-
Chore Charts : Bring on the Helping!
We started using a pocket chart for scheduling our school “days” this year, and the kids responded really positively to it. My husband suggested that I use it to put up tasks that are expected from the kids, so that they could turn them around when the tasks are completed – like we do with our school tasks. When I began using rows of my scheduler for chores, I had to significantly simplify the school list and the kids were a little annoyed. I decided to give making our own mini charts a shot. Mind you, they aren’t flawless, but they were quick and easy and in the big scheme…
-
Dreaming of Baby Gear
With a little one growing in my womb, I’m spending some time thinking about what baby gear I loved with my first two babies. My son is now almost 6 and my daughter is 4, so it’s been a while, but there are still some things I won’t be changing. The list below is in order, as best as I can recall, from birth on. There were certain things I was grateful to have in my hospital bag, and other things that we used for years. I hope this helps someone! Luna Bars : Yes, the hospital will provide meals, but in between, I was FAMISHED. Having some snacks of my own…
-
Expectations
We all have expectations. Planning is part of survival. We plan out so much of life. There is the matter of where food and shelter and our basic needs will be met, and there are other things like social events and education and our responsibilities. Some days, I wrestle with my expectations of what I “should” be accomplishing, as plans are ever changing. It is nice to know what to expect. It gives us a sense of security, however false it may be, and helps us let our guard down. My family is in another season of “Expecting.” We recently found out that I am pregnant and the emotional roller…
-
Library Bags : Encouraging a Love of Literature!
I took the kids to a Pajama Storytime, earlier this week. They enjoyed it very much and wanted to bring some books home. How does a Momma say no to that? I got a library card for my son, who is almost 5, and let the kids choose some books. The lesson I learned was that having preschoolers carry a stack of books can be, well, challenging. On Wednesday, I asked the little monkeys if they would enjoy having a bag to carry their library books in. The answer was an enthusiastic “Yes!” I promptly searched pinterest for “library bags” and found the Kids Totes by Running with Scissors. I had the…
-
Hand-me-downs & Hand-me-ups
August 4, 2026 Note: I’m still a huge fan of handing things down & up. In the beginning of our parenting journey, we were on a very tight budget. The generosity of others was very impactful. I will forever be grateful for the many people who showered us with gifts and grace as we established our home and our family. Now, 13 years later, I greatly enjoy being able to hand things down to families that can continue to appreciate them. Even more enjoyable is seeing my children’s giving hearts. The original post was as follows: My husband and I have often discussed the fact that it seems “normal” for…
