For our December playdate we are going to do something a little different. As my Christmas gift to you, I am giving you a "Mommy's Morning Out" on Friday, December 17 from 9:30 am to 11:30 am. What this means is you can drop your little one(s) off at my house and take the morning off. Finish your shopping, take a nap, get a manicure, read a book. The possibilities are endless. As mommies, we all need a break from time to time.
If you are interested in doing this, please let me know in the comments. I would prefer to know ahead of time who will be joining me that morning. :) Also, I have to be strict with the pick up time because I have to pick my son up from preschool.
I hope you all are able to take advantage of this break - you deserve it!!
Merry Christmas!
Tuesday, November 23, 2010
Monday, November 15, 2010
Don't Assume
On Monday nights, we take the kids to the library. They head to the children's section and check out books and more DVDs than they can watch in a week. It's part of our routine and we enjoy it. When the kids pick out movies, they always show them to us for our approval before adding them to the cart. They know that there are certain "children's" shows that we don't approve of.
Last week, my 6 year old picked out a movie called The Eye of the Dolphin. I glanced at it and quickly approved. Over the weekend, we all sat down to watch this movie. Two minutes into it, a teen girl hands her mother a "packet of birth control" before her mom's date. Then 30 seconds later, the girl is seen smoking some sort of drug. Thankfully, by this point we turned the movie off. I grabbed the movie case and at that point noticed the movie was rated PG-13. I let my kids rent a PG-13 movie - yikes! I barely let them watch PG movies. I was very shaken and upset.
Tonight, we went back to the library to return our movies. I kept "that" movie out so I could talk to the librarian about it. When I brought it to the attention of the librarian, she was shocked and appalled. After doing a little bit of checking, she found out that this movie was miscoded and should have been with the adult movies. She also found out that it had been on the shelf since 2007 and checked out 66 times!! I was the first person to say anything about it.
This tells me three things:
1. Parents have no idea what their kids are watching.
2. Parents don't care what their kids are watching. And/or
3. Parents aren't taking the time to right a wrong; to protect other kids and their innocence.
I've been thinking about that and just want to say, Don't Assume.
Pay attention to what your kids are watching. Don't assume that because a movie is in the children's section that it's ok. Don't assume that just because a movie or show is labeled as "children's," that it's appropriate for your kids to watch. I've seen way too many cartoons and other shows that look kid-friendly but are anything but.
Care about what your kids are watching. Don't assume that they are too young to understand. Kids are smart!! They are also immature. They pick up what is going on and being said but lack the maturity to deal with it appropriately. Our children's innocence needs to be protected for as long as possible.
And lastly, step up and make your voice heard. Don't assume someone else will do it. Chances are it is up to you. Do it for your kids. Most of you know I am pretty meek and mild - basically a door mat. :) But when it comes to my kids, I turn into a mama bear. I will do whatever it takes to stand up for them. This has put me in many situations that I am not usually comfortable with. A couple of years ago, my first grade daughter was shown a movie at school that I think is highly inappropriate. It is rated PG and like I said, we rarely let our kids watch PG movies - for that reason. I was very upset. I wrote a note to my daughter's teacher explaining why I was not happy about what happened. The teacher contacted me and apologized. The movie was shown by the lunch ladies during indoor recess and they had no idea what the movie was rated. I was the only mother to say something. It shocks me and saddens me.
Think of something inappropriate that you've seen before. It's hard to get that stuff out of your head, right? I don't want my kids' heads to be filled with garbage. Garbage in, garbage out. Let's fill our kids' heads with lovely, pure things instead.
" Whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things. " Phillippians 4:8
Last week, my 6 year old picked out a movie called The Eye of the Dolphin. I glanced at it and quickly approved. Over the weekend, we all sat down to watch this movie. Two minutes into it, a teen girl hands her mother a "packet of birth control" before her mom's date. Then 30 seconds later, the girl is seen smoking some sort of drug. Thankfully, by this point we turned the movie off. I grabbed the movie case and at that point noticed the movie was rated PG-13. I let my kids rent a PG-13 movie - yikes! I barely let them watch PG movies. I was very shaken and upset.
Tonight, we went back to the library to return our movies. I kept "that" movie out so I could talk to the librarian about it. When I brought it to the attention of the librarian, she was shocked and appalled. After doing a little bit of checking, she found out that this movie was miscoded and should have been with the adult movies. She also found out that it had been on the shelf since 2007 and checked out 66 times!! I was the first person to say anything about it.
This tells me three things:
1. Parents have no idea what their kids are watching.
2. Parents don't care what their kids are watching. And/or
3. Parents aren't taking the time to right a wrong; to protect other kids and their innocence.
I've been thinking about that and just want to say, Don't Assume.
Pay attention to what your kids are watching. Don't assume that because a movie is in the children's section that it's ok. Don't assume that just because a movie or show is labeled as "children's," that it's appropriate for your kids to watch. I've seen way too many cartoons and other shows that look kid-friendly but are anything but.
Care about what your kids are watching. Don't assume that they are too young to understand. Kids are smart!! They are also immature. They pick up what is going on and being said but lack the maturity to deal with it appropriately. Our children's innocence needs to be protected for as long as possible.
And lastly, step up and make your voice heard. Don't assume someone else will do it. Chances are it is up to you. Do it for your kids. Most of you know I am pretty meek and mild - basically a door mat. :) But when it comes to my kids, I turn into a mama bear. I will do whatever it takes to stand up for them. This has put me in many situations that I am not usually comfortable with. A couple of years ago, my first grade daughter was shown a movie at school that I think is highly inappropriate. It is rated PG and like I said, we rarely let our kids watch PG movies - for that reason. I was very upset. I wrote a note to my daughter's teacher explaining why I was not happy about what happened. The teacher contacted me and apologized. The movie was shown by the lunch ladies during indoor recess and they had no idea what the movie was rated. I was the only mother to say something. It shocks me and saddens me.
Think of something inappropriate that you've seen before. It's hard to get that stuff out of your head, right? I don't want my kids' heads to be filled with garbage. Garbage in, garbage out. Let's fill our kids' heads with lovely, pure things instead.
" Whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things. " Phillippians 4:8
Wednesday, November 3, 2010
November Playdate
Our November playdate will be "Christmas Shopping with Mommy" on Friday, November 19 at 9:30 am. We will be meeting at Brookfield Square in the mall in front of Sears.
I hope you all can join us!
I hope you all can join us!
Tuesday, November 2, 2010
Quote of the Day
Being a mother . . . is like being a guardrail on the highway. You're gonna get bumped and scraped and tested a lot. But it's your job to stand firm and keep your kid on the right road.
-Angela Hunt in "She's in a Better Place
" Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up." Galatians 6:9 NIV
-Angela Hunt in "She's in a Better Place
" Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up." Galatians 6:9 NIV
Wednesday, October 27, 2010
Yummy Fall Recipe
Last night I brought Pumpkin Ooey Gooey Butter Cake to Bible study. It was very rich and quite yummy! I thought I'd share the recipe with all of you. Enjoy!
Pumpkin Ooey Gooey butter cake
Ingredients
Cake:
1 (18 1/4-ounce) package yellow cake mix
1 egg
8 tablespoons butter, melted
Filling:
1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, softened
1 (15-ounce) can pumpkin
3 eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla
8 tablespoons butter, melted
1 (16-ounce) box powdered sugar
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1 teaspoon nutmeg
Directions
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.
Combine the cake mix, egg, and butter and mix well with an electric mixer. Pat the mixture into the bottom of a lightly greased 13 by 9-inch baking pan.
To make the filling: In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and pumpkin until smooth. Add the eggs, vanilla, and butter, and beat together. Next, add the powdered sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and mix well. Spread pumpkin mixture over cake batter and bake for 40 to 50 minutes. Make sure not to overbake as the center should be a little gooey.
Serve with fresh whipped cream.
Pumpkin Ooey Gooey butter cake
Ingredients
Cake:
1 (18 1/4-ounce) package yellow cake mix
1 egg
8 tablespoons butter, melted
Filling:
1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, softened
1 (15-ounce) can pumpkin
3 eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla
8 tablespoons butter, melted
1 (16-ounce) box powdered sugar
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1 teaspoon nutmeg
Directions
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.
Combine the cake mix, egg, and butter and mix well with an electric mixer. Pat the mixture into the bottom of a lightly greased 13 by 9-inch baking pan.
To make the filling: In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and pumpkin until smooth. Add the eggs, vanilla, and butter, and beat together. Next, add the powdered sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and mix well. Spread pumpkin mixture over cake batter and bake for 40 to 50 minutes. Make sure not to overbake as the center should be a little gooey.
Serve with fresh whipped cream.
Thursday, October 21, 2010
Quote of the Day
“Spread love everywhere you go: first of all in your own house. Give love to your children, to your wife or husband, to a next door neighbor… Let no one ever come to you without leaving better and happier. Be the living expression of God’s kindness; kindness in your face, kindness in your eyes, kindness in your smile, kindness in your warm greeting.” - Mother Theresa
Wednesday, October 20, 2010
Who do you belong to?
He is the first and the last, the beginning and the end. He’s the keeper of creation and the creator of all. He’s the architect of the universe and the manager of all time. He always was, always is, always will be unmoved, unchanged, undefeated and never undone.
He was bruised but brought healing, He was pierced but eased pain, He was persecuted but brought freedom, He was dead and brings life. He is risen to bring power and He reigns to bring peace.
The world can’t understand Him, armies can’t defeat Him, schools can’t explain Him and leaders - they can’t ignore Him. Herrod couldn’t kill Him, Nero couldn’t crush Him, the new age cannot replace Him and Oprah cannot explain Him away.
You remind yourself, that He is light, He is love, He is longevity and He is the Lord. He is goodness and kindness and faithfulness and He is God. He is holy and righteousness and powerful and pure.
His ways are right, His word eternal, His will unchanging and His mind is on us. He’s our Savior, our guide, our peace, our joy, our comfort, our Lord and He rules our lives.
I serve Him because….His bond is love, His yoke is easy, His burden is light and His goal for us is abundant life. I follow Him because He’s the wisdom of the wise, the power of the powerful, the ancient of days, the ruler of rulers, the leader of all leaders. His goal is a relationship with me.
He’ll never leave you, never forsake you, never mislead you, never forget you, never overlook you, and never cancel your appointment in his appointment book.
When you fall He’ll lift you up. When you fail, he’ll forgive you. When you’re weak, He’s strong. When you’re lost, He’s your way. When you’re afraid, He’s your courage.
When you stumble, he will steady you. When you’re hurt He’s gonna heal you. When you’re broken, He will mend you. When you’re blind, He will lead you. When you’re hungry, He will feed you. When you face trials, He’s with you. When I face persecution, He shields me. When I face problems, He will comfort me. When I face loss, He will provide for me. And when we face death, He will carry us all home to meet Him.
He is everything, for everybody, everywhere, every time and in everyway. He is your God. And that sisters, is who you belong to.
-Anointed, Transformed, and Redeemed 2008
He was bruised but brought healing, He was pierced but eased pain, He was persecuted but brought freedom, He was dead and brings life. He is risen to bring power and He reigns to bring peace.
The world can’t understand Him, armies can’t defeat Him, schools can’t explain Him and leaders - they can’t ignore Him. Herrod couldn’t kill Him, Nero couldn’t crush Him, the new age cannot replace Him and Oprah cannot explain Him away.
You remind yourself, that He is light, He is love, He is longevity and He is the Lord. He is goodness and kindness and faithfulness and He is God. He is holy and righteousness and powerful and pure.
His ways are right, His word eternal, His will unchanging and His mind is on us. He’s our Savior, our guide, our peace, our joy, our comfort, our Lord and He rules our lives.
I serve Him because….His bond is love, His yoke is easy, His burden is light and His goal for us is abundant life. I follow Him because He’s the wisdom of the wise, the power of the powerful, the ancient of days, the ruler of rulers, the leader of all leaders. His goal is a relationship with me.
He’ll never leave you, never forsake you, never mislead you, never forget you, never overlook you, and never cancel your appointment in his appointment book.
When you fall He’ll lift you up. When you fail, he’ll forgive you. When you’re weak, He’s strong. When you’re lost, He’s your way. When you’re afraid, He’s your courage.
When you stumble, he will steady you. When you’re hurt He’s gonna heal you. When you’re broken, He will mend you. When you’re blind, He will lead you. When you’re hungry, He will feed you. When you face trials, He’s with you. When I face persecution, He shields me. When I face problems, He will comfort me. When I face loss, He will provide for me. And when we face death, He will carry us all home to meet Him.
He is everything, for everybody, everywhere, every time and in everyway. He is your God. And that sisters, is who you belong to.
-Anointed, Transformed, and Redeemed 2008
Thursday, October 14, 2010
October Playdate
Wow! I have been terrible at keeping up this blog. In my defense, I also have been insanely busy but who isn't, right? I'm going to try to be better at posting. We'll see. :)
The October playdate will be next Friday, October 22 at 9:30 am at the zoo, again. I couldn't come up with a creative place to go and I thought we should try to sneak in one more outdoor playdate before the weather turns on us. The zoo is always fun and should be free for most of us. If you do not have a zoo pass, let me know. I can bring two guests on my zoo pass.
We'll meet in the main entrance building. Hope you all can come!
The October playdate will be next Friday, October 22 at 9:30 am at the zoo, again. I couldn't come up with a creative place to go and I thought we should try to sneak in one more outdoor playdate before the weather turns on us. The zoo is always fun and should be free for most of us. If you do not have a zoo pass, let me know. I can bring two guests on my zoo pass.
We'll meet in the main entrance building. Hope you all can come!
Tuesday, September 14, 2010
September Playdate
We had so much fun last month at our playdate at the pool. There were 5 mommies and 10 kiddos. It was a great day in the sun!
Our September playdate will be on Friday, September 24 at 9:30 am at Frame Park in Waukesha again. We can go for a walk along the beautiful riverwalk and then the kids can play on the playground. Let's meet in the parking lot next to the Schuetze building (behind Whiterock elementary school). Hope to see you there!
Let me know if you plan on coming so I can watch for you that morning.
Our September playdate will be on Friday, September 24 at 9:30 am at Frame Park in Waukesha again. We can go for a walk along the beautiful riverwalk and then the kids can play on the playground. Let's meet in the parking lot next to the Schuetze building (behind Whiterock elementary school). Hope to see you there!
Let me know if you plan on coming so I can watch for you that morning.
Thursday, August 19, 2010
Happy Underwear Week!
Ok, so maybe we're the only ones celebrating this little known holiday. And boy, are we celebrating!!
Warning: The following contains potty talk but I'm sure as a mom you know how important and exciting this is. And if you don't yet, you will. :)
We decided last week that Monday would be "no more diapers" day for my 3 year old son. We talked about it for days before to prepare him (and probably more importantly to prepare myself.) Monday morning we headed to the store to buy underwear with superheroes and Woody and Buzz on them (for moral support) and pull-ups for night time. Then we went to the grocery store to buy donuts. Finally, we took it all with us along with a potty seat to my mom's house (more moral support.) We ate our donuts, put on our first pair of underwear, and sent the boy outside to play with his sisters. I set the timer for 10 minutes so I could call him back in to try going potty. I thought at the beginning I should have him try often with short intervals between. Well, after 7 minutes he came in with wet underwear. We continued this frustrating pattern for most of the afternoon. He would come in wet just minutes before the timer went off - no matter how long I set it for. Our breakthrough came when I had him stand at the big potty. He went!!! And he thought he was pretty cool, too (which always helps). We went home and continued our timer routine and forgot about the little potty seat. He was starting to get the hang of it. We put a pull-up on him before bed and stressed the importance of not letting the little picture on the front disappear by staying dry.
The next morning as soon as I heard those little bare feet hit the ground, I went running and yelling "go to the potty! Go to the potty!". Poor kid, I'm surprised he didn't wet his pants on the spot. But amazingly, only half of the picture was faded and he went on the potty like a pro!
The first night I ended up washing about a dozen pair of underwear, the 2nd night it was down to about 4, and yesterday was 2! And he woke up the last 2 mornings with his picture completely intact. He is doing so amazingly well and I am so proud of him. After every time he goes, I say "Great job, buddy!!" (all excitedly) and he replies "Thank you, mama!" (with definite pride in his voice - the good kind :)
I had to share this rite of passage with you all and thank all of you who said a prayer for us. It definitely worked.
Warning: The following contains potty talk but I'm sure as a mom you know how important and exciting this is. And if you don't yet, you will. :)
We decided last week that Monday would be "no more diapers" day for my 3 year old son. We talked about it for days before to prepare him (and probably more importantly to prepare myself.) Monday morning we headed to the store to buy underwear with superheroes and Woody and Buzz on them (for moral support) and pull-ups for night time. Then we went to the grocery store to buy donuts. Finally, we took it all with us along with a potty seat to my mom's house (more moral support.) We ate our donuts, put on our first pair of underwear, and sent the boy outside to play with his sisters. I set the timer for 10 minutes so I could call him back in to try going potty. I thought at the beginning I should have him try often with short intervals between. Well, after 7 minutes he came in with wet underwear. We continued this frustrating pattern for most of the afternoon. He would come in wet just minutes before the timer went off - no matter how long I set it for. Our breakthrough came when I had him stand at the big potty. He went!!! And he thought he was pretty cool, too (which always helps). We went home and continued our timer routine and forgot about the little potty seat. He was starting to get the hang of it. We put a pull-up on him before bed and stressed the importance of not letting the little picture on the front disappear by staying dry.
The next morning as soon as I heard those little bare feet hit the ground, I went running and yelling "go to the potty! Go to the potty!". Poor kid, I'm surprised he didn't wet his pants on the spot. But amazingly, only half of the picture was faded and he went on the potty like a pro!
The first night I ended up washing about a dozen pair of underwear, the 2nd night it was down to about 4, and yesterday was 2! And he woke up the last 2 mornings with his picture completely intact. He is doing so amazingly well and I am so proud of him. After every time he goes, I say "Great job, buddy!!" (all excitedly) and he replies "Thank you, mama!" (with definite pride in his voice - the good kind :)
I had to share this rite of passage with you all and thank all of you who said a prayer for us. It definitely worked.
Saturday, July 24, 2010
August Playdate
Hello, are you still there? This summer is going fast . . . My kiddos are keeping me very busy and trying to drive me crazy. :)
Our July playdate was a hot day in the park. There were 4 moms and 9 kids!! It was a fun time.
Our August playdate will be on August 20th at 10:00 am at my parents pool!! The pool is above ground and has a slight dip in the center. They have a few life jackets and baby boats but please feel free to bring your own if you have them. Also, bring a lunch along and we can picnic in the backyard. Let me know if you have questions. I will email my parents address and directions to their house when I find out whose coming. This should be a lot of fun as long as the weather cooperates!
Hope you can come!
Our July playdate was a hot day in the park. There were 4 moms and 9 kids!! It was a fun time.
Our August playdate will be on August 20th at 10:00 am at my parents pool!! The pool is above ground and has a slight dip in the center. They have a few life jackets and baby boats but please feel free to bring your own if you have them. Also, bring a lunch along and we can picnic in the backyard. Let me know if you have questions. I will email my parents address and directions to their house when I find out whose coming. This should be a lot of fun as long as the weather cooperates!
Hope you can come!
Wednesday, June 30, 2010
July Playdate
Our July playdate will be on Friday, July 16 at 10:00 am at Grandview Park in Waukesha. The park is on Grandview Blvd just after Summit Ave. I checked it out today and it seems very little kid friendly. You probably want to park on one of the side streets on either side of the park (Easy St or Pine St - I think).
Let's hope for nice weather! See you there!
Let's hope for nice weather! See you there!
Sunday, June 27, 2010
Gifts From God
Children are a gift from God! They are tiny packages filled with tremendous potential, given to bring great blessing - as well as a challenge here and there! God gives them to us, not to be possessed or controlled, but to be loved and nurtured.
Each little bundle is created with the greatest care in the mother's womb, woven carefully in God's own image. No two children are exactly alike. Each child has a distinct and unique personality with strengths and weaknesses, gifts and abilities, desires and dreams to be nutured and molded with love, discipline, and instruction. God has a perfect plan for each child's life - a future with purpose and hope.
Just as proper nutrition is needed for children to develop strong and healthy bodies, the pure milk of God's Word is vital to nourish the heart and character of every child. And God uses a parent's love not only to teach and instruct but also to wrap a child's heart with the warmth of comfort, protection, and blessing.
"Like newborn babies, crave pure spiritual milk, so that by it you may grow up in your salvation, now that you have tasted that the Lord is good." 1 Peter 2:2-3 NIV
-Karla Dornacher from "Love In Every Room"
Each little bundle is created with the greatest care in the mother's womb, woven carefully in God's own image. No two children are exactly alike. Each child has a distinct and unique personality with strengths and weaknesses, gifts and abilities, desires and dreams to be nutured and molded with love, discipline, and instruction. God has a perfect plan for each child's life - a future with purpose and hope.
Just as proper nutrition is needed for children to develop strong and healthy bodies, the pure milk of God's Word is vital to nourish the heart and character of every child. And God uses a parent's love not only to teach and instruct but also to wrap a child's heart with the warmth of comfort, protection, and blessing.
"Like newborn babies, crave pure spiritual milk, so that by it you may grow up in your salvation, now that you have tasted that the Lord is good." 1 Peter 2:2-3 NIV
-Karla Dornacher from "Love In Every Room"
Thursday, June 24, 2010
Looking Down the Road
An excerpt from Lisa Whelchel's book "Creative Correction" :
When our children are young, it's easy to become myopic, or shortsighted, in our vision. We zoom around, putting out the fires in front of us, always keeping a fire extinguisher handy, but never taking the time to think about installing a water-sprinkler system for the future. It's important, however, that we stop every so often in the midst of firefighting to look down the road. Are we still guiding our children in the right direction?
You know what happens if you stare at your feet while walking. You begin to lose your balance and don't even realize you've veered off course until it's too late. We need to pause in our journey and take a good, long, loving look at our little ones. We need to take the time to assess their strengths and weaknesses and evaluate what those same character traits will look like down the road in a teenager and, eventually, in an adult.
Sneaking a cookie from the jar when Mom isn't looking is easily punishable with a slap on the hand. Sneaking a pair of earrings from the local mall may also be handled by a slap on the wrist - with handcuffs. Cheating at a board game may result in being sent back to "Start." Cheating on a test in high school will also send you home - possibly in expulsion. Getting angry and hitting a parent would warrant a time-out. Getting angry and hitting a teacher could warrant another form of "time-out" - behind bars.
Don't misunderstand. I'm not saying that if little Susie steals a cookie, she's going to end up in jail someday. What I am saying is this: Ignoring moral issues when the implications are toddler- size can reap perilous, teenager- size repercussions. We can't avoid our children's peccadilloes forever - but when would you rather deal with these moral and character issues? When your child is five years old or 15?
When our children are young, it's easy to become myopic, or shortsighted, in our vision. We zoom around, putting out the fires in front of us, always keeping a fire extinguisher handy, but never taking the time to think about installing a water-sprinkler system for the future. It's important, however, that we stop every so often in the midst of firefighting to look down the road. Are we still guiding our children in the right direction?
You know what happens if you stare at your feet while walking. You begin to lose your balance and don't even realize you've veered off course until it's too late. We need to pause in our journey and take a good, long, loving look at our little ones. We need to take the time to assess their strengths and weaknesses and evaluate what those same character traits will look like down the road in a teenager and, eventually, in an adult.
Sneaking a cookie from the jar when Mom isn't looking is easily punishable with a slap on the hand. Sneaking a pair of earrings from the local mall may also be handled by a slap on the wrist - with handcuffs. Cheating at a board game may result in being sent back to "Start." Cheating on a test in high school will also send you home - possibly in expulsion. Getting angry and hitting a parent would warrant a time-out. Getting angry and hitting a teacher could warrant another form of "time-out" - behind bars.
Don't misunderstand. I'm not saying that if little Susie steals a cookie, she's going to end up in jail someday. What I am saying is this: Ignoring moral issues when the implications are toddler- size can reap perilous, teenager- size repercussions. We can't avoid our children's peccadilloes forever - but when would you rather deal with these moral and character issues? When your child is five years old or 15?
Tuesday, June 15, 2010
Zoo Playdate Reminder
Just a reminder - this Friday is our playdate at the zoo! Please, please, please let me know if you are coming. It is very hard to plan these playdates without knowing who is planning on coming.
Hope to see you there!
Hope to see you there!
Thursday, June 10, 2010
Summer Vacation
Hello, Summer! -- (A Last Day of School Poem)
by
Gregory K.
Goodbye, classroom!
Goodbye, Teach!
You can find me at the beach...
Or in the park or at the pool
Or any place that isn’t school.
Goodbye, quizzes!
Bye, reports!
Hello days packed full of sports
And days when I’m just lazybones
While eating melty ice cream cones.
Goodbye, homework --
Lunchroom, too.
There’s so, so much I wanna do.
I know the school year flew on past…
But please, please summer -- last and last.
Summer Vacation
by Jamie (in honor of Mommies everywhere)
Hello, children
Darlings each.
Let's all head out for the beach
Or to the park or to the pool
Or anyplace that's really cool.
Hello, fighting
Hello, stress
Why is this house such a mess?
I cannot think with all this noise.
Girls, please separate from the boys.
Goodbye, Sanity
And freedom, too.
I can't think of new activities to do.
I know the school year flew by fast
So please, PLEASE summer - don't last and last!!
by
Gregory K.
Goodbye, classroom!
Goodbye, Teach!
You can find me at the beach...
Or in the park or at the pool
Or any place that isn’t school.
Goodbye, quizzes!
Bye, reports!
Hello days packed full of sports
And days when I’m just lazybones
While eating melty ice cream cones.
Goodbye, homework --
Lunchroom, too.
There’s so, so much I wanna do.
I know the school year flew on past…
But please, please summer -- last and last.
Summer Vacation
by Jamie (in honor of Mommies everywhere)
Hello, children
Darlings each.
Let's all head out for the beach
Or to the park or to the pool
Or anyplace that's really cool.
Hello, fighting
Hello, stress
Why is this house such a mess?
I cannot think with all this noise.
Girls, please separate from the boys.
Goodbye, Sanity
And freedom, too.
I can't think of new activities to do.
I know the school year flew by fast
So please, PLEASE summer - don't last and last!!
Wednesday, June 9, 2010
Thursday, June 3, 2010
A Letter of Blessing
Steve Lynn is a business executive in Nashville. At each milestone in his children's lives, he writes them a letter of blessing such as the one below. It's a precious tradition, and the letters will certainly be treasures for his children to keep forever.
A letter of blessing for Laura Whitney Lynn as she begins middle school:
My dear Whitney,
Our chosen little baby, tomorrow is another major passage as you become a beautiful, unique young lady. Your Mother and I are grateful for you. We are proud of your external and internal beauty, your bright exploring mind, mothering instincts, loving heart, and creativity.
Through Christ our Lord, I bless you and pray God's blessings upon this step and throughout your life journey. I pray for self-discipline, focus, and commitment to excellence; for balance and enjoyment of the journey; for lots of good friends; and for a focus on relationships rather than things. I encourage you to understand that true freedom comes only from a call to personal responsibilty to our fellow man and to our creator.
You have already experienced some of life's hurts. I praise you for how you have overcome them, and I continue to pray daily that you will be surrounded by God's protective angels. You are God's child given to Mom and me for a time until, in a few short years, you are fully ready to be a responsible adult. We are so thankful that you and God chose us. May our Lord bless and keep you.
Love, Dad
-Cheri Fuller from "The Fragrance of Kindness"
A great book to read that deals with this same topic is called "The Blessing" by Gary Smalley and John Trent, PhD. This book can help you if you have missed out on the blessing from your parents and shows how to give the blessing to your children and others in your life.
A letter of blessing for Laura Whitney Lynn as she begins middle school:
My dear Whitney,
Our chosen little baby, tomorrow is another major passage as you become a beautiful, unique young lady. Your Mother and I are grateful for you. We are proud of your external and internal beauty, your bright exploring mind, mothering instincts, loving heart, and creativity.
Through Christ our Lord, I bless you and pray God's blessings upon this step and throughout your life journey. I pray for self-discipline, focus, and commitment to excellence; for balance and enjoyment of the journey; for lots of good friends; and for a focus on relationships rather than things. I encourage you to understand that true freedom comes only from a call to personal responsibilty to our fellow man and to our creator.
You have already experienced some of life's hurts. I praise you for how you have overcome them, and I continue to pray daily that you will be surrounded by God's protective angels. You are God's child given to Mom and me for a time until, in a few short years, you are fully ready to be a responsible adult. We are so thankful that you and God chose us. May our Lord bless and keep you.
Love, Dad
-Cheri Fuller from "The Fragrance of Kindness"
A great book to read that deals with this same topic is called "The Blessing" by Gary Smalley and John Trent, PhD. This book can help you if you have missed out on the blessing from your parents and shows how to give the blessing to your children and others in your life.
Monday, May 31, 2010
Mom discovers real meaning of Memorial Day by Kim Dailey
I was driving past the American Legion a couple days ago when I heard my youngest daughter's voice pipe in from the back seat.
"Why are all those flags there, Mommy?"
I looked out the driver-side window and saw folks planting American flags near the parking lot entrance.
"It's almost Memorial Day," I replied.
"What's Memmm-oril Day?" she asked.
"Mem-or-ial Day is a day we remember people who have passed away. We also get to enjoy a break from school and work," I answered.
I co-teach in my school's history department, and I was excited to be embarking on a history lesson with my daughter. I spoke on remembering soldiers and family members and friends. Barbecues with family, sleeping in, and shopping the sales were also part of our discussion. I could hardly wait to get home and research the topic online for further dialogue.
I googled "Memorial Day History" and the website www.usmemorialday.org came up at the top of the list. I began to read about "Decoration Day," the original day of remembrance. The account spoke of the first official recognition of Memorial Day by John Logan in 1868. At that time, flowers were placed on the graves of Union and Confederate soldiers in Arlington National Cemetery.
It described poems and songs tied to the event and the sale of poppies by the Veterans of Foreign Wars. My mind slipped back to my youth as I remembered my parents purchasing these little red flowers and twisting their wire stems onto our car's rear-view mirror.
Reading further on the website, I was stopped in my tracks.
"Traditional observance of Memorial day has diminished over the years. Many Americans nowadays have forgotten the meaning and traditions of Memorial Day. At many cemeteries, the graves of the fallen are increasingly ignored, neglected ... Some people think the day is for honoring any and all dead, and not just those fallen in service to our country."
I was one of those people. I read on.
"Many feel that when Congress made the day into a three-day weekend with the National Holiday Act of 1971, it made it all the easier for people to be distracted from the spirit and meaning of the day ... No doubt, this has contributed greatly to the general public's nonchalant observance of Memorial Day."
The words 'shopping" and "barbecue" reverberated in my head, and I began to feel guilt well up in my core. I looked back to the top of the article and read the first line from the website aloud to my daughter.
"Memorial Day, originally called Decoration Day, is a day of remembrance for those who have died in our nation's service."
Let us never take for granted our service people who fought to secure our freedoms. Let us never forget that while we are sleeping in or shopping or barbecuing, there are still service men and women facing uncertainty and risking their very lives so that we may continue to enjoy these endeavors. This Memorial Day, as we take note of the red, white, and blue, let us never forget to remember those who sacrificed their lives in the service of our country.
Kim Dailey, of Columbia, is a wife, mother of five and special education teacher who relies on her faith and sense of humor to survive in this crazy world. In her free time she soaks it in, sorts it out and writes about life.
"Why are all those flags there, Mommy?"
I looked out the driver-side window and saw folks planting American flags near the parking lot entrance.
"It's almost Memorial Day," I replied.
"What's Memmm-oril Day?" she asked.
"Mem-or-ial Day is a day we remember people who have passed away. We also get to enjoy a break from school and work," I answered.
I co-teach in my school's history department, and I was excited to be embarking on a history lesson with my daughter. I spoke on remembering soldiers and family members and friends. Barbecues with family, sleeping in, and shopping the sales were also part of our discussion. I could hardly wait to get home and research the topic online for further dialogue.
I googled "Memorial Day History" and the website www.usmemorialday.org came up at the top of the list. I began to read about "Decoration Day," the original day of remembrance. The account spoke of the first official recognition of Memorial Day by John Logan in 1868. At that time, flowers were placed on the graves of Union and Confederate soldiers in Arlington National Cemetery.
It described poems and songs tied to the event and the sale of poppies by the Veterans of Foreign Wars. My mind slipped back to my youth as I remembered my parents purchasing these little red flowers and twisting their wire stems onto our car's rear-view mirror.
Reading further on the website, I was stopped in my tracks.
"Traditional observance of Memorial day has diminished over the years. Many Americans nowadays have forgotten the meaning and traditions of Memorial Day. At many cemeteries, the graves of the fallen are increasingly ignored, neglected ... Some people think the day is for honoring any and all dead, and not just those fallen in service to our country."
I was one of those people. I read on.
"Many feel that when Congress made the day into a three-day weekend with the National Holiday Act of 1971, it made it all the easier for people to be distracted from the spirit and meaning of the day ... No doubt, this has contributed greatly to the general public's nonchalant observance of Memorial Day."
The words 'shopping" and "barbecue" reverberated in my head, and I began to feel guilt well up in my core. I looked back to the top of the article and read the first line from the website aloud to my daughter.
"Memorial Day, originally called Decoration Day, is a day of remembrance for those who have died in our nation's service."
Let us never take for granted our service people who fought to secure our freedoms. Let us never forget that while we are sleeping in or shopping or barbecuing, there are still service men and women facing uncertainty and risking their very lives so that we may continue to enjoy these endeavors. This Memorial Day, as we take note of the red, white, and blue, let us never forget to remember those who sacrificed their lives in the service of our country.
Kim Dailey, of Columbia, is a wife, mother of five and special education teacher who relies on her faith and sense of humor to survive in this crazy world. In her free time she soaks it in, sorts it out and writes about life.
Sunday, May 30, 2010
Who likes parades?!?
WAUKESHA
Memorial Day events will begin at 9 a.m. Monday in front of the Lee Sherman Dreyfus State Office Building . There, chaplains will deliver Memorial Day prayers. There also will be a massing of colors, casting flowers on the water and a rifle salute. The parade will start at 9:15 a.m. on Baxter Street and will proceed to Buckley Street . Then, it will turn left onto West Main Street and then right onto Main Street . The parade will proceed to Maple Avenue and end at Cutler Park . Further ceremonies will continue in Cutler Park at 11 a.m.
OCONOMOWOC
Memorial Day observances will start at 10 a.m. Monday at City Beach with a traditional Memorial Day service. This year’s featured speaker is Maj. Ben Wagner, Gulf Company weapons commander. Wagner served two tours in Iraq and was awarded a Bronze Star. The parade will begin at the band shell and proceed east on Wisconsin Avenue to Oakwood Avenue , where it will stop for a brief ceremony. Then, the parade will continue to LaBelle Cemetery , where floral, military and musical tributes will honor veterans who have passed since last Memorial Day.
ELM GROVE
This year’s Memorial Day parade grand marshall is John Malan, who earned a Purple Heart during his service in Vietnam . The parade begins at 10:30 a.m. Monday at the Village Grounds. The parade will conclude at the Sendik’s parking lot. The Elm Grove Business Association will sponsor food, drinks and music there.
SUSSEX
The parade will begin at 1 p.m. Monday at Highway 74 and Waukesha Avenue . The parade will proceed west on Main Street to the VFW Post. After the parade, the VFW will present a service recognizing and honoring men and women in the armed forces.
NEW BERLIN
New Berlin VFW Post 5716 will host this year’s Memorial Day celebration. The ceremony will begin 11 a.m. Monday at the Veterans Memorial located in the southwest corner of Highland Memorial Park Cemetery 14875 W. Greenfield Ave.
PEWAUKEE
The village will host a weekend Veterans Festival continuing through Monday. Throughout the weekend, there will be rides, raffles and live music. On Memorial Day, the American Legion will host a parade that begins at the schools and ends at St. Mary’s Cemetery. There will be five stops at memorials along the way to honor veterans. The parade begins at 9:30 a.m.
Memorial Day events will begin at 9 a.m. Monday in front of the Lee Sherman Dreyfus State Office Building . There, chaplains will deliver Memorial Day prayers. There also will be a massing of colors, casting flowers on the water and a rifle salute. The parade will start at 9:15 a.m. on Baxter Street and will proceed to Buckley Street . Then, it will turn left onto West Main Street and then right onto Main Street . The parade will proceed to Maple Avenue and end at Cutler Park . Further ceremonies will continue in Cutler Park at 11 a.m.
OCONOMOWOC
Memorial Day observances will start at 10 a.m. Monday at City Beach with a traditional Memorial Day service. This year’s featured speaker is Maj. Ben Wagner, Gulf Company weapons commander. Wagner served two tours in Iraq and was awarded a Bronze Star. The parade will begin at the band shell and proceed east on Wisconsin Avenue to Oakwood Avenue , where it will stop for a brief ceremony. Then, the parade will continue to LaBelle Cemetery , where floral, military and musical tributes will honor veterans who have passed since last Memorial Day.
ELM GROVE
This year’s Memorial Day parade grand marshall is John Malan, who earned a Purple Heart during his service in Vietnam . The parade begins at 10:30 a.m. Monday at the Village Grounds. The parade will conclude at the Sendik’s parking lot. The Elm Grove Business Association will sponsor food, drinks and music there.
SUSSEX
The parade will begin at 1 p.m. Monday at Highway 74 and Waukesha Avenue . The parade will proceed west on Main Street to the VFW Post. After the parade, the VFW will present a service recognizing and honoring men and women in the armed forces.
NEW BERLIN
New Berlin VFW Post 5716 will host this year’s Memorial Day celebration. The ceremony will begin 11 a.m. Monday at the Veterans Memorial located in the southwest corner of Highland Memorial Park Cemetery 14875 W. Greenfield Ave.
PEWAUKEE
The village will host a weekend Veterans Festival continuing through Monday. Throughout the weekend, there will be rides, raffles and live music. On Memorial Day, the American Legion will host a parade that begins at the schools and ends at St. Mary’s Cemetery. There will be five stops at memorials along the way to honor veterans. The parade begins at 9:30 a.m.
Saturday, May 29, 2010
June Playdate
Yesterday was a beautiful day for a walk. Three mommies and four adorable kids made for a fun time along the riverwalk.
Our June playdate will be on Friday, June 18 at the ZOO. Due to the fact that many of us have zoo passes and some of us can bring guests on our passes, this should be a free event. Yay! However, this will also take a little bit of coordinating to pull off. Please let me know as soon as possible if you are able to join us and whether or not you have a zoo pass.
We will meet at 9:30 am in the Peck Welcome Center. This should be a fun time!
Our June playdate will be on Friday, June 18 at the ZOO. Due to the fact that many of us have zoo passes and some of us can bring guests on our passes, this should be a free event. Yay! However, this will also take a little bit of coordinating to pull off. Please let me know as soon as possible if you are able to join us and whether or not you have a zoo pass.
We will meet at 9:30 am in the Peck Welcome Center. This should be a fun time!
Thursday, May 27, 2010
You've gotta love Anita Renfroe. . .
Here are a couple videos of Anita, a Christian comedian. She is hilarious and really understands Mommies!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vLjWDKu0jfM&feature=youtube_gdata
And in case you've never seen this:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A0ZpuA8_YYk&feature=youtube_gdata
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vLjWDKu0jfM&feature=youtube_gdata
And in case you've never seen this:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A0ZpuA8_YYk&feature=youtube_gdata
Wednesday, May 26, 2010
Butterfinger Cake
Here is the recipe I made last night for Bible study. It's tasty but very sweet. . . :)
Yellow cake mix
1 can sweetened condensed milk
1 jar caramel topping
3-4 Butterfinger candy bars
Cool Whip
Bake the cake mix according to the package. While hot - poke holes all over it. Mix together the sweet milk and caramel and pour over cake. Crush up the butterfingers and spread on top. Allow to cool and refrigerate. Once completely cool - top with cool whip.
Enjoy!
Yellow cake mix
1 can sweetened condensed milk
1 jar caramel topping
3-4 Butterfinger candy bars
Cool Whip
Bake the cake mix according to the package. While hot - poke holes all over it. Mix together the sweet milk and caramel and pour over cake. Crush up the butterfingers and spread on top. Allow to cool and refrigerate. Once completely cool - top with cool whip.
Enjoy!
Monday, May 24, 2010
Playdate Reminder
This Friday, May 28 is our playdate at Frame Park at 9:30 am. Let's meet in the parking lot next to the Schuetze building (behind Whiterock elementary school). The weather looks beautiful for a walk and some playing in the park! Hope to see you there!
Thursday, May 20, 2010
A Change of Heart
At a time when she was busy with her flock of little ones, aged three, two, and six months, Connie began to realize that she and her husband, Stan, were not parenting the same way. He had a different temperament and gifts, and a distinctly different parenting style. But Connie was a professional; she had years of experience with children as a Child Life Specialist in hospitals. She'd taken many courses on child development. In fact, she had a master's degree in the field. She was sure HER WAY was the right way and only way to handle their children. If only her husband would change and do things HER WAY.
One day in frustration, she sat down on her bed and began to pray about the conflicts they were having. "God, when are You going to show Stan that I'm doing this right, and he should come on board and do it my way?" she asked.
As clearly, yet quietly as she'd heard anything from God, He whispered, "If both of you were exactly the same, one of you wouldn't be necessary!" She knew she didn't want to be the parent who wasn't needed, nor did she want Stan to be expendable.
With those few words from God's heart, a dramatic change took place in Connie's attitude. She began to value her husband's parenting style instead of critcizing it. She began to appreciate his gifts and unique way of relating to their kids, to celebrate their differences instead of being irritated by them. As a result, they had more unity and harmony as parents and a happy peace descended on their home.
-Cheri Fuller from "Quiet Whispers from God's Heart for Women"
One day in frustration, she sat down on her bed and began to pray about the conflicts they were having. "God, when are You going to show Stan that I'm doing this right, and he should come on board and do it my way?" she asked.
As clearly, yet quietly as she'd heard anything from God, He whispered, "If both of you were exactly the same, one of you wouldn't be necessary!" She knew she didn't want to be the parent who wasn't needed, nor did she want Stan to be expendable.
With those few words from God's heart, a dramatic change took place in Connie's attitude. She began to value her husband's parenting style instead of critcizing it. She began to appreciate his gifts and unique way of relating to their kids, to celebrate their differences instead of being irritated by them. As a result, they had more unity and harmony as parents and a happy peace descended on their home.
-Cheri Fuller from "Quiet Whispers from God's Heart for Women"
Monday, May 17, 2010
Wednesday, May 12, 2010
I need help!
As i'm sure most of you know, I love to read! The problem is I haven't found a good book to read in awhile. So, can you help me out by suggesting some good reads? I try to stick to Christian fiction. What book have you read that you loved, loved, loved? Hopefully I haven't already read it. . . ;)
Tuesday, May 11, 2010
Recipe for a Rainy Day
Here is a recipe I found for "Fun Dough". This looks like a fun rainy day project to me.
1 1/4 cups Original Bisquick® mix
1/4 cup salt
1 teaspoon cream of tartar
1 cup water
1 teaspoon food color
Stir Bisquick, salt and cream of tartar in 4-cup microwavable measuring cup until mixed; set aside. Mix water and food color in liquid measuring cup.
Stir a small amount of colored water at a time into dry mixture until all water is added. Microwave uncovered on High 1 minute. Scrape mixture from side of cup and stir.
Microwave uncovered 2 to 3 minutes longer, stirring every minute, until mixture almost forms a ball. Let dough stand uncovered about 3 minutes.
Remove dough from measuring cup, using spoon. Knead dough in your hands or on the counter about 1 minute or until smooth. (If dough is sticky, add 1 to 2 tablespoons Bisquick.) Cool about 15 minutes. Use dough to make shapes and designs. Store in tightly covered container in refrigerator.
1 1/4 cups Original Bisquick® mix
1/4 cup salt
1 teaspoon cream of tartar
1 cup water
1 teaspoon food color
Stir Bisquick, salt and cream of tartar in 4-cup microwavable measuring cup until mixed; set aside. Mix water and food color in liquid measuring cup.
Stir a small amount of colored water at a time into dry mixture until all water is added. Microwave uncovered on High 1 minute. Scrape mixture from side of cup and stir.
Microwave uncovered 2 to 3 minutes longer, stirring every minute, until mixture almost forms a ball. Let dough stand uncovered about 3 minutes.
Remove dough from measuring cup, using spoon. Knead dough in your hands or on the counter about 1 minute or until smooth. (If dough is sticky, add 1 to 2 tablespoons Bisquick.) Cool about 15 minutes. Use dough to make shapes and designs. Store in tightly covered container in refrigerator.
Sunday, May 9, 2010
Happy Mother's Day!
I hope all of you Mommies have a wonderful Mother's Day! We have been blessed with beautiful children but our children have been blessed with loving Mommies!
Enjoy your day, kiss your kiddos, and hold them tight! We may have the hardest job in the world with the least amount of pay, but the benefits are priceless!
Enjoy your day, kiss your kiddos, and hold them tight! We may have the hardest job in the world with the least amount of pay, but the benefits are priceless!
Friday, May 7, 2010
From An Adult's Perspective
From "Mother's Gifts to Me" by Dianna Booher
All children love their mothers and see them larger than life. But it's through the eyes of an adult that we examine our own upbringing and begin to get a more balanced view. Happily, in my case, that childlike assessment of my mother hasn't changed through the years. As she approaches her sunset years and I follow her through the cycle of mothering and grandmothering, my appreciation of her work and wisdom grows. Even through the filter of adulthood, she still looms larger than life.
Only if my own children still give their upbringing high marks when they arrive at middle age will I have a true measure of my contributions to their life. Mothering stripped of its sentiment matters most.
"Listen, my son, to your father's instruction and do not forsake your mother's teaching. They will be a garland to grace your head and a chain to adorn your neck." Proverbs 1:8-9 NIV
All children love their mothers and see them larger than life. But it's through the eyes of an adult that we examine our own upbringing and begin to get a more balanced view. Happily, in my case, that childlike assessment of my mother hasn't changed through the years. As she approaches her sunset years and I follow her through the cycle of mothering and grandmothering, my appreciation of her work and wisdom grows. Even through the filter of adulthood, she still looms larger than life.
Only if my own children still give their upbringing high marks when they arrive at middle age will I have a true measure of my contributions to their life. Mothering stripped of its sentiment matters most.
"Listen, my son, to your father's instruction and do not forsake your mother's teaching. They will be a garland to grace your head and a chain to adorn your neck." Proverbs 1:8-9 NIV
Tuesday, May 4, 2010
Innocence and Paper Bag Curls
I am feeling so burdened today for our children's purity - especially our girls. We live in such a sin-filled world and our little girls are so innocent and pure. If only to keep them that way forever! I consistently pray for my children's safety and physical protection but today I really felt impressed to pray for the protection of their purity and their hearts. My girls are 9 and 6 years old and getting closer to teens by the moment. As I dropped them off this morning and watched them walk into school (run actually - we were late ;), I really noticed how my 9 year old is maturing into a young lady and looked so cute with her paper bag curls. (More on that later.) I left the school praying over those girls. After school, my 6 year old handed me a note given to her from her friend - a boy. It was two notes actually and they both went something like this: I love you. You are my girl. Over and over professing his love in kindergarten script. This led to
the question "You've never kissed a boy at school have you?" The guilty face revealed all. This same boy had kissed her - on the lips no less. (Satan likes to mess with me.) This led to a big discussion on all of the things so heavily on my heart today. What Satan means for evil, God will turn to good.
Now my eyes have really been opened to the fact that I need to add to those consistent prayers. I need to be praying for their innocence and purity. I know that this kindergarten romance is pretty innocent but there is going to come a time when it won't be so innocent and I want to nip it in the bud now. I want to protect my children from as much of this corrupt world as I can for as long as I can. I've never hated those tabloid magazines at the checkout more than since my oldest daughter started reading. Kids don't need such filth polluting their mind.
We are in a battle over our kids. Satan wants to destroy them and ruin their lives as early as he can. We need to diligently pray God's protection over their body and mind!
Also, I would encourage you to be in prayer already for your children's future spouses. Pray for protection of their purity and physical well-being. The choices they will make will impact your son or daughter some day. Scary stuff to think about, I know, but really worth praying about.
Now onto lighter subjects. I curled my daughter's hair over the weekend using a paper lunch bag. Crazy, huh? Because we've had so many people ask about it, I thought I would post it on here too. I saw this on YouTube, of course. ;) It worked really well and was super easy! The true test will be on my younger daughter's hair. Her hair doesn't take to curl well. I may even try it with my hair - but I will need to use paper GROCERY bags with my hair. :-) Check it out!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WoZ2QGq0n4A&sns=em
the question "You've never kissed a boy at school have you?" The guilty face revealed all. This same boy had kissed her - on the lips no less. (Satan likes to mess with me.) This led to a big discussion on all of the things so heavily on my heart today. What Satan means for evil, God will turn to good.
Now my eyes have really been opened to the fact that I need to add to those consistent prayers. I need to be praying for their innocence and purity. I know that this kindergarten romance is pretty innocent but there is going to come a time when it won't be so innocent and I want to nip it in the bud now. I want to protect my children from as much of this corrupt world as I can for as long as I can. I've never hated those tabloid magazines at the checkout more than since my oldest daughter started reading. Kids don't need such filth polluting their mind.
We are in a battle over our kids. Satan wants to destroy them and ruin their lives as early as he can. We need to diligently pray God's protection over their body and mind!
Also, I would encourage you to be in prayer already for your children's future spouses. Pray for protection of their purity and physical well-being. The choices they will make will impact your son or daughter some day. Scary stuff to think about, I know, but really worth praying about.
Now onto lighter subjects. I curled my daughter's hair over the weekend using a paper lunch bag. Crazy, huh? Because we've had so many people ask about it, I thought I would post it on here too. I saw this on YouTube, of course. ;) It worked really well and was super easy! The true test will be on my younger daughter's hair. Her hair doesn't take to curl well. I may even try it with my hair - but I will need to use paper GROCERY bags with my hair. :-) Check it out!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WoZ2QGq0n4A&sns=em
Sunday, May 2, 2010
May Playdate
We had a very fun time at our playdate on Friday at Stonefire Pizza Co. There were 4 moms and 6 kiddos there ranging in age from 5 months to almost 4 ;).
Our May playdate will be on Friday, May 28 at 9:30 am at Frame Park in Waukesha. We can go for a walk along the beautiful riverwalk and then the kids can play on the playground. I hope you can make it! Let me know if you plan on coming so I can watch for you that morning.
If you ever have any suggestions for fun places to go with the kids, let me know.
Our May playdate will be on Friday, May 28 at 9:30 am at Frame Park in Waukesha. We can go for a walk along the beautiful riverwalk and then the kids can play on the playground. I hope you can make it! Let me know if you plan on coming so I can watch for you that morning.
If you ever have any suggestions for fun places to go with the kids, let me know.
Saturday, May 1, 2010
Pride comes before a fall . . .
This is a motto I try to live by because it is SO true. Yesterday I was reminded of it's truth once again and able to share this with my daughters.
I have to admit I was a little proud of a piece of pottery I painted at A Touch of Glaze (if you've never been there, you need to try it - it's very fun!). Anyway, I thought my little butterfly box I made for my daughters turned out pretty cute. You have to remember that I got a D+ one quarter in art so I'm not exactly what you would call artistic.
So yesterday I wrapped my "work of art" in a plastic bag and put it in my diaper bag in hopes of stopping by my sister's house to show her how it turned out. I never got there but ended up dragging that thing all over during my crazy day yesterday. When I finally got home after picking up my daughters, I was somewhat frustrated. As I was getting my son out of his car seat and calling my daughters to come and get their backpacks, I grabbed the diaper bag and dropped it down on our driveway. I never do that. As soon as I did, I realized my mistake and went running in the house to check my precious piece of pottery. I unwrapped it and saw that the cover was unharmed (phew - I worked the hardest on that). Then I noticed that the bottom piece was broke into several pieces. Ugh.
I think the bottom can be super-glued back together so it will still be usable. However, it will also be a good reminder for me and my daughters.
"The Lord detests all the proud of heart. Be sure of this: They will not go unpunished." Proverbs 16:5
I have to admit I was a little proud of a piece of pottery I painted at A Touch of Glaze (if you've never been there, you need to try it - it's very fun!). Anyway, I thought my little butterfly box I made for my daughters turned out pretty cute. You have to remember that I got a D+ one quarter in art so I'm not exactly what you would call artistic.
So yesterday I wrapped my "work of art" in a plastic bag and put it in my diaper bag in hopes of stopping by my sister's house to show her how it turned out. I never got there but ended up dragging that thing all over during my crazy day yesterday. When I finally got home after picking up my daughters, I was somewhat frustrated. As I was getting my son out of his car seat and calling my daughters to come and get their backpacks, I grabbed the diaper bag and dropped it down on our driveway. I never do that. As soon as I did, I realized my mistake and went running in the house to check my precious piece of pottery. I unwrapped it and saw that the cover was unharmed (phew - I worked the hardest on that). Then I noticed that the bottom piece was broke into several pieces. Ugh.
I think the bottom can be super-glued back together so it will still be usable. However, it will also be a good reminder for me and my daughters.
"The Lord detests all the proud of heart. Be sure of this: They will not go unpunished." Proverbs 16:5
Thursday, April 22, 2010
Playdate Rescheduled :( and Prayer Post
My 9 year old daughter has strep throat - yuck! So I have to reschedule our playdate tomorrow due to the fact that she is contagious for the next 24 hours and she can't go to school. Our playdate will now be next Friday, April 30 from 9 - 11 am at Stonefire Pizza Co. I am so sorry to reschedule, I was so excited for tomorrow. Let me know if you will be able to come next week.
Also, we'll use this as our prayer post. If you have any prayer requests, please feel free to leave them in the comments.
Have a good week!
Also, we'll use this as our prayer post. If you have any prayer requests, please feel free to leave them in the comments.
Have a good week!
Wednesday, April 21, 2010
Little things we can do to make a difference
Did you know you could help earn money for schools, at no expense to you? There is a program called Boxtops for Education that earns cash for schools. Cash that schools can use to buy equipment, supplies, and any other number of things that schools need to help educate our kids. I'm sure you've seen those little pink coupons on all sorts of packages like cereal, crackers, tubes of biscuits, Huggies diapers, and lots of other products. Each of those coupons are worth 10 cents and they add up fast once you start collecting them. I would urge you to start looking for them on the products you already buy and start saving them. Even if you do not have any school age kiddos, save them for family, friends, or neighbor kids that are in school. You could probably even drop them off at a neighborhood school. Then once your children are in school, you've already developed the habit of looking for and saving these pink coupons. Schools need all the help they can get and this is an absolutely free way to help out! It sure beats buying overpriced wrapping paper and tubs of cookie dough, doesn't it?
Tuesday, April 20, 2010
Complaining
Once upon a time there lived twin boys who, aside from looking identical, were opposite in every way. One was an eternal optimist, always able to look on the bright side of life, while the other was a pessimist, who complained about everything. One year for their birthday, their father conducted an experiment. He loaded the pessimist's room with every imaginable toy and game; but the optimist's room, he filled with horse manure.
That night the father went to the pessimist's room, where he found the boy crying bitterly amid his new gifts.
"I have to read all these instructions before I can do anything with this stuff," complained the boy, frowning. "And I need a ton of batteries, too."
After trying to comfort his son, the father left the miserable boy and walked down the hallway to his brother's room. Amazingly, this little boy was smiling and dancing around the piles of manure.
"What are you so happy about?" the father asked.
The boy grinned. "With all this manure, there's got to be a pony in here somewhere!"
from Lisa Whelchel's book, Creative Correction
That night the father went to the pessimist's room, where he found the boy crying bitterly amid his new gifts.
"I have to read all these instructions before I can do anything with this stuff," complained the boy, frowning. "And I need a ton of batteries, too."
After trying to comfort his son, the father left the miserable boy and walked down the hallway to his brother's room. Amazingly, this little boy was smiling and dancing around the piles of manure.
"What are you so happy about?" the father asked.
The boy grinned. "With all this manure, there's got to be a pony in here somewhere!"
from Lisa Whelchel's book, Creative Correction
Monday, April 19, 2010
Mommy and Me Playdate Reminder
Just a reminder that our Mommy and Me playdate is this Friday at Stonefire Pizza from 9:00 - 11:00 am. So far it looks like I am the only one going. I plan on having a fun time but I will have so much more fun if you would join me! Let me know if you are planning on coming. Hope to see you there! :)
Friday, April 9, 2010
Spring Cleaning
Next week, my boss ;) has given me the week off so I can get some
spring cleaning done. I have some major work to do. I want to
reorganize cupboards and closets and clean out the kids bedrooms.
Cleaning is not my favorite thing to do and I've obviously passed this
down to my kids because they are the messiest little things. Sigh. So,
I'm looking for some good cleaning tips, shortcuts, or moral support.
Help me out and leave a comment. In the meantime, I'll read my Martha
Stewart Housekeeping Handbook - yes, I really do have one - but I'll
have to clean it off first, it's been collecting dust on my
bookshelf! :)
spring cleaning done. I have some major work to do. I want to
reorganize cupboards and closets and clean out the kids bedrooms.
Cleaning is not my favorite thing to do and I've obviously passed this
down to my kids because they are the messiest little things. Sigh. So,
I'm looking for some good cleaning tips, shortcuts, or moral support.
Help me out and leave a comment. In the meantime, I'll read my Martha
Stewart Housekeeping Handbook - yes, I really do have one - but I'll
have to clean it off first, it's been collecting dust on my
bookshelf! :)
Wednesday, April 7, 2010
Prayer
This week is spring break. The weather has been rainy and yucky the past 2 days. I have a couple of sick kids - one of which has kept me up the last 3 nights. I figured this would be an appropriate time to introduce prayer posts. About once a week, I will make a post labeled Prayer. Please feel free to leave any prayer requests in the comment section. I know personally there are days that I know I will not be able to cope without someone praying me through. These are trying times ;), ladies! Please know that I am here and willing to pray you through. I'm home a lot and I check my iPod often (too often according to my husband). So if you are having a day that needs prayer, leave a comment and I will lift you up in prayer right away. We can all be praying for each other, too.
Happy Spring Break!
Happy Spring Break!
Thursday, April 1, 2010
Resurrection Cookies
Easter is almost here! This is such an exciting time of year. Everything is coming to life and starting anew. We get to celebrate God's love for us! He sent His son to die for us so that we may have new life in Him. Amazing! As Mommies, we can now appreciate what a sacrifice that was.
Here is a recipe I found on the Internet for Resurrection cookies. I've seen it a couple of times over the years and thought it was just the cutest idea. Maybe this will be the year that I actually try it with my kids! Let me know if you try it or if you have a fun Easter activity that you do with your kids!
Resurrection Story Cookies - A Real Recipe
What a wonderful recipe to share with the children. These cookies are made the evening before celebrating the Resurrection, and are cooked in a warm oven overnight so they will be ready on Easter morning.
You need to preheat the oven to 300 degrees (this is important--don't wait until you are half done with the recipe!)
3 egg whites
1 cup whole pecans
1 tsp. Vinegar
A pinch salt
1 cup sugar
A zipper baggie
A wooden spoon
tape
Bible
Place pecans in zipper baggie and let children beat them with the wooden spoon to break into small pieces. Explain that after Jesus was arrested, He was beaten by the Roman soldiers.
Read John 19:1-3.
Let each child smell the vinegar. Put 1 tsp. vinegar into mixing bowl. Explain that when Jesus was thirsty on the cross, He was given vinegar to drink.
Read John 19:28-30.
Add egg whites to vinegar. Eggs represent life. Explain that Jesus gave His life to give us life.
Read John 10:10-11.
Sprinkle a little salt into each child's hand. Let them taste it and brush the rest into the bowl. Explain that this represents the salty tears shed by Jesus' followers, and the bitterness of our own sin.
Read Luke 23:27.
So far, the ingredients are not very appetizing. Add 1cup sugar. Explain that the sweetest part of the story is that Jesus died because He loves us. He wants us to know and belong to Him.
Read Ps. 34:8 and John 3:16.
Beat with a mixer on high speed for 12 to 15 minutes until stiff peaks are formed. Explain that the color white represents the purity in God's eyes of those whose sins have been cleansed by Jesus.
Read Isa. 1:18 and John 3:1-3.
Fold in broken nuts. Drop by teaspoons onto wax paper covered cookie sheet. Explain that each mound represents the rocky tomb where Jesus' body was laid.
Read Matt. 27:57-60.
Put the cookie sheet in the oven, close the door and turn the oven OFF.
Give each child a piece of tape and seal the oven door. Explain that Jesus' tomb was sealed.
Read Matt. 27:65-66.
GO TO BED! Explain that they may feel sad to leave the cookies in the oven overnight. Jesus' followers were in despair when the tomb was sealed.
Read John 16:20 and 22.
On Resurrection morning, open the oven and give everyone a cookie. Notice the cracked surface and take a bite. The cookies are hollow! On the first Resurrection, Jesus' followers were amazed to find the tomb open and empty.
Read Matt. 28:1-9
Here is a recipe I found on the Internet for Resurrection cookies. I've seen it a couple of times over the years and thought it was just the cutest idea. Maybe this will be the year that I actually try it with my kids! Let me know if you try it or if you have a fun Easter activity that you do with your kids!
Resurrection Story Cookies - A Real Recipe
What a wonderful recipe to share with the children. These cookies are made the evening before celebrating the Resurrection, and are cooked in a warm oven overnight so they will be ready on Easter morning.
You need to preheat the oven to 300 degrees (this is important--don't wait until you are half done with the recipe!)
3 egg whites
1 cup whole pecans
1 tsp. Vinegar
A pinch salt
1 cup sugar
A zipper baggie
A wooden spoon
tape
Bible
Place pecans in zipper baggie and let children beat them with the wooden spoon to break into small pieces. Explain that after Jesus was arrested, He was beaten by the Roman soldiers.
Read John 19:1-3.
Let each child smell the vinegar. Put 1 tsp. vinegar into mixing bowl. Explain that when Jesus was thirsty on the cross, He was given vinegar to drink.
Read John 19:28-30.
Add egg whites to vinegar. Eggs represent life. Explain that Jesus gave His life to give us life.
Read John 10:10-11.
Sprinkle a little salt into each child's hand. Let them taste it and brush the rest into the bowl. Explain that this represents the salty tears shed by Jesus' followers, and the bitterness of our own sin.
Read Luke 23:27.
So far, the ingredients are not very appetizing. Add 1cup sugar. Explain that the sweetest part of the story is that Jesus died because He loves us. He wants us to know and belong to Him.
Read Ps. 34:8 and John 3:16.
Beat with a mixer on high speed for 12 to 15 minutes until stiff peaks are formed. Explain that the color white represents the purity in God's eyes of those whose sins have been cleansed by Jesus.
Read Isa. 1:18 and John 3:1-3.
Fold in broken nuts. Drop by teaspoons onto wax paper covered cookie sheet. Explain that each mound represents the rocky tomb where Jesus' body was laid.
Read Matt. 27:57-60.
Put the cookie sheet in the oven, close the door and turn the oven OFF.
Give each child a piece of tape and seal the oven door. Explain that Jesus' tomb was sealed.
Read Matt. 27:65-66.
GO TO BED! Explain that they may feel sad to leave the cookies in the oven overnight. Jesus' followers were in despair when the tomb was sealed.
Read John 16:20 and 22.
On Resurrection morning, open the oven and give everyone a cookie. Notice the cracked surface and take a bite. The cookies are hollow! On the first Resurrection, Jesus' followers were amazed to find the tomb open and empty.
Read Matt. 28:1-9
Tuesday, March 30, 2010
I feel your pain
The following is an excerpt from Lisa Whelchel's book "Speaking Mom-
ese":
Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of
mercies and God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our
tribulation, that we may be able to comfort those who are in any
trouble, with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by
God. 2 Corinthians 1:3-4 NKJV
I have never known stress like I did when I was raising three
toddlers. At least a half dozen times a day, my "angels" would make me
want to scream at the top of my lungs and cry. They just wouldn't do
what I wanted them to do. They argued and were unkind to each other.
They constantly whined, "Hold me. Hold me." They threw fits.
Sometimes they even battled with me for hours - simply over cleaning
their rooms.
Of course, this makes them sound horrible, and they're not! In
general, Tucker, Haven, and Clancy are great kids. It's just that they
weren't born well-behaved. No child is. So, I often had to wage a war
to get them to submit to me and to the high calling of Jesus Christ.
There were times I felt I was spanking them all day long and it wasn't
doing any good. On those days, I couldn't spank them any more; I
couldn't encourage and praise them any more. I knew I could always
pray more, but even prayer seemed ineffective. It felt like nothing
would reduce the stress except for time. Specifically, twenty years of
time.
With all that chaos, trying to fit in anything to do for myself was
really frustrating. My goals for each day were simple: I wanted to
excercise, journal, sew a bit, take a bath, make the bed, and keep the
kitchen clean. I didn't usually attain all those goals, but I did
learn to adjust my expectations. I wrote in my journal once a week or
so. Excercised at least every other day. Sewed once a season. Made the
bed before Steve got home. Bathed if I could. And cleaned the high
chair if things started growing on it.
If I was able to accomplish these things; if the kids were all healthy
and taking their naps or playing quietly in their rooms, then life
suddenly made sense. But I don't think I ever experienced more than
two of those days, let alone two hours at a stretch. I simply did the
best I could, as I'm sure you do, too.
I share all this with you because I know what it's like to be in the
trenches. I've been a mom long enough to know that sometimes, the most
encouraging words you can hear are the ones that remind you that you
are not alone.
Whatever you're experiencing, you can bet I've been there, too. I feel
your pain!
Just hang in there - some things will get easier.
What is one of your frustrations as a mommy? Leave a comment,
I'll go first. Then go kiss your kiddos!
ese":
Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of
mercies and God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our
tribulation, that we may be able to comfort those who are in any
trouble, with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by
God. 2 Corinthians 1:3-4 NKJV
I have never known stress like I did when I was raising three
toddlers. At least a half dozen times a day, my "angels" would make me
want to scream at the top of my lungs and cry. They just wouldn't do
what I wanted them to do. They argued and were unkind to each other.
They constantly whined, "Hold me. Hold me." They threw fits.
Sometimes they even battled with me for hours - simply over cleaning
their rooms.
Of course, this makes them sound horrible, and they're not! In
general, Tucker, Haven, and Clancy are great kids. It's just that they
weren't born well-behaved. No child is. So, I often had to wage a war
to get them to submit to me and to the high calling of Jesus Christ.
There were times I felt I was spanking them all day long and it wasn't
doing any good. On those days, I couldn't spank them any more; I
couldn't encourage and praise them any more. I knew I could always
pray more, but even prayer seemed ineffective. It felt like nothing
would reduce the stress except for time. Specifically, twenty years of
time.
With all that chaos, trying to fit in anything to do for myself was
really frustrating. My goals for each day were simple: I wanted to
excercise, journal, sew a bit, take a bath, make the bed, and keep the
kitchen clean. I didn't usually attain all those goals, but I did
learn to adjust my expectations. I wrote in my journal once a week or
so. Excercised at least every other day. Sewed once a season. Made the
bed before Steve got home. Bathed if I could. And cleaned the high
chair if things started growing on it.
If I was able to accomplish these things; if the kids were all healthy
and taking their naps or playing quietly in their rooms, then life
suddenly made sense. But I don't think I ever experienced more than
two of those days, let alone two hours at a stretch. I simply did the
best I could, as I'm sure you do, too.
I share all this with you because I know what it's like to be in the
trenches. I've been a mom long enough to know that sometimes, the most
encouraging words you can hear are the ones that remind you that you
are not alone.
Whatever you're experiencing, you can bet I've been there, too. I feel
your pain!
Just hang in there - some things will get easier.
What is one of your frustrations as a mommy? Leave a comment,
I'll go first. Then go kiss your kiddos!
Sunday, March 28, 2010
You're invited . . .
To our first Mommy and Me playdate on Friday, April 23 from 9 am - 11 am at
Stonefire Pizza Co.
5320 S Moorland Rd
New Berlin Wi 53151
There is a continental breakfast provided and the children can play in the Discovery Room. In the Discovery Room, there are water tables and toys, train tables, the cutest mini pizza parlor to play in, and a climbing, tubes and slides jungle gym.
I hope you can join us for all the fun! Let me know if you are coming so I can look for you.
Adult......................$5.25
Child......................$3.25
The last time I was there kids under 2 were free but I'm not sure if that has changed.
Stonefire Pizza Co.
5320 S Moorland Rd
New Berlin Wi 53151
There is a continental breakfast provided and the children can play in the Discovery Room. In the Discovery Room, there are water tables and toys, train tables, the cutest mini pizza parlor to play in, and a climbing, tubes and slides jungle gym.
I hope you can join us for all the fun! Let me know if you are coming so I can look for you.
Adult......................$5.25
Child......................$3.25
The last time I was there kids under 2 were free but I'm not sure if that has changed.
Saturday, March 27, 2010
Welcome to "The Mommy Years"
I am very excited to introduce you to my new blog. I want you to feel at home here. Whether you are a seasoned mom or a newbie, we are all in this together. We all share one thing - we have the hardest, most rewarding job on earth. We are mommies!
I'm hoping this will be a place you can come to for a laugh, words of encouragement, or whatever else you may need during these trying and exciting years. I am not an expert or a perfect mommy. But I am seasoned and have been through a lot of different things with my 4 kids. I hope together we can create a beautiful place to hang out even when we can't physically be together. Sometimes being a mommy is a lonely job - especially when we have babies who don't talk yet or toddlers who sass back. I know all of you new mommies shudder to think of that day but it's coming. My 3 year old son's favorite new word is "duh". Wait, is that a word? Well, word or not, he says it and says it often. I am constantly telling him that it is not nice to say "duh" to our mommies. So now he just says it real quiet under his breath. We're working on it.
So needless to say, I need some nice, adult conversation from time to time.
I think this will be a lot of fun and hopefully we will learn a lot from each other, too.
This is all new to me so bear with me and comment often so I don't feel like this is a one sided conversation. :)
Now go kiss your kiddos!
I'm hoping this will be a place you can come to for a laugh, words of encouragement, or whatever else you may need during these trying and exciting years. I am not an expert or a perfect mommy. But I am seasoned and have been through a lot of different things with my 4 kids. I hope together we can create a beautiful place to hang out even when we can't physically be together. Sometimes being a mommy is a lonely job - especially when we have babies who don't talk yet or toddlers who sass back. I know all of you new mommies shudder to think of that day but it's coming. My 3 year old son's favorite new word is "duh". Wait, is that a word? Well, word or not, he says it and says it often. I am constantly telling him that it is not nice to say "duh" to our mommies. So now he just says it real quiet under his breath. We're working on it.
So needless to say, I need some nice, adult conversation from time to time.
I think this will be a lot of fun and hopefully we will learn a lot from each other, too.
This is all new to me so bear with me and comment often so I don't feel like this is a one sided conversation. :)
Now go kiss your kiddos!
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