Stanwood PlaySchool

NEW Feature Friday and Mega Swagbucks Day!

noreply@blogger.com (Jacque) — Fri, 25 Mar 2011 13:44:00 +0000

Okay - so today I want to start something new on each of my blogs. I am going to pick a few people that have left comments recently and share their blogs with you! :) A little linky love for the sweeties that have visited me lately! So if you want to get in on this - leave some comment love some time!
First up is Ponn from American Muslim Mom. Let me just say that if you have not visited her - you are missing out! She is a woman with vast knowledge on a variety of subjects. I attended a Mom Spark Media chat last night and she shared so many tips with us. (Saving that for another post - be on the lookout!)
Next up is JDaniel4's Mom. She has a little guy and they are always on an educational journey! I love how she works in such fun activities throughout the week for JDaniel4.
Last for this week is Amber from Living at the Whitehead's Zoo. You have to check out this post - you will no doubt get some good laughs!
I'll be back again next week with quite a few more. I have oodles of comments to respond to from the SITS comment hour the other night. I'll be sure to share some of those next week!
**Just a reminder that today is Mega Swagbucks Day! Every Friday you have even more chances of winning BIG swagbucks! I have only been doing this for a month (and 2 days) and I already earned enough for a $5 gift card to Amazon and am halfway to my second one! I'm still getting the hang of everything you can do - but most of my swagbucks have come from just searching the web which I do anyway! :) If you haven't jumped on board - nows the time to get started! I'm thinking of saving up all my prizes and using them for Christmas shopping this year - wouldn't that be great? :)

As always - thank so much for stopping by! :)

2 brothers. 2 friends. Life is good.

noreply@blogger.com (Jacque) — Tue, 22 Mar 2011 15:18:00 +0000

I just had to share this fabulous moment that I had with my middle son last night. I immediately scooped up my phone and had to type it in so I wouldn't miss any of it! (Silly mommy blogger!)

We are laying in the bed talking about different people. Danny starts to name off a few boys. He says, "Kingston." I say, "Yes - thats your brother." He says "Thomas." I say, "He is your friend." He says, "Like gabriel is my friend?" "Yes" I say, "and whos your other brother?" He says, "Robert is my brother." And then he says "I have 2 brothers and 2 friends."

Lately he has just been throwing numbers out there. I love it! He just blurted out a few weeks ago and counted from 1 to 10. He is always saying things like "The 3 of us are going to do this" or "All 5 of us will do that." He has become very good at looking at a group of items and being able to quickly tell me how many are there.

Now this may not seem like anything super for a 3 1/2 year old. I don't know. I don't really get into what kids should be doing at what time. I focused on that for about a year and then learned that it wasn't worth the stress it was giving me! So honestly I'm not really sure what he is 'supposed to know' by now. I calm my fears by noticing that he is continuing to learn and grow. As long as he is expanding his knowledge - I am happy!

Maybe this comes from all the information I've read on unschooling. I feel confident that even though we aren't sitting down every day to do some sort of 'school' - my kids are still learning. I do try really hard to take notice and use any opportunity I can to point out 'educational concepts'. We are constantly counting and reciting letters and even adding up the toys. For fun one day we sat down and went over a toy that is for doing times tables. We recited each one all the way up to 10x10! Now I know he's not going to memorize those right now - but he was interested so I went with it!

I think the most important thing it to take advantage of the fun opportunities that there are for learning. We just have to remember that education is not only books and papers but can really be achieved in so many other ways!

Do you have moments when you see your kids do something and you think "Now where did they learn that?" I'd love to hear about them!

It's Five Question Friday!

noreply@blogger.com (Jacque) — Fri, 18 Mar 2011 13:45:00 +0000

I thought I'd join in and have a little fun today!

1. Have you ever testified in court? For what?

Nope. Only time I ever went to court was to get a divorce.

2. Do you still have your wedding dress?

Nope. Just dropped it in a donation box last summer. I got tired of moving it around and finding a place in the closet to hang it! It was from my first marriage and I don't have any girls - so really no need to hang on to it.

3. Is there a special place you like to go when you're happy, sad, stressed, etc.?

My ideal day for happiness would be by the beach reading a good book. But in reality - when I'm having a rough day - I try to hide in the bathroom! It's the only door with a lock on it!!

4. If you have kids, do they sleep with you? If you don't have kids...will you let your kids sleep with you when/if you have them?

Ooohhh.... touchy subject for some. Don't bash me please. I'm a co-sleeper. I have 2 boys and we have a special set-up in our room so they can sleep with us. We have 2 queen size mattresses pushed together so that we can all 4 sleep comfortably! Of course - usually its me and the boys on one bed and hubs spread out on the other. :) I really enjoy our bedtime - the snuggling and such. Especially now that they are a bit older (3.5 and 2) we really have some of our best conversation after we lay down!

5. Do you watch late night TV?

Well - I watch TV late at night but not really 'late night' TV. Usually at night some sort of sports is on and in the bedroom is always Nick at Nite. I go to sleep with George Lopez or The Nanny usually! :)

Thanks for stopping by! I'm looking forward to doing a little blog hopping today! If you leave me a comment - I promise to visit your blog. Might not be today but I WILL get to it this weekend! :)

Have a great weekend!

Want to grow your business? How about Biz Bootcamp?

noreply@blogger.com (Jacque) — Sun, 13 Mar 2011 01:49:00 +0000

Click on image to learn more.

Just wanted to share this information with y'all. I am taking this class starting next week and I can't wait! If you have a small business - this may be a great kick in the pants for you! We are going to learn about using social media to market your business and much more. There will be group coaching activities and daily prompts for the weekdays. I think this is a going to be a great opportunity for learning and getting some feedback from my peers!
If you are at all interested - hurry and check it out! Registration ends on Monday March 14th because Biz Bootcamp starts on March 16th!
Hope you are having a great weekend! :)

Let's talk... college!

noreply@blogger.com (Jacque) — Fri, 04 Mar 2011 16:09:00 +0000

When I think of college - I still think of myself! I'm one of those people that just has a love of learning! I am all about studying and figuring out something new! It just energizes me when I am taking a class and learning new things! I will tell you that I don't have a degree in anything because I just like to learn about everything! But I have taken college classes online and on campus off and on for the 10 or so years I've been out of high school! My favorite by far has been online learning. I love that I can take classes from the comfort of my own home. Those commercials that say you can study in your pajamas - I love those! :) I think distance learning is great for adults as well as children - especially those that have been homeschooled and are used to working on their own. Online programs do require a great deal of self-motivation and determination but they are certainly a favorable alternative to sitting in class and taking notes for someone like me!

Now when it comes to my children - my biggest push is for them to get a good education. You can make it in life without a lot of things but by the time they are ready to get into the workforce I believe lots of jobs will be requiring some type of college education. Because I am so fond of online learning - I will certainly encourage them to visit that as an option. I think it depends on the person. Some people need to go to class and hear the lecture from the teacher and some can just read the material and be good to go. The ultimate choice will be up to the boys as far as getting a college education but I feel like an online degree will be comparable to a degree earned on a college campus.

No matter their choice I just want to make sure that my children are as prepared as possible to be productive adults.

I am participating in the Homeschool and Online College Campaign organized by American Muslim Mom. I received compensation to facilitate this post. However, the views and opinions are my own.

Dotmine Planner Review and Giveaway

noreply@blogger.com (Jacque) — Fri, 25 Feb 2011 14:20:00 +0000

Hi folks! Happy Friday!!!

Just wanted to let y'all know that I posted a giveaway for a fabulous planner over on my Get 2 Scrappin' blog. I'd love, love, love if you'd pop over and check it out!

Thank you so much! Hope you have a great weekend!

Celebrating Love Winner!

noreply@blogger.com (Jacque) — Tue, 22 Feb 2011 16:47:00 +0000

Okay - so I'm a little behind. :) But we have a winner!

Yay! I hardly ever see the first commenter win! This made me kind of excited! :)

Congrats Beth! I'll be sending an e-mail to you momentarily. I hope you like this book!

Celebrating Love Giveaway

noreply@blogger.com (Jacque) — Sun, 13 Feb 2011 19:56:00 +0000

Celebrating Love: Share, Remember, Cherish

This book will be a special gift to anyone that you love. Reinforcing the 1-800-flowers.com and Celebrations.com philosophy of helping customers express, connect, and celebrate, McCann balances the practical with the inspirational, and the poignant with the profound, inside this collection of authentic love stories. Full-color drawings illustrate the book throughout and are interspersed with meaningful quotes and little-known facts about love and affection. Divided into four sections based on the distinct seasons of love, Celebrating Love features 150 entries.

Flipping through this book on Amazon shows me that this book has lots of uplifting stories and quotes in it as well as some beautiful artwork. It will be a timeless book that can be enjoyed by many generations.

1-800-flowers.com is also holding a "Love Note" contest on Facebook - you can enter HERE for a chance to win a free bouquet of flowers!!

Now for the fun part!

One of you lucky readers will get a chance to win this book!!!

Leave me a comment and tell me about something special you do to show someone you love them!

A winner will be chosen by Random.org - contest ends on Saturday Feb 19th at 11:59p EST. Winner will be announced on Sunday Feb 20th.

This giveaway is made possible by Mom Spark Media but all opinions are always my own. I will receive a copy of this book also in exchange for hosting this giveaway.

Let's talk about...

noreply@blogger.com (Jacque) — Fri, 11 Feb 2011 02:57:00 +0000

*** This post contains adult content. Clicking on any of the links may take you to pages with adult content and/or photos. Please do not click on anything if the kiddos are around!***

Let's talk about EdenFantasys. Have you been to the site lately? At first I thought it was just an online sex shop but now that I've spent a little time surfing - I know there is so much more to the site! There is a forum where you can find out just about anything and connect with others that have the same interests as you. There is a blog - Eden Cafe - for some fun giveaways and a lot of great reading! There's even this awesome magazine:

Now let's be honest. I'm kind of shy when it comes to my sex life. I will tell you that I have been married for 5 years and do have 2 small children at home so sometimes sex is certainly not the priority. With that said - I am thinking that some of these products could change that up a little! As a busy mom - my eye was first drawn to the bath and body products section! I am a woman that loves to lock the door to the bathroom and zone the world out! :) After the bath - I'm thinkin' this massage kit would be great for the hubs to use! I mean - after a long day with the kiddos tugging on me - I could certainly use a massage! Couldn't you?

So - even if you aren't interested in the "wild sex toys" - I recommend you at least give the site a once over. There is so much more to intimacy than just the actual act of intercourse. EdenFantasys is a great way to explore many of those other possibilities!

**I will be compensated for this post as a part of the Eden Ambassador program but all opinions are my own.**

A Twitter Party with Eversave!!!

noreply@blogger.com (Jacque) — Wed, 09 Feb 2011 14:47:00 +0000

As the kids take their nap time siesta, we would like to invite you to the best kind of party —a

Twitter get-together on Friday, February 11th from 2-3 pm EST hosted by @Eversave. The best

part? There’s no need to worry about babysitters, high heels, or touching up your manicure.

Plus, the Valentine’s Day theme will be adorable.

We’ll be chatting about bargains, sales, and our passion for deal hunting with Eversave, a great

site featuring daily deals at up to 90 % off. Join in the conversation at #EversaveVday and make

sure to check in with @BreeBees for more details as we celebrate our love of savings.

RSVP & grab the Tweet Grid here- http://breebee.com/eversave-twitter-party

I hope to see you there!

Salsa Sensations - What's Your Craving? Contest - $1000 prize!

noreply@blogger.com (Jacque) — Fri, 04 Feb 2011 08:05:00 +0000

Today I get the pleasure of telling you about a yummy new product! First of all let me tell you that I LOVE salsa for a variety of things! So I really hope to find this product in my local store soon! Since hubby works at Wal-mart - I will be having him check his store on Saturday when he goes back! :)

I'm talking about Salsa Sensations!

This salsa is available exclusively at Wal-mart and is so fresh that it has to be kept in the refrigerated section! Salsa is a healthy snack that can be used in many more ways than just with chips. This salsa has only 10 calories per 2 tablespoons and is fat-free and cholesterol free! If you need ideas for using salsa - there are a few recipes here - but this is where the next thing comes into play...

You are invited to submit yummy, healthy recipe ideas to win a $1000 Wal-Mart gift card!!!

There are 2 options to enter:

1. Create a video showing off your creative afternoon snack using Salsa Sensations.

2. Submit at least 3 original pictures showing off your creative afternoon snack using Salsa Sensations.

Each entry must contain the written recipe and or snack idea also.

There are more specific details on the website. Just click on that Enter Now button above! You will have to visit the Salsa Sensations Facebook Fan Page to submit your entry - so maybe you can go check it out for a sneak peek at other submissions before you get started on yours! Entries have to be in by Monday February 21, 2011 and at least 3 finalists will be announced by Wednesday February 23, 2011. The final entries will be open to the public for a vote and the winner will be announced on March 4th!

In the mean time - I know you want to know how to find and keep up with Salsa Sensations. Well - you know I love me some social media so here's their links:

YouTube / Twitter / Facebook / Blog

I hope you'll submit a recipe and be entered to win this AWESOME prize of a $1000 Wal-Mart gift card!!! If you do - please let me know! First so I can try out the recipe and second so I can root for you to win!!!

Good Luck and Happy Salsa Sensations eating! :)

"I was compensated for publishing this Promotional Blog Post. I received this opportunity through my membership with Mom Spark Media."

The latest bloggy updates from Jacque's world!

noreply@blogger.com (Jacque) — Thu, 03 Feb 2011 14:56:00 +0000

Hello all!

I have so much to share with y'all! I have been a busy little beaver behind the scenes! I have tons of stuff going on right now that is all related to blogging! And guess what? It's just soooo exciting to me! I am so happy that I found this community almost a year ago!

So -first up - I'm not sure what's going on with this blog. I am in the process of starting up a new 'personal' blog (I'm soooo excited about it!) and it will include some about my kids but will mostly be a comfortable place for me to chat about me and my life too. I'm just feeling confined here by the domain partly and the other part is that I don't want to post something here that might not be 100% family friendly and then I offend someone. So I am still debating on just taking all of this with me or keeping it as a place to continue to journal our homeschool adventures as they happen. Anyhow - when I figure something out - I'll let ya know!

Second - I am soooo close to the big reveal of my new WordPress version of Get 2 Scrappin'. I have been plugging away at it and it is looking nice! I will post here when its done and hope that some of you will come and take a peek! :)

Now for the fun stuff - I have an EXCITING contest to tell y'all about. That is coming hopefully later today! Also some time this weekend I have a post coming up that will get you right in the mood to celebrate Valentine's Day! And then I have a post coming that I've called "I'm THAT mom!" That is exactly what I said when I saw this in my bedroom and was ok with it! Wait til you see the pictures!!!

Ok - enough for now. I'm off to work on some blog posts before I dig back into WordPress for the new blogs.

Oh yeah! PS - I'm sure you may have heard about the whole Gina Parker SCAM thing. If not - you can check out my post here. Anyhow - now I am looking for sponsors to get me to Bloggy Boot Camp in Boston. The total cost for the ticket is under $200. If I don't get any sponsorship then I will just drive down the day of the event BUT if I can get some sponsorship then I'll be able to put the ticket money towards a one night hotel stay and then I can have some real life - away from kids - spend time with adults - ME TIME!!! Doesn't that sound fabulous? So if you want to help me out - or if you know of someone I should get in touch with - please feel free to contact me @ stanwoodplayschool {at} gmail {dot} com. I would be of great appreciation!

What's going on in your world? How do you manage all the behind the scenes bloggy stuff? Am I dork because I am so excited about things right now? I really do just love this blogging thing and am so ready to take it all to the next level - how about you?

How Sweet It Isn't! :(

noreply@blogger.com (Jacque) — Mon, 31 Jan 2011 15:42:00 +0000

First thing I want to do is apologize to my readers. I would NEVER share anything with you that I didn't have trust in. With that said - I was duped by this SCAM as well. I had worked with Parker PR Online previously and had no idea that she was this kind of person. Since this scam has come to light - I have definitely heard about a different side of this person (supposedly Gina Parker) that I was completely unaware of.

If you have a moment - please read this post by Steph who was supposed to be like the co-host of this event. She says it better in this post than I ever could! I am just angry that I shared this with y'all. Again - I am truly sorry! If you sent money in and joined this promotion because of seeing it on my blog - please send me an e-mail at stanwoodplayschool {at} gmail {dot} com. I have put together an I'm Sorry offer that I would love to set up for you because my goal in everything I do online and off is to be a supportive person. I don't have much to offer but I can certainly show some FB/Twitter/linky love!

Now I also have a little info for you about Blogmania from Bree (she is a for real person and I know she has a good heart). I am participating this year again but we want to make sure you know that this Gina person is NOT AT ALL INVOLVED!!!

Blogmania is a twice a year event that we are proud to be a part of. However, last season it was owned by someone that may be involved with a recent blog hop scam....although we don't have both sides the appearance is sure there.

We felt it important to let you know that as of mid-November Gina Parker, Parker PR Online, ceased from any operations of Blogmania and the dream team. She has no access to passwords, forums and information.

We have labored hard to continue to make Blogmania, now in it's 3rd season, a growing success. Yes, due to some harsh interactions we are rebuilding from last year. But, we are building towards growth and gaining great strength. We will have this great event continue year after year. We pride ourselves on quality sponsors and large giveaways. While there were some bloggers and sponsors that did not make good on their prizes (those people are not involved this year) we are working on eliminating those issues with some steps we have in place.

We do not know what is going on with Gina but do want you to know that she is not a part of Blogmania. For more information, questions, concerns, etc please see this posting with more details- http://breebee.com/2011/01/clearing-blogmanias-name.html and you can email Bree at bree at breebee dot com as well.

Thank you bloggers for your amazing support! We all love blogging and do feel saddened that there are dishonest people out there!

Warmest Regards, Bree, www.BreeBee.com

Thank you so much for stopping by!

Blogging Goals for 2011

noreply@blogger.com (Jacque) — Mon, 10 Jan 2011 17:43:00 +0000

Wow! It's been a long time since I've popped over here. I gotta work on that! It seems that I am kind of on a mission to discover me this year and I just haven't figured out how to work that into this blog. So how have you been? Good I hope! Are we all settling into the new year? One thing I do want to talk about today is blogging goals for 2011.

Here are a few of mine:

*Figure out how to balance my computer time between blogging, scrapping, and being on Facebook and Twitter.

*Become a better blogger (I would like to gauge that by receiving more comments on my posts)

*Learn how to actively use my blog planning calendar (instead of planning and then not following it)

*Grow my numbers on both of my main blogs - this one and the new Get 2 Scrappin' once its revealed.

*Attend Bloggy Boot Camp in Boston, MA in May

So - do you want to help me reach my goals? I'd love any advice you can offer! I do have the last 2 in mind right now. I am joining in with this promotion called How Sweet It Is that will help me grow my numbers. Please - if you have a minute - go over and check out all the details. I will give you the gist - you can add your blog/twitter/Facebook fan page/etsy shop to the list for a small cost and there will be a whole month for people to hop around and follow everyone. Each comment they leave after following gives them another entry into a drawing for $1000 CASH!!!!

And the best part? If the promotion gets to 200 participants signed up - then Gina (the lady behind the Mrs.) is going to sponsor me to go to Bloggy Boot Camp! Yay! How awesome would that be? Gina lives about an hour from Boston and so do I - just in opposite directions. I first 'met' Gina through Blogmania last year and she has been a blogging/home business woman inspiration to me since the first time I found her!
I would be totally psyched to get to meet her! :)

So - please take a moment and check out this awesome social media hop.
Join in and help me get to Bloggy Boot Camp in Boston!

Thanks! :)

Want to be a better parent? I do!

noreply@blogger.com (Jacque) — Wed, 15 Dec 2010 15:10:00 +0000

I happened upon this link from the Attachment Parenting International Facebook page. It is a virtual conference being put on by Consciously Parenting. You can click around the site and find all kinds of awesome information or you can just click HERE to learn about the conference!

Here's a basic description on the conference from the site:

We are delighted to bring you an entire weekend of healing, play and community, right in your own home! Our Virtual Parenting Conference has been designed with the busiest of busy families in mind. There is truly something for everyone and it is all easily located and quickly accessible right on our website. The best part is that all of this incredible content will be available for FREE!

This conference is the weekend of January 14-16. I am personally dedicating that weekend to learning new thing to make me a better parent.

I think that fits well into my "2011 - It's All About Me" theme. I will be focusing on growing myself as a person - and that includes being a better parent too! Be on the lookout for more info about the All About Me deal! :) My brain is in overdrive with exciting ideas but I just have to get it to slow down enough so my fingers can type it all up!

Hope this post finds everyone doing well and all ready for Christmas. While I'm here - I'll mention to y'all that I have a HUGE giveaway happening on my digital scrapbooking blog - Get 2 Scrappin'... just in case you might be interested!

Trying out a new app!

noreply@blogger.com (Jacque) — Thu, 02 Dec 2010 01:25:00 +0000

So... not too long ago we made the long awaited switch to Verizon. We used to have AT&T but there is no service where we live unless you have Verizon. Anyhow- after a year of standing on the porch to talk on the phone now we can talk and even do so much more as I figure my new phone out! Yay! I am laying in my bed with the Celtics on and the kids running between daddy in the living room and me in the bedroom while I type this! Its not the perfect situation but none the less I am psyched! Do you know how often I lay down at night and something comes to my mind that I want to share? I don't think this will be my preferred method of blogging but I do like it as an option! :)
Last night while lying here messing around with this phone I realized there is a Kindle app for Android! Woo Hoo! I can't wait to get into some good books. Did you know there are thousands of books you can download for free? I think I might start with Little Women. I cant remember if I read it when I was younger. Another free title that caught my eye was Pride and Prejudice. I know I've never read that one. So do you have any classics that you'd suggest?
A real Kindle was really the only thing I wanted for Christmas this year but I know its not an option - it was just a wish! Anyhow - I think this little phone that I got for free is going to be just fine to make up for that. Now I can read books and blog from anywhere. I love it!
Hope y'all are doing well. I'm off to play with my phone a little more!

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A Deal for You this weekend!

noreply@blogger.com (Jacque) — Fri, 26 Nov 2010 16:16:00 +0000

This is a deal on Toothsoap!

Use coupon code: THANKS

What can you get?

Choose from ALL types and flavors of Tooth Soap®... Shreds, Liquid, Whip and Gel...

Tooth Brightener

Tooth Swish in any flavor

NON-Toxic skin care from Purity of Beauty...

QRF, Quick Relief Formula! (trust me, an arsenal never felt so good after a shmear of this...)

Maca in capsules or the New 1/4 lb. loose bag, Organic Raw Honey, Min-Oral,

Bryton-Pics, Coffee Butter Hand Dream

and

BOOKS.

We got the natural dental care books that will educate your friends and family about

how to take care of their teeth and prevent all kinds of dental issues.

http://www.toothsoap.com

Use coupon code: THANKS

1. This offer is available on EVERYTHING at ToothSoap.com.

2. This offer is ONLY available until midnight 11/29/10.

3. This offer cannot be combined with any other offers.

4. This offer cannot be applied to previously placed orders.

5. This offer is not valid on wholesale orders.

6. Quantities are limited so shop early.

Here is your coupon code: THANKS

MAKE SURE TO CLICK APPLY SO THAT THE DISCOUNT WILL BE APPLIED BEFORE YOU CHECK OUT!

I haven't fallen off the face of the earth - I promise!

noreply@blogger.com (Jacque) — Fri, 19 Nov 2010 05:57:00 +0000

Hi there! I feel like its been forever. Do you ever feel like you have something you want to say but just can't put it into words. That's how I am right now. My first thought is that I just want to spill my guts here and get it out. But then I think - look at my blog. It's so cheery looking and who would want to read about all that? Mostly I really want this blog to be about my kids and things we do in our attempts at homeschooling... but at the same time I have thought about wanting to share things that mostly just relate to me. Does that make sense? I just want to feel comfortable typing out whatever is on my mind. So that's what I'm going to do right now. Hope that's okay with you! :)

Recently I went through a miscarriage. I have to be honest and say that it was a super difficult time for me. On one hand I thought that it shouldn't have been because I have been through it before. This was my 3rd one. But it was by far the toughest. I mean it was really hard to deal with. It didn't help that the dr just wasn't sure what was going on for a couple weeks. I'll spare you the details because that could be a post of a million words. I'll just say that it was a crazy roller coaster of emotions. My hormone levels were going up but we never could see anything on the ultrasound so we weren't sure if it was an ectopic pregnancy or what. In the end my HcG levels started going down and sure enough - a few days after getting that news came the physical part of the miscarriage. This is the best way I can describe the whole thing: It sucks! Big time!

During the time period from when I first went to the dr for some spotting until the visit where she told me that my levels were declining and it was a definite miscarriage - I just kind of shut down. I would sit at my computer and just stare at it. I wanted to make my fingers type and they wouldn't. I wanted to laugh and play with my kids but I just seemed to not be able to focus on them. I wanted to not take a shower and cry but when the water fell on me it was like it made the tears fall from my eyes. I wanted to be that strong person for my family that didn't show emotion but I couldn't. I yelled at my husband and cried in front of my boys. This is me. And this is how I dealt with it. Does that make me a bad mom or wife? I don't know. I just had to go through it the best way I knew how. As far as my 'web friends' as I'll call them - I just kind of shut them out. I didn't really let too many people know what was going on. I felt so stupid for even sharing that I was pregnant without waiting until after the 'safe' point. Like I said - I've been through this before. I should have known better.

So anyhow - this is what I've been dealing with. I received an encouraging word from a dear sweet 'web friend' the other day on my Facebook page and I want to share a bit of it with you:

Jennifer Rothschild said that in trying to make sense of a miscarriage she experienced and explain it to her young son God revealed to her that some children are born on earth and some in heaven. I thought that was a beautiful way to think that a mother could have earthly children and heavenly children yet to meet.

Wow! It brought such happy tears to my eyes and comforted me so. That is just a super way to think about it. :) I can't wait to meet those 3 little ones!

I am slowly feeling more like myself each day and I really hope to get back into the groove of working more with the boys and then I'll have more to share. In the mean time... hug your kids and be thankful for them. Children really are such a blessing that everyone is not entitled to. That's the other thing I have to tell myself almost daily. I am blessed to have 3 healthy boys - there are people out there that would love to have what I have. I am so thankful that going through these tough times can in the end make us stronger and maybe even turn me into a better mom to the boys that I do have. :)

Thanks so much for 'listening' and I hope to be chatting with y'all again soon!

Scrappers Give Thanks

noreply@blogger.com (Jacque) — Mon, 01 Nov 2010 12:36:00 +0000

I am bringing this over from my Get 2 Scrappin' blog because I want to spread the word to everyone I can on this awesome project. Please share with your friends!

This morning I want to share with you something that I found a couple of days ago.

From the site:
Scrappers Give Thanks is a charitable project of the scrapbooking community taking place annually in the month prior to Thanksgiving. Participants complete an action-oriented challenge in service to each year’s cause and are eligible to win prizes in a Thanksgiving Day giveaway. In 2010, the Scrappers Give Thanks project will deliver messages of hope and laughter to children in hospitals.

For this years project we are asked to make a 4x6 vertical page with words of encouragement or jokes or anything to help a little one smile. You can either send them in digital format or paper format. These will be bound into books of happiness to share with children at various hospitals. What a great idea! The goal is to get 2000 cards to be made into 100 double sided mini-books!

I can't wait to put mine together! I'll be sure to come back and share it with you!
Will you make one too?

Guest Post: How do I know where to go with the kids?

noreply@blogger.com (Jacque) — Mon, 18 Oct 2010 11:36:00 +0000

What to do, what to do...one, two or three kids under foot and we need to GET OUT of the house!!! How often do you have the conversation in your head? In-house crafts and projects are great but there are times when getting out is needful and helpful to everyone's sanity. When I had my daughter and we were at that point of doing things to entertain her I wasn't sure where to go or what to do. I even found that the input I received from other moms limiting at time! On my blog I began a category called local links. As I came across places I would update the list. But it wasn't the best, my audience is only local in part and not the best content for my readers. But, then I came across a MacKid twitter name and followed the trail. I discovered there was this great site that was in many cities, managed primarily by moms and looked really nice overall. I wanted in, I wanted my area to have this resource!

Macaroni Kid has been a delight. I love the community connections I have made and I love knowing what is going on in my area! I have now learned the 12-20 sites to look at for events...and I update a form on my site to provide to my local area. I wanted to share a few tips to finding event guides and events in your area.

Guides:

1. Do you have a macaroni kid in your area? You can see HERE. Here is my SITE if you want to see my content. (If not HERE is a post about having on in your city and a special deal I was able to secure between now and 11/15.)

2. There are other events sites I have since discovered, if you google Kid Events or even 'Story times' a site may come up that is local to you.

3. Often there is a local blogger who has taken this on, often if you google kid activities blog you may discover a resource.

4. Many city's have a 'moms like me' ning type group that also has information on it- it may not always be updated but it is a resource.

Events:

1. Look up your Parks & Recreation and even the community or rec centers guide for your community. Often there are free events scattered throughout their flyers.

2. Each city has a website that normally lists local events.

3. Also, many have another source of information through the chamber of commerce or a business associcate- like 'Olde Business Association of' or 'Historical Society for'.

4. Of course you can sign up for newsletters at the children's museum for upcoming events

5. The libraries have a great arrangement of events for all ages, usually one county will post all the events.

6. Many times a local coffee shop, especially one that has a stage, will do something for a music, storytime- you just have to look up their name or ask around.

7. Many kid related studios will host a 'mom meetup' for a small door fee, you just have to ask 'em.

8. Search facebook, that is growing quickly as a great resource of finding events- something like 'my city...events' and see what pops up.

9. Craigslist at times will post events

10. The mall often will have a story or entertainment time in their play center, the mall will post a listing of events on their city.

11. Local tv stations often are a great resource!

12. Google specific terms- apple picking for my state, festivals for my state etc.

13. Begin a macaroni kid site in your city.

So have fun with your children and I hope that I was able to provide you a few ideas to get out and enjoy your community.

Bree

www.Breebee.com

@BreeBees

This is Me... This is Who I Am.

noreply@blogger.com (Jacque) — Thu, 07 Oct 2010 11:10:00 +0000

Get ready for a lengthy post... but if you make it through to the end - you'll learn so much about me! I even included a pretty big surprise at the end! :) Thanks to Paris at Bless My Nest for 'tagging' me because I read her post! This was fun to do! And I hope ya'll feel more like old time friends comin' over for cup of sweet iced tea when you get done reading!

I'm a 31 yr old mom to 3 boys - ages 12, 3, and almost 2.
I had my 1st son when I was 18 with my high school sweetheart. And now he lives with his dad in another state. I miss him terribly but he really is a daddy's boy and I have come to terms with him being there.
Growing up and into my late 20's I always thought I'd be a woman with a career outside the home. Never in a million years would I have told you that I'd be a SAHM. But now - I love it! :)
I grew up an Army Brat - so I have lived quite a few different places: Florida(where I was born), New Jersey, Germany, Georgia, back to Florida(where I graduated high school), and then when my dad got out of the Army he took a job with Lockheed Martin in New Hampshire and since I had a new baby - I came up with them. Since then - I've moved back to Florida, back to New Hampshire, to Oklahoma, and now we are back in NH - probably for good now. But I do tend to get that itch to move after a couple years... so who knows where we will end up!
I am adopted. I have the most awesome dad in the world. I am so thankful that when he married my mom - he decided to give me and my sister his last name too. Not many men would do that - and he totally took all the responsibility for 2 kids that he didn't have too. That is a love that can not be mistaken.
I'm a true sweet southern girl for the most part. I love to have people over to my house. I don't mind cooking for everyone. There's nothing like a good bbq with some drinks and good friends. But if you make me mad - this crazy big city kinda ghetto chic comes out - and you'll be like 'What?'!!!!
I love to read! But I can't tell you the last book that I read. I am kind of a random reader - the cereal boxes, magazines, blogs, sports sites, the ticker on the bottom of ESPN - you get the picture! I can spend hours on the computer reading - and my hubby thinks I'm 'doing' stuff on there... I tell him that it just happens - I get caught up clicking from site to site and then its like 3 hours later!
I'm not crafty at all. I tried to sew once but couldn't seem to get a straight line for the life of me! I do like to cross stitch occasionally and of course I love digi-scrapping... just not anything that requires much coordination and creativity in real life!
On that note - I am slightly addicted to digital scrapbooking right now. I even started a blog for it. I have totally embraced the digi-scrap world. I hop from site to site and chit chat with people, scrap with them, I've even gotten into advertising for designers. I just love the whole community and everything about it. I mean - I have thousands of pictures just saved in my computer - now I have something to do with them!
I am a terrible housekeeper. I hate to clean unless I am angry. And then I'm probably throwing half of what we own away. I do dishes when I need something (or if someone is coming over) and I would give anything to have someone come and clean my bathroom once a week! If you come over and there are no toys on the floor - then my kids must be gone to Nana and Papa's 'cause if they are home - then its a mess in here!
I am a simple woman. I am not materialistic at all. As long as we can all eat and we are reasonably comfortable - then I'm happy. I still wear tennis shoes that I bought 5 years ago, I have t-shirts that are older than that. I'm all about some simple comforts!
I'm not into fashion at all. I wear jeans or khakis in long or capri style with a t-shirt almost every day. Actually since I'm at home all the time - I am often just wearing my sleep pants with a t-shirt. In the winter my fave is a nice baggy pair of sweats and a sweatshirt! But most often you will see flip flops on my feet - even if its snowing outside. I guess that's the FL/GA in me! :)
I love to fish with my hubby. We even went ice fishing for our anniversary last year! Mom took the boys and we spent the day freezing our butts off running around on the frozen lake!
I was raised as a Southern Baptist but haven't been to church in ages. And my hubby is not religious at all. So I am still not really sure how that will work with our kids.
I'm a drinker and a smoker. I love me some Barefoot Wine (Moscato is my fave) and I can drink a Bud Light with the best of 'em. :) I have actually quit smoking 2 different times while I was pregnant and picked it right back up after I was done breastfeeding each time. I really do wish I could quit... and am working on it... slowly but surely. I only smoke like 1/2 pack on most days and they are usually in the evening with my drink of choice.
I debated on writing this - but I figure since I'm putting myself out there - here goes. I really think that marijuana should be decriminalized everywhere like it is in Mass. I mean - really - most of the people I know that smoke just chill after not run out and do crazy stuff like with even drinking! So that's my thought on that. Moving on...
I am a sports fanatic. I love the Boston Celtics (Rajon Rondo is the awesome-est), the Jacksonville Jaguars, the Boston Red Sox, Kasey Kahne (NASCAR), and I kinda have to watch the New England Patriots because hubby does. Oh! And we watch wrestling on Monday and Friday nights! If you come over - especially in the evening and there isn't sports on - then you are lucky!
Fall is my favorite time of the year. I love the weather, the changing leaves, the holidays coming, all the sports that are on!
We are going to homeschool our boys. I'm kinda leading towards mostly unschooling. The part that draws me most to that is letting the boys decide what is most important to them. I know that when I want to learn about something I will jump in full force and learn as much as I can about that. And I am much more apt to remember things that I looked up on my own than anything I learned in school.
We have a separate room for the boys with a crib and a fancy little car toddler bed in it... and they are just for show. In our room we have 2 queen size beds butted up against each other so that we can all four sleep comfortably together. Sometimes its a pain when I want them to go to bed without me... but for the most part - I love co-sleeping!
When it comes to giveaways on blogs - I am not a huge fan of entering them for some reason. Especially if you require a follow - I probably won't enter unless I'm already following you. Because my reader is bursting at the seams already! If I totally love your blog - then I'm going to follow you. If not - I don't want to feel like I 'have' to - ya know?
With that said - I really enjoyed hosting the giveaways for Blogmania! It was so exciting to e-mail the people that won and I'd really like to do more of them - just for my fabulous readers!
I kinda like linky parties though. Especially when I have time to bounce around and read up on some new people! I prefer that they have some time of 'subject' or 'question to answer' or something. I love to see how different people answer the same question!
With that said - I'm thinking of starting a linky party. I have asked a fellow blogger to co-host with me and am waiting to hear back from her. It's going to be about the pregnancy journey because...
I just found out that I am expecting child #4! :)

So - have you clicked the un-follow button yet? Or are you still with me? I hope you'll stick around and continue on my journey with me. Share your thoughts. Are you pregnant? Do you know a blogger that is? Would you spread the word with me about a linky for pregnant bloggers? Talk to me. I'd love to know what ya'll are thinkin' after I just totally spilled my guts to you! :)

Guest Post: Do you know how to play?

noreply@blogger.com (Jacque) — Wed, 06 Oct 2010 11:57:00 +0000

Learning (and Re-Learning) How to Play

A group of 4-7 year old girls were playing together at a recent family gathering. One of the girls picked up a fake walking cane that was meant to be a gag birthday gift for someone ‘over the hill’. Holding the cane in position she eagerly suggested to the other girls, “I know! Let’s play ‘poor little crippled girl!’” “OK!” “OK!” the other girls chimed in excitedly, and began playing out this new dramatic scene with their own ideas from their imaginations.
Adults who work with children know the value of play for practicing and building all kinds of skills, particularly spontaneous language and social skills. We can appreciate observing a scene of competent playmates such as the one above. But what about when a child isn’t as skilled at spontaneous play? What about a younger child or a child with special needs who needs a patient and sensitive play partner (like maybe….YOU)? Are you open and eager to follow your child’s leads as this girl’s companions were?
This is important because it can help a child practice interaction and build a foundation for learning that he/she may not otherwise experience. Having a child of my own diagnosed on the severe end of the autism spectrum, I have had to re-learn the qualities of being a fun playmate. At the same time, I’ve had to become more aware of attitudinal qualities that stifle and/or kill my playful side. Here are three playful qualities that a skilled play facilitator possesses:

1. Flexibility – Children tend to be much more open to spontaneity than adults. This is the reason the beautiful “crippled girl” idea was so easily accepted amongst those young girls. I know, I know, you’re an adult. You want to “teach”. Teaching is an important adult role, but to support a child in the earliest stages of his/her development it is important that we are open to learning. We can decide to observe and respond to our child as the play leader for a change, and make a conscious decision to let go of our expectations and agendas. This helps a child develop a sense of trust and confidence as well as an unconscious awareness of him/herself that is foundational to building more complex skills. At the same time we are learning what the child is interested in, what the child notices, what the child enjoys, how the child responds, etc. We are learning how to truly connect and relate with this unique child and building a dynamic relationship - a gift for both parties!

2. Appreciation – You don’t want to scoop and pour sand for hours on end? You don’t want to look at that same book for the 900th time??? Here again, we goal-driven adult find ourselves stuck in the prison of our minds. One of the best definitions I have heard of being “bored” is that it simply means you’d rather be doing something else. When I think of it that way, it makes it easier for me to say more often, “nope, I’d rather be right here spending time with this kid.” Truth is, I can’t think of much else that is more important. The more I decide to let go of the fear that we’ll be doing the same thing FOREVER, the more I am free to enjoy the moment and the process to make things more fun for myself. For instance, I used to join my youngest son for hours running back-n-forth in his room on an almost daily basis (he’s the one diagnosed with autism, and this is what he loved to do). I’d wait for that eye contact and/or any indication that he was noticing me and think of something crazy and fun to do to make him want to do it again. I’d put a sticker on my forehead. I’d twirl and clap. I’d act like a monkey. Sometimes he’d appreciate my efforts, sometimes we just kept right on running, either way I was happy. I truly began to enjoy the anticipation and soothing quality to being with him in a way he was comfortable. Our interactions between running spells have progressed to a wide variety of activities, and I doubt they would’ve done so had I not been willing to run with him joyfully.

3. Curiosity – Before we are able to listen and learn from other people, curiosity drives our development. Learning is not just for kids, learning is for life. We may feel it is socially acceptable to be curious about the latest TV shows, movies, social networking gossip, how we’re going to get our huge “to-do” lists accomplish, etc. etc. etc. What about being curious about that special child in your life? We can be curious about his/her actions, ideas, noises, facial expressions, etc. by being willing to wonder and explore along with him/her. If we are curious and respect a child “as is,” we can learn how to connect in ways that he/she is capable and enjoys. We can also be curious about ourselves – we can ask ourselves “What is stopping me from enjoying playtime with this child?” Facing the answers is always an opportunity for learning, but we only become aware of the answers by becoming more curious.
Now….GO PLAY!!!

Tara McClintick is an early childhood/special ed. teacher turned Son-Rise(r) Mom. She loves people of all ages,
and believes all children are miraculous gifts. We can all learn from and support each other by appreciating the power of interaction and our attitude.
Visit www.BooksByTara.com to check out unique picture books designed to promote awareness, thinking, interaction and language development. (Sign up for the eNewsletter to be in a monthly drawing for a free book!)

My 1st CSN Giveaway!

noreply@blogger.com (Jacque) — Thu, 30 Sep 2010 11:49:00 +0000

I was recently the winner of a $25 gift code to CSN from the Weekend Wind Down giveaway with Susie B. Homemaker and Marvelous Mommy. Now I have the chance to share a giveaway with my dear readers! :)

While shopping I found tons of things that I didn't even realize they had like dishes, pots, and even a really nice bar stool or two! We are looking into buying a house so I will definitely need to expand my kitchen supplies from the little bit that I have here in our apartment!

I'm sure you've heard that CSN has over 200 stores for you to pick from!

So here's what you can win: A gift code for $20 to any of those stores.

Here's how to win:

**Leave me a comment and tell me you what you want to buy if you win.**

That's the only mandatory entry!

And for those of you that like extra entries:

Be sure to leave a separate comment for each

* Follow me (or tell me you already do) on GFC

* Follow me on Twitter - @play4school

*Like me on Facebook - Stanwood PlaySchool

*Copy and Paste this Tweet (Once per day): I entered to win a CSN gift code from @play4school at http://stanwodplayschool.com Have you? #Giveaway ends 10/15

*If you are interested in digi-scrapping hop over to my other blog and follow me there for one last extra entry!

Thanks for stopping by! I've got some awesome guest posts coming your way and October is Attachment Parenting Month so I'll be sharing a bit about that as well. :)

What are your favorite meme's?

noreply@blogger.com (Jacque) — Sun, 19 Sep 2010 22:05:00 +0000

It's time for the Weekend Wind Down with Amy and Susie B. This weeks question is:Q: How many memes do you usually link up with in a week, and which one or which day is your favorite?
Well - because I've been such a slacker blogger - I haven't really been joining up with many lately - but there are a few that I really enjoy that I want to tell you about.
The reason I started blogging was to join up with:Tot SchoolI love sharing what we have been doing for schooling at my house and even more love all the ideas I can borrow from my fellow homeschoolers!
Of course this Weekend Wind DownIt's super easy to give an answer to the question (most times) and I love that I can pick a day and still link up!  (Because let's face it - I can't always get to in on Friday or Saturday!)
I love Pour Your Heart Out with Shell at Things I Can't Say I have to say I have found some super supportive people each time that I've linked up to it. I love that we can just put it all out there and get a little support whether its a trying time or a positive time.
I also think Post-It Note Tuesday with Supah is super fun!  It's fun to make the post-its and sometimes hilarious to read what others are sharing all on a little sticky note!  (I just hate that sometimes I forget that its Tuesday! Ha! Ha!)
And for the follow me types which I only do occasionally when I know I will have time to actually hop around and check out some new blogs these are my faves:
Baby Blogger Thursday at Cookies and Clogs.  This is a blog hop only for blogs that are under a year old! I think its a great idea for newbies to get to know each other! :)
Where's the Love Fridays? with MommaPebz at Only The CuriousMostly I love this one because I just love MommaPebz! She's so funny but mostly real - that's my favorite part!
Friendly Friday Follow at Toddler AwesomeThis blog hop usually has over 250 people linked up - so you can find just about any kind of blog you are looking for on the list! :)
So - that's about it. I guess I really prefer to join in with things that give me a topic to think on. I did a 30 day journal with Emma from Toddler Awesome and LOVED that! Sometimes I just need a little inspiration! :) If you know of a meme that I should check out - please leave me a comment and let me know!
Thanks for stopping by and hope you had a fabulous weekend!

We have Blogmania Winners!!!

noreply@blogger.com (Jacque) — Fri, 17 Sep 2010 16:35:00 +0000

First of all - I want to say THANK YOU to all who stopped my blog in the last 2 days to enter the giveaway. I was expecting a couple hundred entries for the prizes and I had over 1200!! I did not require a follow but have gained almost 50 new GFC followers in the past 2 days and many more via e-mail and on Facebook and Twitter. I truly do thank you all for that! I feel like Blogmania was a HUGE success for a little blogger like me that has only been at this for 6 months. That's why I love blogging - there is such an awesome 'community' in my computer! :)

Okay - enough of my mushiness. I know what you are really wanting to know.

Who won?

Prize Package #1 - Toddler/Preschool Play 4 School

Nina

She said "I'd like to win prize 1 ~~hungrymonkey09 at gmail dot com"~~

Prize Package #2 - School Age Play 4 School

Beth

She said "like you on fb Beth Good ~~bcgood83@yahoo.com~~"

Prize Package #3 - Little Chefs

Amber F.

She said "I subscribed to your emails. (3)"

Congrats to all of you! These 3 winners have already confirmed and I will be working throughout the day to contact my sponsors with the needed info so that we can get those prizes shipped out! :)

Please take another moment to check out all my wonderful sponsors and show them some love if you haven't already. This was my first 'real' giveaway and I am so grateful for the sponsors that chose to work with me. I hope that I made them proud! You can see their spotlight posts which contain the different ways to find them by clicking on the links below:

Amby Creations

Books By Tara

Busy Being Me

'COLORME' Art Spa

Forever Afters

It's the Small Things

Lakeshore

Lovely Things

New Leaf Handmade Goods

Sam McLean Designs

Simply Sweet Designs

Teachable Moments

The Itty-Bitty Bookworm

Tot Talk

Webkinz Jr.

Thanks for supporting my sponsors and CONGRATS to the winners! Hope everyone has a fabulous weekend! I'm heading to the race track tomorrow - just me and hubby. I can't wait to yell across the track at all my favorite NASCAR drivers! I love it! :)