Mom Wants A Life

Baking With Kids!

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Tue, 12 Aug 2014 21:51:00 +0000

Mom Speaks

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Tue, 21 Jan 2014 22:02:00 +0000

Wake Up and Smell the Sexting, Parents! by Kristen Thompson-Riley

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Thu, 16 Jan 2014 00:57:00 +0000

I will get some criticism for writing about this, but it’s important for all parents to hear. And when I say "All", I mean ALL, even those with babies and younger children. You need to know what is in store for you, because it’s only going to get worse.

Sorry in advance, kids. To parents, you’re welcome. Listen up!

My boys would probably say I’m a bit crazy when it comes to their phones and iPods. Maybe not even "a bit", but just downright crazy. I have reason. I have multiple reasons. I have 4 reasons ranging in the ages of 10 to 19. While I try not to invade privacy, these are my children and I have the right to invade. Anytime. Anywhere. Anyhow. When they turn 18, I stop invading. Yes, my 19 year old is now breathing a massive sigh of relief, but it doesn’t mean he can act-a-fool without getting feedback.

Cell phones are a blessing and a curse. I grew up without one. My kids have a hard time believing that I made it until I was 20 before I had a cell phone. And then it was their dad’s bag phone. My first official cell phone was the monster that had a 20lb battery attached and looked like a VCR with an antenna stuck to the side of your face. I carried that sucker proudly around in my purse (leaving no room in my purse for anything else, mind you). And when I’d get a call, I’d excitedly heave it out of my bag, screw on the antenna, press on the green button 15 times to answer it and stand against a window for reception. Once the call started, I knew I only had a select few minutes to chat because cellular phone charges were highway robbery. I think my first plan was in-state only and it charged me per minute during the day, but it was free nights and weekends. By the evening or weekend, I was so tired from carrying it around, I’d just tell people to call me on my house phone anyway.

I’m almost 40 and have been active in the last 20 years of cell phone evolution. The plans are more reasonable, and the phones are small and lightweight, so one would say that it’s improved since 1993.

This "one" would say No, it hasn’t….

I’d like to rewind cell phone technology back about 10 years with, still, the better plans, but the simple flip phone. No texting, no apps, just calls. Remember that time where you actually used a phone to call people? There’s a concept, kids! I could go on a tangent about how much more personal and important it is to actually speak to a person, but this is not my rant today. My rant is focused elsewhere. I’m here to enlighten my fellow moms and dads on apps – these little things our kids say "Hey, Mom can I buy such-n-such for 99 cents?" And the parent busy with something else acknowledges and may or may not make a mental note of "Junior just downloaded the game, SnapChat". Guess what, mom. SnapChat is NOT a game. And, guess what else? Most of the "dangerous" apps are FREE!

I had a MySpace page before my kids even knew what it was. When my eldest turned 12, he asked to have one. His dad and I reluctantly agreed under several stipulations: We set it up with kid controls. We knew the password at all times. And we would be checking it. Weekly. Daily. Whenever we damn well pleased. Then Facebook came along and Myspace disintegrated into cyber air. Like the rest of the world, he migrated over to Facebook, as did I. Same rules applied. Then Twitter came along. Kids left FB in their dust. This mom opened a Twitter account. Instagram followed. Mom followed. Notice the trend? But then things got tricky. Some of the open forum format changed to apps that you’d have to be invited to, to apps that were just between two people, to apps that take a quick photo and within seconds it disappears in cyber space to never be traced. That app? Snapchat. While I could somewhat regulate social networks (and sometimes not successfully. Mom-stalking isn’t fool proof), these other apps had this mom stumped. While investigating on what I could see, I was dumbfounded by some of things kids were posting for the world to see. Where are these kids’ parents? Do they know? Do they care? Am I breaking a Mom to Mom unsaid law by not informing them? I WANT to know. You better tell me, fellow parents! I will knock a Mann kid out. Look, I’ve seen things my kids have posted that have made me go "Woah! Oh no he didn’t!!". They have had posts removed, comments removed, pictures removed, accounts deactivated, phones taken, iPods taken, phone service disconnected. Yes, we went there. They know what is acceptable and what is not. Simply put:

If you post something that you’d be embarrassed for your Mom to see, don’t post it." THAT’s my rule. Like or not, you break it, we’re going to rumble.

This leads me to alerting parents who are unaware of the unsaid convenience of, not only texting, but sharing pics, videos, etc.. I’m not aiming usage of these at just teens, but sadly preteens and children under the age of 10 as well. Many times they stumble upon something innocently, whether it’s their peer cursing, borderline inappropriate content, and even outright TRASH. My 10 year old has a texting app on his iPod. He is not allowed to have a phone, but we agreed to let him have an app to text me, his dad, his brothers, and his stepparents. If he wants to call a friend, he can use my phone. He also has an Instagram account where photos and now videos are shared. I can see who he follows and what they post. I’ve unfollowed a dozen or more of his older brothers friends unbeknownst to him, because of their inappropriate posting and language. I am THISCLOSE to deleting everyone but family and his 10 year old friends. My 13, 15, and 19 year olds have/had KIK, vine, snapchat, ooVoo and the usual suspects – Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. At least if you’re going to let your children have these apps, be informed:

Facebook and Twitter are social networks. If you don’t know what they are, you need to be hit on the head with a hammer. Both social networks have Inboxes. Check them regularly, parents. Don’t assume your kid is making great decisions if you don’t see anything on their "Wall". Word to the wise, have them access Twitter from your iPhone and now ALL notifications come to you automatically, even inbox messages. Know their passwords. Always.

Instagram: Pros – fun place to share videos and photos. No inbox feature, so everything is "out there".

Cons – if you don’t keep up with who your kid is following, you’re being naïve. My 10 year old has 13, 15, 19 year old brothers who all have friends with Instagram accounts. The chances of him seeing or reading something above his 10 year old sweet, innocent brain are great. Know their passwords and check Followers and what they post. Regularly. Unfollow, delete, block, unfollow, delete, block. Repeat.

Vine: Don’t let the description "The best way to share life in motion. Create short, beautiful looping videos in a simple and fun way" mislead you. These looping videos can actually be a lot of fun to share. My oldest son has made some hilarious ones, but vine does not regulate Rated G vs Rated X. If your kid has a vine account or follows someone who posts vine videos, WATCH THEM. Vine doesn’t know or care if it’s a 21 year old adult or an 8 year old kid on the receiving end. And remember, even if they don’t have the Vine app, if the person posts them to Twitter and your kid follows them from their Twitter account, they can watch them there.

KIK: Instant Messenger. Basically if you don’t know a person well enough to know their phone number to text or call them, you can KIK them. My mindset, if you don’t know them "that well", you don’t need to chat with them about anything. Ever.

User Reviews on Google for KIK:

"This app is awesome and cool my kik is ________. Kik me no guys jst girls from Detroit. I’m 15. Hit me up." - I purposely did not post this person’s KIK name, but I can tell you if I see my 15 year old’s KIK name on FREAKING GOOGLE for someone to "hit him up", he’s going to get "hit up" alright. Hit right upside the head with his iPhone before I crush it into 10000 pieces. And who’s to say this is a 15 year old kid and not some 42 year old creep living in his mother’s basement preying on young girls? Yes, I may have watched one too many episodes of 20/20, but that shit is real, folks!

"Definitely a great app if you don’t like giving people your number. It’s just like texting someone. 27 year old woman looking for friends. KIK is _____________."

What if that 27 year old woman "looking for friends" is KIKing your 11 year old son?

I will say KIK isn’t horrible if you manage it and know who they’re talking to.

ooVoo: "ooVoo video chat gives you two things no one else can" (now THERE’s a wide open statement) "Free multistream video calls with up to 12 people at a time along with unsurpassed stability and quality." This is the equivalent to FaceTime for iPhone users, and Skype. Be the mom or dad peeping over from behind the dresser to make sure there’s a recognized person on the other end. And they are age appropriate. And clothed. Better yet, pop a squat beside your kid and say "What up, home dog?" While it may deduct a few parental cool points, it’ll start to deter the caller to have these ooVoo conversations for fear she’ll have to speak to your super embarrassing mother.

And last, but certainly not least, SnapChat. Don't let that cute little ghost fool you. The official description says "The fastest way to share a moment on iPhone". Pictures/videos are created, an alert is sent to the receiver, they watch it and within 10 seconds it’s gone. No record, no trace. Parents, THINK ABOUT IT.

Snapchat is bad news folks. My advice is to delete the app if you see it. Period. If they have an iPhone and want to make a video, they can with the iPhone camera or now they can do it on Instagram, which has supposedly regulated their site not to post inappropriate videos. We shall see….

A new app is released quicker than you can blink. And I find that if weren’t for my parental stalking, I’d be completely clueless to all the new ways kids are connecting and sharing information. There are tons I did not cover, but these are the teen faves. The fiancé and I have 4 teens with smartphones, and 2 ten year olds with iPod touches. 6 multiplied by these apps equals A LOT to keep up with. (Ok, 5 since my oldest has graduated to a non-stalking mom. My eyes are still open in the public forum). In this day and age, we, as parents, have to look out for our kids and for each other. I seriously long for the day that my biggest parental concern was cars coming down the street while they rode bikes. I could see in clear view the danger. Technology blinds us to danger, a danger of kids growing up a little fast, knowing more than they should at a young age, and exchanging inappropriate information for it to only *POOF* disappear within a 10 second window and we are none the wiser. Don't be the parent who thinks "My kid would never do that."

Get wise.

I’m the unpopular mom who takes her kids phone and iPod at bedtime (even during the summer) and plugs them in my room. As recently as last night, I got the big SIGH when I asked my 13 year old for his phone. When he’s 18, he can vine, snapchat, tweet, and kik until hell freezes over. He just better hope it doesn’t cross a public forum that I see it. Just because they are bigger, doesn’t mean I still won’t knock a Mann kid out.

I now stand to be on the Most Hated list by kids because of this blog, but as I’ve seen many post on Twitter after saying something painful, but true:

#sorrynotsorry

Note: I have now started a series on Parenting and Social Media due to the increased interest in Kids and Social Media. Please keep checking back for weekly updates. Here is Part I:
http://bloodsweatcheers13.blogspot.com/2013/09/required-license-to-tweet-part-i.html

Amazing & Affordable Prom Dresses by Susie Jackson

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 15 Jan 2014 18:29:00 +0000

I love this dress!

By Susie Jackson

Reprinted with permission

I have a teen who has longed for the day she attends a prom or dance. She thinks that is going to be the it moment of her life! She is excited about formal dresses! She can't get enough of looking at them and dreaming. I can't blame her they are fun to look at but a lot of times when I see the price I gasp with disbelief in shock.

You know what I mean moms?! But recently, she saw with me the DressFirst.com web site and fell in love. As a mom I have always since she was young, taught her how to be a lady and be modest. I love the dresses they provide at DressFirst.com because they are so pretty yet cover up! These dresses are dreamy and they offer a grand selection! I think one reason girls love dresses like this and long for the events they can wear them to is because it makes them for one night feel like a true princess. But we know they all truly are anyways! Right moms!

Now what's great about these prom dresses is that you can wear them to other events besides the prom. You can wear them for formals,dances,balls or other special events. They even offer wedding,cocktail,bridesmaid & evening gowns. They provide discount prom dresses for any budget. Right now for a limited time they are even offering free shipping, now how can you beat that. The web site is easy to use and understand. Now I am not afraid of the price when my teen finds her prom dress when that day comes! Here below of some samples of some of my personal favorites. Aren't they gorgeous dresses! I love the colors and cuts. Simple & elegant. They do offer more flashy if that is your flare too!

Visit Susie at her blog: Homemaker-Mom.Blog.  Susie reviews products with her 'Homemaker Seal Of Approval'. She also shares frugal tips and her homemaking journey.
Please note, views/photos in this article were made available by the guest blogger.   The owner of
'Renew the Woman In You' receives no compensation from items or information provided in this article.   Please contact Renew if you believe any violations (including copyright) have occurred.

The Season of Romance Wasteland by Sherry Daniels

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 15 Jan 2014 17:40:00 +0000

7-year-old: “Mom, what is sex?”

Mom (thinking back through the last seven years, and finally, shrugging): “I have NO idea.”

Do any of these confessions sound familiar?

‘I can’t remember the last time we went on a date.’

‘My husband and I seem more like roommates than a married couple.’

‘When I look at our bed, I don’t think ‘sex’, I think ‘how many more hours left before my head hits that pillow.’”

So here you are, with newly found time and energy, wondering how to reignite the spark you and your husband shared in the beginning. Awesome! Now what?

PLAY TOGETHER: Literally. Go out and have fun! What were some of your favorite activities when you were dating? Perhaps:

v Snow skiing, sledding

v Hiking nature trails

v Visiting flea markets

v Bike rides

v Competitive sports

v People watching, bird watching

v Fishing

v Fly kites

v Explore a city you haven’t been to

v Go bowling, dancing, roller skating, golf

v Go on a picnic

You get the idea. Couples tend to get so serious about the business of being grown-ups they forget to play together. Make a list together and plan weekly dates. (Even if getting out on a date is difficult, you can still make connection dates in your own home by committing to a time with each other. Turn off the phones and TV, grab your favorite beverage, find a quiet spot and let the kids know that they cannot interrupt unless it requires speed-dialing 9-1-1.) For more dating ideas, see 58 Years.

PEN HIM IN: Make a date for sex--no cancellations, no excuses. This may sound a little anti-romantic but the planning and anticipation is actually very romantic and very exciting. Give your husband little reminders that you are looking forward to your date.

v Sext him

v Leave love notes

v Take a selfie for him only

v Send him flowers

v Start a love story, adding a paragraph and passing it back and forth

NO WORRIES: Please don’t let insecurity about post-baby changes in your body keep you from intimacy. Over and over again, I hear the same refrain from men: Sensuality and sexuality have nothing to do with the perfect body. Looking sexy comes from within, an aura of desire, confidence and making your partner feel like the sexy one. Want to feel more sensual/make your partner feel sexy?

v Flirt (flit your hair, bat an eye, whisper in his ear)

v Wear something sexy

v Wear nothing at all

v Dance for him

v Play truth or dare

v Go parking

v 30 second kisses and hugs

v Massages, foot rubs

v Feed each other, make a rule you can’t feed yourself. Try it in bed.

v Act out a fantasy

START OVER: When we are young, sex is great with little or no thought, but as we age, sex changes. This is a two way street because men’s testosterone level begins to drop starting in their early thirties. The changes can become a great equalizer as men naturally take more time in the bedroom. So talk about sex from a fresh perspective. Be silly. Be sexy. Be wild. Experiment.

GET TO KNOW EACH OTHER ALL OVER AGAIN: I know, we are parents. Parents talk about kids. And money. And job security. And household chores. But is that really all there is to life? (If you’re stilling trying to answer this question, the correct answer is a definitive: no!) When was the last time you really gave each other time to hear your deepest stressors, longings and dreams? Having an intimate conversation—now, that’s romantic. Topic ideas:

v Newest fantasy

v Bucket list

v Strangest dream

v Dream vacation

v Answer this: I never… (or) I always wanted to….

v Describe a perfect day

v What do you like most/least about yourself

v A powerful childhood memory

v Deepest worries/greatest satisfaction
v Secret ambitions

Sherry Daniels is a Licensed Professional Counselor providing individual, couples and family therapy since 1994. She serves a broad spectrum of clients at her private practice in Fenton, Michigan. Her passion is working with couples and families. She states: "It is possible to repair the problems that develop in a relationship. I break each problem into solvable steps. I help you sharpen the skills you have and develop the tools you need for a loving, enduring relationship."
Sherry is an interactive, solution-focused therapist. Her approach is to provide support and practical feedback to help clients effectively address personal life challenges. She integrates methodologies and techniques to offer a highly personalized approach tailored to each client with an attitude of compassion and understanding.

She actively updates her skills and knowledge base with ongoing training including John Gottman Relationship Training. Ascend Counseling Services

Essential Oils--The Top Five from "Oily Mom" aka Patti Dolan

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Mon, 13 Jan 2014 21:14:00 +0000

Hello! I am Patti Dolan, a busy mom of two boys, happily married to a wonderful husband. I am a registered nurse and a Christian yoga instructor. I'm known as the "Oily Mom" because I'm also a Young Living Essential Oils Independent Distributor.

Essential oils are the essence from plants, flowers, trees, roots and seeds. Used since Biblical times, they're known for their life-enhancing, healing properties.

I am going to share with you my FIVE favorite oils that I use for my family --these five oils have literally replace my medicine cabinet!

#1! Peppermint: I use this topically, to cool fevers (placed on temples, nape of neck, and feet). We also drink a drop of peppermint in a glass of water to relieve tummy aches!

#2! Thieves: This is a blend of clove, lemon, cinnamon, eucalyptus, and rosemary. My boys have this rubbed on their feet every night at bedtime for immunity protection. We diffuse Thieves in our house in the winter and also add it to our water. There is also a huge line of Thieves household cleaning products and personal care items (such as toothpaste).

#3! Lavender: I begin diffusing lavender an hour before bedtime in each of our bedrooms to promote a relaxing environment for sleep. (LOVE the diffuser, because it will turn off a few hours later on its own after we are all in dreamland.) Lavender provides itch-relief from bug bites and if applied quickly, can help keep a burn from blistering.

#4! Lemon: Each morning, before I put anything else in my system, I drink a large glass of water with 1 or 2 drops of lemon. Why? Our bodies are generally acidic. This drop of lemon in water helps alkalinize our body. Research has shown that cancer cells can develop and grow more rapidly in an acidic environment.

#5! Panaway: This is a blend of wintergreen, helichrysum, clove and peppermint. I use this for everyday muscle aches, pains, or headaches. Soothing and cooling - Love, Love, Love it!!!

Well, these are my favorites in a nutshell. There are literally hundreds more available.

From time to time Patti receives a $20 voucher. If you're interested or you'd like more information on essential oils and Young Living, email Patti: at dpsad95@gmail.com. Check out her Facebook page.
(Please note, the publisher of this blog receives no compensation from this product.)

God Bless!!!

Patti

What New Year's Eve Meant To Me

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 01 Jan 2014 21:10:00 +0000

While everyone else was partying, singing and pretending they were going to make improvements come the New Year, I was far too lame.

For whatever reason, New Year's Eve hasn't been a favorite holiday since my twenties. I'm not terribly interested in waking up with a hangover, nor driving on streets after midnight. Loud and half-naked rock stars annoy me. So do overcrowded (and overpriced) bars. Again, I'm lame.

I prefer having my kids with me anyway. And so far, they're not quite ready to ditch me on New Year's yet. So, I thought I'd own up to what I was really thinking on New Year's Eve during the countdown.

10...9....8...7....6.....5....4....3....2....1

Yes!

Finally, bedtime!

58 years

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 01 Jan 2014 20:52:00 +0000

In remembrance of my parents 1st Heavenly Anniversary, I decided to make a list of all the great date nights my husband and I should plan.

Then I decided to ditch the dream date list for activities we might actually get around to. Not only are these ideas affordable, they also provide a lot more intimacy than any loud night on the town. In fact, if I can remember WAYYYY back to our first year together (when we were both incredibly romantic and incredibly poor), the best dates we had were the simple ones. Here are some of my ideas:

Got Ideas? Add them below.

Feeling Emotional? Show it!

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 01 Jan 2014 19:24:00 +0000

Dr. Lauri Nummenmaa,
Aalto University School of Science

As an emotional person, I found the following article "Study Finds Emotions Can Be Mapped to the Body" (by @ Shannon Firth), fascinating.

The research, published in the Proceedings of the National Academies of Sciences, was conducted by Finnish researchers in an attempt to determine if emotions cause universal physical reactions. (A simplistic example: Do most people feel "butterflies in their stomach" when they are nervous?)

The study included 701 participants. Using words, stories, movies, and expressions to illicit emotions, the participants were then asked to highlight their physical sensations on two human -shaped silhouettes. (Note: the sensations were based on a participants' "perceived physical reaction" and were not monitored or confirmed medically.) One silhouette was to be used to depict increasing sensations, the other to depict decreasing sensations. Body parts colored red indicated the most intense sensations, yellow were strong, blue meant dulled sensations, black equated to absent sensation.

Emotions Mapped:

ANGER FEAR DISGUST HAPPINESS SADNESS SURPRISE NEUTRAL

ANXIETY LOVE DEPRESSION CONTEMPT PRIDE SHAME ENVY

Visit Emotions Mapped to see the results.

Find Actual Study Here

Feeling Emotional? Click here for Middle-Stage Mom's version:

(For entertainment purposes only)

Plot Your Emotions

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 01 Jan 2014 19:12:00 +0000

Why Can't I Just Shut Up 2

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Mon, 30 Dec 2013 13:50:00 +0000

A sequel to the last post.  This target: husband.

I really can't remember the details, but it was bedtime, and I was furious! I also remember, whatever my husband did to make me mad, he was more than aware of, and apparently quite willing to agree.

However, he thought a simple apology would do it. So I got the old basic type. Then he rolled over, and instantaneously began to snore. Meanwhile I stewed on my side of the bed.

This was not over.

So, I poked him awake. Told him how and why he ticked me off.   He apologized again, rolled over and began to snore.

So, I poked him again.   This went on about six times! Seriously.

If he could fall asleep that easily, he really wasn't getting the just of my anger: he really did get or care why I was THAT mad.

So, I poked him again. This time he turned on the light, sat up, looked right at me, and said:

"Okay. I'm listening."

Then, he ruined it, by adding:

"Well, I better get this over with. It's my fault. I screwed up, and I'm never going to get some sleep if I don't let you yell at me."

Actually, I laughed. It wasn't really funny. I was still mad and probably should have been insulted. But the truth is, he called me out.   When I am really, really angry, (See: Why Can't I Just Shut Up.) I don't shut up.   It's like a broken dam.  Water furiously rushing out, cutting, carving, barreling with angry menace, until finally the water becomes part of the quiet flowing stream. And life hopefully returns to normal.

Back to Work Poll

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Mon, 16 Dec 2013 19:07:00 +0000

Create your free online surveys with SurveyMonkey , the world's leading questionnaire tool.

Phobophobia- the fear of phobias

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sun, 15 Dec 2013 19:07:00 +0000

Do you suffer from a phobia? Any fears at all?

I HATE flying. In fact, I avoided it for more than a decade of my marriage. I flew on our honeymoon.   Six flights in all, three to our destination, three home. On the last flight, seven days into our marriage, I told my husband he was the worst person alive. I also told him I hated him. (Yes, I did...shame...shame.) The plane was overbooked (I begged him to give up our seats.)

We were exhausted. More importantly, I had assumed I would die on this trip via the plane falling out of the sky. (Gruesome, yes, but honest.) And since this was the very last flight out of the six, I was certain that this was the ONE. In my mind, we were not going to make it home and live happily ever after as husband and wife.

Luckily, my patient husband ignored my ranting (and sweating palms) buckled me in tight, and reminded me we'd be home in less than 45 minutes.   Chicago to Detroit is a very short flight.

Well, twenty years later, I 'm still alive. So, yes, we made it.  He didn't ask me to fly again for a very long time.

I have flown since then. I still hate it. I still think I'm going to die. My palms are sweaty. I don't have visible panic attacks (only on the inside), but my heart is racing the entire time, along with my thoughts.   I've made it to Florida several times, New York, San Antonia and Chicago.   Bless, his heart, now he wants to take me to Hawaii for our 20th anniversary. Who wouldn't want to go to Hawaii?   ME. ME. ME. Unless I can get there via molecular travel. I hyperventilate just thinking about eight hours stuck in a small metal tube that impossibly flies miles above the ground, on some invisible marshmallowy nothingness called air.  All of my control is in the hands of some stranger siting in a closet-sized, bullet-proof space. Sure the pilot is dressed in a deceiving suit, but his/her hat is decorated with fake wings.   I'm also not thrilled that there's some magic button that allows the plane to magically fly by itself, while he takes a sweet nap. (No offense meant to any pilots. I'm exaggerating, of course, but I'm calling it how my phobic mind sees it.)

So, anyway, I will eventually get there--to Hawaii, I mean.   Hopefully it will be via a plane, but I guarantee I won't be ready by next year.

Since my goal on this blog is to improve myself, and help others do the same, I want to tackle my fear of flying. I want to be adventurous. I want to see Hawaii. I want to travel abroad!
Any ideas to help me get there? (FYI: I'm not talking about a cruise ship.)

If you suffer from a phobia, please share with us:(use scroll alongside this survey to complete)

Create your free online surveys with SurveyMonkey , the world's leading questionnaire tool.

As always, you can respond in the comment section or add your story to Your Words.

Friends or Neighbors? Who is in Your Backyard?

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sun, 15 Dec 2013 02:15:00 +0000

Choose Your Path

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Thu, 12 Dec 2013 00:27:00 +0000

Thoughts of an Empty Bed

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 11 Dec 2013 21:20:00 +0000

Back to Work--Does the Idea Send Shivers Up Your Spine?

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 11 Dec 2013 01:15:00 +0000

I can't tell you how many moms I've heard say they would love to go back to work but they're afraid.

Afraid of what? Change alone is scary, especially if your family/household depends heavily on you. Many moms are worried about managing a new schedule, handling the double duties of work and home, the loss of flexibility, lack of skills and so much more.

If you're planning on returning to a paid job, I'd love to hear from you. Consider these questions:

Create your free online surveys with SurveyMonkey , the world's leading questionnaire tool.

Add more comments below, or contact me to share your story in Your Words.

Are You Behind Career-Wise

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 11 Dec 2013 00:34:00 +0000

If you've taken any length of time off from work (a paying job) to be a mom, or if you altered your career-path to make family time more manageable, you might have a few fears about returning to the workforce, particularly when it comes to how marketable you still are. Here are some top fears you may have:

· your experience is outdated

· you have too large of a gap in your resume

· you are no longer corporate material

· your skills are limited

Is this really true or simply how we perceive ourselves?

Unfortunately, it's often a little bit of both. If you are or were a stay-at-home mom, or a mom who took a part-time or generic job out of convenience, you probably are outdated compared to those who continued on a full-time career path.

That doesn't have to mean you are unmarketable. Nor does it mean you’re stuck with a useless resume. How can you improve your professional portfolio?

· Take a class or two. Great options to start with: MOOCs (Massive Open Online Courses) are online courses attended by thousands of people via the Internet. MOOCs are almost always free.

o MOOC info

o MOOC pros/cons

o Continuing education courses

o Certification courses

· Ask for a brief internship at a company you'd like to work for. If you want an internship, don't be shy. Do your homework on local companies. (Small companies often offer the best opportunities.) Ask and negotiate for an internship. They'll get a free worker, you'll get a free education, be able to add to your resume and possibly have a job offer at the end of the internship. If that doesn't happen, intern at another company.

o How to get an internship

· Volunteer. Volunteering is not only good for the community, it's good for you, emotionally and in the business realm--if you pick the right opportunity. To spruce up your resume, choose a position that compliments your future career plans. For example, if you want to work in public relations you could volunteer as a fundraising coordinator. An accountant? Volunteer as the treasurer for your child's PTA or a local church.

· Consider your home skills. I don't mean turn your resume into a domestic thesaurus. (Helping your children pick out nice clothes does not translate to fashion designer. Stopping sibling rivalry does not make you a relationship therapist. You get the point.) However, many moms underestimate the skills they use every day. In this case, it's a matter of listing your skills set rather than creating a job label. For example, many moms become great at organizing, problem-solving, handling finances, budgeting, etc.) If your best skills match the job you're seeking include them. (I'm currently working on a post that displays various types of resume styles including one that focuses on skills and accomplishments rather than specific employment.)

· Join organizations. Nothing works better than social networking (the old-fashioned kind). Find an organization, a club, an association--anything that relates to your chosen field. Join AND attend. Yes, meet real people, in person. Get to know them, their businesses, let them know about your strengths. Volunteer for a position within the organization that demonstrates or improves your skills. Offer to intern or freelance for a potential employer.

o Professional Organization Tips and Info

· The new social networking. You can't deny the power of the internet. Consider career sites such as Linkedin. If you're using the web to gain employment, remember your reputation matters. Do your best to save the web for professional activity and posts.

o The Value of Linkedin

· Freelance. Thanks to the web, freelancing opportunities are available for many fields. Again, you might start out working for peanuts, but eventually if your work is good, you should be able to build up a following or at least be able to update your employment status on your resume.

o Freelance Blog

· Return to School. Many colleges offer classes on-line making it easier to earn or upgrade your degree. If you have the time and resources and want to start anew, talk to a school advisor about options. Free scholarships.

o Scholarships

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Amazing!

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sat, 07 Dec 2013 03:34:00 +0000

I have no idea who created this incredible depiction of a lost soldier out of a tree stump. It's not only beautiful, but glorious, patriotic, heart-breaking, thought-provoking and so, so much more. Look closely at the details.

Just Beautiful!

Why Being A Mom is Worth It

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sat, 07 Dec 2013 03:14:00 +0000

Note from my son 7-year-old son (translated as best I could)

Dear Mom and Dad,

You have guided me through life. You have always been there for me my entire life. And, Dad, you have always been my buddy my whole life. And you are the only boy there for me when I need you. I love you, Dad.

Mom, you have done everything to make life better. I love you mom. If it wasn't for both of you. I wouldn't be here right now. I love you Mom and Dad. You are the best parents. Anyone would want you for parents, but you guys are here. You are loved most with us.

From Mom and Dad,

Because of you, I am home and I'm where I'm supposed to be with you guys. I'm home.

How was your morning?

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Fri, 06 Dec 2013 18:28:00 +0000

My laundry room as of 7:15 am

Please note all of the things I have done wrong between 7-7:30 this morning--per my teenage daughter:

1) I did not wake her up (Why would I? She has an alarm clock AND her light was already on)

2) I did not find her a pair of socks

3) I did not grab her boots

3) I did not put her backpack in the car for her (I did make her lunch and put that in the backpack. Thankfully, she will be at school when she opens it, and not able to complain directly to me that I ruined her peanut butter sandwich.)

4) I did NOT throw all of the clean clothes from the dryer on the floor. (She was kind enough to do that.)

5) However, it was my fault she did so, because I do not wash her clothes fast enough (3 loads a day is obviously not sufficient). Nor did I take the clothes out of the dryer, fold them, haul her basket up to her room, and put them away for her. Thus, she could not find the shirt she was looking for.

6) Apparently, at the bus stop I did not let her out at the exact spot she wanted me to, even though her "designated spot" is where the bus parks. Should I mention the bright flashing lights quickly taking over our car?

7) Last, but only because she's off to school, and definitely not least, I'm quite certain she believes it's my fault that I gave birth to her. Because, without a doubt, I am responsible for giving her all the undesirable qualities she will possess today.

Yes, I still love her!

Crying Kids? Encourage it.

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Fri, 06 Dec 2013 18:27:00 +0000

Well, maybe not always. Crying for attention, show or just plain whining, isn't quite what I'm referring to.

However, crying emotional tears (genuine frustration, anger, sadness) is very healthy and important--even for boys! Your moody teen? The perfect example of someone who should be allowed to cry--and often. (Just think back to your pregnancy and those wacky fluctuating emotions.)

Research shows emotional tears release harmful chemicals and stressors from our bodies. They also contain natural endorphins, painkillers and antidepressant chemicals. For more detailed information visit: Go Ahead and Cry

Create A Freelance Business

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Fri, 06 Dec 2013 18:26:00 +0000

How cute are these?

Having trouble finding a job?

Why not create one? Yes, you can!

Use your current skills, past experience, even hobby knowledge to create a product or service you'd love to sell.

Of course, some jobs might require a class or certification, and all require a persistent can-do attitude. You might even have to offer a few freebies to friends or potential customers to gain referrals and a following.

Below is just a brief list of real freelance opportunities:

-Life Coach

Great at organizing, managing time/schedules, budgeting, even confidence-building? Help others build those skills, as well.

Fashion Expert or Blogger

Do you have excellent fashion sense, know how to accessorize and love to shop? Believe, me, not every woman can build a runway wardrobe. Save customers money in the long run by picking pieces they'll actually wear and look fabulous.
Live Fashion Blog Example & Tips
Learn How to Make Money in Fashion

Catered Homemade Meals for Busy Families

Love to cook? Do you usually make more food than your family can eat? When you cook for your family, cook for your clients (create the same dishes in separate containers). If it's easier, cook an entire week's worth of meals in one or two days and store them in the freezer. Deliver them to your clients' homes based upon on agreement.
Tips on Batch Cooking

Columnist

Think you can't be a columnist if you're not a journalist? If friends come to you for advice, you might be the perfect candidate. Pick a comfortable topic (parenting, relationships, etc.). Send a few sample columns (reviewed by friends) to your local paper. Don't fret if they accept your column, don't pay. Those published clips are your ticket to higher paying opportunities.

Here are a few other real freelancing opportunities (and some useful links):

-Household Organizer Become a Professional Organizer

-Cupcake Baker
The Cupcake Blog
Cupcake Sales

-Resume Writer

-Senior/Student Tutoring

-Computer Training (seniors)

-Cooking Classes for Kids (and/or parents)

-Inventor
5 Tips To Become an Inventor

-CatererCatering tips
How to Become A Successful Caterer

-Budget Planner

-Bling Accesorizer

-Handmade Card Designer

-Foreign Language/English Language InstructorTeach English On Line

-Painting Bedroom Murals

-Animal Behavioralist

Animal behavior blog
How to become a dog trainer

-Record Books on Tape

Help someone grow a green thumb

-Motivational Coach

-Garden Consultant

-Selling CraftsExcellent craft blog
Great resource for starting a craft business
How to sell crafts

-Virtual AssistantVirtual assistance blog
Start up a virtual assistant business

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Disclosure page

One New Thing

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Fri, 06 Dec 2013 18:25:00 +0000

Learn to Bird Watch

We all want to make improvements in our lives (at least, we should want to).

So, why not set up a challenge? Just one itty-bitty trial a day. Is there any fear you've wanted to conquer? A hobby you've wanted to take on?

I'd like to give credit where it's due. This idea came from my teenager prior to her first year of middle school. I remember how frightened she was (and excited). Yet by the end of the week, she'd met plenty of new friends (as did most of the other children).

What I didn't know was that she had made a pledge to say "hello" and compliment one new person every day. Every day.

So, what's your challenge going to be?

-striking up a conversation with someone in the grocery line

-taking the elevator instead of the stairs (if you're scared of heights or claustrophobic) or

taking the stairs instead of the elevator (if you want to start exercising)

-learning one fancy word every day

-learning a new language (one new word a day, one phrase a week)

-starting a journal

-applying for jobs you'd love, even if you don't meet all of the requirements

-writing your spouse love notes

-reading a famous novel

-paying for an extra coffee and giving it to the person in line beyond you

-signing up for a class you've always wanted to take

-volunteering for something you believe in

-sending hand-written notes to friends you haven't seen for years

-apologizing to or forgiving someone

-writing a paragraph a day, a page a week, a chapter a month, a novel in a year

-helping a neighbor with a chore

-scheduling an appointment for a physical, a massage, a mammogram, or whatever it is your body needs

-trying a new food

-swapping your unhealthy snack for a fresh piece of fruit
-calling someone special just to say "I love you."

-asking a friend about her day

-creating a piece of art

-learning to read music

-playing the guitar

Share your own personal challenge in the comments section or see Your Words.

How 'My Plan to Teach My Kids Responsibility' is Working:

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Thu, 05 Dec 2013 21:29:00 +0000

Sadly these are NOT before pictures.

They are AFTER.

If by chance, you would like to try this method….or more likely just want to know what I’m referring to, click here.

Or here, for the simplified version.