Wednesday, January 31, 2007
Girls' Night Idea
I know that the Valentine's edition of WFMW is next week; but because I have two things to share, I am getting a head start.We have a large group of young moms at church. We usually get together at Christmas for a "Dirty Santa" ornament exchange (Dirty Santa simply means ornaments in the exchange may be stolen from others once they are opened). This past Christmas, we were discussing how great it would be to use more holidays as reasons for getting together.
And so, the "Vicious Valentine" idea was born. We are planning a girls' night at my house next Thursday. Everyone will bring finger foods and a wrapped gift ($10 limit). The gifts can be lotions, candles, nice chocolates, etc... The exchange will be along the lines of Dirty Santa. If someone sees a gift they like, they can take it from someone else. Gifts can be stolen up to three times before they safely belong to someone.
Technically, I don't know (yet) if this works-for-me; but I think it will be great fun, and I wanted to pass on the idea to others. Perhaps you could use a girls' night out to rid yourself of the winter blahs. I definitely know that works-for-me!
For more Works-for-Me Wednesday ideas, visit Shannon at Rocks in My Dryer!
Labels: Works-for-Me Wednesday
Tuesday, January 30, 2007
"Look Mom! My Scary Face!"
This is my best girl's scary face. She showed it to me last weekend. Unfortunately, mom was truly scared last night! When giving my best girl her nightly allergy medicine, I accidentally gave her my adult cough medicine with codeine.
Everything is fine now, but I had several scary hours. Although the amount of codeine was within the allowable dosage range for a child, it was on the high end. Since she had never had codeine, we just had to wait to see what happened. I checked on her every 15 minutes or so for half the night, and thankfully, she is fine.
Mom, while not planning to receive any mommy awards any time soon, is just so thankful she is okay. She is my best girl, and I love her (scary face and all).
Labels: My Best Girl
Monday, January 29, 2007
Small Talk at My House
As I was preparing lunch, my two-year-old best girl was demonstrating some rather ugly behavior. I put her in her crib for a few minutes as a punishment and to enable me to finish the lunch preparations. The following conversation ensued when I went to get her out:
Mom: What do you say to Mommy?
Best Girl (penitently): Thank you.
Mom: No, you need to tell Mommy that you are sorry for acting ugly in the kitchen.
Best Girl: Sorry Mommy...and yes, sir!
I just had to laugh! At least she was trying!
Mom: What do you say to Mommy?
Best Girl (penitently): Thank you.
Mom: No, you need to tell Mommy that you are sorry for acting ugly in the kitchen.
Best Girl: Sorry Mommy...and yes, sir!
I just had to laugh! At least she was trying!
Labels: My Best Girl, Small Talk
Game Recommendation - Blink
My favorite boy loves games. With Christmas and his birthday being a month apart, we have many new games to enjoy. Blink is one of these. This card game is for two people (although there are some variations in the instructions for more people). Each player has a draw pile and is allowed three cards in his hand. The object of the game is to get rid of all your cards by matching at least one characteristic (number, shape, or color) to the top card on one of two discard piles. The game moves very quickly, and is usually finished in about two minutes. The recommended age is 7+, but it is possible for younger children to enjoy this as long as the other person playing is willing to slow down the pace a bit.
Blink comes in a tin, making it convenient to carry in a purse or bag. Because it is a quick game and takes very little room to play, it is great to have on hand in waiting rooms or even a casual restaurant. It is also priced nicely at $4.99. Santa left ours in a stocking, but I have noticed them at Target. My favorite boy and I have really enjoyed this game. Perhaps you would enjoy it as well!
Labels: Games
Friday, January 26, 2007
We Don't Like Dad To Travel, But...
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...we sure do like the really cool shower caps he brings home from the hotel!
Labels: My Best Girl, My Favorite Boy
Favorite Ingredients Friday
I am participating in Overwhelmed with Joy's Favorite Ingredients Friday - Super Bowl Edition. This is a cheese ball recipe that I got from my mom. It is an adapted version of a recipe from the Dining with Pioneers Cookbook.
Pineapple Cheese Ball
2 (8 oz.) packages of cream cheese, softened
1 small can crushed pineapple, drained
3/4 c. finely chopped pecans
1 Tbsp. chopped green pepper
1 tsp. chopped onion
1 tsp. seasoned salt
Combine all of the above, using only 1/4 c. of the nuts. Form into a ball. Roll all of this in the other 1/2 c. of nuts. Refrigerate. Best served with Ritz, but Wheat Thins work well also.
Tips: I have found it easier to roll in the nuts after letting it sit in the fridge for a little while. Also, if you wrap it well, this freezes beautifully.
Enjoy!
Labels: Recipes
Efficiency
I appreciate efficiency, probably a little too much. I enjoy planning out a route for my errands so that I don't backtrack; and if I manage to plan my route so that I make right hand turns into the stores (instead of crossing traffic), I give myself and extra pat on the back. When I go grocery shopping, I try to list all items in the order I will find them. I also spent several weeks getting my cleaning routines (especially mopping my wood floors) down to the most efficient methods. This really makes me happy (I know I am weird that way).
On Wednesday evening, I took the kids to McDonald's for dinner before church. Happily, I saw that my best girl was able to manuever the entire indoor playplace on her own for the first time. Unfortunately, this led to one of her first playground problems as well.
I noticed a little boy who seemed sick when we entered the play area. Since it is winter, and since most kids have runny noses at some point, I tried to ignore this (although the hacking cough was difficult to discount). I know kids are exposed to germs all the time, so I sent mine off to play. A little while later, my best girl came running to me crying. She raised her hand to my face and said, "That boy bited me!" Sure enough, the sickly boy had bitten her hand, and she had the bite marks to prove it.
The father walked over with the boy in tow, and instructed him to apologize. I appreciated this gesture, I really did; but instead of apologizing, the little boy took his hand out of his mouth and stuck it into my best girl's mouth.
At this point, I just wanted them to go away. I think the father probably understood this because he did. I realized, however, that there was nothing I could do to stop the lovely germ transfer that had just taken place. I sat back into the booth and started the countdown until the runny nose and coughing show up at our house.
The rest of the evening was enjoyable, and we packed up to go. As we were leaving, I will admit that I actually thought, "That was the most efficient display of germ-spreading I have seen in quite some time." At least I can give that little boy, who I am sure on most days is just as sweet as can be, credit for that!
On Wednesday evening, I took the kids to McDonald's for dinner before church. Happily, I saw that my best girl was able to manuever the entire indoor playplace on her own for the first time. Unfortunately, this led to one of her first playground problems as well.
I noticed a little boy who seemed sick when we entered the play area. Since it is winter, and since most kids have runny noses at some point, I tried to ignore this (although the hacking cough was difficult to discount). I know kids are exposed to germs all the time, so I sent mine off to play. A little while later, my best girl came running to me crying. She raised her hand to my face and said, "That boy bited me!" Sure enough, the sickly boy had bitten her hand, and she had the bite marks to prove it.
The father walked over with the boy in tow, and instructed him to apologize. I appreciated this gesture, I really did; but instead of apologizing, the little boy took his hand out of his mouth and stuck it into my best girl's mouth.
At this point, I just wanted them to go away. I think the father probably understood this because he did. I realized, however, that there was nothing I could do to stop the lovely germ transfer that had just taken place. I sat back into the booth and started the countdown until the runny nose and coughing show up at our house.
The rest of the evening was enjoyable, and we packed up to go. As we were leaving, I will admit that I actually thought, "That was the most efficient display of germ-spreading I have seen in quite some time." At least I can give that little boy, who I am sure on most days is just as sweet as can be, credit for that!
Labels: General, My Best Girl
Thursday, January 25, 2007
Be Very Careful!
I believe that there are some toy creators and book publishers out there who are hiding behind closed doors laughing. They are making products that they know children will love. Their laughter, however, is directed at the parental insanity that will result from the use of their products.
This week, my favorite boy received a book called The Everything Kids' Knock Knock Book: Jokes Guaranteed To Leave Your Friends In Stitches. The book was a birthday gift from his future wife, and he thought this was just one of the coolest books ever.
Of course, the problem with this book is that requires participation. Since Dad has been gone, and two-year old sister can't help out, I have been the "Who's there?" portion in countless knock-knock jokes all week. In fact, I am probably saying "Who's there?" in my sleep.
These types of products are really great to give as gifts. You know the recipient will like it. You also know it won't be staying at your home. In fact, my favorite boy's future mother-in-law laughed as the present was opened and said, "Have fun!" My only advice is to be very, very careful. Your children have birthdays too!
This week, my favorite boy received a book called The Everything Kids' Knock Knock Book: Jokes Guaranteed To Leave Your Friends In Stitches. The book was a birthday gift from his future wife, and he thought this was just one of the coolest books ever.
Of course, the problem with this book is that requires participation. Since Dad has been gone, and two-year old sister can't help out, I have been the "Who's there?" portion in countless knock-knock jokes all week. In fact, I am probably saying "Who's there?" in my sleep.
These types of products are really great to give as gifts. You know the recipient will like it. You also know it won't be staying at your home. In fact, my favorite boy's future mother-in-law laughed as the present was opened and said, "Have fun!" My only advice is to be very, very careful. Your children have birthdays too!
Labels: Children's Books, Family and Friends
Small Talk at My House
Dad has been gone for several days, so the kids and I have been together non-stop for most of the week. This morning, I was getting them ready to go when my favorite boy realized that Mom was going to be alone (for about an hour and a half).
Favorite Boy: Mom, are you going to be all by yourself?
Mom: Yes.
Favorite Boy: What are you going to do?
Mom: I am going to exercise.
Favorite Boy: Wow, that's going to be really boring without us around!
Mom (looking serious, but smiling on the inside): It's going to be very quiet, but I'll be okay!
Favorite Boy: Mom, are you going to be all by yourself?
Mom: Yes.
Favorite Boy: What are you going to do?
Mom: I am going to exercise.
Favorite Boy: Wow, that's going to be really boring without us around!
Mom (looking serious, but smiling on the inside): It's going to be very quiet, but I'll be okay!
Labels: My Favorite Boy, Small Talk
Wednesday, January 24, 2007
Toy Organization/Clean-Up
When my son was a two-year-old, I put many of his toys into tubs. The problem I ran into was that he would dump out several tubs, and then I would be the one to put them all back. I came up with an idea to help him clean up independently. I took pictures of the toys, and then attached the pictures to the tubs. He could clearly see which toys belonged in each tub. Now that my daughter is two, I am using the same system with her; and it still works for me!
For more Works-for-Me Wednesday ideas, visit Shannon at Rocks in My Dryer!
Labels: Works-for-Me Wednesday
Tuesday, January 23, 2007
Winter Water Fun
Heidi at Butterfly Mama is hosting a Winter Actvity Festival. At our house, we found a way to have winter water fun. My best girl got a water table for her birthday from Grammy and Papa. Since her birthday is in October, we found a way to enjoy the table inside. Our shower is a double shower, so we put the water table in the shower and had a ball. I would recommend bathing suits. The first time we did this, however, my kids were so excited they just got in as fast as they could. The best part is that the kids really enjoyed themselves, and I had nothing to clean up!
Labels: Fun
Monday, January 22, 2007
A Gourmet Birthday Meal
I know he already ate at Chuck-E-Cheese, which means any other birthday meal is a little bit anticlimactic . However, when given the option of having any meal he wanted for his birthday, my favorite boy chose plain pasta, cheez-its, and banana. He topped that off with birthday cake. Obviously, he is not on a low-carb diet. I think I am raising a child with very distinguished tastes!
Labels: My Favorite Boy
Happy Birthday To My Favorite Boy in the Whole Wide World!
Saturday, January 20, 2007
The Titans Scored Big!
The Tennessee Titans may have missed the playoffs this season, but they certainly won my son's heart. Since my favorite boy has been obsessed with football this year, I signed him up for the Titans' Kids Club. The joining fee was worth seeing the excitement when he opened his birthday card from the team. Of course, it was a preprinted card. The inside said, "Happy Birthday from the Titans." My favorite boy, however, acted as though Vince Young and his buddies picked the card out just for him and then took it to the post office after they left the locker room. If only birthdays could be as exciting in the 30s!
Labels: My Favorite Boy
Book Recommendation
The book of Proverbs is such a wonderful handbook for living. For quite some time, I wanted to find something for my young children based on Proverbs. I don't remember where I saw this for the first time, but God's Wisdom for Little Boys: Character-Building Fun from Proverbs is a gem. Each two-page spread focuses on a specific character trait from Proverbs (obedience, diligence, wisdom, etc...) using a rhymed verse written by the authors and a scripture reference. The illustrations are beautiful.
We have been reading about one character trait each evening as part of our family devotional. My favorite boy enjoys them, and I have noticed him putting these traits into practice. Because we have read and discussed them together, I am more aware when he is attempting to display these characteristics, and I am able to thank him for striving to be God's boy. I think this book will be helpful and enjoyable for quite some time.
Yes, there is also a version for little girls. God's Wisdom for Little Girls: Virtues and Fun from Proverbs 31 is on my list of books to buy. I am looking forward to reading it with my best girl for years to come as well!
We have been reading about one character trait each evening as part of our family devotional. My favorite boy enjoys them, and I have noticed him putting these traits into practice. Because we have read and discussed them together, I am more aware when he is attempting to display these characteristics, and I am able to thank him for striving to be God's boy. I think this book will be helpful and enjoyable for quite some time.
Yes, there is also a version for little girls. God's Wisdom for Little Girls: Virtues and Fun from Proverbs 31 is on my list of books to buy. I am looking forward to reading it with my best girl for years to come as well!
Labels: Children's Books
Friday, January 19, 2007
Party!
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Oops! I forgot to tell my favorite boy to make a wish, but I don't think it mattered. He had a ball at Chuck-E-Cheese today with his three best buddies. His actual birthday is not until Monday, but I think today was the highlight for him.
Each of the boys got 30 tokens. At the end of the party one of the boys said, "Did Mrs. Lauren buy the tokens for all four of us?" His mom told him that I had. He responded, "Wow! They must have hundreds of dollars!"
I just love this age! Unfortunately, I can't freeze him at five!
Labels: My Favorite Boy
Thursday, January 18, 2007
A New Bible Study
I am really excited! A package arrived this week from Amazon. I have been anxiously awaiting its arrival. Inside the brown box was a New Inductive Study Bible and The Call to Follow Jesus: Luke from the New Inductive Study Series.
For several years, I attempted to read my Bible through each year. I did fairly well each year, but pregnancies, births, lack of sleep, etc... sometimes interrupted and kept me from reading the entire text. I also got to the point where I felt I was reading, but not really digesting the text. I decided I wanted to do a more in depth study.
Several months ago, I read Lord, Teach Me To Study the Bible in 28 Days. It was amazing. I learned to pay attention to the text in ways that I previously had not. I have been studying the Bible since childhood, but approaching the passages using the inductive method helped me to notice things I had never noticed.
So...I decided to order the New Inductive Study Bible. It is designed to facilitate marking in your text and even describes ways to do it. After several years of studying the Old Testament, I am about to begin in my new Bible with a study of Luke. I can't wait to begin!
For several years, I attempted to read my Bible through each year. I did fairly well each year, but pregnancies, births, lack of sleep, etc... sometimes interrupted and kept me from reading the entire text. I also got to the point where I felt I was reading, but not really digesting the text. I decided I wanted to do a more in depth study.
Several months ago, I read Lord, Teach Me To Study the Bible in 28 Days. It was amazing. I learned to pay attention to the text in ways that I previously had not. I have been studying the Bible since childhood, but approaching the passages using the inductive method helped me to notice things I had never noticed.
So...I decided to order the New Inductive Study Bible. It is designed to facilitate marking in your text and even describes ways to do it. After several years of studying the Old Testament, I am about to begin in my new Bible with a study of Luke. I can't wait to begin!
Wednesday, January 17, 2007
Inter-Library Loan
I recently discovered something great! I was reading a series of books (Chronicles of the Kings, by Lynn Austin), but my library did not have the complete set. I thought I might have to buy a book (oh, no!), but I discovered inter-library loan. If my library does not have a certain book, I just fill out a paper at the circulation desk with the title and author. They request the book from another county, and a librarian calls when it arrives. I realize this may qualify me as a nerd, but I am so excited about this! Check to see if your libary offers this service as well. Happy reading!
For more great Works-for-Me Wednesday ideas, visit Shannon at Rocks in My Dryer!
Labels: Works-for-Me Wednesday
Tuesday, January 16, 2007
Watch Out For My Driving
The smell stench hit me as soon as I opened the car door. At first, I thought there must be either a dirty diaper or a dead animal in the car. I finally concluded that someone had spilled milk somewhere in the car. Milk. It seems innocuous. Unfortunately, that milk has now created an extremely strong odor that we get to drive around with for the next few days! As I mentioned earlier, I am thankful today for my modern conveniences, including my car. However, if you see me driving today, watch out! I am driving with only one hand because the other hand is covering my nose!
Labels: General
The 21st Century
Lately, I have read several books about people living in the mid-to-late 1800s. I have enjoyed reading them. They kind of go along with my childhood obsession with Melissa Gilbert and Little House. Life during pioneer times can sometimes seem idyllic, but lately I have been realizing how tremendously difficult it would have been.
I think I am a 21st century kind of girl. One of my absolute favorite things is a long, hot shower. I am also quite fond of our heating and air conditioning system. Today, I am especially grateful for the antibiotics I am taking to cure me of bronchitis. To think that these conveniences have only been around for a tiny fraction of history is amazing. For thousands of years, people built themselves fires or warmed their own water for a bath, not to mention killing and cooking their own food, sewing their own clothes, building their homes, etc...
Unfortunately, sometimes the people who are the most blessed are the worst when it comes to complaining (I speak of myself). Today, I am going to be thankful for the things I usually take for granted. Our modern conveniences are blessings indeed!
I think I am a 21st century kind of girl. One of my absolute favorite things is a long, hot shower. I am also quite fond of our heating and air conditioning system. Today, I am especially grateful for the antibiotics I am taking to cure me of bronchitis. To think that these conveniences have only been around for a tiny fraction of history is amazing. For thousands of years, people built themselves fires or warmed their own water for a bath, not to mention killing and cooking their own food, sewing their own clothes, building their homes, etc...
Unfortunately, sometimes the people who are the most blessed are the worst when it comes to complaining (I speak of myself). Today, I am going to be thankful for the things I usually take for granted. Our modern conveniences are blessings indeed!
Labels: Life Lessons
Sunday, January 14, 2007
Praying for Papa - Updated
Papa (my dad) will be having surgery in Los Angeles Monday morning because of prostate cancer. We are praying for you Papa!
*Update* My dad is out of surgery. The doctors believe the cancer was contained, and they believe they spared the nerves surrounding his prostate. Thanks for all the prayers!
Labels: Family and Friends
Saturday, January 13, 2007
Breaking All the Rules, Part 2
Just a tip. If you are going to grate Velveeta, it helps for it to be cold. Of course, I didn't know this today when I was trying to make the macaroni and cheese because I had never grated Velveeta. What I ended up with was a mushy mess and cut up fingers. I must have looked desperate because my husband quit watching the Colts/Ravens game to help me out. I guess it wouldn't have been a bad idea to buy those Velveeta Shreds instead of doing it myself. I ended up using some shredded cheddar that I had in the fridge to finish it up more quickly. I guess it is now obvious that I meant what I said about being a Velveeta Shells and Cheese girl. Those silver cheese packets take no time at all!
Even with this wonderful cheese grating lesson, the meal turned out well (it was about 30 minutes later than I planned, but still tasty). No one complained about the paper napkins, and no one was offended by the everyday salt and pepper shaker that I used with the fine china. We enjoyed catching up, seeing how much the kids had grown, and talking about old times. That is the enjoyable part of an evening with friends (and then come the dirty dishes)!
Even with this wonderful cheese grating lesson, the meal turned out well (it was about 30 minutes later than I planned, but still tasty). No one complained about the paper napkins, and no one was offended by the everyday salt and pepper shaker that I used with the fine china. We enjoyed catching up, seeing how much the kids had grown, and talking about old times. That is the enjoyable part of an evening with friends (and then come the dirty dishes)!
Labels: Family and Friends
Breaking All the Rules, Part 1
Tonight we are having company for dinner. My two closest friends from college and their families are coming. We all live in the same area, but we rarely get to see each other. In the ten years since we graduated from college, we have made an effort to have dinner together twice a year.
I have grand plans for a fabulous southern meal. We will be having ham, rolls, green beans, macaroni and cheese, corn casserole, and blackberry cobbler with ice cream. Of course, we will also be having a choice of iced tea or fruit tea to go with our southern meal. The only problem with this plan is that I am breaking the cardinal rule when it comes to cooking for company. I have never cooked a ham, and I have never made this mac-n-cheese recipe (my usual mac-n-cheese is called Velveeta Shells and Cheese, and it comes in a handy box at Kroger). My hope is that it will all turn out fine. Of course, I know the corn casserole will be good. If the other things don't turn out, we will be having really good corn for dinner.
Along with my fine meal, I am planning to use my china for the FIRST TIME since I married almost eleven years ago. However, I ran into a problem. My good tablecloth shrank, and it no longer covers the table. I ran out to buy another tablecloth (which I better get busy ironing), and I realized I do not have cloth napkins. Unfortunately, Target (the perfect place for all your fine dining needs) was out of the napkins to match the tablecloth. Considering the fact that there I have no time to go anywhere else, I will be making Martha Stewart proud by using fancy PAPER napkins with my nice tablecloth and fine china.
Hopefully, since we have all been friends for fourteen years, I won't be written off tonight over the paper napkins. I guess if the napkins are the only thing that goes wrong, I will be doing alright!
I have grand plans for a fabulous southern meal. We will be having ham, rolls, green beans, macaroni and cheese, corn casserole, and blackberry cobbler with ice cream. Of course, we will also be having a choice of iced tea or fruit tea to go with our southern meal. The only problem with this plan is that I am breaking the cardinal rule when it comes to cooking for company. I have never cooked a ham, and I have never made this mac-n-cheese recipe (my usual mac-n-cheese is called Velveeta Shells and Cheese, and it comes in a handy box at Kroger). My hope is that it will all turn out fine. Of course, I know the corn casserole will be good. If the other things don't turn out, we will be having really good corn for dinner.
Along with my fine meal, I am planning to use my china for the FIRST TIME since I married almost eleven years ago. However, I ran into a problem. My good tablecloth shrank, and it no longer covers the table. I ran out to buy another tablecloth (which I better get busy ironing), and I realized I do not have cloth napkins. Unfortunately, Target (the perfect place for all your fine dining needs) was out of the napkins to match the tablecloth. Considering the fact that there I have no time to go anywhere else, I will be making Martha Stewart proud by using fancy PAPER napkins with my nice tablecloth and fine china.
Hopefully, since we have all been friends for fourteen years, I won't be written off tonight over the paper napkins. I guess if the napkins are the only thing that goes wrong, I will be doing alright!
Friday, January 12, 2007
A Blogging Victory!
I DID IT! I actually inserted something into my HTML code without messing up my entire blog and having to start over! For any of you reading this who are experienced bloggers, forgive my excitement. I am HTML illiterate (that would be a kind way to phrase it), and up to this point I have relied on my best friend to help set up my blog and fix all my mistakes. Certainly, inserting the Family Friendly Blogroll code doesn't qualify me as an expert. However, I did it all by myself (now I sound like my two-year-old). Hooray!
SALE!
I am not much of a shopper. My friends will tell you that I could use some new, more stylish things; but I just don't enjoy shopping for clothes. I do, however, enjoy shopping for my kids (maybe that's because I don't have to try on anything). January and July are my favorite shopping months because everything is on clearance. I like to buy my kids' clothes for next year when prices are so low. I got an email from Children's PLACE saying they are having an additional 30% off their sale prices, so the kids and I are making the trip to a local outlet mall today. I am so excited! Hopefully, we will find some good deals!
Labels: General
Thursday, January 11, 2007
First Things First
Last week, I had the idea of mentioning something each Thursday for which I am thankful. I am going to try to mention things that are not the obvious things for which I give thanks daily (family, friends, home, etc...). Today I am thankful for a simple reminder.
Yesterday, I began reading a book called Sacred Parenting by Gary Thomas. The book discusses how raising children gives you experiences that can shape you into a more godly person. In the beginning, the author discusses keeping first things first. He suggests that an easy way to find out if you are keeping first things first is to ask your children what they believe are the most important things in your life. He suggests, "If the gospel doesn't come to mind, they may have picked up that we really care about avoiding embarrassment over their behavior, having a clean house, getting them into the best schools, or having a straight-A report card to boast about in the Christmas letter. " He later states, "How we interact with them truly does reveal what we value most about life."
How sobering! I want my children to see what I value most, but it is often lost in the midst of cleaning, errands, schedules, etc... This happens so often, and many times I don't even realize it. I am thankful for this reminder to keep first things first!
Yesterday, I began reading a book called Sacred Parenting by Gary Thomas. The book discusses how raising children gives you experiences that can shape you into a more godly person. In the beginning, the author discusses keeping first things first. He suggests that an easy way to find out if you are keeping first things first is to ask your children what they believe are the most important things in your life. He suggests, "If the gospel doesn't come to mind, they may have picked up that we really care about avoiding embarrassment over their behavior, having a clean house, getting them into the best schools, or having a straight-A report card to boast about in the Christmas letter. " He later states, "How we interact with them truly does reveal what we value most about life."
How sobering! I want my children to see what I value most, but it is often lost in the midst of cleaning, errands, schedules, etc... This happens so often, and many times I don't even realize it. I am thankful for this reminder to keep first things first!
Labels: Life Lessons
Wednesday, January 10, 2007
Manners Update
If you remember this post, then you know that my best girl needed to work on her table manners. After one meal without a treat, she was back to making normal two-year-old messes instead of deliberate messes. I knew treats would be a powerful motivator!
We now may begin using treats as a motivator in another area. My best girl spends all day asking for Skittles. I am now telling her she has to use the potty to get one. We'll see how it goes. For other potty tales, check this out. Good luck Amberly!
We now may begin using treats as a motivator in another area. My best girl spends all day asking for Skittles. I am now telling her she has to use the potty to get one. We'll see how it goes. For other potty tales, check this out. Good luck Amberly!
Labels: My Best Girl
Tuesday, January 9, 2007
The Future Mr. and Mrs.
On Monday, we had a visitor. It happened to be my favorite boy's "girlfriend." Yes, this is the one he has called his girlfriend since he was 18 months old. Her mom and I have decided to get as many snapshots as possible so we can use them in a slideshow at their rehearsal dinner (both families would be thrilled if we could have an arranged marriage). They were hilarious eating lunch together. It was so cute when she leaned over and said, "Hey! We are eating our sandwich at the same time!" Then they just smiled at each other. Ah, young love!
Labels: My Favorite Boy
Monday, January 8, 2007
Out of the Mouth of My Very Grown Up, Almost Five-Year Old
As we were looking at some of our DVDs today, my favorite boy held up the Wiggles' Toot-Toot and said, "Mom, did I like this when I was a kid?" I just smiled and said, "Yes, honey, you did." I guess he will be heading to the Social Security office for his check pretty soon.
Labels: My Favorite Boy, Small Talk
Book Recommendation
Last week I finished a book called The Prince, by Francine Rivers. It is a novella based on the life of Jonathan, son of King Saul. This book is one in a series called the Sons of Encouragement. I have read the first three, and they have all been excellent. Francine Rivers also has a series of five novellas based on the five named women in the lineage of Christ (Lineage of Grace series). I have read all five, and I recommend them as well. All of these books are fiction, but they are biblically accurate. I found them to be good, entertaining reads; but I learned a great deal as well. The books enabled me to have a better understanding of the cultural influences and life circumstances these men and women faced. Additionally, after each book, I had a great desire to recheck the stories in the Bible. For those of you who enjoy reading as much as I do, I hope you will check these out!
Labels: Books
Sunday, January 7, 2007
Susanna in the Highest!
As it is the first day of the week, we will be heading to worship this morning. "Hosanna" is a song we often sing. The first line is "Hosanna! Hosanna! Hosanna in the highest!" Lately during worship, a young teenager named Susanna has been sitting with us. She loves children, and my best girl is certainly one of Susanna's adoring fans. That leads to the song my confused daughter has been singing all week - "Susanna! Susanna! Susanna in the highest!" I guess she wonders when we will sing a song about her as well!
Labels: My Best Girl
Friday, January 5, 2007
The Eyes of a Child
On Thursday morning, the kids and I had about thirty minutes to fill before the Creative Discovery Museum opened. They decided they wanted to ride the free electric shuttle bus around downtown Chattanooga. Before we stepped onto the bus, the driver and I had the following conversation:
Mom: Could we ride just for fun?
Driver (with a look of irritation): You can ride, but I don't know how much fun it will be.
Mom (cheerfully): Oh, you do not know the fun my two year old and four year old will have just from riding a bus!
Driver: Yeah, whatever. After the first three or four trips it starts to seem a lot like work.
After about ten minutes of the kids being on the bus, the change in the driver was obvious. He was in a better mood, and he even started pointing things out to the kids and making jokes. It reminded me of why I have always liked to be around children so much. It is so much nicer to see the world through the eyes of a child!
Mom: Could we ride just for fun?
Driver (with a look of irritation): You can ride, but I don't know how much fun it will be.
Mom (cheerfully): Oh, you do not know the fun my two year old and four year old will have just from riding a bus!
Driver: Yeah, whatever. After the first three or four trips it starts to seem a lot like work.
After about ten minutes of the kids being on the bus, the change in the driver was obvious. He was in a better mood, and he even started pointing things out to the kids and making jokes. It reminded me of why I have always liked to be around children so much. It is so much nicer to see the world through the eyes of a child!
Labels: Life Lessons
Fun in Chattanooga
What fun! I admit it. I had just as much fun at Rock City as the kids. I hadn't been there since I was a child, and it was a ball. It was about 60 degrees and sunny. We couldn't have asked for a better January day. The kids really enjoyed walking the Enchanted Trail. My favorite boy particularly enjoyed the Fat Man's Squeeze, and my best girl liked the wishing well in the underground caverns. The swinging bridge was even higher than I remembered it, and letting my best girl walk across it was a little nerve racking (the picture does not show the height)!
We also spent a day at the Creative Discovery Museum (my favorite boy's dream location), and we enjoyed dinner and dessert on the town with Dad. As always, just staying in a hotel with an elevator was excitement all by itself. We are home and worn out, but we are thankful for these special trips with Dad!
Labels: Fun
Tuesday, January 2, 2007
It's a Girl!
I am going to have a new neice! My brother Ryan and his wife Rucha called today to let us know that they will be having a baby girl. We are so excited, and we can't wait to meet her. We know Matt will be a wonderful big brother. We are praying that Carly Ann will have a healthy and smooth arrival in May!
Labels: Family and Friends
Don't Let the Sweet Face Fool You!
My best girl has not been very good with her table manners lately. This picture shows her covered with yogurt which she put on her hands and then spread by clapping. "Look, Mommy! I clapped my yogurt!" She was covered with it, and so were the table, blinds, floor, chair, etc... Starting today, the rule is that if food is deliberately put somewhere other than her mouth, she gets no treat. Knowing that she can sense candy from a mile away and that she is constantly asking for some kind of treat, I hope this will be a powerful motivator. We'll see how it goes!
Labels: My Best Girl
Monday, January 1, 2007
A New Year
Today is the beginning of a New Year, but it is an ending for us as well. Dad has been off work for two weeks, and he has to return tomorrow. It will be a great disappointment for my favorite boy and best girl when dad doesn't get to hang around all day. We will get back to our usual routine: heading to the Y, a trip to the library, cleaning, playing, etc... Fortunately for us, we will get a quick break in our routine. We are going with Dad to Chattanooga for the rest of the week. I will share pictures when we return!
Labels: General
Beginning Blogging
Hello family and friends! This is my version of a blog. I hope you will visit to see what is going on in our home. I will try to keep you updated with pictures and stories. The title, "Baseballs and Bows," is in honor of my favorite boy and best girl. Of course, knowing my favorite boy, I probably should have named it "Footballs and Bows," but that did not sound as catchy. I hope you enjoy checking in on us every now and then.
My 2008 Reading List
Labels: Books
My 2007 Reading List
The Prince
My Sister's Keeper
Love Comes Softly
Dear John
The Thirteenth Tale
The Prophet
The Innocent Man
An Untamed Land
Love's Enduring Promise
The Red Tent
A Voice in the Wind
Love's Long Journey
The Church Ladies
Ever After
The Debt
Love's Unending Legacy
The Innocent Man
Forever
Love's Unfolding Dream
The Great Gatsby
Love Takes Wing
The Secret Life of Becky Miller
Thorn in My Heart
Bringing Up Boys
Love Finds a Home
Ordinary Days
Pride and Prejudice
The Double Bind
At Home in Mitford
The Poisonwood Bible
Echo in the Darkness
Chocolate Beach
Nineteen Minutes
The Memory Keeper's Daughter
Beyond Tuesday Morning
1776
Fair Is the Rose
Holy Discontent
As Sure as the Dawn
Straight Up
Sense and Sensibility
In Search of Eden
Letters for Emily
Whence Came a Prince
Emma
Sunrise
Summer
The Kite Runner
The Scribe
Peace Like a River
A Valley of Betrayal
The Choice
Austenland
A Proper Pursuit
Northanger Abbey
The Parting
Same Kind of Different as Me
Bad Girls of the Bible
Songs of the Humpback Whale
A Shadow of Treason
A Woman's Place
The Excellent Wife
Erec Rex: The Dragon's Eye
Everything's Coming Up Josey
Chill Out, Josey!
The Five Love Languages
The Five Love Languages of Children
Uncharted
Where Mercy Flows
Erec Rex: The Monsters of Otherness
The Note
My Sister's Keeper
Love Comes Softly
Dear John
The Thirteenth Tale
The Prophet
The Innocent Man
An Untamed Land
Love's Enduring Promise
The Red Tent
A Voice in the Wind
Love's Long Journey
The Church Ladies
Ever After
The Debt
Love's Unending Legacy
The Innocent Man
Forever
Love's Unfolding Dream
The Great Gatsby
Love Takes Wing
The Secret Life of Becky Miller
Thorn in My Heart
Bringing Up Boys
Love Finds a Home
Ordinary Days
Pride and Prejudice
The Double Bind
At Home in Mitford
The Poisonwood Bible
Echo in the Darkness
Chocolate Beach
Nineteen Minutes
The Memory Keeper's Daughter
Beyond Tuesday Morning
1776
Fair Is the Rose
Holy Discontent
As Sure as the Dawn
Straight Up
Sense and Sensibility
In Search of Eden
Letters for Emily
Whence Came a Prince
Emma
Sunrise
Summer
The Kite Runner
The Scribe
Peace Like a River
A Valley of Betrayal
The Choice
Austenland
A Proper Pursuit
Northanger Abbey
The Parting
Same Kind of Different as Me
Bad Girls of the Bible
Songs of the Humpback Whale
A Shadow of Treason
A Woman's Place
The Excellent Wife
Erec Rex: The Dragon's Eye
Everything's Coming Up Josey
Chill Out, Josey!
The Five Love Languages
The Five Love Languages of Children
Uncharted
Where Mercy Flows
Erec Rex: The Monsters of Otherness
The Note
Labels: Books
Toys for Bigger Kids (5+)
My Favorite Boy loves games. These are some of his favorites.
Rush Hour, Jr.
Rat-a-Tat Cat
Apples to Apples, Jr.
Uno
Skip-Bo
Blokus
Monopoly, Jr.
Balloon Lagoon
Trouble
Sudoku for Kids
Guess Who
Blink
Phase 10
Hyper Dash
Rush Hour, Jr.
Rat-a-Tat Cat
Apples to Apples, Jr.
Uno
Skip-Bo
Blokus
Monopoly, Jr.
Balloon Lagoon
Trouble
Sudoku for Kids
Guess Who
Blink
Phase 10
Hyper Dash
Labels: Games
Biblical Books
Here are some of our most precious books. They teach us more about the most wonderful book and author of all!
Adam, Adam, What Do You See? (review)
God' s Wisdom for Little Boys (review)
God's Wisdom for Little Girls
The Big Picture Story Bible
The Jesus Storybook Bible
The Rhyme Bible Storybook
The Rhyme Bible Storybook for Toddlers
How Did Bible Heroes Pray?
Adam, Adam, What Do You See? (review)
God' s Wisdom for Little Boys (review)
God's Wisdom for Little Girls
The Big Picture Story Bible
The Jesus Storybook Bible
The Rhyme Bible Storybook
The Rhyme Bible Storybook for Toddlers
How Did Bible Heroes Pray?
Labels: Children's Books
Toys for Preschoolers (Ages 2-5)
Fisher Price Musical Tea Set
Melissa and Doug Cutting Food
Melissa and Doug Puzzles
Cariboo
Hullabaloo
Tricycle
Power Wheels
Wagon
Kitchen
Leapster
Cariboo
Grow-to-Pro Basketball
Tent and Tunnel
Candy Land Castle
Melissa and Doug Cutting Food
Melissa and Doug Puzzles
Cariboo
Hullabaloo
Tricycle
Power Wheels
Wagon
Kitchen
Leapster
Cariboo
Grow-to-Pro Basketball
Tent and Tunnel
Candy Land Castle
Labels: Games
Toys for Babies/Toddlers
These are some games for babies and toddlers that my children loved.
Laugh and Learn: Learning Home
Laugh and Learn: Pots-n-Pans
Alphabet Pal
Touch and Feel: Noah's Ark (we bought extra animals to go with this)
Little People: Sweet Sounds Home
Fridge Phonics Magnetic Letter Set
Fridge Farm Magnetic Animal Set
Laugh and Learn: Learning Home
Laugh and Learn: Pots-n-Pans
Alphabet Pal
Touch and Feel: Noah's Ark (we bought extra animals to go with this)
Little People: Sweet Sounds Home
Fridge Phonics Magnetic Letter Set
Fridge Farm Magnetic Animal Set
Labels: Games
Good Chapter Books to Read Aloud
Please note: I suggest these as read-alouds, but understand that I edited some of them for language or attitude as I read to my son.
My Father's Dragon Trilogy (excellent for a first chapter book read-aloud; brief chapters)
Ramona the Pest
Charlotte's Web
The Wizard of Oz
James and the Giant Peach (edited this one heavily)
Toys Go Out
All About Sam
My Father's Dragon Trilogy (excellent for a first chapter book read-aloud; brief chapters)
Ramona the Pest
Charlotte's Web
The Wizard of Oz
James and the Giant Peach (edited this one heavily)
Toys Go Out
All About Sam
Labels: Children's Books
Transitional Books
These are books my son has enjoyed. He is not yet reading long chapter books, but he enjoys these transitional chapter books with lots of illustrations and less text per page.
Henry and Mudge Books
Magic School Bus Books
Nate the Great Books
Young Cam Jansen Books
Frog and Toad Books
Mr. Putter and Tabby Books
Oliver Pig Books
Stuart Murphy Math Books
Henry and Mudge Books
Magic School Bus Books
Nate the Great Books
Young Cam Jansen Books
Frog and Toad Books
Mr. Putter and Tabby Books
Oliver Pig Books
Stuart Murphy Math Books
Labels: Children's Books
Picture Books
This is a list of some of our favorite picture books. We never tire of these!
Llama, Llama Red Pajama
The Hungry Caterpillar
Five Little Ladybugs
The Little Engine that Could
It Looked Like Spilt Milk
If You Give a Moose a Muffin
Little Critter Books
There's Something in My Attic
There's an Alligator Under My Bed
There's a Nightmare in My Closet
Chicka Chicka Boom Boom
Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You See?
Three Billy Goats Gruff
Where's Spot?
Drummer Hoff
Llama, Llama Red Pajama
The Hungry Caterpillar
Five Little Ladybugs
The Little Engine that Could
It Looked Like Spilt Milk
If You Give a Moose a Muffin
Little Critter Books
There's Something in My Attic
There's an Alligator Under My Bed
There's a Nightmare in My Closet
Chicka Chicka Boom Boom
Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You See?
Three Billy Goats Gruff
Where's Spot?
Drummer Hoff
Labels: Children's Books
Board Books
These are board books we enjoy time and time again. Some of these are available in standard book form as well.
Karen Katz Books
Dr. Suess' ABC Book
Goodnight Moon
Mrs. Wishy-Washy
Tails
I Love My Mommy Because...
I Love My Daddy Because...
Mr. Brown Can Moo, Can You?
Silly Sally
Bright Baby: First Words
One More Bunny
The Napping House
Karen Katz Books
Dr. Suess' ABC Book
Goodnight Moon
Mrs. Wishy-Washy
Tails
I Love My Mommy Because...
I Love My Daddy Because...
Mr. Brown Can Moo, Can You?
Silly Sally
Bright Baby: First Words
One More Bunny
The Napping House
Labels: Children's Books
