The winner of a free seat in Laura Vanderbeek’s cool online class is … Rhonda in Palm Harbor, Florida! Congratulations Rhonda! Email laurav@reneepearson.com and she’ll hook you up.
A note from Laura: “I wish I could give a seat to everyone. I hope you’ll take advantage of the $10 discount. With that discount this class is only $25. In addition to the videos and written guides, you will also receive two digital scrapbook kits and a 40% off coupon for e-scapeandscrap.net. And congratulations to all of you who have become the guardians of your most treasured family heirlooms – photos from the past.”
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As we head into the weekend, I thought I’d share my top 5 mom tips of the week.
Tip #1: Sandwich shapes rule. Whether the little munchkin protests crust or you’re just wanting to make lunchtime more interesting, use those cookie cutters for your sandwiches (or toast … or anything that can be cut). We’ve been doing this all their little lives and it’s amazing how this simple thing can change the whole eating experience for them.
Tip #2: Capture their current “thing”. Document your kiddo’s here & now of their life. What they’re up to, what they’re into, what their little habits are. Next time they’re doing something that is so them right now — even if you’re not a big fan of their shenanigans — just pick up your camera and get the shot. You’ll be so glad you did. And they will appreciate it when they’re older.
Tip #3: Be prepared. I took Porter to the dentist one day this week and thought Crew would be just fine hanging out with me. Maybe I’d read to him or do patty-cake or … Seriously!? What on earth was I thinking? Over an hour later, he was in full-blown melt-down mode and well … I was for sure deemed Mom of the Year by that point.
The next day I took Claire to her dentist appointment where we had more waiting and waiting. This time I was equipped with Crew’s favorite puzzle (current obsession) and the beloved iPad. Oh happy day. Much better experience. Don’t make my mistake. Go into situations much, much more prepared. PS – If you have a favorite kid-friendly app, mention it in the comments.
Tip #4: Give the gift of a snapshot. Ever had your picture taken while you’re doing carpool or grocery-shopping? No? Because who would take it, right? So next time you’re out & about or picking up your kids at school, keep your camera close by. When you see your mom friends doing their mom thing, snap the picture and email it to her. It’s simple. And thoughtful.
Tip #5: Recharge. You’re a mom. You give, give, and give some more. Please take care to rejuvenate and recharge once in a while. Hopefully you have even but a few minutes in each day that you can do something therapeutic. Go for a walk, take a bath, read, whatever. (Me? Reading in the morning and uploading, organizing & editing pictures each night … that’s my daily therapy.)
And how about other stuff that isn’t daily, but equally important. Go on dates with your husband. Organize a girls night out and enjoy the company of some of your besties. Do a little crafting. Do something for you. Moms need to recharge. We just do. You’ll be better for it.
And since I know a lot of you consider your online browsing as your “down time” … here are a couple fun links to check out the next time you’re looking for inspiration.
Fellow mom Jen Johnson has a blog here that is just fun eye candy. Her everyday life photography will inspire you on how and what to photograph in your own homes. Be sure to check out her Project 365 and Picture-a-Day links on the left.
Eighteen25 is maintained by 3 sisters who are also moms. For the entire month of September they’ve been featuring a guest blogger almost every day. Home decor, crafts, fun DIY projects … to inspire you this Fall season. In fact, Jen Johnson’s project was featured in this post. And I have a little something up my sleeve that will be featured on the 20th.
Happy Weekend!
