Tip Tuesday: Yikes! Where does this Fork go?

I think when you have kids, your manners go out the door. I know why Judah stuffs his mouth full of food, because he sees me do it when I am trying to shove down bites between his. Even if you try to have some form of manners, you still end up with food on the floor.

With the Holidays inching closer, it is time to dig out my recipes for Christmas dinner with the family (yeah, right?). This would also be a good time to review table settings and manners before that day actually gets here, especially since our typical meals are very informal and often messy. I have a whole month to practice.

Thankfully, I have had the opportunity to help chaperon my husbands' annual etiquette class presented by Tero International for his teen students a number of times. You would think I would learn by now, but I still seem to lick my fingers, share food with my kid, stuff my mouth, slouch, and shred my napkin while managing to spill food on myself. Yikes, what a nightmare!

According to Tero International, a company that specializes in interpersonal skills training, here are some DO'S and DON'TS from their etiquette tip book you need to remember when dining.

1. Do try a little of everything served to you unless you know you are allergic to a certain food.
2. Do avoid talking with your mouth full. Take small bites, and you'll find its easier to answer questions or join in table talk.
3. Do wait until you have swallowed the food in your mouth before you take a sip of beverage.
4. Do take a quick sip of water if a bite of food is too hot.
5. Do remember solids (food) are always on your left, liquids (beverages) are on your right.
6. Do leave your plate where it is when you have finished eating, with the knife and fork in the 10:20 I am Finished position. Place the tips of the utensils at ten and the handles at four.
7. Do look into, not over, the cup or glass when drinking.
8. Do butter your bread on the plate, never in midair.
9. Do remember your posture at the table. Sit up straight, and keep your arms (including elbows) off the tables.
10. Do leave dropped silver on the floor. Quietly signal the wait staff to bring another piece.
11. Do point out to your staff stones, bugs, or hair in your food, but do so in a non-combative manner. You'll get a replacement immediately.
12. Do remember an object such as a bone or gristle from your mouth with your thumb and index finger and place it on the rim of your plate.
13. Don't, in serving, overload your plate.
14. Don't, in eating, overload your fork.
15. Don't mop your face with your napkin.
16. Don't spread your elbows when cutting meat. Keep them close to your sides when eating.
17. Don't chew with your mouth open.
18. Don't smack your lips.
19. Don't touch your face or head at the table.
20. Don't tip up the glass or cup too much when drinking, but keep it at a slight angle.
21. Don't reach across another person to get something. If it's out of reach, ask the closest person to pass it to you.
22. Don't pick your teeth at the table, either with a toothpick or with your fingers. If something gets caught in your teeth, excuse yourself and take care of the problem in the privacy of the restroom.
23. Don't push your plate away from you when you've finished eating.
24. Don't gesture with your knife, fork, or spoon in your hand. If you're not using the utensil, put it down.
25. Don't talk about your personal food likes or dislikes while eating.
26. Don't eat your neighbor's bread or salad. A right-handed person reaches to the left across the dinner plate to eat salad. The bread and butter plate is placed slightly above the salad plate.
    

If you are still curious about where that fork goes, remember forks go on the right and knives followed by spoons are placed on the left of the plate. For a simple meal, the salad fork is outside the dinner fork and the spoon is outside the knife. For a formal table setting, moving from left to right with the plate in between you have the fish fork, dinner fork, the salad fork, salad knife, dinner knife, fish knife, soup spoon, and cocktail fork. Dessert fork and spoon go above the plate with the bread knife laid horizontally on the bread plate. Drinks are always on the left starting with the water goblet, champagne flute, white wine glass, red wine glass and sherry glass.

Here are a few other tips I remember from the class that I learned. When eating soup, spoon it away from you. Break a piece of bread off at a time to eat and butter it with the butter on your plate. It is proper to eat both American or Continental style as long as you stay consistent. Your waiter will serve you from the right and clean up from the left.

Sounds like I need to practice. I still think there are times with a kid that you need to break the rules to push your plate away so he does not throw it across the room. This should not keep me from starting with elbows off the table, sitting still, and no singing. I could stand to utilize these tips and even try to teach my son as he grows older. At the least, perhaps we can manage to make through the Holiday dinners without throwing food.

Good luck and remember, "Mable, Mable, elbows off the table!"

Make Monday: Using those leftover Big Boxes!

As Christmas nears, think again before you start throwing out those big boxes from the gifts and toys. Instead save those big boxes that once housed your new television, toy set, or even a piece of new furniture. Then on a cold, snowy day later in January when you have to be indoors, pull them out for some fun with the kids.

A box you say? I like to think of it more as a fort to hide, a tunnel to crawl through, a parking garage for your bike, basketball hoop, a boat or submarine, puppet show stage, and much more. The possibilities are endless.

In fact that is what we did one day. When we went over to the neighbors one afternoon, the kids found a large, shipping box. The neighbor gal had cut out a few windows and doors, using twine tied to open and close them. The kids then took their markers and sat inside and colored to their hearts content drawing household items. My friend then had some fabric and hung it like curtains for the window.



When I got back home myself, I found a large box out in the garage ready for recycling. I brought it inside instead for my own toddler son who had just as much fun sitting inside and coloring on the walls as the older neighbor kids. Then we opened it up and crawled through it like a tunnel, draping a blanket over it for doors. The next day, we used it for a basket to catch the balls as we threw them into the hoop. And the next day after that, we colored some more. What fun!



Why with a big box, imagination and creativity are the only things required. The rest is up to you. For results, you will have happy kids and hours of needed entertainment. And for storage, you can fold it up and slip it behind the couch when done. So start building your fort, driving through a tunnel, or putting on a puppet show today!

Salvation Sunday: Our Son's Baptism

Our third son was baptised last Sunday. All of our children have been baptised in the Church we were married in, where I was baptised, had my first communion...etc.

We feel it would be best, for the records, to keep them all at the same place. Our boys have all worn the same baptismal outfit and we always have a reception afterwards at my parents' house. My husband's sister and my brother are the Godparents, for all three of our boys.

Before our oldest was born, the Church required we take a course before he could be baptised. We took the 6 (or 8) week class and did all of the homework. No kidding. The nun teaching the class assigned us homework. After our second son, we were not required to do any additional studies but after our third, we were asked to watch two videos. In viewing them, I realized I was able to finish the nun's stories. I had seen these videos before, 5 years before to be exact.

Baptism is important to me and my husband. We knew we wanted our children baptised shortly after birth, as Catholics, we wanted our children to receive the first Sacrament as soon as possible. We feel that starting their spiritual life as soon as we can is vital.

                                        He is such a good baby...didn't fuss at all.

                                          Praying over Brendan.

                                          Proud Parents and Blessed Baby.


Luke 18:15–16 tells us that "they were bringing even infants" to Jesus; and he himself related this to the kingdom of God: "Let the children come to me . . . for to such belongs the kingdom of God."

Shuffle Saturday: Going Somewhere?

Recently, we took a trip to visit Great Grandma for a week. After a twelve hour drive and 600 plus miles later, I realized I forgot to take care of something at home.

At my house, packing for a long trip practically means turning your house upside down with washing laundry, doing last minute errands, packing suitcases, and endless worrying that you did not forget anything. These things can consume your brain so much that you find yourself on the road, thinking about all that is left undone.

I used to clean my house before I went, making sure everything was fresh and picked-up including new sheets and vacuuming. Then after one weekend, I came home to find the cat had pulled down our books off the bottom book shelf and started tearing out pieces of pages since we forgot to put enough food out. Luckily, he had enough water! That is when I decided why add the stress of cleaning beforehand when you come home and probably will find the house messy anyways. If it is not dusty or dirty again when you get home, it will be by the time you unload and dump everything as soon as you walk into the door.

I did put together a list of things that still need to be done though before we left home for an extended amount of time. Notice that this list contains things that pertain to smell, our pet, and taking care of the house in general.

• Clean out old food of fridge; finish eating leftovers.
• Take out trash and recycling.
• Empty your sinks of dirty dishes and wash last load in dishwasher on way out.
• Provide access with key to person checking on pet.
• Leave extra food and water for pet.
• Turn off water to clothes washer.
• Turn down heat or air conditioning.
• Cover couches with tarp.
• Water plants.
• Clothes doors to rooms.
• Cancel newspaper for duration of trip.

So as you travel for the Holiday season, put together your own list of things that need to be done around the house before you leave. However, limit your stress about overall cleaning of the house. Chances are you will clean it again anyways when you get home.

Food Friday, Leftover Turkey with Noodles!

While you are out purchasing your Thanksgiving grocery list, make sure to pick up a some frozen egg noodles. By Friday, you will not feel like doing any more cooking and you will want something more than a cold, turkey sandwich, especially if you attempted to go out for "Black Friday." Then you think to yourself, "Oh yeah! we are going to have turkey and noodles" as you get the bag out of the freezer.

This process actually starts when you cook that big bird for Thanksgiving dinner. For a small bird, I like to put it into the crock pot while a big bird bakes nicely in the oven in a pan. You will need the following: turkey, onion, celery, salt, pepper, and butter. To fix your turkey, thaw it in the fridge 2-3 days earlier sitting on a cookie sheet. Take it out of the fridge and standing over the sink, unwrap it. Clean out the insides and rinse off both the inside and outside. Put sliced celery and onion pieces inside with a couple of tablespoons of butter. Set aside and wash hands well. Plug in the crock pot to high or turn on the oven to 350 degrees. For the oven, take a clear cooking bag and flour it with a tablespoon of flour, shaking it around in the bag to coat it with a layer of flour. Next, slide in the bird in the bag and place it in the pan. Before tying the bag, place the remaining celery, onion, and butter around and on top of the bird. Do this also for the crock pot turkey as well. Add salt and pepper. Let the bird cook. From my experience, I usually cook the bird until the top glows with a golden color, ranging a few hours depending on size of the bird and temperature of the heat.

After the turkey has been carved and eaten for dinner, I put the leftovers in freezer bags in portions suitable for our family meals. I divide the turkey broth from the pot or bag into clear freezer containers. I then take my stock pot and boil the remaining carcass and meat with water for additional broth. Once strained, I divide up the remaining broth into containers and swift through the cooled meat with my hands looking for pieces of bone, cartilage, and vegetables to remove. What you have leftover is small, shredded pieces of meat, enough for meals like turkey and noodles.

I will date these bags and containers, putting them into the freezer. The rest I put in the fridge for dinner on Friday. I take a container of broth and mix it with a can of chicken broth (for the added salt and to make my supply go further). As it heats up on the stove, I add in the turkey pieces bringing it to a boil. I then mix in the noodles and cook it on medium heat until the noodles are nice and tender. I may add some celery salt, onion salt, and pepper for additional flavor. In the meantime, I have peeled and sliced some potatoes to make mashed potatoes and snapped some beans for steamed green beans.

It is nice to have a simple meal after all your hard work making a large one. And yet this meal will still amaze your guests, tease their taste buds with savory bites, and warmly fill their bellies after all that shopping.

Thankful Thursday: What We're Thankful for This Year!

Psalm 118:1   Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; his love endures forever.

Even though it should be Toy Thursday, we thought it would be fun to have a "Thankful Thursday" for Thanksgiving.

Here are the top ten (four each and two together) things we're thankful for:

Sarah is thankful for:

1. A healthy baby boy this year. At this time last year, I had no idea I was even pregnant. I didn't find out until December and had a healthy baby in July! He's happy and healthy. I'm so thankful.

2. Making the decision with my husband for me to stay at home with our boys. I've always wanted to be an at home mom and writer, but never thought it would be possible. With my husband's support and hard work outside of the home as well as a few blessings of writing work, we're making it and I'm loving it.

3.Family and Friends. Our family (my husband's and mine) are always willing to help us out, whether it be with watching the boys so I can have a break (or a nap) or new tires or homemade food so I don't have to scramble to make a nice meal when my husband works late. Our friends were so great when our son was born, visiting me in the hospital, cooking meals, giving gifts.

4. My ever evolving relationship with God. My faith has been tested a few times this past year, but I always find my way back to Him and end up being stronger because of it.

Emma is thankful for:

5. I am thankful for our health. With several surgeries over the last year and a half, you realize how short and precious life really is. So I am thankful to have this day to spend with my family.

6. All you have to do is look around the world to see poverty and huger. We seem so rich in comparison even with our meager belongings and humble home. I am thankful for the roof over our head, that we know no hunger or cold, and that we have work this year.

7. I am thankful for my family and friends. Amidst all the whining and crying, I really enjoy those special times with my son whether cuddling or reading books. Then on top of that I am happily married to a wonderful husband who works hard day after day to provide and care for his family.

8. Perhaps what I am most thankful for is God and my relationship with Him. Not only can I come to Him with my burdens each day, but He continues to help me each step of the way through my journey here on earth. I am in awe of Him, his power, and his continuity. He always supplies me with just enough strength and grace to get through the day. And when I do fail, He forgives me again and picks me back up.

We're thankful for:

9. Good friends, fun playdates, and projects. We're thankful we have another project to work on together and thankful we get to spend a few hours together every week for our fun playdates to keep our mom sanity.

10. Our loyal readers. Without you, we'd just be blabbing to no one. So thank you for helping us while we hope we help you. We are blessed to have a country that allows us all to participate in something like this.

1 Thessalonians 5:18   give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.

Take a few minutes to reflect on what you are thankful for this year. In the meantime, from our families to yours, may you have a blessed Thanksgiving!

Wash Wednesday: The Holiday Septic Tank Shock

You may feel a little overstuffed from the holidays, but imagine how your sink feels. You've crammed items down the sink all week. Prepping, cooking and then cleaning. Think before you garbage dispose it.

Statistics show that there are more plumber calls the day after Thanksgiving than any other day of the year. I know this all too well in the time I worked at American Home Shield. And it's not just the kitchen sink. Dishwashers back up and, if you think about it, you've had more visitors in your home than normal. More visitors equal more toilet flushes. The sink, the dishwasher, the toilet...all of this can be a perfect storm for septic pipes and tanks. I know, it's not what you want to think about while cooking, but it could save you a lot of money in the long run.

Scrape your plates into the garbage and rinse them before putting them in the dishwasher. You may have a garbage disposal, but  be sure to use it properly.

Your garbage disposal is not a trash can. It's for small food pieces that may not go down your pipes. Never put rice, pasta or bones in your disposal. If you find it is not coming on, there is a reset button under the bottom of the disposal. Push it and see if that works.



ALWAYS run water before, during and after running the disposal. This is necessary for it to work properly. And keep your disposal clean. I put egg shells in my disposal to clean it. I also like to use Plink in my system. I have found these at Bed, Bath and Beyond. They clean the disposal and make the kitchen smell great.

As far as the restrooms go, please inform your family and guests that only toilet paper and bodily fluids should be flushed. No paper towels, no feminine products and no diapers. The last thing you need is a clogged potty.

Good luck and have fun. Just think twice before putting something down the pipes.

Tip Tuesday: Making Your Holiday Dollar Stretch

The holidays can be a difficult time. We're stretched thin for time AND money. Buying gifts, buying food, buying decorations...it can all be a little overwhelming. Here's a few easy and quick tips that will help you mange time, find the better deals and save a little money.

Do your research. Price check and compare. Some stores will offer a price adjustment if you purchase something and still have the receipt.

Clip coupons. It may seem time consuming but is worth it. I like to make a game out of it. I try to save more each time I go shopping. Now, be careful that you only buy products that you'd normally buy. Don't buy something you'll  never use just because you have a $1.00 off coupon.

Get a twitter account. Tweets are easy and quick to read. Quite often, they have good links to amazing deals. A few of the folks I follow are @mommysavers and @retailmenot. Mommysavers is also a blog that you can read if you don't want to open a twitter account. You can see it at www.mommysavers.com.

Follow www.woot.com. There are some great  deals on that website. One deal, one day.

Trust your instinct. If it's too good to be true, it probably is. Go with your gut. You're a mom. You've got that instinct now.

Get creative with the leftovers. We'll be profiling good leftover meals in the next few weeks.

Make Monday: Cute Turkey Centerpieces

Need a cute centerpiece for Thanksgiving? Here's an idea for a project for kids that will keep them busy while you're basting, chopping and baking. Make sure you handle the hot glue first and let them decorate!

Supplies:
1 bottle cap from a pop bottle
whole walnut in shell
hazelnut (filbert) in shell
silk leaf
Sharpie marker
scraps of yellow and red felt

Hot glue the walnut to the pop bottle. Glue the hazelnut on top for the head, cut a wattle and beak as shown in the picture. Glue the leaf on the back for the tail. Using the marker, make eyes for the Turkey.

Salvation Sunday: Recharging Your Spirit

I notice, quite often, that spirituality can be like a battery. And just like a battery, it needs recharging. When I was a kid, our Church was on my walk home from school. At times when I felt my spirit was low, I would often stop in the Church and say a prayer or two. It made me feel like my spirit battery was recharged. I'm finding that it seems to be a little bit harder to charge my spirit. Maybe it's the daily pressures and stresses that I, as an adult, now face. Whatever it may be, by spirit battery still needs charging. The last thing I want is for it to go to empty.

This weekend we travelled back to my hometown for my son's baptism. We are having all of our children baptised at the same Church I was baptised at and where we were married. Makes for easier record keeping.

On Saturday my Parents suggested we go to Mass at St. Patrick's on Cedar, a Church out in the middle of the country. I was excited.  I love that Church. It's old (as in has no bathrooms it's so old), it's in the middle of the country and it has history. I needed a recharge of my Spirit, as I was feeling a bit low.

I find that going back to my roots helps to ground me. Maybe that's why it helps to recharge my spiritual battery. St. Patrick's is an Irish Catholic Church, located at the intersection of gravel road and gravel road, surrounded by acres of farmland. It has a small cemetery on the grounds behind the Church. My Great-Great Grandfather Mike Gormally is buried there.

To me, nothing grounds me more and recharges my spirit than Catholic Mass at an old Church next to a farm field. My roots. I am from a family of Iowa farmers. No matter how long I live in the city, the fresh country air and dark black Iowa soil is my home.


I snapped this picture on our way in to Church. St. Patrick's Catholic Church, Cedar. My Spirit Charger.

Shuffle Saturday: A Book for a Conservative Family (with Children)

I recently purchased and read "Help! Mom! Hollywood's in My Hamper" a book by Katherine DeBrecht. While it's not a great read for my toddler, my preschooler liked it and understood the message from it. You don't HAVE to follow what Hollywood and the Stars wear, say and believe. Just because they are Stars doesn't mean that they are an "EXPERT" as they claim to be.

The story opens with two sisters wanting to save money for a bike. Just then Daisy Smears (you see where this is going) pops out of the hamper and convinces the girls to spend all of their money on a silly old flower pot hat. One of the girls claim their mother has old flowerpots in the garage but Daisy Smears informs them they have to have a specific flower pot, as it is "All the rage". She takes all of the girls money and gives them flower pots to wear.

Needing more money for the bike, they babysit. After returning from the job, Rayonna tells the girls to buy her special Rayonna pants, Onion perfume "It's OR-GAN-IC", that they need to "strike a pose" in their new clothes. They told her they couldn't wear them to church and she informed them of "Toenailology" and that "smelling your feet unlocks all of the secrets of the universe". Yeah, you know who she's talking about now.

Once again, the girls are out of  money and have to babysit. Upon their return, the final Star pops out of their hamper. Barbara Buttersand is a "funny girl" and tries to convince  the girls that their parents have to vote for someone who doesn't have values. Besides, she's a star and knows everything.

This book, while amusing and does have a point, really doesn't seem like a book for little ones. My preschooler enjoys it, but it doesn't move fast enough for my toddler. I enjoyed this book myself. I realized who the author was talking about and found it rather amusing. You might too! The author also includes a biography of each star she mentions so you can get a better idea of who she is talking about. It's a cute and clever book that has a message.

Food Friday: AMAZING Pork Loin--from a Mishmosh of Ingredients

When I cook and get a little experimental, it can go one of two ways. Either it's really really REALLY good, or we end up ordering pizza.

I had purchased a LARGE pork loin on sale and had so much, I cut it into thirds. I made 1/3 of it into apple butter pork tenderloins for dinner over the weekend.

Wanting to try something new and different, I thought I'd try a stuffed pork loin. I took out one remaining piece of the 1/3 of the pork. I cut it on the bottom third and flipped it out, then on the bottom again, and folded it out, I did it one more time and ended up with a long, flat pork loin.

I took cinnamon raisin bread and soaked it in apple juice. I mixed in a little apple butter and nutmeg. After mixing it all together, I spread the mixture on the pork. I rolled the loin up (like a cinnamon roll) and placed it in the glass baking dish seam side down, in about a cup of apple juice.

After baking covered with foil for 1 hour at 350 degrees, I had crushed fresh pomegranate seeds and poured the juice over the loin. I baked it for another 30 minutes. After taking it out of the oven, I let it sit for 15 minutes before cutting it. It was so juicy, sweet and tender.

Notice all of the juice from the apple juice, apple butter, pomegranate and the pork. The pomegranate juice made the top of the loin brown nicely.

I forgot to take a picture of what it looked like on the inside until we were halfway through eating. I'm kind of embarrassed to say that the four of us put it all down. It was that good. Liam said he was in a "yummy pork raisin, apple, heaven." He asked for it again the next night. I think this dish goes in the "repeat" list.

Here's what it looks like cut. You can see the cinnamon roll look of the apple butter/cinnamon raisin bread mixture in the middle.

Yum.

Toy Thursday: My Love/Hate Relationship with McDonald's Toys

McDonalds Toys. I love them and I hate them. Well, I don't hate them. We don't use the word hate in our house. Just like we don't use the word Democrat in our house, but that's for another post.

I am convinced that at night, McDonald's toys mate and multiply. It seems they are everywhere. And when the kids go out with Grandma and Grandpa, they always bring more home.

Don't get me wrong, I'm not blaming Grandma and Grandpa for ALL of the toys. It is partially my fault. See, on Wednesdays, they have Happy Meals at a discounted price. Wednesday is also known as "Happy Meal Wednesday" in our house. Because my 4 year old can put down 8 nuggets, and my 18 month old can eat at least 4, I end up having to buy 3 meals. Sometimes I buy four meals and then a 1.00 sandwich for myself. We share all of the fries, they eat their nuggets (and I eat a few too) and this way, I rarely have to buy chocolate milk because I have four little jugs of chocolate milk in the fridge. 

But it comes with all of the toys. Oh the toys. These are just a few of what I was able to grab quickly out of my son's room.

While they're cheap and the kids seem to love them, they're everywhere. Which is why I have this relationship with the toys.

Wash Wednesday: Cleaning out the Medicine Cabinet!

The other day I had to run errands. Among them, I had to pick up a prescription at the pharmacy. Knowing this ahead of time, I decided to bag up all the old, remaining prescription bottles out of my cupboard to finally satisfy my knowledge of the truth of the proper way to dispose of them.

So bundled up with coats, hats, and my purse crammed of half-used prescriptions (from three surgeries and endless amount of colds over the last year), Judah and I went into the local grocery store right for the pharmacy. Needless to say, I felt like the world's worst druggie! Of course, this just had to be the day it was busy with a line of people and so we waited. Judah waved to the old gentleman (way to score us points Judah). Finally, our turn came. I sat Judah on the counter holding him and gave my name to pick-up the new prescription. Looking around, I then leaned forward and slowly took out the bag of bottles. With a low voice, I asked the clerk about returning used prescriptions.

It was not long before I got my answer. And I think everyone else did too. Once, I did though, I was glad to finally quench my interest in the prescription disposal debate, at least for now. The pharmacist came over, looked at each individual bottle (since I had a bagful), and took a few with her. With a smile, she gave me back the rest giving me the long-awaited answer.

While she took general prescriptions like nausea medicine, she did give me back liquids over 4 ounces and controlled substances like pain killers. Most pharmacies will take back some of your prescriptions but not all. Check with your community though as most communities will have a prescription drop-off a couple of times a year. It just happened that our community was having such an event that weekend.

At least I left the grocery store with only a few bottles left. I did learn though that if, IF, you have to throw prescriptions away, DO NOT flush them down the toilet. The pharmacist recommended instead of mixing the remaining prescriptions in cat litter or sand before throwing away. The answer I always wondered about.

I feel relieved that I know how to properly dispose of prescriptions. With all our medical problems this year, it seemed like we had a stock pile. This is not something I want with a curious toddler running around even if I do have them locked away.

Remember to keep the cabinet locked unless you are cleaning it out. Properly dispose of medicines whether taking it to your pharmacy or a designated community drop-off. Here is my next question: did you know that you are not supposed to store your prescriptions in a bathroom cabinet because the steam build-up from showers or baths can create an environment too warm to store the medicines?

Tip Tuesday--Black Friday Countdown and Tips

10 Days and Counting....

I enjoy saving money. I almost turn it into a game. All year, I stock up on the "free gift card" deals. You know, the buy two boxes of diapers and get a $10 gift card? I always have coupons for diapers, so I'm getting the things I need at a deal price and then I tuck the cards away and treat myself to a little Black Friday spending spree...mostly getting toys and clothes for the kids for Christmas.

Even though I am one of those crazy people who gets up at 2 AM (or doesn't even go to bed the night before), I enjoy it. No one cares if you're wearing makeup, if your hair looks good or even that you're in your sweats. I find it's a fun "mommy time" for me. I usually treat myself to a Starbucks to energize me and off I go.

But there's always a game plan. I watch Black Friday Info and  Black Friday Net almost all year round, since the deals they post are not just for black Friday. I spend Thanksgiving with the in laws and while they watch a movie, I'm usually scouring over the ads and making a plan. It's fun!
 
Here are a few tips to make your Black Friday shopping a fun and successful time.

1. Make a game plan. Know what times stores open and make a "route plan" according to that. Hit the earlier stores when they open, and if there's only one item you want at a particular store, hold off. Get the majority of what you want first. That way you get the deals you planned on and really want.

2. Make a list. AND KEEP TO THE LIST. I know it may be tempting to grab items you didn't plan on buying, but you're setting yourself up for buyer's remorse (and bank account shock).

3. STICK to your budget. If you've budgeted $300 for gifts, stay under $300.

4. Don't get sucked in by the "deals".  Many stores are offering a $10 gift card when you spend $100.  Think to yourself, was I planning on spending $100 at that store? If not, why shop there. If you can get $100 worth of items for $70, shop at the other store. It's all about comparing prices and shopping around.

5. Be comfortable. Wear your sweats. No one cares. Everyone looks like a walking zombie the day after Thanksgiving. It might also be helpful to take band aids in your purse. Yes, band aids. People get a little crazy with the carts and occasionally bump you in the heels.

6. Rest up the remainder of the day. You've exerted a lot of energy in the hours you're usually asleep. You've come in contact with a lot of people and a lot of germs. The last thing you need/want is to be sick. When you get home in the mid-morning/late afternoon, take a nap.

Enjoy your Black Friday shopping, and if you see me out there, wave "Hello"!

Make Monday: A Chore Chart

When our youngest was born, I was able to convince our oldest (4) to follow a chore chart. I wrote "Make Bed, Clean Room, Pick up Toys, Other Requests From Mom and Dad" and informed him that each time he followed our request, he'd get a sticker.

In order to "earn" a reward, he had to have a certain number of stickers. Lately, he's been wanting specific treats and the chore chart was losing its luster. We created a "Path to Megamind", as he's been wanting to see that movie. I started with a stick figure of him and at the end of the "path" is Megamind! Each time he does something we ask (or something good without being asked) he gets a sticker.

The path seems to be working very well. Hopefully, if he continues to be good, he'll be able to go to the movie with daddy. Some may call it bribing, but we believe it is an important way to learn the concept of earning something.

Hopefully it will work for you!

Salvation Sunday: The Rebekah Principal.

Have you ever taken an old puzzle out of the box and put it together only to find a few pieces missing? How frustrating it can be when we do not see the whole picture, maybe even a master piece or perhaps a picture of scenery. The picture seems distorted when you have blank spots left. You search and search for the missing pieces, trying to find them and finish the puzzle.

The puzzle is like your life. God sees the whole picture of our life; we can only see bits and pieces at a time. The picture is incomplete without all the pieces but once the puzzle is completed, it is the picture of a beautiful scene. Similarly, a painter or creator understands the picture's design from the very beginning. At the right timing, they will paint a stroke there or place a piece here making it fit better than we even imagined or dreamed. What is left is a diamond molded by the fire or a vase created by the potter at the potter's wheel.

In Genesis 24, we read about Rebekah meeting the servant of Abraham in his pursuit to find Isaac a husband. Clearly, Rebekah did not understand how the pieces of her life fit together. She could only see a piece at a time. How then did she have so much faith in leaving with the servant to marry Isaac?

Both Rebekah and the servant understood that faith meant God will provide a way, perhaps His time and circumstances, but it is still a way. The servant knew he was not alone as God sent His angel. The Bible talks about God preparing the way for us and never forsaking us. The servant also prayed, talking to God about the situation laying down his burdens before Him. Rebekah, herself, was motivated, willing, and available to step out in faith. The passage describes Rebekah running to draw the water. She did not just sit idly by waiting on the Lord. She even was thorough drawing water for the man and his animals, quite a large task, as we must be thorough in our Christian life, cultivating our relationship with the Lord and pressing on to maintain our Christian identity. The bottom line remains that both trusted God for His purpose and plan to fall into place, the right fit for the puzzle piece.

Think about the alternatives. What if the servant had not given this issue completely to the Lord? What would have happened if Rebekah was not willing to go? The pieces may have been there but not fitting the way the way they were supposed to. Perhaps the picture would not have been completed at the right time. Genesis 24 describes how the fruits of their faith turned into God's masterpiece for their lives. What a picture of well-being and good it was for Rebekah to marry Isaac and become the mother of Jacob. Both worshiped God for the results as we must do for God's ultimate design, no matter the outcome.

My favorite verse is, "Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding. But in all your ways, acknowledge Him and He will direct your paths." Will you follow Rebekah's example of trusting God?

Sports Saturday: Getting Around!

When my brother was little, he rode his tricycle so much using his feet to scoot along that he wore out his shoes. I also remember one Christmas when I woke up and came downstairs to find a pale, blue Banana Seat Bike. I was so excited and could not wait to get out and ride it even though it was winter. Then when I was older and biked on my 10-speed bike, I cherished long rides with just my dad out in the countryside.

Every kid needs a set of wheels from strollers, tricycles, training wheels, and mountain bikes. And it is important to have a good set of wheels with the right equipment when going along with the family for a ride. This way the whole family can enjoy recreational time together on Saturdays. Even though the outdoor recreational season is nearly finished, you can still think about ideas for Christmas.

It is more difficult to do these kind of recreational activities though when the kids are younger. However, the fresh air and exercise are that much more important after being at home all week long. And the family time is in invaluable, encouraging family recreation and teaching the value of health and fitness at the same time.

Our neighbors are avid joggers, often doing marathons and such. And we like to bike for fun. Both you need to have a safe set of wheels for your young child to ride along. Our neighbors just purchased a Bob stroller for their many jogs. And last Christmas, we received an In Step bike trailer from Grandma and Grandpa as our family gift for riding along the nearby bike trails. Both are worth the investment to enjoy outdoor activities. So from mom to mom, I recommend these wheels to continue enjoying your Saturday rides.

This year, we are ready to graduate to a tricycle. Maybe for Christmas! In the meantime, Happy Riding!

Food Friday: Sauteed Pork Chops with Thyme and Apples!

With the weather getting colder and the leaves falling, nothing smells better than cinnamon and apples cooking from the kitchen and warming up the house with a holiday fragrance. Now throw in some Pork Chops and you have a tasty, filling Fall meal.

I found this recipe, Sauteed Pork Chops with Thyme and Sliced Apples, in an old, used herb cook book that I found at a book sale. I wanted to learn how to cook with herbs and The Herb and Spice Cookbook: A Seasoning Celebration, seemed like a great find. This book not only has some great home-cooked recipes but explains how to plant, care, and harvest your herbs. Among discovering this recipe, I learned how to freeze fresh herbs from the garden and store them to use in the winter.

So get out your leftover apples from the orchard and some defrosted Pork Chops from the freezer on a cold Fall evening. Get your grilling pan, turn on the stove, and find your cinnamon and dried thyme to make this yummy, winter-filling dinner. Add some rice pilaf, oven-baked winter squash, and some steamed green beans for an overall inviting meal.

4 lean loin pork chops, dredged in flour
1/8 tsp black pepper
2 tbsp butter, divided
1 tbsp olive oil
8 sprigs of fresh thyme or 1 tbsp dried thyme
1 tart apple, unpeeled, cored, and cut in slices
pinch of ground cinnamon

Dredge chops lightly in flour and pepper. Heat 1 tablespoon of butter and oil in a large skillet. Add chops, and saute for 5 minutes on each side over medium-high heat. While they are cooking, place thyme under each chops so that they stick to the meat. Remove chops to a serving dish, and keep warm. Using the same skillet, melt remaining tablespoon of butter with some cinnamon. Add apples, and saute for 4 to 5 minutes, or until soft but not mushy. Spoon apple slices around pork and serve hot.

Toy Thursday: Even Veterans Need Toys

Happy Veterans Day! Be sure to tell a Veteran "Thank you" today...or any day. As they put their lives on the line for your freedom.

Seeing as today is "Toy Thursday", I thought it would be appropriate to write about a toy that my husband ended up with in Iraq. My husband was not able to go trick or treating with our son on his second Halloween because he was in Iraq. I had decided to dress Liam as a monkey, and a little monkey came with his costume.

Liam the monkey and his monkey

So Daddy would feel included, I sent the monkey to Iraq. Daddy loved it. Even though he was carrying a M-16 anytime he went outside of his room, he still had his toys to make it feel a little more like home.

Toys in Iraq

He told me that on his way home, he had packed his big green bag so that the monkey was hanging out of the top. People in the airport would applaud and then laugh or "awww" when they saw the monkey peeking out of the top of his duffel bag.

So on Veterans Day, thank a Veteran. They're a son, daughter, brother, husband, sister, wife, mommy or daddy to someone. And even though they face death daily, they still have a soft side.

Wash Wednesday: Check the pockets!

One of the first things my mom taught me about laundry, clean out the pockets. The rule, "Finders Keepers" applies to money found in pockets while doing laundry. But always, ALWAYS clean out the pockets.

I usually do. I try to adhere to the rule. After all, my husband usually has change in his pocket (and I do give it to Liam). But the other night, I was busy. My husband was working late and I was in charge of all three boys. My husband was working a 14 hour shift so I was in charge of breakfast, lunch, dinner, AND bath duty. I loathe his long days because usually something gets forgotten. This day? It was the pockets.

Baby and I were also suffering from a head cold. Stuffy nose, headache, fever and chills...not a good day. We had only been to the Chiropractor that day, so they shouldn't have had anything in their pockets. I ran the clothes through the wash and noticed something in the bottom of the washer--AFTER I had started the dryer.

I picked the little brown balls out of the dryer and I thought to myself "What the?". I had to play Mom's favorite game, "Poop or chocolate." Sniff test. Nothing. Same size. *BING* The light bulb went off. M&M's minus the candy shell. One of the boys must have gotten them from my mother in law at the Chiropractor's office (she works there) and put them in his pocket.

Melts in your mouth, not in your washer. As long as it's a cold load.

And then the siren went off with the light bulb...DRYER! I stopped it and thankfully it hadn't dried any chocolate into the clothes. Picked a few more of the chocolate pieces out of the dryer, and let it finish. Whew.

Lesson learned. No matter how busy you are, check the pockets.

Tip Tuesday: Giving your time!

Tis the season....the season of giving is almost upon us. I encourage you this year to give your time rather than money. So many churches, schools, and non-profits thrive on volunteer time and attention, especially this time of year. Volunteers are so important to an organization's existence but so many people do not know how to deal with volunteers or be a volunteer themselves.

I have worked a number of years as a Volunteer Coordinator, assembling and managing thousands of volunteers to implement a variety of projects. As you will be organizing a project at church or school for the upcoming Holiday season, recognize that these tips in dealing with volunteers will go a long way.

Treat your volunteers like gold as they are the backbone that can make or break an organization. Volunteers are giving their free time to help you, time that could be used doing something else, and so do not treat them like they are low on the totem pole. Try to make the best of their time by having things ready for them and do not waste their time waiting around. If a glitch is possible, have a back up plan or another project nearby. Make the experience fun so that they will want to return again and again. Offer rewards, challenges, or games with direct goals in mind for the completion of the project. A well-executed check-in and reporting system is one aspect of doing that. Good, clean, and safe facilities with available parking is another. Recognize and apply volunteers to tasks and skills they enjoy and excel at. Believe it or not, I have tactfully fired a few volunteers over the years because they made the experience miserable for the others around them. If a volunteer is not a people person, why would you put them on phones? The bottom line is do not expect a volunteer to give their free time doing something you would not do. As a rule of thumb, I always tried to immerse myself in the project before the volunteers tackled it themselves. This will help you discern questions the volunteers will be asking and realize ways of doing it more efficiently. These are the tips that I have found that have worked for me time and time again.

On the flip side, how do you become a volunteer? Usually volunteers are recruited by a great marketing campaign for organization. However, did you know that you can search your local United Way for volunteer opportunities involving things you enjoy or your hobbies? Perhaps you like kids, the Boys and Girls Club provides occasions of mentoring while the local Food Pantry/Bank or Salvation Army may fulfill your desires to work with the poor and needy. I have also heard of an avid scrapbooker doing albums for those in hospice and a hunter donating deer meat to a local meal site. Then do not forget the mechanics who love working on cars fix them up and give them to people who need wheels. This time of year, you will find specific holiday needs at your church or charities like Operation Christmas Child or Toys for Tots.

The best way to get hooked up (as I call it) is to call the person organizing the project. Tell them politely what you are interested in doing and that you thought they needed volunteers. If this is a long-term commitment, do not be afraid to ask about shadowing an event or project or visiting the facility to experience the mission firsthand. Once a time is set up to volunteer, try to fulfill your time commitment. At least give 24 hours notice cancelling so that the planner can refill your spot or change the project accordingly. Do the best of your ability, not leaving half-hearted work. Perhaps you see another need you would like to fill and so talk to the coordinator to see if that is a fit for both of you.

Volunteering can offer so many benefits to both you and the organization. Not only is the mission being fulfilled at the organization but you experience a satisfied accomplishment doing something good. After all, that is what God calls us to do, right, use our skills, interests, and time to help others? I guess I better start looking for a place to help this season. Will you join me?

Make Monday: Box of Goodies!

If you are like me, now that the weather is getting colder and with the time change you are stuck inside more and more, you wonder what you can possibly do to pass the time and avoid those afternoon "bewitching" hours. This is when I like to pull out a box of goodies, especially when I am tired and desperate. What you ask?

One day, I had an extra diaper wipe plastic container laying around. Instead of throwing it away, I decided to fill it with a variety of colorful items with different textures. What kid does not like to pull things out of a box. Since Judah has been into drawers recently, opening and closing, I moved the items to a drawer for him to pull out. Whether the box or the drawer, he pulls out a soft, purple boa, a red feather, a scratchy brush, a green, silky ribbon, a shiny piece of leather, a rough piece of sand paper, and much more. Sometimes I change it up a bit with fun items around the house with different shapes or different feely things I find on sale at the craft store.

The fun for you is being creative and the joy for your child is the discovery of new shapes, smells, and things to touch. For older kids, you can use a cereal box, decorate it, and then put things inside for them to find. For other kids, you can fill a bucket of rice or beans and put items mixed inside for them to search for like finding "Waldo" in a indoor sand box. You could make a variation for on what you are thankful for or the "Twelve days" of Christmas coming up. Kids certainly love opening things up too and exploring what the practical use of each item. It even stimulates conversation using adjectives.

This certainly passes enough time for you to get your barrings and for your kid to forget what he was whining about. It is nice to have something put away too that you can bring out for those times of desperation. You both are saved from a lot of grumpiness and instead have so much fun.

Salvation Sunday: The Impeccable Timing of The Lord

Sometimes I find that I'm totally humbled at God's amazing work. Even when I'm not looking for it. On nights where the kids won't relax, stop screaming, go to bed and I know it's a few more hours before my husband gets home from work. Just when I'm at the end of my rope, the kids do or say something that makes me laugh, and makes me think about how blessed I really am.

I have downloaded the Mass Readings app for my phone and try to read the readings of the day, usually while I'm nursing. Last week I was having a really rough week. We all had a runny nose, sore throats and head colds and a writing job I was working on hit a snag and I lost the revenue. 

And then, when I was down and out, I pulled out the reading of the day. It included the Eight Beatitudes. And my spirit lifted.

Blessed are the poor in spirit: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
Blessed are the meek: for they shall possess the land.
Blessed are they that mourn: for they shall be comforted.
Blessed are they that hunger and thirst after justice: for they shall have their fill.
Blessed are the merciful: for they shall obtain mercy.
Blessed are the clean of heart: for they shall see God.
Blesses are the peacemakers: for they shall be called children of God.
Blessed are they that suffer persecution for justice' sake: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
Blessed are ye when they shall revile you, and persecute you, and speak all that is evil against you, untruly, for my sake: Be glad and rejoice, for your reward is very great in heaven.

What great timing. I made sure to note and thank God for the timing of His Word. 

Sports Saturday: First Football Game!

A few weeks ago I came across a deal online. Hillside tickets, a hot dog and pop for $10. I couldn't pass up that deal! Plus, we didn't have to pay for Brendan! It was my Alma Maters Homecoming, I knew it'd be a fun time (my brother and his kids were going) and the kids (and husband) would be able to experience their first big football game. 

It was a little windy and sunny, but beautiful. We all got a little too much sun and came down with a case of the sniffles, but overall, it was a great time.

Daddy and Sean grinning during the Iowa State win!!

Brendan made it until halftime before he crashed. I made sure to wear my special  nursing tank and I nursed him during the game. So I've nursed one child at a Chicago Cubs game and another at an Iowa State game. 

Be sure to keep your eyes peeled for discounts and deals. I found ours on cyclones.com. We had a meal, entertainment and a fun day out as a family for less than we would have spent on a movie!

Food Friday: Roast Leftovers

I like a crock pot full of roast. Add some potatoes and carrots for a filling, healthy meal on a cold day. Not only is cooking a roast an easy meal but it provides a lot of leftovers.

Usually after a couple of meals the potatoes and carrots are gone. You may use some of the leftover meat to make BBQ sandwiches, beef enchiladas, or even beef fajitas. But by this time you are tired of the meat and it sits in your fridge for a few more days because you are not sure what to do with the rest. Been there?

This happened to me recently. And I can stand only so much beef after a while. So one night I came up with a new recipe to finish off that remaining meat. It not only turned out good but I think I would try it again and experiment with some seasonings or nuts. Stir Fry Beef and Vegetables is something new for us.

Here is the original recipe:

1 lb. lean beef, thinly sliced
1/2 c. soy sauce
1/4 c. sherry or cooking wine
1 c. onions, sliced
1 c. celery, sliced diagonally
1 c. broccoli, sliced
1 pkg. hot stir fry mix
12 lg. mushrooms, sliced
1/4 c. vegetable oil
2 sm. garlic cloves, minced
1 tbsp. cornstarch
1 med. tomato, chopped for garnish
1 1/2 c. water
Water chestnuts (opt.)

Toss beef in bowl with soy sauce and sherry. Cover and marinate for 30 minutes. Prepare vegetables; set aside. Heat oil in wok, or wide frying pan. Add garlic and saute over high heat. Add drained beef (reserve marinade). Stir fry until meat is brown. Add onions, celery, broccoli and mushrooms. Cover and steam about 5 minutes. Mix water, cornstarch, stir fry mix and marinate in small bowl; pour into pan. Heat to boiling. Cook until thickened. Serve over rice. Garnish with tomato.

Here is the recipe I used:

1 tbsp olive oil
1 lb. leftover beef roast, shredded
2 tbsp. Worcestershire Sauce (with 1/2 tbsp. water) as substitute for no soy sauce
1 14 oz. package of frozen Mandarin Stir Fry Vegetables - broccoli, carrots, onions, pea pods, red pepper, mushrooms, celery, and leek
2 sm. garlic gloves
1 tbsp. cornstarch
pinch of salt
pinch of pepper

I heated up the oil and then put in the garlic, salt, and pepper. Once hot, I added the already cooked meat and the package of frozen vegetables (can run under warm water to thaw some or add vegetables first). I sauteed on medium heat until vegetables were slightly tender. I then added my sauce mixture and cornstarch cooking until it was well stirred together. Served with rice. Enough for 4 people.

Now if you want to make your own rice, follow this quick recipe. Take instant white rice (about 2 cups) and add a can of beef broth and peas. Cook according to microwave directions. Adding scrambled egg is optional. And you have some fried rice!

Definitely makes a quick and easy meal! That is what half the fun in leftovers are, right?

Toy Thursday: The best toys are in the Kitchen!

Bang! Bang! Clunk and Clang! Rumble and tumble...shake! What kid does not like playing in mommy's cupboards banging lids together as cymbals, taking wooden spoons and drumming on stainless steel bowls, and shaking a bottle full of rice. Who says you have to spend all this money on toys?

At our house you will catch us playing like that. Judah's new found interest is playing in the cupboards. If I can get past having lids strewn across the floor and having to wash them all the time, I find a little boy who is just having so much fun and grinning from ear to ear from all the excitement.

We pop some music in and bang containers together like cymbals. We take stainless steel bowls and turn them upside down hitting them with wooden spoons. We clunk the wooden spoons together. We even listen to the sound of stainless steel glasses clanged together. We fill clear bottles with rice for home made shakers. All the while moving to the beat of our own drum and the different sounds of the containers.

Sure the cat hides and then when we tire of the music, we take the containers and stack them like blocks knocking them down and then restacking them. Next, we open the containers up and practice sorting our shapes or other toys into different containers. We stack them up on top of the containers and knock them down too. We throw our balls into them like playing basket ball.

Judah also likes to play hide and seek in the cupboard. Here he learns to close the door and reopen to find someone saying, "Peek-a-Boo." We learn about wiping the cupboard down and putting the containers away. We put them in similar piles. We even sit in our chair washing them together with a bucket of soapy water. The only thing costing you is supervision for safety and a few extra dirty dishes. It is worth it though for many giggles.


It is amazing how much this can provide hours of entertainment for you and your child. Plus you feel good encouraging creative play and developing fine motor skills. And when mommy starts feeling that headache coming on and it is time for some quiet time, we finish by reading about the kitchen in "Pots and Pans" by Patricia Hubbell.

Happy Banging!

Wash Wednesday: Cleaning the Corruption Out of Office

What a lesson we sent last night. A clean house is a happy house. Whether the house is your own home, the House in D.C. or as in our state, Iowa's own Terrace Hill.

Iowans like so many other states across this great country do not tolerate corruption. Iowans don't like a select few of people telling them what to believe. And Iowans sent that message last night. Governor Chet Culver and his machine were voted out.

Conservative power has been restored to not only the Iowa House, but the House in D.C. We have cleaned house.

While Iowans DID re-elect all of their Congressional Incumbents, they voted NO for Judge Retentions. This is a historic vote here in Iowa since all three tried to redefine marriage. ALL THREE Judges up for retention were fired by Iowans. Yes, fired. Iowans don't like being told what to believe. Iowans want "the vote" on marriage. We were denied it, so we took matters into our own hands. Iowans believe there are consequences for actions...or lack of action.
Our Governor Chet Culver's administration has been nothing but a giant fail. Corruption upon a scandal upon a failed set of policies and values. Iowans also sent a message to the Secretary of State office as well. ID's MUST be shown to vote. It's too easy for voter corruption. Enough is enough. I am sure the same message is true for your local officials and statehouse.

Our children will (hopefully) learn in Government or Civics class about the "Great Wave of 2010." When the Conservatives took their Country back. When Americans wouldn't tolerate outside forces buying elections. When corruption was tossed out the door. The days of Government take overs and bail outs are over.

As Thomas Jefferson said, " I find that the harder I work, the more luck I seem to have." Honest work is something we want to instill in our children. Corruption never wins. Cheaters always get caught. Honest, hard work is the only way to go. Keep your values, keep working, keep trying. Keep cleaning! Eventually victory will be yours.

Tip Tuesday: Teaching the Importance of Voting

This blog post was originally posted at Sarah's family blog, "Surviving in a Male Dominated Household" but we thought it would be great to post it here as well. Your Tip Tuesday's Subject, "Teaching the Importance of Voting."

As parents, we have many important roles. We are the first and most important teachers our children will have. My husband and I believe it is important to teach our children why voting is so important. Liam already knows, because last night I told him that "we had to go to bed early, so we could get up early and vote. And then we'll watch exit polls and election results." Liam exclaimed, "YAY! EXIT POLLS!" I was proud.

Being from military families, we know the price of voting. David served in Iraq. His Dad served in Vietnam, he had one Grandfather who served in WWII and the other Grandfather in Korea. My Grandfather served in WWII. We're a militarily strong family. And we know the cost of freedom and the price for the right to vote. So we vote in every election.

We always take the kids with us to the polls. Yes, we're those parents. We explain to the kids about the ballot, the secrecy folder, filling in the circle for who we choose to vote for and finally we have them help us slide our ballot into the machine. We talk about the elections all year and voting for about a week before the election.

We let them stay up late on election night. Again, we're those parents. In a General Election, Liam keeps a notepad of electoral votes, votes needed to win and votes per state. Not only is it teaching him the electoral system, but math as well. In mid-term elections he has a list of candidates and follows exit polls and results.

And, of course, for each child's first election, we take a picture of them with the ballot. This year is no exception.

Children do what they see their parents do. Be an example and vote. Take your kids with you. Make them feel included. It's their country, too. 

Happy Voting!

Make Monday: The Overloaded Fridge

As a mother of young children, hanging work on the fridge is a must. An easy project for the kids to do that will help you in having to purchase a bunch of magnets is to have the kids make a project hanger. When they make something new, they can clip it to the hanger and take down their previous project.

Your local hardware store (or even Wal-Mart)  has a lot of paint stirring sticks, and you can pick them up there. You might even have a few in the garage or shed. Glue two wooden clothes pins to the stick. Then glue magnets to the back of the paint stick. You can even paint the sticks and clothespins to make it unique for each child!

We wrote "Look what Liam did!" on ours so he knows it is his work. Simply clip the artwork with the clothespins and hang it on the fridge. It will help de-clutter your fridge and give the kids a sense of pride. Plus, this little project is a work of art on it's own. Have your child decorate the stick if they want to as well.

These are also helpful for mom...hang receipts, appointment reminders, weekly menus...the possibilities are endless!

This great idea was given to me by Ms. Pam, Liam's Preschool teacher.