Momma's Time

Verse of the Week - Proverbs 14:26

2013-05-24T05:00:00.000-07:00

This week's verse is one that I think every mom can carry with her through life... It's like a parenting power verse. A verse that reminds you just how important it is to walk with God.

Proverbs 14:26

This week I am also starting a link up. If you have found a particular passage of Scripture to be encouraging, motivating, challenging, or inspirational... And you want to share it... Please add the link to your post. It would be great to share with each other!

An Illness? Excuse Me!

2013-05-22T16:04:00.000-07:00

Twice this week (and it's only Wednesday!) I've been told that Autism is an "illness."

Say what?

Yes, an illness.

That is so NOT what you want to say to me if you are asking for access to my blog for a guest post or a review or anything. In fact, saying that will get you an automatic click of the delete button.

Let me be perfectly clear with you readers - and if you don't like what I'm saying then unsubscribe from my blog - because as a mom who has been dealing with this for a while I believe I have learned enough to know what I'm talking about - Autism is NOT an illness.

AUTISM IS NOT AN ILLNESS

Why does that term upset me so much?

Autism is a neurological disorder.
People with Autism are not sick.
Autistics are not diseased.
There is no cure.

Autism Spectrum Disorder is not something that comes from someone being ill. There was no germ or bacteria or whatever that infected the person with Autism. Autism is not a sickness.

Autism is something people are born with. It does not go away, there is no magic pill, there is no cure.

Signs of Autism can be helped with therapy - meaning maybe my son won't flap so much because he is learning other coping mechanisms, but he is still very must Autistic.

He is Autistic. He is not sick!

He has a disorder that affects his communication and his social behaviors. He has a sensory processing disorder along with it that affects his ability to cope with much of the world around him. Neither of these is an illness! Got that? Good!

Techie Tuesday - Chore Pad

2013-05-21T14:51:00.000-07:00

If you're looking for a chore chart that you can have on multiple iDevices and that is fun and easy to use for both you and the kids, then let me recommend Chore Pad.

Chore Pad is for iPhone, iPod Touch, and you can also get the Chore Pad HD version for iPad

Chore Pad costs $2.99 and Chore Pad HD is $4.99. While it isn't a free app, I do believe it is worth the purchase if you are trying to manage a larger household with multiple responsibilities per kid.

The app allows you to assign chores, create rewards, track progress, and sync it all between devices. It's incredibly user friendly and, for those who like these things, you can even customize the look of it.

It's my opinion that this is a great tool for parents to use with tweens and teens. However, I think it is a little advanced for younger kids and would recommend a simple Goal Tracker for them.

So if those regular check lists or chore wheels aren't working for you, then maybe you might like to give this a try. For the tech-savvy family I think it'll be a winner.

*This post is my opinion. I downloaded the app for FREE (during a free promotional in the month of April) from the iTunes App Store and I used it enough to try it out. I received NO compensation for this post.

Pyrex SnapWare Rocks!

2013-05-20T05:00:00.000-07:00

This past Mother's Day I bought myself a present, something I have been wanting for a while - Pyrex SnapWare. The "total solution" it says.

I LOVE IT!!!

No more cracked or stained plastic containers. This Pyrex SnapWare is glass and it is AWESOME!

The lids (those are a strong, durable plastic) snap into place to seal the food. Freshness is locked in! Everything I have placed in the SnapWare has stayed just perfect.

It's dishwasher safe (not that I have a working dishwasher right now, but that's another story...) and it's microwave safe.

I got mine at Costco for a great price, but I am sure you can get it at just about any big box store.

Just thought I'd share!

*This post is my opinion. I purchased the Pyrex SnapWare with my own money at Costco and I use it daily. I received NO compensation for this post.

Top Earth-Friendly Cars for All Lifestyles

2013-05-18T05:00:00.000-07:00

If you're ready for a vehicle upgrade, you may want to upgrade your environmental responsibility as well. Reduce your carbon footprint every time you drive and commute with fuel efficiency and zero emissions. We've narrowed down the top green cars that meet the needs of various lifestyles.

Family Taxi Driver

SUVs — the quintessential family cars of today's stylish families. You can expect plentiful cargo space, various seating options and space for passengers to comfortably sit. Although SUVs have been dubbed as the world's biggest gas guzzlers for years, that's no longer the case. The Lexus RX 450h is rated as 2013's most fuel-efficient SUV by Kelley Blue Book. You'll drive with a combined mileage of 30 MPG, which is better than that of its sister models.

Environmental Champion

Green your commute with the hybrid Chevrolet Volt. This compact hatchback is never directly powered by gasoline. Instead, its range is extended by a gas-powered battery charger. Its system powers the car to run for hundreds of miles on a single charge and tank of gas. Hybrids and all-electric vehicles can be a bit pricier than standard gasoline-powered models in the same class. Keep in mind that Chevrolet financing makes it easy to get behind the wheel of a Volt. Rely on a leasing option or buy a used model to avoid a large debt.

Sporty Zoomer

A sports car typically has two common denominators — a small body size and a unique, slick design that turns heads. Look out sports car enthusiasts. Tesla Motors is about to dominate. Tesla's two sports sedans are entirely powered by electricity and produce zero on-the-road emissions. The eco-friendly, stylish cars also look good, which makes you look good. Sleek and powerful? Absolutely. Prices start at about $62,400, including a $7,500 federal tax credit. Although these sedans are luxury vehicles, the price tag is pretty reasonable for a super sweet sports car that's remarkably green as well.

Teen Driver

For the newbie driver of the family, the Wall Street Journal recommends the Ford Fusion. It's a mid-sized sedan that provides a decent amount of metal between the driver and any dangerous obstacles. The Ford Fusion strikes a balance between practically, safety and looks. The 2013 model is an entirely new design that's also equipped with better handling. Think plug-in hybrid technology, duel EcoBoost engines and other innovative features, such as auto starting and stopping and active park assistance. You may just end up asking your teen if you can take the ride out for a spin on the weekend.

Whether you're looking for a family car or want to upgrade to a luxury vehicle that impresses onlookers, you no longer have to feel restricted to driving a gas guzzling environmental disaster. With today's technology, you don't have to make sacrifices. You can have fuel efficiency, low emissions, safety and a hot ride.

Authored By: Amy Garrett, a car show fanatic who shares her tips on how to preserve the authenticity and glow of antique automobiles.

Verse of the Week - Psalm 118:8

2013-05-17T05:00:00.000-07:00

When the world is caving in, when circumstances seem so difficult, when everyone seems to have an opinion on how you should proceed...

It is better to take refuge in the Lord than to trust in humans. Psalm 118:8

There are many different paths a person can take with life, but the path that God leads you down is the only one that matters in the end. Trusting in the Lord will always lead to victory! It may not come overnight, but it will come. His way is perfect and we should lean on Him with our troubles, give our worries to Him... People will disappoint you, but God will forever be faithful!

Nine... Already?

2013-05-16T10:22:00.000-07:00

Where has the time gone? My little Bug is about to turn NINE!!! His birthday is Sunday and I can hardly believe how big he is getting!

My sweet, little Bug, I love you!

When did you get so big?

I love this picture of you. I love that you look so happy. I love that you love to go Geocaching! We were out caching when this picture was taken.

Nine years have flown by! In those nine years you have taught me a form of compassion that I never knew I had.

You've taught me a level of love that I never knew existed.

You have taught me a form of patience that I never thought I would, or even could, acquire.

The Bible teaches that children are a gift from God, a reward from Him... Well, sweet Bug, God certainly gave me one the best gifts ever in you.

You make me smile and laugh and I'm just so glad to know you!

I tell you every day that I love you and that you are special - I just hope you know how much I mean that.

You amaze me in so many ways and I am so blessed to be your mommy!

Revisiting a Survivor and Mother Warrior

2013-05-16T05:00:00.000-07:00

A little over a year ago, I shared the story of Heather Von St. James with you. You can read that here: Survivor and Mother Warrior.

Today I would like to share an important video Heather has made. It is so moving... There are no words really. Just please watch it.

www.mesothelioma.com/heather

Springing Up Everywhere!

2013-05-15T12:13:00.002-07:00

Originally posted on my other blog, Splenderiffic...

Spring has arrived and is in full bloom! These beauties were discovered on my morning walk today.

iPhone 4s/PS Express

I really like that single closed up one in the middle. Actually, it reminds me of my son... Kind of to itself in a world of color and commotion. I know that is reaching a bit for some, but Autism is what it made me think of. The world is is coming up all around him, and he has a hard time opening to it.

But look how beautiful it is anyway...

The Day After...

2013-05-13T13:55:00.000-07:00

Another Mother's Day has come and gone... I sure hope it was good for you!

My kids surprised me with homemade cards.

Twice!

They made me cards at home and they made me cards in their Sunday School classes.

They also planted these awesome flowers for me - super pretty!

I could not feel more loved if I tried!

Her children arise and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her. Proverbs 31:28

Verse of the Week - Acts 4:12

2013-05-10T06:00:00.000-07:00

This week's verse says it all...

Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to mankind by which we must be saved.

Acts 4:12 NIV

While all roads may lead to God - after all, no matter what you believe in, one day you will meet Him - not all roads lead to Heaven. It is only through Jesus Christ that one can have eternal life

Only through Jesus Christ can you be saved. He is the chief cornerstone of our faith, no one else.

What Does Mom Want?

2013-05-09T13:52:00.001-07:00

Mother's Day Flowers

No Matter How Slow

2013-05-08T06:00:00.000-07:00

So there I was, having a not so fabulous day... Ok, let's be real, the day was majorly sucking, when out of the blue a friend posts to my FaceBook wall a picture with these words on it...

Never discourage anyone who makes continual progress, no matter how slow.

Wow! It was like I seriously needed to read that right at that exact moment.

Somedays are just tough as the parent of a kid with Autism. Some days I just want to hide in the closet and scream. Yesterday was one of those days.

Yesterday I found myself having to seriously, well, check myself. Yes, I had to check myself! My son was just all kinds of... Animated? Annoying? Frustrating? Loud? Oh my goodness, ALL OF THE ABOVE!!! I love that kid, but some days are just HARD!!!

I got mad. Let's not sugarcoat it. I got mad at him. I am not going to get into the what or why, I'm just saying that I got mad and I had to check myself. And I think that all parents go through that so it isn't anything for me to feel bad about, but it is something I think I can share.

I got mad and I *gasp* yelled.

The thing is, right after I yelled I had to stop and take in reality - there I was yelling at a kid who really didn't comprehend what was going on. I was DISCOURAGING him when in reality he is moving forward, just at a very slow rate.

Parenting is tough stuff, people. And I most certainly have not arrived - I am far from the finish line. I am extremely far from first place... I'm so far off and so imperfect it hurts.

But what can I do? I'll tell you... I can forgive myself for flipping out and I can move on. I can tell my kid that I'm sorry I yelled (and I did) and he can move on. We can move forward.

And I can remember that baby steps may just be the name of the game for the rest of my son's life. And I have to be ok with that. I have to deal with it. It's my reality and no matter how slow he may be at certain things, I am his mom and I need to encourage him all the way.

Thinking About Pastor Saeed...

2013-05-07T06:00:00.000-07:00

Today is Pastor Saeed Abedini's birthday. He remains imprisoned in Iran.

I can't imagine being in his shoes right now... Please continue praying. SaveSaeed.org

Family Life in the City: Safety Solutions & Advice

2013-05-06T11:13:00.000-07:00

For many young movers and shakers, the last thing you want to do is leave your exciting urban environment just because you decide to start a family. While the cost of raising kids in big cities like New York City, Atlanta and San Francisco may be higher, many young professionals are willing to pay to keep specialized jobs that may not exist in many markets outside of major cities. However, raising a family in a big city comes with its own set of challenges. Here are some tips to help keep your family safe in the city:

Cell Phones for Tweens

Has your tween been hounding you to buy him or her a cell phone? According to the Pew Research Center, a national research agency, most kids are getting their first cell phone between age 12 and 13 these days. While it may seem frivolous for so many children to have iPhones and other fancy smartphones, consider the benefits before saying no to your child:

Constant access: Whether your child is at a friend's house or on a school field trip, you can use a cell phone to get in touch at a moment's notice.
Healthy social life for your child: As more and more families are getting rid of their home phone lines, kids are losing a vital way to keep in touch with their friends. A cell phone can help your child maintain a healthy social life and maintain connections with friends outside of school.
Peace of mind: You can use a cell phone to keep tabs on where your child is using a tracking application to make sure they get to and from school or their friends' house safely.

Use an Alarm System

While urban areas certainly offer plenty of advantages over suburbs and rural areas, these benefits come at a price. Crime rates in cities are often higher, for one. According to the latest crime statistics from the Atlanta Police Department, there were more than 7,499 burglaris in the city of Atlanta alone, making Atlanta home security a must-have feature for all families.

Often just seeing that a home is protected with an alarm is enough to send intruders on their way. The Washington Post notes that homes with security are three times less likely to be burglarized than those with security.

Drive to School

While public transportation may be safe in your city, it's safer still to take your children to school yourself. Whether you walk, drive, take the subway or bus with them, it will give you a chance to spend quality time together and you can rest assured that your kids are getting to and from school safely. If your work schedule isn't flexible enough that you can do this every day, join a carpool or arrange for your childcare provider to get your kids back and forth to school daily.

Authored By: Katie Rochester, a relationship counselor and doula, Katie shares her tips and stories with readers online.

Verse of the Week - Ecclesiastes 3:11

2013-05-03T06:00:00.000-07:00

I chose this week's verse because it is not only encouraging, but also revealing...

Ecclesiastes 3:11 NIV

Eternity is set in our hearts. The things of this world - this world itself - will never satisfy us. We will always want more. We are preprogrammed, created, designed to want more. We have a spiritual thirst that God has given us. Even those who claim they don't believe can be seen searching for something more than what this life offers. I thank God for all He offers me!

Happy Birthday, Lovie

2013-05-02T06:00:00.000-07:00

Today is my Hubby's birthday. A day all about him. A day to celebrate.

iLove

We're still holding hands. He still makes my heart go pitter patter. The magic hasn't yet faded.

Happy Birthday to the one who makes me sing, even when there is no music. I love you.

The Art of Reading People and Gift Giving

2013-05-01T06:00:00.000-07:00

Spring holidays are upon us, which means it's a great time to teach your children about the importance of gift giving. Mother's Day, Father's Day and even Memorial Day offer opportunities to show the young people in your life the lasting impact of a truly thoughtful gift. By working together with your child to think carefully about their dad, you can teach them the importance of paying attention to what matters to the people they love. This power of observation can result in a gift that brings joy and greater connection within the family.

Think Before You Gift

As you work with your child to choose the perfect gift for their papa, encourage them to tell you about the things they've noticed about their dad. An outdoorsy guy? Maybe he'll appreciate some new camping gear. Dad likes to fish? Take your child to pick out the perfect fishing lure. Choosing a gift based on someone's favorite hobbies is usually a surefire way to succeed, and you can also teach your child how to figure out what gifts to avoid. For example, if dad's been skipping dessert lately, maybe it's not the best time to spring for a box of fancy chocolates.

Gifts of Time

One of the best gifts you can teach your child to give is the simple gift of time. A special trip to the park with a loved one can be a low cost, thoughtful way to show the person they're appreciated. Showing your children that gifts and parties don't have to be huge, costly affairs. Low-budget parties can teach them humility and grace, especially if you're parenting on a budget. Help your child plan a special day and create a homemade invitation.

Special Surprises: The "Just Because" Gift

Don't limit yourself to teaching your children about thoughtful gifting around the holidays; these are skills that can be practiced 365 days a year. Showing the fun of a "just because" gift between two loving parents, neighbors, friends, or a parent and a child, can teach your kid how to express their love and appreciation whenever they feel moved.

Baking a homemade treat or ordering flower arrangements can be a great way to surprise a loved one. Nothing says "you're special" like a carefully decorated cake or a fun, fragrant bunch of fresh flowers. If you're gifting someone who tends to be more practical, considering shopping for flower arrangements paired with fun, reusable or consumable elements, like a sweet stuffed toy or a bottle of nice wine.

Another practical idea for a "just because" gift is a new book, especially one on love and family, suggests Deseret News, like Marie Osmond's new bestseller, "The Key is Love." A book is a chance to send a special message to the recipient about how much you value their relationship while emphasizing the importance of lifelong learning to your child.

Creating Traditions

Some fathers love getting a signature mug every year to bring to the office; others will enjoy something a bit more unique that you and your child can figure out together. Creating a tradition allows room for surprise and familiarity and will show your child the value of carrying on family rituals well into their own adulthood.

Authored By: Amanda Kern, a part-time nurse and freelancer living in Chicago.

Techie Tuesday - Squawk!

2013-04-30T06:00:00.000-07:00

There is excitement in my house again. You know how much my Bug loves this stuff!

Seriously, how can you not love it!?!

May 2... That's Thursday!

This Thursday!

No, I'm not getting paid - I'm seriously excited!

Squawk! I'm ready to get my game on!!!

Stay-at-Home Moms: What You Should NEVER Say

2013-04-29T06:00:00.000-07:00

Say these statements to a stay-at-home mom, and inside, she is probably rolling her eyes:

"It must be nice to have so much free time."

"I would feel like my college years were wasted if I were not working."

"I wish I could afford to stay at home and not work."

Mothers who choose to stay home with their children will find that those questions and statements get old quickly and demonstrate the misconceptions that other people have about traditional mothers.

About That Free Time...

According to Salary.com, the average, stay-at-home mother manages roughly 94.7 hours of work weekly. She works as a housekeeper, daycare teacher, driver, cook and janitor; it's not surprising that many mothers are too busy to enjoy real free time for personal hobbies or interests.

College Was a Waste

According to Today.com, many tasks and requirements of a mom who stay home are overlooked.
She plans events, gets through psychological challenges, serves on committees and boards, teaches her children and manages the household budget. She cares about nutrition and is the resident expert on health-related issues.

Author Fara Warner, who wrote, "The Power of the Purse," pointed out that women are the primary decision-makers when it comes to making major financial purchases. Decisions like buying a used BMW instead of a new vehicle will tap into her financial skills.

It Must Be Nice to Afford to Stay Home

Even if a family is getting along financially, it's often viewed as a pay cut when a mother makes the decision to stay with the children.

According to Today.com, many traditional mothers are actually balancing the demands of childcare with a remote profession. The decision to stay home instead of going out to a traditional job does not necessarily mean that a mother is not taking measures to earn money during that time period. Thanks to technology like cloud computing and video chatting, working from home on a part-time or contractual basis is easier than ever.

I Could Not Do That

It is true that staying at home with children is a challenging task. They spend hours working on cleaning, budgeting, feeding children, changing diapers and getting through unexpected tantrums when children are tired. The problem with the statement is that it often refers to the decision to put a career on hold rather than the challenges of caring for a child.

Caring for children is a job that requires more hours of work than the average employee. Women who decide to continue working a remote job will find that the hours are exhausting and trying to balance professional time with children’s needs will take a little work. Despite those challenges, it is also rewarding. Knowing that children are safe is a reward that is overlooked when this statement is made.

Authored By: Allison Casey

Verse of the Week - Isaiah 41:10

2013-04-26T06:00:00.000-07:00

I really hope that this week's verse is encouraging to you. For me, well it felt as if God reached down and took my hand and whispered, "This one is for you."

As I sit here putting this post together, I am rereading the verse and just thinking, "Thank you."

Thank you, Daddy in Heaven... I needed that.

What verse has impacted you this week?

Someone is about to be SEVEN!

2013-04-25T06:00:00.000-07:00

On Saturday, my little Bean Sprout turns seven - can you believe it!?! Seven!!!

We have a big weekend planned - so many activities. I don't think I'll make it back on the computer much so I wanted to take some time to celebrate with you all.

My sweet, little girl. I love you!

I may call you Bean on my blog, but those who know us well know your real name and it is so beautiful.

Depending on what source you use, it means: Life, Lively, and Breath of Life.

You are definitely a lively girl!

And you are a breath of life in this family that we couldn't do without!

Seven years have flown by since you came into this world. In seven years I have learned how to dance again.

I have learned how to be a princess again.

I have learned how to squash monsters and save puppies.

You have given me back my imagination!

I tell you every day that you are delightful. And every day you show me the true meaning of that word.

One day, when you are older, I hope you read this and remember just how much you mean to me. I hope you remember our tea parties and our silly games. I hope you remember all the laughter. I hope you remember just how precious you are to me.

I love you sweet, little Bean. When God gave you to us He knew you were just the breath we needed.

Weekly Parenting Link Up

2013-04-24T06:00:00.000-07:00

Did you know that Christian Stay at Home Moms hosts a weekly parenting link up? They do!

In order to participate all you need to do is head on over to their site on Wednesdays and link up! You can link to a post on your blog or a post you found interesting somewhere else - the whole idea is to share some parenting encouragement.

If you're looking for a weekly thing to write about and join, this may be right up your alley!

And even if you don't have anything to link, you may find something over there that will inspire you and get your mommy mojo flowing! Check it out!

A Shout of Thanks!

2013-04-23T13:23:00.000-07:00

A super big shout of THANKS to Blog Mommas for naming Momma's Time their Blog of the Week - that's AWESOME!!!

Blog Mommas is a really cool place to list your blog, you should check them out!

There is another cool place to list, too. It is Blogging Obsession. Check that one out as well! Listing your blog is a great way to get noticed!

Autism and Siblings - Her Side

2013-04-23T06:00:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I talked about how Bug has reacted to his sister. Today I would like to talk about Bean...

Her Side

Bean does not have Autism. She is, however, developmentally delayed. Her delays are different than any of Bug's, and much of it centers around her speech. Where Bug has such large deficits, Bean excels. For example, socially. Bug is very delayed socially. Bean is not.

Bean's delays have not caused anywhere near the amount of difficulty, stress, issues, what is the word?!?!?! I think you know what I mean - not nearly as much as Bug's.

So how has having a sibling with Autism been in her life? From what I can see, at the ripe old age of 6, this has been and definitely is very difficult for her.

Bug gets a lot of attention.

Bug gets extra therapy.

Bug gets a lot of extra time and emotion from, well, me.

Bean is not left out. It's not like she is ignored. But I think that many times she feels this way.

No, I don't think it - I know it.

Bean is very emotional. Some would say she is a drama queen, but I see it as more of her reaction to the world around her. Her brother takes a lot out of everyone, including her. And there have been a few times where she has started crying and said to me, "Bug always gets his way!"

It breaks my heart to see her hurt over anything having to do with her brother. And I wonder how things will be as she gets older. Will she be mad at me because of all the time Bug has received? I mean, there I am step by step walking Bug through his morning routine every day, but for Bean I tend to just say, "Go get dressed."

My gosh, am I a bad parent???

No, I'm not. I'm a mom with a lot on her plate.

I can see that often Bug's behaviors get under Bean's skin. But bless her heart, she does her best to deal with it all. While she has had emotional moments, on the whole she tends to just accept how he is and how we deal with him. She has learned that she needs her space, too. She will take time for herself and just close her bedroom door and play. She has her soccer and her ballet that she participates in and those are her things... She gets all the attention of mommy and daddy as we watch her.

We've had a few talks about Bug. She's asked me why he is the way he is. She's asked me why he has to learn the things he learns in therapy. We've talked about Autism and what it is and how it affects Bug and how he is different and why he doesn't play in the same manner as many other kids and why he does some of the other odd things he does... I've done my best to try to explain to her and as much as a six year-old can understand, I think she does.

But she's a kid so when Bug is having a meltdown over noise and she won't be quiet... Well... It's hard for her. It's hard for everyone.

Even so, she loves him. I've seen her watch out for him so many times and really feel like in his life if anyone ever gives him trouble for being different she will probably pummel them... She loves him.