Today was the first official day of potty training our youngest child. While washing the child's new big kid underwear I decided there needs to be an emotional guidebook for moms while leaving the diaper era. Yes, I am excited to not have to buy diapers for the first time in over eight years. I am excited that the odor of dirty diapers will no longer be a worry. I am heart broken that the season of babies is over for us. As I was folding our youngest child's underwear, I started crying....the ugly face cry. My husband looked at me in horror and confusion. He thought it was because I wanted to get the child different underwear...24 hours later he still doesn't understand how I feel. I guess this is a mommy-thing.
When "they" say time goes by so quickly, I always agree. I don't think I realized that until this ending of an era for us. This is the first time we have had a chapter close while having children. I don't like it. I don't want to end this chapter. But, as my husband stated: "If we have another baby every time one is potty trained, we will never stop having babies." That sounds like a plan! I secretly envy the Duggars....a houseful of children. But, reason states we can't do that.
So while I celebrate each triumphant potty trip and explain that we do not poop on furniture, I will savor it. I will hold in my tears. I will remind myself each day, that every day gone is another step to another chapter closing...and yet another exciting chapter opening.
I choose to embrace the diaper free chapter. I choose to celebrate having a purse without a spare diaper in it. I choose to buy, wash, and fold those underwear with dry eyes...maybe!
With bittersweet joy,
XOXO,
Rebecca
Tuesday, October 8, 2013
Monday, September 23, 2013
It Takes A Village
I have heard it said again and again that it takes a village to raise a child. This month I have learned the truth in that expression. We are in a new season of life in our home! In May we had one child in school and our life was very cut and dry in the box. This year we have one child in school all day. One child in preschool half days, three days a week. A toddler I am trying to potty train (pray for me!). And, my husband started Bible college last month. That leaves me. Sitting on the couch....eating bon bons....right?!?
The new season has thrown my usually scheduled self for a spin. My planner - aka my brain - has been lost more times than once in the shuffle of my days. My menus have gone from being prepped and ready to "Oh my gosh it's dinner time!!". But, I have been so very blessed by five women in my life whoare not only my best friends, but who have also earned the term "My Village". As they have been at my house drinking coffee and having play dates, I have let them know that I don't have it all together. I have let them see the inside of my heart. The places where my insecurities lie. You know what, they didn't laugh at me. They didn't run in horror. They nodded, hugged me, and immediately made a plan to help me. These ladies aren't all in the same season of life I am in, but they have become quite a backbone for me. They have stepped in and watched my children so I could get a quick errand ran, told me to take a shower and watched my kids while I did. Last week they even surprised me with a "day off", including Starbucks, a massage, and dinner made for me. This is what we do. We have to take care of each other.
Mamas if you have a close friend or are blessed enough to have a close group of friends, be open with them and let them know that sometimes you aren't supermom. It is scary to be so vulnerable, but it also puts you in a position to receive help.
John Wilmot said "before I married, I had three theories about raising children and no children. Now, I have three children and no theories". I think that says it pretty well. It's okay if all of your expertise on raising children has been tossed out the window. It's okay if you say "I don't know what to do" and throw your hands up in exasperation. But, find somebody who can come along side you and help you in this amazing journey of motherhood.
You can do it mama!
XOXO,
Rebecca
The new season has thrown my usually scheduled self for a spin. My planner - aka my brain - has been lost more times than once in the shuffle of my days. My menus have gone from being prepped and ready to "Oh my gosh it's dinner time!!". But, I have been so very blessed by five women in my life whoare not only my best friends, but who have also earned the term "My Village". As they have been at my house drinking coffee and having play dates, I have let them know that I don't have it all together. I have let them see the inside of my heart. The places where my insecurities lie. You know what, they didn't laugh at me. They didn't run in horror. They nodded, hugged me, and immediately made a plan to help me. These ladies aren't all in the same season of life I am in, but they have become quite a backbone for me. They have stepped in and watched my children so I could get a quick errand ran, told me to take a shower and watched my kids while I did. Last week they even surprised me with a "day off", including Starbucks, a massage, and dinner made for me. This is what we do. We have to take care of each other.
Mamas if you have a close friend or are blessed enough to have a close group of friends, be open with them and let them know that sometimes you aren't supermom. It is scary to be so vulnerable, but it also puts you in a position to receive help.
John Wilmot said "before I married, I had three theories about raising children and no children. Now, I have three children and no theories". I think that says it pretty well. It's okay if all of your expertise on raising children has been tossed out the window. It's okay if you say "I don't know what to do" and throw your hands up in exasperation. But, find somebody who can come along side you and help you in this amazing journey of motherhood.
You can do it mama!
XOXO,
Rebecca
Thursday, August 8, 2013
First Day of Second Grade
Here is my question - when will I stop crying when I drop my children off on the first day of school? Today was my oldest son's first day of second grade. I got him to his classroom, he gave his teacher a nice happy we made her, and I left. And, I cried! He seems like such a big boy at home, but in that big classroom he seems like my little baby.
This morning while he was eating breakfast, I started thinking about when I first found out I was pregnant with him, the first time I saw him, the first time I held him, his first day of preschool, his first day of kindergarten and so on. It is amazing how seven years can bring so many firsts!
He survived his first day with flying colors. And, I am proud to say I did too!
This morning while he was eating breakfast, I started thinking about when I first found out I was pregnant with him, the first time I saw him, the first time I held him, his first day of preschool, his first day of kindergarten and so on. It is amazing how seven years can bring so many firsts!
He survived his first day with flying colors. And, I am proud to say I did too!
Monday, July 29, 2013
Sweet Summer Ending
This is our last full week of summer before school starts again. It is bitter sweet! Two of my three children will be in school, it is weird to think about, but at the same time exciting! A second grader and a preschooler. The school clothes have been bought, the school supplies are in backpacks awaiting the first day of school, and a schedule is being made for the new school year.
I usually take the month before school starts to get the children on schedule for the year - going to bed earlier, getting up earlier, breakfasts ready before time to leave, etc. Maybe I will start this tomorrow. We decided that 10 am was a good time to get up today, I don't think that is going to fly when school starts. Breakfast was brunch. We napped for three hours today. Maybe we are not ready for school to start yet...but hey that's okay!
This has been a really great summer, I went into it worried that there would be lots of "I'm bored" being said. We chose not to get season passes for our local water park this year, which I am so glad we did as this has been the rainiest summer. Ever. But, we did have an amazingly fun vacation to Universal Studios. We had play dates at least once a week. We had friends over for coffee about once a month. Summer reading program at the library and a week of Vacation Bible School kept us on the go. This has been an adventurous and fun summer. I think I heard "I'm bored" twice, not bad!!
It's fun on summer break, being the adult and not the student. Both of my children going to school this year are super excited. My second grader missed his friends and I am pretty sure he missed the routine of the school day. My preschooler is so excited about starting, every day I answer the question if today is the day. I am looking forward to some one on one time with my youngest child, I see some tea parties and lots of girly play dates in our future!
If your children are starting school soon, enjoy the time with them now. Encourage them to love school. Make it exciting for them! You can do it mama!
XOXO,
Rebecca
I usually take the month before school starts to get the children on schedule for the year - going to bed earlier, getting up earlier, breakfasts ready before time to leave, etc. Maybe I will start this tomorrow. We decided that 10 am was a good time to get up today, I don't think that is going to fly when school starts. Breakfast was brunch. We napped for three hours today. Maybe we are not ready for school to start yet...but hey that's okay!
This has been a really great summer, I went into it worried that there would be lots of "I'm bored" being said. We chose not to get season passes for our local water park this year, which I am so glad we did as this has been the rainiest summer. Ever. But, we did have an amazingly fun vacation to Universal Studios. We had play dates at least once a week. We had friends over for coffee about once a month. Summer reading program at the library and a week of Vacation Bible School kept us on the go. This has been an adventurous and fun summer. I think I heard "I'm bored" twice, not bad!!
It's fun on summer break, being the adult and not the student. Both of my children going to school this year are super excited. My second grader missed his friends and I am pretty sure he missed the routine of the school day. My preschooler is so excited about starting, every day I answer the question if today is the day. I am looking forward to some one on one time with my youngest child, I see some tea parties and lots of girly play dates in our future!
If your children are starting school soon, enjoy the time with them now. Encourage them to love school. Make it exciting for them! You can do it mama!
XOXO,
Rebecca
Wednesday, July 24, 2013
Play Date Survivial 101
I love having play dates at my home. I also love going to play dates. Play dates are fun...a little mommy sanity saver!
Today I had a play date at my home with three other mommies and their children....seven children and four adults. It was so much fun! It lasted about two and a half hours and we were able to play with the children, snack, let the children play, and have good mommy conversation!
Here are some tips for hosting a fun play date at your home:
1. Have your home clean so you won't be worried or apologizing for a less than clean house.
2. Be mentally prepared that things may get messy, and it is okay.
3. Let the kids play...hence the name play date.
Today's children were mostly ages four and under....three of the children were around the age two. I had age appropriate toys ready for them. Tomorrow, my oldest son is having a play date at our home. There will be a total of five boys ages four and up and one little girl. Tomorrow I will have the big boy toys ready and ready for a house full of ninjas, boxers, and superheroes!
4. Snacks...this is a must. It will be a good way to have the kids settle down for a bit. Have kid friendly and adult friendly snacks.
5. RELAX!!!! You are having a play date to let your kids play and to let yourself be around other mommies. Relax and have fun. It may get loud. It may get messy. There may be some sharing issues. But, just relax and have fun.
Take time to host a play date at your house. Invite your children's friends and their parents. Invite moms new to the area or ones you want to get to know better. Be the mom that is the play date host of the month!!!
You can do it mama!
XOXO,
Rebecca
Today I had a play date at my home with three other mommies and their children....seven children and four adults. It was so much fun! It lasted about two and a half hours and we were able to play with the children, snack, let the children play, and have good mommy conversation!
Here are some tips for hosting a fun play date at your home:
1. Have your home clean so you won't be worried or apologizing for a less than clean house.
2. Be mentally prepared that things may get messy, and it is okay.
3. Let the kids play...hence the name play date.
Today's children were mostly ages four and under....three of the children were around the age two. I had age appropriate toys ready for them. Tomorrow, my oldest son is having a play date at our home. There will be a total of five boys ages four and up and one little girl. Tomorrow I will have the big boy toys ready and ready for a house full of ninjas, boxers, and superheroes!
4. Snacks...this is a must. It will be a good way to have the kids settle down for a bit. Have kid friendly and adult friendly snacks.
5. RELAX!!!! You are having a play date to let your kids play and to let yourself be around other mommies. Relax and have fun. It may get loud. It may get messy. There may be some sharing issues. But, just relax and have fun.
Take time to host a play date at your house. Invite your children's friends and their parents. Invite moms new to the area or ones you want to get to know better. Be the mom that is the play date host of the month!!!
You can do it mama!
XOXO,
Rebecca
Thursday, July 18, 2013
A Hard Gig
Today was hard. I admit it. It was a difficult day.
Between refereeing fights, giving up and deciding to let the kids have it, bites that draw blood, and attitudes that mimic adolescent angst....I am tired.
This being a mommy gig is hard stuff. Being a mommy is hard work. It is not for the faint of heart or weak. It is not for those who give up easily.
Being a mom....you have to be more tenacious than a super-strong willed two year old. You have to be faster than a falling glass. You have to love enough to discipline and hug afterwards.
There's no guide for the specific seasons of each of our mommy journeys. I used to think it was weird when people would say they wished their infant came with a manual....now I think it would be nice. It would be nice to know the stem of the attitudes. If the crying is because of teething, tired, hungry, or just because it is something to do. If the fighting is a cry for attention or a brotherly thing.
Yes, so today was difficult.
I look forward to putting this day behind me. Starting again tomorrow.
I thank God for tomorrows. New beginnings. Hopefully new attitudes.
So, here's to all the moms who want to throw in the towel....don't do it! Tomorrow is another day. Put your darlings to bed, drink some hot tea, and relax. Tomorrow is a new beginning.
XOXO,
Rebecca
Between refereeing fights, giving up and deciding to let the kids have it, bites that draw blood, and attitudes that mimic adolescent angst....I am tired.
This being a mommy gig is hard stuff. Being a mommy is hard work. It is not for the faint of heart or weak. It is not for those who give up easily.
Being a mom....you have to be more tenacious than a super-strong willed two year old. You have to be faster than a falling glass. You have to love enough to discipline and hug afterwards.
There's no guide for the specific seasons of each of our mommy journeys. I used to think it was weird when people would say they wished their infant came with a manual....now I think it would be nice. It would be nice to know the stem of the attitudes. If the crying is because of teething, tired, hungry, or just because it is something to do. If the fighting is a cry for attention or a brotherly thing.
Yes, so today was difficult.
I look forward to putting this day behind me. Starting again tomorrow.
I thank God for tomorrows. New beginnings. Hopefully new attitudes.
So, here's to all the moms who want to throw in the towel....don't do it! Tomorrow is another day. Put your darlings to bed, drink some hot tea, and relax. Tomorrow is a new beginning.
XOXO,
Rebecca
Sunday, July 14, 2013
COFFEE!!!!
So, lets talk about the good stuff....coffee!!! This blog is all about coffee and mommy mentoring, right? I better stay true to the title!
I love coffee. Like really really really love it. Thankfully, I have lots of friends who like coffee as well, maybe not as much as I like it, but they still like it.
One of the things I love to do is to open my home up for coffee on a weekday morning. The kids are off of school on summer vacation, so I let the little darlings come too. I just post on facebook or send a text to let my friends know I am opening my home up for coffee, what morning, and what time. I provide the coffee and usually drinks for the kids. Others bring snacks and goodies. It is a lot of fun to sit around and drink coffee with girlfriends.
There are some staples in my house...
1. Coffee Cups - at my last count I had nineteen coffee cups. Yes, nineteen. But sometimes you need nineteen cups for all the people you have over.
2. Little Mini Coffee Creamers - You can buy packs of 24 flavored creamers at the market. I have three different kinds on hand at one time. It looks really nice displayed in little bowls.
3. COFFEE - A staple. Sam's Club has a big big canister of coffee that I get. It is probably for restaurants, but hey...I am the girl with nineteen coffee cups, remember. I like getting the fun little flavored packs of coffee at TJ Maxx or Marshal's, the kind you can't just find anywhere. It adds a little flavor to the day.
I have a coffee bar in my house. I will admit, it was an idea I saw on Pinterest, and it is lovely. On my coffee bar I have my creamers, sugars, and napkins set out 24/7 and I set out additional items when I have guests over.
Ladies, don't be afraid to open your home up to lots of guests to enjoy coffee. It is really a fun way to make new friends and to strengthen relationships with fellow mommies and ladies.
XOXO,
Rebecca
I love coffee. Like really really really love it. Thankfully, I have lots of friends who like coffee as well, maybe not as much as I like it, but they still like it.
One of the things I love to do is to open my home up for coffee on a weekday morning. The kids are off of school on summer vacation, so I let the little darlings come too. I just post on facebook or send a text to let my friends know I am opening my home up for coffee, what morning, and what time. I provide the coffee and usually drinks for the kids. Others bring snacks and goodies. It is a lot of fun to sit around and drink coffee with girlfriends.
There are some staples in my house...
1. Coffee Cups - at my last count I had nineteen coffee cups. Yes, nineteen. But sometimes you need nineteen cups for all the people you have over.
2. Little Mini Coffee Creamers - You can buy packs of 24 flavored creamers at the market. I have three different kinds on hand at one time. It looks really nice displayed in little bowls.
3. COFFEE - A staple. Sam's Club has a big big canister of coffee that I get. It is probably for restaurants, but hey...I am the girl with nineteen coffee cups, remember. I like getting the fun little flavored packs of coffee at TJ Maxx or Marshal's, the kind you can't just find anywhere. It adds a little flavor to the day.
I have a coffee bar in my house. I will admit, it was an idea I saw on Pinterest, and it is lovely. On my coffee bar I have my creamers, sugars, and napkins set out 24/7 and I set out additional items when I have guests over.
Ladies, don't be afraid to open your home up to lots of guests to enjoy coffee. It is really a fun way to make new friends and to strengthen relationships with fellow mommies and ladies.
XOXO,
Rebecca
Tuesday, July 9, 2013
Chores Revamp Number 301
CHORES! I used to think this was just for kids to give them something to do. Some sense of responsibility. I now realize, as a mom of three under seven years old, it is a sanity saver!
I have found my seven year old and four year old copying what I say, I guess I say it often: "There is only one of me and five of us. I need help!" Yes, in my times of exasperation of wiping noses, changing diapers, kissing boo-boos, and answering 5,286,098 questions per day I let my kids know I am not an octopus with eight arms, nor do I have a clone hiding around the corner to jump in and help me out.
I use the Fifteen Minute Clean rule, which you can read about at www.gulfcoastwomanmagazine.com (click on the above link); the article was published in the current issue. But aside from that I realize that chores are a constant changing tune in my home.
I have spent a couple hours today figuring out the best chore charts for my children, which chores to add, which to take away, and which to split amongst the three. Until this chore revamp, I never put hygiene or getting out of bed a chore; to me it was obvious. Wrong! I was wrong! Now waking up, brushing teeth, and showering are chores on the chart for each child.
Here is a little key I used this time to make my chores for my children. I have took a week to watch them and see what they enjoy doing as far as cleaning. My daughter enjoys wiping things - the floor, her nose, her knee, my knee, etc. I have added dusting to her chore list. Yes, she is two. And no, I don't expect perfection or anything near it. It is a sense of responsibility being added at a young age. My four year old enjoys task oriented activities and pays attention to detail. I added the chore of matching socks to his chore list. My seven year old is pretty easy going, but likes to be organized; I added cleaning out the car to his chore list.
By delegating these tasks to the children, it will leave me more time with the children. Time to make memories. Do crafts, actually sit down with them and do the crafts with them. Time to do something for myself during the day. And time for me to become a better wife and mother with better time management.
Erma Bombeck said "housework can kill you if done right." I think she has a valid point. If we, as mothers, did every single task in the house every single day we would work ourselves to death. And then, we wouldn't be useful at all!
A couple of warnings though as you add chores to your children's activities.
1. Don't expect perfection. Your children are learning to do these things, take time to show them how to do it correctly. If you have a specific way you like the beds made, show them how to do it that way.
2. Make chores a first of the day activity. When school starts make it an activity to do between school and homework.
3. Give positive incentives. If our children do all their chores for a month, we will take them out for ice cream or some other treat to congratulate them and encourage them.
4. Make creative punishments for chores not completed. If their room is not clean, take the items that are not put away and you put them somewhere away from them until they learn to clean up correctly.
You can do this mama! I know society says you have to do it all, have it all, and smile while doing it. Reality says, let your children help you! Don't let the joy of motherhood escape you because of lack of help!!!
XOXO,
Rebecca
I have found my seven year old and four year old copying what I say, I guess I say it often: "There is only one of me and five of us. I need help!" Yes, in my times of exasperation of wiping noses, changing diapers, kissing boo-boos, and answering 5,286,098 questions per day I let my kids know I am not an octopus with eight arms, nor do I have a clone hiding around the corner to jump in and help me out.
I use the Fifteen Minute Clean rule, which you can read about at www.gulfcoastwomanmagazine.com (click on the above link); the article was published in the current issue. But aside from that I realize that chores are a constant changing tune in my home.
I have spent a couple hours today figuring out the best chore charts for my children, which chores to add, which to take away, and which to split amongst the three. Until this chore revamp, I never put hygiene or getting out of bed a chore; to me it was obvious. Wrong! I was wrong! Now waking up, brushing teeth, and showering are chores on the chart for each child.
Here is a little key I used this time to make my chores for my children. I have took a week to watch them and see what they enjoy doing as far as cleaning. My daughter enjoys wiping things - the floor, her nose, her knee, my knee, etc. I have added dusting to her chore list. Yes, she is two. And no, I don't expect perfection or anything near it. It is a sense of responsibility being added at a young age. My four year old enjoys task oriented activities and pays attention to detail. I added the chore of matching socks to his chore list. My seven year old is pretty easy going, but likes to be organized; I added cleaning out the car to his chore list.
By delegating these tasks to the children, it will leave me more time with the children. Time to make memories. Do crafts, actually sit down with them and do the crafts with them. Time to do something for myself during the day. And time for me to become a better wife and mother with better time management.
Erma Bombeck said "housework can kill you if done right." I think she has a valid point. If we, as mothers, did every single task in the house every single day we would work ourselves to death. And then, we wouldn't be useful at all!
A couple of warnings though as you add chores to your children's activities.
1. Don't expect perfection. Your children are learning to do these things, take time to show them how to do it correctly. If you have a specific way you like the beds made, show them how to do it that way.
2. Make chores a first of the day activity. When school starts make it an activity to do between school and homework.
3. Give positive incentives. If our children do all their chores for a month, we will take them out for ice cream or some other treat to congratulate them and encourage them.
4. Make creative punishments for chores not completed. If their room is not clean, take the items that are not put away and you put them somewhere away from them until they learn to clean up correctly.
You can do this mama! I know society says you have to do it all, have it all, and smile while doing it. Reality says, let your children help you! Don't let the joy of motherhood escape you because of lack of help!!!
XOXO,
Rebecca
Sunday, July 7, 2013
Monday, Monday!
Tomorrow is Monday! I may be an oddity, but I love Mondays. I love how they signify a new chapter, a new time to get things done.
This week, take one room or one area of your house to get cleaned up or organized. Whether it be the spare closet, the extra bedroom, or your kitchen cabinets, get them done. Get your little darlings involved. Have your older children put things together that match. Have your younger children put lids for Tupperware in a certain place. Make it fun and make it a game. Take time to have fun while you do it. If you are cleaning the spare closet, see how many baskets of odds and ends your children can fill up in five minutes. If you are cleaning the spare bedroom, have your children race to put all of the nick-knacks in one corner of the room. If you are cleaning your kitchen cabinets take an impromptu music break and create your own little band using pots and pans.
Instead of begrudgingly loathing Mondays, take a new view of it being something new. Write down one thing you would like to accomplish this week and make it happen. Focus on spending time with your children, take time to sit on the floor with them while they play with their dolls or cars. Read them a book while they snuggle in your lap. Color with them. Make a mess with them and clean it up together.
This is a new week to make a memory. To make a difference in your children's lives. You can do it Mama!
XOXO,
Rebecca
This week, take one room or one area of your house to get cleaned up or organized. Whether it be the spare closet, the extra bedroom, or your kitchen cabinets, get them done. Get your little darlings involved. Have your older children put things together that match. Have your younger children put lids for Tupperware in a certain place. Make it fun and make it a game. Take time to have fun while you do it. If you are cleaning the spare closet, see how many baskets of odds and ends your children can fill up in five minutes. If you are cleaning the spare bedroom, have your children race to put all of the nick-knacks in one corner of the room. If you are cleaning your kitchen cabinets take an impromptu music break and create your own little band using pots and pans.
Instead of begrudgingly loathing Mondays, take a new view of it being something new. Write down one thing you would like to accomplish this week and make it happen. Focus on spending time with your children, take time to sit on the floor with them while they play with their dolls or cars. Read them a book while they snuggle in your lap. Color with them. Make a mess with them and clean it up together.
This is a new week to make a memory. To make a difference in your children's lives. You can do it Mama!
XOXO,
Rebecca
Thursday, July 4, 2013
Happy 4th of July!
Happy 4th of July!
Thank you to each of our military personnel who so sacrificially and readily protect our precious and beautiful country! Today would not be a day of America's Independence if it were not for the past military personnel as well, thank you for your sacrifices! To the military spouses; you are amazing, you keep everything at home running smoothly and peacefully as your spouse serves our country; thank you!
I hope everyone has a wonderful day with their friends and family! Be safe!
God Bless America,
Rebecca
Tuesday, July 2, 2013
Strong Like Hulk!
Yesterday, I decided I would be an uber-healthy mom and make my children smoothies as an afternoon snack. I found a good recipe, went and bought all the ingredients, in bulk, and hyped up the smoothie to my children all day!
The recipe called for:
- 2 packed cups chopped kale leaves
- 1 cup fresh or frozen pineapple
- 1/2 cup pineapple juice
- 1 cup unsweetened almond milk
I added all of the ingredients together and blended it until it made a nice green "Hulkish" color.
I told my sons that it would make them strong like Hulk! We were doing "Hulk Smash" and my daughter was just excited about all of the excitement.
I gave my sons their smoothies and excitedly told them to drink it! I waited for what I knew was going to be their Olvatine commercial faces....you know the faces that light up and the ask for more! I was already mentally writing my blog and raves about how well my children loved it. My four year old son took one big gulp and immediately declared "I don't want to be strong!!" and left the table and smoothie. My seven year old son politely gagged it down amidst promises of ice cream if he would drink it all. He decided ice cream was overrated. However, my daughter, whom will throw vegetables at you if you try to give them to her took several big gulps before she threw the cup down.
After my children's reactions I made my smoothie and took a big gulp. I smiled and said how delicious it was while holding my breath and trying not to taste the smoothie. I said I was full, a little fib, and poured the rest of the smoothie in the sink.
It was a hard reality that I am not a kale-smoothie mom. Today, we are going to try strawberry, blueberry, and a little hidden kale smoothie and see how that goes over!
Mamas, if you're trying something new and it doesn't work the first time, revamp it and try, try, again! You may be kale-smoothie mom or you may not be. The deal is you are the best mom you can be. It is fun to incorporate new ideas and recipes that other moms have tried and their children loved. If you tried one and your children had a "I don't want to be strong" moment, it is okay. Try something else. Not every recipe works for every family and that's okay! Have fun being a mommy and have fun trying new things. Today's flops will be tomorrow's laughs! You can do it mamas!
XOXO,
Rebecca
The recipe called for:
- 2 packed cups chopped kale leaves
- 1 cup fresh or frozen pineapple
- 1/2 cup pineapple juice
- 1 cup unsweetened almond milk
I added all of the ingredients together and blended it until it made a nice green "Hulkish" color.
I told my sons that it would make them strong like Hulk! We were doing "Hulk Smash" and my daughter was just excited about all of the excitement.
I gave my sons their smoothies and excitedly told them to drink it! I waited for what I knew was going to be their Olvatine commercial faces....you know the faces that light up and the ask for more! I was already mentally writing my blog and raves about how well my children loved it. My four year old son took one big gulp and immediately declared "I don't want to be strong!!" and left the table and smoothie. My seven year old son politely gagged it down amidst promises of ice cream if he would drink it all. He decided ice cream was overrated. However, my daughter, whom will throw vegetables at you if you try to give them to her took several big gulps before she threw the cup down.
After my children's reactions I made my smoothie and took a big gulp. I smiled and said how delicious it was while holding my breath and trying not to taste the smoothie. I said I was full, a little fib, and poured the rest of the smoothie in the sink.
It was a hard reality that I am not a kale-smoothie mom. Today, we are going to try strawberry, blueberry, and a little hidden kale smoothie and see how that goes over!
Mamas, if you're trying something new and it doesn't work the first time, revamp it and try, try, again! You may be kale-smoothie mom or you may not be. The deal is you are the best mom you can be. It is fun to incorporate new ideas and recipes that other moms have tried and their children loved. If you tried one and your children had a "I don't want to be strong" moment, it is okay. Try something else. Not every recipe works for every family and that's okay! Have fun being a mommy and have fun trying new things. Today's flops will be tomorrow's laughs! You can do it mamas!
XOXO,
Rebecca
Wednesday, June 26, 2013
Let Me Help You
As a stay at home mom, I find great fulfillment is helping other parents with their children.
It is summer time and a lot of parents need some place for their older children to spend the day, I have provided that this summer. It has been a fun adventure and challenge! Being a stay at home allows me to help other parents, whether they work outside the home, need a break, or just need some help for a couple hours a day every once in a while.
Mamas, we need to be there for each other. Yes, sometimes that means spending one day a week surrounded by children and having a completely child fun day. It may also mean offering help to that other mom you see who you know doesn't get breaks often. You will find that when you look at helping other parents as just that, helping parents, the daunting task of helping with additional children actually turns into a blessing to you! It truly is better to give than receive. When you know you have helped another mama and that you have done it well, it brings a great satisfaction to you.
This week find that mama that needs some help and offer your time. Reach out, go outside of your circle of friends, and open your arms and open your home to others. You can do this mamas!!! We need each other!!!
XOXO,
Rebecca
It is summer time and a lot of parents need some place for their older children to spend the day, I have provided that this summer. It has been a fun adventure and challenge! Being a stay at home allows me to help other parents, whether they work outside the home, need a break, or just need some help for a couple hours a day every once in a while.
Mamas, we need to be there for each other. Yes, sometimes that means spending one day a week surrounded by children and having a completely child fun day. It may also mean offering help to that other mom you see who you know doesn't get breaks often. You will find that when you look at helping other parents as just that, helping parents, the daunting task of helping with additional children actually turns into a blessing to you! It truly is better to give than receive. When you know you have helped another mama and that you have done it well, it brings a great satisfaction to you.
This week find that mama that needs some help and offer your time. Reach out, go outside of your circle of friends, and open your arms and open your home to others. You can do this mamas!!! We need each other!!!
XOXO,
Rebecca
Saturday, June 22, 2013
It's Party Time!
Oh, birthday parties. A rite of passage into motherhood. From the first birthday party for the first child....the one that you rent everything you can for and go out of your way to have the whole shebang. To the birthday parties that your child is telling you exactly what theme and who to invite to the party. Birthday parties are a time of fun, laughing, and stress!
At the beginning of my birthday party journey, I literally had an itinerary printed out as to what activities would be when and I had RSVPs mandatory; if you did not RSVP your child did not get a coveted goodie bag. Well, here I am today, just completed my thirteenth birthday party on this journey and I can say that I have loosened up. Instead of planning the parties a year in advance, I usually take a couple weeks to plan it. I don't pull out all stops any more. I just relax and make sure the guests are having a good time. We had our two year old's birthday party this weekend; and I can say I truly enjoyed myself. I wasn't stressed at all. I had a fun time. And there was no itinerary!
As I was reflecting on the enjoyment of the party, here are some things I noted I did:
- Made the menu simple: finger food only. We had pinwheels, fruit and cheese kabobs, a veggie tray, bottled water, and the cake.
- Started on time. I did not wait for everyone on the invitation list to come, I started at the time the party was said to begin.
- Let the kids play. I admit, when the birthday child ran outside in the muddy backyard, I got a little stressed. After we took the pictures, all the kids had free reign in the backyard.
- No goodie bags. Okay, brace yourself.. It is okay. We had no goodie bags and nobody missed them. Less stress for me and probably less stress for my friends, not having to say "no" to candy and gum!
- No games. You may need to sit down for this one. No goodie bags AND no games!! There was no real organized activities at the party.
- Hung out and relaxed. Yep, you read that right. Me, the hostess, just relaxed. I enjoyed myself and just had fun with my friends and family.
- Kept the guest list intimate. I invited family and friends who are basically family. At two years old, my child's friends are generally children of my friends. I did not invite the entire nursery at church. I did not invite based on wanting an invite to one of the other children's parties. I invited based on relationships. This may have been my sanity saver this year. The people who came know me well, I did not have to "put on the dog", it was just friends hanging out.
If you're planning the party of the year for your little darling, make sure it is a fun time for both the children and yourself. Don't worry about what the Jones's are doing for their birthday parties, they are no fun to keep up with any way! Don't stress!!! Your child will remember the people who came....and probably the cake, more than they will remember pin the tail on the donkey or the double bubble gum in a goodie bag. I have included some pictures from the birthday party so you can see how easy it can be!
Have fun during these times! You can do it mama!!
XOXO,
Rebecca
At the beginning of my birthday party journey, I literally had an itinerary printed out as to what activities would be when and I had RSVPs mandatory; if you did not RSVP your child did not get a coveted goodie bag. Well, here I am today, just completed my thirteenth birthday party on this journey and I can say that I have loosened up. Instead of planning the parties a year in advance, I usually take a couple weeks to plan it. I don't pull out all stops any more. I just relax and make sure the guests are having a good time. We had our two year old's birthday party this weekend; and I can say I truly enjoyed myself. I wasn't stressed at all. I had a fun time. And there was no itinerary!
As I was reflecting on the enjoyment of the party, here are some things I noted I did:
- Made the menu simple: finger food only. We had pinwheels, fruit and cheese kabobs, a veggie tray, bottled water, and the cake.
- Started on time. I did not wait for everyone on the invitation list to come, I started at the time the party was said to begin.
- Let the kids play. I admit, when the birthday child ran outside in the muddy backyard, I got a little stressed. After we took the pictures, all the kids had free reign in the backyard.
- No goodie bags. Okay, brace yourself.. It is okay. We had no goodie bags and nobody missed them. Less stress for me and probably less stress for my friends, not having to say "no" to candy and gum!
- No games. You may need to sit down for this one. No goodie bags AND no games!! There was no real organized activities at the party.
- Hung out and relaxed. Yep, you read that right. Me, the hostess, just relaxed. I enjoyed myself and just had fun with my friends and family.
- Kept the guest list intimate. I invited family and friends who are basically family. At two years old, my child's friends are generally children of my friends. I did not invite the entire nursery at church. I did not invite based on wanting an invite to one of the other children's parties. I invited based on relationships. This may have been my sanity saver this year. The people who came know me well, I did not have to "put on the dog", it was just friends hanging out.
If you're planning the party of the year for your little darling, make sure it is a fun time for both the children and yourself. Don't worry about what the Jones's are doing for their birthday parties, they are no fun to keep up with any way! Don't stress!!! Your child will remember the people who came....and probably the cake, more than they will remember pin the tail on the donkey or the double bubble gum in a goodie bag. I have included some pictures from the birthday party so you can see how easy it can be!
Have fun during these times! You can do it mama!!
XOXO,
Rebecca
Wednesday, June 19, 2013
Library Survival 101
We are library geeks. There I said it. For the past several months our local library was shut down due to a new library being built. We would drive twenty miles to another library, just to read books and check them out. We are proud library geeks!
Our summer reading program at our local library is in full swing....my excitement over this may be a tad inappropriate. Growing up, libraries were a part of my childhood, it was exciting and awe inspiring to go the library. Reading books opened new windows and doors for me, and it became my fast escape from the real world. I want my children to develop a love for books and the library that follows them into adulthood, as mine has.
With my library geek-ism being explained, I can move forward! Our library has an array of summer reading programs, we attend the preschool program in the morning and the elementary program in the afternoon. Normally. This morning was an epic fail. After breakfast I declared it nap time for everyone, I didn't set my alarm, because there was NO WAY we would sleep two hours. So, three and a half hours later, we woke up. Boo hiss! My mother of the year title may have been stripped today. I decided to let my two older children attend the elementary program together this afternoon. My youngest and I spent time with my Grandma at the library this afternoon. When I was packing for our one hour program; our one hour of trying to keep a two year old library quiet, I realized over the past several years I have become a pretty great packer for these kind of trips.
In the diaper bag there was:
- diapers
- wipes
- sippy cup
- cheerios (in a "spill proof" snack container)
- a toy car
- a tea cup
- a baby doll
- bracelets
Thankfully the people at my library understand that Wednesdays are kids days and are pretty accepting of the extra noise. Here is the key, the mommy tip I will pass on to you:
Don't stress.
Easy, huh? Not really. Learn patterns of your child and take note when your child starts to get antsy, have a game plan ahead of time to allow you and your child an opportunity to change tunes without screaming! Don't pull out all your tricks at one time, try to hold off on your diaper bag goodies and allow the child to have fun looking at board books, playing with toys at the library, or coloring. Take some deep breaths. You are not at the library to prove to the other moms how awesome your toddler can be for an hour, you are at the library to have fun; to instill a love of reading and a love of the library. Hold your child on your lap and read to them as much as they will let you. If all else fails, find the bathroom and hide in there for a while until your child settles down....this is from experience, I may be an expert bathroom hider. If you stay calm, your child will stay calm. Your child takes from your cues.
Have fun and teach your little ones that the library is for quiet, inside voices. Teach them the adventure that awaits inside a book. Let them experience the fun of the library! You can do this mamas!
XOXO,
Rebecca
Our summer reading program at our local library is in full swing....my excitement over this may be a tad inappropriate. Growing up, libraries were a part of my childhood, it was exciting and awe inspiring to go the library. Reading books opened new windows and doors for me, and it became my fast escape from the real world. I want my children to develop a love for books and the library that follows them into adulthood, as mine has.
With my library geek-ism being explained, I can move forward! Our library has an array of summer reading programs, we attend the preschool program in the morning and the elementary program in the afternoon. Normally. This morning was an epic fail. After breakfast I declared it nap time for everyone, I didn't set my alarm, because there was NO WAY we would sleep two hours. So, three and a half hours later, we woke up. Boo hiss! My mother of the year title may have been stripped today. I decided to let my two older children attend the elementary program together this afternoon. My youngest and I spent time with my Grandma at the library this afternoon. When I was packing for our one hour program; our one hour of trying to keep a two year old library quiet, I realized over the past several years I have become a pretty great packer for these kind of trips.
In the diaper bag there was:
- diapers
- wipes
- sippy cup
- cheerios (in a "spill proof" snack container)
- a toy car
- a tea cup
- a baby doll
- bracelets
Thankfully the people at my library understand that Wednesdays are kids days and are pretty accepting of the extra noise. Here is the key, the mommy tip I will pass on to you:
Don't stress.
Easy, huh? Not really. Learn patterns of your child and take note when your child starts to get antsy, have a game plan ahead of time to allow you and your child an opportunity to change tunes without screaming! Don't pull out all your tricks at one time, try to hold off on your diaper bag goodies and allow the child to have fun looking at board books, playing with toys at the library, or coloring. Take some deep breaths. You are not at the library to prove to the other moms how awesome your toddler can be for an hour, you are at the library to have fun; to instill a love of reading and a love of the library. Hold your child on your lap and read to them as much as they will let you. If all else fails, find the bathroom and hide in there for a while until your child settles down....this is from experience, I may be an expert bathroom hider. If you stay calm, your child will stay calm. Your child takes from your cues.
Have fun and teach your little ones that the library is for quiet, inside voices. Teach them the adventure that awaits inside a book. Let them experience the fun of the library! You can do this mamas!
XOXO,
Rebecca
Monday, June 17, 2013
Welcome Friends!!
Hello, hello!!
I am so excited you have took the time to visit my new blog, and my first public blog on parenting! I am a stay at home mommy of two amazing boys and one amazing little girl. I am happily married to my wonderful husband of almost eleven years. We live in the deep south, and I have learned (being a transplant from the way north), that y'all is a proper noun, everybody is darlin', and somebody's heart is always getting blessed!
Each of my children are very special and have unique needs. I have learned to count my blessings and not get overwhelmed, but focus on the happy and laugh at the little things.
I love to help other mommies find their purpose, calling, and passion in motherhood. In this day and age, motherhood is becoming a lost art. I hope you will join me on my journey of motherhood! Grab yourself a cup of coffee and visit my blog whenever you need a good dose of mommy encouragement!
XOXO,
Rebecca
I am so excited you have took the time to visit my new blog, and my first public blog on parenting! I am a stay at home mommy of two amazing boys and one amazing little girl. I am happily married to my wonderful husband of almost eleven years. We live in the deep south, and I have learned (being a transplant from the way north), that y'all is a proper noun, everybody is darlin', and somebody's heart is always getting blessed!
Each of my children are very special and have unique needs. I have learned to count my blessings and not get overwhelmed, but focus on the happy and laugh at the little things.
I love to help other mommies find their purpose, calling, and passion in motherhood. In this day and age, motherhood is becoming a lost art. I hope you will join me on my journey of motherhood! Grab yourself a cup of coffee and visit my blog whenever you need a good dose of mommy encouragement!
XOXO,
Rebecca
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