Working Class Parenting: Motivation, Education and Inspiration For Parents

As Leaders...

noreply@blogger.com (2330 Sutton Place) — Fri, 06 Sep 2013 12:59:00 +0000

As leaders in our homes, we should build memorable monuments with our children and we should also build those monuments for our children. Our children won’t reminisce about big events and big-ticket items. Rather, their hearts will be warmed by memories of the love, care, and companionship you showed them day to day.

YOLO - You’re Only Little Once

noreply@blogger.com (2330 Sutton Place) — Fri, 02 Aug 2013 15:54:00 +0000

1. This little boy who has had it with his grandma

2. This boy parallel parking like a boss

3. This kid who just doesn’t care.

4. This kid recovering from a fall.

5. This kid who had enough of her sister and her friend.

6. This kid who just trolled the other team

7. This boy trying to blow this dandelion

8. This little boy going down the stairs

9. This girl driving away

10. These girls who wanted to wake up their dad

11. This little boy who wanted to cool off

12. This aspiring gymnast

13. Her little brother who is jealous

14. This kid running away

15. This baby learning

16. This little boy stealing this lady’s baseball

17. This boy drifting like a boss

POST VIA BUZZFEED

Waiting...

noreply@blogger.com (2330 Sutton Place) — Wed, 31 Jul 2013 12:42:00 +0000

Post Courtesy of StayTeen.org

Sometimes it seems like everyone is doing it…especially if you’re not. But less than half of teens in high school (only 42% of girls and 43% of boys) have had sex. That means that more than half of all high school students are virgins. And the younger someone is, the more likely they’re a virgin. For example, less than one-third of teenagers age 17 and younger have had sex, while 60% of 18- and 19- year-olds have.

It’s okay not to have sex. In fact, not having sex is a great idea, especially if you want to avoid pregnancy or sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Of course there are all kinds of birth control methods that—when used carefully, correctly, and consistently—can protect you against pregnancy and decrease the risk of STIs. But not having sex is the only 100% proven method for avoiding pregnancy and STIs.
And while birth control can help protect your body, it can’t protect your feelings—and feelings are a big part of what can change when you have sex with someone. That’s one of the reasons that the majority of teens who have had sex say they wish they had waited longer…and we don’t just mean that they waited for marriage—just that they waited longer to get to know their partner or to be sure that they were ready to have sex in the first place.

Even though movies and TV and gossip at school can make it seems like everyone is having sex (or wants to), that’s not exactly true. In a recent survey of guys ages 15-18:

75% said they’d rather "wait to lose their virginity with someone they love," compared to 24% who said they would prefer to "lose their virginity as soon as possible."
66% said they would rather "have a girlfriend but NOT have sex" while just 34% said they would prefer "having sex but not have a girlfriend."
68% said they "could be happy in a serious relationship that doesn’t include sex."

And that’s not all. Even though girls often say they feel pressure from guys to go farther or do more than they want to, 85% of guys ages 15-18 say they have "more respect for girls who stop a hook-up if they aren’t ready or comfortable." And 80% of teen guys say they think there is "way too much pressure from society to have sex."

Sex can be complicated and confusing. That’s one of the reasons why three-quarters of teens—both guys and girls—say it’s not embarrassing to admit that they’re virgins. After all, good relationships are built on trust, communication, commitment, and spending time together enjoying things other than sex.
There are lots of reasons not to have sex besides not wanting to get pregnant or get someone else pregnant (although that’s a pretty good reason, too). Here are some of the most common reasons teens give for waiting:

I’m waiting for the right guy or girl.
I've got better things to do with my time.
It’s against my religious beliefs.
I think sex is something special that should be saved until you are married.
I’m worried about my reputation. I don’t want everybody to think I’m a slut.
I don’t want to catch an STI.
I want to make sure I’m in a lasting relationship first.
I just don’t feel like I’m ready yet.

God created marriage for the sake of safe guarding such a delicate, emotional and powerful drive. Encourage your teen regularly to protect the gift they have been given, which they will one day give to the love of their life.

Strong Fathers = Strong Churches

noreply@blogger.com (2330 Sutton Place) — Fri, 19 Jul 2013 02:21:00 +0000

Blog post courtesy of Legacy Dad. A great site empowering parents to raise spiritual champions.

What impact do fathers have on the family and the local church? Consider these statistics below:

43% of US children live without their father [US Department of Census]
90% of homeless and runaway children are from fatherless homes. [US D.H.H.S., Bureau of the Census]
80% of rapists motivated with displaced anger come from fatherless homes. [Criminal Justice & Behavior, Vol 14, pp. 403-26, 1978]
71% of pregnant teenagers lack a father. [U.S. Department of Health and Human Services press release, Friday, March 26, 1999]
63% of youth suicides are from fatherless homes. [US D.H.H.S., Bureau of the Census]
85% of children who exhibit behavioral disorders come from fatherless homes. [Center for Disease Control]
90% of adolescent repeat arsonists live with only their mother. [Wray Herbert, “Dousing the Kindlers,” Psychology Today, January, 1985, p. 28]
71% of high school dropouts come from fatherless homes. [National Principals Association Report on the State of High Schools]
75% of adolescent patients in chemical abuse centers come from fatherless homes. [Rainbows for all God’s Children]
70% of juveniles in state operated institutions have no father. [US Department of Justice, Special Report, Sept. 1988]
85% of youths in prisons grew up in a fatherless home. [Fulton County Georgia jail populations, Texas Department of Corrections, 1992]
Fatherless boys and girls are: twice as likely to drop out of high school; twice as likely to end up in jail; four times more likely to need help for emotional or behavioral problems. [US D.H.H.S. news release, March 26, 1999]

This fact is also true, if you get the fathers you get the whole family. If you want to make a lasting impact in your local community … start engaging with the Dads and getting them involved! Make churches attractive to Dads. Invest in the Dads and equip and empower them to be better men, spiritual leaders and show them how to raise great families.

Many of today’s fathers grew up without a positive male role model in their lives or many harbor emotional wounds from their own fathers harshness or inability to show love. Many parents often jump in the parenting river and start swimming upstream until ultimately they are floundering, tired and default to the helplessness and hopelessness mode. At this point they become “Google Parents” and simply look to books, churches or blogs like this for quick responses to specific problems and band-aid fixes for terminal cancer like parenting issues. While in the past, parents brought kids to church on Sunday full and on fire, now kids and parents are showing up empty.

What if we could prevent this from the beginning?
What if we could heal fathers and show them how to change their children and their family legacy?
What if the church and home become strategic partners?
What if we gave fathers a simple parenting roadmap, resources and measurable goals from birth to college?

Thank you Legacy Dad. The stability of a home starts with a father who has come to know the FATHER. More than ever it is critical that fathers engage their families beyond just their jobs. As fathers, our roles are so much more then just "providers" of finances, but we are also providers of Gods love, mercy and grace.

"Our children get their notions of the heavenly Father from their earthly dads."

Why Old Skool beats New School.

noreply@blogger.com (2330 Sutton Place) — Tue, 02 Jul 2013 14:11:00 +0000

Guest Post by Mike Ziadeh, husband, father of three and Youth Pastor @ Spring Lake Methodist Church Brooksville, FL

The most important part about writing is to create a clever title, something that wins in the battle of our ever restless attention span. Old school vs. New School, this could be describing any assortment of styles or competitions, but in this case I want to talk about parenting. Parenting styles have been the subject of scrutiny, study, insult, injury , and the source of blame for many generations, but none more so then our current age. This is a sign of the times. We are more introspective, more analytical, and in this highly therapeutic age, we are looking for a finger to point, and a explanation of our current behaviors. All of this leaves us, as parents, awkward, nervous, and unsure of our parenting ability. Many of us feel trapped. How do we do something that we have never seen modeled? (many men trying to be fathers) or How do we take on the task of parenting when many of us are trying to sort out the hurt that we may have experienced from our own parents?

We can spend endless hours and dollars on the latest trends, books, programs, apps etc.. but what it comes down to is having a God given assurance that if He entrusted us to be worthy of the blessing of children, then He is going to walk with us through this journey, and allow the experience to be one which is to His glory, and our sanctification. Let's face it, we all lash out, say things in anger, react, regret, and then wonder how we just mirrored our own parents, But God's grace see's us through every step of the process. The same way He allows for His grace to transform/renew our minds, He has given us children who will shape and mold us to His glory as well.

The kicker is that as we break bad patterns/behavior/abuses that we experienced, we are literally standing in the gap for our kids, and allowing our children the blessing of living in a Godly home. As a parent it is important to have the "buck stops here" mentality in regard to curses, abuse, and in general a lack of godliness. Despite our own upbringing, we are responsible for the gift God has given us, and we have the blessing to change the world through the Godly upbringing our of kids. When we examine our past subjectively, pick out the good, forgive the past, allow the Holy Spirit to work his gift of forgiveness in our lives, only then are we able to parent from a clean slate. God doesn't expect for us to be perfect, our kids do not either. I say all of this to say, forget about the trends, and fad's. Hold fast to the bible, raise your kids in a manner that promotes Jesus as #1, loving and serving one another as a way of life, possessions as something to bless, and use to the furthering of Gods kingdom, and that when we mess up, we should be quick to ask forgiveness. Tell your kids that just like they are under your authority, you are under God's authority. So all that we teach our children, God expects from mommy's and daddy's as well.

Murphy’s Law in Parenting

noreply@blogger.com (2330 Sutton Place) — Fri, 21 Jun 2013 02:18:00 +0000

Image Courtesy of www.scarymommy.com

There is no handbook given at the hospital with each baby. There is no book that can be checked out or let alone bought that will answer every parenting question. There is no magic ball that tells you every possible scenario, there is just good ole’ “on the job training”. Every child brings his/hers own diversity. As mentioned before, what might have worked for one might not work for the next. Everyday is a new adventure and everyday Murphy’s Law is in affect.

1. If you throw something away because your child has not played with it in months, she will ask for it later that same day.

2. If you successfully transfer your sleeping baby all the way from your car to her crib, you will sneeze and wake her up as you tiptoe out the door.

3. If your daughter spent a year begging to take ballet, the day you sign her up for classes and pay the bill, she'll switch her interest to gymnastics.

4. The one time your child asks for broccoli, you won't have any in the house.

5. If you tell someone your baby is a good napper, she will never nap again.

6. If the baby makes it through an awful tummy bug and you say out loud, "Thank God, it wasn't cantagious!", the next day EVERYONE ELSE will get it and then the baby will get it again.

7. The moment you decide to get rid of all your baby related items because you won't be having any more kids, you will instantly become pregnant.

8. If you pack up the entire house to go on a two day trip, you'll forget something really simple. Like diapers.

9. If you buy a new carpet and it sits rolled up in a corner for a month, the day you finally get your husband to move the furniture and lay the thing down, will be the same day your three-year-old spills a canister of glitter.

10. The one time you don't ask your kid if she has to go to the bathroom before you leave the house, she'll declare an emergency in front of a MacDonald's. You'll think, how gross could it be? THAT GROSS.

11. The day you dress the baby in her best outfit will be the day she has the MOTHER of all blow-outs.

12. The one time your toddler listens and models your behavior, will be the time you say, "Some awful that will be repeated.

13. If you spend half the day packing everyone up to go to the zoo, they will all fall asleep by the time you get there.

14. If you somehow manage to make it to work with an outfit free of poop, snot or spit-up, you will spill your own coffee on it as soon as you sit down at your desk.

15. If you decide to take a chance by leaving the diaper bag at home for an easy evening stroll with the baby, she won't just need a new diaper. She'll need a whole new outfit.

16. If you lay down the law that bedtime is at 7:30pm, Grammy will make a surprise visit at 7:29.

17. If you brag to your friends about how much your toddler is talking, when they see her, she will not say a word.

18. The second you decide to take advantage of naptime by stepping into the shower, sitting down to eat or trying to get some shut-eye yourself, the baby will wake up.

19. The one moment you have to sit on the toilet will be the very moment something is broken, a fight breaks out, the phone rings, the baby cries, your asked for a snack, etc, etc.

20. You finally get out of the house, only to arrive back from your alone time and find out the kids were “angels”.

My very own experience
Your son falls in love with Spiderman at the age of three, so you frantically search for Spiderman birthday decor and a costume for a superhero surprise visit. You strap silly string cans to your wrist and climb on the roof for the BIG birthday entrance. In the excitement you jump of the roof shooting silly string (looked awesome), only to have the mask shift mid flight and you don’t stick the landing. My back is shot, son is hysterically crying, freaked out by the costume and a party full of kids attacks you in your weakened state. $1,200 out of pocket dollars later the back is better and the costume was sold to a consignment shop. True Murphy’s Law Story!

Thank you Mommy Shorts for the oh so true list of scenarios.

Family Dinner: Mealtime Questions

noreply@blogger.com (2330 Sutton Place) — Wed, 12 Jun 2013 16:14:00 +0000

In our busy schedules its sometimes hard to have a family dinner together. Dinner time is a great opportunity to engage your child in meaningful conversations. Having a hard time on topics to discuss? These topics can keep the communication lines open and allow you a glimpse into your child’s heart and mind.

1.    If your friend asked you "How do I become a Christian?" what would you tell them?
2.    If you could own one of the biggest and best collections in the world, what would you like to collect?
3.    Does faith grow all on its own, or is it something you have to work at? How can you increase your faith?
4.    Let's pretend you joined the circus and were offered any job you wanted! Which job would you
       choose?
5.    When you are talking to someone, how do you know they are really listening? What should you do if
       you suspect they aren't listening?
6.    What's the best gift you've ever given someone? What made it such a great gift?
7.    What do you think parents often misunderstand about kids today?
8.    If you had to give up something, what would you have the hardest time giving up?
9.    Who do you most enjoy having to play at our house? What good manners make you a guest others
       love to invite over?
10.    What could you do tomorrow as a special "love offering" to God?
11.    What's a good way to respond when someone compliments you?
12.    What's a good way to respond when someone criticizes you?
13.    How do you know your parents love you? How do they show it?
14.    What thought lifts your spirit when you feel discouraged?
15.    What's the best thing about being a kid/tween/teen?
16.    If you could set up a reading nook or homework corner anywhere in the house, where would it be
         and how would you make it comfortable?
17.    What does integrity mean? Why is it important?
18.    Which Bible passage often brings you close to tears?
19.    What is honor? Can you think of an example of someone acting honorably?
20.    Name a costume or an item of clothing you'd love to have a chance to wear.
21.    What do you like to daydream about?
22.    What's your favorite summer memory?
23.    What important life lesson have you learned the hard way?
24.    If you could make your own movie, what would it be about? Where would you set it?
25.    What are the most important elements to include in a sincere apology?
26.    If I gave you a "thank you" card right now, who would you send it to? Why?
27.    If someone is mean to you or treats you unfairly, how would you respond?
28.    Why is it important not to give up on something just because it's hard to do?
29.    Why do you think it’s important that we remember Jesus’ birthday each year?
30.    What are some ways our family can show generosity to others?

For an extensive list of topics visit Focus on the Family.

Mealtime Questions via Focus on the Family Canada. @fotfcanada Thank you

LOLs and OMGs: texting, sexting, and kids

noreply@blogger.com (2330 Sutton Place) — Thu, 06 Jun 2013 16:37:00 +0000

Posted by Andrea Tomkins via Media Smarts

It’s pretty amazing how tech-savvy kids are nowadays. I like to think I’m a pretty smart mamma but in certain areas my kids have me beat. The TV remote is one of the devices they understand better than I do and don’t even ask me to explain Minecraft. (Perhaps that is a different post altogether!)

Our kids are coming of age at a time that things like online shopping, Facetime, and texting are all normal everyday occurrences. Technology is enabling people to do some pretty amazing things, and even communicate in a whole new way using a new language. You may know this as texting.

I can understand why texting appeals to a teenage brain. I would have loved to have this means of communicating with my friends when I was younger. It’s like having your own mini-superpower - to “whisper” something over distances near and far, to send a thought only to have it received instantly by your BFF - it’s pretty amazing when you think about it.

Unfortunately, superpowers can be abused. And what makes the “instant” and “sharable” part of texting so awesome can also make it absolutely devastating.

You’ve probably heard a lot about “sexting” recently: sexting is the practice of using text messages to send sexy self-portraits to boyfriends and girlfriends. There is almost always semi or full-nudity involved.

Mashable posted this public service announcement from the Vancouver-based Children of the Street Society and I will be making it required viewing in our household:

So what would be some good things to say to our kids about sexting?

We know that tweens and teens like to take risks and push boundaries, and they’ll make mistakes, but I think our job as parents is to arm them with as much information and knowledge as we can and then hope that if a situation arises they will make the right choice.

We also know that many kids won’t take the time to consider possible outcomes in the heat of the moment. Maybe the solution is to teach them to stop and think before publishing anything online – whether it’s a text or photograph or blog post or Facebook update. They have to understand that even if they’re sending a photo to a person they trust, once they hit the “send” button the image is out of their control. And once the image is gone it is irretrievable – possibly forever – and the fallout could be catastrophic. It’s important to remind them to never let anyone pressure them into doing something that makes them feel uncomfortable, that they could potentially regret in the future.

Bullying has been in the headlines more than ever lately, and it seems that social media always plays a part in it. We should also take the time to talk about what a teen should do if confronted with someone else’s salacious photo.

How’s this for a little something you can text to your teen right now:

If U receive a photo or a msg, pls T.H.I.N.K. before fwding. Is it True, Helpful, Inspiring, Necessary, Kind? If not, DGT! Trash it.

Would you like to read more about sexting? There’s more about on the MediaSmarts website right here.
We also have a social media tip sheet that may come in handy if you’re talking about these issues with your kids too.

Its a digital world, and our kids need guidance through it. Working Class Parenting

10 Ways to Play With Your Kids This Summer

noreply@blogger.com (2330 Sutton Place) — Wed, 05 Jun 2013 14:35:00 +0000

Interaction with our kids is key to healthy relationships. Here are some creative ideas for playing with your kids this summer.

Photo by Victoria Bayer

Grab some boats (or make some simple floating ones with bark or paper) and spread out a tarp, shower curtain or plastic tablecloth in the yard. Drizzle water on it with the hose and sit right smack in the middle of it — getting cool, floating boats, making little island getaways, you name it.
Have a photo shoot outside. Be sure to let the kids take your picture too!
Shoot some hoops — even if that means tossing balled up socks into a bowl on the coffee table because it’s 115 degrees outside.
Go on a sprinkler walk. Head to an area of town where people have their sprinklers going and sidewalks that go through them, and try to walk through as many sprinklers to cool down as possible.
Make some real fruit slushies. Toss frozen fruit like strawberries in the blender with some water and sugar to taste. Blend like crazy and enjoy. Make it extra fun by playing chef with a big variety of frozen fruit choices.
Freeze lots of ice cube trays and muffin tins full of colored water and then put all your multi-colored ice treasures in a big bowl. Head out to the kiddie pool and grab some buckets of water to melt and color mix like crazy.
Take blocks of ice to the top of a grassy hill and go ice blocking. Here’s more info on this activity that’s on our bucket list this year! (This is new to me!)
Make mud pies.
Play balloon volleyball.
Go camping. Can’t do that? Camp in the back yard. Can’t do that? Camp in the living room.

Have any great summer activity ideas, would love to hear them.

Ideas courtesy of Magical Childhood

Will this toy make your daughter an engineering genius?

noreply@blogger.com (2330 Sutton Place) — Mon, 03 Jun 2013 01:41:00 +0000

Goldieblox, an engineering toy for girls

First off, will this toy make your daughter an engineering genius? Probably not! But come on, no one toy will make your daughter a genius, no matter what it is. But I do like where this toy is coming from; an educational toy geared towards girls in a way that speaks to them.

Two of my daughter's favorite activities are reading and building things. She loves to draw layouts of amusement parks, restaurants, and the veterinarian office that she wants to create, and then build them out of wooden blocks and legos. She will also sit and read for hours at a time and enjoys every second of it. So when I read an article in our local newspaper about a new toy created with girls like my daughter in mind, I thought we would give it a try. So even though at the end of the video the creator says she is waiting to start her company with 5,000 orders, that goal has been surpassed and Goldieblox is on its way to our house. We placed our order and will be posting a review with pictures in the near future.

If you have any specific questions about this product, please leave it in the comments box and we will surely address them.

Memorial Day lesson for parents

noreply@blogger.com (2330 Sutton Place) — Tue, 28 May 2013 01:12:00 +0000

(photograph courtesy of Rebel Photos)

Memorial Day is when we honor soldiers who have fallen in defense of our nation, those brave men and women who have given the ultimate sacrifice to ensure freedom and prosperity for the United States.

Below is an excerpt from an article in the Tampa Bay Times written by David Adams who served two tours in Iraq with the 101st Airborne Division

"...Our military ensures the American way of life that so many of us take for granted. Celebrating our nation's unique living conditions with a barbecue, boat ride or trip to the pool is great, but remember what these luxuries cost and pass that knowledge on to your children. Let them know the reality of war. For me, it meant that some men that I served with would never come home.

Ever since my service in the military, Memorial Day has become something more somber, more real. I'm sure any family that has lost a loved one in Iraq or Afghanistan understand how I Feel.

I'm not saying that people shouldn't celebrate; by all means fire up the grills and get your children layered in sunblock for the beach. But, even if only for a moment, pause Monday and imagine what the families of wounded and fallen soldiers are doing, and make Memorial Day count."

I know it is late in the day and many of our kids are already asleep, but right now I think I will go into my daughter's room and thank God for the men and women who lost their lives to keep her safe.

THANK YOU AND GOD BLESS YOU ALL

Can your children tell if you have been with Jesus?

noreply@blogger.com (2330 Sutton Place) — Wed, 22 May 2013 02:51:00 +0000

By Linda Ranson Jacobs

Post Courtesy of

“……they took note that these men had been with Jesus.” Acts 4:13b (NIV)

Single parents have many roles to fill. As we parent alone most of us have to work an outside job in order to support our family alone. We also serve as cook, chauffer, nurse, disciplinarian, mechanic and fulfill a dozen other roles. One of the most important jobs we have as single parents is to teach and model a relationship with Jesus Christ.

Modeling a relationship with Christ is a life style. Some of you will have to consciously change your life style to incorporate a daily walk with the Lord. I can hear many of you saying, “But you don’t understand, I don’t have time to read and study the Bible. I’m lucky if I get one scripture read and dash off a quick prayer.” A lifestyle with Christ is more than that. It’s trusting and depending on Him. It’s living with and in Christ. It’s Christ living through you. It’s not about reading scriptures as something you check off your daily to do list.

In the book of Acts Peter and John had been arrested. When Peter was questioned the Bible says he was filled with the Holy Spirit and he gave testimony about Jesus Christ. The scriptures go on to say, “When they saw the courage of Peter and John and realized that they were unschooled, ordinary men, they were astonished and they took note that these men had been with Jesus.” Acts 4:13 (NIV)

Peter and John’s life and their attitude toward the high priest and other men who arrested them gave testimony that they had been with Jesus. Does your attitude give testimony that you have been with Jesus? Do you complain daily or do you praise the Lord? Do you try and see the good in various situations?

Try developing a new ritual that will help you exemplify Christ daily. At the evening meal, have everyone tell three good things that happened. Be sure to share the positive things that happened to you also. For some of you this might be a struggle but persevere. You can then turn the good things that are happening into a time of praising the Lord and thanking Him for His goodness.

Have you been with Jesus today? Why not spend a moment with Him right now.

“My times are in your hands…” Psalm 31:15a (NIV)

Linda Ranson Jacobs of Healthy Loving Partnerships for Our Kids can be contacted at Linda@hlp4.com.

GO FOR IT....

noreply@blogger.com (2330 Sutton Place) — Tue, 14 May 2013 14:44:00 +0000

Guest Post By: Amanda De Pablo

I like to get to the point. Usually when stories or blogs start out with a long intro or some kind of fluff, I usually skip it to find out the main point. So, the main point of my thought is no matter how big or how scary the task God has placed upon your heart to do, no matter who comes against it, or the nay sayers, GO FOR IT!

We may have our bucket lists, but I know that God has his own "plans" for us. Jeremiah 29:11 says that God has plans for us, good ones, to give us a future and a hope. What does this have to do with a parenting? Well, His plans not only include you, but all those around you including your kids.

God has given me specific assignments throughout my life. With each plan He gives me, there are always challenges I have to face. These challenges are faith, trust, and character builders. Last year my daughter and I went to Africa for a month on a missions trip. I knew I was to take my daughter on her first mission; it was put in my heart. The challenge came when I found out the cost, and then I began to drag my feet to commit to go. The Lord showed me that I was allowing fear to keep me from stepping out and committing, and He spoke to my heart that if I didn't attempt anything that I would regret it the rest of my life. Needless to say, I was on the phone that Monday morning signing us up.

One of my favorite books is Dream Giver by Bruce Wilkinson. It's an allegory about a man named Ordinary being visited by the Dream Giver, and is challenged to leave the town of Nobodies. He is met by many obstacles and has a choice to make. I won't tell you the end, but I recommend every person read this book, especially high school students.

God is bringing forth another dream that he has placed in my and my husband's heart, and yes it is coming with it's own obstacles, challenges, and nay sayers, but ultimately we have to do what God has placed in our hearts. It can't be denied. It has to be attempted. God likes us to run, leap, jump, even take baby steps on what we think is impossible because all will know the Dream Giver made the dream possible. GO FOR IT!

I Wonder, What if....

noreply@blogger.com (2330 Sutton Place) — Thu, 09 May 2013 14:56:00 +0000

Just a thought. I often wonder what a child would be like that was saturated with love, support and encouragement. Every area of their lives met based on their developmental stage. Cuddling in the infant years to eye-to-eye communication through the tough and uncertain teen years. What would this child be like? Would he/she be considered a prodigy? A individual before their time? A leader? A anthropologist?

The future of our evolving society does not lay so much in the technological advancement we make, but by the bedtime stories told and the badging of a wounded knees, and shoulders to lean on. The qualities of life are not derived by what we can obtain, but rather by what we can give, a settle smile, a warm hug and the assurance that we am here.

What if we practiced simple moral principles and placed our children above ourselves and provided them the ability not only to dream, but to live the dream. Paving the way for their abilities, gifting’s and talents. As parents, providing our children a stage to shine with humble confidence. Not because they are jockeying for position or have a need to be heard, but because it’s simply who they are. I wonder what that child would look like.

How would this mysterious individual act and how would they see others if they saw in us all of their own potential. What would their moral, ethical and spiritual character be like if they saw us extending a hand of help to the homeless, or returning miscalculated change to a cashier? What if they heard the cries of their parents in the night as they pleaded with God for their well-being?

What would their love look like if they sneaked a peak at mom and dad kissing secretly in the kitchen? If they saw dad bring home flowers and mom excited about a new recipe for her beloved. That even though mom and dad have their differences, they don’t keep score on who is wrong or right. I wonder what kind of love that cultivates.

That every time we as a parent embraced or spoke with our child it wasn’t because we wanted something from them, contrary, we wanted to assure them that they are loved and valued. What if your son realized that rather than tending to house chores or a hobby first, dad secretly woke him up for an early morning guy’s breakfast? That a daughter in her later years could gauge a wholesome date, by the many she had had with her father. What would embracing your son and a kiss goodnight do for your daughter do?

What if they saw us perceiver despite life’s obstacles? What if they saw us fall, but were there to see us rise. What if they saw tears in dad’s eyes, but understood it wasn’t a sign of weakness but of a protector and provider determined and striving to be his best. And regardless of what the day threw at mom, mom was sure to share a smile.

This world is not held together by political parties or scientific innovations, not by banks or factions. Its roots run deep in family, the institution of home. By single parents, working parents, grandmother and uncles who see the value of family and strive to protect it. They willingly stand in the face of bad days and seek to change tomorrow.

We must with tenacity and certainty seek to instill lasting values in our children. However, they must first see these values practiced. The burden of raising a child is not that of the schools or some outsourced service, but that of an intentional parent. We must come to the acknowledgment that we as parents, whether single or married, have been tasked with not just a great responsibility, but also with a great privilege. I encourage “us” (parents) to stop, reflect and engage. To be active and involved, loving and determined. I wonder what that would look like? What if we were those parents?

Not Fear but Power and Love

noreply@blogger.com (2330 Sutton Place) — Thu, 02 May 2013 15:29:00 +0000

Sometimes as parents we face uncertainties that shake us and leave us weak and numb. Rest assure that God has made a way and made provisions for your sound mind. Reach out to Him in those moments and rest in His peace.

2 Timothy 1:7 ~ for God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control.

Written and sung by Charlie Hall & Daniel Bashta, produced & recorded by Dustin Ragland. Charlie’s site is www.charliehall.com and Daniel’s site is www.danielbashta.co

This short verse issues a strong reminder to each and every one of us of all that is available to us in Christ by His Spirit! Paul (the author of 2 Timothy) contrasts a life dominated by fear with another characterized by power, love, and self-control (or a sound mind).

-What marks your life? -What are your greatest fears? -What do you find yourself anxious & worried about? -Is God truly stronger than these things?

The ESV Study Bible says this about fear: “The Greek (deilia) in extra-biblical literature refers to one who flees from battle, and has a strong pejorative sense referring to cowardice. Boldness, not cowardice, is a mark of the Spirit (see Prov. 28:1; Acts 4:31).”

May God fill his Church with His Spirit, enabling us to become an empowered, loving, and self-controlled people!

Movie Review: Iron Man 3

noreply@blogger.com (2330 Sutton Place) — Tue, 30 Apr 2013 13:31:00 +0000

We are not movie critics, however, we wanted to offer our review of #IronMan3 as parents for the sake of our readers. This review is intended to offer the mature content of the movie and provide a guideline for parents and their children. The review will not necessarily go into the merits of plot, special effects or acting for the sake of spoiling.

Working Class Parenting was invited yesterday to the special sneak preview screening of Marvel’s #IronMan3 IMAX 3D, here in the Tampa Bay area. The excitement in the room was high as 350 plus patrons sat waiting for the opening sequence. We must admit, as Marvel fans we waited with great anticipation. We have broken down the mature content of the movie into their respective categories:

Violence:    Avengers was aliens and slap stick comedy, however Iron man 3 is a bit more serious. Overall Iron Man 3 had more dramatic and violent “human” scenes. Although there was only blood on Downey face from a contentious barrage of attacks, there were more than two dozens shooting. The shootings showed no blood, however, the scene were a bit more intense than previous Iron Man’s or Marvel movies.

Disclaimer: Part of the sub plot is based on a terrorist who targets tourist areas with bombings. We understand this movie was filmed prior to the #Boston #Bombing, however, this maybe to soon for some families and the children in view of recent events. Although not overly graphic, this could be considered disrespectful to what this Country has gone through in the last several weeks.

Language:    Although Working Class Parenting does not condone cursing, Iron Man 3 only used, what some may consider, casual language. The language was used sparingly and perhaps half a dozen times. Unlike previous Iron Man’s, Iron Man 3 has a more tamed, one woman Tony Stark’s. To our delight, there were no sexual innuendos.

Sexuality:    As mentioned, Iron Man 3 showed a different side of Robert Downey, Jr’s, genius, billionaire, playboy, philanthropist character. Tony Stark’s is a one woman man, although there were references in two scenes about his old life and his one night stand habits, Iron Man 3 offered three minor sexual scenes. Early in the movie Tony Stark’s is seen leaving a hotel room and the camera pans to the back of a woman doing her makeup in her bra and panties. Later in the movie, there is a stage filled with bikini clad women competing in a pageant. Furthermore, three quarters of the way through the movie, two sisters are seen from the waist up sitting in bed in their bra’s waiting for the villain.

The movie over all did have a different feel and maybe do to the change in director. There were more comedic insults and Robert Downey, Jr witty one-liners, but surprisingly more overall violence. As an adult viewer, it had all the special effects and explosions that you would ask for. Story line was good and we were pleasantly surprised that sexual innuendos and suggestive scenes absent. We would defiantly consider this movie PG-13, due to the increase in violence. As a parent use your judgement with this or any other PG or PG-13 movie. Being to lenient in one movie just because its Disney Marvel comics, may send mixed message for the next PG-13 movie. At Working Class Parenting, we watch all movies prior to letting our children watch them. Whether PG or PG-13 its our role as parents to safe guard our children eyes and ears.

If you have any specific questions about the movie feel free to comment.

39 Hacks That Will Make Parenting Easier

noreply@blogger.com (2330 Sutton Place) — Sun, 28 Apr 2013 21:32:00 +0000

Innovative List of Parenting Hacks

1. Bathe your child in a laundry basket so that their toys don't float away.

2. Avoid committing a gender faux pas with other parents.

Lean down and ask the baby his or her name. The parent will answer for them (if they can't talk yet).

3. Teach your child to pick up a juice box by the side flaps.

This will keep them from squeezing juice all over themselves and making a huge mess.

4. Save your old cell phones and let your kids use them as play cameras.

Maybe you've got the next Juergen Teller on your hands.

5. Punish your kids when they're fighting.

6. Invest in a "baby shower cap."

7. If your kids have bad handwriting, make them spend some time on the monkey bars.

Read more about why certain activities can help strengthen the upper body and the fine motor skills that can lead to better handwriting.

8. Invest in a good pair of cargo pants.

Since you stopped caring about fashion the second that baby popped out of you, it's time to start wearing cargo pants every day, preferably a pair with many pockets. Keep wipes, diapers, plastic bags, and bottles in there.

9. Put sprinkles on everything.

They'll turn any healthy smoothie or juice into a fun-filled endeavor.
Here's a recipe for homemade rainbow sprinkles that are free of food coloring and corn syrup.

Source: savoringthethyme.com

10. Need a place to put your kid?

Make a hammock with a blanket tied around a table.

Source: joyfulabode.com

11. Make an incredibly easy play fort with a box fan.

Get the directions here.

12. Trace your kids' feet so you can go shoe shopping without having to drag them along.

It'll also let you take advantage of any shoe sales you happen to stumble upon.

13. Finally tell your twins apart with this romper set.

Source: ohsweetbabies.com

14. Put your kids to work by turning chores into a fun game.

They'll never know the difference!

15. Use a barrette to fix your little girl's too-loose tank top.

16. To stop nighttime coughing, rub vapor rub on their feet and put socks over them.

17. If your kids are scared of monsters, make monster spray.

Squirt under the bed, in the closet. Everybody can go back to sleep now.

18. Stick a Command hook on the back of a high chair to hold bibs.

19. Teach your child to hold a pencil the right way with a wad of Kleenex.

Get the full details here.

20. Repurpose a pool noodle to become a toddler-proof door stopper.

Keep your toddler from slamming doors, getting locked out, and from getting woken up by closing doors.

21. Use maxi pads to extend diapers for a potty-training child.

Does your kid wake up with soaked jammies? Stick a heavy absorbent overnight maxi pad into their diaper.
Alternatively, moms can actually tear off the sides, front, and back of a diaper to create an emergency maxi pad. Source: parenthacks.com

22. Get a portable high chair.

23. Use glue and glitter to make "tooth fairy money."

24. Have your child sit on a stability ball while doing homework — it'll help with their concentration.

25. Freeze a pacifier in an ice cube tray with juice, milk, formula, or water to sooth a teething baby's gums.

26. Cut a hole in the tip of a pacifier and stick a dropper through it to administer medicine.

27. Put the iPad in "Kid Mode."

This feature (only available is iOS6) locks the application and disables any hardware controls that could lead your toddler on a wayward path.

28. Install a baby-gate using heavy-duty cable ties instead of nailing into the banister.

You can buy cable ties that are 2 feet long! Get the tutorial here.

Source: foxfamilyincary.blogspot.ca

29. Those zip ties also make impromptu ponytail holders.

Source: sphotos.xx.fbcdn.net

30. Transform a DVD case into a travel art kit.

31. Use a shoe caddy to store games and snacks on a long road trip.

32. Fill a glove with pearled barley or beans, give a few pats with it, and then slip away stealthily into the night.

Just make sure you sew the glove shut so the filling doesn't slip out and turn into a choking hazard.

33. Turn an old lotion bottle into a faucet extender so the little ones can reach.

34. Push your kid on a swing from afar using a string or rope.

*We don't actually condone this one, unless you happen to be wheelchair bound.

35. For the gamer parent...

36. Put temporary tattoos on your kids in case they get lost.

These are by a company called Tottoos.

37. Avoid accidents and unnecessary hair cuts.

38. Be ready in a moments notice with all in one formula/nipple container.

39. Baby Window Cage

Built in 1937 and distributed in London to members of the Chelsea Baby Club, the baby cage was meant for women with children but without a backyard, garden or terrace for them to play in or on. Times have changed. NOT RECOMMENDED.

Laughter is Good Medicine

noreply@blogger.com (2330 Sutton Place) — Tue, 23 Apr 2013 15:25:00 +0000

The old Proverb goes (Proverbs 17:22), a joyful heart is good medicine. Nothing brings change to the atmosphere like genuine laughter. Whether it be amongst friends, family, with your children or watching a comedy alone, laughter undoubtedly is good medicine. I must admit that a child’s laughter is more contagious than a yawn. Whether blowing raspberries on a baby's belly, putting on a silly hat and chasing your 3-year-old, or pretending to fall to amuse a first-grader, laughter brightens a family’s life.

It important as parents that we create an environment in our home that is joyful and full of wholesome laughter. Laughing together is a way to connect, and a good sense of humor also can make kids smarter, healthier, and better able to cope with challenges.

A good sense of humor is a tool that kids can rely on throughout life to help them:

    1.    see things from many perspectives
    2.    be spontaneous
    3.    grasp unconventional ideas or ways of thinking
    4.    see beyond the surface of things
    5.    enjoy and participate in the playful aspects of life
    6.    not take themselves too seriously

Kids with a well-developed sense of humor are happier and more optimistic, have higher self-esteem, and can handle differences well — from moving to a new town, to teasing, to even bullying. Though humor is no substation for communication, it is another mechanism used in everyday life. A good sense of humor doesn't just help kids emotionally or socially though. Research has shown that people who laugh more are healthier — they're less likely to be depressed. They experience less stress; have lower heart rates, pulses, and blood pressure; and have better digestion. Laughter may even help humans better endure pain, and studies have shown that it improves our immune function.

Of course I must throw out a disclaimer. Laughing with or at? Ephesians 5:4, “ Let there be no filthiness nor foolish talk nor crude joking, which are out of place, but instead let there be thanksgiving”. You don't want to rain on their parade, but kids need boundaries when it comes to humor, just like they do in other areas. You don't want to encourage mean-spirited or off-color jokes, so be a good role model. If someone tells a hurtful or inappropriate joke, don't laugh. Take the time to explain to your child why that joke isn't funny. Have them understand that laughing at some ones expense is hurtful. Discourage humor that is perverse and demeaning to race or gender.

Humor is social. Have fun as a family. Share jokes, play games, and watch funny movies together. Take time to laugh with your toddler, 3rd grader, preteen and teenager. Purposely create moments that allow for joyful interaction. Enjoy your kids.

Excerpts from Child and Adolescent Psychologist Wayne, PA

Kids, Say the Darnest Things

noreply@blogger.com (2330 Sutton Place) — Wed, 17 Apr 2013 14:09:00 +0000

Here is a collection of recent parenting Tweets collected from various parents. I must admit, I can relate to half. Check out my very own incident at the end. Its not for the faint of heart. Enjoy!

1. The 3yo: "I had a booger. Blocking my nose. I took it out. And ate it. Yum. Yummy booger." And she wasn't lying, either.

2. What's wrong with those people? Who's driving those trucks? I don't like this."-Terrified 3yo watching Bob the Builder.

3. My kids have totally ruined the possibility of Netflix suggesting anything I would want to watch.

4. 2yo and I are about to embark on our maiden snuggle/movie on the new sofa. Ten minutes max before I fall asleep and she draws on my face.

5. Just discovered that my kid likes watching golf which is problematic because it's not good for me to be asleep when I'm alone with him.

6. Just washed down six cookies with a glass of white wine, in case you were wondering how taking my 2 kids to Disneyland went.

7. WARNING: little kid laugh squeals are habit forming for parents. Tickle responsibly.

8. Picking dog up from the vet. 6yo: But he's a boy! He can't have puppies anyway!! Me: Who wants ice cream??!!!

9. A Friday night spent listening to two girls try to commit the My Little Pony theme song to memory. Ah, motherhood.

10. If you give a kid a whistle... (don't EVER give a kid a whistle.)

11. the boy just hugged me & said, "thanks for life." I expected him to immediately junk punch me & run away laughing.

12. Me: "Dude, you need a bath." 5yo: "Just my hands? Or the whole THING of me?"

13. Parent: Will you PLEASE put on some underwear? 3yo: I've told you 3 times already that I don't want to. I'm not going to tell you again.

14. 3-yr-old talking on the phone when she accidentally drops it. She scrambles to the floor, puts it to her ear and asks, "Are you hurt?!"

15. Me to 6yo: you're a smart cookie. 6yo: I am not a cookie. I'm a human being.

16. Some days around here, things go pretty smoothly. Other days, I find a child brushing her Barbie's wet hair with my toothbrush.

17. My 7yo tells me I'm the "meanest mom ever!" It's tough to maintain such a lofty position, but I'm committed to the process.

18. In case you wonder why I don't encourage my kids to eat in public, I just had to say the words, "Stop making your yogurt fart" out loud.

19. Instead of napping, my kid is apparently shaking down his stuffed animals, yelling "Gimme my money!" I knew he was too young for Goodfellas.

20. 5YO: "Let's play the 'Quiet Game,' Mama!" (Am I dreaming? Hallucinating? Dead?)

21. Forever grateful I became a parent in the age of Netflix, potable DVD players, smartphones and yoga pants.

22. I just put my very awake baby in the crib and walked away as an April Fool's Day joke. She didn't get it.

23. MOM: There is no moment that's anything like the moment both children are finally asleep.

24. MY VERY OWN SON
Son telling story of octopus he saw (company present): Dad that octopus had huge testicles. ME: What? Son (slightly louder voice): That octopus had huge testicles. Me: You mean tentacles.

One vowel and constant, I see where he went wrong.

Have any funny experiences, stories, kid's thoughts, etc. Would love to hear them.

Teaching the Gospel To Our Children

noreply@blogger.com (2330 Sutton Place) — Thu, 11 Apr 2013 16:10:00 +0000

Image Courtsy of Pelham Friends Church

Perhaps one of the most intimidating aspects of Christian parenting would be how to properly teach your children Biblical faith. The topic, though near and dear to our hearts, becomes a challenge when trying to explain it to our children. How can we properly explain biblical principles that is age specific without leaving out the powerful life changing facts? I think as a body of believers we have done ourselves an injustice by simply handing our children color by number Bible stories. What sometimes gets lost in the Bible journey is the power of the message and the good news of what Christ has done to save the lost.

If you are looking for creative, fun-filled, and family-focused approaches to children's discipleship curriculum, there are plenty of options available. But as stated by raisinggodlychildren.org, "there are a number of children's pastors who are dissatisfied with what they've seen. Though they appreciate many curriculum's offering creativity and a connection with parents, these leaders are concerned that the primary message we are giving our children is simply that they need to "be good."

Children are sponges, full of curiosity and questions. If we as parents are disciplining them and don't answer the fundamental questions of our faith, then they will find others to answer the questions them. We should not feel that they are unable to understand both the moral and spiritual implications of Biblical truths. Working Class Parenting believes that, more than ever, we should be taking time to teach our children the foundation of our faith and the beauty of God's love.

One curriculum Working Class Parenting has recently found that may answer the question on how to properly teach our children the gospel is, "The Gospel Project for Kids". The Gospel Project for Kids is bringing the gospel focus back to children. It is "The Gospel Project for Kids" goal to walk through the Bible stories chronologically, so children can discover these critical truths:

Truth #1 - The Bible tells one big story.
When we take Bible stories out of context to glean moral lessons from them, we can leave kids with the impression that the Bible is much like Aesop's fables - interesting tales with moral application. However, even though the Bible has moral application and does give us some terrific stories, it actually tells an overall story. They tell us the story of our world-where we've come from and where we are going.

It is important that children recognize how these Bible stories are connected.

Truth #2 - The Bible is about God.
Once we recognize that the Bible is telling us one great story, we discover that we are not the main characters. In fact, the Bible's first and foremost mission is to introduce us to God. He is the hero.

The individual stories provide us with moral application, yes, but before we get to application, we ought to ask, "What does this story tell us about God?" What attributes and characteristics of God are on display in this story? If the Bible's big story is about God's bringing about redemption of His fallen world, then what picture of God do we see in the smaller stories?

Once we begin to understand God's thought process and what He is saying through His word, it's easier for us and our children to follow. Rather than it being a mere book of instructions, it becomes a Living Word of hope and love.

Truth #3 - The Bible points us to Jesus.
Just because you know the Bible doesn't mean the Word will bear fruit in your life. It is possible to know the Scriptures, read the Scriptures, revere the Scriptures, and study the Scriptures and miss the point entirely. Jesus told the Jewish leaders of the day that even though they had meticulous knowledge of the Old Testament, they had missed the truth that the Old Testament is ultimately about Him.

We need to ask ourselves how does the Bible point us to Christ. The reason God's Word changes lives is not because we simply know it, but because through Scripture we are introduced to the Author, Jesus, the Word made flesh. In turn its in knowing Him that we are changed.

Truth #4 - The Bible calls for obedience that is grounded in the gospel and in the power of the Holy Spirit.
Does the Bible have moral principles and application? Undoubtedly and absolutely. But our hearts are not changed by the commands of the Law. Our hearts are changed when they overflow with love for the Savior. As we experience the grace and mercy of what God has done for us in Christ, our hearts are free to worship and obey.

It's important that we take care not to give our children commands without showing them how the Holy Spirit, through the gospel, gives them the strength to obey these commands.

The purpose of studying the Bible is to know God and make Him known. The Bible perfectly unveils Jesus Christ as the focal point of human history. All creation exists by Him, through Him, to Him, and for Him. This is the only kind of Bible study that will change our children's lives.

Information derived from www.raisinggodlychildren.org. We would like to thank www.raisinggodlychildren.org for their great post.

36 Reasons Why Jasons Three Year Old Freaks Out

noreply@blogger.com (2330 Sutton Place) — Tue, 09 Apr 2013 13:56:00 +0000

Could not help but repost Jason Goods list of 3 year freak outs. I must say, I thought my kids were the only ones, but I stand corrected. Review the hilarious, but true list and see how many your kids actually freak out about.

Some of these are total guesses. Educated guesses, but guesses nonetheless. Being a toddler is hard a business.
Sock are on wrong.
Lips taste salty.
Shirt has a tag on it.
The car seat is weird.
Hungry, but can’t remember the word “hungry.”
Someone touched their knee.
Not allowed in the oven.
I picked out the wrong pants.
Sibling looked at them.
Sibling didn’t look at him.
Hair is heavy.
We don’t understand what they said.
Doesn’t want to get out of the car.
Wants to get out of the car by themselves.
The iPad has a password.
Sleeve is touching their thumb.
Doesn’t understand how popsicles are made.
The inside of their nose stinks.
Chicken is gross.
A balloon they got six months ago is missing.
A puzzle piece won’t fit in upside down.
I gave him the wrong blue crayon.
The gummi vitamin is too firm.
Netflix is slow.
They jumped off the sofa and we weren’t watching.
Their are not allowed to touch fire.
Everything is wrong with their coat.
There’s a dog within a 70 mile radius.
A shoe should fit either foot.
I asked them a question.
Sibling is talking.
They can’t lift a pumpkin.
They can’t have my keys.
The cat is in their way.
The cat won’t let them touch its eyeball.
The inside of their cheek feels rough.
Things take too long to cook.
They have too much food in their mouth.
They sneezed.
They don’t know how to type.
The DustBuster is going to eat them.
Mom is taking a shower.
Someone knocked over their tower.
They got powdered sugar on their pants.
The yogurt won’t stay on their spoon.

AND THE NUMBER ONE REASON MY 3 YEAR OLD FREAKS OUT!
EVERYTHING IS TOO HOT.

Nostalgia

noreply@blogger.com (2330 Sutton Place) — Fri, 05 Apr 2013 13:17:00 +0000

I remember the first time I met my wife, I had reluctantly visited a new youth group. To my surprise, upon my first visit their were only two people in the youth room. I was about half hour early and two individuals were my “now” wife and her best friend. They were practicing a song they would be singing in the main service. It took all of 10 to 15 minutes of looking and hearing her for me to decide that this was the girl I wanted to marry. Of course she didn’t even know I existed, but I would work on that.

The area we lived in didn’t have much for teenagers to do, however it did have an ole’ school roller skating rink. This was our towns teenage mecca. Sure enough our first outing as a group and my first outing with my “now” wife was the roller rink. This would ultimately be where we would hang out the most, where I would eventually give her a “love” note shouting my love for her and the place where we would publicly hold hands for the first time. The rink had memories.

After a year as friends, a year courting (yes I used the world courting) and a year engaged, I finally married the love of my life. It was inevitable. She had no chance, my charm was cranked super high. Plus, I always get what I want. We married on September 21, 1996. Okay, yes, she was engaged during high school, but I made sure she had a nice diamond ring to show off. We were young and free.

The roller rink closed shortly after being married due to the economy and with that a chapter in our lives. We still live in the same town and through the years drive by the rink turned gymnasium, and recall all the silly nights of fast skate, chicken dances, slow skate (oh yeah) and so on. I must admit, as married couples/adults we sometimes try so hard to purposely create memories, but the best ones are the ones that happen by chance. It’s the little things that you end up missing the most.

Fast forwarding to 2013. Nineteen plus years from our first visit and two kids and a mess of “grown-up” responsibilities, the roller rink has reopened. Yes, its true and the rink has never looked better. Christian skate night, just like the good ole’ days. I must admit I felt a little giggly entering the place. The music was already blaring and the lights were flashing. Wow, its been sometime. Tonight was somewhat special. See we were here celebrating my daughter's fifteenth birthday. And the same DJ who spun the tunes some nineteen years earlier, and whom also was our wedding DJ, was back in his booth calling out for request. The new Christian night didn’t attract as many as in the past, but that was alright by me.

Tonight, I watched my beautiful daughter skating around the rink and I saw in her my wife at the same age. The laughter, her hair blowing by as she skated, the memories of silly games and 50 cent cokes. Tonight was a reminder of how much of a blessed man, husband and father I am. I had my two beautiful and healthy kids skating around. I had my bride (my girl) next to me in slow skate and I had the memories of how we got here. The evening was perfect and yet another reminder of God grace and love. I am a privileged man.

Sometimes we over look the simple things in life and the ones closest to us. We strive for bigger and better things all the while they are right under our roof. Would I like to be young again and relive those butterflies in my stomach moments, or the sneaking of love letters, the first holding of hands or first kiss, of course, who wouldn’t. Growing old is inevitable. As my father-in-law says, “on your tombstone will be your birth date and your going home date, but between it is a dash. Its what you do in the span of that dash that matters most.” If I had to do it over again , I would do it just the same. Here is to many more skate night’s honey.

5 Ways to Pray With Your Kids ~ Raising Godly Children

noreply@blogger.com (2330 Sutton Place) — Thu, 04 Apr 2013 13:25:00 +0000

Praying with your children is vital in order to instill faith and trust in God. There is nothing more influential and effective to a child than to see their parents praying and there is nothing more powerful than letting your children pray. Many children might feel that prayer is for grown ups and only grown ups are heard. On the contrary, our children most know that their prayers are just as important. Pray activates faith and allows a child to feel that they too can speak with this “grown up” God.

Our family practices family prayers, meal time prayers, individual prayers and spontaneous prayers as events call for. It will not be odd to be driving and hear a siren and one of us start praying for the individual, or pass an accident scene and began to lift up the victims. I can’t help but believe that we have secretly affected the outcome of numerous events. God requires and desires us to intercede in behalf of our fellow man. Its when we step put in selfless and humble faith that heaven is moved. The Bible says “if my people who are called by my name.....pray”, and it further instructs us to pray without ceasing. Prayer, especially for others lets your child know the importance of charity and love, but also benefit from its reward.

Here are 5 Ways to Pray With Your Kids by Raisinggodlychildren.org

1. Include children in praying over family decisions. As a parent, you have the final say in all family issues, but it is important to be intentional about asking your children to pray about family matters. Allow them a day or two to listen to God (in their hearts) and seek His answer. Then, come together to seek Gods final answer.

2. Pray spontaneously. As you become aware of needs or as you hear of people who need prayer, stop immediately and pray with your children. Many people are notoriously bad about saying, “I’ll pray for you” and never getting around to that time of prayer. Therefore, to demonstrate that prayer really is important to your family, find time to stop and pray spontaneously as God prompts.

3. Pray before meals and before bed. I know this sounds simplistic, but it works! Give your children the opportunity to thank God for the provisions and a blessed day. Bedtime prayers allow for peaceful sleep and motivation for a new day.

4. Thank God for moments of laughter. Our children need to understand that praying and serving God is not a depressing and always somber time. That God loves His children and is a God who seeks relationship with us. God is not a dictator, or some mystical being as portrayed by fairy tales, but rather a God that smiles, laughs and enjoys the moments we come to Him, just for Him.

5. Pray honestly. Children are extremely observant. They know when we are hurting or sad. They feel it when their parents are struggling. So, pray honestly with your children. Granted, children don’t need to know details. But, they do need to see us praying with authenticity and transparency. Nothing is more profound than to see you father or mother on their knees crying out to God and than seeing God raise that parent up with peace and joy.

Prayer is easy and effective, yet too often neglected. Prayer is just another arrow in our arsenal that allows us to exercise faith and lets God be God. Praying as a family strengthens bonds. As you pray with your children in each of these ways, you help them to become more than “good kids.” Praying with your children will encourage them to become spiritually healthy disciples.

Autism: Six year Ethan Walmark performs Billy Joel's "Piano Man"

noreply@blogger.com (2330 Sutton Place) — Tue, 02 Apr 2013 01:21:00 +0000

Ethan Walmark, a six year old on the autism spectrum plays a Billy Joel favorite. Never underestimate a child's ability and the power of music.

God Bless You Ethan and thank you for sharing your talent.

Watch him at a special Gala Here

A Teacher's love for their students!

noreply@blogger.com (2330 Sutton Place) — Sat, 30 Mar 2013 16:11:00 +0000

One Friday afternoon as my students were leaving the classroom after the bell had rung for dismissal, one of my students came up to me and gave me a hug (just as she often does). In a quiet voice I heard her say, "I wish I could tell you that I love you, but I can't because you are not my mom". With an wonderful feeling of appreciation, I returned the hug and told her, "I love you because you are my student, and I don't have to be your mom to say it!" As she hugged me just a little tighter that afternoon and then let go, I saw a beautiful smile, a smile that I knew was genuine. I knew once again, that I not only do my job of being a teacher because it is my passion to teach and inspire young people, but I do it because of the fulfillment it brings to my life and to each life I touch!

As a parent you hope and pray that your children are inspired and encouraged daily by their teachers. Pray for them everyday! (We need it)