tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-131448482854616632014-09-03T02:08:55.112-06:00ElPasoMommiesThe Mommies Networkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06288205116523041856noreply@blogger.comBlogger135125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13144848285461663.post-85358133020260222942014-08-20T13:17:00.001-06:002014-08-26T10:53:58.912-06:00Crafty Kids: DIY Shaving Cream Paint Creations #crafts #kids<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div dir="ltr"><div dir="ltr" style="font-family: arial,sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><div></div><br /></div><div dir="ltr" style="font-family: arial,sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><br /></div><div dir="ltr"><div dir="ltr" style="font-family: arial,sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><div dir="ltr"><a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=6182247459803125163" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;" target="_blank"></a><a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=6182247459803125163" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;" target="_blank"></a><a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=6182247459803125163" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;" target="_blank"></a><a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=6182247459803125163" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;" target="_blank"></a><a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=6182247459803125163" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;" target="_blank"></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>Crafty Kids: DIY Shaving Cream Paint Creations</b></div><div style="text-align: center;">Rheney Williams-Guest Blogger</div><div style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=13144848285461663" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lD7Fwt7EOwg/UqqggbuqfrI/AAAAAAAAJzA/1Q939LBxq3w/s1600/Intro.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" class="" height="300" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lD7Fwt7EOwg/UqqggbuqfrI/AAAAAAAAJzA/1Q939LBxq3w/s400/Intro.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><span style="font-family: inherit;">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 </span><span style="font-family: inherit;">paintings? </span><br /><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div dir="ltr" style="font-family: arial,sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">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. </span></div><div dir="ltr"><br /><div style="clear: both; font-family: arial,sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-v4p_m5rBndM/UqqoviVBHeI/AAAAAAAAJzQ/6swfdH9uIdg/s1600/Marbling.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" class="" height="300" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-v4p_m5rBndM/UqqoviVBHeI/AAAAAAAAJzQ/6swfdH9uIdg/s400/Marbling.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="clear: both; font-family: arial,sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-align: center;"><br /></div><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px;">Gather the materials for your shaving cream paint projects. You'll need: </span><br /><ul><li style="font-family: arial,sans-serif; font-size: 13px; margin-left: 15px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Foam Shaving Cream (not the gel)</span></li><li style="font-family: arial,sans-serif; font-size: 13px; margin-left: 15px;"> <span style="font-family: inherit;">Paints in an assortment of colors</span></li><li style="margin-left: 15px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Heavy </span><span style="font-family: arial, sans-serif;">card stock</span><span style="font-family: inherit;"> or construction paper</span></li><li style="font-family: arial,sans-serif; font-size: 13px; margin-left: 15px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Spatula or ruler</span></li><li style="font-family: arial,sans-serif; font-size: 13px; margin-left: 15px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Skewer or little fingers!</span></li><li style="font-family: arial,sans-serif; font-size: 13px; margin-left: 15px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Large cookie sheet or use smaller individual trays, one for each child</span></li></ul><div style="clear: both; font-family: arial,sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fSfPPt_MYG8/UrGADhFGjdI/AAAAAAAAJ1M/sdBwS5rNqpo/s1600/Supplies.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" class="" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fSfPPt_MYG8/UrGADhFGjdI/AAAAAAAAJ1M/sdBwS5rNqpo/s400/Supplies.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="clear: both; font-family: arial,sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-align: center;"><br /></div><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px;"><b>Tip:</b> 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! </span><br /><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px;"> 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. </span><br /><div style="clear: both; font-family: arial,sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=6182247459803125163" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"></a></span></div><div style="clear: both; font-family: arial,sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=6182247459803125163" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"></a></span></div><div style="clear: both; font-family: arial,sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=6182247459803125163" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"></a></span></div><div style="clear: both; font-family: arial,sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=6182247459803125163" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"></a></span></div><div style="clear: both; font-family: arial,sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vPUu-ozJbiA/UrF_7pRt13I/AAAAAAAAJ00/y3Do8ENKkyk/s1600/Shaving+Cream.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" class="" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vPUu-ozJbiA/UrF_7pRt13I/AAAAAAAAJ00/y3Do8ENKkyk/s400/Shaving+Cream.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><span style="font-family: arial, sans-serif;">2. Add a few random dots of paint or food coloring around the shaving cream palette. </span><br /><div style="clear: both; font-family: arial,sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-align: center;"></div><div style="clear: both; font-family: arial,sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TSJSbORU_N8/UrF_-gztWCI/AAAAAAAAJ1E/J-fQszSmG4c/s1600/Paint+Dots.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" class="" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TSJSbORU_N8/UrF_-gztWCI/AAAAAAAAJ1E/J-fQszSmG4c/s400/Paint+Dots.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px;"><b>Tip:</b> 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! </span><br /><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px;"> 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. </span><br /><div style="clear: both; font-family: arial,sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DIfANNY89Jg/UrF_9XU8BnI/AAAAAAAAJ08/EOyglO8PqOg/s1600/Smeared+Paint.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" class="" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DIfANNY89Jg/UrF_9XU8BnI/AAAAAAAAJ08/EOyglO8PqOg/s400/Smeared+Paint.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px;">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. </span><br /><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px;"><br /> </span><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px;">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. </span><br /><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px;">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! </span><br /><div style="clear: both; font-family: arial,sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XNu1A7X1CI8/UrGFgWor3iI/AAAAAAAAJ1Y/oYq2lfW_g8Q/s1600/Marbling.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" class="" height="300" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XNu1A7X1CI8/UrGFgWor3iI/AAAAAAAAJ1Y/oYq2lfW_g8Q/s400/Marbling.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="clear: both; font-family: arial,sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-align: center;"><br /></div><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px;">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. </span><br /><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px;">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: </span><br /><ul><li style="font-family: arial,sans-serif; font-size: 13px; margin-left: 15px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Make DIY bookmarks to give as Christmas gifts to the readers you love</span></li><li style="font-family: arial,sans-serif; font-size: 13px; margin-left: 15px;"> <span style="font-family: inherit;">Use the brown paper bags from the grocery store in your shaving cream paint project and have unique book covers for school next year</span></li><li style="margin-left: 15px;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px;">Frame it so you always have a custom piece of art in your office or </span><span style="font-family: arial, sans-serif;">work space</span></li><li style="font-family: arial,sans-serif; font-size: 13px; margin-left: 15px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">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</span></li></ul><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px;">What other cool things can you and your kids come up with for shaving cream paint creations? </span><br /><b style="font-family: arial,sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><br /></b><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px;"><b>Rheney Williams</b> 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 <a href="http://www.homedepot.com/b/Paint-Craft-Supplies-Faux-Painting/N-5yc1vZc61w" target="_blank">home decor</a>.</span><br /><div style="clear: both; font-family: arial,sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-anhglE4UsCc/UVfkkAMgACI/AAAAAAAAG_g/KWFvR2b-vX8/s1600/Leslieblogeditortmn.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="80" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-anhglE4UsCc/UVfkkAMgACI/AAAAAAAAG_g/KWFvR2b-vX8/s320/Leslieblogeditortmn.jpg" width="320" /></a></div></div><a href="http://ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?ServiceVersion=20070822&MarketPlace=US&ID=V20070822%2FUS%2Fhttpwwwthe02d-20%2F8010%2F39a6c507-87f7-4a3f-bbf4-30175bb9d1d8&Operation=NoScript" style="font-family: arial,sans-serif; font-size: 13px;" target="_blank">Amazon.com Widgets</a></div><div style="font-family: arial,sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><br /></div></div></div>The Mommies Networkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09074504472001127761noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13144848285461663.post-5293258618287419112014-07-16T18:49:00.001-06:002014-07-16T18:49:36.388-06:00Are you a Business Owner? Now Sponsorship is easier (and cheaper) than ever!!!!<div dir="ltr"><div><span style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:large">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.</span><br style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:10.909090995788574px"> <span style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:large"><br></span><span style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:10.909090995788574px"></span><span style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:large">That could be you! Sponsorship is a really inexpensive option to marketing, and this week, it's even more affordable.</span><br style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:10.909090995788574px"> <span style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:large"><br></span><span style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:10.909090995788574px"></span><span style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:large">Now until <span class="" tabindex="0"><span class="">July 23rd</span></span>, 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!!!! </span><br style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:10.909090995788574px"> <br style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:10.909090995788574px"><span style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:large">And, we try to make it really easy for you.</span><br style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:10.909090995788574px"> <span style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:large"><br></span><span style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:10.909090995788574px"></span><span style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:large">Simply <a href="https://www.formstack.com/forms/?1580449-xDC8EepeLP" target="_blank">Click Here</a> 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!</span><br style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:10.909090995788574px"> <br style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:10.909090995788574px"><span style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:large">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!! </span><br style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:10.909090995788574px"> <span style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:large"><br></span><span style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:10.909090995788574px"></span><span style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:large">An entire year of presentation to our members for as little as $10.... how can you NOT afford to!</span><span style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:10.909090995788574px"> </span><br> </div><div><span style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:10.909090995788574px"><br></span></div><div><a href="https://www.formstack.com/forms/?1580449-xDC8EepeLP" target="_blank" style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:large">Click Here</a> <span style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:large">to order your sponsorship today.</span><span style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:10.909090995788574px"><br> </span></div><br> </div> The Mommies Networkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09074504472001127761noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13144848285461663.post-24113430340648131232014-05-29T11:02:00.001-06:002014-05-29T11:02:58.439-06:00WANNA CHANGE YOUR USERNAME? NOW IS YOUR CHANCE!!!!!<div dir="ltr"><span style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:10.909090995788574px">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!!!</span><br style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:10.909090995788574px"> <br style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:10.909090995788574px"><div style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:10.909090995788574px;clear:both;text-align:center"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fwIkDJxVKd4/U4dnekgARqI/AAAAAAAAAK8/G6lSkryPy_o/s1600/name+change.jpg" target="_blank" style="margin-left:1em;margin-right:1em"><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fwIkDJxVKd4/U4dnekgARqI/AAAAAAAAAK8/G6lSkryPy_o/s1600/name+change.jpg" height="306" width="400"></a></div> <br style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:10.909090995788574px"><br style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:10.909090995788574px"><span style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:10.909090995788574px">If you make a $25 donation before </span><span class="" tabindex="0" style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:10.909090995788574px"><span class="">11:59pm on May 31st</span></span><span style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:10.909090995788574px">, you can change your username by simply forwarding your donation receipt to </span><a href="mailto:heather@themommiesnetwork.org" target="_blank" style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:10.909090995788574px">heather@themommiesnetwork.org</a><span style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:10.909090995788574px">!</span><br style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:10.909090995788574px"> <br style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:10.909090995788574px"><span style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:10.909090995788574px">Yeah- it's really that easy!!!</span><br style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:10.909090995788574px"> <br style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:10.909090995788574px"><span style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:10.909090995788574px">Visit </span><a href="http://themommiesnetwork.causevox.com/" target="_blank" style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:10.909090995788574px">http://themommiesnetwork.causevox.com</a><span style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:10.909090995788574px"> to make your donation right now!!! </span></div> The Mommies Networkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09074504472001127761noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13144848285461663.post-58425529860309251472014-05-08T09:19:00.001-06:002014-05-08T09:19:58.885-06:00Are you part of the 99%?<div dir="ltr"><span style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px">How would you feel if I told you that less than 1% of the people around you cared about what you need?</span><br style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px"> <br style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px"><span style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px">Far too often, we feel the impact of standing alone and just </span><i style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px">wish</i><span style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px"> 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 </span><i style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px">us</i><span style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px">, we tend to pass it right by.</span><br style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px"> <br style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px"><span style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px">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, </span><b style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px">less than 350</b><span style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px"> 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 </span><i style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px">you</i><span style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px">?</span><br style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px"> <br style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px"><span style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px">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 </span><i style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px">you</i><span style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px"> need. </span><br style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px"> <br style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Jnd82jEjrxU/U2uWwnQHuoI/AAAAAAAAAKk/S4ASWScHV7k/s1600/932d04a4490aeaaedcca918b454823a0.jpg" target="_blank" style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px;clear:left;float:left;margin-bottom:1em;margin-right:1em"><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Jnd82jEjrxU/U2uWwnQHuoI/AAAAAAAAAKk/S4ASWScHV7k/s1600/932d04a4490aeaaedcca918b454823a0.jpg" height="316" width="320"></a><span style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px">Forget the money, because it's not about the money. It's about apathy. The indifference of saying 'I don't need to </span><i style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px">do anything</i><span style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px"> because someone else will take care of it and I'll still get what I need'. </span><b style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px">Do any of us really want to be <i>that </i>person?</b><br style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px"> <br style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px"><span style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px">Are you satisfied knowing that select few people are more invested in your support than you are? </span><br style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px"> <br style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px"><span style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px">This week, the conversation we are having on the forums is asking our members to make a commitment. We are asking one simple question:</span><br style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px"> <br style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px"><span style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px"> "What will you do to make </span><i style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px">your</i><span style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px"> community better?"</span><br style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px"> <br style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px"><div style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px;clear:both;text-align:center"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--uQZUEdajF4/U2uWwsSRgGI/AAAAAAAAAKo/I8_W92qDF-U/s1600/you-must-be-the-change-you-wish-to-see-in-the-world-1024x576.jpg" target="_blank" style="clear:right;float:right;margin-bottom:1em;margin-left:1em"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/--uQZUEdajF4/U2uWwsSRgGI/AAAAAAAAAKo/I8_W92qDF-U/s1600/you-must-be-the-change-you-wish-to-see-in-the-world-1024x576.jpg" height="180" width="320"></a></div> <b style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px">It doesn't have to be money! </b><span style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px">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.</span><br style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px"> <br style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px"><span style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px">Or you can give a few bucks and know for the next year that you were </span><i style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px">not</i><span style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px"> 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.</span><br style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px"> <br style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px"><a href="http://themommiesnetwork.causevox.com/" target="_blank" style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px">Give today so you can receive <span class=""><span class="">tomorrow</span></span>.</a><span style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px"> </span><br style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px"> <br style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px"><a href="http://themommiesnetwork.causevox.com/" target="_blank" style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px">Get Support. Give Support. The Mommies Network. </a><br style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px"> <br style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px"><div><br></div> </div> The Mommies Networkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09074504472001127761noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13144848285461663.post-62810920327094349482014-05-06T08:44:00.001-06:002014-05-06T08:44:14.632-06:00I Don't Like Mothers Day<div dir="ltr"><span style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px">Let me tell you why.</span><br style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px"><br style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px"><span style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px">I don't want to sound ungrateful- I really don't! But, I could do </span><i style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px">without</i><span style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px"> 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?)</span><br style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px"> <br style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px"><span style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px">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!</span><br style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px"> <br style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px"><span style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px">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.</span><br style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px"> <br style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px"><span style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px">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.</span><br style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px"> <br style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px"><span style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px">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 </span><i style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px">saving</i><span style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px"> 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.</span><br style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px"> <br style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px"><span style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px">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!</span><br style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px"> <br style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px;margin-left:auto;margin-right:auto;text-align:center"><tbody><tr> <td><a href="https://www.facebook.com/sharer/sharer.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fdisq.us%2F8iabni" target="_blank" style="margin-left:auto;margin-right:auto"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RGzPn6ewruo/U2jwItDh4vI/AAAAAAAAAKQ/-cCUbSTgvmg/s1600/mothersDay1.jpg" height="264" width="320"></a></td> </tr><tr><td><a href="https://www.facebook.com/sharer/sharer.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fdisq.us%2F8iabni" target="_blank">Click here to Share this image on your Facebook Wall</a></td></tr></tbody></table><br style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px"> <table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px;margin-left:auto;margin-right:auto;text-align:center"><tbody><tr><td><a href="https://www.facebook.com/sharer/sharer.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fdisq.us%2F8iabo9" target="_blank" style="margin-left:auto;margin-right:auto"><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vqqCAUll-sY/U2jwIlFFSFI/AAAAAAAAAKM/oWk9hdUMG6M/s1600/mothersDay2.jpg" height="264" width="320"></a></td> </tr><tr><td><a href="https://www.facebook.com/sharer/sharer.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fdisq.us%2F8iabo9" target="_blank">Click here to Share this image on your Facebook Wall</a></td></tr></tbody></table><br style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px"> <br style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px"><br style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px"></div> The Mommies Networkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09074504472001127761noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13144848285461663.post-64636730002168247562014-05-03T09:41:00.001-06:002014-05-03T09:41:06.673-06:00Tales from our Supermoms<div dir="ltr"><span style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:x-small"><span style="font-family:Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif">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*...</span></span><br style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px"> <span style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:x-small"><span style="font-family:Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif"><br></span></span><span style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px"></span><blockquote style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px"> <span style="font-size:x-small"><span style="font-family:Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif">" <span style="line-height:18px">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. </span><br style="line-height:18px"> <br style="line-height:18px"><span style="line-height:18px">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...."</span></span></span></blockquote> <span style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:x-small"><span style="font-family:Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif"><span style="line-height:18px"> </span></span></span><br style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px"> <blockquote style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px"><span style="font-size:x-small"><span style="font-family:Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif"><span style="line-height:18px"></span><span style="line-height:18px">"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."</span></span></span></blockquote> <br style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px"><blockquote style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px"><span style="font-size:x-small"><span style="font-family:Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif"><span style="line-height:18px"></span><span style="line-height:18px">"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."</span></span></span></blockquote> <br style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px"><blockquote style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px"><span style="font-size:x-small"><span style="font-family:Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif"><span style="line-height:18px">"</span><span style="line-height:18px">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,....</span></span></span></blockquote> <blockquote style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px"><span style="font-size:x-small"><span style="font-family:Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif"><span style="line-height:18px">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. <br> <br>That's really such an amazing thing TMN provides, for their members to get and give support, for FREE! "</span></span></span></blockquote><br style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px"><span style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:x-small"><span style="font-family:Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif"><span style="line-height:18px">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.</span></span></span><br style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px"> <span style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:x-small"><span style="font-family:Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif"><span style="line-height:18px"><br></span></span></span><span style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px"></span><span style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:x-small"><span style="font-family:Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif"><span style="line-height:18px">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! </span><span style="background-color:rgb(255,246,234);color:black;line-height:18px"><span style="background-color:white">If you can give, give for yourself and another mom. <a href="http://themommiesnetwork.causevox.com/" target="_blank">Your donation means that these moms and tens of thousands of moms just like them can come here <span class=""><span class="">tomorrow</span></span> and get the support they <i>need</i>!</a></span></span></span></span><br style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px"> <br style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px;margin-left:auto;margin-right:auto;text-align:center"><tbody><tr> <td><a href="http://themommiesnetwork.causevox.com/" target="_blank" style="margin-left:auto;margin-right:auto"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/--wxCBxgsSgc/U2OYZP_sw0I/AAAAAAAAAJk/6h14czdBSLk/s1600/AA_cover_2014_v5.jpg" height="236" width="640"></a></td> </tr><tr><td><a href="http://themommiesnetwork.causevox.com/" target="_blank">Click here to donate now!</a></td><td> </td></tr></tbody></table><span style="background-color:rgb(255,246,234);color:black;font-family:Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;font-size:12px;line-height:18px"><span style="background-color:white">* 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: </span></span><span style="color:black;font-family:Arial,Helevetic,sans-serif;font-size:14.399999618530273px">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.</span><br style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px"> <span style="background-color:rgb(255,246,234);color:black;font-family:Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;font-size:12px;line-height:18px"><span style="background-color:white"> </span></span><span style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px"> </span><br clear="all"> <div><br></div><br> </div> The Mommies Networkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09074504472001127761noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13144848285461663.post-58869119909953151002014-04-30T22:04:00.001-06:002014-04-30T22:04:32.255-06:00Lessons from a Stressed-Out Mommy!<div dir="ltr"><span style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px">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.</span><br style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px"> <table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px;float:right;margin-left:1em;text-align:right"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align:center"><a href="http://themommiesnetwork.causevox.com/" style="clear:right;margin-bottom:1em;margin-left:auto;margin-right:auto" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-x1omytMfdCg/U16QKDNIjPI/AAAAAAAAAII/-ZiP0rHL4K8/s1600/sh2+%25282%2529.jpg" height="124" width="200"></a></td> </tr><tr><td style="text-align:center"><a href="http://themommiesnetwork.causevox.com/" target="_blank"> </a></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px"></span><br style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px"> <i style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px">I can't do it all....</i><br style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px"><br style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px;float:left;margin-right:1em"> <tbody><tr><td style="text-align:center"><a href="http://themommiesnetwork.causevox.com/" style="clear:left;margin-bottom:1em;margin-left:auto;margin-right:auto" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GaUow486vvg/U16QJ7p2YiI/AAAAAAAAAH0/nQBai23QavQ/s1600/s2+(2).jpg" height="133" width="200"></a></td> </tr><tr><td style="text-align:center"><a href="http://themommiesnetwork.causevox.com/" target="_blank"> </a></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px">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</span><i style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px">. </i><span style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px">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</span><i style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px"> </i><span style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px">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</span><i style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px"> and </i><span style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px">I'm sick of constantly sacrificing myself.</span><i style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px"> </i><span style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px">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.</span><br style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px"> <br style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px"><i style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px">...But I have to do it all.</i><br style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px"><br style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px"> <table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px;float:right;margin-left:1em;text-align:right"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align:center"><a href="http://themommiesnetwork.causevox.com/" style="clear:right;margin-bottom:1em;margin-left:auto;margin-right:auto" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-R99mO-gpvGM/U16QIjeqUoI/AAAAAAAAAHg/MLJBlqfarYY/s1600/a2+(2).jpg" height="132" width="200"></a></td> </tr><tr><td style="text-align:center"><a href="http://themommiesnetwork.causevox.com/" target="_blank"> </a></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px">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 </span><i style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px">enough</i><span style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px">. And the path out of my Stressed-Out Mommy Syndrome was simple. I just wanted someone else who understood it all.</span><br style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px"> <br style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px"><span style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px">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.</span><br style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px"> <br style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px"><span style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px">What lessons have I learned? Three simple things:</span><br style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px"> <br style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px;float:left;margin-right:1em"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align:center"><a href="http://themommiesnetwork.causevox.com/" style="clear:left;margin-bottom:1em;margin-left:auto;margin-right:auto" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qSjXNhS1pMM/U16QI-44zvI/AAAAAAAAAHk/U4dBmfQFbVw/s1600/k2+(2).jpg" height="132" width="200"></a></td> </tr><tr><td style="text-align:center"><a href="http://themommiesnetwork.causevox.com/" target="_blank"> </a></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px">- </span><b style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px">Admit the struggle.</b><span style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px"> 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.</span><br style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px"> <br style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px"><br style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px"><br style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px"><br style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px"> <br style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px;float:left;margin-right:1em"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align:center"><a href="http://themommiesnetwork.causevox.com/" style="clear:left;margin-bottom:1em;margin-left:auto;margin-right:auto" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bcVb3Q1myD8/U16QJhFEweI/AAAAAAAAAIA/21zTg8FWzUU/s1600/n2+(2).jpg" height="135" width="200"></a></td> </tr><tr><td style="text-align:center"><a href="http://themommiesnetwork.causevox.com/" target="_blank"> </a></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px">- </span><b style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px">Don't underestimate the power of connection.</b><span style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px"> 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.</span><br style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px"> <br style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px"><br style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px;float:right;margin-left:1em;text-align:right"> <tbody><tr><td style="text-align:center"><a href="http://themommiesnetwork.causevox.com/" style="clear:left;margin-bottom:1em;margin-left:auto;margin-right:auto" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-F0U_EDkXheY/U16RSG35n1I/AAAAAAAAAIU/Q6fosbZSxVg/s1600/b3+(2).jpg" height="132" width="200"></a></td> </tr><tr><td style="text-align:center"><a href="http://themommiesnetwork.causevox.com/" target="_blank"> </a></td><td style="text-align:center"><a href="http://themommiesnetwork.causevox.com/" target="_blank"> </a></td></tr> </tbody></table><span style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px">- </span><b style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px">You only get what you are willing to give</b><span style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px">. 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.</span><br style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px"> <br style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px"><br style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px"><div style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px;clear:both;text-align:center"></div><div style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px"> 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>I can't do it all but I have to do it all</i>, millions of other mothers know this feeling... because they feel it too.</div> <br style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px"><br style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px;float:right;margin-left:1em;text-align:right"> <tbody><tr><td style="text-align:center"><a href="http://themommiesnetwork.causevox.com/" style="clear:right;margin-bottom:1em;margin-left:auto;margin-right:auto" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yBhethkEmRY/U16R4ZjDYVI/AAAAAAAAAI0/Mc3qJFtKn84/s1600/a33+(2).jpg" height="132" width="200"></a></td> </tr><tr><td style="text-align:center"><a href="http://themommiesnetwork.causevox.com/" target="_blank">We Get It</a></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px;float:left;margin-right:1em"> <tbody><tr><td style="text-align:center"><a href="http://themommiesnetwork.causevox.com/" style="margin-left:auto;margin-right:auto" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yuEsdwfFf-M/U16R1ytB9vI/AAAAAAAAAIg/IlsYR98K_Ao/s1600/a3+(2).jpg" height="132" width="200"></a></td> </tr><tr><td style="text-align:center"><a href="http://themommiesnetwork.causevox.com/" target="_blank">We've Been There</a></td></tr></tbody></table><br style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px"><div style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px;clear:both;text-align:center"> </div><div style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px;clear:both;text-align:center"></div><div style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px;clear:both;text-align:center"></div><br style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px"> <a href="http://themommiesnetwork.causevox.com/" style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px;clear:right;float:right;margin-bottom:1em;margin-left:1em" target="_blank"></a><span style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px">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.</span><br style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px"> <table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px;margin-left:auto;margin-right:auto;text-align:center"><tbody><tr><td><a href="http://themommiesnetwork.causevox.com/" style="margin-left:auto;margin-right:auto" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vZ3HdHB5OBE/U16R2HlY_JI/AAAAAAAAAIc/p8i_jQXTA5U/s1600/m4+(2).jpg" height="275" width="400"></a></td> </tr><tr><td><a href="http://themommiesnetwork.causevox.com/" target="_blank">We are YOUR Community</a></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px">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.</span><br style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px"> <br style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px"><span style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px">Click on a mom YOU identify with to help us keep doing what we love.... supporting you! </span><br style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px"> <table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px;float:right;margin-left:1em;text-align:right"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align:center"><a href="http://themommiesnetwork.causevox.com/" style="clear:right;margin-bottom:1em;margin-left:auto;margin-right:auto" target="_blank"><img alt="http://themommiesnetwork.causevox.com" border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5SnqQubwEtY/U2GF-WyQSeI/AAAAAAAAAJU/bBkNiX8j3vw/s1600/AA_blog_2014_v2.jpg" height="160" width="640"></a></td> </tr></tbody></table><div><br></div><br> </div> The Mommies Networkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09074504472001127761noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13144848285461663.post-32975771931417699272014-03-24T07:44:00.001-06:002014-03-24T07:54:25.593-06:00Now Thru 3/31- earn $5 for The Mommies Network by purchasing from Amazon!!!!<div dir="ltr"><div><div><a href="http://smile.amazon.com/ch/20-2584591" target="_blank"><img src="https://d1ev1rt26nhnwq.cloudfront.net/ccmtblv2.png" style="border-style: none;" /> </a></div><table style="height: 65px; text-align: center; vertical-align: middle; width: 300px;"> <tbody><tr><td style="vertical-align: middle;"><div style="max-height: 54px; overflow: hidden; padding-left: 10px; padding-right: 10px;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 26px; line-height: 26px;">The Mommies Network</span></div></td></tr></tbody></table></div><span style="font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 11px; line-height: 16.799999237060547px;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: 'lucida grande',tahoma,verdana,arial,sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">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!!!</span></span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 11px; line-height: 16.799999237060547px;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: 'lucida grande',tahoma,verdana,arial,sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">HOW EASY IS THAT!!!! </span> </span><br /><div><span style="font-family: sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 11px; line-height: 16.799999237060547px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span style="font-family: sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 11px; line-height: 16.799999237060547px;">Click Banner to sign up now to start earning money by shopping at Amazon for The Mommies Network!<br /> </span></span><br /></div></div>The Mommies Networkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09074504472001127761noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13144848285461663.post-13106688570123487122014-02-12T20:06:00.001-07:002014-02-12T20:06:10.459-07:00Check out our latest deals from our TMN Affiliates!<div dir="ltr"><a href="http://www.shareasale.com/r.cfm?b=498401&u=542119&m=46239&urllink=&afftrack=" target="_blank" style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px"><img border="0" src="http://www.shareasale.com/image/46239/300x250_1299Under.gif"></a><span style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px"> </span><a href="http://www.shareasale.com/r.cfm?b=505939&u=542119&m=47029&urllink=&afftrack=" target="_blank" style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px"><img alt="ABCmouse.com" border="0" src="http://www.shareasale.com/image/47029/abc300x250y.gif"></a><a href="http://www.shareasale.com/r.cfm?b=505909&u=542119&m=46239&urllink=&afftrack=" target="_blank" style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px"><img border="0" src="http://www.shareasale.com/image/46239/C8_BannerAd_BTS_300x250.jpg"></a><span style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px"> </span><a href="http://www.shareasale.com/r.cfm?b=418665&u=542119&m=42762&urllink=&afftrack=" target="_blank" style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px"><img alt="Shop For Small Hands" border="0" src="http://www.shareasale.com/image/42762/300x250FSHMomKidsTwigs.jpg"></a><a href="http://www.shareasale.com/r.cfm?b=538854&u=542119&m=46239&urllink=&afftrack=" target="_blank" style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px"><img border="0" src="http://www.shareasale.com/image/46239/JJ_BannerAd_300x250.jpg"></a><span style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px"> </span><a href="http://www.shareasale.com/r.cfm?b=557981&u=542119&m=50718&urllink=&afftrack=" target="_blank" style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px"><img alt="Instant Grammar Checker" border="0" src="http://www.shareasale.com/image/50718/banner_336x280_corrections.png"></a><a href="http://www.shareasale.com/r.cfm?b=458153&u=542119&m=29190&urllink=&afftrack=" target="_blank" style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px"><img alt="Craftsy " border="0" src="http://www.shareasale.com/image/29190/BL_Valentine_300x250_FINAL.jpg"></a><span style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px"> </span><a href="http://www.shareasale.com/r.cfm?b=512601&u=542119&m=29165&urllink=&afftrack=" target="_blank" style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px"><img alt="FamZoo Online Family Banking" border="0" src="http://www.shareasale.com/image/29165/prepaid_250x250_banking_static.jpg"></a><a href="http://www.shareasale.com/r.cfm?b=394776&u=542119&m=14469&urllink=&afftrack=" target="_blank" style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px"><img border="0" src="http://www.shareasale.com/image/14469/NA_fall_shopping_girl_300x250_00.gif"></a><span style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px"> </span><a href="http://www.shareasale.com/r.cfm?b=168623&u=542119&m=16334&urllink=&afftrack=" target="_blank" style="font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:11px"><img border="0" src="http://www.shareasale.com/image/312x250-banner2.jpg"></a><br clear="all"> <div><br></div><br> <div hspace="streak-pt-mark" style="max-height:1px"><img style="width:0px; max-height:0px;" src="https://mailfoogae.appspot.com/t?sender=noel.bullard%40themommiesnetwork.org&type=zerocontent&guid=9717270a-d761-43db-b7ae-3c876c36b784"><font color="#ffffff" size="1">ᐧ</font></div> </div> The Mommies Networkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09074504472001127761noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13144848285461663.post-83744467417100056632013-08-26T09:21:00.000-06:002013-08-26T09:21:02.658-06:00Invitation to free new website that helps moms better manage their kids’ group activities<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ORbCeNI543w/UhQvFWcImFI/AAAAAAAACLE/eWj5hfeAufA/s1600/tag_line%5B1%5D.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="98" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ORbCeNI543w/UhQvFWcImFI/AAAAAAAACLE/eWj5hfeAufA/s400/tag_line%5B1%5D.PNG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Hello Mommies,</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">I am a fellow member of the Mommies Network and the creator of a new website called </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><b>Podanize</b>, which helps moms, dads and group leaders better organize their kids'</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">group activities (e.g. soccer, scouts, school classes, etc.)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Kids today are overscheduled, and keeping up is a challenge: </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">• What day did I volunteer at school to go read with the kids? </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">• Who is driving to the scout meeting? </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">• When am I signed up to bring the team's snacks? </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">These are just a few of the many little details that busy parents have to keep straight. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Try as we might, something inevitably falls through the cracks. We all need a little help </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">to stay organized. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">I’d like to invite you to join our brand new website. To join, just go to <a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_1952879817">http://</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_1952879817"><br /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="http://www.podanize.com/">www.podanize.com</a> and click Get Started to create a "Pod" for any real-world group, or </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">even just your family for now. You can create a Pod if you’re a group leader or a group </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">member. It’s quick, easy and free. Then "get your Pod going" by adding discussions </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">or events, and inviting others to join your Pod. <b>Podanize</b> can also be accessed via a </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">mobile browser, and our mobile app will be available in late 2013. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Our mission at <b>Podanize</b> is to help ease the stress that comes with keeping our </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">kids active and involved. To this end, we welcome any feedback you have. Podanize </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">is for you and is built to get better over time by adding your suggestions – I’d love </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">to hear from you. Also, if you know of other moms (or dads) who might benefit from </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><b>Podanize</b>, please share this with them.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><b>Podanize</b> is ideal for all extra-curricular activities: soccer, little league, playgroups, scout </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">troops, swim teams, theater groups, school classes, PTA, etc. The list is endless and </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">includes anything with a need for ongoing communication and coordination.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Again, just go to <a href="http://www.podanize.com/">http://www.podanize.com</a> to get started.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Best,</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Nikki Sacks</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Co-Founder of Podanize</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="mailto:nikki@podanize.com">nikki@podanize.com</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ieDqFxvBULY/UhQvGgmP2bI/AAAAAAAACLM/BcTdoYZoyK0/s1600/Podanize%5B1%5D.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="140" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ieDqFxvBULY/UhQvGgmP2bI/AAAAAAAACLM/BcTdoYZoyK0/s400/Podanize%5B1%5D.PNG" width="400" /></a></div><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span>The Mommies Networkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06288205116523041856noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13144848285461663.post-30084332823913431442012-11-15T00:22:00.000-07:002012-11-15T00:22:00.468-07:00Making a list, Checking it twiceDon't get caught on the Naughty List because you forgot to order customized <a href="http://themommiesnetwork.org/santa/">Santa Letters</a> for all your favorite kids!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SnwNISkJdEk/UKNGqi15KiI/AAAAAAAAAEU/ZL1l-pfK8xk/s1600/letterimage.gif" imageanchor="1" style="clear:left; float:left;margin-right:1em; margin-bottom:1em"><img border="0" height="249" width="297" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SnwNISkJdEk/UKNGqi15KiI/AAAAAAAAAEU/ZL1l-pfK8xk/s320/letterimage.gif" /></a></div> For just $6 for the first letter and 10% off for each thereafter with the discount code SANTA, you can send the magic of Christmas to any child. A unique letter that you personalize will arrive from North Pole Station in Alaska in time for Christmas. Choose from a variety of themes including The Reason for the Season and School Days templates. Each one is special - just like the children.<br /><br />Act now before Santa gets too busy making toys and packing his sleigh! Ordering is open through Tuesday, November 20.<br /><br />Proceeds benefit The Mommies Network, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to providing 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.The Mommies Networkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11078374304298022892noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13144848285461663.post-84782435041335917612012-11-14T00:23:00.001-07:002012-11-14T00:23:43.928-07:00You better watch out; You better not crySanta Claus letters are coming to town!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5bWw4slDD-o/UKNG7aiYl7I/AAAAAAAAAEw/z-rPy8Hl6kg/s1600/letterimage.gif" imageanchor="1" style="clear:left; float:left;margin-right:1em; margin-bottom:1em"><img border="0" height="249" width="297" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5bWw4slDD-o/UKNG7aiYl7I/AAAAAAAAAEw/z-rPy8Hl6kg/s320/letterimage.gif" /></a></div> This year share the magic of the holidays with your favorite children by ordering personalized letters for each one. Each unique letter will be mailed from North Pole Station in Alaska in time for Christmas. For just $6 for the first letter and 10% off for each thereafter with the discount code SANTA, choose from one of our eight templates to customize the perfect letter for each child on your Nice List. Whether it be Baby's First Christmas or encouraging an older kid to Keep Believing, we've got the right message for Santa to send! And if you order more than one, use the discount code<br /><br />Santa gets very busy this time of year, so place your order by Tuesday, November 20. All proceeds benefit The Mommies Network, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to providing 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.<br /><br />Place your order today by clicking on our<a href="http://www.themommiesnetwork.org/santa"> Santa Letter</a> campaign here, on our forums, or through our <span style="color: red;"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/133646640117502/?fref=ts">facebook event</a></span> that you can share with all your friends and family.<br /><br />The Mommies Networkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11078374304298022892noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13144848285461663.post-30458083674489324802012-10-01T08:30:00.000-06:002012-10-02T10:36:19.291-06:00Want to Help Make a Difference?<span style="font-family: inherit;">More than 30,000 women have been touched by </span><a href="http://www.themommiesnetwork.org/" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: inherit;">The Mommies Network</span></a><span style="font-family: inherit;">. Our members have found friends when lonely, help when needy, answers when confused, comfort when grieving. All this is possible through 84 chapters nationwide that provide a safe and FREE place for moms to meet online and in real life.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: inherit;"></span><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Du98rG-Di_Q/UFyAFU96XSI/AAAAAAAABHk/x5LKAXCPvro/s1600/800px-Families05.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Du98rG-Di_Q/UFyAFU96XSI/AAAAAAAABHk/x5LKAXCPvro/s400/800px-Families05.jpg" width="400" /></a><span style="font-family: inherit;"></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Little things mean a lot to moms. That's why we are asking you to share your story and our </span><a href="http://bit.ly/U6D6B7" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: inherit;">fundraising campaign</span></a><span style="font-family: inherit;"> to help us grow and improve. Every $10 donation helps us connect moms to the resources they need to change the world - one family, one neighborhood, one community at a time. Each social media share, on average, helps us get $18 closer to our goal. So, please, take a moment to give us a boost.</span></div><br />Thanks for helping us make a difference for mommies, families, and communities across the country.The Mommies Networkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11078374304298022892noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13144848285461663.post-76239032575513970682012-09-27T12:30:00.001-06:002012-09-27T12:30:56.138-06:00TheMommiesNetwork Annual AppealMoms just like you are finding support, encouragement, and friendship every day on <a href="http://www.themommiesnetwork.org/" target="_blank">The Mommies Network</a>. What started with two new moms ten years ago has grown into a nationwide network of over 30,000 women! Where will we be in ten years?<br /><br /><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.blogger.com/null" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><a href="http://www.razoo.com/story/Annual-Appeal-2012-1" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9wAZvZMuqX4/UGB0FkKVJfI/AAAAAAAAAVQ/ppT6lpn4E3M/s1600/FBEvent_zpse8305dfd.jpg" /></a></div></div><br /><br />We are dedicated to providing valuable connections to all moms at no charge. In order to continue that, and to expand and improve our network, we rely on generous donations from the communities we reach. Please take a moment to view our <a href="http://www.razoo.com/story/Annual-Appeal-2012-1" target="_blank">fundraising campaign</a> and share it via social media or word-of-mouth. Just $10 keeps our network running for 80 minutes. That's enough time for a lonely mom to find a friend, a struggling mom to find support, a grieving mom to find a hug, and a searching mom to find answers.<br /><br />Thank you for supporting the network that supports moms. We are excited about sharing the next ten years with you!The Mommies Networkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11078374304298022892noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13144848285461663.post-38613521298917330172012-05-28T07:30:00.000-06:002012-05-28T07:30:03.646-06:00Time is running out!<div>Time is running out to vote for your favorite non-profit, The Mommies Network, in Eleventy Marketing Group's <a href="https://www.facebook.com/eleventygroup/app_289947384417182" target="_blank">Eleventy Group's 4Good contest</a> The winner will receive a free ONCORE marketing package to maximize fundraising- freeing up our volunteers to focus on our mission of providing a safe, secure, FREE place for mothers to find support and encouragement from other mothers and to empowering them to be better women, parents and community leaders. Fundraising not only provides technology upgrades to our expanding network, but it also goes to support all our Chapters and the "moms on the ground."</div><div>So join our <a href="https://www.facebook.com/#%21/events/310674799010659/" target="_blank">facebook event</a> to vote and share. Get those votes in by 11:59 p.m. EST and help us spread our wings!</div>The Mommies Networkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11078374304298022892noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13144848285461663.post-47142585393752801452012-05-25T14:36:00.002-06:002012-05-25T14:36:22.464-06:00We're on our way!We're soaring high with your help!<br /><br />The Mommies Network is in the running for a fundraising marketing package that will increase our development efforts. A free ONCORE package from <a href="https://www.facebook.com/eleventygroup/app_289947384417182" target="_blank">Eleventy Group's 4Good contest</a> will benefit all our members by raising funds with less effort. More money means a better network for mommies across the nation.<br /><br />Join our <a href="https://www.facebook.com/#%21/events/310674799010659/" target="_blank">facebook event</a> to vote and share. A minute of your time is all it takes.<br /><br />With gratitude,<br />The Mommies NetworkThe Mommies Networkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11078374304298022892noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13144848285461663.post-18039987059730536942012-05-21T08:39:00.001-06:002012-05-21T08:39:37.289-06:00The Mommies Network needs your help!The Mommies Network is a finalist non-profit in <a href="https://www.facebook.com/eleventygroup/app_289947384417182" target="_blank"><span style="color: #91ac3e;">Eleventy Group's 4Good contest</span></a> With a simple click to vote and another to share, you can help boost TMN's fundraising power. Better fundraising means technology upgrades, an expanding network, and more time for our volunteers to focus on what they do best: make mom-to-mom connections everyday.<br /><br />Join our <a href="https://www.facebook.com/#!/events/310674799010659/" target="_blank"><span style="color: #91ac3e;">facebook event</span></a> to spread the word that will help us spread our wings. Voting costs nothing but a minute of your time.<br /><br />From everyone at The Mommies Network, thanks for your support.The Mommies Networkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11078374304298022892noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13144848285461663.post-45274029504868049662012-04-21T00:31:00.001-06:002012-04-21T00:31:48.685-06:00"Beware of Turtle"<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-i0UjTW2Tzt4/T5H7rsh-MWI/AAAAAAAABAg/y9Unh9yGbEs/s1600/Turtle.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-i0UjTW2Tzt4/T5H7rsh-MWI/AAAAAAAABAg/y9Unh9yGbEs/s320/Turtle.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />Beware of Turtle<br />by Jessica Shenefield <br />first published in Crunchy Carolina, June 2008<br /><br />I have a soft spot for turtles. Though I recognize that it’s based purely upon influence, I like to joke that it’s hereditary. My mother had red-ear sliders from childhood till college. My sister has had a chinese box turtle since 1989. We were stewards of four precious young desert tortoises in the early 90's due to an over-breeding at a wildlife center. Turtles, lizards, and snakes—oh my! I have an affectionate fascination with all of them—and I’m passing it on to the next generation.<br /><br />For years now I’ve been encouraging my children to stop and smell the flowers, watch the ants, observe a spider, contemplate a wasp and photograph a butterfly. I point out vistas, pastures, yards, gardens, trees, hawks, vultures and livestock as we travel about on errands and road trips. I teach them to observe the wildlife but not harass it; including the vegetation. They are great about letting me know when they’ve happened upon something nifty and taking me to it for discussing, identifying and recording.<br /><br />My husband, on the other hand, will collect it and bring it to me. Such was the case with Snappy.<br /><br />One sunny Sunday afternoon in April my dear husband was standing in the doorway of our outbuilding when, marching across the driveway in front of him—at its full one-inch of height—was a hatchling turtle with a tail twice as long as its body. Being fully aware of my turtle amore' he plucked it up and brought it inside for identification as he’d never seen a turtle with such a long tail (we both originate from the left coast).<br /><br />It was a very young common snapping turtle and we started browsing big-box stores online for a terrarium to keep it in, then opted for CraigsList to find a used one instead. Snappy didn’t have time to wait for somebody to communicate via email so we put the turtle back where he had been found…and ten minutes later discovered another terrarium, with a phone number. Scooped Snappy back up (he hadn’t gone but a couple inches in all that time) and discussed it further; finally returning him—AGAIN—to the spot in the driveway where he’d been sighted. Snappy took the cue and bolted for the direction from whence he’d come. Twice picked up, once shy? <br /><br />Perhaps we’ve unintentionally ensured that he’ll not venture into the populated portion of our property in the future. In hindsight, had my dear husband been as well-trained as the kiddos, keeping Snappy would never have been an option; and I admit to being embarrassed that we’d ever considered making a pet of a wild critter—we’d resisted the temptation with other wild turtles. I suppose it was the draw of an extended science project…the ability to observe a turtle growing up and learning about their habitat more personally as we attempted to recreate it within captivity, but with wild turtles there is no returning them to the wild when you get tired of them or when they become unmanageable. Once you start keeping them you have to keep them till their end. If you try to return them to their natural habitat they most likely will not survive and they’ll be taking your germs. Call to mind the devastation on native tribes by early settlers—same story with wild critters turned pet, and later returned to the wild.<br /><br />That said, I still get tickled over the mental picture of a ‘Beware of Turtle’ sign at the top of the driveway. Perhaps we’ll install one anyway, and have the satisfaction of perplexing our neighbors…as well as a conversation starter that this is not our habitat alone.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CLaeVLRqWDI/T5H3PLpbAaI/AAAAAAAABAY/ab5sbSTo4DI/s1600/beware_of_painted_turtle_by_aquilla_whingate-d47qf3b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CLaeVLRqWDI/T5H3PLpbAaI/AAAAAAAABAY/ab5sbSTo4DI/s1600/beware_of_painted_turtle_by_aquilla_whingate-d47qf3b.jpg" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><i>About the author:<br />Jessica Shenefield, LMBT (NC License #8367) is a nature-loving, four-wheeling, homeschooling mama of three. <br />She occasionally paints, occasionally bakes, and occasionally blogs. <br />When she isn’t tromping about the countryside with her kids, or providing chair massage at local farmers’ markets, she is likely on Facebook. <br />Find her at <a href="http://pausenc.blogspot.com/">pauseNC.blogspot.com</a>.</i>The Mommies Networkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06288205116523041856noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13144848285461663.post-66414249247708769652012-03-04T08:30:00.001-07:002012-03-04T08:30:02.068-07:00March is Adult Literacy Month<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">One in seven American adults cannot read this blog according to the <a href="http://nces.ed.gov/naal/kf_demographics.asp">U.S. Department of Education's National Assessment of Adult Literacy</a>. The Mommies Network is teaming up with local organizations across the country this month to promote adult literacy. As leaders in our communities, we are dedicated to improving the world around us, one mom at a time.</span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Reading impacts our daily lives in ways many take for granted: From understanding a utility bill to helping a child with homework, literacy is an essential skill. Without reading, adults have difficulty finding a job or getting promoted, participating in their child's schooling, and keeping up with important local and world issues. Even grocery shopping can be a daunting task.</span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Imagine your day without the benefit of reading. Find ways you can volunteer your time, your talent, or your resources by visiting <a href="http://www.volunteerguide.org/hours/service-projects/adult-literacy">Volunteer Guide</a> and join The Mommies Network in promoting adult literacy.</span>The Mommies Networkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06288205116523041856noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13144848285461663.post-7582678885859349662012-03-02T08:00:00.000-07:002012-03-02T08:00:15.887-07:00How Does Your Garden Grow?<a href="http://img337.imageshack.us/img337/2387/flowerpowersmallgraphic.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://img337.imageshack.us/img337/2387/flowerpowersmallgraphic.jpg" /></a><a href="http://www.elpasomommies.com/">ElPasoMommies'</a> fabulous Flower Power fundraiser is drawing to a close, so if you haven't placed your order yet, now is the time! It's never too early to plan to improve your curb appeal or beautify your backyard. From begonias to tiger lilies and everything in between, Flower Power is the place for quality flower bulbs with a 100 percent money guarantee.<br /><br />This fundraiser runs until March 20, 2012, and your bulbs will arrive in April and May, just in time for beautiful summer blooms. Time is running out!<br /><br />Save time, money, and gas by planning your perfect garden from the comfort of your computer. Spring over to <a href="http://www.flowerpowerfundraising.com/i/t/240194/55psCeyq48kN">http://www.flowerpowerfundraising.com/i/t/240194/55psCeyq48kN</a>, and check out the wide array of lovely lilies and pretty peonies, among other bulbs. As a bonus, if you spend $40 or more, Flower Power will send you a free bag of 10 Twilight gladiolus, a $10 value.<br /><br />So what are you waiting for? Don't delay: Grow with us today!<br /><br /><i>Profits made through our fundraising link go toward our chapter's operating expenses.</i>The Mommies Networkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06288205116523041856noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13144848285461663.post-54863598122055085902012-02-28T17:00:00.001-07:002012-02-28T17:00:01.083-07:00Free Premium Membership Access for a Limited Time<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://img252.imageshack.us/img252/4356/smallimaget.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="179" src="http://img252.imageshack.us/img252/4356/smallimaget.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Ever wonder what's so special about Premium Access to the National Forum? For a limited time The Mommies Network is offering FREE access to premium content like Debate This and Buy/Sell/Swap to all members.</span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">See what you've been missing by logging on to <a href="http://www.themommiesnetwork.org/nationalforum/index.php">http://www.themommiesnetwork.org/nationalforum/index.php</a> and get started today.</span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Free Premium Access is available to all current and new members of The Mommies Network National Forum. <b>It is available NOW through April 30th.</b></span>The Mommies Networkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06288205116523041856noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13144848285461663.post-18045179374684601372012-02-15T08:00:00.000-07:002012-02-15T08:00:10.215-07:00Learn a New Language During Cultural Awareness Month!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://img823.imageshack.us/img823/3348/handslogo180.gif" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://img823.imageshack.us/img823/3348/handslogo180.gif" /></a></div><i>Bonjour! Ciao! Hola!</i> Have you been checking the <a href="http://www.themommiesnetwork.org/nationalforum/index.php" target="_blank">National Chapter</a> and participating in Cultural Awareness Month? In our <a href="http://www.themommiesnetwork.org/nationalforum/viewforum.php?f=45" target="_blank">Multicultural Mommies forum</a>, we’re talking about foreign languages and discovering fun facts about different cultures. Join the celebration, and add some new words and phrases to your linguistic repertoire!<br /><br />Do you have something to add to the conversation? Share your knowledge with other moms who are learning a language with their children. Go global with <a href="http://www.themommiesnetwork.org/" target="_blank">TMN</a> as we highlight the many languages and cultures that make our world wonderful!The Mommies Networkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06288205116523041856noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13144848285461663.post-56382403491741713852012-02-10T08:00:00.000-07:002012-02-10T08:00:16.027-07:00This Week With the Mommies<div class="separator" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.ElPasoMommies.com/forum/calendar.php" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DV4Mfjt48xk/TrLbn0pp9fI/AAAAAAAAAXM/8SH8kOG5mss/s1600/TWWTM.jpg" /></a></div><br />We chat online in a private forum — discussing everything from the best photographers to the worst temper tantrums and all that lies between — and meet up regularly at member-driven events around town. Whether it's a late-night commiseration about a crying baby (there are 4 a.m. posts to prove it) or a Moms' Night Out, <a href="http://www.ElPasoMommies.com/" target="_blank">ElPasoMommies</a> provides what our members need, when and how they need it.<br /><br />Click <a href="http://www.ElPasoMommies.com/forum/calendar.php" target="_blank">here</a> to go directly to our calendar, and stay up-to-date on all our events scheduled for this week.The Mommies Networkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06288205116523041856noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13144848285461663.post-17283701115799835972012-02-03T08:00:00.000-07:002012-02-03T08:00:03.415-07:00This Week With the Mommies<div class="separator" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.ElPasoMommies.com/forum/calendar.php" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DV4Mfjt48xk/TrLbn0pp9fI/AAAAAAAAAXM/8SH8kOG5mss/s1600/TWWTM.jpg" /></a></div><br />We chat online in a private forum — discussing everything from the best photographers to the worst temper tantrums and all that lies between — and meet up regularly at member-driven events around town. Whether it's a late-night commiseration about a crying baby (there are 4 a.m. posts to prove it) or a Moms' Night Out, <a href="http://www.ElPasoMommies.com/" target="_blank">ElPasoMommies</a> provides what our members need, when and how they need it.<br /><br />Click <a href="http://www.ElPasoMommies.com/forum/calendar.php" target="_blank">here</a> to go directly to our calendar, and stay up-to-date on all our events scheduled for this week.The Mommies Networkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06288205116523041856noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13144848285461663.post-57028495188136464692012-02-01T09:52:00.002-07:002012-02-01T09:52:48.488-07:00February Is Cultural Awareness Month!<a href="http://img823.imageshack.us/img823/3348/handslogo180.gif" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://img823.imageshack.us/img823/3348/handslogo180.gif" /></a><br />February is Cultural Awareness Month at <a href="http://www.themommiesnetwork.org/" target="_blank">The Mommies Network</a>, and we're thinking globally! Share a love for foreign language and different cultures with your child in our <a href="http://www.themommiesnetwork.org/nationalforum/viewforum.php?f=45" target="_blank">Multicultural Mommies forum</a> on our <a href="http://www.themommiesnetwork.org/nationalforum/" target="_blank">National Chapter</a>. Each week, we'll feature several languages and cultural tidbits. You may also participate and strengthen your language lingo in a special webinar. Additionally, our sponsor will provide information on how you can continue your language-learning experience after the month is over.<br /><br />According to Associated Content, brain research shows that children are at an optimal age for language learning. Although language study is effective at any age, some studies suggest that the human brain is more open to learning a foreign language from birth to preadolescence. Fortunately, researchers have not found an age in which the language window closes completely, especially in the areas of grammar and vocabulary.<br /><br />Take advantage of this opportunity to think globally, and join us as we learn about foreign languages and different ways of life during Cultural Awareness Month at TMN!The Mommies Networkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06288205116523041856noreply@blogger.com0