KnoxvilleMommies

Leslie B. sent you $20 (open for details)

2016-09-24T21:25:00.000-04:00

Leslie B. sent you $20 to try the all-new empowr:

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*This offer has been sent by leslieblockrn@gmail.com. By accepting this offer to try the new empowr, I stipulate that I'm 18 or older and am signing up having agreed with the product, terms and privacy policies, including the manner in which "$" and the word "earnings" are used throughout the empowr website, mobile apps and all empowr communications including this email, as defined in the product policy. This promotional email was sent to themommiesnetwork.Knoxville@blogger.com and may contain special notices or offers. It is for illustrative purposes only and is in no way a guarantee. You can prevent future emails here. empowr - 501 West Broadway, Suite A182, San Diego, CA 92101, USA.

#MrsFieldsMoments Slow Down And Enjoy A Cookie With Someone You Love! #USO #cookies #family

2014-10-16T04:16:00.001-04:00

Share your story Here and download your coupon

Mrs. Fields Famous Brands ("Mrs. Fields") and Interbake Foods LLC ("Interbake Foods," the company responsible for the manufacture and sale of Mrs. Fields branded pre-packaged cookies sold at retailers throughout North America) today kicked off "Mrs. Fields Moments," a national campaign inspiring busy cookie lovers to slow down and enjoy a cookie moment with loved ones.

At a time when obligations leave precious little time for the ones that matter most, Mrs. Fields is encouraging a nationwide movement to dedicate Sunday night to cookie moments with family and friends. Mrs. Fields wants every cookie lover to embrace and share their #mrsfieldsmoments – from milk-and-cookies to bedtime treats – and has provided fun and useful tools for doing so at www.mrsfieldsmoments.com.

Mrs. Fields is a Proud Supporter of the United Service Organizations, Inc. (USO), and "Mrs. Fields Moments" builds on the Organization's "Every Moment Counts" campaign, which helps all families – military and otherwise – make the most of every moment together.

"When you buy Mrs. Fields cookies, you're not just buying a cookie: You're helping create moments that matter for troops enduring long deployments," said Kevin McDonough, President of Interbake Foods. "By buying a box of Mrs. Fields cookies, you help give a cookie moment for you and for them. It's a touch of home to those who need it most."

Visit MrsFieldsMoments.com for "Snacktivity" ideas, Conversation Starters, more information about the Mrs. Fields–USO partnership, or to find a grocery store with Mrs. Fields Cookies (look for the USO banner on the box!).

About Mrs. Fields Famous Brands The Company is a well-established franchiser in the premium snack food industry, featuring Mrs. Fields® and TCBY® as its core brands. Through its franchisees' retail stores; it is one of the largest retailers of freshly baked, on-premises specialty cookies and brownies in the world and the largest retailer of soft-serve frozen yogurt with live active cultures. Its franchise systems operate through a network of more than 950 franchised and licensed locations throughout the United States and in 23 foreign countries. In addition, it operates an internet and catalog gifting business, a branded retail business and has entered into licensing arrangements that leverage awareness of its core brands among its retail customer base. The Company is currently relocating their headquarters from Salt Lake City, Utah to Broomfield, Colorado.

About the USO The USO lifts the spirits of America's troops and their families millions of times each year at hundreds of places worldwide. We provide a touch of home through centers at airports and military bases in the U.S. and abroad, top quality entertainment and innovative programs and services. We also provide critical support to those who need us most, including forward-deployed troops, military families, wounded warriors, troops in transition and families of the fallen. The USO is a private, non-profit organization, not a government agency. Our programs and services are made possible by the American people, support of our corporate partners and the dedication of our volunteers and staff.

About Interbake Foods Headquartered in Richmond, VA Interbake Foods LLC is a baked goods manufacturer with over 110 years of business experience. Interbake Foods is the North American cookie and cracker Division of Weston Foods. This includes Interbake Foods in the USA and Colonial Cookies Limited in Canada. Weston Foods' mission is to be recognized by its customers as providing the best bakery solutions in North America and Interbake is privileged to serve the marketplace with our award-winning products and services. Interbake Foods consists of three distinct business segments: Retail Private Brands, Contract Manufacturing and Girl Scout cookies through our ABC Bakers Division.

We would like to encourage you to spend a little extra time this Sunday with your family, here is a list of great "Snacktivities" to enjoy with the kids, from mix and watch movie night.....to a family costume contest, these ideas are so much fun. Turn off that TV and put down those devices for a little quality time. Enter to win the trip of a lifetime for your family in the #MrsFieldsMoments contest HERE , just upload a fun photo of your cookie moment and you will be entered to win a trip to Washington DC.

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United We Stand, You Are Forever In Our Hearts 9/11/01 #America #freedom #9/11/01

2014-09-11T05:12:00.001-04:00

We can never forget that fateful day 13 years ago when all of America was changed forever.

What were you doing at the moment the twin towers fell is a question I often hear asked on our forums, do you remember what you were doing? How has your life changed since then? We all have different answers, some good, some bad, some very sad. One thing we can say is that we still live in America, land of the free! United we stand!

Forever the victims of September 11 will stay in our hearts along with all the many soldiers that have died fighting for our freedom since 9/11.

United We Stand ~ You Are Forever In Our Hearts

Dedicated to those lost in the September 11,2001 terrorist attacks

Video post below- click to view So Awesome!

Post by Kristy Sinsara.

Leslie B

Crafty Kids: DIY Shaving Cream Paint Creations #crafts #kids

2014-08-20T15:17:00.001-04:00

Crafty Kids: DIY Shaving Cream Paint Creations

Rheney Williams-Guest Blogger

For moms who grew up in the '80s like I did, you'll probably remember those spinning art toys that let you create splashes and spiral smears of paint. You know – there was a spinning platform with paper exposed underneath, you dropped dots of paint into the middle and the spinning motion and centrifugal force pulled the paint out to the edges of the circle and you were left with these crazy, tie-died-looking paintings?

Although the toys have changed over the years, a kid's (and kids at heart!) basic desire to see swirls of paint and crazy combinations of colors hasn't. And an old-school product is making new spiral innovations possible: Shaving cream! All you need are a few basic supplies and you and your kids can have hours of creative and colorful fun with a beautiful piece of artwork to show for it at the end of the day.

Gather the materials for your shaving cream paint projects. You'll need:

Foam Shaving Cream (not the gel)
Paints in an assortment of colors
Heavy card stock or construction paper
Spatula or ruler
Skewer or little fingers!
Large cookie sheet or use smaller individual trays, one for each child

Tip: To make clean-up a breeze (and avoid having to buy a disposable tray), line the cookie sheet with aluminum foil first. Then all you have to do is remove the foil and you're done!

1. Spray a few lines of shaving cream onto the sheet and use the spatula or ruler to spread out the shaving cream flat and in a square or rectangle about the size of the paper.

2. Add a few random dots of paint or food coloring around the shaving cream palette.

Tip: If you have leftover paint samples from the last time you painted a room, this is a great way to use those and ensure whatever masterpiece your kids come up with coordinates with the space!

3. Use the skewer to make swirls with the paint in free-flowing circles or waves and if you have little kids, just let them go nuts with their fingers.

4. Place the paper into the shaving cream with the right-side facing down so that when you pull the paper off, the paint is on the correct side.

5. Gently push the paper into the shaving cream so that all surfaces touch and allow it to sit for about 10 seconds before carefully peeling the paper off of the shaving cream.

6. Place the paper on a flat surface (in my case, I had another foil-lined sheet pan at the ready) and carefully scrape all of the shaving cream off of the paper to reveal the magical marbling below!

7. Set the paper aside to dry thoroughly and if the edges start to curl, place a glass or other heavy object on the corners to keep them down during drying.

From here, take some time to admire your work and see what imaginative images your kids can find! Can you spot the hidden smiley face that appeared in my swirls? In addition to your classic refrigerator pin-up, here are some other creative uses for your pint-sized Picasso's masterpiece:

Make DIY bookmarks to give as Christmas gifts to the readers you love
Use the brown paper bags from the grocery store in your shaving cream paint project and have unique book covers for school next year
Frame it so you always have a custom piece of art in your office or work space
A DIY puzzle: Cut it into a bunch of different pieces that your kids can put back together and learn about how shapes and patterns relate to each other

What other cool things can you and your kids come up with for shaving cream paint creations?

Rheney Williams is a prolific crafter with a background in theatre arts. Besides writing about projects for Home Depot, Rheney is currently putting her DIY expertise to work by remodeling her first home and experimenting with colors and textures in her home decor.

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Are you a Business Owner? Now Sponsorship is easier (and cheaper) than ever!!!!

2014-07-16T20:49:00.001-04:00

Every day, moms across the country are logging into their chapter of The Mommies Network, thanks in part to the support that we get from our sponsors... and our moms are returning the favor by finding out more about those businesses that support their chapter.

That could be you! Sponsorship is a really inexpensive option to marketing, and this week, it's even more affordable.

Now until July 23rd, we are offering 50% all Forum Sponsorship spots with a graphic and text. For as little as $10-$125, your business can be in front of our members for a whole year!!!!

And, we try to make it really easy for you.

Simply Click Here and select the 50% Forum Sponsorship Option. From there, select your chapter and how many spots you want and fill out all of the other information and your discount is instantly applied. Or, you can look around to see if one of our other options works better for you!

After submitting your sponsorship, you'll be taken to a secure PayPal page, and with that complete, we will have your sponsorship up and running within 24 hours!!

An entire year of presentation to our members for as little as $10.... how can you NOT afford to!

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Happy 4th of July!!!

2014-07-04T07:00:00.000-04:00

Happy 4th of July!!! On this day in 1776, the Declaration of Independence was approved by the Continental Congress, setting the 13 colonies on the road to freedom as their own nation! This most American of holidays is sure to be marked again this year as usual by parades, fireworks and backyard barbecues across the country. While enjoying your time with your family take a minute to read over this significant historical document giving all Americans our freedom!

The Declaration of Independence

IN CONGRESS, July 4, 1776.

The unanimous Declaration of the thirteen united States of America, When in the Course of human events, it becomes necessary for one people to dissolve the political bands which have connected them with another, and to assume among the powers of the earth, the separate and equal station to which the Laws of Nature and of Nature's God entitle them, a decent respect to the opinions of mankind requires that they should declare the causes which impel them to the separation.

We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.--That to secure these rights, Governments are instituted among Men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed, --That whenever any Form of Government becomes destructive of these ends, it is the Right of the People to alter or to abolish it, and to institute new Government, laying its foundation on such principles and organizing its powers in such form, as to them shall seem most likely to effect their Safety and Happiness. Prudence, indeed, will dictate that Governments long established should not be changed for light and transient causes; and accordingly all experience hath shewn, that mankind are more disposed to suffer, while evils are sufferable, than to right themselves by abolishing the forms to which they are accustomed. But when a long train of abuses and usurpations, pursuing invariably the same Object evinces a design to reduce them under absolute Despotism, it is their right, it is their duty, to throw off such Government, and to provide new Guards for their future security.--Such has been the patient sufferance of these Colonies; and such is now the necessity which constrains them to alter their former Systems of Government. The history of the present King of Great Britain is a history of repeated injuries and usurpations, all having in direct object the establishment of an absolute Tyranny over these States. To prove this, let Facts be submitted to a candid world.

He has refused his Assent to Laws, the most wholesome and necessary for the public good.

He has forbidden his Governors to pass Laws of immediate and pressing importance, unless suspended in their operation till his Assent should be obtained; and when so suspended, he has utterly neglected to attend to them.

He has refused to pass other Laws for the accommodation of large districts of people, unless those people would relinquish the right of Representation in the Legislature, a right inestimable to them and formidable to tyrants only.

He has called together legislative bodies at places unusual, uncomfortable, and distant from the depository of their public Records, for the sole purpose of fatiguing them into compliance with his measures.

He has dissolved Representative Houses repeatedly, for opposing with manly firmness his invasions on the rights of the people.

He has refused for a long time, after such dissolutions, to cause others to be elected; whereby the Legislative powers, incapable of Annihilation, have returned to the People at large for their exercise; the State remaining in the mean time exposed to all the dangers of invasion from without, and convulsions within.

He has endeavoured to prevent the population of these States; for that purpose obstructing the Laws for Naturalization of Foreigners; refusing to pass others to encourage their migrations hither, and raising the conditions of new Appropriations of Lands.

He has obstructed the Administration of Justice, by refusing his Assent to Laws for establishing Judiciary powers.

He has made Judges dependent on his Will alone, for the tenure of their offices, and the amount and payment of their salaries.

He has erected a multitude of New Offices, and sent hither swarms of Officers to harrass our people, and eat out their substance.

He has kept among us, in times of peace, Standing Armies without the Consent of our legislatures.

He has affected to render the Military independent of and superior to the Civil power. He has combined with others to subject us to a jurisdiction foreign to our constitution, and unacknowledged by our laws; giving his Assent to their Acts of pretended Legislation:

For Quartering large bodies of armed troops among us:

For protecting them, by a mock Trial, from punishment for any Murders which they should commit on the Inhabitants of these States:

For cutting off our Trade with all parts of the world:

For imposing Taxes on us without our Consent:

For depriving us in many cases, of the benefits of Trial by Jury:

For transporting us beyond Seas to be tried for pretended offences

For abolishing the free System of English Laws in a neighbouring Province, establishing therein an Arbitrary government, and enlarging its Boundaries so as to render it at once an example and fit instrument for introducing the same absolute rule into these Colonies:

For taking away our Charters, abolishing our most valuable Laws, and altering fundamentally the Forms of our Governments:

For suspending our own Legislatures, and declaring themselves invested with power to legislate for us in all cases whatsoever.

He has abdicated Government here, by declaring us out of his Protection and waging War against us.

He has plundered our seas, ravaged our Coasts, burnt our towns, and destroyed the lives of our people.

He is at this time transporting large Armies of foreign Mercenaries to compleat the works of death, desolation and tyranny, already begun with circumstances of Cruelty & perfidy scarcely paralleled in the most barbarous ages, and totally unworthy the Head of a civilized nation.

He has constrained our fellow Citizens taken Captive on the high Seas to bear Arms against their Country, to become the executioners of their friends and Brethren, or to fall themselves by their Hands.

He has excited domestic insurrections amongst us, and has endeavoured to bring on the inhabitants of our frontiers, the merciless Indian Savages, whose known rule of warfare, is an undistinguished destruction of all ages, sexes and conditions.

In every stage of these Oppressions We have Petitioned for Redress in the most humble terms: Our repeated Petitions have been answered only by repeated injury. A Prince whose character is thus marked by every act which may define a Tyrant, is unfit to be the ruler of a free people.

Nor have We been wanting in attentions to our Brittish brethren. We have warned them from time to time of attempts by their legislature to extend an unwarrantable jurisdiction over us. We have reminded them of the circumstances of our emigration and settlement here. We have appealed to their native justice and magnanimity, and we have conjured them by the ties of our common kindred to disavow these usurpations, which, would inevitably interrupt our connections and correspondence. They too have been deaf to the voice of justice and of consanguinity. We must, therefore, acquiesce in the necessity, which denounces our Separation, and hold them, as we hold the rest of mankind, Enemies in War, in Peace Friends.

We, therefore, the Representatives of the united States of America, in General Congress, Assembled, appealing to the Supreme Judge of the world for the rectitude of our intentions, do, in the Name, and by Authority of the good People of these Colonies, solemnly publish and declare, That these United Colonies are, and of Right ought to be Free and Independent States; that they are Absolved from all Allegiance to the British Crown, and that all political connection between them and the State of Great Britain, is and ought to be totally dissolved; and that as Free and Independent States, they have full Power to levy War, conclude Peace, contract Alliances, establish Commerce, and to do all other Acts and Things which Independent States may of right do. And for the support of this Declaration, with a firm reliance on the protection of divine Providence, we mutually pledge to each other our Lives, our Fortunes and our sacred Honor.

Firework Safety Tips

2014-07-02T07:00:00.000-04:00

Independence Day is right around the corner, so that means it's firework season! While you are celebrating your 4th of July, be sure to remember these safety tips from the National Council of Firework Safety:

General firework safety:

- Use fireworks outdoors only.

- Obey local laws. If fireworks are not legal where you live, do not use them.

- Always have water handy. (A hose or bucket).

- Only use fireworks as intended. Don't try to alter them or combine them.

- Never relight a "dud" firework. Wait 20 minutes and then soak it in a bucket of water.

- Use common sense. Spectators should keep a safe distance from the shooter and the shooter should wear safety glasses.

- Alcohol and fireworks do not mix. Have a "designated shooter."

- Only persons over the age of 12 should be allowed to handle sparklers of any type. Parents of teens should supervise them closely when using fireworks.

- Do not ever use homemade fireworks of illegal explosives: They can kill you! Report illegal explosives to the fire or police department in your community.

When using sparklers:

- Always remain standing up when using sparklers.

- Never hold a child in your arms while using sparklers.

- Never hold or light more than one sparkler at a time.

- Never throw sparklers.

- Teach children not to wave sparklers, or run while holding them.

- Sparkler wire or sticks remain hot long after the flame has gone out. Be sure to put spent sparklers into a bucket of water.

For more firework safety, visit the National Council for Firework Safety at www.fireworksafety.com

Independence Day Happenings!

2014-06-27T07:00:00.000-04:00

Fireworks, music, food, and family fun await us all around the area this weekend and next in honor of Independence Day! Be sure to check out all the great events going on....

Fire on the Water at Sequoyah Marina

If you're looking for fireworks on Norris Lake, don't miss out on "Fire on the Water" at Sequoyah Marina. This annual event will be held June 28, 2014 and is one of the most anticipated events of the year on the water! Be sure to mark you calendars! Every year hundreds of boaters gather around Norris Lake in front of Sequoyah Marina and celebrate the largest fireworks show on the lake! This is an event you don't want to miss!

It is recommended you find yourself a spot in a cove early as space does fill up. You will find large houseboats parked in the coves as everyone awaits the big event! Some campers pitch their tents directly across from Sequoyah Marina at the cove. If you don't have a boat, there is plenty of space on the outdoor patio and restuarant at the marina.

Parking will be limited, so show up early! 336 Lakeview Lane Andersonville, TN Time: 8pm - 11pm (fireworks at dark) Website: www.sequoyahmarina.net

FreedomFest

The 36th edition of FreedomFest is set for Saturday, June 28th from 6:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m. at he Alcoa Duck Pond. In addition to the fireworks show, an entertainment stage will be in the Duck Pond parking lot with food vendors lining Springbrook Road across the street.

Additional information about parking areas and exit routes, entertainment and exhibits will be coming soon.

Town of Farragut Independence Day Parade

The Town of Farragut announces that the 27th Annual Independence Day Parade will be held Friday, July 4, 2014, beginning at 9:30 a.m. This year’s Grand Marshal is Mark Packer, WVLT Local 8 News anchor and Farragut resident.

The parade will begin on Kingston Pike at Lendon Welch Way (Farragut High School entrance) and continue to Boring Road, just east of Farragut Towne Square Shopping Center (old Ingles store site).

Gatlinburg's Fourth of July Midnight Parade

Saluting the valiant men and women of our military services, this 39th annual showcase is the “First July Fourth Parade in the Nation!” Parade starts at the stroke of midnight to begin Independence Day.

The First Independence Day Parade in the Nation marks its 39th year by honoring Women Veterans and Other U.S. Heroes. In the opening moment of July 4th Gatlinburg’s downtown sidewalks will be filled with some 100,000 people on hand to witness the excitement of the Gatlinburg July 4th Midnight Parade. Also featured in the parade will be the 572nd U.S. Air Force Band, members of the U.S. Army, U.S. Navy, U.S. Marines, U.S. Air Force, and U.S. Coast Guard - plus vintage military vehicles, local area public safety agencies, and lots more.

The parade route will extend from traffic light #1a on East Parkway, with the parade turning south onto Parkway at traffic light #3, then traveling the length of the downtown street to traffic light #10 at Ski Mountain Road. Check out the parade route early to choose your best spot. Some 100,000 people will attend the parade and many of those will start placing their folding chairs along the route as early as 7 am on July 3rd.

Police and fire department vehicles, bagpipes, marching bands, decorated and lighted floats, horses, large balloons, and more make up the Gatlinburg July 4th Midnight Parade. The parade is very exciting regardless of age. Get some rest after the parade, because Gatlinburg offers the River Raft Regatta – an unmanned floatables race, and several free admission concerts along with a spectacular fireworks display on July 4th.

Gatlinburg's Fireworks Finale

Join the celebration in downtown Gatlinburg to mark our nation’s “Independence Day” with a magnificent fireworks show. The City of Gatlinburg lights up the mountain skyline downtown centered on the area of traffic light #3 at 10 p.m. with this grand display. Designated a Top 20 event by Southeast Tourism Society.

Gatlinburg River Raft Regatta

Gatlinburg’s popular River Raft Regatta takes place at noon on July 4th, on the Little Pigeon River in Downtown Gatlinburg. This year’s fun-filled Fourth of July celebration in Gatlinburg will feature the always-competitive River Raft Regatta, the unmanned kind.

Anything floatable can be entered starting at 10 a.m. at the Christ in the Smokies bridge on River Road and will end at Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies. There are two categories: Trash (not hand-made) and Treasure (hand-made) – awards will go to the top 3 in each category. Additionally, the “Judges Choice” award will go to the most creative “raft.” Awards will be given to the oldest and the youngest participant.

Registration begins at 10 am and the race will start at 12:00 pm. Trophies will be supplied by the Gatlinburg Recreation Department. This year’s event is sponsored by the City of Gatlinburg Special Events Office, the Gatlinburg Recreation Department.

Fireman's Fourth

Huntville, Tn - Join the Huntsville Fire Department's firefighters and friends as they host one of the largest Independence Day festivals in the region. Held each July 4 on the Courthouse Mall in Huntsville, the event is a long-standing tradition and attracts more than 10,000 for the annual fireworks spectacular at sundown on Independence Day.

The event begins with food, crafts and entertainment, featuring local musicians, on July 3 and continues on July 4. Independence Day begins with a Kiwanis Club pancake breakfast and continues with the annual 4th of July Parade through the streets of Huntsville at 11 a.m. Kids games and carnival rides fill the afternoon, leading up to the 10 p.m. fireworks display.

Sweetwater's Independence Day Celebration and Parade

5k Road Race at 7:30 a.m. Early registration $25.00; day of registration $30.00 Parade at 10 p.m. Kids Zone, vendors, live music, dancing in the streets with Salt and Light Studios and Fireworks by Pyro Shows at dark! Come downtown for a great time! Main Street, downtown Sweetwater

Lenoir City Fourth of July Parade

This year's parade will be held on Friday, July 4th. We will be kicking off the parade with our annual Firecracker Run. This is a half-mile fun run for children ages 5 - 12. The run is free, and the first 100 children receive a free event t-shirt. Every runner receives a participation award. Top prizes will be given to the first place boy and girl from each division.

Participants for the parade or race can register by calling the Lenoir City Parks and Recreation Department at 865-986-1223.

Where: Broadway - C Street to South Grand Street When: Friday, July 4, 2014 - Line-up begins at 10:00 A.M. at Yale Commercial Locks - Parade/Race begins at 11:00 A.M. at C Street

Rockin' the Docks (July 4th Celebration)

Rockin' the Docks will again bring live music to the Lenoir City Park and Cove area. Live music will begin at 4:00 P.M. and will continue until the Fireworks Show at 10:00 P.M. Food vendors will be providing a wide variety of your favorites so there is no need to bring any food or drinks with you. The children's play area will also be back for kids to enjoy!

Where: Lenoir City Park and Cove When: Saturday, July 5, 2014 - 4:00 P.M. until Fireworks Show

Festival on the Fourth

Worlds Fair Park 1060 Worlds Fair Park Drive , Knoxville TN

The City of Knoxville's Festival on the Fourth delivers a wide variety of family fun including live entertainment, free activities and food vendors. Live music will be on the Festival Lawn from 4pm-7:30pm Knoxville Symphony Orchestra will perform on the Performance Lawn beginning at 8pm Fireworks at 9:35pm This event is rain or shine. No Pets, No Alcohol, No personal tents or tent canopies Free Parking available: World's Fair & Blackstock Parking Lots, 11th Street, Locust Street., State Street & Market Square Garages - ADA Parking at Fort Kid Parking Lot.

Pigeon Forge Patriot Fest

July 4th Country Music Group Lonestar to Perform in Pigeon Forge

Pigeon Forge is known far and wide for its patriotic spirit. This is more evident than ever at the Pigeon Forge Patriot Festival held every year on Independence Day. Thousands gather at Patriot Park each year for this free event. The fun typically starts around noon with games and activities for kids. There’s also live musical entertainment, which starts early in the afternoon and lasts until 9:30 or 10 at night.

This years lineup features the Pigeon Forge Community Chorus, the Tim Kellar Band, bluegrass group Adkins & Loudermilk, the Jimmy Buffet tribute band Sons of Sailors and the event headliners Lonestar! Known for smash hits such as “No News”, “Amazed” and “Let’s Be Us Again”, Lonestar has a history of country music and pop chart success with nine number 1 singles and numerous others reaching the Top 10.

After the music it’s time for the evening’s finale - an extravagant fireworks display! Food vendors with ice cream, shaved ice, hot dogs, burgers and much more will be on hand and a portion of the proceeds go to local area charities.

Patriot Festival event parking is free and a trolley shuttle service will run from the Municipal Parking Lot on Teaster Lane right into Patriot Park. Mark down July 4th on your calendars and come visit Pigeon Forge Patriot Festival in 2014! Bring blankets and lawn chairs for seating, no umbrellas please.

Museum of Appalachia 4th of July Celebration and Anvil Shoot

Anvil shooting used to be a fairly common way that rural folks celebrated special events--they "shot the anvil" to celebrate the nation’s Independence, Christmas, and even Davy Crockett’s election to the U.S. Congress. Some years ago, two men, each more than 100 years old, watched the Museum’s anvil shoot and recalled this tradition from their early boyhood. Now, shooting the anvil has come to be the highlight of the Museum's fabulous July 4th Celebration. Folks as far as 15 miles away have reported hearing the blast, and certainly everyone gathered for the excitement feels the earth shake under their feet.

Along with the big boom several times during the day, there are patriotic ceremonies and lots of music—the old-time mountain music of the Southern Appalachian Mountains. A bell-ringing ceremony will occur at precisely 2:00 p.m. coinciding with the National Bell Ringing Ceremony when more than 10,000 bells across the country are rung in unison. Thirteen youngsters will be selected from the audience to ring the bell in honor of the thirteen original states. The Liberty Pole raising at 2:15 p.m. will commemorate a Colonial American practice signifying dissatisfaction with the English government. It illustrates the spirit of liberty among colonists in the early days of the War for Independence.

Wander the Museum's Village and see demonstrations of "Betsy Ross" sewing our nation's first flag, spinning, blacksmithing, woodcarving, mountain dulcimer making, sassafras tea brewing and cedar rail splitting. Tasty summertime treats will be available, including grilled hamburgers and hot dogs, kettle corn, homemade ice cream, cakes, pies and cookies. The Museum is open from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., so July 4th visitors will have ample time to tour. The extensive village ~ farm complex includes dozens of historic log structures, display buildings filled with authentic Appalachian artifacts, gardens surrounded by split rail fences, and farm animals in a traditional setting. The Hall of Fame offers a portrait of the Appalachian people, both famous and not-so famous- and these exhibits may be enjoyed in air-conditioned comfort.

This is a free event for Museum members. Memberships provide a year of Museum visits. As an official affiliate of the Smithsonian institution, the Museum provides Smithsonian memberships in conjunction with its own membership program.

The Museum is located 16 miles north of Knoxville, one mile east of I‐75, exit 122.
For more information, call or email us at: Phone: 865-494-7680 The Museum address is 2819 Andersonville Hwy, Clinton TN 37716

Ticket Prices
Adult (19-Above) $20.00
Youth (13-18) $10.00
Child (5-12) $6.00 under 5
Free Family Rate (2 adults & children 5 - 12) $50.00

Easy Lemon Pie

2014-06-23T07:00:00.000-04:00

Looking for a summer-friendly dessert? Try this easy and refreshing lemon pie!

Easy Lemon Pie

Ingredients:

1 can (14oz) sweetened condensed milk
1/2 cup lemon juice
1TB grated lemon peel
8oz carton of frozen whipped topping, thawed
1 (9in) graham cracker crust
2 to 3 drops yellow food coloring (optional)

Directions:

In a bowl, combing condensed milk with lemon juice, peel, and food coloring if desired.
Mix until smooth (it will begin to thicken as you mix).
Fold in thawed whipped topping.
Spoon mixture into pie crust, then chill until ready to serve.
Keep leftovers refrigerated.

Staying Safe in the Water for Summer

2014-06-18T07:00:00.000-04:00

If your summer fun includes spending time in the water, follow these safety tips to help keep your children safe from water-related accidents:

General Tips:

- Teach children to never swim alone, and to only swim in designated swimming areas.

- Always watch children when they are in or near the water, even if they know how to swim! Do not get distracted by phone calls, text messages, reading, or talking to others.

- Learn how to swim if you do not know how, and teach your children to swim. Children who can't swim well or at all should be within your reach and should wear life jackets.

- Learn adult and child CPR

- Keep a phone near you but use it only to call for help in an emergency.

- If a child is missing, check the water first!!!

Pool Safety:

- Cover and lock pools or spas when you are not using them, or if above ground remove or lock the pool ladder.

- Use door, gate, and pool alarms!

- Put up a fence around the entire pool at least 4ft high, preferably with a locking gate that closes and latches by itself.

- Teach children not to play or swim near pool drains, and use approved anti-entrapment drain covers.

Beach, Lake, or Boating Safety:

- Teach children about the differences in swimming in a pool and open water. Tell them about uneven surfaces, river currents, undertow, and changing weather patterns.

- Children and adults, especially those that don't swim well or cannot swim, should wear U.S. Coast Guard approved life jackets. This is especially important when boating and doing water sports. Make sure you choose the correct life jacket for your child, making sure it is appropriate for their size and weight, their chin and ears do not slip through the neck opening, their head is held above the water by the jacket, and that it is properly fastened.

- Keep an eye on the weather, waves, and currents! Teach children how to swim out of a rip current and how to float and swim in a life jacket.

Hawaiian Aloha Burgers

2014-06-16T07:00:00.000-04:00

These burgers are so tasty and just scream summer!!! Try them for your next backyard cook-out!

Hawaiian Aloha Burgers

You'll Need:
1 can (8oz) pineapple slices
3/4 cup teriyaki sauce
1 pound ground beef, chuck, or round
1 large Vidalia sweet onion, sliced
1TB butter or margarine
4 lettuce leaves
4 large King's Hawaiian sandwich buns, split and toasted (you can also you sesame seed or onion buns or even Kaiser rolls)
4 slices Swiss cheese
4 bacon strips, cooked

To Prepare:

Drain pineapple, reserving juice to small bowl.
Mix teriyaki into juice.
Place 3TB of mix into a ziplock bag and add pineapple slices; turn to coat, then set aside.
Shape beef into four patties and place into 8in baking dish.
Pour remaining juice mix over meat; marinate 5 to 10 minutes, turning once.
Meanwhile, in a skillet saute onions in butter until tender or about 5 minutes.
Grill or broil burgers until no longer pink in center (grill tastes best).
Grill or broil pineapple slices until heated through.
On your toasted buns, layer lettuce leaf and onion on bottom, then top with burgers, cheese, pineapple slice, bacon strip, and top bun; serve.

Staying Safe in the Summer Sun

2014-06-11T07:00:00.000-04:00

Summer means hotter days and more sun, which also means more chances to get a sunburn and that extra precautions should be taken to prevent it! Before you and your family go out to play, be sure to protect yourselves from the damaging rays of the sun by following these simple rules for summer sun safety:

- When choosing a sunscreen, look for the words "broad-spectrum" on the label which will cover both UVB and UVA rays.

- Choose a waterproof or water resistant sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15, but preferably 30, and reapply every two hours or more if playing in the water or sweating excessively.

- Rub sunscreen in well, making sure to cover all exposed areas. Make sure not to forget the nose, ears, feet and hands, back of the neck, and even the backs of the knees. Put sunscreen on at least 30 minutes before going out into the sun to give it time to work on the skin.

- The sun's rays are the strongest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., so try to limit sun exposure during that time, and remember that sun rays can bounce back from sand, snow or concrete, so be particularly careful of these areas. And be careful to limit sun exposure when the UV index is moderate to high or there is a UV alert in your area.

- Most of the sun's rays can come through the clouds even on an overcast day, so be sure to use sun protection even on cloudy day.

- Check to make sure your sunscreen hasn't expired, and make sure to keep extra sunscreen handy in case your plans change and you are outside longer than planned.

- Select clothes made of tightly woven fabrics (cotton is best) in darker shades which provide more sun protection that loosely woven lighter shades. Keep babies 6 months or younger in lightweight clothing that covers their arms and legs. Also consider wearing specially designed clothing that protects from the sun with a UV Protection Factor of 15 to 50+, or clothing washed in a laundry additive that can increase the protection of clothing.

- Wear hats with a 3in wide brim or bill, which can help keep your child's face and neck shaded and protected.

- Wear sunglasses that have protect the eyes by blocking 97% to 100% of UVA and UVB rays.

- Use a moisturizer with an SPF of 15 or 30 instead of regular moisturizer, and apply a lip balm with added sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or above.

- Remember babies under 6 months of age should be kept out of direct sunlight, so try to keep them in the shade under a tree, umbrella, or even their stroller canopy!

- If your child gets a sunburn that results in blistering, pain, or fever, contact your pediatrician!!!

Antipasto Salad

2014-06-09T07:00:00.000-04:00

Try this yummy salad for your next potluck or as a delicious summer dinner!

Antipasto Salad

Ingredients:

16oz (1 box) rotini pasta
15oz can garbanzo beans, rinsed and drained
1 package (3.5oz) sliced pepperoni, cut into halves
1 small can sliced black olives, drained
1/2 cup each diced green and red bell pepper
4 medium-sized fresh mushrooms, sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2TB fresh minced basil or 2tsp dried
2tsps salt
1 1/2tsp minced fresh oregano or 1/2tsp dried
1/2tsp pepper
1/4tsp cayenne pepper
1 cup olive or vegetable oil
2/3 cup lemon juice

Directions:

Cook pasta according to package directions.
Drain, then rinse with cold water and place into a large bowl.
Add everything except oil and lemon juice to the bowl and stir to mix well.
In a jar or dressing cruet with a tight-fitting lid, shake together oil and lemon juice to blend.
Pour over salad in bowl and toss all to coat.
Cover salad and refrigerate at least 6 hours or overnight.
Stir again before serving.

Keeping Cool This Summer!!!

2014-06-04T07:00:00.000-04:00

With summer here, you may be looking for new ways to keep cool. Here are some of the ideas for beating the heat with your kids!

Water ~

- Buy a baby pool! Your child may not technically BE a baby anymore, but any kid is going to love splashing about in a baby pool of any size in your backyard, just because it cools them off. Throw some sand toys or bath toys and you're good to go. Plus, if you're lucky, you might just be able to sneak your feet in to cool yourself.

- Get the hose out and add on any sort of attachment, a sprinkler, a sprayer, or just the plain old hose and you're set for the afternoon.

- Water table. They're not just for toddlers anymore! Kids too big for the little table? Make your own with a storage tub filled with water and various toys and buckets.

- Watering can. Pretend those weeds in your yard are a "garden" and let your kids spend time watering them, and more than likely each other.

- Hit the local pools or visit a splash pad and have fun getting soaked! We have a list of most of the local ones on the website, so head over and find one near you.

Indoor Fun ~

- Enjoy the A.C. and stay indoors. You can have a movie day at home, makes a cute summer craft, play board games, you name it.

- Check out one of the kids movies happening at the local theaters for an inexpensive morning out (check KM for a list of local ones).

- Visit the library for one of the numerous fun things going on there during their summer reading club. Bonus... pick up some books to bring home for later!

- There are lots of kid-friendly places around town that are hosting free and inexpensive events, from open play at the bounce houses to crafting classes, so be sure to take advantage of them!

Frozen Treats ~

- Take a trip to the local ice cream shop or yogurt place and enjoy a yummy snack.

- Make homemade popsicles. You can get fancy or just freeze juice in cups, either way the kids are sure to love them!

- Try making homemade ice cream, whether in an ice cream maker, or try making ice cream in a bag for a fun treat.

- Make some smoothies or milkshakes together. A good way to cool off and you just might get the kids to try something new!

- Freeze grapes or berries for a quick snack.

- While it's not frozen, be sure to pick up some delicious watermelon. Serve ice cold for a sweet and cooling snack!!!

Do you have any tips for keeping cool? Please share your ideas!!!

Summer Treats

2014-06-02T07:00:00.000-04:00

Looking for a yummy way to beat the heat? Check out these fun ideas for summer!

Ice Cream in a Bag

Milk can become homemade ice cream in five minutes by using a bag! This homemade, creamy treat is a summertime delight for kids and adults alike.

What you'll need:

1 tablespoon sugar
1/2 cup milk or half & half
1/4 teaspoon vanilla
6 tablespoons rock salt
1 pint-size plastic food storage bag (e.g., Ziploc)
1 gallon-size plastic food storage bag
Ice cubes

How to make it:

1. Fill the large bag half full of ice, and add the rock salt. Seal the bag.
2. Put milk, vanilla, and sugar into the small bag, and seal it.
3. Place the small bag inside the large one, and seal it again carefully.
4. Shake until the mixture is ice cream, which takes about 5 minutes.
5. Wipe off the top of the small bag, then open it carefully. Enjoy!

Tips:
A 1/2 cup milk will make about 1 scoop of ice cream, so double the recipe if you want more. Don't try to do more than double at a time as then the bag may be too heavy for little arms to shake.

Strawberry Popsicles

Ingredients:
2 cups whole strawberries, with tops removed
1 cup milk
Sugar to taste

Preparation:
1. Place all of the ingredients into a blender, and blend until smooth.
2. Taste, and add sugar as needed.
3. Pour into popsicle molds and freeze.
Yield: 6-8 popsicles.

Watermelon Popsicles

Ingredients: Watermelon

Preparation:
1. Slice and seed a watermelon (or a portion of a watermelon). Small chunks work best.
2. Puree the pieces in a blender.
3. Fill a popsicle mold with the resulting puree, and freeze.

Jello Popsicles

Ingredients:
3 oz. box of Jello
1 cup boiling water
1 cup cold water
1 tbsp. sugar

Preparation:
1. Bring one cup of water to a boil.
2. Add in the gelatin mix, and stir until all of the sugar has dissolved.
3. Stir in one cup of cool water.
4. Pour the finished mixture into popsicle molds (paper cups work too) and freeze.
Yield: 4-6 popsicles

Tip: If you don't have popsicle molds, you can use paper cups instead. Just fill the cups; cover them with foil; and poke popsicle sticks through the center of each foil piece.

And not to leave out mom and dad, here's a popsicle just for you! I haven't personally tried these, but a friend says they are super good!

Margarita Popsicles

3/4 cup sugar
3/4 cup fresh lime juice
1/2 cup water
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
2 tablespoons fresh orange juice
2 tablespoons tequila
2 tablespoons orange liqueur (recommended: Grand Marnier)
Kosher salt, for garnish
4 small cups (recommended: Dixie)
4 popsicle sticks

Directions:
Combine sugar, lime juice, water, lemon juice and orange juice in a small saucepan over medium heat. Cook, stirring, until sugar dissolves.
Remove from heat and allow to cool.
Once cool transfer to a blender with tequila, orange liqueur, and lime wedge and process until smooth.
Pour into the cups and cover the top of each cup with foil. Place the popsicle stick in center of cup (down through foil, which will hold it in place).
Freeze until hard, preferably overnight.
Remove from freezer and run cup under warm water to loosen popsicle.
Garnish with kosher salt and serve.

Summer Fun Ideas

2014-05-30T06:30:00.000-04:00

Summer is here, and with it comes lots of time to play with the kids without the stress of school or homework to keep you tied up. I thought I'd share a few ideas that you could enjoy doing with the kids this summer. Also, be sure to visit KnoxvilleMommies Events and Happenings forum for a great list of fun things going on around the area this summer!

Summer fun activities

~ Play in the rain, or if it's not raining break out the sprinklers or water hose and have some wet fun!

~ Visit a botanical garden, a nature center, the zoo, or even just a local park and enjoy some nature.
We live so close to one of the most beautiful national parks around too, so head up to the Smokies for a little nature fun!

~ Have a cookout! Grill up your favorite burger or hot dog, maybe even enjoy some yummy s'mores, and eat with the family outdoors.

~ Visit a pick-your-own farm and bring home yummy fruits to enjoy with lunch or as a snack, or better yet, plant some easy to grow fruits or veggies and do a little gardening with the kids.

~ Go camping! Get back to nature together by taking a camping trip or even just camping in the backyard. If the weather isn't cooperating, bring out the sleeping bags and "camp" in the living room floor.

~ Sit outdoors at night and stargaze. If the city lights make it too bright, take a night drive out to the country and find a nice spot to sit and enjoy the night sky.

~ Take a road trip together for the day. Visit nearby towns and enjoy the change of scenery.

~ Go on a picnic! Whether at a local park or even in your own backyard, picnics are super fun for kids. You may even try an indoor picnic for a little rainy day fun!

~ Play outdoors! Let the kids play in the sprinklers, make mud pies, color the sidewalks with chalk, blow bubbles, catch lightening bugs, etc.

~ Cook with your kids. Let them help decide what to have for dinner and have them help make it. Or do a make-your-own pizza night or taco salad night, and maybe even enjoy a personalized sundae for dessert.

~ Host a game or movie night with your/their friends! Invite everyone over for boardgames, video games, or even charades. Or maybe pick up a couple of family friendly flicks, pop the popcorn, turn off the lights, and have a movie night!

~ Get out and enjoy the town. Visit local museums, a carnival or fair, farmer's markets, flea markets or garage sales, the drive-in movies, or even just the splash pad at the local park.

~ Build a fort with the kids, either indoors with pillows and cushions, or something bigger outdoors.

Hopefully this list will give you some great ideas for a fun summer with the kids!!!

Other ideas:

Put together a jigsaw puzzle as a family.
Take a family nap.
Go on a scavenger hunt.
Have a sleepover.
Make fresh lemonade to enjoy or sell at a lemonade stand.
Build a Lego castle.
Make paper airplanes and have a flying contest.
Fly a kite.
Go fishing.
Join a summer reading club.
Make homemade ice cream.
Make musical instruments and put on a parade.
Make a bird feeder and have fun watching the birds.
Play mini golf.
Teach the kids to skip stones on the water.
Make fun creations using clay or play dough.
Try a fun science experiment.

WANNA CHANGE YOUR USERNAME? NOW IS YOUR CHANCE!!!!!

2014-05-29T13:02:00.001-04:00

We are in the last 48 hours of the Mommies Network May is for Mothers, and we are upping the perks for you to donate!!!

If you make a $25 donation before 11:59pm on May 31st, you can change your username by simply forwarding your donation receipt to heather@themommiesnetwork.org!

Yeah- it's really that easy!!!

Visit http://themommiesnetwork.causevox.com to make your donation right now!!!

Are you part of the 99%?

2014-05-08T11:19:00.001-04:00

How would you feel if I told you that less than 1% of the people around you cared about what you need?

Far too often, we feel the impact of standing alone and just wish that someone else would stand there with us, knowing that the journey would not be so hard if we just had a few extra people to help us along the way. This is apathy, and it's a big problem. I bet this is something you have experienced in your life. However, when the shoe is on the other foot and something out there in the world needs us, we tend to pass it right by.

The Mommies Network has over 20,000 members... moms who come to us for help and support and community. 20,000 moms just like you. Last year, less than 350 of those members donated to The Mommies Network during our May is for Mothers campaign. Look around you- do you think that only 350 of our members need support and community and the other 19,650 don't? And which one of those are you?

When we look at our chapters, that is not what we see. We see moms logging in day after day, sometimes 20 or 30 times a day. What we see is that almost all 20,000 of those members do need us and do use us, but that less than 1% of our membership helping burden the cost of the other 99% of us. Less than 1% of us are committed to what you need.

Forget the money, because it's not about the money. It's about apathy. The indifference of saying 'I don't need to do anything because someone else will take care of it and I'll still get what I need'. Do any of us really want to be that person?

Are you satisfied knowing that select few people are more invested in your support than you are?

This week, the conversation we are having on the forums is asking our members to make a commitment. We are asking one simple question:

"What will you do to make your community better?"

It doesn't have to be money! There are dozens of ways you can help... little things like signing up for Amazon Smiles and giving 0.5% of your purchases back to The Mommies Network, or asking a friend to join so that our community of support gets bigger, going to an event that one of our volunteers worked hard to provide to you, or even just not passing by a post without saying something.

Or you can give a few bucks and know for the next year that you were not a part of the 99% being cared for by 1%, if for not other reason than to know that a community cannot sustain itself like that and you know you use and need that community.

Give today so you can receive tomorrow.

Get Support. Give Support. The Mommies Network.

I Don't Like Mothers Day

2014-05-06T10:44:00.001-04:00

Let me tell you why.

I don't want to sound ungrateful- I really don't! But, I could do without the store bought card. Flowers are always nice, but they will wilt ( and guess who is going to have to throw them out and wash out the gunky water from the vase?)

Honestly, one day a year, a $5 card and overpriced flowers do not make this job any easier. I'd rather get something I know that I need. Something that actually makes motherhood a little easier. Something that is personal. Something I use the whole year!

This year, I am asking the people I love to give me a community of friends and people who understand me. This year, I'm just asking the people who love me to skip the card and the flowers and make a donation to The Mommies Network instead.

The Mommies Network is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization, which means that it can't continue to bring FREE support to moms without help.

It's super easy and takes just a second! Just click on the image you would prefer below and you can post it right to your Facebook Wall. Tag the people you know will be sending you a card and ask for this instead! Best of all, you actually are saving time (and money) of those people you love, because this takes just a minute. We will even be send out a personalized E-Card to you on Mothers Day to let you know that person has made a donation in your honor.

Give up the Mommy Myth that you can't ask for what you need, and tell the people that love you to skip the card... you'd prefer a circle of friends this Mothers Day!

Click here to Share this image on your Facebook Wall

Tales from our Supermoms

2014-05-03T11:41:00.001-04:00

Over the past two days, we asked for our moms to share their Mommy Myths, and the response has been overwhelming! Here are a just a few*...

" I had to learn it's okay to ask for help... My mom was very sick several years ago and was in and out of the hospital.... between taking care of my mom, going back and forth to the hospital... trying to keep some sort of normalcy for my family.... Dinner, homework, etc, I almost lost it. I felt like the world was on my shoulders and I was a moment away from losing it.

Thankfully several friends from this site would just send little notes of encouragement, offers to help with the kids, etc. I wouldn't have made it without them. I tear up just typing this because I will never be able to repay them for what they did during that time...."

"I'm not one who's afraid to lay it on the line.... For some reason however, it took me longer than usual to talk about (some) issues. I finally opened up last week and boy am I glad I did! It was like a weight was lifted. I don't want to talk about it on FB .... but I knew here I'd be safe. I got a ton of support and a wealth of information I would've had no clue about otherwise. I feel a lot better about my situation and I feel like I'm able to move forward not only more educated but also supported which means the world."

"When I started back at work after having my first daughter, I really depended on the MOTC forum for major support. I remember the feeling of missing the baby were so strong I felt like someone was ripping my heart strings out! I cried my first day back. The first few weeks were the hardest, and I went to the forum often for encouragement, understanding, advice, tips on how to balance working and being a new mom. It was so fantastic to get connected with other moms who knew exactly what I was feeling."

"I was talking to my MIL last night on the phone, and she asked me how I was coping... I said "Well, I am managing to feed the kids and keep them fairly clean, so we're doing okay." and she said "Well, I see you post smiling, happy pictures on FB and just think you are doing fine,....

Which is exactly why BM helps me. I don't post this stuff on FB because I don't want the whole world to know, but I can come here and talk, vent, ask for advice etc. I know that people here, other moms going through similar things will understand and give me support.

That's really such an amazing thing TMN provides, for their members to get and give support, for FREE! "

This is what just a few of our moms are saying when they are telling us why they need their chapter. We are not social media! We are a place where moms find support when the rest of the world expects them to just deal with what life throws at them. But we cannot do it alone.. just like these moms cannot do it alone.

We give this to our members for free because we don't believe that moms should have to pay to get this kind of support... but that doesn't mean that that it's cost free for us to provide it. We have moms who can't donate... and we understand that. We also have moms who already give their time to our organization, and we do not want to ask them to give more... they make your support possible! If you can give, give for yourself and another mom. Your donation means that these moms and tens of thousands of moms just like them can come here tomorrow and get the support they need!


Click here to donate now!

* Some of the details have been changed to protect the identity of our members and have been used with the permission of those members Our mission: To provide a safe, secure, FREE place for mothers to find support and encouragement from other mothers and to empower them to be better women, mothers and community leaders.

Lessons from a Stressed-Out Mommy!

2014-05-01T00:04:00.001-04:00

I've had it. The smile has disappeared from my face and I am in a twisty-twirly spiral of self-doubt and the words echo through my brain like a mantra I know too well.

I can't do it all....

Those aren't the words of the Mommy I show the rest of the world. To the rest of the world, I am a rock. A pillar. A foundation. But inside, I am crumbling. The dozens of masks I put on... complete parent to my children, loving partner to my spouse, absolute provider to my family, dedicated employee to my job, willing volunteer to the schools and clubs, kind and thoughtful neighbor, generous and loving daughter, giving and supportive friend... I'm exhausted and I'm sick of constantly sacrificing myself. I have to be these things- all of these things- and I don't know which one to let go of ( or even if I can let go of) without feeling like I've disappointed everyone. And in my mind, I spin.

...But I have to do it all.

This is where I have been. Tied up in knots. Caught in a race with myself. Unable to feel any satisfaction because everything I did, even if it was good, was never good enough. And the path out of my Stressed-Out Mommy Syndrome was simple. I just wanted someone else who understood it all.

There is a relief that comes with having someone who tells you that you are not alone. The reason is that within struggle lies a feeling of solitude..and not the good kind of solitude I get when the kids are in bed and I can have a moment of peace. The bad solitude... the lonely solitude. People, by nature, long for connection, especially in times of struggle. And during those times, the best connection is made by simply acknowledging that my struggle is hard. And that I am not alone in thinking that.

What lessons have I learned? Three simple things:

- Admit the struggle. Every time you think the world is depending on you, stop telling yourself that you can't show that to the rest of the world. Stop thinking that you don't deserve support, because you do. We all do.

- Don't underestimate the power of connection. Connecting with other people is key, and finding a place where you can let down the masks, and what you get back is that you are not alone; it's vital to overcoming struggle that you not feel like you are walking the path by yourself.

- You only get what you are willing to give. When we connect, we cannot simply expect to take and never give. Connection is about exchange.... others being there when we need them, and showing up when others need us. With this, we create our own safe space. Our own community of people we can turn to.

This is what we do at The Mommies Network. When we started, we didn't do it to get the latest slow-cooker recipe or to debate about the whether we return shopping carts or not. We did it because we recognized that connections matter, and that women ( and especially mothers!) find it difficult to connect in a meaningful way unless we have a place to be honest about our struggles. And nobody can understand the struggle of a mother like another mother. When I talk about the twisty-twirly spiral of self-doubt, that is a place that almost every other mother recognizes. When I say I can't do it all but I have to do it all, millions of other mothers know this feeling... because they feel it too.

We Get It

We've Been There

This month, The Mommies Network is launching in annual May is for Mothers campaign focused on one idea... the letting go of the Mommy Myth. The Mommy Myth is simply that we don't need help and support. What we do is give you a safe space to let go of your Mommy Myths. A place to come with your struggles and have a community of moms who understand why it's so hard who can rally around you and say the thing you need to hear... that you are not alone.

We are YOUR Community

We are asking for a donation- whatever you can afford- so that we can continue to keep "the lights on and the doors open", for you and for every other moms in our communities. If you have received support, or watched other moms benefit from simply having a place where they can be honest about their struggles, please make even a small donation. We want to keep doing this year after year, but we can't do it without your help.

Click on a mom YOU identify with to help us keep doing what we love.... supporting you!

Now Thru 3/31- earn $5 for The Mommies Network by purchasing from Amazon!!!!

2014-03-24T09:44:00.001-04:00

The Mommies Network

Now through 3/31, make an Amazon purchase through The Mommies Network Amazon Smiles page, and Amazon will donate $5 to the organization we love so dearly ( in addition to the 0.5% we receive regularly). If you are making a purchase from Amazon ( including Prime purchases), please use this link to earn TMN $5!!!

HOW EASY IS THAT!!!!

Click Banner to sign up now to start earning money by shopping at Amazon for The Mommies Network!

Noel Bullard

noel.bullard@themommiesnetwork.org

Skype: noelbullard

Director of Fund Development

The Mommies Network

http://www.themommiesnetwork.org

11524-C Providence Rd #248
Charlotte, NC 28277

Phone: (704) 719-9771

Check out our latest deals from our TMN Affiliates!

2014-02-12T22:06:00.001-05:00

ᐧ

Fall Family Fun!

2013-11-06T16:57:00.001-05:00

Autumn is in full swing, and with it comes crisp weather, football, harvest activities, and lots of opportunity for family fun! There are several ways you can get out and enjoy this cooler season. Here are some of my ideas, and we'd love to hear yours if you'd like to share!

Take a nature walk- there are several areas around town that you could take the family for a nice stroll. Some suggested locations would be Ijams Nature Center, the UT Arboretum in Oak Ridge, UT Gardens, the Knoxville Botanical Gardens, and numerous other greenways or walking trails in Knoxville and up in the Great Smokey Mountains National Park.

Take a camping trip- get out and enjoy the cooler weather that fall brings before it gets too chilly for the kids.

Have a bonfire- make sure you follow your county guidelines on fires, but having a bonfire is a lot of fun. Let the kids help roast weiners and marshmallows, make yummy s'mores, and just spend some time together.

Go on a leaf hunt- find that perfect leaf for pressing, doing a rubbing of with crayons, making a mobile, or even making leaf people. Or rake all the leaves in a pile and take turns jumping in.

Host a football party- it is that time of year, and whether you want to get together with friends to watch a local rec league, college team, or the NFL team of your choice, it's the perfect time to get together and enjoy yummy snacks and a little rivalry between friends. You could even throw together your own football game with your friends and family in the backyard.

Take the Kids Pinecone Collecting - visit a local park or even your own backyard and let the kids gather up some pinecones. You can use their collected treasures for fun crafts, like making pinecone bird feeders to hang outdoors for your feathered friends, painting them or scenting them and placing in a bowl for decoration, or even use them to make a cute pinecone turkey for your Thanksgiving decor!

Work on your spring garden - get the kids outdoors to dig in the dirt and plant some bulbs in your flower beds to get an advanced start on your spring gardens.

Enjoy some yummy fall foods - Bring the kids in the kitchen and let them help out with making some delicious foods that are perfect for fall. Try making apple butter, apple pie, pumpkin pies or breads,

What fun fall things are on your family's list this autumn? Feel free to share your ideas! Happy Fall Y'all!!!

Taco Stew

2013-11-04T12:48:00.001-05:00

Here is a delicious recipe perfect for the colder weather. It freezes very well too, so make some extra to pop in the freezer and you'll have a trouble-free meal for another night!

Taco Stew

2 pounds ground beef
2 cans pintos (do not drain)
1 can black beans (do not drain)
2 cans whole kernal corn (do not drain)
1 large onion, diced
1 packet taco seasoning
1 (15oz) can tomato sauce
3 cans mexican-style tomatoes, pureed in a blender til smooth
1 can Rotel tomatoes with green chiles
2 cups water (optional if you'd like to unthicken stew to make more soupy)

Topping options: shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, and tortilla chips

1. Over medium heat, brown ground beef with the diced onion and a dash of garlic powder. Drain off grease. Put meat/onion mix into a big mixing bowl, setting aside.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together tomato sauce and taco seasoning. Add to the meat in the mixing bowl and stir well.
3. Add the pinto beans, black beans, and corn with their juices to the meat mix and stir.
4. Add the pureed tomatoes and the tomatoes with green chiles. Stir well. (You can freeze at this point if you'd like. Before cooking, thaw, and proceed as follows. I usually double the recipe and end up with dinner one night and several bags frozen in the freezer for later.)
5. Put into a big pot over low to medium-low heat. Up to 2 cups of water can be added at this point if you want to unthicken and make more of a soup, but I find it is pretty soupy as it is. Simmer for 1 1/2 hours until hot and bubbly, stirring occasionally.

When serving, top with cheese and sour cream, and serve with tortilla chips.