Egg Substitutes
Using Flax Seed:
For each egg needed, place in blender:
1 heaping tablespoon of whole organic flax seed, blend until it becomes a fine meal. Add 1/4 cup cold water blend 2-3 minutes until thickened and has the consistency of eggs. Each 1/4 cup of Flax seed mixture will replace one egg in baking
Using Gelatin:
Before starting recipe for cookies, cake etc... Combine 1 tsp unflavored gelatin with 3 tblsp cold water and 2 tblsp plus 1 tsp boiling water. This mixture will substitute for 1 egg in a recipe.
Using Tofu:
Tofu is great for egg substitutions in recipes that call for a lot of egg (like quiches). To substitute for only one egg in a recipe, whip 1/4 cup tofu and add to your cooking.
1 whole egg = 2 tbsp water and 1 tbsp oil and 2 tsp baking powder.
To make one egg use 2 tbsp water and 2 tsp baking powder.
To make one egg white, dissolve 1 tblsp plain agar powder in 1 tblsp water. Whip, chill and whip again.
1 heaping tblsp soy powder and 2 tblsp water = 1 egg.
1 tblsp soy milk powder and 1 tblsp cornstarch and 2 tblsp water = 1 egg.
One average size banana = one egg, adds flavor to product. Product may be gummy.
1/4 cup soymilk in place of each egg.
3 tablespoons pureed fruit = 1 egg.
Substitute 3 tablespoons mayonnaise for each egg called for in a recipe.
1 egg white is 1 tablespoon of meringue powder plus 2 tablespoons warm water; 8-10 egg whites = 1 cup
1/4 teaspoon agar powder and 1/4 cup lukewarm water and 1 teaspoon low sodium baking powder . Whisk all ingredients together well before adding to recipe .
1/2 tablespoon agar flakes and 1/4 cup water and 1 teaspoon low sodium baking powder- In a large microwave safe container, combine water and agar with top on cook on high in microwave for 45 seconds. Carefully remove container from microwave and whisk baking powder into mixture. Use caution, the baking powder causes a rapid expansion of the liquid and has a tendency to foam over.
2 tablespoons liquid (room temperature water or milk or substitute) and 1 tablespoon potato starch or tapioca starch and 1 /2 tablespoon shortening and 3 /4 teaspoon low sodium baking powder.
1 tablespoon any mild flavored oil + 1 tablespoon apple cider or wine vinegar or lemon juice and 1 teaspoon low sodium baking powder and 1 teaspoon potato starch or cornstarch or arrowroot + enough carbonated water[plain soda water) to equal a total of 1 /4 cup . Combine all ingredients in a medium size bowl to allow room for the ingredients to increase in volume as baking soda and vinegar react. Whisk, then add per mix or recipe instructions.
1 tsp of arrowroot powder + 1 tsp of water, sometimes you may want to add a little extra milk or water or oil to make up for the bulk that you would get with a real egg. Good for pancakes and waffles.
As bad as this may sound 15 ml (0.51 oz) Vinegar = 1 egg. Mainly used in baking, products will stale quickly, use within four days. Freeze until used. Adds flavor to product. Product may be gummy.
1 tsp yeast dissolved in 1/4 cup warm water = 1 egg.
Xanthan Gum.
Mix about 1/4 tsp. with about 1/4 cup of water. Let stand. It thickens, and can be whipped like an egg white. It's okay to replace one egg.
Egg Yolk Substitute:
Mix 2 cups water and 1 cup flour in a blender until thick. Cook in a double boiler 45-60 minutes. With a mixer, whip in 2 Tbsp. cooking oil and 1/4 tsp salt. use 2 or 3 Tbsp. for binder in hamburgers or meat loaf.
Egg White Extender:
Add 1 tsp cold water to 2 egg whites. Makes 3 egg whites.
And Now For Something Completely Different, But Works:
Snow can be used as an excellent substitute for eggs in puddings, pancakes, etc. Two heaping tablespoons snow will take the place of 1 egg, and the recipe will turn out equally well. Use fresh-fallen snow or the under-layers of older snow. The ammonia in snow imparts to its rising properties, and the exposed surface of the snow loses ammonia by evaporations very soon after it has fallen.
Low Cholesterol Egg Substitute Recipe:
1 tablespoon of nonfat dry milk powder
2 egg whites from large eggs
4 drops of yellow food color
Sprinkle powdered milk over egg whites, then beat them with fork until smooth. Add food color, and beat until blended. This makes one-fourth cup, which is equal to 1 large egg. If you use this homemade substitute for scrambled eggs, cook it in vegetable oil or margarine so the eggs won't be too dry.
Best For Baking:
Try substituting 1 banana or 1/4 cup apple sauce for each egg called for in a sweet, baked recipe. These will flavour the recipe, however, so make sure banana or apple will taste good in it.
This is the one most often used in baking; it's really only good for recipes that call for 1 or 2 eggs. To make one egg use 1 tsp Ener-G Egg Replacer powder + 2 tbsp water. It's made from potato flour and other vegan leaveners, this powder can be found in most health food stores.
Tuesday, October 27, 2009
Monday, September 14, 2009
Fun and Frugal Family Outings
The time we spend with our families is priceless. But most popular family activities are quite expensive. Even a simple night at the movies can put a serious dent in the budget by the time you buy tickets, popcorn and drinks for everyone.
Fortunately, there are cheaper alternatives to expensive family outings. They provide the opportunity to have just as much fun at a fraction of the cost. Some are even free.
Movies and Music
Kids are often itching to see the newest releases at the movie theater. Doing so even once a month, however, can get pricey. One alternative in some areas is the drive-in. Admission is usually much cheaper than it is at a regular theater, and some let you bring your own drinks and snacks. Drive-ins usually show fairly new releases, so the kids can say they saw something that's not out on video yet.
Some theaters offer reduced-price matinees during the day. Some even have free kid-oriented movies on weekend days. These options offer the theater experience without the outrageous cost.
Kids often want to go to concerts, but tickets to see the most famous bands are far from cheap. Check your local paper for free concerts in the park. Many areas have them during the warm months. Young children can enjoy the music without the huge crowds and deafening sound systems, and older children might gain an appreciation for less well-known bands.
The Great Outdoors
Nature offers a wealth of possibilities for family outings. Camping is a wonderful activity for families, and it doesn't have to be expensive. It can be as simple as pitching a tent in the back yard, or you can spring for a camper and rent space at a campground. Bring the grill and some hamburgers or hot dogs, or catch some fish to fry.
Parks are great for day trips. Those with playground equipment can keep youngsters entertained for hours on end. Hiking trails offer opportunities for exercise and exploration. Most parks have picnic facilities, so you can pack a lunch instead of eating out.
Other Ideas
Here are some more inexpensive family activities to consider:
* Play miniature golf. Admission is usually quite reasonable, and it provides the opportunity for relaxed yet engaging family competition.
* Visit a petting zoo. These small zoos do not have the exotic animals you see at larger ones, but kids can feed and pet the animals.
* Go to a museum. Some offer cheap or free admission, while others cost more. But the larger and more expensive ones often sell season passes, so if you live close by, you can visit numerous times for one low price.
* Go boating. If you're fortunate enough to live near a body of water, boating is fun and relaxing. Canoe and paddleboat rentals are inexpensive, and when you're done boating there are usually other cheap or free activities in the area.
* Attend events at a nearby college. These may include plays, concerts, dance recitals and movie showings. Prices are low, and student discounts usually apply to kids, too.
Having fun as a family doesn't require a six-figure income. If you look hard enough, you can find lots of free or cheap activities that parents and kids can enjoy just about anywhere.
Sunday, September 6, 2009
Romantic Weekend Getaways
Some of the most romantic weekend getaways exist in the most populated destinations in the US. Here are a few to consider.
I’ll Take Manhattan. You can spend a fabulous weekend in New York City and stay either at the Marriott Hotel on Broadway, for example, which is right near the Theatre District; or you can book a weekend at the Plaza Hotel overlooking Central Park. Perhaps you would like to stay at the Mandarin Hotel and Spa where you can both be pampered for the weekend. No matter what your budget is; Manhattan is more than accommodating.
Needless to say, Manhattan is considered one of the most romantic spots in the U.S. Whether you enjoy dinner in your hotel suite or dine at any one of the five star restaurants, the night is always young for lovers who seek solitude in a city that hosts millions of tourists each year. Whether you take a carriage ride through Central Park, enjoy an opera or symphonic performance at Lincoln Center, or walk along Fifth Avenue during the evening hours; the city offers something for everyone.
San Francisco. With its rolling hills, fantastic cuisine, and friendly people; San Francisco offers hotel stays that are sure to enhance your romantic side. Among the most notable hotels are the Fairmont hotel, located in the Nob Hill area; the Mandarin Oriental, which is known for its best views of the Bay and the city; or the downtown W San Francisco hotel that is close to cable cars, shopping, restaurants, and theatres.
Stroll along Fisherman’s Wharf and stop by Ghirardelli Square where you can pick up some of their famous chocolate before having dinner at one of the many seafood restaurants there such as McCormick and Kuleto’s, where the panoramic view of the Bay, as well as Alcatraz island; both of which are a stunning backdrop. You may also wish to stop by O’Neill’s Irish Pub for an after-dinner drink. You may leave your heart here after departing this great city by the Bay.
Las Vegas. Time will stand still at this resort destination. With a myriad of hotels to choose from you can enjoy your time here without having to worry about time, because there are no clocks in the casinos.
With great weather year round (hot, but always dry), you can wile away the early morning hours at the hotel’s pool and enjoy the evening attending a fabulous show or visit lady luck at the casino.
Whether you take a stay at the Venetian Hotel and enjoy a romantic ride on a gondola; enjoy the Spa and Salon at the Hotel Bellagio; or marvel at the lush indoor gardens, aquarium, and the Secret Garden at the Mirage; Las Vegas is both affordable for any budget and is the perfect weekend romantic getaway.
Lake Placid. Far away from the maddening crowd, you will find comfort and romance at the Mirror Lake Inn. With gorgeous mountain and lake views, fireplace, and very large tubs, you will find the accommodations more than satisfactory. In fact, they are quite conducive to a romantic weekend.
Among the many things you might like to do is to take a walk to the neighboring town of Lake Placid, only two miles away. Here you will find shops along Main Street and you can stop at the Cottage for lunch. Swimming, fishing, canoeing, and kayaking are some of the activities available at Mirror Lake Inn.
The calm and quiet ambiance of this Inn is the perfect weekend getaway destination for couples.
I’ll Take Manhattan. You can spend a fabulous weekend in New York City and stay either at the Marriott Hotel on Broadway, for example, which is right near the Theatre District; or you can book a weekend at the Plaza Hotel overlooking Central Park. Perhaps you would like to stay at the Mandarin Hotel and Spa where you can both be pampered for the weekend. No matter what your budget is; Manhattan is more than accommodating.
Needless to say, Manhattan is considered one of the most romantic spots in the U.S. Whether you enjoy dinner in your hotel suite or dine at any one of the five star restaurants, the night is always young for lovers who seek solitude in a city that hosts millions of tourists each year. Whether you take a carriage ride through Central Park, enjoy an opera or symphonic performance at Lincoln Center, or walk along Fifth Avenue during the evening hours; the city offers something for everyone.
San Francisco. With its rolling hills, fantastic cuisine, and friendly people; San Francisco offers hotel stays that are sure to enhance your romantic side. Among the most notable hotels are the Fairmont hotel, located in the Nob Hill area; the Mandarin Oriental, which is known for its best views of the Bay and the city; or the downtown W San Francisco hotel that is close to cable cars, shopping, restaurants, and theatres.
Stroll along Fisherman’s Wharf and stop by Ghirardelli Square where you can pick up some of their famous chocolate before having dinner at one of the many seafood restaurants there such as McCormick and Kuleto’s, where the panoramic view of the Bay, as well as Alcatraz island; both of which are a stunning backdrop. You may also wish to stop by O’Neill’s Irish Pub for an after-dinner drink. You may leave your heart here after departing this great city by the Bay.
Las Vegas. Time will stand still at this resort destination. With a myriad of hotels to choose from you can enjoy your time here without having to worry about time, because there are no clocks in the casinos.
With great weather year round (hot, but always dry), you can wile away the early morning hours at the hotel’s pool and enjoy the evening attending a fabulous show or visit lady luck at the casino.
Whether you take a stay at the Venetian Hotel and enjoy a romantic ride on a gondola; enjoy the Spa and Salon at the Hotel Bellagio; or marvel at the lush indoor gardens, aquarium, and the Secret Garden at the Mirage; Las Vegas is both affordable for any budget and is the perfect weekend romantic getaway.
Lake Placid. Far away from the maddening crowd, you will find comfort and romance at the Mirror Lake Inn. With gorgeous mountain and lake views, fireplace, and very large tubs, you will find the accommodations more than satisfactory. In fact, they are quite conducive to a romantic weekend.
Among the many things you might like to do is to take a walk to the neighboring town of Lake Placid, only two miles away. Here you will find shops along Main Street and you can stop at the Cottage for lunch. Swimming, fishing, canoeing, and kayaking are some of the activities available at Mirror Lake Inn.
The calm and quiet ambiance of this Inn is the perfect weekend getaway destination for couples.
Monday, July 27, 2009
Getting Ink Out
By Shiloah Baker
With seven children accidents tend to happen more often that in a house with say...one child. We've seen more than our fair share of wear and tear on houses and have learned many tricks of the trade for cleaning up messes that seem impossible to clean. I'm talented like that. (Just kidding- I should say I'm stressed out like that. LOL)
We recently moved (again). We are a military family with two pairs of gypsy feet that get restless after 10 months in one house, state, country.... During the last move we were working hard to get the carpets and walls clean, pack our stuff and move it into the next house. I had my son and my eleven year old daughter working in the kitchen cleaning the last few dishes and packing up the dry ones. They decided to get goofy and my son took an ink pen apart and got a feather from one of our parakeets and made a "quill" to write on some paper. Ingenious. What he didn't know was that the ink spilled onto the floor, he stepped in it and smeared it all over the linoleum. When I discovered it I immediately put them both to work cleaning it up. None of it came up. We tried 409 and rubbing alcohol.
We had a carpet cleaner here at the time and he was boiling away a chemical color combination on the stove because he was doing a color restoration on the carpet. To be nice, he said he had something that might get it off. An hour later I came back and he told me the bad and good news. The bad news was he couldn't get it off. The good news was he had a recipe that would.
Here it is:
4 scoops oxyclean
2-4 tablespoons of rubbing alcohol
Make a paste and scrub with a toothbrush.
It worked!!!
He said we can use the same recipe on carpet, just leave it to sit (do the same on the floor) and it will help lift it out.
With seven children accidents tend to happen more often that in a house with say...one child. We've seen more than our fair share of wear and tear on houses and have learned many tricks of the trade for cleaning up messes that seem impossible to clean. I'm talented like that. (Just kidding- I should say I'm stressed out like that. LOL)
We recently moved (again). We are a military family with two pairs of gypsy feet that get restless after 10 months in one house, state, country.... During the last move we were working hard to get the carpets and walls clean, pack our stuff and move it into the next house. I had my son and my eleven year old daughter working in the kitchen cleaning the last few dishes and packing up the dry ones. They decided to get goofy and my son took an ink pen apart and got a feather from one of our parakeets and made a "quill" to write on some paper. Ingenious. What he didn't know was that the ink spilled onto the floor, he stepped in it and smeared it all over the linoleum. When I discovered it I immediately put them both to work cleaning it up. None of it came up. We tried 409 and rubbing alcohol.
We had a carpet cleaner here at the time and he was boiling away a chemical color combination on the stove because he was doing a color restoration on the carpet. To be nice, he said he had something that might get it off. An hour later I came back and he told me the bad and good news. The bad news was he couldn't get it off. The good news was he had a recipe that would.
Here it is:
4 scoops oxyclean
2-4 tablespoons of rubbing alcohol
Make a paste and scrub with a toothbrush.
It worked!!!
He said we can use the same recipe on carpet, just leave it to sit (do the same on the floor) and it will help lift it out.
Saturday, June 6, 2009
Food Stretching Recipes
With the economy being what it is and well,I just never have a good excuse except that I have a lot of kids I need my food bill to stretch to feed us all, I thought I would share some things I do that helps to keep us in a budget and still tastes good.
WHIPPED SOFT BUTTER
1 lb. butter
1/2 c. room temperature water
1/2 c. olive oil
Mix the butter until it's soft and creamy, then add the water and oil. It will splatter quite a bit, so take precautions. You should end up with about 3 1/2 cups of butter when it's all done. Store half in a freezer container until you are ready to use it.
INDIAN FRY BREAD
We started doing these instead of buying tortillas. This makes a large batch, so you can use the left overs as snacks/desert with honey and butter.
4 c. flour
2 T. baking powder
2 T. sugar
1/2 t. salt
2 T. olive oil
1 c. milk
little bit of water
Mix all the ingredients and mix well, using your hands if necessary. I use a dough hook on my kitchen aid. I add a little bit of water in until the mixture comes together and cleans the bowl. Roll out, make a slit in the middle and fry in 1/2 inch of moderately hot oil. Brown on both sides.
BREAD
I started making my own bread rather than buying it in the store. I can make it cheaper than what's in the store, although I'm sure you could get some better deals at a Day Old Breadstore (but I don't have that option out here).
Dissolve 2 T. east in 1/2 c. warm water (105-115 degrees).
Heat 4 c. milk for 3 minutes in microwave.
Add 1 stick of butter or 1/2 c. oil
3/4 c. honey
2 T. salt
2 eggs
Mix those until the honey and butter have dissolved and cooled the milk down some.
Add yeast mix in.
Add 4-5 cups of flour until well mixed, then start adding up to 4 more cups until you can knead the dough and it cleans the bowl. Let rise for 2 hours, divide into 4 loaf pans and let rise until it touches the rim of the pan. Bake at 350 for 30 minutes or so.
I also make Runzas out of the bread:
Brown up some ground beef, onions, garlic and mushrooms. Grate 1/2 lb. swiss cheese. Roll out the equivalent of two loaves of bread and divide them into 8 sections. Place a spoon of meat mix in the center, sprinkle cheese over the top and fold the dough over to make a sealed up pocket. Place on a greased cookie sheet and bake at 350 for 20 minutes or until bread is browned and done, but not burnt. You can also add some cabbage to your meat mixture too.
SCONES
I had one of these from Starbucks one time, a pumpkin one, and it was as hard and heavy as a rock. I thought scones were supposed to be light and fluffy, like half biscuit, half cookie? So, when I came across this recipe, and tried it out, I was so surprised and happy with it, I make them a couple times a month. One time we had them for a tea party when "Abigail Adams" came to visit our homeschool.
Freeze your butter the night before so it's ready when you are.
4 c. flour
2/3 c. sugar
2 t. baking powder
1/2 t. baking soda
1 t. salt
1 c. butter, frozen
1 c. sour cream
2 large eggs
Adjust oven rack to lower bottom level. Preheat oven to 400 degrees.
Mix your dry ingredients together in a bowl. Grate the butter and sprinkle into the flour mixture. Mixture should resemble course meal.
In a small bowl, whisk the eggs and sour cream together until smooth. Using a fork, mix the sour cream and eggs into the flour until large clumps form. Continue to mix with hands until it comes together. It may not seem as if it will, but as you press, it will.
Place on a lightly floured surface and roll out into a 7-8 inch circle 3/4 inch thick. Sprinkle with a teaspoon of sugar. Using a pizza cutter or knife, cut into 8 triangles and place on a cookie sheet (preferably lined with parchment paper) about one inch apart. Bake until golden about 15-17 minutes. Cool for 5 minutes and serve warm.
We serve it with frozen strawberries or mixed berries and whipped cream. They are good by themselves too.
I feel bad this is all carbohydrates so here's some vegetable recipes.
Creamed Corn
2 c. frozen corn or 3 cans drained corn
1 pkg. cream cheese
1/4 c. butter
3 T. milk
2 T. sugar
Mix altogether in a skillet until cream cheese and butter are melted. I have this as a starch for breakfast sometimes. Very filling....also really good with grilled steak.
Baby Lima Beans
1 pkg lima beans, boiled
2 T. butter
1/2 t. thyme leaves
Once the beans are boiled and drained, add the butter and thyme and mix till butter is dissolved. Good with Parmesan cheese sprinkled on top.
Cauliflower Salad
1 fresh head of cauliflower, cut
2 c. shredded lettuce
Crumbled bacon
1 c. mayonnaise
1/3 c. sugar
2 T. vinegar
1 T. lemon juice
Cut cauliflower into florets, shred lettuce and mix together. Brown bacon and crumble into vegetable mixture. Mix mayo, sugar, vinegar and lemon juice until well dissolved. Pour over salad. Cover and refrigerate until chilled through.
Sunday, December 21, 2008
Homeschool Project
For those of you that homeschool, or just love dollhouses, my kids and I worked on a Mt. Vernon replica today. We made the house out of cardboard boxes and I used the furinture my Grandma made 30 years ago for her dollhouse. It was so much fun! Can you ever grow too old for playing in dollhouses?
You can view it here:
www.tjed-mothers.blogspot.com
You can view it here:
www.tjed-mothers.blogspot.com
Monday, November 24, 2008
Simple Christmas Tradition Ideas for Mothers
By: Amanda Compton
Christmas traditions are something that we all cherish and remember throughout our lives. Take some time this year and make some new Christmas traditions with your family. I have put together a list of twelve simple Christmas tradition ideas for moms.
1.) Use the 12 days of Christmas theme and give out inexpensive gifts to your kids for each of the twelve days of Christmas.
2.) Put together a family photo Christmas book for each Christmas
3.) Have a special Christmas movie night with Christmas food
4.) Put together Christmas goody bags for your family and friends. Include candy, stickers, and a small craft for each child in the family.
5.) Make a gingerbread house together. Let each person pick out a pack of their favorite candy to decorate the gingerbread house with.
6.) Make your own holiday greeting cards
7.) Go Christmas caroling in your neighborhood at a family member’s home.
8.) Volunteer, sponsor a soldier overseas, or donate good used toys and clothes to less fortunate families.
9.) Make at least one new ornament per person in the family each year to place on the Christmas tree.
10.) Let your child pick out and purchase an inexpensive gift for a child in need.
11.) Make your own garland out of nuts, fruit, greeting cards, popcorn, or candy and hang them on your tree.
12.) Make a favorite Christmas recipe together. Splurge on ingredients for the recipe. Choose something extra tasty even if it is expensive or full of fat.
I hope these twelve simple Christmas tradition ideas bring joy to your family each and every year to come.
Article by:
Amanda Compton is a work at home mom to two young boys, Greyson and Gage. Amanda spends her days raising her two boys and creating mom websites at home in her pajamas. Visit her at www.ContestForMoms.com, a Mom Resource and Contest site featuring a Free Baby Photo Contest, contest and sweepstakes listings exclusively for moms, mommy forums, mom blog and more to support moms.
Christmas traditions are something that we all cherish and remember throughout our lives. Take some time this year and make some new Christmas traditions with your family. I have put together a list of twelve simple Christmas tradition ideas for moms.
1.) Use the 12 days of Christmas theme and give out inexpensive gifts to your kids for each of the twelve days of Christmas.
2.) Put together a family photo Christmas book for each Christmas
3.) Have a special Christmas movie night with Christmas food
4.) Put together Christmas goody bags for your family and friends. Include candy, stickers, and a small craft for each child in the family.
5.) Make a gingerbread house together. Let each person pick out a pack of their favorite candy to decorate the gingerbread house with.
6.) Make your own holiday greeting cards
7.) Go Christmas caroling in your neighborhood at a family member’s home.
8.) Volunteer, sponsor a soldier overseas, or donate good used toys and clothes to less fortunate families.
9.) Make at least one new ornament per person in the family each year to place on the Christmas tree.
10.) Let your child pick out and purchase an inexpensive gift for a child in need.
11.) Make your own garland out of nuts, fruit, greeting cards, popcorn, or candy and hang them on your tree.
12.) Make a favorite Christmas recipe together. Splurge on ingredients for the recipe. Choose something extra tasty even if it is expensive or full of fat.
I hope these twelve simple Christmas tradition ideas bring joy to your family each and every year to come.
Article by:
Amanda Compton is a work at home mom to two young boys, Greyson and Gage. Amanda spends her days raising her two boys and creating mom websites at home in her pajamas. Visit her at www.ContestForMoms.com, a Mom Resource and Contest site featuring a Free Baby Photo Contest, contest and sweepstakes listings exclusively for moms, mommy forums, mom blog and more to support moms.
Children Learn From Cooking Activities
1. Math- counting teaspoonfuls or cups as they go into a recipe can be practice in addition. Fractions can be taught when measuring half cups or third cups or quarter teaspoons.
2. Science- many kinds of sciences can be applied to cooking. Nutrition itself is a science which begins to teach children about what foods do for the body. Agricultural sciences, biology and botany tell children from where food comes. Chemistry is taught as children see bread rise from a leavening agent. Physics is involved as butter melts from solid to liquid.
3. Social Studies- foods originate from around the world. Children can be told about the differences in culture, environment, religion, terrain and climate as they learn about many foods.
4. Language- cooking can introduce new vocabulary words to children. Language and sentence skills are practiced as children talk about the food that is being prepared. The importance of order and direction of thought is taught through following recipe instructions.
5. Art- color, form, texture and shape are concepts that lend themselves easily to food. Children learn the satisfaction of creating something out of raw materials.
6. Social Development- Food is an important part of life. Children can learn sensible eating habits and table manners which promote courtesy. Cooking in groups can give a sense of participation and a change to get adult companionship.
7. Physical Development- Both fine and gross motor skills can be developed through mixing, stirring, tossing, squeezing, cutting, peeling, pouring or beating.
8. Emotional Development- Cooking shows a child that his/her skills, judgment and taste can make a difference. This creates a sense of self-confidence and pride of accomplishment. When children learn to prepare food for themselves, they feel less dependent on adults.
2. Science- many kinds of sciences can be applied to cooking. Nutrition itself is a science which begins to teach children about what foods do for the body. Agricultural sciences, biology and botany tell children from where food comes. Chemistry is taught as children see bread rise from a leavening agent. Physics is involved as butter melts from solid to liquid.
3. Social Studies- foods originate from around the world. Children can be told about the differences in culture, environment, religion, terrain and climate as they learn about many foods.
4. Language- cooking can introduce new vocabulary words to children. Language and sentence skills are practiced as children talk about the food that is being prepared. The importance of order and direction of thought is taught through following recipe instructions.
5. Art- color, form, texture and shape are concepts that lend themselves easily to food. Children learn the satisfaction of creating something out of raw materials.
6. Social Development- Food is an important part of life. Children can learn sensible eating habits and table manners which promote courtesy. Cooking in groups can give a sense of participation and a change to get adult companionship.
7. Physical Development- Both fine and gross motor skills can be developed through mixing, stirring, tossing, squeezing, cutting, peeling, pouring or beating.
8. Emotional Development- Cooking shows a child that his/her skills, judgment and taste can make a difference. This creates a sense of self-confidence and pride of accomplishment. When children learn to prepare food for themselves, they feel less dependent on adults.
A Wasted Day
by Tamara Eaton
Do you ever look back upon your day and think, "What did I really accomplish?" Every week I hear from frustrated mothers who feel they don't have enough hours in the day to do all that's needed. Most of them have young children and when someone asks them, "What did you do today?", they look back and have a hard time producing tangible evidence of a full day's work!
"Hmmm...I cleaned up the house some but it's messy again. The dishes were done, but we used them again. I spent time cooking dinner but we ate it in fifteen minutes. We homeschooled---children, tell your father what you learned today!"
(Young children give their mom a blank look, then sidle up next to her and whisper, "What? Tell me again!")
We've all probably had days like this!
One of the busiest seasons of life is when all the children are young --on the other hand, when they are young, you can afford to be more relaxed about their homeschooling and cover the necessary work in just a few hours a week--while spending more time working on attitudes, edience, sibling relationships, teamwork, talking and learning about the Lord, enjoying hugs and stories, learning about nature and why things work the way they do, counting spoons and subtracting and dividing cookies--and of course, answering lots of questions!
Are you viewing taking care of all the children's needs, changing diapers, answering questions, wiping tears, teaching obedience, mopping up spilled milk, etc., as "interruptions"? They're not, they are some of the MAIN occupations of a mom with young children!
So often during these years, our efforts seem to have no tangible results at the end of the day, but just because we can't always SEE what's been done, doesn't mean nothing has been accomplished. We are shaping young lives, and allowing the Lord to shape ours in the process as we yield to Him each day. We are ministering to the Lord as we minister to our family!
We do need to be on guard against time-wasters-- the telephone, television, too many outside activities, letting things go with the children and not taking time to train and correct them in a Christlike manner. (Otherwise, countless minutes are wasted by having to repeat ourselves every time we tell the children to do something!)
I no longer have very young children but I'd like to share something I wrote years ago when I had a nursing baby, an active 2 year old and homeschooled four older children. [Just so no one thinks I can't remember what it was like in those days!]
I used to like everything perfectly planned and in order, but I have had to learn to relax--six children and a "perfect" house just don't go together. I'll admit I still have days I'd like to have my own apartment just so I could have just one place kept perfectly neat! I have to be flexible because with so many young children, things often get put on hold. We do have a good basic routine, which helps, but I have to allow time for interruptions. I also make lists and then don't get upset if I don't get everything done. A new day begins tomorrow!
I have to remind myself that even though it may seem like I didn't accomplish much some days, I'm actually doing the most important work in the world--helping to mold and shape precious human lives with the Lord's help. What an awesome responsibility. We can provide a secure, loving environment for them in the midst of all the chaos in the world! We can lead them to Jesus, teach them His ways and help prepare them for the unique ministry that He has for each one of them.
Sometimes too, we must think of all the things that could have happened that day, but didn't! The children didn't throw a temper tantrum and talk back because we have been faithful to be consistent and train them in the ways of the Lord. (Not that they aren't still "in training" in some areas--we are, too!) They didn't experience rejection because we have demonstrated our unconditional love for them. They didn't grow hungry because we fed them peanut butter sandwiches and fruit! They were sheltered from many negative circumstances--they were safe in our care. They heard about Jesus from our lips and saw Him in our lives today, they joined in with singing songs to Him.
If the floor didn't get mopped, and the clothes are filling all eight baskets in the laundry room, what difference does it make? Eventually those things will get done, but in the meantime, our children have a mother who truly loves and cares for them, even during the less than glorious times!
Some days being a godly mother is all one can accomplish--and it is a BIG accomplishment. After all, I don't plan to take my baskets of laundry and the kitchen floor with me when Jesus returns--I do plan to take my family! And there won't be any quizzes for my 9 year old to make sure she knows her multiplication tables before she enters Heaven. We've got to keep things in perspective. Academics are important, but there are other things more important--and if we keep the right perspective, the Lord will bless our homeschooling, our mothering, and our family!
[Please note--this was written years ago and I can now report that the nine year old is now a teenager and knows her multiplication tables well!]
Attempting to be "good stewards" of their time, some mothers crowd many activities into each day. Therefore, they end up pressuring themselves in ways God never intended! We need time to train our children and enjoy them--time to rest and meditate upon God's Word and allow Him to speak. Time to act in response to circumstances of daily life instead of reacting to the swirling events that surround us. Doing all things without murmurings and disputings--that we might shine as lights, holding forth the word of life--so we can say with Paul, that we will not have laboured in vain. (Colossians 3)
If this has been a struggle for you recently, why not ask the Lord to give you His perspective, and allow Him to reveal any areas that need changing? He is so patient and longsuffering with us, and the conviction of the Holy Spirit is always tempered with encouragement that we can repent, receive forgiveness and a clean slate. He delights in our dependence upon Him and freely bestows all the grace we need!
Don't allow a search for tangible accomplishments to distract you from the work the Lord is doing through you in your children's hearts. This ministry has eternal consequences and rewards, and truly you'll reap "treasures in Heaven" if you're faithful!
"And God is able to make all grace abound toward you; that ye, always having all sufficiency in all things, may abound to every good work" --2 Corinthians 9:8
"And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men; Knowing that of the Lord ye shall receive the reward of the inheritance: for ye serve the Lord Christ." --Colossians 3:23-24
"And the King shall answer and say unto them, Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me." -- Matthew 25:40
"But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal: For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also." --Matthew 6:20-21
©Copyright 1997 by Tamara Eaton
Permission is given to reprint any of Tamara's articles in non-profit publications as long as the article is reprinted in full and contains the copyright information and website address.
Please send a copy of the publication to :Deeper Life Family Ministries, P.O. Box 909, Killen, AL 35645.
http://www.AChristianHome.com
Do you ever look back upon your day and think, "What did I really accomplish?" Every week I hear from frustrated mothers who feel they don't have enough hours in the day to do all that's needed. Most of them have young children and when someone asks them, "What did you do today?", they look back and have a hard time producing tangible evidence of a full day's work!
"Hmmm...I cleaned up the house some but it's messy again. The dishes were done, but we used them again. I spent time cooking dinner but we ate it in fifteen minutes. We homeschooled---children, tell your father what you learned today!"
(Young children give their mom a blank look, then sidle up next to her and whisper, "What? Tell me again!")
We've all probably had days like this!
One of the busiest seasons of life is when all the children are young --on the other hand, when they are young, you can afford to be more relaxed about their homeschooling and cover the necessary work in just a few hours a week--while spending more time working on attitudes, edience, sibling relationships, teamwork, talking and learning about the Lord, enjoying hugs and stories, learning about nature and why things work the way they do, counting spoons and subtracting and dividing cookies--and of course, answering lots of questions!
Are you viewing taking care of all the children's needs, changing diapers, answering questions, wiping tears, teaching obedience, mopping up spilled milk, etc., as "interruptions"? They're not, they are some of the MAIN occupations of a mom with young children!
So often during these years, our efforts seem to have no tangible results at the end of the day, but just because we can't always SEE what's been done, doesn't mean nothing has been accomplished. We are shaping young lives, and allowing the Lord to shape ours in the process as we yield to Him each day. We are ministering to the Lord as we minister to our family!
We do need to be on guard against time-wasters-- the telephone, television, too many outside activities, letting things go with the children and not taking time to train and correct them in a Christlike manner. (Otherwise, countless minutes are wasted by having to repeat ourselves every time we tell the children to do something!)
I no longer have very young children but I'd like to share something I wrote years ago when I had a nursing baby, an active 2 year old and homeschooled four older children. [Just so no one thinks I can't remember what it was like in those days!]
I used to like everything perfectly planned and in order, but I have had to learn to relax--six children and a "perfect" house just don't go together. I'll admit I still have days I'd like to have my own apartment just so I could have just one place kept perfectly neat! I have to be flexible because with so many young children, things often get put on hold. We do have a good basic routine, which helps, but I have to allow time for interruptions. I also make lists and then don't get upset if I don't get everything done. A new day begins tomorrow!
I have to remind myself that even though it may seem like I didn't accomplish much some days, I'm actually doing the most important work in the world--helping to mold and shape precious human lives with the Lord's help. What an awesome responsibility. We can provide a secure, loving environment for them in the midst of all the chaos in the world! We can lead them to Jesus, teach them His ways and help prepare them for the unique ministry that He has for each one of them.
Sometimes too, we must think of all the things that could have happened that day, but didn't! The children didn't throw a temper tantrum and talk back because we have been faithful to be consistent and train them in the ways of the Lord. (Not that they aren't still "in training" in some areas--we are, too!) They didn't experience rejection because we have demonstrated our unconditional love for them. They didn't grow hungry because we fed them peanut butter sandwiches and fruit! They were sheltered from many negative circumstances--they were safe in our care. They heard about Jesus from our lips and saw Him in our lives today, they joined in with singing songs to Him.
If the floor didn't get mopped, and the clothes are filling all eight baskets in the laundry room, what difference does it make? Eventually those things will get done, but in the meantime, our children have a mother who truly loves and cares for them, even during the less than glorious times!
Some days being a godly mother is all one can accomplish--and it is a BIG accomplishment. After all, I don't plan to take my baskets of laundry and the kitchen floor with me when Jesus returns--I do plan to take my family! And there won't be any quizzes for my 9 year old to make sure she knows her multiplication tables before she enters Heaven. We've got to keep things in perspective. Academics are important, but there are other things more important--and if we keep the right perspective, the Lord will bless our homeschooling, our mothering, and our family!
[Please note--this was written years ago and I can now report that the nine year old is now a teenager and knows her multiplication tables well!]
Attempting to be "good stewards" of their time, some mothers crowd many activities into each day. Therefore, they end up pressuring themselves in ways God never intended! We need time to train our children and enjoy them--time to rest and meditate upon God's Word and allow Him to speak. Time to act in response to circumstances of daily life instead of reacting to the swirling events that surround us. Doing all things without murmurings and disputings--that we might shine as lights, holding forth the word of life--so we can say with Paul, that we will not have laboured in vain. (Colossians 3)
If this has been a struggle for you recently, why not ask the Lord to give you His perspective, and allow Him to reveal any areas that need changing? He is so patient and longsuffering with us, and the conviction of the Holy Spirit is always tempered with encouragement that we can repent, receive forgiveness and a clean slate. He delights in our dependence upon Him and freely bestows all the grace we need!
Don't allow a search for tangible accomplishments to distract you from the work the Lord is doing through you in your children's hearts. This ministry has eternal consequences and rewards, and truly you'll reap "treasures in Heaven" if you're faithful!
"And God is able to make all grace abound toward you; that ye, always having all sufficiency in all things, may abound to every good work" --2 Corinthians 9:8
"And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men; Knowing that of the Lord ye shall receive the reward of the inheritance: for ye serve the Lord Christ." --Colossians 3:23-24
"And the King shall answer and say unto them, Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me." -- Matthew 25:40
"But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal: For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also." --Matthew 6:20-21
©Copyright 1997 by Tamara Eaton
Permission is given to reprint any of Tamara's articles in non-profit publications as long as the article is reprinted in full and contains the copyright information and website address.
Please send a copy of the publication to :Deeper Life Family Ministries, P.O. Box 909, Killen, AL 35645.
http://www.AChristianHome.com
Chore Incentive Ideas
By Dawn Salisbury
Chores. We all have to do them, but do we necessarily like doing them? How do we teach our children to do chores, and cheerfully at that? Here are some ideas for motivating your children.
M&Ms: I made up some mason jars with their name on them and a line to mark their goal. I used a fabric top with a slit cut into it, and secured with the ring. For every job they did, cheerfully, they get one M&M. For catching them telling the truth, sharing, helping others, and being obedient, they get two M&Ms. I’ve started out with peanut M&Ms, since they are bigger and I want them to feel successful by seeing fast results: their M&Ms piling up because of good behavior.
Stickers: We are using these for potty training. This is still a work in progress, since I have one child that refuses to set foot in the bathroom, let alone sit on a potty. Unless the kids are very small, I have found older kids don’t enjoy the generic stickers. However, you can still use stickers for older kids. Have them make a book out of wax paper and construction paper (construction paper is the cover). As they earn stickers let them pick out stickers for jobs well done, schoolwork completed, or behavior, and store them in their books.
Points: The way this works is by earning some points for privileges. Each chore is assigned a number of points. As they complete the chores, the points add up. So, let’s say you have 10 chores at 10 points each, they have earned 100 points. 80 points gets time outside, 100 points gets TV time, 120 points gets computer game time, 140 points gets an extra trip to the library.
Chore Race: This has been mentioned here before from Shiloah, but I’ll add it here too. Put all the chores on slips of paper in a jar and each person draws a chore. They need to keep their chore slip until the end. The person with the most chores wins a prize.
Hide and Clean: Assign one child to a room to clean. Hide a piece of candy or coin somewhere in the room. They have to clean the room to find the prize. Instant reward!
Chore Styles:
Factory: Everyone works in one room at a time, working until everything is in order.
Early Bird: First person up and dressed gets their pick of chores.
Rotating Schedule: Assign daily or weekly chores that get rotated on Sunday. Also can be worked that someone gets a day off during the week.
Teams: Assign a younger child to an older child. The older child teaches the younger child a new skill and has a partner to work with.
Chores. We all have to do them, but do we necessarily like doing them? How do we teach our children to do chores, and cheerfully at that? Here are some ideas for motivating your children.
M&Ms: I made up some mason jars with their name on them and a line to mark their goal. I used a fabric top with a slit cut into it, and secured with the ring. For every job they did, cheerfully, they get one M&M. For catching them telling the truth, sharing, helping others, and being obedient, they get two M&Ms. I’ve started out with peanut M&Ms, since they are bigger and I want them to feel successful by seeing fast results: their M&Ms piling up because of good behavior.
Stickers: We are using these for potty training. This is still a work in progress, since I have one child that refuses to set foot in the bathroom, let alone sit on a potty. Unless the kids are very small, I have found older kids don’t enjoy the generic stickers. However, you can still use stickers for older kids. Have them make a book out of wax paper and construction paper (construction paper is the cover). As they earn stickers let them pick out stickers for jobs well done, schoolwork completed, or behavior, and store them in their books.
Points: The way this works is by earning some points for privileges. Each chore is assigned a number of points. As they complete the chores, the points add up. So, let’s say you have 10 chores at 10 points each, they have earned 100 points. 80 points gets time outside, 100 points gets TV time, 120 points gets computer game time, 140 points gets an extra trip to the library.
Chore Race: This has been mentioned here before from Shiloah, but I’ll add it here too. Put all the chores on slips of paper in a jar and each person draws a chore. They need to keep their chore slip until the end. The person with the most chores wins a prize.
Hide and Clean: Assign one child to a room to clean. Hide a piece of candy or coin somewhere in the room. They have to clean the room to find the prize. Instant reward!
Chore Styles:
Factory: Everyone works in one room at a time, working until everything is in order.
Early Bird: First person up and dressed gets their pick of chores.
Rotating Schedule: Assign daily or weekly chores that get rotated on Sunday. Also can be worked that someone gets a day off during the week.
Teams: Assign a younger child to an older child. The older child teaches the younger child a new skill and has a partner to work with.
The Great Amazing CHORE Race!
by: Shiloah Baker
When I'm tired and sick of getting onto the kids to get their chores done, I do this race and it never fails! I always end up with excited, happy kids ready to get their work done! This works even better if they get a "surprise" at the end! Oh, and "everybody's a winner" rule is best with this or you won't be so successful next time!
Walk around the house and make a list on lined paper of all the things you need done. Break them down into bite size pieces. Example:
-living room needs cleaning
-kitchen needs cleaning
-bathroom needs picking up
-bedroom 2 needs straightening
Now break it down into small bite-sized pieces:
-pick up all trash in living room
-gather laundry in living room and put in laundry room
-sweep foyer
-vacuum living room
-wipe down wall near couch
....and so on....
Tear up all the chores into strips and put into a mason jar. Gather all the kids. (The more kids to participate, the better!) Explain the rules:
Rules:
*Pick a strip of paper; do what is on it.
*Have mommy see it when its done.
*Keep your slip of papers with you in your pocket (or a baggie that you give them).
*When done, grab another one and go.
*Keep going until there are no more strips in the jar.
We will count up each person's strips to see the winners! Ready- set- go!
Make sure you keep them motivated as they "run" around and do these! They may get discouraged easily if you don't! Pretend you are the announcer, announce each person's progress loudly and excitedly! Have fun and happy clean house!
When I'm tired and sick of getting onto the kids to get their chores done, I do this race and it never fails! I always end up with excited, happy kids ready to get their work done! This works even better if they get a "surprise" at the end! Oh, and "everybody's a winner" rule is best with this or you won't be so successful next time!
Walk around the house and make a list on lined paper of all the things you need done. Break them down into bite size pieces. Example:
-living room needs cleaning
-kitchen needs cleaning
-bathroom needs picking up
-bedroom 2 needs straightening
Now break it down into small bite-sized pieces:
-pick up all trash in living room
-gather laundry in living room and put in laundry room
-sweep foyer
-vacuum living room
-wipe down wall near couch
....and so on....
Tear up all the chores into strips and put into a mason jar. Gather all the kids. (The more kids to participate, the better!) Explain the rules:
Rules:
*Pick a strip of paper; do what is on it.
*Have mommy see it when its done.
*Keep your slip of papers with you in your pocket (or a baggie that you give them).
*When done, grab another one and go.
*Keep going until there are no more strips in the jar.
We will count up each person's strips to see the winners! Ready- set- go!
Make sure you keep them motivated as they "run" around and do these! They may get discouraged easily if you don't! Pretend you are the announcer, announce each person's progress loudly and excitedly! Have fun and happy clean house!
Cleaning Schedule for the Busy Woman
by: Dawn Salisbury
I know that there are a dozen other places you can go to for organizing and setting up a cleaning routine. Most of us have one in place that goes something like this:
Oh My Gosh! My mother is coming to visit!
I managed to do dishes and a load of laundry today.
I’ll do it tomorrow.
Thursday is my cleaning day.
It would be an ideal world if we could have a perfect schedule with no surprises and never-ending energy to accomplish all these things. Life happens and other things take precedence over the cleanliness of our home. But, I do have to say I feel a lot more motivated to get things accomplished when my home is clean than cluttered with the never-ending mess we all manage to generate. Hopefully, this routine will help you get motivated or come up with a plan for your own routine.
1. Get organized. Clear out your clutter. Have a garage sale! Give stuff away! Get rid of those things that you don’t like but keep for “sentimental” reasons. You will be amazed at the burden it lifts from you.
2. Have a set time you start your day by. On days when I have slept it, my day just seems off. First things first: get showered and dressed. Put some shoes, socks or house shoes on, so you feel like you are “going” somewhere.
3. After you are dressed and your hair and makeup are done, straighten up your bathroom. Close the shower curtain, spray your tub down with a shower spray (don’t forget the shower curtain). Wipe the seat of your toilet and swish the brush around. Put your toiletries away. Take your laundry to the laundry room.
4. Try to do one complete load of laundry a day. Wash it, dry it, fold it, and put it away. In larger families, two loads daily may be necessary, but by doing this, you keep up and the laundry doesn’t become a mountain.
5. Make your bed.
6. If your children are old enough, get them to do chores with you. It is good for kids to have chores. It teaches them work ethic and responsibility. There are all kids of chore charts and reward systems out there. Find one that works for you and use it. Incorporate them into household management.
7. Morning chores:
Dishes being put away from the night before.
Cleaning the litter box.
Making their beds and straightening up their room (including laundry)
Eating breakfast and clearing their places.
Getting dressed, brushing their hair and teeth and washing their face.
8. I would also like to add that the TV should not be allowed to come on in the morning. It distracts kids and you should not have to compete with a TV.
9. Do dishes after meals. It makes it easier for you prepare other meals and more inviting to come into your kitchen.
10. If you get some free time in the afternoon while kids are napping or playing, clean one room a day:
Mop, sweep or vacuum the floors
Dust
De-clutter
Organize (clear off your desk, hotspots, a closet or counters)
Wipe down walls, doors, or windows
Polish furniture
11. Prepare and shop according to a menu. Do it one week at a time or how often you grocery shop. Have a staples list and an “extra” list, meaning a list for the things you know you use weekly: produce, milk, bread, etc. and then have another list for extras: ingredients for a new recipe, household items, etc.
12. Prepare in the morning for what you plan to cook that night for dinner. This way you have all day to prepare. If you know it’s going to be a busy day and you are out, find a slow cooker recipe you can put on before you leave and it’s ready by the time you come home.
13. Evening chores:
Baths for kids
They put their laundry away before bed
Dishes (I run the dishwasher now)
Room straightened
Table and counters wiped off
Laundry sorted for the next day
School things readied for the next morning
14. You should be able to spend under an hour to get most things cleaned up. Set goals for yourself or set up a reward system for yourself, for example, take 15 minutes to do the bathroom and get a load of laundry started then give yourself 10 minutes to check email, read a section of the newspaper, read a chapter out of a book.
15. For emergencies, when your house looks like a bomb exploded and someone is coming over unexpectedly, clean up the rooms that are most likely to be viewed. If it’s the living room, grab a laundry basket and put all toys, clothes or books in it to be sorted later in the appropriate room. Straighten pillows, clean up dishes, and make a neat stack of mail (instead of letting it be spread all over). Vacuum high traffic areas if you have time. Usually guests are there to see you, not your house or to judge you.
I do know that keeping up with your house is not an easy task and can be overwhelming if let to get out of hand. Strive to keep your home beautiful: a place of learning, a place of love and a place of peace.
I know that there are a dozen other places you can go to for organizing and setting up a cleaning routine. Most of us have one in place that goes something like this:
Oh My Gosh! My mother is coming to visit!
I managed to do dishes and a load of laundry today.
I’ll do it tomorrow.
Thursday is my cleaning day.
It would be an ideal world if we could have a perfect schedule with no surprises and never-ending energy to accomplish all these things. Life happens and other things take precedence over the cleanliness of our home. But, I do have to say I feel a lot more motivated to get things accomplished when my home is clean than cluttered with the never-ending mess we all manage to generate. Hopefully, this routine will help you get motivated or come up with a plan for your own routine.
1. Get organized. Clear out your clutter. Have a garage sale! Give stuff away! Get rid of those things that you don’t like but keep for “sentimental” reasons. You will be amazed at the burden it lifts from you.
2. Have a set time you start your day by. On days when I have slept it, my day just seems off. First things first: get showered and dressed. Put some shoes, socks or house shoes on, so you feel like you are “going” somewhere.
3. After you are dressed and your hair and makeup are done, straighten up your bathroom. Close the shower curtain, spray your tub down with a shower spray (don’t forget the shower curtain). Wipe the seat of your toilet and swish the brush around. Put your toiletries away. Take your laundry to the laundry room.
4. Try to do one complete load of laundry a day. Wash it, dry it, fold it, and put it away. In larger families, two loads daily may be necessary, but by doing this, you keep up and the laundry doesn’t become a mountain.
5. Make your bed.
6. If your children are old enough, get them to do chores with you. It is good for kids to have chores. It teaches them work ethic and responsibility. There are all kids of chore charts and reward systems out there. Find one that works for you and use it. Incorporate them into household management.
7. Morning chores:
Dishes being put away from the night before.
Cleaning the litter box.
Making their beds and straightening up their room (including laundry)
Eating breakfast and clearing their places.
Getting dressed, brushing their hair and teeth and washing their face.
8. I would also like to add that the TV should not be allowed to come on in the morning. It distracts kids and you should not have to compete with a TV.
9. Do dishes after meals. It makes it easier for you prepare other meals and more inviting to come into your kitchen.
10. If you get some free time in the afternoon while kids are napping or playing, clean one room a day:
Mop, sweep or vacuum the floors
Dust
De-clutter
Organize (clear off your desk, hotspots, a closet or counters)
Wipe down walls, doors, or windows
Polish furniture
11. Prepare and shop according to a menu. Do it one week at a time or how often you grocery shop. Have a staples list and an “extra” list, meaning a list for the things you know you use weekly: produce, milk, bread, etc. and then have another list for extras: ingredients for a new recipe, household items, etc.
12. Prepare in the morning for what you plan to cook that night for dinner. This way you have all day to prepare. If you know it’s going to be a busy day and you are out, find a slow cooker recipe you can put on before you leave and it’s ready by the time you come home.
13. Evening chores:
Baths for kids
They put their laundry away before bed
Dishes (I run the dishwasher now)
Room straightened
Table and counters wiped off
Laundry sorted for the next day
School things readied for the next morning
14. You should be able to spend under an hour to get most things cleaned up. Set goals for yourself or set up a reward system for yourself, for example, take 15 minutes to do the bathroom and get a load of laundry started then give yourself 10 minutes to check email, read a section of the newspaper, read a chapter out of a book.
15. For emergencies, when your house looks like a bomb exploded and someone is coming over unexpectedly, clean up the rooms that are most likely to be viewed. If it’s the living room, grab a laundry basket and put all toys, clothes or books in it to be sorted later in the appropriate room. Straighten pillows, clean up dishes, and make a neat stack of mail (instead of letting it be spread all over). Vacuum high traffic areas if you have time. Usually guests are there to see you, not your house or to judge you.
I do know that keeping up with your house is not an easy task and can be overwhelming if let to get out of hand. Strive to keep your home beautiful: a place of learning, a place of love and a place of peace.
Your Family and Entertainment
By Dawn Salisbury
In today’s world, we have all kinds of movies, computer games, video games and music to watch or listen to. Does anyone get bored of this? Does anyone worry about what your children may be seeing on TV or in movies? How do you decide what is inappropriate, over the top, or if there something just subtle enough it may pass over your child’s range of understanding, but you got the message loud and clear?
A year ago I rented Blades of Glory. I had not watched the movie all the way through and my kids, then ages 6 and 8 were yammering to watch it, so I let them while I tended to paying the bills and folding laundry. I had three other kids playing and getting into stuff, so my full attention was not on the movie. Later that night, we decided to sit down as a family and watch the movie. Oh, my goodness! It was rated PG-13 for crude and sexual humor, language, a comic violent image, and some drug references. I realized it was a Will Ferrell movie and most of his movies are not meant for children, but this caught me off guard and I learned my lesson from that point on to really pay attention to the ratings of movies and to screen some movies before allowing my children to view them. The movie got snapped off and then we had to have a nice long discussion about some of the inappropriate things shown in the movie.
Another lesson I learned happened when my husband came home from the Middle East. We have a coffee table that has a hinged lid on it that we keep all our movies in and the kids had long since been able to open it and help themselves to any one of the movies in there. Most of them were kid movies or movies we knew that if they put on we were okay with. My husband had little else to do after work while in the Middle East, so he collected a huge stack of movies and shockingly, most of the movies were rated R. These got added to the collection. Then one morning we woke up to Stand By Me and the “f-word” being blared all through the house. Yikes! The movies were combed through again and all rated R movies removed. There is something to be said for knowing your children can put on any movie in your house and it will not be inappropriate. It’s also nice to know that you don’t have to be the police for your kids and for once being able to say YES to something they can do. It is also nice to not have to explain why YOU can watch a movie but THEY cannot.
When it comes down to deciding what is inappropriate or too much of something, try to answer some of these questions:
* Would you want your children dressing or acting this way?
* Will your children try to imitate the characters in the movie (or that sword fight, or that bike trick)?
* How do the children treat their parents or adults in the movie? Is it disrespectful, even if it is believed to be the norm? Do you want your children talking to you that way?
* Look at your children’s reactions. Are they cowering? Have the snuggled up to you because they are scared? Are they getting antsy? While some scary moments can be thrilling in a movie, if it looks as if it could invoke bad dreams or sleepless nights, it is probably best to stay away from it. Telling them it’s all make-believe doesn’t always work to reverse what they have seen.
* Remember that once an image has been seen, it can’t be “unseen”. Nudity, sex scenes, or violence can be remembered for a very long time.
* Are you prepared to discuss topics raised by the movie like teenage pregnancy, drug use, intimacy, crimes, language, or scenes of violence?
* Did you read the book before watching the movie? Sometimes the movie creators have taken liberty to change up the story or offer a different view of the story line. Consider watching the movie first before your children see it.
* Do you feel your child is old enough to “get” some of the humor, acts, or comments? Do the comments need to be explained?
* Does the movie promote Christian values?
* Do you feel good after watching the movie?
* Does the show inspire ignorance or education?
Many of these decisions will come down to intuition. If you feel uncomfortable, chances are good your children feel uncomfortable too. Children are usually more sensitive too, so even though you may be watching it after their bedtime, they can and will sometimes hear the movie or even sneak out to watch it.
I’m reminded of a saying I heard a long time ago. “You are your child’s advocate.” Do not expect anyone else to be their advocate. You are their first line of defense. Being diligent in what enters your home, whether it is in the form of TV, computer games or videos, video games, and even books, can influence your home for the good or bad.
In today’s world, we have all kinds of movies, computer games, video games and music to watch or listen to. Does anyone get bored of this? Does anyone worry about what your children may be seeing on TV or in movies? How do you decide what is inappropriate, over the top, or if there something just subtle enough it may pass over your child’s range of understanding, but you got the message loud and clear?
A year ago I rented Blades of Glory. I had not watched the movie all the way through and my kids, then ages 6 and 8 were yammering to watch it, so I let them while I tended to paying the bills and folding laundry. I had three other kids playing and getting into stuff, so my full attention was not on the movie. Later that night, we decided to sit down as a family and watch the movie. Oh, my goodness! It was rated PG-13 for crude and sexual humor, language, a comic violent image, and some drug references. I realized it was a Will Ferrell movie and most of his movies are not meant for children, but this caught me off guard and I learned my lesson from that point on to really pay attention to the ratings of movies and to screen some movies before allowing my children to view them. The movie got snapped off and then we had to have a nice long discussion about some of the inappropriate things shown in the movie.
Another lesson I learned happened when my husband came home from the Middle East. We have a coffee table that has a hinged lid on it that we keep all our movies in and the kids had long since been able to open it and help themselves to any one of the movies in there. Most of them were kid movies or movies we knew that if they put on we were okay with. My husband had little else to do after work while in the Middle East, so he collected a huge stack of movies and shockingly, most of the movies were rated R. These got added to the collection. Then one morning we woke up to Stand By Me and the “f-word” being blared all through the house. Yikes! The movies were combed through again and all rated R movies removed. There is something to be said for knowing your children can put on any movie in your house and it will not be inappropriate. It’s also nice to know that you don’t have to be the police for your kids and for once being able to say YES to something they can do. It is also nice to not have to explain why YOU can watch a movie but THEY cannot.
When it comes down to deciding what is inappropriate or too much of something, try to answer some of these questions:
* Would you want your children dressing or acting this way?
* Will your children try to imitate the characters in the movie (or that sword fight, or that bike trick)?
* How do the children treat their parents or adults in the movie? Is it disrespectful, even if it is believed to be the norm? Do you want your children talking to you that way?
* Look at your children’s reactions. Are they cowering? Have the snuggled up to you because they are scared? Are they getting antsy? While some scary moments can be thrilling in a movie, if it looks as if it could invoke bad dreams or sleepless nights, it is probably best to stay away from it. Telling them it’s all make-believe doesn’t always work to reverse what they have seen.
* Remember that once an image has been seen, it can’t be “unseen”. Nudity, sex scenes, or violence can be remembered for a very long time.
* Are you prepared to discuss topics raised by the movie like teenage pregnancy, drug use, intimacy, crimes, language, or scenes of violence?
* Did you read the book before watching the movie? Sometimes the movie creators have taken liberty to change up the story or offer a different view of the story line. Consider watching the movie first before your children see it.
* Do you feel your child is old enough to “get” some of the humor, acts, or comments? Do the comments need to be explained?
* Does the movie promote Christian values?
* Do you feel good after watching the movie?
* Does the show inspire ignorance or education?
Many of these decisions will come down to intuition. If you feel uncomfortable, chances are good your children feel uncomfortable too. Children are usually more sensitive too, so even though you may be watching it after their bedtime, they can and will sometimes hear the movie or even sneak out to watch it.
I’m reminded of a saying I heard a long time ago. “You are your child’s advocate.” Do not expect anyone else to be their advocate. You are their first line of defense. Being diligent in what enters your home, whether it is in the form of TV, computer games or videos, video games, and even books, can influence your home for the good or bad.
How do You Know if you Need to Take Time to be Still?
By: Lisa Akers
We’re living in an outcome-based society. If what you’re doing isn’t producing a result, chances are you’re going to quit doing it. We're just too busy to keep doing things that don't make something happen. When you started pruning your to-do list, I would bet that one of the first things you quit doing was taking time for you. It could be that you quit reading for fun or that you quit a hobby that you enjoyed. You may have quit spending time alone and watching the sunrise over a cup of coffee. You may have quit taking a long bubble bath. Looking back on that choice, has it served you well? What have you lost as a result of not pampering yourself for a few minutes each day? You may not know, but you should think about it.
If you’re like me, you are looking for a way to find that connection to yourself and to really feel energized each and every day – no matter how many times you were up overnight feeding a baby or comforting a child after a bad dream. How do you know if that personal time you chose to give up is really important? There are a few symptoms to look for.
The first is that you’ll feel like there is so much to do and not enough time to get it all done. This feeling of being overwhelmed is one of the first signs that you need to take some time for yourself. During this quiet time, you can take a step back from your frantic schedule and evaluate what is important and what is just something sparkly that distracts you. When you take a short breather, you can return to your to-do list with a renewed sense of clarity, focus, and energy.
The second symptom is that people begin to irritate you and you feel that they are putting you behind schedule. You may get angry easier than you’d like. Your impatience shows and you may snap at those you love or those who just don’t deserve it. Being impatient is a sign that you have scheduled too much in your day and that you don’t have room for contingencies. Taking a few minutes to be still can help you look at things with a new perspective. Does getting angry really make it better?
A third sign that you need to schedule some self-time to be still is that you feel tired. No matter how much sleep you’re getting at night, you just feel exhausted all the time. This isn’t so much a physical exhaustion as it is a mental one. You need to rest your mind and spirit just as much as you rest your body. When you give your mind a break by taking 20 minutes to focus on something that you enjoy – to really focus on the present moment – you will let your brain process all it’s functions in the background. Your subconscious will be able to put those memories and activities in the right storage place in the brain instead of trying to keep them all in the conscious memory. You may not think this is so important, but after you have spent a week or so deliberately spending time being still, you’ll see how much better you remember things.
Another symptom of needing to be still is that you feel like nothing gets done, even though you are always busy. This is a common symptom in moms. Doesn’t it seem like that you work all day and at the end of the day, the laundry is dirty, the house is a mess, and the dishes are piled in the sink? It is a common source of frustration for moms who feel like so much of what they do gets undone so quickly. Taking some time for yourself every day to be still will bring some wonderful benefits (as outlined above) as well as give you something each day that cannot be undone by someone else.
A final symptom of needing to be still is that you may be seeking a deeper spiritual connection or a stronger intuition. Do you feel something is missing in your life? Do you see others who enjoy their intuition and you wish you could as well? Do you sometimes feel that there must be something bigger than this? It could be that you are seeking a stronger spiritual connection and you just don’t have the tools for finding it. One of the best ways to make this connection is by taking time to be still. Dr. Wayne Dyer suggests that it is in the silence of the universe that God speaks to us. We never hear what we are supposed to hear unless we spend some time enjoying the silence of the universe around us. If you’re looking to meet your higher self or to listen to what your intuition is saying, then it is essential to spend some time listening. It will be hard at first, but if you will set aside a few moments each day to just listen, you will hear the message. It helps if you have something you can do with your hands while you sit. I like to knit, but almost any handcraft will do.
Do you find yourself in the symptoms here? I often find myself in each symptom on different days. That’s how I know that it’s time to take some time for myself. It isn’t selfish, it’s survival. You’ll have a much happier life, your family, friends, and colleagues will enjoy you more, and you’ll be energetic, patient, and fully alive. I challenge you to spend a week and see what happens when you sit deliberately still for 20 minutes a day.
If you need an excuse to spend time for you, then consider doing a craft that keeps you in the present moment. Most crafts are this way - knit, crochet, needlepoint, cross stitch, woodworking, and even candle and soap making. I even find that people making jewelry enjoy the serenity of the moment. It's a great way to take that time for yourself and get a chance to make something beautiful for yourself or someone else.
Article by:
Lisa Akers is the president of Be Still & Knit. Her company teaches women how to find peace and stillness in their lives through handwork. By discovering knit and crochet, women develop a new way to take time for themselves and share the love they have as warm clothing! Find out more about Lisa at www.bestillandknit.com or listen to her podcast at www.peacefulknitter.com.
We’re living in an outcome-based society. If what you’re doing isn’t producing a result, chances are you’re going to quit doing it. We're just too busy to keep doing things that don't make something happen. When you started pruning your to-do list, I would bet that one of the first things you quit doing was taking time for you. It could be that you quit reading for fun or that you quit a hobby that you enjoyed. You may have quit spending time alone and watching the sunrise over a cup of coffee. You may have quit taking a long bubble bath. Looking back on that choice, has it served you well? What have you lost as a result of not pampering yourself for a few minutes each day? You may not know, but you should think about it.
If you’re like me, you are looking for a way to find that connection to yourself and to really feel energized each and every day – no matter how many times you were up overnight feeding a baby or comforting a child after a bad dream. How do you know if that personal time you chose to give up is really important? There are a few symptoms to look for.
The first is that you’ll feel like there is so much to do and not enough time to get it all done. This feeling of being overwhelmed is one of the first signs that you need to take some time for yourself. During this quiet time, you can take a step back from your frantic schedule and evaluate what is important and what is just something sparkly that distracts you. When you take a short breather, you can return to your to-do list with a renewed sense of clarity, focus, and energy.
The second symptom is that people begin to irritate you and you feel that they are putting you behind schedule. You may get angry easier than you’d like. Your impatience shows and you may snap at those you love or those who just don’t deserve it. Being impatient is a sign that you have scheduled too much in your day and that you don’t have room for contingencies. Taking a few minutes to be still can help you look at things with a new perspective. Does getting angry really make it better?
A third sign that you need to schedule some self-time to be still is that you feel tired. No matter how much sleep you’re getting at night, you just feel exhausted all the time. This isn’t so much a physical exhaustion as it is a mental one. You need to rest your mind and spirit just as much as you rest your body. When you give your mind a break by taking 20 minutes to focus on something that you enjoy – to really focus on the present moment – you will let your brain process all it’s functions in the background. Your subconscious will be able to put those memories and activities in the right storage place in the brain instead of trying to keep them all in the conscious memory. You may not think this is so important, but after you have spent a week or so deliberately spending time being still, you’ll see how much better you remember things.
Another symptom of needing to be still is that you feel like nothing gets done, even though you are always busy. This is a common symptom in moms. Doesn’t it seem like that you work all day and at the end of the day, the laundry is dirty, the house is a mess, and the dishes are piled in the sink? It is a common source of frustration for moms who feel like so much of what they do gets undone so quickly. Taking some time for yourself every day to be still will bring some wonderful benefits (as outlined above) as well as give you something each day that cannot be undone by someone else.
A final symptom of needing to be still is that you may be seeking a deeper spiritual connection or a stronger intuition. Do you feel something is missing in your life? Do you see others who enjoy their intuition and you wish you could as well? Do you sometimes feel that there must be something bigger than this? It could be that you are seeking a stronger spiritual connection and you just don’t have the tools for finding it. One of the best ways to make this connection is by taking time to be still. Dr. Wayne Dyer suggests that it is in the silence of the universe that God speaks to us. We never hear what we are supposed to hear unless we spend some time enjoying the silence of the universe around us. If you’re looking to meet your higher self or to listen to what your intuition is saying, then it is essential to spend some time listening. It will be hard at first, but if you will set aside a few moments each day to just listen, you will hear the message. It helps if you have something you can do with your hands while you sit. I like to knit, but almost any handcraft will do.
Do you find yourself in the symptoms here? I often find myself in each symptom on different days. That’s how I know that it’s time to take some time for myself. It isn’t selfish, it’s survival. You’ll have a much happier life, your family, friends, and colleagues will enjoy you more, and you’ll be energetic, patient, and fully alive. I challenge you to spend a week and see what happens when you sit deliberately still for 20 minutes a day.
If you need an excuse to spend time for you, then consider doing a craft that keeps you in the present moment. Most crafts are this way - knit, crochet, needlepoint, cross stitch, woodworking, and even candle and soap making. I even find that people making jewelry enjoy the serenity of the moment. It's a great way to take that time for yourself and get a chance to make something beautiful for yourself or someone else.
Article by:
Lisa Akers is the president of Be Still & Knit. Her company teaches women how to find peace and stillness in their lives through handwork. By discovering knit and crochet, women develop a new way to take time for themselves and share the love they have as warm clothing! Find out more about Lisa at www.bestillandknit.com or listen to her podcast at www.peacefulknitter.com.
Why I Have So Many Kids
By Dawn Salisbury
A few mornings ago, I awoke after having a very strange dream and felt prompted to write this article. Many times over I have met with people whose jaws drop when they find out I have five children. Sometimes I get a look of sheer horror. Sometimes I get this look: “Well, okay. Better you than me”! Sometimes I get really nice looks that say, “I know it is a lot of work, but you have a beautiful family”. I do not think that I have ever explained why I have so many children. To me, it’s not a lot when I compare myself to Shiloah with her seven, or my friend around the corner with nine children. And, yes, we all homeschool. To me, being a mother has been my favorite career/job I’ve ever held.
Years ago, I ran off at the young age of nineteen to join the Air Force. I wanted to see the world. I wanted to have adventures. I wanted to meet new people. I got married six weeks before joining the Air Force and even though I wanted to do all these things associated with having a career, I wanted kids more. Three years into the marriage, we found out he was sterile, and another year after that the marriage collapsed and I left. I was already feeling the psychological effects of infertility, but once the divorce occurred, I couldn’t help but think I would never have kids and I went through bouts of depression over that.
When I found out I was pregnant with Isaac, I was amazed. I actually found myself wondering that it even happened because to my knowledge, I had no idea if I could have kids even. So, through that whole pregnancy, I was in awe. I was overjoyed, excited, worried, happy, sad, stressed and, did I mention excited? Isaac arrived the day after I turned 25. I was worried that I wouldn’t be able to have as many kids as I had wanted because of my “advancing” age. Thirty was my cut off. I wanted to have time for retirement. If I stopped having kids at thirty, then the last kid would be out of the house at 49. I would have time to vacation with just my husband. I would have time to pursue my interests and still be fairly young to do it. I would have time for just me. God has other plans for me.
After Isaac came along, four more came too, somewhere between nineteen and twenty-five months apart. Each one was different. Each baby was beautiful. Each baby had a different personality, but the more that came, the sweeter they seemed and the faster they grew. With every new baby, I pulled out the newborn clothes. I still have some from Isaac in pristine condition! They smell like newborns and a rush of memories come flooding back as I remember each baby’s birth that wore that outfit.
So, here I am, almost 9 years later, with five kids, at age 33, knowing that we will be having one more baby, which should put me at about 35 by the time that sixth baby is born. For me, that is okay. For me, I can’t imagine our home without a baby in it. It will be a sad day for me when we don’t have toddler pulling stuff out of drawers and screeching because he can’t run with the big kids. It will be a sad day when I have to pack away the newborn clothes for good, or sell them at a garage sale after having been fitted on six little bodies.
What has occurred to me, in all my selfish thoughts: I get to hold a baby, feed a baby, teach a child, tell them stories, is that we are fulfilling God’s command. Some people joke that we are multiplying and replenishing the earth. Yes, maybe we are, but I’m happy doing it. Ten years ago, I would have never thought this would be my life.
When I look at my children, I see some valiant and strong spirits. I can’t help but think about how they chose us to be their parents. Why did they choose us? I can see a much greater, eternal perspective now that I have borne children. I think for a time I must have thought my kids would be miniature versions of me and my husband. I don’t think I realized, as obvious as it may seem, that they are all individuals. As they learn, I learn. As Shiloah said one time, and maybe this sums up this whole essay, kids are addictive.
I have so many kids because I’m addicted to them. I want to meet them, learn about them, help them, coddle them, and in the meantime, I am growing. I have learned about nutrition, education, budgeting, how to spot medical emergencies and when it’s “just a virus”, how to decorate a home that is kid proof, how to manage time (and how not to), how the spirit can leave and enter our home because of our prayers, behavior, media, language and actions. I have learned from my children how to forgive, how to laugh, how to use my imagination again. I’ve also learned to stay on my toes. We have some that are too smart, like my daughter that can imitate her brother’s handwriting perfectly and then gets him in trouble with it. My two youngest figured out how to make a carwash for their cars…in the toilet. If you ever need a buddy to stay up late with you, Isaac’s the one. He’ll keep you up asking for stories, playing games, and watching a movie with you. My second son is constantly learning stuff, but sometimes it becomes too overwhelming for him and I then I have to remind myself that he is only six years old, even though he seems so much older. I have been blessed with a sense of humor, and a husband with one as well, and more often than not, we are laughing. We are happy, and that is why I have so many kids. Because I’m happy with them.
No more does it matter that I do not have a lucrative career. No more does it matter than I have stretch marks over a once flawless body. No more does it matter that I do not have hours or days of quiet. I have found joy in these things. And, I suspect, I will find more joy in my children as they age and grow and share their secrets with me, share their dreams with me, share their children with me.
My favorite quote is by Anne Campbell, and when times are so overwhelming, as they can get from time to time, I remember this:
“You are the trip I did not take; You are the pearls I cannot buy; You are my blue Italian lake; You are my piece of foreign sky”.
A few mornings ago, I awoke after having a very strange dream and felt prompted to write this article. Many times over I have met with people whose jaws drop when they find out I have five children. Sometimes I get a look of sheer horror. Sometimes I get this look: “Well, okay. Better you than me”! Sometimes I get really nice looks that say, “I know it is a lot of work, but you have a beautiful family”. I do not think that I have ever explained why I have so many children. To me, it’s not a lot when I compare myself to Shiloah with her seven, or my friend around the corner with nine children. And, yes, we all homeschool. To me, being a mother has been my favorite career/job I’ve ever held.
Years ago, I ran off at the young age of nineteen to join the Air Force. I wanted to see the world. I wanted to have adventures. I wanted to meet new people. I got married six weeks before joining the Air Force and even though I wanted to do all these things associated with having a career, I wanted kids more. Three years into the marriage, we found out he was sterile, and another year after that the marriage collapsed and I left. I was already feeling the psychological effects of infertility, but once the divorce occurred, I couldn’t help but think I would never have kids and I went through bouts of depression over that.
When I found out I was pregnant with Isaac, I was amazed. I actually found myself wondering that it even happened because to my knowledge, I had no idea if I could have kids even. So, through that whole pregnancy, I was in awe. I was overjoyed, excited, worried, happy, sad, stressed and, did I mention excited? Isaac arrived the day after I turned 25. I was worried that I wouldn’t be able to have as many kids as I had wanted because of my “advancing” age. Thirty was my cut off. I wanted to have time for retirement. If I stopped having kids at thirty, then the last kid would be out of the house at 49. I would have time to vacation with just my husband. I would have time to pursue my interests and still be fairly young to do it. I would have time for just me. God has other plans for me.
After Isaac came along, four more came too, somewhere between nineteen and twenty-five months apart. Each one was different. Each baby was beautiful. Each baby had a different personality, but the more that came, the sweeter they seemed and the faster they grew. With every new baby, I pulled out the newborn clothes. I still have some from Isaac in pristine condition! They smell like newborns and a rush of memories come flooding back as I remember each baby’s birth that wore that outfit.
So, here I am, almost 9 years later, with five kids, at age 33, knowing that we will be having one more baby, which should put me at about 35 by the time that sixth baby is born. For me, that is okay. For me, I can’t imagine our home without a baby in it. It will be a sad day for me when we don’t have toddler pulling stuff out of drawers and screeching because he can’t run with the big kids. It will be a sad day when I have to pack away the newborn clothes for good, or sell them at a garage sale after having been fitted on six little bodies.
What has occurred to me, in all my selfish thoughts: I get to hold a baby, feed a baby, teach a child, tell them stories, is that we are fulfilling God’s command. Some people joke that we are multiplying and replenishing the earth. Yes, maybe we are, but I’m happy doing it. Ten years ago, I would have never thought this would be my life.
When I look at my children, I see some valiant and strong spirits. I can’t help but think about how they chose us to be their parents. Why did they choose us? I can see a much greater, eternal perspective now that I have borne children. I think for a time I must have thought my kids would be miniature versions of me and my husband. I don’t think I realized, as obvious as it may seem, that they are all individuals. As they learn, I learn. As Shiloah said one time, and maybe this sums up this whole essay, kids are addictive.
I have so many kids because I’m addicted to them. I want to meet them, learn about them, help them, coddle them, and in the meantime, I am growing. I have learned about nutrition, education, budgeting, how to spot medical emergencies and when it’s “just a virus”, how to decorate a home that is kid proof, how to manage time (and how not to), how the spirit can leave and enter our home because of our prayers, behavior, media, language and actions. I have learned from my children how to forgive, how to laugh, how to use my imagination again. I’ve also learned to stay on my toes. We have some that are too smart, like my daughter that can imitate her brother’s handwriting perfectly and then gets him in trouble with it. My two youngest figured out how to make a carwash for their cars…in the toilet. If you ever need a buddy to stay up late with you, Isaac’s the one. He’ll keep you up asking for stories, playing games, and watching a movie with you. My second son is constantly learning stuff, but sometimes it becomes too overwhelming for him and I then I have to remind myself that he is only six years old, even though he seems so much older. I have been blessed with a sense of humor, and a husband with one as well, and more often than not, we are laughing. We are happy, and that is why I have so many kids. Because I’m happy with them.
No more does it matter that I do not have a lucrative career. No more does it matter than I have stretch marks over a once flawless body. No more does it matter that I do not have hours or days of quiet. I have found joy in these things. And, I suspect, I will find more joy in my children as they age and grow and share their secrets with me, share their dreams with me, share their children with me.
My favorite quote is by Anne Campbell, and when times are so overwhelming, as they can get from time to time, I remember this:
“You are the trip I did not take; You are the pearls I cannot buy; You are my blue Italian lake; You are my piece of foreign sky”.
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