tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23748100226515517702024-02-21T10:05:22.325-08:00 The Working Parent 's Survival GuideAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11048308053467188080noreply@blogger.comBlogger25125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2374810022651551770.post-83209034841559088192014-05-01T04:00:00.000-07:002014-05-01T07:30:46.743-07:00We're addressing the mommy wars but what about the daddy bashing?<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpKAtSIU2UcvAOtQPyNSB1tlcWwSAzoP6XQjLXPcHVOHwrit9xKbEd_cUyTx-9YxJstIvhe6tE8ZTm0gut2mJMj8OVqvcp1oUvY7Gx3xHSNkAwVBSEu9pGsnpnk9q5WgY21Pa_-xepJ7BH/s640/blogger-image--1167805459.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpKAtSIU2UcvAOtQPyNSB1tlcWwSAzoP6XQjLXPcHVOHwrit9xKbEd_cUyTx-9YxJstIvhe6tE8ZTm0gut2mJMj8OVqvcp1oUvY7Gx3xHSNkAwVBSEu9pGsnpnk9q5WgY21Pa_-xepJ7BH/s640/blogger-image--1167805459.jpg" /></a>Am I the only one who finds the portrayal of dads on television and in the media to be completely ridiculous?<br />
<br />
Everywhere I turn, I see daddy bashing happening. Even when shopping for baby clothes, it is prevalent. I snapped this picture when I was picking up a few items for my son. I understand that this is meant to be a joke but what does it say about a mother if she chooses a man who cannot even figure out how to dress a baby as the father of her child. Are those genes we want to carry on?<br />
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If I even hinted to my husband that I did not think he was able to do some of the care for our children, he would use that as an out and I would forever be completing that task on my own. I am too tired to give him that option!<br />
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Dads are not idiots. My husband had never held a baby before he met me but he is intelligent and figured it out without doing any harm to our children. He had to learn everything as he went.<br />
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Parenting is a time when we need to help and empower each other, not make dads feel stupid. There are enough opportunities to feel like you have no idea what to do when parenting. Even seasoned parents have difficulty at times.<br />
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Someone recently asked if we planned to have a third child. I was quick to tell them that we are not! It is not because my husband is an incompetent parent, he is an excellent dad. Personally, I cannot imagine letting our children outnumber us. That, to me, is just asking for trouble.<br />
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Let's stop worrying about whether a mom (or dad) stays home to care for their child or works outside of the home full time. Let's empower dads to be an equal parenting partner. Let's support each other in this wonderful, difficult adventure of parenting!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11048308053467188080noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2374810022651551770.post-25566282294569388822014-04-03T11:06:00.000-07:002014-04-03T11:06:11.281-07:00Saying NoI am the type of person who likes to be involved in many activities. I often volunteer (or get volunteered) to do different tasks for committees or groups that I participate in.<br />
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Recently, I gave in to guilt (and probably a little peer pressure) and accepted a board position to a newly developed foundation. Initially the time commitment seemed small so I was sure I could handle it.<br />
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With two small children at home and a full time job, I stay very busy so I am not sure why I think it is a good idea to take on so many new things. After a few missed emails and meetings I could not attend due to scheduling, I realized I needed to walk away from the board position to let someone else do it right.<br />
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This was not an easy decision for me. I do not like to quit things after making a commitment. I do, however, make an effort to give 100% so when that was not possible it made it easier to walk away. Spending time with my family (and sleeping) are much more important to me at this point in my life.<br />
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I have decided to be okay with saying "no" from now on. I am confident that small word will help me be a better mom and relax a little more.<br />
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Where do you draw the line to find balance in your life?Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11048308053467188080noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2374810022651551770.post-60205781022329342972014-02-20T05:30:00.000-08:002014-02-20T07:06:06.935-08:00Dreading Daylight SavingsWhen we bought our house almost three years ago, the old owners did not leave us the instruction booklets for the security system. I tried to locate some but then got distracted and, to this day, we have never had them. Because of this, for part of the year the clock on our alarm display is wrong.<br />
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This type of thing normally bothers me. I tend to struggle with things being out of place like that. It actually gives me some comfort, though, when I get up in the middle of the night to feed the baby and come back in our bedroom to see the time glowing and realizing it is an hour ahead. Obviously the time doesn't actually change when I see it, but in that tired moment it makes me feel better about my exhaustion.<br />
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Unfortunately, someone recently pointed out that we will soon have a time change due to daylight savings time. As a human, I hate daylight savings time but as a mother, I am not sure I will survive it. I understand the idea behind daylight savings time, but I still despise it. It seems like such a great thing in the fall when we "fall back" but in the spring that "springing ahead" is torture.<br />
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<i><b>As a human, I hate daylight savings time. As a mother, I am not sure I will survive it.</b></i></div>
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My 4-year-old already acts like a teenager when it comes to sleep. He does not want to go to bed at night but he is too exhausted to get up in the morning. Now I will have to try to get him to do both an hour earlier. I do not see either going well.<br />
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The other part I find terribly unsettling is that we actually lose an hour. I, like most people, do not feel like I have an hour to lose. I already feel like there are not enough hours in the day and now I am losing one. The rational side of me knows that it is one hour of one day and we will eventually get it back when the time changes again in the fall, but the tired mother of an infant side of me knows that hour will come from my precious time for sleep, which is already pretty limited. That part of me wants to scream.<br />
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I know I will spend the first two weeks after the time change thinking things like, "My alarm is saying it is 6:00 am but I know it is actually 5:00 am" because that is what I always do. As if it isn't bad enough that the time changed, I have to rub it in... to myself. I am already exhausted just thinking about it. I would much rather they eliminate the occasional Monday if they must play with time. Okay, I know that does not make any sense but wouldn't it be nice?<br />
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As with all uncomfortable things, I know we will survive. But for now, I am going to wallow in my exhaustion.<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11048308053467188080noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2374810022651551770.post-58256767414934477712014-02-15T07:04:00.000-08:002014-02-15T07:05:02.861-08:00I should have said...<div dir="ltr">
I had a really difficult time with child care for our infant. The issues I had are resolved now, but the situation had caused me a great deal of stress for awhile.</div>
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Recently, a colleague asked how things were going with child care. I briefly shared my frustrations and she said to me, "Well, you know how I feel about babies being away from their parents." I was shocked. Part of this person's job is to help families find child care. I did not expect her to have such strong feelings against it. I'm not usually at a loss for words but at that moment I could not think of anything to say. She had caught me off guard and I blanked.</div>
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I have thought about that conversation many times since then. I do not judge parents for leaving their careers and staying home with their children, why is it okay for others to judge me for working? The person who said that does not even have children. How can she have such a strong opinion when she has never been in this position?</div>
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I decided I would never get caught off guard like that again. I thought for awhile to come up with a witty statement in case I ever had a similar conversation in the future. </div>
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After thinking about it for a bit decided that I did not need to offer anyone an explanation or any information about why we choose to send our children to child care. </div>
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My kids are happy, smart and well-adjusted and my husband and I are doing what we feel is best for our children and our family as a whole. I do not need to defend our decision to anyone. Maybe that is what I'll say next time.</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11048308053467188080noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2374810022651551770.post-65356219125793668332014-01-16T04:30:00.000-08:002014-01-16T07:03:01.047-08:00Do you have a child care back up plan?<div dir="ltr">
It has been over a year since I ditched the commute and set up my home office. It's very rare that I come across any downfalls to being a remote employee. In the midst of the winter storm last week, my work from home status created a problem, though. When everyone else, including our child care, had a snow day, I still had to work.</div>
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The problem was, I had never bothered to come up with a child care back up plan. I know better, but because it's rare that a child care center closes, I had never taken the time to put a plan in place.</div>
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The first day was not too bad. My husband was able to take time off to keep our boys entertained. He had one call scheduled for the afternoon but we made it work by turning on the TV for the 3 year old (not my proudest parenting moment but what option did we have?) and I held our baby while listening to a conference call. Then we got the news that the child care center was going to be closed a second day. My husband had to work, although he would also be working from home that day. I planned to take time off but that did not work out how I planned. As soon as I logged onto my computer, I was bombarded with emails and meeting requests.</div>
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We survived but it certainly was not an ideal arrangement. We will be better prepared in the future.</div>
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Whether you use center-based child care, home-based care, a nanny or friends and family, you should have a plan in case they experience illness, a natural disaster or any other reason for not being available. </div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11048308053467188080noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2374810022651551770.post-7211207577413539772014-01-09T07:42:00.001-08:002014-01-09T07:42:06.595-08:00<br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaA4lXGUIRji2VOzQYTzht8NgJ5ENHUtyhO_3SjzAvGFIrinDj2uVYpgYltFlg5qGS9xPQk_fXOBVEol2ddRHRt13ZNifU5rCYZol9mBjJ7rHfmokpzkIJ2d5oZ0lUNJyHdbjksU8cdXq4/s640/blogger-image--1538941845.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaA4lXGUIRji2VOzQYTzht8NgJ5ENHUtyhO_3SjzAvGFIrinDj2uVYpgYltFlg5qGS9xPQk_fXOBVEol2ddRHRt13ZNifU5rCYZol9mBjJ7rHfmokpzkIJ2d5oZ0lUNJyHdbjksU8cdXq4/s640/blogger-image--1538941845.jpg"></a></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11048308053467188080noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2374810022651551770.post-69763233486833956652014-01-09T07:11:00.003-08:002014-01-09T07:13:35.171-08:00In the kitchen with kids<br />
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<a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-hDmcdvp3iCk/UrnFhIhKKMI/AAAAAAAAALA/33zF0vYzpUM/s640/blogger-image-1901711359.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-hDmcdvp3iCk/UrnFhIhKKMI/AAAAAAAAALA/33zF0vYzpUM/s640/blogger-image-1901711359.jpg" /> </a><br />
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I love cooking with children. It's always an adventure. They are learning so much but they don't even realize it. It's also a great way to multitask by spending time with your children while making dinner.<br />
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I have
compiled all of my recipes into a binder with plastic protector pages. I
have one for each of my sons. As they grow, I will add pictures of them
cooking. I know they won't know the value of the cookbook until they're
adults, but I am confident it will be a great gift some day. <br />
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Below
is a chart with some of the things children are learning in the
process, along with ways to encourage more opportunities for growth.<br />
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Even if you're not a great cook, you can have fun with your children in the kitchen. Your child will enjoy the one-on-one time and will treasure the memories forever. </div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11048308053467188080noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2374810022651551770.post-29523983869616420952013-12-26T04:30:00.001-08:002013-12-26T10:43:14.398-08:00Easy chocolate pudding recipeOur 3 year old insisted on making chocolate pudding for Santa instead of cookies this year. I found an easy, delicious recipe for <a href="http://allrecipes.com/Recipe/Chocolate-Cornstarch-Pudding/Detail.aspx?event8=1&prop24=SR_Thumb&e11=chocolate%20pudding&e8=Quick%20Search&event10=1&e7=Home%20Page">Chocolate Cornstarch Pudding</a> on AllRecipes.com. I highly recommend it!<br />
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I love easy recipes I can quickly make from scratch with ingredients I always have on hand!<br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11048308053467188080noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2374810022651551770.post-11923241239193978552013-12-26T04:30:00.000-08:002013-12-26T07:27:32.347-08:00The 'baby illusion'My younger son is 4 months old today. I remember when I first saw our older son after the baby was born. He looked huge! I attributed it to the fact that the baby made him look big but there is some research that suggests there is more to it. <br />
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In this <a href="http://www.today.com/moms/baby-illusion-parents-see-youngest-child-smaller-2D11736040">Today Mom</a> article, they reference a study from the journal <em>Current Biology</em>. Based on their findings, it seems that moms are actually estimating their youngest (or only) child to be smaller than he/she really is. Estimates of older children are more accurate.<br />
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I thought this was very interesting. What do you think?Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11048308053467188080noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2374810022651551770.post-62405526955745173772013-12-14T00:21:00.001-08:002013-12-14T12:14:05.451-08:00Seeing the world through 3 year old eyes - the first snowI love 3 year olds. They're old enough to have great conversations but young enough that they don't yet care what others think of them.<br>
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We recently attended the kick off to our town's Festival of Lights. They lit the town Christmas tree and decorations and Santa visited. This event happened to be the evening of our first significant snow fall this winter.<div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhd545akX5bLTlaM19ly7Z0lyjW-9NKWJGg1-ImEAQtCwFtXi0EyegE5nYnJvCCGZNT4kJhnewKRIkcTr4k956m639wUXAXdVqcGM-gtN6Cb85xAfir1IA-hczIqao-YIYvdH2EKd9BQgRn/s640/blogger-image-1200537313.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhd545akX5bLTlaM19ly7Z0lyjW-9NKWJGg1-ImEAQtCwFtXi0EyegE5nYnJvCCGZNT4kJhnewKRIkcTr4k956m639wUXAXdVqcGM-gtN6Cb85xAfir1IA-hczIqao-YIYvdH2EKd9BQgRn/s640/blogger-image-1200537313.jpg"></a></div><br>
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My 3 year old and I bundled up and trudged through the snow. Well, I trudged, he bounded. He couldn't have been happier. What is better than playing in snow for the first time in months under the glow of lights while Christmas music is being played over speakers for everyone to enjoy? Not much, unless you're 3. Then snow angels make all of that even better. <br>
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When you're 3 and you have endless amounts of untouched snow, you must fall backward every chance you get. After all, enjoying the lights while looking up from under a tree is something most people don't have the creativity to try. It's been years and years since I threw myself backward into a pile of fresh snow and looked up to enjoy the view.<br>
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Not one person walked past my son without smiling that night. He couldn't contain his excitement. I have no idea how many snow angels were left behind when we headed home. It was a lot, though.<br>
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I picture people walking through and smiling at all of the snow angels. I know I did. What a wonderful reminder to enjoy the beauty of everyday things and take the opportunity to have fun without caring about who's watching.<br>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijhDoTjRShlsFG-8ULzO3A-fj0LDZigigqRGO_Np3HQPj0dunxuvv0a5KCHq7VT-JiaqE-BQO6x_1Rw_LLBaNCtb6RDpz9NyBijVLDLkvXJoNuUPNTtUL91n1vR67lfDwJzCFi-vOyEy2D/s640/blogger-image-1383968638.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijhDoTjRShlsFG-8ULzO3A-fj0LDZigigqRGO_Np3HQPj0dunxuvv0a5KCHq7VT-JiaqE-BQO6x_1Rw_LLBaNCtb6RDpz9NyBijVLDLkvXJoNuUPNTtUL91n1vR67lfDwJzCFi-vOyEy2D/s640/blogger-image-1383968638.jpg"></a></div><br></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11048308053467188080noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2374810022651551770.post-84554016108145535492013-12-12T23:22:00.001-08:002013-12-12T23:23:00.269-08:00Sick timeThe dreaded stomach flu is ravaging our child care center. Children and staff are out sick in huge numbers. <div><br></div><div>I would love to keep my kids home with me until it passes but I do not have a lot of time off left after being on maternity leave. <span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">At this point, they've already been exposed so all I can do is wait snd hope they can avoid getting sick. </span></div><div><br></div><div>It's so difficult to be in this situation. Every time my phone rings during the day I panic, worried it's the dreaded, "come get your kid because he just puked" call. </div><div><br></div><div>I know that they'll be sick a lot less when they reach elementary school because they're exposed to it now, but it's still frustrating. It leaves me feeling terribly guilty to drop them off each day, knowing that many of the people around them have been sick. </div><div><br></div><div>I guess we'll just have to keep washing our hands and sanitizing everything. </div><div><br></div><div>I'm sure this won't be the last such instance of illness going through the school, I just hope I have more sick time saved before the next one. </div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11048308053467188080noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2374810022651551770.post-66707054419065520322013-12-11T04:30:00.001-08:002013-12-11T05:50:15.997-08:00Tator Tot CasseroleIngredients:<br />
<ul>
<li>1 pound ground beef</li>
<li>1 1/2 tablespoons butter</li>
<li>1 1/2 tablespoons flour</li>
<li>1/2 cup milk</li>
<li>2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (separated)</li>
<li>1 bag tator tots</li>
</ul>
Directions:<br />
<ol>
<li>Preheat oven to 425 degrees F.</li>
<li>Brown the ground beef. Drain and set aside.</li>
<li>Melt the butter over medium low heat.</li>
<li>Add the flour to the butter and stir until a paste is formed.</li>
<li>Add milk and stir until blended. Cook until the sauce is thickened. Add 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese and stir until melted.</li>
<li>Mix the ground beef and cheese mixture and spread into the bottom of an 8x8 inch pan.</li>
<li>Spread the remaining cup of cheese over the meat.</li>
<li>Arrange the tator tots across the top of the cheese.</li>
<li>Bake 25-30 minutes or until tator tots are crisp and cheese is melted and bubbly.</li>
</ol>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11048308053467188080noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2374810022651551770.post-8900144825956862182013-12-09T09:00:00.000-08:002013-12-09T11:23:11.847-08:00I don't have all the answers but I can tell you what works for me<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkNyujS156hge-WMxAm0-sWG49puUZ_742PkYQLnmAekPydLhPE5wg93SBuJxYZ9P_CCVRUKK0-Vd2E1YnQCvM4EIYI94HM6mMxsWvFWiNX2YMFQg-awHuO63AUshiifviTqYteA7pWFVt/s640/blogger-image-439730054.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkNyujS156hge-WMxAm0-sWG49puUZ_742PkYQLnmAekPydLhPE5wg93SBuJxYZ9P_CCVRUKK0-Vd2E1YnQCvM4EIYI94HM6mMxsWvFWiNX2YMFQg-awHuO63AUshiifviTqYteA7pWFVt/s640/blogger-image-439730054.jpg" /></a>Most people who spend much time with me have probably noticed that I'm a little "type A" and a little granola. These two personality traits are an interesting combination that helps me to (try to) stay organized while embracing the chaos of my life.<br />
<br />
I've been told that I run a "tight ship" around the house, although you couldn't tell by looking at it most days.<br />
<br />
Here are some of the things that work for me. <br />
<ol>
<li>Make a weekly menu and make sure you buy everything you need to make those items through the week. I actually write down the menu and post it on the refrigerator. That way, my husband can start cooking if I'm busy and he can't say he didn't know what to make. I schedule some foods that would go right from the freezer to the oven/crock pot. That way, nothing goes to waste if we have an unplanned dinner out - it just stays in the freezer.</li>
<li>Two words: Crock Pot. Nothing makes me happier than throwing in a few ingredients in the morning and coming home to a cooked meal. (It feels a little like you have a personal chef.) </li>
<li>If you're cooking anything that can be frozen, double it and freeze half. I cook most things from scratch so this saves me time on nights that are a little more hectic. You do have to plan ahead and thaw the food in the refrigerator the night before. That's another reason the menu comes in handy. </li>
<li>Do what you can to get ready for the next day the night before. I like to sit down and eat breakfast with my 3 year old and I'm not good at rushing. That means I need to be organized in the morning. (Because I don't want to get up any earlier than I already do!)</li>
<li>Let your children help you. Many times you'll find my 3 year old cleaning/cooking with me while I wear the baby in my Boba wrap. It might take me a little longer, but I'm actually killing two birds with one stone - getting some necessary tasks done while spending quality time with the kids. I've also taught my 3 year old how to sort laundry. Another chance to spend time together while reinforcing colors, etc. (I'm pretty proud of that one.)</li>
<li>Use the tv to your advantage. If you know me, you know I have a child development background. Before my second son was born, I was not a big fan of tv for children. Before my first was born, I swore my children would not watch tv. Things change... I allow my 3 year old to watch age appropriate shows while I'm busy doing other things. He doesn't watch them all day and it keeps him occupied (a.k.a. keeps him out of trouble). I enjoy watching tv once in awhile, too. It's really not the worst thing in the world. (Trust me, I've read many studies on it.) </li>
<li>Tackle laundry one load at a time. If you do one load each night, you'll never spend an entire day chained to the washer and dryer. I also have a system in the laundry room to keep me organized. Everyone has a basket where their folded clothes go. I also have a double bar where I hang clothes. I fold or hang the clothes as I pull them out of the dryer so they never sit in a basket getting wrinkly only to be thrown in the dryer again later. I do have to admit, our laundry room looks like a closet because I don't have time to carry the clothes upstairs very often, but at least they're clean and organized.</li>
<li>Make sure things are where you need them and everything has a place. Here are some examples - I have two diaper changing areas set up in my house: one upstairs, one downstairs. Our living room end tables have doors: one has books, one has toys. Our son can play there but once things are put away it still looks like an adult space. </li>
<li>Make lists. My husband and I have an app on our phones that allows us to create shopping lists that can be accessed by either of us. We also keep a running list of things we need. If we use the last of something, it goes on the list right away. That way, we're not trying to remember everything once we get to the store.</li>
<li>Keep a calendar. The app I mentioned above also has a calendar feature. You can even color code appointments for different people (which I love). We can set up reminders that come as texts and emails. I also share our appointments so they can be saved on our work calendars. That way, we never forget to take time off when we need to.</li>
</ol>
Basically, I've tried to create a system for major tasks that need to be completed. I am not rigid about sticking to it everyday but I think that is why it works for me.<br />
<br />
Feel free to share what works for you. I'm always looking new for ways to stay organized.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11048308053467188080noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2374810022651551770.post-53020713985158172022013-12-09T04:30:00.000-08:002013-12-09T04:30:02.851-08:00Staying connected during the dayI am very lucky. Not only do I work from home, I live a mile from our child care center. Most days, I am able to stop by on my lunch break to feed the baby and then sit with our preschooler while he eats. <br />
<br />
This isn't the case for everyone, so here's an article from <a href="http://www.ivillage.com/">www.ivillage.com</a> with some ideas, Feeling the <a href="http://www.ivillage.com/working-parent-how-stay-connected-your-kids/6-a-383971">Working Mom Guilt? Here's How to Stay Connected to Your Kid During the Day</a>.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11048308053467188080noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2374810022651551770.post-66408208480147427502013-12-08T06:00:00.000-08:002013-12-08T06:00:06.088-08:00I love you when you're angry, I love you when I'm angryIt's easy to get weighed down by the chaos and lack of sleep when you're a working parent. Sometimes I get frustrated and do not react as I would when I'm thinking clearly. <br />
<br />
It is very important to me, though, that my children know I love them even when I am frustrated and angry. I also want them to know that I love them when they are frustrated and angry.<br />
<br />
When my 3 year old is having a particularly rough time, I remind him of this. I'll tell him, "I love you when you're angry, sad or frustrated. I love you no matter what." When I'm in a bad mood, I'll remind him that I am frustrated at that but I love him no matter what. <br />
<br />
I've found that having these discussions helps him to deal with situations better. Who doesn't feel better knowing they're loved no matter what? <br />
<br />
I've also discovered that he can talk about his feelings easier. He has words for different emotions and feelings.<br />
<br />
That helps us all to be able to work through situations that might bring out those feelings. <br />
<br />
I hope my children know every day that they are loved and I will support them no matter what.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11048308053467188080noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2374810022651551770.post-33490013184105551402013-12-07T05:00:00.000-08:002013-12-07T05:00:08.499-08:00Easy crock pot white chicken chili
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Ingredients:</span></b><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><br clear="all" style="mso-break-type: section-break; page-break-before: auto;" />
</span><br />
<div class="WordSection2">
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: Calibri;">2 frozen chicken breasts<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: Calibri;">2 cans of white kidney beans (cannellini),
rinsed<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: Calibri;">1 bag of white corn<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: Calibri;">1 cup chicken bouillon<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: Calibri;">1 can cream of chicken soup<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: Calibri;">¼ cup taco seasoning<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: Calibri;">¼ cup sour cream<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Shredded cheese</span></div>
</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Directions:</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">1.</span><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Put chicken breasts in the bottom of the crock
pot.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">2.</span><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Pour beans and corn on top.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">3.</span><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: Calibri;">In a small bowl, mix bouillon, soup, and taco
seasoning. Pour mixture over ingredients in crock pot. (Stirring not
necessary.)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">4.</span><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Cook on high at 4 hours. Take out chicken and
shred with two forks. Put chicken back in and mix, along with sour cream.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">5.</span><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Add cheese to taste (in individual bowls).<o:p></o:p></span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11048308053467188080noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2374810022651551770.post-36494964704752741702013-12-06T09:00:00.000-08:002013-12-06T09:00:05.578-08:00Quick, easy homemade keepsake ornamants<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWOZRBTVv0DTKzozyQGXPFODtPNqPDlsLDqlIqNX0Rw707rkTTAAa9TgO6AhDjXvjUW2uWtSksYXj6fBRMTZwClTuK8Ry1owzVy6JYbz1-he1bvbf9WXhW3cSrv6oaobV0hhQ79Dv3AnOt/s1600/blogger-image--938011076.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWOZRBTVv0DTKzozyQGXPFODtPNqPDlsLDqlIqNX0Rw707rkTTAAa9TgO6AhDjXvjUW2uWtSksYXj6fBRMTZwClTuK8Ry1owzVy6JYbz1-he1bvbf9WXhW3cSrv6oaobV0hhQ79Dv3AnOt/s320/blogger-image--938011076.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
If you're like me, you have a Pinterest board full of cute craft ideas but aren't sure when you'll have time to do them. Here is a holiday keepsake ornament tradition I started last year.<br />
<br />
Buy a clear ornament and add your child's wish list with the year. It's as simple as that!<br />
<br />
There's no mess and they're sure to be treasured in the future!<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11048308053467188080noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2374810022651551770.post-58823770904762849422013-12-06T04:30:00.000-08:002013-12-06T04:30:04.355-08:00Finding time for exerciseAs a parent of two young children, I struggle to find time for exercise. I know how much better it makes me feel, so I really try to exercise as often as possible. <br />
<br />
Bright Horizons Family Solutions offers suggestions for <a href="http://www.brighthorizons.com/family-resources/e-family-news/2013-exercise-and-the-working-parent/">Exercise and the Working Parent</a>.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11048308053467188080noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2374810022651551770.post-56657352067768277772013-12-05T09:00:00.000-08:002013-12-05T10:50:52.999-08:00<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhn2W-rwQRIhEXUxK9IRfF2CLv0m6TgxtWlWezrlJ0eFJac36WfBKiL9JuxWK8IEng9d8hAYirqXjHEqphC9WzB4lbeVV8cfzuocCQhfOahlIKFA_pAZ2EtXlDA_aI9U0LSP7Eyjqf93Hkd/s640/blogger-image--372889148.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhn2W-rwQRIhEXUxK9IRfF2CLv0m6TgxtWlWezrlJ0eFJac36WfBKiL9JuxWK8IEng9d8hAYirqXjHEqphC9WzB4lbeVV8cfzuocCQhfOahlIKFA_pAZ2EtXlDA_aI9U0LSP7Eyjqf93Hkd/s640/blogger-image--372889148.jpg" /></a></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11048308053467188080noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2374810022651551770.post-8746790482839303872013-12-05T04:30:00.004-08:002013-12-05T11:31:43.479-08:00What does forgive mean?Lately we've been having a lot of discussions with our 3 year old about being honest.<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Today, while I was sorting laundry, he came running into the room and stood and looked at me. I stopped what I was doing to see what he needed. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
After a bit of a pause he said, "I broke the frame with the picture of me and dad when I was a baby. I stored the pieces under my bed." Then, with big eyes he looked at me and said, "mom, what does forgive mean?" </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I have to give him credit for throwing that last statement in there. He knows I'm a softy and that would ensure he wouldn't get in too much trouble. </div>
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<br /></div>
<div>
I know he had put some thought into whether or not he should say anything. You don't hide a broken frame under your bed if you planned on accepting responsibility from the beginning. </div>
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<div>
He recently ripped one of his wall decals while trying to move it. I found it wrinkled up in his closet afterward. We had a long talk about how being honest is a better way to go; that you'll usually end up in less trouble for something than if you lie about it first. I'm glad he decided to fess up about the frame. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I asked him to go under his bed to collect the pieces. While he was under there, he said, "mom, aren't you glad I was honest?" He really does know exactly what to say to me. </div>
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<br /></div>
<div>
We sat down and talked about what happened. I thanked him for honest and told him he needed to be more careful. </div>
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<div>
He and I have also been having discussions about how his actions affect other people. I told him that, because he was not careful (he was jumping on his bed and knocked the frame off his nightstand), he no longer had a picture of him and dad in his room. I also told him I was disappointed because it was a special frame I picked out before he was born. He apologized again. </div>
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<br /></div>
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I know he knew what forgive meant when he asked, and I'm sure he was trying to ensure I didn't get too upset about the frame, but I hope he also learned something from my example. </div>
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<br /></div>
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I hope that he continues to let us know when he makes mistakes, big or small, so that we can help him learn from them. Someday we won't be right there to provide guidance. I hope these lessons stick with him. </div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11048308053467188080noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2374810022651551770.post-15095112586408906662013-12-05T04:30:00.003-08:002013-12-05T11:29:48.309-08:00Seven reasons I won't lose to my 3 year old on purposeLast night, my 3 year old son and I were playing board games. He would occasionally try to choose cards that would put him in a better position to win, even though they were not at the top of the draw pile. I called him out on it every time.<br>
<br>
I know many parents who purposely let their children win when playing games. After all, it's just a game, right? I will never be one of those parents. Here's why:<br>
<ol>
<li>I want my child to learn to try his hardest at all times. I want him to understand that life is not always easy but that does not mean you do not try your best at everything you do. </li>
<li>I do not want my child to think he deserves to win every time. As much as I want my child to be happy, I also want him to learn that life is not always fair and even when we try our hardest, we don't always win. </li>
<li>I want my child to learn to how to handle his emotions when he loses. It is frustrating when you don't win and he needs to know how to handle that frustration.</li>
<li>It is important that my child understand how it feels to lose. That way he'll be more considerate of others when he wins.</li>
<li>It's not honest. If I allow my child to be dishonest with something as minor as a board game, he will think it is acceptable when something more serious comes along.</li>
<li>I want my child to be an adult with integrity. You don't earn respect by taking the easy way out.</li>
<li>I want my child to understand the joy of earning his own victories. That will go a long way toward teaching him to be a hard-working adult.</li>
</ol>
<br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHjjVpvs8lX91ul7Ql8Rp3DzJRir-s_FNzTRrQsqVg3vOkEcpgkY7-WSz-cUJK3BT-QOxS7kNksQg2aZn0BJ3kmXPjHcLOc-JsaOvGzZh1hTmJ6OnU1ZPXAir7njLu9-l8eo4cbu6LMpJL/s640/blogger-image--1653819014.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHjjVpvs8lX91ul7Ql8Rp3DzJRir-s_FNzTRrQsqVg3vOkEcpgkY7-WSz-cUJK3BT-QOxS7kNksQg2aZn0BJ3kmXPjHcLOc-JsaOvGzZh1hTmJ6OnU1ZPXAir7njLu9-l8eo4cbu6LMpJL/s640/blogger-image--1653819014.jpg"></a></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11048308053467188080noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2374810022651551770.post-41526599299185378472013-12-05T04:30:00.002-08:002013-12-05T08:19:27.336-08:00Salt in the microwaveYesterday, my husband opened the microwave and the salt shaker was inside. He was surprised, but I was relieved. I had been looking for that and was going crazy wondering where it went after I used it at dinner the night before.<br />
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That just about sums up how tired I am. It's been months since I've had any significant sleep or slept for more than three hours in a stretch. I have given up on catching up with the DVR. I would choose sleeping over eating right now. And I love eating.<br />
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I am so tired that I actually did a Google search recently to see if you could die of exhaustion. (It turns out that it is possible, although unlikely. You have a good chance of becoming delirious, though, which explains a lot.)Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11048308053467188080noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2374810022651551770.post-87646096729785691342013-12-05T04:30:00.001-08:002013-12-05T07:55:34.895-08:00To my baby on your first day of child careI hope today hasn't been too hard on you, it has been very hard on me. You've been with me almost every minute of your life so far and right now I feel like I'm not entirely whole without you. I feel like I've left part of me behind.<br>
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I know you'll have fun and make friends. I will be at all of your parties and special events. I will stop by often and your teachers will know me well. I already called to check on you. I'm glad you took a nap and had a chance to play.<br>
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Please don't think we made this decision lightly. We did our research and made sure that you have the best care possible. We have spent time there and will continue to in order to make sure you're happy and cared for. <br>
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There will be people who judge us for putting you in child care. They might say that I don't love you or shouldn't have had you if I didn't want to parent full time. They are wrong. <br>
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The truth is, I love you more than anything and being a working mom does not make me less of a parent. I promise you that our time together will be full of love. We will play and read and cuddle and I will be present. <br>
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I love you.<br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0NyS8Yh-xDMWlTciWFflEJjIOTpa0ovQQHCHw9RGXtDs6vC4p1G-7m3vcP8et4uYyS4PLFa2zZjZkAYjyXhV9b2bs_mR9yznCRbF8xjMFL8sj-3c2Myf2lUYnS-G4xIo7UNxA0L3v4jG4/s640/blogger-image--1486044929.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0NyS8Yh-xDMWlTciWFflEJjIOTpa0ovQQHCHw9RGXtDs6vC4p1G-7m3vcP8et4uYyS4PLFa2zZjZkAYjyXhV9b2bs_mR9yznCRbF8xjMFL8sj-3c2Myf2lUYnS-G4xIo7UNxA0L3v4jG4/s640/blogger-image--1486044929.jpg"></a></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11048308053467188080noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2374810022651551770.post-1212263467479615672013-12-05T04:30:00.000-08:002013-12-05T05:37:02.901-08:00Benefits of child careSending your children to child care is difficult, even when you're confident that it is a good setting. My infant son just started going to child care this week and the guilt is overwhelming at times. I have told my husband I needed to quit my job more than once. <br />
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It's always refreshing to read research that backs our decisions. I recently came across the Fox News article, "<a href="http://www.foxnews.com/health/2013/12/01/6-ways-daycare-is-healthy-for-kidsand-moms-too/">6 ways daycare is healthy for kids--and moms too</a>". While not all of the reasons are relevant to me, there are some that really help me feel better.<br />
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My older son is 3 years old and has been in child care since he was an infant. I have watched him grow and learn and make great friends. I know that he is benefitting from being in quality child care.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11048308053467188080noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2374810022651551770.post-15361191764436585002013-12-04T12:00:00.000-08:002013-12-04T12:00:03.035-08:00Choosing Quality Child CareIt is hard to think about being away from your children all day, so it is important that you're comfortable with your child care arrangement. <br />
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Fortunately there are resources to help. <br />
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<a href="http://childcareaware.org/">Child Care Aware</a> has tools for parents to know what to look for when choosing child care. You can also contact them for a referral.<br />
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If you'd like to learn more about choosing quality child care, check out their publication, "<a href="http://www.naccrra.org/publications/child-care-aware-publications/2012/11/is-this-the-right-place-for-my-child-38-research-" title="Is this the Right Place for my Child? 38 Research-Based Indicators of Quality Child Care">Is this the Right Place for my Child? 38 Research-Based Indicators of Quality Child Care</a>".<br />
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When you're comfortable with your child care arrangement, your child will be as well.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11048308053467188080noreply@blogger.com0