tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5412542535697651702024-03-05T02:09:58.542-08:00Children are worth it!WELCOME! I hope you enjoy sharing in the joy, frustrations and huge learning curve that I am experiencing as a mother. Through the 9 years of being a mom, I have appreciated those who not only listened, but also have helped by offering encouraging words and ideas. Because of past help I have recieved, I decided to pass on ideas at least once a week and hopefully get some more from YOU! If you know of other parents who would appreciate this-please share it with them. Let's enjoy the journey.overlyactivehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15186071624034890142noreply@blogger.comBlogger169125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-541254253569765170.post-16509994243992827632020-03-21T18:20:00.003-07:002020-03-21T18:20:59.944-07:00Rules to Pickle-Fun Family Card Game<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-indent: 36pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Post by Samantha!</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-indent: 36pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Have you ever been bored on a Saturday night with nothing to do? Well, you are in luck. Pickle is a fun game with 4-17 players. Ages 10+ and up can play. In these instructions, you will learn how to play pickle with your family and friends!</span><span style="border: none; display: inline-block; height: 44px; overflow: hidden; width: 50px;"><img height="44" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/0eSEv19vRabMcaQ1jHYwl8Ij2QoaCOrginWXpYEB1S8Z-LKZxa65Dm942Vp0hnKY5EPyQc3QMoEbK_UiUlhlpRjMlIOrULPP544EyDzZ0dbZ8_EBYcAFv1KStoWfAER2BSBcqDJ-" style="margin-left: 0px; margin-top: 0px;" width="50" /></span><span style="border: none; display: inline-block; height: 60px; overflow: hidden; width: 50px;"><img height="60" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/0eSEv19vRabMcaQ1jHYwl8Ij2QoaCOrginWXpYEB1S8Z-LKZxa65Dm942Vp0hnKY5EPyQc3QMoEbK_UiUlhlpRjMlIOrULPP544EyDzZ0dbZ8_EBYcAFv1KStoWfAER2BSBcqDJ-" style="margin-left: 0px; margin-top: 0px;" width="50" /></span></div>
<b id="docs-internal-guid-ba0a9d2c-7fff-0824-3de4-9052a6011cb5" style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-indent: 36pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">The set up is very easy you get the number of stacks of playing cards according to your number of people. For every 6 people add a stack of playing cards. Put the rest of the cards in the middle of everyone face down. You should deal 11 cards to each player. </span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Ultra,serif; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Do NOT look at them. </span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Take 3 cards from the top of your stack of cards and place them in front of you like so=</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;"><span style="border: none; display: inline-block; height: 36px; overflow: hidden; width: 49px;"><img height="45.882352941176464" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/A2kJYZY1QTPM1OqS1wn32LL4t4Y5J8jVFEdAwlZNjNqsrDQwQHFJ-tELE0N6e7jdHuJA6fZlyDNMS7vK12KtUM2MMl-SBhrBYqsvAlXAGh5Bpt8b-txWLL8S5nCBhydhShBhbzvy" style="margin-left: -2.7575757575758226px; margin-top: -2.5882352941177147px;" width="57.27272727272727" /></span></span></div>
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<li dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; list-style-type: disc; margin-left: 36pt; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><div dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">The rules are quite simple. After you “set up” the game each player can look at their cards. </span></div>
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<li dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; list-style-type: disc; margin-left: 36pt; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><div dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Pick 3 of your highest or a special card (special card list will be at the bottom of the paper) and place them on top of your face down cards. </span><span style="border: none; display: inline-block; height: 60px; overflow: hidden; width: 50px;"><img height="60" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/0eSEv19vRabMcaQ1jHYwl8Ij2QoaCOrginWXpYEB1S8Z-LKZxa65Dm942Vp0hnKY5EPyQc3QMoEbK_UiUlhlpRjMlIOrULPP544EyDzZ0dbZ8_EBYcAFv1KStoWfAER2BSBcqDJ-" style="margin-left: 0px; margin-top: 0px;" width="50" /></span></div>
</li>
<li dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; list-style-type: disc; margin-left: 36pt; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><div dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">Now you should have 5 cards in your hand. </span></div>
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<li dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; list-style-type: disc; margin-left: 36pt; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><div dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">The person to the right of the dealer goes first. </span><span style="border: none; display: inline-block; height: 60px; overflow: hidden; width: 50px;"><img height="60" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/0eSEv19vRabMcaQ1jHYwl8Ij2QoaCOrginWXpYEB1S8Z-LKZxa65Dm942Vp0hnKY5EPyQc3QMoEbK_UiUlhlpRjMlIOrULPP544EyDzZ0dbZ8_EBYcAFv1KStoWfAER2BSBcqDJ-" style="margin-left: 0px; margin-top: 0px;" width="50" /></span></div>
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<li dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; list-style-type: disc; margin-left: 36pt; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><div dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">The first player will play their lowest card in their hand. So if it is my turn and the card is 7 and I have an 8 I should play that card. </span></div>
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<li dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; list-style-type: disc; margin-left: 36pt; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><div dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">When it comes around to you then you place your next highest card on the pile. </span></div>
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<li dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; list-style-type: disc; margin-left: 36pt; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><div dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">If it is your turn and you can't play higher than the card on the pile then you can either place down one of your special cards or pick up the pile. </span></div>
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<li dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; list-style-type: disc; margin-left: 36pt; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><div dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">You play till you run out of cards in the deck. </span></div>
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<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;"><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span></span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">When you run out of cards in the deck you just play till you don't have any more cards in your hand. After there are no more cards in your hand you use the face-up cards. When all of your face-up cards are gone and it is your turn you just flip one over and hope that it can play. So that means if all my top cards are gone and it is my turn and it is a 7 I have to randomly flip ONE over and hope it is bigger than a 7. If it is not then you have to pick up the whole pile. </span><span style="border: none; display: inline-block; height: 44px; overflow: hidden; width: 50px;"><img height="44" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/0eSEv19vRabMcaQ1jHYwl8Ij2QoaCOrginWXpYEB1S8Z-LKZxa65Dm942Vp0hnKY5EPyQc3QMoEbK_UiUlhlpRjMlIOrULPP544EyDzZ0dbZ8_EBYcAFv1KStoWfAER2BSBcqDJ-" style="margin-left: 0px; margin-top: 0px;" width="50" /></span></div>
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<ol style="margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 0;">
<li dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; list-style-type: decimal; margin-left: 36pt; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><div dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">The objective is to run out of cards first. </span><span style="border: none; display: inline-block; height: 44px; overflow: hidden; width: 50px;"><img height="44" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/0eSEv19vRabMcaQ1jHYwl8Ij2QoaCOrginWXpYEB1S8Z-LKZxa65Dm942Vp0hnKY5EPyQc3QMoEbK_UiUlhlpRjMlIOrULPP544EyDzZ0dbZ8_EBYcAFv1KStoWfAER2BSBcqDJ-" style="margin-left: 0px; margin-top: 0px;" width="50" /></span></div>
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</ol>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<ol start="2" style="margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 0;">
<li dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; list-style-type: decimal; margin-left: 36pt; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><div dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">The special cards are 2 and a 10 </span></div>
</li>
<li dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; list-style-type: decimal; margin-left: 36pt; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><div dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">2’s start the hand over so if there is a king and you can't play you play your 2 and the next person can play anyone they want because a 2 is the lowest number. </span></div>
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</ol>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<ol start="4" style="margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 0;">
<li dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; list-style-type: decimal; margin-left: 36pt; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><div dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">The 10’s clear the pile.</span></div>
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</ol>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-left: 72pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<br /></div>
<ol start="5" style="margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 0;">
<li dir="ltr" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; list-style-type: decimal; margin-left: 36pt; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre;"><div dir="ltr" role="presentation" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">The aces are above kings, not a one. </span></div>
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</ol>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></b>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;">What the set up should look like= </span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap; white-space: pre;"><img height="493" src="https://docs.google.com/drawings/u/3/d/sjgXRmxFteV7kBtFJ6JkzlQ/image?w=624&h=493&rev=109&ac=1&parent=1rM6rLybqtM4T5i6Nq7p80m7Wg1b5E2xCcKWFS8_FeO4" style="border: none;" width="624" /></span></div>
<br />overlyactivehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15186071624034890142noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-541254253569765170.post-34893605431978753092013-06-07T16:01:00.000-07:002013-06-07T16:01:00.068-07:00No Child Left Inside Week<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="Better vision is one of the rewards of kids’ playing outside. (Photos.com)" src="http://www.theepochtimes.com/n2/images/stories/large/2008/08/25/30327093-ChildrenOutside_medium.jpg" /></div>
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June 10-15, 2013 </div>
This is the time to get outside. I think it's kind of ironic because usually in June this is not a problem to get outside because it's such nice weather. It would be awesome to have this week during a time when it's harder to get outside and you have to be creative to do things outside. Anyways, get up and move outside. The movement is to emphasis how important it is for children to learn and grow while in their outside environment. I just love to go up in the mountains and breathe the fresh air, hear a musical river run, and feel the dirt and the sand in your hand. If you live in Cache Valley there are events everyday of this week. It is especially for elementary aged children. Click here: <a href="http://www.loganutah.org/parks_and_rec/leisure_guide/index.cfm?CFTREEITEMKEY=LeisureGuide" target="_blank">For a list of these activities</a> <br />
Here are some simple ideas you can do with your kids to get outside:<br />
Have a scavenger hunt at a park<br />
Have a picnic at a local park or just in your own back yard<br />
Go camping<br />
Play Frizbee<br />
Play catch<br />
Go insect hunting<br />
Take a walk to visit someone who is ill or elderly<br />
Play catch with your dog<br />
Play follow leader with your whole family and have each person choose a way to walk<br />
Mother May I<br />
Red Rover<br />
Duck Duck Goose<br />
Go weed your garden or a neighbors<br />
Invite a friend and their kids to the park and have a playdate in the park<br />
Grab a coin and take a walk-when you get to a corner flip a coin to see if you turn left or right see where you end up.<br />
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<br />overlyactivehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15186071624034890142noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-541254253569765170.post-9596235512306654792013-01-21T15:32:00.002-08:002013-02-16T15:43:32.576-08:00Drops of Awesome<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<img alt="drops-of-awesome-010" height="263" src="http://www.daringyoungmom.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/drops-of-awesome-010-1024x678.jpg" width="400" /></div>
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I just read a blog post by Kathryn Thompson whose blog is entitled "The Daring Mom" that was truly inspiring to me (Thank you Tracy for sharing it with me). I would encourage you all to read this to really get a feel for her thoughts on <a href="http://www.daringyoungmom.com/2012/12/19/drops-of-awesome/?fb_action_ids=4545897960396&fb_action_types=og.likes&fb_source=other_multiline&action_object_map=%7B%224545897960396%22%3A137474856407296%7D&action_type_map=%7B%224545897960396%22%3A%22og.likes%22%7D&action_ref_map=%5B%5D" target="_blank">Drops of Awesome</a>. Basically her idea (inspiration) in a nutshell is that as we do things in our life that are good we should acknowledge it and let it encourage us to continue the good and not let thoughts of doubt and discouragement fill our lives. She give some real life examples of things that she does and the thoughts that creep in. It was so real for me because I do it all the time. <br />
For me this is a real life example of something I did today that I tried "Drops of Awesome" on. My daughter, Pumpkin, got sick a few nights ago and threw up on her floor. It was yucky. In my half daze, because it was 1:00 am I cleaned it up the best I could and put both of us back in bed. Well today as I went into their room I could still smell that it wasn't quite clean enough. So I got out the Kirby and Wet cleaned the carpet. It felt so good and now it smells again lovely in their room. Because I just read this article I really wanted to focus on the good I did. I have to admit their was a few thoughts in my mind of, "look how much junk came out of this carpet, I can't believe you haven't cleaned this carpet once since you have moved in this house. But I quickly remembered her thoughts of "Drops of Awesome" and said self, you have done a great thing in getting this room clean. I want to keep this up and do another room next week. It didn't take all that much time and it really felt good to get a deep clean in that room. <br />
Do you find yourself being critical of yourself and letting thoughts of negativism come into your life even when you are doing something good and trying to be a good Mom? Then this post is just for you. Just as it was for me!<br />
Just from me to you, You are an amazing Mom! You do so many things that are Awesome! Keep it up! Keep smiling and being a great example of awesome to your kids. Remember that you are not perfect and are not expected to be. Christ will make up the difference for you! Keep him close to your heart and he will fill up the rest of the cup when you are filling empty! I know he will because he does for me so often.<br />
Keep the Faith!<a class="pin-it-button" count-layout="horizontal" href="http://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fchildrenareworthit.blogspot.com%2F2013%2F01%2Fdrops-of-awesome.html&media=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.daringyoungmom.com%2Fwp%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2012%2F12%2Fdrops-of-awesome-010-1024x678.jpg&description=Inspiring%20Mom's%20to%20acknowledge%20the%20good%20things%20they%20are%20doing%20without%20filling%20their%20thoughts%20with%20self-doubt%20and%20negativity.%20%20Everything%20you%20do%20good%20is%20filling%20your%20cup%20one%20drop%20at%20a%20time!%20"><img border="0" src="//assets.pinterest.com/images/PinExt.png" title="Pin It" /></a><script src="//assets.pinterest.com/js/pinit.js" type="text/javascript"></script>overlyactivehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15186071624034890142noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-541254253569765170.post-25815550373833160172013-01-15T13:10:00.001-08:002013-01-15T13:28:57.080-08:00Free At-home Preschool Program<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<img alt="Free Preschool in Utah" src="http://www.utahupstart.org/wp-content/uploads/hdr_img6.jpg" /></div>
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Do you have a child who will be starting Kindergarten in the Fall of 2014? Listen up!<br />
The Upstart Program is now recruiting for preschool students for the next year. Upstart is a Utah state-funded, computer-based preschool program that will prepare your four-year-old for kindergarten with a fun start in reading, math, and science in just 15 minutes a day.<br />
The program is Free and it provides COMPLETE lessons in beginning reading, math, and science.<br />
Your child will love the Easy-to-use books, songs, and activities.<br />
The quality of the program is topnotch. <br />
There is limited openings so <a href="http://www.utahupstart.org/" target="_blank">Go Online</a> or Call Now (1-800-669-4533)to register for your child who will be starting Kindergarten in Fall 2014. <br />
You may also qualify for the use of a free computer and internet service. <br />
I have had two children do this preschool program and have loved it. I'm planning on buying the software so I can continue using it with my children and my preschool students. I do believe that it will academically prepare your child for kindergarten but the social aspect and listening to another adult in a class room setting is just as essential as the academic part. So if you can I would do both, the upstart program and preschool. <br />
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My other posts about Upstart Program for more information (I must really like this program!):<br />
<a href="http://childrenareworthit.blogspot.com/2010/12/utah-upstart-at-home-preschool-program.html" target="_blank">Post 1</a><br />
<a href="http://childrenareworthit.blogspot.com/2012/04/online-preschool-utah-upstart.html" target="_blank">Post 2</a><br />
<a href="http://childrenareworthit.blogspot.com/2009/09/preschool-options.html" target="_blank">Post 3</a><br />
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<script src="//assets.pinterest.com/js/pinit.js" type="text/javascript"></script>overlyactivehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15186071624034890142noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-541254253569765170.post-34527256785631970412013-01-05T08:29:00.001-08:002013-01-21T15:41:54.826-08:00Winter Outside Play-Prevention of Getting the Winter Blues<img src="http://i.cdn.turner.com/cnn/2010/HEALTH/12/07/winter.health.safety.parenting/t1larg.jpg" /><br />
It is so cold right now where we live. When we wake up it's sometimes below zero or maybe pushing 3 degrees. I got a newsletter from Child Care Resource and Referral a little while ago and I got some great information on outside play for children I thought would be good to share. <br />
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The long cold days of winter can take a toll on caregivers and children alike. We can all get bored and cranky if we are cooped up too much. Playing outside even for just a few minutes everyday can help get rid of cabin fever and get the wiggles out. Here are some great benefits to outdoor play:<br />
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<li>The outdoor environment permits noise, movement and great freedom for children</li>
<li>Outdoor play relieves stress and reduces anxiety</li>
<li>Physical activity increases physical strength and coordination</li>
<li>Playing outdoor in cold weather <u>does not</u> cause illness in children. Colds, flu and illness are caused by viruses and bacteria. Children confined in warm, closed up rooms with several other children have greater exposure to germs</li>
<li>Physical movement increases self-confidence and competence is developed</li>
<li>Frequent exposure to fresh air, exercise and sunshine increase children's general fitness and resistance to infections (follow red air guidelines for when to keep children inside)</li>
<li>During active play outdoors, the viruses and bacteria are dispersed into a larger, more mobile air space decreasing the risk of spreading to others</li>
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(Source: Michigan Child Care Matters Issue 70)<br />
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I really see a difference when we get outside or not in the mood of my children and I. One thing we like to do is get out after dinner and just go around the block with the family and the dog. Find some time everyday to get outside and see if it makes a difference for you. <a class="pin-it-button" count-layout="horizontal" href="http://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fchildrenareworthit.blogspot.com%2F2013%2F01%2Fwinter-outside-play-prevention-of.html&media=http%3A%2F%2Fi.cdn.turner.com%2Fcnn%2F2010%2FHEALTH%2F12%2F07%2Fwinter.health.safety.parenting%2Ft1larg.jpg&description=Kids%20should%20play%20outside%20even%20when%20it's%20cold.%20%20Find%20seven%20great%20reasons%20to%20go%20and%20play%20in%20this%20winter%20weather!"><img border="0" src="//assets.pinterest.com/images/PinExt.png" title="Pin It" /></a><script src="//assets.pinterest.com/js/pinit.js" type="text/javascript"></script> overlyactivehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15186071624034890142noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-541254253569765170.post-73882310607013380532012-12-29T21:39:00.000-08:002012-12-29T21:39:47.194-08:00100 Day Challenge<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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My piano students have just been issued the 100 day challenge! I'm excited because I always see amazing progress occur during this time and the months afterward. The challenge is for my students to practice their instrument 100 days in a row without missing one day. This is a huge commitment on both the parents and the students. As they do this they are establishing a habit in their life and finding that they can do hard things. <br />
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There is something about setting a goal and sticking to it that is so exciting and rewarding! The new year is a great time to do this. I'm always saddened to hear of all the people that say, "I'm not going to set any new years resolutions, because I don't keep them." Aren't we all trying suppose to improve our lives over time. And what a better time then a new year.<br />
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It doesn't need to be practicing an instrument, it could be saying your prayers, scripture study, exercise, cleaning your room, Saying "I love you" to your spouse or children, any thing we would like to change in your life. If you do something for 100 days it will become a habit! So why not set a goal and do 100 consecutive days of something. Give yourself motivation by setting up an awesome reward that makes you excited to do it. Here is a<a href="https://docs.google.com/spreadsheet/ccc?key=0AkeSKl9UPhpAdHg3NmtQNEZkLWRReE5wal9PSDBGS0E" target="_blank"> link to our tally sheet</a>. If you have trouble opening this put your e-mail in my comments and I will send you the excel file. Be sure to put your tally sheet in a prominent place in your home so you will always see it. You should also share your goal with someone you love to keep you in check. Challenge them to set a goal to and you can help each other. <br />
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All my children are doing the 100 days of practicing. I on the other had am doing 100 days of personal scripture study and personal prayer. We are going to put our tally sheets in the dining room so we can see it at every meal. This will remind us all to do our tasks. <br />
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I challenge you to make it a family affair and talk with your kids about what habit they would like to establish in their life this year. I'd love to hear about your challenges, Good Luck!overlyactivehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15186071624034890142noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-541254253569765170.post-84904697202757921182012-12-14T06:17:00.000-08:002012-12-14T06:17:17.159-08:00It's not about the pants<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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After hearing about this wearing pants at church day. It has bothered me enough that I need to say my two cents on the issue. Hear Goes:<br />
This Sunday a new feminist group has made an event called "Wear Pants to Church Day." They believe women should wear what they would like and feel compelled to wear a dress or skirt. Stephanie Lauritzen is the founder of a a new feminist group called "All Enlisted". She claims women are not treated equal in the church and changes need to happen. This event is only the beginning of events according to Lauritzen. She says in an interview, "We planned “Wear Pants to Church” Day to raise awareness and visibility: to allow Mormon feminists to say, “We’re here, we’re all in this together, and we’re ready to work to make the Church better. We’re faithful. We’re serving. We’re ready to work.” We also wanted a gentle first step—the action doesn’t even break any LDS Church rules." Later she says, "I am amazed at just how eager Mormons are to profess their faith and their hope for a better Church at the same time. There are so many really earnest, very devout people who do see room for improvement in how our religion is run"<br />
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The comment that we aren't even breaking any LDS Church rules, Does that mean the next action will? I find the comment that she sees that our church needs improvement on how the religion is run a dangerous statement. Dangerous in the sense that when we make actions to prove that we are right and the church is wrong we could be heading down a spiritual downward spiral. <br />
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As a member of the church I have a testimony that the church is run by our Savior Jesus Christ. Jesus, who I believe has the best in mind for all of his children, men and yes even women. Women and Men are different and the more that women try to take over men's role the more they lose the divine part of us that makes us unique, beautiful and special. Prophet Joseph Smith said, “I teach them correct principles, and they govern themselves.” Eternal principles are the scaffolding the Church provides. These eternal principles are embedded in the doctrines of the kingdom of God and are reflected in His eternal plan of happiness. We meet as members of the Church to teach and learn from each other the principles of righteousness and to receive saving ordinances so the scaffolding is steady and stable as we build our eternal families." (as quoted in <a href="http://www.lds.org/ensign/2012/12/the-tradition-of-light-and-testimony?lang=eng&query=women+roles" target="_blank">Elder L. Tom Perry's talk</a>) Our leaders of the church are only following Christ and as a church member I am so grateful for that knowledge that they have the keys to lead and guide us.<br />
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Sister Sheri L. Dew, who served as a counselor in the general Relief Society presidency, counseled, "Sister, some will try to persuade you that because you are not ordained to the priesthood, you have been shortchanged. They are simply wrong, and they do not understand the gospel of Jesus Christ. The blessings of the priesthood are available to every righteous man and woman. We may all receive the Holy Ghost, obtain personal revelation, and be endowed in the temple, from which we emerge 'armed' with power. The power of the priesthood heals, protects, and inoculates all the righteous against the powers of darkness. Most significantly, the fullness of the priesthood contained in the highest ordinances of the house of the Lord can be received only by a man and woman together." (pg 128 of Daughter in My Kingdom)<br />
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I am so grateful for my knowledge that I am a child of God who is loved and important. I know that any calling in the church I have is very valuable. Just as women have the privilege and responsibility to rear and raise children and serve in the church, men have the privilege and responsibility of the priesthood. I'm grateful for that! The Priesthood is the sacred power of God given as a gift to bless and strengthen us. <a href="http://www.lds.org/topics/family-proclamation?lang=eng" target="_blank">The Proclamation of the Family </a>states clearly the individual roles of men and women as they pertain to our existence here on earth. When I read that, the spirit confirms my importance of my role. I am equally important! Two more quotes to end on that are awesome:<br />
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President Heber J. Grant (1856–1945) said, “Without the devotion and absolute testimony of the living God in the hearts of our mothers, this Church would die.”<br />
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President Gordon B. Hinckley counseled the women of the Church:<br />
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“It is so tremendously important that the women of the Church stand strong and immovable for that which is correct and proper under the plan of the Lord. …<br />
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“We call upon the women of the Church to stand together for righteousness. They must begin in their own homes. They can teach it in their classes. They can voice it in their communities.” (both quoted in Pres. Uchtdorf's talk "<a href="http://www.lds.org/liahona/2009/09/the-influence-of-righteous-women?lang=eng&query=%22women+roles%22" target="_blank">The influence of righteous women.</a>"<br />
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I pray we will stand strong and immovable in the gospel of Jesus Christ. That this strength will encourage our children and all around us to be more like Christ. What will I be wearing to church this Sunday? I will wear my most feminine dress I own and that's for sure!overlyactivehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15186071624034890142noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-541254253569765170.post-50397588935215621252012-12-10T09:00:00.000-08:002012-12-10T09:00:03.829-08:00Kindergarten Ready: 2. Learning the Alphabet<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Part of getting ready for school is learning the alphabet. Knowing the letters are important. I've heard some say that preschoolers don't need to know their letters before kindergarten, but I think it is harder for those who don't know their letters. They seem to struggle later on more with reading. <br />
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There are a lot of <u><b>fun</b></u> (key with preschoolers) ways to learn the alphabet, here is some ways I've tried.<br />
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1. Have a letter for the week or day depending on how long they need to learn it. Have them carry a letter in their pocket. They are the babysitter for that letter. Throughout the day you can ask them if they still have their letter and what it's called. As you read with them point out that letter throughout the book. Think of words with that letter.<br />
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2. Alphabet Flashcards. There are so many games you can play with a simple deck of alphabet cards. I would suggest getting two of the same kind so you can play games like, go fish, and memory with them. You can also play a hide and seek game with them. As they find the letter they tell you the name.<br />
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3. Sing the Alphabet Song--Be sure to pronounce the fast letters clearly, L M N O P. Those seem to get lumped all together in their mind.<br />
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4. Alphabet Bingo--Just learning to identify the letter on a bingo card is great progress. Later you can just say a letter name and they can practice finding the letter without the visual cue card.<br />
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5. Learning a musical Instrument: This really helped my daughter to learn her letter quickly. Pairing the name of the letter with a musical note helped her conceptionalize it. You only get A-G but it's a start. <br />
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6. Magnets on the fridge: I spend a lot of time in the kitchen and by having letters on the fridge I could help teach letters while I'm cooking and cleaning. They can also start forming sounds and words by putting the letters together.<br />
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7. Letter Associations: I have a puzzle with the letters on it. Each has a picture with something that starts with that letter. This really helps pair sounds with the letters. You can do this with alphabet picture books too. I would suggest buying the Dr Seuss ABC book and read it often. <br />
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8. Ipad/phone games: We have found some fun Ipad games that teach the alphabet. There are a lot of apps to choose from. One I like is <a href="http://www.amazon.com/THUP-Games-LLC-Preschool-Lunchbox/dp/B004DPC5Y2/ref=cm_cr_pr_pb_t" target="_blank">Monkey Preschool Lunchbox by THUP</a> <br />
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9. Computer Games: I love<a href="http://www.abcya.com/" target="_blank"> abcya.com.</a> This website is for all ages because once you get to the home page you can click what grade your child is in and then the game appropriate for that age comes up.<br />
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10. <a href="http://www.utahupstart.org/" target="_blank">Upstart: Free At home preschool program</a>. It's hard to get in but worth the effort. (If you have an upcoming preschooler go today and register!) Two of my kids have had the opportunity to participate and it is wonderful. It goes through the entire alphabet and doesn't move on to the next level until your child has mastered it. The music in the the program is catchy and fun and helps the children to remember the concepts. Can't say enough good about it. You have to be in Utah to participate in the free program. But they do have product available for purchase which I would highly recommend. <br />
<br />overlyactivehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15186071624034890142noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-541254253569765170.post-16662910514386268002012-12-07T05:30:00.000-08:002012-12-07T05:30:03.114-08:00New Dinner Menu Plan Revolution<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
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I'm finally recovered from not having our<a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=8225122852183494048#editor/target=post;postID=3703630259786065787" target="_blank"> dinner group</a>. Check out the link for more info on that idea. It was just so nice to have one meal of the week to worry about. But alas I now enjoy cooking dinner daily on a much smaller scale. <br />
Before a couple months ago, I would spend an hour or two writing in the dinners I wanted to cook for that month. This was a monthly project and took too much time! So I decided to try a monthly calendar that doesn't change. To choose the meals, I started by asking each of my kids, what dinners they enjoy the most. I put that into the menu plan then I asked my husband to choose some of his favorites. Then I plugged in other meals we enjoy and whalla I had a monthly plan that has been working for a few months now. I love not having to guess what we are going to eat. We are eating a variety of meals and ones that my kids enjoy and eat. I thought I would get tired of the same meals but I'm really not. I planned six weeks. The meals that are on those first and sixth weeks don't always get made depending on what day of the week starts the month out. So figure that in, maybe some of your not so favorite meals here or ones that take more care. I also allow for flexibility depending on time I have to cook and what is available in my pantry. Here is a link to view <a href="https://docs.google.com/open?id=0B0eSKl9UPhpAbjdEWlJPbVlIUVk" target="_blank">our dinner meals.</a> It may just give you an idea for your next dinner creation. Happy Cooking! Remember "All great change in America begins at the dinner table". Ronald Reagan<br />
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<br />overlyactivehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15186071624034890142noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-541254253569765170.post-91384014202469824272012-12-04T06:30:00.000-08:002012-12-06T20:38:56.626-08:00Kindergarten Ready: 1. Reading<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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My baby is less then a year from starting Kindergarten and that pretty scary! I feel like I'm getting old but also it's really sad how fast the time goes. I've been really reflecting lately on what things I can do as a mom to prepare her for school. I'm going to several posts each one a different idea. <br />
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The first one is <u>Reading.</u></div>
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Of all the things my older kids have needed in their tool belt that I feel has helped or hindered them the most is their ability to read. Each child is different in how fast they have caught on to reading. I see it with my preschoolers everyday. Some have a knack for it and catch on really quick. Others are slower to understand. Regardless of how fast they catch if they capture the love of reading then you have it made! Here's some ideas:</div>
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1. Read to them everyday. Start when they are babies. Make it part of their routine. I like to read at nap time, bedtime, read scriptures as a family in the morning. So reading is just part of their regular day. My four year old is now reading me one book a day and then I read her one book a day. We have started the <a href="http://www.iseesam.com/">I see sam series</a>. It is very simple and helps early readers be successful quickly. With my preschool I use the "<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-size: 12pt;">Teach
Your Child to Read in 100 Easy Lessons" by Engelmann. A very comprehensive reading approach that I also really like. </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-size: 12pt;">2. Have many books at home These don't have to be books you buy they can be library books. It can be the newspaper, or magazines. Just having reading material around to use will foster a love of reading.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-size: 12pt;">3. Read yourself. If you take the time to read a good book then your children will more likely also want to experience this joy. As a busy mom, I know how hard it is to find time to read. I like to have a few books I'm reading at the same time. It drives my husband crazy sometimes. =) But I will put one in the bathroom, one by my bed, I like take one in the car when I'm waiting for the kids to come out from school. If the books are around they are more likely to be read.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333;">4. Read together as a family. When we travel in the summer we like to find a good book to read together in the car. I would like to say we do that year round but we don't and I think that would be awesome. We have started the "Lion Witch and the Wardrobe" series by CS Lewis. </span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333;">5. Have your older kids read the books before the movie program. We made a deal with the kids that if there was a movie they wanted to watch and it was based on a book, they had to read the book first before they watched the movie. This has been a really great motivator. We have limits on ratings because there are some that are rated PG-13 that we don't want them to see. </span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333;">6. Scripture Reading. Our first grader has improved so much this year on reading and I believe a lot has to do with family scripture study. She reads one verse a day and she is sounding out some big words and it's been fun to see her confidence grow. To help everyone following a long. After everyone has read one or two verses we alternate by only reading to a punctuation mark. Sometimes you only get to read one word and then it passes on to the next person. Everyone has to pay attention or you get lost and it's your turn. It's a lot of fun and it helps to keep the focus. </span></div>
overlyactivehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15186071624034890142noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-541254253569765170.post-16210389478975546412012-12-02T11:16:00.000-08:002012-12-02T11:16:03.681-08:00Christmas Devotional-Family Tradition<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Tonight is the First Presidency Christmas Devotional Broadcast. The Broadcast begins at 6:00 pm. Ever since I was a little girl I remember watching this Christmas Devotional and it was a wonderful way to begin the Christmas Season. Hearing Beautiful Christmas messages and music brings the spirit of Christmas in your heart and home. I hope you can make time to watch the devotional with your family this year. You don't have to watch it tonight, the great thing about the internet is it will be available to watch at your convenience. It would make a great Family Home Evening. <br />
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Broadcast.lds.org will offer live video of the devotional in 16 languages—American Sign Language, Cantonese, Cebuano, English, French, German, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Mandarin, Portuguese, Russian, Samoan, Spanish, Tagalog, and Tongan—and live audio in several languages. These video and audio files will be archived on broadcast.lds.org shortly after the broadcast.<br />
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Live audio and video of the devotional will also be available in English and Spanish on mormonchannel.org.<br />
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Various broadcast, cable, satellite, and Internet television stations and broadcast, satellite, and Internet radio stations throughout the world will also carry the devotional. Check local program listings for availability in your area, or visit mormonchannel.org or byubroadcasting.org.<br />
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The First Presidency Christmas Devotional will also be broadcast or rebroadcast over the Church satellite system in more than 50 languages. Check with local leaders for more details.overlyactivehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15186071624034890142noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-541254253569765170.post-10898440553589323762012-11-24T07:00:00.000-08:002012-11-24T07:00:03.457-08:00Finished the Book of Mormon!<br />
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We finished the <a href="http://www.lds.org/scriptures/bofm?lang=eng">Book for Mormon</a> as a family this week! What a great feeling it is. We talked with the kids about Moroni's challenge and said this is for you. Our three oldest children resolved to pray about the Book to find out for themselves if it is correct. It was a really spiritual scripture study as we bore our testimonies of how important these words are. We decided that we would begin it again because in the <a href="http://www.lds.org/scriptures/bofm/introduction?lang=eng">introduction</a> it says: "Concerning this record the Prophet Joseph Smith said: “I told the brethren that the Book of Mormon was the most correct of any book on earth, and the keystone of our religion, and a man would get nearer to God by abiding by its precepts, than by any other book.”<div>
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We are going to celebrate by going to the JumpZone. It's a new Trampoline Park. We have never been but have heard it is a lot of fun for kids and families. </div>
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I'm grateful for my parents starting this tradition of reading scriptures as a family and then celebrating through a fun activity together. Thanks mom and dad!</div>
overlyactivehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15186071624034890142noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-541254253569765170.post-55873428596120662042012-11-19T07:30:00.000-08:002012-11-19T07:30:00.341-08:00Stop the Yelling!With the kids downstairs I am finding myself yelling down the stairs for them to come up to eat dinner, read scriptures, clean up the kitchen, whatever. So we started a couple new things to eliminate a few of the daily hollering.<br />
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1. When it's time for scripture study, I start playing a hymn on the piano. I do an introduction and then begin playing and singing the hymn. We do all the verses and then scripture study begins. It works like magic and my kids are learning the hymns. We use to choose any random hymn but this week we started with hymn 1 and are going to work through the entire book. <br />
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2. We got a dinner bell! It's also magic. I ring it and they all come running. I will also ring it when it's time to set the table so I can get a little help. Love the dinner bell. Oh it works for breakfast and lunch too! =)<br />
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<br />overlyactivehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15186071624034890142noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-541254253569765170.post-60825993489735391442012-11-18T12:56:00.002-08:002012-11-18T12:56:42.523-08:00Breaking the SilenceI've had a moment (about 3 months now) where I just couldn't post anything. I guess I've been feeling like not such a great mom so how could I write about something I was failing at. I also was comparing myself to other amazing women and mothers out their and I felt like I was falling short. I'm not feeling that much better but I've realized I've missed the emotional outlet that writing about parenting is for me. I'm not a perfect mom by any means. The truth is I'm struggling to be a good mom and as I find something I think may work for the moment I want to exclaim it so maybe it may help someone just like me. <br />
Thanks for reading and I hope you can find some gems that may help you and I am resolved to find my voice again and write about what I love, Motherhood. overlyactivehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15186071624034890142noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-541254253569765170.post-13535725991055747552012-08-24T13:16:00.000-07:002012-08-24T13:16:01.441-07:00What do you live for?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/wbrCXe5zeLU?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
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My friends cousin Alisa is battling cancer and she wrote a beautiful post on what we really should be living for. <a href="http://joshalisa.blogspot.com/2012/05/old-magic-that-roars.html?m=1">The old magic that Roars. </a> Please take a minute to read this, it is very thought provoking! She references this song by Celine Dion called "Live for the One I love." <br />
I hope when we as parents make decisions that we remember who we love. The decisions we make not only effect us but they effect our children. Really the things that matter in life is those we love so why not spend more time giving to them and being apart of their lives. One of my favorite lines in this song is "Give, Asking nothing in return." Mothers and Fathers do this everyday. I'm so grateful to be a mother of four beautiful children. It amazes me at the things I learn just by being with them. I can't imagine what it would feel like to know you might be dying within a few months. I know I would hold my loved ones close. Thank you Alisa for reminding me where my priorities should be. overlyactivehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15186071624034890142noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-541254253569765170.post-25922506201056877572012-08-22T20:42:00.002-07:002012-08-22T20:42:48.003-07:00Homemade School Lunch<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipKlNuow2QdMq7ohrzQZesJwgu24vFBTRFSiJ-PIoWH10bSK6JDOPZ1EFOxe69HTKyNV-EWr9ualTURkDNHol4eHNLW8fW1PW4aFpV49Wkhc9bKqjGDsKfWX_dabYsp0I7y6rlTOUwdpi3/s1600/070.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipKlNuow2QdMq7ohrzQZesJwgu24vFBTRFSiJ-PIoWH10bSK6JDOPZ1EFOxe69HTKyNV-EWr9ualTURkDNHol4eHNLW8fW1PW4aFpV49Wkhc9bKqjGDsKfWX_dabYsp0I7y6rlTOUwdpi3/s320/070.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Two different ice packs. The turtle I got at All a Dollar.</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_jTXRb7I2g7nMkFDDo3uWM8IW41HxO4goC1n04Pxkl97rj1vDtLsQpU6szDCau596Km-0AFPI2uYp1oUz0LDTTgKi18KyLmqlKtN-vFVI_x5pYLZGgQCKJsfnyGwg2YjZghFCt5Rw1vBN/s1600/071.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_jTXRb7I2g7nMkFDDo3uWM8IW41HxO4goC1n04Pxkl97rj1vDtLsQpU6szDCau596Km-0AFPI2uYp1oUz0LDTTgKi18KyLmqlKtN-vFVI_x5pYLZGgQCKJsfnyGwg2YjZghFCt5Rw1vBN/s320/071.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This was my neighbors awesome lunch! </td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsbs02MHlqBFsj9XAw_3pgN14-t_-jv7r_b246kJdbgG0ganJ6A_CXwsXKBNVJ_y2O73jxCX8_uZwyP6mFndWJb4soGNmupV3vePbY9zk5uT4E7cf0paP9ESBs8iI2SkI8z4ET2fu2zih_/s1600/069.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsbs02MHlqBFsj9XAw_3pgN14-t_-jv7r_b246kJdbgG0ganJ6A_CXwsXKBNVJ_y2O73jxCX8_uZwyP6mFndWJb4soGNmupV3vePbY9zk5uT4E7cf0paP9ESBs8iI2SkI8z4ET2fu2zih_/s320/069.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pudding not recommended. It worked in one but in my sons lunch it exploded into the other compartments. </td></tr>
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My neighbor sent her boy over with his lunch and I just loved his compact lunch. I took a picture and went online to find these great containers. They are made by Ziplock and work perfect for my kids' school lunch. One compartment is perfect for their sandwich and then two compartments for sides. You have to be careful with liquid because they are not perfectly air tight and I had pudding get all over once so I wouldn't recommend pudding or jello. These Ziplock containers have fit perfectly in the rectangle lunch boxes. I got mine online at <a href="http://www.drugstore.com/ziploc-divided-container-rectangle/qxp220989?catid=184680">drugstore.com</a>. I try to make my kid's lunch simple and healthy. It can be a challenge to keep things fresh until lunch so I try to put an ice pack to help keep it cool. If you have any great tips or ideas for me. I would love that!overlyactivehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15186071624034890142noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-541254253569765170.post-63690562786716820472012-08-16T13:28:00.002-07:002012-08-16T13:28:35.670-07:00Flash Drive Giveaway<br />
<div style="background-color: white; color: #525252; font-family: Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px;">
<img src="http://www.usbmemorydirect.com/media/images/slider/giveaways/back_to_school_flash_drives.jpg" />
</div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #525252; font-family: Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px;">
This is my chance to win a free flash drive and an e-book to help mom's with some back-to-school tips. </div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #525252; font-family: Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px;">
Visit<a href="http://www.usbmemorydirect.com/giveaways/back_to_school_2012.htm"> here</a> for your chance to win. USB memory direct is the company. Here is there message about the giveaway. </div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #525252; font-family: Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #525252; font-family: Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px;">
As a family-oriented company, and we know how hectic being a mom can be any day of the year. We wanted to provide a back-to-school giveaway for all of the fantastic moms out there, to give them something unique and useful. We also believe in children experiencing enriching and healthy childhoods.</div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #525252; font-family: Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px;">
So, we decided to give moms something that would hopefully make their lives a little bit easier, but also help their children succeed in school, participate in rich and creative activities, and enjoy nutritious snacks.</div>
overlyactivehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15186071624034890142noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-541254253569765170.post-37561993683661687042012-07-11T10:36:00.003-07:002012-07-11T10:36:40.857-07:00Free Slurpee Day- 7/11<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjJ0tc4cmi6Hc2LNrSLsf0iw7y8BueYlReqZ0CWO_FOjBmxPH3jU24Apjp3gtXaUUfOPCuE9H44FabOFeXEXkzz5NToySHfGf0vJd-hyp1J-O633OHbN9H2SO2w0aqU9RVTlVd0OYe1fUg/s1600/slurpees+001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjJ0tc4cmi6Hc2LNrSLsf0iw7y8BueYlReqZ0CWO_FOjBmxPH3jU24Apjp3gtXaUUfOPCuE9H44FabOFeXEXkzz5NToySHfGf0vJd-hyp1J-O633OHbN9H2SO2w0aqU9RVTlVd0OYe1fUg/s320/slurpees+001.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pumpkin enjoying her Slurpee!</td></tr>
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Take a ride to a 7-11 today and get a free Slurpee. They have a new flavor Lemon Creme that is so yummy! This is a fun summer tradition. I sure love the cool treat on a hot summer day.overlyactivehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15186071624034890142noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-541254253569765170.post-18608738906387417582012-07-11T08:09:00.000-07:002012-07-11T08:09:00.206-07:00Homemade Granola Bars the kids will love<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWbgTPGVibWW02J5MCFs0-BkWB7cu8L8f64oYJTTw1Cei01BqehLBtpw9vnT1O0IvfCN8k5tiaOJVdJZBRVezKmYfYNboCF-bI53wdAFHbO2U4EGvnkbS_u8abXaoN4B_w_WaJAZUIIesr/s1600/woodbadge+003.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWbgTPGVibWW02J5MCFs0-BkWB7cu8L8f64oYJTTw1Cei01BqehLBtpw9vnT1O0IvfCN8k5tiaOJVdJZBRVezKmYfYNboCF-bI53wdAFHbO2U4EGvnkbS_u8abXaoN4B_w_WaJAZUIIesr/s320/woodbadge+003.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">cooked peanut butter granola bars</td></tr>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHeUL0j00Y6kjNvgniQMagnLJqScj7M9hsYqHrG_fNuzcEtSSVIV-45dolFzYHHA7pEF199SLHiEbWuAlQ54wilQnyZ1_L2vJCaCXGPV7Nj1FsJc0c45PqLc3pK3L6iPf8Gqt1wrULF2xu/s1600/woodbadge+001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHeUL0j00Y6kjNvgniQMagnLJqScj7M9hsYqHrG_fNuzcEtSSVIV-45dolFzYHHA7pEF199SLHiEbWuAlQ54wilQnyZ1_L2vJCaCXGPV7Nj1FsJc0c45PqLc3pK3L6iPf8Gqt1wrULF2xu/s320/woodbadge+001.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dry Ingredients</td></tr>
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Granola Bars at the store are so convenient but overpriced and I'm not so sure of what is in them is what we really need or want. So I really like to make my own granola Bars and wrap them up individually in saran wrap and it's an easy snack for kids. Here is two recipes I really like. What I love about granola and granola bars is you really vary it to your own tastes and add other nuts, seeds, fruits to make it your own. I like to experiment with it and get my kids input and help on the creations. It's fun!<br />
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Honey Fruit Granola Bars<br />
4 cups oats (I like traditional but you can use Quick also)<br />
1/2 cup sunflower seeds<br />
1 1/2 nuts (you pick your fav)<br />
1 cup fruit (raisins, apricots, cranberry, dates)<br />
3/4 cup honey<br />
1/2 cup butter<br />
2 tsp ground cinnamon<br />
1 tsp vanilla<br />
dash salt<br />
<span style="font-size: 12pt;">Combine oats, nuts and raisins in a large bowl;
mix well and set aside. Combine honey, butter, cinnamon, vanilla and salt in a
saucepan; bring to a boil over high heat and boil 1 minute.</span><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 12pt;">Pour honey mixture over oat mixture; toss until
well blended. Spread Granola onto Parchment lined 8 1/2 X 11 cake pan. Compact down by spreading wax paper over and pressing with hands on wax paper. Remove wax paper and Bake at 350°F 20
minutes or until lightly browned; Cool. Once cooled to room temperature cut and wrap in saran wrap. Stays good for about 2 weeks.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-size: 12pt;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-size: 12pt;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-size: 12pt;">Chocolate Chip Granola Bars</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-size: 12pt;">3 cups oats</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-size: 12pt;">1 cup wheat germ</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-size: 12pt;">1 cup nuts (my favorite is almonds)</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-size: 12pt;">1/2 cup unsweetened coconut</span><br />
1/2 cup sunflower seeds<br />
1/3 cup canola oil<br />
1/4 cup maple syrup<br />
1/4 cup honey<br />
1 1/2 cup chocolate chips (divided)<br />
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Mix the oats, nuts, coconut, seeds and 1 cup of chips together in a bowl. Heat the oil, maple syrup, and honey until warm then pour over the nut mixture and toss to coat. Line 8 1/2 X 11 Cake pan with Parchment paper. Spread 1/2 cup of Chocolate Chips on the bottom and portion butter on top top of chips. <span style="background-color: white; font-size: 16px;">Spread Granola onto Parchment lined 8 1/2 X 11 cake pan. Compact down by spreading wax paper over and pressing with hands on wax paper. Remove wax paper and Bake at 350°F 20 minutes or until lightly browned; Cool. Once cooled to room temperature cut and wrap in saran wrap. Stays good for about 2 weeks.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-size: 16px;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-size: 16px;">Chocolate Peanut Butter Granola Bars</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-size: 16px;">3 cups oats</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-size: 16px;">1 cup wheat germ</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-size: 16px;">1 cup peanuts</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-size: 16px;">1/3 cup canola oil</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-size: 16px;">1/4 maple syrup</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-size: 16px;">1/4 cup honey</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-size: 16px;">1 tsp vanilla</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-size: 16px;">1 1/2 cup chocolate chips (separated)</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-size: 16px;">1 cup peanut butter</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-size: 16px;">Mix the oats, wheat germ, nuts, 1 cup of chocolate chips in bowl together. Heat up oil, maple syrup, and honey until warm then add vanilla and peanut butter. Pour mixture and toss to coat. </span><span style="background-color: white;">Line 8 1/2 X 11 Cake pan with Parchment paper. </span><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 16px;">Spread Granola onto Parchment lined 8 1/2 X 11 cake pan. Sprinkle 1/2 cup of chocolate chips on top and compact down by spreading wax paper over and pressing with hands on wax paper. Remove wax paper and Bake at 350°F 20 minutes or until lightly browned; Cool. Once cooled to room temperature cut and wrap in saran wrap. Stays good for about 2 weeks.</span><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 16px;"> </span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-size: 16px;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-size: 16px;"><br /></span>overlyactivehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15186071624034890142noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-541254253569765170.post-63682379878850179822012-07-08T20:19:00.003-07:002012-07-08T20:19:46.520-07:00Encompass Family Camp-Camp Bartlett<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTcoyxYPbfaOS4qEVoV19eSA6Vki0F6-RQJJOkHuQXVBE84P3CRh5snovtXrc1xwxdtgatbLaXQ67d_QSXgRRmiya15hSdURKDwGvhClgIhi15xWZ1iMYX296LwQ91TKYQ7v7YTAg604wq/s1600/woodbadge+043.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTcoyxYPbfaOS4qEVoV19eSA6Vki0F6-RQJJOkHuQXVBE84P3CRh5snovtXrc1xwxdtgatbLaXQ67d_QSXgRRmiya15hSdURKDwGvhClgIhi15xWZ1iMYX296LwQ91TKYQ7v7YTAg604wq/s320/woodbadge+043.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Canoeing on Family Night</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0GADZZkQTFy9hzDd16DFyfZYZbrSEy3JmXrdw96V_rHh662vJXGAmbU0jGhU9HhSrafP-DdvgubtqZM6LJR014FMLyOFVzRTdbgkGIXwKlKl9pG5KNDOxOLlVyMrgHqrIYr21z3eRAJUd/s1600/woodbadge+016.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0GADZZkQTFy9hzDd16DFyfZYZbrSEy3JmXrdw96V_rHh662vJXGAmbU0jGhU9HhSrafP-DdvgubtqZM6LJR014FMLyOFVzRTdbgkGIXwKlKl9pG5KNDOxOLlVyMrgHqrIYr21z3eRAJUd/s320/woodbadge+016.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Dad in his uniform with his girls</div>
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We just had the most incredible family experience! Have you ever heard of <a href="http://cjpconsulting.com/wp/">Encompass Family Camp</a>? I hadn't before this year but it was amazing. My hubby did the scout training, Woodbadge. You can do woodbadge at many different camps but we decided to all go up to camp with him. He was busy with classes for the majority of the days and nights but we ate most meals with him and he slept every night in our tent but one night he had with his woodbadge fellows. Camp started Monday Morning and ended Saturday Afternoon. This was a long time to be away from home and it felt like we left the world for a while and now we are trying to catch up with the swirling world around us. <br />
While he was being trained on being a good leader all of us were busy with our own groups. They had age appropriate activities with several leaders for each age group. As a spouse, I even had my own group and we got to participate as well. Some of the fun things we did was:<br />
Horseback riding, Rappelling at the Paris Ice Caves, Shot gun shooting, Rifile Shooting, Archery, River Rafting, Several arts and crafts projects, games, singing, Angry Bird shooting, Hiking, Face painting, movie night, swimming, canoeing, boating and more. <br />
All my kids want to go back next year because they enjoyed it so much. What I loved is meals were provided so I didn't have to worry about bringing 7 days of meals, clean up, and prep work. I made some incredible friends with other moms and dads who were in the spouse group because we had so much in common. Because all my kids were with their groups having experiences it allowed me the freedom to also enjoy the experiences with the spouces group. The Camp Bartlett Staff was amazing. These teenagers know how to work hard, be leaders, interact with other people, and have tons of fun without electronics. My boys want to go back again as staff someday. I would be totally supportive of it. You don't get a ton of money but it's the character building you come back that is the payoff. <br />
Peanut loved her leaders, they were so sweet to her and every time she saw them around camp she ran up to say hi. Pumpkins favorite experience was seeing a squirrel being chased by a deer on the trail. Pickles favorite experience was shooting the bow and arrow. Popcorn wants to do NYLT when he is a little older. Both of my scouts passed off numerous (months worth) of scout requirements! The family memories and friends we made will stay with us forever! Someday I'll have to have my hubby tell about his amazing experience in Woodbadge.overlyactivehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15186071624034890142noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-541254253569765170.post-82373760290101039992012-07-05T21:36:00.000-07:002012-07-05T21:36:00.576-07:00Random ThoughtThis is just a random thought I had recently. It's been over a year now since we have had no TV. At first it was a devastation because we could always get at least some local stations from our little antenna and then our large antenna we put on our house. But at our new house get got nothing. I think we have a black hole for TV here so we decided not to pursue it after a couple attempts. I have not really missed it and the kids have stopped complaining about it have have found other things to do with their spare time. I haven't missed...<br />
1. Commercials, especially at Christmas time. It seems like the kids would change their Christmas wish lists after every Saturday because they saw a new toy they just had to have. <br />
2. I don't miss having to watch a show at a certain time of the day<br />
One draw back is when the kids go to Grandma's house they are so excited to watch TV. But I'm not sure if that really changed from before. <br />
Well I got to go because I really want to watch a movie on Hulu. Hey isn't that really TV? I guess we really haven't been without TV have we. Hummmmmm??<br />
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<br />overlyactivehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15186071624034890142noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-541254253569765170.post-66615680262156777892012-07-02T22:06:00.000-07:002012-07-02T22:06:00.607-07:00Ipad for Education OnlyI have been enjoying my new I pad that my hubby got me for mother's day. The rule on my I pad is only educational apps can be added to it. If a game was on their that wasn't educational, then guess what game the kids would be playing when you asked them to practice their spelling. <br />
So we really didn't get to use it all that much before school got out but the time we did was amazing. It made spelling test practice so much easier. I have some really fun Apps that I researched before purchasing and I have really enjoyed. I would also appreciate anyone who finds other great apps (that is educational of course) and could share. <br />
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Math: <a href="http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/math-ninja-hd-free!/id373814902?mt=8">Math Ninja</a>-Great game! Free but we bought the upgrade because it was so great. The kids love to play it and it quizzes them on math facts before they can go to the next level. Does subtraction, addition, multiplication, and division. My 11 year old has got past level 19 and he said it was too easy but it has been great for my 9 and 6 year old.<br />
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Spelling: <a href="http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/spellosaur/id461007342?mt=8">Spellosaur</a>- $3.99--Worth every penny! I can't say enough about this app. I love it! You can enter in your spelling lists, record your voice or use the programmers voice. We use this for phonograms for our Kindergartner as well. It helped all our kids get so much better grades in spelling for the last month of school. I'm excited to use it all year next year.<br />
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Music: <a href="http://mynotegames.com/">My Note Games</a>- OK this was the most expensive app I have bought so far. It has also been worth every penny. I got this game because our flute teacher highly recommended it. It has been so good for all our kids' note reading. You can play different instruments and set up multiple students on it. It tracks their progress and tests them according to their level. You can even do voice. It has been amazing! I would recommend getting all the entire game package. <br />
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<a href="http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/flashnote-derby/id453126527?mt=8">Flashnote Derby</a>- This is another note reading game. You can select as many notes as the student can do. It's fun and challenging. Horse racing--I think it's just cute!<br />
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If you are interested in other music games check out Rebecca's App Reviews at: <a href="http://musicianswithapps.com/">http://musicianswithapps.com/</a> She does a great job at reviewing music games. <br />
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If you are interested in more educational games: Check out <a href="http://appsforhomeschooling.com/">http://appsforhomeschooling.com/</a><br />
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<br />overlyactivehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15186071624034890142noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-541254253569765170.post-80884632192728888172012-06-29T19:04:00.002-07:002012-06-29T21:52:53.873-07:00Summer a Time to Read<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Our family has been enjoying the slower pace of summer. One of our favorite things to do is to read. Because we still have a young one who naps everyday we all have a quiet hour in the afternoon to read and rest. It is a great time to get some good reading time indoors when it's really hot outside. We also picked up a few books on tape to take with us while we are traveling in the car. They kids really have liked this and it makes the travel go by faster. The great thing about summer is there is many reading incentive programs to help sweeten the reading experience.<br />
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1. Every public library I know of has a summer reading program with fun prizes and give-a-ways. Check for details at your nearest library. Our library even has an adult program. <br />
2. <a href="http://firstlady.utah.gov/literacy/summer_book_reading.html">Utah Governors Reading Program</a>. (last year we got free meals to McDonald's, and Chuck-a-Rama mailed to us after the summer program was complete) The goal is to read 20 minutes a day.<br />
3. <a href="http://www.utahstatefair.com/readandwin">Utah State Fair 2012 Read and Win Program</a>-The Program is for children ages 6-12 years and they need to completely read 10 books to qualify for a Free admission to the State Fair. They also get a free ride, and lemonade. <br />
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If you know of any other reading programs. Please post them in comments to share with others. OK lets find a good book and read today!<br />
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<br />overlyactivehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15186071624034890142noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-541254253569765170.post-71866993567189884412012-06-27T17:48:00.002-07:002012-06-27T17:48:59.083-07:00Paracord Summer Project<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0hIrRKDpoD-YB5hMfbomIeHoLVQ6Ba__QqYqq0aI5IZbva2VmICRp1-QgaCFbU0LsJkQWEsQj1FTKHLHjLhL5fZ0KaIQreuTOJa7Y_T78wDWoNRYqOsKzLDIyI6DxyfvjJWpe5ZP5Rz-j/s1600/summer+2012+113.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0hIrRKDpoD-YB5hMfbomIeHoLVQ6Ba__QqYqq0aI5IZbva2VmICRp1-QgaCFbU0LsJkQWEsQj1FTKHLHjLhL5fZ0KaIQreuTOJa7Y_T78wDWoNRYqOsKzLDIyI6DxyfvjJWpe5ZP5Rz-j/s320/summer+2012+113.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjz_V6lrAgwOc7mW0wxTJAK_jOdPI8E0BVBwQk13WHiYG8bJYv_3c-jqvEtQqW9Moqp0WiRNa5u_X9x57VjEBjEql561P1o4QNiZ3SGCA7T5ojkIKAvBRCgTiQ24QWk8ttt0nL8gsV-yXFt/s1600/Paracord+Bracelets+003.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjz_V6lrAgwOc7mW0wxTJAK_jOdPI8E0BVBwQk13WHiYG8bJYv_3c-jqvEtQqW9Moqp0WiRNa5u_X9x57VjEBjEql561P1o4QNiZ3SGCA7T5ojkIKAvBRCgTiQ24QWk8ttt0nL8gsV-yXFt/s320/Paracord+Bracelets+003.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
My son, Popcorn, is making and selling Paracord Survival Bracelets. These have a really nice black clasp on them. He sells them for $5 a piece. You can buy a premade one or he can take requests for your favorite color schemes. The colors are: lime green, rainbow, pink, purple, dark blue, Pink/Purple Mix. You can do up to three colors in a bracelet. They make great gifts. This is his summer project, if you are interested let me know.overlyactivehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15186071624034890142noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-541254253569765170.post-63072917032425371992012-06-05T08:21:00.002-07:002012-06-24T21:07:52.457-07:00An Eight cow woman deserves an Eight cow man<embed allowfullscreen="true" allowscriptaccess="always" flashvars="&controlbar=over&file=http%3A%2F%2Feightcow.com%2Fwp-content%2Fthemes%2F8cow%2Ffrontpage1.mp4&image=http%3A%2F%2Feightcow.com%2Fwp-content%2Fthemes%2F8cow%2Fimages%2Fsplash.png&plugins=viral-2d" height="362" src="http://eightcow.com/wp-content/themes/8cow/jwplayer/player.swf" width="576"></embed><br />
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I got this great book from my Grandma Jean and my husband and I really liked it. It talks about the important aspects of a trusting relationship. Have you heard of the Johnny Lingo Story? I remember watching the video in Sunday School when I was a girl. Its a beautiful story. This book takes that idea and makes the 8 cows that Johnny offers 8 essential qualities you need to have to make a strong relationship. This book can be for married couples, dating or engaged couples, or someone single looking to start a good relationship. The book is great but you can also get a start by going to the website and signing up for the <a href="http://eightcow.com/">8 tips for a successful relationship</a>. You get one tip a day sent to your e-mail. <br />
A strong relationship between husband and wife can really make your children feel secure, safe and happy. I really hope that for all children so lets all . I don't think there is anyone that can say they have a perfect marriage. But I believe we can always work to make our marriages better, how do we do that, we have to do it from within ourselves. We are the only one that we can change!overlyactivehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15186071624034890142noreply@blogger.com0