Chore Checklists

There are a million and one ways to help your kids with chores.  I've tried a lot of them!
As my kids get older and their responsibilities increase- I thought it would help to have a checklist for them.  I found a few on pinterest that were for younger kids.

So at the end of this post are my "older kid" versions. (feel free to download for your personal use)

    It's hard for kids to meet our expectations if we don't make it clear to them what those expectations are in the beginning.  I help my kids with tasks that they don't totally have down yet.  It's important to know your kids and whether you can give them a list and say "have at it", or if you need to use the list and work along with them.  Either way- it's creating good habits and helping the family by not putting the burden of cleaning on one person.  Most of all, it's training them for adult life.  Who wants to be married to the guy or girl who thinks beds are magically made while you're at work or school, or that baseboards never get dirty and things that litter the floor somehow magically find their way to where they should be??

Note: There are some things on the list that don't have to be done every time- like baseboards.  But seeing them on the list creates awareness that this is something to look for when cleaning.

You'll also notice the last thing on each list is:  Double check that everything was done correctly.   IMPORTANT step in my opinion.  :)  

 Don't tell your kids where you got these lists!  LOL.

Not right, not wrong, not good, not bad...DIFFERENT

 Can you voice your opinion or strongly disagree with someone and not in some way...launch into a personal attack on religion,  sexual preference, gender, politics etc.

Dialogue is good. 

Discussing things with people who think differently than you can be awesome.  But you have to be willing to listen. Willing to open your heart and mind to the fact that maybe- you don't have it all figured out.  Maybe- you see only part...maybe someones life and faith has taken them on a very different journey than your own...DIFFERENT... not for you to decide the right and wrong of it..  just DIFFERENT.

Granted- in our own belief systems, there are very definite right and wrongs and moral choices.  However- when someone has a different belief system than your own... right and wrong become relative for discussion purposes.....and if you persist with being right and them being wrong...you are more than likely...coming across as a judgmental, self-righteous, know it all.

 A lot of people, have been hurt by :  a Christian, the Gay/Lesbian Community, Racial issues, Political issues, Abortion issues, Divorce/Marriage issues, weight issues.... ... all these things are personal...very much so...  BUT...Do any of these hurts give us a right to hurt others? To Judge Others? To condemn others? To stereotype a whole community of people? 


Stop trying to tell everyone else to SHUT UP so you can have a voice. 



 Whether you're in church, school, work, at a party.... ask yourself... who am I to pass judgement on that person because they believe differently than I do?  How/Why is it okay for me to be hateful, to smear their face in their sin/wrong/bad choice or my opinion of their sin/wrong/bad choice. Is it respectful...Is it necessary...Is it helpful.  Even if I see it as a right and wrong issue...is it really my place to condemn and cast blame or judgement on this person.   OR...would it be more productive, if I care enough to become involved..... to build a relationship...to find out a persons story...to understand how their life brought them to where they are right now...to let them understand how my life brought me to where I am now.... and co-exist...and have dialogue...have discussion minus hate and judgement. 

Do you find yourself angry after reading this because you disagree with me?  Hmmm....take some time to think before you respond.  I wouldn't want you to prove my point so quickly by posting something hateful or judgmental.   :)
   

What's all the fuss about Coupons?

Coupons- are a mystery to some and lifestyle for others.    For me- I've always done what I now call "Coupon Lite".  I'd see a coupon here and there for something I use and I'd clip it and dump the rest.    Then we started getting all these $5 off coupons for various restaurants in our area so we started saving them and trying new places or simply enjoying old faves.     $5 is $5 so I thought the coupons were kind of cool but not a big a deal.
Quite often, I'd go to the grocery store and totally forget the coupons I had clipped.  My thoughts- "Oops- oh well- maybe next time."   

My sister-in-law Becky- has it going on in the coupon arena.  She can go to Kroger and pay only half, possibly less of what the average shopper would pay.  So last time I visited, she showed me her coupon organizer that she's used for years.   I thought- okay- that's easy enough.  So I ordered 'THE COUPONIZER' (sounds tough doesn't it!)

The Couponizer is a great organizer if you are just starting to coupon.   It has prelabeled areas and is easy to throw in your purse.  I keep mine in my car all the time!  When I'm running into the store I grab it- toss it in my purse and can easily match coupons to sales as I shop.   This system- has saved us a lot of money.
I'm currently using a different system which I will share in another post, but this is a great place to start.

Here are some tips for those who are just beginning to coupon- or for those who want more info to coupon more efficiently:

1.  Utilize websites that match up sales to coupons for you. (they do the hard work for you.) I will list some great website resources at the end of this post.
2. Get a coupon holder that is easy to transport- start small- this will create a "habit" of couponing.
3.  Attitude is everything-  Coupons are not just pieces of paper- They are MONEY in your pocket and in the stores pocket.    When you hand a coupon to a cashier- you are handing them 25 cents- 50 cents or more, they receive the amount on the coupon from the manufacturer.   
4. Only buy things you will use or donate or you are not really saving any money.
5. Stockpiling is good unless you stockpile more than you can use in a lifetime!!!  The REASON- a majority of couponers stockpile is healthy and logical.   You will begin to shop from your stockpile for what you need.  You'll shop at stores for whats on sale or free.   That's how you get to a point where you don't HAVE to get deodorant unless it's free, because you have plenty in your stockpile (3 to 6 months worth) to last until the next sale.
6. Things go on sale in cycles- most items go on a great sale every 3 to 6 months- so when you find it on sale you purchase enough to last until the next sale.
7.  At first you may spend a little more- because you're building up a lil stockpile.
8. Buy more than 1 paper. (I get 4)  Why?  You need to have multiple coupons to match up to sales so you can buy enough to last till the next sale.
9. STOCKPILE- don't let this word freak you out..you really don't need "extra" space for this usually- unless you become an organized hoarder and go crazy clearing shelves when there's a big sale. (don't do that...it's a sickness...if you find yourself doing that..don't let TLC film you doing it..that's just embarrassing!)  If you buy 4 deodorants for free- those don't take up much space.  Tomato sauce, toothbrushes, toothpaste, soap etc... many of us already "stockpile" these to some extent..now you'll just be strategically purchasing these items for next to nothing or free...so space, for most people isn't going to be much of an issue.
10.  Check out some of these websites...
        a.  The Krazy Coupon Lady  this site has a wealth of info and great coupon matchups.  Watch the videos they have available and read their beginners info.
         b. Fabulessly Frugal  another great site.   Their video is alright but you can get the information for free at Krazy Coupon Lady and other sites.
         c. Coupon Mom  Not the best name if you're a guy..but a great resource none the less.  This is one of my favorites- because I can pull up a specific store- specific to my area-- and print a list of the deals I want to get at that store. They match the sale to the coupon here just like the above sites.

All the sites I listed have links to Printable coupons. These are a great resource and most stores take printable coupons.  The links to printable coupons on the above websites are reputable so you don't have to worry about fraudulent coupons.

I hope these tips help someone. I'm just beginning to learn the true value of utilizing coupons.  Just yesterday- I purchased 2 tubes of toothpaste, 2 deodorant, 2 cans of shave gel and bag of flossers and made $1.50 to spend on my next shopping trip!  That's ALL FREE plus $1.50 for my next trip.    This was a first for me and it was so easy to do.    I'm a beginner- but I'm learning...baby steps!  My biggest hurdle- was honestly- just remembering to use the coupons I'd clipped...now.. I'm getting stuff for free, that's just fun. 

Pet Training at it's BEST!!

This is not our first rodeo with a new puppy.   Actually- this is puppy #4 for our family!   The first 2 we didn't bother with taking them to any training classes.(regret!)

#3 we had Anne from Specialty Pet Training come and do a private session.

She was AMAZING!  In just one visit we were amazed at how much we learned and how much our dog learned. 

Now with #4 - we didn't hesitate.  THE DAY we brought little 5 month old Miles home-

I emailed Anne asking when her next Puppy Kindergarten class was...  yep- that's how impressed we are with her training style.

And not just the training time- Anne is available via phone and email in between session to help as well.  You can tell by just spending 5 minutes with Anne- that she loves animals, she cares about them and she cares about you as the owner and equipping you with the tools you need to properly train your pet.   And- you will also learn from Anne that alot of the training that goes on is more about training the owners than the pets!!!  Shocked?! It's true- we unknowingly undermine our ability to reinforce proper behavior in our pets.

Want to know more?  Visit Anne's website for a training session near you.  She has classes in several locations...with her newest locations in Flower Mound and Highland Village.
If your dog is already trained and you want some fun activities- check out her agility classes.  WE haven't taken one yet- but they look like a blast and I've heard wonderful things about them.    Regardless of the age of your Dog- puppy or not- Anne's classes will benefit your dog, you and your family.

And - just in case you're wondering...I was not paid to write this...I'm simply that impressed with Anne!    

Specialty Pet Training

Too Cool To Homeschool?

It is amazing how much homeschooling has changed over just the last 5 years.    There has always been certain "stereotypes" that a majority of people had/have concerning people that homeschool.    Those stereotypes are being blown out of the water as more people realize the freedom that comes with homeschooling.    I can't tell you how many times people have said to me:  "YOU HOMESCHOOL?!  I WOULD HAVE NEVER GUESSED THAT?"  

 The face of homeschooling is so different now.   People who love to travel (that's us) may decide to homeschool so their kids are not considered delinquent in public or private schools.     The homeschool parent today doesn't look or act or believe differently than the parents who send their children to public or private school.   We just made a different educational choice.   Choice is good.   The big difference these days is that when parents today are deciding where to send their kids to school- PUBLIC, PRIVATE and HOME are all up for serious consideration for many.   

The choices are amazing these days.   I feel so blessed to be able to clearly lay out all these options and see that Homeschooling fits our family the best and is doable. 

One of my son's (9 years old) favorite things to do when he's learning something new is to play- "DID YOU KNOW?"   He states facts and tries to tell me something new about whatever he has just studied.  So I'm going to play here:

Did you Know?

1. Most people do not homeschool for religious reasons.
2. There are 1000's of curriculum options.  Homeschoolers can do anything from classic classroom style, to literature based, to online learning, DVD learning.  
3. In Texas- Homeschoolers are accepted to college by submitting their SAT or ACT scores- no GED needed.
4. In Texas- Homeschools are considered private schools. 
5. If you are a homeschool parent in Texas you are eligible for Teacher discounts at many retailers. (like. Ann Taylor Loft, Barnes and Noble, Apple and many more)

It amazes me these days- at how many mom's I talk to say - " I NEVER THOUGHT I'd be a homeschool mom but I absolutely love it!"   People are bravely stepping out...and saying... this is a valid option and I want to learn more. 

Homeschooling isn't for everyone- and that's okay.  Public and Private school are not for everyone either. It's not about one choice being superior to the other.  It's about finding what fits best with your lifestyle and the needs of your family and going for it!


If you're curious, google or bing (Ie search online) Homeschool Curriculum, Homeschooling and you will find out more than you ever thought you could know about homeschooling.

Legoland Grapevine

Today we visited the New Legoland Discovery Center in Grapevine, TX.


I went on this field trip thinking we'd have a fine time but wondering if it was worth the money I paid for the tickets.    Here's my opinion:


First you should know that neither one of my children have ever really been too much into Legos.  A spark of interest here and there but it never stuck for too long. Until...possibly... THE DAY WE VISITED LEGOLAND. 

Upon entering Legoland- Professor Brick Brack shows the kids how Legos are made in the factory.   This session time is short and very interactive.  The kids LOVED it and got a free Lego (yep one block) after the short session)

When Prof. Brick Brack finishes- you go on your first ride and laser guns are involved.  Need I say more here? I mean COME ON...you get to shoot stuff on a fun little ride..kids are having crazy fun and we'd only been there 10 min.  Okay..this is a good sign.   (Note: One adult must ride with children.)

 Our kids head to the next ride- it was a magic bike/harry potter looking ride.  They loved it!  They buckled in..the ride started spinning and they peddled to get their car to go higher.

Then the building began..there's a cool car station- where the kids can build a lego car then race it down about 3 different types of ramps.   I was actually embarrassed that the 6 year olds were putting together these amazing cars and I was just trying to make mine roll on 4 wheels...but enough about me.

There is a 2 story playplace right in the middle that is pretty amazing to the kids.  They spent a lot of time in there in between the various play stations and rides.   It's soft and netted, lots of climbing, sliding, jumping over stuff...you know..crazy kid fun.  NOTE: kids need socks to play on the playplace...so stuff some socks in your purse, bra whatever..the kids will need them.  

There is a special place...that the girls loved....

simply because it was pink!  And well- the Karaoke stage was a nice bonus.  The girls spent quite a bit of time in here building.


They had some fun little vehicles for the kids to "pose" on.

If your child is of the rowdier (aka destructive ) type...I'm not judging don't get defensive... be of good cheer.. these are not fragile Lego Bikes/figurines that they'll destroy.  These are sturdy and made for rowdy kids to play on.

The 4D cinema was a lot of fun.    They play 3 rotating movies that last about 10 to 15 min each so you can go more than once and we most certainly did!

Then there is Miniland...Don't skip it... we almost did because well..we almost overlooked it..oops.     Miniland is the city of Dallas- key sights- built in legos and it is amazing.   When you go in..find the little TV screen (we almost missed that part too...we are so observant!)   On it there are 4 or 5 buttons on the right ...each button will display a different Lego character on the screen for the kids to find in the Miniland display.   This was a really fun way for the kids to stay entertained while the adults simply admired the handiwork.

Legoland has a cafe inside the attraction so you can get a snack or eat lunch if you so choose.  But if you are going and want to eat out in the mall ..remember to hold on to your tickets for reentry.

Bottomline-

1. Yes it's worth the money you pay for the ticket. (and- if you go and love it and want an annual pass- you can apply the amount you paid for that days tickets to your annual pass if you purchase it the same day of your visit.)
2. Plan at least 2 hours.  We were there 3 1/2 and my kids were still not ready to leave.
3. Bring a light sweater/jacket...the adults did get a bit chilly because we were not running around like the kiddos. (well some were just not us.)
4. Go in the morning if you can- it gets a lot busier after lunch.
5. It gets loud in the main area- very loud- so if you or your child are sensitive to a lot of noise, proceed with caution.
6. Adults can ride the rides and just be a kid here if they want...or you can grab a seat and watch all the fun from the sidelines..whichever strikes your fancy.
7. You exit - through the LEGO STORE-  just saying..prepare yourself and your children for exiting through the store on a LEGO HIGH.

Early Riser? What's Up With that!!! AHHHHHHHH

Okay- let me help you understand this VERY IMPORTANT FACT about me  ...I have, my entire life been a NIGHT OWL. (okay that's actually not a VERY IMPORTANT FACT about me but important to know as you read this post.)

(painting by renditionsbyreesa)

Until now!   

All of the sudden, I'm waking up at 4 or 5  am, doing my devotions, unloading the dishwasher, doing a load of laundry, running to the store at 5 or 6 am and getting to know the stock crew at our local Super center because it's just us at that time of day.        WUUHHHAAAATTTT???  

What is happening to me?  This is not me?  My whole life I've done things just the opposite.  I really got going around 9 or 10 am..  I may be up before then but not really functioning too well.    I had a couple of sweet spots of productivity in my day that were around 3-5 PM  and then after 8 pm till 12 or 1 in the morning.   That is just how I rolled.  I was good with that..I enjoyed it.  

How on earth did I suddenly morph into this morning person who's wide awake at 5 am skippity-dodahing through my day and my to-do list. ( no offense to early risers, especially since I may be joining your ranks?! ...I love you just as much as night owls...I'm just use to the night owl thing)
      
  I do not think that early risers are better moms, or more organized etc... same for my fellow night owls... however you organize your day, getting things done after the sun goes down or before it comes up or a little both... I'm not judging.

I had a rhythm..I liked my night owl rhythm...I owned it, worked it  and all that good stuff.  And now... I'm this early bird person... and I'm perplexed and confused.   I get a lot done before 8 am but I feel out of rhythm.  

I am blessed to have a choice, I'm a Stay At Home, Homeschooling Mom so  we have a "routine" more so than a "time schedule".  We get certain things done on certain days and what time we got started varies.   Guess we'll be getting started earlier these days.

What are you?  Early Riser or Night owl?  Do you wish you were one or the other?

I'm not sure if this is a phase or not-  Whatever happens, I'll have to own it.  Maybe if I keep getting up at 4 am I'll start taking naps in the afternoon! Oh how fun..then I could be an early riser and a nightowl.  Hmmm I'll work on that.

Santa Claus IS REAL!!

My oldest is 9 and I just had the SANTA conversation I've been dreading .

We were watching one of our annual Santa Cartoon movies and he looks at me and says:

"Mom, there's a rumor going around that Santa isn't real.  You'd tell me if he wasn't real wouldn't you?"

GULP.  Deer in headlights look.  

breathe.... breathe..... breathe....

I say: "Connor, Lets talk about this a little later, after the movie okay?"

Connor says: " Sure !"

So needless to say...I didn't really see the rest of the movie.   My mind was going 90 to nothing on how I was going to tell him about Santa.   I mean, I knew this day would come and I knew what I would probably say.  When the day finally got here, I was more concerned with whether Connor would feel I betrayed him.  

 It turned out very well. (much better than I anticipated.)  Here's the summary.

My husband and I sat down with Connor and said we wanted to talk to him about the "rumor" he'd heard about Santa not being real.  I continued by saying that:

Santa was a real man.  He was a Christian with a very huge heart for children and helping the needy.   He was a wealthy young man and was known for his generosity.    His Name was Nicolas but over time as stories about him were told he became known as Santa Claus.   The Original St. Nicolas/Santa Claus is not living.   But "Santa Claus" is VERY real, it's just not who you thought it was.    Alot of parents really respected St. Nick and wanted to carrying on his attitude of giving and sharing and the joy that brings.   So, parents decided to be "Santa  Claus" on Christmas. 

Connor then asked- well what about the sleigh and the flying reindeer?

I said- Well, those are fiction.  When people told and retold stories a lot of things got added.  Those are some of the "magical" things that people added to the true part to make fun books, movies etc.   Do you understand how Mommy n Daddy being "Santa Claus" is about carrying on a tradition of giving and generosity and fun.

Connor, with a huge at peace smile on his face said - Yes, St. Nick had a spirit of joy and giving.  It's cool he was a Christian.

***** me breathing a sigh of relief ****
 

Connor was surprisingly calm and OK with all of this information.  I guess I was expecting a little disappointment or irritation that we'd tried to "pull one over" on him.  But he amazed me.  He thought it was totally cool that parents carried on spirit of "Santa Claus" for their kids.  Christmas is still magical for him.....even now that he knows exactly WHO Santa Claus is....




 

It Gets Better Campaign

I wanted to highlight the IT GETS BETTER CAMPAIGN , which reaches out to Gay and Lesbian teens that are experiencing bullying.  BUT not just Gay and Lesbians- Bullying in general.
(which I also addressed in a previous post) It breaks my heart, makes me angry and brings out my soapbox... so here goes.

Watch this video-

YouTube video: Ellen Degeneres on Bullying

  Bullying is a growing problem.  Any verbal or physical intimidation- to demean, devalue, coerce or intimidate another person is bullying. It is a growing problem and one that needs to be aggressively addressed by parents with their children.  We talk about sex, drugs, drinking, texting while driving.  Bullying or Being Bullied should, in my opinion be right up there with all of those very important things.   Is it?

Parents- Don't assume that your kid is not a BULLY or that they are not being Bullied.     Have you communicated with your children that Bullying is not acceptable, it is violent behavior.  We discuss physical fighting/bullying and abuse, we need to discuss verbal bullying/abuse.  It's rampant, it starts very young.    Many people dismiss verbal bullying as "Kids will be kids".  Parents take on an attitude of  " Is someone bleeding? Then leave me alone "         The attitude that verbal hits are somehow "not as bad" as a physical  hits is widespread and very misguided.  A hit to a child's self-worth and value is devastating.

A lot of children, unfortunately learn bullying from their parents.  When you make fun of them for messing up, or make them feel bad for being clumsy, or tell them that you don't understand why they can't be like all the other kids, they spill something and you say you can't even take them in public without them embarrassing you. ..... Do you honestly think you aren't hitting them?  You are wounding them?  Your opinion of them matters to them- builds them up or tears them down-

While it is important to discuss bullying with your children, it is even more VITAL that you live out  anti-bullying in your actions.  SHOW THEM!  I'm constantly surprised at how many adults still participate in bullying..by excluding a neighbor , team parent,  dance parent, small group parent or whatever activity... The whispers, the snide remarks, it's sad, it's immature, and you are teaching your kids how to treat people, because they are watching what you say and what you do.

Watch this:


You tube video: Bully Dads 

Read this:

You Just Broke Your Child- Congratulations! 

Whether you are a child, teen or adult-   

Hear this...

You deserve to be treated with respect.  

You deserve to be who you are without a physical or verbal threat being hurled in your direction.  

Your existence isn't in vain, your life is worth living-even though right now it may seem very hard.     

IT WILL GET BETTER.   

 

I pray that you will use  the resources I list in this post to help you hang on,   so you can get to the place where IT IS BETTER...

Please Live to See  IT GETS BETTER.

Do you or child know what to do if you see someone being bullied?


Do you or child know what to do if you become the target of a bully?

Please be informed- Get help-   check out the following links.

 Stop Bullying Now!

You tube- Joel Burns- Encouraging Video

Check out my other post on Bullying with Resources

It Gets Better Project

Let Them Eat Cake! Day 1 Homeschool 2010

We love cake at my house...and brownies and all that fun sweet stuff.

So when a sweet friend of mine gave me the idea for a  "first day of homeschooling lesson" that involved cake I was intrigued.

Here's my version of the Baking Lesson:

Connor (9) and Sara (6) were given the following instructions:

Today- you are to make a cake from scratch.  You may not use a cake mix.  You get to create the recipe all by yourself.  Mommy and Daddy can not help you...you are in charge of what goes into the cake and how much of each ingredient you put in to the cake.

They were so excited to jump into their first day of school.  Sara even said- "Wow! This is going to be the best school year EVER!  We get to make cake on our first day."

So off they went..with their mixing bowls  and wooden spoons to mix their cake ingredients together.  As they were assembling their ingredients, they made comments such as:

" ooo I'm so excited to make my own cake"
"I can't wait to taste it!"
"I've never made my own cake all by myself before!"
"I want to add a "surprise" to my cake."

They were so sure their cakes would be culinary masterpieces that they had my niece Raychel write down each ingredient just in case we wanted to make it again sometime.

Here are their Recipes:

Here are their Cakes!

They were optimistic, yet  a bit skeptical to take the first bite of their creation.

I wish..you could have watched the expression on each of their faces as they took the first bite!

BLEH!

Um..Mom, do i have to eat anymore of this?

I don't think I want to keep this.

Then we talked about the experience-

1. It seemed like a lot of fun making the cakes but the results were bad.

2. It was fun to be in charge of what they were doing but no fun that their cakes tasted so icky.

Then- we made Brownies... with a recipe.

Connor and Sara followed the instructions to the letter with Mommy's help each step of the way.

When we put the brownies in the oven, we talked a bit about which experience they felt was more successful.  They both, without hesitation agreed that they enjoyed making the brownies even more than creating their very own cakes from scratch.

Now when the brownies came out of the oven and tasted FABULOUS!!  Well...they certainly were huge fans of following instructions

The point/moral of this lesson-

Success- takes a lot of different ingredients mixed together.  Math, Science, History etc..
Mommy n Daddy's  job is to train and equip Connor and Sara to live Successful adult lives.  The way we do that is by instructing them everyday in a variety of subjects.  Once they have all the ingredients ...and know how to use them...they will be well equipped to live happy, successful adult lives.

I wasn't quite sure at first..if this lesson would really have a ton of impact.  Until Connor explained it in his own words to his friend like this...

"I could try to do stuff all by myself and not follow instructions, but that will just mean trouble.  If I let Mom n Dad teach me how to do stuff, even stuff I don't like, I have a better shot at being a success when I grow up."

Well..there you go!

Sara says- "I don't want that icky cake...I want the yummy brownies.  I like following instructions Mom, I didn't understand it all, but I'm glad you helped me with the brownies, they are awesome!"

Bow Holder Ideas

This post is for Cassidy...she was viciously attacked this morning by out of control hair bows gone wild!!   Cassidy..has shared some pretty neat organizational ideas ...as well as food ideas...via Facebook and Food Prude.   (she's a very organized type of gal!)   But..if you have girls..you know...hair bows..multiply while you sleep.  You start out with 3 or 4 and wake with 100's covering the counters, under furniture... you're innocently eating cereal and WHAT..how did a hair bow get in my cereal!!  (okay...maybe I'm exaggerating a tad!)

So..I went on a Blog quest for creative BOW ORGANIZATION IDEAS.  Below I'm listing some fun options. I hope you find something that works for you.  That's right ladies..I do what I can to support those in the battle against the bows.

How Does She 

had this cute Idea! Along with 6 other links to some fab organizational ideas..

Below is a fun idea from

My Magic Mom

 

I don't have a picture for this Ballet Tutu Holder but it's worth a click for  a look-see!


Don't want to make your own or just don't have time?

Here are some links for cute options to purchase.

1. Check out ETSY . In the search box type in "Hair bow Organizer" and you'll get a list of several handmade options ...most are quite adorable and somewhat unique.  Many offer custom and personalization options.

2. Bambina Ballerina- if price is no object..these are cuteness!

3. Tutu Girl- they have a lot of cute stuff besides the hair bow holders!

4. Miss Priss

5. Nobby Neez Kids

6. Embroidery Garden

7. Zelly Belly Boutique


Best of luck as you endeavor to conquer the rapid reproduction of hair bows in your household.

The Perfect Parent....Um...not here...

Although we may all hope for and maybe even dream for ...THE ANSWER (to becoming the PERFECT PARENT).      Let me put it out there..that THE ANSWER (to becoming a PERFECT PARENT) does not exist.    One cookie cutter approach just won't get the job done ...in my opinion.

Doing what is in the best interest of your family, is unique to each family..because your family situation is different..the personality of parents, kids, career, hours, school situations, family situation... etc are all different creating a unique dynamic within your family that is unlike any other.  It's a FAMILY THUMBPRINT if you will...some things are the same... but not all things are the same..and the things that are different..creates the inability to create a step by step cookie cutter plan for THE PERFECT FAMILY.  

  There are certainly some fantastic books out there that can guide and direct us into making wise choices with and for our families.   But to take a book and follow it to the letter is many times ineffective (not always..but many times)...  There are matters of the heart that I believe across the board we all need to address...obedience, respect, manners, kindness, thoughtfulness etc....But what does that look like... it is DIFFERENT..for you than for me.....

For me...as I am in the thick of the parenting journey...I can be an information, researchaholic.  If there's a parenting book I've probably read it...if there's a parenting idea..I've probably researched it...  But having said that...I'm certainly not a parenting expert...I don't always know what to do....sometimes I have no clue I even need to be doing something ......I do not implement everything I read, I certainly don't agree with everything I read either.  What I feel is important is to process information..and ask ourselves..How does this information apply to my family...our personalities, our lifestyle etc...is this doable, is it necessary, will it benefit my family?   While the Parent sitting next to you may get a resounding YES..you may get a maybe and another parent a big fat NO WAY!  Is one parent right and the other wrong?  I say NO WAY!  Each parent ...after examining their unique situation can answer those questions different and all be on the right path for their family...  Mom works, Mom doesn't work, home school, public or private school....These again..are not right and wrong issues ...they are individual family choices that are simply NOT a right or wrong issue. Can't say that too many times can I...that it's not a right or wrong thing..and that families needs are unique and just because it works for you or me doesn't mean it's parenting law and should work for everyone ...and if they don't do what we do then they are obviously a slacker parent.... Can I say enough..so many parenting choices are not RIGHT OR WRONG...they are sometimes merely preference...sometimes just different..not even good, better, best...just DIFFERENT...can I say all that enough???..no I can't...

 This past Sunday in our church service the topic was parenting and the speakers touched on a few universally applicable topics that were  worth sharing...the speakers were:  Kym Carter of Legacy Moms and Ron Holton of RockPointe Church....(I'm totally paraphrasing what they said..so if you want to hear their eloquently worded full version...click here!..It's worth listening to..and what I'm posting here.isn't even CLOSE to all of what they shared.....)

         Be consistent- 

this creates security for your children.  

They know that the rules yesterday are the  rules today, tomorrow to infinite and beyond!!

That's some hard stuff to accomplish!! We get tired, annoyed, stressed, frustrated, busy ... but no one said parenting was easy...

       What we do now matters...the little things matter...and will impact our families.

       The days may be long...but the years are short! 

     Have a goal..have a vision..for what you want for your family..then get a plan in place for how to achieve those goals...

When I was a brand new parent...someone gave me this illustration regarding having a parenting/family vision...

Picture yourself and your family loaded up in the your vehicle...

         

ready and excited for a journey...   How did you know what to pack?    Because you knew where you were going.  You had a destination in mind...so you planned accordingly.   We put a lot of advance planning into so many things....why not plan  our family goals?

My husband and I have planned, adjusted the plan and continually evaluate and reevaluate the plan.
For us..homeschooling was  on our list of things we wanted to do...so we discussed that this meant I would need to stay home and how that affected our finances.  Was homeschooling a big enough priority to us that we wanted to deal with whatever financial stress or strain might occur from being a one income family.  For us...we chose..yes and we are on our homeschooling journey.    But as I've stated earlier...If we would have answered NO...or Not Now...we wouldn't have been WRONG...maybe your answer to homeschooling is...Not even interested..no thanks..yuck...ewww...that's okay...no really...it's okay...because to be a happy family...to be a good parent and to raise your children well...there's no cookie cutter method...it takes all kinds...to raise all kinds.  :)   

It's hard to know these days...How much freedom should I let them have? I don't want a full fledged FREE RANGE kid...that makes all his own decisions...but I don't want to be a ......GASP...

Helicopter Mom...no gasp ...the horror...   and listen..I've been her...I've also been less involved than maybe I should have ....  I'm trying to figure this out...and I'm making plenty of blunders along the way..... But that's okay...I'm not perfect...and I want my kids to know...it's okay not to be perfect.  Striving for excellence in all we do...is different than striving for a flawless perfect existence....   I can't say I know exactly what that means all of the time......I'm learning...each day...that I'm the Mom they need...flaws and all..it wasn't an accident..or a big bang or freak of nature kind of thing...God said...Robin (and he picked Jeff for them too..lets not forget Jeff...but this is MOMMILY EVER AFTER ..hahahhaha)..Connor and Sara need you...and regardless of my fears, flaws or frustrations...I'm gonna be the best Mommy to them and continue to learn as I go what exactly that is ...for us...and try desperately to remember..that it so doesn't need to look like the mommy next door, or that sat next to me at church or that does all the amazing crafts and knows all the cool places to go .....and that's okay...for them and for me...it's not a right and wrong kinda thing!


Okay.. ...stepping down from the podium...I'm done ...for now ...

Back To School Menu/Lunch Ideas

Can't believe the summer is almost over!! Whether you are sending your kiddos to public, private school or are a homeschooler- healthy lunch ideas are always on most of our minds...spring, summer, fall and winter!

I'm going to post a series of links with great lunch and planning ideas.   (I'm a link junky..and I'm willing to let you share in my collection of links.)

real simple: Back to School Meal Planner

Family Fun: Give Lunch a Punch 

tip junkie: Creative Lunches 

 

 

 

Living Locurto: Creative School Lunches 

Muffin Tin Mom ideas

okay- technically this isn't a school lunch idea...but is totally adaptable to lunch ideas! 

 Healthy Child: 20 Creative Lunches

 

Feel free to leave a comment and share some of your favorite lunchbox lunch ideas!

Toilet Brushes-I'm Talkin About it!

Have you ever had a conversation about a Toilet Brush? Probably not at any length if you're like a majority of people. 


Toilet Brushes are quite possibly not only the nastiest but most ironic "cleaning tool" ever invented.  I mean sure it gets those usually "unmentionable" spots clean in your toilet but EEEEEWWWWWW!!!  Most of the toilet brushes I've seen in peoples homes sit and drain in a little nasty puddle of doo...say you rinsed it all you want..ICKY..YUCKY EWWW..whether you cleaned or Molly Maid cleaned...GROSS!!

 

Toilet brushes and toilet paper..

they do have the nastiest jobs ....

I'll spare any creative writing talents 

in this arena and simply let you concur 

that yes..they have nasty jobs.

There are a variety of Toilet Brushes out there....for instance

or there's

You've got choices right?!  For me,  NONE,  that's right,  I said NONE of these options will do...no thanks..

The best invention ever....(no I was not given a sample or compensated in any way for this!)

Did you hear that...birds are chirping, grass is greener  and LOOK...toilets are cleaner!!  NO dirty nasty icky yucky toilet brushes here!  Okay..Maybe it's not the kind of Magic Wand you were dreaming of ...but it's a wand and it works and it doesn't store poo in it's bristle that you thought you rinsed out by soaking it in bleach or some other chemical something or other.



But
IF YOU INSIST 

on still using a toilet brush there are rules to follow..

Toilet Brush ETIQUETTE if you will.......

And in closing I present them to you now.....Have a nice day:

Budget Boosters

Discount School Supplies

GAME ON! iTunes App Recommendations.

I posted the other day about a cool website called The iPhone Mom.   So, this post, is inspired by the fact that I've found some nice apps through her reviews...so I thought I'd pay it forward and make a few recommendations here as well.

My husband and I are always looking for fun games for the kids, and for us.  Yes..we play the games too. 

Did you know you can sync all your iPods, iPod touches, iPads and iPhones to one iTunes account so you only have to purchase the applications one time.  You can have up to 5 different computers synced to the same itunes account to share the applications/music/podcasts/movies etc.


Here are a few fun game recommendations:


One game I am ABSOLUTELY addicted to is WORDS WITH FRIENDS by NEWTOYinc.

This is a social game and is basically SCRABBLE on the GO!.   You can have several games going with different people at the same time.   You get 7 tiles...you play on your iphone/ipod/ipad and your friend gets a little notice on their device that's it's their turn to play.  Games can take a day/week/month.  You just play when you get a chance...no rush..  My user name is Robinwordnerd (that's right I'm a nerd and I own it!)

Another wordgame that is a single player game is Jumbline .

You get a set # of letters and have to make as as many words as possible out of each letter grouping.  (this is great practice for figuring out words when you play scrabble or Words With Friends!)



  A family friendly game -ANGRY BIRDS- (Don't let the name scare you away.)..is a great way to pass time in the Dr's office, carline, sports practice, or just because you want to beat the next level because you're competitive.

Now I saw this thing on the #1 App spot a long time before I actually purchased it. I purchased it because of a review I read at The iPhone Mom.  I figured okay..I'll try it out.  My husband snubbed it at first..but once he played it a little he was on board to conquer the challenge.  I've been surprised (I'm not sure why since it was on the #1 spot) at how many people are playing this game too...:)    Kids and parents alike will enjoy this game...READY, AIM, CONQUER.

Alot of the games in the iTunes store come in a LITE version. What that means is, you get to check out the game before buying the full version.  You won't get all the levels or all the features of the full version.  Most games are between 99 cents and 2 or 3  dollars...some are little more but watch for sales.

As The iPhone Mom  states on her website ..there are so many apps that can get lost in the shuffle of the thousands of apps that are available.  So I wanted to list some  games and websites that will help you sort through the overwhelming number of apps that are available.

BOREDOM BUSTER GAMES

       (these are not my children..but captured the essence of boredom so well I had to use this pic!!)

Here's a list of games my kids really like...(my kiddos are 9 and 6) and I love them because they significantly reduce"the WHINE factor" throughout our crazy days that are not always kid oriented  and fun in nature.     Yes..I realize there are other ways to entertain children...like crafting a homemade volcano, making your own playdoh...but for days when getting your creative crafting on isn't an option..like when you know you're going to spend a majority of your day in the car...these are lifesavers..for me and my kiddos.

Sneezies

This is one of those games we bought for the kids and ended up playing it ourselves too.  It's one of those unwind, don't have to think to much about it games.  My Dad...LOVES this game as well.  when they come to visit..he snatches the iPod to play games.  (now that's a FAMILY game)

 

Soosiz

Soosiz is one of the newer games we've purchased.  It somewhat reminds me of The New Super Mario Bros. game. There are several worlds to conquer and within each world there are several levels.

DoodleJump

Bounce On and Bounce On 2

 

Chop Chop Ninja

Fling

Jelly Car and Jelly Car 2

This Jelly Car app doesn't look like much..but my kids played originally on an iPad when we were at the Apple store.  It's a really cute game...we've had it a while and they still play it a lot.

This is just a drop in the bucket! 

For more suggestions/ideas and reviews check out some of the following websites: (they should help you narrow down your choices instead of wading through the iTunes store in hopes of finding a hidden gem of an app!)

The iPhone Mom

Babble

freshapps

Appcraver

CNET Iphone App Reviews

Well..these should keep you busy for a while.  :)

I also suggest using the GENIUS feature on your iTunes account.  It makes suggestions for games and other apps you might be interested in according to the purchases you've already made.

Happy App hunting... and game playing ...and Boredom Busting.