy L. Amundsen, Amie Kawasaki, Nazema Siddiqui, Keisha Dyer, Gisselle Zazueta-Damian, Marie G. Gantz, Kimberly McMillian, Amanda Shaffer, Dennis Wallace, Ryan Whitworth, Kathy Carter, David L. Ellington, Ryanne Gallagher Johnson, Sunita Patel, Robin Willingham, Kimberly Ferrante, Emily S. Lukacz, Gena Dunivan, Peter C. Jeppson, Yuko M. Komesu, Rebecca Rogers, Ariana Smith, Pamela A. Moalli, Jonathan Shepherd, Gary Sutkin, Anthony G. Visco, Charles R. Rardin, Marie Fidela R. Paraiso, Donna Mazloomdoost, B Star Hampton, Nicole Korbly, Ann S Meers, Kyle Wohlrab, Acacia Harris, Shantae McLean, Alison Weidner, Gouri B Diwadkar, Linda M Mackinnon, Katrina Burson, Kendra Glass, Alicia Ballard, R Edward Varner, Velria Willis, Kyle Herrala, Lorraine Flick, Michelle Kinglee, Michael Bonidie, Judy Gruss
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Port Huron Might Be Michigan’s Most Underrated Waterfront Town
Port Huron has a deep history as a waterfront town. It sits at the meeting point of Lake Huron and the St. Clair River. It’s home to Michigan’s oldest lighthouse, and that’s what brought us here the first time. What started as a quick day trip turned into something more once we learned about the Port Huron Museums and how much history and hands-on experiences you can experience throughout the city.
Five Books to Grow Your Child’s Library This Spring
Spring is here, and it’s the perfect time to refresh your bookshelves.We tend to rotate our at-hand book baskets and floor shelves with books that are relevant to current holidays, awareness months, and seasons.This gives us an opportunity to look at what books we may be able to donate as well as keep the children’s interest in new topics without much effort while rotating new book picks in our home.
What’s the Dill? Detroit’s Pickle-Lover Paradise
Ever since I can remember, I have loved pickles. There was always a jar in our refrigerator growing up, tucked into the back corner like a staple that never ran out. Every sandwich order included extra pickles, and at every bar and grill, I would immediately scan the plate for that classic dill spear resting beside my fries. To me, it’s the best part of a meal. Some may call it an obsession. I prefer to say I have a deep appreciation for brine-preserved cucumbers.
The Easiest Trick to Save Money on Michigan Attractions
When people ask me for my best tips on Michigan travel, I always tell them about this little-known way to access parks and attractions for free or reduced admission. Years ago, deep in the early motherhood trenches, another mom shared this secret with me. Now, it’s my personal mission to tell as many people as possible. The Michigan Activity Pass isn’t just for families either. It’s for anyone with a library card who wants to save money and explore more of Michigan.
The Easiest Trick to Save Money on Michigan Attractions
When people ask me for my best tips on Michigan travel, I always tell them about this little-known way to access parks and attractions for free or reduced admission. Years ago, deep in the early motherhood trenches, another mom shared this secret with me. Now, it’s my personal mission to tell as many people as possible. The Michigan Activity Pass isn’t just for families either. It’s for anyone with a library card who wants to save money and explore more of Michigan.
Celebrating National Michigan Day
National Michigan Day is celebrated on January 18th every year. While there are many different ways to celebrate being a Michigander or the Great Lake State itself, I thought it might be helpful if I gave a few ways that my family and I have celebrated or plan to celebrate our love for the mitten state! Go Rock Hunting While walking away with the state stone, the Petoskey would be a highlight.
Five Michigan Waterfalls to Start With (That We Still Love Years Later)
Michigan is an incredible state, especially when it comes to getting outside. There is so much to see and do that it can feel overwhelming, especially when you are trying to plan trips with kids. When I first started traveling more of the Mitten State with my family, I needed ideas that felt doable. Short walks. Clear payoffs. Places that didn’t require an entire weekend of planning. That is exactly what I hope to offer here.
Science Fiction Books Readers Love
There are endless ways to imagine future and alternate human societies. Authors of science fiction books offer potential glimpses into those possibilities. Science fiction novels use technological advances to explore beyond what is currently possible in our world. Many sci-fi books draw attention to and amplify issues that plague our modern world by showing where they could lead in the future.
Relax, Explore, Repeat: A Hidden Gem Getaway in Hillsdale County
If you’re looking for a hidden gem getaway, tucked in a corner of Michigan you probably haven’t explored yet, I found the perfect place for you. Picture this: a scenic canopy walk, a fresh farm market, friendly local cafes, and a fascinating park with 17 unique bridges – all within minutes of a cozy cottage on a flower farm.
10 Highlights You’ll Love From Our Fall Family Weekend in Mt. Pleasant
When planning family adventures, we often look for places that combine the small-town feel we love with a touch of city amenities, like a wider variety of restaurants and a few museums. On our recent trip to Central Michigan, we didn’t have to go far to find exactly that. Mt. Pleasant delivers with its small-town charm, a walkable historic downtown, and plenty of food and fun for the whole family.
9894 Salem Hollow Rd SE, New Straitsville, OH 43766, US
Operating Expenses Recurring costs required to maintain and manage a rental property, including property taxes, insurance, maintenance, repairs, utilities (if paid by the owner), property management fees, and other day-to-day expenses. Calculation: Insurance + Property Taxes + Property Management + Repairs & Maintenance + Capital Expenditures + HOA Fees
The Romantic Michigan Getaway We Didn’t Know We Needed
Let’s be honest, between the chaos of everyday life, never-ending to-do lists, and calendar battles, carving out quality time with your partner isn’t always easy. That’s why I want to share our getaway to Jackson, Michigan, to inspire your next trip (or feel free to steal our itinerary, because we had the perfect weekend and I’d recommend it to anyone). This under-the-radar region of Southcentral Michigan surprised us with its perfect blend of relaxation, adventure, and local charm.
And the Award Goes To... Best Michigan State Parks to Hike, Camp, Rock Hunt & More!
Just a few short years ago, I had only explored a handful of Michigan State Parks. Growing up, we biked to Warren Woods State Park and would spend hours in our own little world, climbing logs, hiking, and exploring. In the off season, we would comb the beach at Warren Woods State Park for hours searching for beach glass and try to witness as many sunsets as we could. Later, life would move me to the middle of Michigan, and I was inspired to start a new goal.
28 Hidden Gems in Jackson County To Inspire Your Next Adventure
Jackson County, Michigan, might surprise you. This mid-sized city and surrounding communities have roots in automotive history, coney dogs, and the arts, and also a growing number of hidden gems that deserve more attention. Jackson County’s charm runs deep, from creative kitchens and local coffee shops to scenic trails and vibrant murals.
18 Hidden (And Not-So-Hidden) Gems You Need to Explore in the Brighton Howell Area
Known for its Up North vibes without the drive, while being conveniently located in Southeast Michigan, the Brighton Howell Area is brimming with hidden (and not-so-hidden) gems just waiting to be discovered. From beloved local favorites to delightful lesser-known treasures, there’s plenty to explore here. On your next getaway to the Brighton Howell Area, be sure to add these spots to feel like a local, along with an explorer of new places.
Meet Mt. Pleasant: A Four-Season Gem in Central Michigan
Meet in the center of Michigan for a destination that truly offers something incredible in every season. Whether you’re drawn to spring festivals, summer concerts, fall football, or winter snow activities, Mt. Pleasant is a go-to spot for year-round experiences. Here are our top recommendations on how to make the most of Mt. Pleasant through all four of Michigan’s seasons.
My 7 Favorite Michigan Winter Adventures You Need to Try This Year
Winter in Michigan is magical. The snow-covered landscapes transform familiar destinations into peaceful escapes, offering an entirely new perspective. From outdoor sports to unique dining experiences, there are countless ways to embrace the season. Here are my 7 favorite Michigan winter adventures, with ideas to inspire your own cold-weather explorations. Snow tubing is an exhilarating way to enjoy Michigan’s snowy slopes.
7 Michigan Places Everyone Should Visit in Their Lifetime
As someone who’s always loved exploring Michigan, creating a “must-see” list has pushed me out of my comfort zone and led me to some of my favorite places in the state. From iconic landmarks to hidden gems, these spots have shaped my understanding of Michigan’s beauty and diversity. Everyone’s list will look different, but I encourage you to explore these seven destinations to see if they earn a place on yours.
Grab Your Best Friend for an Epic Fall Weekend in the Petoskey Area
My best friend and I recently had an incredible time exploring the scenic beauty and local charm of the Petoskey Area. From peaceful lakeside mornings to vibrant downtown experiences, the Petoskey Area offers something for everyone—whether you’re seeking outdoor adventures, incredible restaurants, or unique local shops. If you’re looking for inspiration for your own trip, read on to discover the perfect fall retreat in Northern Michigan.
24 Petoskey Area Hidden Gems You Need to Explore This Fall
Along the shores of Lake Michigan’s Little Traverse Bay, the Petoskey Area is known for its incredible natural beauty, rich history, and friendly community. While many visitors tend to make stops at well-known spots like the historic Gaslight District and the breathtaking Petoskey State Park, there’s a whole other side to the Petoskey Area waiting to be discovered.
Explore Beautiful Parks & Charming Downtowns in the Brighton Howell Area
After moving to the middle of Michigan, I was constantly looking for ways to spend time in nature that gave me that outdoor and “Up North” feeling without having to travel as far. This is how I discovered the Brighton Howell Area, and I was thrilled to spend a few days there exploring with my family recently.
Go on a Fossil Hunting Expedition at Rockport Recreation Area
Rockport Recreation Area is nestled along the shores of Lake Huron in the scenic Alpena area. While this is a relatively new state park, the natural beauty and history that it offers have quickly made it one of my favorites to explore with my children. It was officially designated as a state recreation area in 2012, making it Michigan’s 100th state park. Thank you to Visit Alpena for partnering with Awesome Mitten to share this unique fossil hunting opportunity in Northeast Lower Michigan.
Don't Miss This Overlooked Small Town in Northern Michigan
As the gateway to the majestic Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, the picturesque gem of Frankfort, Michigan, invites visitors to embark on a journey through both history and nature. Frankfort offers all of the gorgeous and stunning views of the most popular beach towns scattered along Lake Michigan, but it couples it with under-the-radar small-town charm. For my son’s spring break, I knew that no matter the weather, we wanted to make our way to one of the Great Lakes.
Explore Grand Ledge for Small Town Charm in Mid-Michigan
Just over twelve miles west of downtown Lansing, sitting along the Grand River, you will find the charming town of Grand Ledge, Michigan. We recently enjoyed a picture-perfect day trip to Grand Ledge, which is an ideal location for anyone who appreciates history, nature, and small-town charm in Mid-Michigan. Grand Ledge itself has a fascinating past dating back to the early 1800s. The Anishinaabe people were the area’s first residents, and later, it became a thriving hub for settlers and traders.
A Family Guide To Harbor Country Michigan
Michigan is a beautiful state and Amanda showcases it best on Instagram at @exploremichiganmore. From day trips to weekend getaways, find inspo for all parts of the state. Save this article for your west Michigan adventures. From kid-friendly activities, places to eat and where to stay, Amanda breaks down it all for a go-to travel guide. Just a little over three hours from the Detroit Area, you will find a haven of small towns strung together along the Lake Michigan shoreline.
3 Michigan Day Trips to Take With Your Best Friend
We all know that carving out time for your friendships or partners can be tough in life’s hustle and bustle. Sometimes, it takes a little inspiration or plans laid out for you. I hope you can use these three different Michigan day trips taken to three thriving cities for inspiration for your next outing. While each of these Michigan cities has a plethora of options available for eating, seeing, and doing, what I loved about each of these trips was the proximity of each location to each other.
My Top Picks for 48 Hours of Winter Family Fun in Mt. Pleasant
We all know that the winters in Michigan can be long. Often, they start at the beginning of November and last through March. While some winters may be mild, the itch to get away after the holidays and experience a different backdrop from the routine still was calling out, and that is why we found ourselves planning a perfect winter weekend in Mt. Pleasant. When we had first made our arrangements, there wasn’t a snowflake on the ground for practically the whole month of December.
5 Absolute Must-Visit Metroparks in Southeast Michigan
There are many hidden gems scattered throughout the southeast area of Michigan to explore but there is one park system that my family and I return to over and over again. The Huron-Clinton Metroparks system is made up of 13 different parks to enjoy and explore all year-round. I became an ambassador of the parks more than a year ago and it motivated me to try to spend as much time outdoors checking out these amazing parks and all the offerings they have.
The Ultimate Lansing Area Day Trip: The Capitol, Horrocks & More
Before moving to Mid-Michigan, the only time I had spent in Lansing, Michigan and the surrounding area was for an elementary school field trip. As I moved further away from the southwest corner of Michigan, this led to opportunities to explore places like Lansing a bit further. I recently took a day trip to the Greater Lansing Area, and if you are interested in exploring this area more, I am happy to share my itinerary with you.
Southwest Michigan Day Trip: 9 Awesome Experiences You Need to Try
Growing up in the heart of Harbor Country in Southwest Michigan, I often found myself exploring from the very corner of Michigan up to the shores of St. Joseph/Benton Habor, Michigan. While I no longer live there, I consider myself a local at heart and want to share with you how to spend a day visiting hidden (and not-so-hidden gems) to make a magical trip down the coastline of Southwest Michigan. When it comes to road trips around Michigan, I try to always start at a local coffeehouse.
You Need to Visit this Michigan Family Farm for the Ultimate Fall Experience
When looking to make memories in Michigan, there is no substitute for heading to the farm. Whether it’s in the spring, summer, or fall there are endless options for the whole family to enjoy from picking fresh produce or visiting the barnyard animals. If you are looking for fun for the whole family in West Michigan, then Lewis Adventure Farm and Zoo is the place to go.
5 Reasons Ludington State Park Is the Best State Park in Michigan
Just a couple of short years ago, I made a goal for myself and my children to visit all 103 of Michigan’s state parks. While we are halfway through completing our goal, some state parks have stopped us from getting there because they are parks we want to return to repeatedly, making checking off new parks more difficult. There is magic certain places have, and Ludington State Park holds that magic for both my children and me.
Steal My Itinerary for An Amazing Weekend in Ludington
While we have been to Ludington more than a handful of times now, our latest visit was our first after the mark of Labor Day, when many beach towns start finding their off-season rhythm. While the pace might be a bit slower, the weather is still perfect, and the small town is bustling with the same energy, just fewer crowds.
Explore the Majestic Turnip Rock on a Scenic Boat Tour
Turnip Rock. The name itself is enough to make you raise your eyebrows. Turnip Rock was formed from waves undercutting it, making it into its unique formation. Visiting Turnip Rock has been on my own Michigan Bucket List since it was nominated for consideration many years ago to be named one of Michigan’s Seven Wonders. While it didn’t make this list, it stayed on mine (and Awesome Mitten’s Ultimate Michigan Summer Bucket List).
My Awesome Summer Road Trip Itinerary Up Michigan's Thumbcoast
In my early twenties, I found myself between jobs for a couple of weeks. I used the opportunity to pack up my car and head on one of the most incredible road trips I have had to this date. We covered just over 3,000 miles heading as far east as Seattle before returning. One of my favorite parts of the trip was wandering up the pacific coast highway and making stops in the beach towns along the way. The drive itself was worth the trip, with each turn something new to marvel at out in the distance.
How to Capture Gorgeous Photos at Tulip Time
Since our move back to Michigan four years ago, we have made visiting Holland during Tulip Time, a tradition within our family. Holland is one of our favorite Lake Michigan towns to visit, and the beauty that unfolds during its Tulip Time Festival is just unmatched. Because my children are still younger, I often try to make our visit the week before the festival since our main goal is to enjoy the blooms, play at the lake, find some great food, and of course, play.
“More 2 Marketing” with Amanda Shaffer from The Shapiro Law Firm, LLC
Amanda Shaffer Partner/ Chief Marketing Officer at The Shapiro Law Firm, LLC Website Address: theshapirolawyers.com “More 2 Marketing” is a show made for people in the world of marketing and media who want to grow their media knowledge. Interviewing experts around the country, “More 2 Marketing” is the place to go for tips, tricks and entertaining quips to take your business to the next level. This week our host interviews Amanda Shaffer from Shapiro Law Firm, LLC.
“Digital Champions” with Amanda Shaffer, Esq. from The Shapiro Law Firm, LLC
Amanda Shaffer, Esq. Partner/ Chief Marketing Officer at The Shapiro Law Firm, LLC Website Address: theshapirolawyers.com Each week on “Digital Champions,” our host talks to media experts across the country. This week our host speaks with Amanda Shaffer, Esq from The Shapiro Law Firm, LLC. To learn more, check out https://theshapirolawyers.com. What is your company Elevator pitch when talking about your company? Boutique family-run law firm specializing in immigration, family and criminal law.
Century Jamboree - Business, Government Legal News from throughout WV
For 29 years, The State Journal has marked the transition from spring to summer in the Mountain State with a collection of feature stories showcasing what makes West Virginia great. For 29 years, The State Journal has marked the transition from spring to summer in the Mountain State with a collection of feature stories showcasing what makes West Virginia great.
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