Treat Others With Kindess

 "Do to others as you would like them to do to you" -- Luke 6:31

That was one of my son's memory verses from Vacation Bible School this summer.  He repeats this verse often, especially to his little sister when she's not so nice to him.  Recently after she had smacked him he said, "Treat others as you would want to be treated so that means if you hit me I have to hit you."

Okay, so he may not completely understand what that verse means entirely but we're working on it ... and no he didn't hit his sister back, I made sure of it.

 

I certainly want my children to understand that in order to receive kindness from others, as well as love, honesty and respect, then they have to give it first.  Even if others aren't so kind to them I would love for them to understand the importance of being kind anyway.  This is something that has been laying on my heart a lot recently.  As I thought about what I want to see in my children something hit me hard.  What I'm asking my children to be is something I have failed at many times for myself.  Have I always been kind to others?  No.  Have I always shown others respect?  No.  Have I always been honest?  Certainly not.   So how can I expect my children to be what I haven't been?  What kind of example have I been setting for them?  

I do not believe in the do as I say and not as I do approach to parenting.  I believe that children will become a reflection of how they were raised.  Give a kid junk food all the time and lots of television watching and that's the life they grow accustomed to.  Give them healthy food and make sure they are active and that's how they will grow up to be.  Talk badly about others and show disrespect and that's how they will treat others.  Show them kindness and love throughout everything and they will learn to be the same.  Hillary Clinton once said, "It takes a village to raise a child."  I certainly disagree.  It takes parenting ... proper parenting.  Yes, the people who our children grow up with or spend time with will have a huge influence on their lives but it starts at home and how we handle every situation our children are faced with is what matters the most.  

Last week after getting my son and his neighbor friend off of the school bus I sat on the front step with them and we started talking about different things.  We watched as the new girl in our neighborhood also got off the bus and walked to her house.  I haven't met the parents of this new girl yet but I had already spoken to her.  She's a second grader and the family moved here from another state.  The girl is shy and doesn't say very much, at least not to us.  Our friend had said, "I think she has a problem with herself."  I asked what he meant and he said, "You know, I think she has a problem with herself."  My son was watching and listening so I made sure I used this moment as a great opportunity to teach kindness to the both of them.  I responded by saying, "Well, she just moved here from another state and she's probably scared and lonely and I noticed she's shy.  So the best thing we can do is to be nice to her and let her know she is welcomed into our neighborhood.  Let's be a friend to her."  

Again, he said, "I think she has a problem with herself."  

I couldn't seem to change his point of view but I made sure I handled the situation as best as I could and I wanted my son, especially, to learn that being a friend to someone is the best thing we can do.  Throughout or conversation my son seemed to be listening, understanding and nodding his head.  At least I'm getting through to him.  

As I mentioned I certainly haven't been living up to being the kindest person in the world.  In fact, I am known to be pretty outspoken but in a not-so-friendly kind of way.  I've never been one to keep opinions to myself and unfortunately I am not one to speak so nicely at times.  I'm working on it.  I see who I am and know what I need to be.  I know the changes I need to make for myself and not just for myself but for my children.  They are watching and learning.  Showing kindness and love to others is also the best way we can be as Christians and it's exactly how God wants us to be.

Just yesterday I was watching Joyce Meyer and she talked about the topic of being kind towards others.  It was hard for me to listen since my three year old was playing and being loud but the bits and pieces I caught really spoke to my heart and made so much sense.  She said we always need to show kindness towards others and even when we are correcting them we need to do it nicely.  Recently my niece was talking about something that irritated me but instead of biting my tongue or correcting her gently I was abrupt and rude.  My comments left her and my sister feeling hurt.  I wasn't kind at all and even if I believed my viewpoints were true I should have worded myself better and shown more compassion and kindness.  I've since apologized and am working on making sure I handle each and every situation more kindly and appropriately.  I thank God for always giving me these lessons that help me grow wiser.  I just wish I hadn't hurt anyone in the process.  

"A gentle answer deflects anger, but harsh words make tempers flare." --Proverbs 15:1

Nature Through The Lens

I decided to add something a little different to my blog.  Posts dedicated to my photography.  Now I will say I'm no photography expert and I do not do it professionally.  Taking pictures is something I enjoy doing for fun and for the idea of capturing memories.  My kids are rarely cooperative or agree to sit still for me to get lots of shots of them so I decided to take my camera out and photograph a little nature around my house.  If anything, it's just good practice.  Last Christmas my husband bought me a new camera.  It's a Nikon 1 J3.  If you're looking for a new camera I highly recommend this one.  It's not as big as a DSLR but the pictures come out as amazing.  My husband also bought me a new zoom lens. 

I never edit or photoshop any pictures I take.  I like keeping photos the way they are.  The only thing I do is add the watermark for the photos I add to my blog.  

I found this cicada hanging out on our deck yesterday.  I thought it was a great opportunity to take my camera out.  I didn't stand very close to him so that's when the zoom lens came in handy.  I love the photos where the subject is in focus and the background is blurry. 

Another one of our little friend.  Aren't these bugs so cool?  We can hear them outside all the time but it's rare we get to see one up close. 

I decided to try practicing with the focus so I took a picture of some random plants and flowers found in my back and front yard.  We've had some unusual cooler temps this summer, especially at night, so it killed our flowers but they seem to be coming alive again. 

1st Grade

First off, let me just add that I found this awesome sign here while doing a Google search.  It's free and doesn't need to be downloaded.  Genius.  I wish I would have seen this last year when my son was starting kindergarten.  Of course, taking pictures on the first day of every year is what most of us proud mothers do, right?  This adds a little something to it.

After what seemed like an extremely fast summer vacation my oldest child is back at school for another year of growing, learning and exploring.  He had learned so much last year in kindergarten and I can't wait to see what first grade teaches him.  I have contemplated home schooling my children since the moment I found out I was pregnant but so far we've decided to stick with sending them to public school. My son seems to be doing well and that very shy personality he's had since toddlerhood seems to be improving.  He also seems to learn better from someone else and likes being around kids his age.  So, at least for now, we'll continue to send him on the bus and off to a school that seems to have a great reputation and has already done wonders for my child.  He's already reading.  When I was in kindergarten I remember painting pictures and taking naps ... now they read?  Amazing!

He was so full of energy after his first day of school and had so many things to say.  It seems he likes his teacher and the students he will be sharing the classroom with.  I believe he wore himself out with all the energy he possessed because this morning it was tough getting him out of bed and moving.  But he had his breakfast, got dressed and made it to the bus stop without a fuss.

As for me and my little one, we are enjoying our "girl time" as we call it.  I will be doing more educational stuff for her here at home and next year, hopefully, we will send her to preschool.  These years are going by so fast and I'm doing everything I can do to enjoy the time I have with them.  It won't be long before that "I'm a 1st Grader" sign will be replaced with "I'm a 12th Grader."  Ugh. 

Our "Princess" Turns 3

I remember finding out we were expecting our second child as if it happened yesterday.  Then I blinked.  Now she's 3.  No longer a baby.  No longer a toddler.  But a little girl.  A "princess" as she seems to think she is.

At age 3 our little girl has grown and learned so much.  She can say her A, B, C's and recognizes the letter B and says, "Be for me" since that is the first letter in her name.  She also recognizes M as the first letter in her brother's name and G is for Grandpa and Grandma.  She also speaks very well and that has always been her strong point, even at age one.  She knows the colors and her favorite is pink.  Her favorite show is The Fresh Beat Band and has also taken a recent interest in watching Sam and Cat, Victorious and iCarly.  She seems to be outgrowing her obsession for Yo Gabba Gabba, thankfully.  She's loves Disney Princesses, wearing dresses and everything girly ... but she also doesn't mind getting dirty and playing superheros (it comes from having a big brother).  She loves to dance and is always spinning and twirling and kicking her feet up in the air.  She keeps saying, "I wanna do ballet," but we decided against it this year and will hope to sign her up next year due to financial reasons and also since she still refuses to potty train.  Yes, getting her to use the potty has been the biggest challenge with her.  The underwear method and reward system just doesn't cut it.  She doesn't care.  I feel a three year old in diapers is unnecessary but I also know it will happen when she's ready (just hope it's long before she starts preschool next year). 

She can be very stubborn and knows what she wants and insists on having what she wants (which brings on a big challenge when it comes to disciplining).  However, most of the time, she is a real joy and always seems to care if we're happy.  Constantly throughout the day, especially when I seem down or frustrated she will ask, "Mom are you happy?"  If she knows someone is hurt she will repeatedly ask if they are feeling better, like after my husband's hip surgery or after my dad's shoulder surgery.  She already seems to care for others.  It's great.  She also loves to laugh and if she does something that makes us laugh she'll keep doing it over and over again so we can keep laughing. 

On the day of her birthday she requested we go to her favorite place, an amusement park nearby where we go to quite often.  We rode some rides and allowed both kids to ride ponies.  This was her first pony ride and she LOVED it.  I was anticipating some tears and fear but she smiled and laughed the entire time.  Then we went home so she could open her presents from us.

The following day we had a small party in the backyard with family.  We also included both grandfathers since their birthdays are close to the date as well.  My sister and her family came all the way from NY to attend and we appreciated that so much.

She definitely lived up to the title "Terrible Twos" and showed us that term DOES exist.  However, it's been great so far.  We love our little girl so much and can't wait to see what age 3 brings us. 

Big Girl Bed!

I'm not quite sure what my daughter is doing in this picture but she put her hands on her face and said, "Mommy take a picture of me!"  Silly girl.

As you can see she's sitting on a bed in her room.  I have been thinking of making the switch from crib to bed for quite some time but we haven't been ones to rush on getting either of our children into a bed for a few reasons:

1. Our kids are both small for their age and still fit comfortably in the crib passed the age of 2.  
2. Neither of them had ever tried climbing out.
3. They were happy in the crib.  There were never any issues with getting them to sleep.
4. I don't believe in rushing to get my kids started on anything they are not ready for just because they turn a certain age.

However, yes, I knew with her third birthday quickly approaching it was time.  I was apprehensive and scared to say the least but so far she's been doing well. 

The transition really wasn't so bad.  In the days leading up to this big moment I had kept telling her we were getting rid of the crib and giving her a "big girl" bed so she would be prepared.  At first she said no.  Then I allowed her to pick out her own sheets and blanket and of course she picked out Disney Princesses.  Her favorite!  You should have seen the excitement when they arrived.  Then we decided it would be best to make the switch on the weekend when my husband wouldn't have to get up early for work (in case the first night was disastrous).  We picked the date and my husband took the crib apart and set up the bed.  We decided to go with a toddler bed.  It's small and she can get in and out very easily.  In a year or two we'll make the switch to a normal size twin bed but for now this helps her to get used to having a bed.

She loves it ... and oh my ... seeing her in a bed instead of a crib has instantly made her look so much older.  Shortly after laying her down on the first night she got up and walked into the living room.  Then I put her back to bed.  This happened 4 times but once I gave her the little pink blanket she had slept with in her crib she was out like a light and stayed that way until the morning.  Whew!  Most nights have been going well, except the one night we had rain.  She HATES sleeping when it's raining.  I don't know why.  She woke up about 3am and didn't go back to sleep until 5am.  So the next night, again fighting that sleep, we had to put a gate by her door.  She shouted, screamed and cried but eventually she crawled into bed and fell asleep.  So far we've only had to use that gate once ... I guess she learned her mommy and daddy mean business.  I also feared her naps would stop once she made the transfer but so far that's remained the same as well, in fact she's napping right now.

 It's another one of those bittersweet moments as a parent!

A New Kitchen (In Progress)

Our house has been in need of some cosmetic work and we are finally working on the kitchen.  I am so happy and I can't wait until it's all done.  We have already replaced all the new appliances with nice black ones and at some point in the next few months or so we'll be painting the walls, painting the cabinets, getting a new countertop and new flooring.  Oh it's exciting!  We have waited many years for this.  I'm glad it's finally happening and I love my husband so much for wanting to make my dream come true. 

The kitchen was closed in with only one small entryway that led into the dining room.  It was okay but I wanted it to be opened up more; making it look spacious and being able to see into the living room while I was in the kitchen.  When I was in the kitchen cooking I couldn't see what the kids were doing.  So we came up with some ideas of what would work best and my husband drew an idea on a piece of paper.  His father offered to help and we are so appreciative of that.  The men worked hard for two consecutive days and then my husband put some finishing touches to it on the third day.  I'm so happy with how it turned out. 

Here is a before and after picture:

Doesn't it look so much better?  They expanded the doorway and then added a window on the other side.  Eventually we will add a slab of countertop to the window.  The second picture was taken right after they finished so please excuse the mess inside the kitchen.  It is now clean and everything has been put back into place.  What a difference!

I already have a color picked out for the walls.



Actually, the sample I took from the store was a little darker than what is shown here.  It will add a little pop to the tan color we have in our dining room/living room area.  It's called Cedar Chest C28-6 at Lowe's. 

My husband and I are still deciding on which flooring and countertop to get but we seem to have the same idea on what we are looking for.  The cabinets will be painting a creamy/off white color. 

Oh my, I'm getting excited just writing about it! 

Happy Homemaker Monday - 8/4/14

Linking up with Diary Of A Stay At Home Mom for another week of Happy Homemaker Monday.  I wish I had the time to do this every week but I do it every chance I can.  Here we go ...

Breakfast time ... what is was on the plate this morning:
Pancakes for me, my son and hubby.  Scrambled eggs for my daughter. 

On today's to-do list:
- Laundry
- Dishes
- Sweet/mop floor
- Vaccuum
-Figure out ideas for daughter's birthday party next weekend
- Entertain kids!!

Currently reading:
I just finished The Resolution For Women and now it's time to find a new book. 

On the TV today:
Kids shows mostly.  I'm trying to cut back on TV viewing and spend more time doing activities and enjoying the outdoors with the kids. 

The weather outside is:
Yesterday it was cloudy and rainy but today it seems to be clearing up with only a few clouds, a chance of rain possibly and the air is warm with a breeze.  It's actually really nice out.  We've had quite a mild summer this year.  I took the kids for a walk around the neighborhood today and my son said, "I would be happy if the weather stayed like this all year."  I have to agree. 

On the menu this week:
Monday - ham, mashed potatoes and veggies
Tuesday - tacos and rice
Wednesday - slow cooker chicken stroganoff

That's all I have figured out for now.  On Thursday my husband and father-in-law will be knocking down part of the kitchen walls to open it up a bit and I'm not sure how long that will take and if my kitchen will be easily accessible until it's done.  So I'm going to have to figure something out. 

If I have a few minutes to myself, I will:
Ha ha ... it's summer and my son is out of school.  A few minutes to myself hardly exists this time of year but if I do catch a break I'm sure I'll find a new book to read or browse Pinterest. 

New recipe I tried, or want to try this week:
Chicken stroganoff in the slow cooker.  I'll be doing that on Wednesday. 

In the garden:
Having a garden is just a dream right now.  Maybe next year. 

Favorite photo from the camera:

My almost 3 year old -- always dancing ... even when there's no music. 

Homemaking tip:
I can't stand a messy house so teaching the kids to play with one thing and then put it away before getting something else has really worked well at keeping the house clean.  It seems like such a simple task, and one rule most households go by, but for us it's easier said than done.  Yet when the kids do follow this rule it makes housework so much easier. 

Praying for:
- My dad's continued healing after shoulder surgery
- My mother's continued progress after her stroke a few years ago
-Safety for my husband and father-in-law while they demo the kitchen. 
-Mental strength and wisdom for myself.  I can use it these days!

Bible verse/Devotional: