5 Ways to Encourage Your Child to Read

I believe that a love of reading is one of the very best gifts a parent can give to a child. Reading is the key that opens the door to lifelong learning. Sadly many children are not developing a love of reading, and that lack can affect them throughout their entire lifetime.

Here are five ways to encourage a love of reading in your child:

1. Read aloud to your child regularly.

One of the greatest things that you can do to encourage your child to love reading is to read aloud to him. From the time your infant can sit up on your lap, he will enjoy the sound of your voice while you "read" to him and point out the colorful pictures.

As your little one grows, make it a high priority to read aloud daily. Set aside time once or twice a day to read as many books as you have time for. Make reading the activity that your child looks forward to the most!

Even when your children are tweens and teens, many of them will still enjoy read-aloud time. Our family has enjoyed many great chapter books together even as our children entered their teen years.

2. Be sure your child sees you enjoying books.

Children learn best by example. When they see you spending time with a good book, they are more likely to be interested in reading themselves. 

Share your enjoyment of reading by briefly discussing the story line of your book--whether historical fiction, biography, or classic literature--and allowing them to ask questions or make comments.You may find that your older children will be interested in reading the same book that you are reading, even if it is more advanced reading material than what they typically read. 

3. Surround your child with captivating literature.

Be sure there are always plenty of high-quality books in the house. Visit the library and allow your child to choose some books to read. Place a few good books on the coffee table or the couch and see if your child will be interested enough to pick them up.

If you have a Kindle, your child can find dozens of "old-fashioned" books to read for free. Help him choose a few new books to try!

4. Set aside time for reading.

When you child complains of being bored, don't always hand him an electronic gadget or a new toy. Suggest a book instead! 

Some families require a certain amount of reading time each day. This may be a way to incorporate more reading time for a reluctant reader. Why not set aside half an hour or so each evening as "family reading time"?

5. Give books as gifts.

Most children in our country already have plenty of toys, games, and electronics. Encourage more reading by giving books as Christmas, birthday, or "just-because" gifts. 

It might be fun to introduce your child to a particular series that you enjoyed at that same age. Then for each special occasion, you could gift your child with another book or two from the series. Imagine how much fun it could be to share your love of a favorite book with your child!

How do you encourage your children to read? What books have they especially enjoyed?

Lazy Discipline

My son knows how to push my buttons. He really does. 

I yell his middle name for effect, and then proceed with my tirade. "Go to your room. Now! Do not pass "Go", do not collect any money, and do not come out until you're ready to straighten up. Or until you turn 21. Whichever comes first." 

I am livid. "And you can forget even touching your Kindle for the rest of this decade," I throw at his retreating back. 

Yeah, so I'm exaggerating. A little.

But that's almost how it goes sometimes. I allow him to push me right to the edge, and then I topple off, taking him with me. My angry response could have been avoided had I simply dealt with the problem at the first sign of trouble, (like when I could sense somewhere in the back of my mind that his pent-up energy was about to get out of hand) and if I had only been firm but gentle. I'm not totally sure, but I think...yes, it's true...*blushing*...that laziness has something to do with it. 

It's far easier to raise my voice, send him to his room, or swat his behind than to take him aside and deal with him like he needs to be dealt with. It takes effort, self control, and a whole lot of wisdom to sit down with him, explain how what he did was wrong, discipline him with love, and pray with him. But, when I do, the difference in his response is amazing. Not only is it a time of learning for him, but also a time of stronger bonding between us. Yes, even in discipline! 

I know it can't be done every time he does something wrong. If I tried that, I'd never have time for anything else! But, if I do it whenever I can,  the occasions when he needs serious discipline will lessen. 

Something I read recently made me realize that, far too often, I don't respect my child. And please don't take that the wrong way. I am a firm believer in children keeping their places and respecting their elders! But, really, when I discipline my child in front of his siblings or other people, it's embarrassing to him and hampers my opportunity to properly handle the situation. 

I've been working on not being lazy in discipline. The results are worth it! By taking him aside when I can, explaining to him exactly what he did wrong, disciplining him, praying with him and loving him, I am showing him how seriously I take my job as his mommy. It helps him to learn about self control, too, because he sees me exercising it when I don't raise my voice and dish out random, rash, consequences. 

"A soft answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger." Proverbs 15:1, ESV

How to Save Money on New Kids' Clothes

I realize that children's clothing (Baby ones especially) are not worn that long and when they are worn they will more than likely get stained with spit up, grass, mustard etc.  So why buy new clothes when they are just going to get ruined the first time they are worn, right?  Well, it is a well-known fact that parents generally buy their children's clothing at thrift stores or yard sales for this very reason.  There is nothing wrong with that, however, I still enjoy getting brand new clothes for my daughter occasionally.  If I can get brand new for the same price (or cheaper!) than what I can buy used, then why not just get new?!  I know, you're thinking, "dream on!".  But it IS possible!

Just recently, I bought my daughter skirts for $1.99 and $3.99 at well-known, name brand stores.  I will pay that usually at thrift stores or yard sales for used stuff!  These were clothing items that will last a long time and still be nice in the future for any other girls God may see fit to bless us with.

How can you do this? Simple.  A lot of stores offer a free Rewards program.  You know, they give you a card to scan each time you make a purchase in their store.  This also puts you onto their email and mailing list through which they will send you upcoming sales and coupons.  I have found this to be extremely valuable!

Another way to save big on new clothes is to wait until certain times of the year (Holidays, End-of-Season, Back-to-School Etc) and buy ahead!  I know, it's hard to think past the next minutes sometimes but... this is a good way to get things at a fraction of the cost, so it's worth it!

I have also found some amazing deals at Outlet stores!  To be honest, I used to think Outlets were over-rated (and maybe some are).  But if you watch you can get some good deals at some big name brand stores! Again, your best opportunity would be around those special occasion days.

Hopefully this will help you as you shop for those little people in your life that seem to grow another foot every time you turn your back! ;0)  It has worked for me, I hope it works for you!

Little Ones Count

Ministry comes in all shapes and sizes! Ministry begins at home or abroad! Ministry takes all, not least!  Ministry is a calling! Since the time I was little, I have always wanted to be a Minister’s wife. I grew up in a minister’s home and my parents included me in their work from when I was young. That cultivated a desire for service as I grew.  Over the years, I have experienced varying degrees of ministry. Some have been in small groups and others large, but I found that it was not important where I was as long as I was in the center of God’s will. That is all that matters!

There are concentrated areas in ministry and I enjoy all that I have been privileged to be involved in. One that I have treasured are the “little ones.”  My husband and I became involved with inner-city children’s ministry when we first married. That involvement led to other events related to children such as special children’s focus during family camp, Vacation Bible Schools at our church and others, children’s church, and a new opportunity a couple weeks ago.

My husband and I just returned from Belize, Central America where we ministered in 3 Vacation Bible Schools. WOW! It was amazing! I had taken a couple other missions trips prior to marriage, but since our family has grown we haven’t been able to do this. Children…no matter where they live yearn to be loved. It is marvelous to be able to share Jesus’ love with them especially knowing it is probably the first time they have heard about it.

Uncharted waters! That is how we felt….we weren’t sure what to expect. The 3 churches there had not had VBS for several years. We planned an average of 50 children per night at each church. Were we ever mistaken! The very first night we had 111 children. It continued to grow until the last night it was well over 200. That was over 10% of the village’s population. Our 2^nd VBS was in a very, very tiny village. Our attendance there was 44 with which we were thrilled (still over 10% of the village population!) Finally our last stop brought us over 100 children. Seeds were planted in little hearts! That’s what counts!

Summer brings great opportunities for touching a little life.  Take advantage of it! Don’t run from the chance. You might be the one that can show Jesus’ love. Ministry comes in all shapes and sizes...it begins at home or abroad. Let’s remember Jesus’ words, “Even so it is not the will of your Father which is in heaven, that one of these little ones should perish.” Matthew 18:14

-Tonya

Read & Share: How to Miss a Childhood

Today, I'm sharing another link with you. This post convicted me to the core. I wish every mother...every parent...would read it and allow it to not only stir them, but to change them!

Childhood passes by so quickly. Seems like it's gone with one blink. Our children are only with us for a short time. Are we missing their childhood?

Please read this and share it!

How to Miss a Childhood

Our Gentle Shepherd

He shall feed his flock like a shepherd: he shall gather the lambs with his arm, and carry them in his bosom, and shall gently lead 

those that are with young.

Isaiah 40:11

"...he...shall gently lead those that are with young...."


Who doesn't crave gentleness? In our society, moms are pushed, pulled, hounded and pounded with advice from every possible outlet. All the popular magazines shout at you with flashy pictures and thin, gorgeous models in perfect, pristine homes about how you can be a better mom...if you DO this, THINK that, LOOK like she does, and BUY this, and that, and this, and....... Then, there are those sweet, well-meaning ladies at church who know ex-act-ly how you should handle every little thing of which they take notice. And the mother-in-laws. Ah, the mother-in-laws. They're wonderful, and helpful, and....exasperating sometimes. Yes they are, admit it, and YOU are exasperating as a daughter-in-law. It goes both ways. Yes, it does. But that's their grand baby you're raising, and it's awful tough for them NOT to try to show you how to do it the right way. And even our husbands, God bless 'em, aren't always gentle in how they respond, or even in how they tell us how they think we need to do things. (While we, on the other hand, are never anything but gentle. Yeah. Right.)

Day in and day out, running errands, homeschooling or making sure everything is taken care of for traditional school, breaking up fights, cooking, cleaning, breaking up fights, listening to complaints, worrying about finances, breaking up fights, disciplining a child who has already spent most of the day being disciplined, stressing about everything you feel like you need to do and haven't done, breaking up fights.... It's exhausting and ties our stomachs up in knots that'd put a boy scout to shame.

Maybe you hear other mothers joyfully tell about how encouraged they are spiritually and how much better they feel since they lost thirty pounds last month, and they look like they have it all together...not a hair out of place, sweet and unruffled dispositions, perfect children who can quote whole books of the Bible, beautiful, spotless homes...and you feel worse about your imperfect self than ever. Guilt hangs like an April thundercloud over your head. You can barely remember if you had devotions this morning at all, let alone remember any encouraging little tidbit from them. You spoke sharply to the first person you saw this morning, (because it happened to be your three-year-old finger painting on the walls with chocolate pudding) and you're still groaning with embarrassment because your son proudly told his Sunday School teacher that it was little Samuel who killed the lions in the den at Jericho before he built the Ark that took the disciples to the Garden of Eden. The harder you try, the worse it gets. Exaggerated? Maybe. But that's how it feels sometimes.

It's crushing to feel so driven. 

Sometimes, we'd give an awful lot just to have someone put their arm around our shoulders and say, "You're doing just fine. I love you."

That's what God does. He isn't harsh with us. He never drives us nor prods us. He leads us gently. He knows our frame and remembers that we're only dust. (Psalms 103:14) He knows the pressures we're under and how hard we try to live up to the expectations of others (whether we mean to or not).

So, if you're struggling today, trying to juggle everything and making a real mess of it, relax! God doesn't expect you to be Supermom. He only expects you to do your best with His help.

Take comfort in that, and rest in the gentle arms of your Shepherd today.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

All the way my Savior leads me,
Cheers each winding path I tread;
Gives me grace for every trial,
Feeds me with the living Bread.
Though my weary steps may falter,
And my soul athirst may be,
Gushing from the Rock before me,
Lo! A spring of joy I see;
Gushing from the Rock before me,
Lo! A spring of joy I see.

From "All the Way My Savior Leads Me", by Fanny J. Crosby & Dr. Robert Lowry

Gentle Shepherd

Come and lead us

For we need you 

To help us find our way.

Gentle Shepherd

Come and feed us

For we need Your strength 

From day to day.

There's no other

We can turn to

Who can help us

Face another day.

Gentle Shepherd

Come and lead us

For we need You

To help us find our way.

From "Gentle Shepherd" by William J. and Gloria Gaither

What Does Flexibility Look Like?

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In the discussion about routines vs. schedules, most work-at-home and stay-at-home moms agree that flexibility is key. No matter what sort of plan you set for your day, make sure it is flexible since life with kids is a little less than 100% predictable. I wholeheartedly agree! However, what exactly does that mean?

Sometimes, I may set aside household chores to read aloud to a child. That's flexibility. Other times, I may leave dishes in the sink and sit on the couch with a book. That, at least for me, borders on laziness.

A toddler throws a tantrum during a math lesson with my 4th grader, so I send her to practice piano while I deal with the disciplinary action. That's flexibility. Or I may skip math altogether and go to the park. That, at least on some days, teaches my child that fun comes before work when it should be the other way around.

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A friend calls me with a genuine need so I postpone school and chores for the day to come to her aid. That's flexibility. However, chatting for an hour on the phone about nothing when I should be doing laundry results in no clean clothes for my family. That's not good, no matter how you look at it!

Just because I have the freedom to make my own schedule and set my own rules as a mom not employed outside the home does not mean that I should just let every day "happen". That's not flexibility at all. It's a good recipe for chaos!

When I "change up" the routine for whatever reason, I try to answer these questions in my mind:

1.  Am I making a conscious decision as to what is best for our family or am I just reacting to a perceived "emergency"?
2.  Am I making this change in order to make people in my life a priority or will this change affect my family or my children's training negatively?
3. In the light of eternity, what is more important: this change or sticking to the original plan?

Does that sound a little too analytical? Whether not you run through my checklist before heading out to the park, I hope you realize that every choice we make as mothers (working or stay-at-home) affects our families profoundly for eternity. This is just the dress rehearsal for the biggest production of our lives. Eternal life that is.

Guest Post: Dressing Your Children on a Dime

How to Build A Wardrobe for Your Children

by Krista Hart

1. Make Do.

As moms, we often receive clothing from generous friends during a baby shower, hand-me-downs from relatives or friends, gifts from grandparents, etc.  However, as nice as the thought may be, sometimes the item is just not what one would prefer.  When I had my first child, I would quickly weed out any clothing gifts that did not fit my idea of what I preferred for my child to wear.  However, I’ve learned that to stretch our family’s clothing budget I need to make the most of what is given to us, so I try my hardest to make it work.  Often by combining another piece of clothing or a matching accessory, I have been able to tailor the outfit to my liking.  If the clothing item doesn’t meet our family’s modesty standards, layering has been our friend.  A pair of leggings under a shorter skirt or a t-shirt under a strappy shirt has turned an entire outfit around.

2.  Repurpose.

It’s easy to get spring cleaning fever and weed out everything from the previous season, however don’t be too hasty to relinquish these items to the yard sale pile.  No need to throw the short sleeves out with the summer. Instead, save them and use them to layer.  Not only is this in fashion right now, but it adds an extra layer of warmth.  If you are handy with a sewing machine, the same can be done with winter items by turning pants into shorts, long skirts into shorter skirts, long leggings into capri-length--the possibilities are endless.

  

3. Buy Used.

Once you have compiled your stack of hand-me-downs and gifts and exhausted your repurposing efforts, it’s time to pack up and head out to a local thrift store, consignment shop, or consignment sale.  I always begin by shopping at thrift stores, because here you will find things for the lowest cost.  For example, at our local Goodwill, all children’s items are $1.99.  Next, I shop consignment sales.  You can still find incredible deals, but it will be a bit more expensive because consignors are looking to make a profit (A list of consignment sales in your area can be found here).  Consignment stores are great, but tend to be my last stop because both the consignor and consignment shop are attempting to make a profit, and therefore, there can be a decent mark-up.  Two of the chains I frequent are Kid to Kid and Once Upon a Child, but you can find other thrift/consignment stores in your area here.

4. Buy New On Sale. 

Always make the department store your last stop!  Those aisles of minature sized clothing have a way of calling out, beckoning me to part with my money, but the reality is that I would be parting with far more money than it is worth for the short amount of time my children will wear the clothing. Before heading out to a department store, I inventory what I’ve collected from gifts, repurposing, and buying used, then make a list of what I am lacking.  Usually, it boils down to just a few plain-colored shirts, a few pairs of leggings, underwear, and socks.  I am usually able to find all the patterned shirts, sweaters, jackets, pants, skirts, and shorts I need, but plain colored basics are harder to find used.  With my list in hand, I search out the items I need on clearance racks.  If I absolutely cannot find what I need on clearance, I will look for sales, and, if necessary, buy one or two items at full-price.

Things to Consider When Dressing Your Children on a Dime 


1. Think outside the matching box.

As I have made my best effort to stretch our clothing budget, I’ve re-thought my approach to matching clothing.  Whereas, at one time, things had to match perfectly, I now settle for things not being the exact same shade, but close enough. I also try different color combinations for fun.  Sometimes, by switching a couple of pieces, my children have a whole new outfit. 

2.  Don’t sweat the small stains.

Buying used or making use of hand-me-downs means that sometimes you get an item home and find that there is a small stain or even a very small imperfection like a hole or a missing button.  This used to frustrate me badly, and I would discard the whole item.  However, the reality is that your little one will probably make their own “impact” on a piece of clothing!  So, my rule of thumb has been not to “sweat the small” stains, holes, or imperfections.  Often, the piece of clothing is still in good condition and usable.  Sometimes a little Oxiclean in the wash will take care of a stain, and buttons can always be sewn on to make these items work.

  

3. Know  your brands and prices.

Buying used means that you need to know if you are getting a good deal or if you are paying the same price as you would for a new item.  It is particularly useful to know what things cost before going to a consignment store or sale.  An easy way to do this is by looking online and jotting down prices for items you might be looking for at a consignment store.  You might also take notice of sales when you are in a department store.  For instance, I know a basic, Cherokee brand t-shirt from Target will usually be marked down to $5 several times throughout a season, so if I see a used one for $4, it’s probably not the best deal!

Using these strategies, with two children, two-and-a-half and five, I have never spent more than $100 per child to clothe them for a season (I only shop for two seasons: fall-winter and spring-summer).  I hope that these tips will help you in dressing your children on a dime.  Happy saving!

For more reading on how to dress your children on a dime, see:

Becoming a Master Used-Clothing Shopper

Living Debt Free

Buy Used and Save the Difference--Even on Splurges

Coupons, Clothes, and Sales

Recently my oldest child took off on a growth spurt. It is my custom to buy ahead when I find things on sale, at garage sales, or thrift stores. However, my “grow into” box was pretty much null and void. Now what should I do?   Thank the Lord for coupons! I use them in every possible way…grocery shopping, clothes shopping, gift shopping, eating out—To change the old saying a little, “If there ain’t no coupons, then momma ain’t happy!” My children know that it isn’t bought unless it is on sale and a coupon available.

 Most of the time they are thrilled with the bargains that can be found, but other times I have heard disgruntled words of: “Oh Mom, do we really need a coupon?” or “Why do we have to wait for it to go on sale?  Then begins my explanation of how that God has entrusted us with money and we must be frugal about how we use it. God doesn’t want me to purchase the first pretty item I see hanging on a rack or pictured on a website. I must be wise in my choices. Can this be used with another outfit? How long can it be worn? Or even how many times? When children are growing, it is unwise to pay full price for something.

I love to color co-ordinate my family. It is fun to dress my girls and boys in matching outfits. It has amazed me the many times that I will pull out boxes of “hand-me-down” clothes to find that it fits right in with other outfits that are in our closets.  Right now I am currently in the transition of packing away winter, outgrown clothes and attempting to put in spring/summer. UGH! My most detested task of motherhood! Therefore this has been an ongoing project for about a month. I intend to fully complete it this week. Now, I have said it for others to read…this should make me accountable to get it done. (Someone please check up on me by Friday. SMILE!)

Back to my beginning thoughts, I have been able to find several modest skirts, dresses, and tops and not pay full price. To me, this is a reward from God because I have a routine for buying things at a fraction of the original price.  Does this take a little more time? Yes! Do I enjoy it? Yes! But there are some who do not enjoy shopping or digging through sale racks or thrift store junk to find that one treasure. In that situation, employ a personal shopper! I am ready to be hired! Just kidding! Instead, take it to the Lord! He knows what we have need of even before we ask. The Lord is familiar with how thrifty or wise we attempt to be and will reward us for doing our best. You say even in dressing our children? Definitely! He cares about all areas of our lives! So be prudent, for that money you can save may help clothe a missionary’s child or those who are not as fortunate as you.

 -Tonya

Guest Post: When Life Doesn't Go As Planned

My day began at 2:30 a.m. My husband was sick and we were both awake because of his coughing.
Eventually he got up and I fell back asleep. He came back to bed at 3:30 a.m. We fell asleep. Our alarm went off at 6:10 a.m. Since we'd been up quite a bit and my husband was still not feeling good, we didn't get up until 7:00 a.m. By then, our boys were awake and ready to start their day.

After I got my husband out the door for work, I tried to have a quiet start to my morning, by drinking a cup of coffee and getting some work done on my computer while the boys played quietly in their room. My boys would have none of that. They were ready to get up…ready to eat breakfast…and cranky.

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Before I had even started on breakfast, I was close to tears. I was tired. The day seemed overwhelming. I didn't have the energy or desire to be a loving mom. I couldn't wait for day to be over.

Once I had breakfast on the table, I grabbed my Bible and sat down while my boys ate their breakfast. In between the interruptions that come with being a mother of two young boys, I read Proverbs 16:24.

"Pleasant words are like a honeycomb, sweetness to the soul and health to the bones."

I was humbled. God didn't have a big to-do list for me to accomplish. In fact, the to-do list was entirely of my own making and none of it had to be done that day. My focus needed to be on my words. I had the power to encourage and build up my sons during a rough day or discourage and berate them for not letting mommy rest. When I saw my day through the perspective of this verse, I realized that the day wasn't as overwhelming as I had thought.

Sure, I would still try to get some things marked off my to-do list. But that wasn't the day's top priority. My top priority was to invest in my children.

So we had our morning Bible time and we went over our memory verses…multiple times, because Drew wanted to. I watched Drew run and fall down (a favorite activity of little boys…not sure why it's fun :-)) as I did the dishes. While I read my book, I sat near the boys, who were playing with their cars.

When I slowed down, re-evaluated my day and sought to spend the day giving my children "sweetness and health" through my words, my day turned around. I was no longer overwhelmed. I knew I was right where God wanted me to be…tired, sick husband, cranky children and all.

Carrie has been married to her best friend (Tim) for five years. She is the mother of two boys, Drew (4) and Carter (2). She enjoys her job as a wife, mother, and homemaker; her passion is to encourage other women in their walks with God. She blogs at www.wholesomewomanhood.com.

How We Celebrate Easter

Easter is kind of a work of transition around our house. Every year I try to make it a bit more meaningful for the kids while combining elements of traditions my husband and I grew up with. (Except for re-creating the Easter that I had chickenpox---not a great memory!)

Three Things We (Almost) Always Do

1. Color Easter  Eggs.

This is not my favorite part of the holiday. There, I admitted it. Frankly, I would do without it altogether if not for my husband's insistence that it be included. I am usually a reluctant participant because I don't care for craft-type activities. Especially not messy ones.

I'm also not a big fan of food dyes. (Yeah, I'm that kind of mom!) Lest you think I am a total grinch (Oops! Wrong holiday!), I do buy the egg kits and eggs. This year I got white free-range eggs from Earth Fare for free, so I'm happy that at least our petroleum-drenched eggs are healthy ones! :-)

One year, my mother-in-law colored eggs with the kids and thought my quick grabbing of upsetting cups of dye was hilarious. Last year, we were in the middle of a big remodeling project and had to color eggs on a piece of cardboard on the newly laid floor of the living room since our furniture was all removed. That was especially nerve-wracking!

2. Get New Outfits.

I know this borders on materialism and is often dictated by peer pressure. However, there is something to be said for the celebration of Resurrection Sunday and the newness of life represented by new clothes. My mom often buys all of us coordinating outfits for Easter while she's out scouting for deals. (Bless her! Shopping is also one of my least favorite activities.) Usually my kids need spring dress shoes anyway, so I just make sure they are new for Resurrection Sunday.

3. Give Easter Baskets.

Another materialistic expression, right? Well, it doesn't have to be. We keep ours small and try to focus on a few small meaningful toys and yes, candy. (Refer to #1 for my thoughts on this!) My kids honestly don't think much about bunnies and no one in the family cares for Peeps. I've gotten them chocolate crosses instead of Easter bunnies and one year, we included Christian Easter music CDs and books.


Things We Have Done in the Past

1. Resurrection Rolls.
When I accidentally bought colored marshmallows so they looked a little funny. (And you know where that coloring comes from!)

2. Resurrection Eggs.
Which I tried to save for this year but found the carton crushed underneath our Christmas decorations in December. Oops!
 
3. Easter Egg Hunts.
Which proved to be too much of a temptation for not treating the other children as they would want to be treated and netted my youngest with about 2 eggs.
 

4. Visit the Easter Bunny at the Mall.
Yes, I know---the pagan icon which my children knew was just a dressed up mall employee 'cuz I told them. (Yep, they also know I'm the Tooth Fairy and Dad is Santa. We choose not to lie to them.) This resulted in my youngest (at the time) giving a terrified scream and a less-than-serene photo. We haven't done that for about 5 years since! Who really wants to sit on on the lap of an larger-than-life-sized mammal anyway?

What We're Going to Do This Year

I have really enjoyed this devotional by Ann Voskamp over the last few weeks to prepare my own heart for Easter. She generously offers it free on her site, and it is so meaningful!

Our church also has a special Communion service the Wednesday before Resurrection Sunday, so my husband and I take turns participating while the other watches the children. We feel that they should have an understanding of the sacrament and a relationship with Jesus before partaking themselves.

Since I have small children that are difficult to get up and dressed for regular Sunday morning worship, I haven't attended our church's early morning Sunrise Service for many years. I believe I might attend alone this year in order to prepare myself spiritually for the day without the welcomed but distracting presence of my children. We all attend the later services together, of course.

As far as celebrating with the children, I am planning on making a new set of Resurrection Eggs. I also thought these Easter Cookies might be a bit more meaningful to explain the Resurrection story to my kids.

I also downloaded these Easter Listening Pages to help my kids participate more in the services on Sunday.


What are your plans for celebrating the Resurrection with your family?

How We Involve Our Children in Household Chores

"How do you do it?!" The question homeschool moms are asked all the time. Although it is elusive and not clearly defined, today we will share with you how we do the housework part of  it. Ready for our big secret? We employ our children. 

Yep! We consider child labor laws to be as new of a concept as public education so we throw it all out the window. Just kidding! Sort of. As Tonya says, "I honestly don't know what I would do without my girlies! They are my right hand helpers."

You see, all of us don't just sit at a desk and lead our children in the Pledge of Allegiance and other school activities all day. We have busy lives. Marion helps her husband run a farm and the farm store. Tonya helps her husband run a church and cleans the occasional house to add to the family income as well as the church (which her kids help with, too---what a ministry opportunity!). Jessica takes up the slack while her husband goes back to school, and I do some work from home to help the family income while my husband works long and varied hours.

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Beginning Stages
The key to having children help around the house is to start them young. Wee little ones love being with Mommy, so this is a great time to train them on basic chores. My toddlers have especially loved pulling laundry out of the dryer and emptying the lint catcher. Tonya starts hers out with emptying the trash. The idea is that if a child can take toys out of the toy box, he can put them back in. This seems perfectly logical, but the application gets a little tricky at times! 

Age-Appropriate Chores
We know that age and grade are  just a standardized way to classify unstandardized kids. Different children are ready for different chores at different times. Our job is to plug them into the "team", as I like to call it around our house. We depend a lot on our older children. Jessica's older girls each have a bathroom that they are responsible to clean, can do the dishes alone and help the younger ones hang up clothes when they can't reach the clothes rack. Tonya's oldest can bake and take care of breakfast and supper. Tonya and I depend on our oldest to babysit our youngest children as well. Washing laundry is also on our chore lists for our older girls.

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Even younger kids can be a big help, though. Our three and four-year-olds help clean their rooms and Marion's little ones (ages 7, 5 and 3) clear and set the table and feed the dog. Tonya lets her younger son help out, too. She says, "He knows how to make his bed, clean up his room, empty the trash, set the table, put away silverware, fold laundry, put it away, etc." In our house, if the three-year-old is slow in loading dirty silverware into the dishwasher, his 18-month-old brother will beat him to it!


Motivational Tools
Making work fun is not always possible, but we all pull out our "Mary Poppins" tricks when possible. For Marion, it is a Celtic Christmas CD her girls love all year round. She also uses a timer to let them "race" to get done. On cleaning day, I separate us into "teams" and have each team complete their list and check it off. It's hilarious to see the "boy team". My 18-month-old bumps down the steps on his belly clutching pillow cases to carry to the laundry room to be washed while his brothers carry the rest down.

Chore charts are great for little ones. I have a hard time keeping with them, but I always think they look so fun. Like this one:

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Allowances and financial compensation is a subject of great debate. I do use a pay system for my kids although they realize that some jobs are "just because they're in the family". I don't pay on a strict commission basis---just a set fee based on their age and number of expected chores. However, if a chore is not done they might have to pay me or another sibling to do it. We get paid monthly so we pay our children monthly. If it's a tight month and we can't afford "fun money" for ourselves, they don't get paid either so they see it's a family enterprise not necessarily something we "owe them". Jessica gives her children small rewards from time to time and Marion rewards her girls with a tea party or some other fun activity after they get their work done.


Life Lessons Learned

Although our children help us a lot, the main reason we teach them to work is for their own benefit---not just ours. As Jessica says,

"The small rewards they do receive from time to time are an added benefit to the plain ol' feeling of accomplishment they feel after completing a task, the housekeeping skills they're learning in preparation for keeping their own home one day, and the knowledge that they're doing their part to help the household run smoothly."

Random Resources

I have some ideas for some posts, but I didn't feel like I had the time to do justice to them right now. So, you get some random resources! Yay! =) I do hope these links will be enjoyable, at least, and maybe even helpful.

For the Techie Kid

From Dailycandy.com

If you have an iPad, iPod, iPhone, smartphone, etc., click on the link above to take you to a list of apps for your kiddos that should make waiting rooms, long lines, and car rides more bearable for them...and for you! Some of these apps are free. Most of them look pretty cool! (I'll take the free ones, thanks.)

For a Well-planned Summer of Fun Memories

From Somewhat Simple

Here's a great idea to keep your summer organized and filled with family fun. Instructions are given for how to print it out and tweak it to fit your needs. 

Classics, for Free!

From booksshouldbefree.com.

How about some free classic audio books? Yes, please! These books are from the public domain and downloadable in several formats. I'm thinking that my kids would enjoy listening to these while they do their chores!

I won't be posting next Tuesday, so here are a few ideas for the upcoming Easter holiday:

From Unit Studies by Amanda Bennett

Whether your child is homeschooled or not they could benefit by this Unit Study on Easter. I haven't used the Unit Studies that I have purchased yet, but I've heard a lot of good things about them and parents say that their children really enjoy them. It really is what is says...Download 'N Go! You just need an internet connection and a printer. The price is very reasonable, too!

Adorable yumminess

From The Curvy Carrot

Aren't they just too cute to eat? Almost? No? Yeah...I'd eat 'em too. These little bird's nests are great for a pretty Easter treat. 

Lovely Easter Centerpieces

Unknown Source

From marthastewart.com

The bunny centerpiece is just beautiful and oh-so-"springy", but the cross and empty tomb is so full of meaning. I wish I could find the original post about the photo on the right. It doesn't look too difficult, though, so maybe by using some tips from the link at marthastewart.com I could figure it out.

So there you are! Go have some fun!

Listen Up!

How many times have I said to my children that they need to listen? Countless! It seems like this saying has resonated in my own ears at times.  I think that I pressed the speed button on my listening device one too many times and now all I do is grasp the first, middle, and last words of what is being said to me especially in relation to my family. My attention is pulled in a hundred different directions while I have this earnest face focused upon mine simply asking for me to listen. Now what is more important than hearing about how house is being played outside and the best soup ever is being made? Tell me; wouldn’t you like to know the recipe that includes gravel, water, and walnuts? Sounds absolutely delightful! I think I might make it for our next church dinner. Yet, it is important! I realize that when I don’t give my full attention to my children they feel like I don’t care. In fact, they have told me that. I am confirming in their impressionable minds that God is the same way. He doesn’t listen because He is simply too busy.

Then this same scenario can be carried over to my husband. He needs my attention, but how often have I been focused on a task that must be accomplished. The children are in bed. We are enjoying some peace and quiet. Time we could concentrate on each other. Once again my thoughts are honing in on other things. Are they of importance? Sure! However, my husband should receive my undivided attention. Do I fail? Oh yeah! Most definitely! Can I improve? I am trying! He needs me to listen up. Sometimes it is subjects that interest him. Sometimes it is issues he needs to voice. Sometimes it is plans for the future. Sometimes it is dreams. All of it is of essence in knowing my husband better.

Often treasured individuals that are in our church congregation need me to listen up to what they have to share. It could be a child’s accomplishment or even an issue they faced. Possibly it might be a deep hurt that was received years before that was never overcome. Maybe it is something exciting that took place in their spiritual life. Or perhaps it is a battle they aren’t sure how to fight. It may well be the loss of a loved one or illness that is facing the family. Whatever the case, my ears must be attuned to their pain or joy! I want them to sense that I care. Do I? Oh most definitely. Their pain is mine. Their joy is mine. Are they blood relation…only by Jesus’ blood that was shed for us, but God has given me a great love for my church family.  I want to listen!

Leaving the most important for last…I must listen up to God. He has much that I need to hear. Areas where I can improve in are especially in this listening aspect.  On a daily basis, I feel that I fall so short. Yet, I keep plugging along attempting to press the slower button and take time to listen. The cares of life are pulling me in every direction, but I must tune my ears to even the slightest whisper of God’s voice. If I can train my ear to listen to Him, then my husband, my children, and my church family will definitely have my attention. So today I am trying to listen up!

-Tonya

Time flies....

I watched as my daughter gracefully made her way down the steps into the water of the baptistry. She looked so tall, so grown-up. It was a little startling. What happened to that little newborn who was the teeniest baby in the hospital's nursery? Where was the scrawny little toddler without enough hair on her head to hold a barrette, looking like a little boy in a dress? When did that painfully shy, terrified, clinging little girl turn into such a mature, confident young lady? Where did all those years go? Dare I blink and risk missing the few years that are left before she's out on her own?

I listened as her testimony was read, and watched with a sense of reverence mixed with pride as she was baptized, proclaiming to all that she is a follower of Jesus, that she is His.

My younger daughters observed the goings-on with a little bit of awe, I think, and I hope they somehow sensed the significance of this moment, this outward testimony of an inward consecration. My little son belly-laughed. It was funny to watch his big sister get dunked in water in church. Somehow, I hope he caught the importance of the service, too. He understands more than we realize, I think.

Two of my children have come to a knowledge of God's saving grace, and I pray that the day will come soon when my youngest two will understand and surrender to Jesus, too.

This is our goal as parents. That our children will grow "in wisdom and stature, and in favour with God and man." (Luke 2:52). We have such a relatively short time with our children and so often we're too concerned with the state of our physical dwelling or the clothes we wear or even with academic progress, and we forget to concentrate on what is really important. The soul.

This hymn was sung during the baptismal service, and it spoke to my heart as it always does.

A Charge to Keep I Have

Charles Wesley

A charge to keep I have,

a God to glorify,

a never-dying soul to save, 

and fit it for the sky.

To serve the present age,

my calling to fulfill;

O may it all my powers engage

to do my Master's will!

Arm me with jealous care,

as in thy sight to live

and oh, thy servant, Lord, 

prepare a strict account to give!

Help me to watch and pray, 

and on thyself rely,

assured if I my trust betray,

I shall forever die. 

Take time today to focus on this. To examine your priorities and goals, and to ask the Father to grant wisdom and fresh strength for the awesome responsibility of parenting. I'll be doing the same. 

Then, take an extra minute and go hug those little ones...just because...because life happens so quickly, and they grow up all too soon.

What I Do When I Get Writer's Block

This is the post that should have been up this morning by 5:00. I have tried to decide what to share since yesterday, and have come up against the all-too-familiar writer's block. I've read other bloggers' tips on how to overcome writer's block. I would probably do well to review them. However, here's what I do when it happens to me:

I tuck children into bed with drinks, kisses and prayers. I sit on the couch with my laptop and begin to type only to awaken an hour later.

I go to bed and slip into a deep sleep at least six times. I know this because each time I am awakened by a child needing a quick prayer for a bad dream, another drink or a soothing pat.

I wake up early to get my husband off to work. I sit down to write and two hours later, I awaken to children playing in their room trying not to wake Mommy up. I rush to do all the things that should have been done before they got up.

I supervise morning chores. I cook breakfast for hungry children. I clean the kitchen and dining room. I teach school lessons. I intervene in childhood skirmishes. I correct the child who whines. I finally grab a shower then something to eat for myself.

I teach more lessons. I fold laundry. I cook lunch and clean the kitchen. I supervise more chores, more lessons, more discipline. I put the baby down for a nap. More school.

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I sit down to write and this time the baby wakes. I make supper. He comes home and all is right in our world. We eat together, sharing laughs and a few corrections.

I run to get groceries and coffee with my two favorite ladies...Mom and Daughter. I clean up the kitchen and decide to leave the rest until morning. Again, I tuck them into bed along with my hugs and prayers.

I sit again to write and decide I have done a different kind of writing over the last 24 hours. I've written lines in the story of my life....in their stories. With the ink of the indelible kind.

Yes, this is what I do when no words come. I just live, and I think it's the best story of all.

Is Treasure Too Much Responsibility?

Let's say you are a millionaire. (It's fun to pretend, isn't it?) You can have just about anything you want of material things. You have a beautiful home and a plentiful budget for all necessities and many luxuries.


What would you think if I came to your home and surveyed the lovely surroundings and pitied you? "Oh, how do you do it all?" Or if I came to your garage and saw your collection of nice cars and said, "Oh dear, you sure have your hands full!" What if I sat down at your table to an expensive meal and said, "I could never do this!"

You might pity me, and rightly so. My comments would show such a misunderstanding of the treasure that you have and might even suggest jealousy of your bounty.

Would you limit your enjoyment of God's gifts because I, and perhaps the general population, was disapproving of your choice to multiply your resources? Maybe you would tell your employer to please stop paying you because you couldn't handle any more riches? Would you give all your money to someone else and live the life of a pauper?

The truth is, that no matter how spiritual we act, we would all welcome, if not millions, at least enough money to go through life without worrying about being able to pay the mortgage and a large hospital bill in the same month.

Yet, when it comes to the treasures God has given us in our children, so many look on with disapproval. All they see is the responsibility that these precious blessings create for parents. So, they expect us to give them to someone else to enjoy while we chase after glittery joys that look gaudy at best when held to the light of eternity. Or maybe not to accept them at all.

These thoughts came to me as I was listening to Lorrie Flem's audio recording of "Daily Treasures" as part of my Gabby Moms commitment. One can tell by her words that she genuinely treasures her eight children. In fact, her small son opens for her by announcing his own mother in such a cute lisp that I couldn't help but smile at the sweetness of it. She speaks of the joys of children and what kind of a mother Mary was and how she can encourage us in our pursuit of caring for these treasures with which some of us have been so blessed.


In Lorrie's words:

"What dime store treasures are we holding so tightly that we miss the real treasures that we have?"

Don't trade your costly pearls for the cheap, vending machine variety! If you suggest that I do so, I'll smile at you in pity. Because you have no idea just how blessed I am.

Disclaimer: I received this audio for review purposes free of charge but received no other compensation.. All opinions are mine.