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Thursday, December 27, 2007

The Potty and big boy/girl pants

Well, here goes.
I've been putting this writing off.

First, I want you all to know my credentials on this subject.

Out of 12 of my children, 6 boys and 6 girls, they were ALL BUT ONE totally trained, day and night, BY their 2nd birthday. The one that wasn't was totally trained by 26 months.

I also want to add that I have NO children that are afraid of the bathroom, that are constantly constipated etc...from bad experiences.

I have talked to numerous moms about this topic over the past 30 years.... it's just not easy or fun!

I believe around 20 months or so, considering that the child is physically and psychologically "normal", the child is ready to potty train. (I have had moms tell me that their child was trained at 1 but I would argue that the mom was trained)

Again with just about all of our topics of parenting...YOU, the parent, are the one that needs to get serious before there will be any results.

Begin by looking for a pattern. Start setting the little one on the potty every hour or so. You are trying to "catch" a successful "out" come.:) Watch the amount of drinking as well.

When that happens throw a party! Jump up and down, sing, dance.. in other words let Julie know that THIS is a GOOD thing. (I always had a treat ready for the successful potty time. Maybe 2 M+M's..something SMALL and ONLY given when there is success.)

Big girl/boy pants can fit in here somewhere and remember there needs to be alot of talking...

A little story: at a moms group I hear a friend complaining about the fact that her boy will not be able to go to kindergarten if he is still in diapers. She is beside herself because she has "tried everything" forever.
After a while she looks at me and says "ok, Marnie, so what would you do?" I asked if she really wanted to know I would tell her. I went on to ask pertinent questions etc and finally said "when you go home... take the diaper off ( the boy was 4 and weighed 50 lbs!) and tell him that this is the end of the diaper routein. Explain at GREAT lengths that he needs to go on the potty and if he doesn't he will be punished." This is obviously the tip of our conversation.
( Now I KNOW that this is where I will lose some of you) also add that you will not accept accidents either.

A couple of weeks went by and I didn't see her or her son. I began to get worried that I may have caused a problem with my counsel. The next week she was at the group, seemed fine, and at the end of the morning, not being able to contain my curiosity any longer, I said " So how's the training going?"
To which she said." Oh! That! After all this time and energy and frustration he was totally trained within the first 24 hours. He did have the beginning of one accident, which she dealt with as she promised, and that was the end of it!

Its when we make up our minds to stick with it and mean business that we can expect success! Hey I know I make it sound really easy.... but it;s just like anything else we do. You need to begin and follow it through and THEN you can decide whether he can get his drivers license or not :))

Blessings!
Marnie

#22 Many hands make light work

I am now giving you permission to ask your children to do chores and help you around the house.
This not only can ease your load but teaches your children valuable lessons and practices that they must know to be well adjusted and able to take care of themselves.

Chores never killed anyone. Now it may sound like it when you first suggest this cruelty...but I assure you, if you hold to your guns, things will calm down.

Your children should:

Clean up after themselves in the kitchen
Clear the table after dinner and help to clean up the kitchen.
Deep clean the bathroom
Pick up any given room
Know how to use the vacuum and dust
Pick up their rooms
Hang clothes up
Take the trash out
Feed the pets and take care of them
Read to younger children
Play with younger children
Clean out the car
Pick up the yard
Wash the woodwork
Clean the appliances

Bring wood in.... feel free to add to the list !!

Now granted these need to be given to children of appropriate ages. At 13 give your child his/her own laundry basket with a free lesson on using the washer/dryer.

Start teaching when your children are young. Children can pick up toys...Throw things away...pick up the clothes and put them in the laundry.

Begin by doing it with them..sing a song..make it fun. " ok lets pick up all the blue things...the red things..."

Next leave them to do a little job on their own.
In the end you should be able to ask your child to do just about anything and know that it will be right.

Remember these things need to be taught...some things are caught but not much and if you want it done stellar you must teach/show how you want it done. If its not done right call the child back and give more instruction. Dont take it personally when they don't do a good job. They'll get it with PRACTICE. Hopefully it will dawn on them sooner rather than later that it is better to do it right the first time.

I remember if the job continued to not be done correctly I would add another chore. They catch on. If the bedroom was an issue, when they wanted to go somewhere or do something I would say "just a minute let me check your room." That worked after a few times of missing out.

Just mean what you say...no yelling...no threats...just fact. The majority of people do not have maids etc. at their beckon call.. And even if they may in their future they should still know how to do it!

Well have fun! Hows it going anyway? Are these articles helpful at all? Let me know!
Blessings Marnie

Discontentment #21

Sitting in the cinema lobby the other day I watched as parents continued to dole out quarters for their kids to play the video games. What happened to just being happy with going to a movie and having a treat?? Why does there always have to be more and more? Why aren't our children able to sit for a moment content to "wait" with out needing to be entertained constantly. What have WE created?

Do you hear your kids ever say their "bored" ? How can that be in this day and age. We and they have more than ever and yet it just doen't seem to be enough.

How much do your children sit in front of the television? Do the hours while away without you even realizing it? The statistics say the kids today watch hours a day. Are we using the television as a babysitter? If you are I'm sure you are not going to enjoy reading this blog.

It may be convenient for the moment but I believe that it is going to come back and bite us in the end. Whatever happened to reading to our children? Children playing outside? Kids being able to entertain themselves with their toys for longer than 5 minutes at a time. Candy land, Fish, Old Maids

Part of the problem is that it all includes parent participation. It is so much easier to keep them quiet with quarters or television or all the other gadgets that hook to that box. I am not entirely against this stuff..but I do believe it should be a "treat" not the norm.

Are your children content? Happy? Calm? Stressed? Argumentative? Always getting in trouble? Hummmmm have you ever wondered why?

In this beginning of the new year why don't you take an assessment of the situation and see if there needs to be any territory taken back. Have you let your guard down? Well take your children back and help to write their future.

To pacify or not..that is the question

I, personally, have no gripe against pacifiers. The nursing mom will be busy day and nite if she plans to pacify the baby through nursing alone. Babies get the majority of their feeding done in the first 10 minutes per side. After that they are simply pacifying themselves. The wee babe can't find his thumb/fist for long before it flys back out of his/her mouth.

The problem I DO HAVE is: seeing 4+ year old Tommy with that paci hanging out of his mouth! One can barely understand his speech because there is always something in the way. The pacifier, after it has done its job for a new born, should be kept in the crib to have only at nap/bed time. I also think that 2 years old is a good cut off time to kiss the pacifier good by. The more that the child has it through the day the harder it will be to break the connection.

I have said in another piece that I think it is wise to give your child a bottle once a day (just in case) a bottle of water is good for the baby as well....BUT
Moms, please don't put your child to bed with a bottle. I have seen very small children with tooth rot because of it. Also be careful of juice. Children become very addicted to that sweetness and want it more and more. If you water that juice down from the beginning they will never know.!

Blessings!

Marnie

Wednesday, December 19, 2007

Bribery and the Shopping Cart

Rushing down the cereal aisle Seth comes to the end of his patience....." Mooommmmm...I want some ..........!!!" Crying and squirming he begins to get louder and louder. He starts to crawl out of the cart. You begin to go faster and faster throwing things in as quick as you can. With one hand filling the cart and one trying to pin the boy down.. mom says in desperation, "Seth want some crackers? some candy? a drink?"
She tears open the chips and he is quiet until they are gone..It starts again...and on and on it goes.

You can see it right?

This IS A TRAP. Mom don't fall into it...you are training your child in behavior that should not be acceptable.

Remember #9 email Nip it in the bud.? Well read it again cause this is where you need to use it!

Communicate with Seth BEFORE you even get in the car. I found that it worked best if I talked about it a number of times before we went out.

"Sethy, this afternoon, after your nap, we are going to go shopping. I am going to buy you a treat FOR THE WAY HOME. If you are a good boy and don't ask for anything and behave yourself while we shop. If we have any problems you will not get a treat. " **

Now Mom you need to mean what you say....please dont say it and then give the treat. You want to affirm good behavior not bad. There is no such thing as a little bad... He either is or he isn't.

This format will work for just about any situation. Communication is key. Our children need to know what's going on and what's expected of them. Keep it simple and don't push them past their ability. If they are tired don't go..wait till your husband gets home or go after the nap.

Take control of the grocery shopping time...you will be glad that you did (and so will all the other shoppers as well)

Blessings
Marnie

** Give Seth a few things to pick from for a treat. A lollipop, gum, pack of M&Ms. Keep it simple and small. You can even talk about it while you are doing your shopping.

Whoopie!! Whoopie Pies

Whoopie!! Whoopie Pies

My favorite from a cousin in Maine. These are tried and true..There are none better!


CREAM 1/4 CUP SHORTENING AND 1 CP SUGAR
ADD 2 EGG YOLKS AND BEAT UNTIL LIGHT (SAVE WHITES)
SIFT 5 TBS COCOA
2 CPS FLOUR
1 TSP OF EACH BAKING SODA, BAKING POWDER AND SALT
AND ADD TO CREAMED MIXTURE
ALONG WITH 1 CUP MILK AND 1 TSP VANILLA

DROP BY TEASPOONFULS ONTO UNGREASED COOKIE SHEET
350 FOR 10 MINS

FILLING:
BEAT 2 EGG WHITES TILL STIFF AND ADD 1/4 CUP CONFECTIONERS SUGAR SET ASIDE
CREAM 1/2 CUP SHORTENING 1 AND 3/4 CUP CONF. SUGAR AND PINCH SALT PLUS 1 TSP VANILLA
MIX UNTIL SMOOTH STIR IN EGG WHITE MIXTURE
FILL THE COOKIES WRAP EACH IN A SANDWICH BAG AND FREEZE IF DESIRED. I TAKE THEM OUT RIGHT WHEN I WANT THEM. YUM

Tuesday, December 18, 2007

#17 Taking control!!!

Well today we are not going to talk about children. We are going to try to get to "the bottom" of some of the piles in your home. Let's try to tackle clutter.

I have to warn you..... to control clutter you CANNOT keep everything. And I might add ..you really don't want to. You only think you do. There is a really good feeling when you are in control of your stuff and it is not overwhelming you.

Recently a very neglected and overgrown property was bought on my street. I watched as the new owner began to tidy up. I thought of the hugh job that was ahead of him and wondered where he would start....pruning, weeding, organizing etc. Well he surprized me by WIPING OUT all of the landscaping, trees, shrubs etc. to start over. What a difference it made!

First you need to look with open eyes. When we have been surrounded by stuff for a long time we tend to not even see it anymore. It's only when we are going to have company that we begin to feel uncomfortable. right??

Second you need to pick a spot. Yes one spot. You need to begin and continue until it is finished. Determine not to become sidetracked.
One of the biggest downfalls of cleaning is we pick up something in the living room that belongs in the cellar...we take it..notice something in the cellar that really needs to be tended to..come upstairs to get the broom and notice that the trash is overflowing...take the trash out and remember that we should walk the dog...and on it goes. We exhaust ourselves by "working" all day and not accomplishing anything that can be noticed!

Third You've heard it said .."if you havent used it in a year get rid of it" well I do believe that is quite true. It is true for clothes and toys and lots of stuff. So get a couple of laundry baskets: 1 for Goodwill, 1 for stuff to put away and a LARGE trashbag for the stuff going CURBSIDE.

Start by doing things that are noticable. If you are working in the kitchen, clean out the sink and empty the dishwasher..put all that stuff away. Then start with the counter tops ..one section at a time...(remember do not get sidetracked) Don't begin on the drawers or the cupboards until the "outside" is looking picked up. Wipe things down as you go. THEN you will tackle a draw or closet one at a time.
Before you know it ...YOU WILL SEE A DIFFERENCE!
Having had a large family I have gotten quite good at this so if you need more help or hints please send me an email and we'll chat further about the whole subject. The only stupid question is one not asked!

Blessings,
Marnie

Christmas at Gilead's Balm



Sunday, December 16, 2007

#16 The telephone tussell!!

Sometimes you just need to PUT THE PHONE DOWN.

We've all experienced it. We have taken a call and immediatly the whole atmosphere begins to break down.

The cat vomits on the rug, Johnny throws a toy in the toilet AND flushes, Sally hangs onto your leg for attention, the older ones choose to have a disagreement right in your face....and YOU continue to try to sound calm and together while acting like a contortionist towards the kids. You shake your finger, throw someone into the corner, mouth out instructions etc while your face just gets redder and redder and your blood pressure skyrockets.

Sweetheart....Put the phone down. Call the person back later. It's not worth it. Face it your "job" needs your full attention. If you choose to stay on the phone you will end up possibly making some bad decisions, and saying some things that you will later wish you hadn't.

There will come a day that you will have all the time you want for the phone...it's just not today. Don't let it get to you...To this we are called..make the best of it!

Have a wonderful Christmas and email me some questions!!

Wednesday, December 12, 2007

"you're a good man charlie brown"

I just feel to write a little tonite about DAD.

Let's face it sometimes he gets left kind of out in the cold.
"Precious" is expecting and everyone pats her stomach, coddles her, throws her gifts etc and what does dad do...watch and keep working.

Now before anyone throws something I am talking about the good guys in the world. The ones who are "there", those who help, who care, who take the father role seriously. So calm down.... I have met many of these guys personally. They DO exist.

These men typically work their hineys (sp) off to help keep it all afloat.

Anyway...what I'm trying to say is ....THROW DAD A PARTY!
No need to invite anyone .. the family is enough. Have one of the kids lay down on a big piece of paper and trace his body. Cut it out and write on the different parts of the body what you appreciate about Dad. On his hands you might write that you love it when he plays baseball with you... His feet that you love when he dances with you...etc you get the picture don't you?

Hang it from the doorway, make his favorite meal, have the kids put on a little show and let it be ALL ABOUT DAD.

Maybe you could present him with a homemade coupon book of things that the kids can do for him. You, mom, could add a few of your own:)

Bottom line...everyone needs to be appreciated. Let's let Dad have a time. Random I know but sometimes that makes it all the more fun and memorable!
Put your creative thinking caps on and get to work.

PS. I know that there are many other scenarios out there and that the "typical" family is not so typical anymore. If there are stepdads, foster dads, dads who see the kids only a weekend here or there...or even men in your lives that aren't really the dad but have helped fill the role..it is still important to speak into that place in a kids heart. Everyone needs a dad figure.

Determine, mom, to never speak badly about the childs father. If he's lacking he will prove that all on his own without you having to say anything. Teach your child what respect means and how to show it.

Get going now it will do everyone good

Blessings
Marnie

Monday, December 10, 2007

#15 Its ODD

Well I must say I heard something today that made me speechless!

Visiting with a teacher friend I heard of a "new" set of letters that are now being added to the ever growing list of labels that describe our kids.

It's "ODD" get this: OPPOSITIONAL DEFINANT DISORDER

If this doesn't scare you ..I don't know what will!!

This label is being given to children who just can't seem to behave, "toe the line", follow the rules etc. Its being written on school records and I believe that medication is being perscribed.

So, instead of taking our children's behavior and molding it into what it should look like, we take little Peg to the Psychiatrist to find out why she is acting as she does.
LORD HELP US!
I am positive that ALL my children have had this dysfunction at one time or another....but I can assure you the last thing I wanted was for them to be labeled and carry that definant attitude around all their lives!!!

Those poor parents...they have just signed away any peace, normalcy and future for their child! ( and for themselves as well for that matter!)

Come on now.... Parenting is not for cowards as one book title boasts. Please I BEG YOU don't do that to us! Little Peg is not only going to make her parents crazy but she will affect every place that she goes...because she "just can't help it" She is destined to be a miserable little girl, and an even more miserable adult. Good behavior should not be optional and 99% of the time pills are not needed (except possibly for the parent's headache)

Parents take your responsibilities back and do your job!! Don't wring your hands or cry yourselves to sleep!! If you don't know where to start 1. read a book on parenting (there are gazillions) 2. ask a friend (whose children are nice)for advise 3. Pray 4. Call me 5. DO SOMETHING!!! But please don't give it an excuse to become an indelible part of your child's makeup.

Blessings
Marnie

Sunday, December 9, 2007

#14 The Creeping Crud

There is a disease that is becoming rampant amoung people of all ages. It usually starts at a young age and if not tended to will continue on til death. Its called the Creeping Crud or in another word it might best be described as UNGRATEFULNESS.

It is our job as parents to detect and deal with ungratefulness. It rears its head on all different occasions...Birthdays, holidays, trips to the store, Grandmas house, really just about anywhere.

Please start looking in your home and at your family to see if the disease is present. It must be dealt with immediately or it will spread and only get worse. It must be dealt with forcefully and directly. It can be caught from parents or be present at birth.

Symptoms of the disease

Lack of enthusiasm over a gift, word of encouragement etc.

general disinterest

lack of thank yous

Tossing of gift aside to reach of the next one.

Not caring for toys, clothes, things in general

Letting it be made known that something else was expected and that hopes were not met.

Whining and crying pouting

When Judy gets a $5. bill in the mail from Aunt Lucy watch to see how she accepts it....is there any mention of " Is that all?...$5 doesnt buy anything" Does she immediately think to call her aunt to say thank you or drop a note?

At the bday party where there are lots of gifts... is it one after another ripping open and then on to the next with no care for what was just received....no thank you....etc?

Christmas afternoon is there a general disappointment that hangs in the air that it just wasnt enough?

I think you are getting the picture.

It is OUR job to teach our children at a VERY young age the art of being grateful. We must watch for every opportunity to teach this life skill. We need to look at ourselves first to see if the disease is present and if so we need to take steps to irradicate it. The disease will not go away if we are carriers.

Sometimes radical steps need to be taken but first why don't you just begin to talk with your children about this disease.
Point it out if you see it pop it's head up anywhere. I have been able to show my kids what it looks like on various occasions when it did not affect us but the symptons were present in our surroundings.

If your home has already been infected... Nip it in the bud!! If the bud is now a "branch" get the saw out! (read a previous blog) This problem will affect the whole life of the carrier.

Sometimes a gift might need to be taken back or a child taken out of the situation to be spoken/dealt with.
What ever the case I implore you again ...as a parent be aware and vaccinate your family against this bug!!!

Any questions ask
pass it on
past blogs www.comeinandrest.com

Blessings Marnie

Friday, November 30, 2007

#13 It's Dinner Time!!!

Well today I spoke with a Mom/friend that asked if I would speak on meals, meal planning and shopping.

Here goes!

First. I have never been someone who goes to the Market every day. I believe that you spend alot more money that way. Even when there were 14 of us at home I shopped ONCE a week PERIOD. Yes I had 2 fridges and a freezer but my family is not the norm. I would buy 8 gallons of milk at a time, 12 lbs of apples and 4 bags of oranges etc.... it was a major job but I would still do it the same way.
When things were working the smoothest I would make a menu for the week. This works very nicely and cuts the guessing out and you don't cook or not cook depending on how hungry you feel. In the morning you simple take out the ingredients, or even the nite before if its going into the crock pot. Here are some menu items that you might want to add to your weekly meals.

Meat loaf mashed potatoes veg
baked potato with boccoli and cheese, chili, taco meat etc
Baked beans with hotdogs or ham coleslaw and cornbread
baked porkchops
fish
tacos
salad with steak tips
chicken drumstix and rice
breakfast for dinner egg sandwiches, pancakes, frenchtoast
chicken divan
hamburgers
meatball subs
spagetti
american chopsuey
chili
soup
stew
chowder
turkey
baked ham
boiled dinner
pot roast
roast beef
mac and cheese
pigs in a blanket
subs
hot turkey sandwiches
tuna/cheese melt
hotsausage


At one time I had 6 weeks of menus ahead without duplicating
Remember to leave a day here and there for leftovers

We always had "stay up nite" on Fridays ..when the kids would have dinner, get their pjs on and we would put a movie on. Soda (once a week) popcorn etc and would be the treat and Dad would carry the kids to bed when they fell asleep

Sunday nite was "silly supper nite". When everyone was ready we would make platters of fun food....
stuffed celery
crackers with cheese
pineapple
apples with peanut butter
popcorn
sardines and crackers
pepperoni slices
orange segments
we would eat usually in front of a disney movie or something like that. It was relaxed and everyone looked forward to the day.

Monday thru Sat we have always eated together AT THE TABLE. No one goes to their room, to the tv or says they are not hungry. Dinner is served once in the day and if you miss it you miss it. Sports took some toll on this as the kids grew but I would do whatever I could to work around it. I grew up around a "supper table" and my children have as well. I believe it is very important and the lack of has had an affect on the family.
Food is to be shared with fellowship. It is a time of relaxing and talking. Practice it....You can have it too.

Blessings! marnie

Any ??? email me
pass it on
comment if you would like
past emails can be seen on www.comeinandrest.com look at the blog page.

Wednesday, November 28, 2007

#12 You want to wear WHAT #2

Been thinking about that last email...

I was in the dressing room at Marshalls over the summer when I heard a mom speak and ask if her daughter ( 10-12 ) was through trying on the clothes. Her daughter said she had found a bathing suit and had her mom check it out. Her mom said "no, thats not good.."
"Mooooommmmm I love it, I want it....."
"You look way to fat in it, it's not good."
"Mom you're so mean. I want it !!!!"
"Ok, but don't complain to me about it later."

Are you able to talk to your teens or preteens about their clothes? Or anything for that matter??

You need to practice dialoging with your children WAY before the teen years to have any success doing it in later years.

Shopping with one of my daughters for a bathing suit one summer....I made it clear that we were not going to buy a bikini or anything that remotely resembled one. This did not surprize her. She did make the comment that there would probably not be anything to pick from to which I replied,"Well if you can't find one that I approve of we will simply not be buying a bathing suit today."

Go and sit outside the highschoolor mall someday and look at what the kids are wearing. Tight, short, revealing, ragged, dirty and pajamas.... Now I do believe that there needs to be some lee way for kids to express themselves but I have not left my daughters to guess what I think is appropriate. There will NOT be any midriff showing. Pants will NOT be too tight. NO cleavage...Not too short.
This is not just a "mom" demand for the issue has been talked about in a dialog so that we both understand each other.

Start now...

The young girl I spoke of earlier paraded a chubby body in a little bathing suit that did not fit or flatter her and no one took the time to stand firm .. what happens in a few years when she is now flaunting a grown up body?

Talk to your kids...about things....clothes, dating, health habits (cleanliness) friends, smoking etc... Start young and build on it using examples that you will run into along the way.

" Did you just notice how that girl talked to her mom?"
" What do you think of that girl's outfit?"
" See those young kids smoking in the corner...what do you think about that?"
" Have you ever noticed that she is never without a boyfriend and it's a different one each week?"
" Did you hear that guy just scream at his kids Hummmm what do you think happened?
" Don't you think he should have held the door for that woman behind him?" etc etc etc

Use life to your advantage and talk to your kids!! Start young they may have more to say than you can imagine!

Blessings!
Marnie
Pass it on
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Monday, November 26, 2007

#11 You want to wear WHAT????

Funny how kids are. Some could care less as to what they wear and for others "fashion" is everything!

Sooooo what happens when Janie want to wear the dress up gown to daycare? The bathrobe to church? Shorts and boots to Sunday School? A sundress in the blizzard?

Sometimes we can play along with the game and sometimes we can’t.

That is what needs to be understood.
Autumn comes out with a cape and underwear, playing Superman when its time to go to the grocery store. She does not see the need to change. What do you do?

Taking a moment to explain, tell her that she needs to change into her shopping clothes. Depending on how old she is you can let her help choose or if time is an issue hand her the clothes. YOU ARE THE PARENT. There is no need for guilt here or even a tussell for that matter. Tell her she can change back when you get home or play again tomorrow…whatever is the case.

But insist that she change.

Again communication is key.

In the morning while the kids are eating breakfast you can say," After mommy gets done doing the laundry and dishes we are all going to the store. Autumn you will be able to play for a little while longer but when I say its time to change I want you to just go and do it …understand?" If, by chance, there is a problem deal with it matter of factly and get the clothes out for her to change now. We really want to be teaching our children how to obey and be compliant to our requests.

Children don’t like to have things sprung on them any more than we do . Be sure to communicate ahead of time. Whether it is about bedtime, where we need to go, who they are going to play with and how you expect them to act, a Drs. Appointment or even reminders about going on the potty…..talk about it with them, dialog….make sure they understand.

We ask for problems when we don’t do this and demand that they quickly stop whatever they are doing because we need to go.

Talk to your kids…. They are little people and I KNOW that you will get much better behavior if everyone is on the same page.

Blessings!
Marnie

PS This also can work well for husbands

Remember
1. Pass it on
2. If you no longer want to be on this list email me
3. back log of parenting emails are on the blog page of www.comeinandrest.com
4 . drop me a note I'd love to hear from you!

Sunday, November 25, 2007

#10 Meal Time Messies

Taking a few minutes at the beginning of the meal will make cleanup easier.

Keep a supply of bibs on hand. Bibs take up less space in the laundry than a toddlers outfit. Keep a supply on hand and in the diaper bag. I personally like the type that are made out of a hand towel with an elastic hole for the head. They are very absorbent and work well in the clean up at the end of the meal plus there's lots of coverage!

When you are teaching that little one to eat:

Put just a few things on the tray at a time. Cheerios, small vegs, fruits, meat cubes, cheese etc DON'T get stuck in a rut! Have the child taste new things. Too many children have whittled their menus down to chicken nuggets, mac and cheese and canned applesauce. Don't let this happen!

Don't let Johnny play with his food. He is in the high chair to eat. If he throws his food on the floor stop him with a firm "no". If he continues clear the tray and take him down.

Supervise the meal. This is a teaching time. I have seen moms put whole plates or bowls of food on the tray only to have a mess on the floor...dinner in the hair and everything smeared like a work of art.

If he is not ready to eat don't make a big deal out of it. This is training time. Take him down and don't give him anything until the next meal. He will not starve and he will eventually learn. When I say don't give anything I mean just that! You want him hungry at the next meal time.

Be conscious of what he is eating. Little ones are growing at alarming rates and need good food...fresh and wholesome. I always have a fruit bowl out. It is much more likely to be eaten if it is within sight. My children ate a piece midmorning and one midafternoon. Even today I sliced peeled oranges on everyones plates at lunchtime to go with the meal. Sometimes when the girls (teens) are studying at the table I will set a plate of apples slices and peanut butter or crackers and cheese out for them...it always gets eaten. Otherwise they tend to look for a quick fix of chips and or candy that just add empty calories and do nothing good for their bodies.

Clean up that tray/eating area right after the meal.
Have you ever noticed that food tends to turn to cement over time? It is much easier to take the time, at the time, to have it clean and ready for the next meal. Works good with the dishes in the sink as well....just start:)
1. empty the dishwasher, if there is one
2. empty the sink and clean it out and fill it with fresh hot soapy water
3. put rinsed dishes in the dishwasher ,if there is one, or rinse and set in the soapy water. If they have been hanging around for hours let them set for a few minutes to soak. Wash and rinse, stack and dry and put away WOW the kitchen looks great and you are ahead of the game! Great Job It is much easier to keep up with them than have a weeks worth ahead of you that just cause you to be stressed and irritated! It really WILL NOT take that long.

Well thats all for today Blessings Marnie
Remember
pass it on
email if you dont want to receive these
see the back log at www.comeinandrest.com
and schedule a girlfriends tea! You'll be glad that you did!!

Tuesday, November 20, 2007

#9 NIP IT IN THE BUD

Have you ever heard the saying ..You better "nip it in the bud"?

Well being a gardener and having sons who are in tree service this saying holds alot of meaning for me .

Your child bites someone. He swears in a conversation with you. She talks back. They don't come when they are called. You get the idea.....behavior that is everything but what you want to see or deal with!

NIP IT IN THE BUD... When a sapling (a baby tree) sprouts a bud (the beginning of a branch) it can literally be broken off with barely a touch of your finger.
Wait a few weeks and the same bud will have grown to the point that to get rid of it you will tear the bark of the tree when you rip it off....wait even longer and the branch will need a saw of some type to get rid of it.

I'm sure you are getting the picture.

When you see the "bud" of behavior that is not acceptable, Nip it..deal with it immediately..it will most likely NOT go away on its own...it is not a phase ...bad behavior will lead to something worse if not dealt with .
You need to focus in when parenting...there are no days off...sorry... but I can say to you the more you deal with them when they are young the easier it will be later on.

Be the parent. If there are numerous behaviors that have sprouted pick the worst and begin there. Mean business. The world and society that we live in don't usually work in our favor. You may feel alone in your decision...dont worry if you dont match up to "Jared's mom who lets him do anything!" Jared's mom will not have to bail your son out of jail or care for your daughters baby. Its your call. Again if you're not sure what is right or wrong ASK Go to someone you feel you can trust and who has been a role model.

Consistency is of absolute importance. Please dont send mixed messages because that is exactly what lack of consistency does.

Deep breath. Parenting is not for cowards. You are on a very important mission to rear a child who will add to this world in a positive way.

YOU CAN DO IT
Blessings M

1. pass it on
2. just write if you want to be taken off the list
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4. need help call or email me!

Monday, November 19, 2007

#8 Morning madness!!

For the mornings that you need to be out the door....do your self a BIG favor and plan ahead. OR for any morning for that matter!!!

After the kiddos are in bed take a few minutes....lay out the clothes, find the shoes etc... coats hats etc...you can even have the bowls on the counter ready for the cereal....

I have found that the children do much better all around when they have been prepared mentally for what's coming.

When a new baby is coming home
Tomorrow is the first dentist appointment/drs appointment
grocery shopping
visiting
someone is coming to visit
etc etc etc

Take numerous opportunities to speak of what's coming ...even up to a few days ahead.

"Lisa guess what's happening tomorrow!!! Nannie and Grampa are coming over to visit. Now in the morning we need to eat our breakfast right up and get dressed quickly as there is alot to do to get ready. Now you're going to help me right...Lets see what could you do? etc"

I might say this up to 6-8 times in a day as I continue to prepare "Lisa" for what to expect. You will find that the kids tend to business so much better.

Even this:
"Now girls...the baby is going to be going into your room at the end of the week. I have set the crib up. Now if she cries I dont want you to do anything. Mom hears her and will take care of it. I might let her cry a little cause Im trying to get her to sleep longer so...just turn over and go back to sleep...Dont worry Mom knows what she's doing and I need you to just sleep till morning...do you understand?"

I will again remind them over and over during the next few days ...even quizzing them..." so christine what are you going to do when susie cries in the nite?"

I use this same technique when trying to teach something or change a behavior. Bedtime routines, naps, getting along, sharing etc... can all be worked into those little brains so that when the time comes they know what to expect and how to respond.

Moms you are doing great! Keep up the good work You are shaping a generation!
Blessings! M

Saturday, November 17, 2007

#7 Brand Spankin New

WILL IT BE A MOUNTAIN OR A MOLEHILL???
It’s really up to you
If you are tired it is definitely a MOUNTAIN
If you are rested it will look more like a molehill.
(words of wisdom from my mom) Its up to you to go to bed early to get your rest!!


BRAND SPANKIN NEW!

Well our new grandson made his first appearance today at 3:25PM at 7lbs and 11ozs, 19 1/2 inches long. Elijah James Wells is the son of proud parents Noah and Amy Wells

So on that note.....New borns are fearfully and wonderfully made!

I have a distinct memory of sitting by my baby's crib that 1st day home and watching him sleep. I was crying. My husband, alarmed, asked if everything was alright. I said " He's going to wake up and there are no nurses or doctors around and it will be totally up to me to take care of him!"
Wow what a responsibility!

Breathe. Take your time. Don't climb any mountains and take it easy for a few weeks. Cuddle Sit Rest Nap (when you can) and enjoy this bundle... cause he/she will not stay that way for long!

The baby: has come out of 98.6 degrees so he needs to be kept warm. That little body is not able to generate the heat he needs for himself. That is why you can listen to him scream in his bed and when he's in yours he dozes right off to sleep! A wrapped hot water bottle in a receiving blanket put at his side every time he is in bed works like a miracle!

He will want to nurse constantly it seems. Keep track or you could be feeding every 15 minutes . Make sure you burp him good every so often as many times a bubble will create a problem later that we tend to read as being hungry....again??? We nurse and just put more milk on top of that bubble and that worsens the problem.

If your out and about or just visiting and the baby gets fussy....I find that it is best to find a solitary place...the bathroom, a bedroom or even the car if that is the only place, to be able to calm down yourself and then calm him down. It is difficult when you think that you are bothering people or making a scene. If you cant move, you're on an airplane or something....just apologize to those around you and take a deep breath. The baby can sense your tenseness and it will not help. Don't bounce him but slowly rock and hum. Be as calm as possible and it will help.

The newborn really does like to be wrapped tightly for that first few weeks.

Don't be afraid at what you see in the diaper. His insides are cleaning out and it will look pretty black and scary for a few days. Totally normal.

Siblings;
If there are other little ones around they need attention!! Take advantage of all the sleeping that the baby does.. to read, cuddle and be with the other children. It will assure them that they are not being displaced or overlooked. They will be more willing to help when they are feeling loved themselves.

Hubby. Don't forget the big guy. He needs attention too!! You must admit the mom has stolen the show for the past 9 months and now the new one has come on the scene...Daddy who? Daddy is important.... Remember to support him so that he can support you!

In laws and friends. You can decide how you want it to work. You are the boss. This is your family... no guilt... no fear... You don't want your infant around people with colds etc especially in the beginning. I was never over protective but I was cautious all the same. .... Be understanding and gracious as you take your stand. You will get the respect if you are firm on your parenting role.

Don't forget to take a breather for a bit here and there. Maybe mom will come over so you can go to the bagel shoppe and sit with a cup of coffee of an hour..or dad can have his turn at nite while you go to the store for a break.

Stand back look at that little person.....what do you see for his/her future....what would you like to see in his/her character? What is important to you....Think it through now because he will be out the door before you know it. Be intentional....Tend to child rearing.... Parenting gets done even if you are not doing it.... by the tv, daycare, friends etc..... Please take it seriously and invest yourself into this little one. Perhaps you had a difficult upbringing...no examples...There are numerous resources available today and the only stupid question is one that is not asked!

Sooo Go to Bed! Blessings Marnie
Ps remember if you have a question.. ask , a comment.. make it,
If you want to be removed from the list .. email me and feel free to pass this on to anyone who might have a need. Back emails can be seen on the blog at www.comeinandrest.com nite!

Wednesday, November 14, 2007

#6 The Clothes Situation

Years ago I babysat for a family of 7 children. I loved it. One of my memories was that of a bedroom (it was actually being used as a spare room). In this room was a "collection" of clothes that rivaled the backroom of Salvation Army! The closet was full (almost to the top) of clothes that were clean but never put away and the middle of the room held a LARGE pile of clothes that had been donated to the family but not gone through.

What I saw was a hugh amount of wasted space and time. I could have easily found myself in that same predicament if I had not been careful.

First of all childrens clothes are really easy to come by. #1 you can go to the store and buy them. 2. You can accept hand me downs from friends/family. 3. You may acquire them from birthday and Christmas presents. 4. You can shop the yard sales or thrift shops.

I say all of this to say Don't keep too many clothes at a time. If you find your laundry situation looking in the least bit like the scenario mentioned at the beginning it is time to TAKE CONTROL.

1. START

2. Take a pile and go through it piece by piece. If it is stained, ripped, worn, missing a button or has a broken zipper, throw it in the "get rid of" pile.

3. Figure out what your child REALLY needs in a 10 day period of time....that should be enough. You know you tend to wear the same things over and over anyway.
If something does not fit right, is uncomfortable, unsnaps too easily.... get rid of it!

4. Do the same for out of season clothes. Sort, wash and pack away those that you want to keep, easily marked for another child or another season.

When the kids were all at home this was a HUGH JOB FOR ME! It was one that I did not look forward to but the kids loved it and I did it at the change of the seasons spring/summer and fall/winter. I took banana boxes (I had no money for plastic containers) and sorted everything by girl/boy and type of clothes... ie: boys long sleeve shirts, girls pants, girls sleepwear, etc. I did not go by size as 3Ts may fit a 2 or a 4 year old.
(I realize that there will not be many of you that will run into this same problem :))

Wash and fold the clothes and put them away. Keep up with the laundry... throw a load in. Clothes right out of the dryer will be relatively unwrinkled. (a wet towel thrown back in with a load of dry clothes will help take out wrinkles as well)
At the peak of my family I was doing approx 27 loads of laundry a week! What would happen if I missed one day?!!

I had a laundry room down cellar (thank God) and put up a long counter I used the one we took out of the kitchen but you can find remnants at Home Depot... the formica is better than wood as it is smooth and stays clean easier. I made piles for each kid and each bathroom closet etc with the older kids having baskets underneath the counter. As soon as the baskets were full I called the kiddos down and everyone took their clothes and put them away. (dirty laundry was brought down every morning it was someones chore)
I also hung a pipe/dowel from the ceiling so that I could hand things up right from the dryer.

When the laundry was really dirty ( my husband was a tree man) I used stronger detergent, even made my own soap for awhile. I used bleach to keep my whites bright as well.

You will feel GREAT once you get your laundry situation under control... Just DO IT! Keep a bag/basket collecting all the time of clothes to get rid of. It will be so much easier if you just keep up with it!

Monday, November 5, 2007

#5 Those Nite Time Blues

SHHHHHH it’s quiet….Finally all the kids are in bed… when
Moooommmmmm? I’m thirsty, I need to go to the bathroom, I want you to pray with me, I’m scared, my finger hurts, I can’t sleep, Kara is looking at me, I need to tell you something…..
On and on and on it goes….Is there a remedy? YES!!

Remember in email #1 we hit on that eye to eye communication.
Well it all begins there.
We are usually tired by this time of nite…our patience is short…the day is ending .. Finally Maybe you can sit down….and then it starts.
Paint your own picture….how does it go for you.?

Now start all over….perhaps a habit has formed in your household where this type of behavior happens each and every night. Sit for a minute and think about it …. What is actually happening?

In the morning after the kids are dressed and you have your day underway ..set down with him/her/them. Speaking in a calm voice explain what has been happening every night . Tell the kiddo’s that the routine is going to change. Take your evening back!
"Becky, mom has been noticing that every nite when I put you in bed you get up 2 or more times for different things. I want you to know that from now on when I tuck you in bed I’m only going to do it once. I don’t want to hear from you again until morning. Do you understand? " ( This you will repeat numerous times during the day(s)) At nite get Becky ready for bed… do it right….make sure she is clean and has gone to the bathroom, had a drink, been prayed for etc.

This will take more than 5 minutes. .I personally think the kids usually keep getting our attention because we’ve rushed them off too quickly. Cover all the bases and remind them AGAIN that once they are in bed it’s for good. A reward for staying in bed is great to give the next day. Whether you’ve told them or not ….A poster on the fridge with stars or a snack or some alone time with Mom….whatever, you will know what is best

Now if Becky stays in bed but Tommy gets out once Becky gets the reward NOT Tommy. He is not scolded he just notices the special attention that his sister is getting and he will try harder the next nite. I realize there are many scenarios to be had here but I hope that you are getting the picture.
Little ones need to be in bed at a relatively early hour. I know some parents let the kids stay up late so that they can sleep in the next morning but that can get all out of wack. You are best up early, getting the day started and then the kids napping at 1 after lunch . All my kids had a quiet time up until they started school. When I hear someone say "Oh he hasn’t napped since he was 2….I know that simply a habit has been formed.

Remember YOU are the one who sets the rules. Whatever works best for you is best. Children were not born to rule even though in many cases they are doing it.

Again any question email me.

Previous email can be seen on the blog at www.comeinandrest.com
I pray that these words are helping in some small way!
Blessings!
Marnie

Sunday, November 4, 2007

#4 Mind Your Manners Please!!

Mind you manners PLEASE!!
Whether you live in a one room flat or a 12 bedroom mansion …… Manners ARE important!
It does not take long to notice that the use of manners is pretty much a lost art today.
Maybe you don’t even know what is important in the topic of manners.
Well let me tell you some that I know of. You can add or subtract to this list.
1.Don’t talk with your mouth full.
2.Don’t chew with your mouth open.
3.Don’t make noise while you eat. Slurping smacking burping etc
4.No elbows on the table.
5.Don’t eat with your hands
6.Don’t reach in front of someone ask for something to be passed
7.Use the napkin, put the napkin on your lap
8.Ask to be excused if you need to leave the table.
9.If you need to sneeze or blow your nose try to leave the table to do so.
10.Cover your mouth when you cough
11.Always take your hat off when you are inside especially in church.
12.Don’t interrupt while someone else is talking.
13.Respect people and their property.
14.For males…. When a female enters a room and there are no seats left stand and offer yours..insist…. Females if there are no more seats left and an older male or female enter the room stand and let them have your seat.
15.Don’t cut in a line
16.Don’t be rude or crude
17.Don’t talk back
18.Be kind
19.Don’t insist on the biggest piece or the last piece …always ask if anyone would like somemore before you take the last piece
20.When visiting someones house for dinner etc ask if there is anyway that you can help…. Young people clear your place setting after you eat a meal.
21.Pick up after yourselves
22.Leave the area you were in cleaner than when you found it
Write thank you notes
if you are visiting someones house for a few days….keep the room and bathroom tidy.

Pick a few of these to work on with your children. I bought a plastic pig (from a farm yard play set) and would set it by my plate at dinner. When the kids saw this they knew I would be watching. I would simply put it at the place of whatever child was breaking a table "rule" It was fun kept us focused and made us think.
Always explain what you are looking for and why. Sometimes there are not easy answers for why except that "that is what’s polite."
We want to raise children who will be able to carry themselves in any circle without being embarrassed. When everyone has it down perhaps a dinner out for everyone would be a great reward and a way to really try it out!
You will realize that table manners will not be able to be learned in front of the TV or on the run (in the back seat of the car) I urge you, with all that is within me, to strive to sit down together for a dinner meal numerous times a week. My 17 year old, a few years ago , was in a class where the teacher asked for all those that ate as a family seated together to raise their hands. She was the only hand raised in a class of over 25! I believe it is a link to the breakdown of the family in general.
Well again
if you have any specific questions I am available.
If you would like to be taken off this list let me know
Feel free to pass these emails along to anyone who maybe interested.
Take advantage of the time you have!
Blessings! Marnie

Wednesday, October 31, 2007

#3 MOTHER GUILT

OK I just feel like I need to address this before we go into any more areas of childrearing.
Guilt Guilt Guilt
Why do we go there so easily? Guilt is the root of much of the disfunctional mothering that has been passed down through the ages.

So lay down on the couch and "let's talk".

Guilt comes from outside and inside. It can be real or imaginary. It is a feeling and sometimes a fact! It has many faces.
Websters says: "Guilt: Tha act or state of having done a wrong or committed an offense Conduct that involves guilt, wrongdoing, crime sin."

I wish that we could "round table" this!

I have a memory of standing in front of my child and saying outloud..."and I will NOT feel guilty!!"

It's a choice to feel guilty or not. Have we done something wrong? If so we need to ask forgiveness or do the best we can with the situation.

What brings about feelings of guilt? I think it is our insecurity. If we are confident in our decision as to who what where and why We should be able to stand on it. We will be the ones to answer for what we do ...not anyone else.

What does guilt do to us?
1. It causes us to do and make decisions that are not good.

Moooooommmmm I want it !!!! You never..... You always.... I hate you.....
A. We give in....B. Im sorry Johnny but no Ive made up my mind and we will talk about it when we get home.

2. It can cause us stress and anguish.
I cant believe that you dont have a meal on the table!! What have you done all day? blah blah blah

another failure after a day of whiney kids and endless telephone calls and plugged toilets.

Im sorry Hon its been a day of all days...I havent had a minute ...the baby has been in a mood all day and your mom dropped in and talked for 2 hours about the problems of the world! Lets send out or there is cereal or maybe an egg sandwich..Would you mind giving me a hand.?

3. It drives us to do things that feed into habitual wrong actions.

ie : "Mom, Rick and I have decided to have thanksgiving at home with the kids this year. It is just too much to be on the road all day going back and forth between family ..so we are going to begin our own tradition. I hope you understand" .....

"WHAT!!! I CANT BELIEVE THAT YOU WOULD DO THAT..You know that your aunt is going to want to see the kids ..and who will help with the meal. I think that your husband is being totally unfair to make you stay at home..."

A. Honey we just have to go to moms cause I feel so GUILTY...

B..Mom Im sorry, you will do great as you usually do and Im sure you'll not miss 3 tired kids! How about if I drop off a pie on wednesday to help. we sure will miss everyone but sometimes you just have to do what you have to do!
( a note to mom after the holiday expressing your love to her would be a nice touch!)

Well I know we have just scratched the surface on this one.!
But girls lay the guilt down....think through your decisions and stick with them. It will get easier with practice.

Blessings! Marnie

Tuesday, October 30, 2007

#2 Toys Toys Toys

Did you know that a child can have too many toys...and that it creates an overwhelming atmosphere for he/she/they to be able to concentrate/play or learn in

At the risk of causing Santa to frown on me....I will say it again .... simplify the toy room/box etc..

Have you ever watched a toddler have so much fun with the wrapping paper or a box. Duh he's saying something....uncomplicated is better... Why do we seem to need to provide everything that we did not have as a child....the newest of everything...the more the better no. It does not work that way.

1. Children need fresh air and whenever it is possible they need to have some time outside running and playing. Even when my babes were tiny I would have them sleep outside in the carriage for a nap...They would come in with a little red nose and rosey cheeks but with warm bodies under alll those blankets! It does not need to be a long time outside (especially for those that cannot go out unsupervised.....just some time a little in the morning and the same in the afternoon....even 15 minutes to walk and run and play.
2. Organized play is good. Perhaps you could find a moms group or a play group. Plan to take a trip to the park on a certain day of the week. Try having "Tuesdays we get the playdough out"....What ever it is kids thrive on routine. They like to know what's going on.
3. When they play with the toys they should just get out what they want to play with. You must supervise this. If left to themselves ALL the boxes will be emptied and all the pieces will be strewn everywhere. .. Too much to play with and definately too much to pick up!
4 Puzzels .books, coloring books and blocks You can never go wrong with these toys. These are the staples.... of the toy room with a few other things thrown in.
For years I would separate the toys into 2 parts. One part remained in the toyroom and the other in the attic. In 4-6 months I would switch (after going through everything, weeding out broken or unused toys) and bring the attic toys down. I also kept a box of "rainy day toys" as well...Different things that ONLY came out on that day when "nothing seemed to work".
5. A dress up box is great to have! Salvation Army, Goodwill or even yard sales can fill a box up quickly and for not much $$.
6. I hear complaints of too much given by the relatives. Hummm. Perhaps you might suggest that Auntie or Gram and Gramp might add to the saving account or even take little Georgie out to Chunky Cheeses on a date. Is there something that you have wanted or needed for the kids room? A new toybox? A book case, some shelves?
7. Make a tent!! anywhere anytime anyhow.... A tent is the bomb!!! sheets, blankets, a quilt thrown over the kitchen table ..We would tuck a blanket under the top bunk and have it hang down to close in the bottom bunk....What fun! A large appliance box is great as well!

So how about it....Attack the play room! (probably better to do it while Jenny is asleep) Simplify the whole room. Organize the stuff so that when we play house all the kitchen stuff is together. etc.. You will find it so much easier to handle and the kids will play longer with what they have out because they will not be constantly being distracted by everything around them.

And then when you're all done....How about your closet??:)

Blessings! Marnimom

#1 Parenting changes......

Parenting changes over the years ...but it doesn't!!!

When the babes are small they need consistent Mom time.. The rules and expectations need to be clear and spoken directly into those little eyes.....having them repeat it back helps also.

It is mandatory that you remain calm. What is it that sends us into that zone anyway? We all know that once that little human breathed its first breath in this world our lives would never be the same.....so why do we fight it so hard and get so irritated that our time is now not our own!

You're calm and you have communicated.... but what have you communicated? Think through what you will and will not put up with. Is it important to you that your child responds on your first
communication? Do you care if he/she gets up 3-5 times after he is put to bed? Do you really want to put up with whining? Temper tantrums? Bullying? Whats it like with your little ones in public...do you dread it...?
Set your boundaries in your own thinking first.... what is important to you??

It is best if you and your husband or perhaps daycare provider is on the same page for discipline....It is much less confusing to a child to know everyone in his life is expecting the same behavior.

Once you get underway remember praise praise praise
dont let your guard down and keep rested!
It is very important for your child to rest in the afternoon. Even if it is just a quiet time. After lunch is the perfect time to expect 1-2 hours of peace. Remember as tempting as it is dont let the child sleep too late in the afternoon or he/she will be up later in the evening. I have never regretted having my little ones in for the nite at 7:30 clean, read to and looking forward to a new day. Then I could do a few uninterrupted tasks.... from a chore to watching a TV show or even having a friend in or perhaps running to Walmart while your hubby watches the game....he wont mind if the kids are asleep!

Well thats alot for tonite....I'll write more on the other end of the spectrum another time

PS if any of this is helpful please let me know...if you would like to be added or deleted from this kind of mailing tell me and if you have personal questions dont hesitate to call me at 603-275-4904

Blessings!

Yeah! Caramel Popcorn

Just in time for the holidays!! Great for teachers presents!

Pop kernals to make 6 quarts of popcorn. I use a dry electric corn popper.
Put popped corn in LARGE bowl or something that you will be able to stir it in without it going everywhere....maybe your wheelbarrow :)

Boil for 5 minutes: 2 cups brown sugar
2 sticks of margarine
1 tsp salt
1/2 cup corn syrup (lite or dark)
Take off the burner and add 1tsp. butter flavor(opt)
and 1 tsp. baking soda

The mixture will begin to expand when mixed throughly with a spoon or whisk. Pour over the popcorn and stir to coat evenly.
Put the bowl if metal or the mixture on cookie sheets in a 200degree oven and stir every 15 mins for 30-60 mins. sometimes I skip this stage it simply causes it to not be sicky.
Pack in a airtight container. I would buy little buckets and pack it for gifts... We make this numerous times a year. Yum!!!

Tuesday, September 18, 2007

Marni'e Musings September

Marnie's Musings

One of my least favorite verses has become the one that the Lord has been bringing me back to over and over for the past couple of years.

James 1; 2-5 "Count it pure joy, my sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith developes perserverance . Perserverance must finish its work in you so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything. If any of you lacks wisdom she should ask of God who gives generously ,without finding fault , and it will be given her."

It might as well say "now delight in drinking this codliver oil because you know it will do your body good. " Great. Maybe ..but Its impossilbe to enjoy this stuff....in fact I wont.

Well Bless the Lord I have finally come to the place where the truth of this scripture is working its way in me and I am beginning to see the bigger picture. #1 It is a choice. We do not have to do it.... We can continue on the same path of whining and complaining , ulcers and upset stomachs only to have it repeat itself at the next trial. OR

We can choose to do it Gods' way. Realizing that the Lord has our very lives, intimate details and all, in the palm of His hand, we can decide to trust that He knows what's best. Believing that nothing is allowed into our lives without His permission..We can rest in the fact that this God of Love has nothing for us, his daughters,but the very best. He sees the end from the beginning and He knows what He's doing. How do I know this....Because the Bible tells me so!

This testing of my faith is simply a gauge that tells me where I am in my walk with the Lord. If I don't believe it I won't be able to pull it off. Perserverance can also be translated into patience..... that word that we so often lack. sooo "Patience must finish its work so that we will be mature and complete not lacking anything". That sounds like maturity is wrapped up in patience and believing that God is who He says He is.

Then there's the joy part.... I believe we can be thankful, yes even joyful in our trials once we really believe that God is who He says He is. That He sees the end form the beginning That He has a plan for you. That it is perfect and it is a plan to prosper you and give you a hope for the future. Jeremiah 29:11-14

Soooo do you trust Him do you dare to try it out???

Father I thank you and praise your name that you have allowed_______________________________________ ______________________________________ to come into my life. Your ways are not my ways. But I know that You love me and have a plan for me. I ask for the grace to walk this trial out in faith and trust that I will grow into the Godly woman that You have destined for me to become. I joyfully look to what You are doing in my life and rest in Your provision and care. I am a kept woman and I love and trust You. You're the BEST! PS God I can hardly wait to see what is going to happen!!!

Jeremiah 17:7+8

Friday, September 14, 2007

Recipes

Recipe of the month

This is a long time favorite. It is spread on a cookie sheet ..so makes alot. They freeze very nicely as well.

Enjoy!

Pumpkin Bars

Feeds ALOT Preheat oven to 350 and bake 30 mins or till done.

Beat 4 eggs, 1and 2/3cup sugar, 1 cp oil and 16 oz can of pumpkin

Sift together : 2 cps flour, 2 tsp baking powder, 2tsp cinnamon,1 tsp salt,1 tsp baking soda,

Add slowly to the creamed mixture until well blended. Spread on an ungreased cookie sheet (15x10)

Take out of the oven. When cool frost with: 3 oz cream cheese, 1/2 cp margarine, 1 tsp vanilla and 2 cps sifted confectioners sugar.

Spread, Cut and EAT YUMMMMM