I love junk mail and check mine each time I get the mail. A new magazine came to me called Hearth Song. Instant favorite! What makes it so great is that they took all those toys I had as a kid but that are deemed too dangerous now-a-days and they made them into safe/great/fun toys. Remember pulling someone in a packing dolly, swinging in a tire swing, wrapping up in a hammock, or climbing inside a tire and rolling down a hill? They have something comparable to each of those activities on the website. Go to hearthsong.com to check out some pretty creative toys.
**Bonus: enter cod HSH13A to get 4.99 standard shipping. Offer expires 12/31/13**
Wednesday, November 6, 2013
Tuesday, November 5, 2013
My Kids Eat Vegtables
We know lots of things are good for us without actually ever doing them. Mine is flossing. Honestly, I do floss, but not twice a day and not even every day. Why? Because my teeth are healthy (I promise) and because you can't make me! One small way I try to gain control and take back the power is by doing something that I think I'm getting away with. No, it is not that big a deal but it is one of the reasons your kids won't eat vegetables, or fruit, or meat, or whatever you tell them they have to. Because they do not really have to and they can gain some control by refusing. So, because I love you and because my email handle is advicegratis I will share some ideas that have worked in my home.
1. Know When You Are Beat. I never tell my kids they have to eat anything. They are free to refuse. They may go hungry. They may not eat anything later. They may have to wait until the next meal to eat. That is their choice. They have the power. Knowing they have the power and knowing I mean what I say they feel free to eat or not eat. (Rules: you eat a variety of foods not 5th helping of meat w/o veggies and fruit and grains and dairy)
2. Good Mommy vs. Nice Mommy. I assure my children that I do love them and want what is best for them. This means that if I give them dessert or "junk" when they do not have good stuff in their system first I would be a bad parent. Yes, a 3 year old can understand this. I do not hold dessert out and tantalize them with it. I simply offer it if they have eaten a balanced meal. We do not have dessert every night but we do have a balanced meal every night. (Fine, most nights.)
3. I Cook. If you visit a restaurant that smells delicious from the parking lot things start clicking in your body and you get hungry. I try my darnedest to cook full meals; encouraging the kids to "take a look," "smell this," or "imagine what it will taste like." Another way to think of this is to prep the kids while you prep the meal. I often ask for their help getting stuff out of the fridge or pantry (they are too young to do much else) but try asking yours to chop, rip, measure, pour or mix. Ask them to taste something and see if they think it needs more spice because you are not sure. (This one is especially great for boys because they can "rescue" mom in her time of need.)
4. Exaggerate. When my hubby or I try something on our plate and discuss how good it is and why you can bet one of my kids will slyly reach a hand up to their plate and try that too. Makes sense right?
5. Be Honest. If it is gross be honest. They will never trust your opinion if every vegetable is delicious or if you try to tell them the cookie is horrible (so they really wouldn't want to eat it anyway.) I've made stuff that gets spit out by everyone at the table. It's OK. We also have some foods that we say are "OK, but not my favorite." It doesn't always have to be love/hate.
6. Games! Here are some games we've used that work for us.
-Thumbs Up. Do this for new foods. Everyone tries it and rates a thumbs up or down. If it is a majority thumbs up we keep the recipe. We do this for new fruits we try or desserts too.
-Make a List. We have a page with a running list of things we've tried and liked. My kids will say "add it to the list Mom!" Then when I'm making the menu for the week I can reference that list and be sure to include some of their fav.s.
-Give the Food a New Name. Asparagus was Green Spears for a long time. Brussels are still Green Power Balls. Red Bell Peppers we just call Red Bells. (Pepper is a scary word.) Bananas can be Telephones. All avocados we call Guacamole because my kids will eat guacamole while they will not eat plain avocados.
-Play 1-2-3 Go. We all get a piece to try and someone shouts "1-2-3 Go" and we all try it. This one is not fool proof, but since they don't get to vote without trying it they usually want their voice to be heard and will do it eventually.
-Name the Recipe After the Kid. Mentally I'm much better prepared to eat something served to me with my name on it that I know I liked last time. My sons discovered that he liked the leaves of the baked Brussels but not the whole Brussels. A new recipe was born. I "leaf" the Brussels, mix them with some EVOO, sprinkle a pinch each of salt and sugar, mix and transfer to a baking sheet where I bake them at 350 until brown on edges. They are crunchy and super great on top of salads. This is called "Ryan's Brussels."
Go exaggerate, but be honest, have fun, make it interesting, and pick your battles. Let me know what you try and what works (or doesn't work) for you!
1. Know When You Are Beat. I never tell my kids they have to eat anything. They are free to refuse. They may go hungry. They may not eat anything later. They may have to wait until the next meal to eat. That is their choice. They have the power. Knowing they have the power and knowing I mean what I say they feel free to eat or not eat. (Rules: you eat a variety of foods not 5th helping of meat w/o veggies and fruit and grains and dairy)
2. Good Mommy vs. Nice Mommy. I assure my children that I do love them and want what is best for them. This means that if I give them dessert or "junk" when they do not have good stuff in their system first I would be a bad parent. Yes, a 3 year old can understand this. I do not hold dessert out and tantalize them with it. I simply offer it if they have eaten a balanced meal. We do not have dessert every night but we do have a balanced meal every night. (Fine, most nights.)
3. I Cook. If you visit a restaurant that smells delicious from the parking lot things start clicking in your body and you get hungry. I try my darnedest to cook full meals; encouraging the kids to "take a look," "smell this," or "imagine what it will taste like." Another way to think of this is to prep the kids while you prep the meal. I often ask for their help getting stuff out of the fridge or pantry (they are too young to do much else) but try asking yours to chop, rip, measure, pour or mix. Ask them to taste something and see if they think it needs more spice because you are not sure. (This one is especially great for boys because they can "rescue" mom in her time of need.)
4. Exaggerate. When my hubby or I try something on our plate and discuss how good it is and why you can bet one of my kids will slyly reach a hand up to their plate and try that too. Makes sense right?
5. Be Honest. If it is gross be honest. They will never trust your opinion if every vegetable is delicious or if you try to tell them the cookie is horrible (so they really wouldn't want to eat it anyway.) I've made stuff that gets spit out by everyone at the table. It's OK. We also have some foods that we say are "OK, but not my favorite." It doesn't always have to be love/hate.
6. Games! Here are some games we've used that work for us.
-Thumbs Up. Do this for new foods. Everyone tries it and rates a thumbs up or down. If it is a majority thumbs up we keep the recipe. We do this for new fruits we try or desserts too.
-Make a List. We have a page with a running list of things we've tried and liked. My kids will say "add it to the list Mom!" Then when I'm making the menu for the week I can reference that list and be sure to include some of their fav.s.
-Give the Food a New Name. Asparagus was Green Spears for a long time. Brussels are still Green Power Balls. Red Bell Peppers we just call Red Bells. (Pepper is a scary word.) Bananas can be Telephones. All avocados we call Guacamole because my kids will eat guacamole while they will not eat plain avocados.
-Play 1-2-3 Go. We all get a piece to try and someone shouts "1-2-3 Go" and we all try it. This one is not fool proof, but since they don't get to vote without trying it they usually want their voice to be heard and will do it eventually.
-Name the Recipe After the Kid. Mentally I'm much better prepared to eat something served to me with my name on it that I know I liked last time. My sons discovered that he liked the leaves of the baked Brussels but not the whole Brussels. A new recipe was born. I "leaf" the Brussels, mix them with some EVOO, sprinkle a pinch each of salt and sugar, mix and transfer to a baking sheet where I bake them at 350 until brown on edges. They are crunchy and super great on top of salads. This is called "Ryan's Brussels."
Go exaggerate, but be honest, have fun, make it interesting, and pick your battles. Let me know what you try and what works (or doesn't work) for you!
Happy Eating!
Tuesday, October 29, 2013
Are You a Noun or a Verb?
Are you a noun? Would you categorize yourself as a person, place, or (God-forbid) a thing?
I have no desire to be a noun. I want my life to be a verb. When people get up at my funeral I want them to be forced to use action words to describe my existence. Specifically, I don't want to hear someone say, "Oh her, she is a believer in Christ." I want to hear them say, "she is believing in Christ." What good is it to know He exists and loves me and to be tapped in to the most electric power source there is and yet not use it?
Be a verb. Believe. Hope. Love. And do it with action.
*Thoughts on Beth Moore's Beloved Disciple study.
I have no desire to be a noun. I want my life to be a verb. When people get up at my funeral I want them to be forced to use action words to describe my existence. Specifically, I don't want to hear someone say, "Oh her, she is a believer in Christ." I want to hear them say, "she is believing in Christ." What good is it to know He exists and loves me and to be tapped in to the most electric power source there is and yet not use it?
Be a verb. Believe. Hope. Love. And do it with action.
*Thoughts on Beth Moore's Beloved Disciple study.
Thursday, October 24, 2013
Deep Thoughts from my Early Morning Commute
Raising a boy is frustrating.
Raising a girl is frightening.
Thankfully I have one of each to keep my insanity equally balanced.
Tuesday, September 24, 2013
Early Morning Organization!
I LOVE getting up early. I know, its a sickness. But even though I do love my "get up and go" it is hard some days to focus. One quick way I learned to manage my morning was to set it up at night. Specifically, I do this with my quiet time and my bible. I have found that if I set my bible out and open on my desk I will begin my day with that instead of getting sidetracked. Same thing goes with my work out videos. If I set up my BOSU ball and DVD the night before I am much more likely to attack that before I attack my "to do" list.
Does this help? How do you focus your mornings?
Does this help? How do you focus your mornings?
Friday, September 20, 2013
Time To Write a Letter?
You got to your son's school 10 minutes early.
Hair dresser is running late and you must wait.
Hubby says he will meet you at the restaurant but he is caught in traffic.
What do you do? Facebook? Candy Crush? How about writing a letter?
Drop a set of stationary cards in your purse or glove box and you are good to go. Since most of us have our contacts on our phones you can address the card then too. Of course you could always keep a list of contacts (those you know will appreciate a letter) with the stationary. Heck, you're feeling feisty, might as well put a few stamp in there too. Now you can send some love instead of sending some game requests.
One of my favorites because it Velcros shut and protects the cards from getting banged up.
Tuesday, September 17, 2013
Home Organization - Hide Those Umbrellas
We have two seasons: hot and cold. During the “cold” season my children want
their umbrella by their side constantly.
And, while we do use umbrellas, we don’t really need a mud
room. This meant that four or five months out of
last year’s schedule I wasted time on saying things like, “go get your umbrella
out of the car,” “go put your umbrella in the car,” “get your umbrella out of
the living room,” and “go put your umbrella in the…” That’s it, “…” We had no place to put the umbrellas. This
meant that four or five months out of last year’s schedule I wasted mental
stress on the umbrellas being “out” or in the way or getting stepped on and
broken. Not this year!
You know that space in the hall closet where the door frame
has a few extra inches on the inside of the closet? No?
Either do I. Check out the photos
and see if it explains it better.
Here is a picture of our hall closet. At the bottom right of the picture you see the white door frame. Now, turn to the right and look inside the closet.
Inside the closet the door frame has about 8 inches of wall before it gets to the corner. I was actually cleaning the closet out one day and saw my husband had deposited my son's umbrella in the corner. It was conveniently out of the way and genius struck.
On my next trip to Office Depot I picked up some 3M hooks. You can find them almost anywhere. I use 3M for a TON of projects. Their sticky things are the best because they really do come off without harming the walls. Double check the packaging before you buy. They have varying weight limits for each product. The hooks I bought hold up to 5lbs.
The hooks are just peel and stick type things so "installing" them took mere minutes and "Ta Da," Umbrellas stored neatly and out of the way!
Best part is, now that I know this extra closet space exists I can hang other stuff there too.
What will you do with your newly found space?
Friday, September 13, 2013
Power Play - For Barbies
{A Power Play is in a nut shell
when the caregiver out smarts the child while keeping their integrity intact
and thus keeping the power.}
My daughter began getting Barbies when she was much too
young to actually play with them. All I
could think of was how stilettos, even if they are are ½ inch long, must be hard
on a baby’s digestive track.
Solution? Super glue. Every Barbie or doll she was gifted went
straight to Mommy. I then super glued
shoes, rings, necklaces, and tiaras in place.
They held amazingly well and I don’t have to hunt down a princess crown
the size of my wedding ring every time she wants to play with them. She is almost four now and actually brings me
her doll and the missing part to fix “her” if something falls off. Turns out she likes having the accessories accessible.
Try it and let me know how it goes!
Tuesday, September 10, 2013
National Brother's Day is September 19th...
...according to Ask.com. However, no other website or list I could find supported this. I will admit I was a bit peeved since I have it all set to celebrate on that day next week. And since I had this wonderful article all ready to share with you about fun times to be had celebrating brothers, and it turns out there is no "brother's day," I will instead share with you what I found on other national days.
In our family we decided to celebrate National Sisters Day in August and National Brothers Day in September. For both my daughter and son I made a simple name banner and photo album. I bought paper plates for each perspective child in their own favorite character and we ordered pizza for dinner. Pictures were taken next to the sign to show growth each year and at dinner we went around the table and said one reason we like that person or in what way they were a good brother/sister. I wrote those down in the album and later added a photo of the special day. My hope is that my children learn that they are valued right where they are, at that point in time, just how they are. I've heard too many stories of boys that were smothered by older sisters or girls that never felt they measured up to the boy the family had desired her to be. So, will we continue to celebrate now that I've discovered the dates are fake? Of course. But I, as Mom, reserve the right to move the dates to a less busy and more acceptable time of the year.
Onto what I discovered about National Days!
There is actually a National Siblings Day. It is April 10th each year. It has it's own nonprofit website and has been covered by the International Business Times.
So many fun days are just waiting to be celebrated. I found three calendars that can help keep them all straight. My favorite, My favorite national calendar offers a climpse at todays date but also has a calendar search and a breakdown of each month. If you want gear (coffee mugs, t-shirst, mouse pads, etc) to go with your day check out national whatever day. And this web page is unique in that it offers a glipse of what is coming up the next day. Did you know tomorrow is national hot cross buns day?
And, though September 19th is not brothers day, it is National Talk Like a Pirate Day! So, greet your family fist thin' in t' mornin' and enjoy t' giggles that last t' day. And if pirates be your thing look no further than this here pirate translator.
In our family we decided to celebrate National Sisters Day in August and National Brothers Day in September. For both my daughter and son I made a simple name banner and photo album. I bought paper plates for each perspective child in their own favorite character and we ordered pizza for dinner. Pictures were taken next to the sign to show growth each year and at dinner we went around the table and said one reason we like that person or in what way they were a good brother/sister. I wrote those down in the album and later added a photo of the special day. My hope is that my children learn that they are valued right where they are, at that point in time, just how they are. I've heard too many stories of boys that were smothered by older sisters or girls that never felt they measured up to the boy the family had desired her to be. So, will we continue to celebrate now that I've discovered the dates are fake? Of course. But I, as Mom, reserve the right to move the dates to a less busy and more acceptable time of the year.
Onto what I discovered about National Days!
There is actually a National Siblings Day. It is April 10th each year. It has it's own nonprofit website and has been covered by the International Business Times.
So many fun days are just waiting to be celebrated. I found three calendars that can help keep them all straight. My favorite, My favorite national calendar offers a climpse at todays date but also has a calendar search and a breakdown of each month. If you want gear (coffee mugs, t-shirst, mouse pads, etc) to go with your day check out national whatever day. And this web page is unique in that it offers a glipse of what is coming up the next day. Did you know tomorrow is national hot cross buns day?
And, though September 19th is not brothers day, it is National Talk Like a Pirate Day! So, greet your family fist thin' in t' mornin' and enjoy t' giggles that last t' day. And if pirates be your thing look no further than this here pirate translator.
Sister next to her name banner
Brother and Sister helping decorate the cupcakes Sister picked out as her special desert
Tuesday, September 3, 2013
Clearing Away Sleep Time Disruptions
This is a follow up from a blog titled "Power Play for Caregivers - Please Just Sleep"
"What do kids need to go to sleep? Basic question. Basic answer? Routine. Because their sweet, little brain cannot understand the complexities of life, they live in the physical world that they can understand. This is why they have to lick the toy, slap the cereal bowl, eat their boogers, pick up the expensive glass thing in the store and why we do things like slap their hand to teach them something is dangerous and off limits. Kids live through physical experience. Sleep is no different. They do not know that the number on the clock means they need to close their eyes or else they will be difficult and cranky tomorrow when you have cupcakes to bake and an early meeting in the morning."
So, since we've all read the previous blog and we know kids need routine to help set their sleep clocks we're now going to go over a few sleep time hindrances that may be lurking around your house.
We sleep in the night. Mostly. Do a quick room check sometime before bed to see what your child's sleep space looks like. Turn off all the lights, turn on the night light, flip on the radio, make sure the monitors are on, do whatever you do for your child when they go to sleep. Then get in their bed and take a look around. Is it bright? Too bright? Are their any blinking lights? Street lights? A quick study of my child's room included a green light on the light switch dimmer, a blue light on the sound machine, a bright green light on each child's video monitor, a blue light on the air filter, another green light on the fire alarm, and our neighbor's garage light peeking through the curtains. Our children do fine with this, but I would not. In my own room I took a light colored fingernail polish and painted the green light on our dimmer. I need a dark room. I do not have a bed side clock for the same reason. Point is some kids are very sensitive to light. Do a quick check, ask them if it bothers them (if they can convey that to you) and eliminate that as a source of sleep time interruptions. Great article and video from Everyday Health on light source sleep disruptions Light Before Sleep = Sleeping Light
Are they hungry? When my son was born I was told, "fill him up and he will sleep." Turns out it worked. Now he is school age. The rule in our house is if you didn't eat dinner and are hungry then you are out of luck. This makes for a slightly miserable night for us, but next day guess what? They eat dinner. A trainer at my gym suggests oatmeal as a late night snack. Very filling and healthier than say...saltines or goldfish. How do you deal with growth spurts/hungry children in the night?
Is "tomorrow" a problem? I've learned not to discuss super exciting or scary/new things right before bed. When we start out bedtime routine (see previous blog) all discussion of "tomorrow" stops. Bringing up the circus, fair, street races, night as Grandma's, park play date, new school, moving day, etc. at bedtime does nothing to relax their imaginative brains.
Did they sleep too late in the day? If my daughter naps later than 4:00 it will be a late bedtime for sure. This just takes a little bit of practice of knowing your child and the stage they are in. Some where between ages 1 and 2 most children will begin combining two naps and only taking one. If you are still asking them to take a late nap when they don't need it you may be causing your own sleep time issues. Easiest way to combat this? Run them out. Burn it off. Exercise the demons. Outdoor play time. Check the bottom of the post for indoor and outdoor games!
And the close, the best for last, my favorite bedtime trick DO NOT MAKE YOUR CHILD GO TO SLEEP. Even though they are short they are still human. What happens when I say, "do not think of a huge purple elephant with yellow spots?" What about, "Do not press the big red button?" Same thing when God said, "Do not eat of that tree." We do the opposite of what we are told. So, when you say, "Good night, go to sleep." What does that do? It gives your child permission to do anything BUT fall asleep. I prefer redirecting. Try this and let me know how it goes..."Aw gee son, can't sleep? That's OK. Try laying in bed and counting to 100." Or, sing your ABC's, sing any song, say prayers (1 thing they are worried about, 2 people they love, and 3 things they are happy about), give them ideas of what to dream about, try naming all the students in their class, build an imaginary castle or doll house in their head (ask them in the morning what they made it's pretty cool what they come up with), remember a favorite vacation spot, and the list goes on. The idea is to put their mind at rest and free it up to fad away into La La Land. I personally pick a new craft project or home improvement project and then try to map it out in my mind. Works every time.
Indoor and Outdoor Games
{B}'s Games
Bouncy Ball
We use actual rubber bouncy balls or ping pong balls. Bounce them all over the house, given every child one and have them bounce to the next person all at the same time, try to balance the ball on a head, foot, or back of hand, grab a few buckets and see if the players can bounce the balls into them...tons of ideas and this works both indoor or outdoor.
Make Me Believe
Have the parent or another child gather up a smattering of odd and everyday items and place them before the story teller. The teller must create a story using the objects before them. Make it more difficult for older children by giving them a historical date, event, or figure to center the story around.
Number Tag
This game can be played indoor or outdoor and can have a number of variations created on the spot. It can also travel almost anywhere. Basics you will need; a piece of chalk or 8x10 cards with numbers on them, a die or numbered flash cards, and at least two players. If you are using a die, write the numbers 1-6 randomly around the area with chalk or place cards with numbers randomly around the area but make sure their is one set of numbers for every player. One person roles the die and calls out the number. Runners must race to tag that number. For example, if the die lands on 6 each runner must find a number 6. If the numbers are written on flash cards for the caller then the numbers for the runners must correspond. If the caller has the numbers 1-15 then there must be multiple sets of the numbers 1-15 placed around the area.
To keep all players engaged give them each a die. They all role at the same time and run to the number that they role (taking the die with them when they run). Once each runner has found a number they all role and run again.
Once running from number to number has worn down in fun have the caller shout out a verb with the number For example, "walk backward to number 6" or "skip to number 2."
For older kids make the cards for the caller with math facts and numbers for the runners can be the corresponding answers. When the caller shouts 4+3 the runners must find a number 7.
A little more in depth game would be using a spelling list. Have the student write their words on note cards or scratch paper and then scatter them around the area. The caller can pick a word from the vocabulary list and the runners must find that word. First person to the word gets to the be the caller.
The following games came from Parents.com
Masking-Tape Marvels
Who would have thought that a humble roll of masking tape could provide so much fun? Make a hopscotch pattern or mock balance beam on the living room floor. Or have your child color pieces of tape with markers and use them to "design" his own T-shirt. My personal favorite: the invisible dollhouse. Lay down a "floor plan" on the rug, and furnish the house with doll furniture.
Barbie Beach Party
Grab a collection of bikini-clad Barbies, beach towels (wash cloths), sunscreen (baby lotion), and perhaps a yacht or two (some Tupperware), and head for some fun in the tub. Hint: most Barbies really dig the diving board (faucet). My daughter's opinion: Sunglasses and a tropical beverage (iced juice in a sippy cup) make the experience tantamount to a holiday in St. Tropez
Disco Down
Disco has been dead and resurrected so many times, I'm not sure if it's in or out anymore. But I do know that young kids love to dance to it, even if they think that "Bee Gees" is some sort of sugary snack you've been denying them. Dim the lights, close the blinds, hand each child a flashlight (for the full disco effect) and a small scarf to twirl around. Cue up some classic tunes like "Dancing Queen," by ABBA, and "I Will Survive," by Gloria Gaynor, and watch the disco magic unfold.
(In my house we call them "dance parties" and I try to play a large mix of music; including the CD I bought off street performers in Italy)
Bowl-a-Rama
Small, empty water bottles and a rubber ball are all you need to transform the family room into a bowling alley -- sans silly shoes, of course. Six bottles should suffice for bowling pins; if the bottles fall over too easily, fill them up with a little water or dry pasta for some extra weight
"What do kids need to go to sleep? Basic question. Basic answer? Routine. Because their sweet, little brain cannot understand the complexities of life, they live in the physical world that they can understand. This is why they have to lick the toy, slap the cereal bowl, eat their boogers, pick up the expensive glass thing in the store and why we do things like slap their hand to teach them something is dangerous and off limits. Kids live through physical experience. Sleep is no different. They do not know that the number on the clock means they need to close their eyes or else they will be difficult and cranky tomorrow when you have cupcakes to bake and an early meeting in the morning."
So, since we've all read the previous blog and we know kids need routine to help set their sleep clocks we're now going to go over a few sleep time hindrances that may be lurking around your house.
We sleep in the night. Mostly. Do a quick room check sometime before bed to see what your child's sleep space looks like. Turn off all the lights, turn on the night light, flip on the radio, make sure the monitors are on, do whatever you do for your child when they go to sleep. Then get in their bed and take a look around. Is it bright? Too bright? Are their any blinking lights? Street lights? A quick study of my child's room included a green light on the light switch dimmer, a blue light on the sound machine, a bright green light on each child's video monitor, a blue light on the air filter, another green light on the fire alarm, and our neighbor's garage light peeking through the curtains. Our children do fine with this, but I would not. In my own room I took a light colored fingernail polish and painted the green light on our dimmer. I need a dark room. I do not have a bed side clock for the same reason. Point is some kids are very sensitive to light. Do a quick check, ask them if it bothers them (if they can convey that to you) and eliminate that as a source of sleep time interruptions. Great article and video from Everyday Health on light source sleep disruptions Light Before Sleep = Sleeping Light
Are they hungry? When my son was born I was told, "fill him up and he will sleep." Turns out it worked. Now he is school age. The rule in our house is if you didn't eat dinner and are hungry then you are out of luck. This makes for a slightly miserable night for us, but next day guess what? They eat dinner. A trainer at my gym suggests oatmeal as a late night snack. Very filling and healthier than say...saltines or goldfish. How do you deal with growth spurts/hungry children in the night?
Is "tomorrow" a problem? I've learned not to discuss super exciting or scary/new things right before bed. When we start out bedtime routine (see previous blog) all discussion of "tomorrow" stops. Bringing up the circus, fair, street races, night as Grandma's, park play date, new school, moving day, etc. at bedtime does nothing to relax their imaginative brains.
Did they sleep too late in the day? If my daughter naps later than 4:00 it will be a late bedtime for sure. This just takes a little bit of practice of knowing your child and the stage they are in. Some where between ages 1 and 2 most children will begin combining two naps and only taking one. If you are still asking them to take a late nap when they don't need it you may be causing your own sleep time issues. Easiest way to combat this? Run them out. Burn it off. Exercise the demons. Outdoor play time. Check the bottom of the post for indoor and outdoor games!
And the close, the best for last, my favorite bedtime trick DO NOT MAKE YOUR CHILD GO TO SLEEP. Even though they are short they are still human. What happens when I say, "do not think of a huge purple elephant with yellow spots?" What about, "Do not press the big red button?" Same thing when God said, "Do not eat of that tree." We do the opposite of what we are told. So, when you say, "Good night, go to sleep." What does that do? It gives your child permission to do anything BUT fall asleep. I prefer redirecting. Try this and let me know how it goes..."Aw gee son, can't sleep? That's OK. Try laying in bed and counting to 100." Or, sing your ABC's, sing any song, say prayers (1 thing they are worried about, 2 people they love, and 3 things they are happy about), give them ideas of what to dream about, try naming all the students in their class, build an imaginary castle or doll house in their head (ask them in the morning what they made it's pretty cool what they come up with), remember a favorite vacation spot, and the list goes on. The idea is to put their mind at rest and free it up to fad away into La La Land. I personally pick a new craft project or home improvement project and then try to map it out in my mind. Works every time.
Indoor and Outdoor Games
{B}'s Games
Bouncy Ball
We use actual rubber bouncy balls or ping pong balls. Bounce them all over the house, given every child one and have them bounce to the next person all at the same time, try to balance the ball on a head, foot, or back of hand, grab a few buckets and see if the players can bounce the balls into them...tons of ideas and this works both indoor or outdoor.
Make Me Believe
Have the parent or another child gather up a smattering of odd and everyday items and place them before the story teller. The teller must create a story using the objects before them. Make it more difficult for older children by giving them a historical date, event, or figure to center the story around.
Number Tag
This game can be played indoor or outdoor and can have a number of variations created on the spot. It can also travel almost anywhere. Basics you will need; a piece of chalk or 8x10 cards with numbers on them, a die or numbered flash cards, and at least two players. If you are using a die, write the numbers 1-6 randomly around the area with chalk or place cards with numbers randomly around the area but make sure their is one set of numbers for every player. One person roles the die and calls out the number. Runners must race to tag that number. For example, if the die lands on 6 each runner must find a number 6. If the numbers are written on flash cards for the caller then the numbers for the runners must correspond. If the caller has the numbers 1-15 then there must be multiple sets of the numbers 1-15 placed around the area.
To keep all players engaged give them each a die. They all role at the same time and run to the number that they role (taking the die with them when they run). Once each runner has found a number they all role and run again.
Once running from number to number has worn down in fun have the caller shout out a verb with the number For example, "walk backward to number 6" or "skip to number 2."
For older kids make the cards for the caller with math facts and numbers for the runners can be the corresponding answers. When the caller shouts 4+3 the runners must find a number 7.
A little more in depth game would be using a spelling list. Have the student write their words on note cards or scratch paper and then scatter them around the area. The caller can pick a word from the vocabulary list and the runners must find that word. First person to the word gets to the be the caller.
The following games came from Parents.com
Masking-Tape Marvels
Who would have thought that a humble roll of masking tape could provide so much fun? Make a hopscotch pattern or mock balance beam on the living room floor. Or have your child color pieces of tape with markers and use them to "design" his own T-shirt. My personal favorite: the invisible dollhouse. Lay down a "floor plan" on the rug, and furnish the house with doll furniture.
Barbie Beach Party
Grab a collection of bikini-clad Barbies, beach towels (wash cloths), sunscreen (baby lotion), and perhaps a yacht or two (some Tupperware), and head for some fun in the tub. Hint: most Barbies really dig the diving board (faucet). My daughter's opinion: Sunglasses and a tropical beverage (iced juice in a sippy cup) make the experience tantamount to a holiday in St. Tropez
Disco Down
Disco has been dead and resurrected so many times, I'm not sure if it's in or out anymore. But I do know that young kids love to dance to it, even if they think that "Bee Gees" is some sort of sugary snack you've been denying them. Dim the lights, close the blinds, hand each child a flashlight (for the full disco effect) and a small scarf to twirl around. Cue up some classic tunes like "Dancing Queen," by ABBA, and "I Will Survive," by Gloria Gaynor, and watch the disco magic unfold.
(In my house we call them "dance parties" and I try to play a large mix of music; including the CD I bought off street performers in Italy)
Bowl-a-Rama
Small, empty water bottles and a rubber ball are all you need to transform the family room into a bowling alley -- sans silly shoes, of course. Six bottles should suffice for bowling pins; if the bottles fall over too easily, fill them up with a little water or dry pasta for some extra weight
Tuesday, August 27, 2013
Power Play - For Caregivers - "Please Just Sleep"
I remember saying this prayer, "Lord, please, please if anything you'll ever give me just let her go to sleep." Sound familiar? It is not a new problem and has been the topic of discussion in books, magazines, doctors' offices, sleep labs, and social groups. I hope to bring a new approach to the topic of 'toddler sleep' with this blog and others to follow. A short and simple approach actually. That's just it; my new approach; short and simple.
What do kids need to go to sleep? Basic question. Basic answer? Routine. Because their sweet, little brain cannot understand the complexities of life, they live in the physical world that they can understand. This is why they have to lick the toy, slap the cereal bowl, eat their boogers, pick up the expensive glass thing in the store and why we do things like slap their hand to teach them something is dangerous and off limits. Kids live through physical experience. Sleep is no different. They do not know that the number on the clock means they need to close their eyes or else they will be difficult and cranky tomorrow when you have cupcakes to bake and an early meeting in the morning.
Kids need to feel sleep. They need to experience a certain set of routines that transitions their body into a calm state prepared for rest. But what does that look like? That is going to be different for each family. I've come up with a small list that I think are "must haves" at bedtime. I have also added several articles for further reading at the end of this post. I'd love to know what you think.
1. Hands and faces washed. This is the very least you can do for your child and is a great segue into the bedtime routine. Would you eat dinner, go outside, ride in the cab, play with the dog, take out the trash and then jump into bed? Take some time to soap them up with a very clear, "It is time to start getting ready for bed." Be direct. This washing up separates the rest of the day from the night that is coming.
2. Brush teeth. Basic I know but so important. And hey, if it is one more thing they learn to do early on and can continue into adult hood then it is a two-for-one deal. (Side note to this one: do not send them to bed with any drink beside water and no food. More information on this here, SeattleMamaDoc)
3. Jammies. No they do not have to be a matching set of GAP pajamas. They do however need to be separate from the rest of the wardrobe. Again, this is a signal of sleep. If they are wearing their current clothes or putting on what they will play in tomorrow then how do they know that they are supposed to sleep in them tonight? Sure, they can wear a hand-me-down shirt and shorts but they must be something only worn at bedtime. Changing clothes is saying, "the day's job is done. Now we prepare for the night's job."
4. A place to sleep. My friend in elementary school was very poor. Her bed was the family couch. Unless her brother was gone then she could sleep in his room. Unless he came home and put her in the chair. Unless her mom let her sleep with them. You get the idea. She was tired. Your child may not have a traditional bed but it needs to be their own. Ideally this will be a quieter place separated from the rush of the household. Remember they are experiencing the world physically. A different bed, room, or sometimes house is a big physical change that brings it's own new set of fears, feelings, and emotions. That is not what we want at a time designated for rest. This often crops up when parents have a busy schedule and a baby who sleeps anywhere. Once that baby is cognizant of their surroundings they don't sleep. Just try to remember that they "feel" their surrounding and cannot logically deduce that this is a safe place to sleep just because mommy put them there. Designate one sleep place full of comfort objects. Take the time to study what that is for your child.
5. Quiet time. This one is my favorite. It may bring the most physical change to your child's world. The TV is turned off. The dog is put out. The lights are off or dimmed. I often start this when bedtime routine starts. Dog goes out is my first one. My dog thinks she is my third child and wants to be underfoot the entire time we are interacting with the kids. This makes brushing teeth sound like, "Put your toothpaste on your brush...Dog move...good...Dog!...OK, sister now...ugh Dog, MOVE...that's right and...DOG!" Confusing turmoil not conducive to rest. Your turmoil may be the older kids wrestling, Dad watching the game with his buddies, Mom arguing with an overseas account...it is all the same. It all signifies that life is still going on and sleep is not on any one's menu.
That is what rest is not. What rest IS will look different to each family. Here are some ideas. Prayer time: have your child pick 1 thing they worry over, 2 people they love, and 3 things they are thankful for. Reading books. Singing quiet songs: I have a CD called "Bedtime with the Beatles" so don't be afraid to think outside the box. Telling make-believe stories. Look through photo albums: they love ones about themselves. Play quiet music: I have a friend that began strumming his acoustic when his were babies and it is still a favorite way to calm them.
This wasn't one of my planned "must haves" but I think it is an important one and I'll close with it. Yes, their is that time after the fair they fell asleep and you slipped them into bed or the weekends they spend at Dad's but make bedtime a priority. If you don't then why should they?
*check back later for another blog about clearing away sleep time distractions.*
What do kids need to go to sleep? Basic question. Basic answer? Routine. Because their sweet, little brain cannot understand the complexities of life, they live in the physical world that they can understand. This is why they have to lick the toy, slap the cereal bowl, eat their boogers, pick up the expensive glass thing in the store and why we do things like slap their hand to teach them something is dangerous and off limits. Kids live through physical experience. Sleep is no different. They do not know that the number on the clock means they need to close their eyes or else they will be difficult and cranky tomorrow when you have cupcakes to bake and an early meeting in the morning.
Kids need to feel sleep. They need to experience a certain set of routines that transitions their body into a calm state prepared for rest. But what does that look like? That is going to be different for each family. I've come up with a small list that I think are "must haves" at bedtime. I have also added several articles for further reading at the end of this post. I'd love to know what you think.
1. Hands and faces washed. This is the very least you can do for your child and is a great segue into the bedtime routine. Would you eat dinner, go outside, ride in the cab, play with the dog, take out the trash and then jump into bed? Take some time to soap them up with a very clear, "It is time to start getting ready for bed." Be direct. This washing up separates the rest of the day from the night that is coming.
2. Brush teeth. Basic I know but so important. And hey, if it is one more thing they learn to do early on and can continue into adult hood then it is a two-for-one deal. (Side note to this one: do not send them to bed with any drink beside water and no food. More information on this here, SeattleMamaDoc)
3. Jammies. No they do not have to be a matching set of GAP pajamas. They do however need to be separate from the rest of the wardrobe. Again, this is a signal of sleep. If they are wearing their current clothes or putting on what they will play in tomorrow then how do they know that they are supposed to sleep in them tonight? Sure, they can wear a hand-me-down shirt and shorts but they must be something only worn at bedtime. Changing clothes is saying, "the day's job is done. Now we prepare for the night's job."
4. A place to sleep. My friend in elementary school was very poor. Her bed was the family couch. Unless her brother was gone then she could sleep in his room. Unless he came home and put her in the chair. Unless her mom let her sleep with them. You get the idea. She was tired. Your child may not have a traditional bed but it needs to be their own. Ideally this will be a quieter place separated from the rush of the household. Remember they are experiencing the world physically. A different bed, room, or sometimes house is a big physical change that brings it's own new set of fears, feelings, and emotions. That is not what we want at a time designated for rest. This often crops up when parents have a busy schedule and a baby who sleeps anywhere. Once that baby is cognizant of their surroundings they don't sleep. Just try to remember that they "feel" their surrounding and cannot logically deduce that this is a safe place to sleep just because mommy put them there. Designate one sleep place full of comfort objects. Take the time to study what that is for your child.
5. Quiet time. This one is my favorite. It may bring the most physical change to your child's world. The TV is turned off. The dog is put out. The lights are off or dimmed. I often start this when bedtime routine starts. Dog goes out is my first one. My dog thinks she is my third child and wants to be underfoot the entire time we are interacting with the kids. This makes brushing teeth sound like, "Put your toothpaste on your brush...Dog move...good...Dog!...OK, sister now...ugh Dog, MOVE...that's right and...DOG!" Confusing turmoil not conducive to rest. Your turmoil may be the older kids wrestling, Dad watching the game with his buddies, Mom arguing with an overseas account...it is all the same. It all signifies that life is still going on and sleep is not on any one's menu.
That is what rest is not. What rest IS will look different to each family. Here are some ideas. Prayer time: have your child pick 1 thing they worry over, 2 people they love, and 3 things they are thankful for. Reading books. Singing quiet songs: I have a CD called "Bedtime with the Beatles" so don't be afraid to think outside the box. Telling make-believe stories. Look through photo albums: they love ones about themselves. Play quiet music: I have a friend that began strumming his acoustic when his were babies and it is still a favorite way to calm them.
This wasn't one of my planned "must haves" but I think it is an important one and I'll close with it. Yes, their is that time after the fair they fell asleep and you slipped them into bed or the weekends they spend at Dad's but make bedtime a priority. If you don't then why should they?
ABC News talks about "screen" time before bed
Breakdown of basic child development time table
As a fun project I looked up what Dr. Ari Brown, author of Baby 411 &Toddler 411, says about toddler sleep. Number one on her list; Routine! See, I knew I was right. Toddler 411 is an excellent reference book available on amazon.com*check back later for another blog about clearing away sleep time distractions.*
Thursday, August 22, 2013
Note To Self
I rarely check my email's junk box. If mopping the floor is my least favorite chore, then checking the junk box is second to last. However! I have finally found a reason to check my junk mail, and I think it is something that will benefit you too.
MY BIRTHDAY! Or your birthday, rather, is the time to check your unwanted mail. Many stores and major retailers will send free stuff or great deals to your inbox in honor of your birthday. Starbucks and Red Lobster wanted to celebrate with me on my big day. American Eagle loved me enough to give me a pretty nice discount for the month. Petco and Office Depot also wanted a part of the discount action.
Sure, I had 356 unread emails in my folder but it only took about 20 minutes to clear them out and print out all my birthday freebies.
Try putting a reminder in your calendar for next year to check the junk mail box on the first week of your birthday month so you don't miss out! Then when you're sipping your free Starbucks whisper me a little "thanks" and I'll send you a "you're welcome."
MY BIRTHDAY! Or your birthday, rather, is the time to check your unwanted mail. Many stores and major retailers will send free stuff or great deals to your inbox in honor of your birthday. Starbucks and Red Lobster wanted to celebrate with me on my big day. American Eagle loved me enough to give me a pretty nice discount for the month. Petco and Office Depot also wanted a part of the discount action.
Sure, I had 356 unread emails in my folder but it only took about 20 minutes to clear them out and print out all my birthday freebies.
Try putting a reminder in your calendar for next year to check the junk mail box on the first week of your birthday month so you don't miss out! Then when you're sipping your free Starbucks whisper me a little "thanks" and I'll send you a "you're welcome."
Monday, August 19, 2013
I love boxes, bags, 'n baskets - quick storage idea
The hubby and I have gone out of the way to ensure we have a playroom in our house. This is because our children are spoiled from every angle. With each holiday that clicks by we amass more "long" toys. What I mean by that is toys that don't seem to fit any where else because of their length. Swords, lace umbrellas, dart guns, more swords, butterfly nets, and princess wands. This also includes those really long-light up-spinning-scepter toys that Aunts buy at the circus. So, what did we do to get all these pieces wrangled up? Enter laundry hamper. The length makes it a perfect fit. We chose one that opens wide so it cannot be easily overturned and the cloth can be removed to be washed if needed. Another advantage of the metal frame of our basket is being able to hang "stuff" from it. In the picture is a net pocket (stolen from my umbrella stroller) that we now use to store our ammunition. Bear in mind a lid may polish the look up a bit it will also limit the length of the objects stored. Major retailers nation-wide are currently filled with laundry hampers because of students heading off to college. So, what are you waiting for? Next time a major battle between pirates and fairies takes place clean up will be a breeze and peace will reign once again.
Saturday, August 10, 2013
It is my favorite day of the year!
To quote a friend of mine about the first day of school, "It is my favorite day of the year!"
Whether it is a joyful day of reclaiming your quiet or a tearful day of letting go their is one thing we all have in common.
The teacher-parent relationship is vital to a happy school year for every student. I've counseled with many parents in tears with frustration over a bad relationship with their student's teacher. It should never come to this point. Here are some ideas that will help as we send our students off this year. {And I trust you all to hold me to my word as I send my first born off to kindergarten - sniff}
If you don't have anything nice to say... Can you finish it? ...don't say anything at all. Your children are listening. When you meet the teacher and have qualms resist the urge to display that. Even to the younger ones. Little kids tell big kids or even worse they will blurt out what you've said the next time they see that person. It is perfectly acceptable to have questions or concern but discuss them with your spouse in private because even if you disagree with the teacher on first blush you still want to show your child how to respect their authority. Keeping a respectful, working relationship with someone you disagree with is a good life skill after all. Also, keep in mind what advice you would probably tell your child if they immediately declared not liking a fellow student on the first day. I imagine it would sound something like, "keep an open mind and try to be nice," "you just met them how can you know if you don't like them," or "try to find something in common." I suggest giving the teacher some unbiased time to get to know them. Not every first impression is a good one.
Avoid the gossip. "She said that Suzi told her that her husband's co-worker..." The water cooler can color your opinion of others long before you've met them. Your student may only be in second grade but you are going to spend the entire year hoping they do not get Mr. So&So for third grade because of something you've heard. Much easier for everyone involved to just avoid those people that insist on spreading tales.
Allow a grace period. If I rang your door bell and handed you 30+ children along with their parents & grandparents while they all shook your hand and took a picture would you be able to recall each person's name, match them to their child, and give me a brief account of the child's personality traits? Obviously the answer is no. See where I'm going with this? If by day two or three your teacher is still having a hard time remembering you child's name or yours be OK with that. Be polite and shake their hand but allow for reintroductions after things have settled down a bit. **Side note: This is a soap box speech, but please do not expect your teacher to remember you if they only see you three time in an entire school year. I guarantee they know your student well even if they don't recognize your face.**
Make an impression. Here is probably my favorite tip. Give them money. Well a gift card at least. Nothing starts of a relationship better than a simple, "You've survived the week Mrs. So&So. Just wanted to say thank you/Congrats.s/Here's to a good school year/Enjoy." {Insert five dollar Starbucks, Sonic, or other gift card here} And, wait until Friday when your teacher can actually breathe and remember who thrust this wonderful gift into her hands.
Ultimately it is your child that is harmed or helped by your relationship with the teacher, so stay positive, smile, approach the relationship with grace and do your best to make a friend. If you do have serious issues with the teacher later in the year they will be much easier to resolve that way.
What to do if you do have serious issues? That is another blog another day!
Whether it is a joyful day of reclaiming your quiet or a tearful day of letting go their is one thing we all have in common.
The teacher-parent relationship is vital to a happy school year for every student. I've counseled with many parents in tears with frustration over a bad relationship with their student's teacher. It should never come to this point. Here are some ideas that will help as we send our students off this year. {And I trust you all to hold me to my word as I send my first born off to kindergarten - sniff}
If you don't have anything nice to say... Can you finish it? ...don't say anything at all. Your children are listening. When you meet the teacher and have qualms resist the urge to display that. Even to the younger ones. Little kids tell big kids or even worse they will blurt out what you've said the next time they see that person. It is perfectly acceptable to have questions or concern but discuss them with your spouse in private because even if you disagree with the teacher on first blush you still want to show your child how to respect their authority. Keeping a respectful, working relationship with someone you disagree with is a good life skill after all. Also, keep in mind what advice you would probably tell your child if they immediately declared not liking a fellow student on the first day. I imagine it would sound something like, "keep an open mind and try to be nice," "you just met them how can you know if you don't like them," or "try to find something in common." I suggest giving the teacher some unbiased time to get to know them. Not every first impression is a good one.
Avoid the gossip. "She said that Suzi told her that her husband's co-worker..." The water cooler can color your opinion of others long before you've met them. Your student may only be in second grade but you are going to spend the entire year hoping they do not get Mr. So&So for third grade because of something you've heard. Much easier for everyone involved to just avoid those people that insist on spreading tales.
Allow a grace period. If I rang your door bell and handed you 30+ children along with their parents & grandparents while they all shook your hand and took a picture would you be able to recall each person's name, match them to their child, and give me a brief account of the child's personality traits? Obviously the answer is no. See where I'm going with this? If by day two or three your teacher is still having a hard time remembering you child's name or yours be OK with that. Be polite and shake their hand but allow for reintroductions after things have settled down a bit. **Side note: This is a soap box speech, but please do not expect your teacher to remember you if they only see you three time in an entire school year. I guarantee they know your student well even if they don't recognize your face.**
Make an impression. Here is probably my favorite tip. Give them money. Well a gift card at least. Nothing starts of a relationship better than a simple, "You've survived the week Mrs. So&So. Just wanted to say thank you/Congrats.s/Here's to a good school year/Enjoy." {Insert five dollar Starbucks, Sonic, or other gift card here} And, wait until Friday when your teacher can actually breathe and remember who thrust this wonderful gift into her hands.
Ultimately it is your child that is harmed or helped by your relationship with the teacher, so stay positive, smile, approach the relationship with grace and do your best to make a friend. If you do have serious issues with the teacher later in the year they will be much easier to resolve that way.
What to do if you do have serious issues? That is another blog another day!
{me and my wonderful "first day of school gift" from a supporter circa 2006}
{my "kids" from that year circa 2006}
Thursday, August 8, 2013
Power Play - For Caregivers
I cannot think of anyone who has cared for a child that would say they didn't enjoy nap time. It is the calm in the storm and can often change the climate of unruly children and exasperated parents.
My son was ready to give up on nap time much sooner than I was. I tried the "quiet time" game where he stays in one bed/room/place and reads books or enjoys a small toy. It didn't work. All it did was give a tired and cranky child free room to disobey. What to do?
Realizing that my child was indeed tired but stubbornly refusing to sleep I made a Power Play. {A Power Play is in a nut shell when the caregiver out smarts the child while keeping their integrity intact and thus keeping the power.} I put my son down with a book or small toy. Told him I would set a timer. He did not have to sleep. He had to rest calmly. I would come get him up when the timer went off if he stayed in a restful position. I kept my word. For several days he was only in bed for 30 minutes. But once he trusted me that I would come get him and that he did not have to sleep guess what? He started napping. Instead of focusing on sleeping and the idea of not wanting to his brain and body were able to relax. What happens to a tired person when they are calm, comfortable, and relaxed?
My son is now 5 and still naps about three days a week. This will not be every child but those of you who are struggling should try it. Let me know how it goes. Seriously, even if it doesn't work I want to hear from you. Remember to give it some time and you must play by the rules.
**Side note: no "screen" time before or during naps. Computer, TV, video game, cell phone screens have been shown time and time again to disrupt sleep patterns and brain signals of sleep. Don't let your child watch TV then hand him a video game and expect him to rest. Don't believe me? Check out ABC's News coverage of sleep disorders caused by "screens"**
My son was ready to give up on nap time much sooner than I was. I tried the "quiet time" game where he stays in one bed/room/place and reads books or enjoys a small toy. It didn't work. All it did was give a tired and cranky child free room to disobey. What to do?
Realizing that my child was indeed tired but stubbornly refusing to sleep I made a Power Play. {A Power Play is in a nut shell when the caregiver out smarts the child while keeping their integrity intact and thus keeping the power.} I put my son down with a book or small toy. Told him I would set a timer. He did not have to sleep. He had to rest calmly. I would come get him up when the timer went off if he stayed in a restful position. I kept my word. For several days he was only in bed for 30 minutes. But once he trusted me that I would come get him and that he did not have to sleep guess what? He started napping. Instead of focusing on sleeping and the idea of not wanting to his brain and body were able to relax. What happens to a tired person when they are calm, comfortable, and relaxed?
My son is now 5 and still naps about three days a week. This will not be every child but those of you who are struggling should try it. Let me know how it goes. Seriously, even if it doesn't work I want to hear from you. Remember to give it some time and you must play by the rules.
**Side note: no "screen" time before or during naps. Computer, TV, video game, cell phone screens have been shown time and time again to disrupt sleep patterns and brain signals of sleep. Don't let your child watch TV then hand him a video game and expect him to rest. Don't believe me? Check out ABC's News coverage of sleep disorders caused by "screens"**
Wednesday, August 7, 2013
Why on earth am I subjecting myself to this?
I've only posted my first blog and I'm already frustrated with this process. So, why am I doing it? I find that I have a lot to say. Advice to give. Insights to cite. Most of my advice is freely given. I do not actually know how much of it is wanted or taken to heart but I do know that most people smile and nod and that some even thank me. For those that thank me, this is your blog. The plan is to post my snippets of advice on whatever strikes me at the time and see who listens. I can warn you now that most of what is read on my page will be about child rearing (with a bent toward education,) marriage, and getting back to the basics of life.
Thank you for coming along beside me as I struggle through getting this up and working. Thank you for reading, hopefully laughing, and letting me step on your toes with my, at times, overly blunt words.
Enjoy
Thank you for coming along beside me as I struggle through getting this up and working. Thank you for reading, hopefully laughing, and letting me step on your toes with my, at times, overly blunt words.
Enjoy
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