December BlogHer Prompts

Friday, December 13, 2013
George Bernard Shaw said, "Beware of false knowledge; it is more dangerous than ignorance." Do you agree or disagree?

Okay, so I know today's date is not Friday December 13th...I am behind on my December BlogHer prompts. I could have picked up today's prompt but I kind of liked the prompt from Friday and since I did not answer on that date I will do so now.

I love the quote from George Bernard Shaw! I think false knowledge is dangerous. Have you ever tried to convince someone that something they knew to be true was actually false? How did that turn out? So often we convince ourselves, for whatever reason, that we know something to be true...this can be so dangerous for not only ourselves but for others that may be involved. At times, when I am ignorant of a situation I at least can be educated. If I believe I already have the knowledge, and I am wrong, it will be hard to teach me the correct thing.

This quote reminds me that I never want to stop learning; but I also want to think about what it is I Think I already know.

Would you rather

Thursday, December 12, 2013
Would you rather have one more hour with someone you like, or one fewer hour with someone you can't stand?

I at first thought wanted another hour with someone I like...but after today I've decided on the other. I would like one fewer hour with someone who drives me wild. Here is how I came to this conclusion. I enjoy most people; I can however tire easy. So the good times I share with people that make me happy carries me over and last in my heart and mind. Those that drive me wild tend to do the same. If I spend time with some one I'd rather not be around I tend to hold onto those negative feelings, I re-feel them and experience the emotions from the time spent during later times. This December prompt is encouraging me to let go of negative comments, feelings, and moments spent with people that bring me down. Instead of spending time thinking of these negative experiences I need to let it go and move on. Hmm...something more to work on!

path less traveled

Wednesday, December 11, 2013
Tell us about a time you took the less traveled path.

Now is a time I am taken the less traveled path. Writing a daily blog or a regular blog even is a less traveled path...for me. In the past I have longed to do something, dreamed of doing and for what ever reason taken a different path. Passed on joining a group, or been to scared to try out for a play, or felt to inadequate to enter a writing competition...what ever I have taken a comfortable path and opted out. So, this little unread blog, for me, is a time in my life when I am taken the less traveled path. It is not comfortable all the time, it is a little embarrassing, and that is okay. I am not making a huge difference in anyone's life but mine and that is okay too! I am learning about myself, learning about others, and learning to stick to things that are important to me. I do hope to become a better writer, a blogger, and parent and this blog just might help me with all three of those things. I am doing something I enjoy and even if I do not accomplish much I am taken a step on the right path!

How good are you of placing others before yourself?

I am learning to think of myself more...to put my needs in front realizing that when my needs are meet I am able to help those around me that really need help. The quote shared today in BlogHer's prompt is one that is easy for me to understand. C.S. Lewis said, "Humility is not thinking less of yourself; it's thinking of yourself less." I struggle sometimes without meeting my needs; I am quick to say "yes" to request from those around me but not always so fast to stop and think about what that "yes" may cost me. I believe we should think of others and not so much about ourselves but I am also trying to learn that I have to take care of me. I have to be healthy, and mentally okay before giving of myself to others. So with this in mind I am trying to put some me time in each day so I can be ready when those around me are in need.

I got that anxious feeling

Monday, December 9, 2013
If you could banish one thing from this earth -- tangible or intangible -- what would it be?

I'm feeling pretty selfish right now so I'm going to go with anxiety. I would rid the world of anxiety. My life is filled with anxious feelings lately; not the good kind like you get when you are waiting for a loved one to arrive but the nasty anxious feelings when you can hardly breath and your body just won't calm down. I have been so anxious lately that the doctor prescribed something for me to take during my little moments of anxiety filled panic attacks. Now, let me say I'm so against ME taking prescription pills but the anxiety I've been feeling becomes so bad that I find it hard for me to calm down. I do have several stressors in my life and at this bah humbug moment I do not see these stressors slowing down any time soon but I need to learn to deal with these stress with out feeling anxious. So, if I could banish one thing from this earth...today I would chose the feeling anxiety.

More Peace, less chaos!

The feelings I'm feeling are not easy. I am feeling overwhelmed and out of control. I have not had the best week and cannot seem to shake this feeling of gloom hanging over me. I pray that this week as we start a week of Peaceful devotion I can find my peace with in and enjoy this time of year with my little ones. I pray that God gives me the strength and patience I need to relax and be a good parent. I want so badly for this to be a peaceful time of year and I know for my house that peace needs to begin in me. My prayer this week is that the Prince of Peace bless me and my family with an uneventful week, a week filled with joy laughter and peace!



Isaiah 9:6-7
"For a child has been born for us, a son given to us; authority rests upon his shoulders; and he is named Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace."

Blah Humbug

 I am trying to be in the holiday spirit...I had all plans of being festive, happy, and productive and after the week I've had I'm struggling to stay or get in the spirit of Christmas. My little ones are full of energy and I am not so this day is not going so well. I want to take a long shower and watch a good Christmas movie...or at this point even a bad one would do. They want to rec havoc in this little old apartment of mine, fight each other, break ornaments, and fight each other. I have to try and find a way to get out of the Bah Humbugs and enjoy this Christmas month because I don't want to loose this wonderful time by focusing on negative feelings.

I am turning on Christmas music and making myself dance until the blahs run right out of me or I crash into the tree and give up (hey with the way this week is going who knows what the rest of the day will hold).

Mommies out there...HELP! How can I have less of the blahs and show my little ones more of  what this season is really all about?

TGIF

Oh my what a week. I just put little man to bed and its so late and I've had a horrible week but as soon as his little stapled head (will share story later) hit the pillow the December blog post popped into my mind. I have set this goal of blogging every day in December and my other plans are not going so well but this one...I'm trying hard to keep!

So, with a flat tire, keys locked in car, money stolen, asthma attack with trip to doctors, and a head bump due to a fall, all happening in one week...I am saying I could use More peace next week and Less chaos. I am trying to focus more on all the people who help me in my life and less on all the people/things that hurt me. I am hoping for more quiet moments and less frantic moments. I am praying for More reasons to write everyday and Less excuses not to!

Goodnight!

Shoes out

Tomorrow is St. Nickolas Day and my children will set their shoes out side the door tonight in hopes that St. Nickolas will visit and leave goodies ("Please, no coal") in their shoes. This is something we started last year and it is just a little extra something to enjoy the Holiday Season.

I will place two quarters, two pieces of chocolate, and a small toy in their shoes. When they wake up they will be more than excited! Since we have an Elf on the Shelf I place Eek, their elf, near the shoes with a note from Santa...this year the notes says, "keep trying to stay on the "nice list" Christmas is near!" Okay, yes I'm the mom that uses "Santa is watching" to get my children to behave but hey sometimes you just gotta do what you gotta do.

Happy St. Nickolas Day!

Wednesday, December 4, 2013 How often do you go back for seconds?

Wednesday, December 4, 2013
How often do you go back for seconds?

Well, this is not a prompt that is easy for me. I am an over weight out of shape single mom of two and I have plenty of excuses of why I am in the shape I am in but a major reason is I go back for too many "seconds". I love to cook but my little ones do not always love to eat what I cook and self control is something I am currently following short on. So, with this prompt in mind I am thinking about how I can help myself out on this little problem of mine. I can continue to go back for seconds but the important thing for me is to learn and then teach portion control. I have all the common sense in the world when it comes to the eating habits of my children but when I have an empty plate in hand and more food on the stove I head back for more. I will challenge myself to place food up once food is on plates and then eat what I need and not what I want. 

Tuesday, December 3, 2013 Do you see the glass as half full or half empty?

Okay, so I have been trying to improve my blogging and I love reading other blogs so I'm going to TRY and participate in the BlogHer December 2013 theme: More/Less. There are prompts for every day (except weekends) and the goal is to write everyday in the Month of December. I have some post already planned but on the days I do not I will use the prompts set for this month...a little nervous that someone might actually find this little old blog and read it but excited that I am actually setting a goal and going to stick to it.

Well, here it goes!

Tuesday, December 3, 2013
Do you see the glass as half full or half empty?

My answer: Depends on what I'm drinking! Most of the time I see the glass as half full. I'm, for the most part, a pretty optimistic thinker; however I am drinking from a cup that hasn't been running over for a while and lately I can see things in a negative light. I am trying to learn to see the cup not as half empty or half full but just as it is.... I am not completely out I am not completely full but hey, at least there is something in the cup.

As a single mom I am struggling to be where I want to be and at times I get caught up in what I do not have, what I wish I had, and what I think I should have. Other times I am thankful for what I do have and that I'm not completely rock bottom. Seeing things as they are is my goal... not to optimistic, not too pessimistic but just realistic. Besides my plan is: if the glass becomes too low or too high I'll just get a different size glass!

Elf on the Shelf

I have had an Elf (Eek) for two years and I have not been very clever. In fact I did not know that so many people went all out...the most exciting thing I've done is hide him at Grandma's house. Well, I have done my research and am not going to be too over the top but I am going to have a little more fun with Eek this year.

Let me first explain that we live in a SMALL apartment and I cannot place Eek in low places because I do not have children that will keep hands off...so up and high and hard to reach places it is. Second you must remember I am a single mom with very limited income so I have to be creative but spend little to no money on this. I have written down my plans for Eek's 25 days with us and I will try to update any changes made.

Eek's 25 days of Christmas 2013
Day 1:  Arrival with letter from Santa (On Tree) with NOTE
Day 2:  On top of Fridge
Day 3:  On Bathroom Mirror (with steam message)
Day 4:  In Kitchen Cabinet
Day 5:  In stockings with little treat
Day 6:  In bedroom with NOTE
Day 7:  In pantry with skittles
Day 8:  Reading Bible
Day 9:  On picture of kids (with doodle faces drawn)

Having our Eek bring out the ornaments with a note was a big hit for my three and five year old. My five year old was very excited with the note and she had me read it several times. We then hung the ornaments that Eek brought out and my little ones really enjoyed hanging every ornament and asking all about their meaning or where they came from...oh, I love this time of year!!

How do you hide your elf? What are your Christmas traditions?

Happy New Year

Today starts a new year for the Christian Calendar. As I prepare my heart for the Christmas season I am thankful for so many things. This year has been filled with sickness, loss, and troubles; but during this time I have been blessed with love, support, donations, and kindness from the people in my life. I have been given clothes for my children from those who have children who have out grown them. I have had sitters volunteer to help with my kiddos. People have visited us in the hospital and brought presents for my children. A coworker gave me tires, another coworker a TV and the list goes on and on and on. I am blessed. Times are not easy; but God is with me. I feel His love through those He has placed in my life. I hope this year brings more peace in my life and more health in my children's lives! But I know what ever this year has in store I will not be alone!

Praise be to God!

Ephesians 5:20
"Giving Thanks always for all things unto God and the Farther in the Name of our Lord Jesus Christ."

Me time

A common theme of my post may be that I am overwhelmed and burned out. Well, God wants us as parents (single or not) to take care of ourselves so that we can take care of our children. I am not taking care of myself. I feel ashamed, embarrassed, or just hate to bother others when I need help. But even the best mother in the world needs help...God places people in our lives to help us.

My prayer for this week is that God gives me the peace I need to ask for help. I pray that God places people in my path that are more than willing to help and I pray that my children behave for those who watch over them while I'm receiving much needed help!

In Acts 20:28 we are reminded to take care of ourselves and others.
"So guard yourselves and God's people. Feed and shepherd God's flock -his church purchased with his own blood -over which the Holy Spirit has appointed you as elders."

Oh yea Kindergarten

I mentioned yesterday how overwhelmed I am feeling but I should have mentioned the kindergartner has a lot to do with this. My five year old is in her second (quarter?) of kindergarten and boy oh boy am I realizing that I am the mother of a school aged child.
I love kindergarten, I love her school and teacher...what I am not so crazy about is the lack of communication. I get very little comments from my child and her teacher has 23 children and emails are only if the child has been bad or in response to a question or email I've sent her. Any way, we have daily homework and so far so good. First report card (um, needed help understanding it) showed good progress and the thing I'm most excited about is...she got a good mark in conduct!

So, this year is almost over and I'm hoping to set some personal goals to write more about kindergarten and our home life...hoping to have some BIG changes coming to our lives soon!

Overwhelmed

I miss you! My non readers, my venting ground, my great plans and ideas!! I long to sit and write and plan and oh wait...to live! I want to live the life I dream off and dream of the life I live or something like that. I am so overwhelmed and exhausted I barely have time to shower so my dreams of writing, planning, and creating fall short or become extinct.

My family of three has been sick on and off for a while...we share the bug but I can't seem to rid myself of the bug...ugh! Any way, I am trying to get these ideas of mine on paper (or screen) and even if no one is reading but me and my mother I still feel good typing away my thoughts, ideas, and life!

So, overwhelmed as I may be I need this time...the quiet time to type away and let my brain enjoy some me time!

Blessings

My birthday is in November. My children and I baked cupcakes (nothing beats homemade icing!) and they were so very sweet to me but the sweetest blessing came to me my birthday week.

My coworker placed a treat on my car for my birthday and as she was doing so she noticed I needed new tires. I could not then and cannot now afford new tires. I explained this to my co-worker and she researched, found a dependable yet affordable place, and replaced my tires. I cannot begin to express how this helps me. I don't know how to show enough gratitude to my coworker for her kindness. It feels so good knowing she cares enough and is kind enough to look out for me and my family. This birthday I am truly blessed to have people in my life like my co-worker!

In need of strength

Happy Sunday! In preparation of this week I am a little overwhelmed. The school year is no longer new and life is in full swing. My little ones and I are struggling to be on the same page. I am struggling to be the mother I want to be. It may be hard to understand but I am not the mother I want to be...I am tired, lonely, and overwhelmed. My mind, body and soul are tired and I am trying to not to continue this way.

I pray this week that God gives me strength! I pray that God will fight my battles, help me control my actions, and help me become the mother I long to be. I turn to my God in need of strength.

Scripture:
Psalms 73:26
"My mind and my body may grow weak, but God is my strength: he is all I ever need."

Head of household

I have trouble being the "Head of my house". The fact is I am. There is not man around to help with any thing. There is no man making decisions for the betterment of my family. So, I am head of household. As a leader God wants me to lead not scare away and hide from important decisions. Sometimes I sacrifice personal study, mediation, and personal time with God and this causes me to lose focus on God's plan. When God's plan is not my focus my leadership fails...I don't want to fail God or my children.

 I have to continually strive to put God first so I can be a good leader for my family. I need to show my little ones that when God is in control all things are possible. I pray that God gives me strength to lead my family and to put Him first always.

Scripture:
Psalms 21:13
"We praise you, Lord, for your great strength! We will sing and praise your power."

Planet Box...

Okay, so last year I spent a lot of time (and I mean several weeks) looking into lunch boxes. I spent too much money last school year replacing cheap lunch boxes with new cheap lunch boxes so I decided that a big purchase for kindergarten would be a new nice lunch box that could grow with us and up hold several years of elementary school.

I enjoy packing items in separate containers but do not trying to find all those containers and fitting them into a too small lunch tote so when I found Planet Box I was very excited. The website impressed me and the reviews from blogs and other websites were very promising...the price well I was not a fan but after months of contemplating I purchased one planet box with fairy magnet covers and a pink bag. Almost fifty dollars but divided by the months of use and the happiness of mom and daughter I thought the Planet Box was worth it.

The week before school I brought out the lunch box and showed my daughter how to use it and how to care for it. The night before our big first day we packed it together and to be honest I enjoyed every minute it. Here comes the bad part...day three of school our PlanetBox is ripped. My daughter only caries the bag into the classroom the teacher then hands it to her at lunch, then the bag goes into her book bag until carpool. No way should three days of use cause the lunch box to rip. My heart sunk when I thought about how much money that was spent and how much time we had planned on using our PlanetBox.

Okay, I've contacted customer care, sent in photos of the box and ID tag and am waiting on a response...I have high hopes that the lunch bag will be replaced with a sturdier bag. I would love to give a wonderful review of this product but I have to wait and see how this situation is handled.

Has anyone else had trouble with PlanetBox lunch boxes? What lunch box do you and your child love?

Making God laugh

My grandmother used to tell me if you want to make God laugh tell him your plans...well I shared some plans with this blog and all my many readers :) but if my grandmother's saying is true God laughed pretty hard this time. My children are back in school, I'm back in preschool and my back to school plans (just as my summer plans) did not go as wanted.

Labor day weekend we spent in the hospital with asthma problems and that got me behind in my school preparation and I still have yet to catch up. The first week of school went pretty good! Only tears were from me and both kids seem to be handling to new longer days. This weekend we had plans to work on school and home stuff, go to a birthday party, and then Church and park on Sunday...enter ear infection. Friday my little kindergarten cried in pain and Saturday morning the infection was running down her neck, yuck! Quick (3 hour) urgent care visit, run by pharmacy and then home for movies and rest. No work just movies, books, and homemade cupcakes.

I am feeling a little anxious at the thought of a repeat from last year, anxious that my many plans will not come to be, anxious that things will not get better. Today, we did not make church but I did spend time reading scripture and I found some peace in Psalms 119: "I am filled with trouble and anxiety, but your commandments bring me joy." This scripture shows me that years ago and years to come people are filled with broken plans, anxious thoughts, and the unknown but if we read our scripture, follow Gods word and pray God will bring joy into our lives. I pray today that joy fill my week and that I can remember to let go of my anxieties, relax on my undone plans, and let God bring peace and Joy into my life!

Mommie Hair!

Kindergarten starts in a week (grabbing tissue as I type) and I have decided that I no longer want to be the out of shape, out of style, frumpy mom. I have little time to primp and even when I did have time I never took much time for hair and make up. I'm not saying I want to look like I'm going out on a date every day but I do want to look presentable.

This is not going to be an easy task for me since a) I've never been good at "getting pretty" and don't really know how, b) I do not have a lot of time in the mornings to self primp, and c) I don't have a lot of money to put into make up and hair supplies. So, this task of making my face and hair look like I've done more than roll out of bed and go out the door (which is pretty much what I do now) is not going to be easy!

My first step is to research the internet, blogs, and Pinterest to see what tips and tricks I might can try. I will try several and then if I'm still in the dark I will hit the streets and well that means I will ask those beautiful women around me for tips and suggestions!

So, I will update my findings as I try to update my self and find a simple semi fashionable style. Any tips?

Movie Night

Up

My daughter loves the movie Up so that is what we watched tonight. The movie is one that I can enjoy watching but my son (now three years old) does not care too much for this movie just yet.

Up (2009)  rated PG
Comedy Adventure film created by Pixar
Girl Quote:
Boy Quote:

A little too much

Relaxing summer days are something I wish I could report on....instead I can only mention work, stress, sickness, and laziness. So, I wont bore with all the details just understand my absence has been hard for me and not due to wanted circumstances.

A friend asked why I want to blog and that got me thinking a lot. I do not know a lot of single moms that I can relate to. I do not have many friends that understand how I am living. I have ideas, frustrations, funny moments that I would like to share with someone. Until I have that physical person or group of people writing a blog helps me feel like I am sharing.

So, with ideas already in progress I will try to continue to share my thoughts, projects, and little nothings with anyone who is interested in reading and hopefully I will connect with some moms that share my desire to connect and my hopes of raising healthy, happy, God loving children!

Book Club

Reading is a big part of my life and I want it to always be a big part of my childminders lives. Before the school year was over I spoke with a few mom's and planted the idea to put together a book club. I'm excited to share that the First Book Club "Party" will be held on July 7th. Each kid is reading the book, The Marsh mellow Incident by Judi Barrett with their mothers. We are heading over the afternoon of the "party" and will have snack (marshmallow themed of course) and then we will discuss the book and head for the yard for some water games. How simple of an idea is this; it is a win-win idea. The kids love to see their old classmates and friends and the parents are introducing a fun way to keep their little ones into reading. It is okay to read a book to your child that is above their level...I'm not talking about reading Moby Dick to a five year old but reading above their level is only going to help them grow!

So, after we read the book and enjoy the book club party I will update you on the details and share the crafts, food, and games we enjoyed!

What do you do to keep your little ones reading over the summer?

Home Alone

So here I am a Tuesday night watching one of my favorite TV shows So You Think You Can Dance and I'm just feeling too good. Why you might ask? I, my friends, am home alone! My kiddos are visiting their grandmother hours a way from here and I am taking it easy. I knew this time was coming and I had a list a mile wide of things I needed to get done during this time alone. Well, I have, um, lost that list and am just taking things one moment at a time.
When we get time its okay to just not use it wisely! Enjoy your self in the way you feel best. If you want to go out, do so. If you want to clean house from top to bottom, do so. If you want to do like me and just do nothing...please do so!

I plan to get some things done but for now I am just smiling and watching So you Think You Can Dance, Dance, Dance!

Here I am...

Okay, can you tell preschool is out for the summer? My little ones and I have been on break for two weeks and well that means I have been extremely busy and worn out. The end of the preschool year was a little rough for me and I have been sick so the blog has been on the back burner. I miss the blog and even though I have only one reader (hi Mom) I am looking forward to getting my thoughts and ideas on paper...um online!

I am excited about some upcoming ideas and hope you will enjoy reading them!

Harriet The Spy

Movie Night

Tonight's Movie: Harriet The Spy. I can say this has been my least favorite movie so far. The movie is not bad it just wasn't age appropriate for our family movie night (I didn't do my homework) and it was a little slow at times.The movie is about an eleven year old girl who writes secretes down in her notebook and all kinds of trouble takes place when her classmates find and read her notebook. My son wanted nothing to do with the movie and went to bed before it was half way through. My little Five Year old (we had a BIG birthday this week!) watched the whole movie and we even talked about some of the mean behaviors we watched in the movie. The language was not okay for my house but wasn't bad. The movie itself is good just not what we are ready for.

Harriet The Spy: 1996, Family, Comedy
Rated: PG

Director: Bronwen Hughes 

Based on a book by Greg Taylor 

Girl: "I don't like when they are mean to each other, but the movie has funny parts."

Boy: no quote other than, "Me want to go to sleep!" 

Work in progress

I may be in trouble! I am so excited about organizing things that I can hardly decide what to do next. Day four of our morning check off list and I'm wondering why it took me this long to figure this out. I know it's only day four and tomorrow may be a nightmare but these past four mornings have been wonderful!

So, I'm researching into different ways to organize myself and my family/home life and I think I need to get myself in order before moving on to another family routine. I am starting a  notebook with to do lists and other lists that will help me. I am a visual person and I have so much running through my mind all day that having a place to keep all my lists, papers, and forms will be a big help. I'm researching and looking into what other people are doing that works for them...once my notebook is complete I will post a picture along with descriptions of what is in the notebook.

I found a way to keep up with a changing list of goals from a wonderful blog called Cornflower Blue Studio. I made a goal list from her example and put it in my notebook. I use post it notes with my goals written on them. I post the notes to the paper and remove when my goal is complete. This helps me stay moving towards my goals and I like having them in my new Handy Dandy Notebook.

What I'm working on now: summer plan, summer menu, and chore list!

How do you stay organized?

Organization Here We Come

Okay, so I am quickly learning that the key to my family's calmness is organization! We have been on and off    routines...when we are on life is so much more calm than when off. So, to help my family bring calm for good (or at least more consistently) I am trying to become more organized. Now I am a person that likes to jump in the deep end of the pool and try to do everything at once so for this goal I am going to break down our life into categories and focus on one category at a time. To start this process I am creating a list of areas that need routine and more organization.
I will add to this list as needed!

1) Morning Routine
2) Car routines
3) Meal time routines
4) Night-Night routines
5) House work/chores
6) Meals/nutrition
7) Family Activities/ weekly schedule

The first thing we will tackle is the Morning Routine...that will help me start the day on a good note.
First, I made a list of all the things I thought we should do on an average morning, things we might need to do, and things I don't want to happen. Then from that list I made simple steps for all three of us (Yes, I even made a list for myself). Here is what those lists look like:

1) bathroom to potty
2) make bed
3) breakfast (if up early read in bed/play quietly)
4) clean table
5) bathroom -face, teeth, hair
6) get Dressed
7) Grab items needed for day
8) Once bell rings go to door and wait

I didn't want their list to be too detailed or too long so I combined a few things. I made a picture chart and printed on colorful paper and had laminated at our local teachers' supply store. Now, since this is the first project (of many) I have not come up with a plan on how to store these "to do" list but I am researching and we will try one soon! For now, I place their list on their clipboards and give them a dry erase marker...after they complete an item they check it off. If everything is checked off before the timer rings they can either watch a cartoon, or play a game on the computer (more rewards to come once I see what works and doesn't work).

We are working on a morning family Bible study and I am thinking of adding this to our breakfast time...right now I am usually getting me ready, taking care of a pet, or packing lunches but as we become more organized this will change.

So, we are going to try this for a week or so and see what changes we may need to make. If you would like to see what our good morning routine looks like on paper click here. I will keep you updated on our progress!

What ways do you make your mornings run smoothly?

The good and the bad...

I have to be honest...I am stressed out! I have been going through some difficult things and I'm feeling anxious, tired, worried, and at times hopeless. To make things worse, I have been feeling alone. I am trying to lean on God and at times knowing I am His brings me peace but for right now I am struggling to find patience and peace. I know I am in His hands...I want things to be better now!

Do you ever feel this way? Do you ever feel as if the load is too much to bear and something has to change right now or you just won't be okay? I feel overwhelmed and alone and this is not a good feeling. I have to trust that God is taking care of me. God is in control and I need to breathe, pray, meditate, read my Bible and be patient! God will strengthen me, support me, and restore me.

On this spring Sunday I pray for a quiet mind, a peaceful heart, and a patient spirit and I have faith that God will make me strong enough to handle my current situation.

Scripture
1 Peter 5:10
In his kindness God called you to share in his eternal glory by means of Christ Jesus. So after you have suffered a little while, he will restore, support, and strengthen you, and he will place you on a firm foundation.

End of Year Teacher gifts

Okay, since Friday is the last day of preschool I wanted to share our Teacher gifts. I had all types of ideas and plans but due to lack of funds and stressful times we are going with simple gifts. My son's teacher once stated that she loves sugar cookies...so cute little "thanks for making me a smart cookie" note + a bag of home made sugar cookies = simple, but thoughtful end of year gift.

There are many templates on the internet to use or you can hand write, or print up one of your own. I use one I had found a while back (I love downloading for future use, then I don't have to search for something I remember seeing). If you want to use the one I used you can download from Sweet Metal Moments' Blog.

For my little girl's teacher the class parents went in on a bracelet. This is the last year of preschool for these students and the parents wanted to get together for a nice end of year gift. My daughter made a card for her and wrote reasons why she loves her teacher.

You know I really wanted to spoil my teachers and give grand end of year gifts but this ending to this tough year is not allowing for elaborate gifts. I think our teachers will be okay with our simple gifts and will understand that it is the thought that counts. We love our teachers and will try to show them...how will you show your end of year love?

End Of Year Goodie

The end of our preschool year is this week...Friday my little girl graduates preschool and my little boy is no longer in the two year old class. Oh boy! I have been tearing up all week. I have such mixed emotions. I like more independence from them but they are growing too fast.

When they get home Friday I have  goodies for each of them. I haven't done this before because they have been so young and this is the first year both of mine have gone to preschool but I'm excited to start an end of year gift and a back to school gift for each year.

To keep things simple and "even" they are both getting basically the exact same things. I hit up the Dollar Store and created a summer bucket for each.

Here is what each gift consists of:
Blue Sand Bucket for him
Bubble Bath
Flip Flops
Blue Water Bottle
"Fancy" miniature Coke drinking glass (2 for a dollar)
Bubble Gum (3 packs for a dollar)

Pink Sand Bucket for her
Princess bubbles
Flip Flops
Pink/Purple Water Bottle
"Fancy" miniature Coke drinking glass
Bubble Gum

Each bucket will also have a little note from Mommie, a book purchased from Scholastic, and a food item (they both love food!). Including books both gifts were under $20. And all things will be useful for summer fun.

I will have to buy a box of tissues for my end of year gift...my Babies are growing way too fast!!

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Validation

Bible Study

I can easily get caught up in what I believe the world wants from me. Being a single parent can often leave me feeling as if I am not as worthy as a mom who is married and seemingly has it all together. I often feel ashamed to go into a place and have to answer that I am not married. The look on peoples' faces makes me feel as if they are judging me and as if I am not worthy. 

Worthy of what? I think no matter who you are,what your background is, or how people perceive you it is important to focus on trying to please God and not trying to earn validation from others. I often find myself trying to define my worth by my achievements and this is not an example I want to show my children. I want my little ones to learn that they are not measured by what they do, what they wear, or how people perceive them. We all need to place our trust in Christ and not in the opinions of others. 

My goal for this week is to stop aiming for worldly validation and become more aware of Who it is I am trying to please!

Scripture: Galatians 1:10

"Obviously, I'm not trying to win the approval of people, but of God. If pleasing people were my goal, I would not be Christ's servant."

Summer Reading

Reading has always been a huge part of my life. My mother is an avid reader and during my childhood summers my mom and I read a lot together and alone. During the school year it can be easy to have daily reading but during the busy summer days it may not always be easy to keep little ones eager to read. 

I want both of my children to keep their love for books and reading and summer reading programs are a great way to help them keep that love over the summer. There are many ways to help children read over the summer. 

Barns and Nobles has a reading program


Their summer program is simple:
1) Read and track 8 books on their down loadable journal.
2) Take the completed journal to a Barnes and Nobles book store.
3) Chose a free book from their selection of books.

Easy right! and who doesn't want a free book?

Scholastic is one of my favorite places to purchase books, not only does my family get great books their classroom also receives books. Their summer program is about tracking minutes and trying to beat the previous years record. You log on, register, and then log your reading minutes.


Sylvan sponsors a free website called Bookit Adventure. This website allows K-8 grade students to create an account and then take quizzes based on the books they read. Children pick their book choice, read it, and then log in to take a quiz. Kids can earn prizes based on their reading progress.



When I was a kid I participated in Pizza Hut's summer reading program. You logged all your books and you turned in your log for a free personal size pizza. Pizza Hut does Book It programs through out the school year but some Pizza Huts still offer summer reading programs. Check with your local Pizza Hut to see what they offer.

One of my favorite places to go to for summer reading programs is your local library. Libraries usually host a summer reading program or challenge and is a great way to keep the love for books going through the summer. We participated last year and for every 10 books you read you got a prize. The program was a lot of fun for my little ones especially the kick off party the library had at the start of the program.

If you want to do your own reading program during the summer there are many ways to do that as well. Create charts and award prizes. Turn books into to "cash" and allow children to visit places during the summer with their book cash. Compete with another family member, or another family all together and the winner gets to pick a play date location and time. 

There are many ways to enjoy reading through out the summer. What ever you chose just make sure you make reading an important part of your life even through the busy days of summer.

Repeat

Last Friday we had a repeat Movie, Rise of the Guardians...we watched it twice. To night the choice was Nemo. I'm okay with repeats and don't mind the two choices they made. I really like both movies. Nemo is one of my favorties and we own it so no need to rent a movie. Next week I think we will try one of the old DVDs...a movie from my childhood. I'm not sure they will vote for that but one can always hope.

What is your favorite childhood movie? Do you think your children will enjoy?

A not so good day...

On a good day my family is somewhat "normal". We go through ups and downs in attitude, behavior, and all that childhood encounters. Today...was not a good day. On a "bad" day any  number of things can take place but for now I will share what today looked like.

My little boy woke me up with a hug and a kiss and a big jump on my head...alarm clock was not set to go off for another 30 minutes...Good morning day! We played in my bed for a minute or two and then he was ready to eat-eat. On the way to the kitchen I peak in and my little princess is arousing so I sweetly say, "good-morning" and head on into the kitchen. She follows with a grumpy face and an attitude that I thought only 13 year old could have. First, i did not say good morning sweetie and that apparently is a horrible thing. Then I offered yogurt and cereal instead of yogurt and granola and I'm so stupid to get that wrong. Then just when I thought things were going to turn around for the better I was blamed for not making it Friday...she wanted to do the things we were to do Friday and since I had the nerve to make it another day of the week she was not going to be agreeable with this day's plans.

Okay, so Monster Mommie would not allow cartoons and then picked out the wrong outfit, (who knew orange shirts were for boys only) and then I had the nerve to ask her not to wear her rain boots on a beautiful spring day. All this and it is not even 9:00 am. The car ride was much like the morning and then off to school with an attitude until Mommie reached the door...
"I love you Mommie, hope you have a good day!"
 "You too sweetie"
 "Ugh, Mommie don't call me sweetie at school!"
Cue my exit

My day at work was not one I wish to share because it was more frustrating than my morning. When I get my little girl from carpool she is smiling and playing with a friend. As soon as she gets in the car the morning tude is back. Okay, so this day continued to follow this pattern until night time...which is where we are now. I am writing this my little boy is fast asleep in his zipped up jamies and my little girl...is trying to drive me crazy. She stays in bed for a moment and then has to potty. Then back and bed but oops forgot to give Mommie a kiss, then the cat and dog need a kiss then she has a question and you get the idea.

How can one four year old have so much power? How can I stay calm when as a single mother I cannot tag my partner and send him into the ring for a while. How can I get this little Angel to sleep with out loosing the little sanity I have left. Well, why you think of some answers or advice for me I am heading off to lay down with her.... I'm out of options and am too tired to do anything else. Hopefully tomorrow will be a better day!

Patience

Bible Study

This week I am struggling with patience. I want things to be better, to be different, to change now! I am having a hard time waiting for what God has in store for me. I don't know what tomorrow may hold and that is driving me crazy. I am trying to stay calm and pray for patience.

In my life many things are up in the air. I don't know where I will be living in a few months, I'm not sure where I will be working in a few months, and I'm not sure if certain personal things will be any better (or heaven forbid any worse). I am wanting to know what tomorrow holds and wanting to know that everything will be okay.

Well, I know things will be okay because I am in God's hands and He will take care of me and make sure I have all I need. And even if I had a rode map of my life in front of me I still would not be 100 percent sure of what tomorrow may bring. For this week I will pray for patience in my waiting to find out.

1 Timothy 1:16 But I received mercy for this reason, that in me, as the foremost, Jesus Christ might display his perfect patience as an example to those who were to believe in him for eternal life.

Mommie Day Out

I often hear parents refer to date night with a smile and a sigh of relief. I so understand the sigh! What parent doesn't need time away from the kids? And a date night is helpful for the whole family. Well, being a single parent I don't have date nights. My Friday Nights are Movie nights, our new Game night is Saturday, and school nights are never good for going out. This being said, I have to remember the importance of a Mommie day out. When I have a moment to just be me and think without interruption I feel refreshed. I need time away from the little ones, away from the house, away from work...I need time to just be.

Single parents may not always have the options to get out and take time for themselves but if the opportunity arises please, take it. If we take care of ourselves we can better take care of those we love most!

This week try to schedule a Mommie Day Out and enjoy something you really like doing without kids!

Too much of a Good Thing...

Bible Study

I struggle with moderation. This word moderation is one of my daughter's favorite words and it is a concept I am trying to teach my children. Most things in moderation are not harmful to our relationship with God.

That being said, at this point in my life even a little of a good thing is too much. I found myself rushing through bedtime routines so I wouldn't miss American Idol. I would find myself absently telling a story at nap time while thinking about The Talk. The moment that woke me up to my TV addition was when Bethany Frankel formally a star on Real House Wives of New York, called it off with Husband Jason Hoppy. I was crushed and couldn't stop thinking about the couple and how much I wanted them to work it out. Okay, wake up call on many levels but mostly how much weight I was putting into my television watching and programs.

Watching television is not bad and I'm not saying Christians shouldn't watch. I am saying if TV or some other thing, is coming before your relationship with God, it may be time to take a step back, place God first, and then put into place healthy dose of moderation.

2 Corinthians 7:1 "Because we have these promises, dear friends, let us cleanse ourselves from everything that can defile our body or spirit and let us work toward complete holiness because we fear God."



Monsters, Inc

Movie Night

I watched Monsters, Inc. during my babysitting days but had not watched it in a while. My daughter loves all things scary so the idea of a movie all about monsters excited her. Both of my little ones stayed quiet through the whole movie and my daughter wanted to watch it again.

Monsters, Inc. (2001)
Animation, Adventure, Comedy
Directors: Pete Docter, David Silverman

The movie mostly takes place in a factory located in Monstropolis. The main goal of the factory is to capture screams of children in order to power the city. The top scarer is Sulley and he finds a human in the factory and this turns his world upside down.

Our Family Score: 10
Baby Boy Quote: “Me wanna watch Nemo. Me like Boo, funny!"
Baby Girl Quote: “I love the part where Boo stands in the chair and says, ‘Boo’ and all the monsters run and are scared. That is a funny part. And I like the lady that takes the reports and slams the window and the little green one's hands. Funny!"

 

Teacher Appreciation Continued

Teachers Gift
Thanks for Helping me Blossom!

I remembered to post a picture of the teacher's gift from Monday -Yay me! Today, we gave the teachers individual bags of Emerald's Cocoa Roast Almonds with a note stating, "I am nuts about you!" Okay, so it may be silly but the kids love it and it’s a nice way to give a simple goodie! Tomorrow's treat is an apple and some Hershey's kisses in a zip lock bag. The note "Teacher's cannot live on Apples alone!" I'm sure there are cuter ways to celebrate Teacher Appreciation week but on a budget these ways are simple but still let the teachers know we appreciation them.

How are you celebrating Teacher Appreciation Week?

Teacher Appreciation Week

This week is Teacher Appreciation week and for you parents out there show your teachers some love! Growing up the child of a teacher I have always understood the time, energy, and love most teachers give to their classrooms each year. Treat your child's teacher(s) to a goodie or two this week. There are many easy and inexpensive ways to show your appreciation. Here is what we are planning for Monday:

My little boy is giving his two preschool teachers potted flowers that he picked out. Due to money reasons I did not buy a pretty planter to place them in . . . enter creativity and the gift turned out quite cute. I glued (using a hot glue gun) crayons to a ribbon and then tied the ribbon around the container the flower came in. Attach a note "Thanks for helping me blossom!" and Monday's gift is complete

My little girls teacher LOVES candy so she picked out her preschool teacher a box of skittles and we attached a note, "Thanks for loving me even when I'm not so sweet!" Okay, so the note comes with an explanation but that is another blog entry!

I will try to upload photos and add a list of the rest of the weeks "gifts.”  As you plan to make and/or buy little tokens of appreciation don't forgot those who teach your children but are not their "main" teachers. Remember librarians,  music and arts teachers, Sunday School leaders, dance teachers, and anyone one who may teach your child.

Our teachers need to know they are valued and appreciated . .  this week make an extra effort to show them!

Friend Detox

Bible Study

One thing I have struggled with most of my life is pleasing people. I have continuously put people before God. I want friends to like me, men to want me, and family to approve of me. This is not a bad thing in reason but I was choosing toxic relationships and placing my energy into making those relationships work. I had to go through a friend detox. If you can have people in your life and only allow them to affect you on the surface you may be able to keep your current friends. If you are like me...you may need to depart from many of your friends. I have gone from hours on the phone a week to only a few a month. I rid my life of those who were not going to lift me up and am trying to find true friends that will Walk the path with me. Ridding your life of negative friends may seem extreme but for me it was the only way at this point in my life.

Establish healthy boundaries, or go on a friend detox to ensure your friends help you on your walk and not hurt you.

Proverbs 18 NLT
There are "friends" who destroy each other, but a real friend sticks closer than a brother.

The Lorax

Movie Night

Tonight's Movie is The Lorax. This week we have been celebrating Earth Day and we have tried to do something each day to remind us of our Earth and to remind us that we are the ones that need to take care of our Earth. So for our Friday night movie it seemed fitting to chose a family favorite, The Lorax.

 

My two love this movie. My daughter loves it the most and can almost quote the movie from begining to end; she loves the Grammy and loves the singing. My little boy will watch the movie for the most part with out getting up. I'm a fan of anything Suess so this movie is another 10 from my family. (I almost gave the movie a 9 due to some of the scenes being above age level but I am the parent that allows my little one to watch so it is my fault and not the movies!)

 

Movie: The Lorax (2012)
Animation, Family,
Director: Chris Renaud
Rating PGOur Family Score: 10

This movie allows us to follow a boy’s journey to find an object that will please the girl of his dreams. To find this object the boy must find The Lorax and learn about the past and how to help the future.

Baby Boy Quote: “The part where the boy screams because his bed is in the water!” (He acted this part out and his sister had to translate!)

Baby Girl Quote: "I love this movie! The Grammy is funny and I know the boy wants a kiss from the girl. I like when they sing and the man says “let it die, let it die, let it shrivel up and die, who’s with me?” That part is so funny. I like the whole movie!”

Listening Ears

While driving my daughter to the sitter's today I got lost in a conversation she and I were having...literally I got lost. I was caught up in thought and dialog that I missed my turn and didn't realize it until three lights later. Well, once back on track (and a few deep breaths later) we continued our conversation.

 It started like this; "Mommie, you never spend that much time with me!" Well, I immediately went into defense mode. I gave my 4 year old a run down of our time together. We eat breakfast everyday together, we drive to school three days a week and to the sitters two days, we go to church together two days a week, we eat supper together 7 days a week, we read together and so on and so on I went. My daughter stayed quiet for a moment and replied, "I mean we don't spend time together."

I realized at that moment that I did not have on my listening ears. You may have heard about listening ears or you may even use some form of the phrase, "do you have your listening ears on?" I know this is something I say often. I even break down the parts of a good listener.  A good listener: has a quiet mouth, uses eye contact, puts on listening ears, and uses an open mind (in toddler terms, really hears what I am saying). I was giving my daughter none of the things I ask of her. She was trying to tell me  how she was feeling and I was not listening. I was defending and trying to tell her how she was wrong; trying to (unintentionally) take away the right to her own feelings.

The second time she made the comment I responded in a more appropriate way..."How can I change that? How can we spend more time together?" Her answer, "play games with me, can we have a game night?" A game night is something that we can do and should do! I need her to know that spending time with someone is not just driving to and from school/work, not just going places together or being around each other. Spending quality time is talking and engaging in activities that interest one another.

 I realized my little one was trying to let me know, in an appropriate way, she needed something I wasn't giving. So, this Saturday we shall have family game night. We will play a few board games and maybe even play the Wii. I want to give my children what they need and sometimes filling those needs begins with putting on my "listening ears"!

simple things

Entertaining two little ones can some times be challenging but every now and then entertainment can fall right into your um...back yard.

My kiddos and I were enjoying ice cream on the back porch and our family pet paid us a visit. For the past three years we have had a family of blue birds nest in our gourd. This is quiet an exciting thing at our house. My son loves loves loves birds. He will shout in excitement any time he sees one. He loves to look through his binoculars and try to find birds or follow them. And my daughter wants to see a bird hatch so bad she can hardly stand it. Well, on this beautiful spring day our mom and pop blue bird decided to feed their babies right during our ice cream break.

How exciting it was to watch them find bugs, crickets, and such and bring them back to their chirping little ones. We sat for half an hour and enjoyed the blue bird family meal time. I will be sad when the babies fly away because when that happens we usually don't see the parents until the next year. I love our blue birds and watching them with my little ones. Sometimes the best entertaining is free, fun and found in the simple things of life!

Keeping up with the neighbors

Bible Study

Being a single mom I struggle with financial decisions. When I would like to spend my money on new clothes, vacations, and items for my children I have to pay bills and the necessities for our family. I am still struggling with this and have to search my heart and ask for God's guidance. Even if I was not a single mom and had two incomes to spend, money is an issue that we need to turn to God with. Just because we have money to spend on the latest gadget doesn't mean that is where God wants the money to go. We have to remember we do not need the new car the neighbors have or the expensive clothes the other kids wear; we need to use our money as God would like us to. I have all I need in life and some do not even have that. Let us keep what we need to live and help others with that we have to spare.

Scripture: Acts 2:45

They sold their property and possessions and shared the money with those in need.

Prayer:

Dear God, sometimes I want to spend money on items that I feel my children could benefit from instead of spending my money on things that are necessary. Please, help me spend my money where it is most needed and please, help me not long for those things that are not needed.

Rise of The Gaurdians

Movie Night

Tonight’s movie choice was Rise of The Guardians. I had never heard of this movie and wasn't sure what to expect but this movie was a hit with our family.

Rise of The Guardians (2012)

Animation, Adventure, Family

Director: Peter Ramsey

This is a magical movie involving Santa Claus, The Easter Bunny, The Tooth Fairy, The Sand Man and Jack Frost also known as the Guardians. The role of the Guardians is to protect the children against Pitch who is trying to destroy the hopes and beliefs of the children.

Our Family Score: 10

Baby Boy Quote: "I like Jack Frost."

Baby Girl Quote: "It is a very good movie. I like the end where no one believes in the boogie man and Jack Frost is friends with the little boy."



Earth Day 2013

Earth Day is celebrated this year on April 22^nd. There are many ways your family can celebrate. You can simply talk about Earth Day and what it means or you can go all out and plan a variety of activities to do and participate in. We fall somewhere in between…we aim high but go with the flow and do what we can.

How Earth Day got started:  A San Francisco activist, John McConnell asked Americans on March 21, 1970 (spring equinox) to join in grassroots demonstrations to help celebrate and protect our Earth. During the same year Wisconsin Senator Gaylord Nelson asked Americans to join in the celebration on April 22^nd. Both dates are celebrated but we chose to celebrate the April date. My two kiddos are still little and the concept of Earth is still quite vague but we still celebrate in our little ways.

Here is a calendar of events I created for our Earth Week Celebration. My little ones are easily excited and love to learn so I will try and take the opportunity to read books, bake goodies, and enjoy crafts and other activities that will help bring awareness of our Earth and our responsibility to take care of our Earth!

	Foods	Crafts	Activities	Books
Sunday	Earth Day Bars		Nature Walk/pick up trash	The Earth And I
Monday	Apple Salad		Gather old Clothes for Help Mission	Curious George Plants A Tree
Tuesday	Earth Day Cookies *	Recycled Paper Hearts	YouTube Video 1 Video 2	Sophia's Dream
Wednesday			Shadows with Flashlights	Earth Day Alphabet Book	LIGHTS OUT ALL DAY
Thursday	Breakfast: “Earth Muffins”*	Cut Circles, use water color paints to paint “Earth”		Big Earth Little Me
Friday	Dirt Cups*	Recycled Can Planter*	Watch Lorax	Michael Recycle
Saturday	Veggie Chips		Visit Local Farmers Market	The Earth Book

*Earth Cookies

You will need circular sugar cookies, frosting colored blue and green. Have children spread blue and green frosting on to sugar cookies so that they look like planet Earth.

*Dirt Cups to eat; use chocolate pudding, crushed Oreo cookies and hide gummy worms in it.

Earth Muffins*

Measure out the below ingredients and then let your little ones help you make these Yummy Muffins.

Mix we ingredients
Mix in dry ingredients
Mix in blue and yellow food coloring to create perfect “Earth Green”
Add in Blueberries for the Water
Spoon into Muffin Tin
Bake 15-20 minutes on 375 degrees
Enjoy “Earth Muffins”

¾ cup (1½ sticks) unsalted butter, melted.
2 cups all-purpose flour (spooned and leveled)
2 large eggs
½ cup whole milk
½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract
¾ cup granulated sugar
2 teaspoons baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
Mix dry, mix wet. Add wet to dry, add blueberries ( 1 cup) . Bake at 375 for 15-20 minutes.

Source: May 2008 edition of Everyday Food by Martha Stewart

*Use a Recycled can or jar and make a planter. Wash the inside of your container really well and make sure no sharp edges are on the container. Have your child fill the container with gravel and then either add soil and a seed or transplant a small plant. You can use flowers, or even herbs. Place the containers where the children can easily take care of them and help your child grow a green thumb.

 Books: