Friday, November 19, 2021

Holiday (or anytime) Treats!

Here are a few recipes I wanted to share that you can enjoy all year long but that are especially fun to make and share during the holidays! Chocolate Fudge 3 cups sugar 1 1/2 sticks butter 2 tablespoons vanilla 1 1/2 bags (12 oz.) chocolate chips 7 oz. marshmallow fluff nuts or other toppings, if desired Line a 9x13 pan (or 8x8 if thicker fudge is desired..) with wax paper. Melt the sugar, butter, milk, and vanilla until boiling. Allow to boil 4 min then take off heat. Stir in marshmallow fluff and chocolate chips. Mix well then pour into pan. Top with desired toppings then allow to cool at least 4 hours. Enjoy!
Peanut butter brownies 1 box fudge brownie mix 2 eggs 3 tablespoons coffee 1/2 cup oil 4 peanut butter cups, chopped 1/4 cup peanut butter Heat oven to 350. Mix all ingredients, except peanut butter and pour into greased loaf pan. Swirl peanut butter into top of batter. Bake 45 minutes or until set. Frost or dust with powdered sugar.

Wednesday, September 1, 2021

All Things Discipline

How do you know when discipline is too much or too harsh?? Well, God's word is an excellent source of wisdom and encouragement when it comes to this topic. The bible has many verses that speak of discipline, spanking and the relationship between children and parents. I believe that if you follow God's word, interpreted correctly, you will never fail. We are all doing our best on this road to parenthood and through prayer, support from your spouse and devotion to raising your children in the fear and admonition of the Lord, you will find the road less traveled may be the road to success! Here are a few verses that I rely on to strengthen my resolve when the going gets tough, I feel lazy or I simply don't feel like adulting lol! "Foolishness is bound up in the heart of a child; the rod of correction will drive it far from him." Proverbs 21:15 "Do not withhold correction from a child, for if you beat him with a rod he will not die. You shall beat him with a rod and deliver his soul from hell" Proverbs 23:13-14 "Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right. Honor your father and mother which is the first commandment with promise: "that it may be well with you and you may live long on the earth." And you, fathers, do not provoke your children to wrath, but bring them up in the training and admonition of the Lord." Ephesians 6:1-4 I hope you are having a great day with your children today and find joy in the responsibilities of parenthood. Some days are easier than others, but they are all a gift from God!

Saturday, August 7, 2021

Breast Is BEST!

As the challenges of weaning my two year old lie ahead, I am compelled to encourage you not to give up if you are frustrated with nursing or weaning...or both. Hang in there and remember that breast really is best. No formula or other source of milk can compare to mommy. Breast milk changes as baby grows and changes depending on circumstances, too. Did you know that if your baby is sick, your breastmilk will change to accomodate your baby? It's amazing and while it can be a hassle, breastfeeding is free, readily available, is always at the perfect temperature and provides a host of health benefits including weight management, allergy prevention and creates bonding. Let me know if you have any questions. I've nursed two babies and am working on weaning my third so I'd say I've been there! I get all the frustrations that come with feeding your baby!

Saturday, April 10, 2021

Stock up on Savings

Hi Guys! Just wanted to check in and give you some tips on how to save on groceries! You don't need to be the crazy coupon lady to save! - First of all, be flexible! If you had your heart set on chicken parmesan but ground beef is on sale, then make meatballs instead. If you are too stuck to your list, then you won't be open minded and alert to savings. - Second, stock up on sales! Meat, dairy and a lot of vegetables freeze well so when you can, stock up and freeze. For non-perishables like cereal, baking goods and snacks, designate a shelf or closet for "overflow". Yes, you will spend more up front, but you'll be stocked! - Third, purchase toiletries and sundries from dollar stores. Napkins, foil, kitchen tools and more are almost always cheaper at dollar stores. Make sure you ALWAYS check the price per ounce, though, to make sure you get the best deal! - Lastly, take advantage of store coupons and online deals! Sign up for the email alerts and rack up points when applicable. I hope this helps and I hope you find ways to make your dollar stretch!

Wednesday, March 24, 2021

Summer Survival Guide

Do you dread summers at home with kids under foot all day? Well, I'm here to make the (looooong) days more managable with a few (realistic!) tips to get you through! 1) Set a schedule and stick to it. Kids (most people, actally..) do better when they know what to expect and get used to a routine. It's best to teach kids now so they can learn to be on time for things, awaken on their own and plan activities for themselves. 2) Give them chores! Speaking of being responsible, kids really need to pitch in around the house, outside, in the community...etc. It's so important to not only teach them to be responsible, but to teach them life skills. 3) Get out once in a while! Take kiddos on a drive, have a picnic, go visit a friend, bake and deliver cookies to a neighbor, take a long walk...just get out and get moving! 4) Find some time for YOU! Have the kids rest in the afternoons or go to bed early or sleep in (even if they just rest or read...) so that you can have quiet alone time to read, bathe, sit on the couch and watch tv...whatever! Just plan it and do it. You need to come first. 5) Stop giving kids so many options. YOU are in charge so YOU decide what's for lunch, what movie will be watched, what is for dessert..etc. A big part of the mommy mental drain is too many cooks helping with the soup! Ya dig? So make decisions and stick to them. If little Johnny wants pizza not PB&J, too bad. What mommy says, goes. I hope these tips help and really, the only way they will is if you ditch the dreaded mommy guilt and move on. Your kids will be fine. In fact, they will be better for it and so will you!