Tuesday’s Mommy Tip – Mommy Needs to Spend Time with God

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OK, on to this week’s Mommy tip…

Mommy Needs to Spend Time with God

Every Mom knows that being a Mom means life is busy and hectic. It does not matter if you are a corporate Mom or a homeschooling Mom. If you are a Mother, you are a busy woman. No matter how busy our lives get, we cannot forget the most important thing in life…Daddy God. NOTHING else matter in the big scheme of things. If you find that at the end of the day, you have “missed” God, then this tip is for you!

Spending time with God does not need to be this super spiritual micro managed batch of time that is so over scheduled we get no relationship out of it. Allow God to be a part of every little moment of your day and you will be closer to Him than a rushed 15 minutes of “scheduled” time. God wants friendship and relationship…not to be fitted into a busy day when possible!

Making God Time All Day Every Day

• Talk to Him. Be in constant communication with Him throughout your day. Talk to Him at the stop light, while showering or blow drying your hair. Include Him in your decisions. Ask Him to help you. Thank Him for that great parking space. Remember: every good things comes from above. Take the time to notice and express thankfulness!
• Read His Word. This does not have to be hard. Include the kids. While sitting at breakfast, have one of them read a psalm or proverbs, then discuss it as  you are getting ready for your day. If they cannot read, you can take a minute to read on or two verses. If you can’t maybe you need to sacrifice and get up 10 minutes earlier.
• Memorize His Word. Make this a family affair. Memorize one verse a week as a family. Knowing the Word is vital to a victorious walk. You can make it fun too. Be creative.
• Do a Bible study. This is important. If your church has a woman’s Bible study, do your best to participate. Otherwise do your own. Even if you can only actually do the study 2 times per week, at least you are committing something to God and making your spiritual life a priority!

We need to realize that spiritual growth is extremely important. We must be growing. Look at it this way, would you go weeks without eating or drinking? No. In this society we have a hard time missing ONE meal. Why then, do we starve our spirits??

Moms, you need to live the walk out loud before your children. In these last days we need to be raising up a generation that will burn brightly for Jesus…if we do not show them, who will??

Copyright © Lara Velez, Moms of Faith, All Rights Reserved

Body Image and Self Esteem

When I was a senior in college, I had to complete a thesis as a requirement to graduate with my Bachelor’s degree in psychology. I decided to write my thesis on the correlation between body image and self esteem in women. I surveyed one hundred women ages 18-60 and needless to say there was a high correlation between those who had a poor self image and a low self esteem. It was an eye opener to read the results of the survey, which were quite disturbing. I was amazed at the large number of women who loathed their bodies and who didn’t think they had much self worth. Now that I have my own daughter and have gone through my own issues with weight, I am reminded of how important it is to teach our children to love, honor, and respect their bodies.

In today’s culture girls, especially are bombarded with images of how they should look. The images that the media have portrayed have given our children a very distorted idea of what is beautiful and what is not. From the clothes, the toys, and the television shows, parents are hard pressed to find wholesome healthy images. Last Halloween I was amazed and outraged at the provocative costumes that were available to young girls. I simply did not buy them, but it was disturbing how inappropriate they were. I am one of those parents who believe that you can’t put all the blame on the media and the fashion industry. I believe that you are responsible for what you allow in your home. If you feel that a tween television show such as Hannah Montana has adult themes that are inappropriate for your child, then do not allow them to watch it. If a skirt from the mall is too mini, don’t buy it. As parents we have to take responsibility for what we allow to filter into our homes.

Girls need to have role models that are admirable not because of their ability to wear a size 0, they should look up to a role model because of their values, morals, and character. It is important that we teach our daughters that what is on the inside is what counts. We need to remind them that they are created in the image of our father and therefore, they are beautiful not because of their clothing size or their appearance but because they are god’s creation. Their self esteem and self worth should be rooted in their relationship with the Lord. It is important that they treat their body as a temple, and that means nourishing it with healthy foods, exercise, cleanliness, and most importantly self respect.

I have said this before, and I will say it again, our children will replicate our actions. If they see us living a healthy physical, spiritual, and emotional lifestyle they are more likely to do the same. If they hear us constantly complaining about our weight, and saying, “I’m so fat, look at me, I look awful.” You better believe that they will start scrutinizing themselves. It is important that we are careful with our words. Telling your daughter, she can stand to loose a few pounds can lead to a lifetime of her constantly analyzing her weight. I am by no means saying to let your child become obese, however if you see your child gaining an unhealthy amount of weight, incorporate more physical activity together, for example, take tennis or dance lessons together, or just take more evening walks. Let your kids see you active, self confident, and caring about your body, be their role model and remove the responsibility from the media.

Self image and self esteem are vital to the well being of our girls and our boys. At a very young age children are aware of their bodies. They are a blank slate until all the outside influences come in and begin to cloud their vision. Bad self esteem can lead to all sorts of problems as well as a poor body image. Instill in your children that their bodies are a sacred gift from God and it is up to them to care for it and appreciate it. Compliment your daughter, and encourage her to live by her own set of rules, not the rules that her peers set. Give her the courage to be different and not follow the leader of the pack. Tell her she is beautiful not only for her face or body, but for all of her Christ like characteristics. Let them know that their worth is not linked to their appearances. Lastly, filter what enters your home, don’t feel pressured to be a cool parent, instead be a parent that has healthy boundaries for your children.

Copyright © Chere Williams, Moms of Faith, All Rights Reserved

Homeschool Corner: Year Round Schooling

When we first started homeschooling, it was mid school year and we just followed the same schedule as the school district. But, as the year progressed, I felt this leading to start our 2nd school year in the summer. So, I counted back the days, accommodating for holidays and vacations and we started school in June, rather than August. We went to school four days a week, taking Fridays off. We tried this for two years and at the end of the school year last year, I felt like I needed a break, since we had not been able to take a Spring Break because we took off some extra days here and there and did not want to fall behind in our studies. So, we took the entire summer off from school and started back when the public school children did.

It was very nice having the summer off, but what I found was that the children did indeed lose some of what they had learned over the summer. Just from not using it as they had during the school year, some of that information had made an exodus from their minds. The other drawback for us was that if we needed to take a day off for illness or something unexpected, it put us behind. Then I would constantly feel like I needed to double up lessons or squeeze more into each day we had. It was very stressful.

So, for this school year, we are giving the year-round schedule another try. We just completed our first two weeks of our new school year and so far so good! The main benefit of this schedule is that it is much more flexible than the five-day schedule. If we need to miss a day of school during the week, that Friday is there as a buffer, so we don’t fall behind in our studies. Plus, if we want to arrange a play-date, field trip, or even a fun day at the park, Fridays are the day to do it. We don’t feel like we have to miss out on something because we have too much work to do. That feeling is not only stressful to me, but it can also be stressful to the children.

If you have never tried year-round schooling in your homeschooling family, I have some advice that helps me stay organized and keep on track. First, I plan out my schedule out in advance. I like to plan the whole year out, so I am prepared, but maybe doing it quarterly or even monthly works better for you. You have to do what you are most comfortable with. Our school year is 45 weeks long (accounting for Christmas, Spring Break, a couple weeks in the summer, and Vacations). I also like to plan out my lessons for the whole year as a pacing guide, but again, that might not work for you, but it is the way I keep on track.

Now, the way I explained this schedule to my children was this: “We have school 4 days a week, but if you have not finished all of your work, then you will have to finish it on Friday.” I give my older kids a weekly schedule with their assignments on it. By doing it this way, they all know what is expected of them and they are allowed to at their own pace. For example, for next week, they have 4 math lessons. If they want to work ahead and be done with Math early, they can. Once they have completed what is necessary for the week, they are done for the week. That way they can have more time for reading (they have not been reading enough lately… lol) and playing and being with friends. Plus, more time for the kids and I to have some fun playing together.

To review, since I may have babbled on a bit

Year Round Homeschooling Tips

1. Plan ahead – have your schedule and lesson plans written out in advance
2. Be flexible – if you need an extra week off for vacation – take it – and pick back up on your schedule/lessons when you return
3. Let the kids know they can have Fridays off if they do what they need to each day (or have extra time to play if they want to work a ahead a little in one subject or two) - Plus, Mom needs that time off too, even if it is just to get caught up on grading papers… lol.
4. Breathe easier – year-round schooling can take some stress away

So, if you have never tried year-round homeschooling, I want you to know that you can do it. It is not as scary or mean as it sounds. Your children, if they are like mine, will even look forward to it. Once I had all their new school books and folders and everything set out on my shelf, my kiddos were asking: “When are we going to start?” They could not wait. Now that we have started, we are keeping the days light, with lots of review to build their confidence. By the time the end of the week sneaks up on us, we are done our work and have a day off to relax enjoy our time together.

Copyright © Alicia Tucker, Moms of Faith, All Rights Reserved

About the Author: Alicia Tucker is a homeschool mom of 3 children, after having worked in public schools in NJ and SC for over 10 years. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education and Sociology, as well as a Master’s degree in Education with a specialization in Curriculum and Technology. Alicia is also Moms of Faith lead prayer warrior and columnist.

Mothers of the Bible Speak to Mother’s of Today – Win a Copy!

Mothers of the Bible Speak to Mother’s of Today is a wonderful book for Christian Moms, written by best selling author, Kathi Macias. Kathi is a fabulous writer and has the ability to open the eyes of the reader to Truth.

In Mothers of the Bible Speak to Mother’s of Today, Kathi shows us how God used Biblical Mothers to fulfill His purpose. We also learn how He is still using Moms of today! Some of the Mothers she uses as examples are; Eve, Sarah, Rachel, Bathsheba, Elizabeth and Salome. As well as many more.

Each chapter includes inspiring quotes, prayers for Mothers, and a place to journal what the Lord speaks to you through the chapter. She even includes questions to help you get the most out of each chapter.

She really breaks down each Mother and shows powerful insights into their lives and purpose. One of my favorite chapters is, Bathsheba: Redemption and Restoration. I have always struggled with “unworthiness.” This was an awesome chapter…awesome book!

Every Mother should have this book. You will be blessed, encouraged and inspired. You will learn how much you are loved and that we ALL have a purpose no matter what our lives are or have been.

Kathi has generously given Moms of Faith a copy if this wonderful book to give a way to one lucky reader. If you would like a chance to win this great book for Christian Moms, please follow the rules below…

Mothers of the Bible Speak to Mother’s of Today Give a Way

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Contest Ends: July 3, 2009. Winner will be announced on July 7.

Good Luck!

Independece Day – History, Recipes and Crafty Fun!

History of Independence Day

Many people consider July 4th as the birth date of America, and rightfully so. It was on this date in 1776 that the Continental Congress approved and adopted the Declaration of Independence. It can actually be considered the country’s birth certificate. At this time the spirit of freedom, so much a part of this country’s history, was born.

Prior to the birth of our nation, the colonists led other uprisings against the British for one reason or another. Most often, however, the colonist’s complaints revolved around unfair taxes. In fact, as early as 1676, Nathaniel Bacon wrote a “Declaration of the People” to decry the taxes and failure of the British to protect farmers along the western edge of the colonies. Bacon also led rebellions against the British.

From the beginning of colonial times, the British required American colonists to pay taxes on items imported from Great Britain. These items included sugar, coffee, and wine. The colonists, however, were not given voting privileges in Parliament. After years of being taxed on all goods, the Americans began boycotting British goods. British troops were sent to enforce the Townshend Act.

Of course, the colonists rejected King George and Parliament’s right to enforce this Act saying that it was a violation of their constitutional rights as British subjects. Petitions were sent to King George asking him to repeal the Townshend Act. This was quickly denied.

Boston’s civilians clashed with British soldiers on a regular basis. Skirmishes began to draw larger crowds which finally led to the death of Crispus Attucks, and four others at the Boston Massacre in March 1770. This was the final straw and is thought to be the incident that cemented the resolve of the colonists to rid themselves from British tyranny during the American Revolution.

Colonists continued to rebel against the taxes, but the British continued to levy taxes. By 1773, the American colonists had had enough. They refused to pay tax any longer on tea. In the middle of the night on December 16, a group of men boarded three ships in the harbor and dumped the contents of the ships into the water.  This was the true beginning of the Revolutionary War. Before it was over, the population of the colonies – men and women, black and white – would join together to fight for freedom.

Suffice it to say, the colonists defeated the British and won their freedom. Now families all over the country celebrate this wonderful day. Depending upon which day of the week the fourth falls on, the celebrations may last longer than one day.

When Did 4th of July Start?

Our Founding Fathers, as they’ve come to be known, knew the importance of their actions in Philadelphia. They knew they were laying the foundation for a new country, a free country, a country different from all others in the world. They may not have known, however, that the date of July 4 would be so important to the citizens of this country.

Some researchers believe that the concept of celebrating the birth of the nation and marking the adoption of the Declaration of Independence was an afterthought. The original approval to separate from Britain occurred on July 2, 1776 and the Declaration of Independence was formally adopted by all but one colony two days later. John Hancock was the first to sign the Declaration, and did so in large letters, purportedly so King George could read it.

Upon agreeing to separate from Britain, John Adams, Founding Father, member of the Continental Congress, and future second President of the United States of America, wrote to his wife Abigail:

“The second day of July, 1776, will be the most memorable epoch in the history of America. I am apt to believe that it will be celebrated by succeeding generations as the great anniversary festival. It ought to be commemorated as the day of deliverance, by solemn acts of devotion to God Almighty. It ought to be solemnized with pomp and parade, with shows, games, sports, guns, bells, bonfires, and illuminations, from one end of this continent to the other, from this time forward forever more.”

Reports claim that members of the Continental Congress did not discuss the idea of celebrating the anniversary of accepting the Declaration of Independence until July 3 which made it too late to celebrate on the actual date the approval was given. Instead, they celebrated on July 4, 1776 and that is the date that has been celebrated as the birth of America ever since.

In 1781, the Massachusetts legislature was the first to recognize the Fourth of July as an actual holiday.  Two years later, Johann Friedrich Peter performed his work “The Psalm of Joy” on July 4th in Salem, North Carolina as the first celebration of the holiday.

Ten years after the first July 4 celebration, cities commemorating the day would shoot canons or ring bells early in the morning. Parades were commonplace as those who had fought in the Militia would march. Citizens and other military volunteers would join the parade. Bonfires and fireworks were also a part of the early celebrations.

In 1791, the holiday was first called “Independence Day.” By 1870, the U.S. Congress named Independence Day an unpaid holiday for all federal employees. It wasn’t until 1941, however, that Congress finally declared July 4th as a federal holiday to be celebrated by those around the country. Of all the holidays celebrated in the United States, the Fourth of July, or Independence Day as it may be called, is undoubtedly one of the most important holidays we celebrate.

4th of July Recipes:

4th of July Turkey Chili

1 can (14.5oz) chopped tomatoes
1 can (6oz) tomato paste
1 carrot, sliced
1 onion, chopped
2 stalks celery, chopped
¼ cup white wine
1.5 pounds ground turkey (you can also use ground beef if you prefer)
1 package (1.25oz) chili seasoning mix
1 pinch crushed red pepper flakes
¼ cup green bell pepper, chopped
¼ cup red bell pepper, chopped
1/3 cup bottled steak sauce
5 slices bacon
1 tsp ground cumin
1 can (15oz) kidney beans, drained
1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
1 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped

Combine tomatoes, tomato paste, carrot, onion, celery, pepper flakes, peppers, steak sauce and wine in a large heavy pot and simmer over low heat.

In a separately large frying pan cook the bacon slices until crisp and put on paper towels to drain. Cook the ground turkey in the bacon drippings until browned. Then drain. Stir the chili seasoning into the ground turkey.

Add the turkey to the tomato mixture and add the cumin and bacon. Keep simmering until the vegetables are tender. Then stir in beans, cilantro and parsley. Heat through and season well.

Serve immediately with grated cheese and corn muffins below.

4th of July Corn Muffins

(makes 12 muffins)
1 can (14.5oz) creamed corn
2 cups yellow cornmeal
1 cup buttermilk
2 large eggs
8 tbsp butter, melted
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 tbsp white sugar
2 tsp baking powder
½ tsp baking soda
1 ½ tsp salt

Preheat oven to 450F and heat up a 12-cup muffin tin in the hot oven while making the muffin mix.

In a medium saucepan, heat the creamed corn and then stir in 1 cup of the cornmeal. The mixture should be very thick and stiff. Whisk in the buttermilk, then add the eggs. Again, whisk thoroughly, then add the melted butter.

In a medium bowl, mix the remaining cornmeal with the flour, sugar, salt, baking powder and baking soda. Add the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir carefully until just combined.

Take the muffin tin out of the oven and either use muffin cases or lightly grease the tin. Fill the muffin mix evenly into the muffin cups and bake for about 15 minutes until golden brown.

Remove muffins and place on a wire rack to cool.

Serve with any soup or a the yummy 4th of July chili recipe we included.

Mommy and Me 4th of July Crafts

4th of July Fireworks Craft Option 1

What you need:

• Black or other dark construction paper
• Glitter
• A straw, toothpicks, or paintbrushes
• White glue
• Old newspapers

Spread out the newspaper to work on. Place a small amount of glue on the construction paper. Geometric shapes can be made on the paper by blowing gently through the straw on the glue. Your child can also use toothpicks or paintbrushes to create designs on the paper.

Once all of your glue has been blown into shapes, sprinkle some glitter over the top of the glue. Carefully pick up the piece of construction paper and gently slide the excess glitter back into the bottle.

If you want to, you can repeat the glue and glitter process with different colors. Let the glue dry between colors.

4th of July Fireworks Craft Option 2

What you need:

• Smocks to cover the kids’ clothes
• Aluminum foil
• Washable acrylic paint
• Black craft paper
• Sponge
• Flowers (dandelions or mums work best)

Start by getting all your materials together. Put a smock on each child making this craft with you.

Let the kids choose the colors of paint they want to use for their project. Using a folded piece of the aluminum foil, create a color palette for each child with the colors they chose. The best colors to show up on dark paper are gold, silver, red, blue or green. If possible, try to get the metallic paints.

Give each child a piece of sponge or a flower for each color of paint, showing them how to ‘load’ it with the paint. Dandelions and mums work best because of the many crevices they have.

Show the children how to gently dab their dark paper with their sponge to make imitation fireworks. By dabbing the paper gently and quickly, your children will be able to achieve fantastic looking fireworks to fill the “night sky” without having to leave the house.

These two fireworks art projects are sure to please your children. Make sure to share your children’s masterpieces with everyone after the paint dries. Let them sign their artwork before giving it away, including the date. Take any 4th of July fireworks pictures that remain and use them to celebrate the holiday at any time of the year.

Have a wonderful 4th of July!

HAPPY INDEPENCE DAY to the UNITED STATES of AMERICA!!!!!!!!

Walking in the Spirit – Maturity Levels

<–back to Walking in the Spirit Main

But the natural, nonspiritual man does not accept or welcome or admit into his heart the gifts and teachings and revelations of the Spirit of God, for they are folly (meaningless nonsense) to him; and he is incapable of knowing them [of progressively recognizing, understanding, and becoming better acquainted with them] because they are spiritually discerned and estimated and appreciated.

But the spiritual man tries all things. He examines, investigates, inquires into, questions, and discerns all things, yet is himself to be put on trial and judged by no one [he can read the meaning of everything, but no one can properly discern or appraise or get an insight into him]. - 1 Corinthians 2:14-15 (amplified)

A while back a close friend shared something about spiritual maturity with me that I will never forget. ..There are three basic levels of Christianity.

Level One: Infancy…aka…baby Christians.

Most Christians never get past this stage. They live and walk through their natural senses and have little or no faith. They still watch and listen to things that are not good for them. They rarely read the Bible and certainly with no real dedication or consistency.

They are moved and swayed by every circumstance and have no power or authority….well, they have it, they just do not use it or apply it because they are clueless. They do not tithe. They rarely serve and still gossip and hold grudges.

Baby Christians are much like real infants. They are helpless. They offer no real contribution other than being needy. We ALL have to go through this stage.

Unfortunately, MOST Christians will remain at this stage their entire lives. It is very sad. They will never live up to the potential and true calling that God has for them.

If you are insulted by level one, you are probably one of them. Or, if you know you fall into this category, you may be thinking, “I do not want to remain here!”

Either way, you do not have to remain at this level. You can make a change and CHOOSE to grow up. How? We will get to that later…

Level Two: Adolescence…aka…childhood/teen

A few Christians graduate to level 2. Not many, but a few. These Christians either tithe regularly or at list give frequently. They have enough faith to pray when something goes wrong. They may sway though if their prayer is not answered right away.

They read their Bible semi regularly, although they find it difficult to apply many times and it can become a religious thing if they are not careful.

They serve on occasion and have spiritually matured enough to make better choices as far as what they listen to and watch. They get convicted when they gossip…they may not always submit to the conviction, however, they do have a recognition of it.

Unfortunately, they are still not completely dependent and submitted to God. So, they have many struggles and many times feel like they will never “grow up.”

Level Three: Adulthood…aka…Spiritually Mature

Very few Christians, actually not many at all, make it to this level. The sad part is this is the level that ALL Christians should be actively aiming for. Do not misunderstand, we will never be perfect here. Perfection will come when we get to be in Heaven with Daddy God.

However, spiritual maturity will not only make life here easier to bare, we will be more effective and productive in furthering the Kingdom and representing Christ properly.

Adulthood means that in your Christian walk, you have leaned not to be swayed by circumstances. You have peace, real peace. You are a consistent tither. You obey God’s Word on a regular basis. You are shedding flesh and self on a daily basis. You have an active prayer life. You hear form God. You are actively involved with your church. You do not allow yourself to participate in gossip. You are in the Word on a daily basis because you want to and cannot function without it. You are aware and active in spiritual warfare. You are completely sold out and on fire for Christ and can care less about this world or the things of it. You are an adult…spiritually mature and maturing more every day.

You will hear; “well done my good and faithful servant”, I am sure.

Now, seriously, what level are you at? Do a self check.

Dear brothers and sisters, when I was with you I couldn’t talk to you as I would to spiritual people. I had to talk as though you belonged to this world or as though you were infants in the Christian life.

I had to feed you with milk, not with solid food, because you weren’t ready for anything stronger. And you still aren’t ready,

for you are still controlled by your sinful nature. You are jealous of one another and quarrel with each other. Doesn’t that prove you are controlled by your sinful nature? Aren’t you living like people of the world? – 1 Corinthians 3:1-3

No matter what level, improvements are still needed. We have not arrived anywhere and never will while here on earth.

Practical Steps to Grow into a Spiritually Mature Christian

Develop Active Prayer Life. This requires taking the time to talk to God every day. I do not mean with a list of wants either. Talk to Him. Praise Him. Include Him in your daily life.

Read and Memorize the Word. To really know God and have a relationship with him requires reading and studying His Word. Everything we need to know about Him, life, spiritual growth and how to life here are in His Word. Read it. Study it. memorize it. Make it a priority.

Obey. The Holy Spirit will not yell at us. It is a still small voice. This world is very loud. It is a LOT easier to “hear” the world, flesh and sin. However, we all CAN hear the conviction of the Holy Spirit. We are His sheep and we hear His voice. When you get convicted, obey. Repent. Turn from it. If you continue in your sin, it will be harder to turn later. Plus, eventually, the Lord will stop telling us…He will just let us do what we want.

So let’s not get tired of doing what is good. At just the right time we will reap a harvest of blessing if we don’t give up. Therefore, whenever we have the opportunity, we should do good to everyone—especially to those in the family of faith. – Galatians 6:9-10

Let’s Pray;

Daddy God, thank You for Your Word and the life and wisdom that it gives. Lord, I ask that You reveal to me where I am in my Christian Walk. Help me to be all that You planned for me to be. Help me to Walk and live in the spirit. Help me to grow up and become a spiritually mature adult Christian lacking in nothing. I want a life that makes a difference and shines for You. Show me. Help me. Teach me. I love You, Daddy! In Jesus MIGHTY Name , Amen!

Your Homework

Memorize: Yet when we are among the full-grown (spiritually mature Christians who are ripe in understanding), we do impart a higher wisdom; but it is indeed not a wisdom of this present age or of this world nor of the leaders and rulers of this age, who are being brought to nothing and are doomed to pass away. - 1 Corinthians 2:6

Dig Deeper:

Study the Word Daily!

Start here….

• Galatians 5
• Galatians 6:1; 9-10
• 1 Corinthians 2:6-3:3
• Romans 8:9
• Ephesians 2:1
• 2 Chronicles 7:14
• Isaiah 40:31

You might also be interested in studying our Flesh v/s Spirit series.

Copyright © Lara Velez, Moms of Faith, All Rights Reserved

Tuesday’s Mommy Tip – Teaching Letters and Reading

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OK, on to this week’s Mommy tip…

Teaching Letters and Reading

It can seem like a daunting task to teach your child to recognize their letters and put them together for reading!

My tip is simple…yet profound in it’s results!

Use several methods.

What do I mean?

OK, if you are teaching the letter A, show a flash card of letter alone, a picture of what sounds like it, and then an activity using it…like finger painting the letter A. Finally, every time you see something that starts with the letter A or the actual letter A in a word, point it out.

This should be done and added to with each new letter and also stepped up a few notches when actual words are being learned.

The key is to get several senses involved and making it more like play instead of learning.

Oh and your little one is NEVER too young to start learning the concept of reading! The younger the better!

Feel free to share your tips on the subject…

Copyright © Lara Velez, Moms of Faith, All Rights Reserved

Operation Organization

Can you barely find your kitchen counter under the stack of bills and magazines that pour in through the mail every day? If this sounds familiar than it is time to set up operation organize. Being organized is key to my sanity. As a single mom who takes care of all the cleaning, bills, grocery shopping and finances, I found early on that being organized would not only make my life easier, it would give me more time to spend with my daughter and do the things that matter most. Here are a few essential organizing tips.

Kitchen Organizing

Keep the kitchen tidy by not allowing mail to build up on counters. Purchase a basket or a three bin organizer you can hang on the wall. Label each bin. For example, label the first bin bills, the second, coupons, the third in could be appointments or to do lists, this could include permission slips, invitations, announcements, etc. A cork board is also a great way to post important reminders for the day. Don’t forget to hang your keys somewhere that you won’t forget them

The space under the sink can get messy if you keep cleaning products there. Find some inexpensive organizing bins. I found long oval tin containers at my local drug store for about $1.00-$1.50 and they hold my cleaning supplies, sponges, and trash bags perfectly.

Living Room Organizing

If the living room is your family’s gathering space it is most likely the most cluttered room of the house. If you read magazines or books, and watch movies there, make sure you have an appropriate place to put everything once your family is finished using it. Make sure you have enough magazine and bookshelves. A big basket or CD holder works great for DVDs.

Mudroom or Entry Organizing

You know the drill, the coats get thrown on the floor, the shoes are piled up, and wet umbrellas are lying around. Your entryway sets the tone for your home, it should be welcoming and clean. If you don’t have a hall closet, hang a rack that you could hang coats and hats on or purchase a coat rack. Get an old rain boot and put your umbrellas in it. A bench that opens up is another great way to utilize storage space.

Bedroom Organizing

If your closet is filled with shoes and your drawers are overflowing then it is time to take inventory and rearrange. First sort through your clothes, give away anything you aren’t going to wear. Then sort into seasons, get all your winter clothes and place them in plastic containers or even suitcases and store them in the attic, basement, or anywhere you have room. Don’t forget to label them by season. A shoe rack can be an inexpensive investment that you can either hang in your closet or on your door.

A laundry hamper for each person’s bedroom will also help to eliminate clothes all over the floor. Then make each family member responsible for bringing their own hamper to the laundry room on laundry day.

Linen Closet Organizing

A great space saver for towels is rolling and stacking them. I use wicker baskets to store my hair dryer, brushes, combs, etc. If I have extra lotions, perfume, or toothpaste, I place them in plastic storage containers that are the size of a shoebox and stack them.

Office Organizing

It is essential to keep your finances in order. When bills are scattered you are in danger of missing or making a late payment. In the current economic climate it is important that we stay on top of our finances. I suggest placing your bills in a binder with various folders. Label the folders according to your bills, for example, credit cards, donations, utilities, taxes, mortgage, car payments, education, credit reports, etc.

You can also have two separate bins, one for bills that you have to pay immediately, or that you want to pay within the next week or two, and the other bin for bills you don’t have to pay until later. Get in the habit of opening your mail on the day it arrives and filing it in the appropriate place.

There are so many ways to simplify your life. The idea is to find creative ways to organize that fit your lifestyle. So get those creative juices flowing and get organized. Become the captain of your ship and get everyone aboard.

Copyright © Chere Williams, Moms of Faith, All Rights Reserved

The Gift of Encouragement

I am very blessed to have people in my life who have encouraged me. Their support has been invaluable. I learned early on that a kind word goes a very long way. Now that I am a parent to a three year old who wants to try something new every day, I am reminded that encouragement is essential to the nurturing and personal growth of an individual. Children need to feel as though they can accomplish anything. As a parent it is our job to make them feel safe and to instill confidence in them. They need to know that our belief in them is unwavering. As easy as it is to build up someone up it is just as easy to tear them down, even if it is unintentional.

For example, a daughter excitedly tells her mother she wants to be an actress. Her mother proceeds to tell her that acting is unrealistic, that she will not make money at it, and she should focus on another field of study. The mom may be trying to save her daughter from the disappointment that comes with the rejection in this profession. However, she is actually chipping away at her self-confidence and self esteem. If her own mother doesn’t believe in her why would anyone else. She may give up on her dream and worse it may deter her from going after any other dreams she may have. Just as a kind word can go a long way, words of discouragement go further.

Jesus always encouraged His disciples, and because of this his disciples had the strength and confidence to fulfill their purpose. They spread the teaching of Jesus because he laid the groundwork for them to be confident. As Christian parents we should model the behavior of Jesus and encourage our children to pursue their interests.

Since becoming a single mom, I have had to rely on many words of encouragement to get through some difficult times. This past Christmas I was reminded of the gift of encouragement. I had bought a beautiful six foot tall Christmas tree. I had carried it in my home alone and when it was time to discard it I had to also do that by myself. A six foot tree is heavy to say the least! When Christmas was over, Anya watched as I struggled taking it out, she began yelling, “You can do it mommy, you can do it! We never give up.” With her little voice booming, I mustered all my strength and managed to drag the tree out of the house.

Afterwards, we celebrated with hot chocolate. She will never know how much her belief that I could do it meant to me. It dawned on me the many times I have given her a high five for a job well done, gave her hugs and kisses, and told her to never give up when she was unable to do something. I realized that she internalized it and understood how important it was to cheer someone on when they needed it. The gift was passed back to me by my three year old!

Encourage your kids whenever you can. If your children are trying something new, show them your enthusiasm, even if you have doubts. You should voice your concerns if you have any, but you can do this while giving them the encouragement they need. If they are doubtful or fearful, pray with them about their fears, and let them know that you believe in them. If they fail at something it is important that you don’t let them dwell in their failure. Acknowledge their disappointment , but remind them they are not a failure.

Often times we are quick to point out what our children are doing wrong, but why not point out all of the things they are doing right? Tell them that you appreciate them for all of the good qualities they have. You will be surprised at how effective this is. Children can push your buttons, and it is easy to loose patience, but instead of spitting out words of anger, why not encourage them to do better. Express your disapproval of their behavior and administer the appropriate consequences, but make them aware that you know they can do better.

Encouragement is the gift that keeps giving. Be a parent who uplifts, and sends out positive messages to your children. If they see that you don’t underestimate them then they won’t underestimate themselves. Encouragement entices them to face challenges and take risks. It allows them to blossom into a self assured and loving person who knows their intrinsic self worth.

Copyright © Chere Williams, Moms of Faith, All Rights Reserved

Paul Blart: Mall Cop – Movie Review

Movie Title: Paul Blart: Mall Cop
Rating: PG
Director: Steve Carr
Staring: Kevin James; Jayma Mays; Raini Rodriguez; Keir O’Donnell; Peter Gerety; Stephen Rannazzisi; Bobby Cannavale; Adam Ferrara; Jamal Mixon and Shirley Knight.
Category: Comedy

Moms of Faith Rating: 6 out of 10

Intro: Mall Cop is a comedy that falls short in the funny department. I was expecting a lot more from the very funny, Kevin James.

Review: Paul Blart: Mall Cop was a clean film. However, for some reason, it did not do it for me…comically. I guess I was expecting it to be funnier. I should note though, my husband liked it a lot. LOL.

For me it was just, eh.

Do not misunderstand this review. The movie is not bad. Unfortunately, for me, a lot of the humor was just not hitting the mark. There was nothing new about it. It was the same old same old.

Overall, the film is relatively clean. A few odd things here and there, but nothing over the top or too risky for little ones.

There are some violent scenes. The violence is like a Mission Impossible comedy though. LOL. The scenes that incorporate the MI feel were the funniest ones in the movie.

Language was minor potty mouth. A few He**s, scumbag, and the like scattered throughout the film.

The one scene that I thought was completely dumb and unnecessary took place in a bar. Paul got drunk and acted like a total idiot. So, you will most likely want to discuss and point out why the getting drunk is not a good thing with the kiddos…

Conclusion: Overall, Paul Blart: Mall Cop, was a clean film that will be safe for most viewers.

Like I said though, the comedy fell short for me. Maybe it will work for you! Let me know…

Copyright © Lara Velez, Moms of Faith, All Rights Reserved

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