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Helping Children Excel in School

August 18, 2010 By Faith_Mom 1 Comment

Academic success is important in a child’s life as it can help to shape the future. There are many things you can do to help your child or children succeed and they all start at home. Keep track of your child’s school activities, set up a consistent routine and ensuring that they have enough rest are simple tips that will help them to excel in school. In addition, parents who are involved in their child’s education help to foster the learning experience.

5 Tips to Help Children do Better in School

Homework Routine. Homework is a very important component to retaining the knowledge they learn in school. Make sure that you set a schedule for your child to do homework every day. If there is no homework assigned for the day, encourage your child to study and review the week’s assignments.

Study. Repetition, reading, writing, verbal reciting; are all important keys to study time. Make sure they study daily…especially highschoolers! Constantly reviewing information helps to instill the knowledge in your child’s brain, thereby helping them to gain better insight into the lessons.

Proper Sleep. Sleep is important because it allows your brain to recharge itself. If your child does not get enough sleep, it will affect their performance in school and out of school. Sleep is necessary for the body to function properly so make sure your child gets at least 8-10 hours of sleep each night. Teenagers need closer to 10 hours of sleep to function properly.

Take an Interest what they are Doing in School. It may have been a long time since you were in school, but you should still be able to check your child’s homework and assist them when necessary. Reading with children is a good way to spark interest in learning; it is also a good way to spend quality time with your child in a low-key manner.

Organization. As adults, we should be modeling an organized lifestyle. We need to teach them to be organized. Help your children learn to remain organized. Teach them to organize their school activities and time. Have them carry a planner for teachers to record assignments in. Also, keep a wall calendar in your house with your child’s schedule and assignments. This will help to avoid any missing assignments and will also let you know how frequently your child studies.

Helping our children to do well in school is our  jobs as a parent.





A CALL TO HOLINESS--> I would like to let you all know about a NEW Bible Study here at Moms of Faith. It will be available at the beginning of October 2010. WORK AT YOUR OWN PACE! In this seven week study we will cover topics like; What is holiness?, Who is called to it?, 4 Characteristics of Holy Living, Hindrances to Holiness and more! Click Here for more info and pricing.


Weightloss ebook <-- Note: I wrote an ebook filled with a TON of great info and advice on weightloss. It is actually how I was able to lose the weight I did and keep it off! I plan to use the SAME concepts again to get off the final pounds. If you would like a copy, I am offering it for ONLY $10, let me know (I will email you back in invoice). OR you can Click Here for the table of contents and more info about it.

If you would like to join the "Get Fit Challenge" we currently have going on here, it is free and as simple as reading a post each week and commenting on your status! Click Here to see all posts on this topic.


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Back to School Nutrition

August 6, 2010 By Faith_Mom Leave a Comment

Nutrition is one of the single most important factors when it comes to a child’s development. Proper nutrition is essential for children to succeed in school. A proper diet is especially important for growing children. At this level, the children’s minds are still developing and their bodies are growing fast. Without proper nutrition, a child will lack the vitamins and minerals necessary to facilitate a normal growth.

It is important to feed your children a variety of healthy meals and snacks.

One way to ensure that your child eats healthy at school is to make a bag lunch for your child each day. Include healthy snacks such as fruits and vegetables or a variety of nuts. Each of these snacks is high in vitamins and low in fat. They also provide your child with energy to keep their attention on school matters rather than drifting off to sleep.

Also pack a nutritious meal along with a juice box or milk box. Nutritious meals can include sandwiches along with soups. Be sure to pack your children’s meals in small portions as children tend to snack on several items at once. While there is no way to ensure that your child is not trading away their food, you are preventing them from buying school lunches which consist of mostly processed food.

Getting involved with the school can be beneficial. PTA meetings are held regularly for parents to voice their concerns with issues. This would be a good venue for bringing up the subject of healthier school lunches. More than likely, you are not the only parent who has concerns about the food being served in the cafeteria.

As children get older and graduate to junior high and high school, more unhealthy options are available in the lunch room such as ice cream machines and soda machines. Gather a bunch of nutrition-minded parents and create a plan to implement new options into the school cafeterias. While you may not see immediate results, if you keep up your campaigning and your research, eventually someone else’s kids will benefit from your hard work.

There are several ways to implement a healthy, nutritious diet in school-age children. Children need lots of minerals and vitamins in order to develop the tools necessary to facilitate healthy growth in both body and mind. Packing a bag lunch for your children is a great way to monitor what your child eats while at school. Another great solution is to get involved with the PTA and campaign for healthier school lunches. Results may not be immediate, but they will be beneficial.

Teaching our children to eat properly while they are still young and in our care will help them grow into adults with good eating habits. Let’s make the most of the time we have to train them up!





A CALL TO HOLINESS--> I would like to let you all know about a NEW Bible Study here at Moms of Faith. It will be available at the beginning of October 2010. WORK AT YOUR OWN PACE! In this seven week study we will cover topics like; What is holiness?, Who is called to it?, 4 Characteristics of Holy Living, Hindrances to Holiness and more! Click Here for more info and pricing.


Weightloss ebook <-- Note: I wrote an ebook filled with a TON of great info and advice on weightloss. It is actually how I was able to lose the weight I did and keep it off! I plan to use the SAME concepts again to get off the final pounds. If you would like a copy, I am offering it for ONLY $10, let me know (I will email you back in invoice). OR you can Click Here for the table of contents and more info about it.

If you would like to join the "Get Fit Challenge" we currently have going on here, it is free and as simple as reading a post each week and commenting on your status! Click Here to see all posts on this topic.


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Summer Suncare for Kids

July 29, 2010 By Faith_Mom Leave a Comment

Summer sun safety for children is something on parents’ minds as the temperatures rise and the days lengthen. You want your children to spend time playing outside but the possibility of getting sunburned is an ever-present thought. Here are some guidelines to help you know how to keep your children safe in the summer sun.

Dermatologists and other experts recommend putting sunscreen on your children at least 15 to 30 minutes before they go outside each and every time before they go outside. This may seem like overkill, but the fact is that if your child gets seriously sunburned even once, it could increase their chance of developing skin cancer in the future.

Once the sunscreen has been applied, it is important to reapply it every two hours your child is outdoors. If your child is spending a good amount of time in the water, you’ll want to apply sunscreen more frequently.

Some dermatologists go so far as to recommend staying indoors between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. Why are these hours singled out? It is during these hours that the sun is at its strongest and most dangerous. This is also true on cloudy or overcast days even though the sun may not seem as strong.

If you want your child to spend time outdoors during summer months, it might be better to plan outdoor time early in the morning or later in the afternoon. Then you’d still want to be sure you and your child are wearing sunscreen, sunglasses and hats to protect your skin and eyes.

Another thing to be concerned about in regard to summer sun safety for children is keeping them hydrated. Children may be having so much fun running and playing they don’t realize they’re sweating and losing important hydration.

Tips to keep your child from becoming overheated or dehydrated in the Summer and All Year Long:

* Plan for the time you’ll be outdoors. Bring along lightweight and loose-fitting clothing, plenty of water, sunglasses and sunscreen.

* Take along some ‘quiet time’ activities to fall back on during the hotter part of the day.

* Arrive early enough at your location to find a spot under a pavilion or shade tree. This will allow your children to enjoy the fresh air and being outdoors but it will provide some respite from the sun.

You want your children to enjoy their summer but you also want to keep them safe. Summer sun safety for children is simple. Use sunscreen every time they go outdoors, reapply it every two hours or more often, dress them in lightweight, loose-fitting clothing and keep them hydrated.  Your children will be able to have fun in the sun and you can relax because you know they’re protected.





A CALL TO HOLINESS--> I would like to let you all know about a NEW Bible Study here at Moms of Faith. It will be available at the beginning of October 2010. WORK AT YOUR OWN PACE! In this seven week study we will cover topics like; What is holiness?, Who is called to it?, 4 Characteristics of Holy Living, Hindrances to Holiness and more! Click Here for more info and pricing.


Weightloss ebook <-- Note: I wrote an ebook filled with a TON of great info and advice on weightloss. It is actually how I was able to lose the weight I did and keep it off! I plan to use the SAME concepts again to get off the final pounds. If you would like a copy, I am offering it for ONLY $10, let me know (I will email you back in invoice). OR you can Click Here for the table of contents and more info about it.

If you would like to join the "Get Fit Challenge" we currently have going on here, it is free and as simple as reading a post each week and commenting on your status! Click Here to see all posts on this topic.


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Affordable Family Fun Summer Activities

July 2, 2010 By Faith_Mom Leave a Comment

I am sure many of you have heard the words “I’m bored” at some point during the summer. We still have quite a bit of summer vacation left, so I thought it would be good to share some great family fun ideas to help keep your sanity–while promoting family time! ;)

7 Ideas for Summer Fun with the Family:

Splash Day: Get the hose out or the sprinklers and let the kids have a blast. You can also let them make soapy water balloons and let them throw them at the car and then WASH it for you! LOL!!

Garden Fun: There are MANY things you can do with this option. You can make fancy stepping stones that the kids can paint and decorate, a peanut butter and nuts bird feeder, herb gardens, plant a tree, the list goes on and on.

Chalk the Walk: Buy some sidewalk chalk and let the kids make a welcome home Dad walk way. Another idea is that you can have them create pretty flowers and designs and then have a family sidewalk art show.

Summer Party: Why not have a summer fun party and let the kids make all the decorations. Children can be involved in the entire process or setting up the party. You can go to the dollar store and get most of what you would need for your summer fun party. Let them choose a theme. You can also use some of the other summer craft ideas for entertainment for your party! You could do the Chalk a Walk and have a art show when the parents come to pick the kids up. You could have a splash time…and even throw that sudsy balloons in just for fun. There are SO many ways to make a summer party fun, kid made, and CHEAP! Just use your imagination!

Family Game Night - Having a family game night on a weekly basis will help you connect better with your kids and build life long family memories. This is also something you can continue after summer. I suggest making it easy on yourself and get some paper plates and order some take out. Buy some age appropriate games and go hog wild!

Cultured Family Fun – The summer is a GREAT time to get the family out and about and cultured too! There are many free and low priced expos, museum displays, art shows and theater productions that hit major cities across the country in the summer. Check your local activities guide and look for things you can do as a family that are affordable for your budget and age appropriate for your family.

Family Movie Night - With the way movies are today, this CAN be tricky. However, I have found that even though there are age differences there ARE movies that the WHOLE family can enjoy. I encourage you to research first so that there are no “surprises” during the movie. Moms of Faith has quite a few movie reviews. Click Here to see what we have. Also, another great resource I use for movie and entertainment reviews is PluggedinOnline.com.

Once you have made your decision as to what movies ARE acceptable to watch make a list and then allow the children to take turns picking a movie each week (or how ever often you do this). It help them feel more involved with the process. You can also add to your list as new movies hit the movie store.

If you would prefer to go OUT for family movie night, try a dollar movie. Many town have them and it is a wonderful…affordable alternative to the regular priced theaters!  The kids get the experience of a movie theater movie and the parents don’t break the bank.

I encourage you to be creative and do your very best to enjoy the time you have with your kids. Building fun family memories together will last a lifetime and keep your family strong and connected in future years. Moms, you will only have your kids for a short season of your life. ENJOY them while you still can. Laugh and have fun…get your inner kid out and have some summer fun! Oh, and do not limit these ideas to the summer. Most of them are great for year round family fun!

Do you have any summer fun ideas?

Please share them below, we would LOVE to hear them!

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





A CALL TO HOLINESS--> I would like to let you all know about a NEW Bible Study here at Moms of Faith. It will be available at the beginning of October 2010. WORK AT YOUR OWN PACE! In this seven week study we will cover topics like; What is holiness?, Who is called to it?, 4 Characteristics of Holy Living, Hindrances to Holiness and more! Click Here for more info and pricing.


Weightloss ebook <-- Note: I wrote an ebook filled with a TON of great info and advice on weightloss. It is actually how I was able to lose the weight I did and keep it off! I plan to use the SAME concepts again to get off the final pounds. If you would like a copy, I am offering it for ONLY $10, let me know (I will email you back in invoice). OR you can Click Here for the table of contents and more info about it.

If you would like to join the "Get Fit Challenge" we currently have going on here, it is free and as simple as reading a post each week and commenting on your status! Click Here to see all posts on this topic.


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Spring Cleaning the Family Budget

March 22, 2010 By Chere Williams Leave a Comment

Although the economy has shown a slight improvement, the recent economic downturn has given families quite a scare. People are more aware then ever of their finances, which is a good thing. This season when you are spring cleaning your home take a couple hours to spring clean your budget and finances. Finances can be a source of anxiety in any family, but as a single mother it is vital for me to keep my budget in tip top shape.

Here are a few spring cleaning rules I use for my budget

Take Inventory of Your Bills

Know thy bills! This is a ground rule to follow if you want to keep on top of your finances. Taking inventory of your bills helps you to develop an accurate budget. Create a financial spreadsheet with the following information:

  • Name of the Bill
  • Amount Due
  • Due Date
  • Balance
  • Date Paid
  • Amount Paid
  • Reference or Check # used for payment

A financial spreadsheet is a simple way to keep track of your bills and avoid late payments which affect your credit score and late fees which affect your wallet. The great thing about an excel spreadsheet is you can use different tabs in the same workbook, dividing up the bills on a monthly basis making it easy to read and organize.

This is the time to make goals. If you have a balance you want to pay off by the end of the year formalize a plan and put it in your budget. If there are balances that need to be transferred from one credit card to another with a lower interest rate, don’t procrastinate make the call.

Review Your Bank Statements

I look at my checking account on a daily basis and when I receive my banking statements I take a close look at where my dollars are going. Take time to review your accounts. Look for anything that is unfamiliar and if you see something that is report it immediately to your bank. Be proactive in preventing identity theft. This is a great way to look at your family’s spending trends and it gives you an idea on how much you actually spend on grocery shopping, gas, transportation, entertainment, etc. Your bank statement is a great resource for creating the family budget.

Order Your Credit Report

We all know the significance of those three little numbers called a FICO Score. Keeping your credit score healthy is especially important in this economy. You can retrieve your credit score and report by going to FICO’s website or by going directly to Transunion and Equixfax to get immediate access. Reviewing your FICO score quarterly will let you know what you need to work on and if they are any mistakes you can dispute them online.

Review Important Documents

Tax season isn’t the only reason to keep your official documents in order. But, it is a good reason to start! Keep a separate file folder for your taxes and organize them by year. Throughout the year make it a habit to file anything that pertains to that year. Other vital documents to review are your insurances, whether it is car, life, house, or health make sure they are up to date and you have them in a specific place. Do some research to make sure you are receiving the best rates available. If you don’t have a life insurance policies or other policies to protect yourself and your family make it a goal to do it this year.

Trim the Excess

Trimming away the excess is a great way to designate your dollars where they matter most. After reviewing your bank statement and you realize you are spending $ 25.00 a week on lattes or $7.00 a day on lunch this may be the excess that if trimmed can lead to a savings account, a Christmas club, or even a credit card being paid off. For example, that $25.00 a week adds up to $1300 a year and the $7.00 a day lunch is $1820.00 a year adding up to a grand total of $3120.00. It is always an eye opening experience when you look at all of the excess dollars we spend on very temporary pleasures.

Save, Save, and Save

The one crucial lesson we learned through this economic crisis was the importance of saving for a rainy day. Having an emergency fund is essential when you have a family. Find a way to set money aside every month, regardless of the amount. Look over your 401k or retirement savings and reassess your financial plan. Make adjustments if needed and make saving a priority for your present and your future.

Create the Budget

Creating a budget requires you to take a serious look at your finances and develop a budget that is realistic for your family. Put aside money for bills, tithing, groceries, transportation, savings, healthcare if needed, and entertainment. One great suggestion I had read about was taking cash and placing it in a separate envelop for entertainment for the month once it is empty you have to wait until the next month to replenish the envelop.

God wants His children to be prosperous but also wise with our finances. Take control of the money God has blessed you with and don’t let it control you. Be generous, responsible, and find ways to save money so that your family can survive and thrive in any economic times.

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





A CALL TO HOLINESS--> I would like to let you all know about a NEW Bible Study here at Moms of Faith. It will be available at the beginning of October 2010. WORK AT YOUR OWN PACE! In this seven week study we will cover topics like; What is holiness?, Who is called to it?, 4 Characteristics of Holy Living, Hindrances to Holiness and more! Click Here for more info and pricing.


Weightloss ebook <-- Note: I wrote an ebook filled with a TON of great info and advice on weightloss. It is actually how I was able to lose the weight I did and keep it off! I plan to use the SAME concepts again to get off the final pounds. If you would like a copy, I am offering it for ONLY $10, let me know (I will email you back in invoice). OR you can Click Here for the table of contents and more info about it.

If you would like to join the "Get Fit Challenge" we currently have going on here, it is free and as simple as reading a post each week and commenting on your status! Click Here to see all posts on this topic.


Filed Under: Blog, Columns, Finances, Seasonal Topics Tagged With: , , , , , ,

Welcome Spring Cleaning with These Easy Tips

March 1, 2010 By Chere Williams Leave a Comment

I am welcoming spring with open arms! After a long winter my body is craving sunshine and spring breezes. Spring is a season for renewal and rejuvenation both for your body and home. Spring cleaning is both therapeutic and rewarding. Cleaning out the clutter and sweeping out the old while ushering in the new is good for the whole family, it is unbelievably cleansing.

Spring cleaning can be simple, below are some tips to keep in mind as you begin.

Have a Goal
Think about what you want to accomplish. Maybe it isn’t cleaning the entire house from top to bottom. You may want to focus on the one area in your house that has been a thorn in your side for the past three years. Focusing on a goal for your home helps you target exactly what you want to attain and keeps you from getting overwhelmed.

Create a List
Never underestimate the power of a list. Lists are a great way to stay organized, while keeping your goals and to do list on task. If you plan on cleaning all the rooms in your house make a list for each room. Write down what you want to accomplish in each room, be specific, and keep track of your progress. If your kids are spring cleaning their room, give them a list this will eliminate misunderstanding and they’ll know exactly what you expect of them and you can track their progress.

Have the Supplies Ready
Before you sweep up those cobwebs make sure you have all the cleaning supplies, storage boxes, and any other resources you need. Nothing throws you off your cleaning groove more than running out of window cleaner or paper towels. Create a separate list of all the supplies you need and purchase them in advance. Save money by going to the dollar store for sponges or paper towels.

Create Reasonable Expectations
Life is busy! Moms are running in a million different directions so don’t place too much pressure on yourself. If you expect to thoroughly clean your house from top to bottom in two days and you have three children, a dog, and other obligations most likely it isn’t going to happen. Think about your daily responsibilities and fit it in where it fits. Set your expectations to meet your lifestyle. Don’t neglect to set expectations because then nothing will get done, but be realistic.

Think Outside the Box
Spring cleaning doesn’t have to be exclusive to cleaning. It can include rearranging the furniture, changing the color of a room, or adding new pieces to a once dreary nook in the house. Spring conjures up a sense of renewal so while a thorough cleaning is a great detox for your home so is switching it up and adding something new! Also with all the tragedies occurring around the world donating home goods or clothes is a wonderful way to help out those in need. Check with local and international charities to find out donation procedures.

Don’t Do it Alone
The beauty of a family is that you aren’t alone. Too often moms take on the role of superwoman which only makes them frustrated, overworked, and exhausted. Involve your family from the youngest to the oldest and make it a family project. Kids want to be included and should be. You are part of a unit so make sure you work together as a team. Assign each family member a chore and hold them to it!

Don’t Give Up
It is easy to become overwhelmed, but don’t give up. Keep going and stick to your original goal. If you procrastinate the task only becomes bigger the next year and the stuff keeps on accumulating making the next time you decide to return to it worse. Once you finish you’ll feel relieved, uncluttered, and you’ll love the results.

Open the windows, put a fresh vase of flowers on the table, plant some seedlings and enjoy the spring time! Make spring cleaning satisfying and manageable. Take time to smell the roses while clearing out the old to make room for a new season!

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





A CALL TO HOLINESS--> I would like to let you all know about a NEW Bible Study here at Moms of Faith. It will be available at the beginning of October 2010. WORK AT YOUR OWN PACE! In this seven week study we will cover topics like; What is holiness?, Who is called to it?, 4 Characteristics of Holy Living, Hindrances to Holiness and more! Click Here for more info and pricing.


Weightloss ebook <-- Note: I wrote an ebook filled with a TON of great info and advice on weightloss. It is actually how I was able to lose the weight I did and keep it off! I plan to use the SAME concepts again to get off the final pounds. If you would like a copy, I am offering it for ONLY $10, let me know (I will email you back in invoice). OR you can Click Here for the table of contents and more info about it.

If you would like to join the "Get Fit Challenge" we currently have going on here, it is free and as simple as reading a post each week and commenting on your status! Click Here to see all posts on this topic.


Filed Under: Blog, Cleaning 101, Columns, Seasonal Topics Tagged With: , , ,

Creating Family New Year Resolutions

January 4, 2010 By Chere Williams 4 Comments

Hopefully everyone had a wonderful and safe New Years! This year I rang in 2010 with my whole family, a true blessing since we live in different states. My parents and brother were able to come for Christmas and I went to their house to spend the week after Christmas. It was wonderful to visit family and friends and truly celebrate the season with those I love. It was with bitter sweet sadness that I returned home, but the memories will last far beyond the holiday.

While home, I was quickly reminded of the importance of family togetherness to the well being of our soul. This time of the year resolutions are made to diet, save money, or stop bad habits which are all well intentioned resolutions. I decided to make some resolutions that pertain to my family. Strong families have direction, goals, and aspirations that they share together. For 2010 why not gather the family together and make some resolutions that you wish to accomplish as a family unit? The resolutions don’t have to be on a grand scale, they should be simple and attainable.

Ideas for family resolutions for the New Year

Spend More Time Together

Quality family time is underrated. Children crave attention and time from their parents, and we crave the same from them. Unfortunately, life often gets in the way and family time gets neglected. Make a resolution to spend more time together. The first step is to be realistic, we are all busy and even our kids are busy so it is important to look at everyone’s schedule and choose at least one day a week for family night. If you find that you can’t fit at least one or two days of family time in, it is time to shift your priorities around. Time is the best gift you can give one another as a family.

Share a New Hobby Together

You are never too young or too old to learn. Sharing a new hobby together is a great way to spend time with one another while having fun and trying something new. Collaborate on a list of hobbies that everyone would like to try and then choose a month for each hobby. You might want to try something new each month or every other month. Get creative with your list! Some examples are studying a new language together, quilting, rollerblading, or gardening. If one hobby holds more interest to you than to your husband split up the hobbies. For example, you and your son may want to learn rollerblading and your husband and your daughter may take on gardening, then make the next month a hobby the whole family wants to participate in.

Spiritual Goals

The family that prays together stays together. One of our goals as Christian parents should be strengthening our family spiritually. Making spiritual goals not only strengthens your family bond, but also strengthens their walk as Christians. Make it a resolution to have family bible study once a week, keep a blessings journal, or volunteer more at church. Try creating a family prayer time, when the entire family prays and worships God together. In today’s world it is so important that we instill in our children biblical principles and values. This is a resolution that can’t afford to be broken if we want to stay faithful followers of Christ.

Home Improvements

Some of the most precious moments are those created in the comfort of your own home. Kids love to decorate and be part of creating the place called home. Schedule a family meeting and discuss improvements that everyone would like to implement in the house. It doesn’t have to be a $50,000 kitchen renovation, it can be as simple as redesigning the family room. Pick a room and give it a new design that suits the needs of each family member. Try moving the furniture around, painting the walls, adding art, anything that is simple, cheap, and requires the involvement of whole family will work.

Fitness Goals

Fitness goals are probably one of the most common New Year resolutions of all times. Unfortunately, within about four weeks they are usually forgotten. However, everyone desires a healthy family and one of the best ways to attain a fitness goal is to partner up with someone. This year make a pact with your family to eat healthy, exercise, and stay fit. Teach your children to worship their temple by giving it the fuel it needs. Make a resolution to walk at least twice a week after dinner, take a bike ride, join a dance class, pick healthy recipes, or sign up for a marathon! There are so many fun ways to stay healthy and do it as a family!

Be Green Together

Our environment has taken a beaten and it is up to us to take care of it. This year make an effort to conserve more, use recyclable bags, and make a conscious effort to keep our world healthy. Work together as a family to learn more about how to keep our earth clean and what you can to contribute. Organize a neighborhood cleanup, don’t drive as much, and find ways to be green. This is a great lesson for your children that can make a positive impact in the future.

The New Year is a time to look forward and get excited about the year ahead. It is great to have individual resolutions, but making resolutions as a family is a wonderful way to create stronger bonds and work as a team toward a common goal. Family time is quality time whether you’re painting a wall or sitting around the dinner table. The point is to cherish one another and to learn and grow together while involving God every step of the way. Make 2010 the year that your family keeps their resolutions!

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





A CALL TO HOLINESS--> I would like to let you all know about a NEW Bible Study here at Moms of Faith. It will be available at the beginning of October 2010. WORK AT YOUR OWN PACE! In this seven week study we will cover topics like; What is holiness?, Who is called to it?, 4 Characteristics of Holy Living, Hindrances to Holiness and more! Click Here for more info and pricing.


Weightloss ebook <-- Note: I wrote an ebook filled with a TON of great info and advice on weightloss. It is actually how I was able to lose the weight I did and keep it off! I plan to use the SAME concepts again to get off the final pounds. If you would like a copy, I am offering it for ONLY $10, let me know (I will email you back in invoice). OR you can Click Here for the table of contents and more info about it.

If you would like to join the "Get Fit Challenge" we currently have going on here, it is free and as simple as reading a post each week and commenting on your status! Click Here to see all posts on this topic.


Filed Under: Blog, Columns, Family Activities, Seasonal Topics Tagged With: , , , , ,

Faith and Business 101: Pursuing the Dream

January 1, 2010 By MariLee Parrish Leave a Comment

Happy New Year! I hope you have taken a much-needed and well-deserved break this past week! I hope you have recommitted your life, your plans and your business to your Heavenly Father. I assure you that without His blessing, you will just be spinning your wheels as you get back to work. It will truly be all for nothing, if He is not in it!

“You are worthy, our Lord and God, to receive glory and honor and power, for you created all things, and by your will they were created and have their being.” Revelation 4:11

Have you been dreaming? I hope so! Let’s start putting our dreams into action.

First, answer these questions:

  • What is your dream for your business?
  • Can you write it out clearly?
  • Where do you see your business in 20 years?
  • What do you want to accomplish?

Second, begin writing out details:

  • What needs to happen for your dream to start becoming reality?
  • What do you need to do today, next month, this year, next year?
  • What is your monthly and yearly budget?

In an article I read recently by John Maxwell (yes, him again!), he says this: “It sounds overly simple, but a primary reason why most people don’t get what they want is that they don’t know what they want. They haven’t defined their dream in clear and compelling detail.”

I have my own dream written out on paper, in vivid detail. I can close my eyes and SEE my dream! I have written out exactly what it’s going to take me to get there and I measure all of my activities and business pursuits against this dream. I consciously “take every thought captive” (2 Corinthians 10:5). Is this new opportunity going to further my God-given dream or pull my focus away from it? I say no to good things all the time, so that I can “say YES to the best!” I want everything I choose to do, to be in line with what God wants me to do in my business. I pray, I respond and I move towards the goal.

I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do:

Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus. Philippians 3: 13-14

Until Next Time…

MariLee

Copyright © MariLee Parrish, Moms of Faith, All Rights Reserved





A CALL TO HOLINESS--> I would like to let you all know about a NEW Bible Study here at Moms of Faith. It will be available at the beginning of October 2010. WORK AT YOUR OWN PACE! In this seven week study we will cover topics like; What is holiness?, Who is called to it?, 4 Characteristics of Holy Living, Hindrances to Holiness and more! Click Here for more info and pricing.


Weightloss ebook <-- Note: I wrote an ebook filled with a TON of great info and advice on weightloss. It is actually how I was able to lose the weight I did and keep it off! I plan to use the SAME concepts again to get off the final pounds. If you would like a copy, I am offering it for ONLY $10, let me know (I will email you back in invoice). OR you can Click Here for the table of contents and more info about it.

If you would like to join the "Get Fit Challenge" we currently have going on here, it is free and as simple as reading a post each week and commenting on your status! Click Here to see all posts on this topic.


Filed Under: Blog, Faith and Business 101, Seasonal Topics, WAHMS Tagged With: , , , ,

Ring in the New Year with Family and Friends

December 28, 2009 By Chere Williams 1 Comment

It is unbelievable that 2009 is over and a new year is approaching. Personally, 2009 was a good year for me, but I am looking forward to ringing in 2010 with my daughter. Since I have had my daughter, I can’t imagine spending New Years any other way than with her. This year I am going to my parent’s house and will celebrate with them and some family friends. Kids love the New Year it is the one time of year they can stay up until midnight and hang out with the adults. Our family friends have younger children and we are planning to let the kids have their own little New Year’s Eve celebration. Many parents will find themselves at home with their families so add some party hats and noise blowers and have some fun!

Ideas on how the whole family can join in on the New Year’s festivities

Have a Pajama Party
Invite some good friends and their families over for an old fashioned sleepover. Depending on how much space you have in your home you may want to invite one or two families. Have everyone bring their favorite movie or game, pop some popcorn, get in your pajamas and wait for the ball to drop. Let the kids build a tent in the living room or create their own little party space. Order some food or cook a meal together of traditional New Year’s Eve recipes like black-eyed peas, or hot dogs and sauerkraut. Get into the spirit by wearing party hats, hang streamers, and use noisemakers.

Have a Game Night
Tell each person in your family to pick their favorite game for game night. Playing games are a great way to get in some fun bonding time. Order a pizza and sit down for an evening of games. Some great games are charades, Pictionary, Uno, Monopoly, and Scrabble to get the crowd excited.

Scrapbooking
New Year’s Eve is a wonderful time to reflect on all of the memories of the past year. So much happens in a year both good and bad. It is amazing when we look back and realize all of the changes that occur and how much God has blessed us and brought us through hard times and provided good times. Gather family pictures, ticket stubs, and anything that holds sentimental meaning to create a family scrapbook for 2009. Ask everyone to recall their favorite memory of 2009 and even their not so favorite memory it reminds everyone of all they have to be thankful for. Talk about your hopes and plans as a family for the new year.

Attend Church
The best place to be on New Year’s Eve is church. Attend church on New Year’s Eve and having fellowship with your brothers and sisters in Christ is a beautiful way to welcome the New Year. Start your New Year by praising God through worship and prayer. Thank God for all of your blessings and pray for a fruitful new year. This is a worthy tradition to pass on to your children and to partake in as a whole family.

The New Year is a time for celebrating and thanking God for giving us another year to spend with our family and friends. It is a time to reflect and a time for renewal. I always thought of the new year as a time for new beginnings, a time to move forward and leave the past behind. Regardless of how you spend the evening, spend it with a heart of gratefulness for another year. Spend it with the people you love and remember to always give praise to our Savior for the gift of life. I wish you all a safe, happy, prosperous, and blessed New Year!

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





A CALL TO HOLINESS--> I would like to let you all know about a NEW Bible Study here at Moms of Faith. It will be available at the beginning of October 2010. WORK AT YOUR OWN PACE! In this seven week study we will cover topics like; What is holiness?, Who is called to it?, 4 Characteristics of Holy Living, Hindrances to Holiness and more! Click Here for more info and pricing.


Weightloss ebook <-- Note: I wrote an ebook filled with a TON of great info and advice on weightloss. It is actually how I was able to lose the weight I did and keep it off! I plan to use the SAME concepts again to get off the final pounds. If you would like a copy, I am offering it for ONLY $10, let me know (I will email you back in invoice). OR you can Click Here for the table of contents and more info about it.

If you would like to join the "Get Fit Challenge" we currently have going on here, it is free and as simple as reading a post each week and commenting on your status! Click Here to see all posts on this topic.


Filed Under: Blog, Columns, Holiday Helpers, Seasonal Topics Tagged With: , , , , , ,

Faith and Business 101: Christmas Vacation

December 25, 2009 By Faith_Mom Leave a Comment

Merry Christmas!

I urge you to give your full attention to your family this day and as much as you can the following week. The kids are off school, so take advantage of the time you have together! Play, read books, camp out under the Christmas tree, make up games, take pictures…have fun! Your Mom Business will be right there waiting for you when Christmas Break is over! Take some time off and re-fuel! Pray! Ask for God’s blessing on your family and your business!

Some scriptures to ponder during this time of vacation:

Find rest, O my soul, in God alone; my hope comes from him .He alone is my rock and my salvation; he is my fortress, I will not be shaken. Psalm 62:5-6

Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.” Matthew 11:28-30

In him our hearts rejoice, for we trust in his holy name. May your unfailing love rest upon us, O LORD, even as we put our hope in you. Psalm 33:21-22

Let the morning bring me word of your unfailing love, for I have put my trust in you. Show me the way I should go, for to you I lift up my soul. Psalm 143:8

But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is Christ the Lord. Luke 2: 10-11

Are you fearing the future… or are you a living example of one who’s life is filled with GREAT JOY? Is your faith evident in your everyday life? In your business? Reflect on this! Re-commit your life and your business to the Lord.

Until Next Time…

MariLee

Copyright © MariLee Parrish, Moms of Faith, All Rights Reserved





A CALL TO HOLINESS--> I would like to let you all know about a NEW Bible Study here at Moms of Faith. It will be available at the beginning of October 2010. WORK AT YOUR OWN PACE! In this seven week study we will cover topics like; What is holiness?, Who is called to it?, 4 Characteristics of Holy Living, Hindrances to Holiness and more! Click Here for more info and pricing.


Weightloss ebook <-- Note: I wrote an ebook filled with a TON of great info and advice on weightloss. It is actually how I was able to lose the weight I did and keep it off! I plan to use the SAME concepts again to get off the final pounds. If you would like a copy, I am offering it for ONLY $10, let me know (I will email you back in invoice). OR you can Click Here for the table of contents and more info about it.

If you would like to join the "Get Fit Challenge" we currently have going on here, it is free and as simple as reading a post each week and commenting on your status! Click Here to see all posts on this topic.


Filed Under: Blog, Faith and Business 101, Seasonal Topics, WAHMS Tagged With: , , , ,
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